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MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 26 SHAWWAL - 1442 VOLUME 26 NUMBER 8646 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS

President of Paraguay Amir receives call of thanks from President of Paraguay thanks Amir for providing

QNA — DOHA/ASUNCION in this regard, the President of Par- H E Mario Abdo Benitez thanked Amir H of Qatar to the Republic of 400,000 Moderna aguay thanked H H the Amir for the H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, for Paraguay. COVID-19 vaccines Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad medical aid provided by the State of the support of the State of Qatar to the A plane carrying Moderna anti- Al Thani received a phone call Qatar to Paraguay. Republic of Paraguay. COVID-19 vaccines arrived at Asuncion yesterday evening from President of During the call, they reviewed the In a statement, H E indicated that Airport from the State of Qatar to the of the Republic for Strategic Affairs in the Republic of Paraguay H E Mario bilateral relations between the two the first batch of Moderna’s anti- Republic of Paraguay, and was the Republic of Paraguay H E Federico Abdo Benitez. countries and ways to enhance and coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine had received by Minister of Foreign Rela- Gonzalez, and the Charge d’Affairs at During the call, they reviewed the develop them in various fields, as well arrived, which amounted to 99,600 tions H E Euclides Acevedo, Minister the Embassy of the State of Qatar in efforts of the two countries in com- as issues of common concern. vaccines out of 400,000 vaccines of Health and Social Welfare H E Julio Paraguay Saeed bin Hamad Al Marri. bating the (COVID-19) pandemic, and President of the Republic of Paraguay provided as a donation from the State Borba, and Advisor to the Presidency `P2 Speaker inaugurates General Secretariat of GOPAC QNA — DOHA Speaker of the Shura Council praises H H the Amir's initiatives in combating corruption Speaker of the Shura Council and Chairman of the Global Call for parliamentarians to increase efforts to present Organisation of Parliamen- creative initiatives and supervise the huge budgets allocated tarians Against Corruption (GOPAC), H E Ahmed bin to combating COVID-19 and to stimulate the economy. Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, Parliamentarians all over the world have a great responsibility inaugurated yesterday the General Secretariat Office of the to play in preventing and combating corruption organisation in the State of Complete strategy for the goals to be achieved by GOPAC was Qatar, amid great interest in this event, due to GOPAC impor- approved by the Executive Committee. tance and influence in combatting corruption. In the beginning of his which is held by the United organising the opening cer- speech at the opening cer- Nations on December 9 of each emony of this office comes at emony, H E the Speaker year. an important time when par- Speaker of the Shura Council and Chairman of the Global Organisation of Parliamentarians Against expressed his sincere appreci- The Speaker of the Shura liamentarians must increase Corruption, H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, during the inauguration of the General ation to Amir H H Sheikh Council pointed out that Qatar, efforts to present creative ini- Secretariat Office in Doha, yesterday. Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani for under the leadership of H H the tiatives and supervise the huge his support for the GOPAC and Amir, has attached great impor- budgets allocated to com- corruption, as they are an executive committee of the international community to all the great initiatives taken by tance to combating corruption bating COVID-19 and to stim- essential part of the solution, organisation, explaining that commit to its role, saying that the H H the Amir in this field, and is keen to support interna- ulate the economy, and to he added. Their Excellencies heads of par- organisation, as the only interna- including the initiative to tional efforts to enhance trans- ensure that monitoring The Speaker also explained liaments in the world continue tional network of parliamen- establish Sheikh Tamim bin parency, in addition it has taken exchange operations to con- what the GOPAC has accom- the work to expand mem- tarians who have dedicated their Hamad Al Thani International additional steps to strengthen tribute to serving the citizens plished since his election as its bership in the organisation and work to prevent and combat cor- Anti-Corruption Excellence the institutional framework on and providing them with all president, foremost among establish new national and ruption, renews its call to the Awards, which is awarded to integrity and transparency and means of decent living. Fur- which is the preparation of a regional branches and help international community to distinguished people in this field prevent crimes affecting public thermore, the parliamen- complete strategy for the goals carry out its tasks. address the scourge of corruption each year in conjunction with money or public office. tarians all over the world have that are supposed to be The Speaker of the Shura and effectively implement its the celebration of the Interna- The Speaker of the Shura a great responsibility to play achieved in a period of two Council and Chairman of GOPAC international commitments to tional Anti-Corruption Day, Council further said that in preventing and combating years and approved by the renewed the call of the combat it. `P2 QA to resume flights to No quarantine on arrival Sharjah, UAE from July 1 for vaccinated THE PENINSULA — DOHA passengers to and from the travellers from other cities especially Dubai Qatar Airways has announced in the UAE. Qatar to France that it will resume services to Qatar airways flight Sharjah, UAE, starting July 1, QR1036, will depart from 2021, with a daily flight. Hamad International Airport at THE PENINSULA — DOHA The Sharjah services will be 14:35, arriving at 16:45 to operated by the airline’s state- Sharjah. Qatar Airways daily France will reopen its borders of-the-art Boeing 787 Dream- flight QR1037, will depart from for travellers from Qatar, liner featuring 22 seats in First Sharjah at 17:55, and arrive to who are fully-vaccinated and Class and 232 seats in Economy Doha at 18:05. holds a valid visa, from June Class. As travellers return to the 9 in light of the improvement The resumption of services skies with Qatar Airways, they of COVID-19 situation in both will enable passengers flying can take comfort knowing that France and Qatar. from and to Sharjah to benefit they are travelling with the only This was announced by from the airline’s extensive airline in the world that has, the French Embassy in a post international network in Asia, together with its state-of-the- on Twitter adding that it is Africa, Australia and the art global hub Hamad Interna- working to reopen visa Americas, which currently tional Airport, achieved four service in the coming weeks. stands at over 130 destinations 5-Star Skytrax ratings – “As of 9 June, Qatari or Foreign Minister meets GCC Secretary-General with plans to increase to more including the prestigious 5-Star third-country travellers from than 1,200 weekly flights to Airline Rating, 5-Star Airport Qatar, if they already have a Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al over 140 destinations by the Rating, 5-Star COVID-19 Airline fully valid visa and are Thani met yesterday with Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), H E Dr. Nayef end of July. Safety Rating and 5-Star otherwise fully vaccinated, Falah Al Hajraf, who is visiting the country. They exchanged views on the GCC march and the latest Sharjah will be an alter- COVID-19 Airport Safety may re-enter France without developments in the region. native gateway for Rating. quarantine on arrival,” Embassy said in an ‘Advice for travel to France’ post. “Upon departure from QM inks twinning pact with Russia’s Culture Ministry, ANCO Land of Forts Qatar, presentation of evidence of a complete vaccination cycle THE PENINSULA — DOHA Unesco sites are to become twin Qatar-Russia cooperation in the signed by Ahmad Musa Al during a signing ceremony held — two weeks after the second locations: Qatar’s Al Zubara fort field of culture and preservation Namla, Chief Executive Officer at Qatar’s SPIEF-2021 booth. injection of Pfizer, Moderna or Qatar Museums signed a twinning and the sea forts of Kronstadt of historical memory, the of Qatar Museums, Olga Lyu- Speaking at the signing cer- AstraZeneca COVID-19 MoU with the Ministry of Culture (Kronschlot, Peter I, Emperor expansion of friendly, bilateral bimova, Minister of Culture of emony, Al Namla, said: “The vaccine, four weeks after the of the Russian Federation, and Alexander I) in Russia. relations, and the establishment the Russian Federation, and Russian Federation and the State injection of the Johnson & ANCO Land of Forts, during the The MoU aims to facilitate the of contacts and partnerships Ksenia Shoigu, Head of the of Qatar enjoy long-standing ties Johnson vaccine, two weeks St. Petersburg International promotion of Qatari and Russian between the tourist organisations Project Office for the Creation that have seen both countries after single injection for those Economic Forum (SPIEF 2021). As cultural heritage sites. In addition, in Qatar and Russia. of the Tourist and Recreational partner on several initiatives with a history of COVID-19,” it part of the MoU, the following the MoU will contribute to The trilateral MoU was Cluster Project “Land of Forts,” over the years. `P2 added. `P2 02 HOME MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021

OFFICIAL NEWS Amir greets King of Sweden

DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Deputy Amir H H PRAYER Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani sent yesterday cables of congratulations TIMINGS to HM King Carl XVI Gustaf of the Kingdom of Sweden on the occasion of PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING his country’s National Day. Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani also sent a cable of congratulations to Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Sweden H E Stefan Lofven on the occa- 03.14 am FAJR sion of his country’s National Day. -QNA SUNRISE 04.43 am DHUHR 11.33 am ASR 02.56 pm Amir receives phone call from MAGHRIB 06.25 pm ISHA 07.55 pm President of Paraguay FROM PAGE 1 experiencing. For his part, Advisor to the During the ceremony for Presidency of the Republic for the arrival of the vaccines, Strategic Affairs in the Minister of Foreign Relations Republic of Paraguay Fed- Euclides Acevedo, thanked the erico Gonzalez stressed the government and people of the depth of the distinguished State of Qatar for this relations between Qatar and WEATHER donation, and considered it a Paraguay. He noted the TODAY translation of the close friendship between H H the brotherly relations that unite Amir and HE the President of the two countries. He praised the Republic of Paraguay. the role of the Embassy of the For his part, the Charge State of Qatar in Paraguay and d’Affairs at the Embassy of the its constant endeavor to State of Qatar in Paraguay strengthen these distinguished Saeed bin Hamad Al Marri 34oC 43oC relations. praised the distinguished and Minimum Maximum Minister of Health and strong relations that unite the Social Welfare Julio Borba, State of Qatar and the Hazy at first becomes hot to very also thanked the State of Republic of Paraguay, and hot with slight dust to blowing dust Qatar for its valuable said that the State of Qatar at places daytime. donation, and said the first was and still the first to stand W ALRUWAIS : 30o → 37o batch of Moderna’s anti-coro- by friendly countries, espe- W ALKHOR : 27o → 40o navirus (COVID-19) vaccine cially during difficult circum- arrives in Paraguay, which is stances, and expressed hope W DUKHAN : 26o → 41o Shura Council Speaker and Chairman of the Global Organization of Parliamentarians Against Corruption, in dire need, as a result of the that health conditions would → W WAKRAH : 27o 40o H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, during the inauguration of the General Secretariat difficult health crisis it is improve in the future. W MESAIEED : 27o → 40o Office in Doha, yesterday. W ABUSAMRA : 25o → 38o Speaker inaugurates General Secretariat of GOPAC Minister meets British envoy HIGH TIDE FROM PAGE 1 QNA — DOHA 1:13–16:16 of Parliamentarians Against reasons for its establishment, Qatar H E Jon Wilks. LOW TIDE 9:29 – 22:39 Corruption affirmed that the and how he was unanimously During the meeting, they The virtual ceremony was State of Qatar is making a great elected as its president at the Minister of Education and discussed aspects of cooper- attended by Chairman of the effort to raise the role of this 7th Conference of the Global Higher Education H E Dr. ation in the fields of education Administrative Control and organisation to the highest Organization of Parliamen- Mohammed bin Abdulwahed and higher education, in Transparency Authority H E levels. He explained that a com- tarians Against Corruption, and Al Hammadi met yesterday addition to issues of common Fahes to reopen Hamad bin Nasser Al Misnad, plete strategy for the goals to the moves he has taken since through video conferencing interest and ways to support Their Excellencies members of be achieved was approved by taking office. with British Ambassador to and enhance them. Industrial Area the Executive Committee and the Executive Committee. For his part, President of the members of the GOPAC, and The Speaker also expressed Arab branch of the Global branch tomorrow President of the Arab branch of his gratitude for the continuous Organization of Parliamen- Qatar condemns attack in Somalia the GOPAC H E Dr. Nasser support from the brotherly Gulf tarians Against Corruption Dr. THE PENINSULA — DOHA Jassim Al Sanea. Also, Parlia- and Arab countries for the work Nasser Jassim Al Sanea, QNA — DOHA Affairs reiterated the Qatar’s mentarians from all around the of the organization, whether at extended his thanks to the State firm position of rejecting vio- Qatar Fuel, Woqod repre- world attended via videocon- the level of leaders or parlia- of Qatar for hosting the office The State of Qatar expressed lence and terrorism regardless sented by its arm for technical ferencing of the inauguration. ments, citing the congratula- of the General Secretariat of the its strong condemnation and of the motives and reasons. inspections of vehicles for Meanwhile in a press tions of the State of Qatar at the organization, and for providing denunciation of an attack that The ministry also road permit renewal, Fahes statement on the sidelines of Al-Ula Summit on his election all human, material and tech- took place near a bus station expressed the condolences of has announced the reopening the inauguration of the office as head of the world nological capabilities for the in Mogadishu, leading to two Qatar to the families of the of its branch at Industrial Area of the General Secretariat of the organization. headquarters of this organi- deaths, and a number of victims and the government for light vehicles starting on organization in Qatar, Speaker He reviewed the history of zation to carry out its activities injuries, including soldiers. and people of Somalia, June 8. of the Shura Council and Pres- the organization’s estab- and spread its message from In a statement issued yes- wishing the injured a speedy The operating hours of ident of the Global Organisation lishment, its objectives, the Doha. terday, the Ministry of Foreign recovery. Fahes Industrial Area branch will be from 6am to 6pm, however, the gate will be closed at 5:30pm, Woqod has PHCC urges public to twitted. To serve the customers better, Fahes will extend its take caution to prevent work timing at Mesaimeer and Wadi Al Banat with effect diseases in summer starting June 9, 2021 from 6am to 12 midnight. Gates will be closed at 11.30pm. QNA — DOHA PHCC explained that it constantly provides The Primary Health Care Corpo- MoPH reports 172 ration (PHCC) called on the awareness and new virus cases, public to be careful to avoid and health advice and prevent summer diseases, as 344 recoveries some seasonal diseases begin to tips, to ensure the appear during this hot season, safety of all and in THE PENINSULA — DOHA the best-known of which are line with the strategy skin diseases in general. The Ministry of Public Health PHCC explained that it con- ‘prevention is better yesterday announced the stantly provides awareness and than cure’. registration of 172 new health advice and tips, to ensure confirmed cases of COVID-19. the safety of all and in line with Among them, 69 are from the strategy ‘prevention is better affects patients with heart dis- travellers. than cure’, to change behaviour eases, as well as diabetes, blood Palestinian PM arrives in Doha Also, 344 people have patterns and limit the spread of pressure and kidneys, as dehy- Prime Minister of the State of Palestine H E Mohammad Shtayyeh arrived in Doha yesterday evening recovered from the virus diseases and epidemics. dration can occur suddenly and on a visit to the country. His Excellency and the accompanying delegation were welcomed upon bringing the total number of Manager of PHCC’s Abu Bakr rapidly during this season, and arrival at the Doha International Airport by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad cases recovered in Qatar to Siddiq Health Center Dr. Eiman it increases blood hardness and Al Muraikhi and Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Qatar, H E Munir Abdullah Ghannam. 215,294. In addition, the Min- Al Saadi highlighted that many reduces fluidity, which con- istry announced three new symptoms and complications tributes to the formation of deaths, aged 54, 64 and 81 appear with high temperatures, severe clots, especially for years of age, two of which had and many seasonal diseases are smokers and diabetics, adding QM in deal with Russia’s Culture Ministry, ANCO Land of Forts a history of chronic disease widespread and frequent, espe- that the most prominent FROM PAGE 1 and all were receiving the cially among children and the summer diseases are also of Historical and Cultural Monu- bin Jassim Al Thani to guard and necessary medical care. elderly. asthma and chest allergies due “It is a great pleasure to ments of St. Petersburg. protect the northwest coast of No quarantine on She warned that the intense to high temperature, in addition further extend our collaboration Our country has a strong part- Qatar. It is located within the heat during summer leads to to influenza. through this MoU, recognises that nership with Qatar. We are drawn buffer zone of the Al Zubara arrival for vaccinated infection with fungi and many Gastrointestinal diseases are the development of relations in together by a respectful attitude World Heritage Site. travellers from skin diseases, which is why it is also one of the most common and the fields of tourism is an to traditions and humanitarian The forts “Kronschlot,” “Peter necessary to avoid exposure to prevalent diseases among important means of strengthening values, to history and cultural her- I,” “Emperor Alexander I” are Qatar to France these infections through pre- children in the summer, as they mutual understanding, expressing itage. I sincerely hope that the included in the Unesco World ventive measures, stressing the are directly related to breast- FROM PAGE 1 goodwill and furthering relations exchange of experience with Heritage List. They are the most need to drink lots of fluids to feeding or nutrition, temperature between peoples.” Qatari colleagues, cross-pro- important historical sites avoid dehydration caused by and humidity, air condition and “Forts of Kronstadt — Kron- motion, and mutual support will belonging to the tourist and rec- In addition, travellers will exposure to heat, and to wear surrounding pollution, in addition schlot, Peter I, Emperor Alexander have a positive impact on the reational cluster currently being have to present a negative PCR sunglasses to avoid dry eyes. to the difficulty to control the I — are unique sea fortifications future development of the forts,” created in Kronstadt. As part of test of less than 72 hours or a She pointed out the necessity means of transmission of the — Unesco World Heritage Sites. said Shoigu. the project “Land of Forts,” the negative antigen test of less to encourage workers exposed infections, she added. She also These objects were left unused for The archaeological complex unique naval defences “Kron- than 48 hours. to the heat of the weather to warned the public to be aware of a long time. The time has come to of Al Zubara is Qatar’s largest her- schlot,” “Peter I,” and “Emperor “For those who do not drink water during their daily skin infections that usually spread give them a new life, to open them itage site. It is included in the Alexander I” will be restored and already have a fully valid visa, work, and to drink it regularly during the summer season, to people. Land of Forts is solving Unesco World Heritage List and adapted for modern use. They will the embassy is working to with efficient portions- two liters including pigmentation, skin this task thanks to the support and considered one of the best-pre- house museum expositions, reopen the visa service in the every two to three hours- to burns and tinea-color disease, interested participation of the served examples of a merchant public spaces, and tourist infra- coming weeks, with no date at ensure their wellness and safety. urging all to take good care of Ministry of Culture of the Russian city in the Gulf region built in the structure. The renovated forts will this stage,” the Embassy added Dr. Al Saadi also explained themselves for the protection Federation and the Committee for 18-19th centuries. Al Zubara was open their doors to visitors by in Twitter post. that high temperature negatively from these infections. State Control, Use and Protection built in 1938 by Sheikh Abdullah 2025. MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 HOME 03 EAA Foundation, WPDI extend partnership with new project in Uganda and South Sudan

