BUSINESSB | 14 SPORT | 16

Qatar’s trade Al Sadd's Spanishh volume with star Xavi to retiree ACDA members at at the end of $81bn season

Friday 3 May 2019 | 28 Sha'baan 1440 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 24 | Number 7880 | 2 Riyals New Ooredoo tv

Google, Android, Android TV, Chromecast and other related marks Your hero for family entertainment and logos are trademarks of Google LLC. Qatar ready to become Amir meets Foreign Minister of Greece networking hub for ACD member states

LANI ROSE R DIZON Qatar is one of the percent of the country’s foreign THE PENINSULA founding members of trade. He added that Qatar’s ACD and holds strong growing trade activity was a result Minister of Commerce and of economic openness and Industry H E Ali bin Ahmed Al strategic partnerships diversity in line with the country’s Kuwari said yesterday that Qatar with the member National Vision 2030. was keen to strengthen cooper- countries, said The Minister also highlighted ation among Asia Cooperation Minister of Commerce Qatar’s investment in the private Dialogue (ACD) member coun- sector and added that the gov- tries. The Minister stressed and Industry, H E Ali ernment has expedited all Qatar's readiness to become a bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, measures to support the private networking hub that brings at the opening of ACD sector. This includes upgrading together ACD member states to Business Forum. regulatory frameworks in the promote economic integration investment sector such as the among Asian countries. provision of real estate own- Delivering his remarks at the ership to non-Qataris as well as opening of ACD Business Forum to establish the Union of ACD the opening of free investment held under the theme “SME as Chambers, noting that he looks zones where foreigners can the New Engine of Sustainable forward to assess this initiative export their products. Economic Prosperity,” the Min- during this meeting, which will Al Kuwari reiterated that ister said that the ACD has support joint action and con- Qatar is open to local and foreign gained significant momentum tribute to the achievement of companies to invest in the coun- since its establishment in 2002. economic integration among try’s large scale World Cup- He noted that the organisation Asian countries. related projects and other currently represents over 34 The Minister reiterated that investment opportunities in food Asian countries home to 4.4 Qatar was one of the founding security, health, education, and billion people, accounting for 60 members of ACD and holds strong tourism. The Minister added that percent of the world’s strategic partnerships with the companies investing in Qatar population. member countries. He also said can also take advantage of Qatar Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met yesterday at Amiri Diwan with the Minister of Foreign The Minister said Qatar is Qatar’s trade volume with Asian Airways’ fleet of over 250 air- Affairs of Greece, George Katrougalos, and his accompanying delegation. They reviewed bilateral ready to become a networking countries in 2018 reached $81bn planes which reach over 160 hub among member states and which was equivalent to 70 destinations. `P2 relations and cooperation, as well as regional and international developments of joint interest.

US, Taliban hold FM: Qatar and Greece set new round of to enhance economic ties talks in Doha QNA of cooperation between the two to continue implementing major QNA DOHA countries, at a time when eco- infrastructure projects in the DOHA nomic issues are the top prior- main sectors such as education, Deputy Prime Minister and ities of the countries. In this health and transportation, in The State of Qatar hosted a new Minister of Foreign Affairs H E sense, the countries seeking to addition to projects related to round of talks between the Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdul- strengthen the role of the private hosting the World Cup 2022. He United States and the Afghan rahman Al Thani said yesterday sector and call for foreign called on the private sector of the Taliban on Wednesday. that Qatar and the Hellenic investment to contribute with its Hellenic Republic to explore the This round of talks is a contin- Republic’s commonalities financial and technical potential many investment opportunities uation of the last two rounds of represent a solid base to enhance in the national economy. Qatar, which will contribute to talks that took place in Doha economic and trade ties. He stressed that Qatar has enhancing economic cooperation between the two parties, which Speaking at the opening of spared no effort in providing the and investments between the two aim to achieve peace and the Qatar-Greece Business required legislative and institu- countries during the next stage. stability in Afghanistan. Forum, His Excellency stressed tional environment, developing The Minister said that the The two parties will discuss Qatar’s commitment to invest in cooperation between the public business and investment envi- the four components of the Greece, expressing hope of and private sectors, providing ronment in Qatar offers great framework agreement, which enhancing bilateral cooperation support to the private sector to advantages to the foreign com- was agreed upon in the last two in the future as Qatar continues increase its role in various eco- panies operating in the country, rounds of talks, which are: with the bid to diversify its nomic sectors, and opening up indicating that Qatar enjoys an foreign troop withdrawal, guar- economy in line with Qatar opportunities for local and advanced position on the antees that will prevent the use National Vision 2030. foreign investments. The Min- business environment indicators of Afghanistan soil by any Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs , H E Sheikh He pointed out that the ister added that Qatar, in the according to the World Compet- groups or individuals against Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, speaking at the opening of meeting of the Qatari-Greek framework of its comprehensive itiveness report of the World Eco- the security of the United States the Qatar-Greece Business Forum in Doha, yesterday. business represents a tributary development renaissance, is keen nomic Forum. `P2 or any other country, intra- afghan dialogue and negotia- tions, and reduction in violence Ramadan timing for leading to a comprehensive Qatar Airways launches incredible Ramadan offers ceasefire. govt schools announced The State of Qatar, which THE PENINSULA/DOHA THE PENINSULA advantage of discounts on share special moments with transport rating organisation, acts as the mediator in this con- DOHA flights to Qatar Airways’ loved ones around the world. Skytrax. It was also named flict, welcomes the current The Ministry of Education and Higher expanding network of more “With Qatar Airways’ ‘Best Business Class Seat’, round of talks between the Education has issued a circular to the Qatar Airways announced than 160 destinations, for growing global network of ‘Best Airline in the Middle United States and the Taliban directors of government schools on new yesterday special fares to mark travel validity until December more than 160 destinations East’, and ‘World’s Best First and considers this round an timing during the forthcoming holy month the Holy Month of Ramadan. 10, 2019. worldwide, as well as our Class Airline Lounge’. important development to of Ramadan. The kindergarten schools will Qatar Airways passengers can Qatar Airways Chief Com- award-winning service and hos- Qatar Airways has launched achieve peace in open from 9am till 12. The schools for the enjoy all-inclusive discounts of mercial Officer Simon Talling- pitality onboard, visits overseas an array of exciting new desti- Afghanistan. students from grade 1 to 12 will open from up to 25 percent in Premium Smith said: “As the holy month have never been more com- nations recently in 2018, Furthermore, the State of 9am to 1pm. The schools will have five Class and up to 35 percent in of Ramadan approaches, we fortable. On behalf of Qatar including Gothenburg, Sweden; Qatar hopes that these rounds periods daily with maximum 40 minutes. Economy Class. Privilege Club understand the importance this Airways, we would like to wish Mombasa, Kenya and Da Nang, of talks will achieve the desired The assembly will be for ten minutes from members can also receive special time holds for many of all our passengers and a blessed Vietnam. The airline will add a results to achieve peace and 9am to 9:10am, first period will be from double Qpoints in Premium our passengers. Ramadan is Ramadan Kareem.” number of new destinations to stability in Afghanistan. 9:10am to 9:50am, second from 9:55am to Class or 50 percent bonus known as the month of sharing, A multiple-award- its extensive route network later Meanwhile, Pakistan and 10:35am and the third period from 10:40am Qpoints in Economy Class. giving and being with one’s winning airline, Qatar this year, including Izmir, the United States have agreed to 11:20am. There will be a 20-minute Create memories with family, and so we are delighted Airways was named ‘World’s Turkey; Rabat, Morocco; Malta; to continue efforts to make the break from 11:20am to 11:40am. The fourth your loved ones and book your to our passengers with our Best Business Class’ by the Davao, Philippines; Lisbon, Por- peace process in Afghanistan period will be from 11:40am to 12:20noon tickets on qatarairways.com Ramadan offers and provide 2018 World Airline Awards, tugal; Mogadishu, Somalia and and to enhance bilateral and fifth period from 12:20noon to 1pm. before May 25, 2019 to take them with an opportunity to managed by international air Langkawi, Malaysia. relations. 02 HOME FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019

Deputy PM and FM meets UN Special Coordinator for Middle East peace process

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani met yesterday with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greece, George Katrougalos, and his accompanying delegation, who are currently visiting Qatar. They discussed bilateral relations and ways of supporting and developing them, in addition to a number of issues of joint interest. After the meeting, an agreement regarding visa cancellation and exemption agreement for diplomatic and private passports were signed.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani Qatar and Greece set to met yesterday with the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Nickolay Mladenov, who is currently visiting Qatar. During the meeting, both sides discussed the latest developments in Gaza, the peace process in the Middle East and ways to enforce Security Council resolutions and enhance economic ties: FM the rules of international law to end the occupation and declare the independent Palestinian state. FROM PAGE 1 the meeting of businessmen economy, which succeeded in In a related development, from Greece and Qatar at this overcoming the blockade and H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdul- forum represents an important making Qatar an attractive des- Deputy PM and Minister of Foreign Affairs rahman Al Thani met yesterday platform to explore opportu- tination for investments. with George Katrougalos and his nities for cooperation between For his part, India’s Minister sends message to Kuwaiti counterpart accompanying delegation. them. He noted that Greek com- of State for External Affairs, V K During the meeting, they dis- panies have a strong presence Singh, praised the initiative QNA Affairs H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al cussed bilateral relations and in Qatar, but that they look made by the State of Qatar to KUWAIT Thani, inviting him to participate in the Doha Forum ways of supporting and devel- forward to enhancing cooper- host the Asia Cooperation Dia- that will take place on December 14-15. oping them, in addition to a ation between the two sides by logue (ACD) business forum, The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign The message was handed by the State of Qatar’s number of issues of joint interest. taking advantage of forums like saying it will play a big role in Affairs of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al Hamad Ambassador to Kuwait, Bandar bin Mohammad Al After the meeting, an agreement today. helping businessmen of Asian Al Sabah, received yesterday a message from Attiyah, during a meeting with the Kuwaiti Deputy regarding visa cancellation and He said his country, which countries enhance their partner- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. exemption agreement for dip- suffered the biggest economic ships, particularly SMEs. lomatic and private passports crisis and lost more than 25 He said that SMEs make a was signed by Deputy Prime percent of its GDP, has returned significant contribution to sus- Minister and Minister of Foreign to growth, albeit an anemic one. tainable development by cre- Qatar ready to become networking Affairs H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Chairman of Qatar Chamber ating jobs and providing Abdulrahman Al Thani and Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin important products and services Greek Foreign Minister George Mohammed Al Thani said that that help alleviate poverty. He hub for ACD member states Katrougalos. the two countries’ private sector discussed the experience of India Meanwhile, addressing the is working on supporting eco- in that regard, and the role SMEs FROM PAGE 1 forum, Katrougalos said that the nomic ties, with 2018 trade play in helping the country The Minister of Commerce historic ties between Greece and volume standing at $84m. achieve an annual growth rate and Industry, H E Ali bin Ahmed the Arab World are built on He pointed out that the of seven percent. He noted that Al Kuwari, highlighted that understanding and respect, but private sector in Qatar is looking the international community has Hamad Port, which has an annual maintained that the trade to identify the available great confidence in the Indian capacity of 7.5m twenty-foot volume with the countries, investment opportunities in economy as result, reflected in equivalent units (TEU), is one of including the state of Qatar, does Greece and study the possibility the $62bn worth of foreign the largest ports in the Middle not reflect the level of political of creating alliances and estab- investments made last year. East which bridges Qatar to the ties. He called for enhancing lishing joint ventures in the two The Secretary-General of the world’s leading economies bilateral relations between the countries, noting that there are ACD, Bundit Limschoon, pre- through direct trade lines and two countries’ private sector. about 8 Greek companies and sented his report on the ACD, supports Qatar’s status as a transit He pointed out that there are about 56 joint companies oper- and said that the continent is in and launching point for more many opportunities for cooper- ating in the Qatari market in a need for a new economic model than 40 ports across the world. ation between the State of Qatar, variety of sectors such as trade, based on information and tech- Also speaking during the which has become an economic contracting, engineering, con- nology as the main engine of event, Qatar Chamber’s First Vice- leader in the Middle East, and struction, industrial consultancy, growth. Chairman Mohamed bin Ahmed Greece, which was able to decoration, shipping and marine He noted that SMEs rep- bin Towar Al Kuwari stressed on overcome the economic crisis services. resent a powerful weapon in the importance of SMEs to that faced, reviewing the eco- He also discussed the Qatari Asia’s economy, accounting for national economy and added that The Minister of Commerce and Industry, H E Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, at nomic advantages of the country private sector and its ability to more than 90 percent of enter- Qatar was keen to support joint the opening of ACD Business Forum. PIC: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA and its geographical location that overcome the unjust blockade prises and companies. He high- actions with ACD countries to can link between Europe and imposed on the country since the lighted however that their con- enhance business activities in the Asia and Africa. mid-2017. He said that the tributions are less than their size, region. Further, he encouraged basis for sustainable prosperity human capital while boosting The Greek Minister said that private sector was able to indicating that despite their great investors to participate in the in Asia, with SMEs accounting SMEs to eradicate poverty in his country’s economy depends enhance its contribution to pro- potential, they have not yet development of Asian countries. for more than 89 percent of all Asia, which has a market size of in part on the activities of small ductive projects instead of started. He also discussed some ACD Secretary General enterprises in the region. Lim- 4.4 billion people which and medium enterprises and the relying on imports of goods from of the challenges facing SMEs, Bundit Limschoon also said that schoon also spoke about the accounts for 60 percent of the economic and social opportu- neighbouring countries. The including the lack of experience empowering SMEs will be the need to enhance intellectual and world’s population. nities they provide, noting that competitiveness of the Qatari and access to capital. Baladna launches 100% Qmall signs lease agreement with Al Rawnaq Trading natural juices for Ramadan THE PENINSULA surrounding community our DOHA unsurpassed selection of sta- THE PENINSULA Baladna has been writing one tionary, arts and crafts and DOHA success story after another, Qmall has been capturing newer household goods, which we which includes flying in cows growth dimensions to attract and pride our reputation on within Baladna Food Industries, Qatar’s within 36 days of the blockade, sustain consumers of all ages Qatar.” largest producer of fresh dairy, introducing a variety of dairy since its inception. In the latest “We welcome Al Rawnaq recently launched a brand-new products like yogurt, laban, development, Qmall is pleased Trading at one of the most product line of six unique juices. ayran and long-life milk, to to announce a strategic buzzing community malls of The 100 percent natural summer helping Qatar achieve its food agreement with Al Rawnaq Qatar. With this announcement, fresh juices, with no added security goals. The launch of our Trading, which is known for its we are bringing the best in the sugar, are already available in new juices has further enriched stationery, arts and crafts, party market for stationary and Orange, Apple, Pineapple, Fruit our product portfolio, and we and school supplies, will set up household supplies for the con- Mix, Tropical Mix, and Pome- promise to continue exceeding its fourth store in one of Qatar’s sumers of Qatar. We are con- granate mix flavours. The launch our consumers expectations most community favoured malls. fident that this is going to be a of the juices has come in time with innovative products”. This new signing would win-win situation for both the for the holy month of Ramadan As one of Qatar’s leaders in complement the already flour- company as well as the con- and the summer season. dairy and beverage production ishing stores at Qmall and will The officials at the agreement signing ceremony. sumers,” Naomi Sargeant, Mall After becoming a market centres, Baladna has been con- further help Qmall position itself Manager. leader and covering 95 percent tributing towards Qatar’s self- as the one-stop-shop for all the many thanks to its kaleidoscope more enhancements in our quest “With the new brand identity of the local market’s need for sufficiency goals by adopting an products at reasonable rates. The of everyday use products that to become the most preferred just launched this year and in fresh milk, Baladna is all set to innovative line of products. Cur- new retail outlet will be spread meet the needs and interests of mall of Qatar.” addition to the new management meet local market demands for rently, Baladna has nearly across 13,500 square feet with a the whole community. The man- Mohamed Al Darwish, strategy, along with the ongoing premium fruit juices as well. 20,000 dairy cows and supplies wide range of kitchen acces- agement of Qmall looks to widen Chairman, Al Rawnaq Trading, refurbishments planned, Qmall With an investment of nearly the market with all the nec- sories, bed linen and other the options available to our loyal said, “We are pleased to be will be firmly positioned as an QR10m in the new juice line, essary dairy products. household goods on offer. customers and diversify further opening for the first time inside essential community mall within Baladna aims to produce 17,000 Last year, the company also Speaking on the occasion, its brands and activities in view a mall, which will be the fourth the vicinity,” he said. packages of 180ml juices and established itself as the provider Mohammad Al Harami, Man- of offering a rich shopping expe- branch of Al Rawnaq. Selecting Qmall is a 100,000 square 12,000 packages of 1.5 litres of 95 percent of Qatar’s fresh aging Partner of Qmall, wel- rience to our valued clientele. Qmall made good business sense feet community mall in the Al juices per hour. milk demands. comed Al Rawnaq Trading into We are confident that this for us, by providing us with a Gharafa area located directly off Commenting on the launch Baladna has also started the diversified bouquet of stores addition would further satisfy location that has easy access, the Doha Express Highway, is of the juice line, Dr Kamel exporting products to Afghan- in Qmall. He added, “Al Rawnaq the demands of our esteemed plenty of parking and like- just 15 minutes drive from West Abdallah, Chief Executive istan and are looking to expand Trading, a growing Qatari guests. This is just the beginning minded values when serving the Doha, close to Education City Officer, Baladna Food Industries to regional markets like Kuwait company, is a valuable addition of our expansion strategy. In the Qatari community. We look and the World Cup 2022 Al said, “Ever since June 5, 2017 and Oman. to Qmall and a destination to near future, you will hear many forward to offering the Gharafa Stadium. FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019 HOME 03

Qatar, Malaysia review mutual relations

Qatar, Greece discuss means of enhancing ties Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti met here yesterday with the met yesterday with the Foreign Minister of Malaysia, Saifuddin bin Abdullah. During the meeting, they Greek Minister of Foreign Affairs, Georgios Katrougalos. The two officials discussed bilateral relations discussed relations of mutual interest between the two brotherly countries and means of enhancing and means of further enhancing them, in addition to several topics of common interest. The meeting them. The President of the International Military Cooperation Authority, Brigadier General Abdulaziz was attended by the Ambassador of Greece to the State of Qatar, Constantinos Orphanides. Saleh Al Sulaiti attended the meeting. Qatar and Italy share common vision on significance of culture

RAYNALD C RIVERA Carmelo Occhipinti, Italian art National Library. It is the first of but a lively and busy “square”, THE PENINSULA historian and critic, at Qatar a series of initiatives by La Dante an environment open to cultural National Library (QNL) and to present the rich Italian cultural exchange and communication, Italian Ambassador to the State organised by Società Dante and art heritage to Qatar,” said where initiatives and activities of Qatar, Pasquale Salzano, Alighieri and QNL in collabo- the Italian Ambassador. are aimed at concretely pro- yesterday underlined the ration with the Italian Embassy. He said “the launch of La moting culture and creating common vision Qatar and Italy Founded in Italy in 1899, Dante activities in Qatar was bonds among communities.” share on the indispensable role Società Dante Alighieri aims to recently announced by Italian “This is exactly what Italy culture in all its forms plays in promote Italian language and Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, and Qatar have in common and the society. culture worldwide and currently during his first visit to the State perfectly expresses what we “Italy and Qatar share a has a network of 480 committees of Qatar and commended as a want to achieve with this event common vision about the impor- in 80 countries including Qatar. further step towards the tonight,” he stressed. tance and the contribution of The lecture marked the inau- strengthening the Italian cultural The lecture was one of the culture. Culture in all its forms gural event following signing of offer in the country.” events organised by the Italian of expressions means creativity, agreement between the recently The Ambassador shared Ministry of Foreign Affairs innovation, development of established local committee of what H E Sheikha Hind bint through its network of embassies communication codes, but also Società Dante Alighieri and QNL. Hamad Al Thani, Vice-Chair- as part of the official celebrations traditions and values that need “I am very pleased to present person and CEO of Qatar Foun- of the 500th anniversary of da to be maintained and preserved,” today a very important event dation (QF), highlighted during Vinci’s death. The events are said Salzano. which marks five hundred years her meeting with Maria Elisa- aimed at increasing people’s He was speaking at a lecture since Leonardo da Vinci died and, betta Alberti Casellati, Italian knowledge on one of the most titled “Leonardo da Vinci as Seen at the same time, the beginning President of the Senate “that important figures of all time in by His Contemporaries: Remarks of the partnership between the Qatar National Library is not a the fields of art, science, tech- About the Mona Lisa and Other Italian organization “Società traditional library exclusively nology and many other The Ambassador of Italy to the State of Qatar, Pasquale Salzano (left), Portraits” delivered by Professor Dante Alighieri” and Qatar meant for research and study, disciplines. and Prof Carmelo Occhipinti, at Qatar National Library yesterday. ‘Farm Your Country’ initiative helps promote agriculture

