Cushman & Al Sadd, Al Wakefield Duhail set up ppartners with Qatar Cup Hapondo final

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FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 7 RAJAB - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8538 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS

PM visits temporary Amir emphasises support to Lebanon vaccination centre Prime Minister briefed on work in general essential workers. She was and operational capacity of vaccination speaking during the opening of centre at QNCC. a new temporary vaccination centre at QNCC to vaccinate teachers, school employees, and National COVID-19 Vaccination Program members of the community. currently targets at-risk populations: She said that the “addition of Minister of Public Health this new vaccination centre will enable us to increase our COVID-19 vaccination center at QNCC for capacity to vaccinate even more teachers, school administration staff essential workers and open more opportunities for the general and other community members. public to be vaccinated.” The Minister called on eve- QNA — DOHA essential workers and com- ryone who is high risk or over 60 munity members who meet the years of age who has not yet been The Prime Minister and Minister eligibility criteria. vaccinated to make an of Interior, H E Sheikh Khalid He was briefed on the mech- appointment for the vaccination. bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al anism of work in general, the Managing Director of PHCC, Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met yesterday at his office in the Amiri Diwan with Thani visited the temporary operational capacity of the centre Dr. Mariam Abdulmalik, said Prime Minister-designate of the Lebanese Republic H E Saad Al Hariri, on the occasion of his visit to COVID-19 vaccination centre, and the medical procedures. The that invitations for appoint- the country. The meeting dealt with reviewing the latest developments in Lebanon. H E the Prime opened at Qatar National Prime Minister was accompanied ments will be delivered in a Minister-designate informed H H the Amir of the latest developments and efforts related to forming Convention Center, yesterday. by Minister of Public Health, H E phased and efficient approach, the government. H H the Amir emphasised the State of Qatar's support of Lebanon and its people, The visit aimed to review the Dr. Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari to ensure the safety of the com- calling on all Lebanese parties to prioritise national interest and swiftly form a new government that state’s plan to expand the and a number of senior officials munity and a smooth and effi- will deal with the crises and challenges facing Lebanon. The meeting also dealt with a number of national programme for vacci- in the health sector and the Min- cient process. issues of joint interest. nation against COVID -19. istry of Education and Higher “Teachers and school The Prime Minister and Min- Education. administration staff will receive ister of Interior inspected the Dr. Al Kuwari said that the an SMS inviting them to attend center run by the Primary efforts in the National COVID-19 the vaccination centre during Health Care Corporation (PHCC) Vaccination Programme focused dedicated time slots. Vaccina- Fully vaccinated people in cooperation with the Ministry on targeting the most at-risk tions will be administered only of Public Health (MoPH). The populations such as the elderly, to those who have received an centre’s first phase will focus on those with severe chronic con- invite; others are requested to exempted from quarantine vaccinating teachers and school ditions, healthcare workers, wait until they receive an SMS staff, in addition to other frontline workers and other invite,” she said. `P3 THE PENINSULA — DOHA 14 days must have passed The Ministry of Public Health after receiving the second (MoPH) announced yesterday dose and a negative PCR test is that fully vaccinated citizens required on return to Qatar and residents of Qatar are following travel or following exempt from quarantine exposure. requirements following travel abroad and exposure to a The quarantine exemption is COVID-19 positive case. valid for a period of three Chair of the National Health months, starting 14 days after Strategic Group on COVID-19 the second dose. and Head of Infectious Diseases at Hamad Medical Corporation, The exemption does not Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal said that currently apply to people to avail quarantine exemption, vaccinated in other countries. at least 14 days must have passed after taking the second dose, and the result of a PCR test should be negative after He also said that the "The quarantine exemption returning to Qatar or getting exemption does not currently is valid for a period of three exposed to a positive case. apply to people vaccinated in months, starting 14 days after He said that the quarantine other countries. “To qualify for the second dose, and this may exemption is valid for a period quarantine exemption, 14 days be extended in the future with of three months, starting 14 days must have passed after receiving the availability of more clinical after the second dose. He added the second dose and a negative evidence. The exemption does Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani with that the period could be extended PCR test is required on return to not currently apply to people Minister of Public Health, H E Dr. Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari and officials during a visit to in the future with the availability Qatar following travel or fol- vaccinated in other countries,” the vaccination cente at QNCC, yesterday. of more clinical evidence. lowing exposure. said Dr. Al Khal. MoCI reimposes restrictions QA to become first global airline to offer on weddings and events

QNA — DOHA case, cannot exceed 10 for 100% touch-free in-flight entertainment indoor weddings and 20 for The Ministry of Commerce and outdoor weddings (that are THE PENINSULA — DOHA system in all cabins on the Industry (MoCI) announced taking place at a house). The Zero-Touch technology, introduced in Boeing 787-9 fleet. yesterday that it has imposed Wedding and event planners Qatar Airways will soon become partnership with the Thales AVANT IFE system, Qatar Airways Group Chief new restrictions on wedding and must also obtain approval for the first global airline to offer will enable A350 passengers to pair their Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker, event planners, in line with the holding the wedding via the passengers 100 percent Zero- electronic devices with their seat-back IFE said: “As an industry leader in developments and the measures Metrash2 app and not allow Touch technology for its award- screen by connecting to ‘Oryxcomms’ Wi-Fi the fight against COVID-19 and taken by the state to protect employees or those invited in winning Oryx One in-flight and simply scanning a QR code displayed on the first global airline to citizens and residents and unless they check their Ehteraz entertainment system across the screen. recently achieve a 5-Star rating contain the spread of COVID-19. application status is green. the A350 fleet as part of the in the coveted Skytrax Airline The new decisions will hold Other guidelines include airline’s latest COVID-19 safety Safety Rating, Qatar Airways is wedding and event planners measuring the temperature of measures. committed to ensuring the accountable for implementing all employees and people The Zero-Touch technology, highest standards of safety and the precautionary measures invited and allowing in only introduced in partnership with hygiene on-board its aircraft at determined by the MoCI, the those who have a temperature the Thales AVANT IFE system, all times. Ministry of Public Health less than 38 degrees Celsius. will enable A350 passengers to The introduction of the (MoPH), and the Ministry of Planners must also adhere to pair their electronic devices state-of-the-art Zero-Touch Interior (MoI). the guidelines regulating the (PEDs) with their seat-back IFE technology and enabling pas- One of the guidelines was arrival of those invited. screen by connecting to ‘Oryx- sengers to use their Bluetooth to delay or cancel weddings The ministry said that the comms’ Wi-Fi and simply headset on board is an whether they are indoors or decision could be amended fol- scanning a QR code displayed important step in taking our outdoors, except weddings that lowing developments, warning on the screen. They can use limiting the frequency of on- Europe and the Middle East and already rigorous and stringent would have been held at home that violators will be held legally their PEDs to navigate and board surface contact and pro- North Africa region to offer pas- COVID-19 precautions to so long as the attendees are accountable. The ministry also enjoy more than 4,000 options viding greater peace of mind sengers in Business and another level, limiting pas- members of the family. The called on all citizens and resi- on offer through the airline’s throughout their journey. Economy the option to pair their senger surface contact and pre- total number of people dents to seek information from award-winning Oryx One in- Qatar Airways is also set to personal Bluetooth headphones venting any possible spread of attending the wedding, in that the proper and official sources. flight entertainment system, become the first airline in with the on-board seat-back IFE infection on board. `P2 02 HOME FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021

Minister visits schools to OFFICIAL NEWS check implementation of Amir sends congratulations to precautionary measures President of Gambia PRAYER TIMINGS THE PENINSULA — DOHA DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMINNGG bin Hamad Al Thani; Deputy Amir Minister of Education and Dr. Al Hammadi directed H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al the schools' management 04.48 am Higher Education H E Dr. Thani; and Prime Minister and Min- FAJR Mohammed bin Abdulwahed Al to adhere to all ister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid SUNRISE 06.06 am Hammadi visited a number of precautionary measures bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani DHUHR 11.48 am schools yesterday to check the strictly and firmly in order sent yesterday cables of congratu- ASR 03.04 pm implementation of the precau- lations to President of the Republic tionary measures against the to maintain a healthy and of the Gambia H E Adama Barrow MAGHRIB 05.32 pm COVID-19 pandemic. safe school environment. on the anniversary of his coun- ISHA 07.02 pm The visits included the Ali try’s Independence Day. – QNA bin Abi Taleb Preparatory School for Boys and the Dr. Al Hammadi directed the Amir sends American Academy School, school managements to adhere where the Minister checked the to all precautionary measures condolences to measures taken to safeguard the strictly and firmly in order to Ecuador President health of students, teachers and maintain a healthy and safe administrative staff, as well as school environment that DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim the progress of the education enhances the academic Minister of Education and Higher Education H E Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani; Deputy Amir process. At the end of the visits, achievement of students. bin Abdulwahed Al Hammadi visiting a school yesterday. H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad WEATHER Al Thani; and Prime Minister and TODAY Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Kha- lid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Qatar, Netherlands hold political consultations Thani sent cables of condolences to President of the Republic of QNA — DOHA Ecuador H E Lenin Moreno, on the death of the former Ecuado- The second round of political rian President Gustavo Noboa. 18oC 24oC consultations between the — QNA Minimum Maximum Ministries of Foreign Affairs in Moderate temperature daytime with the State of Qatar and the Qatar strongly blowing dust at times and partly Kingdom of the Netherlands condemns attack in cloudy with chance of rain, relatively were held yesterday via vide- cold by night. oconference. school in Nigeria W ALRUWAIS : 20o → 22o The Qatari side was repre- W ALKHOR : 17o → 22o sented by Secretary-General DOHA: The State of Qatar of the Ministry of Foreign expressed its strong condem- W DUKHAN : 19o → 24o Affairs H E Dr. Ahmed bin nation and denunciation of the → W WAKRAH : 18o 24o Hassan Al Hammadi, while the armed attack that targeted a W MESAIEED : 18o → 24o Dutch side was represented by school in central Nigeria, which W ABUSAMRA : 15o → 22o Secretary-General of the led to the death of a student and Dutch Ministry of Foreign the abduction of dozens of stu- Affairs H E Paul Huijts. dents and teachers. In a statement HIGH TIDE During the round, bilateral yesterday, the Ministry of For- 07:59 cooperation and relations Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi leading the eign Affairs reiterated the State LOW TIDE 3:38 – 16:14 were reviewed. Qatari side during the political consultations with the Netherlands. of Qatar’s firm position on rejecting violence, terrorism and criminal acts, regardless of the motives and reasons. The statement expressed Qatar participates in QU professors discuss the condolences of the State of QA to offer Qatar to the families of the vic- tims and to the government and touch-free UN-ECOSOC meeting rich history and role people of Nigeria, and its hope for an urgent release of the abducted entertainment QNA — DOHA extremism, and hatred, Qatar and their safe return to their fam- has established national and of Arabic language ilies. — QNA on board The State of Qatar participated international institutions that in the United Nations Economic have contributed significantly THE PENINSULA — DOHA Language, College of Arts and FROM PAGE 1 and Social Council (ECOSOC) tangibly to achieve the goals of Sciences at QU, said that Uzbekistan “We hope it provides yet meeting on ‘Reimagining the international community. Qatar University (QU) marked mother tongue is the first further assurance of the safety Equality: Eliminating racism, Dr. Al Hammadi said that Arabic Language Day yesterday bearer of a person since birth. allows visa-free of air travel, as well as offering xenophobia and discrimination among these Qatari institutions to highlight the treasures and This expression helps indi- passengers on board increased for all in the decade of action are the Doha International history of the Arabic language. viduals express themselves entry to Qataris confidence that they are for the SDGs’ held through Center for Interfaith Dialogue ‘Arabic Language Academies: among people. enjoying the most consistently video conference technology and the Hamad Bin Khalifa Civ- Necessity or Luxury?’ was the Talking about the Arabic for up to 10 days advanced customer expe- yesterday. ilisation Centre in Copenhagen, theme of World Arabic language, Loui Khalil, Associate rience available in the sky.” The delegation of the State Denmark. These institutions Language Day this year to Professor of Arabic Language, QNA — DOHA Qatar Airways recently of Qatar to the meeting was aim to support international understand academia’s role in College of Arts and Sciences at became the first global airline headed by the Secretary- efforts to promote peaceful safeguarding and enhancing QU, said, “The most crucial An official source at the to achieve the prestigious General of the Ministry of coexistence between religions the Arabic language. characteristic of our culture is Consular Affairs Department 5-Star COVID-19 Airline Safety Foreign Affairs and Deputy and establish a culture of dia- Several professors at QU based on two essential pillars: at the Ministry of Foreign Rating by international air Chairman of Qatar Committee logue and love among peoples marked this day by sharing Arabism, which is a national, Affairs stated that the Republic transport rating organisation, for the Alliance of Civilizations, and establish the Arab Cultural their sentiments on this ethnic, and linguistic aspect, of Uzbekistan has issued a Skytrax. H E Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al House in Berlin. important day. The Arabic lan- and Islam, which is a religious decree allowing Qatari citizens This follows HIA’s recent Hammadi. In a speech to the He added that Qatar hosted guage is a pillar of humanity’s manifestation. This means that to enter Uzbekistan without success as the first airport in meeting, Dr. Al Hammadi in 2012 the Fourth Global cultural diversity and is one of the identity of this culture is not visas for a period of 10 days, the Middle East and Asia to be stressed the need to address Forum for the Alliance of Civ- the most widely spoken lan- of purely human origin like as of March 1, 2021, provided awarded a Skytrax 5-Star manifestations of extremism, ilizations, which contributed to guages in the world. World other identities. Perhaps this is that they show return tickets COVID-19 Airport Safety racism, xenophobia, and dis- laying the foundations for the Arabic Language Day is being what gives it the attribute of to Qatar or to another country. Rating. crimination, which are one of Alliance’s work, and the Qatari celebrated on February 18 persistence. Preferably it has These recognitions assure the main pillars for achieving Committee for the Alliance of every year since 2012. The date divine origin as well, on the passengers worldwide that the goals of the United Nations Civilizations was formed to coincides with the day in 1973 basis that Islam is one of the 386 referred to airline health and safety and other international con- complete the country’s efforts when the UN General Assembly three great divine religions, and standards are subject to the ventions. He explained that at the national level. adopted Arabic as the organi- this also gave it the attribute of prosecution for highest possible standards of Qatar has pursued a policy of Dr. Al Hammadi stressed zation’s sixth official transcendence and professional, independent moderation, tolerance, building that Qatar, which has com- language. permanence.” violating Covid scrutiny and assessment. bridges of trust, and acceptance mitted itself to be a partner of In the diversity of its forms, Dr. Soumaia El Mekki, The national carrier of the of cultural, civilizational, and the international community classic or dialectal, from oral Assistant Professor of Arabic State of Qatar continues to religious differences between to eliminate racism, xeno- expression to poetic callig- Language, College of Arts and measures rebuild its network, which cur- peoples, as it is proud of hosting phobia, intolerance, and dis- raphy, the Arabic language has Sciences at QU, explained that QNA — DOHA rently stands at over 130 des- more than two million people crimination in all its forms and given rise to a fascinating aes- the Arabic language is a “bio- tinations. With more fre- from different regions of the manifestations, will continue thetic in architecture, poetry, logical link” rooted in the depth The designated authorities quencies being added to key world. to spread the values of tol- philosophy, and songs. It pro- of a nation’s history. The lan- referred 386 people to the hubs, Qatar Airways offers He added that in the erance and respect for others, vides access to an incredible guage has produced a common Public Prosecution for unrivalled connectivity to pas- framework of Qatar’s part- build bridges between all and variety of identities and beliefs, identity that unites the Arab violating the preventive and sengers, making it easy for nership with the international achieve the goals of the inter- and its history reveals the people and carves a “national precautionary measures them to change their travel community to address the chal- national community for peace, richness of its links with other personality” that transcends enforced by the country to dates or destination if they lenges resulting from intol- security, development, and languages. Dr. Noora Al Khanji, states’ limits and is drawn by contain the spread of the coro- need to. erance, discrimination, human rights. Associate Professor of Arabic beliefs. navirus. Among them, 337 people were referred to the Public Prosecution for not wearing QF, WISH turn spotlight on vaccines at Education City Speaker Series masks in places where they are mandatory, while 44 were THE PENINSULA — DOHA infection. The virtual discussion which includes the MENA platform for dialogue to assess, found violating the maximum is titled An Injection of Hope: region; and Dr. Matshidiso Viewers using Microsoft along with Dr. Al Khal, how the number of 4 people allowed Health experts from Qatar and Do Vaccines Mean an End to the Moeti, its Regional Director for Teams can watch the world looks now as it continues in a vehicle including the around the world will focus on Pandemic Is in Sight?, and will Africa. event with English, to tackle the challenge of a driver, except when they are the hopes and fears surrounding invite its local and global They will give their perspec- lifetime, and what the coming members of one family, two COVID-19 vaccines, and how audience to put questions to tives on vaccines and the path Arabic, French, Spanish, months may hold. people did not abide by the the pandemic may unfold in leading figures and practi- the pandemic may take from and Italian subtitles. the An Injection of Hope: Do safe distance, and three people 2021, as Qatar Foundation’s tioners in healthcare at a time here alongside guest speakers discussion will also be Vaccines Mean an End to the were also referred to the Education City Speaker Series when, as vaccines begin to be Dr. Abdullatif Al Khal, Chairman streamed live on QF’s Pandemic Is in Sight? takes Public Prosecution for not returns. administered around the world, of Qatar’s National Pandemic Facebook page, YouTube place from 3.30-4.30pm Doha installing Ehteraz app on their In collaboration with the many countries are simultane- Preparedness Committee and time on February 24 and will mobile phones. World Innovation Summit for ously seeing a spike in Deputy Chief Medical Officer at channel, and Twitter feed. feature a 40-minute discussion The measure are in line with Health (WISH), the platform for COVID-19 cases and deaths. Hamad Medical Corporation; followed by a public question- the Cabinet decision, Decree conversations on the major Joining the conversation and Dr. Jerome Kim, Director- and-answer session. Viewers Law No. 17 of 1990 on infectious topics affecting the world will organized by QF and its global General of the International watching on Microsoft Teams diseases, and the precautionary host its first event of the year healthcare initiative WISH on Vaccine Institute. The session Dr. Kim participated in the Edu- can watch the event with measures in force in the country next week, turning the spotlight Wednesday, February 24, will will be moderated by journalist, cation City Speaker Series’ first English, Arabic, French, to contain the spread of on vaccine development and be two representatives from the newsreader and TV presenter online edition, which focused Spanish, and Italian subtitles, COVID-19. The authorities rollout, the emerging new var- World Health Organization: Dr. Kirsty Wark. on the immediate global and the discussion will also be called on the public to adhere iants of COVID-19, and what the Ahmed Al Mandhari, its In April 2020, during the response to the coronavirus streamed live on QF’s Facebook to the precautionary measures world needs to do to combat Regional Director for the early weeks of the pandemic, crisis. Ten months on, they are page, YouTube channel, and in place to ensure their safety and prevent fresh waves of Eastern Mediterranean, an area Dr. Al Mandhari, Dr. Moeti, and returning to QF’s global Twitter feed. and the safety of others. FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 HOME 03 Qatar-Iraq judiciaries hold high-level dialogue under UNODC QNA — DOHA and contributing to the implementation of the goals of the UN sustainable development plan Qatar affirmed that the high-level political 2030. dialogue between the Iraqi and Qatari judiciaries He said Qatar is proud of its implementation is one of the fruits of the Global Program for the of the Global Program that reached out to two Implementation of the Doha Declaration to and a half million people from one hundred and consolidate the rule of law and enhance the effec- ninety countries, contributed to the development tiveness of criminal justice systems. of criminal justice institutions and prison reform, The political dialogue between the two coun- and trained more than 1500 judges and prose- Minister of Commerce and Industry H E Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari during a virtual meeting with Minister tries was held in Vienna yesterday under the cutors on issues of judicial integrity, in addition of State for the World Expo 2025 in Japan H E Shinji Inoue, yesterday. supervision of the United Nations Office on Drugs to other achievements in the field of education, and Crime (UNODC), in the presence of President youth and crime prevention. of the Supreme Judiciary Council of the State of Abdullah bin Nasser Al Fuhaid affirmed that Qatar, Japan ministers discuss trade Qatar H E Dr. Hassan bin Lahdan Al Hassan Al the legacy of the Global Program for the Imple- Mohannadi and President of the Judicial Council mentation of the Doha Declaration will remain of Iraq H E Judge Faik Zaidan. alive and a catalyst for strengthening joint inter- ties, participation in World Expo 2025 Acting Charge d’Affaires at the Mission the national action in combating crime and strength- State of Qatar to international organisations in ening our criminal justice systems, calling on the QNA — DOHA cooperation between the two The Minister of Commerce Vienna Abdullah bin Nasser Al Fuhaid (pictured) UNODC to continue its efforts to further introduce countries in the commercial, and Industry reviewed, during said that the activities of the Global Program are this legacy as a model for effective, fruitful and Minister of Commerce and investment and industrial the meeting, the economic pol- working to transform the recommendations of fair cooperation between the office and the Industry H E Ali bin Ahmed Al fields, in addition to discussing icies adopted by the State of the Doha Declaration into practices on the ground member states of the United Nations. Kuwari, met yesterday with the participation of the State Qatar and its role in removing to confirm our common commitment to support Minister of State for the World of Qatar in the World Expo restrictions on foreign the effectiveness of criminal justice systems, their Expo 2025 in Japan H E Shinji Osaka-Kansai 2025 in Japan investment and providing more constituent institutions and their fairness, Inoue, via video conference. and the preparations made by investment opportunities for humanity and accountability. During the meeting, they Japan for the success of this companies wishing to invest in He added that the projects of the Global reviewed means of boosting global event. the State of Qatar. Program for the Implementation of the Doha Declaration have succeeded since 2016 in devel- oping mechanisms and approaches for the work of the UNODC. The program has developed new PM visits temporary vaccination centre tools in the fields of training and capacity devel- opment within a strategy for making a long-term FROM PAGE 1 impact in combating crime and enhancing the She explained that the vaccination process remains the same, with the vaccine administered in readiness of member states, particularly devel- two doses, three weeks apart at the QNCC vaccination center. Visitors should carry a valid health oping countries and their response to organized card when attending and are requested to continue following standard preventive measures, including crime, corruption, drugs and terrorism, building masks, hand hygiene and social distancing. solid and transparent criminal justice systems