THE PENINSULA — DOHA Empowering youth, a large demographic segment in the two countries, with skills and Education Above All (EAA) Foundation and the Whitaker knowledge essential for human rights advocacy Peace & Development Initi- and sustainable peacebuilding, the project ative (WPDI) have launched a new project in Uganda and will lend agency to participants as global South Sudan as part of their citizens, particularly in areas of conflict where ongoing efforts to mobilise the power of education for peace- education is under attack. FM meets European Union Ambassador building. Empowering youth, a large Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman demographic segment in the collaboration with EAA in to advocate and generate Al Thani met yesterday with Ambassador of the European Union to the State of Qatar, Dr. Cristian two countries, with skills and South Sudan and Uganda. lasting change towards a more Tudor. During the meeting, they reviewed cooperation relations between the State of Qatar and the knowledge essential for Abdulla Al Abdulla, Exec- peaceful future.” European Union. human rights advocacy and utive Director of EAA’s ROTA On behalf of WPDI, sustainable peacebuilding, the programme, said: “Too often, Caroline Descombris, its Exec- project will lend agency to young women and men are utive Director, remarked: participants as global citizens, perceived as victims or per- “There is a potential of particularly in areas of con- petrators of violence in con- youth for promoting peace flict where education is under flict-affected areas rather than and welfare in their commu- attack. key stakeholders who can be nities that remains largely EAA, through its Reach empowered and mobilised to untapped. This is a reality that Out To Asia (ROTA) and foster lasting peace and sus- needs to be further recog- Protect Education in Inse- tainable development. Our nised. As our founder, curity and Conflict (PEIC) pro- new project supports youth in Whitaker affirmed ‘When it grammes, and WPDI aim to Uganda and South Sudan to comes to transforming the reach 412,000 learners and take ownership of and con- world, providing the right youth from local communities tribute to their community as tools to young people and with the joint project, training active global citizens, advo- educating them to the values over 187,000 youth aged cating for lifelong peace, of peace and reconciliation is 15-24 years as global citizens human rights and sustainable the key.” and peacemakers, and over development.” As part of their shared goal 190,000 children and other Maleiha Malik, Executive to educate youth on peace, local stakeholders in human Director of EAA’s PEIC pro- dialogue and reconciliation in rights advocacy, with the par- gramme, commented: “Par- areas that have been impacted ticipation of 32,666 local ticularly in areas of insecurity by conflict, the EAA-WPDI stakeholders over a period of and conflict, we must mobilise project will provide youth three years. the power of youth as advo- with competencies and tools Al Muraikhi meets official of Turkic-Speaking States The project will build on a cates, peacebuilders and they can use throughout the combination of interventions active citizens. Over the next project and beyond, as they Minister of State for Foreign Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met yesterday with Secretary- based on the experience and years, we aim to support disseminate these values in General of the Cooperation Council of Turkic-Speaking States, H E Baghdad Amreyev. During the expertise accrued by WPDI in children and youth who have their communities and meetings, they reviewed cooperation between the State of Qatar and the Cooperation Council of the past years, including lived through conflict, to equip prepare themselves to become Turkic-Speaking States. through ground-breaking them with the necessary tools committed citizens. Ministry of Public Health celebrates World Food Safety Day

THE PENINSULA — DOHA over three days and a workshop Director of Food Safety and Envi- transport, display, sale, storage, laboratories, which are titled “Common Food Safety ronmental Health at the Ministry general hygiene and health prac- accredited internationally and The Ministry of Public Health Mistakes” for food importing of Public Health said that the tices,” added Wassan Al-Baker. ranked among the top 15 labora- (MoPH) marks World Food companies. World Food Safety Day is an She also stated that samples tories in the world. The labs adopt Safety Day, which falls on June Activities also feature important occasion to promote of food products produced locally approved and reliable analysis 7, under the theme “Safe food awareness messages on social food safety and warn of unsafe are tested to prevent any methods based on the ISO today for a healthy tomorrow”, media and text messages via food risks on health. microbial and chemical risks. 17025:2017 quality management as part of the permanent theme mobile phones, short videos on “The Ministry of Public Food samples are tested using guidelines. of the event “Food Safety is food safety, as well as Health is keen to ensure the state-of-art devices to ensure An online system has been Everyone’s Responsibility.” awareness leaflets containing safety of food sold at outlets in conformity with the highest developed for issuing health and On this occasion, the Min- food safety guidelines dis- Qatar, food compliance to health standards of Codex Alimentarius food certificates and paying the istry organizes a number of tributed at supermarkets and standards and intensifying food Commission, Word Health fees associated with exported activities and events, including malls. The Ministry of Public safety awareness campaigns organization and GCC Standard- food certificates, food destruction virtual workshops on food Health building is lit in orange Director of Food Safety and which focus on the right and safe ization Organization. Al Baker certificates and food tests safety: three workshops tar- to mark World Food Safety Day. Environmental Health at MoPH, ways related to food safety, such pointed out that food testing is requested by importing and geting family-run businesses Wassan Abdulla Al-Baker, Wassan Abdulla AlBaker as shopping, food preparation, done at the MoPH central exporting companies. Qatar attends extraordinary session of Permanent Council of Francophonie

QNA — PARIS

The State of Qatar participated in the extraordinary session of the Permanent Council of the Francophonie (CPF), chaired by HE Secretary-General of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) Louise Mushikiwabo. The State of Qatar was rep- resented at the session, which was held via videoconference, Qatar Museums CEO, Ahmad Musa Al Namla, with Director of the Hermitage Museum, Mikhail Piotrovsky, by Ambassador of the State of during signing of a memorandum of understanding at the St. Petersburg International Economic Qatar to the French Republic Forum (SPIEF 2021), in Russia. and Qatar’s representative to the International Organization of La Francophonie H E Sheikh QM, Russia’s State Hermitage Ali bin Jassim Al Thani. This session reviewed the latest development of the situ- ation in Mali following the coup Museum sign agreement that took place on May 24, 2021 against the legitimate transi- THE PENINSULA — DOHA Musa Al Namla, Chief Executive area: we have conducted the tional authorities. The meeting Ambassador of of Qatar to France and Qatar’s representative to Officer of Qatar Museums, said: Hermitage Days in Doha, and resulted in a unanimous the International Organization of La Francophonie, H E Sheikh Ali Qatar Museums signed a “Qatar Museums looks forward we will have the Doha Days in decision that strongly con- Memorandum of Under- to what promises to be a fruitful Hermitage. Our plans include demned these events and bin Jassim Al Thani, taking part in an extraordinary session of the standing (MoU) with one of partnership with the State Her- quite a few exchanges of decided, in accordance with the Permanent Council of the Francophonie, via video conferencing. Russia’s most renowned mitage Museum. The initiatives various exhibitions. Today we terms of the Bamako Decla- museums, the State Hermitage outlined in the MoU will go a have also discussed that we can ration, to suspend the mem- civilian prime minister and an the Economic Community of Museum, during the St. long way to further nurturing create a joint project on con- bership of the Republic of Mali inclusive government that West African States(ECOWAS), Petersburg International the cultural landscape in both temporary art, which is Hermit- in the Francophonie while pre- reflects Mali’s social and and its readiness to work side Economic Forum (SPIEF 2021). countries and providing citizens age’s expert know-how. We serving the Francophone mul- political diversity and respects by side with them for an The MoU outlines the col- and residents with a culturally also envisage cooperation in tilateral cooperation pro- financial legislation related to inclusive and peaceful laboration between both enriching experience in which archeology. We are already grammes, especially those sup- women’s representation in transition. entities on numerous initiatives, they can expand their sharing and will continue to porting the restoration of the political bodies. This meeting was an oppor- including exhibitions, public knowledge about the respective share the experience of our constitutional order and On the other hand, the Per- tunity to affirm the State of programmes, workshops, and cultures and traditions.” restorers. We plan to exchange democracy. manent Council of La Franco- Qatar’s full support for all lectures to foster education, Mikhail Piotrovsky, Director experience in other areas as The Permanent Council of phonie demanded that the next regional and international increase access to knowledge, of the Hermitage Museum, well.” La Francophonie called on the elections be organized no later efforts and those of the Inter- and facilitate research. Both noted, “Today, in a solemn The State Hermitage Malian Defense and Security than March 2022, within a national Organization of La entities will also share museum atmosphere at the Economic Museum is the world’s second- Forces to immediately lift all coordinated framework that Francophonie aimed at finding best practices to benefit from Forum, we are signing an largest museum after the restrictions imposed on all guarantees their free, reliable an urgent solution to the crisis education, professional devel- agreement on cooperation in Louvre Museum in Paris. Its political actors, in particular the and transparent nature. The in Mali in a way that meets the opment, and mutual various fields. Among them is collection – a must-see for art house arrest imposed on the Council also renewed its aspirations of the people for cooperation. a long-standing area of the enthusiasts – contains more former President and Prime support for the continued security and decent living and Speaking at the signing cer- study of Islamic art. The holding than three million items spread Minister. The Council also efforts of international and preserves the stability of the emony in St. Petersburg, Ahmad of reciprocal days is another over six historic buildings. called for the appointment of a regional partners, particularly region. 04 HOME MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 Ministry stresses on importance of national policy for youth