SANAULLAH ATAULLAH THE PENINSULA

The Director of Public Parks Department, Mohamad Ali Al Khouri, has said that the initi- ative ‘Farm Your Country’ helped create importance of agriculture among youngsters. The initiative was launched in schools by the Ministry of Municipality and Environment representative by Public Parks Department in collaboration with Al Faisal Without Borders Foundation (ALF) to educate stu- dents about the importance of agriculture and environment. Dominic Genetti (left) and Amal bint Abdullatif Al Mannai honouring Al Khouri was speaking in an the actors in the film, yesterday. PIC: BAHER AMIN / THE PENINSULA event at the headquarters of the Ministry of Municipality and Shafallah, ExxonMobil release Environment at Corniche yes- terday to honour the winners of The officials with winners of Farm Your Country initiative at the ceremony. film promoting social integration the competition held under the Farm Your Country initiative. Thirteen school received Your Country’ initiative is the Public Parks Department with garden, and the use of alternative THE PENINSULA effort stems from the belief that gold medals out of 34 schools result of a bilateral agreement the support of the project of means in the lack of fertile land DOHA our society embraces and appre- participated the initiative of third between the Ministry of Munic- planting your homeland in an for agriculture,” said Al Khouri. ciates everyone, regardless of age season during the academic year ipality and the Environment and integrated technical support. The Director of School Shafallah Center for Persons with or disability. 2018-19. Eleven schools got Al Faisal Without Borders Foun- “This year, 34 public, private Affairs at the Ministry of Edu- Disability, a member of the Qatar For his part, Vice-President silver medals and bronze medals dation as community and international schools par- cation and Higher Education, Foundation for Social Work and and Joint Interest Manager, went to eight schools. engagement through schools to ticipated in the initiative. Five Khalifah Al Derham, said that ExxonMobil Qatar, announced the Dominic Genetti, expressed hap- Speaking to The Peninsula raise awareness of the impor- agricultural engineers from the such activities are important to production of a short awareness piness in the partnership with about the state efforts to increase tance of agriculture and affores- of Public Parks Department have influence the behaviour of the film that will encourage social Shafallah Center in this important the greenery across the country, tation and the use of the school been assigned to provide agri- students so they could take seri- integration. It is scheduled to be initiative to help spread a strong Al Khouri said: “All new projects garden to build national capa- cultural guidance and instruc- ously the issues of farming and launched on social media plat- message that the disabled are will have landscape, plants and bility among students since tions directly with the assistance agriculture. forms in conjunction with the active members of the com- green areas and special budget childhood in a bid to boost of two supervisors from each The Director General of Al beginning of the holy month of munity. He stressed that Exxon- will be allocated for this purpose national food security program. school at the rate of 10 students Faisal Without Borders Foun- Ramadan. Mobil Qatar believes that eve- as per the projects.: He said that the initiative from each school,” said Al dation, Abdul Latif Al Yafei, said The Chief Executive Officer ryone has a duty towards his He said that Public Works also aims at building skills Khouri. that during the current season, of the Qatar Foundation for Social society, pointing out that there are Authority (Ashghal) is imple- among the students enabling He pointed out that this 340 students from all public and Work, Amal bint Abdullatif Al people with disability who are sci- menting the projects related to them to meet the their food season run for four months from foreign schools attended the Mannai, said during the event that entists, writers and innovators the beautification of cities and needs and giving them the September to February. “Each program. He pointed out that the Shafallah Center continues to and who have the ability to highways in collaboration with opportunity to cultivate by their school planted in 30 thermocol efforts should be made to create support children with intellectual occupy important jobs in the labor Public Parks Department. own hands for self-reliance. boxes to reduce the operation these values in the hearts of and health disabilities for more market and support the work- Addressing the event, Al He added that from this prin- cost of the project, especially in children as agriculture is a part than twenty years, and the centre force in society. Khouri said that the idea of ‘Farm ciple was the initiative of the schools that do not have a school of their lives. 04 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019

Lawmakers slam Iran won’t allow US to threaten Gulf security: FM Haftar’s assault

AGENCIES promoting conflict between the Iranian Foreign heavily reliance on Iranian crude sanctions. Turkey, which is on Tripoli ANKARA US and Iran. Minister Mohammad over the past year, Foreign Min- almost completely reliant on Those leaders, which Zarif ister Mevlut Cavusoglu said its imports to meet its energy needs, TRIPOLI/AFP While Iran doesn’t want to has previously described as the Javad Zarif reiterated refineries are not suitable for the imported 912,000 tonnes of oil escalate tensions further with “B-Team”, include US National accusations that a oil of some other countries. per month on average from Iran Dozens of Libyan lawmakers Washington, it won’t allow the Security Adviser John Bolton; handful of world “It does not seem possible for until May, making up 47 percent supporting the internationally- US to threaten the security of the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin leaders — from the US, us to diversify the sources of the of its total oil requirements. recognised government Persian Gulf, Iranian Foreign Netanyahu; Saudi Crown Prince oil we import in a short time,” he In the four months since the yesterday condemned an Minister Javad Zarif said Mohammed bin Salman; and Abu Israel, Saudi Arabia said at a news conference in imposition of sanctions in offensive by commander yesterday. Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed and the United Arab Istanbul, adding that Washington November, Turkey has imported Khalifa Haftar on Tripoli, as “Aggravating the situation bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Emirates — were should review its decision. an average of 209,000 tonnes they staged a meeting in the between Tehran and Washington Recent days have seen ten- actively promoting “We have to renew the tech- of oil per month from Iran, or 12 capital. isn’t in Iran’s interest,” Zarif told sions mount between Wash- nology of our refineries when we percent of its needs, according The legislators have Al Jazeera television channel. ington and Tehran, with the conflict between the buy oil from third countries. That to Reuters calculations based on announced a boycott of the “But we want to keep the latter threatening to close the US and Iran. would mean the refineries regulatory data. official parliament in the east Gulf safe and open to everyone, strategic Strait of Hormuz in remaining shut for some time. Turkey last week said it was of the country that is backed by including Iran,” he said. response to the recent reacti- This, of course, has a cost.” working to convince Washington Haftar to protest his military “As we have stated before, vation of US sanctions on Iran’s buyers of Iranian oil stop pur- The White House has said it to allow oil refiner Tupras to assault. Iran won’t permit the US to energy sector. chases by May 1 or face sanc- was working with top oil continue crude imports from The fissure among law- threaten the Gulf,” the foreign Meanwhile, Turkish Foreign tions, ending six months of exporters Saudi Arabia and the Iran. The company’s refineries makers looks set to deepen rifts minister added. Minister said that his country will waivers that had allowed Iran’s United Arab Emirates to ensure are capable of processing heavy that have plagued the country He also reiterated accusa- be unable to diversify oil imports eight biggest customers, the market was “adequately sup- and high-sulphur crude oil. It since the ouster and killing of tions that a handful of world quickly after the United States including Turkey, to import plied”. Turkish imports from Iran used oil from 11 countries other dictator Muammar Gaddafi in leaders — from the US, Israel, ended waivers on purchases limited volumes. have dropped gradually since than Iran last year, according to 2011. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab from Iran. The United States While Turkey has managed last May, when the United States information on the company’s “We are meeting with our Emirates — were actively demanded on April 22 that a gradual shift away from its first mentioned possible website. colleagues from different cities to highlight the devastating effects of the unjustified war against the capital and to take Sudanese hold mass a stand to end the fighting,” said one of the deputies Sadeq Al Keheli. rally amid standoff “We will continue these meetings until all the military actions and the threat against with generals Tripoli stop.” Lawmaker Salem Ganan said the offensive launched on AP Rabie, a member of the pro- April 4 caught those in par- KHARTOUM testers’ delegation to the talks, liament by surprise as they pre- said they proposed an pared for a UN-backed national Sudan’s protesters held a mass 11-member sovereign council conference that has now been rally yesterday to step up with three seats set aside for the postponed. Weeks of clashes pressure on the military to hand military. He said the military around Tripoli between power to civilians following last countered with a proposal for a Haftar’s forces and those sup- month’s overthrow of President 10-member council with just porting the unity government Omar Hassan Al Bashir. three civilians. have left 376 dead and over The Forces for the Decla- In their latest bid to narrow 1,800 wounded, the World ration of Freedom and Change, the gap, the two sides agreed on Health Organization says. a coalition led by the Sudanese a committee of public figures to Professionals Association, had mediate the talks. Israeli court stalls called for a million-person “The members of this com- march as talks with the military mittee are all patriotic public HRW official’s council reached a deadlock over figures and we have no reser- expulsion the role of the generals in the vation over any of them,” said Sudanese gather during a sit-in outside the Army Headquarters in Khartoum, yesterday. transitional period. Rabie. “However, they are not AFP/JERUSALEM “Today’s rally is a message authorized to sign off on any deal to the military council as well as on our behalf.” Earlier this week, the mil- “This is a sit-in and there under unrelenting heat. The Israel’s top court has delayed regional and international The military forced Al Bashir itary demanded that protesters cannot be any real sit-in if roads organizers say they will provide the expulsion of Human Rights players that the Sudanese people from office on April 11 and has clear roadblocks around their are cleared,” said Rabie. air-conditioned tents and other Watch’s country director will not give up on their demand since jailed him and other former main sit-in outside the military The protest organizers face provisions. following a petition challenging for a civilian government,” said senior officials. But the protesters headquarters in the capital, a challenge next week with the “We have already collected the move, his lawyer said Ahmed Rabie, a leader in the fear the generals intend to hold Khartoum, which was set up start of the holy month of donations from friends and fam- yesterday. SPA, which led the four months onto power or cut a deal with days before al-Bashir’s over- Ramadan, in which Muslims ilies that will allow us to survive The Jerusalem district court of protests that drove Al Bashir other factions that would leave throw. The protesters responded fast from dawn to dusk for at Ramadan,” said Adel Ibrahim, a last month rejected an earlier from power. much of al-Bashir’s regime intact. by building more barricades. least 14 hours journalist and SPA member. petition against the decision to expel Omar Shakir, a US citizen, ruling he had until May 1 to leave. But just a day ahead of 8 migrants dead as UN fears inhumane treatment in Yemen camps the deadline the supreme court issued an injunction allowing AFP of these eight migrants, who were among shortsighted abuse of vulnerable migrants to oil-rich Saudi Arabia to find work. Shakir to remain in Israel for DUBAI the thousands of migrants being held in and fully respects international law,” he But many do not even survive the seven days, attorney Michael deplorable conditions across Yemen,” said said. journey, dying at sea or at the hands of Sfard said. At least eight African migrants have died Mohammed Abdiker, the IOM’s director “I am greatly concerned that this dire panicked smugglers. During this period the in makeshift camps in war-hit Yemen, the of operations and emergencies. situation will further deteriorate.” The IOM said an estimated 5,000 interior ministry can submit its UN’s migration agency said yesterday, “We have decried this policy to the Yemen has descended into chaos in African migrants, mostly Ethiopian and response to the appeal which warning thousands were living under authorities, urging them to take a humane the past four years of conflict, with both some from Somalia, were currently Shakir lodged at the supreme “inhumane conditions”. approach to irregular migration.” the Iran-linked Huthi rebels and a rival being held in makeshift camps in the court. After the May 7 deadline The International Organization for Abdiker said the IOM had evidence pro-government military alliance led by government strongholds of Lahj, Abyan the court “could theoretically Migration said they had died of compli- guards had fired on migrants at a sports Saudi Arabia accused of acts that could and Aden. More than 1,400 people were issue a new decision” on the cations related to acute watery diarrhea stadium in Aden, bastion of the embattled amount to war crimes. “detained” in the Lahj camp alone, it case, Sfard said. The interior at the Ibn Khaldoon Hospital in Lahj, a Yemeni government, wounding two and But the country remains on an estab- said. ministry’s decision to deny southern district controlled by the Yemeni leaving a teenage boy “likely paralysed lished route for migrants from the Horn Nearly 150,000 migrants arrived in Shakir his work and residency government in its war with northern for life”. of Africa, who typically first travel by land Yemen last year, according to the UN. permits was due to his alleged rebels. “IOM stands ready to support Yemen through Djibouti before eventually under- In January the UN announced plans support of a boycott of Israel The IOM said it learned of the deaths and other regional partners to identify going perilous boat journeys across the to airlift some 3,000 Ethiopian migrants over its treatment of Pales- on Wednesday. Most were Ethiopian. sustainable responses to irregular Gulf of Aden to Yemen. to their capital Addis Ababa from Yemen’s tinians— a claim accepted by “I am deeply saddened by the deaths migration, which do not involve the Many say they aim to travel by land Sanaa. Hundreds have already returned. the district court. Ugandan popstar Hamas chief heads to MP freed on bail Egypt after Gaza flare-up AFP/KAMPALA AP the first Israeli strike in more Ugandan rapper-turned-MP GAZA CITY than a month of relative calm Bobi Wine was released from that followed the unofficial deal. prison yesterday, his lawyer said, Hamas’ leader in Gaza left for Egyptian mediators have been just days after the outspoken talks with Egyptian officials trying to reach a long-term government critic was detained yesterday after a new outbreak cease-fire during the lull. on charges his supporters said of violence, as the group accused In a short statement, the were politically motivated. Israel of slowing down the Islamist group said that Sinwar A magistrate in Kampala implementation of Egyptian- will meet the director of Egypt’s granted bail to the 37-year-old mediated understandings aimed general intelligence to discuss opposition star, who told a at easing the situation in the “ways of alleviating the suf- courtroom packed with sup- Palestinian enclave. fering” of Gaza’s 2 million porters he would remain in The visit by Yehiyeh Sinwar residents. prison if it meant “standing for to Cairo came hours after the Hamas says Israel is not what is right”. Israeli military struck several abiding by the deal. Under the “It is not we on trial, but the Hamas sites in Gaza in response agreement, Israel had expanded court. My business is the truth,” to incendiary balloons with the permitted fishing zone off Wine said via video link — a explosives launched from the Gaza’s coast to 15 nautical miles, first for Uganda — from a strip late on Wednesday. After but scaled back the area to its maximum security prison in the Remnants of war the airstrikes, Palestinian previous limit of 9 miles this A woman walks past debris in the northern Syrian city of Raqa, the former Syrian capital of the capital. fighters fired rockets at southern week after a Gaza rocket was Islamic State (IS) group, yesterday. The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces overran Raqa in 2017, “If standing for what is Israel. No injuries were reported fired. Over the past decade, right is going to keep me in after years of what residents described as IS’s brutal rule. on either side. Hamas and Israel fought three prison, then be it so.” The brief flare-up marked deadly and destructive wars. FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019 ISLAM 05 Ramadan, the Quran and us The goal of fasting is taqwa, but what actually allows us to establish taqwa in our lives if not the Quran? So the logical step for us is that we need to try and prepare ourselves towards establishing a relationship with the Book of Allah. As mentioned earlier, fasting trains us to empty our hearts from desires and aspires towards a loftier goal and that goal can only be achieved with the soul food that the Holy Quran provides.

MANSOOR AHMED we can fill it up instead with the light of the Quran. he month of Ramadan Therefore, we find the next is a time when we, logical step is the tarawih (the despite the struggle, night Prayer offered in Ramadan) keep ourselves away where we stand after a long day from that which is oth- listening to the Quran being Terwise permissible and a recited in Prayer in order to give necessity in our life. our soul its much required For the past eleven months, at nourishment. some level we have given pref- As we get in tune with this erence to our physical self, in during the early phases of the terms of nourishment, than our month and our hearts are revived soul. We’ve done things we and rejuvenated, the bar is raised shouldn’t have, we have and during the final ten nights probably neglected some duties we stand even longer and even towards Allah subhanahu wa later in Prayer in the Tahajjud ta`ala (exalted is He) that we (late night Prayer) seeking the shouldn’t have. Maybe we rewards of the Laylatul Qadr, haven’t been reciting much of the reciting Quran and engaging in Quran or maybe we have been `ibaadah (worship) so as to fill neglecting some of the Prayers. our hearts with the sweetness of The month of Ramadan is a worship. time when Allah (be praised) com- Allah says: The month of mands us to limit our physical Ramadan is that in which was nourishment and instead focus on revealed the Quran, a guidance the Book of Allah. As mentioned The month of Ramadan is a time when Allah increase the frequency. the spiritual – in order to give life for the people and clear proofs earlier, fasting trains us to empty commands us to limit our physical nourishment Let’s begin to reflect upon the to our hearts and fix and improve of guidance and criterion… (Al our hearts from desires and guidance in the Quran and try to our spiritual state. Baqarah 2:185) The interesting aspires towards a loftier goal and and instead focus on the spiritual – in order to internalize the lessons therein. This is the time to rise up and thing to note about this verse that goal can only be achieved give life to our hearts and fix and improve our Let’s aim to set a powerful acknowledge our deficiencies here is that Allah at the mention with the soul food that the Quran spiritual state. foundation for the Quran in our during the past months and of Ramadan didn’t talk about provides. lives by which we can establish resolve to move ahead with the fasting first. When we think Allah says in the Quran: And routines that will allows us to aim to improve our relationship about Ramadan, what comes to We made firm their hearts when strengthened their hearts when in good so that our good actions begin a functional relationship with Allah, with His Book, and our mind immediately? Usually, they stood up and said, “Our Lord they stood up. are a reason by which Allah gives with the Quran in Ramadan and with His Messenger (peace and our first thought is fasting, right? is the Lord of the heavens and Meaning, they had to commit us the ability to come out of continue it thereafter so that blessings be upon him). But we find that Allah instead the earth. Never will we invoke to following the truth and when Ramadan improved and once the devils are let out, we Ramadan, as an institution, couples Ramadan firstly with the besides Him any deity. We would this commitment was proven by forgiven. have a solid defense mechanism, is designed as a whole to bring Quran as if to say that Ramadan’s have certainly spoken, then, an their action, Allah made their As the Messenger told us, taqwa, within our hearts to help our hearts back to life, thus first and foremost role in our excessive transgression. (Al Kahf efforts easy for them. “Whoever fasts Ramadan out of us. allowing the light of taqwa (God- lives should be to increase our 18:14) Likewise, in Ramadan, we Iman (faith) and seeking Allah’s After all, this is the month of consciousness) to illuminate relationship with the Quran and This verse is talking about need to make sure to put in the reward then his past and future the Quran and that necessitates itself within us. only then does He follow it with the story of the Youth of the Cave effort to establish that bond with sins are forgiven” (Ahmad) Let’s that we give special attention to The fasting during the day the command to fast in the when they stood up and said to the Quran. Once we start making try and set some goals for our- this Book during the month. reminds us that our purpose in month. the people in their vicinity that the effort, Allah will make it selves with regards to the Quran. Our aim should be to build life is not merely to satisfy the The goal of fasting is taqwa, they only worshipped Allah. They easier for us and we will start If we don’t know how to read it this relationship, not just for the desires of our self (nafs) and this but what actually allows us to were able to do that only because tasting the sweetness of correctly, let’s try to learn. 30 days of Ramadan but rather reminder leads us to focus establish taqwa in our lives if not Allah strengthened their hearts. servitude. If we don’t recite it often, setting a strong, deep, instead on feeding our soul. We the Quran? So the logical step for However, the interesting We need to go into this let us take the time out eve- unshakeable foundation for a are taught during the day to us is that we need to try and thing to notice here is that they month not just with the intention ryday to recite. If we are relationship that will flourish for empty our hearts from the prepare ourselves towards made the first move to get closer of improving ourselves, but with already reciting, then we can the next eleven months. desires of our nafs so that at night establishing a relationship with to Allah – Allah only actual preparation by increasing try and add some more or www.onislam.net

