BUSINESS | Page 1 Al Shaqab SPORT | Page 1 horses continue winning run at Morocco Qatalum receives nod from QFMA for IPO horse show published in QATAR since 1978

FRIDAY Vol. XXXIX No. 10976 October 19, 2018 Safar 10, 1440 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals PM, S Korean minister review ties Qatar and In brief Argentina

QATAR | Offi cial Amir condoles with to sign 10 Sudan’s president His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, His Highness the Deputy Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al-Thani and HE the Prime Minister and Minister of pacts: envoy Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani yesterday sent O Argentina’s energy “It is a dynamic, very fi rm, solid, cables of condolences to Sudanese minister to visit Doha and strong co-operation between Qa- President Omer Hassan al-Bashir tar and Argentina, and we will take all on the death of former president HE the Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani yesterday met South Korea’s next month necessary measures to make it more Abdulrahman Mohamed Suwar Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Kim Hyun-mi and her accompanying delegation on the occasion of their visit dynamic and more effi cient,” the envoy al-Dahab. to Doha. During the meeting, they reviewed co-operation between the two countries and ways of developing them in various By Joey Aguilar stressed. fields, in addition to a number of issues of mutual interest. Staff Reporter Besides visa-free entry for Qataris to QATAR | Conference Argentina, an MoU was also signed on the abolition of visa requirements for Next IPU session to be atar and Argentina are set to holders of diplomatic, private and of- held in Doha in April sign 10 memorandums of un- fi cial passports, Hernandez noted. The 139th assembly of the Qderstanding (MoU) before the He said the two countries signed Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) end of this year, covering various fi elds MoUs for co-operation in the fi eld of announced that it will hold its Khashoggi ‘certainly looks’ of bilateral co-operation, Argentin- education, higher education and sci- 140th session in Qatar from April ian ambassador Carlos Hernandez has ence research; agro-industry, live- 6 to 10 next year. HE the Speaker said. stock, and fi sheries; and sports. of the Advisory Council Ahmed Addressing a press conference yes- There was also a “decoration of His bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud to be dead, says Trump terday at Katara – the Cultural Village, Highness the Amir as Illustrious Guest welcomed the decision in his speech the envoy said these MoUs will include of the city of Buenos Aires,” which is at the closing session in Geneva co-operation in ports (Qatar Ports not given automatically to anyone, ac- yesterday. He urged speakers and O President warns of very severe response Management Company – Mwani Qatar cording to Hernandez. delegations of the world parliaments O Mnuchin, European ministers lead list of more no-shows at Saudi conference and the Argentinian Under-Secretariat He said the visit paved the way for to take part in the event and learn of Ports, Waterways and Merchant Ma- the convening of the second joint about the great developments O Turkish investigators widen probe to include three diff erent areas rine) and air transportation. meeting of the Qatari-Argentine Com- witnessed by Qatar. O Saudi consulate searched for second time “We will also sign MoUs for youth, mittee for Economic and Commercial academic (between Qatar University Co-operation to be held in early De- MIDDLE EAST | Judiciary O Rights groups seek UN probe and Buenos Aires University), health, cember. Israeli court overturns strategic centre studies, libraries (Qa- “The committee came into existence Agencies suggest a high-level Saudi role in the the facts,” he said. Only then, Pom- tar National Library and Dr Mariano two years ago and the fi rst meeting took entry ban on US student Washington/Istanbul suspected killing of Khashoggi. Trump peo added, “we can make decisions Moreno National Library of Argentina), place in Doha towards the end of 2016 Israel’s Supreme Court yesterday said, however, it was still “a little bit how or if the United States should re- protection of environment and waste and now is the turn to have a second overturned an entry ban imposed on early” to draw defi nitive conclusions spond.” management co-operation,” he ex- meeting in Buenos Aires, which was a US student over past support for S President Donald Trump about who may have been behind it. Turkish offi cials have said they be- plained. asked by the Qatari side,” Hernandez a pro-Palestinian boycott campaign, yesterday said he presumes Pompeo told reporters after his lieve the Saudi journalist was mur- Civil aviation authorities of Qatar said. “It will tackle point-by-point all court documents said. The three- Ujournalist Jamal Khashoggi is meeting that he advised Trump that dered at the consulate and his body and Argentina will also sign an MoU related to economy, and trade and in- judge panel upheld Lara Alqasem’s dead and that the US response to Saudi Saudi Arabia should be given a few chopped up and removed. for co-operation on air transportation, vestment between the two countries, appeal against the ban, clearing Arabia will likely be “very severe” but more days to complete its investiga- Trump said he was waiting for the which will see a doubling in the number plus new ideas.” the way for the 22-year-old to take that he still wanted to get to the bot- tion into the Khashoggi disappear- results so that “we can get to the bot- of fl ights to Argentina. He expressed optimism that in three her place on a master’s degree tom of what exactly happened. ance. tom of this very soon” and that he Hernandez noted that these MoUs, to four years, Qatar’s investments in programme at Jerusalem’s Hebrew In Istanbul, Turkish investigators “I told President Trump this morn- would be making a statement about it which are under negotiation, form part Argentina will double once the ‘promo- University. The decision to bar her for a second time searched the Saudi ing we ought to give them a few more at some point. of the fi ve other agreements and MoUs tion and protection investments agree- from entry, the court ruled, “was not consulate where Khashoggi – a US days to complete that, so that we too Asked what would be the conse- signed during the recent offi cial visit of ment’, and ‘double taxation avoidance within the bounds of reason and is resident and Washington Post col- have a complete understanding of quences for Saudi Arabia, Trump said: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim agreement’, are ratifi ed (on the Argen- revoked”. umnist who was a strong critic of Sau- “Well, it’ll have to be very severe. I bin Hamad al-Thani to Buenos Aires. tinian side). di Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman mean, it’s bad, bad stuff . But we’ll see The envoy also announced that Ar- ARAB WORLD | Crisis – vanished on October 2, seeking clues what happens.” gentina’s energy minister will be visit- about an incident that has caused an Trump is under pressure, including ing Qatar next month aimed the further UN envoy warns international outcry. from fellow Republicans in Congress, enhancing the two countries trade and Gaza is imploding Trump acknowledged for the fi rst who have said the US must not let investment ties. With its economy in a freefall and time that Khashoggi had likely been Saudi Arabia escape without punish- Qatar Petroleum made a huge invest- tensions rising with Israel, the killed. ment. ment this year related to the exploring Hamas-ruled enclave of Gaza is “It certainly looks that way to me. “Must not accept a strategic alli- on unconventional hydrocarbons by imploding, the UN envoy for the It’s very sad,” Trump told reporters ance with #SaudiArabia which re- acquiring 30% stake in ExxonMobil Middle East warned yesterday. before boarding Air Force One on a po- quires our silence when they butcher Argentina, a company with licences to Nickolay Mladenov delivered the litical trip. He spoke hours after get- a political critic,” Republican Senator explore the reserves. warning to the Security Council a ting an update from Secretary of State Marco Rubio wrote on Twitter. “We “This is important because it is re- day after Israeli warplanes struck Mike Pompeo on the results of the lat- The Sabah newspaper published must: 1. Hold everyone responsible for lated to the investments of Qatar in the Gaza Strip in retaliation at rocket ter’s emergency talks in Saudi Arabia photographs of a man, identified as #KashoggiMurder accountable; & 2. Argentina in mining and in the shale firings from the Palestinian territory. and Turkey. Maher Abdulaziz Mutreb, outside the Be clear on what is expected moving oil deposit of Vaca Muerta,” Hernandez “Gaza is imploding. This is not In an interview with the New York Saudi consulate building in Istanbul on forward if they want to preserve our Hernandez speaks at a press said. “Qatar already brought invest- hyperbole. This is not alarmism. It is Times yesterday, Trump also expressed the morning Khashoggi disappeared. alliance.” conference yesterday at Katara. ments there, and the thing is how to be a reality,” Mladenov told the council. confi dence in intelligence reports that Image courtesy of Al Jazeera To Page 9. Business Page 2 PICTURE: Shemeer Rasheed able to increase that.” Qatar gets praise in Khashoggi’s fi nal column

Agencies to embody the spirit of the Arab Spring. propaganda, ordinary people in the Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed bin Washington Qatar’s government continues to sup- Arab world would be able to address Salman – is still unknown, but leaks port international news coverage, in the structural problems their societies by anonymous Turkish offi cials have contrast to its neighbours’ eff orts to face.” painted a picture of him allegedly wo weeks after he disap- uphold the control of information to “Arab governments have been given meeting a grisly demise in the consu- peared, The Washington Post on support the ‘old Arab order’,” he wrote. free rein to continue silencing the me- late at the hands of Saudi agents. TWednesday published what it “The Arab world is facing its own dia at an increasing rate,” he wrote. Saudi Arabia has denied to the United said appears to be Jamal Khashoggi’s fi - version of an Iron Curtain, imposed not “There was a time when journalists States having knowledge of what hap- nal column, in which the missing Saudi by external actors but through domes- believed the Internet would liberate pened at the consulate. journalist wrote of the importance of a tic forces vying for power,” wrote the information from the censorship and In the introduction to Khashoggi’s free press in the Arab world while prais- Post contributor and US resident,who control associated with print media. column – which was accompanied by a ing Qatar. disappeared entering Saudi Arabia’s But these governments, whose very photo of the smiling writer – the Post’s Citing crackdowns on the press by consulate in Istanbul on October 2. existence relies on the control of infor- Global Opinions editor Karen Attiah Egyptian and Saudi offi cials, Khashoggi “The Arab world needs a modern mation, have aggressively blocked the said the newspaper held off on publish- warned such actions “no longer carry version of the old transnational media Internet. ing it in the hopes that he would return. the consequence of a backlash from the so citizens can be informed about glo- “As a result, Arabs living in these “Now I have to accept: That is not international community”. bal events. More important, we need countries are either uninformed or going to happen. This is the last piece Khashoggi wrote that the “ripe” to provide a platform for Arab voices,” misinformed. They are unable to ad- of his I will edit for The Post,” Attiah hope of future freedoms felt by many Khashoggi wrote. equately address, much less publicly wrote. Robert Mahoney, deputy executive director of the Committee to Protect Journalists, during the Arab Spring of 2011, which “Through the creation of an inde- discuss, matters that aff ect the region “This column perfectly captures his speaks during a news conference at the United Nations on October 18, 2018. saw popular uprisings throughout the pendent international forum, iso- and their day-to-day lives.” commitment and passion for freedom Members from Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, The Committee to Middle East, had been “shattered”. lated from the infl uence of nationalist The ultimate fate of Khashoggi – in the Arab world. A freedom he appar- Protect Journalists and Reporters Without Border called for an independent UN “There are a few oases that continue governments spreading hate through whose writings have been critical of ently gave his life for.” investigation into the disappearance Khashoggi. Gulf Times 2 Friday, October 19, 2018 QATAR

FM reviews Syrian situation Qatar-UK ties discussed Ooredoo off ers 30-day free data with iPhone XR pre-order

oredoo has announced that all customers who Opre-order and purchase the new iPhone XR from the company and subscribe to a new Shahry or Qatarna Plan will en-

joy free data for 30 days. Apple’s latest iPhone will be available for pre-order start- ing today (19 October) and once delivered, Ooredoo users simply

HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Aff airs, Dr Khalid bin Mohamed al-Attiyah, met the British Defence Secretary, Gavin Williamson, at the Ministry of Defence in London yesterday. The meeting discussed the bilateral relations between Qatar and the UK and HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman means of enhancing and developing them and the latest regional developments. The meeting was al-Thani yesterday met the Russian President’s Special Envoy on Syria, Alexander Lavrentiev, who is attended by Qatar’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, Yousef bin Ali al-Khater, the Qatari Military currently visiting Qatar. The meeting discussed bilateral relations and means of supporting them, Attache in the United Kingdom Brigadier General (Air Force) Hamad bin Jassim al-Marri, and senior and developments in Syria, in addition to issues of common concern. off icers of the Qatar Armed Forces.

have to buy a new Shahry or Qa- tarna subscription and the free data will be automatically acti- vated. With the off er, new Hala customers will enjoy 10 GB of free data every month for three months and new Shahry and Qatarna customer will enjoy un- ‘Qatar has made a huge leap limited data for 30 days. The new iPhone XR features an all-screen glass and alumini- um design with a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display — the most colour accurate in the industry, with wide colour support and True in agricultural production’ Tone for a more natural viewing experience. iPhone XR features QNA A12 Bionic with next-generation Doha Neural Engine, the TrueDepth camera system, faster Face ID, an advanced camera system that nder the patronage of HE creates dramatic portraits using Prime Minister and Min- a single camera lens, LTE Ad- Uister of Interior Sheikh vanced for fast download speeds Abdullah bin Nasser bin Kha- and six beautiful finishes. lifa al-Thani, HE the Minister Customers can purchase the of Municipality and Environ- iPhone XR in Ooredoo Shops ment Mohamed bin Abdullah from October 26 and the off er al-Rumaihi honoured yesterday will end November 25. the owners of farms, livestock Customers can pre-order breeders, fi sh farmers, fi sher- iPhone XR via the Ooredoo web- men and agricultural companies site https://preorder.ooredoo. in recognition of their role in qa/iphone/. achieving major breakthroughs HE the Minister of Municipality in production during the past and Environment Mohamed bin period. Abdullah al-Rumaihi delivering a Delivering a speech on the speech at the ceremony. HE the Minister of Municipality and Environment Mohamed bin Abdullah al-Rumaihi with the recipients of certificates of appreciation. occasion, HE al-Rumaihi Qatar Post signs stressed that Qatar is strongly directives to overcome these local vegetables increased from an increase of more than 150%. be supported by concentrated produce from farmers and carry committed to developing the constraints. about 50,000 tonnes during the The minister said that a fi scal animal feeds, supporting animal out the necessary marketing home delivery pact agricultural sector for achiev- The Minister of Municipal- year before the blockade to about budget of QR105mn has been al- production requirements such operations until it reaches the ing food security in the country. ity and Environment said that 65,000 tonnes after the block- located to provide support to ag- as wool mowers, goats, etc., and consumer with high quality, with Carrefour He noted that His Highness the during the period following the ade, an increase of 30%, and that ricultural producers in the coun- vaccine support for municipal and predicted that the company Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad blockade, the Qatari agricul- Qatar has achieved full self-suffi - try, under the State’s direction to birds. would contribute eff ectively to al-Thani’s directives were to tural sector witnessed a major ciency of dairy and fresh poultry. support agricultural producers, With regard to support for raise the marketing effi ciency atar Postal Services magnify the role of Qatari farms development due to the ac- In this context, the minister as these funds have been chan- fi shermen, the minister ex- of Qatari agricultural products Company (Qatar Post) and agricultural companies to tive support of all sectors of the pointed out that the produc- nelled to support both farmers, plained that they would be pro- and increase the profi t of Qatari Qhas signed a delivery contribute to increasing do- State, and Qatari agricultural tion of dairy and its products livestock breeders and fi sher- vided by refrigerators for the farms. service agreement with Carre- mestic production and reduce producers contributed to a major increased from 60,000 tonnes men. conservation of fi sh and ice, On the occasion, the Minister four to provide free home-de- imports to enhance food secu- breakthrough in the fi eld of agri- a year before the blockade, to He added that the registered stressing that the ministry is of Municipality and Environ- livery to all MyClub cardholders. rity, especially under conditions cultural production, and all the about 220,000 tonnes this year, farms in the country will be currently preparing the neces- ment, and Assistant Undersec- The Valet Trolley service is of- of the unjust blockade imposed issues and constraints faced by an increase of more than 265%. provided protected houses and sary disclosures to distribute retary of Agriculture and Fisher- fered free of charge to MyClub on the State. them under the unjust blockade Fresh poultry production in- agricultural production require- support to agricultural produc- ies Aff airs, HE Sheikh Dr Faleh members for minimum pur- HE al-Rumaihi also noted that were overcome. creased from 10,000 tonnes per ments, which include seeds, ers and all benefi ciaries in the bin Nasser al-Thani, delivered chases of QR250. Fresh groceries the Prime Minister and Minister HE al-Rumaihi explained that year to about 22,000 tonnes per fertilisers, pesticides and con- next few years. certifi cates of appreciation to are kept in special boxes and de- of Interior has keenly monitored eff orts to address these obstacles year, an increase of 120%, and tainers for vegetables and dates, HE al-Rumaihi said that a the distinguished owners of livered on the same day in refrig- the constraints and diffi culties have caused major breakthroughs the production of eggs increased and the distribution of honey- company specialising in ag- farms, breeders of livestock, fi sh, erated trucks. faced in increasing Qatari agri- in agricultural production in the from 4,000 tonnes before the bee cells on registered farms, ricultural marketing has been fi shermen and agricultural com- cultural production, and issued country, where the production of blockade to about 10,000 tonnes, while the livestock breeders will established, which will receive panies.

Farewell ceremony for Spanish ambassador Difi conference HE the Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign seeks to strengthen Aff airs, Dr Ahmed bin Hassan Khaled al-Emadi al-Hammadi, held a farewell ceremony yesterday honour- Arab family unit Qatar Post sales and marketing ing the outgoing Spanish director Khaled al-Emadi wel- ambassador Ignacio Escobar comed the joint initiative with Guerrero at the Four Seasons he Doha International texts; parent confl ict and ab- Carrefour and reminded the cus- Hotel. The ceremony was at- Family Institute (Difi ), sence; parenting in the digital tomers to keep track of their ad- tended by a number of heads Tmember of Qatar Foun- era: opportunities and challeng- dress to ensure smooth delivery of missions and Ministry of dation (QF), is working towards es; investing in parenting edu- to their requested location. Foreign Aff airs off icials. preserving and strengthening cation programmes; parenting Carrefour Qatar country Arab families in the region by children living with disabilities; manager Laurent Hausknecht implementing best practices and parenting children with behav- said: “We have allocated a prior- hosting events that aim to raise ioural problems; and parenting ity cash counter for Valet Trolley awareness of the challenges fac- across the Arab region. customers. ing families. In conjunction with plat- Customers who opt to use the Difi ’s upcoming International forms that bring together civil valley trolley service will re- Conference, to be held from Oc- society experts, research on ceive an SMS with delivery de- tober 23-24 at the Qatar National the Arab family unit is key tails after making payment. As Qatar voices concern over cybercrime threats Convention Centre, is one such to formulating effective ap- a reminder, another SMS will be event. Designed to bring to- proaches to addressing the sent 20 minutes prior to deliv- gether key stakeholders, includ- various challenges they face. ery timing. For follow-up or re- QNA the United Nations Convention to enhance the cyber networks goals, in addition to welcoming ing policymakers, practitioners, The OSRA Research Grant, a schedule of delivery, customers Vienna against Transnational Organised and infrastructure of countries. a work plan for 2018-2021 for a researchers, and academics from collaboration with the Qatar can call +974 5517 9105, 7 days a Crime, in Vienna. He also noted that the Con- technical team that can conduct civil society organisations, the National Research Fund, aims week from 9am to 7pm. Major General al-Mal said vention against Transnational a comprehensive study of cyber- event aims to examine the most to encourage basic and applied atar expressed yesterday that Cyberspace was no longer Organised Crime provides a crime. pressing challenges that threat- research aimed at developing a its deep concern over the just a part of the activities of broad range of measures for in- He referenced the speech of en the family unit and how, col- knowledge base on Arab fami- Attorney-general Qgrowing threat of tran- transnational organised crime ternational co-operation and His Highness the Amir Sheikh lectively, these circumstances lies, including comparative and meets Malaysian snational organised crime, with and its associated crimes, but technical assistance and to en- Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani can be mitigated. policy-oriented research. cybercrimes taking unprece- rather its use of digital piracy hance the effi ciency and eff ec- at the UN General Assembly ‘Parenting, Child Wellbeing Through the grant, Difi sup- counterpart dented forms that now threaten now can threaten the security of tiveness of cybercrime investi- on September 25, in which he and Development’ will be the ports high-quality empirical peace, stability, and prosperity states and trigger crises, such as gations and prosecution. called for an international con- theme of this year’s internation- work that advances research on HE the Attorney-General, Dr of societies and countries. the one Qatar is suff ering from. Qatar called on member- ference that looks into regulat- al gathering, where the crucial Arab families; provides policy- Ali bin Fattis al-Marri, met This came in the speech of He stressed the importance of countries to off er support to ing this issue, expressing Qa- role of parents in ensuring the makers with evidence-based Malaysia’s Attorney-General Adviser to the Minister of the In- regulating cyberspace interna- UNDOC in its mission. tar’s willingness to host such a optimal well-being of children research and analysis that en- Tommy Thomas in Kuala Lumpur terior, Major General Dr Abdul- tionally due to its nature of op- He said Qatar welcomes the conference. will be underscored. Delegates courages the formation or modi- yesterday. They reviewed the lah Youssef al-Mal, who is also eration, praising the role of the establishment of a UN unit for Al-Mal stressed the impor- will touch on a number of top- fi cation of family-related poli- legal systems in Qatar and chairing Qatar’s delegation par- United Nations Offi ce on Drugs combating cybercrime, adding tance of uniting international ics, including parenting matters; cies; and facilitates research in Malaysia and discussed co- ticipating in the 9th session of and Crime (UNODC) in that re- that the country pledges to sup- eff orts to achieve security and supporting working parents; areas that support the Qatar Na- operation projects between the the Conference of the Parties to gard, which off ers technical help port such a unit in achieving its sustainable development. parenting in humanitarian con- tional Research Strategy. two countries. Gulf Times Friday, October 19, 2018 3 QATAR/REGION/ARAB WORLD Amiri Land Forces commander holds meetings Trump announces ‘intent to nominate’ US envoy to Qatar

S President Donald ative of the Coalition Provisional Trump has announced Authority to Maysan Province, Uhis “intent to nominate” al-Amarah, Iraq. Phee, who is Mary Catherine Phee as ambas- from Illinois, earned her BA from sador extraordinary and pleni- Indiana University and MALD potentiary of the United States to from the Fletcher School of Law Qatar, the White House has said and Diplomacy at Tufts Univer- in a statement. sity. She is a recipient of the State Phee, a career member of the Department’s Robert C Frasure Senior Foreign Service, class of Memorial Award and the Baker- minister-counsellor, currently Wilkins Award for Outstanding serves as the deputy special rep- Deputy Chief of Mission. She has resentative for Afghanistan Rec- also received the Secretary of De- onciliation at the Department of Mary Catherine Phee fence Meritorious Civilian Serv- State. She has previously served ice Award and the Order of the as US ambassador to South Su- the US embassy in Addis Ababa, British Empire. dan, principal deputy assistant Ethiopia. Additionally, she has Phee speaks Arabic, the White secretary of the Bureau of Inter- served on the National Security House statement adds. William national Organisation Aff airs, Council as director for Iraq and Grant is currently serving as the and deputy chief of mission at was the senior civilian represent- US charge d’aff aires in Doha.

Amiri Land Forces Commander, Staff Major General Mohamed bin Ali al-Ghanim, held separate meetings yesterday with the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Sudanese Ground Forces and Training, Lieutenant General Shamseddine Kabbashi Ibrahim, and a number of US Congress staff . During the two meetings, they discussed Qatar’s relations with Sudan and the United States of America.