Three arrested Ministry of Defence and MME sign cooperation agreement for violating QNA — DOHA at the beginning of the signing ceremony about the activities home quarantine The Ministry of Defense (MoD), of the National Service represented by the National Academy. QNA — DOHA Service Academy, signed a joint After that, Eng. Ahmed cooperation agreement with the Mohammed Al Sada delivered The competent authorities Ministry of Municipality and a speech in which he stressed arrested yesterday three Environment, represented by that the public services affairs people who violated the the Ministry’s Public Service at the Ministry of Municipality requirements of the home Affairs. and Environment, through this quarantine they committed to The agreement was signed agreement, will harness all its following, which they are by Head of the National Service capabilities to support the legally accountable for, in Academy H E Staff Maj. Gen. Academy in achieving its goals accordance with the proce- Saeed Hamad Al Nuaimi, and and training its affiliates. dures of the health authorities Assistant Undersecretary for Eng. Al Sada said that this in the country. Public Services Affairs at the cooperation stems from the It is in implementation of Ministry of Municipality and national responsibility in the precautionary measures Environment Eng. Ahmed meeting the daily require- in force in the country, Mohammed Al Sada. ments and raising the quality approved by health authorities The agreement comes of life in order to achieve the represented in the Ministry of within the framework of comprehensive renaissance Public Health (MoPH), to enhancing joint and continuous of the State of Qatar and ensure the achievement of cooperation between the Min- support sustainable devel- Officials from the National Service Academy of the Ministry of Defence, and the Ministry of Municipality public safety and to curb the istry of Defense and the Min- opment and Qatar National and Environment in a group photo on the occasion of agreement signing. spread of the coronavirus. istry of Municipality and Vision 2030. The arrested persons being Environment. Following the signing of the signing ceremony toured the where they were briefed on the the most important programs referred to the competent A short film was displayed agreement, participants at the National Service Academy most prominent facilities, and it offers. prosecution are Mohammed Zahir Ahmad Dinawi; Abdullah Munjid Mohammed Al Amlah and Nasser Ali Mishaan Daraa ‘Digital Athletes’ virtual Al Marri. camp for children to Over 149,000 kick off on Sunday recover from RAYNALD C RIVERA an all-pervasive digital COVID-19 THE PENINSULA environment.” The camp runs until March 4. THE PENINSULA — DOHA A 12-day sports and technology Those interested to participate can virtual camp for children is set to register at: https://studio56.qa/en/ The Ministry of Public Health start on Sunday as part of the 13th news/30292 (MoPH) yesterday announced edition of Katara Tech Forum, the Katara Tech Forum aims to the registration of 462 new Cultural Village Foundation spread public awareness on infor- confirmed COVID-19 cases. (Katara) announced via its official mation technology on a large scale Among them 50 were trav- social media accounts yesterday. and make it available to all as a ellers returning from abroad. ‘Digital Athletes’ online camp key factor in the development of Another 265 people have organised by Studio 5/6 under the creative and knowledge recovered from the virus, Ministry of Transport and Com- capabilities. bringing the total number of munications in collaboration with The forum promotes learning recovered cases in Qatar to Katara aims to “enhance kids’ on the latest developments in the 149,031. talents on sports and technology world of information and commu- All new cases have been SOF winners from Loyola International School, Oasis campus. while safe at home,” said Studio nication technology, besides introduced to isolation and are 5/6. reviewing and presenting best receiving necessary healthcare Catered to children in two age practices and international according to their health groups, the camp offers comprises standards in Qatar and the world. Loyola International School students status. six different project-based work- The initiative also aims at con- The total number of pos- shops each running for five days. tributing to the implementation of shine at General Knowledge Olympiad itive COVID-19 cases recorded For children aged seven to 10, the the goals targeted by Qatar in Qatar is 159,053 and there workshops include Sports and 3D National Vision 2030 as well as THE PENINSULA — DOHA school students across the Jane Jennica 4B, Harshith are 9766 active cases under Scanning, Aim and Catch, and enhancing cooperation with sci- globe. Naidu 4A, Hiba Ansari 4A, and treatment. Code and Play while those aged 11 entific institutions and organisa- Students of the Loyola Inter- Of the many thousands Jagan Binu Sadev 5A. Medals There are 92 new cases of to 14 can participate in Ping Pong tions in Qatar and beyond, in national School recently of school students who took of distinction have been hospital admissions taking the Coding, Sports Equipment Mod- addition to fostering ties with local participated in the annual the test this year, several stu- secured by H Deepti, 1G, Anu- total number of patients in the eling, and Hurdling Games government bodies working to SOF General Knowledge dents of Loyola have per- priya Saravanan,3C, Ryan hospital to 656. workshops. meet National Vision 2030 goals Olympiad Examination held formed exceptionally well, Jacob of Grade 6C. Seven were admitted to The workshops will explore the in the field of information online this year for students securing cash prizes and Principal PKV Prasad and intensive care, and so 99 online 3D scanning tools used to technology. across the globe and they medals of excellence and Vice Principal Mou Bera con- people continue to receive customize sports equipment, see The forum also eyes bridging have performed exceedingly distinction. gratulated the students for medical attention in ICU. the participants use different the gap between tech-savvy youth well. Keerthi Saisha of Grade their outstanding per- While the first phase of coding software to create a race interested in information tech- Science Olympiad Foun- 1D outshone her peers and formance at a global exami- COVID-19 vaccinations has with customized rules and designs, nology and the information tech- dation, or SOF, is an educa- won the Zonal Silver Medal nation and thanked the started in Qatar and in the and look into various software nology-based institutions through tional organisation popular- and a gift of 1,000 Indian parents for their continued coming months it will be used to create digital competitions hosting specialised conferences, ising academic competition Rupees. Jessica Meeka of support. available for the public for in different virtual sports, among symposiums, and lectures on latest and assisting development of Grade 6C and Rudra Jigar of Loyola continues to free, the Ministry has others. information and digital technology competitive spirit among grade 2 were awarded a gift inspire students to excel in all stressed it is important for The camp is presented by issues and breakthroughs. school children. of 500 Indian Rupees and a aspects of education by pro- everyone to play their role Studio 5/6 – “a Fab Lab set up by The 12th edition of Katara Tech SOF was established by Medal of Distinction. viding them with opportu- in controlling the virus by the Ministry of Transport and Forum delved into how technology leading academicians, scien- Gold medals of excellence nities for academic excellence following precautionary Communications to nurture kids affects children’s learning and tists and media personalities have were secured by Ben and sharpening their soft measures including and youth as digital learners by overall wellbeing with focus on the and has been striving from Goldly, 1C, Ekansh Zanwar 1A, skills with various co-scho- adherence to physical dis- sharpening their 21st century positive and negative effects of many years to promote sci- Suhani Sameer 2A, Soham lastic activities that help them tancing and wearing face learning skills, as they develop in technology use on children’s life. entific attitude that involve Samal 2B, Sheza Fathima 3B, to improve holistically. masks. 04 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 Beirut court removes lead port blast investigator AP — BEIRUT The development is propose a new lead investi- gator, before a government- Lebanon’s highest court likely to further delay appointed judicial body signs yesterday asked the chief pros- the investigation into off on the nomination. ecutor investigating last year’s Sawwan’s appointment massive Beirut port explosion the horrific explosion process itself was considered to step down, following legal that killed more than opaque and the investigation, challenges by senior officials he so far secret, has been tainted had accused of negligence that 200 people, wounded with political interference, led to the blast, a judicial official over 6,000 and Human Rights Watch has said. and the country’s official news disfigured much of Two judges named by the agency said. justice minister before Sawwan The Court of Cassation Beirut. were rejected without an expla- Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi speaks during his meeting with Libya's interim Prime Minister called for a new investigating nation by the body in charge of Abdulhamid Dbeibeh at the Presidential Palace in Cairo, yesterday. judge to be appointed to lead approving the selection. the probe, nearly six months vailed for decades. The families of the victims after it had started. Judge Sawwan had accused had welcomed Sawwan’s Libya’s interim leader holds The development is likely and summoned for questioning decision to summon senior offi- to further delay the investi- Lebanon’s caretaker prime cials, saying no senior politician gation into the horrific minister and three former min- should be spared. explosion that killed more than isters on suspicion of negli- After the decision was talks with Egyptian President 200 people, wounded over gence that led to the deadly announced, Kayan Tleis, whose 6,000 and disfigured much of explosion. 40-year-old-brother was killed AP — CAIRO In Cairo, Dbeibah, a pow- transitional authorities have Beirut. Families of the victims Two of the former ministers in the blast, said Sawwan was erful businessman from the vowed to end political divisions and survivors had blamed the challenged Sawwan in court in up against major political Libya’s newly elected interim western city of Misrata, that have split Libya between ruling political class for cor- December, accusing him of vio- actors. prime minister yesterday held expressed his gratitude to rival administrations: a UN- ruption and negligence that led lating legal and constitutional “We had put a lot of hope in talks in Cairo with the Egyptian Egyptian President Abdel Fattah backed, but weak government to the explosion of ammonium procedures and asking that he Judge Sawwan. But there were president as part of his efforts Al Sissi for his “honest and in the capital of Tripoli — a city nitrate, a dangerous chemical be recused. Last month, the lots of political pressure on him, to galvanize support from effective efforts” to end the war largely controlled by an array that had been stored in the port Court of Cassation had asked and once he started summoning regional powers and try to unify in Libya. He added that his gov- of armed factions — and an for years. They planned a Sawwan to resume his work senior officials, it was likely the fractured North African ernment was looking forward eastern-based government protest outside the Palace of while it looks into the they would get rid of him or nation. to achieve a “comprehensive backed by strongman General Justice later yesterday. complaints. take the file away,” Tleis said. Earlier this month, Abdul partnership” with the Egyptian Khalifa Haftar. Each is backed Human Rights Watch, the On Wednesday, he sum- Aya Majzoub, Lebanon Hamid Mohammed Dbeibah government. by different foreign New-York based watchdog, moned the third former min- researcher at Human Rights was elected as prime minister Al Sissi stressed “his governments. said the decision to remove ister for questioning. The min- Watch, said yesterday’s by Libyan delegates at a UN- eagerness to support the Libyan Egypt was a key backer of Investigating Judge Fadi ister tweeted that he would not decision shows the courts in sponsored conference near people” on the road to stability Haftar, who had launched an Sawwan “makes a mockery of show up. Lebanon “have drawn the red Geneva. The delegates also and offered to share Egypt’s offensive in 2019 to capture the justice’” and is an “insult to the Details of the court’s lines: politicians are not subject elected a three-member Pres- expertise on rolling out devel- capital, Tripoli, from the UN- victims.” decision were not made public. to the rule of law.” idential Council, which along opmental projects to rebuild supported government. The explosion, one of the A judicial official, speaking on “There were many serious with Dbeibah will lead Libya Libya’s shattered economy, However, Haftar’s 14-month- largest non-nuclear blasts in condition of anonymity because problems with Sawan’s inves- though national elections in according to a statement long campaign collapsed after history, has been one of the he was not authorised to speak tigation, and there may have December. Mohammad Younes released by Al Sissi’s office. The Turkey stepped up its military most traumatic national expe- to the media, said the office of been legitimate reasons to chal- Menfi, a Libyan diplomat from meeting was attended by support for the Tripoli riences the Lebanese have the attorney general had lenge his investigation,” she the country’s east, was selected Egypt’s intelligence chief, Abbas administration. faced. Family members of those received a copy of the decision. said. “But the mere fact that he as chairman of the council. Kamel and Prime Minister After Haftar’s defeat, Al Sissi killed had been sceptical of a The official said all summoning charged politicians is not one The election of the four was Mustafa Madbouly. had threatened to intervene transparent and independent now are off since Sawwan has of them.” “This charade needs a major step toward unifying Dbeibah’s government is militarily in Libya if Turkey- investigation into the August 4 been asked to step down. to end,” she added and called Libya and ending one of the expected to run Libya until backed forces marched on the explosion, in a country where According to the law, the for an independent interna- intractable conflicts left behind elections on December 24. strategic coastal city of Sirte, a culture of impunity has pre- minister of justice now has to tional investigation. by the Arab Spring. The newly-appointed held by Haftar’s forces. Africa COVID-19 deaths near 100,000 after 2nd wave Over 11,000 Ebola vaccines