Inner dimensions of fasting IMAM ABU HAMID AL GHAZALI Said the Prophet (PBUH): ‘How many of those who Fast get nothing from it but hunger and thirst!’ This has been eported on the authority of Sahl taken to mean those who break their Fast on unlawful bin Sa’ad that the Prophet of Allah R(peace be upon him) said: “Jannah food. Some say it refers to those who abstain from has an entrance by the name of Ar- lawful food, but break their Fast on human flesh through Rayyaan which is exclusively reserved backbiting, which is unlawful. Others consider it an for the fasting individuals. On the Day allusion to those who do not guard their organs from sin. of Judgment, they will be called to pass through this entrance, after which it will be closed behind them and no one else twaddle, lying, backbiting, scandal mon- be compared to one who builds a castle will be allowed to use it.” It should be gering, obscenity, rudeness, wrangling but demolishes a city. Lawful food inju- known that there are three grades of and controversy; making it observe rious in quantity not in quality, so fasting: silence and occupying it with remem- Fasting is to reduce the former. breaking it one not only makes up for Moreover, one of the properties con- Ordinary fasting: Abstaining from brance of Allah and with recitation of A person might well give up all one has missed during the daytime, sists in taking little sleep during the food, drink and sexual satisfaction. the Quran. excessive use of medicine, from fear but perhaps also indulges in a variety of daytime, so that one feels the hunger Special fasting: Keeping one’s ears, This is the fasting of the tongue. of ill effects, but he would be a fool to extra foods? It has even become the and thirst and becomes conscious of the eyes, tongue, hands and feet-and all Sufyan said: “backbiting vitiates the switch to taking poison. The unlawful custom to stock up for Ramadan with weakening of one’s powers, with the other organs-free from sin. fast.” Layth quotes Mujahid as saying: is a poison deadly to religion, while all kinds of foodstuffs, so that more is consequent purification of the heart. Extra-special fasting: Fasting of the “Two habits vitiate fasting: backbiting the lawful is a medicine, beneficial in consumed during that time than in the One should let a certain degree of heart from unworthy concerns and and telling lies.” The Prophet (PBUH) small doses but harmful in excess. The course of several other months put weakness carry over into the night, worldly thoughts, in total disregard of said: “Fasting is a shield; so when one object of Fasting is to induce together. making it easier to perform the night everything but Allah. of you is fasting he should not use foul moderation. It is well known that the object of Prayers (tahajjud) and to recite the or foolish talk. If someone attacks him Said the Prophet (PBUH): ‘How many Fasting is to experience hunger and to praises (awrad). It may then be that See not what displeases Allah or insults him, let him say: ‘I am fasting, of those who Fast get nothing from it check desire, in order to reinforce the Satan will not hover around one’s heart, A chaste regard, restrained from I am fasting!’ “ but hunger and thirst!’ This has been soul in piety. If the stomach is starved and that one will behold the Kingdom viewing anything that is blameworthy taken to mean those who break their from early morning till evening, so that of Heaven. or reprehensible, or which distracts the Hear no evil Fast on unlawful food. Some say it refers its appetite is aroused and its craving The Night of Destiny represents the heart and diverts it from the remem- Closing one’s ears to everything rep- to those who abstain from lawful food, intensified, and it is then offered deli- night on which something of this brance of God. The Prophet (PBUH) said: rehensible; for everything unlawful to but break their Fast on human flesh cacies and allowed to eat its fill, its taste Kingdom is revealed. This is what is “The furtive (secret) glance is one of the utter is likewise unlawful to listen to. through backbiting, which is unlawful. for pleasure is increased and its force meant by the words of God, Exalted is poisoned arrows of Satan, on him be That is why Allah equated the eaves- Others consider it an allusion to those exaggerated; passions are activated He: ‘We surely revealed it on the Night God’s curse. Whoever forsakes it for fear dropper with the profiteer “ (They like who do not guard their organs from sin. which would have lain dormant under of Power.’ (Quran 97:1) of God, will receive from Him, Great and to) listen to falsehood, to devour any- normal conditions. Anyone who puts a bag of food Gracious is He, a faith the sweetness of thing forbidden” (Quran 5: 42). Avoid overeating The spirit and secret nature of Fasting between his heart and his breast which he will find within his heart.” Jabir Do not: Keeping all other limbs and Not to over-indulge in lawful food is to weaken the forces which are Satan’s becomes blind to this revelation. Nor is relates from Anas that God’s Messenger, organs away from sin: the hands and at the time of breaking Fast, to the point means of leading us back to evil. It is keeping the stomach empty sufficient on him be peace, said: “Five things break feet from reprehensible deeds, and the of stuffing one’s belly. There is no recep- therefore essential to cut down one’s to remove the veil, unless one also a man’s fast: lying, backbiting, scandal stomach from questionable food at the tacle more odious to God, Great and Glo- intake to what one would consume on a empties the mind of everything but God, mongering, perjury and a lustful gaze.” time for breaking Fast. It is meaningless rious is He, than a belly stuffed full with normal night, when not Fasting. No benefit Great and Glorious is He. That is the to Fast -- to abstain from lawful food - lawful food. Of what use is the Fast as a is derived from the Fast if one consumes entire matter, and the starting point of Speak no evil only to break one’s Fast on what is means of conquering God’s enemy and as much as one would usually take during it all is cutting down on food. Guarding one’s tongue from unlawful. A man who Fast like this may abating appetite, if at the time of the day and night combined. www.islamcity.com 06 ASIA FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019 India evacuating 1.2 million as cyclone nears REUTERS The navy has deployed time to prepare. In 1999, a super- BHUBANESHWAR/NEW DELHI seven warships and cyclone battered the coast of Odisha for 30 hours, killing 10,000 India has accelerated efforts to has six planes and people. A mass evacuation of evacuate more than a million seven helicopters on nearly a million people saved people along its northeast standby along with thousands of lives in 2013. coastline as a cyclone intensifies divers, rubber boats, Kolkata airport will be shut ahead of landfall today, with from 2130 hrs local time today till thousand of villagers piling medical teams and 1800 hrs tomorrow while Bhu- household possessions on to relief materials. baneswar airport will be shut trucks before fleeing their homes. today. Severe cyclonic storm Fani Indian Oil Corp, the country’s was churning up the Bay of Bengal India Meteorological Department top refiner, said its 300,000 about 275km south-southwest of (IMD) said. Cyclone tracker barrels per day (bpd) Paradip Puri, where special trains were put Tropical Storm Risk rated Fani cat- refinery in Odisha state did not on to evacuate tourists and the egory 4 storm, a notch below the need to shut down for now. beaches were empty. worst level. The cyclone will make An executive at Reliance In total, about 1.2 million landfall before today afternoon, Industries Ltd, which operates an people are expected to be evac- the IMD said. oil and gas block off the east coast, uated from low-lying areas of 15 The navy has deployed seven said its operations had not been districts in the eastern state of warships and has six planes and affected. India’s National Alu- Odisha to cyclone shelters, schools seven helicopters on standby Fishermen prepare for an approaching cyclone on a beach in Puri in the eastern Indian state of minium Co Ltd said there was no and other buildings, authorities along with divers, rubber boats, Odisha, yesterday. need to halt operations. said. More than 800,000 have left medical teams and relief State-run power company so far. materials. In Paradip, television footage deployed hundreds of disaster and cause widespread deaths and NTPC Ltd has no plans to shut the “We are maximising efforts at Prime Minister Narendra Modi showed residents piling bicycles, management personnel, closed damage to crops and property in 3000-megawatt Talcher power all levels for evacuation,” Odisha’s tweeted that the federal gov- sewing machines and gas cyl- schools and colleges and asked both India and neighbouring plant in Odisha, its head of oper- Special Relief Commissioner Bish- ernment will provide all possible inders on to small trucks and doctors and other health officials Bangladesh. ations Prakash Tiwari said. “The nupada Sethi said. assistance. Authorities have also leaving for any of nearly 900 not to go on leave until May 15. Technological advancements power plant will be running as Fani was generating shut down operations at Paradip, shelters supplied with food, water India’s cyclone season can last have helped meteorologists to usual, should something happen maximum sustained winds of 170- Dhamra and Visakhapatnam and medicines. from April to December, when predict weather patterns well in we are prepared for any 180km per hour, the state-run ports. Odisha state government has severe storms batter coastal cities advance, giving authorities more eventuality.” Pepsi withdraws potato farmer lawsuits after political pressure Deve Gowda may return as REUTERS farmers in April had sued five 39-day general election in which the New York-based company or Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) which NEW DELHI other potato growers, had said it its rural population still has a dom- stop cultivating the FC5 variety. In is the ideological parent of Modi’s PM: Prakash wanted to settle the issue ami- inant voice. It also follows inter- return, PepsiCo would withdraw BJP, welcomed PepsiCo’s move as PepsiCo Inc has agreed to cably. “After discussions with the vention by a Hindu nationalist the lawsuit. a moral victory for Indian farmers. Ambedkar withdraw lawsuits against Indian government, the company has group with close ties to Prime Min- PepsiCo, which set up its first The April lawsuit was filed in IANS / MUMBAI potato farmers it alleged infringed agreed to withdraw the cases ister Narendra Modi’s ruling BJP potato chips plant in India in 1989, Ahmedabad, the business hub of a patent by cultivating a variety against the farmers,” a PepsiCo said PepsiCo was coercing the supplies the FC5 variety to a group the western state of Gujarat, In a loaded political statement, grown exclusively for its Lay’s India spokesman said yesterday, farmers. of farmers who in turn sell their requesting that the court restrain Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) potato chips. adding that this applied to all nine. PepsiCo, which did not dis- produce to it at a fixed price. the four farmers from growing the leader Prakash Ambedkar The US snack food and drinks The decision comes at a par- close details of its consultations, Ashwani Mahajan, who heads FC5 variety. PepsiCo had also yesterdya said Janata Dal (S) maker, which in addition to filing ticularly sensitive time in India, had previously said the farmers the Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM), sought more than Rs10m President H D Deve Gowda could the lawsuit against the four which is about halfway through a must either sell their potatoes to the economic wing of Rashtriya ($143,000) each from the farmers. emerge as the prime ministerial candidate after the elections. “Gowda is the dark horse... Assam detention just wait till May 23 (the results Myanmar’s jailed Reuters date),” said Ambedkar, a three- centres: Bhushan time MP, who is the grandson of scribes not to seek appeal the architect of Indian Consti- is amicus curiae tution, B R Ambedkar. IANS ANATOLIA investigating the killing of 10 Speaking to mediapersons, NEW DELHI MYANMAR Rohingya men in the Myanmar’s he said the BJP will be restricted Rakhine state in 2017. to 148-200 seats. Similarly, Con- In a high-voltage courtroom Two Pulitzer-winning Reuters Several courts in the country gress may be in the range of 100 drama in the case of Assam journalists jailed in Myanmar including the supreme court seats, thus leaving the field wide detention centres, the Supreme have decided not to make any have rejected previous appeals open for the post of PM of a coa- Court yesterday appointed further appeals to the country’s by the two, upholding their lition government. When pointed Prashant Bhushan as an amicus supreme court after several imprisonments as they were out that Gowda’s JD (S) does not curiae and replaced Harsh courts denied their appeal, excluded from two recent mass have sufficient number of MPs, Mander, the litigants in the PIL, family members announced government pardons. he retorted: “If not Gowda, who with SC Legal Services yesterday. The pair have given up on else? Mamata Banerjee is Authority. Wa Lone, 32, and Kyaw Soe the courts, though they still have capable, but has nobody to fall Pan Ei Mon (right) and Chit Su Win, the wives of jailed reporters A three-judge bench Oo, 28, were each sentenced to a chance to make a second back upon. Ditto with Mayawati, Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo, receive the Unesco/Guillermo Cano headed by Chief Justice of India seven years in prison last Sep- appeal to the Supreme Court, Akhilesh Yadav and Naveen Ranjan Gogoi is hearing a tember over their alleged breach said Pan Ei Mon, wife of Wa Press Freedom Prize on their behalf on World Press Freedom Day Patnaik or N Chandrababu petition filed by human rights of a colonial-era law for Lone. in Yangon, Myanmar, yesterday. Naidu, who don’t stand a activist Mander seeking release chance,” Ambedkar argued. of foreigners who have been While Telangana Chief Min- detained indefinitely. The ister K Chandrashekhar Rao is Assam government is respon- Myanmar troops kill 6, detain scores in Rakhine another senior regional con- sible for these centres. tender, he would not get support Bhushan initially repre- REUTERS for members of the rebel Arakan morning, forcing security forces hospital in the state capital of from the Congress in his bid, and sented Mander on previous YANGON Army, said Brigadier General to fire into a crowd. “We warned Sittwe, as well as two other he dismissed outright the sug- hearings in the case. He strongly Zaw Min Tun from the military’s them verbally. Then we fired “civilians” to a local hospital. gestion of NCP’s Sharad Pawar opposed the state government Myanmar security forces shot True News Information Team. warning shots into the air to dis- “The ICRC is concerned about for the top post, saying: “He inaction in providing humane dead at least six people in the There were conflicting perse the group but they didn’t increasing numbers of civilian (Pawar) is not PM material.” condition in the detention troubled western state of accounts of events leading up to move, so shots were fired,” he casualties during the recent centres, terming it as a breach Rakhine yesterday, after soldiers the shooting, which took place said. weeks, and urge all parties to the ED chargesheets of human rights. and police detained hundreds of in an area off-limits to reporters The International Committee conflict to protect the civilian Bhushan pressed for people at a school, a military and most aid agencies. of the Red Cross and Myanmar population in line with Interna- preacher Naik detenuees’ right to liberty, spokesman said. Zaw Min Tun said some of Red Cross said in a statement tional Humanitarian Law,” said saying they are being held The soldiers had rounded up the detainees attempted to seize they had transferred three “seri- Stephan Sakalian, head of dele- IANS / MUMBAI against international laws. about 275 people during a search weapons in the early hours of the ously injured patients” to gation in Myanmar for the ICRC. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed chargesheet against Indian Islamic preacher Sri Lanka mass cancelled over fresh attack fears Zakir Naik, accusing him of delivering “incriminating” AFP However, the government The Cardinal has also been speeches during the peace COLOMBO said all 10,194 public schools will given several bodyguards and a conferences organised by his reopen on Monday amid tight large security contingent but Islamic Research Foundation Sri Lanka’s Catholic Church police and military security, with returned a bullet-proof lim- (IRF) in Mumbai during 2007 scrapped plans to resume at least one armed guard outside ousine given to him by the and 2011, and charged him for Sunday services following a each one. “We have been assured government. money laundering of “specific threat” against two reli- that all schools will be searched “I am not afraid. I don’t need Rs193.06cr. While filing the gious locations after the deadly and safe for us to resume the bullet-proof vehicles to go about. chargesheet, the ED requested Easter attacks. new school term,” Education The Lord is my protector,” he the special court for The archbishop of Colombo, Minister Akila Kariyawasam told said. “But I want security for my punishment and confiscation Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, said reporters in Colombo. people, and for the country.” of Naik’s attached properties yesterday that a “reliable foreign Last Sunday, a week after the Ranjith said he had concerns worth Rs50.46cr for source” had alerted him to pos- April 21 attacks, all public masses about the progress of security involvement in money laun- sible attacks this weekend. were cancelled and Cardinal operations against militants dering. This is second charge- “The information we have Ranjith conducted a private behind the worst single-day sheet against Naik, who fled from a reliable foreign source is memorial service for the victims attack against civilians in the India on July 1, 2016, and is that attackers are planning to hit that was broadcast live on country’s history. currently living in Malaysia. a very famous church and a television. Police say they have arrested The attached properties Catholic institution,” the Cardinal Armed guards have been sta- more than 150 suspects since the belonging to Naik include said in a statement. He did not Relatives mourn beside the coffin of a bomb blast victim during a tioned outside churches, Bud- attacks and have accounted for investment in mutual funds, name the source. He also said burial ceremony at a cemetery in Colombo, yesterday. dhist temples and mosques all six militants suspects who Islamic International School in that Catholic schools which were across the country since the April were declared as Chennai, 10 residential flats, due to re-open after an extended 21 attacks on three churches and most-wanted. three godowns, two buildings Easter vacation on Monday Sri Lankan authorities had Easter attacks in which 257 three luxury hotels. All political Two suspects have been and land in Pune and Mumbai, would now remain shut “until advance warnings from Indian people died, but police and parties scrapped May 1 rallies killed while four others were in and 10 bank accounts worth further notice”. intelligence of the impending security forces ignored them. amid fears of bomb blasts. custody, police said. Rs50.46cr. FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019 ASIA 07 Imran Khan Afghans demand ceasefire as first step to peace REUTERS launches work on KABUL Thousands of Afghans taking part in a rare grand assembly to Mohmand Dam discuss a possible peace deal with Taliban militants are INTERNEWS The dam is being demanding a ceasefire on both ISLAMABAD constructed on Swat sides as a first step, officials said River and will be yesterday. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran The “Loya Jirga” is meeting Khan yesterday performed the completed at a cost under a huge, permanent, white ground-breaking of Mohmand of over Rs183bn by tent in Kabul with the aim of Dam. 2024. It will generate influencing peace talks between The Premier along with 800 MW electricity the United States and the Taliban former Chief Justice of Pakistan, to end a war that has raged since Mian Saqib Nisar, performed the besides bringing the militants’ ouster in 2001. ground-breaking ceremony of about 17,000 acres The Taliban refuse to talk to the dam in Mohmand district. barren land under the government of President Addressing on the occasion, cultivation. Ashraf Ghani which they dismiss the Prime Minister thanked the as a US puppet. They rejected an former top judge for raising invitation to the Loya Jirga. awareness about the country’s for the future of the country.” “We are here to urge both water crisis and the need to Chief of Army Staff General sides to announce a ceasefire. build dams. Qamar Javed Bajwa, Defence The war will end only when both Afghan tribal leaders and politicians attending the Loya Jirga (Grand Assembly) in Kabul, yesterday. “Our government had failed Minister Pervez Khattak, Federal sides stop fighting before they in thinking about the future of Minister for Religious Affairs and sign a permanent peace Pakistan. This led to a Chief Interfaith Harmony Dr Noor-ul- agreement,” said Abdul Hannan, that Afghanistan will not be used recommendations of the been killed. Opposition political Justice of the country raising an Haq Qadri, Khyber a member of one the committees by militants to threaten the rest assembly may not be announced leaders and government critics, issue which should have been Pakhtunkhwa Governor Shah who travelled from the south to of the world. until today, a majority of the including former President done by the Prime Minister and the Farman and Chief Minister attend the assembly. The Loya Jirga, attended by members backed talks between Hamid Karzai, are boycotting the government. I want to thank Justice Mahmood Khan were also The US talks with the Taliban 3,200 religious leaders, politi- Kabul and the Taliban. assembly, accusing Ghani of Saqib Nisar for this,” he said. present at the ceremony. are part of President Donald cians and representatives from Last month, the Taliban using it as a platform to boost his Resolving to fix the country’s eco- The dam is being con- Trump’s efforts to end America’s across the country, is aimed at announced the start of a spring status as a leader in an election nomic issues, the Premier said, structed on Swat River and will longest war. Since October, US building consensus among offensive. Even before the year. Several delegates also “There cannot be investment in be completed at a cost of over and Taliban officials have held various ethnic groups and tribal announcement, combat had rejected Taliban and opposition any country until there is peace. Rs183bn by 2024. Mohmand several rounds of talks aimed at factions and is traditionally con- intensified across Afghanistan in calls for an interim government People want to invest in Pakistan Dam on completion will gen- ensuring a safe exit for US forces vened under extraordinary cir- recent weeks and hundreds of when Ghani’s term expires this because they think there is peace erate 800 MW electricity besides in return for a Taliban guarantee cumstance. While the final Afghan troops and civilians have month. here. Unemployment will begin bringing about 17,000 acres to decrease when there is barren land under cultivation. investment in the country.” The dam will also solve the Another Christchurch victim dies, toll at 51 2 children dead The Prime Minister said problem of water scarcity in after tornado tips underdeveloped areas of the Mohmand district besides saving REUTERS country including the tribal belt Peshawar, Charsadda and Now- raising the death toll from the Tuyan had been taken to ANKARA bouncy castle had been left behind due to the shera districts from floods. shooting to 51. “We have unfor- surgery yesterday, but that he failure of past governments in The dam will be able to store tunately lost our citizen could not be saved. “He had in China planning for the future and 300,000 cusecs of water. It has A Turkish citizen who was Zekeriya Tuyan, who was crit- surgery today, they couldn’t AFP beyond their five-year terms in gross capacity of 1.9 million acre wounded during deadly attacks ically wounded in the heinous stop the bleeding so we lost BEIJING office. feet (MAF), live capacity 0.67 at two mosques in the New attack in Christchurch, New him. We were happy because “China has progressed MAF with power generation Zealand city of Christchurch on Zealand,” Mevlut Cavusoglu we thought it was going well, Two children were killed in because its leadership does not potential of 800 megawatts March 15 has died, Turkey’s said on Twitter. Tuyan’s brother he had been battling for 50 China after a tornado flipped think about winning the election, (MW) and annual energy pro- Foreign Minister said yesterday, told Anadolu news agency that days,” Yahya Tuyan said. over an inflatable bounce house rather it thinks about planning duction of 2862 GWh. in the northern province of Hebei yesterday, state media reported, in the second such incident in two months. Court accepts Musharraf’s plea to postpone treason hearing A tornado had struck a central plaza in Laiyuan county, INTERNEWS hearing due to his medical travel in this condition,” Barrister without assistance from his Court’s directive, the trial court overturning the bouncy castle ISLAMABAD condition. Safdar said. The counsel then client. Objecting to the argument, is scheduled to record Mushar- in a freak accident that injured As the hearing went under asked the court to postpone the the prosecution contended that raf’s statement under Section 342 seven others, the Beijing Youth A special court yesterday way, the counsel informed the hearing until after Ramadan. the trial could proceed despite of the Criminal Procedure Code Daily said, citing local author- accepted former Pakistani bench that Musharraf was “The case against Musharraf Musharraf’s absence. to complete the treason trial. ities. Pictures posted on social military dictator General (retired) scheduled to arrive in Pakistan dates back to 2007. Despite the At this, Justice Tahira Safdar The Supreme Court last media by the newspaper Pervez Musharraf’s request to on Wednesday morning to attend cases, he returned to the country remarked that the former Pres- month had observed that the showed a partially deflated postpone the hearing of a treason the trial but could not, due to his in 2013. He was indicted in ident’s medical reports were also special court should announce a bouncy castle toppled over trial against him until after the illness. March 2014. He stayed in the attached along with his plea to decision after hearing the pros- several cars. month of Ramadan owing to his “He is ashamed and apolo- country for two years and three adjourn the hearing. ecution as the suspect would lose Three people have been poor health. getic for not being able to reach months, but the prosecution “I cannot comment on the his right to defend if he failed to detained in connection with the A three-member bench [in time]. He is unable to walk,” failed to prove their case,” the authenticity of the medical appear before the court on May incident and investigations are headed by Justice Tahira Safdar the counsel said, adding that he lawyer added. reports,” the prosecuting lawyer 2. The government of former underway, the Beijing Youth adjourned the case hearing till had spent three days with the “In the past two years Mush- said. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had Daily said. In April, a dust June 12, after Musharraf’s counsel former President and was arraf has been hospitalised 40 The court then issued notices filed the treason case against tornado sent an inflatable Barrister Salman Safdar told the “shocked to see that he could times,” Barrister Safdar con- to the prosecution and adjourned Musharraf over his imposition of bounce house flying in central court that his client could not barely even speak. The doctors tinued, and said he could not the hearing till June 12. extra-constitutional emergency China, killing two children and travel to Pakistan to attend the have said it is not safe for him to answer the court’s questions In line with the Supreme in November 2007. injuring 18 others. First woman Abe ready to meet N Korea’s appointed top Kim ‘unconditionally’: Media judge in Malaysia AFP some of Pyongyang’s harshest TOKYO BLOOMBERG rhetoric - as well as missiles KUALA LUMPUR launched over its territory. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Until late 2017, North Korea Malaysia has named Tengku Abe has offered to meet North repeatedly tested missiles that Maimun Tuan Mat to become Korean leader Kim Jong Un flew towards or over Japan, the country’s first woman chief “unconditionally” in a bid to sparking warnings blared out on justice. restore diplomatic ties between loudspeakers and stoking calls Her appointment came into the two countries, a daily said for a tough stance against effect yesterday, the Prime Min- yesterday. Pyongyang. ister’s office said in a statement. Abe, seen as a foreign policy However, Japan now finds She replaced Richard hawk, has recently softened his itself battling to keep itself rel- Malanjum, who retired from his rhetoric towards Pyongyang, evant in the fast-moving North post on April 12. calling for a summit with Kim to Korea issue as Kim expands his All 15 of Malaysia’s former resolve an emotional row over diplomatic circle. chief justices were men, and past kidnappings of Japanese Kim met Russian leader she is the only woman among nationals by Pyongyang agents. Vladimir Putin last week after her peers currently serving in In an interview with the multiple meetings with US Pres- Southeast Asia. Tengku Maimun Sankei Shimbun on Wednesday, ident Donald Trump, Chinese was a federal court judge from Abe said: “I want to meet President Xi Jinping and South November 2018, after serving Chairman Kim Jong Un uncon- Korean leader Moon Jae-in. as a judge in the Court of ditionally and talk with him Abe also told the Japanese Appeal, Shah Alam High Court frankly with an open mind.” “It newspaper that he had asked Trees decorated with lights are seen near Grand Palace ahead of King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s coronation and Kuala Lumpur High Court is more than important for our Trump to help resolve the in Bangkok, Thailand, yesterday. in turn from 2007 to 2018. She country to be proactive in abduction issue when they held was a judicial commissioner at tackling the issue,” the Premier talks at the White House the Kuala Lumpur High Court Thailand prepares for coronation of King Rama X said. “We can’t break the shell recently. Trump will hold from 2006. As Court of Appeal of mutual distrust between another meeting with Abe in late judge, she ruled on a dispute AFP divides. The May 4-6 coronation His fiercely private 66-year- Japan and North Korea unless I May when he visits Japan as the between Anwar Ibrahim, who BANGKOK comes more than two years after old son - Rama X of the Chakri directly face Mr Kim,” he said. first foreign head of state to meet is expected to succeed Prime Vajiralongkorn ascended the dynasty - is less well-known by “I hope that he is a leader Japan’s new Emperor Naruhito, Minister Mahathir Mohamad, Thailand’s King Maha Vaji- throne at the death of his father his subjects, and makes frequent who can make a decision stra- who was enthroned on and former Minister Khairy ralongkorn will be crowned this Bhumibol Adulyadej. trips overseas. At 10:09am tegically and flexibly on what is Wednesday. Jamaluddin. She ruled in favour weekend in a pageantry-laden Bhumibol reigned over tomorrow, the public will be best for his nation,” he added. Tokyo believes North of Anwar to uphold a High ceremony, as Rama X furthers seven tumultuous decades and given a rare window into the Tokyo has been one of the Korean agents kidnapped Jap- Court decision that Khairy had his primacy over one of the was revered by Thais as a heart of Thai power as blanket most hawkish of the major anese nationals to train its spies slandered Anwar in a 2008 world’s richest monarchies and symbol of unity in a politically television coverage of the three- powers on North Korea, and has in language and customs in the speech. a kingdom beset by political chaotic country. day coronation begins. been on the receiving end of 1970s and 80s. 08 VIEWS FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019 Qatar made a number of commitments ESTABLISHED IN 1996 as part of vision for ACD presidency

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH 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]

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, chairing the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), in Doha on Wednesday.