The Qatari Armed Forces shooting team won five medals at the 51th World Military Shooting Championships in Bari, Italy. Hamas promises Qatar wins medals at military shooting competition in Italy investigation into QNA Bari, Italy

he Qatari Armed Forces shooting team won fi ve Tmedals at the 51th World Gaza rocket fi re Military Shooting Champion- ships (shotgun). The fi ve-day More than 200 Palestinians event was held in the Italian city AFP UN envoy warns Gaza is imploding Gaza City have been killed by Israeli fire, of Bari, with the participation of while one Israeli soldier has 21 countries. With its economy in a freefall launch an investigation into been shot dead. In skeet individual men, Rashid aza’s rulers Hamas and tensions rising with Israel, the rocket fire after denying Wednesday’s rocket fire Hamad al-Athba fi nished in the yesterday pledged to the Hamas-ruled enclave of any involvement in the attack, triggered retaliatory Israeli fi rst place to win the gold medal. Glaunch an investigation Gaza is imploding, the UN en- but Israel rejected the denials. air strikes that killed one sus- In trap male, Mohamed Khejaim into rocket fire at Israel the voy for the Middle East warned “We remain on the brink of pected militant and raised al-Marri came in the second place previous day. Israeli children yesterday. Nickolay Mladenov another potentially devastating fears of a new escalation. to win the silver medal, while the returned to schools near the delivered the warning to the conflict, a conflict that nobody Israeli Prime Minister Ben- third medal was won by Qatar border with the Palestinian Security Council a day after Is- claims to want, but a conflict jamin Netanyahu chaired a team Mohamed Khejaim al-Mar- territory that had been closed raeli warplanes struck the Gaza that needs much more than meeting of the security cabi- ri, Nasser al-Hammadi and Mo- on Wednesday after the pre- Strip in retaliation at rocket just words to prevent,” said net lasting several hours on hammed al-Rumahi in the trap dawn rocket fire from Gaza firings from the Palestinian Mladenov. The United Nations Wednesday evening. male team event. badly damaged a family home territory. “Gaza is imploding. has made some headway in But no statement was re- The fourth medal was won by Medals were also won by women contestants. in the southern city of Beer- This is not hyperbole. This is joint eff orts with Egypt to ad- leased afterwards and Israeli Sarah Mohammed in skeet in- sheba. But the risk of a new not alarmism. It is a reality,” dress the humanitarian crisis media reported that ministers dividual female. The fi fth medal Yousef Dasmal al-Kuwari ex- of the Qatari Armed Forces Lieu- war, whether through miscal- Mladenov told the council. in Gaza, but Mladenov warned had failed to agree on how to was won by Qatar team Kholoud pressed his happiness about tenant-General (Pilot) Ghanem culation or design, remained. He cited World Bank figures this could collapse. “Barring respond to the rocket fire and al-Khalaf, Amna al-Abdallah and this achievement, extending his bin Shaheen al-Ghanem for their Three children had a nar- showing off icial unemploy- substantial steps to reverse the the persistent protests. The Nora Ali in the trap female team thanks to HE the Deputy Prime unlimited support to the mili- row escape after their mother ment at 53%, with more than current course, this precarious mass circulation Yediot Ahar- event. Minister and Minister of State for tary teams, which allowed them moved them into the safe 70% of Palestinian youths sense of calm is doomed to onot newspaper said the swift President of the military sports Defence Dr Khalid bin Mohamed to bring successes for the armed room, as much of the rest of jobless. Every second person give way under the mounting action of the mother in Beer- union Staff Brigadier General al-Attiyah and HE Chief of Staff forces in international forums. the house was destroyed, the in Gaza now lives below the pressure. It is already begin- sheba to protect her family army said. Hamas, which has poverty line, he said. Hamas, ning to fray,” he said. Hamas had probably prevented a new ruled Gaza for a decade, issued which has ruled Gaza for a and Israel have fought three war. a joint statement with its ally decade, yesterday pledged to wars in Gaza since 2008. Hamas seized control of Islamic Jihad publicly disa- Gaza from loyalists of Pales- vowing the rocket fire. tinian president Mahmoud Palestinians slam US consulate closure But Israel rejected their de- launches it. “There are secu- efforts” to broker a long-term Abbas in a near civil war in nial, saying they were the only rity service investigations in truce between Hamas and Is- 2007 and the split has made groups armed with rockets of a Gaza to uncover who is be- rael, which have fought three peace negotiations with Israel AFP the consulate general, a separate series of moves, including shut- range sufficient to reach Beer- hind the rocket fire and there wars since 2008. harder. Ramallah offi ce which handled dealings tering the Palestinian mission in sheba— 40km away — and the will be harsh measures against Near daily protests along Egypt and the UN have been with the Palestinians, would be Washington and moving the US sea off Tel Aviv — 70km. Is- those (found guilty),” senior the border since March 30 seeking to broker an agree- replaced by a new Palestinian Af- embassy from Jerusalem to Tel rael in any case holds Hamas Hamas official Bassem Naim against Israel’s crippling 11- ment that would see Israel re- he Palestinian leadership fairs Unit inside the controversial Aviv. “This decision is driven by responsible, as Gaza’s de fac- told AFP. year blockade of the impover- lax its blockade of Gaza in ex- yesterday condemned new US embassy in Jerusalem. our global eff orts to improve the tor ruler, for all fire from the He said the rocket fire ished enclave have sparked re- change for a prolonged period TWashington’s “ideologi- The move was quickly con- effi ciency and eff ectiveness of territory regardless of who “aimed to sabotage Egyptian peated clashes with the army. of calm from Hamas. cal” decision to merge its consu- demned by the Palestinians and our operations. It does not signal late for Palestinians into its Israeli it could leave the US as the only a change of US policy,” Pompeo embassy. Palestine Liberation major power without a specifi c said in a statement. Kuwait renews calls for political solution in Syria Organisation Secretary-General representative offi ce dedicated He said the United States Saeb Erekat said the decision to the Palestinians. It would also “continues to take no position” to “end the existence of the US leave the ambassador to Israel, on how any peace deal between The State of Kuwait renewed calls munique and UNSC resolution He indicated that the launching Kuwaiti diplomat called for the Consulate” would “reward Israeli David Friedman, who is reviled the Israelis and Palestinians for a political solution to resolve 2254 to put an end to the misery of the reliable and creditable full implementation of February violations and crimes.” by Palestinians over his sup- would take shape. the crisis in Syria, aff irming that in the war-torn country. constitutional committee was the 2018’s UNSC resolution 2401 con- “The Trump Administration port for Israeli settlements in A State Department offi cial, a military choice was beyond The world was hopeful that the very first step towards a political cerning the protection of civilians is part of the problem, not part the West Bank, as the main in- however, confi rmed that the role consideration. Speaking to a crisis in Syria would see some sort solution for the crisis in Syria. Not and making sure that humanitar- of the solution,” he added in a terlocutor with the Palestinian of US consul general will cease to UN session on Syria, Kuwait’s of an initial solution, said al-Otaibi. so long, Syria was on the verge ian aid reached those who are in statement. leadership. exist and its current head will re- Permanent Representative to the He hoped that the upcoming of a global humanitarian crisis in desperate need. It was time for The United States downgrad- Pro-Israel advocates hailed the turn to Washington. UN headquarters in New York visit by United Nations and Arab Idlib, a city of 3mn people mostly the world to put an end to the ed its main diplomatic mission to decision, saying it confi rmed the Israel seized control of east Je- Ambassador Mansour al-Otaibi League Envoy to Syria Staff an de innocent civilians, said al-Otaibi crisis in Syria, reaching a peaceful the Palestinians yesterday, plac- US recognised the whole of Jeru- rusalem during the 1967 Middle said that international community Mistura to Damascus next week who stressed it was important for epilogue to the sorrow events ing it under the authority of the salem as part of Israel. Pompeo East war in a move never recog- must follow the course clearly laid would come out with fruitful all involved parties to deescalate occurred in the last eight years, US embassy to Israel. US Secre- denied the decision represented a nised by the international com- down by the 2012 Geneva com- results to launch such endeavour. tension in the whole of Syria. The aff irmed al-Otaibi. tary of State Mike Pompeo said shift in policy, but it came after a munity.

Gulf Times Friday, October 19, 2018 5 AFRICA/AMERICAS

WHO: Ebola could Trump threatens to send spread

DPA Geneva in troops to the border

AFP Pompeo, meanwhile, is embark- tral American gangs like MS-13, ised for the long and diffi cult here is a risk that Ebola Washington ing on a tour of the region that while chants of “build the wall” journey on social media, but will spread from Congo’s will take him to Panama and are a staple of his pre-midterms Washington suspects the group Tconfl ict-hit northeast Mexico. campaign rallies. has been organised as a deliber- to neighbouring countries, the resident Donald Trump The Mexican visit is impor- The latest focus is on some ate provocation. World Health Organisation has threatened to call up tant for future relations be- 2,000 Hondurans who departed “This caravan did not appear (WHO) has said, while stopping Pthe military and close the cause it comes just ahead of the on Saturday from the city of San organically,” a senior Trump ad- short of declaring a global health US-Mexican border against an inauguration in December of Pedro Sula in a caravan headed ministration offi cial told jour- emergency over the latest out- “onslaught” of migrants, step- President-elect Andres Manuel for the US border. nalists. break. ping up anti-immigrant rhetoric Lopez Obrador. A fi rst group of several hun- “There’s a political aspect and The UN agency announced ahead of congressional elec- Marcelo Ebrard, Mexico’s for- dred Honduran migrants arrived an organisational aspect which its position after a committee tions. eign minister designate, down- late on Wednesday on the Gua- frankly seeks to sow chaos and of scientifi c advisers discussed As several thousand Hondu- played Trump’s comments as temalan-Mexican border, where dissent and that needs to be dealt whether to sound an interna- rans made their way through aimed at his domestic political they overfl owed a shelter in the with,” the offi cial said, speaking tional health alarm. Central America toward the US base. town of Tecun Uman, leaving on condition of anonymity. “This does mean that the border, Trump blamed Demo- “The position of President many to sleep in the town square Whether any military de- WHO is taking the outbreak se- crats for an “assault on our Trump is the one he has always or on the street, an AFP corre- ployment to the border will take riously,” WHO chief Tedros Ad- country by Guatemala, Hon- raised, I do not see him as any- spondent said. place is unclear. hanom Ghebreyesus told a press duras and El Salvador” with a thing surprising, I would be sur- Many were travelling with a The president announced conference in Geneva. “We will caravan “INCLUDING MANY prised by a diff erent position,” single change of clothes and lit- plans in April to send thousands not rest until the outbreak is fi n- CRIMINALS”. Trump: I must, in the strongest of terms, ask Mexico to stop this Ebrard told local radio station tle money. of National Guard troops to the ished.” “I must, in the strongest of onslaught – and if unable to do so I will call up the US military and Radio Centro. “It was predict- Others were carrying young border, where they could remain However, the committee said terms, ask Mexico to stop this close our southern border. able and also the election proc- children in their arms. until his promised wall is con- it remains “deeply concerned by onslaught – and if unable to do ess is very close, so he is making Several migrants told AFP structed. the outbreak” and emphasised so I will call up the US Military Trump suggested that he was “The assault on our country a political calculation.” that the group plans to wait for But at least fi ve US states later “that response activities need to and CLOSE OUR SOUTHERN even prepared to put at risk the at our Southern Border, includ- The president’s message was the rest of the caravan to arrive, refused to send the troops amid be intensifi ed and ongoing vigi- BORDER!” recently renegotiated North ing the Criminal elements and part of a broad strategy to crack then cross the border en masse an outcry over a since-aban- lance is critical”. Trump has made his call for America Free Trade Agree- DRUGS pouring in, is far more down on illegal immigrants and in hopes of overwhelming the doned White House policy to Meanwhile, the Congolese a wall on the southern border a ment (Nafta) between Mexico, important to me, as President, tighten rules for legal migrants. Mexican immigration authori- separate migrant children from health ministry reported three signature issue of his presiden- the United States and Canada, than Trade or the USMCA,” he Barely a week goes by without ties, who have vowed to detain their parents at the border. new deaths, bringing the death cy, but yesterday’s tweet storm redubbed as USMCA (US-Mex- said. Trump warning about the dan- anyone without papers. toll since the outbreak started was especially fi erce. ico-Canada Agreement). US Secretary of State Mike ger posed by ultra-violent Cen- The migrants say they organ- „ See Page 11 nearly two months ago in North Kivu to 142. There have been more than UN drug watchdog slams Canada’s cannabis legalisation 220 Ebola cases since then. North Kivu is a border region Canada’s move to legalise marijuana INCB president Viroj Sumyai added that as Commissioner on Narcotic Drugs at where numerous militia are Prosecution admits new damages global eff orts to control drugs the body is “deeply concerned about the German health ministry since 2014, fi ghting over the central African and protect youth from harm, the UN the public health impact of these policy said that legalisation is wrong because country’s rich natural resources. drug monitoring body said. choices on the health and welfare of the products available today are unlike Besides militia attacks that error in Weinstein case “The government of Canada has Canadians, particularly youth”. the marijuana that was being sold 20 have hindered health work- contributed to weakening the Meanwhile, the drug commissioner of years ago. ers, the region’s high popula- international legal drug control the German government also criticised Mortler said that she is a believer in tion density and movements AFP The lawyer requested in August for framework and undermining the rules- Canada’s decision to legalise marijuana, the motto “help instead of sanctions”, across the borders to Uganda and New York the whole case to be thrown out and is based international order,” the Vienna- describing it as a “capitulation” and a meaning that governments should act Rwanda pose additional risks awaiting a decision of the judge. based International Narcotics Control step in the wrong direction. preventively to avoid drug use instead that the highly lethal fever dis- The next hearing is scheduled for Board (INCB) said in a statement. Marlene Mortler, who has been serving of decriminalising it. ease could spread. he prosecution has admitted to December 20. “However, so far not a single a new embarrassing error in the The New York Police Depart- case has been exported,” said THarvey Weinstein case, saying ment (NYPD) said that “the evidence Robert Steff en, the head of the that a police detective told one of the against Mr Weinstein is compelling and WHO’s emergency advisory disgraced Hollywood producer’s ac- strong”, according to a statement pub- committee. cusers to delete from her phone any- lished in the Los Angeles Times. He said he is optimistic that thing she wanted to keep private. “The NYPD will continue its work the WHO will be able to get the In a letter to Weinstein’s attorney with the prosecution to deliver justice outbreak under control. dated Tuesday, prosecutor Joan Illuz- for the courageous survivors who have If that changes, the committee zi-Orbon acknowledged that the lead bravely come forward.” and the WHO may declare an in- detective had made the recommen- Weinstein, an international pariah ternational emergency after all, dation to one of two women accusing after being accused by more than 80 Steff en added. Weinstein in the case, in which he faces women of sexual misconduct, is out on The scientifi c advisers said charges of rape and a forced oral sex act. a $1mn bail and denies any non-con- that while no international travel “My offi ce had asked Complainant 2 sensual sex. or trade restrictions should be to produce any and all cell phones that One of six sexual assault allegations applied, exit screening, includ- she might have used during the time against Weinstein was thrown out ear- ing at airports, ports, and land she interacted with the defendant,” the lier this month in a victory for the de- crossings, is of great importance. letter said. fence. The WHO has been trying to But the detective told her she “should A letter from prosecutors, subse- prevent a repeat of the massive delete anything she did not want any- quently unsealed by the judge, revealed Ebola outbreak that killed some one to see before providing the phones credibility issues and seemed to suggest 11,000 people in several West to our offi ce”. that Lucia Evans, an aspiring actress in African countries in 2014 and Illuzi-Orbon says the woman ulti- 2004, may have performed a sex act on 2015. mately handed over the phones “with- Weinstein of her own volition, in the The WHO previously declared out any deletions”, but the admission hope of obtaining an acting part. global health emergencies for further weakens the prosecution’s case. The document also referenced possi- polio in Afghanistan, Pakistan, “This new development even further ble police misconduct, after a detective Nigeria and other countries; undermines the integrity of an already failed to turn over details from a wit- over West Africa’s Ebola epi- deeply-fl awed indictment of Mr Wein- ness interview, and a draft e-mail from demic, and for the 2016 Zika vi- stein,” his lawyer Ben Brafman was Evans to her husband that exposed fur- rus outbreak in Brazil. quoted by a spokeswoman as saying. ther inconsistencies in her account.

Newcomers jump S African army into US electoral fray chief warns

AFP That sentiment is found over budget Washington among many new Democratic hopefuls, including a record number of women, who have AFP undreds of everyday left their mark on the American Pretoria Americans with zero political scene. Hpolitical experience are A former refugee, Ilhan jumping into the fray for the Omar, 36, could become the he South African military has warned mid-term congressional elec- fi rst Somali-American woman that budget cuts have hampered its de- tions in a country that has be- in the House and one of its fi rst Tfence capacity at home and its ability to come ever more polarised since Muslim women. participate in foreign peacekeeping operations. Donald Trump was elected But Trump’s arrival in the National army chief Lieutenant General president in 2016. White House did not move just Lindile Yam sharply criticised the government AFP has spoken to a dozen Democrats to jump into politics for the funding shortage, saying that the army or so of these people who have but Republicans, too. was even struggling to buy uniforms. moved past the party-primary Pete Stauber, who worked as “These budget cuts impacts negatively on stage and will fi ght for a seat in a police offi cer for 22 years, is our force operations eff orts,” Yam told jour- Congress on November 6, when hoping to win a House seat in nalists at the army headquarters in Pretoria. all 435 seats in the House of Democratic Minnesota to keep “There is a danger coming that seems no one is Representatives and a third of what he calls Trump’s pro- seeing here.” the 100-member Senate are up growth and pro-jobs agenda Yam said the army’s defence budget was for grabs. going. 28% of the GDP during apartheid, but has been “We have people in Congress He said he is motivated by whittled down to less than 1% of the GDP. right now who ... don’t know “my passion for public service, “We have gone to less than 1%, and maybe we what it’s like” to be without as a police offi cer, my wife’s in are going to zero, I don’t know,” said Yam, say- food or proper healthcare, said the military”. ing politicians were playing “dangerous games” Deb Haaland, 57, a Democrat Then there’s “Mr Seafood”: with the budget. running for a House seat and fi sh monger Johnny Nalbandian Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula the distinction of becoming the is also running in deeply Demo- has previously said that funding problems have fi rst Native American woman to cratic California in the hope of been caused by the post-apartheid government serve in Congress. winning a seat in the House. prioritising spending on previously-neglected Haaland has been active in “I saw the once great beauti- poor black communities. local politics in New Mexico. ful California go to deteriora- Yam, who took over command of the army But she says it was Trump’s tion. I saw California going to- two years ago, said that South Africa is not surprise win that got her inter- wards socialism. I do not want immune to extremist attacks, pointing to an ested in joining politics at the California to be another Ven- Islamist insurgency that erupted a year ago in national level. ezuela,” he said. neighbouring Mozambique. Gulf Times 6 Friday, October 19, 2018 ASIA

Party seeks travel ban on President Yameen

Former Maldives leader Gayoom The party of the incoming “A travel ban against president of the Maldives has President Yameen must be urged police to impose a travel instituted. There are several ban on outgoing President cases pending investigation freed after court quashes sentence Abdulla Yameen so he can face including cases of corruption,” investigations in connection he told reporters after filing a with graft cases that the party petition before the police. AFP of participating in an political opponents and fore the election to back aims to launch. Opposition A police spokesman declined Colombo alleged coup during a dissidents who were Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to comment, saying it was not crackdown on rivals of jailed or forced into exile a political neophyte who won a surprise presidential the practice to say anything on strongman President during Yameen’s strong- defeated Yameen in a election victory on Sept 23 and such pending matters. Maldivian court Abdulla Yameen, in man rule. landslide victory. Yameen is due to hand over Yameen said in a speech on overturned the charges his family and Mohamed Nasheed, Yameen appeared power on Nov 17, even though Wednesday he had done A 19-month jail observers said were po- the country’s fi rst demo- on national television he had petitioned the Supreme nothing wrong and had acted term of Maumoon Ab- litically-motivated. cratically-elected presi- Wednesday to once again Court challenging his election in the best interests of the dul Gayoom yesterday, a Gayoom was granted dent, was convicted on concede defeat in the last defeat. country during his term as month after the former bail at the end of Sep- a terrorism charge and month’s polls, despite Yameen said on Wednesday he president. The Maldives, a president’s estranged tember, a week after sentenced to 13 years in mounting a court chal- was preparing to step down. string of palm-fringed islands half-brother and jailer Yameen lost national prison in 2015 after a trial lenge to annul the results. The chairman of Solih’s and atolls 523km southwest suff ered a shock election elections that had been characterised by Am- The Supreme Court is Maldives Democratic of the southern tip of India, drubbing. skewed heavily in his fa- nesty International as a yet to deliver a verdict in Party, Hassan Latheef, said is best known as a luxury Gayoom, 80, ruled the vour. Yesterday a court in “travesty of justice”. the case, which hinges on Yameen would face inquiries holiday destination. But the largely Muslim island na- the capital Male quashed He obtained prison Yameen’s allegation that related to the suspected Muslim nation of less than tion for 30 straight years Gayoom’s conviction for leave in 2016 to travel the election commission misappropriation of funds at half a million people has until he was defeated at obstruction of justice — to London for medical used invisible ink to un- a state-owned agency that suff ered a turbulent transition the country’s fi rst multi- a charge that arose when treatment and has re- derstate his support on promotes the leasing of islands to democracy following party elections in 2008. he refuse to hand over his mained abroad since. ballot papers. He is due for resort development, in the the end of three decades of He was arrested in mobile phone to police. Former foes Nasheed and to step down on Novem- first of several cases. authoritarian rule in 2008. February and accused Gayoom is one of many Gayoom teamed up be- ber 17. Bhutan seeks happiness in electing new government

AFP parency. Corruption, rural pov- Thimphu erty, youth unemployment and criminal gangs are all problems for the “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” he Himalayan kingdom of The key will be making money Bhutan, wedged between from the country’s hydro-electric TIndia and China, voted power, which is mainly exported to in a national election yesterday India. The DPT wants more hydro- guaranteed to usher in a new rul- power construction while the DNT ing party which must boost the is more wary of increasing Bhu- economy without compromising tan’s foreign debt. the country’s fi erce independent Hydropower fi nancing — which streak. comes to more than $1.5bn — ac- The country of 800,000 people, counts for more than 80% of Bhu- famed for its Gross National Hap- tan’s foreign debt. Most is owed piness index, is holding only its to India, which has fi nanced four third democratic election since the out of fi ve of the kingdom’s new ending of the absolute monarchy hydro-electric projects. in 2008. Bhutan has tried to shield itself The capital’s streets were main- from the downsides of globalisa- ly empty as authorities declared a tion, striving for “Gross National holiday for the election. Many vot- Happiness” over GDP growth, ers looked forward to seeing a new maintaining a carbon-negative government tackling problems economy and keeping tourist including Bhutan’s large foreign numbers down with a daily fee of debt, mainly owed to India. $250 per visitor in high season. “We expect a new broom to While Bhutan is proud of its cul- sweep well,” said engineer Gopal tural and political independence Chettri after voting in the capital and has diplomatic relations with An elderly Bhutanese man is helped by his son after casting his vote at a polling station in Thimpu. Thimphu. “It is a country with a barely 50 countries, it knows it will limited budget so what can you have to open up. claimed by China and Bhutan, and say. Whatever party wins has to Foreign policy is kept out of the which sits on a strategic corner cope with it.” election campaign however even where the three countries meet. Results of the runoff vote — to though during the 2013 campaign India, which has a military pres- be announced tomorrow — could — fearing that Bhutan was mov- ence in Bhutan, stepped in to pre- see a government formed by a ing too close to China — India vent Chinese border guards from party only registered in 2013. Druk withdrew subsidies for kerosene building a road there. Nyamrup Tshogpa (DNT) nar- and cooking gas imports, in what Even though Bhutan does not rowly led the fi rst round of voting was seen as an attempt to coerce a have diplomatic ties with China, on September 15 with 92,722 votes, change of government. its giant neighbour is the third just ahead of the Druk Phuen- Relations with India remain biggest source of imported goods sum Tshogpa (DPT), which won sensitive. At least fi ve candidates and wealthy Chinese tourists are a Bhutan’s fi rst election in 2008, on and activists were fi ned up to two valuable new source of income. 90,020. Harvard-educated prime month’s wages for sending instant Many in Bhutan feel the coun- minister Tshering Tobgay con- messenger statements to groups try should rely less on India and ceded defeat after his ruling party on relations with India, the Bhutan give China and others a chance to slumped to third place. election commission said. help boost the economy and cre- The rivals have vowed to bolster Last year India and China be- ate new jobs. “Bhutan should make the economy and health system came embroiled in a military friends with other countries,” said A Bhutanese voter casts her ballot at a polling station in Babesa on and improve government trans- standoff over the Doklam plateau taxi driver Kinzang Dorji. the outskirts of Thimpu, the capital of Bhutan, yesterday.