QNA — DOHA supportive environment, explained that the workshop ensuring their full participation reviewed the main axes of the The Youth Affairs Department of as active citizens. national policy for youth, cen- the Ministry of Culture and Sports Director of the Youth Affairs tered around the national prior- has organised a participatory Department at the Ministry ities of Qatari youth, which will workshop with members of the Maha Al Rumaihi said that the be worked with partners to cover national policy working group workshop dealt in detail the and achieve the goals of devel- for youth from institutions and main steps for preparing the opment and empowerment of official and academic bodies. national plan for youth, as the youth. During the workshop, the project was divided into three He pointed out that the youth affairs department gave a main stages: the stage of col- workshop touched on the six detailed presentation on the lecting data and information, the main axes: youth, education, importance of the national policy stage of drafting the current research and innovation; Chief of Staff meets Italian counterpart for the youth of the State of Qatar status report, which will show employment, entrepreneurship at the national and international the gaps, challenges, and oppor- and the private sector; youth Chief of Staff of Qatari Armed Forces H E Lieutenant-General (Pilot) Ghanem bin Shaheen Al Ghanim levels, and its importance in tunities, and then the stage of health; the full and effective met with Chief of the Defence Staff of Italy H E Lieutenant-General Enzo Vecciarelli, who is visiting the enhancing the status of Qatari formulating the national policy participation of youth; the rela- country. During the meeting, they reviewed military cooperation relations between the two countries youth, and enabling them to build in response to national needs tionship between youth; means and ways to enhance them. A number of senior officers in the armed forces attended the meeting. their competencies and capabil- and priorities. of communication and infor- ities, which will enable them to Nasser Al Jabri, director of the mation technology; and youth contribute and benefit from a youth work organisation and and the environment. He added politically stable, economically development division at the that each axis was divided into NHRC Chairman meets UN official stimulating and legally youth affairs department, detailed sub-themes. Chairman of the National Human Rights Committee (NHRC), H CRA publishes fourth Class License for SRDs E Dr. Ali bin Smaikh Al Marri, met yesterday THE PENINSULA — DOHA “In addition to CRA’s keenness with Head of the to ensure that there is enough United Nations Office The Communications Regulatory radio spectrum to keep pace with of Counter-Terrorism, H Authority (CRA) recently the rapidly evolving technological E Dr. Aynabat Atayeva. published on its website the fourth environment and ensure that The meeting dealt with version of the Class License for advanced, innovative, and reliable means of cooperation Short Range Devices (SRDs) that information and communications in common issues replaces the third version that was technology services are provided within the framework in place. across Qatar. of protecting and The fourth version was The additional frequencies to promoting human designed to keep pace with rapid these applications and the review rights. technological advancements in of the authorized maximum radio-communications equipment allowed output power for some and applications and according to applications will allow using and the resolutions and recommen- selling a greater variety of SRDs 597 booked for violating precautionary measures dations of the World Radiocom- CRA President H E Mohammed in the country, which in turn will munication Conference 2019 Ali Al Mannai benefit consumers and other (WRC-19). The Class License spec- stakeholders,” he said. THE PENINSULA — DOHA maintaining safe physical dis- authorities referred several ifies the harmonised standards to The fourth version of the Class tancing, two persons for vio- people to the Prosecution for be used for SRDs. The fourth Local Area Networks (RLANs) License for SRDs is available at Ministry of Interior (MoI) offi- lating number of passengers violating COVID-19 preventive version includes updates to the applications onboard land this link: https://www.cra.gov.qa/ cials have intensified efforts permitted in a vehicle and two and precautionary measures rules, international standards, and vehicles, including wagons, cars, en/document/class-license-for- to take action against indi- for not installing the Ehteraz in force,” Ministry said in a technical specifications for the and trucks, and buses. short-range-devices---version-4. viduals violating various application. statement. SRDs intended to be imported to “The introduction of the addi- It is worth mentioning that the COVI-19 precautionary The officials referred them The competent authorities Qatar and the corresponding tional frequency ranges was in CRA is the responsible authority measures in the country and to the Public Prosecution for called on the public to adhere authorised maximum allowed response to the rapid increase in for regulating and managing all have reported 597 violations violations. to the precautionary and pre- output power. In addition to the uses of radio-communications the affairs related to the use of the in the country. “In line with the cabinet ventive decisions in force to updates related to new frequency equipment and applications and radio spectrum in Qatar and A total of 555 were booked decision based on Law No. 17 protect them and others from bands and applications for SRDs, the numerous recent related establishing an effective approval for not wearing masks in of 1990 regarding infectious the spread of the coronavirus including Wireless Access Systems advancements,”said Mohammed regime for telecommunications public, 38 people for not diseases, the competent in society. (WAS) applications like Radio Ali Al Mannai, President of CRA. equipment. Lulu donates oxygen cylinders to Sri Lanka

THE PENINSULA — DOHA

The leading retailer of the region Lulu hyper- market Qatar has joined the relief work coordinated by the Sri Lankan Embassy by donating oxygen cylinders to meet the urgent medical requirements in the wake of surging Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Qatar, H E Mohamed Mafaz Mohideen, receiving pandemic cases oxygen cylinders consignment from Regional Director of Lulu Hypermarket across the country. Lulu Group has Qatar, Shaijan M O. been doing remarkable of contributions all along its way to also taken efforts to reduce food waste and promote support the society during challenging times. They healthy eating. had donated oxygen cylinders recently and other The management of Lulu Group congratulated essential supplies along with a substantial financial the noble efforts of the Sri Lankan Embassy to contribution towards Kerala Chief Minister’s pan- extend relief to the needy and underprivileged demic relief fund. brethren in Sri Lanka. With 14 state-of-the-art As a responsible retailer, Lulu Hypermarket stores scattered over various strategic locations in has strong CSR policies in place, and they have been the State of Qatar, Lulu Hypermarket is identified actively working to reduce carbon emissions to as one of the major market players in the retail minimise its impact on the environment. They have arena.

Plant Million Tree initiative reaches Lulu Assistant Director of Public Parks Department at the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), Mohamad Ibrahim Al Sada, and Regional Director of Lulu Hypermarkets in Qatar, Shaijan M O, are planting a tree during an event held at Lulu Hypermarket, D Ring Road, branch yesterday. The event held under ‘Plant Million Tree initiative’ of MME on the occasion of World Environment Day was attended by a number of officials from the Ministry and Lulu Hypermarket. MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 HOME 05 QA to sponsor launch of EURO 2020 Podcast

THE PENINSULA — DOHA Europe and to experience other entertainment. A host of high-profile Qatar Airways Group football players, pundits Chief Executive, H E Akbar and celebrities will take part Al Baker said: “With in the ‘The Euro Show’, the excitement building ahead Official UEFA EURO 2020 of the championship, Qatar podcast, presented in Airways has a strong part- collaboration with Qatar nership with UEFA for an Airways, the Official Airline unforgettable tournament. Sponsor of the flagship ‘The Euro Show’ will be a summer tournament. must for fans to tune in for The podcast will be fea- expert analysis, engage with tured on all major web, each other and receive mobile application and latest updates from the social media platforms, heart of the action. As the rounding up expert match Official Airline for the UEFA analysis, behind-the-scenes Euro 2020, we are also interviews, dedicated team proud to see the trophy visit Qatar Airways staff with the UEFA Euro 2020 trophy. updates, match previews Doha and be taken to the and much more. Football most famous sites around local organising committees nations, either directly or fans will receive the latest the country.” in each host city have con- via its codeshare partners. Ambassador of Pakistan to Qatar, H E Syed Ahsan Raza Shah (centre), with the insights and will be able to With the 16th edition of firmed stadium occupancies Fans are encouraged to QU graduates and guests. share content on their own the tournament kicking-off from 22 per cent, with the comply with the border social media accounts, and on June 11, the iconic Henri potential to raise their entry restrictions and Envoy felicitates Pakistani QU graduates talk to other football fans. Delaunay Trophy visited all capacities depending on the requirements (including Qatar Airways is also the host cities and made a development of their mass quarantine) that are in place launching on-ground activ- special trip to Doha as part COVID-19 testing pro- at the time of travel. THE PENINSULA – DOHA was conferred the gold medal for his ities at Fan Zones in London of the UEFA Euro 2020 grammes, and general The national airline of Master’s degree in Mechanical and Rome, as part of its trophy tour. health conditions. the State of Qatar launched Ambassador of Pakistan to Qatar, H E Engineering. preparations for the cham- The 11 cities set to host The Fan Zones in a global UEFA EURO 2020 Syed Ahsan Raza Shah, has congrat- The Ambassador lauded their pionship, which will be the matches are Amsterdam, London and Rome will campaign to create ulated Yousaf Ashfaq and Adnan Khan achievement, terming it not only a organised in conjunction Baku, Bucharest, Budapest, incorporate a virtual reality awareness for the biggest on being awarded Gold Medals for matter of pride for themselves, their with the matches across all Copenhagen, Glasgow, stadium experience, photo football event of the academic excellence by the prestigious families, and their supervising faculty, the host cities. Fan Zones London, Munich, Rome, St. opportunity, football free- summer period and dem- Qatar University. but for all Pakistanis in Qatar. will be an essential part of Petersburg and Seville. style performances and onstrate the carrier’s Yousaf Ashfaq has been awarded Congratulatory shields were pre- the European football fes- UEFA has worked with the special giveaways. mission of uniting fans of all a gold medal on successful completion sented to both high achievers. Professor tival, bringing thousands of respective authorities to The Qatar Airways ages and backgrounds of his Ph.D in Biological & Environ- Abdul Shakoor of Qatar University was people together to watch the ensure a safe return of spec- network offers fans global through the passion of mental Sciences, while Adnan Khan also present at the occasion. matches being held across tators to the stadiums. The connectivity to the host football. QRCS, OCHA launch emergency health and nutritional response in Yemen THE PENINSULA – DOHA work together to provide remunerations and training, QRCS held an introductory health services,” he added. community awareness- Qatar Red Crescent Society Under the project, QRCS raising, referral of critical (QRCS) has launched emer- workshop for will ensure that the IDPs and cases to hospitals, and fur- gency health and nutritional representatives of the host communities have access nishing and maintaining response in the places of inter- health sector, planning to comprehensive health health facilities. nally displaced people (IDPs) department, district health services, including vacci- Funded by $1,698,573 from in the Taiz and Sa’ada Gover- directors, and managers of nation, prevention of commu- the United Nations Office for the norates of Yemen. nicable diseases, the essential Coordination of Humanitarian At the premises of QRCS’s the target health centers. sexual and reproductive health Affairs (OCHA) under YHF, the mission in Taiz, an intro- (SRH) package, and malnu- project is estimated to reach out ductory workshop was held trition treatment for mothers to 230,000 persons. In Taiz, the for representatives of the “Today, we are optimistic and children. services will be provided health sector, planning about having QRCS here again. Also, QRCS will secure through two hospitals, three department, district health QRCS is more than welcome. monthly supplies, such as health centers, and two mobile directors, and managers of the They are always such great medications, water, fuel for clinics. In Sa’ada, three health target health centers. Participants during an introductory workshop at the QRCS mission helpers. We are proud of part- electric generators, solar centers and three mobile clinics The session discussed the in Taiz. nering with them, and we will power system, staff were contracted. project’s activities and mech- anism, to give an overview of of Al Ma’afir, Al Shamayatayn, address the very needs of Taiz, the interventions and proce- and Al Mudhaffar. We had especially concerning health. dures to be carried out by already signed the project’s Jamil Al Jamai, Manager of QRCS for the IDP and most agreement with QRCS, with the Saina Health Center in Al vulnerable communities. $1m funding from the Yemen Mudhaffar, said, “I would like Nabil Jamel, General Health Fund (YHF).” to thank QRCS for their previous Manager of the Planning and According to him, the contributions, which upgraded International Cooperation project involves multiple the center to be compared to a Bureau in Taiz, said, “We dis- health interventions, including district hospital in terms of cussed the details of the supplies, training, awareness, advanced equipment. Earlier, project of emergency health health equipment, and staff we covered three other districts, and nutritional response in the remunerations. He expected serving up to 13,000 cases per places of IDPs in the districts the project to effectively month”. QU and ExxonMobil collaborate on enhanced water treatment research