EDITORIAL QNA for Development” carries many because the region can not afford important indications that build on the further crises and escalation. he State of Qatar has placed a concept of partnership and dialogue Responding to a question on the number of commitments, as among Asian countries, pointing out participation of Bahrain and Saudi Qatar-Asia rising trade part of its vision for chairing that the ACD is the biggest platform for Arabia in the meetings inside Doha the Asia Cooperation Dialogue dialogue in Asia. for the first time since the crisis, H E T His Excellency pointed out that the Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman atar’s strategic policies and principles of openness (ACD). These commitments included and economic diversification got a fillip when enhancing communication in the field Ministerial Meeting focused on the Al Thani said that the attendance of QMinister of Commerce and Industry H E Ali bin of youth, education, culture, SMEs, and importance of achieving constructive representatives from Saudi Arabia Ahmed Al Kuwari revealed yesteday that trade entrepreneurship said Deputy Prime cooperation and hoped integration and Bahrain comes in the framework volume between Qatar and member states of the Asia Minister and Minister of Foreign among member states, comple- of their roles as members in the ACD, Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) stand at $81bn or Affairs H E Sheikh Mohamed bin menting what has been achieved in and added that the State of Qatar did 70 percent of the state’s international trade. Abdulrahman Al Thani on Wednesday. the past and the work done to consol- not prevent any citizens or officials This is very significant as it proves the importance His Excellency said, during a press idate relations among member states from the blockading countries from of ACD and how it has helped, over the years, in forging conference at the conclusion of the with a view to moving towards a attending regional and international great partnerships and economic cooperation among ministerial meeting of the Asia Coop- broader level of partnerships during events held in the country. His Excel- Asian countries. Many Asian states share historic and eration Dialogue in Doha, that the the coming years. lency added that the State of Qatar is cultural ties and this forum takes it further into other State of Qatar hosted a workshop on His Excellency said that the minis- actually committed to inviting them fields like trade and commerce. education and youth that was terial meeting emphasised the pro- just like all other members, stressing The ACD member countries account for more than organised by Qatar Foundation for posals of the member states on the 20 that the State of Qatar will not polit- 35 percent of the world trade volume and the foreign Education, Science and Community fields and the need to work towards icise the presence of any interna- trade value of these countries exceeded $12 trillion. Development. It will also host finding effective implementation tional organisation or meetings that it These figures point to the fact that cooperation among Thursday an entrepreneurs forum to mechanisms and reviewing what has hosts. member countries will help further develop enhance part- been achieved between member His Excellency added that the State economies. nership countries with the Secretariat over the of Qatar participates in all meetings of Speaking at the opening of the ACD Business Forum between past years. international and regional organisa- the Minister of Commerce and Industry said that Qatar member states. His Excellency explained that the tions held at the blockading countries, is prepared to act as a hub for communication between In September, meeting also discussed topics of a policy that they will not change. His ACD member countries, in It was agreed there will be a interest to member countries in terms Excellency also said that there order to continue dialogue to increase cultural of achieving common goals, especially attendance does not reflect what is and coordination to face the the number of workshop held the development of infrastructure and happening in the crisis given it is challenges of mutual trade members by in cooperation the promotion of trade and investment limited. and economic cooperation, with ACD. among Asian countries and over- His Excellency then said that the Qatar maintains adding that this will support accepting the His Excel- coming obstacles. representatives of the two countries excellent relation joint action and economic request of the lency said that His Excellency praised the role of are not charged with resolving the with several Asian integration among Asian State of Palestine an ACD presi- the General Secretariat of the ACD for crisis, as it is something that must be countries and is countries. to become the dency term of its cooperation and great effort in done at the leadership level and Qatar maintains one year was organising this meeting and reaching through the mediation done by H H cooperating in excellent relation with 35th member of not enough these outputs, expressing his thanks to the Amir of Kuwait. various fields like several Asian countries and the ACD, noting compared to the the Islamic Republic of Iran for its suc- For his part, H E Secretary- energy, tourism, is cooperating in various that the dialogue aspirations of cessful presidency of the dialogue last General Asian Cooperation Dialogue Bundit Limschoon said that the Asian healthcare and fields like energy, tourism, now covers the the State of year, wishing at the same time the healthcare and agriculture Qatar and success for the Republic of Turkey continent’s large area and its vast agriculture among others. In last few entire of Asia. member states, who will take over the presidency of resources were two of the reasons among others. decades Qatar has been stressing that the dialogue in September. that led to the establishment of the steadily strengthening its Doha will His Excellency praised the efforts ACD 17 years ago. institutes and thus formu- remain an active partner for member exerted by the Secretary-General for He said that it was not the first lating a strong policy structure, which enables and states in light of the country’s positive the Asian Cooperation Dialogue during time that the State of Qatar has had the encourages private sector to bloom with the strong view of the future of the Asian his tenure in developing the joint work opportunity to host the Asia Cooper- support of government apparatus. continent. of the Member States, expressing his ation Dialogue, as it already did do so This is made possible as world-class infrastructure Sheikh Mohamed expressed hope gratitude for the efforts of the sisterly back in 2006. like the Hamad International Airport, Hamad Port, of enhancing cooperation with all State of Kuwait and the Kingdom of He also pointed out that the 16th freeways and freezones were set-up and this created countries, stressing that the contribu- Thailand. Ministerial Meeting reflects the lead- a favourable eco-system for private sector, especially tions of the State of Qatar will not end His Excellency said that the Gulf ership role played by the State of Qatar SMEs to prosper. with the end of its presidency, and that crisis between Qatar and some of the in its multilateral diplomacy. He ACD Business Forum being held in Doha will give a its actions represent a starting point GCC states, in addition to Egypt, is a stressed that the results of the chance for other countries to understand how Qatar for enhancing cooperation in the barrier to cooperation and communi- meetings confirmed that the State of has been opening up the economy and attracting future, particularly in the fields of cation at the regional level, expressing Qatar played a very important role in investments. energy and economy. hope that the blockade countries will the economic and business arenas, Qatar has updated the legislative frameworks gov- The State of Qatar has been hon- not politicize the cooperation fields and that the country links various erning the investment sector, including the provision of oring all its commitments since because of the conflict. Asian countries together. real estate ownership to non-Qatari individuals, non- assuming the presidency of the ACD’s His Excellency stressed that the Limschoon said that the slogan of Qatari commercial companies and real estate ministerial meeting, led by prioritising State of Qatar remains open to and the ministerial meeting is “Partners in investment trusts, as well as the freehold ownership of the establishment of a partnership ready for dialogue and discussion in Progress” is very important because non-Qatari real estate in several strategic economic system between Asian countries, good faith, but noted that they still see currently there is no country in the and tourism zones in the country, allowing foreigners pointing to the State of Qatar’s initi- the same behavior from the countries global economy that can work alone. to own shops in malls. ative to teach the Arabic language to that imposed the blockade, one that is He added that importance of partner- With more engagement and greater cooperation non speakers as a method to bring the characterised by stubbornness and ships is what was highlighted at the Asian countries have the potential to become one of the Asian countries closer together, in denial. His Excellency then expressed meeting, praising the role played by most important economic forces in the world. addition to hosting the ACD’s 3rd hope that these countries will return to the State of Qatar in this framework. summit in 2020. wisdom one day, and come back to the It was agreed to increase the The Asia Cooperation Dialogue table to talk about their reservations. number of members by accepting the was not a place to discuss conflicts, but In response to a question on the request of the State of Palestine to a platform for dialogue, partnership position of the State of Qatar on become the 35th member of the ACD, and cooperation said the Deputy Extending US sanctions on Iran, H E noting that the dialogue now covers Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign the Deputy Prime Minister and Min- the entire of Asia. QUOTE OF THE DAY Affairs . ister of Foreign Affairs said that the He also expressed his delight with At the beginning of the press con- State of Qatar does not see that uni- the outcomes of the meeting, with the Yes, we are in ference, H E Sheikh Mohamed bin lateral sanctions will have positive announcement that the State of Qatar Abdulrahman Al Thani, welcomed the results, and that resolving crises must will host the third ACD summit, saying combat, keep morale accession of the State of Palestine to be done through dialogue. that it will be a great opportunity to high in this fight to the Asian Cooperation Dialogue after His Excellency added that in the present a comprehensive report on disarm any traitor, its participation in the ministerial region is exposed to many pressures work mechanisms for all the leaders meeting was approved Wednesday. and crises and must move beyond the who will be present in the State of any coup plotter. No The work of the 16th session of the crisis management stage in which it is Qatar. one can be afraid, it ACD was held in a friendly and har- currently living, and to find sus- He pointed out that there are a is the hour to defend monious atmosphere and that the tainable solutions to these crises. His number of international organisations our right to peace meetings were fruitful and con- Excellency highlighted that these solu- in Asia and that what the Asian Coop- structive and its results will reflect of tions can only be through constructive eration Dialogue is trying to do is to the dialogue process and achieve- dialogue between the parties of the avoid mistakes made by the organisa- Nicolas Maduro ments during the coming period the crisis. tions, to ensure that the work of the Venezuelan President FM said. His Excellency urged Iran and the dialogue is in the interest of the Asian His Excellency pointed out that the United States to sit down and find sus- countries in the long term and slogan of the Doha meeting “Partners tainable solutions to the problem prosperity. FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019 OPINION 09 Why is EU punching below its weight in the Western Balkans?

his week’s mini-summit on recently by Serbian President Ale- Normalisation talks have been one of Meanwhile, North Macedonia the Western Balkans hosted in ksandar Vucic and his Kosovar coun- the first casualties, and as the Berlin and Albania are also struggling Berlin by German Chancellor terpart Hashim Thaci. gathering proved, a restart is not along the path towards EU mem- Angela Merkel was indeed Merkel is a sceptic and does not imminent. bership. Skopje expects to be T Merkel and Macron have a good “mini” in terms of both output and see anything good coming out of rewarded with accession talks for format. redrawing borders in former Yugo- reason to fear that the deadlock serves the courage in tackling the long- DIMITAR BECHEV As some observers noted, the only slavia; she appears to favour the 2013 competitors. That includes Russia and standing dispute with Athens, but AL JAZEERA real outcome of this formal meeting Brussels Agreement, which envisions even China, whose economic footprint EU member states like France are was that a new one was scheduled to broad autonomy for Kosovo Serbs. is growing, as the recent 16+1 summit arguing against starting the process be held in July, hosted by French Pres- Implicitly, this is a crucial step between Beijing and the countries of this summer. For Macron and ident Emmanuel Macron in Paris. In towards Serbia recognising Kosovo Central and Eastern Europe others, enlargement spells trouble. other words, there was no break- which would clear a major hurdle on demonstrated. Yet no one really expects the EU through on any touchy subject, its path to EU membership. “Maybe we underestimated China to accept the Western Balkan Six The EU’s inability to including the worrying stalemate in Macron, for his part, appears non- and overestimated Russia”, Commis- (North Macedonia, Albania, act is a reflection negotiations between Serbia and committal. Without rejecting the sioner Johannes Hahn, in charge of Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, of its internal Kosovo. Vucic-Thaci plan, he is trying to be on EU’s enlargement to the Balkans, Montenegro and Serbia) tomorrow. To the disappointment of EU- Merkel’s side. observed in a recent interview. This is neither realistic nor polarisation. Fearful philes in the Balkans, Brussels once To muddy the waters even further, Yet fretting about geopolitical desirable. Brussels officials are of the rise of anti- again demonstrated that it lacks the the Trump administration - by way of threats, immediate or more distant, is right: The candidates need to show immigration populists political unity to push for a concrete National Security Adviser John Bolton pointless so long as EU member states reform zeal, tackle corruption, fix and unabashedly solution to major regional problems. — has also expressed support for the are at a loss on what their own goals the justice system, overhaul legis- So, why is the EU failing to make Vucic and Thaci’s idea, and so has are. lation, and enforce the rule of law xenophobe parties, headway on Kosovo? Russian President Vladimir Putin, The EU should have moved to kill to move forward on the accession mainstream leaders For a long time, after Pristina albeit for a different reason. territorial swaps and border correc- path. are kicking the can declared independence from Belgrade Putin has backed the idea because tions once and for all by doubling At the same time, starting down the road on the in 2008, EU members were divided it is clearly at odds with hitherto down on the Brussels Agreement and membership talks with more coun- on whether they recognised it or not. Western policy on the dispute and seeing it through. Sadly, it has failed to tries, beyond Serbia and Mon- issue of enlargement. Today, another divisive subject is could undermine the EU-sponsored do so. tenegro, need not be a moving They are apprehensive what the endgame of the EU-spon- talks. The EU’s inability to act is a goalpost. Experience shows that it that the far right could sored normalisation talks between Meanwhile, Serbia and Kosovo reflection of its internal polarisation. is during accession negotiations exploit the prospect Belgrade and Pristina should be. have been at each other’s throats for Fearful of the rise of anti-immigration that the EU’s clout is at its peak. So, The EU’s foreign policy head, Fed- months. Belgrade’s campaign to have populists and unabashedly xenophobe if North Macedonia and/or Albania of new members from erica Mogherini, supports the broad countries worldwide de-recognise parties, mainstream leaders are make it to the next stage, they are the poorer Western idea for a land swap in exchange for Kosovar statehood resulted in the kicking the can down the road on the likely to be exposed to much more Balkans joining the EU. Serbia’s acceptance of Kosovo’s sov- imposition of punitive tariffs by issue of enlargement. They are appre- pressure from the EU and more ereignty, which was proposed Pristina and triggered a war of words. hensive that the far right could exploit likely to undertake the necessary the prospect of new members from reforms and successfully the poorer Western Balkans joining implement them. This will affect the EU to stoke public fears of another the EU’s internal cohesion, which is wave of migration to make further what Macron et al ostensibly care electoral gains. about. Macron’s France has emerged as As it marks the 15th anniversary the lead sceptic but there are others as of the “big bang” enlargement of well. In mid-April, the Dutch par- 2004, Brussels needs to realise the liament voted to rescind the visa-free utility of accession talks and stop travel regime for Albania, in place punching below its weight in the since 2010. Western Balkans. While the EU mechanism for sus- pending visa liberalisation for Albania The author is a Nonresident Senior has not been triggered, the move Fellow at the Atlantic Council. reflects the sombre mood across Western Europe. This defensive posturing is seri- ously hobbling Brussels’ Balkan policy. Kosovo provides a glaring illustration. While it has fulfilled all technical D-RING ROAD conditions, its citizens are still being POST BOX: 3488 denied visa-free travel to Schengen DOHA - QATAR countries, which, in turn, limits the [email protected] leverage EU institutions can wield over the country, giving plenty of German Chancellor Angela Merkel (right) and French President Emmanuel Macron hold a joint press conference ahead reason to Kosovar politicians to dis- EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE of Western Balkans Conference in Berlin, Germany. trust the EU. TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 FAX: +974 4455 7758

ew American foreign-policy of its society and of the sources of the point, most the kingdom’s 30-plus cabi- MANAGING EDITOR TEL: challenges are more vexing or regime’s legitimacy. True, the monarchy net ministers graduated from American 4462 7505 divisive than relations with retains all political power, but nation- universities. They may be angry about Saudi Arabia today. US alism and modernisation are replacing the criticism, but their natural affinity DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR F TEL: 4455 7769 interests would seem to dictate close Wahhabism, a rigid, intolerant interpre- is to the US. ties, but American values argue oth- tation of Islam that fueled Al Qaeda, the By the same token, how easy would LOCAL NEWS SECTION DENNIS ROSS erwise. For President Donald Trump, Islamic State and the recent Sri Lanka it be for the US to truly shun Saudi Ara- TEL: 4455 7743 BLOOMBERG who is all about transactions, it is a church bombings. It is the doctrine that bia? Even if Americans were to downplay the US and its allies have been fighting the security implications, which they BUSINESS NEWS SECTION around the globe. should not, are they ready to have the TEL: 4462 7535 The social changes emerging in Saudi Saudis stop insisting that all transac- Arabia are visible to any visitor - go into tions in oil be done in dollars? How long SPORT NEWS SECTION any restaurant and see men and women would 70 percent of all global trade be TEL: 4455 7745 The US and Saudi Arabia mixing; visit businesses or governmental done in dollars if that were to change? offices and women are prominent; cin- With neither side having a national ONLINE SECTION emas are opening; music, forbidden in interest in shunning the other, the issue TEL: 4462 7501 can’t get a divorce the strict Wahhabi code, is now played is how each will now manage the rela- [email protected] not just privately but in concerts draw- tionship. The Trump administration ing thousands. Even the royal palaces needs to be honest with Congress and PUBLIC RELATIONS now have women’s restrooms. None of the Saudis: We will remain commit- TEL: 4455 7613 no-brainer to focus on arms sales and this was thinkable in the past. ted to Saudi security and to investing [email protected] oil, and little else matters. For Con- Unfortunately, the authoritarianism, in the kingdom’s effort to transform the gress, there must be a price for the the public beheadings, the crackdown country, even as we make clear we will ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT killing of the dissident journalist Jamal on dissent — including the arrests and criticize what we believe is wrong. Kill- TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 Khashoggi, as well as conduct of the possibly torture of women activists - ing dissidents and defying global norms FAX: 4455 7870 war in Yemen. Congressional attempts also offend our values. Many thoughtful has consequences. Disallowing domes- [email protected] to punish the Saudis, including ending American critics of Saudi policy argue tic criticism will undermine the aims all US military support for the Yemen that we must shun the crown prince and of building a knowledge-based econ- CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT conflict, have been blocked by the reject as a fanciful notion the idea that omy and a risk-taking, entrepreneurial TEL: 4455 7857 White House. he is a modernising dictator. society. Countering Iranian and Sunni [email protected] Historically, presidents — Democrats Having just returned from Saudi Ara- Islamist radicals is essential, but needs and Republicans alike — have turned bia, I am struck by what feels like two to be coordinated to avoid ill-consid- SUBSCRIPTION & a blind eye to Saudi Arabia’s repressive totally different universes. The enthusi- ered, reckless policies. DISTRIBUTION domestic policies, in return for guaran- asm for the crown prince continues to be Washington will need help from the TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 tees of a stable oil market. Two things are real, especially among young people who Saudis, with the crown prince repeating FAX: 44557819 different today. First, in Congress there now can talk openly about their ability his words that the Khashoggi murder [email protected] is a broad consensus that the Saudis to shape their destinies and the destiny was a “heinous crime,” and explain- crossed the line and that the administra- of the country. Yet the Saudis I talked to ing the lessons learned and structural tion’s protecting them is simply wrong. - young and old - deeply resent the con- changes made because of it. The Saudis Second, the US is increasingly energy- gressional criticism of the crown prince should also seek a quiet discussion with All thoughts and views independent and buys little Saudi oil and feel that if Saudi Arabia is shunned congressional leaders to hear their crit- Many thoughtful — making many on Capitol Hill believe by the US, the kingdom will shun the US icisms, respond to them and voice their expressed in these columns American critics our stakes in the Saudis are far lower in return. With nationalism now a pil- own. The Las Vegas rules don’t apply to are those of the writers, of Saudi policy than before. lar of regime support, we should not be the Middle East: What happens there not of the newspaper. Leaving aside the reality that there is surprised by such a backlash. does not stay there. And, like it or not, argue that we must one pool of energy worldwide, and that a They may mean it, but is it realistic? policies of the Saudis will have a huge shun the crown major disruption of oil because of threats Saudi weapons, military infrastructure effect on what takes shape in the Mid- All correspondence prince and reject or instability in Saudi Arabia would result and training are all dependent on US mil- dle East. America can’t write them off. regarding Views and as a fanciful notion in the price skyrocketing for Americans itary support. The kingdom’s investment Opinion pages should be and everyone else, there is another coun- holdings in the US exceed $800 billion. The author is counselor at the Washington sent to editor-in-chief the idea that he tervailing factor in the interests-values The vast majority of the 190,000 stu- Institute for Near East Policy and served is a modernizing continuum with the kingdom that needs dents and family members sent abroad in senior national security positions for office or mailed to the dictator. to be considered. Saudi Arabia is in the are in the US, and return with instinctive Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H W [email protected] midst of a fundamental transformation attachments to America. And, case in Bush, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. 10 EUROPE FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019