Estranged brother of Suu Kyi bids to Sri Lanka reverses $300mn China deal sell lakeside home

Reuters demanded brick houses, Sri Lanka was derived The estranged brother of Colombo saying they preferred from consultations on Myanmar leader Aung San Suu their traditional type an equal footing and he Kyi said yesterday he is making a of dwelling instead of hoped that co-operation new bid to sell the lakeside house ri Lanka has re- the concrete structures would be viewed objec- where the democracy activist versed a decision to the Chinese fi rm had tively. Critics have said a turned politician spent 15 years Saward a $300-mn planned. big Chinese port project under house arrest. Aung San housing deal to China in On Wednesday, gov- and related infrastruc- Oo, who spends most of his time favour of a joint venture ernment spokesman Ra- ture in Sri Lanka’s south in the United States, submitted with an Indian com- jitha Senaratne said the have been dragging the an appeal at the Supreme Court pany, the government cabinet had approved a country of 21mn people on Wednesday to auction off the said, ahead of a visit by new proposal for 28,000 deep into debt. once-grand white family home on the prime minister to its houses worth 35.8bn India has built 44,000 the shores of Yangon’s Inya Lake South Asian neighbour. rupees ($210mn) to be houses in the country’s which his lawyer has valued at Prime Minister Ranil built by Indian fi rm ND north in the fi rst phase $90 million. Wickremesinghe will Enterprises and two of reconstruction after a The pair have tussled over the meet his counterpart Sri Lankan fi rms in the 26-year-war with Tamil house since 2001, when he first Narendra Modi tomor- north and east. Tiger rebels, and plans sued for a share of the property. row in New Delhi, the The planned homes to rebuild Palaly airport Imprisoned there in 1989 by Indian capital, for talks. are part of a total re- and Kankesanthurai har- the then ruling military, Suu The two countries have quirement of 65,000, he bour, both heavily dam- Kyi, the daughter of Myanmar’s long-standing ties, part- added. “The rest of the aged in the confl ict. independence hero, spent 15 of ly because of cultural and houses will be given to But in recent years, the following 21 years confined to ethnic links with Tamils, fi rms which are ready China has swept in, its grounds. many of whom live in the to build them at lower building ports, power A Yangon court ruled in 2016 that island’s north and east. prices,” Senaratne told plants and highways as Suu Kyi owned the main building In April, state-run reporters in Colombo, part of Beijing’s String of while another building and some China Railway Beijing the Sri Lankan capital, Pearls strategy to build a of the surrounding land belonged Engineering Group Co adding that China could network of friendly ports to her brother. Ltd won a tender worth also be considered in across Asia. “The previous decision was more than $300mn to future for the remaining India has long consid- biased and they gave her more build 40,000 houses housing projects. ered Sri Lanka, just off its than half and so I am not satisfied in Jaff na in Sri Lanka’s In Beijing yesterday, southern coast, as within and I am asking this right now,” north, with China’s Exim foreign ministry spokes- its sphere of infl uence Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe gestures Aung San Oo told Reuters by bank to provide fund- man Lu Kang told a reg- and sought to push back as he arrives at the Indira Gandhi international airport telephone. “I already let her live ing. But the project was ular news briefi ng Chi- against China’s expand- in New Delhi yesterday. Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister Ranil for free for 12 years. There is a halted after residents na’s co-operation with ing maritime presence. Wickremesinghe is on a three-day visit to India. limitation.” Gulf Times Friday, October 19, 2018 7 ASIA/AUSTRALASIA US, China defence chiefs aim to improve strained ties

AFP the two nuclear powers. Mattis fell through after China declined South China Sea. The contested to the anti-Chinese rhetoric from given China’s strength to always think-tank, said most countries Singapore “repeated our desire for a durable to make Wei available. The snub waterway, where China has built the White House. President Don- speak up, but (Mattis) wanted in the region see Mattis as “a relationship that is a stabilising came as China reacted angrily a series of military facilities on ald Trump has frequently assailed to let Minister Wei know that he steady hand on the tiller”. force in the overall relationship,” after Washington imposed sanc- islets and reefs, was a subject of China over its economic policies hears about it a great deal from But they are wary of the un- S Defence Secretary Jim Randall Schriver, the Pentagon’s tions following Beijing’s purchase “signifi cant” discussion, Schriver and earlier this month, US Vice other countries,” Schriver said. certainty in Washington and Mattis and his Chinese assistant secretary of defence for of Russian fi ghter jets and mis- said, but no progress was made in President Mike Pence issued a Mattis’s visit to Singapore comes Trump’s mercurial approach to Ucounterpart sought yes- Asian and Pacifi c Security Aff airs, siles. resolving the issue or the other litany of complaints, accusing as questions swirl in Washington America maintaining a leadership terday to normalise military re- told reporters after the nearly Beijing’s other actions includ- perennial point of friction — Tai- Beijing of “predatory” trade prac- about his future. role in the region. Once Mattis lations that have dramatically 90-minute meeting on the side- ed scrapping a planned port visit wan. tices and military “aggression”, In an interview broadcast Sun- leaves after a trip, “offi cials start soured in recent weeks over trade lines of a security summit in Sin- of a US warship to Hong Kong and “We’re going to continue to among other charges. day, Trump suggested Mattis may wondering... is the full force of and sanctions tensions. gapore. cancelling a meeting between the have diff erences,” Schriver said. Mattis has made eight trips to be headed out the Pentagon door. American power really in Asia to The much-anticipated meet- “When we have times of dif- head of the Chinese navy and his “They weren’t resolved at this the Asia region as Pentagon chief, “It could be that he is. I think he’s stay?” Poling told AFP. ing between the Pentagon chief ferences and irritants, we should American counterpart. meeting and during this discus- and a primary mission has been to sort of a Democrat, if you want “I don’t think Asian leaders see and General Wei Fenghe saw the seek to deepen our contact, par- And tensions reached a dan- sion and they probably won’t be encourage countries to stand up to know the truth,” Trump said. lasting commitment from the US men address long-standing fric- ticularly at the high level, stra- gerous level when a Chinese war- in a next discussion. There will be to China in the South China Sea. Mattis later told reporters that on things other than North Korea tions — including Beijing’s ac- tegic level so that we can talk ship sailed extremely close to a issues that are long-term chal- But Schriver indicated that Trump had assured him of his and trade defi cits.” tions in the South China Sea — through diff erences.” US destroyer as it conducted a lenges to manage.” countries remain too intimidated “100 percent” support. Schriver said the issue of North but also centred on strengthening A meeting between Mattis and “freedom of navigation” opera- Mattis’s attempts to carve a to do much on this front. “In Gregory Poling, an Asia expert Korea came up with Wei “in very ties to withstand political crises Wei was supposed to take place tion challenging China’s exten- better relationship with the Chi- some instances, other countries and fellow at the Center for Stra- general terms” as a possible area like the one currently engulfi ng in Beijing last weekend, but it sive sovereignty claims in the nese military stands in contrast may not have the confi dence tegic and International Studies to deepen co-operation.

No money down the drain for Philippine sanitation workers

Reuters near the scene shot video foot- said many of the wallets were Manila age showing the workers in a vil- pulled out from deep in the drain, lage in Batangas city, south of the meaning they had been there for capital Manila, sorting through a long time. None of them con- hilippines sanitation wallets and removing and lay- tained any money. workers unblocking a drain ing out items including identity The items were turned over to Pdiscovered dozens of wal- cards found in them. police so they could identify and lets had been clogging it up, some Police offi cer Mario David, alert the owners who were likely containing credit cards and IDs, who went to investigate what victims of pickpockets, David but no money. A man working he suspected were stolen items, said.

Pope Francis meets South Korean President Moon Jae-in during a private audience at the Vatican, yesterday. Pope gets invite to N Korea, indicates

Sanitation workers sort out credit cards and IDs after retrieving wallets from a drain, after local media reported will consider it that a stash of wallets were clogging a canal in Poblacion, Batangas City, Philippines. Malaysia opposition leader arrested for graft allegations Reuters tion on how many of its citizens “I will defi nitely answer if I of the Korean peninsula. Any Vatican City are Catholic, or how they prac- get the invitation, and I can go,” trip to the North, however brief, tice their faith. Kim told Moon, the president’s offi ce quoted could be contentious for the Malaysia’s opposition leader was divisive racial politics and a rotten his arrest. The UMNO quickly a Catholic, of his wish to meet the Pope as saying. The Pope is Pope. North Korea’s constitu- arrested yesterday on suspicion ruling elite. Najib has also been came to the defence of Ahmad ope Francis yesterday re- the pontiff during a meeting last expected to be in Asia during a tion guarantees freedom of re- of corruption, a fresh blow to his arrested and charged over allega- Zahid, who was elected as party ceived an invitation to month and the South Korean trip to Japan next year. A Vatican ligion as long as it does not un- party which was ousted at elec- tions he oversaw the plundering chief after May’s polls, and said Pvisit North Korea and the leader announced before the statement made no mention of dermine the state. But beyond tions this year after six decades of state fund 1MDB, a scandal that the arrest was politically motived. pontiff indicated that he would trip that he would be relaying a the verbal invitation from Kim. a handful of state-controlled in power. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, a played a major part in the election “This action is a strategy to portray consider making what would message. It spoke only of “the promo- places of worship, no open reli- former deputy premier and ally defeat. Ahmad Zahid was arrested Zahid as an untrustworthy and be a landmark trip to the hermit According to the president’s tion of dialogue and reconcilia- gious activity is allowed. of scandal-mired ex-leader Najib in “relation to an investigation into unqualified leader,” said Jalalud- nation, according to South Ko- offi ce, Francis expressed his tion between Koreans” and “the Aides close to the Pope have Razak, was detained after being abuse of power, criminal breach of din Alias, a member of the party’s rean offi cials. strong support for eff orts to common commitment to fos- said he is open to taking what questioned by anti-corruption au- trust and money laundering”, the supreme council. South Korean President Moon bring peace to the Korean pe- tering all useful initiatives to they call fi rst steps in places thorities. He will be charged today. Malaysian Anti-Corruption Com- Ahmad Zahid, who also served as Jae-in relayed the invitation ninsula. Moon’s offi ce quoted overcome the tensions that still where the Church has been per- He is head of the United Malays mission said. interior minister in the last govern- from North Korean leader Kim the Pope as telling Moon: “Do exist in the Korean Peninsula, secuted in the hope that the sit- National Organisation (UMNO), the It gave no further details but ment, stuck by Najib even as other Jong-un to the Pope verbally not stop, move forward. Do not in order to usher in a new sea- uation could improve. Church lynchpin in a coalition of parties local media reported that he was senior figures abandoned him during a 35-minute meeting in be afraid.” Asked if Kim should son of peace and development.” offi cials estimate that North that ruled Malaysia from inde- accused of misappropriating over the 1MDB graft scandal. US the Vatican. send a formal invitation, Moon’s The two Koreas have held three Korea had a Catholic commu- pendence in 1957 until their shock 800,000 ringgit ($190,000) from authorities say more than $4.5bn Any visit would be the fi rst offi ce quoted the Pope as re- summits this year. Kim also held nity of about 55,000 just before defeat in May polls. The UMNO a foundation he chairs to settle was misappropriated from the by a Pope to the reclusive state sponding to Moon: “your mes- an unprecedented summit with the 1950-53 Korean War. Reli- has been on the ropes since, with credit card payments in 2014 and fund, with nearly $700mn diverted which does not allow priests sage is already suffi cient but it US President Donald Trump in gious agencies have estimated many coalition partners abandon- 2015. “I urge UMNO members to into Najib’s personal bank ac- to be permanently stationed would be good for him to send a Singapore in June, and promised the number remaining from the ing a party that had become syn- remain calm and follow the rule of counts. The ex-leader has denied there. There is little informa- formal invitation.” to work toward denuclearisation few hundreds to about 4,000. onymous with widespread graft, law,” Ahmad Zahid told AFP before any wrongdoing.

Indonesia raids home of Lippo ‘Desperate’ times for Australian govt as crunch poll looms Group offi cial in bribery probe Indonesia’s anti-graft agency a text message its investigators said yesterday it had raided 10 had seized financial documents AFP crisis and party infi ghting — and turfed out of the prime minis- Australia’s Muslim-majority told AFP. “They just want to locations, including the home of and computers during the raids. Sydney would send him limping into tership in a party coup, despite neighbour Indonesia. win at all costs, they don’t care Lippo Group Deputy Chairman The raids targeted the home of next year’s general election. The calls for him to stay on and not Opinion polls show Sharma, what they do to do that, which James Riady, as part of a bribery Riady, a Lippo Group off ice and sprawling constituency takes jeopardise the coalition’s hold a former Australian ambassa- will also probably feed people’s investigation linked to the con- the home and off ices of top lo- ustralia’s embattled cen- in the famous Bondi Beach and on power. dor to Israel, trailing independ- discontent with the government glomerate’s $21bn Meikarta real cal government off icial Neneng tre-right government the haunts of stars like Rus- “Since the Turnbull defeat, ent candidate Kerryn Phelps by generally. So it’s a big call on estate project. The raids come Hasanah Yasin, one of nine Afaces a make-or-break sell Crowe and Hugh Jackman. they have really been crumbling around 10 points. their part to run it that way.” after the Corruption Eradication suspects arrested by the KPK test this weekend, with by-elec- “It could not come at a worst before our eyes. They are aban- Turnbull has been very no- The campaign has seen vot- Commission, known as KPK, ar- this week. tion voters in Sydney’s wealthy time for Scott Morrison because doning policies left, right and tably absent from the campaign ers express anger at infi ghting in rested two Lippo Group consult- Yasin, Riady and other repre- beachside suburbs apparently sometimes even winning a by- centre, a reshuffl e has left them trail, despite winning the seat by Canberra and the rising cost of ants and an employee accused sentatives of the Lippo Group poised to wipe out Prime Min- election might not be enough for all at sea, issues that they were an 18-point margin, but the rest living while wages stagnate. of trying to pay off city off icials did not respond immediately to ister Scott Morrison’s slender a new leader -- you have to win strong on they’ve lost their way of the Liberal party has thrown “The people who are disen- to obtain property permits for requests for comment. The KPK parliamentary majority. it convincingly,” politics expert on,” said Economou. the kitchen sink at the contest. chanted are not just those who Meikarta. said Lippo employees detained Polls show the government Nick Economou of Monash Uni- Morrison has invested heavily Fears of a collapse in Liberal are doing it hard economically,” Costing $21bn and billed as this week said they had been losing in Wentworth tomorrow versity told AFP. in the vote, appearing multiple votes saw former prime minis- Joseph Camilleri, a professor at the “Shenzhen of Indonesia”, acting on instructions from and with it their one-seat par- Analysts believe a loss and times on the stump with Lib- ter John Howard, the last leader La Trobe University told AFP. after the booming Chinese Lippo director Billy Sindoro to liamentary majority, in what has a minority government would eral candidate Dave Sharma and to serve out a full term, hit the “It also includes those who feel city, Meikarta is Lippo’s largest bribe Yasin, who is the regent for been described as the most con- derail the Liberals’ legislative upending decades of Australian streets of Wentworth on Thurs- their views or interests have project to date and is meant to West Java’s Bekasi area where sequential by-election in mod- agenda, make Morrison a virtual foreign policy in a desperate bid day in a plea to “grumpy Lib- been ignored... we have had for be a centre for the automotive the Meikarta project is located. ern Australian history. lame duck prime minister and to woo Wentworth’s Jewish vot- eral voters” not to abandon their some time a government that and electronic industries. It will Sindoro has also been arrested, Defeat in the once safe Lib- perhaps even trigger a vote of no ers. Morrison fl oated the idea of party. moves from one short-term also include five-star hotels, as well as four other public serv- eral seat would be a huge embar- confi dence in his premiership. moving the Australian embassy “This is really pretty desper- tactical objective to another shopping malls, hospitals, and ants. Lawyers for Sindoro and rassment for Morrison — whose The by-election was triggered in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jeru- ate politics,” former Liberal par- without any clear narrative as to universities. Febri Diansyah, a Yasin have not responded to two-month tenure as prime by the resignation of Malcolm salem, a move that prompted ty leader and a former member where Australia is and where it spokesman for the KPK, said in requests for comment. minister has been marked by Turnbull as an MP after he was Palestinian anger and infuriated for Wentworth, John Hewson, might be heading.” Gulf Times 8 Friday, October 19, 2018 BRITAIN/IRELAND

QUARANTINED ‘LUMOS’ TRANSPORTATION Scottish govt identifies Wands to light up London London’s black taxi cabs to case of mad cow disease for Fantastic Beasts release launch in Paris next year