THE PENINSULA – DOHA

Algal Technologies Program at Qatar University (QU-ATP) and ExxonMobil Research Qatar (EMRQ) have developed biological technology for treatment of industrial waste- water using native algae species. The collaboration is built upon a longstanding rela- tionship between QU-ATP and EMRQ. The research centers are working together to enhance essential research and development into this tech- The project focuses on using microalgae strains native to Qatar, which nology to treat and recycle are able to thrive under the prevalent environmental conditions. industrial wastewater. The project focuses on using microalgae strains native to the use Qatar’s bio resources to State of Qatar, which are able The collaboration is aimed develop technologies which to thrive under the prevalent at enhancing research in the could even be applied in other environmental conditions. country and expediting regions as well. Using these microalgae to treat knowledge sharing, as well “We are thrilled to be industrial wastewater can help as creating opportunities for working with our partners at support Qatar’s water security, Qatar University to explore and economic diversification postgraduate studies and ways of using microalgae in the through the production of capacity building for local treatment of industrial waste- algae-based products such as researchers earlier in their water,” said Dr. Suhur Saeed, lower emission biofuels. careers. Program Research Lead for The collaboration is aimed Water Reuse for ExxonMobil at enhancing research in the Research Qatar. country and expediting “Microalgae are a proven knowledge sharing, as well as working together with them and efficient alternative to creating opportunities for post- on this important topic. mechanical wastewater graduate studies and capacity Through such collaborations treatment systems, and can building for local researchers with industry partners we can provide good quality treated earlier in their careers. work to implement the tech- water and benefit the envi- Project Leader and nologies we develop and help ronment. We look forward to Manager of Innovation and address the environmental continuing our collaboration Intellectual Property at Qatar challenges of the State of and friendship, and demon- University, Dr. Hareb Al Jabri, Qatar.” strating our technology towards mentioned, “Our collaboration Applying these algae for helping to achieve solutions to with EMRQ is very valuable to industrial water treatment rep- environmental challenges for us, and we are happy to be resents a unique opportunity to Qatar,” he added. 06 HOME MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 HBKU expands partnerships at SPIEF Ooredoo promotion marks 12th anniversary of Nojoom THE PENINSULA — DOHA THE PENINSULA — DOHA raffle draw to win an incredible With its multidisciplinary one million Nojoom Points. academic programs and Ooredoo has announced a raft Play with Nojoom allows research capabilities driving of exciting activities to cele- members to win Nojoom collaboration with the world’s brate the upcoming 12th anni- points or gift vouchers with best institutions, Hamad Bin versary of its popular loyalty network partners by matching Khalifa University (HBKU) has programme, Nojoom. logo cards; they must mem- expanded its cooperation with Until June 30, 2021, orise the cards before they flip, Russian academic institutions Ooredoo will be running activ- then match each pair until all and other entities during the ities giving Nojoom members logos are matched into pairs. 24th St. Petersburg Interna- the chance to win up to one They will then receive an SMS tional Economic Forum (SPIEF). million Nojoom Points. Activ- with details of their voucher HBKU’s colleges and ities will be available on social prize. research institutes signed media and via the Ooredoo Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, several agreements to promote App. Director PR at Ooredoo, said, closer working relationships in Nojoom Members using the “We’re delighted to celebrate areas of research and Ooredoo App can click on the 12 successful years of the phe- education. Gift Box icon to access the two nomenally popular Nojoom HBKU, a Qatar Foundation in-app activities; Win with loyalty programme with our (QF) member, formalised a Winners and Play with many valued members. Com- framework agreement for Nojoom. plete customer satisfaction is cooperation with Saint- As every year, Win with our goal, and ensuring our cus- Petersburg State University, one Winners invites members to tomers feel valued and appre- Dr. Ahmad M Hasnah, President of HBKU (left), signing the agreement. of the oldest Russian univer- vote for their favourite Nojoom ciated is a key factor in sities, intended to facilitate joint partners. They will vote for 12 achieving this goal. We hope academic and scientific exchanges, faculty lectures and research is serving Qatar in partners, and each vote for a all our Nojoom members enjoy exchange and activities such as talks, and participation in HBKU’s colleges and building a competitive partner that makes it into the these exciting activities, and we courses, conferences, seminars, scholarly events, as well as the research institutes signed knowledge-based economy. In top 12 gets an entry into the wish everyone the best of luck!” symposia, or lectures, and exchange of faculty and stu- the interest of contributing joint student exchange. The dents for study, teaching, and several agreemeants to solutions to current global chal- agreement will lead to collab- research, are potential activities promote closer working lenges, we are happy to be a orative research projects and under the MoU. relationships in areas of part of international dialogue publications. The university signed a five- research and education. that examines the changing HBKU additionally signed a year cooperation agreement dynamics between human three-year Memorandum of with Financial University under capital, culture, and technol- Understanding (MoU) with the the Government of the Russian development and the exchange ogies and how it can drive sus- National Research University Federation. The two institutions of research experience and will tainable international economic Higher School of Economics, will explore academic exchange facilitate joint research among development. With Qatar iden- Russia, to enable cooperative and double degree programs in other forms of direct cooper- tified as this year’s guest programs in teaching and areas of mutual interests and ation between their programs. country, SPIEF is an invaluable research between their support the cultural and aca- Dr. Ahmad M Hasnah, Pres- opportunity to build on HBKU’s respective faculty members, demic exchange of students. ident of HBKU, said: “We engagements and cooperation departments, institutes, and The agreement provides for welcome the opportunity to with educational institutions in research centers. Joint research, reciprocal visits by teaching take part at SPIEF and highlight Russia which form part of our publications and library staff for professional how HBKU’s innovation-driven global outreach efforts.” QU faculty calls for smoking cessation to mark World No Tobacco Day HBKU offers training to THE PENINSULA — DOHA users to make viable quit College of Pharmacy, said: “I attempts. As an anti-tobacco would like to take the chance strengthen Qatari Professors from the College of advocate, I would implore and to increase the public awareness Pharmacy at Qatar University’s encourage all tobacco users about the detrimental effects of women’s political (QU) joined the rest of the world (including cigarette and shisha tobacco use and passive participation to celebrate World No Tobacco smokers) in Qatar and other smoking. As a pharmacist, I Day under the theme “Commit countries globally to sign “the would like to encourage every to Quit,” chosen by World pledge to quit today” on the smoker to consider smoking THE PENINSULA — DOHA Health Organisation (WHO). World Health Organization cessation. Many studies have Several professors at the website.” proven the potential benefits of A three-day high-level College shared their views on Professor Ashraf Khalil, Pro- smoking cessation, including workshop for Qatari women the international day, marked fessor of Medicinal Chemistry reducing the risk of cancer and aspiring to leadership positions Dr. Hager ElGeed on May 31. Ahmed Awaisu and Acting Head of Pharmaceu- cardiovascular events. In this and potential candidates for Dr. Hager ElGeed, Teaching tical Sciences Department, regard, I would like to highlight Shura Council elections will be Assistant, Clinical Pharmacy, encourage individuals to think stakeholders globally, all hands College of Pharmacy, said: “I am the important role of pharma- presented virtually from June and Practice, College of of their health and wellbeing.” must be on deck. The com- motivated to first share with you cists in tobacco cessation.” 13 to 15, as a partnership Pharmacy, said: “Tobacco is Professor Ahmed Awaisu mitment and efforts to quit from some scientific facts about On smoking complications between the Delegation of the dangerous to your health, as the (Professor of Clinical Pharmacy smokers and other tobacco tobacco smoke. More than 7,000 and cessation strategies, Dr. European Union (EU) to the substances you inhale while you and Practice and Tobacco users can make an enormous chemical compounds have been Hazem Elewa, Associate Pro- State of Kuwait and the State smoke do not just affect your Control Advocate), Head of difference in this crusade.” isolated and identified in tobacco fessor and Head of Clinical of Qatar and Hamad Bin lungs. Rather, they can affect Department of Clinical Professor Awaisu stressed smoke. At least 65 compounds Training at the College of Khalifa University (HBKU)’s your entire body. Qatar, like Pharmacy and Practice, College the need to stop smoking, espe- of them were classified as car- Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar College of Humanities and many other countries, has of Pharmacy, Qatar University) cially in the face of the cinogens (can cause cancer). In University said, smoking is a Social Sciences (CHSS). adopted some strategies to said: “On the occasion of World COVID-19 pandemic. addition, COVID-19 has created major health burden in Qatar The workshop will aim to control tobacco use. This aims No Tobacco Day 2021, I would “Currently, the world is more question marks about the and worldwide. advance the aspirant leaders’ to reduce the burden of tobacco like to wish us a tobacco-free facing dual epidemics of harmful effect of smoking. This “At the College of Pharmacy, understanding of the core ele- consumption on the health of world where the risks asso- tobacco use and COVID-19. huge number of compounds can Qatar University, special ments of a successful electoral individuals and societies. Mul- ciated with tobacco are brought With the conundrums imposed seriously affect different parts attention is made to teach stu- campaign, strengthen their tiple institutions in the country to a minimum. I would like to by the pandemic impacting all of the smoker’s body, not only dents since their first years public skills, and create a offer help for people who are reiterate that to succeed in the realms of life and the safety pre- the lungs.” about smoking complications platform for networking among willing to quit smoking. Such a tobacco control efforts being cautions imposed by govern- Dr. Maguy El Hajj, Associate and smoking cessation women political leaders from supportive environment can implanted by various ments, it is timely for tobacco Dean for Academic Affairs at strategies.” the EU, Qatar, and the region. Trainers will include senior EU politicians, media experts, campaigners, and high-profile political figures from Qatar, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, and the Middle East. A certificate of completion will be awarded to all participants. CHSS has curated the training to lay the groundwork for running a political cam- paign, an advocacy initiative, or other leadership roles. Ses- sions will cover several learning areas: Understanding the Qatari Constitution and national legislation on political campaigning; running an effective campaign; engaging with the media (including media training and interview techniques); leveraging social media to connect, convince, and mobilise voters; mastering public speaking; sharing expe- riences and building a network of women political contacts. Dr. Amal Al Malki, Founding Dean, CHSS, said: “Qatari women have the support of our country’s lead- ership to go far in any field, including civic and political leadership. HBKU is deter- mined to do its part and give them the educational and informative foundation they need to take up such responsi- bilities. We are pleased to have the opportunity to partner with the Delegation of the European Union and strongly encourage Qatari women to benefit from this contextualised training, focusing on tangible practices and the skills to be of influence in Qatar’s future.” MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 GULF / MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 07 Israeli police arrest Palestinian activist AP — JERUSALEM The arrest victims of a discriminatory came as Givara system. The settlers are using a Israeli police burst into the home 1970 law that allows Jews to of a prominent Palestinian Budeiri, a veteran reclaim formerly Jewish prop- family in the contested Sheikh correspondent for the erties lost during the 1948 war Jarrah neighbourhood of Jeru- surrounding Israel’s creation, a salem yesterday, the family said, Al Jazeera satellite right denied to Palestinians who arresting a 23-year-old woman channel who was lost property in the same who has led protests against arrested on Saturday, conflict. attempts by Jewish settlers to The Al Kurd family in Sheikh evict dozens of Palestinian was released from Jarrah has been at the forefront families from their homes in the a hospital with of months of protests against the area. The young woman was planned evictions. later released, but her twin a broken hand Early yesterday, police took brother turned himself in and that her boss said Muna Al Kurd, 23, from her remained in custody. home. The arrests came a day after she sustained on Her father, Nabil Al Kurd, Israeli police detained a well- Saturday. said police “stormed the house Pro-Palestine activists create a memorial to Palestinians who have died during the past year of known reporter covering a dem- in large numbers and in a bar- Israeli-Palestinian violence, outside the White House in Washington, US, on Saturday. onstration in the neigh- baric manner.” bourhood. The reporter, Givara allowed to proceed. “I was sleeping, and I found Budeiri, was held for four hours Renewed violence could them in my bedroom,” he said. Call to end US military aid to Israel before she was released. complicate the task of embattled Police then searched the house Budeiri, a veteran corre- Prime Minister Benjamin Netan- and arrested his daughter. Video AL JAZEERA — WASHINGTON, DC killed by rockets fired by Pal- discussed “protecting Israel’s spondent for the Al Jazeera sat- yahu’s opponents, who formed posted on social media showed estinian groups in Gaza. QME” with Sullivan. QME ellite channel who regularly a fragile and disparate coalition her being taken away in Palestinian rights advocates in “The State Department is stands for “qualitative military covers the story, was released last week, of passing a parlia- handcuffs. the United States have already trying to rush through edge”, denoting Israel’s tech- from a hospital with a broken mentary vote of confidence “The reason for the arrest is condemned a recent visit to the $735m in additional weapons nological and military superi- hand that her boss said she sus- needed for them to replace him that we say that we will not US capital by Israeli Defence sales on top of the annual ority that the US for decades has tained on Saturday. and take office. A close ally of leave our homes, and they do Minister Benny Gantz, renewing $3.8bn American taxpayers helped finance through gen- Earlier this year, heavy- Netanyahu oversees the police. not want anyone to express his their calls for an end to uncon- provide Israel every year,” erous aid packages that critics handed police actions in Sheikh In Sheikh Jarrah, Jewish set- opinion, they do not want ditional US military aid to Israel. Mohamad Habehh, a national say embolden the Israeli gov- Jarrah and other parts of east tlers have been waging a anyone to tell the truth,” he said. US Senator Lindsey Graham development coordinator with ernment to act with impunity Jerusalem fuelled weeks of decades-long campaign to evict “They want to silence us.” told reporters last week that American Muslims for Pal- in the occupied Palestinian unrest that helped spark an the families from densely pop- Police also searched for her Israel would be requesting $1bn estine, said. territories. 11-day war between Israel and ulated Palestinian neighbour- brother, Muhammad al-Kurd, to “replenish” its Iron Dome “To come to the United “American tax money Hamas militants in the Gaza hoods just outside the walls of but he was not there. Later, he missile interception system, as States and ask for another $1bn should not be spent financing Strip. the Old City. The area is one of turned himself in to Jerusalem well as buy munitions for the after the wholesale destruction apartheid and ethnic cleansing, Those tensions are sim- the most sensitive parts of east police. Israeli air force, in the of Gaza, after the murder of especially when there’s so mering again this week - and Jerusalem, which is home to The siblings’ lawyer, Nasser aftermath of 11 days of fighting over 60 children, is unfath- much need right here in the could flare anew if Israeli ultra- sites sacred to Jews, Christians Odeh, told journalists outside between Israel and Hamas, the omable.” Reports of a meeting United States,” said Habehh. nationalists follow through on and Muslims and which Israel the police station that his clients Palestinian faction that governs between Gantz and US Pres- The National Security plans to march on Thursday captured in 1967 and annexed were accused of “disturbing the Gaza Strip. ident Joe Biden’s national Council said in a statement that through the Muslim Quarter of in a move not recognised public security and participation The Israeli bombardment of security adviser, Jake Sullivan, during the meeting, Sullivan Jerusalem’s Old City. Israeli internationally. in nationalistic riots.” the besieged Palestinian ter- on Thursday morning did not emphasised the Biden admin- police were expected to hold Israel views the entire city Late yesterday, Muna Al ritory killed 235 Palestinians, indicate whether Israel’s istration’s “commitment to consultations on whether the as its capital, while the Pales- Kurd was released. But before including 67 children, and dis- expected request for $1bn in strengthening all aspects of the parade, which was originally set tinians want east Jerusalem as she was freed, police briefly placed at least 58,000 Pales- military aid had been made US-Israel security partnership, to take place when the war the capital of their future state. clashed with a crowd outside the tinians. Twelve people in Israel, formal. including support for the Iron erupted on May 10, would be Palestinians say they are station. including two children, were Gantz tweeted that he Dome System”. Omani delegation visits Sana'a for Senegal aims to make COVID-19 vaccines next year REUTERS — DAKAR production on a continent that in securing financing for the Timing depends on Univer- site in Belgium would be able talks with makes only one percent of the collaboration said. cells securing regulatory to manufacture a class of so- Senegal could begin producing vaccines it requires. Univercells would transfer approval for a vaccine pro- called viral vector COVID-19 Yemeni rebels COVID-19 vaccines next year Univercells announced the its full production line to duction site in Belgium. vaccine such as those developed under an agreement with signing of a letter of intent for Senegal in the second half of Antrobus said that was expected by Johnson & Johnson, Astra- ANADOLU — SANA'A Belgian biotech group Univer- collaboration with the Institut 2022, the source said, adding “any day now”. Zeneca, Russia’s Sputnik V and cells aimed at boosting Africa’s Pasteur in Senegal’s capital that the company would train Institut Pasteur director China’s Cansino. An Omani delegation arrived drug-manufacturing ambitions, Dakar in April. The source local staff so they could even- Amadou Sall declined to “If COVID amazingly sub- in the Yemeni capital, Sana'a, a source involved in funding the shared details of the proposal, tually run the operation. comment on the timeline or size sides over the next year....that on Saturday for talks with project said. which were not made public. Univercells chief investment of the project but said the same capacity could be used for Houthi rebel leaders on peace- As wealthy countries begin Under the agreement, the officer Kate Antrobus, when facility was working with other viruses,” Antrobus said. making in the war-torn to reopen after securing vaccine Institut Pasteur would use asked about the timeframe for donors to secure financial Univercells also has its own country, according to a rebel supplies early, African nations vaccine production technology the project, confirmed that it backing. COVID-19 vaccine candidate, spokesman. are still struggling to acquire developed by Univercells to could send vaccine doses to “There is a lot of political being developed with Ger- The talks will focus on shots. On a continent of 1.3 supply COVID-19 vaccine shots Senegal early next year. will, I am optimistic. But it is not many’s Leukocare and Italian developments in Yemen and billion, only about seven million to countries across West Africa. She declined to comment on about momentum, it is about firm ReiThera, which has com- means of advancing peace have been fully vaccinated. The institute would initially the exact date for a full vaccine creating a real opportunity,” he pleted Phase II trials. It is talks in the country, The collaboration highlights begin packaging and distrib- production line in Senegal but said. seeking financing to carry out Mohammed Abdul-Salam told the opportunities created by a uting vaccines produced by of the timelines referenced she It is not clear yet what Phase III, which the Italian the Houthi-run Al Masira global push to channel money Univercells in Belgium early said: “I do not think they are vaccine will be supplied to government said it is ready to television. and technology towards next year, the source involved unreasonable.” Senegal, but Antrobus said the fund. Abdul-Salam, who accom- panied the delegation from Oman, said the visit of the Omani delegation was part of Iran presidential hopefuls the Gulf state’s efforts “to serve the interests of Yemen and the face off in fiery debate region”. Saturday’s visit is the first by an Omani delegation to ANADOLU — TEHRAN presidential candidate said the Yemen since the outbreak of problem has been controlled the country’s civil war in 2014. With less than two weeks until due to the intervention of the In May, UN envoy to Election Day, the first face-off judiciary that he heads and it Yemen, Martin Griffiths, visited between candidates in Iran’s can be solved through the for- Saudi Arabia and Oman as part presidential election saw a malization of documents, acti- of efforts to reach a settlement fierce exchange on a range of vation of NGOs and inviting to the 7-year conflict in the issues, mostly the fledgling people to observe the issue. Arab country. economy. In a veiled attack on the Yemen has been beset by Two reformist contenders incumbent government, Raeisi violence and chaos since 2014, in the fray faced blistering said in his capacity as judiciary when Houthi rebels overran attacks from conservatives, chief, he found most legal cases much of the country, including mainly for the performance of of corruption linked to the Sana'a. The crisis escalated in the Hassan Rouhani-led executive branch. 2015 when a Saudi-led coa- reformist government, which Raeisi’s composure was lition launched a devastating ends its second term later this disturbed when the two air campaign aimed at rolling month. reformist candidates, Mohsen back Houthi territorial gains. The issues that figured Mehralizadeh and Abdol- According to the UN Office prominently in the maiden Nasser Hemmati, launched for the Coordination of debate included foreign sanc- attacks on the conservative Humanitarian Affairs, the con- Waiting for customers tions, depleting currency, rising front-runner. flict has claimed more than inflation, production, privati- Mehralizadeh questioned A broom vendor waits for customers at Gobachop market in Monrovia, Liberia, yesterday. 233,000 lives. zation, land-grab and even Raeisi’s knowledge of the educational qualifications. economy while Hemmati Judiciary chief and top con- raised the issue of a conflict of servative candidate Ebrahim interest as Raeisi continues to Somaliland oppn wins first parliamentary vote since 2005 Raeisi, who opened the debate, serve as judiciary chief while said production has to be made blaming the judiciary for the REUTERS — GAROWE (UCID), won 21 seats. The ruling political alliance to get the speaker races. an attractive proposition and closure of several factories. Unity and Development Party, of the Somaliland parliament,” Politicians in the region had non-productive economic activ- In response, Raeisi accused Two opposition parties in Kulmiye, secured 30 seats, the WADDANI and UCID said in a described the poll as an ities such as investment in foreign them of “insulting” him and Somalia’s breakaway Somal- electoral commission said. joint statement, suggesting they example of the relative stability exchange and the gold market blamed the incumbent reformist iland region won a majority of The vote had been stalled would appoint a speaker together. of Somaliland, which broke need to be discouraged. government for economic seats in the region’s first parlia- for a decade by a dispute among The parties, which com- away from Somalia in 1991 but On rising inflation, Raeisi, problems facing the country. mentary election in 16 years, the the three major parties over the bined also won majority of the has not gained widespread who has promised to bring it back Alireza Zakani, a former National Electoral Commission make up of the electoral com- seats in municipal races, said international recognition for its to single digits, said a sustainable lawmaker and conservative said yesterday. mission, which was finally that they aim to collaborate on independence. economy controls inflation and candidate, backed up Raeisi and Out of parliament’s 82 seats, resolved. city councils across the region The region has been mostly his government will have single- slammed Hemmati, who served the Somaliland National Party, “Following the and select mayors together. peaceful while Somalia has rate foreign currency. as the head of Iran’s state bank called WADDANI, won 31 and announcement of the election None of the 13 women who grappled with three decades of Responding to a question under Rouhani, for “covering the Justice and Welfare Party results, we have announced a ran for parliament won their civil war. on land grab, the two-time the failure of Rouhani.” 08 VIEWS MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 My trip to Europe is about America Established in 1996 CHAIRMAN rallying the world’s democracies DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