Hungarian PM, Assange refuses Salvini meet ahead of EU polls extradition to US AFP BUDAPEST AFP WikiLeaks founder LONDON said: “I do not wish to Hungary’s anti-immigration Prime Minister Viktor Orban WikiLeaks founder Julian surrender myself for and Italy’s hardline Interior Assange told a court yesterday extradition for doing Minister Matteo Salvini moved he would oppose extradition to journalism that has closer to formal cooperation the United States as the legal won many awards yesterday for upcoming process began in London, a day European Parliament elections, after he was jailed for breaching and protected many vowing to prevent an “Islamic his bail conditions in a former people.” caliphate” on the continent. case. European voters are due to He appeared via videolink at choose a new parliament in Westminster Magistrates Court, Assange feared they were a elections from May 23-26, and where a lawyer for the US pretext to get him in custody and gains for the far right would be authorities briefly set out his eventually transfer him to the a new blow for the bloc’s estab- alleged involvement in the United States to face lished leaders after the Brexit release of classified prosecution. crisis. documents. He was dragged out of the “We are spectacularly, con- “I do not wish to surrender embassy and arrested on April Demonstrators block traffic as they protest outside of Westminster Magistrates Court, where WikiLeaks fidently, openly seeking coop- myself for extradition for doing 11 after Quito gave him up. The founder Julian Assange had a US extradition request hearing, in London, yesterday. eration with Salvini,” Orban journalism that has won many Swedish claims had been told journalists after talks with awards and protected many dropped, but he was later that Salvini in Budapest. people,” Assange told the judge, day convicted of skipping bail. military wrongdoing in the Iraq of confidential records to Mr Wednesday that all efforts would “Although what actual form who set the next hearing for May The 47-year-old was subse- war and diplomatic secrets about Assange”. He added that Assange be focused on preventing that takes we will see..I am con- 30. quently confronted with a scores of countries. The charge “actively tried to crack the Assange’s extradition. vinced that Europe needs an The Australian was jailed on warrant for extradition to the carries a maximum jail term of password (to the classified com- “It will be a question of life alliance of anti-immigration Wednesday for 50 weeks for United States. The US indictment five years. puter) and encouraged Ms and death,” he warned. parties,” he said. breaking his bail conditions in charges him with “conspiracy” A lawyer for the US gov- Manning to provide more infor- In a letter read out in court Salvini has called on 2012, when he fled to Ecuador’s for working with former US ernment, Ben Brandon, told the mation”. Assange’s supporters, on Wednesday, Assange apolo- nationalist parties scattered London embassy to avoid extra- Army intelligence analyst court on Thursday that investi- who protested outside the court gised for skipping bail seven across the European Parliament dition to Sweden. Chelsea Manning to crack a gators had found chatroom con- on Thursday, believe that more years ago. “I did what I thought to join forces and form a new He was accused of sexual password stored on Department versations between Assange and serious charges could be filed if at the time was the best or alliance after the election. assault and rape but strongly of Defence computers in March Manning in March 2010. he is transferred to the US, and perhaps the only thing that I The hardline leader of denied the claims, saying they 2010. Manning passed hundreds He said they “engaged in he fears the death penalty. could have done,” he said, Italy’s anti-immigrant League were linked to the whistle- of thousands of classified docu- real-time discussions regarding WikiLeaks editor-in-chief adding: “I apologise party said he “came to Hungary blowing work of WikiLeaks. ments to WikiLeaks, exposing US Chelsea Manning’s dissemination Kristinn Hrafnsson said on unreservedly.” to build a new Europe. “I don’t want to leave our children an Islamic caliphate Williamson with sharia law in our cities,” UK Conservatives face Brexit backlash in local polls he said. “I’m going to do every- denies Huawei AFP thing I can to stop this.” Most of WINDSOR, UK another and they don’t know Europe’s right-wing nationalists leak what they’re doing, that’s basi- are currently divided into three Britain’s Conservatives were cally just changed my mind,” she blocs and a tangled web of alli- AP fearing major setbacks in local said. “They’re supposed to be ances in the European Par- LONDON elections yesterday, even in trying to run the country - liament, which they would like strongholds like Prime Minister they’re not doing a very good job to overhaul, if not destroy. Britain’s former Defence Theresa May’s constituency, as of it at the moment,” she added Salvini has said he expects Secretary has ferociously voters on both sides of the Brexit of the ruling Conservatives. a new populist bloc to be the denied allegations that he debate vent their anger. “I think they might’ve lost a largest in the 751-member leaked details from private “I’ve always voted Conserv- lot of people.” Margison said she parliament. government discussions about ative but not any more,” Mike felt personal sympathy for May, Parties like League, Alter- Chinese telecommunications Chamberlain, 72, a retired noting she is popular locally. native for Germany (AfD) or company Huawei. engineer, said standing in the “She’s tried her hardest but Denmark’s People’s Party Gavin Williamson was fired shadow of historic Windsor she’s just hitting a brick wall at foresee unprecedented gains as late on Wednesday by Prime Castle. the moment.” Although council they campaign on anti-migrant, Minister Theresa May, who said “We’ve all been absolutely elections in Britain can be noto- anti-Islam policies and use she had seen “compelling evi- betrayed over Brexit. We voted riously hard to predict, with local nationalist rhetoric. dence” that he was behind to come out and they’re doing issues playing a prominent role Orban’s ruling Fidesz party media reports that the gov- everything but take us out.” A man hangs a Polling Station sign on the fence of a school in Hale, in how people vote, governing currently belongs to the ernment had agreed to let Voters are headed to the polls in Britain, yesterday. parties often suffer a backlash. European parliament’s centre- Huawei participate in some mainly rural and suburban areas In Windsor and Maidenhead right European People’s party aspects of Britain’s new 5G of England, with more than Liberal Democrats or newly- expected other like-minded several independent councillors (EPP) group - although it has wireless communications 8,000 seats up for grabs. emerging local parties. voters across England would also joined forces with breakaway been suspended after it ran a network. Williamson hit back, Pollsters are estimating the In Windsor and Maidenhead stay at home. Conservatives last year to form campaign accusing European telling Sky News that the inves- Conservatives could lose hun- just west of London, where the “I think the turnout will be a new party advocating more Commission head Jean-Claude tigation had been a “witch dreds of seats amid strong dis- Conservatives won 54 of the 57 way down today because people localised politics to break one- Juncker of plotting to flood hunt” and claiming he was the satisfaction over their handling seats in 2015 and the council have just lost faith in their MPs.” party dominance, in a move Europe with migrants. victim of a “kangaroo court.” of Brexit, which has been comprises May’s parliamentary Atlanta Margison, a 53-year-old being mirrored in other parts of Orban insists Fidesz want Opposition parties called for a delayed twice because of a seat, many Brexit supporters said housewife and longtime Con- England. Lynne Jones, leader of to stay in the EPP but in a criminal investigation. deadlock in parliament. they were either not planning to servative voter, said she was the opposition in the council and interview with Italian paper La Cabinet Office Minister The opposition Labour Party vote - or ditching the party. against both the Conservatives one of the founders of the new Stampa Sunday he urged the David Lidington said yesterday is hoping to make gains, but Chamberlain, who said he and Labour this time due to the local party, The Borough First, grouping to “work with the that the government didn’t plan could suffer from accusations of would have been tempted by the chaos that has engulfed the said they were contesting nearly forces on the right” and called to refer the matter to police, but fence-sitting on Brexit and lose far-right party UKIP had they process and local concerns. half the total seats in cooperation Salvini a “hero” for stopping would “co-operate fully should votes to the pro-European stood candidates in his seat, “Because they’re fighting one with independents. migration by sea. the police themselves consider that an investigation were necessary.” Merkel urges single EU stance on Libya Ukraine marks Odessa clashes AFP anniversary, UN urges action ‘Serbia could OUAGADOUGOU AFP ditch EU bid, KIEV patrolling the streets. Speaking Europe must adopt a common to reporters in Odessa, First turn to Russia’ position to resolve the Libyan Deputy Interior Minister Sergiy AP crisis, which has boosted unrest Ukrainians yesterday marked Yarovy warned that “some SERBIA in the Sahel, German Chancellor five years since 48 people died forces will try to destabilise the Angela Merkel said yesterday in in violent street battles and a fire situation”. In a report released Serbia’s pro-Russian defence Burkina Faso. in Odessa as the UN criticised yesterday, the United Nations minister warned yesterday the Her visit coincided with a the authorities for failing to criticised the Ukrainian author- Balkan country could ditch its summit of the leaders of Burkina ensure justice for the victims. ities for failing to ensure justice European Union membership Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Violent clashes between for the victims of the deadly riots goals for close ties with Niger - the “G5 Sahel” group set supporters and critics of Russia and their families. Moscow. In blunt comments to up to manage a coordinated broke out in the multi-ethnic “No one has been held a pro-government TV channel, response to militant attacks. Black Sea port on May 2, 2014 responsible for the acts of killing Aleksandar Vulin said that “in “We must now work on a after Moscow annexed Crimea and violence,” the United case the EU doesn’t want political solution for Libya... and supported Russian-speaking Nations Human Rights Moni- Serbia, there are others who which will be important for the separatists in eastern Ukraine. toring Mission in Ukraine said do.” “They (the EU) says ‘we are future of your region,” Merkel German Chancellor Angela Merkel talks with troops in Gao, Mali, Six men were shot dead in in the report. tired of an enlargement,’” Vulin told students at the University of yesterday. the city centre and 42 people - “Accountability for crimes told Pink TV. “We are tired of Ouagadougou. mostly pro-Russian activists - and access to justice for all is you and your policies of “What the presidents of the Libya crisis. There is also anger “As Europeans, we will not died as a result of a fire in a essential to establish public trust constantly changing goals and G5 Sahel explained to me once in Rome at France’s perceived find a solution for Libya by our- besieged trade union building. in the judiciary and the rule of setting new conditions.” again yesterday, and they are lack of support for the influx of selves, we will need the expertise Nearly 250 people were law, and may serve as a bedrock Although Serbia formally right to say so, is that Europe African migrants arriving from of the African Union,” Merkel injured. for reconciliation and social seeks EU membership, its pop- must agree on the approach as Italy’s former colony. told the students in a near-two- Thousands of mourners cohesion.” The mission urged ulist leaders have gradually there are still diverging perspec- Last month, Libya’s UN- hour exchange. The chancellor flocked to the trade union the Kiev authorities to conduct steered Serbia toward its ally tives within the European backed Government of National expressed concern over the building yesterday to lay flowers a thorough and impartial inves- Russia. Moscow is a key backer Union,” said Merkel. Accord appealed for Europe’s security situation in Burkina and light candles in memory of tigation and identify individuals of Serbia’s stance over Kosovo, “I will do my best to ensure support against military Faso, and said “we try to build the victims. responsible for the fire. which declared independence that the Italian position and the strongman Khalifa Haftar, links, to assist Burkina Faso in “Bring the perpetrators to Some suspects managed to from Serbia in 2008. Belgrade French position are consistent waging an offensive on Tripoli. the fight against terrorism, so justice!” said one of the posters flee and allegedly received does not recognise Kosovo’s and that there are no different Libya has been in turmoil that you can have opportunities at the scene. Russian citizenship, the mission independence, but the two have voices or positions in Europe.” since NATO-backed forces over- in your own country, so that you Authorities heightened added. Moscow has repeatedly been told they must improve The two neighbours have differ- threw former dictator Moamer can live in security, well-being, security in the southern city, criticised Kiev’s handling of the bilateral relations to join the EU. ences over how to respond to the Kadhafi in 2011. and better prosperity.” with some 2,500 policemen probe into the tragedy. FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019 EUROPE / AMERICAS 11 Barr skips House hearing; Pelosi accuses him of lying AP In all, it’s likely to Mueller agreed with his conclu- WASHINGTON prompt a vote on sions about the report, including holding Barr in Barr’s assertion that Mueller US Attorney-General William hadn’t found enough evidence to Barr skipped a House hearing contempt and possibly support a charge of obstruction yesterday on special counsel the issuance of of justice. Robert Mueller’s Trump-Russia subpoenas, bringing Democrats have raised ques- report, escalating an already acri- House Democrats tions about that testimony since monious battle between Demo- it was revealed this week that crats and US President Donald and the Trump Mueller had written Barr on Trump’s Justice Department. administration closer March 27 complaining that the US House Speaker Nancy to a prolonged battle attorney general had not properly Pelosi suggested Barr had already in court. portrayed his findings in a four- lied to Congress in other tes- page memo summarizing the timony and called that a “crime.” report’s main conclusions. Barr’s decision to avoid the Barr said on Wednesday his hearing, made after a disa- Barr. Committee Chairman answer was not misleading greement with the House Judi- Jerrold Nadler of New York said because he had been in touch ciary Committee over ques- that if the attorney-general with Mueller, rather than tioning, came the day after the doesn’t provide the committee members of his team, and that the US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi speaks during her weekly news conference on Capitol Hill in Washington department also missed the com- “with the information it demands concerns were mostly about DC, yesterday. mittee’s deadline to provide it and the respect that it deserves, process and not substance. with a full, unredacted version of Barr’s moment of accountability Within minutes of Pelosi’s Mueller’s report and its under- will come soon enough.” comments, Justice Department As Democrats portrayed Barr immediately issue a subpoena for contempt would send a criminal lying evidence. In all, it’s likely to Shortly afterward, Pelosi Spokeswoman Kerri Kupec called as untruthful, they sought to Barr’s appearance but would first referral to the US attorney for the prompt a vote on holding Barr in escalated the tensions further. In her words “reckless, irresponsible speak to Mueller himself. Nadler focus on getting the full Mueller District of Columbia — a Justice contempt and possibly the possible reference to the and false.” Pelosi also said the said the panel hoped the special report, likely including a vote Department official who is likely issuance of subpoenas, bringing attorney-general’s testimony last administration’s refusal to respect counsel would appear before the holding Barr in contempt of to defend the administration’s House Democrats and the Trump month, Pelosi said Barr “was not subpoenas by a House committee committee on May 15 and the Congress. interests. But even if the US administration closer to a pro- telling the truth to the Congress is “very, very serious” and noted panel was “firming up the date.” While a contempt vote would attorney declines to prosecute, longed battle in court. of the United States — that’s a that ignoring congressional sub- It’s unclear whether Barr will make a strong statement, it is Democrats could pursue other Democrats convened a short crime.” poenas was one of the articles of eventually negotiate an unlikely to force the Justice avenues in court or even issue hearing that included an empty Barr told senators on April 10 impeachment against former appearance with the House panel. Department to hand over the fines against witnesses who fail chair with a place card set for that he didn’t know whether President Richard Nixon. Nadler said he would not report. A vote of the full House on to appear. US health agency US House backs Anger after May Day protesters Paris agreement finalises conscience and in first climate break into famed Paris hospital religious freedom rule bill in a decade AFP prosecutors said. Hospital Director been an act of violence at a hos- PARIS Marie-Anne Ruder said the gate pital,” she told Europe 1 radio. “I REUTERS that violate their conscience, REUTERS had been forced open and she saw think that all French people, like WASHINGTON including the taking of human WASHINGTON The French government yesterday dozens of people going inside, me, are extremely shocked.” life,” he said. accused radicals of storming a some wearing the protesters’ Buzyn, who was to visit the hos- The US Department of Health Physicians, medical groups The US House of Representatives famed Paris hospital during a fiery trademark high-visibility yellow pital yesterday to thank staff for and Human Services yesterday and others have warned the rule yesterday passed its first climate May Day, an incident that risks vests and others with their faces their conduct, said the incident released a final rule allowing would erode protections for vul- change bill in a decade, voting further raising tensions between covered. exposed a “level of violence and doctors, nurses and other health nerable patients in healthcare. 231-190 to require the Trump authorities and a nationwide She called the police because behaviour which was shameful”. workers to opt out of procedures “This administration shows administration to keep the United protest movement. of their “violent and threatening While acknowledging some such as abortions and sterilisa- itself to be determined to use States as a party to the Paris Doctors at the Pitie-Sal- behaviour”, she told France Inter people may have entered the hos- tions which violate their religious liberty to harm com- Climate Agreement. petriere hospital — where Diana, radio. “Several dozen people tried pital to seek shelter, she suggested personal or religious beliefs. munities it deems less worthy The Climate Action Now Act Princess of Wales died in 1997 to force the door into the intensive others might have been bent on The rule, proposed more of equal treatment under the would require President Donald after a car crash in Paris — also care unit,” she told RTL in a sep- theft, notably of hi-tech than a year ago, reinforces a set law,” Louise Melling, deputy Trump to develop a plan for the said protesters had forced their arate interview, saying the equipment. The situation would of 25 laws passed by Congress legal director at the American US to meet the goals it committed way into the hospital and even security forces had turned up 10 be clearer after those in detention that protect “conscience rights” Civil Liberties Union, said in a to in the Paris agreement to tried to enter an intensive care minutes later to remove the had been questioned, she said. in healthcare, HHS said. Those statement. “This rule threatens reduce its greenhouse gas emis- unit. The break-in drew a sharp intruders. By yesterday morning, a total laws allow health providers and to prevent people from sions economy-wide and block response, with Prime Minister Paris hospitals Director of 191 people were still in custody entities to opt out of providing, accessing critical medical care federal funds from being used to Edouard Philippe denouncing it General Martin Hirsch, who has over the Paris unrest, 11 of them participating in, paying for or and may endanger people’s advance the formal US with- as “totally irresponsible” and filed a complaint, said CCTV minors, prosecutors said. referring for healthcare services lives,” Melling said. drawal from the pact. Trump has Interior Minister Christophe Cas- footage showed a number of The yellow vest protests that they have personal or reli- In April 2018, the American stood by his 2017 decision to taner describing it as an “attack” intruders trying to get in as a erupted in November over social gious objections to, HHS said. Medical Association wrote to withdraw the US from the 2015 on an intensive care unit. group of nurses struggled to hold inequality with a show of anger The rule will be effective 60 HHS Secretary Alex Azar climate accord. But supporters of the “yellow the door shut, shouting: “Be against the policies of Macron, days from its final publication warning that the rule would The bill with three Repub- vest” movement, whose protests careful, there are patients in here!” whom opponents accuse of not and enforced by the agency’s further marginalise vulnerable licans backing the measure, was have shaken the government of At the time of the break-in, a riot doing enough for the poor. Office of Civil Rights. patient populations. The group meant to signal to the interna- President Emmanuel Macron over police officer was being treated The weekly protests have “Finally, laws prohibiting also said conscience rights for tional community that many the past half year, insisted the there for a head injury, but Hirsch often spilt over into violence. But government funded discrimi- physicians were not unlimited. Americans support the Paris demonstrators were merely said it was not clear what moti- Macron has acknowledged the nation against conscience and President Donald Trump’s agreement regardless of Trump’s seeking refuge from tear gas fired vated the “inexplicable intrusion”. demands of many protesters are religious freedom will be administration has prioritised decision to abandon it. “Today we by police. “I don’t know if they were valid, and last month announced enforced like every other civil expanding religious liberty pro- sent a message to the President, The incident came during a looking for a particular injured tax cuts and other measures to rights law,” Roger Severino, tections through measures that to the American people and to the hugely tense May Day which saw person. I don’t know if it was an show he was listening. director of HHS’s Office of Civil included an executive order in world that we recognise the seri- police clash with hardline pro- invasion or whether they were Jean-Luc Melenchon, leader Rights, said in a statement. May 2017. HHS created a new ousness of the climate crisis and testers on the sidelines of the fleeing something,” he said, indi- of the ultra-left France Unbowed “This rule ensures that Office of Conscience and Reli- that we intend to do our part to annual labour union march. cating there was “no damage”. party, accused Castaner of making healthcare entities and profes- gious Freedom within its Office address it. Today we sent the The hospital is close to the French Health Minister Agnes up what he described as a “pseudo sionals won’t be bullied out of of Civil Rights more than a year message: we are still in,” said Con- Place d’Italie where the march Buzyn described the break-in as attack” on the hospital. “Truth is the healthcare field because they ago, and soon after proposed its gressman Frank Pallone, chair of ended, with more than 30 people “unspeakable”. the first victim of Macron’s side- decline to participate in actions conscience rule. the House energy committee. arrested over the break-in, “This is the first time there has kicks,” he wrote on Twitter. France, Italy mark 500th anniversary of Leonardo’s death AFP because of fears of protests by Stephane Bern, a prominent AMBOISE France’s grassroots “yellow vest” French television personality. movement. But a new scandal hung over French President Emmanuel Traffic in the town of just the event after a French arts mag- Macron and Italian counterpart 13,000 was banned within a 5km azine revealed on Tuesday that an Sergio Mattarella yesterday kicked radius and the usually teeming investigation had been opened off commemorations to mark 500 restaurants and shops shuttered. into the alleged destruction of years since Leonardo da Vinci died On Wednesday, dozens of cars listed property during extensive in France, paying their respects to were towed away, with some renovation work at the Clos Luce the Renaissance genius in a show foreign owners apparently in 2017. of unity after months of diplomatic unaware of the draconian security Francis I, known as the “Sun tensions. measures. King of the 16th century”, is widely “The bond between our coun- The presidential helicopter credited with bringing the Renais- tries and our citizens is inde- arrived on a river island in the sance to France, even if his pred- structible,” Macron said after the heart of the town, touching down ecessor Louis XII had begun the two men lunched at the Clos Luce, on a pad usually used to launch process by bringing in architects the sumptuous manor house hot-air balloons over the chateau- and artisans from Florence, Milan where Leonardo spent the last studded valley. and Rome. Leonardo was 64 when three years of his life. Later yesterday, the two pres- he accepted the young Francis I’s The two heads of state began idents headed to the sprawling invitation to Amboise, at a time their visit at the royal chateau in chateau of Chambord — whose when rivals Michelangelo and Amboise, where they laid wreaths central double-helix staircase is Raphael were rising stars. at Leonardo’s grave. French President Emmanuel Macron (second right), his wife Brigitte Macron (right), Italian President attributed to Leonardo though the With Leonardo’s commissions The joint celebrations come Sergio Mattarella (second left) and his daughter Laura Mattarella (left) attend an event to commemorate first stone was not laid until four drying up, it came as a great relief after months of mounting diplo- the 500th anniversary of the death of Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519), in Chambord, France. months after his death. and no small vindication for the matic tensions between Paris and Among glitterati attending the Tuscan artist, who received a Rome over the hardline policies anti-government “yellow vest” between the two countries since Amboise, a sleepy town on the events were Italian star architect handsome stipend as the “first of Italy’s populist government and protesters. World War II, Paris briefly recalled Loire River where Leonardo died Renzo Piano, French astronaut painter, engineer and architect of its support for France’s In the worst diplomatic crisis its ambassador from Rome. in 1519, was in virtual lockdown Thomas Pesquet and historian the king”. 12 AMERICAS / CLASSIFIEDS FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019 Trump says ‘repression’ in Venezuela must end AP socialist President Nicolás WASHINGTON Maduro and opposition leader Pompeo and Lavrov to meet Juan Guaidó. US President Donald Trump said A Venezuelan human rights next week: US official the “brutal repression” of the group says at least four people AFP “I would expect that the sec- Venezuelan people must end, died in two days of protests after WASHINGTON retary and he (Lavrov) will have and it must end soon. Guaidó called for a military an opportunity, obviously, to talk,” He said the Venezuelan uprising. The Venezuelan US Secretary of State Mike the official told reporters on con- people are starving and have no Observatory of Social Conflict Pompeo will discuss disagree- dition of anonymity. “When they water. “We wish them well,” he says the dead from the unrest ments on the Venezuela crisis have a chance to get together they said. Trump was speaking yes- on Tuesday and Wednesday with Russian Foreign Minister can review a whole range of terday at the White House as include two people who were Sergei Lavrov when they meet issues including our concerns part of a National Day of Prayer shot in the city of La Victoria and next week in Finland, a US official about Russia’s behaviour that ceremony. He began the event two others hit by gunfire in said yesterday. includes Ukraine and, certainly, by saying he was sending Caracas, the capital. The official said the top dip- Venezuela,” he said. prayers to the people of Vene- Human rights activists say lomats would take up a range of Lavrov and Pompeo had a zuela in their “righteous struggle at least 230 people were injured tensions when they see each other tense call on Wednesday over for freedom.” and 205 were detained during US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrive to on the sidelines of an Arctic Venezuela, where the US is trying Venezuela is in the throes of the clashes between protesters celebrate the National Day of Prayer Service, in the Rose Garden Council meeting starting Monday to oust President Maduro, an ally a power struggle between and police. of the White House in Washington, DC, yesterday. in the Finnish city of Rovaniemi. of Moscow. Maduro seeks to display SERVICES USED CONTAINERS military loyalty in crisis (Sales & Rentals) ARMSTRONG REUTERS Venezuelans heeded a call Wednesday. “Almost everyone New & Used Containers - Sales/Rental (Certified & Uncertified) CARACAS from Guaido to take to the was involved with that, and so Mobile: 557 80 396 (Steve) streets on Wednesday in a bid to Maduro has to know that the E-mail: [email protected] www.iescoqatar.com. Venezuelan President Nicolas force Maduro from power, but high command is not truly loyal Maduro and key military figures there was little concrete sign of and they want a change.” WAREHOUSE FOR RENT made a show of unity on a tele- change in a crisis that increas- Abrams’ comments were not vision broadcast yesterday, ingly looks like a political the first time US officials had WOKEER INDUSTRIAL AREA seeking to reject claims by the stalemate. raised doubts about the loyalty Available Sizes: 358/415/510/830/1340 Sqm. United States and the opposition US officials have said the of Maduro’s inner circle. US Mobile: 660 02 704 (Steve) that the armed forces high military high command was in National Security Adviser John E-mail: [email protected] command was prepared to turn discussions with the Supreme Bolton on Tuesday said Padrino, on him. Court and representatives of along with the supreme court’s WATER TANK CLEANING Flanked by Defence Minister Guaido over Maduro’s exit, chief justice and the commander Vladimir Padrino and military which would involve guarantees of the presidential guard, had AL MUTWASSIT CLEANING & PEST CONTROL operations chief Remigio that members of the armed told the opposition Maduro Kharaba st, Behind white Mosque. Ceballos, Maduro said in a dawn forces could keep their jobs in a needed to leave power. Fax: 443679 99 - GSM. 55875920/55860432 national address posted first to transition government. “Do not come to buy us with social media that the armed Elliott Abrams, the US special a dishonest offer, as if we do not CAPITAL CLEANING COMPANY forces were “united, cohesive envoy for Venezuela, said have dignity,” Padrino said in Cleaning Water Tanks & Pest Control. and subordinate to their consti- Maduro cannot trust his top mil- yesterday’s video while standing GSM: 55565328/ 33189899 Tel: 44582257 tutional mandate,” just two days itary leaders. “Even when they by Maduro’s side. “Those who E-mail: [email protected] after opposition leader Juan say, ‘I am totally loyal, Mr. Pres- have fallen and sold their souls Guaido urged the military to join ident,’ he cannot count on that,” are no longer soldiers, they him to oust Maduro. Abrams told broadcaster VPI on cannot be with us.”

Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro waves as he walks next to Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez and Remigio Ceballos, Strategic Operational Commander of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces, during a ceremony at a military base in Caracas, yesterday. CHANGE OF NAME

Cuban envoy urges EU President of I, Divyang Das, action on US lawsuit threat Mexico vows holder of India Passport justice in slain No. M4997285 AFP protect its investors (...) and that (Qatar ID No. 30635601005) BRUSSELS the decision to continue business journalist case with Cuba will prevail,” Goic- hereby change my name to Cuba’s ambassador to the EU ochea said. AP yesterday urged the bloc to take The so-called Helms-Burton MEXICO CITY DEVYAANSH DAS. “all measures” to protect its Act was passed in 1996 but investors on the island, after pressure from the EU and Mexico President Andrés Washington lifted a bar on Canada saw successive US pres- Manuel López Obrador has Any objection, please contact the lawsuits in US courts over idents systematically delay its arranged a meeting between property confiscated by the implementation every six the son of a slain journalist and communist state. months — until now. the country’s attorney general. days from the publication of this notice. Brussels has reacted angrily “We hope that there will be Carlos Dominguez asked to the decision by President no repercussions and that the for López Obrador’s help yes- Donald Trump’s administration decision of the business com- terday at the president’s daily I, Maybelyn Echenique De La Cruz, to allow US citizens to sue over munity to continue relations press briefing. His father, a property seized during or since with Cuba will be maintained,” longtime journalist with the holder of Philippines Passport Cuba’s 1959 revolution, vowing the ambassador said, adding same name, was stabbed to No. P1960277A to respond, including with action that she had no figures on how death in broad daylight in at the World Trade Organization many companies could be downtown Nuevo Laredo in (Qatar ID No. 28460818354) (WTO). affected. January 2018. Europe, along with Canada, Cuba has wooed foreign Dominguez says that the hereby change my name to fears the US move could ensnare money since the fall of the Soviet alleged mastermind behind the MAYBELYN DELA CRUZ European citizens doing Union as it seeks to keep its murder was the city’s former business on the island in troubled economy rolling on, mayor Carlos Canturosas, who SORIANO. complex and expensive property with the EU the leading investor, the elder Dominguez had been disputes and Norma Goicochea, mainly in tourism and investigating for alleged mal- Cuba’s envoy to the EU, called construction. feasance. Canturosas has Any objection, please contact the on the bloc to stand firm. EU diplomatic chief Federica denied any involvement. “We don’t fear an exodus of Mogherini said the bloc would Six men were arrested last investors. We are confident that use its “blocking statute” as part year in relation to the case, days from the publication of this notice. the EU will take all measures to of its response to the US action. including Canturosas’ uncle. FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019 CLASSIFIEDS 13

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 BUSINESS Friday 3 May 2019 PAGE | 15 PAGE | 15 BoEB eyes interest Tesla seeks up rate hikes to $2.3bn from as outlook share, debt brightens issues

Your Global Remittance Partner Currency TT Rate Currency TT Rate Currency TT Rate Currency TT Rate QAR/INR : 18.91 QAR/PHP : 14.14 QAR/LKR : 48.16 QAR/BDT : 23.12 EUR/QAR : 4.21 GBP/QAR : 4.89 CAD/QAR : 2.82 AUD/QAR : 2.70 CHF/QAR : 3.75 SGD/QAR : 2.78 KWD/QAR : 12.20 OMR/QAR : 9.55 MAIN BRANCH LULU HYPER MARKET SANAYYA (STREET 17) AL KHOR PH: 44441448 PH: 44650768 PH: 44510088 PH: 44213444 MATAR QADEEM MANSOURA - AL MEERA ABU HAMOUR BIN OMRAN - ALMEERA PH: 44655559 PH: 44357552 PH: 44621271 PH: 44162002 alzamanexchange www.alzamanexchange.com 44441448 Qatar’s trade volume with ACD members at $81bn

THE PENINSULA economic prosperity and took of these sectors in enhancing DOHA place in the presence of min- the competitiveness and diver- isters, senior officials and busi- sification of the national Minister of Commerce and nessmen from a number of economy. Industry H E Ali bin Ahmed Al member countries. Qatar Chamber’s First Kuwari said yesterday that trade The forum discussed a Vice-Chairman Mohamed bin volume between Qatar and number of topics related to Ahmed bin Towar Al Kuwari member states of the Asia Coop- enhancing the role of SMEs in stressed Qatar’s commitment eration Dialogue (ACD) was sustainable development. It also to supporting joint Asian $81bn, or 70 percent of the reviewed Qatar’s advanced leg- work, as well as its full com- State’s international trade. islative structure as a gateway to mitment to expanding coop- Speaking at the opening of regional markets, the role of cre- eration with Asian countries the ACD Business Forum, the ativity and innovation in business in all fields. Minister said that this level of success, and business meetings Al Kuwari added during his trade reflects Qatar’s strategic to discuss vital economic sectors speech at the forum that Qatar policies and principles of such as construction, logistics, Chamber is working hard to openness and economic diver- food and agriculture, electronics, strengthen its relations with its sification, in line with its National information technology, tourism, counterparts in the Asian Dia- Vision 2030. hotel management, healthcare, logue countries, with the aim The Minister also said that banking and finance. of creating the appropriate Minister of Commerce and Industry, H E Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari (third right), with Bundit Limschoon Qatar is prepared to act as a hub The Minister said that the environment and climate con- for communication between ACD forum represents an important (second right) Secretary-General of the Asian Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) and India’s Minister of ducive to strengthening the member countries, in order to platform to discuss ways of State for External Affairs General V K Singh, at the opening of ACD Business Forum at Ritz- Carlton- relations of cooperation continue dialogue and coordi- enhancing partnership and eco- Doha, yesterday. PIC: ABDUL BASIT between business sectors in nation to face the challenges of nomic cooperation among the Qatar and their counterparts in mutual trade and economic countries of Asia. He pointed out pointed out that the ACD continent can build one of the to work hand in hand with the these countries. He added that cooperation, adding that this will that the cooperation dialogue has member countries account for most important economic forces General Secretariat of the Dia- the Chamber encourages Qatari support joint action and eco- witnessed a great development more than 35 percent of the in the world. He also noted logue to strengthen ties businessmen to invest in these nomic integration among Asian since its establishment in 2002. world trade volume and the however that geopolitical, eco- between Asian countries and countries and to establish trade countries. It is today one of the largest foreign trade value of these nomic and trade changes have develop bilateral and multi- and investment partnerships The ACD Business Forum political and economic forums countries exceeded $12 trillion. affected Asian countries. lateral cooperation between that increase trade exchange was held following an initiative in the world, with the size of the The Minister pointed out that Speaking about Qatar’s them. He pointed out that Qatar between Qatar and the ACD made by the State of Qatar. It Asian market exceeding 4.4 these indicators, in addition to presidency of this year’s ACD paid great attention to the countries, in the hope of real- focused on the role of SMEs as billion people, or 60 percent of the potential Asian countries Meet, the Minister said this private sector and investment, izing the desired regional eco- an engine for sustainable the world’s population. He also have, show that the Asian reflects the country’s keenness believing in the important role nomic integration. ‘Project Qatar 2019’ provided platform QC urges private sector to respond to engage with business leaders: QFC to humanitarian initiatives THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA and rapprochement between DOHA DOHA peoples. She stressed that Qatar has The recently concluded ‘Project Qatar Chamber hosted yesterday made the humanitarian work a Qatar 2019’ provided an a seminar titled ‘Qatar Business lifestyle, noting that it has tapped excellent platform and oppor- Event on Engaging with the UN all efforts to serve humanity so tunity to establish and enhance Humanitarian Response’’ which that it became a role model in cooperation between local and was held in cooperation with the charity and humanitarian work international companies and UN Secretary-General’s Human- in the world. entities, said a senior official of itarian Envoy Office and Qatar Al Ahmadani underscored Qatar Financial Centre (QFC). Financial Centre. the role played by the private The QFC, which is one of the The event targeted at sector in any developed world’s leading and fastest business leaders and aimed to Ahmadani said that Qatar economy on the human side growing onshore business and build on existing good practices National Vision 2030 keeps through its social responsibility, financial centres, participated in Sheikha Alanoud bint Hamad Al Thani, Managing Director of and matching private sector abreast with the UN vision in the which must be based on the the 16th edition of Project Qatar, Business Development, Qatar Financial Centre, speaking at the experiences with the UN’s humanitarian field, noting that principle of social partnership, the country’s biggest interna- recently concluded Project Qatar 2019 in Doha. expertise in delivering human- this has been manifested which in many societies is tional construction exhibition itarian assistance. It reviewed through its commitment to its required for mutual benefit or and trade show, with 34 coun- leading local and international businesses a chance to learn on-going partnerships show- responsibilities and the efforts moral commitment. tries represented. business leaders during the more about the many opportu- casing methods of private sector made to strengthen its regional The Qatari private sector, as Representatives from the Project Qatar Conference 2019, nities that await in the Qatari engagement on humanitarian and international partnerships a partner and a major con- public and private sectors which runs concurrent to the market.” action in addition to prospect as well as its adoption to many tributor to the sustainable devel- around the world took part in the exhibition. Sheikha Alanoud added: partners willing to engage in developmental and humani- opment process of Qatar, has conference, including Ambas- Sheikha Alanoud said: “The “The QFC is currently home to becoming a part of the global tarian initiatives and assistance played a major role in terms of sadors from Italy, Turkey, QFC is always working closely over 668 national and interna- humanitarian response. it has always provided to coun- social responsibility, she added. Germany and other countries. to engage with local and inter- tional firms that operate across QC Board Member Ibtihaj Al tries facing economic and She also praised the efforts Sheikha Alanoud bint Hamad Al national stakeholders and a wide variety of sectors. I am Ahmadani (pictured) the Sec- humanitarian crises and natural made by all concerned author- Thani, Managing Director of Project Qatar 2019 provided an confident that a growing number retary-General’s Humanitarian disasters. ities in the country, led by the Business Development, QFC, excellent platform to do so. of firms will continue to be Envoy Dr Ahmed Al-Meraikhi She also said that Qatar’s Wise Leadership in laying down delivered a presentation titled Qatar’s economy and various drawn to the QFC proposition, and CEO of Qatar Financial leading humanitarian role across the rules and foundations for ‘Facilitating Procedures for industries are experiencing given that it offers a truly unique Centre Yousuf Mohamed Al Jaida the world has proved that how the business sector and Foreign Investors within the unprecedented growth and con- platform to not only do business attended the event. human values are an important companies can contribute to the Qatari Market’ to an audience of ferences such as these offer in Qatar and beyond.” Addressing the meeting, Al pillar in international relations renaissance of Qatari society. QSE’s benchmark index closes at 10,480.52 points Oil falls more than $1 on

THE PENINSULA increased by 24.22 percent to reports QNA. percent of the total traded record US output, inventories DOHA reach 64.64 million shares, as Banking and Financial volume. Banking and Financial REUTERS/LONDON against 52.04 million shares, Services sector led traded value Services sector accounted for Qatar Stock Exchange’s while the number of transac- last week with 37.83 percent of 24.33 percent. Real Estate sector Oil fell more than $1 per barrel yesterday, pulled down by record benchmark (QSE) index gained tions rose by 17.16 percent, to the total traded value. Industries accounted for 12.80 percent and US crude production that led to a surge in inventories. 29.39 points, 0.28 percent, last reach 26,653 transactions as sector accounted for 31.74 Telecoms sector accounted 8.28 Brent crude futures were at $70.84 at 1341 GMT, $1.34 below their week when the bourse closed compared to 22,750 percent. Real Estate sector percent. last close. Brent is set for a weekly loss, which would break its longest yesterday at 10,480.52 points. transactions. accounted for 9.90 percent and When compared on daily string of weekly gains in a year. Trading value during last Market cap fell by 0.27 Consumer Goods and Services basis, the QSE index gained US crude was down $1.47 at $62.13 per barrel, heading for its biggest week decreased by 9.34 percent percent to reach QR586.51bn sector accounted 8.66 percent. 80.23 points, or 0.77 percent, weekly fall in two months. US crude stockpiles last week rose to their to reach QR1.12bn compared to last week against QR588.11bn Industries sector led traded compared to Wednesday’s highest since September 2017, jumping by 9.9 million barrels to 470.6 QR1.24bn. Trading volume at the end of previous week, volume last week with 45.21 closing. million barrels as production hit a record high of 12.3 million bpd. FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019 BUSINESS 15 BoE eyes interest rate hikes as outlook brightens

AFP eventual exit from the European slightly from its earlier guidance LONDON Union, of which it has been a of 1.5 percent. member since 1973. “Brexit-related uncertainty The Bank of England (BoE)hinted BoE Governor Mark Carney has led to a reduction in business yesterday at quicker-than- (pictured) later told a news con- investment and an increase in expected interest rate hikes, after ference that rates would have to stockbuilding,” the institution said raising its UK economic growth increase more quickly than in its outlook document. forecasts thanks to company markets currently anticipate -- if “In comparison, household stockpiling ahead of Brexit. the predictions proved correct. spending has been relatively quarter, in part a reflection of a The British central bank pre- “If something like this forecast resilient, although the housing larger-than-expected boost from dicted that gross domestic product comes to pass, we could see a market has remained subdued.” companies in the United (GDP) would expand this year by period where the economy is Britain is now due to leave the Kingdom and the European 1.5 percent as stockpiling offsets growing and pressures continue EU by October 31 after two delays Union building stocks ahead of lower business investment. That to build despite this uncertainty,” were triggered by MPs rejecting recent Brexit deadlines,” the compared with the previous Carney said. the divorce deal Prime Minister bank said. growth estimate of 1.2 percent. “If a Brexit resolution is some Theresa May had struck with the “That boost is expected to be Economic activity was given form of arrangement with some bloc. temporary, however, and quar- a temporary boost as companies smooth resolution to it, it will The delays boosted Britain’s terly growth is expected to slow rushed to stockpile before the require rate increases, and more gross domestic product (GDP) in to around 0.2 percent in the original March 29 Brexit deadline, frequent rate increases than the the first three months of 2019 second quarter.” the BoE said alongside an market currently expects,” he thanks to stockpiling, but the BoE The BoE added that the announcement that it had kept its added. anticipates a moderate slowdown “subdued pace (of GDP expansion) main interest rate at 0.75 percent. The BoE added Thursday that in the second quarter. reflects the impact of the The latest forecasts assume a the UK economy was expected to “GDP is expected to have slowdown in global growth and smooth path towards Britain’s expand by 1.6 percent in 2020, up grown by 0.5 percent in the first ongoing Brexit uncertainties”. Tesla seeks up to $2.3bn from share, debt issues

REUTERS breathing a sigh of relief. Now week that the company would NEW YORK they need to get back to work, deliver a profit again by the third and start selling more cars.” Tesla quarter of this year, the scale of Tesla Inc announced plans to said in a filing that it would seek its investments means it is still raise up to $2.3bn in new capital to raise $650m in new shares and leaking cash. yesterday, easing Wall Street $1.35bn in debt, with under- “The latest delivery and concerns over the electric car- writers having the option to buy earning numbers were more than maker’s ability to see through its an additional 15 percent of each disappointing,” said Nord LB ambitious investment plans while offering, potentially raising the analyst Frank Schwope. it works to deliver a steady profit. proceeds to $2.3bn. “The group still has to prove Analysts have been saying for Chief Executive Officer Elon that it can earn money sus- months that Tesla would need Musk (pictured) would also pitch tainably and that the vehicles are more money for projects that in $10m of his own money, it said. of high quality. By 2020 at the include the construction of a Musk has been in the lime- latest, we will see whether the factory in Shanghai, the light since US Securities and Tesla business model will work. upcoming Model Y SUV and the soon and yesterday’s Exchange Commission sued the We do not expect the annual crucial ramp up of production of announcement spurred a 3 billionaire last year for fraudulent result will be in the black before.” its Model 3 sedan. percent rise in the company’s statements after he claimed he The company expects capital After the company lost shares. had funding to take Tesla private expenditures of $2bn to $2.5bn another $700m in the first “It’s a good thing they are at $420 per share. this year and about $2.5bn to quarter, several Wall Street bro- finally raising cash,” said Roth Tesla has struggled to deliver $3bn annually for the next two kerages said last week it would Capital analyst Craig Irwin. on Musk’s promises on pro- fiscal years. It ended its first seek up to $3bn more in backing “The market seems to be duction and, while he said last quarter with $2.2bn in cash.

CROSSWORD MALL ROYAL PLAZA Devarattam (2D/Tamil) 2:00 & 11:15pm Uyare (2D/Malayalam) 2:15 & 11:15pm Avengers: Endgame (2D/Action) 2:00, 4:15, Avengers: Endgame (2D/Action) 2:15, 4:30, 7:45, 11:00pm 5:00, 8:00 & 11:15pm Devarattam (2D/Tamil) 2:30pm Godzilla: Resurgence (2D/Action) 5:00pm Ilayaraja (2D/Malayalam) 2:00pm Oru Yamandan Premakadha (2D/Malayalam) 5:30pm 4:30 & 11:30pm Uyare (2D/Malayalam) The Man Who Killed Don Quixote (2D/Comedy) 7:00pm A Vigilante (2D/Crime) 7:00pm Sherdil (2D/Urdu) 8:30pm Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil And Vile The Intruder (2D/Thriller) 11:15pm (2D/Crime) 7:30pm A Vigilante (2D/Crime) 9:15pm The Intruder (2D/Thriller) 9:30pm Sherdil (2D/Urdu) 8:45pm ASIAN TOWN

LANDMARK Uyare (2D/Malayalam) 12:00, 12:30, 1:00, 2:30, 3:30, 5:00, 6:00, 7:30, 8:30, 10:00, 11:00, 11:30pm, 12:30am, 1:30am & Avengers: Endgame (2D/Action) 2:00, 3:00, 2:00am; 1:00, 6:00, 11:00pm 4:30, 7:45, 8:15 & 11:00pm Devarattam (2D/Tamil) Athiran (2D/Malayalam) 3:30 & 8:30pm Uyare (2D/Malayalam) 2:15 & 9:00pm Oru Yamandan Premakadha (2D/Malayalam) 3:00, 8:30pm Devarattam (2D/Tamil) 6:30pm & 1:30am Oru Yamandan Premakadha (2D/ Malayalam) 5:15pm ROXY Sherdil (2D/Urdu) 11:15pm Athiran (2D/Malayalam) 10:30am & 4:30pm; Ilayaraja (2D/Malayalam) 11:30pm Avengers: Endgame (2D/Action) 12:30, 2:30, 3:30, 4:00,4:15, 6:30, 7:00, 7:30, 7:45, 9:30, 10:30 & 11:00pm FLIK Mirqab Mall Oru Yamandan Premakadha (2D/Malayalam) 1:15, 7:20, 10:40 & 11:15pm Missing Link 10:30pm Avengers: Endgame (2D/Action) 10:10, The Curse Of La Llorona 10:30am, 12:20 and 2:10pm 11:00, 11:50am, 2;20, 3;10, 3;35, 4:00, 5:40, 6:05, 6:30, 6:55, 7:20, 8:10, 9:00, 9;25, 9:50, AL KHOR 10:15, 10:40, 11:30pm & 0:20am Avengers: Endgame (2D/Action) 12:15, 2:15, 3:45, 7:15, 8:15 Devarattam (2D/Tamil) 1:00, 3:45, 6:40, & 10:45pm 9:30pm & 0:25am; Uyare (2D/Malayalam) 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 10:00pm & Dumbo 10:20am; 12:30am Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil 2:05, The Intruder (2D/Thriller) 12:00, 6:00 & 8:15pm 6:25 & 10:50pm Shazam! (Action) 10:15am & 12:55pm The Intruder (2D/Thriller) 10:50am, 11:30am, 12:00, 1:45, 4:20 & 8:35pm

Note: Programme is subject to change without prior notice.

