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MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020 1 RABIA II - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8443 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS Build your own plan! Terms & Conditions Apply Amir, President discuss strengthening ties

QNA — DOHA

Amir H H Sheikh and Pres- ident of the of We welcome brother President to , and Tunisia H E Kais Saied held we affirm the strength of brotherly relations between an official talks session at the our two countries. We held discussions on deepening Amiri Diwan yesterday. and strengthening bilateral cooperation in various fields, At the outset of the and exchanged views on vital issues concerning the session, H H the Amir greeted security and interests of our peoples. We renew our H E the President and the stand with the brothers in Tunisia to achieve stability, accompanying delegation, praising the depth of the two development and harmony. countries’ relations, and expressing confidence that this visit would contribute to boosting the close bilateral relations and to advancing the Amir and the Tunisian attended the session. On the them to wider horizons to President discussed cooper- Tunisian side, the session serve the interests of the two ation and relations between was attended by members of brotherly peoples. the two countries and the the official delegation For his part, the Tunisian prospects of developing and accompanying the President expressed his advancing these relations in President. thanks and appreciation to all spheres, especially in pol- The President of the H H the Amir for the warm itics, economic development, Republic of Tunisia Kais welcome and hospitality, investment, health and Saied arrived earlier at the referring to the several education. Amiri Diwan where he was meetings he had with H H the They also discussed key accorded an official Amir and looking forwards regional and international reception ceremony. to more meetings in the issues of common concern, The Amir also hosted a future. particularly the develop- luncheon banquet at the The President also ments in . While Amiri Diwan in honour of the extended thanks to H H the praising the Tunisian Tunisian President and the Amir for the State of Qatar’s diplomacy, the Amir congrat- delegation accompanying prompt response and support ulated President Kais Saied him. The banquet was for Tunisia in countering the on the success of the Libyan attended by H H Sheikh COVID-19 pandemic, and dialogue forum, currently Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, lauded H H the Amir’s held in Tunisia under the the Personal Representative announcement on holding auspices of the United of H H the Amir. It was also the Shura Council elections Nations. attended by a number of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and President of the Republic of Tunisia, H E Kais Saied, inspecting in October 2021. A number of Their Excel- Their Excellencies sheikhs a guard of honour at the Amiri Diwan yesterday. During the talks session, lencies the ministers and ministers. Doha, keen to Sheikha Moza opens virtual WISH 2020 FAZEENA SALEEM broaden cooperation: THE PENINSULA

Chairperson of Qatar Foundation H H Tunisia President Sheikha Moza bint Nasser opened the World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH) 2020, QNA — DOHA he held yesterday with H H the under the theme ‘One World, Our Health,’ Amir as constructive and fruitful, yesterday. WISH 2020 virtually brings President of the Republic of and said that the talks dealt with together global healthcare leaders, health Tunisia, H E Kais Saied, under- all issues and topics of common practitioners, researchers, and innovators lined that there is a strong will, interest and means of further to disseminate and discuss evidence-based a sincere determination and a developing the cooperation content and to showcase health innovations common desire between the between the State of Qatar and over five days. State of Qatar and Tunisia to Tunisia in various fields, as well In her opening address, H H Sheikha develop the cooperation as the coordination and consul- Moza bint Nasser highlighted how the pan- between the two countries in tation on various regional and demic proved that the “health” of every sector depends on the state of the healthcare sector. “We should not have waited for a Strong fraternal ties pandemic to assert how healthcare is central between Qatar and and important to the infrastructure of com- prehensive development. We have witnessed H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, addressing the opening Tunisia are reflected in this truth become more and more apparent session of the World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH) 2020, yesterday. PIC: AR AL-BAKER the two countries' throughout the world this year,” she said. common positions, the “In the midst of these trying times Vice-Chairperson and CEO of QF, H E security. That’s why I believe it’s time to constantly growing brought on by the pandemic, WISH is con- Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani; Minister build a ‘global pathogen shield’ to protect bilateral cooperation, vening this year to elevate our sense of col- of Public Health, H E Dr. Hanan Mohamed us from novel diseases: a new, global capa- lective responsibility and unite the world as Al Kuwari; Executive Chair of WISH, Pro- bility to rapidly develop diagnostics, ther- and a large Tunisian one, to work together, to share knowledge, fessor the Lord Darzi of Denham; WISH CEO, apies, and vaccines. The only way to do that community working in to contain this pandemic and to minimise Sultana Afdhal; and several other dignitaries is through greater international collabo- Qatar. the damage until it is possible for scientists and senior healthcare officials joined the ration, which is exactly what WISH is all and researchers to restore health security opening session of WISH 2020. about,” he added. H E Kais Saied for people everywhere.” “The virus may have stopped WISH par- The summit attendees also received a “And so, I salute healthcare workers in ticipants from meeting in person in Doha, special message from WHO Director- Qatar, and globally, for their tremendous but it has not stopped WISH. In so many General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus efforts in fighting this pandemic, protecting ways, the pandemic has revealed the best who is in self-isolation, after being iden- various fields and advance it to international issues, to com- lives, and tirelessly striving to create a better, of us,” said Lord Darzi. “It has taught us that tified as a close contact of someone tested broader and wider horizons, in plement the continuous commu- healthier world,” said Sheikha Moza. there can be no security without health positive for COVID-19. `P3 light of the strong and distin- nication between the two sides. guished bilateral relations The President reiterated that between the two countries. the two countries are keen on In an interview with QNA on developing the bilateral cooper- No signs of second COVID-19 wave in Qatar the occasion of his current visit to ation in the various fields of Qatar, the said economy, sport, trade, politics, FAZEENA SALEEM “Today the epidemic has standard of care. “Our low mor- mortality rate is 0.15%, one of that the State of Qatar and the science, health and others, noting THE PENINSULA stabilised in Qatar. We have not tality is attributable to a variety the lowest in the world. This Republic of Tunisia share a sincere that both sides agreed to con- seen a second wave, but we of factors, including the young stands as testimony to the talent will to develop the brotherly rela- tinue work between the joint Minister of Public Health, H E remain alert. There have been average age of the population, and commitment of our doctors tions and mutual cooperation, specialised committees in this Dr. Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, a small number of outbreaks but particularly to the high and nurses and the entire noting that his current state visit regard. has said that Qatar’s national mostly associated with family quality of medical care, pro- healthcare workforce. This is to Doha comes in this context and He said a meeting of the joint response to COVID-19 has gathering, which we have con- vided equally to everyone. also testament of our healthcare in the framework of a series of committee between the two stabilised the pandemic in the trolled with active surveillance Throughout, we strive to keep system.” reciprocal visits between the countries is expected to be held country. and contact tracing,” she said. our healthcare workforce safe She also highlighted how leaders of the two countries, the in the first quarter of next year Speaking at the opening “A key factor in our success and protected and our hospital the healthcare system expanded most recent of which was the visit to review the implementation of session of World Innovation is our system of universal health acquired infections as close to the capacity to accommodate of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin the numerous agreements con- Summit for Health (WISH) coverage. All costs of treatment zero as possible,” she said. every patient and provide them Hamad Al Thani to Tunisia in cluded between Qatar and 2020, yesterday, the Minister were covered by the gov- The Minister added, “Every with right care. “We opened February. Tunisia in the economic and said though there are no signs ernment, irrespective of nation- death is a tragedy, but we are nearly 3,000 acute care beds The Tunisian President commercial sectors and other of a second wave in Qatar it is ality or social conditions. All thankful that our cases, in and 227 ICU beds and secured described the session of the talks vital areas. `P2 important to be vigilant. patients received the same high global terms, remain low. Our extra ventilators." `P3 02 HOME MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020

Minister receives Amir, President of Tunisia hold talks Russian Duma welcomes credentials of Amir’s announcement of Portugal, Indonesia and Iran Ambassadors

Shura Council elections QNA — DOHA

QNA — MOSCOW Amir’s speech regarding the Minister of State for Foreign announcement of elections to Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad Al The Committee for Foreign the Shura Council in October Muraikhi received separately Affairs of the Russian State 2021 in accordance with the yesterday copies of the creden- Duma welcomed the Qatari constitution. We warmly tials of Ambassador of the announcement by Amir H H welcome and support this Republic of Portugal H E José Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al decision,” the statement reads. Alves Carvalho, Ambassador of Thani to hold the Shura Council “We are convinced that the Republic of Indonesia H E elections in October 2021. these elections will become an Ridwan Hassan and Ambas- In a statement, the Com- important step in deepening sador of the Islamic Republic of mittee pointed out that H H the participation of citizens in leg- Iran to the State of Qatar H E Amir’s speech at the opening islative process and strength- Hamid Reza Dehghani. of the 49th session of the Shura ening the role of the legislature The Minister of State for Council drew positive reaction in Qatar.” Foreign Affairs wished the new in Russian society which is In its statement, the Com- ambassadors success in their actively interested in affairs of mittee expressed sincere hope missions, assuring all support to friendly Qatar and regards the for developing and expanding upgrade relations between the Qatari people as a brotherly of inter-parliamentarian coop- State of Qatar and their coun- people. eration between Russia and tries to closer cooperation in The Committee affirmed its Qatar, adding that it is con- various fields. confidence that the Shura fident that the Russian-Qatari Council elections will con- relations will benefit not only 215 new virus Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and President of the Republic of Tunisia, H E Kais Saied, tribute to developing parlia- both peoples and countries but hold an official talks session at the Amiri Diwan yesterday. mentary cooperation between also all international cases, 207 the legislative authorities in the relations. Russian Federation and the The State Duma Committee recoveries: MoPH State of Qatar, and expressed praised the successes achieved hope to continue developing by the State of Qatar in various THE PENINSULA — DOHA QF launches precision parliamentary cooperation. It spheres, especially Doha’s role also affirmed its openness to in regional affairs, stressing The Ministry of Public Health cooperation with the Shura that Doha has played an yesterday announced the regis- Council in all issues related to effective role in settlement of tration of 215 new confirmed medicine report at WISH the Russian-Qatari agenda. issues important to the stability cases of COVID-19 in the “We would particularly like and security of the Near and country. Also, 207 people have THE PENINSULA — DOHA of delivering precision medicine, to focus on the part of H H the Middle East regions. recovered from the virus. The report notes that including integration of specialists Healthcare professionals from precision medicine has – notably geneticists, genetic different countries participated shown promising counsellors, and data into the in a panel discussion titled existing healthcare system. ‘Precision Medicine – One size potential, particularly in The panellists consisted of doesn’t fit all,’ held as part of the areas like oncology and President of the US National virtual 2020 World Innovation rare diseases. Academy of Medicine, Dr. Victor Summit for Health (WISH), a Dzau; Director, Qatar Genome component of Qatar Foundation’s Programme, Dr. Said Ismail; mission to foster evidence-based — particularly for lung and breast Director of Healthcare Research ideas and practices in healthcare. cancer. For rare diseases, genomic and Policy at WISH, Dr. Walid The panel discussion was also sequencing has drastically Qoronfleh and Professor at Weill accompanied by the launch of a reducing diagnosis times from Cornell Medicine – Qatar, Dr. Lotfi report by the Economist Intelli- years to a matter of months, Chouchane. The panel discussion gence Unit (EIU), titled 'Doing sometimes even weeks. was moderated by David Hum- Well? Fulfilling the Promise of Global Head of Health Policy phreys, Global Head of Health Precision Medicine'. The report, for The Economist Intelligence Policy for The Economist Intelli- sponsored by Qatar Foundation, Unit, David Humphreys said, “Our gence Unit (EIU) Healthcare discusses the promise of precision focus with the study was really Practice. medicine, what it is currently looking at that long talked about Speaking on Qatar Genome delivering, and challenges asso- promise of better, more targeted Programme’s efforts in the past ciated with its wider application care for patients and ongoing five years, Dr. Imail, said, “As is in large health systems. To basis. It really focused on two the case with any sort of learning download a copy of the EIU critical aspects that we consider process, the beginnings are slow report, visit: https://www.qf.org. to be important. The first is inte- and difficult. In the initial five qa/eiu/gration into the patient centricity years we spent a lot of time and precision-medicine-report. movement, and the second is the effort in producing data and in The report notes that pre- concept of return on investment making it available to cision medicine, while still work- and value demonstration. Much researchers. We are now finally Prime Minister meets Tunisian President in-progress, has shown promising has been said about precision at the stage where we can Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani met potential, particularly in areas like medicine generating savings, and actually harness the huge with President of the Republic of Tunisia, H E Kais Saied, at the Sheraton Hotel, yesterday evening. oncology and rare diseases. It has there is also evidence.” amount of data that has been allowed better understanding of The report hints that perhaps produced and use it to shift gears The meeting reviewed bilateral relations and ways of promoting them in various fields, especially tumour genetics resulting in more the biggest challenge will be from research to clinical investment and enhancing joint cooperation opportunities as well as issues of mutual concern. The effective treatments developing a workforce capable implementation.” meeting was attended by a number of Their Excellencies the Ministers from both sides. Sheikha Al Mayassa Doha, Tunis keen to broaden cooperation: Tunisia President FROM PAGE 1 inspires Ajyal Festival The Tunisian President noted that the talks he held with H H the Amir also covered a number of issues related to the situation in jury with her approach Tunisia, in addition to the Qatari investments in Tunisia, and the situation in the region, QNA — DOHA jurors, H E Sheikha Al Mayassa indicating that both sides reviewed a set of reiterated the central message ideas and proposals that would contribute to The 8th Ajyal Film Festival, of her 2012 TED talk on “glo- strengthening the mutual cooperation and organised by the Doha Film balising the local and local- coordination on issues of common interest Institute (DFI), will officially izing the global”, highlighting and other topics of a regional and interna- celebrate next Wednesday the importance of staying true tional dimension. youth development through to ones passions, history and President Kais Saied said that his visit to inspiring discussions with culture. the State of Qatar also comes within the internationally renowned She encouraged the youth framework of the keenness to implement personalities in the film, arts to experiment and learn across the agreements concluded between the two and humanities fields, disciplines to forge their own countries, and to discuss new agreements including H E Sheikha Al identity as artists and in other areas. In this context, the two sides President of Tunisia, H E Kais Saied, during the interview. Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, problem-solvers of tomorrow. stressed the importance of working to the Chairperson of Qatar Special guests from various implement some agreements that have not between the two countries in various regional citizen, stressing that the Palestinian issue Museums and the Doha Film artistic and cultural fields to yet been implemented, and to convene joint and international issues, noting that his talks will remain a central core issue for the Arab Institute. share their expertise at this committees to accelerate the implemen- in Doha touched on the issue of . and Islamic nations. Regarding some Arab As part of the Festival's years Festival include: tation process. The President noted a common approach countries’ normalization with Israel, the mission to inspire the next American actor and comedian The President underlined that the strong between the two countries in this aspect, Tunisian President said, “I do not agree with generation to think creatively Zach Woods, known as a series bilateral relations and the level of coordi- noting a joint proposal between Qatar and the term normalization. It is a word that did as agents of positive change, regular in The Office and nation indicate the great rapprochement Tunisia to hold an Islamic-western con- not exist previously and appeared only after the Ajyal 2020 jury had the Silicon Valley; Indian actor and between the two brotherly countries. He ference or dialogue aimed at achieving more the signing of the Camp David Accords.” opportunity to interact with humanitarian Kunal Kapoor; described the Qatari-Tunisian relations as understanding and overcoming obstacles “We do not interfere in the affairs of international arts and culture Croatian actor Goran Bogdan, good and fraternal that are confirmed by con- caused by the terrorist operations carried out states, but for me, the Palestinian cause is a visionary, H E Sheikha Al who has appeared in American stant common positions, as reflected in the by extremist parties. central issue, even if many try unsuccessfully Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, and English films and series constantly growing bilateral cooperation and He added that this proposal has still been to remove it from the circle of concern of the who inspired jurors with her including Fargo; Canadian the large Tunisian community working in the considered by Qatar, Tunisia and a number Arab citizen. It will remain the central core approach to establishing Qatar actress Saara Chaudry, who State of Qatar in various fields and enjoying of other countries, and it also seeks to high- issue of the Arab and the Islamic nations,” the as a leading global cultural won the ACTRA Award for Best all the care and attention of the wise lead- light the necessity to differentiate between President added. destination, and the impact of Voice Performance in The ership, noting that the number of Tunisians Islam and its true purposes and terrorism On Qatar’s hosting of the 2022 World Cup, art and culture in the national Breadwinner; and Claudio in Qatar is increasing remarkably every year, which has absolutely nothing to do with Islam. the President of Tunisia expressed pride that development. Gubitosi, Founder and Director thanks to the distinguished bilateral The Tunisian President also noted the an Arab country would host this major global In her interaction with the of the Giffoni Film Festival. relations. coordination and rapprochement between event for the first time, saying, “Winning the He also praised the support provided by the State of Qatar and Tunisia on regional organization of the World Cup in an Arab the State of Qatar to Tunisia, and said that he issues, such as the situation in Libya. He said country was not an easy thing at all, and a 2 arrested for violating quarantine rules seeks to open new horizons to further support that the solution to the Libyan crisis, which number of Arab countries tried to win the this cooperation between the two countries. he called for a year ago, must be within the World Cup before but they were not able to DOHA QNA — Suleiman Al Dakheel and In this framework, he noted that an Libyan people themselves, and this has crys- so, therefore it is an honor for all of us that The authorities arrested Mohammed Ayman Ibrahim agreement has been reached with the Qatari tallized after the ceasefire agreement and the Qatar will host the World Cup.” In this context, yesterday two people who Abdulqader Al Batsh. side on a set of major principles, while the dialogues taking place in Tunisia to reach an President Kais Saied affirmed Tunisia’s read- violated the requirements of The authorities called on relevant committees will be responsible for agreement between all the parties. iness to contribute to the event through the the home quarantine, they citizens and residents to fully taking the decisions that would achieve and In his interview with QNA, the President cooperation in the field of sports and the expe- committed to follow. adhere to the requirements set implement this persistent and honest will of also shed light on the Palestinian cause and riences it has in this area, stressing the sincere The two people being by the Ministry of Public Health, both sides. affirmed that it will always be a central issue will and firm determination to make success referred to the competent pros- to ensure their safety and the President of the Republic of Tunisia Kais even if many tried “unsuccessfully” to remove of this global event that is organized in an Arab ecution are Suleiman Hazza safety of others. Saied highlighted the level of coordination it from the circle of concern of the Arab country for the first time. MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020 HOME 03 Sheikha Moza opens WISH 2020 HMC wins top award from Arab Hospitals Federation

