www.thepeninsula.qa Monday 10 August 2020 Volume 25 | Number 8345 20 Dhul-Hijja - 1441 2 Riyals

BUSINESS | 13 PENMAG | 15 SPORT | 20

Ahlibank and Visa Classifieds Formula 1: announce strategic and Services Verstappen five-year section ends Mercedes’ partnership included winning run

Choose the network of heroes Enjoy the Internet Amir: Qatar, its people and institutions, provided relief aid worth $50m to Lebanon

QNA — DOHA

Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani yesterday par- ticipated in the ‘International We will announce Conference on Assistance and Support to Beirut and the Leb- in the coming anese People’, which was held days our con- in the French capital Paris, via video-conferencing. tribution to the The conference was held reconstruction at the invitation of President of the friendly French Republic of Beirut through H E Emmanuel Macron, and United Nations Secretary- the projects that General H E Antonio Guterres, will be adopted. with the participation of a number of Their Excellencies and Highnesses leaders of countries and governments and representatives of the par- ticipating countries. In his speech (unofficial Lebanon cannot translation) at the conference, H H the Amir said that Qatar get over this dire will announce in the coming circumstance on days its contribution to the reconstruction of Beirut through its own. the projects that will be Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani participating in the ‘International Conference on Assistance and Support to Beirut and the adopted. Lebanese People’, which was held in the French capital Paris, via video-conferencing, yesterday. “The State of Qatar, in response to what is made imperative on it by its human- operations and alleviation of going through and facing thousands others were injured, H H the Amir said: “The itarian duty and the ensuing sol- the suffering of the Lebanese many difficulties. as well as the massive eyes of the brotherly Lebanese idarity from the bonds of broth- people and overcoming their “There is no doubt that the destruction of buildings and people are looking forward to We, in terms of erhood, and in fulfillment of its extremely difficult circum- convening of this important properties and the exacerbation the outcome of this conference, people and duty and commitment to stances. We have also sent an conference reflects the inter- of economic and financial and we appeal to the interna- support Lebanon, we will equipped team from the Qatari national community’s resolve challenges. tional community, with all its institutions, announce in the coming days International Search and to stand beside Lebanon to “Lebanon cannot get over components, states and organ- quickly responded our contribution to the recon- Rescue Group and established overcome the catastrophe this dire circumstance on its izations, to provide urgent struction of Beirut through the field hospitals.” caused by the terrible own. Facing this crisis and over- financial assistance and con- to the call of the projects that will be adopted.” “I would like to extend explosion in Beirut port,” H H coming its dangerous negative tributions that help Lebanon to brothers in H H the Amir said: “In the many thanks to our dear friend the Amir said. repercussions depends on overcome the agonizing cir- meantime we, in terms of Emmanuel Macron, President H H the Amir further said: strengthening national unity, cumstances it is going through. Lebanon and people and institutions, of the Republic of France, and “We are all aware of the scale unifying and intensifying gov- Dialogue on the internal issues provided urgent quickly responded to the call to the Secretary-General of the of this catastrophe and the ernmental and societal efforts is to be set aside for the Leb- of the brothers in Lebanon and United Nations, for their invi- tragic and dire situation that the in Lebanon and providing all anese peoples awareness, con- relief aid to them provided urgent relief aid to tation to hold this important Lebanese people are experi- necessary forms of aid, from sciousness and living powers.” that is worth the them that is worth the sum of conference which comes amid encing as a result of this relief to restoration and recon- H H the Amir expressed his fifty million dollars as a con- extremely grave conditions explosion, in which dozens of struction, by the international hope that the conference will sum of $50m. tribution to the relief that the brotherly Lebanon is victims have lost their lives and community.” achieve its desired goals. Commander of Lebanese Armed Forces QA carries 45 tonnes of essential supplies to Beirut visits Qatar’s field hospital in Beirut THE PENINSULA — DOHA QNA — BEIRUT Qatar Airways has carried over 45 Commander tonnes of essential supplies, already in Chief of the donated by its employees, from Doha Lebanese to Beirut. Qatar Airways Group Chief Armed Forces Executive H E Akbar Al Baker was H E General present to oversee the shipment’s Joseph Aoun departure, Qatar Airways tweeted inspected yesterday. Qatar’s field “The tragic events that took place hospital in Al last week in Beirut were truly devas- Roum Hos- tating. Standing with the people of pital, accom- Lebanon Qatar Airways today launches panied by H E an aid programme that will enable cit- Qatar’s izens and residents of Qatar to donate Ambassador essential supplies,” Qatar Airways said to the Leb- in another tweet. their support to the people of Lebanon Qatar Airways has partnered with anese Republic Mohammed Hassan Jaber Al Jaber, a number of diplomats At the event H E Akbar Al Baker through donations.” Qatar Charity, Monoprix Qatar and and a delegation from the army command. said: “Our thoughts and prayers are H E Akbar Al Baker also said: “We Talabat to deliver the aid programme, The Lebanese Army Commander was briefed on the progress of the estab- with the people of Lebanon during this are delighted to extend our aid pro- with essential supplies being trans- lishment of Qatar’s field hospital which will be equipped with complete medical tragedy. In such difficult times, it has gramme to members of the public in ported free of charge from Doha to equipment and supplies, and due to receive the injured and those affected as been touching to see so many of our Qatar. Today’s freighter is one of three Beirut by Qatar Airways Cargo, said of Tuesday. employees at Qatar Airways offering that we will fly to Beirut.” Qatar Airways in another tweet. Ministry of Education opens first technical high school for girls THE PENINSULA — DOHA education landscape and grade 9 successfully. Admission students for post-secondary expand the contribution of will be open for Qatari nationals, education and a successful Due to the vital role played by Qatari women in national children of Qatari mothers or career path. technical education in human development. children born in Qatar. The academic subjects will development, the Ministry of The school is established to Students who meet the include Islamic studies, Arabic, Education and Higher Edu- provide the local labor market with admissions requirements will Mathematics, English, Chemistry, cation will open the first tech- the necessary pool of academically be eligible to attend grade 10 Physics, Biology, Science, Social nical high school for girls in and technically qualified female in the next academic year. Science and Physical Education. Qatar in September. cadres. It will promote women’s Online registration will be The technical subjects, however, Qatar’s Technical High technical training, create equal job open from August 16 to Sep- will be taught based on the stu- School for Girls will have an opportunities for males and tember 3, 2020. Applicants dents’ discipline of choice. inaugural class of 90 students, females, and increase the number should submit all the required The technical majors to be said the Ministry in a report on of Qatari women employed in documents (paper copy) at the offered for grade 10 students its website. technical fields. beginning of the academic year. are laboratory technicians, elec- The new school will play a During the first academic The school’s educational tronics and communications, major role in enhancing the year, the school aims to attract plan consists of an academic and information technology technical and vocational 90 girls who have completed and technical subject to prepare (networks engineering). `P2 02 HOME MONDAY 10 AUGUST 2020

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER TODAY

03.43 am 05.05 am o o Hazy by early morning becomes very hot daytime with some FAJR SUNRISE 35 C 44 C clouds and slight dust at times. ZUHR 11.39 am ASR 03.08 pm Minimum Maximum HIGH TIDE 10:06 – 19:56 LOW TIDE 03:47–14:58 MAGHRIB 06.15 pm ISHA 07.45 pm W ALRUWAIS: 34o↗40o W ALKHOR: 31o↗43o W DUKHAN: 31o↗43o W WAKRAH: 32o↗43o W MESAIEED 32o↗43o W ABUSAMRA 30o↗42o

Qatar Airways becomes only international OFFICIAL NEWS Amir congratulates airline to serve five major Australian cities President of Singapore DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Deputy Amir THE PENINSULA — DOHA connectivity to destinations Brisbane demonstrate our long- repatriating Australians and This will be the first regular H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad across the world, we have been term commitment to Australia eventually provide a path for international passenger service Al Thani sent yesterday cables of Qatar Airways has reaffirmed the airline of choice for many and our guarantee to support international tourists into South to the Middle East since March, congratulations to H E President of its position as the market’s Australian Embassies to help Australian passengers and Australia when our borders and will open up important the Republic of Singapore Halimah leading international carrier in bring Australians home. Aus- exporters with global connec- re-open.” connections through to Europe Yacob on the occasion of her coun- Australia with the resumption tralian Government data tivity during both good and bad South Australia Premier, and beyond for both essential try’s National Day. of services to Adelaide, Australia (BITRE) showed during the peak times.” Steven Marshall MP said: “This travellers and South Australian Prime Minister and Minister of starting from August 16, 2020. of repatriation efforts, our air- Australian Minister for is a great vote of confidence in freight ex-porters.” Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khal- The South Australian capital line helped take home almost Trade, Tourism and Investment South Australia, and a very pos- With the resumption of pas- ifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani also sent a will become the airline’s fifth ten times more passengers in and Senator for South Australia, itive first step in reinstating senger flights to Adelaide, the cable of congratulations to H E Prime destination in Australia to and out Australia than our Simon Birmingham, said: “I am services for when our interna- airline will operate a total of 25 Minister of the Republic of Singapore resume flights, making Qatar nearest competitors. delighted to see the ongoing tional borders open. Qatar flights in and out of Australia Lee Hsien Loong on the occasion of Airways the only international “We are proud to have been commitment of Qatar Airways Airways has been a growing every week, comprising of 23 his country’s National Day. carrier currently servicing five one of the few airlines to never to the Adelaide market. These brand flying into Adelaide for a belly-hold cargo flights and two major cities in Australia. stop services to Australia, even flights will provide another number of years helping to freighters, offering more than Qatar Airways Group Chief expanding our Australian oper- freight route for South Aus- service important markets to 700 tonnes of weekly cargo Conference for Arab Executive, Akbar Al Baker said: ations during the crisis, to help tralian exporters, enabling them and from Europe, so it is terrific capacity each way. “We are excited to resume repatriate over 170,000 Aus- to get their high-quality to see flights back in the air and With the resumption of flights Graduate Students in services to Adelaide, high- tralians and international trav- produce onto planes and into see some early optimistic news to Adelaide, Qatar Airways will lighting our ongoing com- ellers with their loved ones and the Middle East and Europe. from the sector.” operate 23 passenger flights per Western Universities mitment to the Australian transporting hundreds of tonnes “While international travel Adelaide Airport Managing week to Australia: two weekly launched virtually market during this difficult of cargo to maintain vital supply restrictions remain an Director, Mark Young, said: flights to Adelaide, three weekly period. With the largest global chains for Australian agriculture important line of protection for “We’re excited to wel-come flights to Brisbane, four weekly QNA — DOHA net-work in the region and the exporters. The resumption of Australia against COVID-19, the back Qatar Airways and we flights to Perth, daily flights to Best Airport in the Middle East Adelaide services and the resumption of services will welcome their reaffirmed com- Melbourne and daily flights to The second edition of the offering seamless and efficient re-cent launch of new flights to provide another avenue for mitment to the Adelaide market. Sydney. Conference for Arab Graduate Students in Western Univer- sities, which is organized by COVID-19: 297 the Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies (ACRPS), new cases and started yesterday and will continue until August 20. 271 recovered Thirty-seven researches from universities from the THE PENINSULA — DOHA US, Europe, UK, Australia and Canada are participating in The Ministry of Public Health the conference, selected from (MoPH) yesterday announced 150 files nominated by Arab the registration of 297 new doctoral students and grad- confirmed cases of COVID-19 uates in western universities, in the country. Another 271 in addition to over 30 pro- people have recovered from fessors specialising in the the virus, bringing the total various fields of knowledge number of recovered cases in in which the submitted Qatar to 109,709. papers are included, within All new cases have been the Arab centre, the Doha introduced to isolation and are Institute for Graduate receiving necessary healthcare Studies, and a number of according to their health research institutions around status. the world to provide critical The Ministry has also feedback and observations reported two new deaths due on the participating to COVID-19, of people aged researches. 23 and 57 and were receiving The conference aims to the necessary medical care. establish a link between The Ministry further said research in the Arab world and that measures to tackle the young Arab students who COVID-19 in Qatar have suc- Qatar Airways carries aid to Lebanon complete their doctoral studies ceeded in flattening the curve in western universities in the Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker, with other officials oversees the departure of aid to Lebanon, at Hamad and limiting the spread of the various fields of social sciences International Airport (HIA). Qatar Airways tweeted the photo yesterday. virus. and humanities. Ministry opens QRCS: ‘Lebanon in Our Hearts’ campaign achieved great success first technical QNA — DOHA individuals and institutions housing for affected high school during live coverage by Qatar families, in addition to The Qatar Red Crescent Society TV, Al Rayan Channel, Sout Al strengthening health for girls (QRCS) announced that the Khaleej Radio Channel, Qatar facilities to help them ‘Lebanon in Our Hearts’ Radio, and the Holy Quran return to work at full FROM PAGE 1 campaign, launched by the Radio, adding that total dona- capacity and serve an Upon successful com- Regulatory Authority for Char- tions made during the campaign estimated 55,000 pletion of the programme, stu- itable Activities in partnership from all supporters and indi- beneficiaries. dents will graduate with sec- with QRCS and Qatar Charity, viduals amounted to In its statement, ondary school examination has achieved great success. QR94,052,940. QRCS stated that it will certificates in addition to the QRCS said in a statement, The statement added that if provide the monthly Australian International TAFE that the campaign witnessed a the media campaign is over, the food needs and relief Certificate for those spe- great turnout from the Qatari humanitarian campaign itself vouchers for the ben- cialized in Medical Labora- community to donate and aid continues to mobilise the largest eficiary families, as tories, and Electronics and their Lebanese brothers, which possible support and implement well as repair the Communications. IT students reflects the honorable positions successive relief interventions damaged homes for will graduate with secondary of the Qatari people and the to meet the needs of the affected the benefit of 25,000 school examination certificate State of Qatar, in providing Beirut residents. people. and Microsoft Network Engi- relief and aid to all brotherly According to the set plan, In the long term, neering Certificate. and friendly peoples. expanded humanitarian projects efforts will be made to These certificates will The statement added that will be implemented to contain raise the efficiency of Relief materials provided by QRCS for affected Beirut port blast qualify the school’s graduates the past two days witnessed the effects of the disaster, health services, build to apply for technical or non- wonderful sympathy and soli- starting with urgent response the capacity of medical technical university programs darity with the brotherly Leb- and early recovery, and this personnel, and spread com- QRCS thanked the Qatari Authority for Charitable Activ- in Qatar or abroad, or directly anese people, and an influx of phase will focus on providing munity education and community with all its groups ities, Qatar Media Corporation, join the labour market. generous donations by foodstuffs and temporary awareness for 300,000 people. and institutions, the Regulatory and Qatar Charity. QA’s Dhiafatina Hotels announces plans for Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha THE PENINSULA — DOHA suited to this market. The Hyatt modern dining experiences.” travellers. Regency brand perfectly aligns The Hyatt Regency brand The property features 400 Dhiafatina Hotels, a Qatar Airways with both the business and leisure offers seamless and personalised guest rooms, inclusive of 12 luxury subsidiary, has announced plans culture of the dynamic city of experiences, connecting guests to suites, a multitude of social spaces for Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha. Doha and we look forward to pro- everything they need under one designed to facilitate meaningful The hotel, which has been viding an exceptional hospitality roof. The full range of services and connections, including a Regency owned by Qatar Airways since experience.” amenities include memorable Club and several authentic food 2010, now joins Hyatt’s premier Srdjan Milekovic, Senior Vice culinary experiences, flexible and beverage concepts including hotel portfolio. Hyatt Regency President Operations EAME at spaces to work, collaborate or three restaurants, a pool bar, two Oryx Doha marks the first Hyatt Hyatt, said: “We are thrilled to relax and expansive technology- lounges and a Jazz Club. Business Regency branded hotel in Qatar, enter into this relationship with enabled facilities for meetings and travellers will appreciate the and the third Hyatt hotel in the Dhiafatina Hotels and we look events, along with expert planners 10,700 square foot meetings and country. Expected to open on Sep- forward to growing Hyatt’s brand who adhere to every detail. events facilities, including a state- tember 15, the property is cur- portfolio in Doha. We are proud to The hotel is strategically of-the-art usiness Centre, two rently taking reservations. introduce the Hyatt Regency brand located close to Hamad Interna- ballrooms and 11 modern meeting Philippe Anric, Director of to Qatar and to become a key des- tional Airport and just a few and conference rooms. Operations at Dhiafatina Hotels, tination in the city, satisfying the minutes from the heart of the city, Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha will said: “We are delighted to work needs of on-the-go business trav- the palm-fringed Corniche and be joining Hyatt’s portfolio in with Hyatt on the first Hyatt ellers with an exemplary setting Doha’s vibrant business district, Qatar, alongside Park Hyatt Doha Regency hotel in Qatar, a global for meetings and leisure, and offering the perfect destination for and Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & A view of Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha. brand with the calibre of offerings attracting local guests looking for both business and leisure Villas. MONDAY 10 AUGUST 2020 HOME 03 President of Republic of Malta meets Afghanistan FM meets accredited Qatar Acting Chargé d’Affaires ambassadors with Qatar’s participation