Scotland’s government said yesterday that a Nine giant wands will add a magical touch to the London’s black taxi cabs will hit the streets of case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy London night scene over coming weeks with Paris next year as the Chinese Geely-owned (BSE), or mad cow disease, had been discovered a new installation from the wizarding world of London Electric Vehicle Company continues its on a farm in Aberdeenshire. A quarantine area Harry Potter illuminating a street ahead of the global expansion of the famous models. In 2017, has been put in place around the farm while release of the new Fantastic Beasts film next the firm picked Amsterdam as its first foreign inspectors try to identify the origin of the month. The 5m wands have been set up on a destination for the new electric version of the disease. The government said the case posed no walkway leading up to St Paul’s Cathedral in a bid taxi and it has since announced expansion plans harm to humans. “I have activated the Scottish to raise awareness for Harry Potter author J.K to Oslo, Berlin and Hamburg. The taxi should be government’s response plan to protect our Rowling’s charity Lumos. The wands belong to transporting Parisians in the first half of 2019 Queen Elizabeth II unveils a portrait of herself valuable farming industry, including establishing characters such as Hogwarts headmaster Albus once negotiations with the favoured importer painted by artist Benjamin Sullivan and a precautionary movement ban being placed Dumbledore from the Harry Potter series as well are concluded. “Given the air pollution diff iculties commissioned to celebrate 100 years of the on the farm,” Scotland’s farming minister Fergus as new villain Grindelwald, played by Hollywood facing French cities, we are very much looking RAF Club during a visit to the club to mark its Ewing said in a statement. BSE was first detected star Johnny Depp, in Rowling’s Fantastic Beasts forward to giving both drivers and passengers centenary year in London on Wednesday. in Britain in the late 1980s. film spin-off , set for release in November. new options,” said chief executive Chris Gubbey. A taxi travels along Oxford Street in London. Despite ‘big gaps’, Britain and People’s Vote plans biggest rally to push EU talk up Brexit prospects fresh referendum By Bill Smith, DPA and Sarah Wollaston from Reuters Agreement reached on Gibraltar status London May’s own Conservative party Brussels are among those scheduled to The status of the British overseas out giving any further details. address the marchers. territory of Gibraltar, a small isthmus “Gibraltar will no longer be a s a group of young anti- May said yesterday that rime Minister Theresa on Spain’s southern coast, after problem in arriving at a Brexit Brexit activists from she had fl oated the idea of ex- May and other EU lead- Britain leaves the European Union deal,” he said. ANorthern Ireland met tending the planned 21-month Pers yesterday voiced re- has been agreed with Britain, Spain’s However, Spain and Britain are opposition fi gures at the Brit- Brexit transition period by an newed confi dence they could prime minister said yesterday. still holding separate bilateral ish parliament on Wednes- extra year, during an EU lead- secure a Brexit deal, saying they Gibraltar will leave the EU talks regarding Gibraltar, focusing day, embattled Prime Minister ers’ summit in Brussels. were working hard to overcome along with the United Kingdom on matters such as environmental Theresa May was answering Soubry said May was forced the hurdles that only days ago on March 29 next year. issues, tax aff airs and tobacco questions nearby in the Com- to make the off er because her brought the talks to a halt. Its status, and that of two Brit- trade, Sanchez said. mons, parliament’s main elect- government is divided over Less than six months before ish sovereign areas in EU member Britain had displayed a positive ed house. a “backstop” to guarantee Britain quits the EU in its biggest Cyprus, forms part of any overall attitude towards these negotia- As with so many debates an open Irish border and has shift in policy for more than 40 divorce agreement with the EU. tions, he added, although the two in the parliament, in the Brit- failed to secure a future trade years, the two sides are at odds The part of the Brexit negotia- countries had yet to sign off on ish media and across the whole deal with the EU before Britain over how to deal with their only tions related to the status of Gi- any agreement. country for the past two years, leaves the bloc in March. land border, between the British braltar had now been agreed with “If we reach an agreement the tortuous process of extricat- “More broken Brexit prom- province of Northern Ireland and Britain, Pedro Sanchez said at a (soon), great. If not, it doesn’t ing Britain from the European ises,” Soubry tweeted, urg- Ireland. news conference on the sidelines matter because we’ve got time to Union was the topic of the day. ing people to join tomorrow’s But while the mood at a two- of an EU summit in Brussels, with- reach one,” he said. Anti-Brexit campaigner Steve Bray walks outside the Houses of “There will be no second ref- march. day summit in Brussels was more Parliament in central London yesterday. erendum,” May told lawmak- In his message to the march- upbeat, there was little move- ers. “The people voted (in the ers, Khan said May was taking ment from either side on how to “I am confi dent that we can so-called transition period “for campaigners accuse her of making she concedes to the EU’s demands 2016 Brexit referendum) and Britain “towards either a bad resolve the border issue, with EU achieve that good deal.” a matter of months” after Britain Britain a vassal state, EU support- over the backstop. this government will deliver Brexit deal or — worse still — offi cials and diplomats saying It was a marked change of leaves the EU in March, a move ers say the off er is the worst of all They say the proposal would on it.” no deal at all.” May had off ered nothing new to tone since May’s Brexit minister her critics called a betrayal but worlds and others are increasingly tear Northern Ireland from the The youngsters visiting “Both these scenarios are a unlock the talks. Dominic Raab left Brussels last one which the bloc welcomed. frustrated over the talks. rest of Britain. parliament couldn’t disagree million miles from what was For now, however, both sides Sunday after the more than year- Extending the transition pe- One prominent Brexit sup- Diane Dodds, an EU lawmaker more. promised,” he said. seemed to be happy to kick any long Brexit talks broke down over riod could mean that if a fu- porter, Conservative lawmaker from the DUP, said the extension They were from Our Future, Nearly 900,000 people have solution to that problem a little the border issue. ture partnership is not ready, a Jacob Rees-Mogg, told Reuters did not ease her party’s fears. Our Choice NI, a campaign signed an online petition for a bit further down the road. The problem centres on a so- backstop, which so far has been that any extension to the transi- “All very well, but this doesn’t group pushing for “a people’s second referendum that was “We are all working, we’re called backstop — an insurance unpalatable to the British side, tion was “a bad and expensive do anything to actually change vote, led by young people from started by The Independent intensifying the work on these policy to ensure there will be no would not have to be triggered. idea”. the backstop...Therefore it does across Northern Ireland.” newspaper. issues that remain,” May told a return to a hard border on the But even an extension would “No say on the budget or new not address any concerns, it of- “For my generation, there is That number may sound big, news conference after a two-day island of Ireland, a former focal not get rid of the EU’s insistence laws, the epitome of the vassal fers no reassurance.” no greater threat than Brexit,” but May reminded her pro- summit in Brussels had ended. point for sectarian tensions, if a that such a backstop must be state.” With the EU showing little Doire Finn, 23, from the North- EU critics on Wednesday that “What I’ve had from leaders future trading relationship is not agreed to secure a deal. May also faces a rebellion from sign of changing its position on ern Irish town of Newry, close “17.4mn people voted to leave around the table...since I arrived in place in time. Such an extension would be her parliamentary partners, North- the backstop, its leaders could to the border with Ireland, says the EU.” here in Brussels yesterday is a To try to move the talks for- diffi cult for May to sell at home, ern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist off er May little more than the in the group’s campaign video. A majority of 52% voted to very real sense that people want ward, May had earlier signalled where her overall strategy has Party, which has threatened to vote support that they too believed a Northern Ireland is at the leave the European Union in that deal to be done.” she would consider extending a been criticised by all sides — Brexit against her government’s budget if deal could be reached. centre of the Brexit negotia- June 2016, with a turnout of tions, as the two sides try to 72% of the 46.5mn eligible vot- ensure an open border between ers. Northern Ireland — which is People’s Vote has published part of Britain — and the Re- no detailed plans on how it public of Ireland. would organise another vote, ‘Story of Wales’: museum’s six-year revamp completed After decades of bitter con- what the questions would be, fl ict in the late 20th century, or how the result of two votes many people fear that any would be reconciled. By Steven Morris gette voodoo doll”, which was it and the physical building proc- at the museum and then giving bot in south Wales. change to the status of the bor- It has warned that the EU Guardian News and Media sent to a woman, presumably by ess. them hands-on involvement in It helps tell the tale of the Ital- der could damage Northern could say goodbye to Britain in someone who did not care for Nia Williams, the director of turning their ideas into reality. ian/Welsh coff ee culture decades Ireland’s fragile peace process. March with a commitment to women’s voting rights, a century learning, said the idea had been More than 3,000 volunteers ahead of the current trend. “We have never witnessed continue talks and a “warmly isitors to a revamped and ago. to turn the redevelopment into a and 120 charities and community There will even be a chance to the terrible violence of the worded, yet specifi cs-free, po- re-imagined museum of St Fagans is a largely open-air public programme. groups and organisations have sleep over in one of the exhibits, past,” said Finn’s unnamed litical declaration about future Vhistory will be treated museum that originally opened “St Fagans has always been helped shape the project with a recreation of one of Llywelyn 16-year-old colleague. relationships.” to glimpses into 230,000 years as the Welsh Folk Museum in a museum for people but we schoolchildren, apprentices and the Great’s 13th century royal “Brexit threatens all of that This “blind Brexit” would of life in Wales ranging from an 1948 and includes more than 50 thought a lot of the experiences artists all working on the scheme. courts, based on archaeological and no young person wants to leave Britain in “the same place insight into what it must have buildings moved from locations people were having were passive, Appropriately, one of the new excavations on Anglesey, north dragged back to that.” as a ‘no deal’ Brexit, but with- been like to step into a medieval all around Wales. they were watching museum galleries is Gweithdy — the Welsh Wales. “Yet we are completely ig- out the clarity,” said Labour prince’s court to how it felt being staff doing things rather than ac- word for workshop. From April, school parties will nored,” Finn added. lawmaker Chris Leslie. a posh Cardiff caravaner in the “The story of Wales is still tively participating themselves,” It celebrates the skills of gen- be able to stay overnight at the May’s intransigence on the Crucially, Labour’s left- 1950s. evolving and so is the she said. erations of craftspeople and visi- court beneath the thatched roof. issue of a second referendum wing leader Jeremy Corbyn will St Fagans National Museum of museum. We believe we They also went back to the tors will be able to try their hand David Anderson, the director has not deterred pro-EU law- not address the People’s Vote History, Wales’ largest and most have preserved everything beginnings of the museum and at traditional skills. general of Amgueddfa Cymru makers from all parties and rally tomorrow. beloved heritage attraction, is that people love about St looked again at the ideas of one of In the “Life is …” gallery peo- (National Museum Wales), the hundreds of thousands of Corbyn and other senior celebrating the completion of Fagans, but introduced the museum’s founders, the poet ple will be able to explore how umbrella organisation that in- members of the public from Labour fi gures fear the party a spectacular £30mn, six-year important new dimensions” and scholar Iorwerth Peate, who generations have dressed, pre- cludes seven museums, said: backing the People’s Vote cam- could lose parliamentary seats transformation that has added believed it could refl ect society, pared food, worked, played and “The story of Wales is still paign for a referendum on the if it backs a new vote, be- features and revamped old fa- Around half a million visitors be for society, and continue to mourned. evolving and so is the museum. fi nal outcome of her fraught cause majorities in many of its vourites. make the trip there annually. change and involve. A handcrafted caravan, created We believe we have preserved Brexit negotiations with the EU. constituencies, especially in Among the intriguing exhibits Since 2012 it has been under- The museum also drew in- by Cardiff furniture makers Louis everything that people love about People’s Vote says some northern and central England, at the museum, on the outskirts going an ambitious redevelop- spiration from the Marxist aca- Blow & Company of Canton for St Fagans, but introduced impor- 100,000 supporters attended backed Leave in 2016. of Cardiff , is a life-sized model ment thanks to cash from bodies demic and writer Raymond Wil- the Dodds family in the early tant new dimensions. its rally in June. “The People’s Vote cam- of a Neanderthal child together including the Heritage Lottery liams and the belief that culture 1950s, is one of the exhibits here. “We see this not as a project It hopes tomorrow’s march paign will go nowhere until it with — real — Neanderthal teeth Fund and the Welsh government. belongs to everybody. The caravan cost more than a but as a way of working for the will be “bigger and better.” starts to talk to Leave voters that were found at Pontnew- During the redevelopment the In practical terms this has terraced house at the time. whole organisation, based on London Mayor Sadiq Khan and address their legitimate ydd Cave in Denbighshire, north museum has remained open and meant the museum has gone out Another is the gleaming coff ee social justice and participation, from the main opposition La- grievances,” Simon Hix, a po- Wales. an important element has been into the community and asked machine that was used by broth- which we will sustain and devel- bour Party, Liberal Democrat litical scientist at the London Another stand-out object is to closely involve the public in people to vote on what groups ers Luigi, Giuseppe and Ronaldo op in the years ahead.” leader Vince Cable; and pro- School of Economics, wrote on a sinister-looking “anti-suff ra- thinking about what should be in of exhibits they would like to see Rabaiotti at their cafe in Port Tal- EU lawmakers Anna Soubry Twitter last week. Whistleblower rounds on minister over sex abuse in aid sector

By Umberto Bacchi, Reuters was trying to outline her reform to stop predators getting charity intense scrutiny since reports we set out to do but we have to do “We’ve been speaking to In- years — would start and what the London plans at a summit when the jobs but the sector faces an uphill surfaced that Oxfam staff used it to our best ability.” terpol for some time. We’re high- terms of participation of other whistleblower bounded on stage fi ght to root out predators who sex workers in Haiti after the The minister later denied that lighting some of the challenges nations were. to address fellow aid workers and often travel from crisis to crisis country’s 2010 earthquake. Save the Children — which is Interpol may face as leaders of Britain said it was to commit charity whistleblower pour ice-cold water on her plans and operate with little oversight. Reports followed of Syrian under investigation by Britain’s this project and helping ensure it £2mn for the scheme’s fi rst year. yesterday confronted for tighter controls. An exclusive survey by the women being sexually exploited charity watchdog — would re- works,” a spokesman said. “A critical part of Interpol’s ABritain’s aid minister as “We do not need fancy new Thomson Reuters Foundation in in return for aid, and the harass- ceive funding from Britain for the Aid agencies could check fu- mission is to protect the most she unveiled plans to tackle sex systems, we do not need technol- February found more than 120 ment of women in the head of- project. ture employees against national vulnerable members of society abuse in the sector, saying “fancy ogy. We need systematic change,” staff from leading global chari- fi ces of global charities. Mordaunt said the £10mn criminal records and Interpol from the most dangerous,” In- new systems” would not wipe Alexia Pepper de Caires, formerly ties were fi red or lost their jobs in Mordaunt stopped her speech ($13.14mn) pilot project would databases under the scheme, terpol secretary general Jurgen out predators. with Save the Children, said from 2017 over sexual misconduct. to listen to the demonstrator and strengthen vetting through an named Operation Soteria after Stock said in a statement. The aid sector was rocked by the podium as the minister lis- Pepper de Caires — who defended her Interpol scheme. online platform. the Greek deity of safety. Opera- “This is all the more important reports this year that staff at sev- tened at her side. founded Safe Space, a group She also off ered up a slot to “There will be consequences tion Soteria is to be led by Inter- when sexual predators attempt eral major charities were involved The crowd of about 500 aid fi ghting harassment in aid — said those who felt they had been de- for those who do harm, and those pol, with British help. to exploit the very people — be it in sexual misconduct, with char- workers, delegates from United some key voices had been shut nied a chance to speak. who allow harm to be done. Their A team of up to nine detectives men, women or children — they ities pledging an overhaul after Nations agencies and other or- out of the conference and ques- “We do need to put in place time, is up,” she said. will also be deployed in two re- are supposed to be safeguarding donations fell and the revelations ganisations listened in stunned tioned the involvement of her new tools and systems and work Save the Children said that, gional hubs in Africa and Asia to from harm.” sparked public outcry. silence then applauded the inter- former employer, given it had with law enforcement. But that pending the investigation’s re- help countries improve their crim- Britain’s charity watchdog said International Development vention. faced sexual misconduct com- is only one part of it,” Mordaunt sults, it was not applying for new inal records systems, DFID said. on Wednesday it believed a sig- Secretary Penny Mordaunt had Mordaunt was laying out Brit- plaints. replied. government funding, but this did It was not immediately clear nifi cant number of incidents still promised a major cleanup and ain’s plans to work with Interpol The aid world has come under “We won’t be perfect in what not stop it helping Interpol. when the project — set to last fi ve went unreported. Gulf Times Friday, October 19, 2018 9 EUROPE

Fearing election hacking, EU leaders try to move Europe takes steps past migration impasse Reuters DPA tian Kurz proposed a more fl exi- However, German Chancel- smuggling networks’ online The leaders noted that the There has, however, been no Brussels Brussels ble strategy to help the European lor Angela Merkel said such a communications, with a view number of illegal arrivals is real progress on the idea of so- Union resolve its divisions over proposal would not “solve the to completing measures by De- down by 95% from the peak in called disembarkation platforms how to redistribute migrants and issue” of ensuring an equitable cember. 2015. in northern Africa for migrants uropean Union leaders U leaders underscored asylum-seekers. distribution and is a “little too Vienna, along with Italy and EU leaders also focused on rescued at sea. have agreed to impose support yesterday for en- Rather than continue with an easy”. several central European states how the bloc can enlist more In June, EU leaders embraced Esanctions to stiff en their Ehanced co-operation with unsuccessful push for binding “This really isn’t a European headed by right-wing populist help from northern African the idea, but no country has response to cyber-attacks and North Africa and a crackdown quotas to distribute asylum- answer,” said Merkel, whose governments, have taken a hard states. since come forward off ering to to rush through new curbs on on human-smuggling networks seekers across the EU, member country accepted more than 1mn line on migration. Many migrants travel via Lib- host a platform. online campaigning by political in an attempt to smooth over states should take bespoke ap- asylum-seekers in 2015. Some have taken in almost no ya, where political turmoil and “Everyone thinks this is a parties to protect next year’s Eu- long-standing divisions in the proaches to express “solidar- Austria, which holds the ro- migrants or asylum seekers at all confl ict have made it hard for the great idea, but no one wants to ropean polls from interference. bloc’s migration debate. ity” with EU partners, Kurz said tating presidency of the EU, this year. country to patrol its shores. have one,” said Luxembourg German Chancellor Angela However, fi ssures re-emerged ahead of the meeting. wants to make progress on the However, other governments One push has been to try in- Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, Merkel became the latest leader over fi nding a common approach “This means, each [state] has thorny issue of migration by the fear the issue will help populist creasing co-operation with adding: “That complicates mat- this week to warn against the on the divisive issue of shar- to make a contribution where it end of its term in December. parties make gains in EU elec- Libya, including facilitating ters.” risk of disinformation and voter ing the distribution of migrants can and where it makes sense,” Leaders also called for boost- tions next year. voluntary returns through the Along with migration, leaders manipulation to undermine the on the second day of a Brus- he added, implying that some ing the powers of the European European Council President International Organisation for were also taking up internal se- May elections to the European sels summit of European Union member states could compen- Migrant Smuggling Centre at Donald Tusk has stressed that Migration and ramping up the curity, external relations – nota- legislature. leaders. sate with fi nancial contribu- Europol, the EU’s police force, the EU is long past the “crisis EU’s training of the Libyan coast bly with Africa – and reform of The threat of a special EU Austrian Chancellor Sebas- tions. and improving surveillance of phase” of three years ago. guard. the 19-member eurozone. economic sanctions regime against computer hackers, in- cluding hostile governments and individuals, as well as fi nes for political parties, will act as a deterrent, European Council German President Donald Tusk said after Putin says globalisation to blame a summit of EU leaders. “Such a regime should help defence to protect our citizens, compa- nies and institutions from all kinds of cyber-security threats,” for Crimea college mass shooting ministry Tusk told reporters, referring to proposals pushed by seven EU countries including Britain. Reuters content for young people,” he outbreaks of violence on the orders Russia has made cyber and Kerch. Crimea said. peninsula. electronic warfare part of its Grieving residents gathered Sergei Aksyonov, the Rus- military operations, Western yesterday in Kerch, laying fl ow- sian-backed head of the gov- reforms offi cials say, and Britain, the ussian President ers and lighting candles to mark ernment in Crimea, said that it Netherlands and the United Vladimir Putin has a three-day offi cial mourning was impossible to conceive that States have accused Moscow of Rblamed a mass shooting period declared in the region. 18-year-old suspect Vladislav Reuters conducting a global campaign at a college in Crimea on glo- Orthodox priests sang Roslyakov had prepared the at- Berlin of computer hacks against the balisation, saying that a prob- prayers in the street, leading a tack by himself. West. lem that began in the United memorial service near the col- “On the ground, he acted However, EU offi cials are States had spread around the lege. alone, that is already known he German defence min- equally concerned about the world through online commu- “Where were the guards?” and established, but in my istry, under fi re for its use misuse of voter data by domestic nities on the Internet. a tearful woman at a memorial opinion and in the opinion of Tof outside consultants, actors to sway elections. An armed 18-year-old stu- asked. “Where were the men my colleagues this reprobate said yesterday that it is investi- The EU executive proposed dent in the Black Sea port city who were there in large num- could not have carried out the gating possible misconduct by new rules last month to guard of Kerch killed 20 people, most bers? Why was it children who preparations.” ministry offi cials and will short- against a repeat of the Facebook of them fellow pupils, and were shot dead at point blank?” The fi rst deputy head of Rus- ly publish strict new guidelines Cambridge Analytica scandal. wounded dozens at his college The death toll, including sia’s Federal Security Service for hiring external advisers. The data of millions of EU cit- on Wednesday, law enforce- 18-year-old suspect Vladislav (FSB) said that the security Lawmakers grilled Defence izens were among those used by ment offi cials said. Roslyakov, rose to 21 yesterday, services needed to have greater Minister Ursula von der Leyen the British political consultancy The suspected attacker was Putin: We across the world are reacting badly to changing Russian agencies cited the Rus- control over the Internet. about dozens of irregularities to build profi les on voters and found dead from a self-infl icted conditions in the world. We are not creating necessary, interesting sian health ministry as saying. “For us professionals, it has revealed in a scathing internal infl uence the US presidential gunshot wound after an attack and useful content for young people. The Russia-backed govern- long been evident that the cy- report by the Federal Audit Of- election in 2016. that also saw a bomb set off in ment in Crimea published a list berspace must be under the fi ce leaked to German media last In summit conclusions yes- the college canteen. tin said at a forum in the Black themselves,” he said. of the victims, most of whom control of the relevant authori- month about the ministry’s hir- terday, EU leaders said the new A second explosive device Sea city of Sochi. “This means that we all, were teenagers. ties. Without this, it’s impos- ing of consultants. measures to tackle cyber-se- was found among the suspect’s “Everything started with not just Russia, but we across Russia annexed Crimea from sible to guarantee the provi- Opposition lawmakers from curity, disinformation and data personal possessions. well-known tragic events in the world are reacting badly Ukraine in 2014, prompting in- sion of information security the pro-business Free Demo- manipulation “deserve rapid “By all appearances this is schools in the United States. to changing conditions in the ternational condemnation and and to combat modern terrorist crats and ecologist Greens examination and operational the result of globalisation, as Young people with unstable world. We are not creating nec- Western sanctions, but since threats in time,” Sergei Smirnov threatened a parliamentary in- follow-up”. strange as that may seem,” Pu- minds create false heroes for essary, interesting and useful then there have been no major was quoted as saying. vestigation unless they received more answers about the widen- ing scandal. The ministry said it is im- plementing a wide range of structural measures to prevent Rights groups urge Turkey to seek UN probe of Khashoggi case further mistakes, and an inves- tigative team “is examining in- dications about gross personal AFP lished by UN Secretary-General transparent investigation,” said diplomat, who asked not to be The team should have access Saudi Arabia has the most to misconduct by individuals in United Nations Antonio Guterres would shed Robert Mahoney, deputy execu- named. to all potential witnesses or sus- gain from an impartial UN in- connection with the awarding of light on the fate of the promi- tive director of the Committee “The Turkish police and the pects. vestigation. contracts”, said spokesman Jens nent journalist. to Protect Journalists. “UN in- Turkish prosecutor are doing “Partial explanations and “Without a credible UN in- Flosdorff . our human rights and Khashoggi, a legal resident of volvement is the best guarantee everything and collecting the one-sided investigations by quiry, there will always be a He said it is unclear if the in- press freedom groups have the US who wrote for the Wash- against a Saudi whitewash or at- evidence to fi nd out what hap- Saudi Arabia, which is suspect- cloud of suspicion hanging over dividuals involved had acted for Furged Turkey to request a ington Post, disappeared after tempts by other governments to pened and how it happened,” he ed of involvement, aren’t good Saudi Arabia, no matter what its personal gain, or if reported ir- UN investigation into the pos- entering the Saudi consulate in sweep the issue under the carpet said. “We don’t see it as some- enough, said Louis Charbon- leadership says to explain away regularities were the result of sible murder of Saudi dissident Istanbul on October 2. to preserve lucrative business thing that we need because they neau, UN director at Human how Khashoggi vanished,” said carelessness or a too-lax proc- journalist Jamal Khashoggi to Media reports citing Turkish ties with Riyadh.” don’t have the expertise. Rights Watch. Sherine Tadros, head the New ess. prevent a “whitewash” of the al- offi cials have said that Khashog- Asked about the appeal from “What can the UN do?” “Only the UN has the credibil- York offi ce of Amnesty Interna- “There are still multiple ques- leged crime. gi was killed by Saudi agents the rights groups, a Turkish dip- At a news conference held at ity and independence required tional. tions about the extent of the use The Committee to Protect within minutes of entering the lomat told AFP that there is “no the United Nations, the rights to expose the masterminds be- Reporters Without Borders of external help, about contract Journalists, Human Rights consulate and that his body was need” for a UN investigation for groups said that evidence col- hind Khashoggi’s enforced dis- (RSF) has described the sus- award violations, about old-boy Watch, Amnesty International, dismembered. the time being. lected by a UN investigation appearance and to hold them to pected murder of Khashoggi as networks between the minis- and Reporters Without Borders “Turkey should enlist the UN “There’s no need for the mo- team could be preserved for use account.” “one of the most shocking and try and external parties,” said said that such a probe estab- to initiate a timely, credible, and ment to go to the UN,” said the in prosecutions. Amnesty International said extreme cases in recent years”. Greens party member Tobias Lindner, one of those consider- ing initiating a parliamentary inquiry. Marie-Agnes Strack-Zim- Saudi Arabia further isolated over missing journalist controversy mermann, deputy head of the Free Democrats, said von der Leyen’s statements to the com- From Page 1 But Britain and France – which a statement, insisting that the A number of top bankers and dence along with Saudi investi- The newspaper said he was mittee “raised more questions like the United States are leading Saudis abide by their pledge to business leaders, including JP gators. the leader of the operation. than they answered”. Meanwhile, US Treasury suppliers of arms to Saudi Arabia carry out a full and transparent Morgan chief executive Jamie The Turkish search included On Wednesday, Yeni Safak Separately, the Berlin pros- Secretary Steven Mnuchin and – made clear their disquiet over investigation. “Those bearing Dimon, have already decided not the roof and garage. claimed it heard audio tapes in ecutor’s offi ce confi rmed yes- senior ministers from Europe Khashoggi’s fate as they yanked responsibility for his disappear- to attend the high-profi le event. Neither Turkey nor the US which Khashoggi’s alleged kill- terday that it is reviewing an yesterday pulled out of an in- their own representation at the ance must be held to account.” International Monetary Fund has publicly confi rmed that ers tortured him by cutting his anonymous complaint that the vestment conference in Saudi Riyadh conference. The Netherlands said that chief Christine Lagarde, too, has Khashoggi is dead or said offi - fi ngers off before his decapita- ministry failed to pay proper Arabia, deepening the kingdom’s “We have taken this deci- Finance Minister Wopke Hoek- pulled out. cially that Riyadh is to blame. tion. benefi ts for external advisers isolation amid an uproar over sion in a co-ordinated manner stra was no longer going to the Solomon said he had not However, a steady stream of Turkish investigators also who had essentially worked full- the disappearance of Khashoggi. among Europeans,” President conference, and that it was also planned to attend and the bank unconfi rmed leaks from offi cials widened their probe into time at the ministry. Offi cials from some of Saudi Emmanuel Macron told report- cancelling a planned trade mis- was not sending any senior ex- to Turkish media have painted a Khashoggi’s disappearance to The ministry denied it had Arabia’s leading Western al- ers at an EU summit in Brussels. sion to Saudi in December. ecutives. detailed and horrifying picture include three diff erent areas on sought to evade the payments, lies joined a slew of corporate “It is what’s required in the Working with the EU and “This incident is unaccept- of Khashoggi’s last minutes, al- the outskirts of Istanbul, offi - and said it had asked for a federal bigwigs who are now shunning short term, taking account of other partners, the Dutch gov- able and clearly they have to legedly at the hands of 15 Saudi cials told Al Jazeera. review of fi ling requirements for next week’s gathering, touted the gravity of the facts, in the ernment would “look at ways answer questions specifi cally agents waiting for him when he “Investigators tracked the six individuals on September 25, as a high-powered showcase for absence of (Saudi) clarifi cation,” international concerns about regarding this incident,” Solo- came to the consulate for paper- vehicles that left the Saudi before the complaint was fi led. the economic reforms of Crown he said, after French Economy Khashoggi could be addressed”, mon said. “How they answer work. consulate and consul general’s Federal auditors estimated Prince Mohamed bin Salman. Minister Bruno Le Maire con- Foreign Minister Stef Blok said. those questions and how more The Sabah newspaper pub- residence on the day Khashoggi that the ministry spends up to In an announcement that sent fi rmed that he was staying away Joining a host of media com- information becomes apparent lished a series of photographs of disappeared to these areas. They €150mn a year on outside ad- stocks tumbling on Wall Street, from Riyadh. panies to drop out of the confer- will have an impact on how we a man that it identifi ed as some- used traffi c cameras to do that,” visers and personnel, a sum Mnuchin said he had decided British International Trade ence, Fox Business Network yes- all interact.” one who travels with the Saudi Al Jazeera’s Jamal Elshayyal said, ministry sources say is closer to with Trump that he would “not Secretary Liam Fox said that terday said it was withdrawing Meanwhile, Turkish investi- crown prince. citing sources at the Turkish €80mn a year. be participating in the Future “the time is not right” to go to as a sponsor of the Saudi confer- gators left the Saudi consulate in The time-stamped photos prosecutor’s offi ce. They also fault the ministry Investment Initiative summit in the Saudi capital for the October ence. Istanbul yesterday after search- show the man – identifi ed as One area investigators are for improperly hiring outside Saudi Arabia”. 23-25 conference, dubbed “Da- Also, Goldman Sachs Group ing the building and consular Saudi security offi cial Maher searching was a forest called help under an umbrella IT con- The decision was given in vos in the Desert”. chief executive David Solomon vehicles, a Reuters witness said. Abdulaziz Mutreb – outside Belgrad, roughly 16km from Is- tract, something the ministry a terse tweet after Trump and “The UK remains very con- said in an interview with CNBC They used bright lights to il- the Saudi consulate build- tanbul’s city centre, Elshayyal blames on a mistaken assess- Mnuchin were briefed by Pom- cerned about Jamal Khashoggi’s yesterday that the company will luminate the garden. ing in Istanbul on the morning said, while the other was farm- ment by experts at its procure- peo. disappearance,” a British gov- not send any of its executives to Earlier, they spent nearly nine Khashoggi disappeared, Sabah land in Turkey’s Yalova prov- ment agency and the failure to Mnuchin gave no explanation. ernment spokesperson said in the Saudi event. hours in the Saudi consul’s resi- said yesterday. ince, about 93km east of the city. properly document the process. Gulf Times 10 Friday, October 19, 2018 INDIA