THE PENINSULA — DOHA 2,900 new hospital beds, including 700 new intensive Hamad Medical Corporation The award recognised care beds. Five facilities, (HMC) has won the Elite HMC’s successful including two newly opened Hospital Award as part of the response across five hospitals in Mesaieed and Ras Arab Hospitals Federation Gold Laffan were designated as ded- Initiative, which aimed to categories: Regulatory icated COVID-19 treatment showcase the efforts of Staff to the Government; facilities as part of a strategy healthcare providers across the Leadership and that allowed HMC to ensure the region during the COVID-19 Governance; Safety of right care was available at the pandemic. Staff, Visitors and right time and place. The award recognised “Right from the onset of the HMC’s successful response Patients; Awareness; pandemic, we utilised tele- across five categories: Regu- and Research and vision, radio, social media, and latory Staff to the Government; Development. newspapers to keep the public Leadership and Governance; informed about what was hap- Safety of Staff, Visitors and pening with COVID-19, how Patients; Awareness; and health services were adapting Research and Development. enabled Qatar to have one of and changing, and how indi- “Receiving the Elite Hos- the lowest COVID-19 mortality viduals could keep themselves pital Award is a wonderful rates in the world,” said Chief safe. We delivered messaging Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, participates in the opening endorsement of HMC’s contri- of Tertiary Hospitals Group, in multiple languages, including session of the World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH) 2020, which brought together health bution to Qatar’s overall HMC, Ali Al Janahi. , English, Hindi, Urdu, professionals, practitioners and researchers under the banner of “One World, Our Health” to share COVID-19 strategy. The Arab The Elite Hospital Award Malayalam, Tagalog, Nepali, expertise, find solutions to health challenges and influence healthcare policies globally. PIC: AR AL BAKER Hospitals Federation Gold Ini- recognised the effectiveness of Bengali, and French — ensuring tiative is an important project HMC’s role in the delivery of the that, along with our healthcare FROM PAGE 1 that aims to showcase the healthcare sector’s widespread partners, we were able to reach The WISH 2020 summit attendees also received efforts of healthcare providers measures to protect Qatar’s as wide an audience as possible, in meeting the unprecedented population from COVID-19 and and that every citizen and res- Dr. Ghebreyesus stressed a special message from Director-General of the challenge presented by ensure every patient requiring ident could access the infor- the importance of harnessing World Health Organization, Dr. Tedros Adhanom COVID-19. HMC has worked medical treatment was able to mation they needed,” said Chief the power of innovation in the Ghebreyesus. alongside its healthcare do so without delay. HMC as the Communications Officer, HMC, face of a once-in-a-century- partners, including the Ministry main provider of specialist Ali Abdulla Al Khater. crisis that is this pandemic. of Public Health and Primary healthcare services in Qatar The award also recognised “COVID-19 pandemic is an Health Care Corporation, and played the leading role in caring the measures put in place by unprecedented crisis, it Envoy on COVID-19, Dr. David Freeman; Secretary-General played a central role in the for COVID-19 patients with HMC to ensure the safe contin- demands an unprecedented Nabarro; England’s former of the Supreme Committee for nation’s measures to protect its moderate to severe symptoms. uation of services to patients response, unprecedented inno- Chief Medical Officer, Pro- Delivery and Legacy, Hassan population and ensure every To meet the increased with non-COVID-19 conditions. vation,” he said. fessor Dame Sally Davies and Al Thawadi; member of the patient with COVID-19 can demand as a result of the virus, This included the launch of As part of the WISH 2020 Sweden’s State Epidemiologist, White House coronavirus task receive fast and effective care. HMC significantly expanded virtual and telemedicine opening ceremony, a high- Dr. Anders Tegnell. force and Director of the “Our comprehensive capacity across its hospital services for a range of areas level panel discussion was held The opening session of National Institute of Allergy strategy to confront COVID-19 network. The re-purposing of including outpatient consulta- on ‘The Global Response to WISH 2020 also featured and Infectious Diseases, Dr. has succeeded in suppressing existing resources and facilities tions, urgent care, and mental COVID-19: What Have We graffiti by Qatari Artist Thamer Anthony Fauci; and American the spread of the virus and resulted in delivering over health. Learned and Where Are We Al Dossari which replicated the actress and philanthropist Eva Headed.’ Speaking ahead of the fight against COVID-19. Longoria. panel, H E Dr. Hanan Al WISH 2020 will feature a WISH, Qatar Foundation’s Kuwari, praised Qatar’s wide range of live sessions in global health initiative, is ded- national response to COVID-19, different formats, exploring icated to capturing and dis- which has seen the pandemic vital subjects including seminating the best evidence- stabilise in the country. COVID-19, the impact of based ideas and practices. The panel was moderated climate change on health, and The 2020 edition of WISH by broadcaster Mishal Husain immunotherapy. is the most expansive to date and it heard from international Keynote speakers include and is being held virtually leaders including WHO Special Oscar-winning actor Morgan until November 19. 130 referred to No signs of 2nd COVID-19 prosecution for wave in Qatar: Minister not wearing FROM PAGE 1 this battle only if everyone face masks “We made provision to wins it. In solidarity, Qatar treble the ICU beds, to 749 if has so far helped more than THE PENINSULA — DOHA necessary. We transformed 70 countries and interna- an entire general hospital to tional organisations with The authorities at the Ministry an intensive care hospital,” equipment and resources,” of Interior yesterday referred said the Minister. she said. 130 people to the Public Prose- “We have treated around The Minister of Public cution for non-compliance with 2,000 patients with severe Health also insisted that wearing masks in places where COVID-19 in our ICUs since COVID-19 is not beaten yet. they are mandatory. the start of the pandemic, of “Our strategy remains one of Five others also were which nearly 90% have been vigilance and focused action FM meets Head of UN Assistance referred to the Prosecution for discharged,” she added. tempered by a controlled violating the limit allowed in The Minister also said that return to normality, while a vehicle, which is four, Qatar opened 24 isolation keeping our people safe. We Mission in , and Tunisia FM including the driver except for facilities, with the maximum await, with the rest of the the members of the same of 30,000 beds, and 609 world, the development of a Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani family. quarantine facilities with the safe, effective vaccine. In the met with UN Special Representative for Somalia and Head of the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia These measures are in line capacity of 15,000 beds. meantime, we must rely on H E James Christopher Swan. During the meeting, they reviewed the bilateral cooperation relations with the cabinet decision based Dr. Al Kuwari highlighted the public health measures between Qatar and the United Nations and Somali affairs in addition to issues of common concern. on Law No. 17 of 1990 regarding the support Qatar has with which we are all familiar Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al infectious diseases and the pre- extended to other countries and the dedication and pro- Thani also met yesterday with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration and Tunisians Abroad H E Othman ventive and precautionary in the battle against fessionalism of the global Jerandi, who is currently visiting the country. During the meeting, they reviewed bilateral cooperation measures to curb spread of the COVID-19. health workforce to keep us relations and issues of common concern. coronavirus. “We know we will win safe,” she said. Traffic accidents significantly decline this year: Officials

SIDI MOHAMED National Traffic Safety Committee, minutes outside. THE PENINSULA noted that the role of the Ministry of Besides, the response team pro- Education was to inculcate the prin- vides top quality services during the There have been fewer road traffic ciples of traffic safety in students and transfer of the injured to the hos- accidents recorded this year so far the school community. This will help pital,” said the director. than the previous year, officials have create a generation that is aware of Assistant Director-General of said. traffic safety standards and appre- Traffic, Col Nasser Durman Al Hajri, “The overall results of traffic acci- ciates its role in preserving lives and said the commemoration came this dents are promising this year com- property. year to confirm the urgent need to pared to last year. So far, the number “The surrounding and connecting enhance road safety measures and is lower, especially during the streets to schools have also been provide the highest safety standards. lockdown months compared to the developed according to the highest “Setting ambitious goals to reduce last year,” said Secretary of the international standards to ensure the road traffic injuries constitutes the National Traffic Safety Committee greatest degree of safety and security greatest challenge facing countries Brigadier Mohammed Abdullah Al for school-goers, including students, and societies,” he stressed. Maliki. employees, and parents,” Dr. Al “Countries that have implemented He was speaking at an event to Nuaimi said. measures to improve road safety mark the World Day of Remembrance Director of the Public Health have witnessed great progress and for Road Traffic Victims yesterday. Officials from the Traffic Department and HMC during a function to mark the Department at the Ministry of Public remarkable success in reducing the The event was commemorated by World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims at the headquarters of Health (MoPH), Sheikh Dr. number of deaths and injuries the General Directorate of Traffic Traffic Department, in Doha yesterday. Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani, said resulting from road accidents.” under the slogan ‘Remember – PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA the health services and their devel- Head of Trauma Services at Support — Act'’, and was held at the opment have greatly helped in Hamad Medical Corporation, Dr. department headquarters in the tackling accidents. Therefore, the Hassan Al Thani, said that we must presence of several officials from the Brig Al Maliki said commemo- Committee as a pioneering institution MoPH ensured immediate ambulance work for road accident victims in department and authorities rating road accident victims was for — creating traffic policies to achieve services in Qatar should have a Qatar and their families by reducing concerned. the stakeholders to work together to safety on roads and to preserve the highly-efficient, leading role in the number of victims. The participants reviewed the reduce road accidents. lives and properties of society,” he responding to accidents, he stressed. “Also we should work on efforts made to reduce road accident “The State of Qatar realised early said. “The telephone response time for improving traffic law enforcement, victims in Qatar, the efforts made and on the seriousness of road accidents The Undersecretary of the Min- ambulances was less than five creating high-quality roads, the measures taken that have led to on its social and economic founda- istry of Education and Higher Edu- seconds, and the time to arrive at importing the safest vehicles, and a decrease in deaths from traffic tions. The State took the initiative to cation, Dr. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al accident scenes was less than eight maintaining high-quality trauma care accidents. establish the National Traffic Safety Nuaimi, who is a member of the minutes inside Doha and less than 10 in Qatar,” he added. 04 HOME MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020 Ooredoo’s Shahry Me to allow customers to ‘Build Your Own Plan’

THE PENINSULA — DOHA Shahry Me comes loaded with fantastic entertainment, Ooredoo, the nation’s leader in Shahry Me allows users to including Hollywood and Bol- digital innovation, has share data and minutes with lywood movies with STARZ announced an innovative new the whole family and PLAY and ErosNow, and thou- personalised digital customer household members via the sands of buy-one-get-one-free experience that will revolu- App. The main account offers at a wide range of leading tionise monthly plan mobile leisure, lifestyle, and dining services in Qatar. owner can manage 5 SIM options with the Urban Point Shahry Me, an exciting new cards of the family via a app in Qatar, , and app-managed plan, allows for specially designed App. . complete personalisation of Chief Consumer Officer at Shahry plans with the precise Ooredoo, Fatima Sultan Al allocation of data and calling Kuwari, said: “We are delighted across family members and dependent users will have to to announce our innovative households. request extra allowances from new Shahry Me online service Customers can design their the primary account holder for a truly personalised plan based on their individual who will approve or reject such approach to controlling services needs and family and requests. and allowances. With the household members, ensuring After installing the new Shahry Me App, there are no Minister of Education and Higher Education H E Dr. Mohammed Abdulwahed Ali Al Hammadi attending allowances do not go to waste. Shahry Me App, customers will accidental extra charges or bill the conference virtually. Customers can make the most be able to order their Shahry shocks; everything the cus- of all elements of their plan. Me SIM online or migrate any tomer could want is in their Shahry Me allows users to of their existing Hala or hands, and plans can be com- Qatar participates in conference easily share data and minutes Shahry services to Shahry Me. pletely tailored and customised with the whole family and They can also personalise to suit. household members via the their service and will be “The introduction of the of GCC Ministers of Education App any time. The main account charged only for the con- Shahry Me app makes the owner can manage 5 SIM cards firmed services, thanks to a service quick, easy, and effi- QNA — DOHA headed by Minister of Edu- implementation of the bureau’s of the family while controlling customised plan within a fully cient to use and allows cus- cation and Higher Education programs, projects and organs services and allowances via a digital service. This works in tomers to access the service The State of Qatar participated H E Dr. Mohammed Abdul- for the 2019 and 2020 financial specially designed App. Unused real-time, meaning all at any time of day or night yesterday in the 26th general wahed Ali Al Hammadi. The cycle, the bureau’s pro- allowances can be passed on to changes, charges, and sub- for absolute convenience. conference of ministers of one-day conference discussed grammes, apparatus and the other family and household scriptions can be executed in Complete customer satis- education of the member states a number of topics, including draft budget for the 2021 and members, and children can be seconds and allows the main faction is our ultimate goal, of the Arab Bureau of Education the executive council’s report 2022 fiscal cycle, in addition to rewarded with extra data for SIM owner to use the unique and we’re sure this unique for the Gulf States, which was on the council’s work between other topics of interest to the more screen time. ‘Build Your Own Plan’ feature new service will go a long held via a video link. the 25th and 26th sessions, the joint education action for the Customers will also be pro- integral to this innovative new way towards achieving this Qatar’s delegation was director general’s report on the member states. tected against bill shocks, as system. goal.” QRCS launches Warm Winter Campaign 2020-21 THE PENINSULA — DOHA been successive humanitarian Red Crescent Society (QRCS) To ensure the warmth and “These crises that weighed heavily on under its annual Warm Winter dignity of the beneficiaries, projects will be Qatar Red Crescent Society the victims of existing disasters campaign. Over the past five Executive Director of Relief and implemented (QRCS) has launched its annual and conflicts and added to them years, more than 1 million ben- International Development at by our foreign Warm Winter Campaign for the thousands, or even millions, of eficiaries in dozens of poor QRCS, Faisal Mohamed Al representation year 2020-21, with the theme new victims affected by countries found shelter, Emadi, said the campaign missions and of #DignityIsPriceless. COVID-19 pandemic, flash warmth, and food, at a total cost would cover 10 countries: , offices in the Under License No. floods in , Beirut harbour of QR65mn, which helped them , , , , target coun- 1299/2020 by the Regulatory explosion, and other emer- to bear the difficult living con- Gaza, Jerusalem and the West tries, in coordi- Authority for Charitable Activ- gencies that displaced house- ditions during the winter.” Bank, Bangladesh, Sudan, and nation with the ities (RACA), the new campaign holds, damaged homes and Al Hammadi called eve- Somalia. host National Secretary-General of QRCS, Ali bin Hassan is aimed at meeting the food facilities, and destroyed ryone who wishes to stand According to him, there are Societies and Al Hammadi. and winterisation needs of livelihoods." by their brothers and sisters two categories of aid: (1) food local govern- around 42,200 families He added, “To the vul- in humanity to support a parcels containing local food ments. The standard proce- Director of Financial (253,260 persons) in 10 nerable and the distressed, the wide range of winterisation staples that last for one month dures will be strictly observed Resources Development at countries. winter is equivalent to suffering relief projects, be generous and (2) nonfood items such as in the procurement of relief QRCS, Yousef Mohamed Al Commenting on the cam- and hardship, particularly to the poor and the homeless, heaters, heating oil and coal, items, under direct supervision Awadi, asserted that donation paign, Secretary-General of children, women, patients, and and preserve their dignity blankets, carpets, medications, of QRCS’s headquarters in to the Warm Winter projects is QRCS, Ali bin Hassan Al older persons. They are des- during the winter, inspired mattresses, jackets, pyjamas, Doha, thus ensuring maximum religiously permissible, as per Hammadi, said, “Since the perate for the winterisation aid by the slogan ‘Dignity Is scarves, hats, gloves, socks, and integrity, transparency, and a Fatwa from QRCS’s Sharia beginning of 2020, there have provided every year by Qatar Priceless’. shoes. compliance,” said Al Emadi. Committee. MoCI recalls Audi A8, S8 models of 2013-2017 ConocoPhillips celebrates a MME takes part THE PENINSULA — DOHA ensure that car dealers follow up on in seminar on vehicle defects and repairs. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, The Ministry said that it will coor- decade of innovation in Qatar emergency in cooperation with Q-Auto, dealer of Audi dinate with the dealer to follow up on the in Qatar, has announced the recall of Audi maintenance and repair works and will THE PENINSULA — DOHA response A8, and S8 models of 2013-2017 due to communicate with customers to ensure engine compartment seal possibility to that they carried out the necessary ConocoPhillips is cele- QNA — DOHA become loose and touch a hot substance repairs. The Ministry urged all customers brating the 10th anni- which may lead to seal deformation. to report any violations to its Consumer versary of the Global Water The Environmental Oper- The recall campaign comes within Protection and Anti-Commercial Fraud Sustainability Center ation Department of the the framework of the Ministry’s con- Department, which processes complaints, (GWSC), the company’s Ministry of Municipality and tinuous efforts to protect consumers and inquires and suggestions. designated Center of Excel- Environment (MME) partic- lence for water-related ipated in a seminar on the technologies. unified command and The GWSC’s creation in control system for emer- 2010, in partnership with gency preparedness and Qatar Science and Tech- response. The seminar was nology Park (QSTP), dem- organised by the Incident onstrated a joint resolve, ConocoPhillips GWSC Engineer Mashael Al Maas alongside and Emergency Centre at and a commitment from Principal Engineer Arnold Janson. the International Atomic both entities, to address the Energy Agency (IAEA). pressing issue of water sustainability and With globally relevant applied research The symposium create a comprehensive water research at the heart of its work, the GWSC focuses focused on the concept ecosystem to deliver genuine contributions on exploring and qualifying novel water of a unified command to Qatar’s sustainable development. technologies to aid water management in and control system in the Over the last decade, the GWSC has the oil and gas industry and beyond. series of safety standards evolved into a relevant problem-solver that In the last decade, the Center acquired issued by the IAEA, on the addresses the needs of the industry, dis- six patents, published over 30 peer- management of opera- seminating findings to the company’s reviewed journal papers, and received mul- tions in response to global operations, as well as local gov- tiple prestigious awards on research projects emergencies, which stip- ernment and industry partners. Its ongoing relevant to Qatar. It also conducted over 15 ulates that arrangements and future projects explore more efficient evaluations of innovative technologies must be made to and cost-effective treatment technologies, related to oil and gas produced water man- establish and use a and enhance sustainable industry prac- agement and seawater desalination, two of clearly defined and tices worldwide, as well as enhance which were implemented full-scale at unified command and awareness of the broader community, in Qatargas. Such innovative technologies and control system for emer- particular the young generation, on the water-related implementations that address gency response, fol- value of water and the need for operational challenges have saved the oil lowing a comprehensive conservation. and gas industry millions of US dollars. approach to all hazards, Reflecting on the milestone, Todd Owing its success to longstanding part- as part of an emergency Creeger, president of ConocoPhillips Qatar, nerships with industry, academic, and management system. emphasised that water sustainability and research hubs alike, the GWSC continually It also witnessed an conservation are key national priorities of tackles the industry challenges to deliver interaction between the Qatar’s development agenda and its goal fit-for-purpose, impactful solutions. The participants in order to of building a sustainable and diversified GWSC’s partners in the oil and gas industry, enhance cooperation economy. “We at ConocoPhillips under- both in Qatar and abroad, utilize the between the Ministry of stand that water management is at the core Center’s unique analytical capabilities in Municipality and Envi- of sustainable oil and gas production — support of their operations. ronment and the Interna- and that we have a role to play. As the CEO and chairman of ConocoPhillips tional Atomic Energy largest liquefied natural gas exporter in Ryan Lance commented on the Center’s Agency with regard to the world, Qatar put a special focus on sus- future: “When I think about the next emergencies. tainable development and has become a decade and beyond for our company, I The seminar, which was scientific hub for oil and gas-related think our advancements in innovation and held virtually, was attended research. Bright minds in government, technology are going to be critical to not by Director of the Environ- industry, and academia recognized the only our success, but also our survival as mental Operation need to prioritize water security and have a company. We are really relying on this Department Mubarak been collaborating to develop technologies Center here in Qatar to help us globally Mohammed Al Buainain that will preserve this precious resource around the world and conserve this pre- and a number of for future generations,” said Creeger. cious resource for the world.” department heads. MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020 HOME 05 Education Ministry delegation praises Al Muraikhi meets Indian envoy Ta’allum online learning programme