THE MAN WHO KILLED DON QUIXOTE

Toby, a disillusioned film director, becomes pulled into a world of time-jumping fantasy when a Spanish cobbler believes him to be Sancho Panza. He grad- ually becomes unable to tell dreams from reality. SPORT Friday 3 May 2019 PAGE | 18 PAGE | 19 McIlroy celebrates All eyes on birthday Semenya at Diamond at happy League season hunting ground opener in Doha Xavi to retire at end of the seasonason

REUTERS record 767 appearances for Al Sadd since leaving Barca through the club’s famed La Championshiponship triumtriumphsphs in BARCELONA Barca and 133 for Spain, con- in 2015. Masia academy and soon 2008 andnd 2012, eventuallyeventually firmed his retirement plans in “It has been a privilege to became the heartbeat of the retiring fromrom the national team Barcelona and Spain an open letter sent to members play football until 39 years of team’s midfield, winning eight after a ddisappointingisappointing 2014 midfielder Xavi Hernandez of the Spanish media. age and now I would like to La Liga titles and four Cham- World Cup.up. (pictured) will retire at the “This is my last season as finish the season on a high by pions League crowns before Last monthmonth he helped Al end of the season to move a player but I am looking winning the Emir Cup and by joining Al Sadd. Sadd winin the QNB Stars into coaching, calling time on forward to seeing what the getting to the next phase of the He was one of the key League, thehe country’s top flflightight a trophy-laden career future holds for me as a Asian Champions League.” players when Spain won their division, aandnd hhasas reacreachedhed tthehe spanning two decades. coach,” wrote Xavi, who has Xavi made his debut for first and only World Cup in quarter-finalsfinals ofof thethe Amir Xavi, who has made a been playing for Qatari side Barca in 1998 after coming 2010 as well as their European Cup withh tthehe team.

Mumbai in play-offs after super over win IANS MUMBAI

In yet another nail-biting clash of the Indian Premier League (IPL), three-time champions Mumbai Indians held its nerves to become the third team to qualify for the play-offs after defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Super Over at the Wankhede Stadium yesterday. It was Manish Pandey’s ‘never give up’ effort which Al Sadd’s players celebrate after Baghdad Bounedjah scored their fourth goal as Al Gharafa players look dejected during their Amir Cup quarter-final match played at helped Hyderabad, who were the Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium yesterday. chasing a 163-run target, tie the score and take the contest to a Super Over. However, Hyderabad could only manage eight runs before Mumbai over- hauled the target with ease and Amir Cup: Title chasing Al Sadd, three balls to spare. Earlier, Pandey’s (71 unbeaten off 47) last-ball six denied Mumbai a thrilling win Al Duhail storm into semi-finals as his fighting knock along with Mohammed Nabi’s valuable (31 FAWAD HUSSAIN of the tournament with a 4-2 Khouki opened account for the But when things begun to get Star striker Youssef El Arabi off 20) effort helped Hyderabad THE PENINSULA victory, after Al Duhail advanced Wolves with a header from a close tense, Bounedjah made it 4-2 for was the scorer, who did no level the score in the stipulated in the semi-finals with a 2-0 win range off a lofty pass by Afif in the Al Sadd in the start of injury time mistake to push the ball past 20 overs. QNB Stars League winners Al Sadd over a spirited Al Shahania in the 17th minute, beating goal-keeper for his 41st goal of the season, and goal-keeper Amer Ahmed from Chasing the 163-run target, and defending champions Al first quarter-final. Yousof Hassan. secure victory for the Wolves. a close range, after a brilliant pass Hyderabad openers Wrid- Duhail kept their chances of Al Sadd, the newly-crowned Captain Xavi Hernandez, who Coach Jesualdo Ferreira’s Al from Shoya Nakajima from the dhiman Saha (25 off 15) and playing the highly-anticipated QSL champions continued to yesterday confirmed his plans to Sadd will meet the winners of right. Martin Guptill (15 off 11) handed Amir Cup final at Al Wakrah dominate their opponents, with retire as a footballer at the end of quarter-finals between Al Arabi The goal prompted Al Sha- a fine start as the visitors raced Stadium intact, registering feared striker Baghdad Bounedjah this season, designed the second and Al Rayyan, which is scheduled hania to look for a leveler and Al away to 30 runs in the first three convincing victories in their scoring a brace besides a goal goal for Al Sadd with a brilliant today. Duhail took full advantage of their overs. Jasprit Bumrah came with respective quarter-finals at each from Boualem Khouki and pass to Bounedjah in final minute Earlier in the first quarter- compromised defense, doubling the first breakthrough for Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium QFA Player-of-the-Year Akram of the first half. The striker made final, coach Rui Faria’s Al Duhail the lead with a goal in 79th Mumbai, sending back Saha in yesterday. Afif, taking them into the no mistake as he had just goal- had to wait for 57 minutes to get minute. Paulo Edmilson struck a the fourth over. Al Sadd overcame a late semi-finals. keeper to beat to give Al Sadd a their first goal of the match against brilliant kick on the left corner, Just when the hosts added fightback to knock Al Gharafa out After a fast start to the match, 2-0 lead in the first half. stubborn Al Shahania, who leaving goalie Amer Ahmed another 17 runs, Bumrah struck Afif found the target in 74th blocked several attacks by the helpless. again to account for the other Al Sadd’s skipper Xavi Hernandez vies for the ball possession minute to extend Al Sadd lead to home team in the first half. The Red Knights didn’t have Hyderabad opener in the sixth against an Al Gharafa player during their Amir Cup quarter-final 3-0 before Al Gharafa staged a Al Shahania were looking to do much to retain their lead to over, leaving them at 57/2. match yesterday. fightback to make it 3-2 after goals good in defense until a well coor- ensure their place in the semi- Krunal Pandya was then suc- from Iranian star Mehdi Taremi dinated attack by Al Duhail earned finals, where they will meet the cessful in making further (78th minute) and substitute Amro them the opener in the 57th winners of today’s quarter-finals inroads in the visiting batting Abdulfattah (89th minute). minute. between Al Ahli and Al Sailiya. line-up as he claimed Kane Wil- liamson (3 off 7) soon, which Al Duhail’s Youssef El Arabi (centre) scores reduced Hyderabad to 65/3. against Al Shahania yesterday. Krunal struck again to dismiss Vijay Shankar (12) while his brother Hardik Pandya also joined the party, sending back Abhishek Sharma (2) cheaply, which left the visitors reeling at 105/5 in 14.3 overs. With eight needed of the final two deliveries, Pandey took a couple in the second last delivery before slamming Hardik for a maximum at long-on to keep the contest alive. Opting to bat, Mumbai rode opener Quinton de Kock’s valiant knock of 69 (unbeaten) off 58 balls to post 162/5. Brief Scores: Mumbai Indians: 162/5 (Quinton de Kock 69, Rohit Sharma 24; Khaleel Ahmed 3/42) Sunrisers Hyderabad: 162/6 (Manish Pandey 71 not out, Mohammad Nabi 31; Hardik Pandya 2/20) FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019 SPORT 17 Taking initiative - on and AL Sadd player Xavi Hernandez off the pitch, Xavi way XAVI HERNANDEZ initiated during Qatar’s suc- lacing my boots for the last style which we were able to DOHA cessful bid for the 2022 FIFA games of an unforgettable career develop over many years World Cup™ in 2010, is using the which has spanned over 21 years through the influence of Johan Football is an incredible tool to power of football to positively and taken me to every corner of Cruyff, La Masia and the Bar- bring people together and impact lives and create sus- the world. celona way of playing football. I change lives for the better. In tainable social development in It has been a fantastic end to love to see teams taking the ini- March I had the privilege of communities such as the one my playing career here in Qatar. tiative on the pitch, playing visiting India for the first time, where Umesh lives. Winning the Qatar Stars League attacking football and going back and I was inspired by the story In Mumbai, we inaugurated this month was the title which was to the essence of what we all love of Umesh Rathod, the football- the construction of a Generation missing. Since I arrived here, we about this game since our crazy 15-year-old that I met in Amazing community football have won everything and only the childhood days; having pos- Mumbai. pitch which will serve him and league was missing, so I’m very session of the football. Umesh faces daily difficulties those living in the area including happy for this fantastic Al Sadd I have been privileged to in the slum community where Poonam, a 19-year-old female Club team which worked so hard achieve everything that I was able he lives, where access to water football player who is giving and deservedly won the title. to do over the past two decades, is limited and some children are back to her community through As a sportsperson, you never and by extension it is also our duty sent to work and forced out of inspirational coaching sessions get tired of winning. Once you to take the initiative off the pitch education from an early age to for young kids. have won a title you always want and give back through football support their families. Ever since I was a child I to win more. We have a very wherever we can. This is why my His parents insisted that have this consciousness that good generation of football work with Generation Amazing is Umesh stays in school and football is my passion. It is my players in Qatar, many of them so important to me, and I look encouraged him to follow his life. The experience to visit India from the exciting young Qatari forward to continuing my work passion to play football. He intro- was marvelous. The feeling national team which won the with this wonderful programme, duced me to his family and when you are a child is one of Asian Cup earlier this year. and the magnificent project that showed me his house, his medals freedom, and to be able to con- It is a privilege to have been is Qatar 2022. and his trophies. He was very tribute an opportunity to these able to play football until the age Umesh is one of over happy about the visit, and the children in India makes me very of 39, and now I would like to 250,000 young people we have same went for me. I could tell happy and proud. Football can finish the season on a high by reached to date. Generation almost instantly the he has the change the world, without a winning the Amir Cup and Amazing has built 28 community right attitude and charater to doubt. reaching the next stage in the football pitches across the Middle deal with any situation, and In Umesh I saw the hap- Asian Champions League. This East and Asia, creating pro- football will help him greatly. piness which he has for football, is my last season as a player, but grammes which empower and Our encounter in Mumbai which took me back in time, to I am already excited for what the educate young people to become was just one example of how the sensation of wanting to near future holds as a coach. leaders in their communities Generation Amazing, the human succeed in football. Over the You will see that my through the unifying power of and social legacy programme coming four weeks, I will be coaching philosophy reflects the the beautiful game. Captain Messi Liverpool have no time to lick showing Barca the way

AFP wounds after Barcelona loss BARCELONA Lionel Messi has shown many AFP unstoppable,” admitted Klopp. different faces during his spell- LONDON A second leg at fortress binding career but in Barce- Anfield is still to come, but lona’s win over Liverpool on Liverpool have no time to fret ending a 29-year wait to win the Wednesday, the dominant one over their chastening Champions Premier League was always Liv- was of a leader. League defeat at the hands of erpool’s primary target for the Barca were not at their best Barcelona as they scramble to season. at Camp Nou, instead made to prevent their season from Now into his fourth season sweat and suffer against a Liv- fizzling out without any in charge, Klopp has still to win erpool side that were just as silverware to show for it. a trophy with Liverpool. dangerous in the first half and After the hammer blow of But if his maturing side were then dominant for at least a two late Lionel Messi goals at the denied by individual brilliance 20-minute period in the second. Camp Nou, which gave Bar- in Barcelona, it is the collective But when his team were celona a 3-0 win in the first leg class of City, led by former Barca struggling, Messi delivered, two of the semi-final, Jurgen Klopp’s boss Pep Guardiola, that looks goals in seven minutes turning men must raise themselves for likely to deny them a much- turn a disappointing night into the challenge of Newcastle in the desired title. a disastrous one for Liverpool Premier League on Saturday. For the seventh game in a and leaving Barcelona with one Despite already posting a row, Liverpool would go back on foot in the Champions League club record points tally of 91 with top with a victory over New- final. two games remaining, a Liv- castle, led by their former “In these moments, he is erpool defeat would give Man- manager Rafael Benitez. unstoppable,” Jurgen Klopp chester City the chance to retain However, with City on a said. “I knew before that he was the title at home to Leicester on 12-game Premier League a world-class player and I saw Monday. winning run, Liverpool still need it again. I am not surprised.” Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk (right) challenges Barcelona midfielder Sergi Roberto during the UEFA “They don’t have to think the champions to slip up either “I am always surprised,” Champions League semi-final first leg match at the Camp Nou Stadium in Barcelona on Wednesday. about the next game against Bar- at home to Leicester or away at said Ernesto Valverde. celona, now we play Newcastle,” Brighton on the final day of the “I don’t know how he does said Klopp after Wednesday’s Liverpool had more pos- that was very passionate, very and Mohamed Salah missed huge season to stand a chance of it.” defeat in Spain. session and shots on goal as lively and in a lot of moments chances, the magic of Messi winning the title. In the end, 3-0 seemed “That’s all our focus. We go they pressed and penned the creative and direct. swung the tie heavily in Barca’s “I think mentally, we harsh, lacking the away goal to the hotel, have a proper sleep, Spanish champions back, par- “There will be a moment favour. shouldn’t be affected,” said Liv- Liverpool deserved and get up in the morning, fly home ticularly after Luis Suarez had when I can convince the boys If Messi’s first goal 15 minutes erpool defender and Professional requiring now a comeback in and then prepare for come back to haunt his former again how important this game from time was opportunistic, his Footballers’ Association player the second leg at Anfield that Newcastle. club with the opening goal in was for us for our development second was out of this world. of the year Virgil van Dijk. would surely rival the 2005 “Whatever happens, these the 26th minute. because I really think it was the The Argentine’s 600th goal “I won’t be. It was a tough miracle in Istanbul. boys, I couldn’t be more proud “I can work really well with best away game we played in the for Barcelona was fired into the game but we have a big game at Mohamed Salah and Sadio of them.” There was plenty for this game. I will use this game to Champions League. That’s a very top corner with unerring the weekend and we are still in Mane terrorised Barca’s Klopp to be proud about in Cata- show the boys what is possible,” important message for us, not for accuracy from a long-range the race. We want the same per- defence, the latter perhaps even lonia despite a first defeat in 20 added Klopp. the world outside.” free-kick. formance without conceding the the game’s stand-out player games. “It was brave performance However, while Sadio Mane “In these moments he’s goals.” during a breathless opening 45 minutes, in which both teams might have scored two or three. But while Liverpool’s Sevilla, Valencia eye Champions League riches deadly duo have an impressive 50 goals between them this season, Suarez and Messi have REUTERS Sevilla host Leganes on from a combination of Sevilla, who earned 48 years ago, have the fourth- 75, their knack of finding, cre- BARCELONA Friday hoping to make up for appearance money, bonuses and million euros for reaching the lowest budget in La Liga and ating and converting chances their shock 1-0 defeat at Girona the television pool in the Cham- quarter-finals last season, rou- qualifying for Europe’s top unparallelled and, in this first With Barcelona already crowned when they became the first team pions League even if they go out tinely sack coaches who fail to competition for the first time leg, decisive. champions, the focus in Spain to lose away to the Catalans in in the group stage. take the team into the Cham- would cover two-thirds of their Between Mane firing over has shifted to a thrilling three- six months, while on Sunday Clubs can earn an additional pions League, and they ousted annual wage bill, estimated at from eight yards and Salah way battle for La Liga’s final Getafe host Girona after a frus- 2.7 million for every game they Pablo Machin in March when 47.5m hammering the post, Messi Champions League berth, with trating 2-1 surrender at Real win, while getting into the their top-four hopes were Elsewhere in Spain, Barca tapped into an open net and Getafe, Sevilla and Valencia Sociedad. knockout phase would see them looking bleak. visit Celta Vigo and will be arced a free-kick, past the right eyeing game-changing prize Valencia, who endured a coin another 9.5 million, in The money would have the expected to rest players in hand of Alisson and into the top money worth at least $34m. chastening last-gasp defeat at addition to increased matchday biggest impact at Getafe, preparation for their Cham- corner. With three games to go, home to Eibar last weekend, revenues. however, who have only pions League semi-final second It was his second goal on little-known Getafe have 55 visit bottom club Huesca on Valencia have reached the existed in their current form leg at Liverpool, while second- the night and 600th for Bar- points along with Sevilla but Sunday but could be feeling the Champions League final twice, since 1983 and play in a placed Atletico Madrid visit celona, after 683 games, 14 cling on to the coveted fourth effects of their Europa League in 2000 and 2001, and returning stadium holding only 17,000 Espanyol. years to the day since his first. spot due to their superior semi-final first leg away to to Europe’s premier competition spectators, which would look Real Madrid, who slumped He now has 12 goals in this sea- head-to-head record, while Arsenal. would boost their plans to finish grossly out of place in the to an embarrassing 10th league son’s Champions League, only Valencia are sixth on 52 but UEFA’s revenue distribution building their new stadium, Champions League. defeat of the campaign last week two short of his best in 2012. have the best head-to-head model means La Liga clubs can which will require an extra 150m The Madrid outfit, who at lowly Rayo Vallecano, host “He’s a fantastic player, it’s record of the trio. receive at least 30 million euros euros. returned to the top flight two Villarreal. obvious,” Virgil van Dijk said. 18 SPORT FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019

‘Senna Day’ Portland Trail Blazers guard CJ McCollum NBA PLAY-OFFS reacts after a play in the fourth quarter McIlroy celebrates against the Denver Nuggets in game two held on F1 of the second round of the 2019 NBA great’s 25th play-offs in Denver on Wednesday. birthday at happy death hunting ground anniversary