JOE BIDEN, US PRESIDENT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF THE WASHINGTON POST DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI [email protected] On Wednesday, I depart for Europe on the first foreign travel of my presidency. It is a ACTING MANAGING EDITOR trip stacked with meetings MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED with many of our closest [email protected] democratic partners - including the Group of Seven nations, our NATO allies and DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR the leadership of the MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI European Union - before [email protected] concluding by meeting with Vladimir Putin. In this moment of global uncertainty, as the world still grapples EDITORIAL with a once-in-a-century pandemic, this trip is about realizing America’s renewed commitment to our allies and Qatar fine-tunes to host World Cup partners, and demonstrating the capacity of democracies QATAR is hosting a number of major football events to both meet the challenges US President Joe Biden delivering remarks on his administration’s coronavirus disease response, as as the country fine-tunes to stage the next year’s FIFA and deter the threats of this Vice-President Kamala Harris stands by in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building’s South Court World Cup – the first in the Middle East and the Arab new age. Auditorium at the White House in Washington, DC, recently. World – despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Whether it is ending the Time and again, Qatar is showing its readiness to host COVID-19 pandemic every- the blockbuster FIFA World Cup, to be held from where, meeting the demands United Kingdom, after such as invasive AI-driven there will be no doubt about November 21 to December 18 next year. Doha is cur- of an accelerating climate meeting with Prime Minister surveillance, the democracies the resolve of the United rently playing host to the Group E matches of Joint crisis, or confronting the Boris Johnson to affirm the of the world must together States to defend our demo- Asian Qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 harmful activities of the gov- special relationship between ensure that our values govern cratic values, which we and AFC Asian Cup China 2023. The matches are ernments of China and Russia, our nations, I will participate the use and development of cannot separate from our being played at the air-conditioned Jassim Bin Hamad the United States must lead in the G-7 summit. This group these innovations - not the interests. Stadium and a crowd attendance of 30% of the the world from a position of of leading democracies and interests of autocrats. In my phone calls with stadium capacity is allowed to attend the matches. strength. Thanks to the economies has not met in Those shared democratic President Putin, I have been Qatar are leading the group, with Oman being their American Rescue Plan and person in two years due to the values are the foundation of clear and direct. The United challengers in a battle for top spot. Afghanistan, India our domestic vaccination coronavirus. Ending this pan- the most successful alliance in States does not seek conflict. We and Bangladesh are the other participating teams. strategy, our economy is now demic, improving health world history. In Brussels, at want a stable and predictable Asian Football Confederation (AFC) picked Doha as growing faster than at any security for all nations and the Nato summit, I will affirm relationship where we can centralised venue for the matches after Qatar hosted time in almost 40 years. We driving a robust, inclusive the United States’ unwavering work with Russia on issues like the games of last edition of AFC Champions League have created more jobs in the global economic recovery will commitment to Article 5 and strategic stability and arms in a befitting manner. The players and all those involved first four months of our be our top priorities. to ensuring our alliance is control. That’s why I acted are confined to a full bio-bubble as the local organ- administration than under Already, the G-7 finance strong in the face of every immediately to extend the New isers are leaving no stone unturned to protect health any other president. Wages ministers have made an challenge, including threats START treaty for five years and of all stakeholders. are increasing for American unprecedented commitment like cyberattacks on our bolster the security of the After the Joint Asian Qualifiers, qualifying matches workers. And, as America’s to build momentum for a critical infrastructure. American people and the world. of the inaugural FIFA Arab Cup will also be played in economic recovery helps to global minimum tax rate of at While in Brussels, I’ll meet At the same time, I have Qatar from June 19 to 25. The highly-anticipated tour- propel the global economy, least 15% to end the race-to- with the president of the also imposed meaningful nament, dubbed the main test event for the World we will be stronger and more the-bottom on corporate tax- European Commission and the consequences for behaviors Cup – will be held from November 30 to December capable when we are flanked ation. And with the United president of the European that violate US sovereignty, 18. A total of 23 Arab nations will be involved in the by nations that share our States back in the chair on the Council to discuss how the including interference in our competition including the 14 teams, which will feature values and our vision for the issue of climate change, we United States and Europe can democratic elections. And in the qualifying stage. Seven teams will advance to future - by other have an opportunity to deliver work in close coordination on President Putin knows that I join nine top-ranked teams to complete 16-side main democracies. ambitious progress that curbs global challenges. We will focus will not hesitate to respond to stage. That’s the agenda I will the climate crisis and creates on ensuring that market democ- future harmful activities. Also, Qatar hosted the CAF Super Cup final suc- advance at every stop. In the jobs by driving a global clean- racies, not China or anyone else, When we meet, I will again cessfully on May 28, reaching another milestone energy transition. write the 21st-century rules underscore the commitment towards its build up for hosting the FIFA World Cup The world’s major Just as it does at home, around trade and technology. of the United States, Europe Qatar 2022. Egypt’s Al Ahly, winners of the 2019-2020 democracies will honing the ability of democ- And we will continue to pursue and like-minded democracies Total CAF Champions League, lifted the crown for the racies to compete and pro- the goal of a Europe whole, free to stand up for human rights seventh time after defeating winners of the 2019-2020 be offering a high- tecting our people against and at peace. and dignity. Total CAF Confederation Cup, Renaissance Sportive standard alternative unforeseen threats requires So, when I meet with This is a defining question de Berkane (Morocco) at the Jassim Bin Hamad to China for upgrading us to invest in infrastructure. Vladimir Putin in Geneva, it of our time: Can democracies Stadium. President of Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) The world’s major democ- will be after high-level dis- come together to deliver real H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani also attended physical, digital and racies will be offering a high- cussions with friends, results for our people in a final. It was the third successive CAF Super Cup final health infrastructure standard alternative to China partners and allies who see rapidly changing world? Will which was staged in Qatar. The same day, Doha also for upgrading physical, digital the world through the same the democratic alliances and hosted the second meet of the Diamond League 2021 that is more resilient and health infrastructure that lens as the United States, and institutions that shaped so in which over 200 athletes including many World and and supports global is more resilient and supports with whom we have renewed much of the last century Olympic champions participated. By organising the global development. our connections and shared prove their capacity against world class events in a memorable fashion, Qatar is development. As new technologies purpose. We are standing modern-day threats and not just showing readiness to host the World Cup, the reshape our world in funda- united to address Russia’s adversaries? I believe the State is also reaffirming its status as hub of sports of mental ways, exposing vul- challenges to European answer is yes. And this week the region. nerabilities like ransomware security, starting with its in Europe, we have the attacks and creating threats aggression in Ukraine, and chance to prove it. Ambassador describes Qatar's participation in SPIEF 2021 as distinctive

D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR QNA — MOSCOW Cup comes from the distinguished system in the field EMAIL: [email protected] distinguished rela- of economy and money preser- Ambassador of the State of tionship that binds vation, which gives lasting satis- Qatar to the Russian Feder- His Excellency, with faction to Russian businessmen EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 FAX: +974 4455 7758 ation H E Sheikh Ahmed bin H H the Amir. and to business between the Nasser Al Thani (pictured), He said that the State of Qatar and Russia. MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 affirmed that the speech of large delegation of The Ambassador said that Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin the State of Qatar, the participation of the DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 Hamad Al Thani represented which participated in Supreme Committee for the greatest motivation for the the forum, headed Delivery and Legacy in the LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 success of the St. Petersburg by Deputy Prime forum constituted an oppor- BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 International Economic Minister and Minister tunity to promote the World Forum, which was held at the of Foreign Affairs H Cup Qatar 2022, and there is a SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 highest levels from June 2 to 5. E Sheikh Mohammed distinguished cooperation In an interview with Qatar bin Abdulrahman Al between the State of Qatar ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 Radio today, he indicated that Thani, contributed to and Russia, especially that email: [email protected] H H the Amir's speech during its success, in Russia hosted the World Cup PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 the forum led to a very high addition to signing in 2018 in a very impressive email: [email protected] confidence with the Russian He added that the State of many agreements during the manner, and there is joint side, adding that all Russian Qatar's investments in Russia event. He pointed to the par- cooperation between the two MARKETING: TEL: 4455 7657 companies are looking are in many areas and in large ticipation of the State of Qatar countries in these areas. email: [email protected] forward to joint cooperation. numbers, and Qatar have with a large pavilion in the He stressed the presence of The Ambassador noted many contracts signed by forum, which included 52 a large number of Russian ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 857 that the speech of H H the Qatar Investment Authority, participants in light of the businessmen to invest and FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] Amir confirmed that the State and there are future contracts current conditions of the cooperate with the State of CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 of Qatar is one of the largest with the Russian Federation, coronavirus pandemic. Qatar in all fields, adding that email: [email protected] foreign investors in Russia, considering that H E President He added that inviting the Russian businessmen are with diversified investments Vladimir Putin's affirmation State of Qatar to participate in determined to deepen aspects SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 amounting to more than $13 of the strong support to Qatar this global forum comes as it is a of cooperation and investment FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected] billion. to organize the 2022 World strong country with a in the State of Qatar.