THE PENINSULA — DOHA Jeanette Azouz, in cooperation with Heads of School, Kush Al Maha Academy for Girls The integrated Baines; Nadia; Gail and all their welcomed a prestigious development of the teams. curriculum delegation from the Ta’allum ICT infrastru- ‘The AMAG team produced Ministry of Education and highly effective, informative Higher Education. The purpose cture over time presentations and conveyed a of the visit was to showcase emphasises Ta’allum’s most positive, professional and and share Ta’allum’s signif- forward-thinking impression icant achievements in devel- aim to ensure our of online learning develop- oping outstanding provision students are equipped ments for our visitors: of for online learning, with a with the advanced 21st Ta’allum in general, and Al focus on integrated good Maha Academy for Girls in par- practice. century skills to be ticular,” he said. Ta’allum is at the forefront successful leaders of “They represented of innovative use of technology Ta’allum with great distinction. to support learning. the next generation. The impact of an occasion such Themes covered during the as this has wide reverberations visit included the IT Infra- Ahmed Al Mannai, in consolidating Ta’allum’s structure and Enterprise positive and growing repu- Resource Planning, School Ta’allum CEO tation as a leader and ‘path- Minister of State for Foreign Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met yesterday with Ambassador Information Systems - SIMS AX finder’ in Qatari education.” of the Republic of India to the State of Qatar, H E Dr. Deepak Mittal. During the meeting, they reviewed Dynamics, Microsoft Office 365 Ta’allum CEO, Ahmed Al bilateral cooperation and issues of common concern. Tools and the use of MS Teams Mannai said: “The integrated for live lesson delivery and others. development of the Ta’allum assessment. Director of Curriculum at ICT infrastructure over time The visitors observed first- the Ministry of Education and emphasises Ta’allum’s aim to hand the communication and Higher Education, Rema Abu ensure our students are Diplomatic Institute, Customs collaboration which has Qadeja, expressed gratitude equipped with the advanced ensued across the whole and admiration from the Min- 21st century skills to be suc- organisation, including stake- istry’s delegation members. cessful leaders of the next gen- holder engagement. They were greatly impressed eration. The hard work in Training Center sign MoU Most significantly, they by the skill, wide range, and developing our IT infra- viewed the positive impact on quality of what they observed structure paid off at the start QNA — DOHA agreements as well as studies international and economic classroom learning of online and by the passion and com- of the pandemic. We were related to how to deal with dig- relations, international agree- resources such as, Tapestry, mitment of the AMAG team. ready for immediate, seamless The Diplomatic Institute at the nitaries and diplomatic pro- ments and other related fields, Tales Toolkit, Bug Club, Ta’allum’s Director of Edu- implementation of a high- Ministry of Foreign Affairs and tocols on joint work, exchange cooperation in the field of Starfall, Phonics Play, Math- cation, Dr. Mohammed Saefan quality online learning pro- the Customs Training Center of experts, trainers, education, theoretical and letics, I Read Arabic, Power paid tributes to the Academy’s gramme for the benefit of at the General Authority of researchers, and specialists in practical training, and pro- Maths, Read Write Inc and Senior Team led by Principal, students.” Customs signed a memo- the field of diplomatic handling viding training courses for the randum of understanding of travellers and their bags and employees of both sides in (MoU) on strengthening and shipments, in addition to common and related fields, in sharing experiences in the building and developing addition to exchanging pro- fields of scientific and strategic national capabilities and fessional experiences, research and aspects of holding conferences and spe- trainers, and researchers in training between the two sides. cialised scientific workshops. common fields, and holding The MoU was signed by It also seeks cooperation conferences, seminars, and Director of the Diplomatic between the two sides in order joint international, regional Institute H E Ambassador Dr. to exchange experiences, and specialised workshops Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Al holding programmes and related to academic, diplo- Horr, and Director of the workshops, and carrying out matic, political, economic, Customs Training Center research and advisory activ- customs and security Mubarak Ibrahim Al Buainain. ities and research projects in relations. The memorandum aims to the field of diplomatic training, It also includes cooperation develop and strengthen joint international agreements and between the two sides in pre- cooperation between the related fields, and developing paring joint scientific research Institute and the Center for the the capacities of the two sides’ in areas of interest to both mutual potentials of both sides cadres in common areas. sides, and working to in the fields of scientific The MoU includes cooper- strengthen the links between research, strategy, interna- ation in the field of scientific researchers and the research Officials from the Ministry of Education and Higher Education during a visit to Al Maha Academy for Girls. tional, economic and customs research, diplomatic studies, teams of both sides. QU academic contributes at 3 international meetings HBKU Press publishes THE PENINSULA — DOHA that encourages researchers to (FIP). The vision of FIP is “a study about real-time air progress and publish their world where everyone benefits Dr. Derek Stewart, Manager of research in high-quality aca- from access to safe, effective, Academic Quality Assurance, demic journals. The challenge quality and affordable medi- pollution in Education City Vice President for Medical and is supported through several cines and health technologies, Health Sciences Office, Qatar webinars and events involving as well as from pharmaceutical THE PENINSULA — DOHA way, HBKU Press provides a University (QU) and Professor high profile, internationally care services provided by phar- platform for participating in the of Clinical Pharmacy and renowned speakers with par- macists, in collaboration with Hamad Bin Khalifa University wider knowledge economy and Practice at the QU College of ticular publishing expertise. other healthcare professionals”. Press (HBKU Press) recently global exchange of ideas and Pharmacy, gave keynote talks Dr. Derek joined Qatar Uni- During the event, speakers pre- published the findings of an air information.” at three international meetings versity in April 2019 from sented a summary of the most pollution study conducted by The findings are of interest last month. These have raised Scotland, where he was Pro- innovative pharmacy practice five students at Weill Cornell to policymakers and public the international profile of QU fessor of Pharmacy Practice at research and discussed its con- Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) as health workers in Qatar and the Health and the university. Robert Gordon University in tribution to the pharmacy pro- part of the Student Research greater Gulf and Mena region In September, Dr. Derek Dr. Derek Stewart Aberdeen. He is a highly fession. Speakers were from Mentorship Program (SRMP) as they seek to mitigate pol- gave a talk at the National Uni- acclaimed international Canada, Australia, China, and and in collaboration with Qatar lution in the naturally arid and versity of Singapore on the optimise the use of highly researcher and academic, Qatar. Mobility Improvement Center dusty climate. potential for pharmacists to be trained health professionals, having published almost 200 Commenting on his (QMIC) in its open access “Air pollution is a universal trained to prescribe medicines. and reduce physician workload. research and education papers, involvement in these events, Dr. journal, QScience Connect, on threat to human health and While in Scotland, he led a As part of the presentation, he and has collaborated with indi- Derek, said: “I am delighted to QScience.com. wellbeing which makes real- major research group focusing highlighted recently published viduals at Qatar University and have been invited to contribute The study aimed to time air quality monitoring of on the education and practice research from Qatar exploring Hamad Medical Corporation for to these events, which provided measure and report on air pol- paramount importance,” of pharmacist prescribers, cul- pharmacists’ clinical activities over ten years. an opportunity to showcase the lution levels specifically in Edu- explains Dr. Mohammad minating in over 40 published and the potential to expand In November, he partici- contribution of Qatar University cation City to assess air pollu- Yousef, an Associate Professor papers. their input to patient care. pated as a speaker in a to the global pharmacy arena tion’s impact on public health of Physics at WCM-Q and the This initiative is supported In September, Dr. Derek Pharmacy Practice Research and to influence clinical and wellbeing. The study, mentor overseeing the by the Scottish Government to was part of an international Showcase of the International pharmacy practice, education undertaken from March 2019 research. improve patient care quality, research “Writing Challenge” Pharmaceutical Federation and research.” to March 2020, assessed air “For maximum public quality samples from two loca- health benefits, air pollution tions in Education City during monitoring systems should be the summer, fall, and winter accurate, robust, and real-time. Ajyal Fest to screen films seasons whereby the The findings of this study can researchers developed a support the development of at Doha Festival City method for on-site calibration data-driven pollution man- of air pollution sensors in real agement policies in the future.” THE PENINSULA — DOHA presented at VOX Cinemas, time. The research was funded by Doha Festival City include Sun The study found air pol- the Student Research Men- The 8th Ajyal Film Festival Children by Majid Majidi, Father lution levels in Education City torship Program (SRMP), which presented by the Doha Film by Srdan Golubović, 200 Meters to be much lower than those is a unique opportunity for Institute (DFI) will be offering by Ameen Nayfeh, A Night for previously reported for other WCM-Q students that gener- local film lovers a safe big Forgiveness by Massoud locations in Doha. Based on the ously funds student research screen cinema experience with Bakhshi, I Am Greta by Nathan results, a widely applicable cal- initiatives that expose future an exciting selection of feature Grossman, The Wolves by ibration scheme for two air physicians to research early on films and acclaimed shorts Samuel Kishi Leopo, and quality sensors was developed. in their training. screening at VOX Cinemas, Digimon Adventure: Last Evo- “At HBKU Press, we aim to The authors of the study, Doha Festival City from lution Kizuna by A still from the film Father by Srdan Golubović. support local researchers that Kevin Zhai, Mohammad Bhatti, November 19 to 23. TomohisaTaguchi. evaluate pertinent issues Omar Khalil, Laila Khalil, and Part of the in-person events Short films from the 2020 Weerheijm, and Nightshift by Returning with an exciting related to a wide variety of Moza Al Hail, are students in portion of the first-ever hybrid Ajyal Film Festival programme Karim Shaaban. selection of 16 DFI-supported topics, including public health,” the six-year medical program edition of the Ajyal Film Fes- presented at VOX Cinemas, Screening at 5.30pm on short form narratives and doc- said Head of Academic and at WCM-Q. tival, audiences are invited to Doha Festival City are divided November 23, the second part umentaries from emerging Journals Publishing at HBKU Together with Dr. Yousef enjoy transformative cinematic into two parts. The first part of of the programme which is Qatari talents and those who Press, Dr. Rima Isaifan. and QMIC, who provided data experiences in a safe envi- the programme will screen on open to over 18 audiences fea- call Qatar home, Made in Qatar “By publishing articles sharing, technical support, and ronment that follows health Sunday at 8.30pm and is open tures How My Grandmother will screen at VOX Cinemas in about topical issues without institutional expertise to the guidelines set by the gov- to over 18 audiences. They Became a Chair, David by Zach two parts. Programme 1 will barriers to subscriptions and in team of researchers, the full ernment. All feature films and include Apfelmus by Alexander Woods, The Present by Farah screen at 2.30pm on Friday fol- open access journals like details of the study and results short film programmes are Gratzer, I am Afraid to Forget Nabulsi, The Best Orchestra in lowed by Programme 2 QScience Connect, local were published in an article priced at QR60 for regular Your Face by Sameh Alaa, the World by Henning screening at 5.30pm on Sunday. researchers are provided a titled, Real-time air pollution seating and QR90 for premium Family Plot by Shuichi Okita, Backhaus, The School Bus by For a full listing of global platform to reach inter- (PM2.5) measurements in Edu- seating. Mascot by Kim Leeha, We Have Ramazan Kılıç, The Visit by screenings and to buy tickets national audiences and local cation City, Doha, Qatar: Eval- Feature films from the 2020 One Heart by Katarzyna Azadeh Moussavi, and Napo by now, visit the VOX Cinemas research is made available on uating data from two different Ajyal Film Festival programme Warzecha, En Route by Marit Gustavo Ribeiro. website. global indexing services. In this photometric monitors. DOHA TODAY

06 MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020 ‘Plant Million Tree’ initiative receives great response

SANAULLAH ATAULLAH THE PENINSULA

Plant Million Tree, an initiative of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), is receiving a great response from community members, schools and sport clubs since the favorable weather for cultivation has boosted the initiative. Under the initiative, a number of trees were planted at Doha Golf Club yesterday in the presence and participation of officials from Public Parks Department and the Club. The members of Al Rayan Sport Club also recently planted local trees in Al Rayan Public Park. The event was organised by the Public Parks Department at MME in cooperation with Al Rayan Sport Club. A number of players from Al Rayan Sport Club planted trees in the park. The event was attended by Director of Public Officials of MME and players of Al Rayan Sport Club plant a tree in Al Rayan Park as part of the initiative. Parks Department, Mohamad Ali Al Khori. corporate sector, schools, educa- Another similar event was also tional entities, youth centers, sport organised by Public Parks clubs, and all citizens and Department in coordination with expatriates. Qatar Chess Federation in Lahu- Interested people including waila Public Park at Madinat Khalifa individuals, companies and organ- Al Janubia. The members and isations can register in the initiative players of Qatar Chess Federation through financial or in-kind led by President of Federation support or scientific contribution, Mohamad Ahmad Al Mudahaka via e-mail – the Ministry’s Appli- planted a number of trees in the cation on smartphones – the Initi- park. ative Section at any mall. Students of Al Bayan School plant Sidr tree in the A large number of school stu- The initiative focuses on campus under the initiative. dents are also participating in Plant planting and cultivating seedlings Million Tree initiative. Thirty stu- from the Qatari environment, dents from Omar Bin Al Khattab including Sidr, Ghaf, Samar and Secondary School for Boys, Hamza many more in various locations Bin Abdul Muttalib Preparatory chosen for this purpose, such as the School for Boys, Joaan Primary main road sites– the ring roads in School for Boys and Ayman Sec- Officials of MME and Doha Golf Club planting a tree in the Club as part Doha – Al Majd road – Al Shamal ondary School for Girls participated of the initiative. Road - Al Khor Coastal Road, indus- in a campaign which was launched trial cities, sewage plants, treatment recently under the initiative. was launched by the Ministry of The Initiative, launched on the units and storage, rainwater har- A total of 52 Sidr trees were cul- Municipality and Environment, sidelines of Qatar’s First Interna- vesting sites, cities and municipal tivated in Water Box, a water con- under the State of Qatar’s com- tional Environmental Exhibition in strips, public parks, schools, and servation technique to ensure the mitment to Paris Agreement, as March 2019, aims at promoting bio- residential complexes. sustainability by saving the trees have special significance in diversity, taking advantage of The Ministry of Municipality resources. the environmental system and treated water for irrigation, and Environment had launched a The campaign was launched by reflect to the human health and life- improving air quality of the country dedicated website https://www. Ultra-modern operating Nursery Section of Public Parks style, and within the context of and increasing the green patch in mme.gov.qa/static/million-tree/ to Department and Al Rayan Munic- enhancing their initiatives on lim- a bid to reduce gas emissions. boost the initiative ‘Plant Million theaters ipality to cultivate Sidr trees in Ain iting the effects of climate change The initiative is open to all com- Tree’ where people can contribute Khalid. and environmental sustainability munities, institutions, govern- to the Initiative with different seed- #Plant_Million_Tree Initiative efforts. mental agencies, private sector, lings and pay online. Ajyal fest presents optimistic take on plastic pollution THE PENINSULA - DOHA

The 8th Ajyal Film Festival, presented by Doha Film Institute (DFI), virtually hosted two acclaimed directors associated with Micro- plastic Madness, offering a hopeful ‘take State-of-the-art ambulance action’ message on global pollution told fleet through the voice of youth. Making its MENA premiere and screening in the Mohaq category for jurors aged 8 to 12 at Ajyal, Microplastic Madness (USA/2019) is the story of go-getting fifth grade students from Brooklyn, USA who become citizen scientists, community leaders, and advocates as they dil- igently collect environmental data, lead com- munity outreach programmes, and use their impressive research to inform public policy. At an online press briefing, Debby Lee Cohen, director and plastic-free activist, said: “With Ajyal, having a youth jury for a youth- made film is a huge honour and truly unique. Everything started from amidst the com- munity, from children who started looking at A screenshot from the film “Microplastic Madness”. Highly-advanced patient their own neighbourhoods and homes to information systems understand how the issue of pollution con- Greenpoint Film Festival 2020, the film about the journey of waste and microplastic nects all of us.” extends an alarming, yet charming narrative, pollution to work towards zero waste schools Responding to the increased use of single- told through stop-motion animation, heartfelt and to inspire change on a global scale.” use plastic during the pandemic, Cohen said: kid commentary, and interviews of experts Microplastic Madness makes light of a topic “In the process of making change, it’s always and renowned scientists who are engaged in of universal relevance, while highlighting the two steps forward and one step back. Despite the most cutting-edge research on the harmful increasing importance of youth voices as this, we hope that the film brings greater effects of microplastics. global citizens, community advocates and awareness for people to look at their own con- Co-director and producer, Atsuko Quirk, future leaders. All 56 fifth graders from P.S. sumption and make a change - and to take spoke about the community school programme 15 in Red Hook, Brooklyn who feature in the the next step and think about how we can lead that inspired the film: “The story originated film live on the frontline of the climate crisis, a deeper, systemic action.” from our New York City-based non-profit, Caf- and their voices have the power to inspire Winner of the Grand Jury Award at eteria Culture, which aims to teach children audiences of all ages.

Olive International School Cutting-edge treatments for celebrates Diwali, Children’s cancer Day at Al Thumama campus At Hamad Medical Corporation we THE PENINSULA - DOHA are utilizing advanced technology and innovative systems to deliver the highest Olive International School, celebrated Diwali and Children’s quality care to Qatar’s population. Day with great glory and splendour on Thursday, at its Al Thumama Campus. Diwali, the Indian festival of lights, was celebrated adding on to the fun and gaiety of Children’s Day. www.hamad.qa The programme was streamed on a virtual platform with the mind-blowing song and dance performance by the won- derful students and also the Fancy Dress performed by stu- dents of Grade 1 of the campus. The event was marked by words of enlightenment delivered by school Principal, Jackson MV, and Acting Vice- Principal Anupama Sajith. MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020 DOHA TODAY 07 Researchers at QU work to make extracting oil & gas efficient

THE PENINSULA – DOHA The team is working on Qatar University’s (QU) developing a protocol for researchers, in collaboration with injecting the polymeric gel. the University of Oklahoma in the Dr. Hussein is also working United States, developed a poly- meric gel that injects into leaky on making the formula rock fractures to prevent loss of more environmentally Officials from MADLSA and members of Nepalese community drilling fluids, seals fractures, and friendly, an essential during an awareness session on the new laws. shuts-off water in oil and gas element in today’s world. reservoirs. The discovery could Lead Principal Investigator Nepalese community in Qatar of the project Dr. Ibnelwaleed Ali significantly elevate the Hussein, a Research Professor at drilling process as it briefed on new labour laws Qatar University who also works outperforms the gels in the University’s Gas Processing currently available. THE PENINSULA – DOHA and Community Liaison Officer Center says the gel is unique in of the Ministry, conveyed the that it includes functionalized The Non-Resident Nepalese gratitude of Mohammed sand particles, which gives the Association (NRNA) – National Hassan Al Obaidly, Assistant formula strength. The gel, which building by developing the tech- Coordinating Council in Qatar Undersecretary for Labor is liquid at room temperature, nology of young researchers and successfully conducted an Affairs at MADLSA, for knowing hardens in the rock, where tem- students inside Qatar by awareness session on the new the consistent mutual support peratures and pressures are involving them in these state-of- laws on changing employers and cooperation between the higher, making it a reliable the-art research projects.” and Qatar’s national minimum Ministry and the Nepalese solution against leakages. On how the extraction is safer wage. community. Working under Dr. Hussein’s and cost-efficient, Dr. Hussein The session was conducted The Labour Counsellor of guidance is Co-Supervisor Dr. said: “In all research projects, we recently with 15 Nepalese com- the Embassy of Nepal, Krishna Mustafa Nasser, master’s student follow standard measurements munity leaders participating in Prasad Khanal, also partici- Mohamed Shamlooh, QU Lead Principal Investigator of the project Dr. Ibnelwaleed Ali and safety limits of the petroleum person, and about 55 partici- pated in person. He voiced the Research Assistant Ahmed Hussein, a Research Professor at Qatar University. industry such as American pated online. This programme satisfaction of the Embassy of Hamza, Professor Saeed Salehi, Petroleum Institute (API) limits is in line with the objective of Nepal in the State of Qatar and his Ph.D. student Musaab- Dr. Hussein said: “My research for controlling water outbreaks to assure safe application of the NRNA to bring labour edu- regarding the ongoing labor Magzoub from Oklahoma Uni- mainly addresses the challenges from oil and gas reservoirs and research outputs. Moreover, cation and information to the reforms that the government versity. Together, the team is facing the petroleum industry reducing the loss of fluids in the available local materials such as Nepalese community in Qatar. is implementing. working on developing a pro- such as enhancing oil and gas fractures during drilling,” he waste materials of other indus- Head of the Transfer of NRNA – Qatar NCC Pres- tocol for injecting the gel. Dr. recovery, reducing high water added. tries are utilized in our projects Employment Section, Yousif Ali ident Mohammad Muktda Hussein is also working on production, corrosion, and scale Discussing the benefits of the to minimize the cost and provide Abdulnur; Head of Inspection Musalman expressed his making the formula more envi- removal and prevention. These project, Dr. Hussein said, “The oil a cheaper alternative for the cur- Section, Mohammad Saeed Al appreciation for the Ministry’s ronmentally friendly, an essential problems affect the productivity and gas industry is a vital sector rently used materials in the oil Marri, and Head of the Labor efforts to include the Nepalese element in today’s world. of the oil and gas wells and the for Qatar’s economy to achieve and gas fields. Besides, some of Information Awareness Team, community in the Ministry’s The discovery could signifi- safety of the workplace. Cur- the 2030 vision. Our research the current field treatments are Ali Khalaf at the Ministry of programmes to protect and cantly elevate the drilling process rently, we are working on dif- group aims for environmentally either expensive or not green, Administrative Development, promote the rights and as it outperforms the gels cur- ferent projects funded by the friendly and economical treat- and our newly developed green Labor and Social Affairs welfare of migrant workers in rently available on the market. Qatar National Research Fund ments that can reduce the overall materials will have a less neg- (MADLSA) attended as guest Qatar. The team is also signing an MoU (QNRF) on the development of cost of oil and gas production. We ative environmental impact.” speakers during the awareness The session provided an with a local company to com- green materials for the removal collaborate with the service com- Mainly Qatar National session. opportunity for Nepalese com- mercialize the product for use. of scales from gas wells and panies to localize the production Research Fund (QNRF) and Qatar Ali Khalaf emphasised munity leaders to discuss infor- Dr. Hussein says, “Oil and gas are another project on the utilization of these green materials in Qatar University are funding the during the session that “we are mation and issues with the at the heart of the economy, and of carbon dioxide in enhancing to assure a continuous supply, research projects. The here for you, and you can Ministry’s representatives con- this research will promote the gas recovery in depleted gas which is the objective of researchers also receive some approach us anytime to cerning the new laws on knowledge and technology in this reservoirs along with its “Tawteen” program supported external funding from the local respond to the needs and con- changing employers and the area – any development in this sequestration.” by Qatar petroleum. From a industrial partners who show cerns of your constituents.” national minimum wage and area will be good for the country.” “In addition, we have a social point of view, our research interest in their research Marco Ferrer, a represent- other issues of interest for both Talking about his research, project on developing materials projects focus on capacity activities. ative of the global union BWI workers and employers. Georgetown World Cup lecture to focus on Qatar’s football history THE PENINSULA – DOHA From First Games on Sand to will host global football fans implications of staging the numerous books, short Hosting the World as Asian in 2022. So to gain a full world’s greatest sporting stories, and articles, including Long before Qatar made Champions,” which will be understanding of this devel- event on Qatar’s social, “Journeys on a Football history with its winning bid held today at 6 pm Doha opment, it is important to political, and economic Carpet,” published by HBKU to host the World Cup in time. look at the history and where development as on regional in 2019 and won awards at 2022, football played an In the talk, the Doha- this rapid development and and global affairs. the 2020 International Book important role in national born journalist and author incredible sports vision has Dr. Reiche, who will be Awards and the 2020 Living sports and society. will debunk the miscon- come from,” said Dr. Krug. moderating the event, said: “I Now Book Awards. To introduce this rich but ception that Qatar is new to This lecture is part of the hope that the audience learns “I was inspired to write largely unknown history to the world of football by Building a Legacy: Qatar FIFA that football is not a sport new the first book about Qatar’s new audiences, QF-partner telling the fascinating inside World Cup 2022 research ini- to Qatar and is, as in most parts football history not only to Georgetown University in story of the country’s most tiative at GU-Q’s Center for of the world, the leading sport relate some of my family’s Qatar (GU-Q) is hosting cherished football and International and Regional in the country. And that Qatar’s very personal experiences award-winning academic sporting moments and Studies (CIRS). football history does not start but to document the experi- and author Dr. Matthias Krug players over the past six Under the guidance of with the awarding of the ences of a nation and the for a World Cup Lecture decades. GU-Q Visiting Associate Pro- World Cup 2022 in December inspiring people who helped Series public webinar titled “Qatar has become a fessor Dr. Danyel Reiche, the 2010 to Qatar.” to shape those journeys on “Qatar’s Football Journey: capital of world sports which project seeks to examine the Dr. Krug has written the sporting fields,” he said. Dr. Matthias Krug THROUGH THE LENS MES celebrates Children’s Day THE PENINSULA – DOHA Nehru’; for Class IV, Book Mark Stunning murals fashioned Making on ‘Famous quotes of by the creative hands and MES Indian School recently Nehru’, while Class V students minds of local artists, marked Children’s Day celebra- had ‘Talking Time’ on ‘Life of which adorn the walls tions with traditional gaiety and Chacha Nehru.’ of the basement parking fanfare, highlighting the impor- Class VI had a poem reci- space of Katara Building tance of caring, loving, and tation on ‘A Tribute to Chacha 48, are a pleasant surprise affection for children. Section- Nehru’, Class VII students had a to every art lover who is wise, special assemblies were speech contest on ‘Children of always on the lookout for conducted on zoom platform today Make a Nation of fresh artwork. These public emphasizing the birth anni- Tomorrow’, Class VIII had essay artworks are breathtaking versary of Jawaharlal Nehru, the writing on ‘Commemorating with the out-of-the-box first Prime Minister of free India Chacha Nehru, ‘students of concepts and brilliant who was also fondly remem- Classes IX and X had a humorous styles employed by each bered as ‘Chacha Nehru’ for his speech on ‘We may lie, but our of their creators. They are love for children. faces don’t’ and for Classes XI part of Katara’s initiative Various offline literary and XII, a speech on ‘How can to promote local art and events were organized for the humour make life less stressful?’. motivate Qatari artists students of Grade I to XII. Stu- Congratulating the winners to produce more unique dents delivered speeches paying and the contestants for their par- artworks, reflecting tribute to Pandit Jawaharlal ticipation and contributions, the Katara’s commitment to Nehru. Students of Class I had school principal, Hameeda supporting homegrown Drawing and Colouring compe- Kadar, urged the students to artists and the country’s tition on ‘RedRose For Chacha uphold universal brotherhood, burgeoning art scene. Nehru’; for Classes II and III develop leadership qualities and Chart Making competition on the follow the ideals of ‘Chacha’ PICS: QASSIM RAHMATULLAH/ topic ‘We Love You, Chacha Nehru. THE PENINSULA