QNA — KABUL

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan H E Mohammad Hanif Atmar held a meeting via video call with the ambas- sadors accredited to Kabul on strengthening consensus for peace in Afghanistan. The State of Qatar was represented in the meeting by Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Islamic Republic of Afghan- istan H E Saeed bin Mubarak Al Khayarin. During the meeting, the Afghan Foreign Minister briefed the ambassadors on the recent political develop- ments in Afghanistan, devel- opments in the peace process, the Afghan government’s President of the Republic of Malta H E George William Vella met with the Acting efforts to combat the outbreak Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the State of Qatar to Malta H E Khalid Ali Abel. of the coronavirus (COVID-19) H E Saeed bin Mubarak Al Khayarin, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the During the meeting, they reviewed bilateral cooperation between the two countries and the financial and tech- Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, during a meeting via video call in Kabul. and issues of common interest. nical needs of Afghanistan. ‘Qatar-Ecuador ties reached new heights in last two years’ FAZEENA SALEEM leisure and tourism post families and provide them with THE PENINSULA COVID-19. the needed food during this “We are working closely crisis,” said Rivadeneira. The strong ties between Qatar Ecuador is looking with the Qatari government to “The received funds are and Ecuador have reached new forward for further facilitate (direct flight) transpor- being put to excellent use, pro- heights in the past two years tation between Qatar and viding food kits to individuals with several developments in cooperation and Ecuador. We are currently in the and families facing difficult diplomatic relations, said Daniel working tirelessly negotiation process to establish times as they cope with this Rivadeneira, Chargé d’Affaires to diversify the an agreement in the field of air sanitary emergency,” he said. at the Embassy of Ecuador to activities that services, which will facilitate Rivadeneira also lauded Qatar, yesterday. trade and promote tourism Qatar’s approach towards the He said that Ecuador is strengthen bilateral between the two countries, and fight against COVID-19 within looking forward for further relations further in as you may know, Qatari the country and by supporting cooperation and working tire- the areas of culture, tourists don’t need (prior other countries. lessly to diversify the activities ports and air approved) visas to travel to “We highly appreciate the that strengthen bilateral rela- Ecuador,” he said. approach adopted by Qatar in tions further in the areas of services. Also in a friendly gesture, responding to the pandemic as culture, ports and air services. Qatar has provided financial it was prompt and rigorous Rivadeneira also lauded Daniel Rivadeneira, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Ecuador to Qatar, speaking to The Peninsula support to Ecuador to help which, so far, has helped to Qatar’s approach in fight against at a meeting held at the embassy, in Doha, yesterday. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA tackle the COVID-19 and funds manage the spread and mitigate COVID-19 and the role it has are being utilized to support the impact on the healthcare played in supporting other vulnerable families. system. It is worth to mention countries. especially during the last two mechanical products, plastic to facilitate trade and expand “The current pandemic has that the mortality rates have Speaking to The Peninsula years, where they reached their products, non-traditional fruits. investment opportunities. In affected the whole world. been relatively low in com- on the occasion of Ecuador highest position, through recip- The bilateral trade almost order to establish new partner- However, during this hard time, parison to other countries with commemorating the 211th Anni- rocating high-level official tripled between 2017 and 2019. ships with Qatar, some projects our relations have been solid- similar rates of infection,” said versary of the First Call of Inde- visits.” We look for possibilities to in the fields of infrastructure ified further. As we always say Rivadeneira. pendence, Rivadeneira said, “I He also said that Ecuador is export of our world-famous, and energy (LNG) are being ‘hard times reveal true friends’. “Qatar has proven its ability welcome this opportunity to looking at possibilities of high quality shrimps. Despite analysed by local investors. We That was obvious with the soli- in overcoming challenges. We reaffirm and stress that the expanding export and trade the COVID 19 crisis, we are hope to retain the interest in the darity and support that Qatar cannot deny the significant role Ecuadorian-Qatari relations are investment opportunities with working to introduce more tourism and real estate sectors,” showed to my country. Recently, of Qatar in supporting other solid and strong in all aspects. Qatar. products into the local market,” he said. Ecuador has received a valuable countries in their battle against There is no doubt that those “We are mostly exporting said Rivadeneira. Rivadeneira also highlighted donation from Qatar Charity COVID-19, as it has sent several relations are firm and have bananas and roses to Qatar. “In addition, we are holding the efforts to encourage more which will contribute to alleviate humanitarian and medical aid steadily grown over the years; Also processed foods, metal talks with different authorities Qataris to visit Ecuador for the situation of vulnerable to different countries,” he said. New Al Mazrouah Woqod petrol HBKU and station & Fahes opened Qatar FinTech THE PENINSULA — DOHA Woqod petrol station has two Manual Car Wash, Oil Change lanes with four dispensers for and Tire Repair for Trucks, in Hub sign MoU As part of Woqod’s ongoing heavy vehicles, which will addition to sale of diesel expansion plans to be able to serve Al Mazrouah area, and products for Trucks. THE PENINSULA — DOHA serve every area in Qatar, its neighbourhood, said Woqod’s Managing Qatar Fuel Woqod opened Al Woqod in a statement. In Director & CEO, Saad Rashid Newly opened Al Mazrouah Continuing to cement itself as a leading point Mazrouah Woqod petrol addition to Fahes has two Al Muhannadi, said: “We Woqod petrol station. of reference for research on Islamic finance, station & Fahes, yesterday and lanes for light vehicle opened a new Woqod petrol the College of Islamic Studies (CIS) at Hamad by this it raised its network of inspection and 12 lanes for station & Fahes in Al Maz- Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) has signed a petrol stations to 105. trucks. rouah, aspires to expand its of providing customers with would like to extend their Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with New Al Mazrouah Woqod Al Mazrouah Woqod petrol station network in the access to best-in-class gratitude to all concerned Qatar FinTech Hub (QFTH). petrol station & Fahes is petrol station offers round- country to meet the rising products and services at their governmental and private Through the agreement, CIS and QFTH spread over an area of the-clock services to cos- demand for petroleum convenience and comfort.” entities that contributed to will engage and contribute actively to the 4,0000 square metres, tumer, and include Trucks products and achieve the goal He said that Woqod team the completion of this project. development of the financial technology (FinTech) industry in Qatar. HBKU will also provide inputs and opinions on matters relating to the industry and participate in Fahes resumes vehicle inspections QNL expresses shock, sorrow over key events hosted by QFTH. Ibrahim Abdulaziz Al Mannai, Executive tragic explosion at Beirut Port Director of Advisory and Incubation at Qatar Development Bank (QDB) said: “Qatar THE PENINSULA — DOHA Lebanon’s intellectual freedom Fintech Hub’s partnership with the College made it a refuge from even the of Islamic Studies at Hamad Bin Khalifa Uni- Qatar National Library has harshest conditions for versity comes in line with our ongoing efforts expressed shock and sorrow oppressed voices that oth- to work closely with local and international over the recent devastating erwise would have been partners in developing a thriving FinTech explosion in Beirut that caused silenced, and the world is a ecosystem in Qatar. Our partnership with heavy human loss and enormous better place thanks to it,” it leading research university in Qatar will also material and moral damage. said. contribute to formation of a new generation The Library in a statement “At the same time that the of both early-stage and mature FinTech yesterday, expressed its sincere Library extends its deepest sym- startups and entrepreneurs in the country, condolences to the people of pathies to the people of Lebanon, and it is certainly an important step towards Lebanon for those who died in we also ring alarm bells to warn reiterating Qatar’s position as a leading inter- this tragedy. against the dangers to its archi- national FinTech hub in the region.” “We also extend our prayers tectural and documentary QFTH represents a range of stake- Vehicles lined up for inspection at a Fahes centre in Abu Hamour yesterday. PIC: ABDUL BASIT/THE PENINSULA to God for the speedy recovery history, express our grave holders in the industry from early-stage of the wounded and the safe concern over threats to Beirut’s firms to large financial services companies return of the missing to their heritage, and urge for the utmost and relevant service providers, who stand THE PENINSULA — DOHA effective August 1. The vehicles registered families. The Library also efforts to conserve and preserve to benefit from CIS’ insights and research. online for inspection after July 31 will need strongly supports the “Lebanon it,” said the QNL. The Fintech Hackathon, which was Fahes centres resumed its normal oper- to undergo a complete inspection at the in Our Hearts” campaign The statement further launched in June 2020, is one of the pio- ations for vehicle inspections in coordi- Fahes centers. launched by Qatari govern- said,”The Library stands in sol- neering areas of collaboration between nation with the Traffic Department from Heavy vehicles which were being mental and charitable institu- idarity with Lebanon, the CIS and QFTH. yesterday. inspected at the Fahes Center in the Indus- tions,” said the statement. National Library of Lebanon, and Dr. Emad El-Din Shahin, Interim Vehicles were seen lining up outside trial area prior to the closure will now be “Doha shares Lebanon’s its other cultural and heritage Provost of HBKU and Dean of CIS, said: the centres in the morning as exemption inspected at Fahes Al Mazrooua. grief and affirms its confidence institutions, and we stress that “We are thrilled to be working alongside from physical inspection for renewal of The technical inspections of vehicles in the continuing cultural Lebanon is not alone in this QFTH to engage and help develop the Istimara was revoked from the beginning for the renewal of Istimara (registration) status of its sister city Beirut, ordeal. The Library has already FinTech industry in Qatar. Together, our of this month. were exempted for the last few months which has a special place in the opened communications with collective expertise in Islamic finance and Fahes had earlier announced that “all as part of COVID precautionary measures. hearts of every Arab citizen. our Lebanese counterparts to emerging financial technologies will ensure centres except the one at Industrial area As Qatar is gradually lifting the The contributions of Lebanese express our readiness to provide that the further expansion of the industry will begin inspection on August 9.” It had COVID-19 restrictions, Fahes has also writers, poets, artists and all possible support to the is amplified by latest research and expertise also clarified that the exemption from started the inspections following the pre- thinkers are at the root of National Library of Lebanon and in the Islamic principles of finance.” physical inspection of vehicles stopped ventive measures. modern Arab culture. other institutions.” 04 HOME / GULF MONDAY 10 AUGUST 2020 Online voting for inaugural Nagham Competition begins