REUTERS — JOHANNESBURG Africa, which accounts for the rise in deaths was pro- Reuters data show Africa’s nearly half. South Africa was nounced in countries near case fatality rate is now at will go to Guinea: WHO Africa’s total reported death toll ravaged by a second wave South Africa like Zimbabwe, around 2.6 percent, higher than from COVID-19 was caused by a more contagious Mozambique and Malawi, the global average of 2.3 AP — DAKAR presenting symptoms of diar- approaching 100,000 variant that has jammed up cas- raising the possibility that the percent, and marginally up on rhoea, vomiting and bleeding. yesterday, a fraction of those ualty wards. 501Y.V2 variant identified in the 2.4 percent rate after the The World Health Organization The sick had participated reported on other continents “The increased number (of South Africa late last year had first wave of infections - which says it will be sending more than in the burial of a nurse who had but rising fast as a second wave infections) has led to many spread through the southern at the time compared 11,000 Ebola vaccinations to the died in late January and was of infections overwhelms severe cases and some of the Africa region - although more favourably with other West African nation of Guinea in buried on February 1 in Gouake, hospitals. countries really found it quite genomic sequencing needs to continents. the coming days to combat the in the country’s south, The continent’s reported difficult to cope,” Richard be carried out to prove that. Experts caution against recent epidemic of the deadly according to Guinea’s Health deaths, at 99,800, compare Mihigo, coordinator of the International aid group reading too much into the data hemorrhagic fever that has been Ministry. Traditional funerals favourably with North America, immunisation programme at Doctors Without Borders (MSF) - the real toll may be much declared in the country’s in which people wash and which has registered more than the World Health Organiza- this month called for urgent higher or lower. For instance, southern N’Zerekore region. touch the body of the deceased half a million, and Europe, tion’s Africa office, said. vaccine distributions in South Africa’s excess deaths — WHO regional director for facilitate the spread of Ebola. which is approaching 900,000, “We have seen some coun- southern Africa to counter the deaths considered over-and- Africa Dr. Matshidiso Moeti said It usually jumps to humans a tally shows. tries getting to their limit in spread of the new variant, as above the normal rate — during yesterday that 11,000 Ebola from infected animals, such as But deaths are rising sharply terms of oxygen supply, which most African countries have the pandemic have reached vaccines are being prepared in bats, and then spreads between across Africa, driven by its has got a really negative impact lagged richer Western nations over 137,000, almost three Geneva and are expected to humans via direct contact with southern region, especially eco- in terms of case management in launching mass vaccination times its official COVID-19 arrive in Guinea over the bodily fluids. nomic powerhouse South for severe cases.” Mihigo said programmes. death toll. weekend. An additional 8,600 As of yesterday, Guinea has doses will be shipped from the recorded three confirmed United States, she said. The Ebola cases, including one Nigeria approves vaccination campaign could death, according to WHO. start as early as Monday. Health officials hope to stem AstraZeneca “Thirty vaccination experts the spread of Ebola in West Africa, have already been mobilized which experienced the deadliest vaccines locally and are ready to deploy Ebola outbreak in history from as soon as Ebola vaccines 2014 to 2016 that killed more than BLOOMBERG — ABUJA arrive in the country,” she said. 11,300 people, mostly in Guinea, The WHO has called on six Liberia and Sierra Leone. Nigerian regulators approved African countries to be on high Neighbouring Sierra Leone a coronavirus vaccine that was alert for Ebola infections after and Liberia are tracking pos- developed by AstraZeneca Plc both Guinea and Congo sible cases within their borders. and the University of Oxford recorded cases in recent weeks. Liberia’s Health Minister Dr. for emergency use in the West “The sub-region is on high Wilhelmina Jallah said yes- African nation. alert and surveillance in neigh- terday that health workers are “The Serum Institute of boring countries is ongoing,” testing a woman who entered India Ltd on February 10 sub- she said. “Our collective, quick Liberia on February 12 from the mitted a dossier on the Cov- action is crucial to avert an Guinean town of Nzerekore ishield vaccine, which it is pro- uncontrolled spread of Ebola and was showing signs of ducing under license from amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Ebola. The woman is currently AstraZeneca, and it was found which has already pushed in isolation, awaiting the test to be safe and well-tolerated health workers and health results, she said. in adults above 18 years of age, facilities to the edge.” Sierra Leone earlier this the National Agency for Food Guinea’s epidemic was week reported a suspected and Drug Administration and declared after a crisis meeting Ebola case as well from a man Control said in a statement Jordanians frolic in snowfall Sunday, less than a month after who had no recent history of yesterday. health officials detected suspi- travel, but who showed signs The shot was also found to Jordanians create a snowman following snowfall in Amman, Jordan, yesterday. cious cases with patients of the virus. be effective against a COVID-19 variant that was first identified in the UK and has been detected in Nigeria, Zimbabwe starts administering Sinopharm vaccines Lagos-based Channels tele- vision cited Mojisola Adeyeye, AP — HARARE Sinopharm on Monday as a Zimbabwe aims to vac- submitted its expression of Western countries that imposed the agency’s director-general, donation from China’s gov- cinate 10 million of its people, interest” to be part of an initi- sanctions in response to allega- as saying. Zimbabwe started giving ernment, joining Egypt and which represents 60% of the ative by the African Union to tions of human rights abuses Three other vaccines and COVID-19 vaccinations Equatorial Guineas as the first country’s population and which bulk buy vaccines for the con- and vote-rigging under the rule more than 30 herbal medi- yesterday, with Vice-President few African countries to get the health officials say will achieve tinent, Information Minister of former President Robert cines are undergoing evalu- Constantino Chiwenga volun- vaccine. herd immunity. Monica Mutsvangwa said last Mugabe, who died in 2017. ation, she said. teering for the first jab at a Another 600,000 Herd immunity is when week. The government says it Amid public mistrust of South Africa paused its hospital in Harare. Sinopharm doses purchased by enough people have immunity, has budgeted $100m for vac- COVID-19 vaccines in the plans to dispense the Astra- Zimbabwe is starting its the Zimbabwean government either from vaccination or a cines and local businesses have country, Chiwenga, who is also Zeneca shot this month after rollout with China’s Sinopharm are expected to arrive early next past infection, to stop the also been asked to donate to the the health minister, said Zimba- a small study showed it had vaccine and Chiwenga said he month, according to gov- uncontrolled spread of the effort. bwe’s health ministry had “con- little impact on mild infections took the first shot to “exhibit the ernment officials. The southern virus. Nobody knows what herd Since 2003 Zimbabwe, has ducted all scientific processes to caused by another strain of the government’s confidence” in African nation also expects to immunity would be for the looked to China, and also ascertain the efficacy of the virus first identified in that the inoculation. Zimbabwe get other vaccines from Britain, coronavirus. Russia, for assistance after Sinopharm vaccine, which was country last year. received 200,000 doses of India and Russia. Zimbabwe “has also falling out with confirmed to be 79 percent.” FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 ISLAM 05 The significance of the month of Rajab he Lunar Islamic calendar is of be upon him): We used to offer the sac- twelve months, four of which are rifice of Al ‘Ateerah during the Jaa- Tsacred. Allah says in the Quran: hiliyyah in the month of Rajab. What “Indeed, the number of months do you command us to do? He said, ordained by Allah is twelve—in Allah’s Offer sacrifices, no matter which Record since the day He created the month is it… heavens and the earth—of which four Ibn Hajar said: the Messenger of are sacred…” (Quran, 9:36). Allaah SAWS (peace and blessings of The sacred months mean some- Allaah be upon him) did not abolish it thing, and it is important for Muslims in principle, but he abolished the idea to know the different months that we of making this sacrifice especially in are in; because each month has its own Rajab. set of virtue and each month has its There is no saheeh report from the own set of rules, and its own set of Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah practices. The sacred months are four: be upon him) or from the Sahaabah to Dhul-Qi`dah indicate that there is any particular Dhul-Hijjah virtue in fasting during Rajab. Muharram The fasting that is prescribed in Rajab Rajab is the same as that prescribed in During the sacred months the other months, namely fasting on reward of good deeds is doubled and Mondays and Thursdays, and the three punishment of wrongdoings multiplied. days of Al Beed, fasting alternate days, Muslims are encouraged to refrain and fasting Sirar Al Shahr. Some of the from sins and increase the good deeds scholars said that Sirar Al Shahr refers during the sacred months. Sacred to the beginning of the month; others months are considered sacred for two said that it refers to the middle or end reasons: of the month. ‘Umar (may Allah be Allah has declared that fighting is pleased with him) used to forbid fasting forbidden in these months, unless ini- in Rajab because it involved resem- tiated by the enemy. Transgression of blance to the Jahiliyyah. It was reported the sacred limits during these months Islam added further sanctity to the four sacred months by making them a that Kharashah ibn Al Harr said: I saw is worse than at other times. Season for Extra Obedience to Allah by striving to please the Almighty, refraining ‘Umar smacking the hands of those It is stated in the Hadith: “Time has who fasted in Rajab until they reached come back to its original state, which from disobedience and doing more good deeds. Allah allowed us to earn His out for food, and he was saying, This it had when Allah created the heavens rewards and blessings through unconditional obedience to Him alone. is a month which was venerated in the and the earth. The year is twelve Jaahiliyyah. (al-Irwaa’, 957; Albaani months, of which four are sacred: three said: it is saheeh). are in succession, namely, Dhul-Qi’dah, Allaah is twelve months (in a year), so a better rock we would throw the first Say: fighting therein is a great trans- Imaam Ibn Al Qayyim said: the Dhul-Hijjah and Muharram, and (the it was ordained by Allaah on the Day one aside and adopt the other. If we gression…” (2:217) Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah fourth one) Rajab (of the tribe of) when He created the heavens and the could not find a rock, we would make The majority of scholars state that be upon him) did not fast for three con- Mudar, which is between Jumada earth; of them four are Sacred. That is a pile of dirt, then we would bring a the prohibition of fighting in the sacred secutive months (i.e., Rajab, Sha’baan (Thani) and Shaban.” (Al-Bukhari) the right religion, so wrong not your- ewe and milk it over the pile of dirt, months is abrogated by the verse: and Ramadaan) as some people do, and Dhul-Qi`dah: Means the month to selves therein…” (9:36) then we would do tawaaf around it. “Then when the sacred months have he never fasted Rajab at all, nor did he sit. You sit back, you do not fight, you These months are calculated When the month of Rajab came, we passed, then kill the Mushrikeen encourage people to fast this month. do not engage in any type of warfare. according to the movements of the would say Munassil Al Asinnah [the one wherever you find them…” (9:5), and Al Haafiz ibn Hajar said in Dhul-Qi’dahis the eleventh month in moon, not the movements of the sun, that causes the sharp heads of weapons other verse and reports which are Tabayyun Al ‘Ajab bimaa wurida fi Fadl the Islamic calendar. And it’s the month as the kuffaar do. to be taken off], and we would not general in application and which Rajab: No saheeh hadeeth that may be that comes before the season of Hajj. The Sacred Months are mentioned leave any spear or arrow that had an include commands to fight them. used as evidence has been narrated Dhul-Hijjah: The month in which by implication in the Quran, but their iron piece in it but we would take the Others say: It is not permissible to concerning the virtues of the month of Haj is, so there used to be a reiteration names are not given. Their names are metal head off and put it aside during initiate fighting during the sacred Rajab or fasting this month or fasting of Hajj in the pre-Islamic days. Dhul- mentioned in the Sunnah: the month of Rajab. (Narrated by months, but it is permissible to con- in any specific part of it, or observing Hijjah is the twelfth and final month in It was reported from Abu Bakrah Bukhari). tinue and conclude fighting, if it started Qiyaam Al Layl specifically during this the Islamic calendar in which the Haj (may Allaah be pleased with him) that Al Bayhaqi said: the people of the at a different time. The fighting of the month. Imaam Abu Ismaa’eel Al takes place as well as Eid Al Adha. the Prophet (peace and blessings of jaahiliyyah used to venerate these Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah Harawi Al Haafiz has already stated Muharram: Which means for- Allah be upon him) gave his Farewell sacred months, especially the month be upon him) against the people of this before me, and we have narrated bidden. It is the beginning of the year, Sermon and said: “Time has completed of Rajab, and they would not fight Taa’if is interpreted in this way, this from others also. so it’s forbidden. Muharram is the first its cycle and is as it was on the Day during this month. because the fighting had begun at In Fataawa Al Lajnah Al Daa’imah month of the Hijri calendar. Muharram when Allah created the heavens and The Sacred months have a special Hunayn in the month Shawal. it states: with regard to fasting specif- is called so because it is a sacred the earth. The year is twelve months, status, which applies also to Rajab The above does not apply to ically in Rajab, we do not know of any (Muharram) month and to confirm its of which four are sacred, three con- because it is one of these sacred fighting in self-defence. If the enemy basis in Sharee’ah for doing that. sanctity. secutive months—Dhul Qa’dah, Dhul months. Allaah says: “O you who attacks the Muslim lands, it is oblig- The ahaadeeth indicate that the Rajab: Means to remove and Hijjah and Muharram — and the Rajab believe! Violate not the sanctity of the atory for the inhabitants to defend Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah refrain, the only month that does not of Mudar which comes between Symbols of Allah, nor of the Sacred themselves, whether that happens be upon him) did not do ‘Umrah during come in succession. It is the second last Jumaada and Sha’baan.” (Bukhaari). Month…” (5:2) during a sacred month or not. Rajab. month before Ramadan, so it presents It was called Rajab of Mudar This means: Do not violate their During the Jahiliyyah, the Arabs As for singling out some of the days us with a chance to make our cele- because the tribe of Mudar did not sanctity which Allah has commanded used to slaughter a sacrifice during of Rajab for any kind of good deed, bration of Ramadan even more special. tamper with its timing, unlike the you to respect and forbidden you to Rajab as an act of worship towards ziyaarah (visiting the House of Allah, Islam added further sanctity to the rest of the Arabs, who used to violate, for this prohibition includes their idols. the Ka’bah) or anything else, there is four sacred months by making them a tamper with the months and change both vile deeds and vile beliefs. When Islam came, teaching that no basis for this, because Imam Abu Season for Extra Obedience to Allah their order depending on whether Allah says: “so wrong not your- sacrifices were to be offered only to Shaamah stated in his book al-Bida’ by striving to please Allah Almighty, they were in a state of war or not. selves therein…” (9:36) meaning, in the Allah, this deed of the Jahiliyyah was wa’l-Hawaadith: specifying acts of refraining from disobedience and doing This was the postponing referred to Sacred Months. The pronoun here abolished. The fuqaha’ differed as to worship at times that were not spec- more good deeds. Allah allowed us to in the verse. refers to these four sacred months, as the rulings on offering sacrifices during ified by sharee’ah is wrong; no time is earn His rewards and blessings through “The postponing (of a Sacred stated by the Imam of the Mufassireen, Rajab. The majority of Hanafis, Malikis to be regarded as better than any other unconditional obedience to Him alone. Month) is indeed an addition to dis- Ibn Jareer Al Tabari (may Allaah have and Hanbalis stated that the sacrifice except in cases where the sharee’ah Those four sacred Months are not belief. Thereby the disbelievers are led mercy on him). of Al Ateerah was abrogated. Their evi- gave preference to a certain act of sacred in themselves. So do not wrong astray, for they make it lawful one year So we should pay attention to the dence was the hadeeth, “There is no worship at a certain time, or stated that yourselves during those months espe- and forbid it another year in order to sanctity of these four months, because Fir’ and no ‘Ateerah”, narrated by any good deed done at this time is cially, and always generally. adjust the number of months forbidden Allah has singled them out for a special Bukhari and Muslim from Abu better than good deeds done at other “And your Lord creates whatsoever by Allaah, and make such forbidden status and has forbidden us to commit Hurayrah. times. Hence the scholars denounced He wills and chooses” (Holy Quran ones lawful.” (9:37) sins out of respect for their sanctity, The Shaafa’is said that al-‘Ateerah the practice of singling out the month 28:68). The attribute of choosing or It was also said that the reason why for sins committed at this time are even had not been abrogated, and they of Rajab for doing ‘Umrah selecting is indicative of His Lordship it was attributed to Mudar was because worse, because of the sanctity of the regarded it as mustahabb (recom- frequently. and Oneness, and of the perfection of they venerated it and respected it so time which Allah has made sacred. mended). This was also the view of Ibn But if a person goes for ‘Umrah His Wisdom, Knowledge and Power. much, so it was attributed to them. Hence in the verse quoted above, Allah Seereen. during Rajab without believing that this One aspect of His choosing and The people of the Jaahiliyyah used has forbidden us to wrong ourselves Ibn Hajar said: this is supported by has any particular virtue and because preferring is the fact that He has chosen to call Rajab Munassil Al Asinnah (the even though this – i.e., wronging our- the hadeeth narrated by Abu Dawood, it is just a coincidence that it is easier some days and months and given them one that causes the sharp heads of selves, which includes committing Al Nisaa’i, and Ibn Maajah, and classed for him to go at this time, then there is preference over others. Among the weapons to be taken off), as it was sins—is forbidden during all the months as saheeh by Al Haakim and Ibn Al nothing wrong with that. months, Allah has chosen four which reported that Abu Rajaa’ Al Ataaridi of the year. Mundhir, from Nubayshah, who said: He has made sacred, as He says: said: Allah says:“They ask you con- A man called out to the Messenger Sources: islamqa.info & quran- “Verily, the number of months with We would a rock, then if we found cerning fighting in the sacred months. of Allah (peace and blessings of Allaah reading.com A direct route to get the pleasure of Allah