MES Indian School students participate in Children's Day activities. 08 VIEWS MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020

Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI [email protected]

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI [email protected]

Protesters scuffle with police during a demonstration of anti-mask supporters against government restrictions over the COVID-19 EDITORIAL pandemic, in Rome yesterday. Protect yourself, protect everyone Social unrest is the inevitable

AS part of the fourth phase of the gradual and con- trolled lifting of restrictions imposed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the government allowed reopening legacy of the COVID-19 pandemic of business and institutions including schools, univer- sities, mosques, museums, malls, gyms, restaurants punishments, people were Israelis, for example, pro- with the outbreak. and other facilities but with adherence to certain health taking to the streets. The year tested against Prime Minister In April I predicted that restrictions. was 1625, the place was Benjamin Netanyahu after he “this pandemic will lead to Easing of preventive measures taken to curb the spread London, the disease was plague. shut down courts, adjourned social revolutions.” What of COVID-19 has also allowed flights to and from Qatar The same psychology parliament and demanded we’ve seen so far is only the while COVID-19 testing and quarantine requirements are brought some 20,000 people digital surveillance, all in the start. Despite new hopes for a in place for individuals entering Qatar in particular for trav- out on the streets of Leipzig name of fighting the pan- vaccine, COVID-19 will now ellers from countries indicated in the green list. Fortunately ANDREAS KLUTH last Saturday. Flouting all demic. Serbians took to the enter its deadliest phase in this is happening here in Qatar at the time when many BLOOMBERG rules, about 90% of the streets against their president, many regions entering winter. countries are re-imposing the health restrictions and com- marchers refused to wear Aleksandar Vucic. He had Even after we defeat the virus, plete lockdown for certain periods of time. Relaxing health “So when our Sickness, and masks, according to police lifted a lockdown to allow an many of its effects will linger restrictions and reopening businesses and facilities does our Poverty Had greater estimates. They represented a election that was in his for years. not mean that preventative measures will not continue, wants than we could well motley spectrum of conspiracy interest but ultimately con- Like turpentine on flames, rather to avoid another wave of infection, health author- supply; Strict Orders did but theorists and freedom lovers, tributed to a resurgence of the COVID-19 has rekindled older ities are continuously emphasising strict adherence to the more enrage our grief, And of right-wing extremists and virus. He then imposed a divisions, resentments and precautionary measures to prevent the spread of hinder in accomplishing those simply nostalgic for East second lockdown, which inequities across the world. In COVID-19. relief.” Germany’s peaceful revolution Serbs interpreted as a the US, Black Amer- The preventive measures were timely, proportionate That’s how the British poet 31 years ago. crackdown on dissent. icans suffer disproportion- and effective in lowering number of deaths. Also there is George Wither explained a And this was only the A third type of protest is ately from police brutality, provision of sufficient healthcare facilities to treat infected spreading rebellion against latest of many such demon- more common in poor coun- but also from the coronavirus individuals. Unfortunately, it has been noted that many of social-distancing rules. Seeing strations this year, in tries. It mobilizes people not - now these traumas merge. the society members are failing to comply with Cabinet quarantines and lockdowns as Germany and dozens of other so much because they worry And everywhere, the poor decision and Law No. 17 of 1990 regarding infectious dis- unfair and tyrannical countries. People have about the virus or democracy fare worse than the rich. eases, and also neglecting preventive and precautionary marched, rioted or protested but because they fear for their In March, still early in the measures in place to limit the spread of the virus. Like turpentine on from Trafalgar Square to the livelihood. In Malawi, street pandemic, think tankers were Therefore, within the last few days hundreds of flames, COVID-19 Michigan Statehouse, some- vendors have marched with already noticing that we were people have been referred to the Public Prosecution, has rekindled older times armed with guns. The signs saying “We’d rather die entering an “age of mass pro- by the competent authorities for not complying with Carnegie Endowment for of corona than of hunger.” tests” - the number of wearing masks in places where it is mandatory. divisions, resentments International Peace has The citizens of Ecuador have uprisings globally has been The experience of COVID-19 for over nine months and inequities counted more than 30 major rioted against coronavirus increasing by an average of has proved that individuals have a key role to play protests in 26 countries policies that threaten to 11.5% a year since 2009. against the spread of the virus through full adherence across the world. between March and October impoverish them, including COVID-19, like so many other to health instructions and fulfilling basic health require- In the US, Black just against coronavirus the shutdown of state-owned plagues before, will now act ments which are essential to curb the spread of the Americans suffer restrictions. companies and salary cuts. as the fire accelerant. virus. These include taking care and apply simple, pre- But the protests in Leipzig And then there are the Some upheavals will topple ventive measures such as wearing a face mask in disproportionately or Michigan, Britain or Aus- many protests that ostensibly governments, others will be public, washing hands or using sanitizers and keeping from police brutality, tralia, only represent one cat- have little to do with repressed. Some will flare up distances. egory of unrest, reckon Carn- COVID-19 but probably soon, others will smolder for Health officials have assured the society that the State but also from the egie’s Thomas Carothers and became more urgent or bitter years. In 1381, the rural poor of of Qatar will be among the first to get the COVID-19 coronavirus - now Benjamin Press. These rallies in the pandemic’s context. England rose up in the so- vaccine within the coming few months, people are these traumas merge. vent the frustrations of rela- Black Lives Matter is an called Peasants’ Revolt, killing, required to adhere to the precautionary and preventive tively well-off people living in uprising against racial looting and burning. They did decisions in force to protect themselves and others from And everywhere, the prosperous and functional injustice that re-started in the so because their lives had the coronavirus pandemic. Qatar has been praised for poor fare worse than democracies. US after the murder of George become unlivable since the its response to the pandemic including aggressive testing In a different category, Floyd. It then spread to at Black Death first came ashore and contact tracing and efficiency in containing small the rich. there are the many protests least 16 other countries, from 33 years earlier. And the elites cluster outbreaks, but carelessness and failure to respect against governments or leaders and Britain to Brazil had done nothing in that time laws and preventive measures by some people may be suspected of being corrupt and South Africa. In history to make things better. the reason behind daily cases hovering around 150 in (Bulgaria, say), incompetent books, the iconography of Andreas Kluth is a col- recent weeks. (Brazil) or demagogic, illiberal mask-clad crowds will umnist for Bloomberg and even undemocratic. forever invite associations Opinion. Companies must strive to reform and develop businesses amid pandemic D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR JAPAN NEWS-YOMIURI EMAIL: [email protected] in March 2021, only a 20% year- caused by the novel corona- numbers. The tourism on-year decline is said to be virus pandemic have been industry is also suffering from There are signs of a turna- expected. Noteworthy is the turned into opportunities by a sharp drop in demand for EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 round in corporate earnings, rebound in the manufacturing many companies. travel. With no end in sight to FAX: +974 4455 7758 which have been adversely industry due to the recovery of Sony Corp. posted record the coronavirus crisis, struc- impacted by the novel coro- overseas markets such as China. profits for the first half of the tural reforms in these indus- MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 navirus pandemic. However, In the auto industry, a business year to September tries are urgently needed. there is also a clear polari- number of companies raised thanks to brisk performance ANA Holdings Inc. plans to DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 zation. Companies that are their earnings forecasts for in its game business and cut its employees’ annual sal- suffering must overcome their the business year ending in music streaming. Nintendo aries by about 30%. The parent LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 difficulties by reforming and March 2021. The turnaround Co., whose “Animal Crossing: company of leading tourism creating new businesses. of a core industry that has a New Horizons” game has company KNT Co. has BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 The announcement of trickle-down effect to other gained worldwide popularity, announced that it will cut a half-year business results to industries is positive news. also logged record profits. third of the group’s employees SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 September by companies Toyota Motor Corp. raised Nissin Food Holdings Co., through voluntary retirements listed on the Tokyo Stock its net profit estimate from 730 which posted record profits and other measures. ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 Exchange has passed its peak. billion yen to 1.42 trillion yen. with strong sales of its instant In addition to restruc- email: [email protected] The combined net profits of In addition to a recovery in noodles, said it aims to further turing, it is also important to the 1,217 companies listed on overseas sales, steady efforts boost its earnings by selling develop new businesses. PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 the First Section of the Tokyo to improve efficiency will also products aimed at health con- ANA is considering new email: [email protected] Stock Exchange, excluding the have an impact. Honda Motor scious consumers. business such as offering financial sector, fell about Co. revised up its forecast for A management strategy travel products online by uti- ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 40% from a year earlier. the business year ending in that accurately meets con- lizing customer data collected FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] The situation has picked up March 2021 to 390bn yen. sumer needs is essential. through mileage programs since the April-June quarter, in It is expected that the situ- On the other hand, all and other services. In the res- CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 which net profits fell by about ation will have a ripple effect Japan Railways companies taurant industry, some com- email: [email protected] 60% due to the declaration of a on their business partners and airline operators posted panies are rapidly expanding state of emergency and other such as parts suppliers. record losses, hit hard by their home delivery and SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 factors. For the full year ending Changes in lifestyles declines in passenger takeout sales. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

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+974 6698 6188 Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Prime Minister of Vietnam MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 09 Israel to build new settlement units in East Jerusalem

AP — JERUSALEM denounced Pompeo’s planned visit. Palestinian Prime Minister A settlement watchdog group The group, Peace Now, tweeted said yesterday Israel is moving said the Israel Land on Friday that this was a “dan- ahead with new construction of Authority announced on gerous precedent” that legalizes hundreds of homes in a strategic its website yesterday settlements. east Jerusalem settlement that that it had opened up Brian Reeves, a spokesman threatens to cut off parts of the for Peace Now, said the move city claimed by Palestinians from tenders for more than yesterday allows contractors to the West Bank. 1,200 new homes in the begin bidding on the tenders, a The group, Peace Now, said key settlement of Givat process that will conclude just the Israel Land Authority Hamatos in East days before Biden’s inaugu- announced on its website yes- Jerusalem. ration. Construction could then terday that it had opened up begin within months. tenders for more than 1,200 new “This is a lethal blow to the homes in the key settlement of prospects for peace,” Peace Now Givat Hamatos in East Bethlehem and the southern said in a statement, adding that Jerusalem. West Bank from east Jerusalem, Israel was “taking advantage of The move may test ties with further cutting off access for the the final weeks of the Trump the incoming administration of Palestinians to that part of the administration in order to set President-elect Joe Biden, who city. facts on the ground that will be is expected to take a firmer tack “This is a continuation of the exceedingly hard to undo in against Israeli settlement current Israeli government order to achieve peace.” The Pal- expansion after four years of a policy in destroying the two- estinians seek the West Bank, A view of Givat Hamatos, an area near East Jerusalem, yesterday. more lenient policy under Pres- state solution,” said Nabil Abu along with the Gaza Strip and ident Donald Trump, who has Rdeneh, a spokesman to Pales- east Jerusalem — areas Israel largely turned a blind eye to set- tinian President Mahmoud captured in the 1967 Mideast war the separation barrier. Israel has position that viewed settlements approving thousands of new set- tlement construction. Abbas. — for their future state. With previously moved forward on as illegitimate and an obstacle tlement homes during his term, The approval of the 1,200 Yesterday’s development nearly 500,000 settlers now plans to build in E1, another sen- to peace with the Palestinians. including in highly contested homes is a further setback to comes as Secretary of State Mike living in the West Bank, and over sitive area east of Jerusalem that Under previous administra- areas. Many of those plans are dwindling hopes of an interna- Pompeo is set to travel to the 220,000 more in east Jerusalem, critics say, with Givat Hamatos, tions, Israel held back on expected to break ground after tionally backed partition deal region this week, where he is the Palestinians say the chances would block east Jerusalem off building plans in the most sen- Biden assumes the presidency. that would enable the estab- expected to visit an Israeli set- of establishing their state are entirely from the West Bank. sitive areas, including Givat With the Trump adminis- lishment of a Palestinian state tlement in the West Bank — a quickly dwindling. After four years of Trump, Hamatos, amid opposition by tration in its final weeks in office, alongside Israel. stop previous US secretaries of Israel views the entire city of whose policies were hugely both Washington and the inter- Israel may be aiming to push The Palestinians along with state have avoided. Pales- Jerusalem as its eternal, undi- favourable toward Israel and national community, which saw ahead on contentious projects critics of Israel’s settlement tinian officials, who have cut vided capital. who shrugged at settlement such plans as dashing hopes for before Biden’s term starts, a policy say construction in the off ties with the Trump Much of Jerusalem is already building, Israel faces a new a contiguous Palestinian state. move that could set it on the Givat Hamatos settlement would administration over its pol- blocked off from the West Bank reality under Biden, who will But Israel has been wrong foot with the new seal off the Palestinian city of icies in favour of Israel, have by a series of checkpoints and likely restore the previous US emboldened under Trump, president. Israel strikes key Hamas positions in Gaza Strip Algerian President ends AFP — GAZA CITY “The IDF is conducting an military spokeswoman was The strike from Gaza — ongoing situational unable to confirm the reports. which has not been claimed COVID-19 treatment Israel’s military said it struck assessment & remains pre- Speaking at the opening — comes days after the anni- Hamas positions yesterday pared to operate against any of his weekly cabinet meeting versary of the assassination — ALGIERS morning following a rocket terror activity,” they added. on Sunday afternoon, Prime of senior Islamic Jihad leader attack from the Gaza Strip An army source said in a Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Baha Abu Al-Ata, killed in a Algerian President Abdelmadjid overnight. WhatsApp message that said Israel would not tolerate strike on his home in Gaza Tebboune has finished treatment Two rockets were fired fighter jets, helicopters and such attacks. City on November 12 last year. for COVID-19 but will undergo into southern Israel from tanks were deployed. “I’m warning the terror Ahead of the anniversary, follow-up checks, the presidency Gaza late Saturday, the Israeli Security sources in Gaza organisations in Gaza, even the Israeli military were said yesterday. army said, although there said there were a number of during the coronavirus crisis reportedly on high alert Tebboune, 75, was flown to were no immediate reports of strikes overnight, including -- don’t try us,” he said in within the Gaza Strip, where a German hospital 19 days ago any casualties or damage. in Khan Younes, Rafah and remarks relayed by his office. roughly two million Pales- after he tested positive for the The Israeli Defence Forces Beit Hanoun, without “I never elaborate on our tinians live. coronavirus. (IDF) tweeted they had reporting any casualties. operational plans, but I’m Sources close to Hamas Tebboune was elected last “struck Hamas underground Israeli media said the telling you — the price of con- indicated officials from the December after more than a year Algerian President Abdelmadjid infrastructure & military posts rockets from Gaza came down tinued aggression will be movement were expected in of mass protests that toppled his Tebboune in Gaza”. in uninhabited areas, but a heavy, very heavy.” later yesterday. predecessor Abdelaziz Boute- flika. He has vowed to carry our political and economic reforms keeping missions overseas. Total virus in the OPEC member nation. Tebboune has also Algerians earlier this month announced plans to develop the cases in Oman approved changes to the consti- non-energy sector to diversify tution to allow more powers for the economy away from oil and reach 120,389 the parliament and prime min- gas and create sorely-needed siter, and pave the way for the jobs in the North African nation QNA — MUSCAT army to take part in peace- of 44 million people.