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar The world is looking to us to rise to the greatest challenge of the post-war era; /Peninsula_Qatar defeating COVID-19 and leading a global /ThePeninsulaNewspaper recovery driven by our shared values. Boris Johnson, British Prime Minister +974 6698 6188 MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 ASIA 09

Floods, mudslides Sri Lanka recovers cause 14 deaths data recorder from in Sri Lanka AP - COLOMBO sinking ship The death toll from floods and mudslides following heavy AP — COLOMBO rains in Sri Lanka rose to 14 Authorities said with another two missing, offi- Experts recovered the data the vessel’s aft cials said yesterday. recorder of a fire-ravaged ship Ten districts on the Indian carrying chemicals that is portion remains Ocean island have been under slowly sinking off Sri Lanka’s on the seabed, and heavy rainfall since last capital, as salvage crews stood Thursday, including the capital by to head off a possible envi- the forward section Colombo and suburbs where ronmental disaster, officials continues to settle many houses, paddy fields and said yesterday. down slowly, adding roads have been inundated. The Singapore-flagged MV Ten people have died in X-Press Pearl started sinking on that there were floods while another four lost Wednesday, a day after author- no signs of oil or their lives in mudslides, ities extinguished a fire that according to the government’s raged on the vessel for 12 days. chemical spills. Disaster Management Center. Efforts to tow the ship into Among them was a family of deeper waters away from the four who died when a mound port in Colombo had failed after Operator X-Press Feeders of earth crashed onto their the ship’s stern became sub- said salvors remain on the house in Kegalle district, about merged and rested on the scene to deal with any possible 85 km east of Colombo. Two seabed. spills. It has apologised for the others remain missing. Sri Lanka Ports Authority disaster. Smoke rises from a fire onboard the MV X-Press Pearl vessel as it sinks while being towed into deep The Disaster Management said experts together with the The port authority and the sea off the Colombo Harbour, in Sri Lanka on June 2, 2021. Center said extreme weather navy on Saturday recovered the operator said there were no has affected some 245,000 ship’s voyage data recorder, or signs of oil or chemical spills, Such a disaster could dev- A ship manifest seen by AP about 9.5 nautical miles (18km) people, and over 4,300 remain VDR, commonly known as the adding that Sri Lanka’s navy, astate marine life and further described the X-Press Pearl as northwest of Colombo and displaced in emergency black box. Indian coast guard, salvage pollute the island nation’s carrying just under 1,500 con- waiting to enter the port. The shelters. More than 800 The authority said on its crews and local authorities famed beaches. The disaster has tainers, with 81 of those con- navy believes the blaze was houses have been damaged. website that the VDR, which were capable of responding to already caused debris — tainers described as “dan- caused by the vessel’s chemical contains vital information any signs of oil pollution or including several tons of plastic gerous” goods. cargo, which it was carrying related to the operation of the debris, and were monitoring the pellets used to make plastic Environmentalist have from the port of Hazira in India. Two dead in vessel, would be handed over situation around the clock. bags — to wash ashore. warned that there’s the Sri Lankan police are inves- to local law enforcement The fire has destroyed most The government has banned potential for “a terrible environ- tigating and a court in Colombo China coal agencies investigating the fire. of the ship’s cargo, which fishing along about 80km of mental disaster” as hazardous has banned the captain, the Both the authority and the included 25 tonnes of nitric acid coastline. goods, plastics, chemicals and engineer and the assistant mine accidents ship’s operator said the vessel’s and other chemicals. But there Officials say there had been oil could be released into the engineer from leaving the aft portion remains on the are fears that remaining chem- about 300 tonnes of oil on water and destroy marine eco- country. The government has BLOOMBERG — BEIJING seabed at a depth of about 21 icals as well as hundreds of tons board and that experts believe logical systems. said it will take legal action metres, and the forward section of oil from the fuel tanks could it could have burned off in the The fire erupted on May 20 against the owners of the ship Accidents at two of China’s continues to settle down slowly. leak into the sea. fire. when the ship was anchored to claim compensation. coal mines in the past few days killed two workers while 14 people went missing, according to state media Thailand expresses concern over violence in Myanmar reports. One accident happened REUTERS — BANGKOK of Southeast Asian Nations release of all detainees and evolved in parts of Myanmar any other country and fears Friday in central China’s (Asean) in April — which calls the “concrete implementation into armed insurrections the conflict could bring a Henan province and the other Thailand is concerned at the for an end to violence, of the Five-Point Consensus” while decade old ethnic flood of refugees. Its occurred Saturday in northeast violence in many parts of political talks and the naming as soon as possible. conflicts have flared anew. government is itself led by a Heilongjiang province. The Myanmar and wants to see the of a regional special envoy. The army has failed to Opponents of the army former army chief who seized rescue work is under way, implementation of steps agreed “We have been following impose control since seizing have voiced frustration at the power in a coup before Xinhua and CCTV reported. by Southeast Asian leaders with developments in Myanmar power from elected leader lack of tough action by Asean holding elections. The latest accidents add to the military to help end the closely with much concern, Aug San Suu Kyi, who is and say the meeting of two “Much of what Thailand a spate of deadly mining inci- turmoil since the February 1 especially incidents of among more than 4,500 representatives of the group has done may not have been dents in China this year despite coup, the foreign ministry said violence in many parts of the people detained since the with junta leader Min Aung made public as we believe that the country’s escalating push yesterday. country,” foreign ministry coup. At least 847 have been Hlaing on Friday gave him quiet and discreet diplomacy to rein in cryptocurrency Myanmar’s army has spokesperson Tanee Sangrat killed, a rights group says. The greater legitimacy but between neighbours would be mining, which is deemed a key shown little sign of heeding said in a statement. army disputes that figure. brought no benefit. more effective and in line with factor behind rising demand the five point ‘consensus’ He reiterated a call for an Meanwhile, daily protests Thailand has a longer traditional Thai diplomacy,” for coal in certain parts of agreed among the Association end to the violence, the against the military have border with Myanmar than Tanee said. China. India records South Korea to accelerate space programme, expand US cooperation 114,460 new virus BLOOMBERG — SEOUL posed the likes of China and Korea-US alliance, “we will In his speech, Moon also cases as lockdown North Korea. respond more proactively to the suggested that South Korea begins to ease South Korea plans to accelerate The US and South Korea changing security envi- could play a bigger role in the its space development agreed to terminate bilateral ronment,” he said. international stage, adding that REUTERS — NEW DELHI programme including by missile guidelines that have After the US-South Korea South Korea’s alliance with the boosting cooperation with the long restricted Seoul’s devel- summit in Washington, South US is to protect democratic India reported 114,460 new US in a move that may help the opment of missiles to under the Korea joined Nasa’s moon- values and human rights, coronavirus infections Biden administration’s Asia range of 800km. The end of the exploration coalition, becoming adding that Seoul wants to yesterday, the lowest in two strategy to check China’s guideline puts major Chinese the 10th signatory nation to the develop it into a more “compre- months, while the death toll growing global clout. cities under South Korea’s Artemis Accord -- a pact that hensive alliance.” increased by 2,677, as parts of “We will expand our space missile range and increases governs behavior norms of He also condemned vio- the country prepared to ease cooperation with the interna- Seoul’s ability to strike North those taking part in the lunar lence in Myanmar that has movement restrictions. tional community, including the Korea. exploration programme. It will killed hundreds since Febru- India has the world’s U.S.” South Korean President “The termination of the spend $553.1m this year on ary’s coup, saying he believes a second-largest number of Moon Jae-in said in a speech South Korean President Moon Jae-in missile guideline not only space development aimed at “‘Myanmar Spring’ will surely coronavirus infections after yesterday, adding that Seoul means we have secured our boosting its capacity to produce come.” the United States with total will speed up its space launch Biden met Moon at the White ‘missile sovereignty,’ but also satellites, rockets and other key Moon in March called for cases at 28.8 million, according vehicle development program. House as part of Washington’s marks the beginning of our equipment, according to the the immediate release of Aung to health ministry data. The The speech comes two push to build a united front with journey to space,” Moon said. Ministry of Science and ICT in San Suu Kyi and other political country has suffered 346,759 weeks after US President Joe allies against security threats Based on the strong South February. detainees there. deaths. A second wave of the coro- navirus that has largely bat- tered the rural interiors of the Victoria state logs four country is yet to abate but New Delhi and other cities are working towards allowing new local infections more businesses to operate REUTERS — MELBOURNE early, but at this stage our and movement rules to be expectation is that it will con- relaxed from Monday Australia’s second most tinue to Thursday,” Victoria’s onwards. populous state Victoria deputy chief health officer The western state of yesterday reported two new Allen Cheng told reporters. Maharashtra, which is India’s locally acquired COVID-19 Health authorities remain richest and has suffered the cases, with the low number worried about the emergence most infections during the raising hopes that a hard of the highly infectious Delta second wave, plans to start lockdown in the state’s capital variant, which has now this week easing in stages a Melbourne will be eased on extended to 10 cases, as the strict lockdown imposed in June 10. source has yet to be identified April. Two other new cases were and there has been no genomic Scientists have warned of reported yesterday by an aged match so far with any other a third wave of the corona- care home, but the state had yet cases in Australia. virus that could hit India later to confirm them. The Delta variant, which in the year, likely impacting The four new local infec- has been classified by World children more. tions bring Victoria’s total cases Health Organisation (WHO) as While the country has to 74, including two recovered among the four COVID-19 var- ramped up its vaccination cases, in the outbreak that iants of concern due to evi- Test tubes are seen in front of a displayed Sinovac logo. drive in the past few weeks began in late May after a man dence that it spreads more after a slow start, a majority of who tested negative in hotel easily, likely caused the latest its 1.3 billion people are Bangladesh okays Sinovac vaccine for emergency use quarantine in Adelaide devastating outbreak in India. expected to remain unvacci- returned to Melbourne and “The last thing we want to nated by the time a potential AGENCIES — DHAKA tested positive. see is this variant of the virus third wave hits. Vaccine Ltd will work as the local the inoculation drive came to a The daily rise was down getting out and becoming Prime Minister Narendra agent for the import of the halt amid a supply squeeze due from five new cases reported uncontrollable,” state deputy Modi’s government has been Bangladesh has authorised the vaccine, the Directorate General to India’s ban on vaccine exports. on Saturday. All four new cases premier James Merlino said. in talks with major foreign emergency use of the Sinovac of Drug Administration said in a Meanwhile, the Chinese were linked to existing clusters. A family that travelled to a vaccine producers to boost COVID-19 vaccine, the fifth notice yesterday. Deputy Ambassador to Bang- Officials said that Mel- beach town in New South supplies even as domestic approval by the drug regulator Bangladesh approved the ladesh said that another batch of bourne’s restrictions would Wales state were the first in manufacturers scramble to in the South Asian nation. emergency use of China’s Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccines probably be eased on Thursday. Melbourne to be infected by the boost output. Dhaka-based Incepta Sinopharm vaccine in April after will arrive in Bangladesh as a gift. “If we can, we will lift it Delta variant. 10 ASIA / EUROPE MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 US senators promise vaccines for Taiwan AP — TAIPEI Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said that Taiwan The US will give Taiwan is fortunate to have like-minded countries 750,000 doses of COVID-19 showing support, which he said is about vaccine, part of President Joe Biden’s move to share tens of sustaining freedom and democracy in the face millions of jabs globally, three of autocracy. American senators said yesterday, after the self-ruled island complained that China is million doses from the United blame for putting politics above hindering its efforts to secure States in what the Biden admin- the lives of its people. Tai- vaccines as it battles an istration says is the first tranche wanese law bans the import of outbreak. of at least 80 million doses to Chinese-made medicines. Democratic Senator Tammy be distributed globally. Most of Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, Duckworth of Illinois, who the first tranche, including Tai- welcoming the senators at the made a three-hour stop in wan’s, will be sent through airport, said that Taiwan is for- Taiwan with fellow Democrat COVAX, a UN-backed program tunate to have like-minded Christopher Coons of Delaware to distribute vaccines to low and countries showing support, and Republican Dan Sullivan of middle-income countries. which he said is about sus- Alaska, said their visit under- The island of 24 million taining freedom and democracy US Senators Tammy Duckworth, Dan Sullivan and Chris Coons wave next to Taiwan Foreign Minister scores bipartisan US support for people, which lies 160km off in the face of autocracy. Joseph Wu and Brent Christensen, Director of the American Institute in Taiwan, after their arrival via the democratic island that China’s east coast, is desperate “Taiwan is facing unique a US Air Force freighter at Taipei Songshan Airport in Taipei, yesterday. Beijing claims as its own ren- for vaccines after a sudden out- challenges in combating the egade territory. Taiwan faces a break that started in late April virus,” he said. “While we are severe vaccine shortage and has caught authorities by surprise. doing our best to import vaccines, robust economic exchanges Taiwan, which had Taiwan will be able to overcome geopolitical significance as a Japan shipped 1.2 million doses we must overcome obstacles to with the mainland. weathered the pandemic vir- the immediate challenges and flashpoint in US-China to Taiwan on Friday, opting to ensure that these life-saving China’s ruling Communist tually unscathed until the recent ... and move towards recovery,” relations. skip the COVAX process in the medicine are delivered free from Party says Taiwan must come outbreak, is now facing its most she said. “I’m here to tell you that the interest of speed. It was unclear troubles of Beijing.” under its control, and has in serious flare-up with more than Both Duckworth, who was United States will not let you when the 750,000 American He said China is trying to recent months increased 10,000 new cases since late April. born in Thailand, and Sullivan stand alone,” Duckworth said doses would arrive. block Taiwan’s international pressure on the island, including President Tsai Ing-wen, said the American donation also at the airport after landing on a Taiwan has accused China assistance and prevent it from flying warplanes near Taiwan. meeting with the senators, reflects gratitude for Taiwan’s US military transport plane. of blocking its efforts to reach participating in the World The increasing activity and vast expressed gratitude to the Biden support for the US, as Taiwan “We will be by your side to a deal with BioNTech to import Health Organization. “We are improvements in China’s mil- administration for including donated millions of masks and make sure the people of Taiwan the vaccine co-developed by the no strangers to that kind of itary capabilities have raised Taiwan in the first group to other supplies to the US in the have what they need to get to German company and Pfizer. obstructionism,” he said. concern in the US, which is receive vaccines and said the early days of the pandemic. the other side of the pandemic Beijing has said it is willing to Taiwan and China split amid bound by its own laws to ensure doses will arrive at a critical “This is love from America and beyond.” supply vaccines to Taiwan, civil war in 1949, and most Tai- Taiwan is capable of defending time for the island. in return,” Sullivan said, Taiwan was included on a including BioNTech, through wanese favor maintaining the itself and to regard all threats “I hope that through coop- wearing a mask that he noted long list of places announced Chinese partner Fosun, and that current state of de facto inde- to the island’s security as eration with the United States, had “Love from Taiwan” written last week that would receive 25 the island’s government is to pendence while engaging in matters of “grave concern.” Japan and other countries, on it. Germany: Ukraine Philippine govt bars nurses from must remain gas working abroad as limit reached transit country after new pipeline BLOOMBERG — MANILA REUTERS — BERLIN The Philippine government suspended the sending abroad of nurses, and their assistants and aides because the annual limit of Germany said Ukraine should 5,000 healthcare workers deployed has been reached. remain a transit country for The processing of permits for the medical workers has been Russian gas, the Frankfurter suspended immediately, Bernard Olalia, head of the Philippine Allgemeine newspaper Overseas Employment Administration, said in a June 1 statement reported, after President posted on the agency’s website. Vladimir Putin said it would The Philippines, which sends thousands of medical staff depend on the former Soviet overseas to work every year, is seeking to reinforce its healthcare republic showing “goodwill” system as local coronavirus cases surge. The nation added 6,955 towards Moscow. cases on Saturday, bringing the total to more than 1.2 million. Putin said on Friday that Healthcare staff who have been issued employment certifi- Ukraine’s role as a transit cates to work overseas will still be allowed to leave, according to country was not assured once the statement. the Nord Stream 2 pipeline linking Russia and Germany was complete. Germany, which has Roadside bombing in Afghan backed the pipeline in the face of fierce opposition from the A truck sprays disinfectant amid the coronavirus disease outbreak in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam, northwest leaves 11 dead US and many European coun- yesterday. tries who say it deprives AP — KABUL mines. Many were planted by Ukraine of crucial leverage insurgents to target gov- over its eastern neighbour, has A minivan carrying civilian ernment military convoys, but always insisted it must remain Vietnam PM asks provinces to ease curbs passengers in northwest they often kill civilians instead. a transit country. Afghanistan was hit by a The United Nations has “For the German gov- BLOOMBERG — HANOI from affected areas, Chinh said Authorities in Dong Nai, roadside bomb, leaving at least repeatedly demanded both ernment it remains central in a statement. home to 32 industrial parks, 11 passengers dead, including government forces and the that Ukraine should remain a Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham “Some locations, however, have been widely criticized three children, an Afghan Taliban take more precautions transit country even after Nord Minh Chinh called on local have slapped rigid and extreme over the province’s 21-day official said yesterday. to protect civilians. In the first Stream 2,” government governments to ease overly measures that have hit pro- mandatory self-quarantine, or The minivan fell into a three months of this year, the spokesperson Stefffen Seibert strict pandemic-prevention duction and business activities, paid quarantine at hotels, for valley with the shock of the UN mission in Afghanistan said said. measures that affect production putting supply chains and people who return from Ho Chi explosion on Saturday, said that 1,783 civilians had been Germany expected Russia and business activity, and large-scale production at risk Minh City from June 5. State Badghis provincial Governor killed or wounded in Afghan- to adhere to an existing inter- prevent the nation from of disruption,” the premier said. media reported national roads Hesamuddin Shams, adding istan, an increase of 29 percent governmental agreement achieving its dual goals of He told authorities nationwide linking the city and Dong Nai that rescuers were still over the same period last year. committing it to sending gas fighting the virus and devel- to ensure they are putting the yesterday were congested with searching for bodies in the The violence comes as US via Ukraine, he was quoted as oping the economy. correct people in quarantine goods trucks, passenger buses valley. peace envoy to Afghanistan saying in newspaper report. Vietnam is currently bat- and are not blocking transpor- and motorbikes, with many No one immediately Zalmay Khalilzad and a dele- “With their transit tling its worst COVID-19 out- tation and banning trade. canceling Dong Nai trips to claimed responsibility for the gation from the National agreement, negotiated in part break, with more than 5,600 The directive came on the avoid quarantine. attack but the provincial gov- Security Council and by the EU and Germany, cases reported in 39 out of 63 same day that Ho Chi Minh City More than 6,000 people ernment accuses the Taliban of Department of Defense Russia and Ukraine created the provinces and cities since late asked officials in bordering working at Ho Chi Minh City’s placing the bomb to target traveled to the region to start a framework for this,” he said. April. Several centres, including Dong Nai province to adopt a 17 industrial parks reside in security forces. There was no new series of talks between the “We expect this agreement to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, virus-control plan that creates Dong Nai and a large number immediate response from the Taliban and the government. be adhered to.” have put social-distancing favorable conditions for goods of Ho Chi Minh residents work Taliban. They were to meet in Kabul and The gas transit treaty measures in place to curtail the transportation and the in the neighbouring province, Large swathes of war- Doha in Qatar to urge the sides expires in 2024, but can be virus while others have movement of workers between according to the city ravaged Afghanistan are lit- to reach a political extended. imposed controls on returnees the city and the province. authorities. tered with bombs and land settlement. Seven dead in van accident Portugal PM slams UK for removing it from ‘green list’ in northwestern Pakistan REUTERS — LISBON three weeks,” Prime Min- Union plans to introduce from ister Antonio Costa told July 1. AP — PESHAWAR Portugal’s prime minister crit- reporters. “It isn’t good for Under this scheme, EU cit- icised Britain yesterday for those who plan their hol- izens who can prove they have A minivan fell from a mountain road into a river yesterday in removing his nation from a idays, nor for those who been vaccinated against northwestern Pakistan, killing seven people and injuring three COVID-19 quarantine-free have to organise the COVID-19, tested negative for others, a rescue official said. travel list, and urged London to tourism industry to receive the disease or recovered from Ahmed Faizi, spokesman for Pakistan’s rescue service, said adhere to a European digital tourists in good it will be able to travel freely in the van fell into Siren River in the district of Mansehra in Khyber certificate scheme to ease conditions.” the EU. Pakhtunkhwa province. travel. He said Portugal was Britain, however, has left He added that the fall apparently happened because the Britain said last week it was maintaining dialogue with the EU. Costa did not explain van was speeding when it made a sharp turn without slowing removing Portugal from its the British government to how it might adhere to the down. “green list” of countries that do “explain the decision is not scheme. Faizi said the bodies of two women, a boy and four men were not require quarantine on justified and also the New coronavirus cases have recovered and three injured children were taken to a hospital in return because of rising serious damage it causes increased slightly in Portugal the town of Phulra. COVID-19 case numbers and Portugal Prime Minister Antonio Costa to the British and to the since it began lifting lockdown Deadly accidents are common in Pakistan due to poor road the risk posed by coronavirus Portuguese economy.” restrictions last month. infrastructure and disregard for traffic laws and safety variants detected in Portugal. Portugal will need to quarantine Costa said “a good way for Hospitalisations are low and standards. Portugal had been placed for 10 days and take two the British to find a solution to daily deaths are near zero fol- Last week, a passenger bus fell into Jehlum River near Muz- on the “green list” just weeks COVID-19 tests. this situation” would be to lowing the vaccination of nearly affarabad, the capital of Pakistani-controlled Kashmir, killing 10 earlier. But from 0400 GMT on “We can’t have this system adhere to a system of digital all its most vulnerable elderly people and injuring 15. Tuesday, Britons returning from of instability and changes every certificates which the European citizens. MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 EUROPE 11 Johnson calls on Harry, Meghan welcome second child, Lilibet ‘Lili’ Diana AP — SANTA BARBARA, that she had a miscarriage in CALIFORNIA July 2020, giving a personal G7 to vaccinate account of the traumatic expe- The second baby for the Duke rience in hope of helping and Duchess of Sussex is offi- others. world by 2022-end cially here: Meghan gave birth Months before the miscar- to a healthy girl on Friday. riage, Harry said the royal A spokesperson for Prince family cut him off financially Harry and Meghan said yes- at the start of 2020 after AP — LONDON A report said that terday the couple welcomed announcing plans to step back Johnson is set to their child Lilibet “Lili” Diana from his roles. But he was able British Prime Minister Boris Mountbatten-Windsor at to afford security for his family Johnson (pictured) will use the announce at the 11:40am. Their daughter because of the money his Group of Seven wealthy weighed in at 7 lbs, 11 oz. mother, Princess Diana, left democracies’ summit next summit that the UK Her first name, Lilibet, is a behind. week to urge world leaders to will pledge to donate nod to Her Majesty The Queen’s In the interview with commit to vaccinating the nickname. Her middle name is Winfrey, Meghan said she grew global population by the end of over £2bn worth of in honour of her grandmother concerned about her son not 2022. and Harry’s mother. The baby having a royal title because it Johnson is expected to stress jabs this year. is the eighth in line to the British meant he wouldn’t be provided the importance of a global vac- throne. security. More than the cination drive when he meets The couple issued a “prince” title, she was the most with fellow world leaders on most of the country’s surplus statement along with the concerned about her son’s Friday in Cornwall, on England’s vaccine supply to COVAX, the announcement yesterday, safety and protection. southwestern coast, for the first UN-backed program aiming to writing, “She is more than we Meghan said it was hard for face-to-face G-7 summit since supply poorer countries with could have ever imagined, and her to understand why there the pandemic hit. jabs. we remain grateful for the love were concerns within the royal “The world is looking to us But the UK hasn’t yet put a and prayers we’ve felt from family about her son’s skin to rise to the greatest challenge figure on how many doses it across the globe. Thank you for color. She said it was hard for Britain’s Prince Harry and his wife Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, of the postwar era: defeating will donate. The country, with your continued kindness and her to “compartmentalize” cheer during the annual Endeavour Fund Awards at Mansion House COVID and leading a global a population of about 70 support during this very special those conversations. recovery driven by our shared million people, has ordered time for our family.” in London, on March 5, 2020. Despite leaving royal values,” he said in a statement around 400 million doses of No photos of the newborn duties, Harry’s place in the yesterday. “Vaccinating the vaccines. or the Sussexes accompanied unbearable intrusions and sures that led her to contem- order of succession to the world by the end of next year Health Secretary Matt the announcement. racist attitudes of the British plate suicide. throne remains. would be the single greatest Hancock has said that the UK Harry and American actor media. They live in Montecito, Buckingham Palace said The first seven places feat in medical history.” doesn’t have any excess doses Meghan Markle married at a posh area near Santa the allegations of racism made remain unchanged: Prince US President Joe Boden and at the moment and that “we’re Windsor Castle in May 2018. Barbara, California. by the couple were “con- Charles; Prince William; his son the leaders of Canada, France, just getting them into arms as Their son Archie Harrison The birth comes after the cerning” and would be Prince George, his siblings Italy and Japan will arrive in quickly as possible.” Mountbatten-Windsor was Harry and Meghan’s explosive addressed privately. Princess Charlotte and Prince Cornwall from Friday for three The Sunday Times reported born a year later. TV interview with Oprah Winfrey and Harry on Louis; Prince Harry, and his son days of talks focusing on the that Johnson is set to announce In early 2020, Meghan and Winfrey in March. The couple mental illness have recently Archie Mountbatten-Windsor. global recovery from the at the summit that the UK will Harry announced they were described painful discussions collaborated on the Apple TV+ Lilibet’s birth moves Prince pandemic. pledge to donate over £2bn quitting royal duties and about the color of their first mental health series “The Me Andrew, who was born second Britain’s government worth of jabs this year, with moving to North America, child’s skin, losing royal pro- You Can’t See.” in line in 1960, down to ninth pledged in February to give further donations in 2022. citing what they said were the tection and the intense pres- Last year, Meghan revealed place. France tackles virus variants as it readies for tourists Man kills two, self over AP — PARIS neighboring Britain, notably in riverside quays, Veran warned Emboldened by signs the the delta variant. the southwest Landes region. that it’s too early for people to virus is receding, one of the The French health agency eviction threat French health authorities are Speaking on BFM television, let down their guard, notably world’s most-visited countries reported cases of the delta racing to contain scattered Veran said the variant hadn’t until more are fully is reopening borders to vacci- variant in multiple French AP — ATHENS cases of the more contagious spread widely into the com- vaccinated. nated travelers from the US and regions, most linked to people delta virus variant, as France munity and that health investi- The French public health much of the world starting arriving from India. While case Police on the Greek island of prepares to reopen its borders gators are working to track agency’s latest weekly epide- Wednesday. numbers remain low, the Corfu said yesterday that a to vaccinated visitors and cele- cases. miological report shows a sus- The delta variant is now agency said, “the multiplication Greek man facing eviction brates plunging COVID-19 Overall, he insisted, “the tained drop in virus infections, dominant in Britain, and its of episodes ... augments the risk killed his landlady and infection and hospitalisation epidemic situation continues to hospitalisation rates and deaths spread has prompted France of local transmission of this another man who came to her rates. strongly improve around the even after France started reo- and some other countries to variant.” rescue and then committed Health Minister Olivier country,” but said the gov- pening schools, stores, and res- impose new restrictions on vis- France has registered more suicide. Veran said yesterday that ernment isn’t preparing to lift taurants last month. More than itors from the UK. virus cases than any country in The deaths occurred France has multiple clusters of mask requirements anytime half the adult population has Britain’s public health Europe and among the world’s shortly before noon yesterday, the variant, first identified in soon. With growing numbers of had at least one vaccine dose, agency said early evidence sug- highest virus-related death in the resort town of Dassia, in India and believed to be fueling people packing into Paris’ and 23 percent are fully gests there may be an increased tolls, at more than 109,000 the island’s northeast. a rise in infections in sidewalk cafes, parks and vaccinated. risk of hospital admission from lives lost. The victims were the Greek landlady and a Greek- French man, both in their 60s; the man divided his time Merkel’s conservatives fend off equally between Greece and France and also rented an apartment from the woman, far-right challenge in state vote police said. Initial incorrect reports AP — BERLIN intelligence service for its ties in an unprecedented coalition that the two victims were to extremist groups. with the Social Democrats and married, and which reversed Chancellor Angela Merkel’s While elections in Ger- environmentalist Greens. their nationalities, were conservatives handily batted many’s 16 states are often Haseloff ruled out any based on neighbours’ tes- away a challenge from the far influenced by local issues and cooperation with AfD or the timony, a police spokesman right in a state election voting sentiments, they are ex-communist Left party, who said, speaking on condition yesterday that was seen as the also seen as important bell- were projected to get 11 of anonymity because he was last big test for Germany’s wethers for the national mood. percent of the vote — a record not authorizsd to talk about political parties before a A strong win for the CDU low in the state. a case still under national vote in September. would be seen as a sign that The Social Democrats also investigation. Projections by public the party’s new leader, Armin fared worse than five years ago Authorities said the broadcaster ARD put Merkel’s Laschet, can hope for support and were expected to get about 67-year-old alleged attacker centre-right Christian Demo- from both conservatives and 8.4 percent, while the Greens was having a heated argument cratic Union at 36.6 percent, centrists on September 26, made modest gains to take 6 with the landlady outside the a gain of more than 6 per- when it aims to hold onto percent. Projections also house when the other man, centage points compared to power at the federal level showed that the pro-business who also had problems with the last election five years ago despite four-term chancellor Free Democrats entered the the perpetrator, came to her in the sparsely populated state Merkel not running again. state assembly again after defence. of 2.2 million inhabitants. The election result, if pro- missing out five years ago, The attacker retrieved a The far-right Alternative jections based on partial counts receiving 6.5 percent. hunting rifle from his for Germany, or AfD, was pro- are confirmed, would be a Haseloff expressed relief apartment and killed them jected to get 22 percent of the strong endorsement for that voters backed centrist both, before going back to the vote, a slight drop compared incumbent governor Reiner parties at the expense of the apartment and turning the rifle to 2016. The party has moved Haseloff of the CDU, who now political fringes, saying the on himself. steadily further to the right in has the comfort of being able outcome showed a “big, big The reason for the threat recent years and its chapter in to pick from as many as four majority had made a demo- of eviction was not immedi- Saxony-Anhalt State Premier Reiner Haseloff of the Christian Democratic Saxony-Anhalt has come possible coalitions with smaller cratic choice and drawn a ately clear. party and his wife Gabriele leave after voting for the federal state election under increased scrutiny from parties. For the past five years, clear demarcation line to the A coroner will perform of Saxony-Anhalt, in Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Germany, yesterday. Germany’s domestic the 67-year-old has governed right.” autopsies. Italy: Former PM Conte vows new start for 5-Star as legal battle resolved