DR HAZEM SAID & MA HA when You are the Lord of the This hadith also assures us EZZEDDINE Worlds?’ ‘Did you not know that serving people does not that one of My servants was need any other motive than bu Hurairah (may Allah thirsty but you did not give him seeking Allah. Our communities be pleased with him) a drink? If you had given him a do not need a concrete gain in Areported that the Prophet drink, you would have found order to dedicate their time and (peace be upon him) said: Allah its reward with Me.’ (Bukhari) resources to easing the hardship will say on the Day of Judgment, Just as the Prophet (PBUH) was of others. “Son of Adam, I was sick but you sent as a mercy to mankind, so We must truly seek Allah did not visit Me.” ‘My Lord, how should we be a mercy to eve- only in what we do for others. could I visit You when You are ryone whose lives we touch. In Feeding the hungry, cooking the Lord of the Worlds?’ ‘Did serving others and giving to for a new mom, or shoveling you not know that one of My others, we find our Lord. In His our neighbour’s driveway do servants was sick and you didn’t mercy, the path to Him is one not need to be a chance to visit him? If you had visited him of peace and improving the spread Islam or in order to you would have found Me world around us. Only by prove ourselves as worthy cit- there.’ Then Allah will say, ‘Son helping others can we help around us, because in those so strong that it is impossible to says that He is there Himself, izens — sometimes it can just of Adam, I needed food but you ourselves. pleas for help is a call to getting ignore. Glory to Him. Maybe we can be about Allah. Even when our did not feed Me.’ ‘My Lord, how We cannot live a life of con- closer to our Creator. Instead, many of us have rethink our priorities so that we efforts and programs are criti- could I feed You when You are sumption and selfishness and In this Hadith, the Prophet desensitised ourselves to suf- jump at the chance to be there cized or targeted, if the moti- the Lord of the Worlds?’ ‘Did expect to win the pleasure of (PBUH) tells us that if you ever fering because it is out of sync in the places and opportunities vation is pure we should not be you not know that one of My Allah along the way. hoped for a direct route to the with the lifestyles we choose. where the pleasure of Allah can deterred by the ill will of some servants was hungry but you did It is out of the mercy and pleasure of Allah, here it is. At most, we may be persuaded be found. Maybe we can foster people. In our dedication to not feed him? If you had fed him wisdom of Allah that He made Therefore, we have to revive to donate, but usually not more. a high level of alertness so that peace as individuals and com- you would have found its serving others and creating a our sensitivity to the simple acts Yet in the feeding of the poor, we are always on the lookout munities, we must insist that reward with Me.’ ‘Son of Adam, peaceful, compassionate earth of service we can do everyday. relieving the thirst and suf- for ways to please Allah through our presence be a blessing and I was thirsty, but you did not one of the landmarks in the When we hear of someone who fering, and comforting the sick comforting the suffering people mercy to every neighborhood give Me something to drink.’ ‘My journey to Him. We cannot is sick or in need, the impulse lies an incredible closeness to in our communities and and city that we are in. Lord, how could I give a drink afford to ignore the suffering that we feel to help should be Almighty Allah, so much that He neighborhoods. Courtesy: Onislam.net 06 ASIA FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 Myanmar police use water cannon against protesters REUTERS — YANGON Big crowds returned break up a protest, a resident said. Pictures on social media Protesters demonstrated across to Yangon’s central showed soldiers and rows of Myanmar again yesterday to Sule Pagoda while police trucks. denounce the February 1 “They’re not acting in line military coup and arrest of many young people with the constitution nor rule elected leader Aung San Suu also massed at of law. They are acting like ter- Kyi, and police forcefully rorists,” said activist Sut Seng dispersed crowds, using water another favourite Htoi. Police were not available cannon in the capital and cata- protest site, at an for comment. pults in a northern town. intersection near In the old capital of Bagan, The daily protests and people with banners and flags strikes that have paralysed the main university marched in colourful proces- many government offices show campus, spilling into sions against a backdrop of no sign of easing even though ancient temples. Some pro- the junta has promised a new the streets. testers stopped at a temple to election and appealed for civil put a curse on dictators, a servants to return to work, witness said. threatening action if they do seen during an earlier half Putting an end to the civil not. century of army rule, but they disobedience campaign appears Demonstrators protest against the military coup in Yangon, Myanmar, yesterday. “I don’t want to wake up in and the civil disobedience to be the military government’s a dictatorship. We don’t want movement have had a crippling priority. The takeover and arrests Police have fired rubber the army took power after the to live the rest of our lives in effect on much official business. Late on Wednesday, the have drawn strong Western bullets several times. electoral commission rejected fear,” said Ko Soe Min, who was Many motorists in Yangon junta issued arrest warrants criticism with the United States One protester was shot in its accusations of fraud in a Nov. out in the main city of Yangon drove at a snail’s pace in a show against six celebrities, including and Britain among countries the head in Naypyitaw last week 8 election won by Suu Kyi’s where tens of thousands took of opposition to the coup, a day film directors, actors and a that have announced or and is being kept on life support, National League for Democracy. to the streets a day after some after many pretended to be singer, under an anti-incitement threatened sanctions. but doctors say she is not Opponents of the coup are of the biggest protests yet. broken down to block police law, for encouraging civil China has taken a softer expected to survive. deeply sceptical of junta Big crowds returned to and army vehicles. servants to join the protest. line while neighbours Singapore The army says that one promises to hand over power Yangon’s central Sule Pagoda In the second-biggest city, The charges can carry a and Indonesia have proposed policeman died of injuries sus- after a new election, for which while many young people also Mandalay, protesters rallied to two-year prison sentence. regional dialogue. Singapore tained in a protest. no date has yet been set. massed at another favourite demand the release of two offi- “It’s amazing to see the also urged that violence not be The army said on its Suu Kyi, detained since the protest site, at an intersection cials arrested in the coup. Police unity of our people. People’s used against civilians. Facebook page forces were pro- coup, faces a charge of violating near the main university fired water cannon in the power must return to the “In particular, live rounds viding security across the a Natural Disaster Management campus, spilling into the streets capital, Naypyitaw, to scatter a people,” actor Lu Min, who was should not be fired on unarmed country to “make sure people Law as well as charges of ille- as police tried to move them on. crowd approaching police lines. on the junta’s ‘wanted list’, civilians under any circum- have tranquillity and sound gally importing six walkie talkie The marches have been The northern town of posted on his Facebook page. stances,” Singapore’s foreign sleep”. radios. Her next court more peaceful than the bloodily Myitkyina was tense after police The military says a majority ministry cited its minister, Halting Myanmar’s tentative appearance has been set for suppressed demonstrations and soldiers used catapults to of people back its actions. Vivian Balakrishnan, as saying. transition towards democracy, March 1. Modi calls for In surprise move, Facebook blocks news access in Australia vaccine data AP — CANBERRA make it and Google pay for Aus- unnecessary, they were heavy- Facebook said the proposed offers to news businesses for sharing as tralian journalism, said handed and they will damage Australian law “fundamentally their journalism. In case of a In a surprise retaliatory move Treasurer Josh Frydenberg. He its reputation here in Australia,” misunderstands the relationship standoff, the panel would make exports increase yesterday, Facebook blocked said he was given no warning Frydenberg said. between our platform and pub- a binding decision on a winning Australians from sharing news before Facebook acted. The leg- Prime Minister Scott Mor- lishers who use it.” offer. REUTERS — NEW DELHI stories, escalating a fight with islation must be passed by the rison lashed out on his own “This is an assault on a sov- Google had threatened to the government over whether Senate to become law. Facebook page. ereign nation,” Health Minster remove its search functions from Indian Prime Minister powerful tech companies Australian news organiza- “Facebook’s actions to Greg Hunt told Parliament. “It Australia because it said the pro- Narendra Modi yesterday should have to pay news organ- tions could not post stories and unfriend Australia today, is an assault on people’s posed law was unworkable. But urged neighbouring countries izations for content. people who tried to share cutting off essential information freedom and, in particular, it’s that threat has faded as Google to consider sharing data on the Australia’s government con- existing news stories got noti- services on health and emer- an utter abuse of big technol- has worked out licensing content effectiveness of COVID-19 demned the step, which also fications saying they were gency services, were as ogies’ market power and deals with Australian media vaccines and explore special blocked some government blocked from doing so. arrogant as they were disap- control over technology.” companies under its own News visas for medics to move communications, including “This post can’t be shared,” pointing,” Morrison posted. The government contends Showcase model. around the region during messages about emergency the website said. “In response “These actions will only the proposed News Media Bar- Rupert Murdoch’s News health emergencies. services, and some commercial to Australian government leg- confirm the concerns that an gaining Code will ensure media Corp. announced a wide- As the dominant power in pages. islation, Facebook restricts the increasing number of countries businesses will be paid fairly for ranging deal with Google on and around South Asia, and The digital platforms fear posting of news links and all are expressing about the journalism linked online. Both Wednesday. with the capacity to be the that what’s happening in Aus- posts from news Pages in Aus- behavior of BigTech companies Google and Facebook had Major Australian media world’s top maker of tralia will become an expensive tralia. Globally, the posting and who think they are bigger than threatened to retaliate. organization Seven West Media COVID-19 shots, India has precedent for other countries sharing of news links from Aus- governments and that the rules Australia’s proposal reached a deal earlier in the gifted or sold more than 17 as governments revamp laws tralian publications is should not apply to them. They requires a negotiation safety net week. million doses to countries to catch up with the fast restricted.” may be changing the world, but through an arbitration panel. Their rival Nine Enter- including Bangladesh, Nepal, changing digital world. The legislation mentioned that doesn’t mean they run it,” The digital giants would not be tainment is reportedly close to Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Facebook acted after the by the notice has not yet been he added. “We will not be intim- able to abuse their dominant its own pact, and state-owned Indian companies have House of Representatives enacted. idated by BigTech seeking to negotiating positions by making Australian Broadcasting Corp promised to produce billions passed legislation that would “Facebook’s actions were pressure our Parliament.” take-it-or-leave-it payment is in negotiations. of COVID-19 shots this year alone. Some analysts say India’s Nepal approves high-profile vaccine Striking farmers block trains in northern India diplomacy could help it win Chinese vaccine, to back strategic influence lost to AP — NEW DELHI richer rival China in many buy AstraZeneca smaller countries in the region. Thousands of protesting doses from India “Can we create a regional farmers blocked trains platform for collating, com- yesterday by sitting on railroad REUTERS — KATHMANDU piling and studying data about tracks in parts of northern India the effectiveness of COVID-19 to press their demand for the Nepal approved yesterday the vaccines among our popula- repeal of new agricultural emergency use of a COVID-19 tions?” Modi said in an address reform laws that have triggered vaccine developed by an to regional health officials months of massive protests. affiliate of China’s Sinopharm, meeting virtually. Samyukta Kisan Morcha, or a government official said, the “Can we consider creating Joint Farmers’ Front, organized second vaccine cleared after a special visa scheme for our four-hour blockades of trains AstraZeneca’s product. doctors and nurses, so that at two dozen locations. The move paves the way they can travel quickly within Television showed pro- for China to donate 500,000 our region during health testers sitting on railroad tracks doses of the Sinopharm emergencies, on the request in Hapur, Modinagar, Kuruk- vaccine to the Himalayan of the receiving country?” shetra and several other places nation, which last month India, the world’s biggest in Haryana, Punjab and Uttar received one million doses of overall vaccine producer, has Pradesh states. Railroad author- the AstraZeneca vaccine free approved for emergency use ities halted train movements in of charge from its other big Bharat Biotech’s COVID-19 the affected areas. neighbour India. vaccine developed with the Authorities deployed thou- Nepal will also buy the state-run Indian Council of sands of security forces at AstraZeneca vaccine from Medical Research, and another railroad stations and tracks to India. licensed from AstraZeneca and prevent any violence. Farmers shout slogans while blocking a railway track at Modi Nagar railway station in Modinagar, “Conditional permission Oxford University. The protesters carried Uttar Pradesh, India, yesterday. has been granted to the The Serum Institute of banners and flags denouncing Chinese vaccine for its emer- India (SII) is producing the the three laws approved by Par- “The farmers have decided children and connected to our not get anything to eat,” said gency use in Nepal,” said AstraZeneca product for low liament in September, which that the struggle to get these daily bread. Either we will Hari Prakash, a 70-year-old Santosh K C, a senior official and middle-income countries they say will leave them poorer three laws repealed is con- survive, and our assets will farmer who was blocking a in the Department of Drug and will soon start bulk-man- and at the mercy of nected to our lives, connected survive, or the country won’t track on the outskirts of New Administration. ufacturing the Novavax shot. corporations. to our future, connected to our be able to get by as they will Delhi. Nepal launched its immu- nisation drive on January 27 beginning with medical workers, and plans to even- Malaysian court orders graft trial of ex-PM Najib's wife to proceed tually cover 72% of the South Asian country’s 30 million REUTERS — KUALA LUMPUR election, amid anger over every element of the offence... behind his decision, adding that court case. people. alleged corruption and their I now call upon the accused to this had caused his client emo- Rosmah, 69, faces three Health and Population A Malaysian court yesterday opulent lifestyle after police enter a defence,” judge tional distress. charges of soliciting and receiving Minister Hridayesh Tripathi ordered Rosmah Mansor, the raids revealed Rosmah owned Mohamed Zaini Mazlan said in “We had to comfort her a bribes involving a sum of 194m said Nepal would soon buy wife of former Prime Minister millions of dollars worth of jew- his ruling. little bit. We just told her to go ringgit ($48.09m) to help a two million doses of the Astra- Najib Razak, to enter a defence ellery and luxury handbags. Rosmah told the court that back to her house and remove company, Jepak Holdings Sdn Zeneca shot, made by the in a corruption trial linked to a The Kuala Lumpur high she would testify under oath all the stress that has gone Bhd, secure a solar power project. Serum Institute of India, for $4 multi-million dollar project court ruled that the prosecution during defence proceedings. through here,” Jagjit told Of that total, prosecutors each, the same price that approved while the ex-premier had proved sufficient grounds Her lawyer, Jagjit Singh, reporters. accuse Rosmah of arranging for Bangladesh is paying. was still in power. for the case to proceed. said after the hearing the Rosmah was earlier accom- 187m ringgit to be paid as a “We have received a good Dozens of graft charges “This is my finding that the defence would be “hampered panied by Najib, who had to political donation to Najib, price … we must not miss this were filed against the couple prosecution has produced to a certain extent” because the leave midway through her while also receiving two bribes opportunity to purchase it,” after Najib lost the 2018 credible evidence to prove judge did not explain the factors hearing to attend to his own of 6.5 million ringgit. Tripathi said. FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 ASIA 07