The Omani Ministry of Health announced yesterday that the total reported cases of coro- ’s top private media navirus (COVID-19) in the Sultanate has reached 120,389. group chief jailed for 5 years The total number of deaths due to COVID-19 climbed to AFP — ALGIERS is Mohamed Mokaddem, was 13,38, while the recoveries arrested in February on stood at 111,096, bringing the The head of Algeria’s top offences including “breach of recoveries up by 92.3 percent, private media group was jailed exchange regulations”, the Ministry said in a statement for five years yesterday, the “blackmail to gain undue carried by Oman News company said, the toughest advantage” and “holding Agency. sentence handed to a press foreign bank accounts”, The Ministry also said that mogul in the North African according to several Algerian 26 cases were hospitalised country. private media outlets. over the past 24 hours, adding Anis Rahmani, chief of the He has admitted to that the total number of Ennahar group, is the latest recording the conversation but current hospitalised COVID-19 Preparing dates for exports figure close to the clan of denied any criminal wrong- patients stands at 300, of them former president Abdelaziz doing. Established in 2012, 138 are in intensive care units Bouteflika to be handed a Ennahar TV broadcasts Iraqi women workers prepare dates to be exported and sold in the local markets, at a warehouse (ICU). Meanwhile, the Omani heavy penal sentence. nationwide and claims to be in Kerbala, Iraq. Ministry of Endowments and He was accused of “the first news channel in Religious Affairs today reo- recording and broadcasting a Algeria”. pened more than 700 mosques telephone conversation with a Rahmani’s case follows a in line with a decision by the senior intelligence officer, string of convictions against Supreme Committee tasked ‘One team’: Differently abled duo resulting in a range of charges figures close to Bouteflika, who with tackling developments including “defamation of the quit office in April last year resulting from coronavirus army” and recording commu- amid mass demonstrations and (COVID-19) pandemic. help each other in war-torn Syria nications without consent. pressure from the army, ending “Five years’ prison for Anis two decades in power. Rahmani in the Colonel Ismail The Hirak anti-government Iran pounds rebels AFP — DAMASCUS hear and speak when he was That figure, which is equiv- case,” Ennahar said in a tweet, protest movement had called struck by a sudden illness aged alent to 27 percent of Syria’s pop- adding that he had also been for far-reaching reforms to the in northwestern One is deaf and mute, the other just two years old. ulation, has grown since the 2011 fined 100,000 dinars ($770). ruling system in place since is paralysed from the waist Now the two can often be onset of a conflict that has since Rahmani, whose real name Algeria’s independence. border area down; but together, Ahmad and seen strolling through the killed more than 380,000 Bader form a duo equipped to alleyways of Old Damascus, people. Sixty-two percent of dis- REUTERS — DUBAI handle life in war-torn Syria. loved by residents and shop abled Syrians are unemployed, In an ancient Damascus keepers alike. the United Nations says. Fire damages historic mosque Iranian forces launched an alley, Ahmad pushes Bader along Bader, of Moroccan descent In central Damascus, Ahmad artillery barrage on armed in a wheelchair on one of their but who has lived his entire life helps Bader climb into a taxi that on Istanbul’s Bosporus Strait rebels in a northwestern border near-daily strolls. in Damascus, has become an will take them to their weekly AP — ISTANBUL area on Saturday, a day after The two friends have known interpreter for Ahmad, after basketball session. Istanbul’s Fire Department three Iranian border guards each other for three years, and learning from him how to com- Inside the stadium, Ahmad tweeted the fire had been extin- were killed in the remote region both say that neither can imagine municate in sign language. steadies a sports wheelchair as A historic wooden mosque in guished and cooling efforts were where the borders of Iran, Iraq life without the other. He fills Ahmad in on conver- Bader hops on. The two pass the Istanbul caught on fire ongoing. The firefighters pre- and Turkey meet, Iranian state “We are one team,” 28-year- sations and events happening ball to each other as they glide yesterday and Turkish fire- vented the fire from reaching a media reported. old Bader said. around them, and translates for across the court. fighters put out the blaze, forest behind the mosque and The Revolutionary Guards “My ears are his, and his legs him when they are in a cafe or In his wheelchair near the working from both land and sea. the neighbouring houses that said its ground forces targeted mine.” In 2012, Bader Al Haj- inside a taxi. hoop, Bader catches a fast side The Vanikoy Mosque, built line the Bosporus. They were positions of “counter-revolu- jami’s spinal cord was hit by a “We spend most of our time pass and shoots —the basketball in the 17th century during the aided by the coast guard. tionary terrorist groups on the piece of shrapnel, leaving him with each other, eating and swishing through the net. reign of Ottoman Sultan IV The mosque is a wooden other side of the northwestern paralysed in both legs. playing” cards, Bader said. “I “Deaf people live in their Mehmed, is located on the Asian structure with a single minaret. borders of our country”, He said the wheelchair was cannot imagine life without him.” own isolated world, and the same side of Istanbul along the The cause of the fire was not yet inflicting heavy losses and cas- his only friend, until he met Ahmad and Bader are among applies to blind people and Bosporus Strait. Videos showed determined and the city’s gov- ualties, Iran’s state news agency Ahmad Moussa two years later. 3.7 million disabled people in people in wheelchairs,” Ahmad heavy smoke pouring from the ernor said an investigation had IRNA reported. Ahmad, 24, lost his ability to Syria. sid, with Bader’s help. structure. been launched. 10 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020 Tigray leader confirms rocket strikes at Eritrea REUTERS — ADDIS ABABA Prime Minister that at least three rockets were Abiy Ahmed fired at Eritrea’s capital from The leader of Ethiopia’s rebel- Ethiopia on Saturday night. At lious Tigray region confirmed tweeted yesterday least two of the rockets hit yesterday that his forces had that Ethiopia was Asmara airport, three of the fired rockets at the airport in diplomats said. Eritrea’s capital, a major esca- more than capable However, the US Embassy lation that raises fears of a of achieving its in Asmara said in an alert to US wider war in the Horn of Africa objectives in Tigray citizens yesterday that there region. was no indication the airport Accusing neighbouring “by itself”. had been hit. Eritrea of sending tanks and Telephone lines to Eritrea thousands of troops into Tigray Minister Osman Saleh went down following the in support of an Ethiopian gov- Mohammed denied his country reported rocket strikes on Sat- ernment offensive, Debretsion had sent forces into Ethiopia, urday evening. Shortly before Gebremichael said his forces saying: “We are not part of the they lost communications, were under attack “on several conflict.” Asmara residents reported a fronts.” Abiy launched the cam- power blackout and said some “Our country is attacking us paign in Tigray on November 4 people were leaving the city out with a foreign country, Eritrea. after accusing local forces of of fear, a diplomat said. Treason!,” Debretsion said in attacking federal troops based Debretsion said that Eritrea text messages to Reuters, in the northern state, which had deployed 16 divisions to Ethiopian migrants who fled intense fighting in their homeland of Tigray, gather in the border reception without providing further borders Eritrea and Sudan and Ethiopia but did not provide centre of Hamdiyet, in the eastern Sudanese state of Kasala, yesterday. details or evidence of his is home to some 5 million specific troop numbers. Eritrea claims. people. The government has a vast standing army which With access restricted and accuses Tigray’s leaders of the United States’ CIA puts at most communications down in treason and says its military 200,000 personnel. Nearly 25,000 Ethiopians flee to Sudan Tigray, Reuters could not inde- operations are aimed at Tigray’s ruling party, the pendently verify assertions restoring the rule of law. Tigray People’s Liberation AFP — KHARTOUM toured the border region on Sudan has already said it made by all sides about the The conflict has killed hun- Front (TPLF), also accused Abiy Saturday with UN refugee would shelter thousands of conflict. dreds on both sides, sent thou- of using drones from a military Around 25,000 Ethiopians agency assistant representative Ethiopians fleeing the conflict Government officials in sands fleeing into Sudan and base in Eritrea belonging to the fleeing conflict in the Tigray in Sudan Jan Hansmann to at the Um Raquba camp, which Eritrea and the Ethiopian threatens to destabilize other to attack region have crossed into neigh- discuss the influx. in the 1980s hosted thousands capital Addis Ababa could not parts of Ethiopia and the Horn the region. bouring Sudan, state news Hansmann, quoted by of Ethiopian fleeing famine. immediately be reached for of Africa. “Abiy is now enlisting the agency SUNA reported, as the SUNA, said the priority of the Over the past week, comment. Eritrea and Ethiopia fought support of UAE drones based in UN said it was working to find UNHCR was to provide the ref- exhausted refugees have Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed a devastating 1998-2000 war. Assab in his devastating war them shelter. ugees with shelter, food and streamed across the border into tweeted yesterday that Ethiopia Abiy won a Nobel Peace Prize against the people of Tigray,” “The number of Ethiopian water and then to transfer them Sudan after walking for two- was more than capable of in 2019 for making peace with party spokesman Getachew refugees who have arrived in to regions far from the border days through searing heat, achieving its objectives in Ethiopia’ neighbour, but Erit- Reda said in a tweet yesterday. Gadaref and Kassala states “for security reasons”. many of them barefoot. Tigray “by itself”, but did not rea’s government remains Fighting has also spilled into since Saturday has reached He said the UN refugee Suleiman called on the specifically address Debret- hostile to the Tigray leadership Ethiopia’s Amhara state, which 24,944,” the agency said. agency was working to international community to sion’s claims. after their role in that war. has sent troops into Tigray in Sudan’s commissioner for establish new camps in Sudan pitch in with aid for the Last week, Eritrean Foreign Five regional diplomats said support of Abiy. refugees Abdullah Suleiman for the Ethiopians. refugees. Sudan welcomes rebels back to Khartoum as ‘peacemakers’ IS militants claim deadly attack AFP — KHARTOUM leaders of the Sudan Revolu- Rebel leaders also met with number of tricky issues, from 1989 coup that brought him to tionary Front (SRF), a coalition Abdel Fattah Al Burhan, head land ownership, reparations power, and has also been in Burkina Faso Sudan Prime Minister Abdalla of rebel and political groups, of Sudan’s ruling sovereign and compensation, to wealth indicted by the International Hamdok welcomed rebel had come to the capital since council, who hailed them “as and power sharing and the Criminal Court (ICC) accused of AFP — OUAGADOUGOU leaders to the capital Khartoum the signing of an October 3 peacemakers and partners”. return of refugees and inter- genocide in Darfur. yesterday, as crowds celebrated peace agreement in neigh- The SRF — founded in 2011 nally displaced people. Hamdok outlined the eco- The Islamic State on Saturday what they hoped was the end bouring South Sudan. — is an alliance of armed rebel “We have come to put the nomic, and living challenges said it had staged a midweek of war following a landmark Jubilant crowds packed a groups and political movements peace agreement into effect on facing the Sudanese people ambush which killed 14 peace deal. central square in Khartoum, including from Darfur and the the ground,” said SRF member during his meeting with the soldiers in militant-hit Burkina Hundreds of thousands died chanting and carrying banners, southern states of Blue Nile and Minni Minawi, according to rebels. Faso ahead of elections this in decades of conflict, including despite government warnings South Kordofan. state media. “This is the first time in month. in Sudan’s war-ravaged for people to take care amid the The United Nations esti- Under the peace deal, a Sudan’s history we reached a The Islamic State in the western region of Darfur. coronavirus pandemic. mates at least 300,000 people special court for crimes in deal that truly addresses the Greater Sahara said it carried “We have been looking “We feel the Sudanese peo- were killed and 2.5 million were Darfur must be set up, with the roots of the Sudanese crisis,” out the raid, one of the worst forward to this day,” Hamdok ple’s suffering,” said Alhadi displaced in the Darfur conflict, SRF calling for Bashir and his said Hamdok. “I am certain that on troops, in a message carried said as he greeted the leaders, Idris, the head of the SRF rebel which broke out in 2003. former aides to be put on trial. this peace will help alleviate on its Amaq news outlet and according to a broadcast by the coalition. “From today, we will Conflict in South Kordofan Bashir has been jailed in people’s suffering.” carried on social media. official news agency SUNA. be part of the transitional gov- and Blue Nile erupted in 2011, Khartoum’s high security Kober Sudan has been led by a The group said it killed 20 “Today we are taking the ernment, and we will bear the following unresolved issues prison and was found guilty last transitional administration soldiers travelling in a convoy first steps to put an end to the consequences of its policies — from bitter fighting there in December of corruption. since August last year, after the on Wednesday in Tin-Akoff in suffering of our people.” we will be directly responsible Sudan’s 1983-2005 civil war. He is currently on trial in April 2019 ouster of longtime Oudalan province. It was the first time the for rescuing this country.” The peace deal covers a Khartoum for his role in the president Omar Al Bashir. Rival group the Jihadist Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM) had on Friday Polisario mobilising ‘thousands claimed responsibility in social media posts. A government spokesman of volunteers’ in Western Sahara on Thursday put the death toll AFP — ALGIERS Mohamed Salem Ould Salek, at 14 while blaming “armed foreign minister of the terrorist groups.” The attack The Polisario Front said Polisario-declared Sahrawi took place in the country’s yesterday that it was mobilising Arab Democratic Republic north, near the border with “thousands of volunteers” to (SADR), said yesterday. Mali and Niger, and came join its fighters in the disputed “Hundreds of others” are ahead of presidential and leg- Western Sahara, as tensions undergoing training, he said, islative elections on November with remain high. adding that “fighting is esca- 22. Rabat launched a military lating” in the far south of the The latest bout of violence operation on Friday to reopen territory. has seen several candidates, a key highway on the border The claims could not be including incumbent President between the territory and Mau- independently verified. Roch Marc Christian Kabore, ritania which it said was Rabat controls around three suspend campaigning for two blocked by the Polisario Front, quarters of the Western Sahara, days. which seeks independence for a vast swathe of desert on the The unrest will prevent the Western Sahara. Atlantic coast, including its phos- residents of almost 1,500 vil- Moroccan and Mauritanian phate deposits and its lucrative lages out of some 8,000 in the officials said Saturday that ocean fisheries. The Polisario country from taking part in the cargo traffic had resumed along controls the remainder. vote. the road, which is key for trade Morocco maintains that But in September, par- with the rest of Africa. Western Sahara is an integral liament passed a law allowing In response to the oper- part of the kingdom and has the results to be validated even ation, the Polisario declared the offered autonomy for the dis- if polling did not take place end of an almost three-decade puted territory, but insists it will everywhere The Burkinabe UN-supervised ceasefire in retain sovereignty. Safety measures at Tunisia-Libya border armed forces have suffered a Western Sahara. The Polisario, which pro- spate of attacks. Libyan health workers gather at the Ras Jedir border post to disinfect the area, as people from “Thousands of volunteers claimed independence in 1976, In the worst, 24 soldiers neighbouring Tunisia begin to cross over, after the reopening of the post on Saturday. The boder who have completed their demands a referendum on self- were killed at a military base training are preparing to head determination as set out in the reopened after seven months of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic, trapping hundreds of in Koutougou in the north in to the militarised regions,” 1991 ceasefire. Libyans and Tunisians travelling between the two countries. August 2019. Iran President calls for national mobilisation against COVID-19 as cases surge

REUTERS — DUBAI Tehran city council chairman Mohsen Hashemi enter those cities. twenty four hours, a record struggling to curb the spread of warned yesterday that deaths could reach Iranian officials have high, bringing the total cases in the disease. Authorities have Iranian President Hassan repeatedly complained that Iran to 762,068. The ministry refrained from imposing a full- Rouhani yesterday declared 1,000 a day in Tehran in the coming weeks, many people ignore appeals to reported 459 new deaths, blown lockdown amid concerns “the general mobilisation of the Iranian media reported. stay at home and respect health bringing the total to 41,493. that such a step could wreck an nation and the government” to protocols, while Tehran city Leading opposition figure already sanctions-battered confront the third wave of the council chairman Mohsen Mirhossein Mousavi and his economy. coronavirus after health author- aid of the health ministry and restrictions will be imposed in Hashemi warned yesterday that wife Zahra Rahnavard, under The coronavirus crisis has ities announced the highest ever health workers with all possible Tehran and some 100 other deaths could reach 1,000 a day house arrest since 2011, have exacerbated economic problems number of daily cases in the means,” Rouhani said in a cities and towns across the in Tehran in the coming weeks, tested positive for coronavirus, that worsened after US President Middle East’s worst-hit country. statement, published by Iranian country from November 21. Iranian media reported. the opposition website Kalemeh Donald Trump withdrew in 2018 “I call on all governmental state media. Non-essential businesses and The health ministry, cited by reported yesterday. from Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal organisations and other forces The government said on services will be shut and cars state media, reported 12,543 Like many other countries with major powers and reim- and institutions to rush to the Saturday that stricter will not be allowed to leave or new infections in the past in recent weeks, Iran has been posed sanctions. MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020 ASIA 11 India House panel to weigh international water treaties

IANS — NEW DELHI The Parliamentary Standing Committee on the first time after its formation Damor, Heena Vijaykumar of South Asia’s transboundary Water Resources will discuss issues related in the wake of India-China Gavit, K Jayakumar, Kaushal water security. A parliamentary committee will face-off. Kishore, Dhanush M Kumar, Water policies on shared consider India’s international treaties with China, Pakistan, Nepal and Bhutan A total of 21 Lok Sabha and Mohammad Akbar Lone, rivers have far-reaching con- water treaties with neigh- regarding water resource management as well 10 Rajya Sabha members would Kuruva Gorantla Madhav, Shri sequences for India as well as bouring countries next week, discuss the issue and then Hasmukhbhai Somabhai Patel, neighbouring countries because including with China amid less- as flood management in India. The meeting submit the report to Parliament Dipsinh Shankarsinh Rathod, P of shared waterways amid than cordial relations between comes amid less-than cordial relations with on which Indian government Raveendranath Kumar, Nusrat growing populations, climate the two countries in the wake China in the wake of deadly clash in Galwan would take further decisions. Jahan Ruhi, Agatha K Sangma, change and expanding demand of deadly clash between the two The agenda papers Suresh, and Kempegowda Dod- for water. armies in Galwan Valley in Valley in eastern Ladakh in June. regarding the meeting will be daalahalli are among the Lok Following the 2017 Doklam eastern Ladakh in June. circulated to the parliamen- Sabha members on the crisis, China withheld monsoon The committee will discuss tarians in electronic form only committee. data, critical for flood man- issues related to similar treaties will be put forth. in the country, including inter- on e-portal and the MPs have The Rajya Sabha members agement in northeast India, with Pakistan, Nepal and A Parliament source privy national water treaties in the been requested to make it con- include Balwinder Singh thereby violating terms of a Bhutan regarding water to the development said that the field of water resource man- venient to attend the sitting of Bhunder, Harshvardhan Singh Memorandum of Understanding resource management as well committee will take up issues agement/flood control with the committee. Dungarpur, NR Elango, Mir (MoU). Later in 2019, following as flood management in India. based on the oral submissions particular reference to treaty/ Bharatiya Janata Party Mohammad Fayaz, Kirodi Lal the Pulwama attacks, India’s The Parliamentary Standing by the two Ministries, and move agreement entered into with leader Sanjay Jaiswal, who is an Meena, A Mohammedjan, Arun plan to divert water flowing into Committee on Water Resources suggestions if new agreement Nepal, China, Pakistan and MP from Paschim Champaran Singh, Rewati Raman Singh, Pakistan gained momentum. is set to hold its meeting or some changes are Bhutan’ will be discussed in the in Bihar, will head the meeting Subhash Chandra Singh, and Neither of these instances tomorrow, in which “oral evi- necessary. meeting. as Chair. Pradeep Tamta. had anything to do with the dence” by the representatives As per a parliamentary note The meeting will be held Narayana Swamy Abbaiah, It would be the first such shared waters or existing agree- of Ministry of Jal Shakti circulated by the Committee from 2pm onwards tomorrow Vijay Baghel, Bhagirath meeting on the issue amid the ments, yet they had detrimental (Department of Water Secretariat, the matter on Parliament premises. Chaudhary, Nand Kumar Singh ongoing crisis, including the effects on the resource as well Resources, River Development regarding the “oral evidence by Formed on September 13 Chauhan, Nihal Chand stand-off at the Line of Actual as the potential for furthering and Ganga Rejuvenation) and the two Ministries on the this year, the 31-member Com- Chauhan, Chandra Prakash Control with China. The move dialogue on joint management the Ministry of External Affairs subject of ‘Flood Management mittee will take up the issue for Choudhary, Guman Singh might influence the trajectory or cooperation. Vamco hits Vietnam as Australia ‘victim’ of virus success Philippine toll rises to 67 as locals want to