REUTERS however, prepare differently AFP CHARLOTTE for June’s US Open at Pebble SAO PAULO Beach by playing immediately Rory McIlroy is back in North beforehand at the Canadian The Interlagos racing Carolina at the site of his first Open, instead of following his circuit held a ‘Senna Day’ PGA Tour victory, focused on past routine of having the to celebrate the life of winning the Wells Fargo week off. Formula One great Ayrton Championship again, though The decision to play his Senna on Wednesday to with one eye turned towards way in -- he will also contest mark the 25th anniversary the next two majors which are the Memorial tournament in of the Brazilian’s death. looming quickly in view. Ohio a fortnight before -- The event began with McIlroy is part of a strong comes following a poor recent a fun run around the field at Quail Hollow in Char- record at the US Open since famous circuit in Sao Paulo lotte, joined by world number winning it in 2011. where the three-time two Justin Rose and defending “I’ve been pathetic at the world champion had twice champion Jason Day for the U.S. Open so I’ve changed that tasted victory at the Bra- PGA Tour event. up to make that my third zilian Grand Prix in front The Wells Fargo will be event in a row,” said the of his adoring public in McIlroy’s only start between Northern Irishman, who turns 1991 and 1993. the first and second majors of 30 on Saturday. Karting races were also McCollum shines as the year -- last month’s “Three missed cuts in a on the program, as well as Masters and this month’s PGA row, it is pathetic.” laps of the track in a spe- Championship. More immediately, cially commissioned The betting favourite at McIlroy, who turns 30 super-touring McLaren, Augusta National, where he tomorrow, hopes to celebrate the British team with Blazers level series had a chance to complete the his birthday in style at the which Senna won the career Grand Slam of majors, place where he scored his world title in 1988, 1990 AFP CJ McCollum scored 20 managed to haul down 14 he never contended en route breakthrough PGA Tour and 1991. LOS ANGELES points as the Portland rebounds throughout the game. to a tie for 21st behind winner victory in 2010 with a final- Senna died after a Trail Blazers held off a “I thought we pressured him Tiger Woods. round 62. crash at the San Marino GP CJ McCollum scored 20 points late rally from the Denver a little bit more,” Stotts said. McIlroy does not plan to He shot 61 in the third at the Imola circuit on May as the Portland Trail Blazers held Nuggets to score a “He didn’t get the clean looks make a reconnaissance trip round en route to winning in 1, 1994 at the age of just 34. off a late rally from the Denver series-leveling victory that we gave him in game one. to PGA venue Bethpage BlBlackack 2015,2015, making him the only “He was the example Nuggets to score a series- He got too many offensive beforebefore the May 16-19 chacham-m- twicetwice winnwinnerer of the event.event. of someone who wasn’t leveling victory in their NBA in their NBA Western rebounds in the fourth though. pionship in New York, whwhereere afraid to fight to realize his Western Conference play-off Conference play-off duel. We were very fortunate that we hehe expects lengthlength ooffff dreams and who was duel on Wednesday. weren’t hurt as badly as we the tee to be moremore proud of being Brazilian,” McCollum led the scorers in McCollum led the scorers could have been.” Game three importantimportant said Bianca Senna, the late a hard-fought 97-90 victory on in a hard-fought 97-90 in the series takes place in thant h a n racer’s niece who looks the road at Denver’s Pepsi Center victory on the road at Portland on Friday. precision.precision. after the Ayrton Senna to tie the best-of-seven series at Denver’s Pepsi Center Nuggets coach Mike Malone “I’ve“ I ’ ve Institute, which is involved 1-1. Portland talisman Damian said Denver had struggled to nevernever donedone to tie the best-of-seven in education projects in Lillard had a relatively quiet match Portland’s physical thatthat forfor a PPGAGA socially disadvantaged night, restricted to just 14 points series at 1-1. approach in the first half. beforebefore aandnd areas. after shooting five-of-17 from “In that first half they were II’ve’ve donedone Fans could admire par- the field. final period. That, however, was the aggressor, they were much pprettyretty wwellell at aphernalia from Senna’s However, double-digit con- the cue for a sustained Denver more physical,” Malone said. tthem,hem, so just career, as well as try out tributions Enes Kanter, Zach assault, with the Nuggets slowly “But I’m extremely proud of treatingtreating it like race simulators that Collins, Rodney Hood and Al- chipping away at the Portland the way they came back in the anyany other reproduce his greatest Farouq Aminu helped Portland lead. second half. But we’ve got to do event,”event,” hhee totoldld triumphs. get over the line. A driving layup from Nikola it for 48 minutes and that was reportersreporters on “He was my biggest “I really liked our approach Jokic put Denver within five the most disappointing thing Wednesday,Wednesday, hero. I was 10 the day he in the first half, particularly the points at 95-90 with 34 seconds about tonight -- we brought it in referringreferring to his died and still today I try to first quarter,” Blazers coach left on the clock. the second half but in the first 20122012 andand 20142014 imitate his style when I’m Terry Stotts said. But a foul by Mason Plumlee half it was not there.” victories.victories. on track,” said Marcos Vin- “I thought we were a lot gifted two free throws to Hood, Stotts, meanwhile, had “I“I would icius Martins, a driver who better offensively than in game who coolly drained both raised eyebrows earlier, wearing assumeassum e took part in “Senna Day.” one. We did a better job on the attempts to take the Blazers a bowtie on the sidelines during BethpageBethpage is It is a homage to a man ball. I liked the tone we set for 97-90 clear with 17 seconds the game. The Blazers coach going to feelfeel who was voted Brazil’s most of the game.” remaining. revealed it was a tribute to video likelike a normalnormal greatest sportsman (with The Blazers looked to be Jokic led the Denver scorers co-ordinator Jonathan Yim, who PGAPGA Tour 47 percent of the vote) by cruising towards a comfortable with 16 points while Jamal was injured in a car crash with set-up.set-up. YouYou’re’re some distance ahead of victory after a dominant first Murray added 15. Paul Millsap his family last week. notnot reareallylly going football great Pele (23 half, surging into a 50-35 lead at finished with 14 points. “On Wednesdays, Jon would to havehave to ddoo Rory McIlroy percent), in a poll con- the break. - Defensive effort - Stotts wear bowties to the game, so aanythingn y t hing ducted in his home town They opened up a 17-point meanwhile praised the defensive tonight was bowtie Wednesday,” different.”different.” of Sao Paulo in 2014. lead early in the third quarter, effort that restricted Jokic, but Stotts said. “I think bowties are He will, will Amongst the gems and led by 14 heading into the was unhappy that the Serbian undefeated this year.” from the Senna collection fans could admire karts he raced during childhood as well as racing suits, helmets and trophies from Finch tips Warner to dominate World Cup his professional career that garnered 41 GP victories. AFP the first time at a training camp they’ve both captained a lot of SYDNEY in Brisbane on Friday. Finch did cricket and are very good cap- Azam’s ton not expect any problems re-inte- tains on the field,” he said. lifts Pakistan Australia captain Aaron Finch He’s coming back grating them into the team, even “It would be really naive of believes David Warner though the former captain and me not to lean on them.” Finch (pictured) will enter this year’s with a huge hunger, deputy will have to defer to a also revealed he feared for his in tour stroll World Cup desperate to prove not just to perform new leadership team. own spot on the team after a himself as the disgraced batsman well for his franchise, He said he would consult the recent barren run, although he AFP prepares to rejoin his team- pair about on-field tactics. believed he had now returned to LONDON mates after a ball-tampering but to dominate “I’ll be using them as much form. ban. international cricket asas I can tacticallytactically bbecauseecause “In“In thethe backback ooff your mindmind Pakistan batsman Babar Azam Warner has been in red-hot again: Australia you’reyou’re tthinking,hinking, ‘Gee, tthehe WorWorldld smashed his first Twenty20 form in the India Premier League captain Aaron Finch Cup isn’t far away,away, as a captain hundred to inspire his country’s after completing a 12-month sus- I coucouldld bbee llefteft out ooff tthehe squasquad’,”d’,” 58-run win over Leicestershire pension for cheating, averaging hehe said.said. in a tour match on Wednesday. 69.20 in 12 innings, including a knowknow howhow destructivedestructive hehe can “Then“Then you start Azam hit two sixes and 13 century and eight fifties. be,”be,” hhee saisaid.d. puttingputting unrealisticunrealistic fours in his 63-ball innings of Finch expected the fiery “I“I think havhavingingngg pressure on yourselfyourself 101 at Grace Road. batsman to also dominate on the timetime offoff to toto perperform.”form.” FinchFinch He put on an opening stand international stage, providing a spendspend wiwithth hadhad an uunsuccessfulnsuccessful of 104 with Fakhar Zaman, who massive boost for Australia as the hish i s spellspell in tthehe Test sisidede scored 52 from 30 balls, as the reigning champions chase a sixth familyfamily lastlast year, averaging tourists reached 200 for six in World Cup trophy. anda n d 27.8027.80 in fivfivee their 20 overs. “He’s coming back with a getg et matches,matches, andand con-con- Ben Mike was the pick of huge hunger, not just to perform awaya w a y ceded that at 3322 hishis the Leicestershire attack with well for his franchise, but to fromfrom thethe careercareer in the long-long- three for 38, including the dominate international cricket game formform game was wicket of Azam. again,” Finch said. ((waswas over.over. In reply, Leicestershire got “When you have your dream important).”important).” “My“My chanceschances to off to a poor start as the home taken away from you for 12 WarnerWarner andand playp Test cricket side were reduced for 39 for months, I can imagine there’s formerformer AusAus-- againagain havehave three in the sixth over. something inside you that burns traliant r alian probablyprobably slippedslipped Wickets continued to fall at A poster bearing a photo of really strongly.” Finch said the captcaptainain away,”away,” he said. steady intervals and the only Brazilian’s F1 driver Ayrton ban, imposed after Warner mas- SteveSteve Smith,Smith, ““I’mI’m stistillll very partnership of note came late Senna signed by fans is terminded the “Sandpaper-gate” whowho waswas gratefulgrateful for the on when Mike and Callum Par- displayed during a ceremony scandal in Cape Town last year, alsoalso bbannedanned opportunity...opportunity... I’m kinson put on 59 for the ninth marking the 25th anniversary had given the 32-year-old a overover the OKOK withwith that wicket before Leicestershire of his death. chance to refresh his game. cheatingcheating scandal, will officiallyofficially becausebecause I gavegave it were dismissed for 142 in 19.2 “He’s a super player, we rejoinrejoin the AustralianAustralian squad forfor everythingeverything I could.” overs. FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019 SPORT 19

International Association of Athletics Federations President, Sebastian Coe (centre) addressing the gathering during a press conference held at the InterContinental Doha The City, yesterday, ahead of the opening round of the 2019 Diamond League which will be held today. Qatar Athletics Federation President Thani Abdulrahman Al Kuwari, three-time world shot put champion Tom Walsh, world pole vault champion Sam Kendricks, Triple European sprint champion Dina Asher-Smith, 100m hurdles Olympic champion Brianna Rollins-McNeal and Olympic long jump champion Tianna Bartoletta were also present. Qatar have All eyes on Semenya at Diamond ‘double reason’ to League season opener in Doha celebrate: ARMSTRONG VAS which in less than five months years trying to get the new IAAF summer as number four on the success, following his five wins THE PENINSULA time will host the IAAF World rules thrown out, is scheduled to world rankings in her non-spe- on the circuit in 2018. Athletics Championships Doha take part in Doha, two days after cialist event, and is expected to Timothy Cheruiyot heads the Dr Thani Controversial South African 2019. losing her appeal against the pick up where she left off in the 1500m field as the 23-year-old athlete Caster Semenya leads a Her event is expected to regulations. long jump discipline. world silver medallist from Kenya THE PENINSULA cast of six reigning world cham- feature highly in the most The 28-year-old two-time The men’s shot put is growing looks to repeat his world number DOHA pions, eight reigning Olympic eagerly-anticipated on show. Olympic and three-time world in prestige in international ath- one ranking last summer. champions and winners of nine The South is set to compete 800m champion has shown an letics, courtesy in part to three Elsewhere on the track, Brit- Qatar Athletics Federation 2018 Diamond Trophies who will in what could be her last 800- impressive range already this men who will each compete today. ain’s triple European sprint President, Thani Abdul- compete in the opening leg of the metre race at the Diamond year, with superb lifetime bests Three-time world champion, champion, Dina Asher-Smith rahman Al Kuwari Diamond League meeting in League meeting in Doha today over 200m and 5,000m and Tom Walsh of New Zealand is opens her 2019 campaign and the yesterday welcomed the Doha at the KhalKhalifaifa InternationalInternational beforebefore thethe InternationalInternational Associ-Associ today,today, sshehe wwill defend the two-lap joined by US duo, Ryan Crouser 23-year-old should enjoy a suc- cream of world athletics Stadium today. ationation of AthAthleticsletics FFederationsederations racerace she wwono here in the 2016 and and Joe Kovacs in a mouth- cessful first career outing in Doha. competing in today’s Doha AllAll eyeseyes will be (IAAF) imposesimposes contro-contro- 20172017 seasons,season respectively. watering duel. Walsh - the 2018 Olympic 100m hurdles Diamond League to the on Semenya, versialversial nnewew rulesrules limlim-- Meanwhile,Meanw a cast In the other world leader indoors and out - champion, Brianna McNeal is Khalifa International thethe 1,500m iting testosterone in tracktrack event,even Hellen Obiri will has competed six times already aiming to turn the tables on her Stadium. winnerwinner in femalefemale athletes. The contestcontest the 3,000m event and the this season but he enters the Doha 2018 runner-up position here, The state-of-the-art DohaDoha lastlast double Olympic Kenyan is anothera in scintillating shot circle for the first time, as will and the 27-year-old American’s venue for the 2022 FIFA yearyear - atat champion,champion, who form, followingfollow her recent IAAF Olympic champion, Crouser - season is already up and running, World Cup will also host thethe venue hashas sspentpent WorldWorld crosscros country Champion- who was the top global protag- having contested four ‘flat’ races. the IAAF World Champi- shipsships victory.victor onist indoors this winter. In the 200m, there will be onships from September 27 TodayToday wwill be the 29-year-old Back on track in the men’s Turkey’s world champion, Ramil to October 6 and Al Kuwari Kenyan’sKenyan’s debutde track race of 2019 800m, Kenya’s Emmanuel Korir Guliyev - the 28-year-old looks said Qatar athletics Feder- andand thethe 22012 world indoor opens his season and will look to to improve on his third-place ation has double reason to 3,000m3,000m cchampionh and Olympic continue the dominance he position here last year. celebrate. 5,000m5,000m silver medallist is showed last year on the IAAF On the in-field, world silver “With 10 years of favouritefavourite to add to her 2014 Doha Diamond League circuit, medalist Daniel Stahl of Sweden history already written in win.win. CateriCaterinen Ibarguen - the 2018 including victory in Doha but the is expected to dominate the discus the track and field event in IAAF WorldWorld female Athlete of the 23-year-old will face 2012 throw competition. The 26-year- the city and five more Year - tatakesk to the long jump Olympic silver medallist, Nijel old ended 2018 as world number years to come at least, this runwayrunw as the Olympic Amos of Batswana and the USA’s one and he opens his season year Qatar celebrates ath- tripletr jump champion Donavan Brazier. today. letics at its best,” said Al alsoa opens her cam- World champion, Sam Ken- And Olympic 400m hurdles Kuwari, talking at the pre- paign for 2019. dricks is the main attraction in the champion, Dallilah Muhammad event press conference. The 35-year-old pole vault and the 26-year-old has already been in 400m ‘flat’ “Qatar Athletics Feder- Columbian two-time American will be hoping his Doha form this season, so the 29-year- ation has double reason to world triple jump debut can provide a springboard old American should be the one celebrate. The completion Caster Semenya chchampion ended last to further IAAF Diamond League to watch there. of 10 years of Doha Diamond League and the completion of a new home of Qatar athletics, the Qatari sprinters unfazed by elite competitors Khalifa International Stadium. “It’s a privilege and THE PENINSULA challenges and I will simply be myself considering the importance of the honour to welcome the DOHA and do my stuff on Friday,” Barrow event to every Qatari athlete. world’s best athletes to said. “My major aim at the moment is Khalifa Stadium which will Despite competing on the interna- The Qatari who started out as a to be part of the IAAF World Champi- also host the World Cham- tional senior stage for the first time, footballer before venturing into ath- onships and I hope I will achieve that. pionship,” said Al Kuwari. Qatari representatives Jaber Al Mamari letics will, alongside his compatriot I believe the competition will be one International Associ- and Owaab Barrow are unfazed by Mamari, be up against an elite field of the best ever and all attendees are ation of Athletics Federa- the strength of the 200m field they will comprising of stars like reigning 200m assured of the best of hospitality and tions President Sebastian be up against at the 2019 IAAF Doha world champion, Ramil Guliyev and exciting times in Doha,” he added. Coe, three-time world shot Diamond League in the impressive Nethaneel MItchell-Blake, a 4X100m For Mamari, competing against the put champion Tom Walsh Khalifa International Stadium today. relay world champion. “big guys” is a great privilege and he of New Zealand, world “I count it a privilege competing “I’ve had very strong support hopes to be able to get helpful tips and pole vault champion Sam in the home stadium and I am ready starting out in my career especially techniques from them. Kendricks, British triple to push myself and achieve the best from the Aspire Academy and it’s been “Everyone passes through this European sprint champion result possible on Friday,” Barrow, great all this while. I’ve been privileged stage at one point or the other in life Dina Asher-Smith, 100m who won the gold medal in 110m to compete in Europe, Australia and and I think it is awesome sharing the hurdles Olympic champion hurdles at last year’s Youth Olympics of course - the Youth Olympics in same track with the top athletes. I am Brianna Rollins-McNeal in Buenos Aires said. Argentina is one of the major high- going to ask them some questions on Qatari athletes Owaab Barrow (left) and Jaber Al and Olympic long jump “It is good to be part of the com- lights of my career,” he said. Friday which will be useful for me and Mamari during a press conference held in Doha champion Tianna Barto- petition and I believe the experience The 18-year-old hopes to make I’m definitely going to give my best yesterday, ahead of the opening round of the 2019 letta also joined Al Kuwari is quite necessary for the advancement the cut for the IAAF World Champi- and who knows, a miracle can Diamond League. at the press conference. of my career. I am not afraid of onships in September, especially happen,” he said. IAAF Heritage Exhibition: Barrow accepts kit loans from legends Devers and Johnson THE PENINSULA titles at that discipline. Devers also competition artefacts from famous hurdles title at those same Atlanta DOHA won the 100m in Stuttgart for a champions which will be in the 1996 Olympic Games. memorable sprint/hurdles double. exhibition for six months. The The reception in the exhibition, At a reception at the IAAF Heritage Fellow US sprint hurdler Allen display will close on October 7, a which is located in the City Center World Athletics Championships Johnson sent his spikes from his day after the end of the IAAF Doha shopping mall, was held to Exhibition in Doha, Qatar’s Youth 1997 world 110m hurdles title, the World Athletics Championships celebrate the staging of today’s Olympic 110m hurdles champion second of his quartet of world titles, Doha 2019 (September 27 to Doha Diamond League meeting. It Owaab Barrow symbolically on loan to the exhibition. October 6). was therefore extremely fitting that accepted loans to the exhibition of Accompanied by his coach Lee Devers and Johnson each won as a finale to tonight’s formalities competition kit from two world and Christopher, the Aspire-based Olympic titles in their careers. that an IAAF Diamond League Olympic champion hurdlers. Barrow first watched clips of Devers was a two-time 100m sprint Trophy was permanently added to USA’s Gail Devers sent the bod- Devers and Johnson in action champion, winning in Barcelona the IAAF Heritage Collection. Petr Diamond League CFO Petr Stastny and Qatar’s Youth ysuit she wore when winning the before receiving their kit. Devers in 1992 and Atlanta in 1996. She Stastny, the CFO of the IAAF Olympics Champion Owaab Barrow pose for a photograph 1993 world 100m hurdles title in and Johnson’s items will now be also took a relay gold in 1996. Diamond League, made the with the Diamond Trophy. Stuttgart, her first of three world added to more than 140 other Johnson claimed his Olympic 110m handover of the trophy. 20 MORNING BREAK FRIDAY 3 MAY 2019

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR 03. 35 AM Qatari Diar, Kahramaa celebrate SHOROOK 04. 57 AM ZUHR 11. 31 AM MAGHRIB 06. 06 PM operation of Lusail’s power stations ASR 02. 59 PM ISHA 07. 37 PM

WEATHER TODAY

The President of Kahramaa, Eng Essa bin Hilal Al Kuwari (left), receiving a memento from Eng Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah, theEO C of Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, in recognition of the efforts of Kahramaa in implementing the Lusail City project. RIGHT: Officials at the nt.eve

QNA The President of DOHA Kahramaa, Eng Essa bin Hilal Al Kuwari, Qatari Diar Real Estate o o Investment Company and said: “We are proud 29 C 37 C Qatar General Electricity & of completing and Minimum Maximum Water Corporation opening electricity (Kahramaa) yesterday cele- network in Lusail brated the starting operation City as Kahramaa Relatively hot daytime with some clouds. of the main power trans- mission and power distri- is working as

bution stations in Lusail City,

HIGH TIDE 03:01 –16:36 LOW TIDE 10:47 – 22:52 key partners of which has 14 main power Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department the development transmission stations and 135 power distribution stations. projects of the The infrastructure of country. Lusail City has been com- pleted by 90 percent. During the ceremony held observations. in Lusail City, officials of Diar CEO of Qatari Diar Eng and Kahramaa praised the Abdullah bin Hamad Al A view of the Lusail City. partnership between them, Attiyah said that the cele- stressing the need to unify the bration of what has been Essa bin Hilal Al Kuwari the latest technologies. independent complex being efforts of state institutions to achieved today is the result of expressed pride in the com- During the ceremony, built in Qatar and embodies complete major national the fruitful partnership pletion and operation of the Qatari Diar honored Kah- Qatar National Vision 2030 in projects to achieve the objec- between Qatari Diar and Kah- electricity network in Lusail ramaa for its continued efforts real estate development. tives of Qatar National Vision ramaa in the light of the inte- City. He added that Kahramaa in Lusail City project. Lusail is expected to 2030. gration of work and partner- is a major partner in the Lusail is the largest Qatari accommodate more than They confirmed the con- ships between the company development projects in the Diar project. It is more than 200,000 people living in its tinuation of the technical and government institutions country. He explained that the just a real estate project. It is picturesque surroundings. The coordination between the and business companies to project was implemented a comprehensive planning city city is expected to employ work team of Lusail City and develop sustainable infra- according to the highest and reflects Qatar’s progress 170,000 people and 80,000 the departments of Kahramaa structure in Lusail City. quality standards in line with on a large scale. people are expected to visit to deal with any President of Kahramaa the approved schedule, using The city is the largest the city’s leisure facilities. Living alone increases risk of mental disorders: Study Joe Jonas IANS living alone than in those not chiatric Morbidity Surveys. of people, living alone LONDON living alone in all survey The study found that the increased a person’s risk for marries GoT years,” the study noted. prevalence of people living common mental disorder by Mental health problems are For the study, published alone in 1993, 2000, and 1.39 to 2.43 times, the study star Sophie more common in people in the journal PLOS ONE, the 2007 was 8.8 percent, 9.8 said. “Living alone is posi- living alone regardless of age researchers used data on percent, and 10.7 percent. tively associated with Turner and sex, says a study. 20,500 individuals aged They found a positive asso- common mental disorders in REUTERS “The prevalence of 16-64 living in England who ciation between living alone the general population in LONDON common mental disorders participated in the 1993, and common mental dis- England,” said study co- was higher in individuals 2000, or 2007 National Psy- order. In different subgroups author Louis Jacob. Singer Joe Jonas married “Game of Thrones” actress Sophie Turner in a surprise wedding on Wednesday night, with pic- tures shared on social media Seven DFI-backed films selected at Cannes showing the couple tying the knot in front of an Elvis Presley THE PENINSULA toring initiatives. impersonator in Las Vegas. DOHA “We are delighted that the The couple wed just hours works of talented filmmakers after Jonas, part of the Jonas The Doha Film Institute (DFI) has from the region and beyond have Brothers band, performed with set another first in the Arab once again made the cut at the his siblings at the Billboard region for a film organisation, premiere film event, competing Music Awards in the city. with its latest co-financed project with some of the most antici- A representative for Turner, selected to the Official Selection, pated films in international currently on television screens Competition once again at the cinema. The selection underlines as Sansa Stark in the final series 72nd Cannes Film Festival, which the focus of DFI and Qatar to of the hit show “Game of takes place from May 14 to 25. support compelling voices and Thrones”, confirmed to Reuters This nomination makes DFI powerful stories that have the via email that the couple, who the only cultural organisation in potential to shape world cinema. got engaged in 2017, had wed. the MENA region to have had “I am especially proud of American DJ Diplo shared four co-financed films in the master filmmaker Elia Suleiman several videos on his Instagram Official Selection, Competition and his bedrock credentials as a account of the couple, the first to date. A further six films sup- greatly admired director. Elia’s showing Turner, dressed in ported by DFI through its Grants particular worldview, his keen white, and Jonas arriving at the programme and six short films sense of the absurd and his wedding venue with the caption from Qatar will be screened to unbounded passion for story- “Gonna hit this wedding real global audiences in key sections telling are creatively represented quick”. Other videos shared on of the prestigious Festival. in “It Must Be Heaven”, an his stories section showed The Palestinian director Elia important and timely film of the Jonas, 29, waiting at the end of Suleiman’s new film “It Must Be Palestinian experience that will the aisle with a Presley imper- Heaven”, co-financed by DFI, is resonate with all”, she sonator dressed in red in front. included in the competition commented. The 23-year-old bride is next along with 19 global entries. The six made in Qatar short seen walking down the aisle Winner of the Festival’s Jury films to be screened at the wearing a veil and holding a A still from the DF-backed film, The Orphanage, by Shahrbanoo Sadat which will make its global Prize in 2002 for “Divine Inter- Cannes Short Film Corner under bouquet as country duo San and debut at 72nd Cannes Film Festival. vention”, Elia Suleiman also the theme ‘Shortcuts to Qatar’ Shay perform their song served as a jury member of the include “Domestic Acoustics” by “Speechless”. Cannes Film Festival in 2006 and the Un Certain Regard segment Critics’ Week; and two new said: “To have films supported Majid Al-Remaihi; “Where Are Another video shared on his feature “The Time That of the Official Selection. Spring 2019 Grants recipients by the Doha Film Institute You Right Meow?” by Maysam social media showed the couple Remains” premiered at the Fes- Selections in the parallel sec- “To Live to Sing” by Johnny Ma repeatedly selected at the pres- Al-Ani; “Voyager” by Khalifa Al- exchanging vows in front of the tival in 2009. tions include the world pre- and “The Orphanage” by Shahr- tigious Cannes Film Festival is Marri; “I Am Not My Father” by Presley impersonator. Grant recipients “Adam” by mieres of Qumra 2019 projects, banoo Sadat make their global an exceptional honour for us and Naif Al-Malki; “Nasser Goes to Entertainment websites had Maryam Touzani and “Papicha”, “AbouLeila” by Amin Sidi-Bou- debut at Directors’ Fortnight. a strong testament to the high Space” by Mohammed Al- previously reported the couple a Qumra 2019 project, by Mounia médiène and “The Unknown Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, quality of projects we nurture Mahmeed and “The Bleaching were planning to marry in Meddour will world premiere in Saint” by Alaa Eddine Aljem, in Chief Executive Officer of DFI, through our funding and men- Syndrome” by Eiman Mirghani. France this summer.