India closely engaged with US on H-1B visa issue: offi cial

IANS why we have time and again fairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, posing to remove from its regu- holders of H-1B visa. mar said that India was closely tually benefi cial,” he said. New Delhi at various levels we have tak- Defence Minister Nirmala Sith- lations certain H-4 spouses of The DHS said it will propose engaged with the US administra- “We have highlighted the role en up this matter with the US araman, US Secretary of State H-1B non-immigrants as a class to revise the defi nition of spe- tion as well as the US Congress which has been played by the side,” External Affairs Minis- Mike Pompeo and Defence Sec- of aliens eligible for employment cialty occupation to increase fo- on this matter. highly skilled Indian profession- ndia is continuing to engage try spokesman Raveesh Kumar retary Jim Mattis. authorisation. cus on obtaining the best and the Stating that there are certain als who have actually contrib- with the US over the H-1B said in response to queries by On Wednesday, the US De- The move to end the rule could brightest foreign nationals via bills which have been introduced, uted to the growth and develop- Ivisa, largely used by Indian IT journalists here. partment of Homeland Security have an impact on more than the H-1B programme. he, however, said “it is important ment of the US economy,” Kumar companies, after the Trump ad- Kumar said that most re- (DHS) said that the US Citizen- 70,000 H-4 visa holders, who It will also “revise the defi ni- to note that none of these bills stated. ministration proposed changes cently, the issue was raised ship and Immigration Services have work permits. tion” of employment and em- have been passed so far”. “And also they have helped to the programme, a senior offi - during the first ever India-US (USCIS) plans to come out with The H-4 visas are issued by ployer-employee relationship to “When we have engaged with the US to maintain a competitive cial said yesterday. 2+2 Ministerial Meeting held its new proposal by January the USCIS to immediate family “better protect” US workers and the US, we have emphasised that edge in the world towards inno- “It is a very important topic in New Delhi last month that 2019. members (spouse and children wages, the DHS said. our partnership which we have in vation and science and technol- for us and that is the reason was attended by External Af- The DHS said it was also pro- under 21 years of age) of the In his remarks yesterday, Ku- the digital sphere have been mu- ogy.”

Tall tributes to independence icon BJP begins search for No woman at leadership alternatives to Parrikar Sabarimala

IANS Panaji

he Bharatiya Janata Party temple for has formally started its Thunt for a leadership al- ternative to ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, par- ty leaders as well as an alliance partner said yesterday. The issue of leadership change second day had been a taboo subject for most of the BJP leadership, including IANS “Tomorrow we are having a apuram were reported, prompting MLAs and state BJP president Thiruvanathapuram meeting and we wish to ask if the the Kerala State Road Transport Vinay Tendulkar, who until late protests will be called off if we Corp to suspend services. Wednesday had maintained that decide to fi le a review petition Protesters attacked some shops there was no question of even omen between the ages against the Supreme Court ver- that were open in the state capital. discussing possible alternatives of 10 and 50 stayed dict,” asked Padmakumar, who is Most shops and markets, howev- to Parrikar, who is suff ering from Waway from Ayyappa also a leader of the state’s ruling er, remained shut. There was poor advanced pancreatic cancer as temple in Sabarimala for a second Communist Party of India (Marx- attendance at the IT parks here he was “recovering” and “gov- day yesterday following uneasy ist). and in Kochi. erning the state well”. calm in Kerala amid a dawn-to- Yesterday morning, Suhasini The shutdown call coincided The obduracy over the issue of dusk shutdown called by Hindu Raj, who works as the India re- with a holiday that saw state and leadership alternatives to Par- groups and the Bharatiya Janata porter for The New York Times, central government offi ces, banks rikar appears to have given way Party. along with a foreign colleague, and educational institutions shut. to a sense of pragmatism in the Tension prevailed yesterday managed to go past the Pamba Railway passengers were the BJP ranks, especially with party in the wake of the protest shut- gateway but was stopped midway worst hit as they failed to get taxis president Amit Shah formally down against the alleged police by angry devotees who erected a and public vehicles from stations. broaching the subject with lead- attack on protesters on Wednes- human wall before her. Speaking to reporters at the ers from Goa’s ruling coalition day when the temple reopened “I had reached half way and temple premises, chief priest parties. even as a senior member of the then the protests grew stronger. Kantararu Rajeevaru said: “We “Amit Shahji spoke to leaders Sabarimala priest’s family urged I was hit by a stone and then we have the highest regards for from our coalition parties today women from the 10-50 age group decided to return. The police had women. And those who otherwise in Delhi. They discussed pos- to respect tradition and not visit provided us all the security,” said come to pray at the temple are sible leadership options for the the shrine. Raj, who had earlier pointed out treated with utmost respect. near future. A fi nal decision will For centuries, the temple has that she came to do her job to “We always respect the law of be taken after consultation with banned women and girls between speak to devotees. the land but in the wake of the the party high command and the ages of 10 and 50 from enter- Pathanamthitta District Col- court’s ruling, we humbly request state leadership,” a BJP leader ing the holy site. But last month, lector P B Nooh said that Section women that they should not try told IANS on condition of ano- the Supreme Court ruled the ban 144 was in force and would be to break the tradition of this hal- nymity. infringed on the right to worship. there till midnight today. Police lowed temple.” Among the names of leaders Since then, the case has be- would provide security to any State BJP chief P S Sreedharan discussed as possible chief min- come a focal point for women’s woman who wished to go and Pillai blamed the state govern- ister alternatives at the meet- rights in India. pray, he said. ment for the unrest. ing held between Shah, Goa On Wednesday a couple of Of the 30 protesters arrested “This is outrageous,” he said. Forward party president Vijai women devotees were prevented on Wednesday, 20 were produced “We have decided to intensify our Sardesai and Maharashtrawadi from undertaking the trek to the before the Magistrate Court in protest. From today till October Gomantak Party leader Sudin hill temple and some women Ranni near and remanded in two 22, every day at 11.30am, 41 Yuva Dhavalikar and other BJP leaders journalists were not allowed to weeks judicial custody. The ac- Morcha activists will break Sec- include federal Minister of State carry on with their work amid tivists included a member of the tion 144 and will get arrested.” for AYUSH Shripad Naik, state violence by activists of Hindu priest’s family, Rahul Eashwar. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, BJP president Vinay Tendulkar, groups affi liated to the BJP and The state-wide shutdown now in the UAE, wrote in his Fa- Speaker Pramod Sawant and Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh. called by the Sabarimala Karma cebook post that the BJP and RSS Health Minister Vishwajit Rane, Gujarat Chief Minister Vijaybhai Rupani (right) and Deputy Chief Minister Nitinbhai Patel However, yesterday no women Samithi yesterday was largely were trying to turn the hallowed the party offi cial said. pose in front of a statue dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first home minister, devotee turned up. peaceful in Kerala and saw only temple into a confl ict zone. Sardesai, who met Shah earli- overlooking the Sardar Sarovar Dam near Vadodara in Gujarat. The 182m (600ft)-high At the end of the day, A Pad- a few private vehicles ply on the “The devotees of the temple er yesterday, has also maintained tribute to the independence icon will be inaugurated on his birth anniversary on October makumar, president of the Tra- roads. should realise this ploy but the that the BJP leadership is “seri- 30 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Called the Statue of Unity, it will be the first to dwarf vancore Devaswom Board (TDB), Stray incidents of protest- state government is determined ously looking” at the leadership the Spring Temple Buddha in China, currently the world’s biggest statue at 128m in height the custodian of the temple, told ers throwing stones on state-run to thwart all such attempts and issue. “Some names have been and will be twice the height of New York’s Statue of Liberty. reporters they were ready to go to buses in some parts of Kozhikode, would deal with the situation in discussed,” Sardesai said. any extent to resolve the issue. Malappuram and Thiruvanath- the appropriate manner,” he said.

Naidu in Brussels Govt to tighten sexual Ex-chief minister harassment laws: offi cials N D Tiwari dead IANS key portfolios including fi nance Reutes sations from more than a dozen harassment prevention law, said New Delhi and external aff airs. New Delhi women. Rebecca John, a lawyer who is de- Appointed as the governor The allegations related to when fending journalist Priya Ramani of Andhra Pradesh in 2007, Ti- Akbar was a top newspaper editor. against whom Akbar has fi led a ormer Uttar Pradesh and wari had to relinquish his post in ndia is considering tighten- He is the biggest casualty since defamation suit. Uttarakhand chief minis- 2009 over his involvement in a ing sexual harassment laws, the #MeToo movement in India “The provision of fi ling a Fter N D Tiwari died yes- sex scandal. Igovernment offi cials said yes- gained traction in recent weeks. complaint within three months terday – on his 93rd birthday He became an MLA from the terday, after an avalanche of com- Akbar has denied wrongdoing should be made more fl exible,” – at a private hospital in the Nainital constituency in the plaints of abuse lodged by women and said he was stepping down so she said. national capital following pro- fi rst post-Independence elec- in recent weeks thrust the issue to that he could fi ght the allegations In the case of many of the re- longed illness, doctors said. tion in 1952. the forefront of politics. in court. cent complaints against journal- He was treated at Max Hos- He joined the Congress in Changes to the laws are being A Delhi court began proceed- ists, actors and other public fi g- pital, Saket, for several months 1963 and the party in 1994 to considered as the government ings yesterday in a defamation ures, many of which were made for complications related to a form his own All India Indira weighs diff erent proposals to suit fi led by Akbar against one of under the #MeToo hashtag on brain stroke and age-related Congress (Tiwari). He rejoined tackle harassment, one of the of- the women journalists who lev- social media, the accusations re- ailments. the grand old party in 1996. fi cials said. elled accusations against him. lated to incidents that happened He passed away at 2.50pm. In January 2017, he had met “The offi cial announcement The previous government years ago. He is survived by his wife Bharartiya Janata Party presi- could come next week,” said the passed a workplace harassment Women’s groups also say that Ujjwala and son Rohit Shekhar. dent Amit Shah and extended offi cial, who works in the Prime act and an act to amend criminal the law doesn’t make clear who in Tiwari was the only politician support to the ruling party, but Minister’s Offi ce. law in 2013. a workplace is in charge of ensur- to have served as a chief minis- did not formally join. The offi cials declined to give The latter made sexual harass- ing compliance and is therefore ter of two states. President Ram Nath Kovind, any details about possible chang- ment, stalking and voyeurism responsible if its provisions are Born on October 18, 1925 in Vice President M Venkaiah es. crimes. not followed. Nainital, he was thrice chief Naidu, Prime Minister Naren- The government focus on the But women’s groups say a re- The workplace law also only minister of the undivided Ut- dra Modi and Congress presi- law has come after women’s quirement that accusations be requires an organisation employ- tar Pradesh – 1976-77, 1984-85, dent Rahul Gandhi were among rights groups complained that the made to a workplace complaints ing more than 10 people to set up and 1988-89. a host of political leaders who existing laws do not go far enough committee within three months an internal complaints committee He served as chief minister of expressed grief over Tiwari’s to address the widespread prob- is unfair as some women can not to hear and redress sexual harass- Uttarakhand from 2002 to 2007. death. lem of sexual harassment. quickly muster the courage to take ment grievances, but critics say Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu gestures as he arrives for He also served as a minister in Kovind hailed Tiwari’s con- M J Akbar resigned as a junior that step. many companies don’t do that. the Asia Europe Meeting (ASEM) at the European Council in the Indira Gandhi government tribution to the development minister on Wednesday after he The government should review For now, the focus of public at- Brussels yesterday. and subsequently in her son and public welfare of Uttar faced sexual harassment accu- certain provisions of the sexual tention is the Akbar case. Rajiv Gandhi’s cabinet, holding Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Gulf Times Friday, October 19, 2018 11 LATIN AMERICA

JUSTICE GRISLY FIND HOPE NOT LOST CIVIC ANGER Temer team seeks police Family says 7 Venezuelans 6 near-extinct vaquita Protestor killed in Haiti graft charges annulled killed in remote gold mine porpoises spotted anti-graft demonstrations

Lawyers for Brazil’s President Michel Temer on Seven people were killed near a remote gold mine The near-extinct vaquita marina, the world’s At least one person was killed and dozens injured Wednesday asked the country’s top court to in southeastern Venezuela, family members said smallest porpoise, has not yet disappeared from as thousands of protesters took to the streets in annul a federal police report that recommended on Wednesday, the latest in a number of violent its habitat off the coast of Mexico, a research Haiti on Wednesday over a corruption scandal he and his close associates be charged with graft incidents related to illegal mining in the crisis- team said Wednesday after spotting six of and some marchers called for the resignation of and have their assets confiscated. Police have stricken country. A military expedition found the them. The vaquita has been nearly wiped out President Jovenel Moise. Protesters erected flaming been investigating Temer for allegedly taking bodies near a remote jungle mine some four hours by illegal fishing in its native habitat, the Gulf of barricades made of tyres and piles of garbage, while bribes in return for helping shape a decree by car from the town of Tumeremo, said 10 family California, and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) shots rang out across the capital, Port-au-Prince. regulating Brazil’s ports, and in particular for members, who believe the incident was the result warned in May that it could go extinct this year. Police fired tear gas at some demonstrators, and in extending concessions in the port of Santos to of a struggle between armed groups for control of But “all hope is not lost” for saving the species response, some hurled rocks back at them. One man benefit companies of close associates. Temer has the area. Neither Venezuela’s Information Ministry after the recent sightings, said Lorenzo Rojas of was killed in downtown Port-au-Prince amid several repeatedly said he is innocent. He has faced several nor the state prosecutor’s off ice responded to the International Committee for the Recovery of violent incidents there and in other cities, police said. Protesters set fire to block streets as they graft allegations, but is immune from prosecution requests for comment. Reuters was unable to the Vaquita. In an 11-day study conducted in late Dozens were injured, including 10 police off icers. demonstrate in Port-au-Prince on Wednesday, while in off ice. Temer’s term ends on January 1, and obtain comment from off icials at the Tarabay September and early October, marine scientists The police did not provide additional information on calling for the resignation of President Jovenel with it his immunity from prosecution. military base, where the bodies were taken. spotted six vaquitas, including a calf. the circumstances of the man’s death. Moise.

Bolsonaro party open More migrants seek to to centrist leadership of incoming Congress

Reuters to take the top jobs in both houses. Rio de Janeiro If enacted, that stance could join US-bound group pave the way for a more har- monious coalition and ease the By Edgard Garrido, Reuters “We have seen dead bodies thrown in he party of Brazil’s far- passing of potentially thorny Chiquimula, Guatemala front of us. So that’s my goal, in truth, to right presidential candi- legislation. reach a country where life can change for Tdate, which made huge Gustavo Bebianno, the PSL my children.” strides in legislative races this president, said on Wednesday ore Honduran migrants tried to Nearby, kneeling in the dirt, Abigail month, appears willing to accept that it would be “anti-strategic” join a caravan of several thou- Castro kissed her small son and wrapped congressional leaders from cen- and an “inadequate concentra- Msand trekking through Guate- her most precious documents into a plas- trist parties as it seeks to build tion of power” to keep the lower mala on Wednesday, defying calls by au- tic bag, waterproofi ng them against un- goodwill to pass tough legislation. house leadership in PSL hands, thorities not to make the journey after US certain conditions ahead. Jair Bolsonaro won 46% of according to quotes published on President Donald Trump threatened to “Whatever money I have, I need it to votes on October 7, forcing the news website G1. cut off regional aid in reprisal. buy drinks for my son, fruit,” she said. him into an October 28 run-off “We’re 100% willing to nego- The caravan has been growing steadily Some friendly Guatemalans had of- against leftist rival Fernando tiate the leadership of the lower since it left the violent Honduran city of fered transport in pickup trucks or cars, Haddad of the Workers Party. house with other parties,” Be- San Pedro Sula last Saturday. she said, but “everyone wants to get on” With a growing lead in opin- bianno was quoted as saying. The migrants hope to reach Mexico so they would have to go by foot. ion polls, Bolsonaro believes the “Nobody is thinking about an and then cross its northern border with Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales presidency is “within reach.” authoritarian government.” the United States, to seek refuge from said on Wednesday his government re- The former army captain’s The PSL won 52 seats in the endemic violence and poverty in Central jected constraints placed on foreign aid. strong showing also lifted his lower house, trailing the Workers America. “No help can be conditioned and no party, the once-tiny Social Lib- Party, which won 56. Bolsonaro’s Several thousand people are now jour- help can be demanded,” Morales told re- eral Party (PSL), into the upper strong views on family values, the neying in the caravan, according to a porters in the Guatemalan capital. echelons of Brazil’s political fi r- importance of the powerful agri- Reuters witness travelling with the group He said he had spoken with his Hondu- mament, making it easier for him cultural sector and apparent will- in Guatemala, where men, women and ran counterpart, President Juan Orlando Honduran migrants taking part in a caravan to the United States arrive in Guatemala and congressional allies to pass ingness to liberalise the economy children on foot or riding in trucks fi lled a Hernandez, about ensuring that those City late on Wednesday. laws to ease gun control and open will likely help him build a broad road on their long journey to Mexico. migrants who want to return home can do up the economy. coalition on the right. A fi rst group made it to Guatemala City so safely, and cited reports indicating that The Honduran government has urged mala City before heading to Mexico. In the wake of the fi rst-round In the Senate, where the PSL by dusk on Wednesday. many people from the caravan are return- citizens not to join the caravan, calling it Adult citizens of Honduras, Guatema- vote, the PSL’s founder, federal did less well, Simone Tebet, of They crammed into a migrant shelter ing to Honduras. politically motivated. la, El Salvador and Nicaragua need only congressman Luciano Bivar, had the centrist Brazilian Demo- and a primary school across the road and President Trump decried “horrendous On Wednesday morning near the Gua- present national identity cards to cross suggested that the party’s im- cratic Movement (MDB) party, bedded down on infl atable mattresses. weak and outdated immigration laws,” in temalan border, authorities could be seen each others’ borders. pressive electoral performance is increasingly being mentioned “My husband was an electrician. They a series of Twitter messages starting on stopping Hondurans still hoping to join, That regional immigration agreement gave it license to seek the leader- as a potential leader, accord- killed him nine months ago,” said Caroli- Tuesday. with police in riot gear at one checkpoint does not apply when they reach Mexico. ship of the lower house. ing to a source with knowledge na Aguilar, 40, from the gang-controlled He threatened to cut off aid to Hon- halting buses carrying at least a hundred Mexico said anyone who enters the But those views appear to have of discussions. Bolsonaro is also town of Choloma, sitting on a patch of duras, Guatemala and El Salvador if they people. country with a Mexican visa can move softened, with party leaders now broadly in favour of her, accord- ground with her two daughters, 17 and 11. fail to prevent undocumented immigrants The men, women and children carried freely, while those without proper docu- open to allowing centrist lawmakers ing to a campaign source. “We don’t have a house and I have no from heading to the United States. on toward the border on foot, Reuters ments would be subject to review and job. We only manage to live from gifts,” “Hard to believe that with thousands photographs showed, with some later could be deported. she said. of people from South of the Border, walk- fording a jungle river near the frontier af- “This measure responds not only to Many had hitched rides or walked ing unimpeded toward our country in the ter unconfi rmed reports that Guatemalan compliance with national legislation, but about 240 from the Honduran border. form of large Caravans, that the Demo- authorities had stopped letting Hondu- particularly to the interest of the Mexi- “We’ve lived in neighbourhoods where crats won’t approve legislation that will rans enter the country. can Government to avoid that such peo- Peruvian judge frees our children have seen disaster after dis- allow laws for the protection of our coun- Guatemalan authorities did not pro- ple become victims of human traffi cking aster,” said Daisy Turcios, at an earlier try,” Trump said on Twitter on Wednes- vide an estimate of the size of the cara- networks,” the foreign ministry said in a stop on the road. day. van, which aims to pass through Guate- statement. Fujimori from jail