AFP — HANOI restaurants in the tourist return: Minister hotspot of Hoi An — a Unesco Storm Vamco barrelled into world heritage site — ripped REUTERS — MELBOURNE Vietnam yesterday, damaging apart by the storm, and huge buildings and injuring at least trees uprooted in the old Australia’s triumph in reining five people, as the death toll in imperial city of Hue. in COVID-19 while infections the Philippines climbed to 67. Authorities evacuated surge in many parts of the The storm made landfall on nearly 650,000 people from world is making the country a Sunday morning with reported seven coastal provinces to “victim of our own success,” winds of up to 90km per hour, higher and safer ground before as Australians overseas want uprooting trees and blowing the storm hit, but yesterday to come home, a cabinet the roofs off houses and warned of the danger of land- minister said yesterday. schools. slides triggered by the heavy Australia closed its borders Vamco is the latest in a rains. in March to all but citizens and series of storms that have pum- Vamco was the deadliest residents, and the government melled Vietnam over the past storm to hit the Philippines this has kept entries capped and six weeks, causing flooding and year, killing at least 67 people put those allowed into the landslides that have killed at across the main island of Luzon country in a two-week man- least 159 people and left 70 in recent days and affecting datory quarantine. Residents are carried on a forklift truck to a dry land through flood waters brought by heavy rain from others missing. some 1.7 million around the South Australia recorded Typhoon Vamco after it made landfall in Thua Thien Hue province of Vietnam, yesterday. Initial reports from the Dis- country. three locally acquired corona- aster Management Authority on The storm triggered some virus cases yesterday, its first Sunday said that five people of the worst flooding in years, region were inundated. The the storm-battered country. International Federation of Red in months, after a worker from were injured while they were swamping villages, destroying situation was made worse by “Situation is so much better. Cross and Red Crescent a quarantine hotel infected trying to secure their houses. crops and leaving hundreds of the release of water from a Many areas still flooded but Societies. family members, health offi- Vamco has weakened since thousands without power. dam. water receded already,” Roads and bridges have cials said. hitting the Philippines as a Rescue teams and emer- Vice President Leni Robredo Robredo tweeted. been washed away, power sup- This came after Australia typhoon with winds of up to 155 gency supplies including food said yesterday that the waters In Vietnam, weeks of severe plies disrupted, and crucial food saw on Saturday its first week kph, but state media said it had were dispatched to the were now receding after visiting weather have damaged or crops destroyed, leaving at least of no coronavirus community still caused significant damage. northeast Philippines on Sat- Cagayan province, giving hope destroyed more than 400,000 150,000 people at immediate transmissions and no related Pictures showed seafront urday where swathes of the that the worst may be over for homes, according to the risk of food shortages. deaths since the start of the pandemic. Victoria, the hotspot of the pandemic, recorded on Sunday Northern India chokes on toxic smog a day after festival its 16th consecutive day of no new cases and no deaths. Vic- REUTERS — CHENNAI/NEW DELHI Arvind Kejriwal had banned choked the young ones to Bharatiya Janata Party, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Bihar torians still must wear masks the use and sale of firecrackers despair and death,” said Vim- tweeted. and New Delhi — which have and public gatherings are Hundreds of millions of Indians ahead of Diwali, but the policy lendu Jha, the founder of non- New Delhi’s air pollution already been suffering from limited, but more easing is in north India woke up has been difficult to profit environmental group typically worsens in October some of the worst air in the expected in a week. yesterday to toxic air following implement. Swechha. and November due to farmers world - saw even higher levels Neighbouring New South Diwali, the Hindu festival of Revellers in the capital let Some defended firecrackers burning agricultural waste, of pollution than on the Wales, the most populous lights, after many revellers off huge amounts of fireworks as an essential part of a religious coal-fired power plants, traffic morning after Diwali last year, state, saw seven days without defied bans on using fire- well into yesterday morning, tradition celebrated by millions and windless days. government data analysis local transmissions, while crackers to celebrate. prompting angry residents across the country. The raging coronavirus epi- showed. Queensland has had no new The capital New Delhi was and environmentalists to “Are you realising how all demic, with more than 400,000 An average of air quality community infections for two blanketed with a thick haze, complain on social media of of India, all places stood up in cases in the city of 20 million indices measured at different months. Both states saw a with the average pollution level breathing difficulties and defiance against the cracker people, has also heightened places within the major cities handful of new cases in over 9 times what is considered stinging eyes. ban? It’s like a form of Hindu- alarm over the smog. Doctors in these states was higher than managed quarantine among safe by the World Health “Our deities must be so freedom battle cry,” Tarun have warned of a sharp increase last year, according to data from travellers from overseas. Organisation. happy today, that their fol- Vijay, a leader of Prime Min- in respiratory illnesses. the Central Pollution Control “With what’s happening Delhi’s Chief Minister lowers burst firecrackers and ister Narendra Modi’s Cities in the states of Punjab, Board. with COVID-19 in other parts of the world, we’re almost becoming a victim of our own Taiwan hopes to success here in Australia, with Soumitra, legend of Indian cinema, dies at 85 more people wanting to come continue close back,” Education Minister Dan ties with US AP — NEW DELHI Chatterjee’s daughter, spanned six decades and was include Apur Sansar” (“The Tehan told Sky News television Poulami Bose, said her father best known for his work with World of Apu”), the third in the yesterday. REUTERS — TAIPEI Soumitra Chatterjee, the died at a hospital in the city of Ray, one of the world’s most director’s internationally recog- Prime Minister Scott Mor- legendary Indian actor with Kolkata in West Bengal state influential Indian directors, nized Apu Trilogy, Charulata rison said on Friday that with Taiwan hopes to continue its more than 200 movies to his where he had been staying whose films garnered critical (“The Lonely Wife”), Aranyer Din a growing number of Aus- close cooperation with the name and famed for his work since testing positive for the acclaim and won multiple Ratri (“Days and Nights in the tralians wanting to return, United States, the island’s de with Oscar-winning director virus in early October. He is also awards worldwide, putting Forest”), Ghare Baire (“The Home there are not enough quar- facto US ambassador told Satyajit Ray, died yesterday of survived by his wife and a son. India on the global cinema map. and the World”) and Ganashatru antine facilities for others, such Antony Blinken, a longtime complications from the coro- Chatterjee had a career in Chatterjee’s films with Ray (“Enemy of the People”). as thousands of international confidant of President-elect navirus. He was 85. Bengali-language films that that won global recognition Telegraph India, an English- students. Joe Biden, as Taiwan moves to language newspaper published “Within the existing caps, shore up ties with the new in Kolkata, wrote in its obituary priority has to be given to administration. for Chatterjee that he had a 14-title returning Australians,” Tehan Claimed by China but body of work with director Ray said yesterday. democratically ruled, Taiwan “that would have ensured him He said, however, that enjoyed unprecedented immortality even if he hadn’t done states and territories have support from President Donald anything else in life.” Despite his been asked to submit plans for Trump’s government, immense popularity in Bengali- a safe return of international including stepped-up arms language cinema, Chatterjee students. sales and visits of top officials stayed away from Bollywood. But With foreign students con- to Taipei. Biden’s election has for 90 million Bengalis, he was a tributing A$35bn ($25bn) a caused some unease in cultural icon and an unforgettable year to the Australian Taiwan. star. economy, Canberra had hoped Hsiao Bi-khim, Taiwan’s “International, Indian and to slowly allow their return in representative in Washington Bengali cinema has lost a giant,” 2021. and close to Taiwan President tweeted Mamata Banerjee, West Australia has recorded Tsai Ing-wen, spoke to Blinken Bengal’s chief minister. “We will about 27,700 infections of the by telephone to convey Tai- miss him dearly. The film world new coronavirus and 907 wan’s congratulations to in Bengal has been orphaned.” COVID-19 deaths, a fraction of Biden, Hsiao said on Twitter In 2012, Chatterjee was awarded what many other developed on Saturday. the Dada Saheb Phalke Award, nations have seen, thanks to “Appreciated bipartisan the highest honor in Indian an impressive early response support for US relations with cinema. In 2017, he became the and strict measures that Taiwan and hope to continue first Indian film personality con- included sending Melbourne, close cooperation with the ferred with the Ordre des Arts the country’s second-largest US in coming years,” she Mourners gather around a vehicle carrying the body of late Indian actor Soumitra Chatterjee during et des Lettres, France’s highest city, into months-long added. a funeral procession in Kolkata, yesterday. award for artists lockdown. 12 ASIA MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020 Islamabad’s entry points blocked to stop TLP rally INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD About 300 containers have been arranged and Blockades are being installed at put on roads in different localities, including different entry points of the Faizabad, around Red Zone. Besides, 4,000 capital, including Faizabad, with the deployment of police and police officials, including the Anti-Riot Unit, the paramilitary force to stop Counter-Terrorism Force, Anti-Terrorism Force the protest rally of Tehreek-i- Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) from and police reserve along with contingents from entering the city. Rangers and Frontier Constabulary, are being The TLP has announced the deployed in the city. ‘Tahafuz Namoos-i-Risalat’ march from Liaquat Bagh Rawalpindi to Faizabad in the protest rally,” said an officer. Anti-Terrorism Force and police Islamabad yesterday in protest But the party leaders are still reserve along with contingents against publication of blas- in contact with the adminis- from Rangers and Frontier Con- phemous caricatures in France. tration officials and efforts are stabulary (FC), are being Officials of the police and underway to get the protest deployed in the city, the DIG the capital administration said cancelled or find a middle way, said. A truck is parked in the middle of a highway to control traffic after authorities blocked roads during that Red Zone will be partially he added. A fair quantity of anti-riot sealed. When contacted, Deputy gears have also been arranged an anti-France protest by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan in Islamabad, yesterday. Earlier, the politico-reli- Inspector General of Police to deal with any untoward sit- gious party approached the (Operations) Waqaruddin Syed uation and maintain peace, he Rawalpindi and sent 65 of them and requested them to close The CPO also met repre- capital administration and said that so far the police have added. to Adiala jail after producing businesses on Murree Road yes- sentatives of hotel owners and sought security cover for the orders not to let them enter the Containers are placed on them in courts. terday. The meeting was directed them not to rent rooms rally to be led by Khadim limits of the capital. and around Faizabad Inter- The district administration attended by representatives of to activists of the party. Hussain Rizvi. About 300 containers have change where police have also and police have also placed Markazi Anjuman-i-Tajiran, Earlier, a meeting was con- In response, the adminis- been arranged and put on roads been deployed to stop the pro- containers to block all roads including Malik Shahid Ghafoor vened by Regional Police tration held talks with the party in different localities, including testers from entering the capital, leading to Islamabad to stop the Paracha, Nadim Minhas and Officer (RPO) Imran Ahmer in leaders to convince them to call Faizabad, around Red Zone, he said. protesters from entering the Abrar Ahmed Sheikh. his office. The meeting decided off the rally.” Tarnol and Rawat, he added. Police and other law federal capital. On the direction of the CPO, that all roads leading to So far, talks have remained Besides, 4,000 police offi- enforcement agencies detained City Police Officer (CPO) the representatives asked the Islamabad from Rawalpindi unsuccessful and the TLP cials, including the Anti-Riot 181 leaders and activists of the Mohammad Ahsan Younas held traders to close shops on Murree would be sealed by placing leaders are determined to hold Unit, Counter-Terrorism Force, TLP in different parts of a meeting with traders’ unions Road. containers. Rain to reduce 49% of Pakistanis blame central govt for inflation: Survey intensity of smog INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD suffering the most. has revealed that price hike has bureaucracy and the owners of worried about increasing prices in Pakistan’s The survey, conducted from been felt across Pakistan, mills responsible for the infla- to which 88 percent According to the findings of a October 28 to November 4 with bottom end socio-economic tionary situation of the country. respondents said they were. Punjab province recent survey, 49 percent of interviews of over a thousand classes are most worried about The ratio of those consid- Twelve per cent said they were Pakistanis believe the respondents, revealed that half it, and consider the federal gov- ering the federal government not worried by the inflationary INTERNEWS — LAHORE incumbent government is of the Pakistanis blame the ernment responsible for it. responsible for inflation was the situation in the country. responsible for inflation in the federal government for Forty-nine per cent held the highest (59 percent) in Balo- The highest ratio of those Terming the forecast of rain in country. inflation. Centre responsible for the crisis, chistan, followed by Khyber worried by price hike was seen Lahore as good news, Relief Ipsos, is a multinational Only 15 percent of the 17 percent considered provincial Pakhtunkhwa with 58 percent, in Sindh with 91 percent, fol- Commissioner Punjab Disaster market research company, con- respondents said they blamed governments responsible while Punjab 46 percent and Sindh 44 lowed by KP with 89 percent, Management Authority ducted a survey according to previous governments for it, a only eight percent blamed it on percent. Punjab and Balochistan 86 (PDMA) Babar Hayat Tarar which respondents stated that narrative the PTI and PM Imran an unknown mafia. The survey revealed that percent each. said that the rain will reduce price hikes have impacted all Khan have been attempting to Five per cent of the survey’s price hikes have affected a According to the survey, 4 the intensity of smog. socio-economic classes in establish since day one in respondents declared shop- whopping 97 percent of the in 5 Pakistanis (83 percent) “Vehicle emission is a Pakistan, with those at the power. keepers responsible and three respondents. IPSOS asked faced cuts in their income due major challenge in anti-smog lowest rung of the class system A survey conducted by Ipsos percent each declared respondents whether they are to the coronavirus pandemic. operations and the electric buses for public service will reduce the fumes from transport,” Tarar said, adding: Pandemic deepens “Owners of private sector rides should ensure that they obtain a fitness certificate for the Cambodia loan crisis vehicle. Use of unhealthy fuels should be discouraged.” AFP — SIEM REAP turning to licensed microfi- In a briefing on anti-smog nance institutions to repay operations in Punjab, Tarar Trapped under a mountain of private lenders only to find said that proposed action plan crippling debt, Cambodian themselves trapped in a cycle to reduce traffic flow should farmer Roeurn Reth fears she of debt to more lenders. be implemented. will have to sell her land to “With the pandemic and He said, “The PDMA should repay microfinance loans that floods in the rural areas, people ensure strict implementation have ballooned due to face double the trouble, with of the decisions of the working pandemic-spurred job losses more difficulties over debts,” group for smog control; con- in her family. he says. trolling the harmful health What started as a $3,000 While Cambodia itself has effects of smog with the sum from a loan shark for her recorded only around 300 corona wave is very important son’s wedding has now grown cases, the pandemic has seen while easing smog control to about $7,000, she says — the tens of thousands of migrant actions can lead to an increase result of additional financial workers return from Thailand in health problems.” Moreover, needs that have cropped up. as jobs have dried up, putting during the last 24 hours, the Her sons — who crossed families living paycheque-to- maximum amount of smog in illegally into neighbouring paycheque under strain. Lahore was recorded in the Thailand — previously sent In desperation, Roeurn vicinity of the town hall. money home to help with Reth and her husband travelled During the last 24 hours repayments, but they are now from their sleepy village of Tra- during anti-smog campaign out of work. peang Veng to the capital under PDMA imposed fines of Heavy rain in Kabul “Because of Covid, we Phnom Penh to look for jobs at Rs1,499,050. As many as 150 could not find jobs... and my construction sites, only to be FIRs were registered and 23 Commuters drive along a flooded road after a heavy rainfall in Kabul, Afghanistan, yesterday. sons do not have money,” she rejected because of their age. persons were arrested. Some said tearfully, outside her She worries the next time 197 industrial units were modest home in northern Siem the debtors come they will closed. Warnings have been Reap province. bully her to sell her house and issued to the last 10 bases after Bali sees flicker of recovery “Now, I cannot clear my rice fields which they hold as which the total value of fines debts.” Roeurn Reth, 50, is collateral. has gone up to Rs30,655,290. among more than 2.6 million “I am so worried every day, as holiday season looms Cambodians who have turned I swallow rice bitterly,” she Case filed against to microfinance because of said. BLOOMBERG — BALI avoid taking a counter-pro- turnaround. The island saw a limited access to traditional Surrounded by lush rice kin of PML-N ductive policy,” he added. surge in holidaymakers during banking. fields, the remote Trapeang Bali, the hardest-hit economy Indonesia is grappling with a long weekend at the end of But in poor countries with Veng is only accessible by senior leader among Indonesia’s provinces the largest coronavirus out- October, which lifted occupancy little regulatory oversight, the bumpy roads, 50km from the last quarter, is seeing a pick-up break in Southeast Asia with at luxury hotels to 30 percent practice has come under fire tourist hotspot of Angkor Wat. INTERNEWS — LAHORE in activity as its governor more than 457,000 confirmed that week, from an average of 9 for predatory tactics including Faded posters advertising continues debating when and cases so far, a nearly 60 percent percent since Bali started wel- targeting rural villages where “easy cash” are tacked up on In a crackdown against illegal how the island can reopen to increase since the end of Sep- coming domestic travelers, residents have limited financial coconut trees across the village, housing scheme owned by international travellers. tember. The pandemic has sent according to Ricky Putra, acumen. touting loans as a simple path politicians, the Anti Corruption The province saw its gross the economy into its first Chairman of Bali Hotels Associ- In Cambodia where the to fulfilling aspirations from Establishment (ACE) registered domestic product shrink 12.28 recession in more than two ation. Two weeks after the average yearly income is a motorbikes and tractors to cases against the former wife percent in the third quarter from decades after two consecutive holiday break, Indonesia posted meagre $1,700, borrowers in dream homes. and son of PML-N senior leader a year ago, the worst contraction quarters of annual contraction, a record spike in new corona- 2019 racked up a total debt of But many houses have been Khawja Asif, Sialkot Mayor among Indonesia’s 34 provinces, with Bali and its tourism-reliant virus infections on Friday. $10 billion to microfinance abandoned by owners who Choudhry Toheed Akhtar and even as domestic tourists were industries bearing the brunt. The government has lenders. have fled to avoid debt PML-N’s former legislator from allowed to return in July. Its Revival Signs Bali’s beaches, exempted airport tax for 13 air- This puts the kingdom at an collectors. Chunia Ahsan Raza Khan. shores remain shut to foreign resorts and temples are usually ports in the archipelago to boost average loan of $3,804 per These houses are difficult “Millions of rupees loss was arrivals as the island scrapped busiest during its May-Sep- domestic travel, including person -- the highest amount to miss, says village chief Dorm incurred to public exchequer in an earlier plan to reopen in Sep- tember dry season that coin- Bali’s. Flag carrier PT Garuda in the world, according to local Deam, pointing at a concrete the form of site map and con- tember due to a resurgence in cides with winter in Australia Indonesia has also seen a rights group Licadho. home with ornate wooden version fees evasions by these coronavirus cases. and summer break in the revival in ticket demand toward A lack of enforcement also carvings on the padlocked front persons,” said an ACE spokes- The local government is northern hemisphere. This the year-end with an increase has illegal lenders offering door. person. The Kent Society, jointly focused on containing the time, only 152 foreigners visited in advance booking, said Pres- “throat-slittingly high” interest “Since the coronavirus pan- owned by Toheed Akhtar and spread of infections and Bali in the three months ident Director Irfan Setiaputra. rates of up to 30 percent over demic, the situation has gotten Khawaja Asif, had illegally increasing the recovery rate through September, a stunning “I do hope that in December a year, says Licadho’s Am Sam worse,” he said. included 281 kanals of land after while continuing to weigh a drop from 1.8 million last year, we will see an increase in Ath. “They are strangled by the approval of the first map, reopening to foreign tourists, according to the statistics office. domestic tourist arrival in Bali The informal lending debts.” Today, more than three- which was illegal as per Punjab said Bali Governor Wayan Domestic air passengers also as an initial momentum for the industry has long been a com- quarters of Trapeang Veng’s 113 government’s private housing Koster. “The government will fell 90 percent from 2019. recovery of Bali’s tourism,” plicated issue for the kingdom, families owe a total sum of society schemes. take views on many aspects to There are signs of a Governor Koster said. he explains, with Cambodians some $300,000. MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020 EUROPE 13 UK and Germany will always be friends: Prince Charles