REUTERS — ROME the platform’s upkeep. internal feuding. government. In response, it refused to hand It is now polling at around 16 This month, 5-Star will hold an Italy’s co-ruling 5-Star Movement over the identities of the party’s percent, making it Italy’s fourth online vote of its members on a has resolved a long-running members, making it impossible for largest party, but it is still only five new web platform to elect its internal legal battle, paving the Conte to be formally voted in as points behind the right-wing leader, Conte said. Environmen- way for former Prime Minister leader and leaving the movement League, the most popular group on talism and the fight against ine- Giuseppe Conte to take over as politically paralysed. the country’s fragmented political quality will be among the guiding leader of the divided party and try “The waiting and the delays are landscape. principle of the re-founded to revive its fortunes. over ... we have finally obtained the Conte wants to give the for- movement, he added. Conte agreed to take the reins data of our members and reached merly anti-establishment protest It is unclear if anyone will run of 5-Star after his coalition gov- an agreement with the Rousseau movement a more traditional, against Conte as leader, but in any ernment collapsed in February, but Association,” Conte said on moderate face as part of his efforts case his election is considered a his plans to relaunch the struggling Facebook late on Saturday, adding to form a stable alliance with the formality. group have been delayed by a that 5-Star would honour its debts centre-left Democratic Party. Foreign Minister and former bitter dispute with the firm that to the firm. “In the coming days, our 5-Star leader Luigi Di Maio urged provided its internet platform. Five-Star is the largest party in political project will be revealed,” 5-Star’s voters and lawmakers to The company, called the parliament thanks to its triumph said Conte, who is Italy’s most get behind Conte and “bulletproof” Rousseau Association, said many at 2018 elections when it took 32 popular politician after Mario his leadership. 5-Star parliamentarians had percent or of the vote, but since Draghi, the former central banker “United, we can do many more Then Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte during an refused to honour a commitment then its popularity has been under- who replaced him as premier at useful things for the Italians,” Di event at Palazzo Chigi in Rome, Italy on February 13, 2021. to pay part of their salaries towards mined by policy U-turns and the head of a national unity Maio said. 12 AMERICAS MONDAY 7 JUNE 2021 Democrat Manchin to oppose 'partisan' voting rights bill