Thai government US supports Afghan peace process: Blinken files royal insult

REUTERS — WASHINGTON Antony Blinken told in Afghanistan. The US-Taliban deal paved complaint against Ghani that the US is The Taliban agreed in the the way for negotiations US Secretary of State Antony February 2020 deal to reduce between the insurgents and a oppn lawmaker Blinken discussed on committed to a peace violence and to stop hosting al delegation that includes Afghan Wednesday with Afghan Pres- deal that includes Qaeda fighters or allowing them officials on settling decades of BLOOMBERG — BANGKOK ident Ashraf Ghani (pictured) to raise funds, recruit and train strife. But the peace talks in an ongoing review of US “a just and durable in Afghanistan. Doha are deadlocked after The Thai government lodged a strategy in Afghanistan, with the political settlement US and European officials starting six months late. lese majeste complaint against top American diplomat reiter- have said the Taliban have not Blinken emphasised to an opposition lawmaker for ating support for the peace and permanent and met their commitments and that Ghani “that the United States allegedly defaming the process, the State Department comprehensive surging violence does not create will continue close consulta- monarchy and pledging said yesterday. ceasefire.” conditions for progress toward tions with Afghan leaders, Nato support for a movement calling Blinken told Ghani that the peace. allies and international partners for monarchy reform. United States is committed to a The insurgents say there are on the way ahead,” Price said. Suporn Atthawong, vice peace deal that includes “a just Price. accord for a phased US troop no al Qaeda fighters in Afghan- The presidential palace in minister to the Prime Minis- and durable political settlement The Biden administration’s withdrawal that is to be com- istan. They have indicated they Kabul said in a statement that ter’s Office, yesterday asked and permanent and compre- review of Afghanistan strategy pleted by May 1. will resume attacks on foreign Ghani and Blinken agreed on the police to pursue a case hensive ceasefire,” according includes how far the Taliban Administration officials troops if Washington fails to the need for continued bilateral against Amarat Chokepamitkul to the statement from State have fulfilled their commit- have said the review will adhere to the May 1 pullout cooperation and a successful of Move Forward party for vio- Department spokesman Ned ments under a February 2020 determine the US force posture deadline. peace process. lating the country’s Computer Crimes Act and lese majeste law after she censured the government during a par- Nato chief urges Afghan liament debate and posted the video on social media. “We’re not trying to silence government, Taliban any lawmakers, but they should be careful and avoid breaking the law,” Suporn to step up peace talks said, adding his team has gathered enough evidence AP — BRUSSELS presence of a smaller, intelli- against the lawmaker. “We gence-based American force. want to set an example for Nato Secretary-General Jens “The problem is that we are other lawmakers to not do Stoltenberg yesterday urged in a situation where we have a what she did,” Suporn said. the Afghan government and the date — the 1st of May — While Thai lawmakers Taliban to step up the pace of approaching and so far we have enjoy privileges that protect peace talks amid doubts over seen that the peace talks are them from legal proceedings whether the military alliance fragile,” Stoltenberg said after arising from what they say in will pull thousands of troops out chairing a meeting of Nato parliament, the government’s of the country by a May defence ministers, including legal team focused on Ama- deadline. new US Defense Secretary rat’s posts on social media Nato has just under 10,000 Lloyd Austin. which isn’t covered by such troops in the war-ravaged “The talks are fragile, and privileges. country, helping to train and progress is slow. So, it is now Thailand’s lese majeste law advise the Afghan security imperative to re-energize the is one of the harshest in the forces. Most are not US forces, peace process,” Stoltenberg world, mandating as many as but those troops could not con- said, referring to the stalled 15 years in prison for each tinue the Nato operation if negotiations in Qatar between instance of defaming, insulting American transport, logistics the Afghan government and the Nato Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg speaks during a news conference, after the alliance’s defence or threatening the king, queen, and other support were Taliban. ministers meeting in video format, at the headquarters in Brussels, yesterday. heir apparent or regent. Since withdrawn. Violence is also spiking and late November, authorities President Joe Biden is culprits include the Taliban, the member governments has pub- of our presence,” Stoltenberg on the contrary, increase troops have ramped up lese majeste reviewing his predecessor’s Islamic State group, warlords licly argued that security con- said. numbers, Stoltenberg said that lawsuits against key pro- 2020 deal with the Taliban, and criminal gangs. Earlier yes- ditions are right for a with- With the US review ongoing “we will do what is necessary democracy activists in a bid to which includes a May 1 deadline terday, two lecturers at Kabul drawal, and many allies would it’s unlikely that any firm to make sure that our troops are quell the movement. for a final US troop withdrawal. University were killed when a probably support a longer stay decision on the future of Nato’s safe. We have adjusted the Suporn also said his office In Washington, calls are bomb attached to the car they if the US requires it, diplomats operation will be made before troop numbers before, but I will has evidence of Amarat mounting for the United States were traveling in went off. No say. the organisation’s foreign min- not speculate because now the backing protest leaders, some to delay the final exit or rene- group claimed responsibility. “At this stage, we have made isters meet in mid-March. focus is on making sure that the of whom have been already gotiate the deal to allow the None of the 30 Nato no final decision on the future Asked whether Nato might, peace talks are successful.” detained for royal insult. Pakistan says 3 China slams Canada over declaration against arbitrary detention climbers missing AP — BEIJING Meng Wanzhou, who is wanted Michael Kovrig and Michael China says it has charged release those detained under on K2 are dead in the US on fraud charges. Spavor,” Hua said at a daily Kovrig and Spavor with endan- such conditions and to respect China lashed out at Canada Foreign Ministry spokes- briefing. gering national security, but the rule of law and human AP — ISLAMABAD yesterday for joining the US and person Hua Chunying yesterday “Canada’s so-called decla- little is known about the accu- rights.” 56 other countries in endorsing reiterated China’s demand for ration looks more like a con- sations. In detention, they have The declaration is also Three climbers who went a declaration denouncing state- Meng’s immediate release and fession in which the Canadian been allowed only occasional meant to be a broad denunci- missing earlier this month sponsored arbitrary detention told reporters Beijing has com- side admits its mistake in the visits from Canadian diplomats ation of coercive practice in while attempting to scale the of foreign citizens for political plained to Ottawa over the dec- Meng Wanzhou case,” Hua said. while Meng resides in one of her other countries, such as Russia, world’s second-highest purposes. laration, calling it a “despicable “On the one hand, the Canadian Vancouver mansions under a Iran and North Korea. mountain, K2, should now be The dispute is rooted in Can- and hypocritical act.” side advocates that it adheres loose form of house arrest. Canadian Foreign Affairs considered dead, Pakistani ada’s campaign to free its “Canada colluded with to the rule of law, but on the In endorsing the decla- Minister Marc Garneau said that officials said yesterday. nationals Michael Kovrig and some countries to issue a so- other hand, it acts as an accom- ration, US Secretary of State the declaration is “country- The announcement brings Michael Spavor, who were called declaration against arbi- plice of the US and arbitrarily Antony Blinken called on “all agnostic” and that he wants to closure to a dramatic tragedy arrested more than two years ago trary detention, and deliber- detains Chinese citizens. “ like-minded countries to work recruit more countries as sig- on one of the most dangerous by China in apparent retaliation ately let the relevant people Meng is a leading executive together to pressure the nations natories, which presently mountains to climb in the for Canada’s arrest days earlier slander China’s arbitrary with Huawei and the daughter that engage in such detentions include the UK, France, Aus- world. K2 had never been of a top Chinese tech executive, detention of Canadian citizens of the company’s founder. to put an end to this practice, to tralia, Germany and Sweden. scaled in winter until only last month, when a Nepalese team reached the peak. The three climbers — Nearly 5,000 HK citizens famous Pakistani mountaineer Ali Sadpara as well as Jon Snorri sign up for UK visa: Report of Iceland and Juan Pablo Mohr of Chile — lost contact with their REUTERS — LONDON crackdown while waiting for base camp while attempting the visa change. their ascent of the 8,611-metre Nearly 5,000 Hong Kong Britain’s interior ministry high K2, sometimes referred to citizens have applied to live, declined to comment on leaked as “killer mountain.” work and study in the United information. A spokeswoman Search efforts for the Kingdom under a new visa said the data would be pub- missing climbers were called scheme which opens up a path lished in the coming months. off last week amid bad to British citizenship for people Britain and China have weather. Clouds, strong winds fleeing China’s crackdown in been arguing for months about and snow had made previous the former colony, The Times what London and Washington search-and-rescue operations newspaper reported. say is an attempt to silence too dangerous — for both London made changes to its dissent in Hong Kong after pro- mountaineers on foot as well visa rules to give millions of democracy protests in 2019 and as helicopters. Hong Kong residents a chance 2020. Sadpara’s son, Sajid to settle in Britain after China Hong Kong’s autonomy was speaking at a news conference imposed a new security law guaranteed under the “one alongside officials, told that democracy activists say country, two systems” reporters in the northern town will end the freedoms promised agreement enshrined in the of Skardu yesterday that he to the territory in 1997. 1984 Sino-British Joint was grateful authorities had Under the rules, Hong Kong Declaration. done their best to try to find residents who hold a British China says Britain’s views People wearing protective masks sit as they queue before receiving a dose of China’s Sinovac Biotech the group, which went missing National Overseas passport will on Hong Kong are clouded by vaccine for the coronavirus disease at the Tanah Abang textile market, in Jakarta, on Wednesday. on February 5. be allowed to live in the United an imperial hangover and that A statement from the fam- Kingdom for five years and the territory needs the national ilies of Snorri and Mohr was then apply for “settled status” security law to counter dam- also read out at the news con- Jakarta warns of fines for refusing vaccine and citizenship. aging unrest. ference, thanking Pakistan and About half of the 5,000 China and Hong Kong have its military for facilitating the REUTERS — JAKARTA merely following rules and such 181.5 million of its 270 million applications received were said they will no longer rec- search, reported Pakistan’s sanctions were a last resort in population within 15 months from Hongkongers who were ognise the BNO passport as a English-language Dawn Indonesia’s capital Jakarta is Jakarta, which accounts for under a vaccination pro- already in Britain, The Times valid travel document from Jan. newspaper. threatening residents with fines about a quarter of the archi- gramme that started last month. reported, citing unidentified 31. BNO status was created by “Based on the last known of up to $356.89 for refusing pelago nation’s more than 1.2 The penalty would be sources. Britain in 1987 specifically for contact by John Snorri’s tele- COVID-19 vaccines, an million virus infections. determined by health agencies Some 5.4 million Hong- Hong Kong residents. phone, we are confident that unusually stiff penalty aimed at “If you reject it, there are or by local governments. kongers could be ultimately be The British government has all three men made it to the ensuring compliance with a two things, social aid will not “Sanctions are our last eligible for British citizenship forecast the new visa could top of K2 and something hap- new regulation making inocu- be given, (and a) fine,” Riza said. effort to encourage people’s under the scheme. attract more than 300,000 pened on the descent,” said the lations mandatory. Indonesia is fighting one of participation,” Health ministry Those people had already people and their dependants to statement. “Ali, John and Juan Deputy Jakarta governor Asia’s biggest and most official Siti Nadia Tarmizi said. been offered temporary set- Britain. Beijing said it would Pablo will live forever in our Ahmad Riza Patria said yes- stubborn coronavirus epi- “The target of 181.5 million tlement in the United Kingdom make them second-class hearts.” teray that city authorities were demics and aims to inoculate people is huge.” after fleeing China’s security citizens. 08 VIEWS FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021

Established in 1996 Insecure people more CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF likely to act negatively DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI [email protected]