Reuters ing the court that she remained Lima in Peru when her father escaped to Japan at the end of his 1990- Nicaragua fi ghts protests with ‘shoot to kill’ policy: Amnesty 2000 right-wing government. Peruvian judge late on “I didn’t leave Peru in 2000. I Wednesday freed con- was here as always with my head AFP Rights groups say over 300 people have of the killings and found that “the point Aservative opposition lead- high. I’ve never obstructed jus- Paris now been killed in the turmoil and hun- of entry of bullets indicates that in many er Keiko Fujimori from jail where tice.” dreds more detained in a crackdown. cases people were hit in parts of the body she spent the past week pending The ruling marked the second Ortega has dismissed UN charges of where the injury was most likely to prove charges in a money laundering time this year that a court has icaragua resorted to a “shoot to a disproportionate use of force against fatal, indicating that there was an inten- probe. released a prominent politician kill” strategy to repress recent protestors, enforced disappearances and tion to shoot to kill.” Judge Cesar Sahuanay said from so-called “preventive pris- Nanti-government protests, hu- torture. Snipers are believed to be responsible there was no legal basis for jail- on,” or pre-trial detention, a tool man rights group Amnesty International He called the United Nations a tool of for some of the deaths in the capital Man- ing Fujimori and 19 others before used by prosecutors to ensure said in a report released in Paris yester- “lies and infamy”, and last month ex- agua and cities of Leon, Ciudad Sandino trial in connection with alleged suspects cooperate in the Ode- day. pelled the UN rights mission after it pub- and Esteli, Amnesty said. payments from Odebrecht, a brecht bribery probe. Speaking of the deaths of more than 70 lished a report criticising the “climate of Authorities refused at times to carry Brazilian construction group at In April, the country’s top demonstrators during anti-government An April 19, 2018, file photo of policemen fear” in the country. out autopsies, attempted to prevent fam- the centre of the region’s biggest court freed former president protests in diff erent parts of the Central firing rubber bullets at a protest against Amnesty said its investigative team ilies from making offi cial complaints, and ever graft probe. Ollanta Humala, who had spent American country in April and May 2018, the government’s reforms in the Institute found evidence of extrajudicial execu- clamped down on the press, it added. Fujimori, the daughter of nine months in jail without trial Amnesty said the “alarming number (...) of Social Security in Managua. tions during the fi rst weeks of the pro- A number of other international hu- former autocrat Alberto Fuji- over allegations he laundered indicates there was an intention to shoot tests. man rights organisations have spoken out mori, called her arrest political money for Odebrecht. to kill on the part of the security forces.” ernment paramilitaries cracked down on “Most of the fatalities during the pro- against the ongoing crackdown in Nica- persecution. Humala denied wrongdoing. Nicaragua’s ambassador to France, protests against social security reforms. tests were the result of fi rearm injuries, ragua. She denied prosecutors’ alle- Criticism of preventive prison Ruth Esperanza Tapia Roa rejected Am- Demonstrations evolved into a wider despite the fact that the use of such lethal These include the Inter-American gations that she was the head of a has grown since Fujimori’s arrest. nesty’s report as “baseless”, in comments opposition against President Daniel Or- weapons by state offi cials should only be Commission on Human Rights and four criminal group within her politi- But prosecutors say it is vital to AFP. tega, a former leftist guerrilla in power authorised in the most extreme situa- special rapporteurs from the Offi ce of the cal party and a fl ight risk. to ending impunity in a country Nicaragua’s descent into chaos began for 11 years who has refused calls to step tions,” the report said. United Nations High Commissioner for “I’m never going to fl ee the with a storied history of high- on April 18 when the police and pro-gov- down. Amnesty specifi cally looked into nine Human Rights. country,” Fujimori said, remind- profi le fl ights. Struggling to survive as Argentina crisis causes layoff s

By Liliana Samuel, AFP who’ve fallen into a deep depres- Argentina is in the midst of an Uber or stealing, and I’m not go- side. Age is an important factor drop in employment, but not an tives to keep going,” she says. Buenos Aires sion, one died due to this depres- economic crisis brought on by a ing to steal.” in the labour market. abrupt one,” Dante Sica, minis- Offi cial fi gures look bad but sion, another committed suicide. crash in confi dence surrounding An electronics technician by The economic crisis and ac- ter for Production and Work, said experts believe the pinch is felt I try to remain upbeat,” added Di the currency. trade, he spent two months in companying austerity measures recently. even harder by undocumented runo Di Mauro spends his Mauro, who formed a workers’ The peso has lost around half depression after losing his job as it has brought, have made life “It hasn’t grown since but has workers, thought to make up 35% days in a tent in front of the cooperative in the hope of re- of its value against the dollar this a car wash attendant in March. even more taxing. remained stable. The crash was of the workforce. Blaboratory where he used launching the lab. year, infl ation is expected to end Now he drives around ferrying “It hurts living in Argentina, basically in the industrial sec- For every declared job lost, to work, hoping that one day it Argentine unemployment 2018 at 40% and interest rates passengers for Uber, despite the there’s a lot of sadness,” he says. tor but (employment) has been three undeclared ones are will resume its activities and give rose to almost 10% in the second are up at 70%. fact it’s not authorised in Bue- In September alone, 8,500 maintained in the service sector.” yanked. him back his livelihood. quarter of 2018, up almost 2% Although the economy grew nos Aires, where some chauff eurs people were either made laid off Agronomist Renata Valgiusti, “The landscape is super diffi - “It’s very distressing. Most from the end of 2017. 3% in the fi rst quarter, it is ex- have complained of being at- or put on forced leave with a re- 53, was one of 400 people who cult,” says Patricia di Pinto, who of us went out looking for In the Buenos Aires metropoli- pected to shrink by 2.6% over the tacked by taxi drivers. duced salary — a tenth of those lost their jobs in the Agroindus- has worked for a recruitment work but didn’t find anything, tan area, where a quarter of Ar- year. Alongside bicycle delivery due to companies closing down, try ministry in August, while consultancy for 11 years. and for those that did, it’s pre- gentina’s 44mn population lives, Father of two Alex Cuello, 31, jobs, it has become an increas- according to the national Center another 300 were laid off in She says companies simply carious,” says the 28-year-old that fi gure is 12.4%. has become an odd-jobs man in ingly common, although unsta- for Political Economics. April. aren’t hiring, with construction former employee of Roux- In Rosario, Argentina’s third order to survive. ble, source of employment. There were another 32,100 Like many public sector work- and small businesses worst af- Ocefa, a laboratory specialis- city 300km north of the capital, “I do a bit of everything. Last Throughout his life, De Biase layoff s between January and Au- ers, though, Valgiusti received no fected. ing in medicinal products and unemployment is at almost 18% year there were odd jobs every has alternated between economic gust, with another 7,000 people compensation as she was on an International consultancy serum. for the under-30s. day but now I only get called once successes and abrupt falls. put on forced leave. automatically renewing contract. Willis Towers Watson says that The laboratory was closed on When Ricardo Barrionuevo or twice a week on average. It’s He’s been through infl ation Half of the layoff s came in But with 20 years of experience 56% of 454 companies polled October 1 after 83 years, leaving published an advertisement on getting desperate,” he said. and devaluation. the public sector, which has lost in her profession, Valgiusti is not said they intend to lay off workers 420 workers jobless. October 1 for 10 job openings at His eyes fi lling with tears, He’s lost everything, only to 32,000 jobs — 13% of the work- letting her head drop. before the end of the year. “Right now what’s most ur- his pizzeria, he received 1,000 63-year-old Pablo De Biase says rebuild from scratch. force — since December 2015. “It’s a time to organise yourself Back in March, that fi gure was gent is eating. I have colleagues applicants. he faces two choices: “It was But time is no longer on his “In September there was a and think about creative alterna- only 18%. Gulf Times 12 Friday, October 19, 2018 PAKISTAN Pakistan to renegotiate Top aide says no LNG terminal deals

Reuters Engro, Pakistan’s largest listed the industry standard. Islamabad conglomerate, built the coun- He also implied that the gov- try’s fi rst LNG terminal in 2015 ernment would take further ac- and has said it will begin build- tion if it is not satisfi ed with the to appointment akistan’s new government ing another one starting in early negotiations with Engro. will renegotiate agree- 2019. “We will renegotiate with Pments for two liquefi ed It was not immediately clear if them, will sit with them, will talk natural gas (LNG) import ter- both LNG contracts that the pe- with them, and ... if it doesn’t minals, the country’s petroleum troleum minister spoke of were work, then there are other rem- minister said yesterday, part of with Engro, though it was the edies, which will be considered,” a wider investigation into deals only company he named. he said. struck by the country’s previous Pakistan has two operational Sharif’s former petroleum as PM’s assistant government. LNG terminals, one built by En- minister, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Petroleum Minister Ghulam gro, and several more planned. who became prime minister after Internews Prime minister vows to bring down cost of doing business Sarwar Khan said the govern- Prime Minister Imran Khan’s Sharif was removed by the court, Islamabad ment of ousted premier Nawaz government came to power in is currently under investiga- Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that government on developing a national tariff policy to address Sharif agreed to pay too much to July, riding on a wave of anti- tion by the state anti-corruption is firmly committed to reducing the cost of doing issues of the business community and remove anom- Pakistan’s Engro Corp Ltd for at corruption rhetoric. body over an unnamed LNG deal. rime Minister Imran Khan business and improve the country’s ranking in the alies in the existing tariff structure. least one of the terminals. Sharif was sentenced to 10 Abbasi, who was the master- has suff ered a setback af- ease of doing business index. Regarding improving the country’s ranking in ease “The decision is that this will years in prison this year follow- mind of Pakistan’s push to de- Pter one of his close aides Khan was chairing the first meeting of the newly of doing business index, prime minister said the be renegotiated with the parties,” ing his removal from offi ce by the velop LNG infrastructure aimed declined to become his special constituted Council of Business Leaders, sources government is aiming to get Pakistan under 100, by Khan told a press briefi ng yester- Supreme Court. at ending crippling electricity assistant, according to sources. said here. extending maximum facilitation and simplification of day. His party denies all charges of shortages, denies all allegations According to a notifi cation The premier said that in order to strengthen local the procedures. A spokesman for Engro had no corruption while it was in power of wrongdoing. issued earlier this week by the industry and reduce cost of production, gas prices He said a special Complaint and Suggestion Cell immediate comment but said he from 2013. Party offi cials have said that Cabinet Division, the prime have been reduced for five export-oriented indus- is being established at the Board of Investment to would look into the matter and Petroleum minister Sarwar corruption cases brought against minister had appointed Amir tries so as to make domestic products internationally facilitate redress of the business community’s com- respond later. Khan made no direct claim of Sharif and other offi cials are part Jahangir as a special assistant on competitive, an off icial statement reported. plaints and welcome their suggestions with regards Pakistan’s rapid adoption of corruption in the LNG deals, ex- of a conspiracy by the judiciary foreign investments. He said that the government is also considering to relevant policies. LNG infrastructure made it one plained said that the contracts and military to bring down their It said that Jahangir’s term as reduction in various duties including customs, regu- The cell, to be attached to Prime Minister’s Off ice, of the industry’s fastest-growing gave a maximum return on equity previous government. the prime minister’s special as- latory and others to further reduce the business cost. would be functional in a week’s time, the premier markets in Asia, sparking interest of 44% for one of the terminals The army and courts strenu- sistant had begun on October 11. Khan continued that the government is also working said. from most of the world’s major and 22.7% on the second one, ously deny any interference in Jahangir had been serving as energy producers and traders. which he remarked was far above politics. a senior adviser to the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) “Therefore, I have decided could aff ect my performance,” lay in the construction of a key chairman on foreign trade, in- to voluntarily withdraw from Jahangir added. power plant. Govt ready to discuss anti-graft laws vestment and development. the assignment, though in my Interestingly, a prominent Likewise, former inspector He is also the head of the PTI’s private capacity I will continue educationist from Khyber Pa- general of police Nasir Durrani, Federal Minister for Information Fawad Chaudhry has off ered chapters for Britain and Europe. to bring foreign investments to khtunkhwa, Dr Amir Jogezai, who was appointed as chief of a to hold talks with the opposition for amending the laws of the Simplifi ed However, Jahangir has now Pakistan.” had also refused to accept the task force formed to suggest re- controversial National Accountability Bureau (NAB). expressed regret and announced “I am honoured as the prime position of Baluchistan gover- forms in Punjab police, resigned In reply to Opposition Leader Shehbaz Sharif’s speech in the that he would not be assisting minister trusted in me by ap- nor that was off ered to him by last week amid media reports National Assembly, the information minister said that the NAB income the prime minister, owing to se- pointing me as special adviser Khan in August. that he had developed diff er- chairman had been appointed by Nawaz Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim vere criticism from opposition for foreign investments,” he Similarly, adviser to the prime ences with the PTI leadership. League – Nawaz (PML-N) and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s Pakistan parties and other people active added. minister on parliamentary af- Khan also had to ask a well- Peoples Party (PPP). tax form on social media. “It is an honorary assign- fairs, Babar Awan, had to step known economist, Atif Mian, “The accountability process [being currently faced by members In a tweet, he said: “To work ment. I decided not to [take] sal- down from the post because the to resign from membership of of the opposition parties] was not initiated by us, nor are we to attract foreign investments. ary or benefi ts,” he stressed. National Accountability Bu- the Economic Advisory Council, interfering in it,” Chaudhry said. “No matter how much noise they issued for I cannot permit any controver- “However, fake allegations reau (NAB) had fi led a reference following severe criticism over make, this process will not be halted as it will be a public loss.” sy and problems for my prime and media propaganda to ma- against him over his alleged in- the fact that he belonged to a The minister told the opposition to suggest amendments to the minister. lign my character and dignity volvement in an inordinate de- minority community. NAB laws for the consideration of a designated committee. salaried Pakistanis

Top court The female car mechanic driving change in Pakistan Internews Karachi orders AFP for their rights in patriarchal Multan Pakistan, and especially in rural he Federal Board of Rev- areas are often encouraged to enue (FBR) of Pakistan billboards marry young and devote them- Thas introduced a separate ince picking up a wrench selves entirely to family over simplifi ed income tax return as one of the fi rst female career. form for salaried persons, who removed Scar mechanics in con- “No hardship could break my have other sources of income, servative Pakistan, Uzma Na- will and motivation,” she says including profi t on debt (interest waz has faced two common proudly. income). Internews reactions: shock, and surprise. The sacrifi ces cleared the The FBR said through a no- Islamabad And then a bit of respect. way for steady work at a Toyota tifi cation that the separate and The 24-year-old spent years dealership in Multan following simplifi ed income tax return overcoming entrenched gen- graduation, she adds. form had been introduced to fa- he Supreme Court of Pa- der stereotypes and fi nancial Just a year into the job, and cilitate salaried taxpayers, who kistan has ordered re- hurdles en route to earning a promoted to general repairs, are deriving income from salary Tmoval of advertising bill- mechanical engineering degree Nawaz moves with the ease of and other sources where income boards and hoarding from public and netting a job with an auto a seasoned pro around the deal- from salary is more than 50% of property across the country. repairs garage in the eastern ership’s garage, removing tyres the total income. Chief Justice of Pakistan Sa- city of Multan. from raised vehicles, inspecting The FBR explained that the qib Nisar, while passing the or- “I took it up as a challenge engines and handling a variety income is classifi ed under fi ve der, questioned the authority against all odds and the meagre of tools – a sight that initially headings (categories) of income: of government institutions that fi nancial resources of my fam- jolted some customers. salary, business, house property have allowed the installation of ily,” Nawaz told AFP. “When “I was shocked to see a young (rental income), capital gain, and billboards in areas under their they see me doing this type of girl lifting heavy spare tyres and other sources. administrative control. work they are really surprised.” then putting them back on ve- “The separate tax form is A three-member bench of the Hailing from the small, im- hicles after repairs,” customer meant only for persons deriving apex court headed by the chief poverished town of Dunyapur Arshad Ahmad told AFP. salary income or a combination justice was hearing a case initi- in Punjab province, Nawaz re- However, Nawaz’s drive and In this picture taken on September 1, Uzma Nawaz, 24, fixes a car at an auto workshop in Multan. of salary income and income ated suo motu about billboards lied on scholarships and often expertise has impressed col- from other sources where salary on public property in Lahore skipped meals when she was leagues, who say she can more worker M Attaullah. cluding members of her own it is her passion,” said her father is more than 50% of the total in- city, court sources said. broke while pursuing her de- than hold her own. She has also convinced some family. Mohamed Nawaz. “She can come,” according to the notifi ca- The court last month issued gree. “Whatever task we give her, of those who doubted her abil- “There is no need in our so- now set up the machinery and tion. notices to the Lahore Canton- Her achievements are rare. she does it like a man, with hard ity to make it in a male-domi- ciety for girls to work at work- can work properly. I too am very The FBR said “income from ment Board (LCB), the Na- Women have long struggled work and dedication,” said co- nated work environment, in- shops, it doesn’t seem nice, but happy.” other sources” was a residual tional Logistics Cell (NLC), the category of income, and includes National Highway Authority profi t on debt (interest income) (NHA), and Pakistan Railways and various other categories, as (PR) to explain the huge bill- explained in Income Tax Ordi- boards put up in Lahore that nance 2001, which were not in- might pose threat to public safe- Growing population ‘likely to Kashmir to increase cluded under other categories of ty. income. Nisar questioned under which “The simplifi ed return form, authority the billboards had outstrip developmental gains’ pension of former the income of interest income, been mounted in areas under has been included under ‘other administrative jurisdiction of sources of income’,” the Board Pakistan Railways and the Parks Internews Once people lack choice, it or stay in the paid labour force presidents by 150% added. and Horticulture Authority in Islamabad can have a long-term impact and realise her full economic The FBR, however, explained Lahore. on fertility rates. potential. that for persons deriving income “It cannot be done on public Family size is closely linked “Choices can change the Internews since a former MLA (member from business, rental income, property. If people want to place he growing population with reproductive rights, world. The power to choose Muzaff arabad of legislative assembly) was and capital gain in addition to advertisements, they should do in Pakistan is likely to which, in turn, are tied to the number, timing and spac- drawing more pension than a salary income, the declaration it on private property,” the chief Toutstrip developmental many other rights, including ing of pregnancies will bolster former president, the govern- has to be made on the main tax justice said. gains and continue to adverse- the right to healthcare, educa- economic and social progress he Pakistan-adminis- ment had decided in principle return form and not on the sim- Nisar recalled that similar or- ly aff ect the economy, envi- tion, and jobs. around the world for decades tered Kashmir (Azad to enhance the latter’s pension. plifi ed tax form that is meant for ders were issued for Karachi. ronment, health, education Where people can exercise to come,” the report said. TJammu and Kashmir, Following amendments to salary and other sources of in- The court ordered that bill- and quality of the lives of all their rights, they thrive. “The unmet need for mod- AJK) government is contem- pensions laws over the years, come. boards installed on public prop- citizens, a new report has said. Where these rights are ern contraception prevents plating increasing the pensions lawmakers receive a monthly Thus, a person who derives erty across the country, includ- According to the United stifl ed, people often fail to thousands of families from of former presidents by 150% pension of Rs50,000. even a minimal portion of busi- ing in cantonment areas, should Nations Population Fund achieve their full potential, choosing their desired family “to make it commensurate The lawmakers’ pension was ness income, house property, or be removed. (UNFPA), Pakistan is the fi fth impeding economic and social size and perusing their dreams with their status”. also declared liable to increase capital gains income along with The top judge made it clear most populous country in the progress. and aspirations,” Dr Hassan Under the AJK President’s every year. the salary income, is required to that the orders passed for Kara- world, with 208mn people and “Choice can change the Mohtashami, the UNFPA rep- Pension Act 1995, which was However, the pension for a fi le the main return form con- chi would be applicable for the an annual population growth world,” UNFPA executive di- resentative in Pakistan, said. amended in 2003, former former president was fi xed at taining all headings of income, entire country. rate of 2.4%. rector Dr Natalia Kanem wrote National Institute of Popu- presidents are entitled to a Rs30,000. and not on the simplifi ed return Noting that removal of bill- The new UNFPA report in the report’s foreword. “It lation Studies executive direc- monthly pension of Rs30,000 On August 29, the AJK presi- form. boards gave a neat and clean look titled The Power of Choice: can rapidly improve the well- tor Pervaiz Junejo said: “The and some other privileges, in- dent’s offi ce moved a proposal The FBR said that income to Karachi, Nisar said that the Reproductive Rights and the being of women and girls, Pakistan Demographic and cluding Rs5,000 per month for upward revision in the from rendering services falls un- same should be done in other Demographic Transition, said transform families, and accel- Health Survey (PDHS) key in- for telephone bills, services for president’s pension. der the heading “income from cities of the country. that the global trend towards erate global development.” dicators report shows that the life for a driver-cum-gunman The proposal received the business”, so any salaried per- Justice Ejazul Ahsan observed smaller families is a refl ection When a woman has the current Total Fertility Rate from the police department, a concurrence of the fi nance son who is also deriving income that in some areas, billboards of people making reproduc- power and means to prevent (TFR) at 3.6 is considerably stenographer, and an orderly department on September from services would have to fi le were put up on footpaths and tive choices to have as few or or delay a pregnancy, for ex- high compared to the coun- from the Services and General 19, with Rs75,000 as the new the main return form and not the that they could lead to accidents as many children as they want, ample, she has more control tries in the region, except Af- Administration Department. monthly pension of a former simplifi ed return form for sala- and aff ect the landscape of a city. and when they want. over her health and can enter ghanistan.” Offi cial sources said that president, instead of Rs30,000. ried individual. Gulf Times Friday, October 19, 2018 13 THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH Training in the Women in Da’wah fi eld of Da’wah