RAYNALD C RIVERA talents and spreading the culture THE PENINSULA of music to citizens and residents. Nineteen of Qatar’s rising musi- It has been organising events cians are competing to be for the community such as music crowned winners of the first ever festivals which focus on reflecting Nagham Competition being the importance of cultural organised by the Music Affairs diversity of the communities Center under the Ministry of residing in Qatar and reflect the Culture and Sports. ministry’s vision of stressing the Videos of the performances importance of opening up to of the 19 finalists comprising other cultures. vocalists and instrumentalists The Center has also presented were uploaded yesterday on the shows and concerts such as the Music Affairs Center’s YouTube unforgettable performance of channel and it’s now up to the “The Holy Trilogy”, a monumental jury and the public to decide who Qatari finalist Mohammed Al Haidous (left) during his performance at the inaugural Nagham Competition, and Mia Park Torchinsky, neo musical masterpiece by the late deserve to win through online of the finalists of the inaugural Naghamg Competition,, playingy g the piano. celebrated Egyptian composer voting until September 10. Riad Al Sunbati which was per- The finalists were selected Mohsen, Arianne Sayegh, All the finalists were given equal chance to A total of six winners will be formed by the Qatar Philharmonic from among the many submis- Mohammed Al Balushi, Mohamed record a music video of their performance chosen. One winner from each Orchestra as a fitting tribute to the sions by a esteemed jury to Ouda, Nidhikshana Paul, Lamar category will be selected by the composer who took the classical advance to the next stage of the Bayoumy, and Janna Thomson. in the Music Affairs Center production jury and two winners from each Arabic music to new heights and competition. The competition, In the musical instrument per- studio which can be viewed on the YouTube category through online voting inspired millions of people around which was opened to amateur formance category, the finalists channel of Music Affairs Center. which already started yesterday. the world during his lifetime. musicians living in Qatar of any include Mohammed Al Abdulla, The winners will be invited to Recently, the Center age and nationality, is divided Zeena AlMansoori, George Samir perform in a final event. announced it would present a into two categories namely Dayoub, Ayshi Saha Roy, William comprise Qataris and residents equal chance to record a music Under the Department of live concert on its YouTube singing and solo performance of Mcchesney, Abdulrahman Al hailing from different countries video of their performance in the Culture and Arts at the Ministry channel, under the theme any musical instrument. Sowaidi, Hassan Ahmad Al Hajali, including Lebanon, Bangladesh, Music Affairs Center production of Culture and Sports, the Music “Music is the language of In the singing category, the Mia Park Torchinsky, Nidhik- Syria, the UK, India, Egypt, studio which can be viewed on Affairs Center continues to play people” featuring a repertoire finalists are Mohammed Al shana Paul, and Vishrut Anand. Yemen, and Oman. the YouTube channel of Music an active role in supporting music of songs by artiste Aseel Haidous, Hashim Al Yafie, Ahmed The diverse lineup of finalists All the finalists were given Affairs Center. activities in Qatar, developing Hameem and other Arab songs. Iraq reopens Shalamija Tough anti-virus measures ‘not possible’: Rouhani border crossing with Iran ANATOLIA — TEHRAN The Iranian president said on ANATOLIA — BAGHDAD Located in southern Iraq, the yesterday that the application Shalamija crossing was closed of tough measures in the Iraq announced the resumption of from July 31 until August 8 as part country to stem the spread of trade movement through the of measures to stem the spread of coronavirus was “not possible.” Shalamija crossing with Iran coronavirus. Speaking during a meeting yesterday. Iraq has five crossing points of Iran’s anti-coronavirus task “Around 250 trucks will cross with Iran; Shalamija crossing in force in Tehran, Hassan the terminal from Sunday to Basra province, Zurbatiyah Rouhani opted for a “moderate Wednesday every week,” Alaa Al crossing in Wasit, Al Sheikh in path” between a total lockdown Din Al Qaisi, spokesperson for the Maysan and Montheriya and and ending restrictions fully. Iraqi Border Crossing Authority, Mandali crossings in Diyala He said the application of said. province. tough measures against the pandemic in Iran “leads to depression and anxiety in the society.” The Iranian leader warned that the situation can turn “dangerous” if health protocols are not observed, adding that punitive measures would be Iranians wearing face masks walk down a street in the capital Tehran amid the novel coronavirus taken against defaulters. The pandemic, yesterday. graph of new virus cases and deaths in Iran has seen a slight downward tilt in recent days, had warned of a long haul, Over 2.6 million tests have Restrictions aimed at with daily deaths sliding down saying the second phase of the been conducted in Iran to date. stemming the outbreak were the 200-mark after several virus in Iran was likely to Despite an upsurge in gradually eased amid con- weeks. prolong until the end of Iranian infections, President Hassan cerns over the economy, Yesterday, Health Ministry calendar year (March 21, 2021). Rouhani has allowed holding which is already under spokesperson Sima Sadat Lari According to that report, 25 gatherings of mourners during immense pressure due to US announced 2,020 new virus million people in Iran have Muharram, the first month of sanctions imposed after infections and 163 deaths over contracted COVID-19 in the the Islamic calendar. Believers Washington exited the the past 24 hours, taking the past five months since its out- commemorate the martyrdom landmark 2015 nuclear deal overall tally to 326,712 cases break in mid-February, and of Imam Hussein, the grandson Tehran signed with six world and 18,427 deaths. another 30-35 million were of the Prophet Muhammad powers. Rouhani, however, warned likely to be affected in the (Peace Be Upon Him), until the The virus has infected that the pandemic is likely to coming months. According to 10th day of Muharram, known nearly 20 million people in at stay around for another six Health Ministry spokeswoman as Ashura. least 188 countries and regions month or until the time a Lari. more than 284,300 Iran is struggling to contain since last December, according vaccine is developed. patients have recovered so far, the pandemic since February to the latest figures by US- A few weeks ago, citing a while 4,022 are hospitalised in when the first cases were con- based Johns Hopkins Health Ministry report, Rouhani critical condition. firmed in the holy city of Qom. University. Thousands of migrants stranded in Yemen

ANATOLIA — ADEN

Thousands of irregular migrants have been stranded in Yemen in the second quarter of this year, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). “IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) recorded 3,669 migrants, mainly departing from Somalia, arriving between April and June 2020, nearly a 92 percent drop from the same months in 2019 and an 87 percent drop from the first quarter of 2020. “Southern governorates are seeing an increased migrant presence within or just outside of Aden and Marib, where thousands of migrants are estimated to be stranded. In Aden city, during the month of June over 4,000 migrants approached IOM asking for assistance and support to return home,” the report said. Among the irregular migrants stranded in Yemen, 90 percent of them were Ethi- opian, and the rest mostly from Somalia, said the UN migration agency in its report — Quar- terly Migration Overview. MONDAY 10 AUGUST 2020 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 05 Renewed protests in Lebanon as pressure mounts on govt