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR DR. YOUSUF ALI AL MULLA MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI [email protected] People’s thoughts and feelings are swayed by what we might call negative influence, which is our tendency to respond more strongly to negative events and feelings than positive ones. However, EDITORIAL the strange thing, if we look from another angle, is that when we hear a mixture of praise and criticism, we scrutinize the Promoting private sector criticism and perhaps it appeals to the person instead of enjoying the praise. QATAR is fast emerging as hub for global FinTech com- Thus a defect - if I can say so - or a panies. The country has several incentives program to negative bias does not often distort our attract international business. It has partnered with fintech perspective and behaviour. Rather, we firms operating in Europe and India, while the government must be aware that a minor conflict can is also financing start-ups at home. have dire consequences when the force A view of Greenwich Park overlooking the City of London on the River Thames. Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), a partner in developing of abuse overwhelms your judgment and Qatar’s FinTech sector, has set a priority to attract Fin- thus provokes you for actions that may problems between you! sified and calculated. Techs operating in digital payments, Islamic FinTech, increase the alienation of your friend or a Here if I can take an example, when Perhaps this is another indication that RegTech, InsurTech, PropTech and SME-enabling relative. Therefore, you can be better off you hold on to calm for the sake of your insecure people are more likely to act FinTech. FinTech (or Financial Technology) is the term using your rational thought to override partner, your interest is often not even negatively. Undoubtedly, their fear of given to financial service firms whose product or service your irrational impulses! noticed, but when that person silently rejection or insult exacerbated the dis- is built upon technology, often resulting in highly inno- Interestingly, here in some way espe- withdraws from his partner, as the case tress they felt, because the argument for vative, pioneering services. cially in relationships, the negative in marital life or even a friend, you will them was not only about a specific issue, Last year, QFC launched the ‘QFC Tech Talk Series’, influence exacerbates the faults of your issue angry threats. And here this could but was a sign of deep problems and which bolsters connectivity across the FinTech ecosystem friend or life partner for instance, be the beginning of a catastrophic cycle even such a relationship was in danger of and encourages firms, experts and innovators to share whether they are real or imagined, of revenge! Undoubtedly sooner or later, a period of time. Somehow, you see that ideas, exchange knowledge and explore opportunities starting with their disdain for continuous one of them can be negative for so long a friend or life partner react quickly and spanning different verticals. support, because you also favor your that the other will start to respond nega- negatively to their partner being pushed QFC, a leading onshore financial and business centre inner confidence and the excess that tively as well. Sadly, when that happens - away. in the region, witnessed a significant increase of 63.7 amplifies your strengths. you agree with me - it’s hard to salvage At end, most people are not aware of percent in the number of new firms licensed on the QFC You wonder how your partner or rel- the relationship whatever it is! the negative impact on their relation- platform in 2020, compared to 2019. The QFC registered ative could be so selfish or blind! about On other hand, it is not an exagger- ships. I might ask someone, why you 334 firms in 2020, compared to almost 200 firms regis- your virtues - about everything you did ation -if I can say - that negativity is a think your colleague, friend or even a tered over the same period in 2019. for them. Perhaps deep inside, you are difficult disease to get rid of and it is future life partner would be a good Ending the year on a high note, the QFC maintained thinking about one of life’s most infuri- highly contagious. If we look at our daily partner. Definitely he /she will list the its business growth for the 8th consecutive year, despite ating mysteries: Why don’t they appre- lives how many stories will tell you that positive things: like being friendly and the unprecedented global economic slowdown as a result ciate me? when partners or friends are asked sepa- understanding and perhaps these things of the COVID-19 pandemic. The expansion of the QFC- Nevertheless, the truth here is that we rately for instance, to think about aspects make a difference, but I believe that the registered firms, which represents a variety of industries, look at relationships, regardless of the of their relationship, they spend more important point is to avoid negative both financial and non-financial services, included a place or with whom: in your work, in time thinking about the bad than the things. The fact that you are able to hold record increase of 139.5 percent in the digital sector. your home, or among your family good…isn’t it. So in order to get around your tongue instead of saying something The QFC also continued to leverage its support to members, to realize that it is not the good the bad things, you have to stop that neg- unpleasant or bad will benefit your rela- other firms across its strategic clusters, namely sports, and constructive things that those close ative sequence before it starts. tionship a lot more than a kind word or media and financial services, registering 62 newcomers to you do or do not do to each other, can Not to mention that every time a action. from these sectors. This increase pushes the QFC much determine whether the relationship friend did a negative act, such as com- closer to achieving its goal of registering 1,000 firms, works, as much as the destructive things plaining, speaking in a hostile tone and Dr.Yousuf Ali Al Mulla is a physician, ahead of the designated date as per its 2022 Strategy. they do or do not do in response to the insulting the other - the action was clas- medical innovator & writer. The year 2020 saw the QFC’s implementation of support measures in the face of the COVID-19 outbreak, which offered relief to its registered firms, in addition to new policies that create opportunities for firms looking Europe prepares a mutant COVID vaccine plan to fight the crisis to tap into the Qatar’s flourishing market. This included a legal services policy, which ensures that new QFC- ALBERTO NARDELLI & NIKOS UK The Commission also draft states. (€30m) in funds to boost licensed legal firms have the capacity and expertise to CHRYSOLORAS — BLOOMBERG engaged in a very public As part of the proposals, existing research projects serve international clients across geographic boundaries. dispute with AstraZeneca Plc the Commission will create around variants. Another significant announcement was the new regula- In an effort to get its inocu- over expected supplies and and manage a new bio- The UK medicines regu- tions for financial institutions to operate a representative lation drive on track, the amid calls in recent days by defense preparedness lator also said Tuesday it was office in Qatar, which further bolsters their business by European Union’s executive several member states to get program that will cover five looking at a rapid review of allowing an increased range of permitted activities. The arm will vow to accelerate ahead of a possible need for different fronts: any new vaccines targeting QFC also introduced a holistic digitalised incorporation research, authorization, booster shots to tackle new ŭ Rapid detection of variants, confirming that drug- process that streamlines the business experience of new procurement and distribution Covid mutations. variants makers will not have to go firms, starting from the licensing phase, and throughout for vaccines that fight variants A Commission spokes- ŭ Swift adaptation of through the same extensive their journey in Qatar. of the coronavirus, while also woman declined to comment vaccines approval process as the first- asking member states for on the draft proposal. ŭ Setting up a European generation shots and com- more money to back the drive. The spread of variants that Clinical Trials Network paring the likely process to the The European Commission are more transmissible and ŭ Fast-tracking regulatory annual flu vaccine updates. wants to adapt existing con- potentially less sensitive to approval of updated vaccines “It won’t be a full re-run of D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR tracts and strike new purchase existing vaccines has spooked and new or repurposed manu- the first vaccine approvals, it agreements with pharmaceu- EU governments, which next facturing infrastructures will be very modified, and very EMAIL: [email protected] tical companies to secure shots week will vow to “uphold tight ŭ Enable upscaling of pro- focused, and very much that protect against COVID-19 restrictions,” according to a duction of existing, adapted or quicker,” June Raine, chief EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 mutations, according to a draft draft communique seen by novel COVID-19 vaccines. executive officer of the Medi- FAX: +974 4455 7758 proposal of the strategy seen Bloomberg. Over a video The EU’s health commis- cines & Healthcare Products by Bloomberg. The contracts summit on February 25-26, sioner, Stella Kyriakides, Regulatory Agency, said at a MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 will include safeguards to the bloc’s leaders will declare anticipated aspects of the public board meeting. “We’re avoid earlier missteps that tar- that non-essential travel must decision to fast-track the well aware that with the threat DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 nished the current vaccine remain restricted, adding that approval of vaccines updated posed by particularly a patho- rollout. “variants pose additional to target mutations of the genic or a seriously harmful LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 “Existing agreements may challenges.” coronavirus in an interview variant we need to act fast.” have to be updated to cover “We need to accelerate the with a German newspaper The EU will also pledge to BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 protection against variants,” authorization, production and over the weekend. scale up industrial capacity according to the plan, which distribution of vaccines, as Additionally, the Com- across the bloc by working SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 will be published on well as vaccination, in the mission is set to announce that closely with manufacturers to Wednesday and could still be weeks and months to come,” it will create and fund a new monitor supply chains, tackle ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 changed. “Based on the lessons leaders will say next week, in a trial network called “Vaccel- bottlenecks and support manu- email: [email protected] learned, a detailed and wording that could signal the erate” to ensure that vaccine facturing of additional vaccines credible plan showing capa- governments’ discontent with trial sites are available across as part of an “EU Fab” project. PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 bility to produce vaccines in how the bloc’s executive arm Europe. The bloc’s executive Brussels will also foster “the email: [email protected] the EU on a reliable timescale handled purchase agreements arm will also support research creation of a collaborative will be a prerequisite. This of the life-saving shots. and rapid mass testing to licensing tool, which would ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 should not prevent the EU At the summit, the Com- detect new variants and will allow technology owners to FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] from considering sources from mission will invite the 27 again urge that member states retain a continued control over outside the EU if needed.” leaders to endorse and mobilize resources to ensure a their rights while guaranteeing CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 Brussels has come under mandate its proposals. “Given genome sequencing capacity that technology, know-how and email: [email protected] criticism for the sluggish pace the race against time, suffi- of at least 5 percent of positive data are effectively shared with of inoculations across the bloc cient funding will need to be test results can be reached. It a wider group of manufac- SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 compared to the US and the made quickly available,” the will make available $36.5m turers,” the draft proposals say. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar Our collective, quick action is crucial to avert an uncontrolled spread of Ebola amid the COVID-19 /Peninsula_Qatar pandemic, which has already pushed health workers and health facilities to the edge. /ThePeninsulaNewspaper Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO regional director for Africa +974 6698 6188 FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 EUROPE 09 Italy’s 5-Stars divided over Draghi, expel 15 senators AP — ROME its support from the 5-Star-led government The new government easily won its first headed by now-former Premier Giuseppe Conte. Italy’s 5-Star Movement said yesterday that 15 of confidence vote late Wednesday, when Initially, the 5-Stars refused to back Draghi, its senators will be expelled from the party after senators voted 262-40 with two abstentions enraged that a power play had toppled Conte, they voted “no” in a confidence vote for Premier plunged the country into a government crisis and Mario Draghi’s newly formed government. in favour of his Cabinet. Joining the 15 5-Star resulted in a technocrat being appointed premier The decision illustrated how Draghi’s defectors were members of the right-wing outside of the normal election process. appointment has badly split the 5-Stars, whose Brothers of Italy party. Draghi put together a broad-based gov- party was created as a grass-roots, anti-estab- ernment of unity that has ministers from the lishment protest movement opposed to the pro- 5-Stars, centre-right and left parties, as well as European banking establishment that the new be expelled but acknowledged the 5-Stars backed technocrats leading key ministries. premier represents to many members. Draghi is a Draghi-led government reluctantly. His government easily won its first confidence former president of the European Central Bank According to 5-Star Movement regulations, vote late Wednesday, when senators voted and served as the Bank of Italy’s governor. lawmakers can be expelled if they vote contrary 262-40 with two abstentions in favour of his The movement, the biggest vote-getter in to the positions of the party’s registered members, Cabinet. Joining the 15 5-Star defectors were Italy’s 2018 general election, nevertheless decided who are given a say on individual proposals via members of the right-wing Brothers of Italy party. Italy’s Prime Minister Mario Draghi attends a lower to back Draghi out of a sense of national respon- an online platform that is the hallmark of the More 5-Star lawmakers who go against the Chamber session of Parliament, in Rome, yesterday. sibility, given the crisis posed by the coronavirus 5-Stars’ brand of “direct democracy.” In a mem- party line may similarly face expulsion after a con- pandemic and resulting economic devastation. bership vote last week, 59% of 5-Stars supported fidence vote in the lower Chamber of Deputies In a statement on the 5-Star Facebook page, Draghi, swayed in part by his plans to emphasise President Sergio Mattarella asked Draghi, 73, scheduled for later yesterday. There, too, Draghi party leader Vito Crimi said the 15 senators would environmentally sustainable growth policies. to form a government after a small party yanked was expected to easily win strong majority support. German-Franco fighter jet stalemate can be solved: Berlin Britain’s Prince Philip remains REUTERS — BERLIN a break-through on Wednesday. Costing more than ¤100bn when the EU was rattled by Merkel and Macron failed But Maas believes the ($120.4bn), the Future Combat Britain’s decision to leave the to settle the row at the in hospital as An impasse over the devel- problems can be solved. The Air System (FCAS) brings bloc and deeply divided over beginning of February, leaving opment of a Franco-German countries would continue to try together Germany, France and other issues such as the migrant open when the next tranche of fighter jet can be overcome, and find a solution, he told a live Spain at the core of deepening crisis. project funds of at least ¤5bn ‘precaution’ German Foreign Minister Heiko stream on the sidelines of a visit European Union defence But it has become mired in can be released. AP — LONDON Maas said yesterday. to Paris. cooperation. mistrust and differing visions A French armed forces min- Talks between defence offi- “The Franco-German German Chancellor Angela between Berlin and Paris as istry spokesman said the goal Britain’s 99-year-old Prince cials from France, Germany and defence cooperation is an Merkel and French President well as corporate infighting remained to sign a deal by the Philip has spent a second night Spain, as well as Dassault, important part of our joint Emmanuel Macron kicked off over distribution of work and end of the German parlia- in a London hospital after Airbus and Indra, failed to bring security policy,” he said. the ambitious venture in 2017, security, industry sources say. mentary session in June. being admitted earlier this week as a precaution due to feeling unwell. Study suggests Buckingham Palace said France to boost cyberdefence after malware attacks on Wednesday that the London infection husband of Queen Elizabeth II AP — PARIS from spreading. was admitted to the private rates down The hospital also had to King Edward VII Hospital on French President Emmanuel postpone surgeries planned for Tuesday evening. It said the AP — LONDON Macron yesterday unveiled a the following day, but said admission was “a precau- plan to better arm public facil- patient safety was preserved. tionary measure” taken on the A major study has suggested ities and private companies The Dax hospital in south- advice of Philip’s doctor, and coronavirus infection rates in against cybercriminals western France reported a that the royal is expected to London have plunged by 80% following ransomware attacks similar attack last week. remain there for a few days of in the past month as lockdown at two hospitals this month and Without phones and computers “observation and rest.” His measures curb the spread of an upsurge of similar cyber working, health care workers illness is not believed to be the virus. assaults in France. had to use pen and paper for related to COVID-19. The Imperial College London The attacks at the hospitals record keeping. queen and Philip received a researchers tested 85,000 in Dax and Villefranche-sur- The French cybersecurity first dose of a vaccine against people across England Saone prompted the transfer of agency is helping to investigate the coronavirus in early between February 4 and 13 as some patients to other facilities the attacks. January. part of the monthly study. It as the French health care ANSSI said on Monday that Philip, who retired from found that about 1 in 200 system is under pressure from an attack similar to one used by public duties in 2017, rarely French President Emmanuel Macron presents the acceleration of people were infected, a fall of the coronavirus pandemic. Russian hackers targeted a appears in public. His most the national cybersecurity strategy during a video conference at two thirds from the month Macron discussed the software distributed by the recent public event was a mil- the Elysee Presidential Palace in Paris, yesterday. before. attacks with officials and French company Centreon, itary ceremony at Buckingham The decline varied across workers from both hospitals, resulting in the breach of Palace in July. the country and was steepest saying the incident “shows how among police and criminal included, but the increase par- “several French entities” from During England’s current in London, where a new and the threat is very serious, some- justice agencies after Ukrainian ticularly concerns the health late 2017 to 2020. coronavirus lockdown, the more contagious strain of the times vital.” “We are learning authorities confirmed a ran- care sector, the education “This campaign bears duke has been staying at virus was identified late last about these new attacks, some somware program known as system, local authorities and several similarities with pre- Windsor Castle, west of year. In January an estimated coming from states as part of Egregor was dismantled in the digital service providers, ANSSI vious campaigns attributed to London, with the queen, 94, 1 in 30 people in London had new conflicts between nations, country earlier this month fol- said. the intrusion set named who has performed duties the virus. That has now fallen others coming from mafias,” the lowing a joint action by the During ransomware attacks, Sandworm,” ANSSI said in a such as meetings with digni- to about 1 in 185. French leader said during a vid- United States, France and cybercriminals infect com- statement on Monday. taries remotely. Health Secretary Matt eoconference. Some attacks Ukraine. puters or computer systems Sandworm is a Russian The royal household is Hancock said the decline in have “criminal” or “lucrative” Macron’s office said the with viruses that scramble and hacking group that US security planning celebrations to mark cases was "encouraging … but motives, others are used to government will earmark about lock data until the targeted officials and cybersecurity Philip’s 100th birthday on June we must not drop our guard.” “destabilise” countries, he ¤500m ($603m) to help boost users pay a ransom. experts said interfered in the 10, lockdown restrictions Britain has experienced added. cyberdefence systems in the The hospital in Ville- 2016 presidential election in the permitting. Europe’s worst coronavirus Macron referred to a public and private sector. franche-sur-Saone, located United States, stealing and Philip married the then- outbreak, with more than massive hack of US federal The National Cybersecurity north of the city of Lyon, said exposing Democratic National Princess Elizabeth in 1947 and 118,000 deaths, and is in agencies last year and to the Agency of France (ANSSI) its phone system went down Committee emails and breaking is the longest-serving royal lockdown as a mass vacci- stealing of vaccine documents reported that ransomware during a cyberattack on into voter registration data- consort in British history. He nation program pushes ahead from the European Medicine attacks surged 255% in 2020 Monday that forced a bases. The group has also been and the queen have four at the continent’s fastest rate. Agency in November. compared to the previous year. preemptive shutoff of the blamed by the US and UK gov- children, eight grandchildren So far some 16 million people He stressed the need for All sectors and geographical Internet service and other net- ernments for the June 2017 Not- and nine have had a first dose, about a international cooperation areas of the country were works to keep the ransomware Petya cyberattack. great-grandchildren. quarter of the population. Germany likely Dozens arrested in fresh Spain to extend Czech, riots over rapper’s jailing Austria border AP — MADRID cities, anti-riot police fired rubber or foam bullets at baton-charged pro- controls More than 50 people were arrested and testers, who threw objects at officers dozens injured during a second night and set trash containers alight. Some REUTERS/BLOOMBERG — of protests that turned violent in several used overturned motorbikes to block GOTTLEUBA, GERMANY Spanish cities. The protests were streets. sparked by the imprisonment of a In the Spanish capital alone, police Germany will most likely have rapper who had insulted the monarchy arrested 19 people, including six to extend border controls with and praised terrorism. minors. Emergency services assisted the Czech Republic and Austria The protests began peacefully late 35 injured anti-riot officers and 20 beyond March 3 if outbreaks Wednesday in dozens of Spanish pro- others, including protesters and people linked to a more contagious vincial capitals and other towns in the who passed by and were caught in the coronavirus variant in those northeastern Catalonia region, home melee. countries are not contained, to the rapper Pablo Hasél. But as the In Barcelona, 29 people were Interior Minister Horst evening wore on they turned violent, arrested and at least eight were injured Seehofer said yesterday. with rioting, impromptu barricades and sent to hospitals, the regional “I believe that it is highly made from trash containers and fires, emergency service said yesterday. People move rubbish containers to build a barricade during a protest against the arrest probable that we will have to and damage to shops. At least four protesters were also of Catalan rapper Pablo Hasel in Barcelona, Spain, on Wednesday. extend because the situation In Madrid, Barcelona and smaller arrested on Wednesday in Granada. with the mutation has not changed decisively,” Seehofer said during a visit to the Czech border. “But I cannot say this UK Black and South Asian groups lag in COVID-19 vaccinations conclusively today.” Meanwhile, The number of REUTERS — LONDON people from Black and South Recent polls have indicated it. Television comedy writer those are things that we have confirmed coronavirus cases Asian backgrounds, who have that Black, Asian and other Adil Ray coordinated the cre- to do better at,” he told the BBC. in Germany increased by Only 55% of Black people in suffered a disproportionate minority groups in Britain ation of a video of celebrities Britain recorded 454 further 10,207 to 2,360,606, data from England in their 70s had been number of deaths, have been worry more than whites about with minority backgrounds deaths within 28 days of a pos- the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) vaccinated against COVID-19 more reluctant to be the vaccine’s reliability, while encouraging people to take the itive COVID-19 test, data for infectious diseases showed by last week compared to 86% vaccinated. government advisers believe vaccine, which was due to air released yesterday showed, yesterday. of white people of that age, a Among those from South socioeconomic factors raise on television on Thursday. with 12,057 new cases reported. The reported death toll study showed, as celebrities and Asian backgrounds, 73% of these groups’ risk of dying from He said that public debate There have been a total of rose by 534 to 66,698, the tally officials encourage minority people aged 70-79 had been COVID-19. in Britain about the impact of 119,387 deaths from COVID-19 showed. groups to accept the shot. vaccinated by February 11, Simon Stevens, chief exec- coronavirus restrictions on in the United Kingdom based The fast-spreading virus Britain has outpaced most according to a study by Open- utive of the National Health Christmas celebrations, had no on that measure. The official variant first found in the U.K. other countries by giving at Safely, run by the University of Service in England, on Monday bearing on the cultural life of figures showed 16.4 million now makes up more than 20% least one dose of coronavirus Oxford and the London School said this hesitancy was a “real many Asian people who may people have now had a first of cases in Germany, Health vaccine to more than a quarter of Hygiene and Tropical concern” and that a huge effort not celebrate Christmas. dose of a vaccine, while 573,724 Minister Jens Spahn said. of its population. However, Medicine. was being made to overcome “All those things matter, and have had a second dose. 10 EUROPE / AMERICAS FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 AstraZeneca faces resistance in Europe after health workers suffer side effects