On the theoretical side of this step, 2. The Muslim Community: training women to work in the fi eld Charity, advice, and direction can of Da’wah (call to Islam) may need be off ered to relatives, neighbours, to consider the following aspects: and the needy. - Educational preparation through 3. The Islamic School: Educational (Call to Islam) providing a good presentation of activities and curriculums can appropriate materials. be used for the guidance of girl rom the very beginning of Education Foundation (IEF), based - Psychological preparation by students as well as women teachers the Islamic history, Muslim in Minneapolis, Minnesota (USA). ensuring that the women callers and staff . women have played vital She has a Ph D in Clinical Psychology have faith in Allah, sincerity, 4. The Masjid (Mosque): Women F roles in the propagation of with a specialty in child and family hopefulness, pride in Islam, should be allowed to go to the the Divine Message (Islam). From issues. She teaches at a private patience, and knowledge of the Masaajid (pl. of Masjid) to benefi t the sacrifices of Sumayyah to the university in the Twin Cities. The conditions and environments of from the lessons held there. The collected Ahadith [narrations of the main goal of the IEF is to increase those they are addressing. Masjid is a suitable place for some Prophet sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam] the level of awareness and provide - Social preparation by having the of the women activities like Qur’an of ‘Aa’ishah women have been training in giving Da’wah amongst women Daa’iyaat (callers to Islam) study groups and other training. instrumental in the flourishing and Muslim women and men. “They live an Islamic life in the family and 5. Hospitals, Prisons, and Social spreading of this religion, the process (husbands) should encourage them to society in a practical application Welfare Institutions, Women’s which is called “Da’wah” in Arabic. spread the message of this religion, of Islam. They should abide by the Colleges or Universities: “Women- Unfortunately, during our present perhaps by taking them along when ethics of Islam and of the Da’wah. only conferences can also times, the Islamic revival suffers from they go out, and by instructing be incorporated into already weaknesses in its properly qualified them on the proper ways of giving Adequate practical scheduled major conferences, thus personnel, which limits its spreading presentations about Islam,” she training and providing them with someone to and restricts the Da’wah work to an added. preparation is a must travel with,” elite group of activists, with finite A more particular reason is the What we sow we reap and limited efforts of Da’wah and absence or confusion of priorities This involves training female callers Tarbiyah (education) being focused in the minds of the callers to in speaking and writing to be able to 1. Banishing ignorance, increasing on women. Islam. Many of them have been bring Allah’s religion to the people intellectual broad-mindedness, and Da’wah amongst women deserves, overwhelmed and distracted by through speeches, lessons, lectures, the creation of qualifi ed women and should get, far more attention the state of the Ummah (Muslim and writing. Da’wah cadres. These results have than it does. So far, except in a community), even to the extent of Writing and publishing must a lasting and benefi cial infl uence, few instances, women have been ignoring to give proper attention not be neglected in an age when not only on women and the Muslim distanced from the field of Da’wah to their homes and families. Their people are easily reached by and community, but also on the whole work. If we consider the situation of energies having been exhausted in the engrossed in all sorts of books, society at large.2. Rectifying conduct Islamic Da’wah work and the position work outside the home, leaving them booklets, newspapers, and articles. and restitution of many erroneous of women in it today, we can easily with nothing left for their families. Writings should both be eloquent practices that have come to be social find the following problems: This imbalance affects not only the and convincing, through sincere, phenomenon in many societies. 1- Deficiency in Da’wah families, but also the community as sound and documented arguments. 3. Women’s place and status in capabilities among women. a whole. Writing is the form of Da’wah which Islam would be highlighted and 2- The ill-use of existing limited- The level of women’s education is, in many ways, one of the most Muslim women would attain a resources in combination with a lack and awareness of their position and appropriate and important means better awareness of their rights and of personal initiative on the part of responsibility plays an important role for women. They can write at home duties. women. in the field of Da’wah. and thus make use of their spare 4. Eff orts would be geared toward 3- A neglect or omission of time. They can in this way reach all the cultivating of our young people, women’s issues in the planning of A crucial role for the classes of society. in order to ensure the Ummah Islamic Da’wah. Muslim Women (Muslim community) virtuous 4- Absence of adequate education Areas of Da’wah Muslims in the generations to come. and the lack of fundamental Islamic The reasons women’s participation for women 5. A sense of belonging to Islam knowledge in the Daa’iyaat (female in Da’wah is important are various would be fostered, and the key callers) in the field of Da’wah. Only and diverse: The educational fi elds: These are Muslim rite of enjoining good and a few of the wives and daughters 1. Women are more capable than related to the ennoblement of the forbidding evil would be upheld. of Du’aat (male callers) have any men are in communicating with other spirit and the purifi cation of the 6. An important fi nancial tributary worthwhile Islamic knowledge. women. Women are usually more soul through faith. The minds and for Da’wah work would be secured; 5- Most women do not possess a affected by word, deed, and conduct souls can thus be touched. These i.e., women’s charitable spending. proper understanding of the role of of other women, more so than by fi elds are to be found in mosques, It is time that Muslims who profess Da’wah made incumbent on their men. On the other hand, women schools, associations, Da’wah to follow the Sunnah rethink the husbands. Because of this, they may are more capable of recognising groups, and others. issue of Da’wah among women and not understand the importance of the particularities and problems The social fi elds: These relate to by women. We should remember time given to projects outside the associated with women’s education. bodily and psychological health as Khadeejah, ‘Aa’ishah, Sumayyah home, which in turn, may become a 2. Women can better comprehend well as to social development and and many Muslim women source of tension within the home. the direction in which women’s interaction between people that throughout our history, and what 6- The level of general Islamic Da’wah work should be geared. refl ect positively on the realisation they did for Islam and learn from it. knowledge among most women is They can best discern the order of of spiritual education and the We also have to realise that mere low. priorities, because they are more formation of Muslim character. talk and emotionalism are useless. 7- Women’s Da’wah programmes, familiar with this sphere. Both sides, spiritual and physical, We need to do something about as well as overall Da’wah programmes 3. Women are freer than men in are tied together and they should our immediate situation now. and institutions are rare and not well communicating with other women, both be fulfi lled in balance. To give Education, preparation, and organised. either individually for Da’wah the upper hand to the soul would qualifi cation of women will be the activities, or in women’s learning and be asceticism, and to the body key to our future success. Roots of the problem: other forums and places of meeting. would be hedonism. Fulfi lling the Throughout history, the yardstick Many obstacles and restraints 4. Many Muslim women who are physical needs has oft en been used to measure the well-being of have been the causes behind the in need of guidance, education, cause for many people embracing any society has been the condition weakness and neglect of Da’wah and direction lack the presence the guidance of Islam. Preachers of of its women. Let us therefore, work amongst women. Once they of men-folk who can provide this Christianity today, concentrate on strive to improve the intellectual, have been recognised and analysed, service, therefore it makes sense that this approach. It is diffi cult for the spiritual and emotional condition viable solutions can be sought and qualified women in the community hungry, the naked, or the sick and of the Muslim woman by allowing implemented. should do the job. homeless to listen to sermons. her to fulfi ll all the Allah-given One major reason is that many 5. The need of education with abilities and responsibilities made men are not convinced about the women is greater than that with men. More specific examples incumbent on her. importance of women’s role and They get pregnant, give birth, and of what women can take As mentioned in the article, responsibilities in the field of nurse children. The children are more women Da’wah is very important. Da’wah. The Qur’anic verse (which tied to them than they are to their part in as Da’wah are: We have to be careful not to fall means) “And abide in your houses...” fathers. Women stay at home with 1. The Home: This is surely the in what a lot of Muslims they fell [33:33] has been misinterpreted their sons and daughters, and thus most fertile and most eff ective into with the good intentions of by many, and so has the concept can bring them up as they please. If channel. Almighty Allah has giving Da’wah (intermingling men of “Qawaamah”, or the right/ they are not allowed to share in the ordained both husbands and and women, people with lack responsibility of stewardship. Da’wah efforts of their husbands, a wives as nurturers for each other of knowledge altering the Deen In many instances, we see men lot of the much-needed results may and the family. The mother shares and thinking that they have the objecting to women’s participation not be attained. with the father the responsibilities authority since they are calling to in Da’wah and thus preventing them 6. Women have a great effect on of educating and nurturing each Islam, etc.). Women who work in from fulfilling their role toward their their husbands. If they have strong account whenever any Da’wah work Women sometimes lack will- other and their children in all the fi eld of Da’wah should be away fellow-Muslims and to the larger Eemaan (faith) and character, they is planned. Some are: power and a sense of direction, and physical, moral, psychological, from men’s environment. Women society in general. Spreading Islam have a very good chance at helping Women have the innate ability therefore need the assistance of social, and external aspects. don’t need to be part of a the board has been made incumbent on all their husbands become strong as to communicate strongly what they other women to give strength and Members of the family are members of a masjid for example Muslims, men and women. well. believe to be true in their hearts. motivation. gathered together in the home to be active in Da’wah!. So it needs “It is vital that husbands 7. Women have a lot of Dr Hamdaan also points out that, Article source: http://www. for many hours and this creates to be stressed that things are done encourage their wives to participate characteristics that stress the “Women are also generally stronger islamweb.net/emainpage/ harmony among them as well in the environment of women and in Da’wah work,” said Dr ‘Aa’ishah importance of their Da’wah role. in terms of verbal abilities and as aff ords an opportunity for women alone. Hamdaan, Director of the Islamic They should also be taken into emotionality.” presenting good examples and Article source: http://www. guidance. islamweb.net/emainpage Strengthening the man’s work he work of the Muslim woman in the and a source of pride for Muslim women. This is clearly stated in Qur’an and Hadith. Allah Du’aat guided by the Sunnah (the way/ tradition that the Daa’iyah (caller to Islam) needs in her fi eld of Da’wah (call to Islam) strength- Muslim women played a great role in sacrifi ce Almighty Says (what means), “And abide in your of the Prophet ) must be mindful, lest they be environments. Knowledge should be spread ens the man’s work, and expands it into and service for the religion of Allah. Sumayyah houses...” [Qur’an 33:33] Of course women can aff ected by the lusts and whims of society. about deviant thoughts, ideas, groups and sects. Tareas where her eff ectiveness supersedes gave up her life when Abu Jahl, the head of go out for Salaah (prayer) in the Masjid (mosque), 4- Men have the original right in Da’wah Awareness must be raised concerning those who that of the man. The woman’s role does not end at disbelievers, killed her for becoming a Muslim. participate in any other activities she may need activities to take the lead as was the case in the do not like to see the spreading of Islam and who door. She can be greatly eff ective by being a good She was the fi rst Muslim, and woman, killed in and to do Da’wah. However, none of these ac- age at the Prophet and the excellent generations are gaining grounds in the hearts and minds of example to others, by being good-hearted, kindly Islam. Khadeejah the fi rst wife of the Prophet tivities should confl ict with her essential duties that followed. Women’s role in Da’wah work is people. spoken, and of friendly conduct. She can off er who was very rich, spent a lot of her money to at home as wife and mother. undeniable, provided the appropriate guidelines 3- Building of the Da’wah personality: Da’wah assistance, and share concerns as well as joys. support the Da’wah. Umm Salamah left her 2- There are special injunctions regarding are adhered to. requires sacrifi ces and, therefore, women must She can also use all appropriate opportunities to husband and saw her children persecuted when women, such as the mixing of men and women be prepared to bear the burdens of calling to Is- educate, guide and call others through observing she migrated. Umm Imaarah fought in defense of that must be observed in any Da’wah activity Second: Objectives of the programme: lam. This comes through awakening them to the the conditions of those whom she addresses. the Prophet in the battle of Uhud. Tending the and under any circumstances. Any Da’wah programme directed towards conditions of the Muslims and the endeavours of wounded in battles was the role Muslim Women a) Proper Hijaab (Islamic woman dress) must women should strive to, at least, serve the fol- the enemies of Islam. Leadership, responsibil- played throughout history. be observed at all times. lowing ends: ity and individual initiative should be taught. Examples are needed b) Woman cannot travel without a male 1- Strengthening Eemaan (faith): This comes Theoretical and practical educational faculties Women, who understood their role, started companion who is her Mahram (her husband or a about by increasing worship, remembrance of must be nurtured. The Daa’iyah must be taught educating themselves and achieving their rights Building successful man with whom marriage is unlawful). Allah (Thikr), and refl ection on Allah’s names, the necessary social skills and the importance to education. Look at the Hadith [narration Da’wah Programmes c) Woman cannot intermix freely with men His power and creation in ourselves and in the of Da’wah through good example and conduct. attributed to Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu who are not directly related to her. universe. There is great power in refl ection. And They also must be taught the value of time, its ‘alaihi wa sallam] narrated by Abu Sa’eed that a There are conditions that must be met for d) Women cannot exit from their homes its positive impact on one’s heart and Eemaan management and how to use Halaal (lawful) fun women said to the Prophet “The men are keep- women’s Da’wah work to succeed and achieve its except by permission of those who are in charge is almost limitless. This, however, would not activities during their times of leisure. ing you busy and we do not get enough atten- expected outcome: of them and care for them, i.e. their husbands or be possible without the inculcation of the right 4- Building up immunity to sin: This includes tion from you; would you specify a day for us, fathers, etc. understanding of certain issues related to our recognising the ills of sins, particularly those women? He promised them a day to meet them First: important guidelines 3- The enemies of Islam usually exploit these Aqeedah (Belief); the emphasis has to be on relating to women, and blocking the way to them and educate and admonish them.” [Al-Bukhari] There are important points that should be injunctions and use them to defame Islam as Tawheed (Monotheism). by shunning the means leading to them and the The fruits of this understanding and concern used as guidelines when planning or doing demeaning to women. Some Du’aat (callers to 2- Increasing knowledge: One cannot achieve places where they exist. by the women companions of the Prophet and Da’wah work: Islam) get aff ected by these allegations and they much without knowledge. Special emphasis has Article source: http://www.islamweb.net/ the attention he gave them, are shining examples Typically, the woman’s main job is at home. are thereby led to be lax and unmindful. The true to be put on the basics of Islam and on subjects emainpage Gulf Times 14 Friday, October 19, 2018 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), 44466636 (Home delivery) 44350474 facebook.com/gulftimes twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar GULF TIMES Labour reforms refl ect Qatar’s keenness to protect expatriate workers’ rights

The measures adopted by Qatar recently in the fi eld of labour reforms refl ect the country’s keenness to protect the rights of expatriate workers and ensure a healthy relationship between employers and employees. Qatar has adopted extensive reforms to protect the rights of workers, including the law regulating the entry and exit of expatriates, and introduced legislative amendments to the labour law, which ensure a fair and transparent work contract based on mutual consent and preserve the rights of employers and workers. The government has also established a fund to support and secure migrant workers and ensure How can UK revamp its payment of their dues ordered by the committees to resolve labour disputes. This is indicative of the country’s keenness to provide a conducive environment for expatriate workers and a strong and stable labour market. landmark anti-slavery law? Last month, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani had issued Law No 13 of 2018, amending certain provisions of Law No 21 of 2015 regulating the By Kieran Guilbert legislation is leading to victims of magic to control the fi ve women. “It is everyone’s responsibility to entry, exit and residency of expatriates, which allows London trafficking not being identified or Politicians and analysts say the law end exploitation, which is why we have expatriate workers covered under the Labour Law to leave protected,” said Ahmed Aydeed is failing to spur the private sector launched an independent review...so the country temporarily or for good without any exit of law firm Duncan Lewis, adding to shine a spotlight on their supply as this awful crime evolves so does our ushing businesses to tackle that victims often return to their chains. response,” a spokesman said. permit within the work contract duration. The new law modern slavery, protecting traffickers, or face prosecution or Under the Act, fi rms with a turnover Other criticisms of the law will come into eff ect on victims from being treated deportation. of at least 36mn pounds must issue an range from a lack of support and October 28. Plike criminals and jailing more The failure to spot victims involved annual statement outlining steps they compensation for survivors to state Qatar is a role Additionally, Qatar slavemasters should top the agenda in forced criminality — from cannabis have taken to combat the risk of forced interference in the work of Britain’s as Britain reviews its landmark law production to prostitution related labour in their operations. inaugural independent anti-slavery model for other has contracted an amid concerns it is failing to curb the off ences — refl ects the low number of But there are no penalties for tsar, Kevin Hyland, who resigned in international service evolving crime, experts say. prosecutions and static conviction rate businesses that fail to do so, and May. countries in provider, Biomat of Britain has been considered a global under the law, said Philippa Southwell just over half of the about 19,000 He is yet to be replaced. Singapore, to implement leader in the fi ght to end slavery since of Birds Solicitors. companies required to comply with “The commissioner must be able the region passing the 2015 Modern Slavery Act to A record 239 people were charged the law have issued statements to to drive Britain forward and hold the a pilot project to provide combat a trade that spans from people with slavery off ences in Britain over date, according to Transparency in government to account without fear or integrated services enslaved at farms, nail salons and car the past year — up a quarter on the the Supply Chain (TISC) — a public favour,” he said. through a unified channel to complete fingerprinting, washes to children used as drug mules year before — according to Crown database. Hyland also demanded better medical services for expatriates, as well as the signing and sold for sex. Prosecution Service (CPS) data. “Companies which are long-term help for victims under the The law introduced life sentences for Yet slavery prosecutions fell to demonstrating a strong commitment... legislation, saying that “protection of employment contracts outside the country, where all traffi ckers, measures to protect people 284 this year from 295 in 2016, while feel that they are being undercut by leads to prosecutions”. And these services will be provided at a centre called “Qatar at risk of being enslaved, and made convictions dipped to 185 from 192 in competitors using unethical labour campaigners are calling for the law Visa Centre”. large companies go public with their that period. practices and modern slavery in their to be widened to recognise emerging The International Labour Organisation has been eff orts to address forced labour. “Key evidence is lost when we fail supply chains,” said lawmaker and forms of modern slavery, such as so- The legislation has been hailed for to identify cases of forced criminality anti-slavery advocate Baroness Lola called orphanage traffi cking, whereby appointed as a consultant to the project, in order to blazing a trail globally with nations and modern slavery at fi rst contact Young. children with living relatives are provide greater protection for the rights of migrant from Australia to India poised to pass or shortly thereafter,” Southwell said. “(The legislation) must be put in institutions to attract foreign workers. similar laws as the world seeks to meet “Many victims are not identifi ed strengthened to ensure that a true donations. Such policies and legislative reforms will ensure decent a United Nations goal of ending by for months, even years after their level-playing fi eld is created for all Despite its limitations, the law has 2030 a crime estimated to enslave at exploitation.” companies.” raised awareness of modern slavery, working environment for both citizens and expatriates in least 40mn people. The CPS said slavery cases The government should force granted police and prosecutors greater order to achieve the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 Yet Britain in July announced a were among their most complex companies to take meaningful action, powers, and set a solid baseline to and the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. review of the law, following criticism — the average time to complete a monitor their eff orts and publicly tackle the crime, according to Justine The reforms have received praise from international from campaigners, lawyers and slavery prosecution has doubled name and shame those that fl out the Currell, executive director of the politicians. to almost three years since 2015 — law, said Patricia Carrier, project charity Unseen. organisations concerned with labour, trade union They say traffi ckers are often one and highlighted recent landmark manager at The Business and Human “We must remember that legislation institutions, and human rights bodies. step ahead of law enforcement, and the convictions as evidence of the law’s Rights Resource Centre, a pressure is a mere facilitator,” said Currell, On Thursday, the Chief Executive Officer of legislation is not being eff ectively or reach and clout. group. formerly a modern slavery policy Institute for Human Rights and Business (IHRB), fully used. In two fi rsts, a drug dealer was jailed The Home Offi ce (interior ministry) adviser for the government. “It is “The sad truth is that it (the law) for 14 years for traffi cking teenagers to said it would write to the heads of all strategy and operational activity that John Morrison, expressed his appreciation of Qatar’s has not been a huge success in what sell drugs, while a nurse got 18 years for businesses covered by the law, and that will ultimately increase awareness, achievements in the field of protecting labour it’s been designed to do — tackling forcing Nigerians into sex work not in those who failed to take action could prosecutions and convictions.” – rights. Speaking at a workshop in Doha, he noted slavery,” Klara Skrivankova, UK Britain but Europe, having used black expect “tougher consequences”. Thomson Reuters Foundation that Qatar has made real progress on the issue over and Europe manager for charity Anti-Slavery International, told the the past two years. He highlighted the fact that the Thomson Reuters Foundation. International Labour Organisation opened a new She spoke ahead of Anti-Slavery Day office in Qatar earlier this year, which he said reflects on October 18 — set by parliament to the good intentions of the country when it comes to raise awareness of the issue in Britain. Britain is home to at least 136,000 enhancing workers’ rights. slaves, traffi cked from countries such The adoption of reforms relating to the rights of as Albania, Vietnam and Nigeria, expatriate workers has made Qatar a role model for according to the Global Slavery Index other countries in the region. It debunks all the unfair by rights group Walk Free — a fi gure 10 times higher than the government’s campaigns aimed at tarnishing the fair image of Qatar 2013 estimate. in the field of workers’ rights. The crime sets the country back by Qatar’s commitment and keenness to guarantee and up to 4.3bn pounds annually, putting protect the rights of expatriate workers are praiseworthy. slavery second only to homicide in terms of its cost to British society, The state regards expatriate workers as its partners in the recent government data revealed. urban renaissance being witnessed in various fi elds and Britain’s minister for crime Victoria an integral part of the fabric of the Qatari society. Atkins told lawmakers last week at least 950 ongoing modern slavery investigations were ongoing — more To Advertise than a fi ve-fold increase since 2016. About 5,145 possible victims were [email protected] referred to the government for support Display last year — up from 3,804 in 2016 — yet campaigners say many slaves 44466621 44418811 remain hidden, often due to fear of authorities. Classified One of the biggest concerns 44466609 44418811 regarding the law is that many slavery victims are wrongly convicted of Subscription crimes despite the fact that the legislation has a defence for people [email protected] who are coerced or compelled to commit off ences by traffi ckers, two lawyers said. A record 239 people were charged with slavery off ences in Britain over the past year — up a quarter on the year before — © 2018 Gulf Times. All rights reserved “A lack of understanding of the according to Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) data. Gulf Times Friday, October 19, 2018 15 COMMENT How Donald Trump weaponised Pocahontas