AFP — BEIRUT The embattled government of Prime Minister Hassan Diab took another hit yesterday with Lebanon’s political elite faced pressure from all sides yesterday the resignation of information minister Manal after a deadly explosion blamed Abdel Samad. Several lawmakers also quit on officials’ negligence, with the and local media reported Diab was mulling first cabinet resignation over the affair and re-energised announcing the government’s resignation. protesters vowing more action. As hopes faded of finding any survivors of Tuesday’s blast, hopes of finding survivors,” indiscriminately firing tear gas social media was flooded with Colonel Roger Khoury, who and rubber bullets. angry posts after a night that saw heads a team of military techni- “Instead of deploying the protesters briefly take over min- cians at the blast site, told army to help residents clear istries in central Beirut. journalists. rubble from their homes, busi- A picture went viral on social The catastrophe has revived nesses, and communities, the media showing the city’s devas- the mass anti-government pro- Lebanese authorities chose to tated port, with a low wall in the tests that had for months deploy them and other security foreground bearing the spray- demanded the wholesale forces against protesters,” she A demonstrator throws a rock during a protest following Tuesday’s blast, in Beirut, Lebanon, yesterday. painted message: “My gov- removal of Lebanon’s political said. ernment did this.” elite, until coronavirus lockdown The violence injured 65 chaos prevails”. state apparatus. cabinet to step down over a blast While it is not known what measures brought an uneasy people, according to the Leb- In a joint statement issued The blast wounded a stag- he said could be “described as a started the fire that set off a huge calm. anese Red Cross. Security forces after the conference, donors gering 6,000 people, many crime against humanity”. stockpile of ammonium nitrate, Yesterday afternoon, hun- also made 20 arrests, according pledged the assistance would be bloodied by flying glass as the The disaster has revived protesters say the disaster could dreds gathered again in and to a group of lawyers supporting “directly delivered to the Leb- shockwave tore through the city anger at a ruling class seen as not have happened without the around Martyrs’ Square, a short the protests. anese population”. and left a 43-metre deep crater living in luxury while millions corruption and incompetence walk from the epicentre of the The August 4 explosion came New aid pledges were made at Beirut’s port. endure job losses, deepening that have come to define Leba- blast. with Lebanon already reeling while the embattled government US President Donald Trump poverty, power blackouts and non’s ruling class. Clashes broke out with from an economic crisis that has of Prime Minister Hassan Diab yesterday called for Lebanon to garbage mountains piling up in “Those who died paid the security forces who fired tear gas seen its currency collapse, took another hit yesterday with conduct a “full and transparent the streets. price of a state that doesn’t care to disperse crowds. plunging swathes of its popu- the resignation of information investigation” into the explosion, Politics in multi-confessional about anything except power Demonstrators had briefly lation into poverty. minister Manal Abdel Samad. but many have called for an Lebanon is dominated by former and money,” said protester taken over several government Yesterday, French President Several lawmakers also quit international enquiry. warlords from the 1975-1990 Tamara, 23, whose friend was ministries the previous night, Emmanuel Macron in Paris and local media reported Diab Diab said on Saturday he civil war who years ago killed in the blast. while security forces scuffled oversaw a UN-backed virtual was mulling announcing the would propose early elections to exchanged their military fatigues The explosion devastated with larger crowds of protesters donors conference to raise aid government’s resignation. break the impasse that is for suits, or by their offspring and Beirut and took the lives of at converging on the capital’s main for the cash-strapped country. The revelation that Lebanese plunging Lebanon ever deeper nephews. least 158 people. The Lebanese protest camp. The world must respond state officials had long tolerated into political and economic crisis. While there are Sunni army said Sunday that hopes had Human Rights Watch’s “quickly and effectively” to the a ticking time-bomb in the heart The head of Lebanon’s Muslim, Christian and myriad dwindled of finding anyone Lebanon researcher Aya disaster, Macron warned, urging of the capital has served as Maronite church patriarch other groups, the most powerful alive. Majzoub said some security international cooperation “to shocking proof to many Leb- Beshara Rai joined the chorus of is the Shiite Hezbollah “We can say we have fading forces had responded by ensure that neither violence nor anese of the rot at the core of the people pressing Diab’s entire movement. Six French tourists among eight killed by gunmen in Niger Turkey: 32 held in anti-drug AFP — NIAMEY “There are eight dead: two hour’s drive from the capital Grisly pictures seen of the tection of local people and con- Nigeriens including a guide and Niamey. scene showed bodies lying near servation groups. operations Six French tourists and their a driver, while the other six are “Most of the victims were a torched off-road vehicle, However the Tillaberi local guide and driver were French,” the governor of the shot... We found a magazine which had bullet holes in its region is in a hugely unstable ANATOLIA — GAZIANTEP killed yesterday by gunmen Tillaberi region said. emptied of its cartridges at the rear window. location, near the borders of riding motorcycles in an area “We are managing the sit- scene,” the source said. Around 20 years ago, a Mali and Burkina Faso. At least 32 suspects were held of southwestern Niger that is uation, we will give more infor- “We do not know the small herd of West African The region has become a during anti-drug operations in home to the last West African mation later,” Tidjani Ibrahim identity of the attackers but they giraffes, a subspecies distin- hideout for Sahel militant Mersin and Gaziantep provinces giraffes, officials said. Katiella said, without indicating came on motorcycles through guished by its lighter colour, groups such as the Islamic State of Turkey, security sources said It is believed to be the first who was behind the attack. the bush and waited for the found a safe haven from in the Greater Sahara (ISGS). yesterday. such attack on tourists in the A source close to the envi- arrival of the tourists.” poachers and predators in the The use of motorcycles has In the southern coastal area, a popular attraction in the ronmental services said the The source added that the Koure area. been totally banned since province of Mersin, police acted former French colony thanks assault took place at around tourists’ vehicle belonged to the Today they number in their January in an attempt to curb on a tip-off and found 25,000 to its unique population of West 11.30am six kilometres east of French humanitarian organi- hundreds and are a key tourist the movements of such drug pills in a vehicle. The driver African or Niger giraffes. the town of Koure, which is an sation ACTED. attraction, enjoying the pro- militants. of the vehicle was detained. Meanwhile, in Gaziantep, the southeastern border province, anti-drug police teams carried Malawi cracks down on out operations to nab drug traf- fickers. During the operations, police rounded up 31 suspects ‘alarming’ virus surge for possession, use, and selling of drugs. They also seized 13 AFP — LILONGWE No groups of more than 10 guns, 11 of which were unli- people are allowed, except for censed, three unlicensed Malawi yesterday shut clubs and funerals with a maximum of 50 shotguns, and some cash. churches in new restrictions to people. limit the “alarming” spread of Silungwe said an “army of coronavirus, three months after enforcement officers” had been COVID-19 deaths a court blocked the government hired to ensure the regulations from imposing a full lockdown. were followed. pass 10,000 in Since the first positive case New Information Minister was detected on April 2, con- Gospel Kazako said numbers of South Africa firmed cases have nearly coronavirus cases “are rising at doubled over the past four an alarming rate”. ANATOLIA — JOHANNESBURG weeks to hit over 4,624, “The problem is big and we including 143 deaths as of must all stand up. COVID-19 is Deaths from the coronavirus Saturday. here and killing people,” he said passed the 10,000 mark on Malawi had not been placed yesterday. Saturday in South Africa after under a lockdown after a court Experts had as far back as registering 301 new COVID-19 in April blocked the government May sounded the alarm while fatalities, according to nation’s from enforcing a full lockdown the country focused on election health minister. because it had failed to campaigns, attracting tens of Zweli Mkhize said the announce any measures to thousands to rallies in the Demonstration in Gaza over Lebanon blast number of people who have cushion the vulnerable. absence of a lockdown. died from the virus stands at Attorney general Chikosa “Because of the political People gather in front of the Unknown Soldier’s Monument to stage a demonstration in support of 10,210 and the total number Silungwe yesterday unveiled climate, we had been left to face people of Lebanon after Beirut’s deadly explosion, in Gaza City, Gaza, yesterday. of confirmed cases is 553,188 newly-gazetted regulations to the unmitigated impact of this after 7,712 new cases were curb the spread of the virus. pandemic. Even though it has recorded in the past 24 hours. Wearing of face masks will taken long, it is a very essential ‘‘We convey our condo- now be mandatory. and necessary measure,” said lences to the loved ones of the All public gatherings, Gama Bandawe, a virologist at departed and thank the health including at clubs and religious the Malawi University of Science Mali Constitutional Court elects new head care workers who treated the centres have been banned. and Technology. deceased,’’ he said. AFP — BAMAKO -- in the worst political strife however, raising questions Mkhize said the country has Mali has seen in years. about whether reforming the conducted 3.2 million tests with Chad says Boko Haram wreaking Newly-appointed judges at Heads of government from court will calm tensions. 36,607 performed in the past Mali’s Constitutional Court, the Economic Community of The group — chanelling 24 hours. havoc despite offensive which is at the centre of a West African States (ECOWAS) anger over a range of issues, The Western Cape political crisis in the fragile stepped in, suggesting on July including Mali’s brutal jihadist province, popular for tourism, AFP — N’DJAMENA “The incursions will con- country, yesterday elected 27 the formation of a new unity conflict — is planning to stage has the highest number of tinue,” he said, adding that the political veteran Amadou government to include oppo- nationwide protests urging deaths with 3,376, followed by Chad’s President Idriss Deby group “will continue to cause Ousmane Toure as their pres- sition members, while sticking Keita to resign on Tuesday. Gauteng which includes Johan- said on Saturday that Boko great damage,” in the Lake ident, officials said. by Keita. Yesterday, the new Consti- nesburg and the capital of Pre- Haram militants would Chad area. The move comes after They also urged the tutional Court judges unani- toria, has 2,547. continue to wreak havoc in the Boko Haram’s insurgency, embattled national President appointment of new judges to mously voted for Amadou Eastern Cape has 2,129 Lake Chad region despite a launched in northeast Nigeria Ibrahim Boubacar Keita the Constitutional Court to Ousmane Toure to be their deaths and the coastal province huge military offensive against in 2009, has killed more than appointed nine new judges to resolve a festering election president, the officials said. of KwaZulu-Natal recorded the group earlier this year. 36,000 people and displaced the court on Friday, as part of dispute, among other measures. All of the judges are due to 1,346 fatalities. The remaining Lake Chad — a marshy more than two million from a compromise intended to ease Much of Mali’s current be sworn in during a ceremony five provinces each has less region dotted with islands near their homes. the months-long political crisis. tension was sparked in April, at the parliament in Bamako than 400 cases. the border of Niger, Nigeria and The violence has since The poor Sahel nation is in when the Constitutional Court today. ‘‘The number of recoveries Cameroon— has been battered spread to Niger, Chad and the grip of a political impasse tossed out 30 results from long- Toure has a long history of currently stands at 404,568 by attacks from militants Cameroon. between Keita and an increas- delayed parliamentary elec- public service in Mali, including which translates to a recovery crossing from Nigeria. In March, Chad’s armed ingly strident opposition which tions — a move that benefited as chief of staff to Prime Min- rate of 73 percent,” said Mkhize. “We will have this Boko forces suffered their biggest is intent on securing his Keita’s party, but triggered ister Boubou Cisse before being South Africa is the fifth Haram phenomenon for a long single-day loss, when 98 sol- resignation. protests. appointed to the court. most-affected country in time yet,” Deby told Radio diers were massacred in their Last month, 11 people died Mali’s opposition June 5 He has also served as Mali’s terms of COVID-19 infections, France Internationale in an base at Bohoma, on the banks over three days of unrest fol- Movement has repeatedly auditor general and as ambas- according to US-based Johns interview. of Lake Chad. lowing an anti-Keita protest spurned the ECOWAS proposal, sador to Ivory Coast. Hopkins University. 06 ASIA MONDAY 10 AUGUST 2020 Mahinda Rajapaksa sworn in as PM Pilot erred in India crash, in Sri Lanka, cementing family rule aviation official suggests BLOOMBERG — NEW DELHI occurred, due to safety issues. A Boeing Co. 737 operating Rajapaksa took oath before The Air India Express jet that as Flight 1344 from Dubai his younger brother, President overshot the runway on Friday, skidded off the runway at killing at least 18 people, had Kozhikode after touching down Gotabaya Rajapaksa, at a touched down too far along the with a tail wind and broke prominent Buddhist shrine on airstrip, the chief of India’s apart while attempting to land the outskirts of Colombo. aviation regulator said amid at about 7:41pm local time on ongoing investigations. Friday. At least 18 people died Arun Kumar, Director and more than 100 are injured, AP — COLOMBO General for civil aviation, told some in critical condition. CNN News-18 that the plane The area had been receiving Sri Lanka’s former President Mahinda landed about 3,000 feet into a torrential rain. The pilots first tried Rajapaksa was sworn in as the Prime Min- 9,000 feet-long runway, causing to land from one side of the ister for the fourth time yesterday after his it to breach a further 787 feet runway and then sought per- party secured a landslide victory in parlia- safety area at high speed and mission to try the opposite end. “At mentary elections that cemented his fam- crash into a valley beyond. 7:37pm they were given clearance ily’s hold on power. “Looks like,” Kumar said to land from the other side,” Kumar Rajapaksa took oath before his younger when asked by the TV channel said. “Unfortunately they did land brother, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, at if the incident seemed to be the but they probably did not land the a prominent Buddhist shrine on the out- result of bad judgement. “They way they should have landed.” skirts of the capital Colombo. should have landed before The nose was crushed and Mahinda Rajapaksa served as the island 1,000 feet, but they have most casualties are reported nation’s president from 2005 to 2015 and is landed more than 3,000 or so, from the front of the plane, highly popular among the ethnic majority Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa (right) swears in his elder brother Mahinda exact numbers will come out including the pilot and co-pilot, Sinhalese for ending the country’s 25-year Rajapaksa (left) as the nation's new Prime Minister at the sacred Kelaniya Raja Maha from the flight data recorder.” Kumar said. The tail also broke civil war against Tamil rebels in 2009. He Buddhist shrine, outside the capital Colombo yesterday. The crash took place on a apart. The probe team reached was first elected Premier in 2004 and again so-called table top runway, the site at 5am on Saturday and appointed for brief periods in 2018 and 2019. required to make constitutional changes the Rajapaksas’ party, so they appear to built on a hill. Indian author- the black boxes were found. Sri Lanka People’s Front - the party led that could strengthen dynastic rule in the have mustered that support. ities ignored at least two rec- “They have already by the Rajapaksa brothers — won 145 seats country. This time, five members of the Sri Lanka had been ruled by powerful ommendations in the past recovered the flight data in the 225-member Parliament in the Rajapaksa family have been elected as law- executive presidents since 1978. But a 2015 decade to install a safety system recorder and cockpit voice election last Wednesday. Its main opponent makers — Rajapaksa, his son Namal, the constitutional amendment strengthened Par- on such airstrips. recorder,” Kumar said. “So they obtained only 54 seats. A party representing eldest brother Chamal and his son liament and the Prime Minister and put inde- Several international air- have to examine the conver- ethnic minority Tamils won 10 seats, and Sashindra, and a nephew, Nipuna pendent commissions in charge of judiciary lines had stopped flying bigger sation between the pilot and co- 16 others were split among 12 small parties. Ranawaka. The brothers need 150 seats appointments, police, public services and the aircraft including Boeing 777 pilot to ascertain as to what The victory gave the Rajapaksa brothers to be able to change the constitution. At conduct of elections. Gotabaya Rajapaksa was and Airbus SE A330 jets into actually transpired in the aircraft nearly the two-third majority of seats least four small parties collaborate with elected President last November. Kozhikode, where the accident in those last 10 eventful minutes.” Bangladesh: Deaths in floods rise to 184 Fire kills 10 at COVID-19 India to ban imports of ANATOLIA — DHAKA people in flood-hit areas are also Bangladesh is getting better as suffering from diarrhea. the Ganges basin has seen facility in southern India 101 items Bangladesh yesterday regis- Earlier talking to the Anadolu further improvement with tered 10 more deaths in floods, Agency, experts feared that at water levels in most of its rivers REUTERS — VIJAYWADA out of the blackened building on of military taking the fatalities count to 184 least 5 million people would in receding trend. Also, the trolleys. as the South Asian country faces suffer from an acute food crisis country said in the weather At least 10 people died when a Prime Minister Narendra Modi equipment one of the worst floods in in floods as nearly half of the forecast that a low light pene- huge fire broke out at a COVID-19 said on Twitter he felt “anguished” history. Over 33,000 people got country was exposed to floods. trated into the sea over the treatment and quarantine centre and had discussed the situation with AP — NEW DELHI infected with water borne Heavy rains in the neigh- Northwest Bay and adjoining in the southeastern Indian city of the chief minister of Andhra disease, according to the health boring Indian state of Assam area, and the monsoon is less Vijaywada early yesterday, offi- Pradesh, Jagan Mohan Reddy. India said yesterday emergency operation centre cussed huge inflows into down- active over Bangladesh and weak cials said. Reddy said the state would pay that it will ban the under the Health and Family stream Bangladesh. Monsoon to moderate over North Bay. Emergency crews rescued up each of the victim’s families Rs5m imports of 101 items of Welfare Ministry of the country. rains in Bangladesh is usually In the meantime, fatalities to 20 patients and medical staff ($66,656.00). “Several people who military equipment in Of the total deaths, 155 from June to September. from COVID-19 pandemic from the centre housed in a hotel were trapped and injured have an effort to boost local drowned while 16 died of snake- The Bangladesh Water reached 3,400 in Bangladesh and took them to hospital, police been rescued and moved to a gov- production and bites and 13 in thunderstorms, it Development Board, however, with 34 new casualties and a commissioner B Srinivasulu told ernment hospital,” said Lakshmi, improve self-reliance said, adding that around 11,375 said the flood situation in total of 257,000 infections. journalists at the scene. a constable at the police control in weapons Initial reports suggest the fire room. manufacturing. was caused by a short circuit in the Last week, eight COVID-19 Defence Minister centre, police and fire officials said. patients died in a fire that broke out Rajnath Singh said the Television footage showed in the intensive care ward of a government is planning rescuers wearing face masks and private hospital in India’s western to progressively full body suits taking survivors city of Ahmedabad. implement the embargo on select mil- itary imports between this year and 2024. The military equipment includes some high technology weapon systems and range from assault rifles and artillery to transport aircraft and light combat helicopters, the Defence Ministry said. “Our aim is to apprise the Indian defence industry about the anticipated require- ments of the Armed Forces so that they are better prepared to realise the goal of indigeni- sation,” Singh wrote on Twitter. “This is a big step towards self-reliance in defence.” India was the third-biggest military spender in the world last year after the US and China. MONDAY 10 AUGUST 2020 ASIA 07 Afghanistan to free 400 Taliban in bid for peace REUTERS — KABUL Among the 400 are Taliban members accused of major attacks against civilians and foreigners, Afghanistan agreed yesterday to release 400 “hard-core” including a 2017 truck bombing near the Taliban prisoners, paving the German embassy in Kabul that killed more than way for peace talks aimed at ending almost two decades of 150 people. war. Under election-year pressure from US President Among the 400 are Taliban Deliberation over the Donald Trump for a deal members accused of major release of last batch of Taliban allowing him to bring home attacks against civilians and for- prisoners, accused of con- American troops, the war-torn eigners, including a 2017 truck ducting some of the bloodiest country’s grand assembly, or bombing near the German attacks across Afghanistan, had Loya Jirga, yesterday approved embassy in Kabul that killed triggered outrage among the release, a controversial con- more than 150 — the deadliest civilians and rights groups who dition raised by the Taliban mil- attack in the 19-year insur- questioned the morality of the itants to join peace talks. gency. Taliban and official peace process. “In order to remove an sources have said the group It has also proved obstacle, allow the start of the includes members of the mil- wrenching for the families of peace process and an end of itant Haqqani network, which the more than 100,000 Afghan bloodshed, the Loya Jirga has ties to the Taliban. civilians thought to have been Afghan President Ashraf Ghani (second left) and Afghan First Lady Rula Ghani attending the last day approves the release of 400 With the release, the Afghan killed or injured in the past of the Loya Jirga, a grand assembly, at the Loya Jirga Hal, in Kabul, yesterday. Taliban,” the assembly said in government will fulfil its pledge decade, more than 10,000 last a resolution. to release 5,000 Taliban year alone. The Loya Jirga had US officials had encouraged envisaged in the US-Taliban With November elections Minutes later, Afghan Pres- prisoners. urged the government to seek the Loya Jirga in recent days to Peace Agreement, the Intra- looming, Trump, behind in the ident Ashraf Ghani announced, Talks between the warring forgiveness from the families support the release of the pris- Afghan Negotiations will com- polls, is eager to fulfil a major “Today, I will sign the release Taliban and government will for their killers, important oners despite the drawbacks in mence at the earliest,” Paki- campaign promise to end order of these 400 prisoners.” start this week, Western dip- under many interpretations of order to get the peace process stan’s foreign office said in a America’s longest war. Last week Ghani invited lomats said. Ghani appealed to Islamic law. moving. statement. The drawdown will bring some 3,200 Afghan community the hardline militant group to Yesterday’s decision caps Neighbouring Pakistan, Ahead of the Loya Jirga, the number of US troops to “a leaders and politicians to Kabul pledge to a complete ceasefire more than five months of fitful seen as key to helping pave the Human Rights Watch cautioned number less than 5,000” by the amid tight security and con- ahead of talks. talks after Washington and the way to talks, welcomed the that many of the prisoners had end of November, Defense Sec- cerns about the COVID-19 pan- The Taliban have not com- Taliban agreed on the release decision. been jailed under “overly broad retary Mark Esper said in an demic, to advise the gov- mented on the decision to of the Taliban prisoners as a “We hope that with imple- terrorism laws that provide for interview broadcast on Sat- ernment on whether the pris- release the remaining condition for the talks with mentation of this step relating indefinite preventive urday, down from current levels oners should be freed. prisoners. Kabul. to the prisoners’ release, as detention”. of around 8,600. Victoria state reports deadliest day of COVID-19 pandemic Myanmar to probe deaths of 2 teens REUTERS — SYDNEY helped, although the situation “We have to drive that remains challenging, as cases down, so that every third or at juvenile centre Australia’s second-most with unknown sources of fourth person who has it is populous state, Victoria, infection continue to increase, infecting someone else. That’s AFP — YANGON reported its deadliest day of the said Victoria Premier Daniel where we’ll see the numbers COVID-19 outbreak yesterday, Andrews. halve and halve again and Authorities said yesterday that with 17 people dying, as police The state reported 174 such become more manageable,” they would investigate the thwarted a planned anti-mask “mystery” cases in the past 24 Andrews said. “That will essen- deaths of two teenagers at a rally in the capital of Melbourne. hours, up from 130 on Saturday tially take time.” Myanmar juvenile centre after Victoria, at the centre of a and bringing the total to 2,758. Earlier in the day, Victorian the family of one victim second wave of infections in “Even large numbers in police thwarted a planned anti- alleged abuse, in a scandal Australia, reported 394 cases of known contained outbreaks mask rally dubbed “Freedom plaguing the country’s noto- the novel coronavirus in the are, to a certain extent, less sig- Day Celebration” in Melbourne, rious detention system. past 24 hours, compared with nificant than the smaller arresting seven people and Myanmar’s state-run a daily average of 400 to 500 number of cases where we issuing 27 fines. juvenile centres, like its over the past week. The new simply can’t find the circum- Neighbouring New South prisons, have faced long- deaths bring the state’s total to stance or point of origin,” Wales, Australia’s most pop- running complaints of over- 210. Andrews told reporters. ulous state, recorded 10 infec- crowding, poor sanitation and The southeastern state, with “They’re the ones that are tions on Sunday, with author- a lack of food. infections concentrated in Mel- incredibly challenging from a ities ordering students at two The two 17-year-old boys, bourne, accounts for a lion’s Police detain a lone protester at a proposed anti-lockdown rally containment point of view.” state schools to self-isolate Pyae Phyo Maung and Khaing share of the national tally of which failed to materialise, in Melbourne, yesterday. Victoria’s coronavirus after reporting COVID-19 Zaw Tun, were sentenced last more than 21,000 and 295 reproduction rate is around 1, cases. month to two years at the deaths. has imposed a night curfew, ordered large parts of the meaning each infected person The remainder six states Mandalay Community Reha- In an effort to slow the tightened restrictions on peo- economy to close. is passing the virus on to at least and territories reported zero bilitation Centre for robbery. spread of coronavirus, Victoria ple’s daily movements and Those measures have one other person. new cases yesterday. They arrived at the facility and escaped just days later, according to state-run news- paper Global New Light of New Zealand records 100 days Myanmar. Both died after being recaptured. without domestic virus case The regional government of Mandalay and the Social but warns against complacency Welfare Ministry which oversees the country’s juvenile REUTERS — WELLINGTON New Zealand has detention centres both said 23 active cases in yesterday they had launched New Zealand marked 100 days investigations. without a domestic trans- managed isolation The families were suspi- mission of the coronavirus facilities, and 1,219 cious of the injuries found on (COVID-19) yesterday, but the bodies of both boys. warned against complacency COVID-19 cases in all as countries like Vietnam and so far. Australia which once had the Thai activist joins virus under control now battle a resurgence in infections. Neighbouring Australia’s protest after New Zealand’s successful second-biggest city, Melbourne, fight against COVID-19 has has gone into a six week sedition charges made the Pacific island nation lockdown due to a surge in of 5 million one of the safest cases. The second wave of AFP — BANGKOK places in the world right now. cases in Melbourne has been New Zealanders have largely a result of lapses in A Thai activist took aim at the returned to normal life, but quarantining. government for “threatening” authorities are concerned that “For countries like Australia the pro-democracy movement people were now refusing and New Zealand the source of at a protest yesterday — a day People wade along a flooded street after a monsoon rainfall in Lahore, yesterday. testing, not using the gov- such outbreaks is likely to be after his bail release on ernment contact tracing apps, from managed isolation and sedition charges for his role in and even ignoring basic quarantine facilities because of a recent rally. hygiene rules. the large numbers of people 50 dead in Pakistan heavy monsoon rains The kingdom has seen “Achieving 100 days held there and the multiple near-daily demonstrations for without community trans- shifts of staff involved in AP — KARACHI northwestern Khyber media reports, at least eight weeks by mostly young stu- mission is a significant mile- looking after them,” said Pakhtunkhwa province, 12 in people were killed in Balu- dents denouncing the military- stone, however, as we all know, Michael Baker, Professor of Three days of heavy monsoon southern Sindh province, 8 in chistan because of rains and aligned government of we can’t afford to be com- Public Health at the University rains triggering flash floods Punjab province and 10 in the flash flooding. premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha. placent,” Director-General of of Otago. killed at least 50 people in country’s scenic northern Gligit Heavy rainfall began last Anon Numpa, a 35-year- Health Dr. Ashley Bloomfield There have been cases of various parts of Pakistan, as Baltistan region in the past week and continued Sunday, old human rights lawyer, and said. returning New Zealanders troops with boats rushed to a three days. flooding streets even in the another activist were arrested “We have seen overseas sneaking out of quarantine, and flood-affected district in the Rains also partially eastern city of Lahore. It espe- on Friday and charged with how quickly the virus can re- other security slip ups. country’s southern Sindh damaged about 100 homes and cially disrupted normal life last sedition and breaking corona- emerge and spread in places New Zealand last week province yesterday to evacuate caused a breach in a main week in Karachi, the provincial virus rules for taking part in a where it was previously under ramped up testing at quar- people to safer places. flooded canal, inundating vil- capital of Sindh province, Bangkok rally last month. control, and we need to be pre- antine facilities and clinics, and Every year, many cities in lages in Sindh province. where sewage flooded most of Released on bail on con- pared to quickly stamp out any started work on technology to Pakistan struggle to cope with In a statement, the military the streets, prompting Prime dition they would not repeat future cases in New Zealand,” track people using Bluetooth the annual monsoon deluge, said that troops used boats to Minister Imran Khan to order the alleged offences, Anon he said. technology. drawing criticism about poor rescue stranded people and the army to assist authorities in travelled yesterday to Chiang New Zealand has 23 active Ardern kicked off her re- planning. The monsoon season move them to safer places. It handling the situation. Mai, a northern city popular cases in managed isolation election campaign on Saturday runs from July through Sep- said a medical camp was also According to the Meteoro- with tourists, to speak at a facilities, and 1,219 COVID-19 calling it a ‘Covid election’. tember, during which swelling established and food was logical Department, heavy rains rally. cases in all so far. But a resurgence of cases rivers cause damage to crops being provided to the rescued are expected to continue next “We repeat our three Vietnam, which went for due to “Covid fatigue” could and infrastructure. people. week. demands: stop threatening the three months without detecting spark a backlash against her, According to Pakistan’s Heavy rains also lashed In Pakistan and neighboring people, dissolve the par- any domestic transmission, is and give the opposition a National Disaster Management many districts in southwestern India, deadly floods occur reg- liament and write a new con- now racing to control a new chance to work their way back Authority, 19 people were killed Baluchistan province, dam- ularly during the monsoon stitution,” he told a cheering outbreak in Danang. into the election contest. in rain-related incidents in aging homes. According to local season. crowd of roughly 400. 08 VIEWS MONDAY 10 AUGUST 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]