REUTERS — WASHINGTON Speaking on “Fox Charleston Gazette-Mail, saying News Sunday”, West he is concerned by the total lack West Virginia Democratic of Republican support for the Senator Joe Manchin, a crucial Virginia Democratic measure. swing vote in the US Senate, Senator Joe Manchin, “Voting and election reform announced yesterday that he a crucial swing vote that is done in a partisan intends to oppose a sweeping manner will all but ensure par- voting rights bill backed by the in the US Senate, tisan divisions continue to majority of his fellow Democrats said the bill, known deepen,” he wrote. that would expand access to as the For the People Manchin said he would voting across the United States. throw his support behind an Speaking on “Fox News Act “is the wrong alternative voting bill that has Sunday”, Manchin said the bill, piece of legislation received broader bipartisan known as the For the People Act support, called the John Lewis “is the wrong piece of legislation to bring our country Voting Rights Advancement Act. to bring our country together and together and unite Named for the late Con- unite our country, and I’m not our country, and I’m gressman John Lewis, the bill supporting that because I think would restore the need for it will divide us further”. not supporting that certain states and counties to see Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and his wife Beatriz Gutierrez arrive to a polling Manchin is key to control of because I think it will approval from the federal gov- station to cast their vote during mid-term election outside the National Palace, in Mexico City, yesterday. the US Senate, which is divided ernment before re-drawing equally between Democrats divide us further”. voting districts, a legal and Republicans. He has at requirement that was struck Mexicans vote in midterm elections times proven to be a thorn in lengthen the hours of in-person down by the U.S. Supreme Court the Biden administration’s side balloting. in its landmark 2013 Shelby by crossing party lines to Democratic Senator Jeff County v. Holder decision. seen as referendum on Obrador oppose legislation or block Merkley of Oregon, the lead “My Republican colleague, White House appointees. sponsor of the For the People Senator Lisa Murkowski, has REUTERS — MEXICO CITY criminal violence, with security Recent polls suggest his He has also continually Act, said he is disappointed by joined me in urging Senate consultancy Etellekt saying 91 National Regeneration opposed efforts to eliminate the Manchin’s position, but he leadership to update and pass Mexicans headed to the polls politicians have been killed in Movement (MORENA) may lose filibuster, which would make it would not give up. this bill through regular order,” yesterday to vote for a new this election cycle. some of its current 253 seats in easier for Democrats to pass “I am open to any conver- he wrote. lower house of Congress, state Since taking office in 2018 the lower house, but is still legislation. Manchin’s intention sation about the provisions of He also attacked Democrats governors and local lawmakers, after a landslide victory, Lopez likely to retain a majority with to oppose the voting rights bill this bill, and will not give up on for seeking to eliminate the fil- in a race seen as a referendum Obrador has expanded the role the help of the allied Green and if it is brought to the Senate American democracy,” he said. ibuster, saying “absolute power on President Andres Manuel of the state in the energy industry Labor parties. The Senate is not floor will complicate matters Republican-controlled state corrupts absolutely”. Lopez Obrador’s policies and and radically cut back on the cost up for election. for Majority Leader Chuck legislatures in places such as “What I’ve seen during my efforts to shake up Mexico’s of government to channel At least one survey pointed Schumer, who has vowed to Texas and Georgia have since time in Washington is that institutions. resources to the poor and his pri- to a tight race with the three advance the legislation despite sought to greatly scale back every party in power will All 500 seats in the lower ority infrastructure projects. opposition parties, the center- having no support from mail-in voting, as former Pres- always want to exercise house, 15 state governorships Though voters tend to crit- right National Action Party Republicans. ident Donald Trump has con- absolute power, absolutely. Our and thousands of local lead- icize his government’s record (PAN), centrist Institutional The bill would require tinued to make false claims that founders were wise to see the ership positions are up for on job creation and fighting Revolutionary Party (PRI) and states to expand mail-in voting, the 2020 election was stolen. temptation of absolute power grabs, with some 93.5 million crime, they are more sceptical center-left Party of the Demo- which was used widely in last Manchin outlined in greater and built in specific checks and Mexicans eligible to vote. of Mexico’s former rulers, now cratic Revolution (PRD), that year’s presidential election detail his opposition to the balances to force compromise The elections has been tinged in opposition. Lopez Obrador have forged an electoral because of the coronavirus voting rights bill in an op-ed that serves to preserve our by the COVID-19 pandemic and has also benefited from the alliance nipping at the heels of pandemic, and it would also published yesterday in the fragile democracy,” he wrote. vaccine rollout, as well as record vaccine rollout. the MORENA-led coalition. Trump denounces Fauci; dangles 2024 prospects V-P Harris embarks on

REUTERS — GREENVILLE hunt, hoax after hoax,” said Trump. “They’ll never stop until LatAm visit to tackle Former President Donald Trump November of 2024.” New York on Saturday sharply attacked US Attorney-General Letitia James migration, corruption infectious disease expert Anthony has been investigating whether Fauci over his handling of the the Trump Organization falsely AP — WASHINGTON shortages, and recently secured coronavirus pandemic, reported property values to commitments from a dozen demanded reparations from secure loans and obtain eco- Kamala Harris, on her first companies and organizations to China and denounced an inves- nomic and tax benefits. foreign trip as Vice-President, invest in the Northern Triangle tigation into his finances in a Trump vowed to help Repub- is looking to deepen diplomatic countries to promote economic speech in North Carolina. licans in 2022 congressional ties with Guatemala and opportunity and job training. Speaking in Greenville at elections and endorsed US Rep- Mexico, two Latin American Washington won some the state’s Republican Party resentative Ted Budd for a US nations key to the Biden goodwill through its vaccine convention, Trump joined a Senate seat in North Carolina administration’s efforts to stem diplomacy this past week. Gua- chorus of Republican politicians after his daughter-in-law, Lara the spike in migration at the US temala President Alejandro who are criticizing Fauci for Trump, said she would not run. border. Giammattei, and Mexico Pres- asking Americans to wear He appeared to dangle a Harris, who is set to depart ident Andrés Manuel López masks to guard against the virus possible run himself for pres- Washington, is seeking to secure Obrador both received calls and who at times has been ident in 2024, saying he was commitments for greater coop- from Harris on Thursday telling sceptical of a theory that the Former President Donald Trump is introduced by North Carolina looking forward to that year. eration on border security and them the US would be sending virus escaped from a laboratory Republican Party chairman Michael Whatley before speaking at Advisers say Trump has been economic investment, but cor- 500,000 doses and 1 million in Wuhan, China. the North Carolina GOP convention dinner in Greenville, North discussing the possibility of ruption in the region — a far doses, respectively, of Trump called Fauci “not a Carolina, US, on Saturday. another presidential campaign. more intractable challenge — COVID-19 vaccine. great doctor but a great pro- Trump emerged from seclusion will complicate her efforts. In Guatemala, Harris plans moter” for his frequent tele- for its own handling of the virus, by the New York Attorney-Gen- for the Saturday event, the first Harris has yet to engage to meet community leaders, vision appearances. “But he’s and he said nations should cancel eral’s office is “the ultimate in a planned series of speaking substantively with the leaders innovators and entrepreneurs. been wrong on almost every their debt to Beijing. fishing expedition”, and said it engagements this summer. of Honduras and El Salvador, In Mexico, Harris will partic- issue and he was wrong on North Carolina Republican was the latest attempt by Dem- “The survival of America who are both embroiled in cor- ipate in a conversation with Wuhan and the lab also,” Trump Party Chairman Michael ocrats to bring him down after depends upon our ability to ruption scandals. And it’s an female entrepreneurs and hold said. Trump called on China to Whatley introduced Trump as two impeachment sagas when elect Republicans at every level, issue that experts in the region a roundtable with labor pay $10 trillion in reparations to “our president”. Trump said a he was president. starting with the midterms next say will need to be addressed workers. That’s in addition to the United States and the world criminal investigation launched “It’s been a five-year witch year,” Trump said. to make any lasting changes. bilateral meetings with the In the months since she was leaders of both countries. tasked by President Joe Biden While in Latin America, 3 dead, 6 injured in with addressing the root causes Harris will also have to nav- Peruvians vote to elect president of migration to the US-Mexico igate the politics of immi- shooting at Florida border, Harris has laid out an gration. Harris’ visit comes with graduation party REUTERS — LIMA/TACABAMBA approach centered on creating high expectations, but organi- better opportunities and living zations concerned about the AP — MIAMI Peruvians began voting to pick conditions in the region through rule of law and corruption in a president yesterday in an humanitarian and economic aid. Guatemala have doubts about Three people are dead and at election that has bitterly divided Harris announced plans to what the US can do to halt the least six others were injured them by class and geography, send $310m to provide support deterioration or co-optation of following a shooting at a with urban and higher-income for refugees and address food government institutions. Florida graduation party, the citizens preferring right-wing latest in a string of such Keiko Fujimori while the rural violence in the Miami area, poor support leftist political police said yesterday. novice Pedro Castillo. Nicaragua police detain another One of those killed was a Polls in the runoff election state corrections officer, opened at 7am (1200 GMT), with oppn presidential contender Miami-Dade police Director long queues building up early at Freddie Ramirez told news some centres in the capital Lima REUTERS — MANAGUA or say whether he will remain outlets. He said the party at a of people bundled up against the in custody or under arrest. mall lounge was ending when cold of the southern hemisphere Nicaraguan police detained Cruz, a former ally to Ortega, one or more vehicles “pulled late autumn. Citizens have been Peru’s presidential candidate Pedro Castillo is followed by the opposition politician Arturo Cruz is a candidate for the Alianza up and began to fire into the invited to vote according to media at a polling station in Anguia, yesterday. on Saturday, the second arrest Ciudadana or Citizen’s Alliance, crowd.” The identities of those their numbers on their identity of an opposition leader this a coalition of right-wing parties killed and wounded were not cards in a bid to avoid large the world’s second-largest said he would “be the first to week, escalating the battle ahead supported by prominent busi- immediately released. The crowds gathering. copper producer. summon the people” if he saw of November elections in which nessmen, for the November shooting happened about 2am Peru almost tripled its coro- Castillo, 51, an elementary evidence of foul play. Yes- President Daniel Ortega seeks to presidential elections. in the suburb of Kendall. navirus death toll last week fol- school teacher and union leader, terday, however, he said he maintain his grip on power. Leftist Ortega, 75, has been Two of those who died were lowing a government review, has galvanized support from would respect the result. Cruz, an academic who was in power since 2007 and aims in one of the cars police believe meaning it now has the world’s Peru’s rural poor — and con- “I call on Peruvians to be Nicaragua’s ambassador to the to be re-elected in November was involved in the shooting. worst death rate per capita of cerned investors — with pledges calm, to show the world we can United States between 2007 for the third consecutive time, The vehicle sped off and the pandemic. including to alter multinational do this,” he said. and 2009, was detained at the after ruling in the 1980s. crashed into a wall. Authorities Opinion polls show the companies’ tax regimes and On her way to an election Managua airport upon arrival The secretary-general of found one gun in the car, but its presidential race in a statistical rewrite the constitution. breakfast in Lima, Fujimori told from Washington, where he the Organization of American exact connection to the shooting dead heat but with Fujimori, He held prayers and an journalists: “Keiko means hope. had been for a few days. States, Luis Almagro, was unclear. The shooting who had earlier trailed Castillo, election breakfast at his adobe Let’s all go out and vote.” The prosecutors offices said demanded the release of Cruz. follows a bloody Memorial Day pulling slightly ahead. home in the remote northern Many Peruvians hold a deep that Cruz was being investi- On Wednesday, police weekend in the Miami area Fujimori, 46, the daughter Andes village of Chugur before mistrust of politicians following gated by the national police stormed into the home of oppo- that saw three people killed of jailed former president heading to the nearby town of two decades in which five based on “strong evidence that sition leader Cristiana Chamorro and 20 wounded in a still- Alberto Fujimori, is promising Tacabamba to vote. former presidents have been he has attacked Nicaraguan and placed her under house unsolved mass shooting at a to maintain economic stability He has previously warned investigated or prosecuted for society”. It did not give details arrest, sparking calls for a banquet hall. and pro-free market policies in against fraud in the election and corruption. of possible charges against him national strike in protest.