REUTERS — PARIS In France, which started administering the hospitals are still learning how AstraZeneca shot on February 6, staff at a hospital best to administer vaccines as Health authorities in some governments race to tame the European countries are facing in Normandy experienced stronger side-effects pandemic and get shots in arms resistance to AstraZeneca’s than seen with the alternative vaccine from Pfizer as quickly as possible. COVID-19 vaccine after side- and German partner BioNTech. “AstraZeneca It’s also the latest setback effects led hospital staff and for the French vaccination cam- other front-line workers to call caused more side effects than the Pfizer vaccine,” paign which has been criticised in sick, putting extra strain on said Melanie Cotigny, communications manager at for a slow start. Last week, the already-stretched services. Saint-Lo hospital in Normandy. government said just over 3% Such symptoms, as reported of the population had received in clinical trials for the Astra- their first dose. Zeneca shot, can include a high was continuing to keep a close intensity. In Sweden, two of 21 temperature or headache and eye on the situation. It also issued guidance to healthcare regions paused vac- are a normal sign that the body “There have been no con- stagger vaccinations of front- cinations of workers last week Katsiaryna Andreyeva and Darya Chultsova, Belarusian journalists is generating an immune firmed serious adverse events,” line staff working together in after a quarter called in sick working for the Polish television channel Belsat accused of response. They usually fade the spokesman said. teams to minimise the risk of after getting the AstraZeneca coordinating mass protests in 2020 by broadcasting live reports, within a day or so. In France, which started disruption to operations. shot. The other shots approved administering the AstraZeneca The agency put out the The Sormland and Gav- flash the victory sign inside a defendants’ cage during a court in Europe, developed by Pfizer shot on Feb. 6, staff at a hospital advice after receiving 149 alerts leborg regions said that around hearing in Minsk, Belarus, yesterday. and Moderna, have been linked in Normandy experienced of often strong flu-like side- 100 out of 400 people vacci- to similar temporary side- stronger side effects than seen effects from the AstraZeneca nated had reported fever or effects, including fever and with the alternative vaccine vaccine. During this period a fever-like symptoms. Most Two Belarusian journalists sent fatigue. from Pfizer and German partner total of 10,000 people received cases were mild and in line with But with the AstraZeneca BioNTech. “AstraZeneca caused the shot nationwide. previously reported side- to prison for covering protest shot the latest to be rolled out, more side-effects than the Some US hospitals and effects. Both regions said they AP — KIEV health authorities in France Pfizer vaccine,” said Melanie other organisations with front- would resume vaccinations, least 10 have faced criminal have issued guidance to stagger Cotigny, communications line staff adopted a similar and the Swedish Medical Two journalists in Belarus were charges and remain in custody. giving the shot, two regions in manager at Saint-Lo hospital in strategy when the country’s Products Agency saw no reason convicted yesterday of violating “We consider the sentence Sweden paused vaccinations, Normandy. vaccination programme started to change its vaccination public order and sentenced to politically motivated, its goal is and in Germany some essential “Between 10% and 15% of in December. The United States guidelines. two years in prison after they to scare all journalists to prevent workers are refusing it. those vaccinated may have is administering shots from AstraZeneca’s vector-based covered a protest against them from fulfilling their profes- A spokesman for Astra- side-effects from this vacci- Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna. vaccine is the third to win reg- authoritarian President Alex- sional duty to cover socially Zeneca said: “Currently, the nation, but it is only a feverish In Britain, home to the ulatory approval in the ander Lukashenko. important events in the country,” reactions reported are as we state, fevers, nausea and within AstraZeneca vaccine developed European Union. Katsiaryna Bakhvalava, 27, the Belarusian Association of would expect based on the evi- 12 hours it goes away.” Fol- at Oxford University, the policy As part of the European who also goes by the last name Journalists said. “That effectively dence gathered from our lowing similar reports from has been to make vaccinations Medicines Agency’s positive of Andreyeva, and Daria amounts to a professional ban.” clinical trial programme.” other hospitals, the French readily available to hospital recommendation on January Chultsova, 23, both of the Polish- The International Feder- People receiving the vaccine medicines safety agency said on staff. As many work shifts, that 29, the watchdog concluded it funded Belsat TV channel, were ation of Journalists denounced are closely monitored through Feb. 11 that such side-effects naturally spaces out the was about 60% effective, com- arrested in November after the ruling as “shameful and routine pharmacovigilance were “known and described” process. pared to more than 90% for the police broke down the door of a totally unfounded.” activities, the Anglo-Swedish but should be subject to surveil- The issues in France high- vaccines from Pfizer/BioNTech Minsk apartment where they “Today’s verdict is a clear drug maker said, adding that it lance with regard to their light how some doctors and and Moderna. doing a live stream of a demon- attack on press freedom and we stration in the Belarusian capital. all stand together against this Addressing the court before mockery of justice,” federation Norwegian right-wing the verdict, Bakhvalava vowed president Younes Mjahed said Applications for asylum in Europe to continue working for in a statement. party leader Jensen “building a Belarus that won’t Belarus has been rocked by drop sharply amid pandemic have political repressions.” protests after official results to step down “I’m not pleading. I’m from the August 9 presidential AP — BRUSSELS resilience in sustaining many activities, demanding acquittal for me election gave Lukashenko a REUTERS — OSLO resulting in a decrease in backlogs of pending and my colleagues,” she said, sixth term in office by a land- The head of Norway’s anti-immi- Applications for asylum in the European applications.” referring to other jailed slide. The opposition and some gration Progress Party will step down Union dropped by more than 30% in 2020 According to figures provided by the journalists. poll workers have said the in May and will not run for parliament compared to the previous year, reaching their office, 461,300 applications were lodged in The two were charged with election was rigged. Authorities in September this year, she said in a lowest level since 2013, according the bloc’s 2020, compared to 671,200 in 2019. The “organizing actions rudely vio- in the Eastern European nation surprise announcement. asylum agency. agency said that about 4% of all applica- lating public order” - accusa- have responded with a Siv Jensen, 51, served as finance The European Asylum Support Office said tions were lodged by people claiming to be tions they denied. The US sweeping crackdown on the minister from late 2013 to early 2020 on Thursday that a decrease of 31% in the 27 unaccompanied minors. Embassy in Belarus has called demonstrations, the biggest of and has led her party for 15 years. The member states plus Norway and Switzerland As in 2019, Syrians lodged the most appli- for their release and urged which attracted up to 200,000 Progress Party quit the government in is mainly the result of emergency travel cations (14%), followed by Afghans, Vene- authorities to stop prosecuting people. Human rights activists January 2020 over a cabinet decision restrictions put in place during the corona- zuelans, Colombians and Iraqis. journalists for doing their job. say more than 30,000 people to help bring a woman suspected of virus pandemic. “Together, the five top nationalities lodged More than 400 journalists have been detained since the Islamic State affiliation back home to The agency noted that despite the virus over two fifths of all asylum applications,” have been detained in Belarus protests began, with thousands Norway. crisis, national asylum authorities “showed the European asylum office said. in the last six months, and at brutally beaten. EU sues more countries over air pollution, nature and water

REUTERS — BRUSSELS flouting the rules. Italy and Sweden. Failure to The commission took Slo- heed the rules could see those The European Commission said vakia to court for breaching EU countries face further legal yesterday it was suing Slovakia particulate matter limits in action from the EU to impose for years-long breaches of legal every year from 2005-2019, financial penalties. limits on air pollution and except for 2016, in Bansko- Particulate matter is pro- started legal action against bystricky kraj, a mountainous duced by industry, vehicle Germany and Slovenia for region in central Slovakia. The emissions and home heating, falling short on nature conser- eastern city of Kosice breached as well as some agriculture, and vation and water treatment. the limits each year from 2005- is associated with cardiovas- Air pollution in Europe has 2019, except for 2015 and 2016, cular diseases and lung cancer. eased in the last decade, but the commission said. The commission also sued remains the continent’s biggest Slovakia’s efforts to fix the Germany yesterday for a environmental health risk. Fine problem have failed to reduce “general and persistent” failure particulate pollution caused pollution in line with legal limits to produce sufficient conser- 379,000 premature deaths in or minimise the length of vation plans for more than the EU in 2018, according to the breaches, it said. 4,000 sites deemed important European Environment Agency. If found guilty, Slovakia for protecting nature. The EU Brussels has set legal limits would join a list of nine EU executive also sued Slovenia for 400th anniversary celebrations on particulate matter since states that the bloc’s top court not properly treating waste A man performs with his bike during celebrations for the 400th anniversary of the founding of the 2005, resulting in a series of has found guilty of illegal air water in four cities and towns neighbourhood Petare, in Caracas, Venezuela, yesterday. legal actions against countries pollution, including Romania, before discharging it.