EDITORIAL Licypriya Kangujam, an 8-year-old environmental activist, holds a sign at Juhu beach during a cleaning drive in Mumbai, India.

Getting back on track The climate crisis: Our children SPORTS events in Qatar are gathering steam as coun- try’s popular showjumping competition – the Longines Hathab Tour returned to action at the weekend, a fort- warned us, but we did not listen night after the resumption of the QNB Stars League (QSL). Longines Hathab Tour is the second major com- minimise the effects of our crisis. It is home to half the price for ignoring their petition to return after the coronavirus pandemic brought unsustainable consumption of world’s population and two- warnings. But we want to say the sports action in Qatar to a halt almost five months natural resources. But there is thirds of its poor. Half of - we hear you. That is why the ago. The event, which is in its third season, is an initi- also growing recognition of Asia’s urban population live in Stockholm Environment ative of H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, Pres- governments’ legal obliga- low-lying coastal zones and Institute and Save the ident of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC), and is tions to do so. And our flood plains, which are most Children are supporting a aimed at improving the standard of horse riding among children have been making at risk from rising sea levels new campaign by young Qatari youth. HASSAN NOOR & NIALL their voices heard. Until and floods. people across Asia-Pacific to On Saturday, the Round 10 of the third edition was O’CONNOR — AL JAZEERA COVID-19. This year, South Asia has make sure their concerns are concluded successfully with Qatar Equestrian Feder- The global pandemic has already seen two severe heard loud and clear. ation hopeful of completing the season, which is offering shifted everyone’s attention cyclones within a month and Tackling the climate crisis QR1m in total prize money. The local organising com- When children start suing and silenced much of the is currently experiencing one and recovering from mittee deserves the applause for its tireless efforts in governments for inaction on child- and youth-led buzz of the deadliest monsoons in COVID-19 requires an all-of- bringing the equestrian action back. The proceedings climate change, as they have around the climate crisis that years. Some Pacific island society approach. Imple- of the round were held by rigidly following the Ministry in South Korea, Pakistan, captured public attention last nations like Fiji, Solomon menting the right technical of Public Health (MOPH) safety advisory. The officials India and several other coun- year. Though many young Islands and Vanuatu risk measures like improving of the Qatar Red Crescent Society were also present tries, it is time to sit up and climate activists have being wiped out by just a one- energy efficiency is during the round. take notice. remained engaged, our metre sea level rise. In China’s important, but first we need Simultaneously, the third QSL round since its The climate crisis is analysis of social media finds coastal areas, 23 million to focus on empowerment resumption on July 24 featuring mouth-watering already a menace to countries the number of public online people are at risk from a one- and inclusion, and that means matches, was also completed in a befitting manner at battered by extreme weather conversations about climate, metre rise in sea level. For giving children and youth the the weekend. The football authorities are not just events. But with much worse which steadily rose during East Asia as a whole, that tools and platforms they need ensuring the safety of all stakeholders during these QSL to come for future genera- 2019, declined sharply in 2020 figure jumps to 40 million. to bring about lasting change. matches by following the MOPH guidelines, but they tions, it is also a child rights when COVID-19 emerged. Scientists are warning our Yes, we need to “build back are also taking indiscriminate action against those who crisis. The UN Convention on Globally, public online discus- destruction of nature is better”, but do so sustainably, are not adhering to the protocols. the Rights of the Child sions about climate between heightening pandemic risks. placing social justice and Recently, the Qatar Football Association (QFA) enshrines children’s rights to April and June this year plum- Studies show that pandemics gender equality front and imposed fines on several officials and top flight players survival. It explicitly mentions meted by a staggering 70 caused by viruses of animal centre. including Al Sadd coach Xavi Hernandez and national “the dangers and risks of percent compared with the origin are becoming more Seventeen-year-old Kaviti football star Abdelkarim Hassan for non-compliance of environmental pollution” same period last year. frequent, largely because of from Sri Lanka recognises the MOPH’s safety protocols. Xavi was warned and was including global heating. But although COVID-19 unsustainable human activ- problem. “My health is handed a QR 10,000 fine while Hassan also faced the But in a region that is has knocked the climate crisis ities, like deforestation, illegal affected. I have some issues same punishment. already the world’s most dis- off the political agenda, it wildlife trade, water and air with my lungs and I get rashes In a nut shell, Qatar is marching towards the return aster-prone, home to three of does not mean it is not a pollution and the industrial- from the heat,” she says. “The of the full-fledged action because of effective policies the biggest carbon-emitting burning issue. If anything, it scale meat industry, all of sea is filled with plastic. I do by the sports authorities with the help of the MOPH. A countries and 99 of the 100 poses a far greater threat to which disrupt the natural not think adults are working sharp decline in the COVID-19 cases has also helped most polluted cities, such humanity than COVID-19, and world and force animals and hard enough for this problem them in keeping their plans intact. rights are being flushed into a no vaccine can fix it. insects into contact with because most of them do not More events in other disciplines are also expected pit of toxic waste. With their futures most at humans. Climate change is care, they put plastic and in the coming weeks as the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle These rights are under- stake, children and youth aggravating such disruptions, waste and garbage all over Federation (QMMF) also announced to resume the mined by every new coal must be heard and their needs and children from poor and the city.” This is our com- season. The other sports bodies of the country are also plant opened, every new acre integrated when governments marginalised communities mitment to Kaviti and mil- gearing up for action as the Qatar Volleyball Associa- of forest burned, and every address the climate emer- will continue to bear the lions of children around the tion’s season is scheduled to resume on September 10. missed opportunity to rebuild gency with the bold level of worst impacts. world. Let us show them we Plenty of sports action is definitely on the cards in the region’s currently stalled ambition required, but collec- Young climate activists care. the near future but all the stakeholders must not forget economies on cleaner, tively lacking so far. and our scientists have been Hassan Noor is Asia that the war against the pandemic is not completely greener foundations. Asia-Pacific governments warning for years that Regional Director of Save the over, and every body must play safe until it comes to There is a strong moral must be at the forefront humanity is consuming and Children. Niall O'Connor is an end. obligation on governments to because they face the biggest abusing nature beyond its Asia Director of Stockholm take effective action to help human impacts of the climate limits. Now we are paying the Environment Institute.

D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR Governors step in to fill pandemic leadership gap EMAIL: [email protected] THE WASHINGTON POST tests a day, greater than when noteworthy is that governors which take longer to process, the pandemic began but still are working together to and are more useful to confirm EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 Responding to the disaster of short of the 3 million or more amplify their purchasing illness. The antigen tests, which FAX: +974 4455 7758 President Donald Trump’s per day that experts say is the power. The governors, three look for a protein on the failure to build a national minimum. Lately, the testing Republicans and four Demo- surface of the virus, are less MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 system of diagnostic and system has been swamped by crats, are Mike DeWine of precise and can lead to false screening tests for the novel a wave of infections in the Ohio, Gretchen Whitmer of negatives between 15% and DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 coronavirus - a key element Sun Belt, leading to long wait Michigan, John Bel Edwards 20% of the time. But rapid tests in any path to recovery - times for results. The delays, of Louisiana, Charlie Baker of can be useful for response to LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 seven governors have taken in turn, undermine the use- Massachusetts and Roy outbreaks. Two companies are matters into their own hands, fulness of testing: to identify Cooper of North Carolina, approved by the Food and BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 demonstrating common sense the infected, isolate them, Larry Hogan of Maryland and Drug Administration for and leadership. The trace contacts and allow Ralph Northam of Virginia. antigen tests now, but the point SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 governors, including Demo- others to go about their Hogan organized the effort in of the governors banding crats and Republicans, have business. The surge has also his final days as chair of the together is to create a market ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 banded together to form a aggravated supply-chain National Governors incentive for more. No doubt, email: [email protected] consortium, with help from bottlenecks. Association. financing may be difficult, but the Rockefeller Foundation, That this situation remains The governors propose to the Rockefeller Foundation has PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 to drive the manufacturing so fragile after five months is jointly purchase antigen offered to help. email: [email protected] and purchase of rapid due to Trump’s imprudent screening tests that can be There are plenty of tech- screening tests on a large decision to leave the pan- processed rapidly while the nical details to be worked out. ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 scale. Other governors and demic response to the states. patient waits. Such screening It will be critical for manufac- FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] mayors should sign up imme- Acting alone, many states can be valuable to check a turers to meet the challenge. diately. have been overwhelmed, large number of people, in But these seven governors - CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 The testing situation is far unable to get a foothold in places like workplaces and and, we hope, many of their email: [email protected] from sufficient for a return to global markets for supplies schools, on a regular basis. This colleagues - are showing that normalcy. The United States is and equipment. What makes is in contrast to the diagnostic the nation does not have to be SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 carrying out about 700,000 the latest initiative tests using genetic material, left adrift. Leadership counts. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar Despite differences in view, everyone must /ThePeninsulaQatar come to the help of Lebanon and its people. Our /Peninsula_Qatar task today is to act swiftly and efficiently.