AFP — BERLIN EU in January, is negotiating a In a speech at trade deal to govern relations Bundestag, Prince Britain’s Prince Charles after December 31, when it yesterday said bonds between stops abiding by EU rules. Charles described his country and Germany would Talks over the next few days Brexit as ‘a new “remain strong” as he visited are seen as crucial for any deal Berlin against a backdrop of before time runs out at the end chapter in our long increasingly tense Brexit talks. of the year, when the post- history’. “We will always be friends, Brexit transition period ends. partners and associates,” the In their first joint overseas heir to the British throne said visit since the start of the coro- Kramp-Karrenbauer and other as he visited the German capital navirus pandemic, Charles and dignitaries. with his wife Camilla to mark Camilla had earlier been wel- British royals have visited National Memorial Day, an comed by President Frank- European countries several annual tribute to the victims of Walter Steinmeier at Berlin’s times since the country voted Britain’s Prince Charles (second left), Prince of Wales; Camilla (left), Duchess of Cornwall, with German war. “The fundamental bond Bellevue Palace. to leave the EU in 2016. President Frank-Walter Steinmeier (right) and his wife Elke Buedenbender ahead of a meeting at the between us will remain strong,” Charles then laid a wreath During a visit to Germany he said in a speech at the Bun- in memory of victims of war in 2017, Prince William said Presidential Bellevue Palace in Berlin, yesterday. destag lower house of par- and oppression at the Neue Germany and Britain “proudly liament, describing Brexit as “a Wache memorial building share the same values” and decision to leave the European rently holds the rotating presi- Mourning was introduced in new chapter in our long alongside Steinmeier, Defence their relationship would “con- Union”. Charles and Camilla last dency of the EU, in May 2019. 1919 to commemorate the history”. Britain, which left the Minister Annegret tinue despite Britain’s recent visited Germany, which cur- Germany’s National Day of victims of the First World War. Greece bans German minister sees several more months of virus curbs gatherings ahead REUTERS — FRANKFURT the economy constantly to 790,503. Weekend figures “All countries that lifted warned of a possible shortage opening and closing.” Germany tend to be lower as not all data their restrictions too early have of beds and staffing problems of uprising Germans should brace for has imposed a set of measures is reported by local so far paid a high price in terms in German hospitals. another 4-5 months of severe dubbed a “lockdown light” to authorities. of human lives lost.” His com- “My forecast is that we will anniversary measures to halt the rise in rein in the second wave of the Altmaier said Germany ments echoed those of other have to talk about further AFP — ATHENS coronavirus infections and pandemic that the country is should be wary of relaxing leading German policy makers. restrictions rather than any should not expect the current seeing in common with much restrictions too quickly. Among others, Health Minister easing”, he told daily Augs- Greek police yesterday rules to be eased quickly, of the rest of Europe. While res- “If we don’t want days with Jens Spahn said at an online burger Allgemeine. announced a ban on public Economy Minister Peter taurants are closed, schools and 50,000 new infections, as was event of Chancellor Angela German police fired water gatherings of four or more Altmaier told weekly Bild am shops so far remain open. the case in France a few weeks Merkel’s conservative party on cannon during an anti- people as hospitals were over- Sonntag. Data from the Robert Koch ago, we must see through this Saturday that hard weeks, pos- lockdown rally in Frankfurt on whelmed with coronavirus “We’re not out of the woods Institute (RKI) for infectious dis- and not constantly speculate sibly even months, lie ahead. Saturday and eventually broke cases, ahead of the annual yet”, he said referring to eases showed yesterday that the about which measures can be The German chairman of up the gathering as rules like anniversary of a 1973 anti- infection numbers. “We cannot number of confirmed cases in relaxed again,” he told Bild am the World Medical Association, wearing masks and socially dis- junta uprising. afford a yo-yo shutdown with Germany increased by 16,947 Sonntag. Frank Ulrich Montgomery, tancing were not observed. Greece on Saturday said it would shut primary schools, kindergartens and daycare centres as coronavirus deaths French authors to pay crossed a thousand. The anti-junta demon- stration is a treasured anni- fines of bookshops open versary for many Greeks, and more than 30,000 people despite virus closure demonstrated in Athens and other major cities last year AFP — PARIS revolt. “The next bookshop will under a heavy police presence. be me, and the next somebody At least 24 people were One of France’s best-known else,” he said, declaring that “no killed in the 1973 crackdown, authors, Alexandre Jardin, state has the moral right to an event generally considered vowed yesterday that writers close bookshops”. to have broken the junta’s grip would bail out rebel bookshop France has some of the on power and helped the res- owners fined for opening in highest book readership figures toration of democracy. defiance of a nationwide coro- in the world, studies show, and This year, however, all navirus lockdown. one of the largest networks of public gatherings of four or Literature lovers are fuming independent bookstores. more people would be banned over the government’s shutting While hairdressers, toy from 6 am on Sunday to 9 pm of bookstores, along with all stores, perfumeries, florists, on Wednesday to stem the other outlets selling “non- cinemas and malls have all spread of coronavirus, police essential” goods or services, for been shut since October 30, the said in a statement. the second time this year. A plight of bookshops has Fines of ¤5,000 will be handful of bookshops have sparked the greatest public issued to legal entities like openly flouted the shutdown, indignation. political parties and ¤3,000 backed by writers, literary In an open letter to Pres- for individuals who organise French police officers conduct control to check exemption certificates during the nationwide lockdown critics and tens of thousands of ident Emmanuel Macron, van gatherings, while those par- aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19, in the Bois de Boulogne area, in Paris, on Saturday. bookworms who argue that Cauwelaert warned that ticipating will be fined ¤300. books are essential to restricting access to culture Citizens’ Protection Min- France sees drop in COVID-19 hospitalisations well-being. posed a threat to France’s “pre- ister Michalis Chrysochoidis Jardin, who penned best- cious freedom of speech”. said on Friday that the events AP — PARIS released Saturday night, though second surge of the selling romance novels “Le Jardin pointed out that and marches commemorating virus patients still occupy 96% pandemic. Zebre” and “Fanfan”, has other European countries, such the November 17 Athens Pol- The number of coronavirus of France’s standard ICU beds. France has reported more rallied in their defence. as Belgium, had allowed book- ytechnic student uprising will patients hospitalised in France The number of weekly virus infections than any He said yesterday that shops to remain open. not take place this year. dropped this weekend for this infections per 100,000 people European country and has had authors would pay the fines The head of Grasset pub- “We did not celebrate first time since September, after in France has now been falling 44,246 virus-related deaths. incurred by rogue booksellers. lishing house, Olivier Nora, March 25th or October 28th, two weeks of new nationwide for 14 straight days, and some The government imposed a Jardin told Europe 1 radio that complained booksellers were we did not celebrate Easter, we lockdown measures aimed at doctors say they’re starting to nationwide partial lockdown Didier van Cauwelaert, winner missing out on crucial did not celebrate any of the slowing surging infections and see signs of relief in over- starting October 30 as the of the Prix Goncourt, France’s November-December sales things that unite us in 2020. easing hospital strains. stretched ICUs. second surge hit and could start top literary prize for his 1994 accounting for 25 percent of The same will be the case with The number of COVID-19 But it remains too early to easing the measures on novel “Un Aller Simple”, had annual revenues. The French the Polytechnic anniversary,” patients in intensive care also say whether the one-day drop December 1 if the number of offered to cover any penalty government has so far resisted the minister said, referring to fell for the first time in six in hospital numbers means virus patients in hospitals imposed on a bookshop in the pressure to ease a month-long three national holidays that weeks, according to figures France has hit the peak in this shows consistent decline. city of Cannes, leading the partial lockdown. were not celebrated because of the coronavirus pandemic. Humanitarian “The virus is the enemy Post-Brexit borders to divide EU, UK citizens and large gatherings are its ship brings 255 main weapon,” he added, AFP — BRUSSELS keeps it that way. But the EU nearly a century that allows Without an EU-UK deal, prompting opposition parties migrants to Sicily will stop British passports continued freedom of Britain will likely apply its to pledge they would proceed From January 1 British and EU being used in its automated movement between Britain current rules for those coming with demonstrations. AFP — ROME citizens will be confronted with e-gates, potentially meaning and Ireland. from favoured nations, Communist KKE party the reality of Brexit as the tran- longer queues at manned Europeans will be able to meaning a visa needed for leader Dimitris Koutsoumpas The humanitarian ship Open sition period ends and borders passport booths. keep using EU pet passports as work but not for short stays to in an interview on Saturday Arms reached the coast of the done away decades ago return. Britons must hold pass- long as rabies vaccines are up attend a conference or training. stressed that “the Polytechnic Italian island of Sicily on From that date, Britons will ports still valid for at least six to date. Border control for Those same rules would march was never organised by Saturday and transferred 255 be treated by the EU as “third months and will be limited to business travellers is one of require EU citizens with a job the government”. migrants to the Italian author- country” nationals, no longer EU stays of 90 days in a rolling myriad issues yet to be worked offer to prove English-lan- “All the measures will be ities, the Spanish NGO said on enjoying freedom of movement 180-day period. out between the EU and the guage skills and a minimum strictly observed with the use Twitter. to work, study or retire across They will also need to show UK. In the EU, Britons attending salary dependent on whether of face masks and antiseptics, A total of 184 adults and 71 the European Union and asso- travel insurance coverage, suf- conferences or meetings likely the position is skilled (£26,500, keeping the necessary dis- unaccompanied minors from ciated states. ficient funds and a return ticket will be exempt from visas equivalent to ¤29,600 or tances and of course we urge 20 African nations, were taken Britain in turn will process on request. Europeans entering where they do not receive $35,000) or a shortage occu- people belonging to vulnerable aboard two Italian boats EU nationals at its borders as Britain can use a national ID payment or provide services. pation (20,480 pounds, 22,800 groups or those who are ill to where they will undergo quar- it does other non-UK passport card until October, after which However for other UK euros). stay at home,” Koutsoumpas antine to ensure they are not holders. EU citizens proving only passports will be business travellers, including From January, EU students said. Greece’s former finance carrying the coronavirus, the residence in Britain, or Britons accepted, for stays of up to six posted workers and the self- going to Britain will need a visa minister Yanis Varoufakis, group said. already living in a European months. EU passport holders employed, a visa and/or a work for courses longer than six leader of the Diem25 party on The Open Arms ship had Union country, before the end will be able to continue using permit may be imposed in line months, and will have to pay Saturday accused the gov- rescued them from boats in of this year will theoretically British e-gates under current with each individual EU coun- steeper tuition fees — four ernment of announcing in distress on the water on retain their rights under a guidance. try’s laws. times as much for degrees such advance the arrest of his Tuesday and Wednesday. Withdrawal Agreement struck Those with criminal There will also be tax and as medicine or MBAs in pres- party’s members. At least five other migrants in late 2019. records may be banned and social security considerations. tigious universities. On Friday, Greek police had died after an overcrowded Tourists will see some non-European family Certain services or company UK universities fear that evacuated the premises of the rubber dinghy overturned off immediate changes — apart members of a European may ownership in those countries that hefty burden will force historic Polytechnic building the coast of Libya, according from the evolving coronavirus need a visa, depending on may be off-limits to non-EU many European students to that now houses the National to the NGO. restrictions already crimping nationality. The UK treats Irish citizens or residents or those choose EU institutions — some Technical University of Athens A six-month old baby also travel — but both sides have citizens separately from other lacking national licences, and of which are free — instead, and another university campus died, despite the efforts of the agreed that travel will be visa- EU nationals under a bilateral customs declarations may be blowing a big hole in their and arrested 92 people for medical team onboard the free, as long as the other side arrangement dating back needed for goods carried in. finances. trespassing, disturbance and Open Arms. disorder. 14 EUROPE / AMERICAS MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020

President Duque Biden team to of Colombia meet pharma firms visits regions hit by rain, landslides soon on virus fight REUTERS — BOGOTA

Colombia President Ivan BLOOMBERG — WASHINGTON Duque yesterday visited areas affected by landslides due to President-elect Joe Biden’s Two of Joe Biden’s torrential rains, which left team will begin meeting with three dead and forced the Pfizer Inc and other pharma- coronavirus advisers evacuation of hundreds of ceutical companies within days said they favour people. as they continue the transition The most serious incident to a new administration amid targeted local was reported at dawn on Sat- the escalating coronavirus measures to stem the urday along a road connecting pandemic, his chief of staff said the municipalities of Dabeiba yesterday. pandemic and oppose and Uramita in the Antioquia “We’re going to have a nationwide US province, where a landslide meetings between our top sci- lockdown as too buried houses and vehicles entific advisers and the officials and destroyed part of the of these drug companies, not blunt. thoroughfare. just Pfizer but there are other Three people were killed promising vaccines as well. in the incident, according to Opposition supporters attending a rally to protest against the Belarus presidential election results We’re going to start those con- the National Unit for Disaster sultations this week,” Ron Klain to build an administration. Risk Management (UNGRD), in Minsk, yesterday. Belarusians took to the streets of the capital in a fresh demonstration against said on NBC’s “Meet the Press.” Pfizer announced last week and 16 were missing. Hun- strongman leader Alexander Lukashenko as anger mounted over the recent death of an opposition Bloomberg News reported that its coronavirus vaccine dreds of people were evac- activist. last week that consultations appeared to be effective in uated by helicopter. between Biden’s advisers and fighting the virus, which is “We’re going to visit the pharmaceutical industry surging around the country. As several of the sites affected by Hundreds detained as Belarusians began even before the election, of Sunday, more than 245,000 the winter weather, mobilizing according to people familiar Americans have died of aid that we have to send as with the matter. COVID-19. soon as possible,” Duque said chant dead protester’s last words Biden team met with com- Meanwhile, two of Joe before setting off to the emer- panies that had COVID-19 vac- Biden’s coronavirus advisers gency zones. “We have to work REUTERS — MOSCOW old anti-government protester. police so far during yesterday’s cines or therapies in late-stage said they favour targeted local together as a country to He died in hospital in Minsk on protests around the country. clinical trials in September and measures to stem the pandemic address this situation and take Belarusian police detained Thursday following what dem- Hundreds of protesters, October, the people said. The and oppose a nationwide US precautions,” he added. hundreds of people who took onstrators said was a severe wearing the red-and-white purpose was to gather infor- lockdown as too blunt. According to weather fore- to the streets in mass demon- beating by security forces. colours that have come to rep- mation about the development, Vivek Murthy, a former US casts, heavy rains will occur strations yesterday chanting The interior ministry has resent the protest movement, manufacturing and distribution surgeon general who’s one of across Colombia over the next “I’m going out”, the last known denied responsibility for Bond- had gathered yesterday for a of shots to ward off the novel Biden’s top three advisers on 30 days, Duque said, in part due written words of an anti- arenko’s death, saying he was vigil near Bondarenko’s house coronavirus and therapies to the virus, said that based on to the weather phenomenon governmemt protester who killed in a scuffle with civilians. in Minsk. treat the sick. what the nation has learned known as La Niña, while the died last week. Security forces in riot gear Witnesses said Bondarenko Yesterday, Klain also about COVID-19 since the north of the country will be A witness in the capital and shields flooded the square was detained after scuffling stressed the importance of spring, the preferred approach affected by the Caribbean storm Minsk said police had used tear where Bondarenko was detained, with people in plain clothes establishing an effective distri- to fighting it is “a dial that we and hurricane season. gas, rubber bullets and stun pulling down opposition flags, who had come to a playground bution system for any vaccine, turn up and down, depending Landslides are common in grenades to disperse the crowds kicking over memorial lamps and to remove red-and-white as well as the need for the on severity.” mountainous Colombia, espe- demonstrating against Pres- dragging people from the crowds ribbons. Sviatlana Tsikha- General Services Administration “If we just lock down the cially during the rainy season ident Alexander Lukashenko. and frog-marching them to vans, nouskaya, Lukashenko’s main to ascertain the election so entire country without tar- and in areas where precarious Belarus has been mired in a witness said. opponent, who fled into exile Biden’s team can communicate geting our efforts, then we are informal housing and narrow political crisis for months. Tens Video footage by local in Lithuania after the election, with government officials. going to exacerbate the ‘pan- roadways are constructed on of thousands of people have media also showed security said on social media she sup- “It’s great to have a vaccine, demic fatigue’ people are deforested Andean hillsides. taken to the streets every week forces entering apartments in ported yesterday’s rallies in but vaccines don’t save lives. feeling, you’re going to hurt Flooding has occurred in since an election in August that the area in search of protesters. memory of Bondarenko. The Vaccinations save lives, and jobs and the economy, you’re 11 municipalities of Colombia’s they say was rigged, something A video clip posted on social European Union has called that means you’ve got to get going to shut down schools and Choco province, as well as in Lukasheko denies. They want media showed three men in riot Bondarenko’s death “an outra- that vax out into people’s arms hurt the education of our the province of Atlantico, and the veteran leader, in power for gear attending to a man who geous and shameful result of the all over this country. It’s a giant children,” Murthy, who was Caribbean city Cartagena, the 26 years, to resign. appeared to be unconscious. actions by the Belarusian author- logistical project,” he said. appointed by former president UNGRD added. Duque said he The street rallies were re- The Viasna (Spring) human ities... (who have) directly and Klain was named chief of Barack Obama, said on “Fox would visit Cartagena later in ignited following the death of rights group said 504 people violently carried out repression staff this week as Biden begins News Sunday.” the day. Roman Bondarenko, a 31-year had been detained so far by of their own population”. Romania to check all intensive care units after fire kills 10 Coronavirus emerged in Italy REUTERS — BUCHAREST Even before the pandemic, Romania’s health care system earlier than Romanian officials will check had been under pressure, all intensive care units after a dogged by corruption, ineffi- thought: Study fire killed 10 people at a hospital ciencies and politicised treating coronavirus patients, management. REUTERS — ROME the government said yesterday. Romania has one of the The fire broke out on Sat- European Union’s least The new coronavirus was urday in a room at the intensive developed healthcare infrastruc- circulating in Italy since care unit of the Piatra Neamt tures. One in four Romanians September 2019, a study by the county hospital in northeastern have insufficient access to National Cancer Institute (INT) Romania and spread to an essential healthcare as tens of of the Italian city of Milan adjoining room. thousands of doctors, nurses and shows, signaling that Six other intubated pharmacists have left since the COVID-19 might have spread COVID-19 patients were injured country joined the EU in 2007. beyond China earlier than and were transferred to another Yesterday, the Romanian previously thought. hospital. The doctor on call, doctors’ association said a The World Health Organ- who sustained severe burns as strategy was needed to build ization has said the new coro- he tried to rescue the patients new medical infrastructure navirus and COVID-19, the res- from the flames was flown to a regardless of who was in piratory disease it causes, were specialised hospital in Belgium government. unknown before the outbreak early yesterday. “At least now, let’s do things was first reported in Wuhan, in The government said public that are organized and central China, in December. health inspectors and the agency planned... so that such tragedies Italy’s first COVID-19 patient for emergency situations would Firefighting ladders lean on the walls of a hospital, where a fire killed 10 at a COVID-19 intensive care don’t happen again,” it said in was detected on Feb. 21 in a little check the conditions under unit, in Piatra Neamt, Romania, on Saturday night. a statement. Yesterday’s fire town near Milan, in the northern which medical equipment was was Romania’s deadliest since region of Lombardy. operating in all intensive care tigation into what triggered Sat- patients were in hospital across units. The country has reported 2015, when a club in the capital But the Italian researchers’ units from today. urday’s fire was underway. Romania as of Sunday, 360,281 coronavirus cases since Bucharest burned down and 65 findings, published by the INT’s Prosecutors said an inves- Nearly 13,000 COVID-19 including 1,169 in intensive care February and 8,926 deaths. people died. scientific magazine Tumori Journal, show that 11,6% of 959 healthy volunteers enrolled in a lung cancer screening trial Moldova torn between Russia Austria plans ‘mass tests’ between September 2019 and March 2020, had developed to help exit virus lockdown coronavirus antibodies well and West in presidential runoff before February. A further spe- cific SARS-CoV-2 antibodies AFP — CHISINAU, MOLDOVA as prime minister, won more “We must maintain good AFP — VIENNA test was carried out by the Uni- than 36 percent of the vote relations with the European versity of Siena for the same Moldovans voted yesterday in against pro-Russian incumbent Union and with Russia,” he said. Austria is planning “mass testing” for coronavirus to help a chart research titled “Unexpected the second round of a tightly Igor Dodon’s 33 percent. Caught off guard by the a way out of the second lockdown coming into force next week, detection of SARS-CoV-2 anti- contested presidential election “Today, you have the power electoral setback in the first Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said yesterday. bodies in the pre-pandemic pitting a pro-European chal- to punish those who robbed round, Dodon urged his sup- Referring to a controversial mass testing programme in neigh- period in Italy”. lenger against the country’s you, who reduced you to misery porters at a rally on Friday to bouring Slovakia, Kurz told public broadcaster ORF that “we have Four cases dated back to the Moscow-backed incumbent. and forced you to leave your vote and take to the streets after decided here in Austria... to take a similar step”. first week of October were also The tiny ex-Soviet nation is home,” Sandu said after voting Sunday’s ballot to “protect our In Slovakia, two-thirds of the population were tested two positive for antibodies neutral- under the watchful eye of in the capital Chisinau, in a victory”. weeks ago, with just over one percent testing positive. izing the virus, meaning they Russia, which wants polarised clear allusion to her rival who The Kremlin-backed can- On Saturday Kurz announced Austria was toughening its anti- had got infected in September, Moldova to remain in its sphere has been targeted by accusa- didate, reportedly aided by coronavirus restrictions, shutting schools and shops from Tuesday Giovanni Apolone, a co-author of influence at a time when tions of corruption. Russian advisers, has stepped until December 6 to get spiralling numbers of infections under of the study, said. “This is the several Kremlin-aligned gov- The appeal has resonance up rhetoric against Sandu. control and urging Austrians to avoid all social contacts. main finding: people with no ernments are rocked by in one of Europe’s poorest “If we show weakness, we Yesterday Kurz said mass testing could help the country symptoms not only were pos- political unrest. countries where as many as 40 will lose our country,” Dodon re-open in December, but it was not clear if the testing programme itive after the serological tests In the first round vote percent of citizens are esti- said at Friday’s rally. would be on the same scale as in Slovakia. but had also antibodies able to earlier this month, pro- mated to have travelled abroad Sandu, who heads the Party “We want to deploy mass tests at the end of the lockdown in kill the virus,” Apolone said. “It European Maia Sandu—a to work. Sandu also called for of Action and Solidarity has order to enable a safe re-opening in schools and other areas,” means that the new coronavirus 48-year-old centre-right pol- “maximum vigilance” against promised to wage a fight Kurz said, adding that in the first instance testing would be focused can circulate among the popu- itician— won a surprise possible fraud. against endemic corruption in on groups such as teachers. lation for long and with a low victory. Dodon, meanwhile, said he the country of some 3.5 million He appeared to suggest the programme could then be widened rate of lethality not because it is Sandu, who worked for the “voted for peace”, “social wedged between Ukraine and to other groups in the population to make Christmas celebrations disappearing but only to surge World Bank and briefly served justice” and “Christian values”. EU member Romania. as safe as possible. again,” he added. MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020 AMERICAS 15 Trump retracts apparent admission of defeat