By Afua Hirsch everyone else, so just how much they London can tell us about someone like Warren’s family is up for debate. Race is actually what Warren is saying it is – a societal he problem I have with experience, a cultural heritage, a “identity politics” is that shared memory. it’s a phrase mostly used by Which is why it’s disappointing that Tpeople who don’t name their Warren should have taken the bait. identities, against those who do. We Obama producing his birth certifi cate all have identities, after all, and in didn’t stop the birthers’ claims – seven racialised societies like this one it’s years later, a quarter of Republicans ethnic minorities who are guilty of still believe them. Why should a far playing “identity politics” for having less convincing DNA test stop Trump? the audacity to own, articulate or He’s already – follow this if you can organise around that experience. – denying having denied Warren had Meanwhile the majority, who have the Native American heritage anyway. luxury of regarding their identities as Truth has zero role to play here. normal, neutral and invisible, have Warren hasn’t used her distant always mobilised politically around ancestry to mislead. She has dealt class, region, and whiteness. But with it in the slightly confused way that’s not identity politics, that’s just that people with mixed heritage – politics, right? myself included – often have. And the All politics are identity politics question as to whether she might have and, if we really want to use the term, been entitled to use this heritage to the rightwing purveyors of nativist claim minority status in university and populism have been among the most job applications is an interesting one. devoted practitioners. Remember What’s surreal about this whole Margaret Thatcher, invoking debate is that, in trying to belittle Churchillian nativism over the Warren’s Native American heritage, Falkland Islands, whose population, Trump has multiplied its symbolism. “like the people of the United “Fake Pocahontas”: it’s utterly Kingdom, are an island race”. There is ‘Warren is not really saying she is Native American. She is – as she says – simply telling a story about her family’s identity.’ consistent with his need to fi nd one- nothing at the moment to suggest the concept devices for delegitimising next US presidential election will be simultaneously insulting those who hold corporations to account. “liberal metropolitan elite” identity that “suggest that you absolutely have his opponents. Obama: “Kenyan”; between anything other than two white do. But by going into her family that populists, so often themselves a Native American ancestry in your Clinton: “Lock her up.” candidates, but that won’t stop Donald Warren is not really saying she is background, in the inevitably the very defi nition of privilege, have pedigree,” says Carlos Bustamante, a It’s hard to think of any other time Trump from using racist slurs. Because Native American. That ethnic status polarising context of an impending successfully weaponised. professor of genetics at Stanford, who when politics would have played out the fi rst campaign video has just has specifi c meaning in the US, where election, Warren’s new video The real point of the fi lm, though, analysed Warren’s DNA. quite like this. In this era of cultural landed – with the midterm elections membership is a question of meeting performs a few useful tasks is to show up Trump-type bigotry. This makes uncomfortable candidates and identity politics, there not yet even out of the way – and it’s requirements for tribal citizenship simultaneously. It delves into a down- It reveals the attitude of her father’s watching. First of all, the relationship is on one side a politician who has all about race and identity. rather than simply proving lineage. home Oklahoma narrative about an family, which she says was “bitterly between race and genetics is dodgy. been reduced to taking DNA tests to Enter Elizabeth Warren. You may But Warren is – as she says – simply ordinary middle-class family: three opposed” to the fact that her mother The more we understand genetics, the prove she is “real”, rather than “fake”; not be that familiar with her yet, but telling a story about her family’s older, brothers all of them former was part Native American. “That less we understand race – scientists and on the other an incumbent who you will be. Or you might know her identity. military, some of them Republican kind of discrimination,” she says, have tried and failed to fi nd any real thinks this ludicrous framework is an better as “Pocahontas”, or even “fake And until recently, she had barely voters, and her “momma and daddy”, looking at sepia photos of this family correlation between the physical appropriate one for a discussion about Pocahontas” – the name the president been doing that. The Harvard law hardworking Americans who married from a time when Oklahoma had only characteristics that distinguish us descending from the indigenous – uses to mock her claim of Native professor-turned-senator was when barely out of their teens. It recently ceased to be an Indian nation in visible terms from the patterns and still oppressed – inhabitants of American heritage. It is, in the darkly better known for a string of “caring doesn’t take a strategic genius to see and become a federal state, “was in DNA variations between us. his land. I have a feeling about which eff ective attention-seeking that is his capitalism”-type measures: better the utility of this for someone who common at the time.” Ancestry companies, whose business one is going to be accused of playing way, an insult that somehow manages consumer protection, laws, not unlike has been a Harvard law professor – There’s an interview with a cousin is booming, have focused most of identity politics, though, and it’s not to say Warren has no legitimate those proposed by Labour in Britain, which, as we saw in the backlash to who is a citizen of the Cherokee nation, their research on people of northern going to be Trump. – Guardian News claim to be Native American, while that would give workers the power to Obama, has come to symbolise the and then – in a big reveal – test results European descent and very little on & Media

The end of Scandinavian non-alignment Three-day forecast TODAY But in recent years, Northern happen. But, of course, it was always center-left has not yet been willing Maximum Temperature : 340c By Carl Bildt Minimum Temperature : 280c Stockholm Europe’s security landscape has a charade. to countenance. changed. The Soviet Union had recruited Nevertheless, with Trident SATURDAY In response to Russian aggression enough high-level assets in the Juncture, Swedes will see a Swedish- Maximum Temperature : 330c aving debarked from and revisionism, Nato has deployed Swedish government to know about led brigade (comprising Swedish and Minimum Temperature : 280c ports in western Sweden, battalion battle groups in Estonia, its secret ties to the West. Finnish units) join with Nato forces SUNDAY military convoys from Latvia, and Lithuania, as well as Whatever the Swedish people were in a large-scale defense drill. Maximum Temperature : 330c Hvarious Nato countries air force squadrons to police those led to believe about their country’s They will witness the extent to Minimum Temperature : 290c countries’ skies. neutrality, the Soviets knew it was which the Swedish, Finnish, and are crowding Swedish streets and Fisherman's forecast prompting the police to issue traffic And in both Sweden and Finland, a lie. Norwegian air forces are already warnings. defence spending is increasing, and Now the ruse is over: full-scale integrated. WARNING military integration with Nato is in And they will watch as Finland Inshore : Thunderstorms rain They are on their way to Norway, there is an ongoing debate about expected at places where some 50,000 soldiers, airmen, whether to upgrade the privileged the offing. leads naval exercises in the Baltic associated with sudden and seamen will come together for partnership with Nato to full Still, full Nato membership Sea. strong wind at times. Nato’s largest military exercise in membership. remains a controversial issue in In the years ahead, Sweden will Offshore : Expected Thundery rain associated with years. For its part, Sweden already Sweden. continue to move closer to Nato. strong wind and high The operation – “Trident acknowledges that its territory would In the old days, Swedish foreign Joint exercises will lead to deeper sea Juncture” – has a clear goal: to fall well within the theatre of Nato policy was torn between two very operational alignment and the WEATHER Inshore : Misty at places by demonstrate the alliance’s ability operations should a conflict arise in different approaches. establishment of common deterrence dawn becomes partly to defend Norway against a foreign Northern Europe, and this realisation On one hand, Sweden was an capabilities for all of Northern cloudy to cloudy with aggressor. has increasingly factored into its extroverted activist, sounding more Europe and the Baltic Sea area. scattered rain Offshore : Partly cloudy to cloudy There is no need to name the own security policy and defence like a non-governmental organisation To be sure, today’s mobilisation is with chance of scat- potential aggressor. preparations. than a nation-state; on the other not driven by an acute threat from tered rain. Obviously, it is not Sweden The Swedish foreign-policy hand, it maintained a hyper-realist Russia. WIND Inshore : Northeasterly-South- or Finland, both of which have establishment understands that any “deep security” policy, albeit one But Russia’s aggressive effort to easterly 08-18/38 KT contributed soldiers to the exercise. threat to the sovereignty of the Baltic that was talked about only in low modernise its military all but requires Offshrore : Southeasterly-North- During the Cold War, Finland did countries or Norway would also be a voices behind closed doors. the West to increase its own defence easterly 06-16/35KT occasionally come under Soviet threat to Sweden’s security. To this day, the same clash of capacity in the region. Visibility : 4-8/3 KM cultures stands in the way of a We need to send a clear message pressure as the Kremlin sought to Hence, Sweden is not just Around the region expand its room for maneuver. participating in Trident Juncture, rational debate about security policy. that opportunistic acts of aggression Weather But it always remained firm in its but also developing a security As for Finland, it always had plenty will be answered, both now and in Weather tomorrow Max/min commitment to defend its Nordic and partnership with Poland to see to the of the second approach, but almost the future. today Max/min P Cloudy 33/22 Western identity. defence of the Baltic Sea area. none of the first. By preparing a proper defence, we Baghdad M Cloudy 34/23 M Sunny 34/24 Similarly, Sweden has always Sweden’s deepening partnership And in the absence of much can ensure peace and stability in the Kuwait City Sunny 34/24 Sunny 34/28 abstained from joining Nato, owing with Nato is a far cry from its Cold domestic disagreement, it has had region, which is a prerequisite for Manama Sunny 34/28 Sunny 31/26 to its longstanding geopolitical War-era doctrine of non-alignment. an easier time adjusting to new moving toward a more constructive Muscat M Cloudy 31/26 Sunny 22/13 neutrality, and out of solidarity with Back then, the custodians of geopolitical realities. relationship with Russia in the long Tehran Sunny 22/12 the Finns. neutrality would have shouted down For example, Finland has run. – Project Syndicate And while Denmark and Norway any hint of collaboration with Nato explicitly said that it considers Nato did join the alliance, they long opted and the West as an act of treason. membership to be an important Carl Bildt is a former prime out of hosting foreign forces during The strategy was to persuade the option for its security policy, which minister and foreign minister of peacetime. Kremlin that no such thing could ever is something that the Swedish Sweden.

Live issues

Hearing aids may help cut impaired memory risk Around the world Weather Weather today Max/min tomorrow Max/min y Lisa Rapaport with perfect hearing, the study found. decline. About one in three adults answer this question. Athens P Cloudy 25/16 M Sunny 26/16 Reuters Health But this was only true for people who aged 65 to 74 have hearing loss, and Results from the study in the UK, Beirut S T Storms 27/23 S T Storms 26/22 didn’t use hearing aids. almost half of people older than 75 where hearing aids may be covered Bangkok S T Storms 32/26 T Storm 31/26 “Not correcting for hearing loss have trouble hearing, according to the by the National Health Service, may Berlin Sunny 15/03 P Cloudy 13/06 hile age-related hearing results in social isolation which in US National Institutes of Health. diff er from what would happen in the Cairo Sunny 31/20 M Sunny 32/22 loss has long been turn results in us not utilising many Age-related hearing loss can lead US and other countries where many Cape Town Cloudy 19/13 Cloudy 25/12 linked to cognitive of our neural networks in the brain on to a wide variety of health problems, people may need to pay out-of- Colombo S T Storms 29/24 T Storm 29/23 Wdecline, a UK study a regular basis,” said study co-author as it touches on many aspects of daily pocket for hearing aids. Dhaka Sunny 33/23 Sunny 33/23 suggests hearing aids may help Gurleen Popli of the University life, making it harder for people to Still, the results suggest it would Hong Kong P Cloudy 24/21 M Sunny 24/22 minimise the risk of problems like of Sheffi eld, in an e-mail. “This keep up with conversations, maintain make sense to screen people 50 and Istanbul P Cloudy 21/14 P Cloudy 21/14 impaired memory or executive could possibly explain the cognitive a normal social life and follow a older for hearing loss and treat it as Jakarta S T Storms 33/26 T Storm 33/26 function. decline.” doctor’s advice about medical early as possible to potentially delay Karachi Sunny 36/24 Sunny 35/24 Researchers examined data on People in the study who used problems. or prevent the onset of dementia London Sunny 17/06 P Cloudy 18/08 7,385 adults 50 and older without hearing aids, however, were very Previous studies have indicated or cognitive impairment, said Dr Manila S T Storms 33/25 S T Storms 33/26 a diagnosis of dementia or other diff erent from individuals who didn’t that age-related hearing loss may be Francesco Panza of the University of Moscow M Cloudy 18/03 M Cloudy 10/04 conditions tied to cognitive problems use these devices, the researchers a risk factor for dementia. However, Bari Aldo Moro in Italy. New Delhi Sunny 33/20 Sunny 32/19 and without hearing implants or ear report in JAMA Otolaryngology Head results from individual studies have “Age-related hearing loss may New York Sunny 17/13 Cloudy 18/07 infections. Overall, about 41% had and Neck Surgery. been inconsistent, possibly due to represent a modifi able condition Paris Sunny 21/08 M Sunny 19/06 mild hearing loss, 10% had severe Hearing aid users tended to have diff erences in methods such as the and a possible target for secondary Sao Paulo Showers 22/14 Cloudy 19/12 hearing loss, and 11% used a hearing moderate to severe hearing loss rather type of hearing assessment used. prevention of cognitive impairment Seoul Sunny 19/05 Sunny 19/06 aid. than just mild hearing loss. They It’s also not clear how age-related in older age, social isolation, late-life Singapore P Cloudy 30/26 S T Storms 31/26 People with mild to moderate also tended to be older, to live alone, hearing loss and cognitive decline depression, and frailty,” Panza, who Sydney P Cloudy 24/17 S T Storms 27/16 hearing loss did score lower on and to have high blood pressure – all are related, and the study wasn’t a wasn’t involved in the study, said by Tokyo Rain 18/15 Clear 23/14 memory assessments than individuals independent risk factors for cognitive controlled experiment designed to mail. Gulf Times 16 Friday, October 19, 2018 QATAR FIFA 2022 will help drive real change in region: al-Thawadi

QNA will have, both in Qatar and the wider Berlin region, long after the tournament. “Qatar and Germany continue to enjoy a strong and fruitful relationship upreme Committee for Delivery and I look forward to this continuing in & Legacy (SC) Secretary-General the lead-up to 2022 and beyond,” the SHassan al-Thawadi yesterday said ambassador said. the fi rst FIFA World Cup 2022 to be held He also discussed how the tourna- in the Arab world will be a precious op- ment had accelerated reform for mil- portunity to drive real change across the lions of migrant workers in the country region. adding that Qatar will shortly ratify a Speaking at a meeting with the Bun- minimum wage policy. destag Sports Committee, al-Thawadi Director of Global Initiatives of Hu- Al Ahli Hospital’s chief of medical staff Dr Abdul Azim Abdul Waheb Hussain, said Qatar was “determined to ensure man Rights Watch, Minky Worden, CEO Khaled al-Emadi, Deputy CEO Jamal Hammad, chief dietitian Alia we use it as a platform to drive real who also attended the meeting updated al-Massri and catering manager Dominique Richard at the opening of change across the region. We want to the committee on her priorities for im- Heyma diet centre at Al Ahli Hospital yesterday. PICTURE: Jayaram host an event that leaves its mark in his- proving workers’ rights in Qatar and the tory and is etched into global memories progress she has seen to-date. for positive reasons.” Qatar’s ambassador to Germany Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman al-Thani with SC She praised Qatar’s progress while Al-Thawadi said Qatar has made Secretary-General Hassan al-Thawadi in Berlin yesterday. encouraging further enforcement and signifi cant progress in recent years to- reform. Hemya diet centre opens wards enhancing workers’ rights, add- Qatar 2022 World Cup projects, al-Tha- Thani gave an overview of how the 2022 The meeting was also attended by ing that the dignity and safety of all wadi said: “We are lucky to have over 30 tournament is helping drive impor- FIFAs Head of Sustainability Federico workers in Qatar was of utmost impor- German companies involved in projects tant elements of Qatar National Vision Addiechi and Head of Public Aff airs and doors at Al Ahli Hospital tance. helping Qatar prepare for the 2022 FIFA 2030, as well as how it is accelerating Corporate Communications Myriam The meeting focused on discuss- World Cup. These companies have been the rapid national labour reforms cur- Burkhard. ing a number of issues such as media involved in the development of major rently being implemented. Stephanie Schulte, the German Foot- l Ahli Hospital has launched from a variety of food recipes. freedom, tournament security, accom- tournament infrastructure, including “I sincerely thank the Sports Com- ball Association’s Head of Social Re- Hemya, a centre off ering a They said the food items are care- modation and transport, the impact of fi ve of the eight stadiums that will be mittee in the Bundestag for welcoming sponsibility, and Samy Hamama, Head Aunique diet programme and fully prepared to meet a growing the blockade, and sports participation used in 2022.” us today and HE Hassan al-Thawadi for of the Presidential Offi ce, also spoke door delivery of food items pre- range of taste preferences and health in Qatar. Qatar’s ambassador to Germany attending and illustrating the impact briefl y and participated in the question scribed by the hospital’s clinical di- conditions of the customers. On Germany’s important role in the Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman al- the 2022 FIFA World Cup is having and and answer session. etitians for their customers. They said the Hemya chefs would More than 200 varieties of dishes, prepare a wide range of recipes with prepared under the supervision of fresh ingredients from diff erent the hospital’s highly professional world cuisines in collaboration with team of dietitians, could be ordered the hospital’s qualifi ed dietitians. through a mobile application. The hospital’s food safety offi cers MEC shuts phone shop over counterfeit goods Customers have the option of will ensure the quality of the highly choosing from nearly 56 varieties of nutritional food produced in the he Ministry of Economy and display on the product’s package or la- not tolerate any violations of the Con- food every week. kitchen. Commerce (MEC) has an- bel the type and nature of the item as sumer Protection Law and its regula- “Our hospital’s team of special- Payment for the food ordered is Tnounced the two-week closure well as other relevant data in line with tions. ised clinical dietitians and profes- made on a daily basis and based on of a phone shop located in Al Rayyan the law’s implementing regulations. It will refer those who violate laws sional chefs has designed this diet the quantum of the order. for displaying and selling counterfeit The law also prohibits the display and ministerial decrees to the compe- programme to assist customers (pa- But the diet consultation fee needs batteries bearing international trade- of fraudulent descriptions, advertise- tent authorities who will, in turn, take tients) in balancing their calorie in- to be paid separately. marks. ments and misleading statements. appropriate action against the perpe- take, shaping their body and losing It was also informed that the diet The inspection campaign came An administrative closure declara- trators in order to protect consumer extra weight,’ said deputy CEO Jamal food order should be done before within the framework of its eff orts to tion has to be published at the expense rights. Hammad. 2pm for next day delivery. monitor markets and commercial ac- of the company or shop that commits The MEC has urged all consumers Al Ahli Hospital’s chief of medi- Right now, delivery services are tivities in order to crack down on price the violation in accordance with Article to report violations or submit com- cal staff Dr Abdul Azim Abdul Wa- available in all places in Doha and its manipulation and uncover violations 18 of Law No 8 on Consumer Protec- plaints and suggestions to its con- heb Hussain, CEO Khaled al-Emadi, immediate surroundings. as well as counterfeit, fraudulent and tion. sumer protection and anti-commercial chief dietician Alia al-Massri and Delivery is also made in places substandard products, the MEC said in The law stipulates that the closure fraud department through the call catering manager Dominique Rich- upto Umm Slal Ali. a statement yesterday. decision shall be published on the MEC centre: 16001, e-mail: [email protected]. ard were among others present at the “However, soon the centre would The outlet was fi ned and closed for a website and in two daily newspapers at qa, Twitter: MEC_QATAR, Instagram: launch of the centre. be equipped with more refrigerated two-week period in line with Article 7 the expense of the violating company, MEC_QATAR and the ministry’s app on The hospital offi cials said Hemya vehicles and delivery would be made of Law No 8 of 2008. the statement notes. smartphones available on iPhone and An off icial writes a report in line with centre would help one design his or her to farther areas as well,” added Ham- Article 7 compels suppliers to clearly The ministry has stressed that it will Android devices: MEC_QATAR. Article 7 of Law No 8 of 2008. own diet plan day by day, by choosing mad.

Revving up ... Defensive driving course conducted

he Qatar Transportation and Traffi c Safety Center (QTTSC) Tat Qatar University’s Col- lege of Engineering (QU-CENG) has hosted a defensive driver training programme for professional drivers of Qatar University. The programme was sponsored by Qatar Petrochemical Company (Qapco) and conducted in collabora- tion with Engineering Solutions, a local technology provider specialised in developing driving simulators and training software. QTTSC director Prof Faris Tarlo- chan said: “This training programme fi ts within our core strategy to develop a road safety culture and improve driv- ing standards, in collaboration with our The participants of the defensive driver training programme with off icials. key partners. QTTSC aims, through its Classic cars are among the attractions at Qatar Motor Show 2018 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre. As many many projects, to draw attention to the course aims to enhance and develop programme was delivered by an in- as 14 local and regional ‘first-time’ reveals are among the highlights of the event which features 37 exhibitors and 20 top urgent need for safer roads for all, and the skills of drivers to help them ternationally-accredited defensive brands and companies. The timing today and tomorrow is from 2pm to 10pm and on Sunday, the last day, is from 10am to to take the necessary measures and avoid traffi c crashes and deal with driving instructor and utilised an ad- 5pm. The five-day event, under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser make signifi cant and long-term con- various risks on roads including the vanced driving simulator. It aimed to bin Khalifa al-Thani, is organised by Qatar Tourism Authority in co-operation with Fira Qatar on a 17,896sq m space. tributions to road safety.” mistakes of other drivers. reduce the risk of collision and avoid PICTURE: Shemeer Rasheed QTTSC assistant professor Dr Raff at Zreik, operations manager dangerous situations, despite adverse Wael Alhajyaseen noted that the at Engineering Solutions said: “This conditions or the mistakes of others.” Inclement weather expected to continue till Monday

he country will continue Wakrah, Mesaieed and Al Khor. to experience thunder- Yesterday, the maximum tem- Tstorms and strong winds perature was 35C in Abu Samra, until Monday, the Qatar Met de- Batna, Turayna, Karana, Jumay- partment has said. liyah and Ghuwairiyah, while in Doha and other parts of Qa- Doha and Abu Hamour it was 34C. tar have been witnessing spells As thunderstorms are expected of rain, thunderstorms dust and to continue until Monday, the Met winds over the past couple of department has re-issued a list of days. safety tips on its Twitter page. Citing latest weather charts, The advisory states that people the Met department yesterday should stay indoors during thun- said the “unsettled weather con- derstorms, close the windows if ditions resulting from an exten- they are inside a vehicle, avoid sion of a low-pressure system standing on roofs or near trees are expected to continue aff ect- Doha and other parts of the country witnessed spell of rain and electricity poles, and stay ing the country until Monday yesterday. PICTURE: Shemeer Rasheed away from open water sources. evening”. This period will be Meanwhile, rain emergency marked by scattered thunder- places along with sudden strong The detailed forecast says it teams had drained out 1.365mn storms, accompanied by strong winds at times. will be misty in some places by gallons of rainwater from dif- winds at times. Off shore, too, thundery rain dawn, followed by cloudy condi- ferent places in the Al Rayyan, This, in turn, will lead to dusty and windy conditions are likely tions and scattered rain. Daayen and Umm Salal munici- conditions and poor visibility in today along with high seas. The There are chances of thunder- palities by yesterday afternoon. some areas, the report states. wind speed will be 8-18 knots storms along with blowing dust Seventy-two tankers and 105 The Met department has urged inshore, which may go up to 38 at times. Cloudy conditions are work teams were involved in the people to be cautious, avoid ma- knots during thunderstorms. also likely in off shore areas, and operations, the Ministry of Mu- rine activities and follow the lat- In off shore areas, the wind there is a chance of scattered rain nicipality and Environment said est updates through its offi cial speed will be 6-16 knots, reach- that may turn thundery at times. yesterday, adding that the mu- social media accounts. ing a high of 35 knots during The maximum temperature nicipal authorities received 58 Today’s forecast says thun- thundery rain. The sea level, expected today is 34C in Doha, requests to remove accumulated derstorms are expected in some meanwhile, may rise by 9ft. followed by 33C in Abu Samra, water. Rainwater removal in progress.