/ThePeninsulaNewspaper Emmanuel Macron, French President

+974 6698 6188 MONDAY 10 AUGUST 2020 ASIA 09 US begins highest level Taiwan visit in decades

AFP — TAIPEI Washington has Taiwan has become a poster cautious in holding official con- billed the Taiwan trip child for defeating the corona- tacts with it. A senior member of US Pres- virus thanks to a well-honed Under Trump, relations with ident Donald Trump’s admin- as an opportunity track and tracing programme Taiwan have warmed dramat- istration landed in Taiwan to learn from the as well as firm border ically and he has approved a yesterday for Washington’s controls. number of major military sales, highest level visit since island’s fight against Despite its proximity and including F-16 fighter jets. switching diplomatic recog- the coronavirus economic links to China it has Douglas Paal, a former head nition to China in 1979, a trip and to celebrate its recorded fewer than 500 infec- of the American Institute in Beijing has condemned. tions and seven deaths. Taiwan, Washington’s de facto During the three-day visit progressive values. In contrast, the US has embassy, said the Trump Health Secretary Alex Azar will recorded the most deaths in the administration was still paying meet President Tsai Ing-wen, world with more than 160,000 heed to China’s red line— that who advocates Taiwan being democratic societies are best fatalities. no US official handling national recognised as a sovereign equipped to combating disease The rapidly deteriorating security visit Taiwan. nation and is loathed by China’s threats like COVID-19,” a health relationship between Beijing Throughout the 1990s the leaders. and human services department and Washington comes as United States sent trade officials Tsai’s office said the official told reporters ahead of Trump seeks re-election in to Taiwan with regularity. meeting would take place today. the visit. November. The difference this time, he Azar is the most senior US But Beijing balks at any rec- He is trailing in the polls to said, is the context, with Azar Cabinet member to visit Taiwan ognition of self-ruled Taiwan, rival Joe Biden and has begun travelling at a time when rela- in decades and his visit comes which it claims as its own ter- campaigning hard on an tions between Washington and as relations between the world’s ritory and vows to one day increasingly strident anti- Beijing have hit a new low. two biggest economic powers seize, by force if necessary. Beijing message. “Sending him to Taiwan plunge to historic lows. It has described Azar’s visit As public disapproval has shows respect for the old In recent days, Trump has as a threat to “peace and sta- grown for his handling of the framework while putting a ordered sweeping restrictions bility”, while China’s defence epidemic, Trump has pivoted finger in China’s eye at the same on popular Chinese apps TikTok minister warned against Wash- from his previous focus on time,” Paal said. and WeChat and the US ington making any “dangerous striking a trade deal with China “The fact that they didn’t Treasury Department slapped moves”. to blaming the country for the choose to send a national sanctions on Hong Kong’s As well as meeting Tsai, coronavirus crisis. security advisor or someone leader over a tough law that Azar will hold talks with his The two countries have else suggests they are trying to curbs dissent. counterpart Chen Shih-chung clashed on a range of issues, come as close as possible to Washington has billed the and Foreign Minister Joseph from trade to espionage allega- China’s red line but don’t want Taiwan trip as an opportunity Wu. tions and Beijing’s human rights to cross it.” to learn from the island’s fight He will also meet corona- record such as the mass incar- The last cabinet minister to against the coronavirus and to virus experts and give a speech ceration of Uighur Muslims and visit Taiwan was in 2014 when US Secretary of Health and Human Services, Alex Azar, arrives at celebrate its progressive values. to public health students as well the political crackdown in Hong the then head of the Environ- Taipei Songshan Airport, Taiwan, yesterday. “This trip is a recognition of as alumni of a training pro- Kong. mental Protection Agency led a Taiwan’s success in combating gramme with the US Centers for Washington remains the delegation. Washington. coronavirus response but also, COVID-19 and a testament to Disease Control and leading arms supplier to Taiwan Taiwan has also built broad, Tsai has been hailed not among US Democrats, for her the shared beliefs that open and Prevention. but has historically been bipartisan support in only for her decisive progressive views. Nagasaki urges nuke ban on 75th US ‘doxxed’ sanctioned officials: Hong Kong BLOOMBERG — HONG KONG The US said on Friday it is stage, which has become a key anniversary of atomic bombing placing sanctions on 11 Chinese campaign issue in the upcoming Hong Kong’s privacy chief crit- officials and their allies in Hong US election. President Donald icised the US Treasury Kong over their roles in cur- Trump has threatened to take AP — TOKYO At the event at Nagasaki survivors, to make Nagasaki the Department for “doxxing” Chief tailing political freedoms in the action since Chinese officials Peace Park, scaled down last place of the tragedy. Executive Carrie Lam and other former UK colony. Beijing imposed the sweeping law on The Japanese city of Nagasaki because of the coronavirus He also urged Japan’s gov- officials by releasing their imposed a national security law Hong Kong in June. yesterday marked its 75th anni- pandemic, Mayor Tomihisa ernment and lawmakers to personal information as part of that has undermined the city’s The sanctions also versary of the US atomic Taue read a peace declaration quickly sign the 2017 Treaty on its sanctions on them. autonomy and infringed on the emboldened critics of the Hong bombing, with the mayor and in which he raised concern that the Prohibition of Nuclear “The disclosure of the data rights of residents, it said. Kong government elsewhere, dwindling survivors urging nuclear states had in recent Weapons. of the persons concerned by the The chief executive was tar- with a UK lawmaker reviving world leaders including their years retreated from disar- Prime Minister Shinzo Abe US Department of the Treasury geted for her role in imple- calls for curbs on it. own to do more for a nuclear mament efforts. has repeatedly refused to sign is obviously excessive and menting Beijing’s policies “of In Hong Kong, the reaction weapons ban. Instead, they are upgrading the treaty, saying Japan’s unnecessary,” Acting Privacy suppression of freedom and has been a chorus of criticism At 11:02am the moment the and miniaturising nuclear approach is not to take sides but Commissioner Tony Lam said democratic processes,” from local officials, with Carrie B-29 bomber Bockscar dropped weapons for easier use, he said. to serve as a bridge between in a statement, adding that according to the US statement. Lam’s government calling the a 4.5-tonne plutonium bomb Taue singled out the US and nuclear and non-nuclear states using or reproducing the The Trump administration move “shameless and despi- dubbed “Fat Man,” Nagasaki Russia for increasing risks by to encourage dialogue to addresses, passport numbers has escalated pressure on cable,” while Beijing’s Liaison survivors and other participants scrapping the Intermediate- achieve a total nuclear ban. and other data could be a crime. several fronts against China’s Office in the city said that Wash- stood in a minute of silence to Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. Survivors and pacifist groups “It amounts to doxxing.” growing role on the world ington had “miscalculated.” honour more than 70,000 “As a result, the threat of say Japan is virtually siding with dead. nuclear weapons being used is the US and other nuclear states. The August 9, 1945, bombing increasingly becoming real,” “Among the nuclear- At least 30 dead came three days after the United Taue said. weapon states and countries North Korea brings aid supplies States dropped its first atomic He said that “the true horror under the nuclear umbrella, in South Korea bomb on Hiroshima, the world’s of nuclear weapons has not yet there have been voices stating to border town under lockdown first ever nuclear attack that been adequately conveyed to that it is too early for such a as rain triggers killed 140,000. On August 15, the world at large” despite treaty. That is not so,” Taue said. REUTERS — SEOUL Separately, hundreds of Japan surrendered, ending struggle and efforts by “Nuclear arms reductions are people wearing masks and landslides, floods World War II. hibakusha, or atomic bombing far too late in coming.” North Korea’s ruling party has sitting apart from one another delivered special aid packages gathered at a party auditorium AFP — SEOUL of food and medical equipment to thank authorities for the aid, to residents of Kaesong, near with some breaking down in Landslides and flooding trig- the border with the South, after tears, footage showed. gered by days of heavy rain imposing a lockdown there due The official KCNA news in South Korea have left at to COVID-19 concerns, state agency said the shipments least 30 people dead and 12 media said yesterday. arrived on Friday to help the missing, officials said North Korean leader Kim residents cope with the yesterday, warning of more Jong-Un declared an emer- lockdown, which “may lead to downpours. gency and imposed a lockdown a deadly and destructive Torrential rain has on the small border town last disaster.” wreaked havoc across the month after a person, who North Korea has not for- country since the beginning of defected to South Korea in mally confirmed that the man the month, but nearly half of 2017, returned to Kaesong in question tested positive for the deaths occurred in the past across the highly fortified the virus. Seoul officials have three days, according to the border showing coronavirus said the 24-year-old returned Ministry of the Interior and symptoms. to the North after facing a Safety. Pyongyang has not con- sexual assault investigation in Since Friday more than firmed any coronavirus infec- the South. 3,700 people have been dis- tions but has been taking strict South Korean health officials placed from their homes after quarantine measures and said there was no sign he was flooding in the country’s screening the town, while pro- infected before he crossed the hardest-hit southern region. viding food, test kits and other border, and at least two people In all, nearly 6,000 people medical equipment, according who were in close contact with have been evacuated from to state media. him have tested negative. their homes across the country State television yesterday South Korea has confirmed this month, with about 4,600 showed a train arriving at the 14,598 coronavirus cases and of them staying at temporary Kaesong station and trucks 305 deaths, the Korea Centers shelters. Students offer flowers for the atomic bomb victims in front of the cenotaph at Nagasaki Hypocenter delivering supplies to for Disease Prevention and Among the victims was a Park, yesterday, to mark the 75th anniversary of the atomic bombing of the city. residents. Control said yesterday. man in his 80s who was found dead after he was buried in a landslide with his tractor. A 61-year-old man Japan’s former PM Mori in Taiwan to mourn late president Lee and a 59-year-old woman were killed after their home BLOOMBERG — TAIPEI Tsai thanked various Japanese official in decades to visit the island was swallowed by a politicians including Abe for voicing and his trip stands to further worsen landslide. Former Japanese Prime Minister support for Taiwan’s bid to join the spiraling relations between the US and Authorities have issued Yoshiro Mori (pictured) visited Taiwan World Health Assembly, and said she China. landslide warnings for 24 yesterday to pay his respects to the hoped the two sides can work The visit from the Japanese law- regions. late President Lee Teng-hui and met together to combat the virus, makers and Mori may also worsen At least 667 landslides with the island’s current leader, in a including by creating more space to Japan-China relations, which have have been reported so far in move that may irritate China. collaborate on a vaccine and been damaged by stepped-up Chinese August. Accompanied by a group of Jap- pharmaceuticals. challenges to Japanese control over More heavy rain is anese lawmakers from various Mori and the lawmakers were set an island chain in the East China Sea. expected to cause further political parties, Mori conveyed Prime to pay their respects to Lee at a The islands are claimed by Japan, damage in flood-hit areas as Minister Shinzo Abe’s condolences and memorial hall before returning to mainland China and Taiwan, but con- Typhoon Jangmi, the season’s gratitude to Taiwanese President Tsai Japan. trolled by Japan. fifth typhoon, is forecast to Ing-wen in a live-streamed meeting. The visit comes on the same day After Lee’s death on July 30, Abe strike the southern region The group included Abe’s younger that US Health and Human Services praised him for his role in bringing from Monday, according to the brother, Nobuo Kishi, also a lawmaker Secretary Alex Azar arrives in Taiwan. democracy to Taiwan and for building Korea Meteorological in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. Azar will be the highest-ranking US ties with Japan. Administration. 10 EUROPE MONDAY 10 AUGUST 2020