AFP — WASHINGTON In a tweet yesterday morning, Trump appeared

President Donald Trump has accidentally to acknowledge Joe Biden’s yet to admit defeat in the US victory — before quickly reversing course to election. But with a word here, claim he won, and again push unsubstantiated a slip there, he is raising the prospect ever more plainly. claims of mass electoral fraud. “He won In a tweet yesterday because the Election was Rigged,” Trump morning, Trump appeared accidentally to acknowledge tweeted. Joe Biden’s victory —before quickly reversing course to claim he won, and again push almost universally dismissed by there was fraud — because the unsubstantiated claims of mass judges as unfounded. president said so. electoral fraud. Reacting to Trump’s tweet, Bernie Sanders, the pro- “He won because the Biden’s newly named chief of gressive senator who had Election was Rigged,” Trump staff Ron Klain told NBC’s “Meet sought the Democratic nomi- tweeted. The first two words the Press” it was “further con- nation, called Trump’s refusal — days after a verbal slip in firmation of the reality that Joe to concede “absolutely which Trump said “time will Biden won the election.” disgraceful.” tell” if he remains president — “If the president’s prepared “The idea that he continues were immediately seized upon to begin to recognise that to tell his supporters that the as one more step towards a reality, that’s positive,” he said. only reason he may have lost concession. Some administration offi- this election is because of fraud Supporters of US President Donald Trump rally in Washington, DC, on Saturday, backing Trump’s claim But the president soon cials say privately that they is an absolutely disgraceful, un- that the November 3 election was fraudulent. made a U-turn, tweeting: “He understand that Biden won, but American thing to do,” he told only won in the eyes of the that the president needs time to CNN’s “State of the Union. FAKE NEWS MEDIA. I concede “process” his loss. Others, on the “I would just hope to God NOTHING! We have a long way outside, speculate he may be he has the decency in him to Violent clashes in Washington DC to go.” trying to galvanize his base of man-up and say, ‘You know President-elect Biden cap- support for a new run in 2024. what? We fought hard, we lost tured 306 Electoral College Until now, the president has the election, good luck to Joe after protest by Trump backers votes in the November 3 refused to cooperate in the shift Biden.’” election—36 more than needed to a Biden administration — A small but growing to win the White House, and the denying the Democrat both number of Republican figures AP — WASHINGTON reverse the result. Saturday morning by sending exact number Trump deemed federal funding for transition have begun pressing for Trump The demonstrations in the his motorcade through streets a “landslide” when he won in work and vital briefings by out- to concede defeat. After several thousand nation’s capital went from tense lined with supporters before 2016. going officials. “It’s clear that, certainly supporters of President Donald to violent during the night and rolling on to his Virginia golf club. Senior federal and state Democrats say this could based on what we know now, Trump protested the election early Sunday. Videos posted on People chanted “USA, USA” and election authorities — including have a damaging impact both that Joe Biden is the president- results and marched to the social media showed fights, pro- “four more years,” and many a top cybersecurity agency — on national security and on the elect,” Ohio’s Republican gov- Supreme Court, nighttime jectiles and clubs as Trump carried American flags and signs have rejected claims of wide- grave and mounting challenges ernor, Mike DeWine, said on clashes with counterdemon- backers sparred with those to show their displeasure with the spread election fraud. posed by the coronavirus CNN. “For the country’s sake, strators led to fistfights, at least demanding they take their vote tally and insistence that, as Still, Trump continues to pandemic. it’s important for a normal tran- one stabbing and more than 20 MAGA hats and banners and Trump has baselessly asserted, insist he will prove fraud and Former president Barack sition to start,” he added. arrests. leave. Police said they made 21 fraud was the reason. prevail in court. Obama told CBS’s “Sunday And former Trump national Several other cities on Sat- arrests on a variety of charges, “I just want to keep up his Meantime, the leaders of Morning” that it was clear that security advisor John Bolton, a urday also saw gatherings of including assault and weapons spirits and let him know we nearly every country in the “Joe Biden will be the next pres- critic of the president since Trump supporters unwilling to possession, and recovered eight support him,” said one loyalist, world have congratulated ident of the United States” but leaving the administration, told accept Democrat Joe Biden’s firearms. Four officers were Anthony Whittaker of Win- Biden on his victory, reinforcing added that Trump’s delay in CNN it was critical for other Electoral College and popular injured. No arrest has been chester, Virginia. He was outside the notion that no one — in the acknowledging that comes at Republicans to make clear to vote victory as legitimate. Cries made in the stabbing, and the the Supreme Court, where a few United States or elsewhere — a price. Trump that he had lost in a fair of “Stop the Steal” and “Count victim was hospitalised with thousand assembled after a is taking the Trump legal chal- “There’s damage to this,” election. Bolton added: “I don’t Every Vote” rang out despite a non-life threatening injuries. march along Pennsylvania lenges seriously. Obama said, adding that mil- expect him to go graciously. I lack of evidence of voter fraud Trump himself had given an Avenue from Freedom Plaza, Those challenges have been lions of people would believe do expect him to go.” or other problems that could approving nod to the gathering near the White House. Peru’s interim President quits after deadly protests Hurricane Iota rapidly BLOOMBERG — LIMA, PERU strengthens as it heads Peru’s interim President, Manuel Merino, is resigning just toward Central America six days after the impeachment of his predecessor plunged the REUTERS — GUATEMALA CITY Espinal, head of the fire South American nation into department of Puerto Lempira turmoil. Hurricane Iota is rapidly gath- on the Miskito Coast, told “At this time, when the ering strength as it barrels Reuters that evacuees have country is experiencing one of toward Central America, with been arriving since early Sat- its biggest political crises, I want the potential to bring “life urday, travelling from the the whole country to know that threatening” storm surges and region’s remote peninsulas by I’m presenting my irrevocable “catastrophic” winds to a region canoe or boat. resignation,” Merino said in a still recovering from the devas- “People are coming from televised address yesterday. tation of Hurricane Eta. the coastal areas, but only those The surprise impeachment As of 10am EST (1500 who have a boat or a canoe. of Martin Vizcarra over GMT), Hurricane Iota was about The rest are staying in their unproven bribery allegations 539km off the Nicaraguan- communities,” he said. triggered the country’s biggest Honduran coast, packing Espinal said Puerto Lempira demonstrations in two decades. maximum sustained winds of has run out of fuel since deliv- The political upheaval could 90 miles per hour (145 kph), eries were suspended following cloud prospects for elections according to the US National Hurricane Eta, making it impos- due in April, and further ham- Hurricane Center (NHC). sible for the fire department to string an economy that con- “Iota is forecast to be an carry out a more extensive evac- tracted 30% in the second extremely dangerous Category uation plan. quarter because of the Covid-19 4 hurricane when it approaches Puerto Lempira is the pandemic. Central America,” the NHC largest municipality in the Hon- Merino said his cabinet will A man injured on the ground is helped by other demonstrators during a protest against the decision warned. The storm comes as duran department of Gracias a remain in place until a new of Congress to remove former president Martin Vizcarra, in Lima, Peru, yesterday. Central America is still coping Dios, a remote region only leader takes over, to avoid a with the massive destruction accessible by air, sea, or by tra- power vacuum. demonstrators in the streets of rules and marched through the died from gunshot wounds. wrought by Hurricane Eta, versing its internal rivers. With Congress was to convene by Lima. Others stood at their center of Lima on Saturday to Further political gridlock and which slammed into the region just over 100,000 residents, 6pm yesterday to vote in a law- windows banging pots with protest Vizcarra’s impeachment protests threaten to hamper two weeks ago, causing according to the National maker to lead a new interim gov- spoons, as they have done every and called for Merino to quit. the fight against the corona- flooding and mudslides that Institute of Statistics, the area ernment, the acting head of con- night since Vizcarra’s ouster. While the demonstrations virus in a country with one have killed scores of people is home to a number of indig- gress Luis Valdez told reporters. Thousands of Peruvians, were largely peaceful, there of the world’s highest per- across a huge swath from enous communities, including Merino’s announcement many of them university stu- were some violent clashes capita death rates from Panama to southern Mexico. Miskitos, Garifunas, Pech, and was greeted with cheers from dents, defied social-distancing with police, and two men COVID-19. Hurricane Iota is expected Tawhakas. Puerto Lempira is to smash into the jungles of the still recovering from massive Miskito Coast of Nicaragua and flooding sparked by Eta that Car crash kills 5 Honduras today. caused property damage and Brazilians vote in local elections Evacuations are already crop losses. In Nicaragua, in South Carolina underway in Honduras, Gua- authorities said evacuations are AP — RIO DE JANEIRO temala, and Nicaragua in areas also underway in the indig- AP — LAURENS, S CAROLINA expected to be affected by Iota. enous and fishing communities Brazilians voted for mayors and In Honduras, Douglas on the Miskito Coast. councilors nationwide A car driving the wrong way yesterday in an election that on a South Carolina interstate could be an early indicator of caused a wreck that killed five President Jair Bolsonaro’s pros- people early Sunday morning, pects if he runs for re-election troopers said. in 2022. All five people in the two About 148 million people cars were trapped in the were eligible to vote in Sao wreckage on Interstate 385 Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and thou- in Laurens County and had sands of municipalities across to be cut from the crumpled the country. Voting is com- metal. Four of them died at pulsory for Brazilians between A man arrives to vote at a polling station during municipal elections the scene and the fifth person 18 and 70 years old. along the Negro River banks, where Ribeirinhos (forest dwellers) died at the hospital, South Bolsonaro, who is currently live, in Catalao, Brazil, yesterday. Carolina Trooper Joe Hovis not affiliated with any political said. party, had said he would not get of candidates endorsed by Bol- of economic law at Brazil’s The wreck happened involved in the election cam- sonaro could be a measure of Ibmec business school, said when a 2014 Kia heading the paign, but in recent weeks he the popularity of the president, Bolsonaro had not made a con- wrong way in the southbound turned to social media to who appears likely to run for certed effort to rally supporters lanes of I-385 near Laurens promote a dozen candidates for re-election, according to ana- in the municipal elections and and hit a 2020 Hyundai head mayor as well as councilor lysts. Bolsonaro was elected in had lost an opportunity to on around 2:15 am. Only one A view of destruction at a banana field as workers prepare to candidates. 2018. “prepare the ground for the person killed was wearing a evacuate, in El Progreso, Yoro department, Honduras, yesterday. The performance Bruno Carazza, a professor 2022 elections. seatbelt, Hovis said. MONDAY 16 NOVEMBER 2020 16

SpaceX aims for Hungarian village firm takes global launch; Musk role in COVID-19 vaccine race sidelined by virus PRAYER AP — CAPE CANAVERAL, FLORIDA TIMINGS REUTERS — SZIRAK, HUNGARY PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING SpaceX aimed for night launch of four In an unassuming house in astronauts to the International Space rolling hills east of the Station, although the prospects of good FAJR 04.31 am Hungarian capital, a small weather were just 50-50 and its leader SUNRISE 05.51 am family firm is helping oil the was sidelined by COVID-19. wheels of the world’s big phar- Vice-President Mike Pence was DHUHR 11.19 am maceutical companies on the expected at NASA’s Kennedy Space ASR 02.24 pm path to a coronavirus vaccine. Center for the long-awaited start of MAGHRIB 04.48 pm Biologist Noemi Lukacs, regular crew rotations aboard privately 71, retired to Szirak, her birth owned and operated capsules. It also ISHA 06.18 pm village, to establish English & marked only the second time in nearly Scientific Consulting (SciCons) a decade that astronauts were set to and manufacture a genetic rocket into orbit from the US. sensor so sensitive that a few “Game day!” tweeted Nasa grams can supply the entire astronaut Mike Hopkins, the crew global industry for a year. commander. As nearby towns braced “We produce monoclonal for an onslaught of spectators, SpaceX antibodies,” Lukacs said in the founder and chief executive Elon Musk single-storey house where disclosed via Twitter that he “most she was born, now partly con- likely” has a moderate case of coro- WEATHER verted into a world-class lab- navirus, despite mixed test results. TODAY oratory. The white powder Nasa policy is that anyone testing ships worldwide from here, positive for the virus to quarantine and micrograms at a time. remain isolated. Musk remained Hungarian biologist Alexandra Torok checks the purity of an antibody, a genetic sensor of sorts, “These antibodies rec- upbeat. “Astronaut launch today!” he manufactured by a small family company and sold to the largest pharmaceutical companies in ognise double-stranded RNA tweeted yesterday morning, adding (dsRNA),” she explained. the race for a coronavirus vaccine, in Szirak, Hungary, yesterday. that he had symptoms last week of a o o DsRNA is a byproduct of minor cold but currently felt “pretty 22 C 30 C viruses replicating, so its is to expose the vaccine to in Szirak. To Lukacs, that is mass production. But more normal.” Representatives for the Cal- Minimum Maximum presence signals the presence Lukacs’ antibodies. just fine. The success of the applications are expected, ifornia-based SpaceX didn’t respond of a live virus, long useful in Not only will the anti- RNA field, long frowned upon, which has Lukacs to queries about his whereabouts. Relatively hot daytime with some virus-related research. bodies show if there is any is vindication enough. overjoyed. The launch of three Americans and clouds at times. More importantly, dsRNA dsRNA in the vaccine, they The former university “Once you get into the one Japanese — all but one of them is also a byproduct of the will also tell researchers how professor followed the race RNA field, it is an extremely former space station residents — W ALRUWAIS : 23o → 28o process used by US giant much of it is present. Only to the vaccine closely and exciting area,” she said, comes just three months after a pair of W ALKHOR : 21o → 29o Pfizer and Germany’s once completely freed from rooted especially for the con- recalling decades of struggles Nasa test pilots successfully concluded W DUKHAN : 21o → 29o BioNTech to create their dsRNA can the vaccine be testants who look set to come when the rest of the scientific SpaceX’s first occupied flight of a Dragon W WAKRAH : 17o → 29o experimental COVID-19 administered. The result: A first: those using modified community did not share her crew capsule. The crew led by Hopkins, vaccine which is more than line of big pharma represent- RNA to train cells of the excitement. Or most of the an Air Force colonel, includes physicist W MESAIEED : 17o → 29o 90% effective according to atives outside her door. human body to recognise and rest, that is. Another Hun- Shannon Walker and Navy Cmdr. and W ABUSAMRA : 21o → 30o initial trial results last week. The small company is kill the coronavirus. The RNA garian woman, Katalin rookie astronaut Victor Glover, who will And because dsRNA can growing rapidly, yet its was her dog in the race. The Kariko, working across the be the first Black astronaut to spend an be harmful to human cells, it revenue was only 124 million modified RNA, or mRNA, Atlantic, patented the method extended period aboard the space HIGH TIDE 05:18 – 16:19 has to be filtered out from any forints (just over $400,000) methodology is a whole new that enables the use of RNA station — a full five to six months. Jap- vaccine to be used in humans. last year, with profits at 52 group of drugs, with the and promises to free the anese astronaut Soichi Noguchi will LOW TIDE 12:33 – 23:59 Several filtering methods million forints. That feeds five COVID vaccine the first world not only of the corona- become only the third person to rocket exist, but the most widely employees and even leaves product likely to get regu- virus but scores of other into orbit aboard three different kinds used way to do quality control some for local charity projects latory approval and go into diseases. of spacecraft. Olympic champion turns delivery rider to make ends meet

AFP — LODZ, POLAND He also became only the training. We could even say second Venezuelan gold med- it is an extension of the With a large delivery bag on his allist, 44 years after boxer Fran- training,” said the married back Venezuelan Olympic cisco Rodriguez. father of two. champion fencer Ruben Five mornings a week, the “It allows us to live, finish Limardo is out cycling around young Venezuelan fencers our studies. We help each other his adopted hometown in gather in a former workshop on out with training, paying rents. Poland, making ends meet in a a largely abandoned industrial Everyone works to finance the strange but heartwarming tale site in Lodz to cross swords. others in the group,” he said. from this time of pandemic. Their white uniforms clash Ruben Limardo has lived in The 35-year-old London with the yellow, blue and red Poland for 19 years. Olympics foil gold medallist of their national flag which He was encouraged to move will go for glory again at the dominate the decor. there by an uncle who wanted Tokyo Olympics next year, but At the entrance, a pile of to create a centre for Vene- stunned his fans last week bikes and green cool-bags zuelan fencers in this econom- when he made a tweet await the stroke of 1:00pm ically thriving country with rel- revealing the nature of his when each of the fencers finish atively low overheads com- new job. their training, has a quick pared to western Europe. “You have to earn your way shower and then sets off for Since moving to Poland, he Nikolaas Gyselbrecht, founder of Pipa, a Belgian auction house for racing pigeons, shows a two- and this is a job like any other,” deliveries in the chill of a Polish has created a foundation for year-old female pigeon named New Kim, that set a new world record price when an auction ended he said as he went about a autumn. Venezuelan fencers as well as in Knesselare, Belgium, yesterday. typical day of training and “We get very little money a club for taking part in local making food deliveries for Uber from Venezuela because of the tournaments and a fencing Eats. crisis there. And the pandemic school for children. Belgian racing pigeon fetches And he is not the only one has turned everything around. The pandemic has created — 20 other members of Vene- There are no competitions, the difficulties but the school is zuela’s national fencing team Tokyo Olympics were delayed continuing to operate, with the record price of $1.9m in auction live the same improbable for a year and the sponsors are Venezuelan fencers taking it in AP — HALLE, BELGIUM existence in the town of Lodz saying they will start paying turns to give lessons. breeders, both because of their generations-long in Poland. “We are all delivery again in the new year. “But above all we are New Kim is worth her weight in gold and then experience and the density of a network where riders,” said Limardo, speaking “That’s why we have to training to resume competition some — actually much, much more. many breeders can organize races close together. in fluent Polish. make money on the road,” said at any moment. The dream is A wealthy Chinese pigeon racing fan put It’s not a short-term endeavour, however, since He won his Olympic title Limardo, who does around still there,” Limardo said. down a record price of ¤1.6m ($1.9m) for the becoming expert at genetic breeding with the eight years ago — the first 50km per day on his bike, “Every time I make a Belgian-bred bird, saying a lot more than merely constant mixing and mating of birds takes years, fencer from Latin America to earning around 100 euros a delivery I tell myself that it will what kind of money can be made in the once- if not decades. Birds can live up to 15 years. do so since Cuba’s Ramon Fonst week. help me win the medal I want quaint sport, which seemed destined to decline “Everybody is interested in our pigeons,” in 1904. “It works well with our at Tokyo in 2021.” only a few years back. Pascal Bodengien, head of the Belgian pigeon During a frantic last half hour yesterday at federation, said. Only a decade ago, the record the end of a two-week auction at the Pipa pigeon price for a pigeon stood at one-tenth of New center, two Chinese bidders operating under the Kim’s price. And the current price of gold stands pseudonyms Super Duper and Hitman drove up about ¤26,000 ($30,350) per pound. As so often, the price by ¤280,000 ($325,000), leaving the pre- globalization has made the difference. vious record that Belgian-bred Armando fetched With the rise of business wealth in China last year well behind by ¤350,000 ($406,000). came also conspicuous consumption and a new Super Duper got the hen, and behind the pseu- venue for gambling. Somehow, pigeons fit the donym is said to be the same wealthy Chinese indus- bill. China often features one-loft racing, where trialist who already had Armando, allowing for pigeons all get used to one coop for months and breeding with the two expensive birds. It was proof then are released many hundreds of miles away again that an age-old hobby in Western Europe to make their way back with their unique sense identified with working-class men now has a new, of orientation and special speed training. Prize elitist foreign lease on life. Top breeders relying on pots can reach into the tens of millions of euros. generations of family experience can now sell their For breeding, though, there is no place like birds for prices unheard of merely a decade ago, Belgium. This is where, little more than a gener- and often China is their destination. ation ago, the national weekend radio news was On this occasion, successful breeder Gaston followed by announcements on whether pigeons Van de Wouwer retired at 76 and his son had too were released in faraway places in France or even busy a professional life to continue the famed Spain and what weather conditions the birds were pigeon coop. All 445 birds were put on auction and facing. After World War II, Belgium had over the overall sale was already pushing past 6 million 250,000 members in the pigeon fancier feder- euros ($7m). A second part of the auction is ending ation. Now there are 18,000, Bodengien says. on Monday, but didn’t include any bird that could Pigeon breeding demands constant attention, match New Kim. It still amounted to an amazing every single day of the year. Those demands had Venezuelan high-performance epee fencer and London Olympics golden medalist Ruben Limardo weekend for one pigeon breeder. turned away many modern folk, once sending Gascon gets ready to work as UberEats food delivery courier in Lodz, central Poland, yesterday. Belgians have long stood out as the best the sport into a decline.