Trump calls for Donors pledge €253m in aid for Lebanon ‘transparent The “assistance should be timely, sufficient probe’ into and consistent with the needs of the Lebanese people... and directly delivered to the Lebanese Lebanon blast population, with utmost efficiency and AFP — WASHINGTON transparency,” the final communique stated. US President Donald Trump yesterday called for Lebanon REUTERS — BREGANCON to conduct a “full and trans- Shi’ite group Hezbollah. parent investigation” into the The “assistance should be huge explosion that hit Beirut, An emergency donor timely, sufficient and consistent and expressed his support for conference yesterday for blast- with the needs of the Lebanese protests demanding reform in stricken Lebanon raised pledges people... and directly delivered the country. worth nearly €253m ($298m) to the Lebanese population, Trump “urged the Gov- for immediate humanitarian with utmost efficiency and ernment of Lebanon to conduct relief, the French presidency transparency,” the final com- a full and transparent investi- said. munique stated. gation, in which the United Those commitments would Macron, who visited Beirut States stands ready to assist,” not be conditional on political on Thursday, hosted the con- according to the White House, or institutional reform, Pres- ference by video-link and in his after he participated in a ident Emmanuel Macron’s opening remarks urged partic- virtual conference on the inter- office said. There were also ipating nations to put aside their national response to the pledges made for longer-term differences and support the disaster. support that would depend on Lebanese people. “The President called for Dutch Minister for Development and Cooperation, Sigrid Kaag (right), speaks with French President changes brought in by the The international response calm in Lebanon and acknowl- Emmanuel Macron (above), Lebanon President Michel Aoun, Jordan King Abdullah II and other world authorities, the Elysee Palace should be coordinated by the edged the legitimate calls of leaders during a donor tele-conference concerning the situation in Lebanon, in The Hague, yesterday. said. United Nations in Lebanon, he peaceful protesters for trans- World powers promised not added. parency, reform, and account- to fail the Lebanese people as The offer of assistance ability,” the White House the capital, Beirut, recovers included support for an anese, the White House said. Economists forecast the blast The communique said Leb- added. from the massive explosion that impartial, credible and inde- “The President called for could wipe up to 25 percent off anon’s partners were ready to The Lebanese army said killed 158 people and destroyed pendent inquiry into the blast. calm in Lebanon and acknowl- of the country’s GDP. support the country’s longer- yesterday that hopes have swathes of the city last Tuesday. Public anger over the explosion edged the legitimate calls of Up to yesterday’s conference term economic recovery if dwindled of finding survivors Lebanon was already mired in has prompted some Lebanese peaceful protesters for trans- there had been an array of offers leaders committed fully to the at the blast site following days political and financial crisis to call for a revolt to topple their parency, reform and account- of immediate humanitarian changes expected by the of search-and-rescue before the blast. political leaders. ability,” a White House support such as rescue teams Lebanese. operations. Foreign countries “Our role is to be by their statement said. and medical supplies. Many Lebanese say the blast, The explosion that hit Bei- demanded transparency over side,” Macron said from his The explosion gutted entire In a sign of the mistrust blamed on a huge store of rut’s port devastated large how the aid is used, wary of summer retreat on the French neighbourhoods, leaving between Beirut and donors ammonium nitrate, highlighted parts of the Lebanese capital, writing blank cheques to a gov- Riviera. 250,000 people homeless, before the blast, debt default the negligence of a corrupt claiming over 150 lives and ernment viewed by its own President Donald Trump razing businesses and destroying talks between the Lebanese gov- political elite. Protesters stormed wounding some 6,000 people. people as deeply corrupt. Some told the conference the United critical grain supplies. ernment and International Mon- government ministries in Beirut Most Lebanese authorities are concerned about the States was ready to continue Rebuilding Beirut will likely etary Fund had stalled in the on Saturday and demonstrations say Tuesday’s explosion was influence of Iran through the providing aid to help the Leb- run into the billions of dollars. absence of reforms. erupted again yesterday. triggered by a fire in a port warehouse, where a shipment of ammonium nitrate, a chemical that can be used as a Johnson says schools fertilizer or as an explosive, had languished for years. must open in September World leaders, interna- tional organizations and a REUTERS — LONDON in March during a national seething Lebanese public have lockdown, except for the pressed for an international British Prime Minister Boris children of key workers, and probe, but President Michel Johnson said reopening reopened in June for a small Aoun has said that calls for schools in September was a number of pupils. such an investigation are a social, economic and moral The government wants all “waste of time.” imperative and insisted they pupils to return to school by would be able to operate early September in what safely despite the ongoing Johnson has called a “national Italy resort lifts threat from the pandemic. priority”. His comments follow a “Keeping our schools alert on melting study earlier this month which closed a moment longer than warned that Britain risks a absolutely necessary is glacier threat second wave of COVID-19 this socially intolerable, econom- winter twice as large as the ically unsustainable and initial outbreak if schools open morally indefensible,” AFP — ROME without an improved test- Johnson wrote. and-trace system. The economic costs for An Italian Alpine resort on Writing in the Mail on parents who cannot work if yesterday lifted a state of alert Sunday, Johnson said schools are shut are spiralling, declared last week over fears restarting schools was a and the country faces big that a chunk of glacier on the national priority. Schools problems if children miss out A file photo of Prime Minister Boris Johnson playing with toys as students look on during a visit to Mont Blanc mountain range would be the last places to on education, the prime min- The Discovery School in Kent, Britain. might crash down on them. close in future local lock- ister warned. Around 15 people who were downs, he was quoted by “This pandemic isn’t over, enough to reopen schools to all reported that he has ordered week that they should be the evacuated can now return to another newspaper as telling and the last thing any of us can pupils safely, we have a moral a public relations campaign last places to close behind their homes in Courmayeur a meeting on Thursday. afford to do is become com- duty to do so,” he wrote. The to ensure schools open on restaurants, clubs and shops. and traffic in the Cap Ferret Schools in England closed placent. But now that we know Sunday Times newspaper time and told the meeting last valley is permitted again, said a statement from town officials. Only half of Climate change has been UK names ‘Channel threat commander’ increasingly melting the world’s glaciers, creating a new AP — LONDON Britons to get danger for the town of Cour- mayeur, a resort community in The British government has COVID-19 Italy’s Aosta Valley region, near appointed a former Royal the French border. Marine commando to try to stop The town was put on high people crossing the English vaccine alert on Wednesday as a block Channel from France in small ANATOLIA — LONDON of ice estimated at about boats. 500,000 cubic metres — the The government said yes- A new poll found that just 53 size of the Milan cathedral, one terday that Dan O’Mahoney, percent of Brits are certain or official said — from the Plan- who currently heads the UK’s very likely to take the corona- pincieux glacier risked falling Joint Maritime Security virus vaccine, with a belief in and threatening homes. Centre, has been named conspiracy theories driving the But yesterday, town offi- “clandestine Channel threat low uptake. cials announced that all commander.” Home Secretary The poll was carried out by security measures had been Priti Patel said O‘Mahoney pollsters Ipsos Mori and lifted. would work with French researchers at King’s College Some locals were dis- authorities on stronger London (KCL) with a sample missive of the closure, and said enforcement measures, size of 2,237 people aged it further hit a tourism season including intercepting boats between 16 and 75. already affected by the coro- at sea, “to make this route Of those interviewed, 16 navirus measures. unviable.” Britain’s Conserv- percent said they would defi- But the mayor’s office said ative government has talked nitely not get a vaccine, or it again yesterday: “The evacu- tough amid a surge in the would be very unlikely. That is ation was necessary and inev- number of migrants crossing one in six Brits. itable because of the glacier the Channel during recent Between 16-to 34-year- risk.” While regretting what it warm summer weather. On olds, 22 percent said they would said was the alarmist tone of Thursday, 235 people were UK Border Force officers come to meet migrants, believed to have been picked up from boats in the not get a vaccine, which is twice some news coverage, officials brought ashore, a record Channel, from Coastal patrol vessel HMC Speedwell, in the port of Dover, on the south-east coast of the rate of 55-to 75-year-olds. insisted that the threat to the number for a single day. More England, yesterday. Those who said they would town had been real. than 650 have arrived so far not get vaccinated included 34 During a recent helicopter in August, including babies into how it could best help. prompting more people to accused officials of trying to percent who believed the gov- flypast, a reporter saw a gaping and unaccompanied children. Migrants have long used make the risky journey across blame France for the rise in ernment was using coronavirus chasm on the lower part of the Patel has said the Royal northern France as a one of the world’s busiest the number of boat crossings. to control the population, and Planpincieux, from which two Navy could be called in to launching point to reach shipping lanes — about 20 Bridget Chapman of the 36 percent thought too much cascades of water flowed prevent boats reaching UK Britain, either in trucks miles at itsa narrowest point Kent Refugee Action Network fuss was being made over the towards the valley, as it hung waters, though other senior through the Channel tunnel or – in vessels as small as din- accused the government of pandemic. They were also more from the mountainside like a officials and politicians say on ferries. ghies and kayaks The British “saber-rattling,” and called likely to believe that face masks gigantic block of grey that would be impractical and Some have turned to small and French immigration min- for asylum seekers to be given were actually bad for people’s polystyrene. potentially dangerous. boats organized by smugglers isters are due to hold talks legal ways to come to Britain. health and wanted to make In September and October On Saturday the Ministry because coronavirus lock- this week about the Channel “That would close this their own decisions; 27 percent last year, the Planpincieux of Defence said it had received downs have reduced oppor- crossings. route overnight, would save of those who said they would glacier also threatened a partial a government request to tunities to stow away on Human rights groups have lives, and we would know refuse or were unlikely to get a collapse, after which extra sur- “support UK Border Force ferries and trucks. Fine criticised the British govern- exactly who was arriving and vaccine also got their news from veillance measures were put operations” and was looking summer weather is also ment’s harsh rhetoric and when,” she said. WhatsApp. in place. MONDAY 10 AUGUST 2020 EUROPE / AMERICAS 11 Belarus President set for huge poll win after historic challenge AFP — MINSK The exit poll for “I hope that the vote will also president after the authorities state television end without any problems” at jailed her husband, popular Belarus President Alexander these stations, she said on public blogger Sergei Tikhanovsky, and Lukashenko was set for an gave Lukashenko television. The first official results barred him from running. overwhelming victory in a pres- 79.7 percent of were expected in the evening, “I want honest elections,” idential election yesterday, an the vote, with main and the opposition said it would she told cheering supporters official exit poll said, after a keep an alternative count. outside a polling station in political newcomer mounted a challenger Svetlana Lukashenko, who has been Minsk after a gruelling cam- historic challenge to the Tikhanovskaya in power since 1994 and is paign that saw her draw strongman leader. coming second with seeking a sixth term, has massive crowds throughout the The exit poll for state tele- warned the opposition he is not country. At polling stations, vision gave Lukashenko 79.7 6.8 percent. planning to give up his many wore white bracelets that percent of the vote, with main “beloved” Belarus and security have become a symbol of the challenger Svetlana Tikh- was dramatically tightened in opposition. Tikhanovskaya anovskaya coming second with before voting ended at 8pm the capital on Sunday. wore one on each wrist. 6.8 percent. local time, after Tikhanovskaya Columns of military vehicles Casting his vote, Lukashenko The opposition had said it urged her supporters to vote were seen on roads into Minsk, vowed to maintain order, sug- expected the results to be rigged late to give authorities less police carrying machine guns gesting his opponents may be and some were already calling chance to falsify the election. checked vehicles entering the planning unrest. “Nothing will get for protests on Sunday night. The Central Election Com- city and government buildings out of control, I guarantee you... atmosphere in the capital Minsk mission chief Lidia Yermoshina, were cordoned off. whatever certain people have was tense, with police and special who had denounced the queues Tikhanovskaya, a 37-year- planned,” the strongman said. forces on the streets and a Soviet- as an “organised provocation”, old English teacher by training He won over 83 percent at era protest song blasting from car said most polling stations had and stay-at-home mother, has previous polls in 2015. A record radios and flats. closed as planned but that emerged as the symbol of the ex- 41.7 percent of voters took part Huge queues had formed voting would be extended at Soviet country’s new protest in early voting that began on Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko casts his ballot at a polling outside polling stations in the some to allow waiting voters to movement against Lukashenko’s Tuesday, the central electoral station during the presidential election in Minsk, Belarus, yesterday. capital Minsk and other cities cast their ballots. rule. She decided to run for commission said. Ecuador navy Five dead, one missing as floods hit Greece island surveils huge AFP — ATHENS swept away by the floodwaters Chinese fishing from her home in the village of Five people including a baby Bourtsi. The two other people fleet near died and another person was who died, a 74-year-old man missing yesterday as torrential and a 73-year-old woman, were Galapagos rains and floods swept the also from Bourtsi, the agency Greek island of Evia, damaging reported. REUTERS — ABOARD dozens of houses and blocking Prime Minister Kyriakos ECUADOREAN NAVY AIRCRAFT roads. Mitsotakis voiced his “profound The eight-month-old baby pain for the loss of lives” and Ecuador’s navy is conducting was found dead in a house in said he would visit Evia, surveillance of a massive the village of Politika yesterday, Greece’s second largest island Chinese fishing fleet that is a fire service spokesman said. after Crete, on Monday. operating near the protected The baby’s parents were Torrents of water blocked waters of the Galapagos unharmed. Hours earlier, a man roads in the west of Evia, which Islands, amid concerns about and woman, both in their 80s, lies about 100km northeast of the environmental impact of were found unconscious by Athens. Some tourists were fishing in the area of the eco- firefighters in two houses in the unable to leave one campsite logically sensitive islands. same village, the spokesman on the island, ANA reported. The navy conducted a said. They were confirmed as “We are experiencing a patrol mission on Friday that dead at the hospital. nightmare, we are using every included a flyover of the region Deputy minister for civil possible means” to combat the where the hulking vessels are protection Nikos Hardalias had floods, said Ana Fanis Spanos, fishing, as well as reconnais- earlier said five people had died a lawmaker from the central sance by military patrol ships. and two were missing. Greece region. Storm Thalia A view of a flooded area of the village of Bourtzi, after floods on the island of Evia, Greece, yesterday. A total of 340 vessels are cur- But a spokesman for the battered several regions of rently in the area, the navy local emergency services said mainland Greece on Saturday, Two rivers burst their banks rescue those trapped. over construction and planning. said, compared with some 260 later that “a woman has been though the weather was and filled roads with mud, local “Last year we had fires, this In November 2017, floods reported last month. found alive, the rescue workers improving yesterday. authorities said. The ground year it’s floods,” one resident of killed 24 people in Mandra, a Images taken as part of the are looking for the second Hundreds of homes were floors of many houses were the village of Psachna told ERT village in an industrial region flyover, which included jour- missing person, a man”. flooded in Politika and several flooded. television. 30 kilometres west of Athens. nalists, showed that at least The ANA news agency said surrounding villages. Blocked About 100 firefighters and Flooded homes are a fre- Torrents of mud poured down one of the vessels appeared to a helicopter had spotted the roads prevented fire trucks two helicopters as well as the quent occurrence in Greece due over thousands of buildings, be ageing and in need of missing woman, who had been from reaching the affected sites. coastguard were deployed to to a lack of adequate controls homes, shops and factories. maintenance. Ecuador’s Navy Com- mander, Rear Admiral Darwin Journalists in southern Mexico Jarrin, said the navy has approached Colombia and Peru ‘live in terror’ of gangs’ violence to share information and seek a regional response to the vessels, most of which can hold AFP — MEXICO CITY dress him for those who wanted up to 1,000 tonnes of catch. to come and see him off, but The fleet generally spends Mexican journalist Julio Cesar fewer than four colleagues came. several weeks fishing off the Zubillaga shudders when his Everyone is afraid. We live in coast of Peru before young daughter asks him why terror,” he said. approaching the Galapagos. “they” want to kill him. He spoke The following day Zubillaga The fishing fleet has since up after a fellow reporter’s received threats on social 2017 been arriving in the murder and quickly felt the con- media, and on Tuesday gunmen summer months and fishing sequences: death threats and a opened fire on the offices of the just outside the Galapagos gun attack on the office where Diario de Iguala, where his territorial waters, drawn by his paper is printed. newspaper is printed. marine species such as the His experience highlights “At least 10 journalists from endangered hammerhead southern Mexico’s status as Iguala have received death shark. among the most dangerous threats” from criminal groups, Such fishing is not illegal regions in a country that is one said Zubillaga, who has pleaded because it takes place in interna- of the most dangerous in the with the leftist government of tional waters. But environmental world for journalists. Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador activists say it allows fleets to take Zubillaga helped prepare the to provide protection. advantage of the abundant corpse of Pablo Morrugares, a Three other journalists marine species that spill over journalist with digital newspaper have been murdered in Mexico from the Galapagos and cross into A person is detained by police officers during a protest against Spain’s monarchy for the first time PM Noticias, after gunmen killed this year: Jorge Armenta, Victor the unprotected waters. since former Spanish King Juan Carlos left the country, in Madrid, Spain, yesterday. both him and the policeman Alvarez and Maria Elena Ferral. “This is not something that guarding him in a restaurant in Since 2000, more than 100 will change overnight,” said Iguala in southern Guerrero state. Mexican journalists have been Ecuadorean Foreign Minister Most Spaniards think former King Juan Zubillaga, the editor of killed, and 92 percent of the Luis Gallegos in a television Iguala’s La Tarde newspaper, cases remain unsolved, interview yesterday. “It is nec- Carlos should not have left: Opinion poll issued a public plea for justice according to press groups. Early essary to... generate bilateral for the 48-year-old reporter, this year, videos circulated on agreements with other coun- REUTERS — BARCELONA 27.2% agreed with his Juan Carlos’s lawyer said on who had survived a 2016 attack. social media in which armed tries with regards to illegal departure. Some 80.3% said Monday that his client was at the “It was a brutal assassination. I groups threatened their rivals fishing, to monitor every ship Nearly two-thirds of Spaniards they thought Juan Carlos should Spanish prosecutor’s disposal saw how Pablo looked. I had to and several journalists. that’s in the South Pacific.” believe former King Juan face any potential legal pro- despite his decision to leave. Carlos, who left the country this ceedings. The poll, carried out Despite the disapproval, week amid a financial scandal, between Aug. 4-6 after he left, reflecting Juan Carlos’ sinking should not have gone abroad, found 12.4% said he had nothing popularity in recent years, some Puerto Rico primaries marred by lack of ballots according to an opinion poll to answer for and 7.3% did not 69.2% of those questioned in yes- published yesterday. voice an opinion. terday's poll said he played an AP — SAN JUAN ballots reaching only 20% of Voters wore face masks and Juan Carlos, who abdicated In June, Spain’s Supreme important role in the transition voting centers by mid-morning. some stood in sweat-soaked in 2014 in favour of his son Court opened a preliminary from dictatorship to democracy Puerto Rico’s primaries were “This is crass incompetence,” shirts, but dozens of them gave Felipe, abruptly announced his investigation into Juan Carlos’ after the death of Francisco marred yesterday by a lack of said Aníbal Acevedo Vilá, a up and left. decision to leave on Monday involvement in a high-speed rail Franco in 1975, while 24.4% said voting materials in a majority former governor who is running “Please come back,” said but there has been no official contract in Saudi Arabia, after he played “little or no” role. of centers across the US ter- to represent Puerto Rico in Puerto Rico Sen. Eduardo Bhatia, confirmation of where he went, Switzerland’s La Tribune de The pro-monarchist news- ritory that forced frustrated Congress. who is seeking to become the setting off an international Geneve newspaper reported he paper ABC reported on Friday voters who braved a spike in Officials from the island’s gubernatorial nominee for guessing game. had received $100m from the that Juan Carlos had travelled by COVID-19 cases to turn around two main parties scrambled to Popular Democratic Party. The poll by SigmaDos for late Saudi king. Switzerland has private plane from Spain to the and go back home. find solutions as they urged “Persevere,” said Pedro the conservative newspaper El also opened an investigation. UAE on Monday. Other media The situation infuriated voters outside the metropolitan Pierluisi, who is running against Mundo found 63.3% of those The former monarch is not have said he is in the Dominican voters and politicians alike as area to wait until late morning Governor Wanda Vázquez, to questioned felt it was a bad idea formally under investigation Republic or in Portugal. Officials they blamed Puerto Rico’s to visit voting centers, even become the nominees for the for the 82-year-old ex- and has repeatedly declined to there have said they have no election commission and though lines had already pro-statehood New Progressive monarch to have left, while comment on the allegations. knowledge of him arriving. demanded an explanation for formed early across the island. Party. 12 AMERICAS MONDAY 10 AUGUST 2020 US hits 5 million virus cases as Reduced unemployment benefits, tax cuts: What’s in Trump flayed over relief package Trump’s executive orders The new virus REUTERS — WASHINGTON relief package After failing to reach a deal with the US Congress for a fresh round of coronavirus pandemic relief, President Donald Trump announced by Trump signed a series of executive orders aimed at pumping up Amer- was “absurdly ica’s pandemic-hit economy. The orders are likely to face some unconstitutional,” legal challenges. UNEMPLOYMENT RELIEF: Trump’s order cuts enhanced senior Democrat federal unemployment benefits — a lifeline for the tens of mil- Nancy Pelosi lions of Americans thrown out of work during the pandemic told CNN. Fellow — from $600 to $400 per week. Democrats had been lobbying to extend the original $600 a week enhanced benefits, which Democrat, Senate expired on July 31. Trump proposes taking most of the money minority leader from the coffers of the Federal Emergency Management Agency — $44bn, according to the order — with 25% of the money Chuck Schumer, coming from states. It’s not clear how Trump will convince state appearing on ABC, governments, whose revenues have been hard hit by the crisis, dismissed Trump’s to pony up their proposed share. Trump called the reduced pay- ments “generous”. unilateral measures A PAYROLL TAX CUT: Trump’s first order waives the as “unworkable, weak payroll tax that funds Social Security in a bid to inject extra money directly into salaried employees’ pockets. Trump has and far too narrow”. been pushing the idea for a while but it has found little support in Congress from Democrats or his fellow Republicans. The executive order says the cut comes into effect on September AFP — WASHINGTON 1, but Trump said it “most likely” would be retroactive to August 1 and translate into “bigger paychecks for working families.” The United States yesterday US President Donald Trump speaks after signing executive orders for economic relief during a news EVICTIONS: Trump’s order protecting homeowners and reached the extraordinary mile- conference amid the spread of the coronavirus disease, at his golf resort in Bedminster, New Jersey, US. renters from evictions is unlikely to face a challenge from Dem- stone of five million coronavirus ocrats; indeed, House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi cases as President Donald have been registered worldwide economy still struggling to dig of voters unhappy with his han- this week encouraged the move. But it isn’t clear how it will be Trump was accused of flouting — probably reflecting only a itself out of an enormous hole, dling of the crisis. executed. The order directs authorities to provide “temporary the constitution by unilaterally fraction of the actual number Democrats appeared skittish Democrats say the presi- financial assistance” to renters and homeowners “struggling to extending a virus relief package. of infections. about any legal challenge to a dent’s orders infringe on Con- meet their monthly rental or mortgage obligations”. Even Trump The US has been hammered In Washington, the new virus relief package they see as seri- gress’s constitutional authority seemed a little hazy on the order’s ultimate effects, saying “we by the COVID-19 pandemic, relief package — announced by ously inadequate. over the federal budget. don’t want people being evicted and the act that I am signing recording over 162,000 deaths Trump on Saturday after talks The four executive orders But Pelosi demurred when will solve that problem - largely, hopefully, completely”. — by far the highest of any between Republican and Dem- Trump signed Saturday at his asked about possible legal STUDENT LOANS: Trump said that interest on student country, ahead only of Brazil ocrat lawmakers hit a wall — was golf club in Bedminster, New action, saying, “whether (it was) loan payments — frozen since March — would be suspended which on Saturday became the “absurdly unconstitutional,” Jersey will, among other things, legal or not takes time to figure until the end of the year. second country to pass 100,000 senior Democrat Nancy Pelosi defer payroll taxes and provide out.” White House economic deaths. told CNN. some temporary unem- advisor Larry Kudlow defended The global death toll is at Fellow Democrat, Senate ployment benefits. the new measures. yesterday saying Trump “was opponent in the presidential least 727,288 since the novel minority leader Chuck The President was seen as “Maybe we’re going to go to fully committed to making sure election, Joe Biden, tweeted that coronavirus emerged in China Schumer, appearing on ABC, keen to show himself taking court on them. We’re going to that hardworking Americans five million coronavirus cases last December, according to a dismissed Trump’s unilateral decisive action ahead of a go ahead with our actions and businesses continue to have was “a number that boggles the running tally from official measures as “unworkable, November 3 election that could anyway,” he said. the resources they need as our mind and breaks the heart. “It sources compiled by AFP. weak and far too narrow”. see him ousted from office, with Treasury Secretary Steven country safely reopens”. shouldn’t have gotten this bad,” Nearly 20 million cases But with the nation’s polls showing a large majority Mnuchin issued a statement Trump’s Democratic he said. Postal Service emerges as flash point heading into election

AP — WASHINGTON in-person polling places. Some and needs to rein in expenses. states are opting to send ballots This past week, it reported Mail piling up. Constant attacks to voters or allowing people to $2.2bn in losses during the three from the President. Cuts to use fear of the virus as a reason months that ended in June. overtime as record numbers of to cast an absentee ballot. Postal leaders want at least ballots are expected to pass That’s led to predictions of a $10bn infusion from Congress through post offices this fall. an an unprecedented amount as well as regulatory changes The success of the 2020 of mail voting in the presidential that would end a costly mandate presidential election could election. Trailing in the polls, that they fund in advance bil- hinge on a most unlikely gov- President Donald Trump has lions of dollars in retiree health ernment agency: The U.S. Postal been sowing public distrust in benefits. “Without dramatic Service. Current signs are not the Postal Service’s ability to change, there is no end in sight, promising. adequately deliver ballots and and we face an impending The Postal Service already has, without evidence, said liquidity crisis,” DeJoy told the was facing questions over how allowing more people to vote Postal Service’s governing it would handle the expected by mail will result in rampant board on Friday. spike of mail-in ballots due to corruption. Memos from post office the coronavirus pandemic, but The agency’s new leader, leadership, obtained by The several operational changes Postmaster General Louis Associated Press, detailed an imposed by its new leader DeJoy, a former supply-chain elimination of overtime and a have led to mail backlogs CEO and a major donor to halting of late delivery trips that across the United States as Trump and other Republicans, are sometimes needed to make rumors of additional cutbacks has pushed cost-cutting sure deliveries arrive on time. A United States Postal Service (USPS) truck seen parked in New York City. swirl, fueling worries about measures to eliminate overtime One document said if distri- the November vote. pay and hold mail until the next bution centers are running duty, according to another dependent on mail-in ballots”. delivery hours, which could “It seems like they’re just day if postal distribution centers behind, “they will keep the mail memo obtained by AP. DeJoy has been the target of harm rural communities, trying to turn customers away are running late. for the next day”. The changes have taken multiple letters from members seniors, small businesses and from the post office,” said Jim DeJoy, 63, of North Carolina, Additional records obtained their toll on the Postal Service’s of Congress who have called on millions of Americans who rely Sizemore, president of the was tapped to head the service by AP outline upcoming reduc- 630,000 employees. the postmaster general to on the mail for critical letters American Postal Workers Union by a Trump-appointed board of tions of hours at post offices, The new policies have rescind his measures and have and packages. chapter in the Cincinnati region. governors and started in June. He including closures during lunch angered lawmakers from both complained about a lack of During a meeting on Friday He said his offices are behind on is the first postmaster general in and on Saturdays. Rumors have parties and drawn criticism transparency from the agency. with the Postal Service gov- deliveries because of new rules nearly two decades who is not a also circulated about the from former President Barack Eighty-four House erning board, DeJoy said the specifying when mail can go out. career postal employee. potential for entire offices to Obama, who said the current members, including four agency is not slowing down The pandemic has forced DeJoy has said repeatedly shutter. Postal employees have administration is “under- Republicans, signed a letter that election mail and remains com- states to expand voting by mail that the Postal Service is in a been recently instructed not to mining the Postal Service in said it is “vital that the Postal mitted to fulfilling its role in as a safe alternative to financially untenable position talk to news media while on an election that’s going to be Service does not reduce mail elections. Brazil marks grim COVID-19 milestone with 3 million confirmed infections BLOOMBERG — RIO DE JANEIRO of positive tests, according to to the US in number of cases and Domingos Alves, the coordinator of deaths. Brazil topped 3 million coronavirus the Health Intelligence Department The mish-mash approach has also infections as the disease flares up in at the University of Sao Paulo. made it harder to pinpoint when the parts of the country it had spared, “The fact we are getting to 3 infection will start to recede — already spreading misery from the beaches million cases and 100,000 deaths at a tall order in a country of 210 million of Bahia to the soybean fields of the the same time shows the gravity of people with some states the size of vast interior. the pandemic in Brazil,” he said. France where many live in poverty The milestone comes less than a Brazil has recorded over 200,000 and can’t afford not to work. month after Brazil hit the 2 million- infections and 7,000 deaths a week The Northeastern state of Bahia, case mark and as the disease sweeps for two months. “That’s five full which in early June had fewer than into more remote regions were access Boeing planes falling over our heads 20,000 cases, now counts more than to health care was precarious even a day,” Luiz Henrique Mandetta, the 180,000 infections. In Minas Gerais, before the pandemic. first of two health ministers who in the center of the country, cases So even as the virus recedes in departed in the midst of the pandemic went from 10,000 to 140,000 in the some of the locations where it first hit after disagreeing with the govern- same span. In the South, Santa Cat- — richer, densely populated urban ment’s response, said in an interview arina went from 9,500 infections to centers like Sao Paulo — the country’s last month. almost 100,000. curve has yet to flatten. “It’s incredibly grave.” Mandetta, Meanwhile, major cities like Sao The country reported 49,970 new who was fired in April after repeated Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, where the cases on Saturday and added 905 new clashes with President Jair Bolsonaro, virus first arrived, continue to ease deaths, bringing with the total fatality has become a harsh critic of Brazil’s restrictions on movement and work count to more than 100,000. response to the pandemic. The lack as the pace of new infections slows. A projection on a building honours the 100,000 victims who died of the novel There’s no relief in sight. Cases will of a national approach, a shortage of While Sao Paulo alone has 10,000 coronavirus COVID-19 in Brazil as the country became the second in the world to likely increase to 4 million within a testing and a push to reopen before deaths, field hospitals are being dis- pass the grim milestone, in Botafogo neighbourhood in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on month, and the true rate of infection the disease recedes have made the banded and more businesses allowed Saturday. is likely six or seven times the number country a global hotspot, second only to reopen.