Russia expels Maduro lodges new allegation of US spying on Venezuela firm Estonian diplomat AP — CARACAS nations broke ties two years ago Associated Press on whether he spying came in response to a Loreto said that Venezuelan when the Trump administration has started conversation with question on whether he could state officials presented no alle- in retaliatory step Venezuela’s president said and dozens of other govern- of US President Joe Biden’s consider releasing US citizens gations of spying at trial of the yesterday he is open to dialogue ments backed Maduro’s leading administration. “There’s always jailed in the US, including the six men. AP — MOSCOW with the new US administration adversary, Juan Guaidó, arguing room for dialogue.” so-called Citgo 6, as a goodwill “They were never tried for on calming tensions between that Maduro’s presidency was But the new accusations of gesture to the new US any spying related offenses. Russia yesterday announced the the two governments and illegitimate because his ree- spying against Citgo, a US- administration. They were not convicted on any expulsion of a diplomat from easing his nation’s economic lection was fraudulent. based subsidiary of Venezuela’s He said that while diplo- charge in any way related to Estonia in a quid pro quo move crisis, even while doubling The Trump administration state oil company, will likely matic efforts are always spying,” Loreto said. “That’s the to the Baltic nation’s decision to down with fresh accusations heavily sanctioned Maduro and complicate efforts to win sym- available, he wouldn’t get very first time I heard about order a Russian envoy out. that six American oil executives the Venezuelan oil sector as pathy in Washington, where involved with criminal cases spying, regarding my client.” The Russian Foreign Min- jailed in Caracas spied for the well as brought an indictment officials in Biden’s State that had been tried in a Vene- The US-based family of istry’s spokeswoman said yes- CIA, a claim rejected by rela- levying narcotrafficking Department have already zuelan court. “I’m not a judge Tomeu Vadell, one of the six terday that the Estonian tives and a defence lawyer in charges against Maduro that branded him a “dictator” who or prosecutor, and I shouldn’t jailed men, also rejected ambassador was informed of the case. carry a $15m reward for his should not be engaged with in get involved in this subject,” Maduro’s claims that he spied the move at a meeting where Nicolás Maduro, who spoke arrest. direct talks. Maduro said, but he then on his native Venezuela. Russia protested the expulsion at a news conference with Maduro is leading a cam- While Venezuela’s eco- accused the CIA of infiltrating The family urged US leaders of its diplomat. Foreign Min- international reporters at the paign to resurrect his once- nomic and political crisis Citgo. “They started to work as to do all they can to help bring istry spokeswoman Maria Miraflores presidential palace, wealthy oil nation’s decimated deepened, the six Citgo execu- agents of the Central Intelli- an end to Vadell’s impris- Zakharova said the Estonian refused to say whether he has economy after more than two tives were lured back to Caracas gence Agency.... This is the onment so he can return home decision to expel the Russian had any direct contacts with the decades of socialist rule. from the firm’s headquarters in truth.” to them. “We ask the Biden diplomat who had worked on Biden administration, which Maduro seeks relief from sanc- Houston and jailed on financial Maduro did not offer proof administration to expedite the cultural and educational issues took office nearly a month ago. tions, blaming them for Vene- charges. Their trial ended in of his claim, which drew imme- release of our loved one, was “absolutely baseless.” Maduro repeated a phrase zuela’s problems. November, with a judge finding diate pushback from Vene- Tomeu, and other Americans She did not specify the he commonly uses, saying he is “Is there room for dia- them all guilty and sentencing zuelan attorney Jesus Loreto, unjustly held in Venezuela,” responsibilities of the Estonian ready for a dialogue with the logue?” Maduro said in them to prison. who represented one of the six said one of Vadell’s daughters, who was declared persona US at any moment. The two response to a question from The Maduro’s allegation of Citgo executives. Veronica Vadell Weggeman. non grata in Russia. FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 AMERICAS 11 Experts warn against virus variants as states reopen AP — NEW YORK Gov. Ron DeSantis. Scientists widely agree that When asked about the rise As states lift mask rules and the US simply doesn’t have of new strains last week, ease restrictions on restaurants DeSantis told reporters, “The and other businesses because enough of a handle on the media is worried about that, of falling case numbers, public variants to roll back public obviously. You guys really love health officials say authorities health measures and is at that.” are overlooking potentially risk of fumbling yet another Florida has repealed many more dangerous COVID-19 phase of the pandemic restrictions and hosted 25,000 variants that are quietly fans for the Super Bowl in spreading through the US. after letting the virus rage Tampa and 30,000 spectators Scientists widely agree that through the country over at the Daytona 500 a week later the US simply doesn’t have the last year and kill nearly in what was the largest sporting enough of a handle on the var- 500,000 people. event in the nation since the iants to roll back public health start of the pandemic. measures and is at risk of fum- Restrictions are also being bling yet another phase of the eased in California, which is pandemic after letting the virus say the downward trend could recovering from a surge of rage through the country over reverse itself if new variants COVID-19 that overran its hos- the last year and kill nearly take hold. pital system in recent months. 500,000 people. The problem, as experts see California officials expect a sub- “Now is not the time to fully it, is that the US has been slow stantial number of counties to open up,” said Karthik Ganga- to ramp up a rigorous genetic US President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris during a meeting with labour leaders to be allowed to offer limited- varapu, a researcher at Scripps surveillance system for tracking discuss coronavirus response legislation and the president’s infrastructure plan in the Oval Office at capacity indoor dining and open Research Institute whose team the variants’ spread and meas- the White House in Washington, US, yesterday. up theaters, museums and works closely with San Diego uring how much of a foothold gyms. The state is also reporting health officials to watch for they have gained here. Congress is considering a bill fast for comfort,” said Dr. Lucio overwhelm hospitals in the country’s second-highest mutant versions of the corona- “The fact of the matter is that would provide $1.75bn for Miele a geneticist at LSU Health England, governments across case count for the British virus. “We need to still be we’re kind of in the dark,” said such work. Sciences in New Orleans. “We the continent responded by variant. vigilant.” Dr. Diane Griffin, who studies A more contagious and pos- need to be proactive. We’re not imposing strict travel restric- Elsewhere, states such as Over the past two weeks, infectious diseases at Johns sibly more deadly variant that invulnerable.” tions and lockdowns. North Dakota, Montana, Iowa the daily averages for both Hopkins. She said the variants was first identified in Britain has Detecting variants and But in the US, the emer- have lifted mask mandates in coronavirus cases and deaths are “probably widespread even been found in at least 42 states. knowing where and how widely gence of variants has been met recent weeks, and many more have dropped by about half in if we don’t know it.” Other variants first detected in they are spreading could be with a shrug among many state have eased restrictions on busi- the US, according to data from On Wednesday, the Biden South Africa and Brazil have critical to preventing another and local officials amid the nesses like restaurants, bars and Johns Hopkins University. And administration announced it been been reported across the deadly wave of COVID-19 like overall drop-off in confirmed stores. as of Wednesday, over 40 will spend $200m for the U.S. in low numbers. The South the one that overwhelmed hos- infections. Public health experts say million people - about 12% of Centers for Disease Control and Africa one is especially wor- pitals this winter. Florida, for example, has the part of the problem is that the the population - had received Prevention to triple its levels of risome because of evidence it In Europe in late 2020, once country’s highest tally of cases latest statistics may be mis- at least one dose of a vaccine. genetic sequencing to identify may diminish the effectiveness surveillance began flagging var- of the British variant, according leading. The CDC, for example, But experts including Dr. mutations that might make the of the vaccines. iants like the one that was to the CDC. But state leaders has reported only about 1,300 Anthony Fauci and CDC coronavirus more infectious or “We’re chasing a moving causing cases to rage out of seem to have already moved on cases of emerging variants Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky more deadly. Separately, target. It’s changing a little too control and from the coronavirus, including nationwide. Canada’s slow-burn vaccine rollout puts pressure on Trudeau Biden to focus on COVID-19, China REUTERS — OTTAWA vaccinations, according to the have said they are eyeing an government. General Hospital. University of Oxford’s Our early vote this year in a bid to Canada had to create man- Officials on both sides of the at G7 meeting Canada’s COVID-19 vaccination World in Data. Liberals now free the government from its ufacturing “from a standing border have said they have dis- campaign started on the same lead Conservatives only by one dependence on opposition start that is decades and cussed vaccines together, but REUTERS — WASHINGTON day in December as the United point, Abacus says. parties to pass legislation. decades old,” said a senior gov- there has been no indication States, but it now lags dozens of “We don’t know if we’re The lack of manufacturing ernment source, who declined that the United States is ready US President Joe Biden will countries, including its southern really going to get all the capacity became a hot-button to be named in order to speak to share with its northern discuss the worldwide neighbor, and Prime Minister promised doses... I’ll believe it issue after Pfizer Inc reduced frankly, adding it takes time to neighbor. response to the COVID-19 Justin Trudeau is feeling the when I see it,” opposition Con- its deliveries in January and ramp up production. Trudeau’s government says pandemic and efforts to rebuild pressure. servative leader Erin O’Toole February in order to boost pro- Opposition politicians also the delivery disruptions are the global economy in his Canada’s lack of domestic said on Tuesday during duction capacity at its plant in point out that Trudeau’s quick over. meeting with G7 leaders today, vaccine production is at the root question period in Belgium. Moderna Inc cut ship- embrace of newly elected U.S. Both Pfizer and Moderna White House spokeswoman of the problem, forcing the parliament. ments, too. President Joe Biden has failed have boosted planned deliv- Jen Psaki said. country to depend on foreign Canada has procured more Canada is making invest- to secure shipments of vaccines eries for the second quarter, Biden will also discuss the companies with production doses per capita than any ments in domestic production, from the United States. when 23 million doses are need to invest in collective abroad. country in the world, and including to produce the U.S.- Biden has not reversed an expected, and 84 million are competitiveness to tackle chal- In June, Trudeau’s Liberals Trudeau says everyone who based Novavax Inc vaccine in executive order signed by due by September. Three other lenges posed by China, as well had an 11-percentage-point lead wants to be inoculated will be Montreal; it’s also investing in former U.S. President Donald vaccines await regulatory as climate change, Psaki told against their Conservative Party by the end of September, but a an inoculation being developed Trump that blocks vaccine approval and could accelerate reporters at a new briefing rival, according to Abacus Data. Leger poll published this week by Quebec-based Medicago. exports. inoculations. yesterday. His government provided bil- shows most Canadians do not Neither is expected to be “You could throw a It is a race against time. Today’s virtual meeting is lions of dollars so people could believe him. available soon. snowball from (Pfizer’s Canada is beginning to open up the Democratic US president’s stay home and not work during Fewer than 3% of Canada’s Critics say the government Michigan) plant and hit Canada, as case numbers from the first event with other world the pandemic while the virus 38 million people have received moved too slow to gear up and yet we’re not getting second wave come down. But leaders in the group that spread rapidly in the United the first of two shots. domestic production and some vaccine from the plant, we’re more contagious variants could includes Britain, Japan, France, States. The 49-year-old Trudeau’s provincial leaders now want to getting it from Belgium,” said cause a third wave before most Germany, Italy and Canada. Canada now ranks about political future could be at stake place their own vaccine orders Dr. Isaac Bogoch, infectious dis- people get vaccinated, Bogoch “Biden will focus on the 40th in the world in per capita since senior Liberal sources and bypass the federal eases specialist at Toronto said. global response to the pan- demic, including vaccine pro- duction, distribution of sup- plies” and continued efforts to Power restored to fight emerging infections, she said. He “will also discuss the many in Texas, but global economic recovery, including the importance of all industrial countries main- water out for millions taining economic support for the recovery” and “the impor- REUTERS — LUBBOCK, TEXAS It did not provide detailed tance of updating global roles figures. At present some to tackle economic challenges Hundreds of thousands of 490,000 Texas households such as those posed by China,” homes in Texas are coping were without power, down Psaki added. without heat for a fourth day from around 2.7 million on yesterday after utilities made Wednesday, according to pow- White House says some progress restoring elec- eroutage.us, a website that tricity, as criticism mounted tracks outages. severe winter over how the state’s political Angry residents have storm likely due leaders have handled the brutal trained much of their ire on winter storm. ERCOT, which critics say did not to climate change The crisis facing the coun- heed warnings after a cold- try’s second-largest state was weather meltdown in 2011 to REUTERS — WASHINGTON set to continue, with millions of ensure that Texas’ energy infra- Snow-covered Canada geese float amid ice on the Hudson River during a winter storm in Nyack, a people still without access to structure, which relies primarily suburb of New York City, New York, US, yesterday. The White House yesterday water, many struggling to find on natural gas, was winterized. said a severe winter storm food, and freezing temperatures Critics have also raised ques- days without power at all. “I vaccine sites in areas with power bathroom, grab a bucket of engulfing Texas and other expected to last through tions about the leadership of know a lot of people in our outages. In addition to aiding water to clear the toilet - we’re states was the type of extreme Saturday. Texas Governor Greg Abbott, community still don’t have it Texas, FEMA said on Thursday it going old school!” Cesar Garcia, weather event that climate Judge Lina Hidalgo, the top who has called for an investi- (power) and are frustrated.” would provide assistance to the director of Galveston’s Parks change is triggering and proof elected official in Harris County, gation of ERCOT. U.S. Senator The lack of power has cut neighboring state of Oklahoma and Recreation Department, that “we’re not adequately which encompasses Houston, Ted Cruz of Texas has also come off water supplies for millions, due to the weather’s impact on its called out as he oversaw prepared for it.” said that the number of homes under fire after Fox News further strained hospitals’ power grid. Hospitals in scrubbing of the shelter set up White House homeland without power in her county reported on Thursday that he ability to treat patients amid a Houston, the state’s largest city, in the McGuire-Dent Recreation security adviser Liz Sherwood- had fallen to 46,000 from flew to the Mexican resort city of pandemic, and isolated vul- and elsewhere in Texas have Center. Randall said 1 million or more nearly a million the previous Cancun with his family, despite nerable communities with reported difficulties securing Garcia said he was bracing people are still experiencing night. She warned of challenges the storm’s fallout. Cruz’s Senate frozen roads still impassable in water. Nearly two dozen deaths for a potentially bigger crowd power outages as a result of the ahead. office did not respond to multiple parts of the state. have been attributed to the cold tonight, perhaps closer to the storm that has engulfed Texas “The water and food requests for comment. As of Thursday morning, snap. Officials say they suspect 100 who sought shelter on and other areas of the United impacts of the winter weather Gary Southern, a 68-year- 154 of the 254 counties in Texas many more people have died - Monday night, sleeping on States. Sherwood-Randall, continue, and there will be a old real estate broker from have reported disruptions in but their bodies have not been bleachers or a gymnasium floor speaking to reporters in a hard freeze tonight, which Mineral Wells, Texas, said his water service, affecting 13.2 discovered yet. with blankets and whatever phone briefing, promoted could cause additional impacts power was restored on million people, according to the In Galveston on the Gulf they brought with them from Democratic President Joe to infrastructure,” Hidalgo Wednesday afternoon, enabling Texas Commission on Environ- Coast of Texas, a pop-up shelter home. “Tonight being the Biden’s climate change agenda wrote on Twitter on Thursday. him to have his first solid night mental Quality. Many of those with heat but no running water coldest night, we don’t know in addressing the storm, putting “We still have work to do.” of sleep since he lost electricity affected have been told they had allowed about three dozen what to expect,” Garcia said. pressure on Republican leaders The Electric Reliability in the early hours of Monday. need to boil their water. people to huddle overnight While the icy conditions who have repeatedly Council of Texas (ERCOT), a “It was one of the worst The Federal Emergency before they were ushered back should gradually improve, denounced the Democrats’ cooperative responsible for things we’ve ever had to go Management Agency (FEMA) out into the cold on Thursday record low temperatures will proposed “green new deal” as 90% of the state’s electricity, through,” the lifelong Texan said historically low tempera- morning to let cleaning crews likely persist in the South a job killer. She said the storm said on Thursday it made “sig- said, adding that he was frus- tures were hindering efforts to get it ready to do it all over Central region of the United was an extreme weather event. nificant progress” in restoring trated at being told there would inoculate people against again on Thursday night. States through Saturday, the “We’re not adequately pre- power to a majority of homes. be rolling blackouts, only to go COVID-19, with more than 2,000 “When you go to the National Weather Service said. pared for it,” she said. Business 12

FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 Ireland to provide more targeted financial supports from Q3 We will also provide more targeted financial support beyond quarter two for those sectors that have been particularly wounded by this pandemic, such as aviation, tourism, hospitality, the arts and entertainment. Leo Varadkar Ireland's Prime Minister Business | 13 QSE 10,273.35 -69.35 (-0.67%) FTSE 100 6,626.25 -83.64 (1.25%) DOW 31,400.68 -212.34 (0.67%) BRENT $64.45 (+0.22)

Moody’s affirms Ooredoo’s GIS reports QR3bn revenue in 2020 THE PENINSULA — DOHA EBITDA of QR565m for the year ended 31 December 2020. A2 ratings; stable outlook Gulf International Services (‘GIS’ or ‘the Group’), one of the largest Impairment of assets within the drilling and aviation THE PENINSULA — DOHA diversified service groups in segments amounting QR308m booked during the year. Qatar with interests in oil and Moody’s Investors Service gas drilling, insurance, heli- Aviation and insurance segments continued to be on a (Moody’s’’) yesterday affirmed copter transportation and the A2 long-term issuer rating of catering services, yesterday positive trajectory. Ooredoo Q.P.S.C. (Ooredoo), as The rating action also reflects company repays some of the reported a net loss of QR319m well as the A2 backed senior Ooredoo’s healthy, albeit debt maturing in 2021 and 2022 for the year ended December Several cost optimisation initiatives implemented to offset unsecured ratings on Ooredoo declining EBITDA margins when and EBITDA margins improve. 31, 2020. impacts of the current macroeconomic conditions. International Finance Limited, compared to peers. Ooredoo’s Ooredoo’s BCA and issuer Group’s revenue for the year and the (P)A2 backed senior EBITDA margin declined to 44 ratings continue to benefit from ended December 31, 2020 unsecured Medium-Term Note percent in 2020 from 45.3 the company’s leading position in amounted to QR3bn, and Moreover, impairment of affected and were re-priced. Program rating under Ooredoo percent in 2019. The rating the high margin and resilient remained at the same level of assets within the drilling and This was coupled with modifi- Tamweel Limited. The outlook agency expects Ooredoo’s Qatari telecommunication last year. Revenue growth from aviation segment, has also con- cation of contract terms and on all the ratings is stable. EBITDA margin to improve to services market where it holds a the aviation and insurance seg- tributed significantly to the temporary rig suspension, spe- The affirmation of the ratings levels around 45 percent over the 75% market share and one of the ments was entirely offset by Group’s net losses for the year cifically within the on-shore reflects Ooredoo’s resilient per- course of the next couple of years top players in the largescale Indo- reduction in revenue from the ended 31 December 2020. The fleet, negatively impacting the formance in 2020 despite the as the company will benefit from nesian market; and strong drilling and catering segments. decision of the assets overall performance of the impact of the COVID outbreak. the efficient rollout of future cost liquidity with a cash balance and 2020 was a challenging year impairment was taken after segment. In 2020, revenue and EBITDA optimization programs. While undrawn committed credit facil- for the Group companies, as the taking into consideration the age However, despite the under- declined by 4 percent and 6 Ooredoo’s leverage and cash ities covering all group debt matu- oil and gas industry witnessed and technical capabilities of lying external factors, which percent respectively compared flow metrics have weakened rities for the next couple of years, severe volatilities coupled with those rigs and aircrafts and remains out of the segment’s to 2019. This was mainly due to slightly in 2020 compared to despite high dividend payments. the global economic downturn future marketability for those control, GDI placed efforts to a revenue reduction in the 2019, Ooredoo’s ratings remain The BCA also reflects Oore- amid COVID-19 outbreak, and assets. Excluding the impact of withstand these challenging prepaid segment as well as a sig- well positioned within its baa2 doo’s exposure to foreign-cur- created another layer of one-off, non-cash impairment conditions in order to mitigate nificant decrease in revenues Baseline Credit Assessment rency volatility, mitigated by downward pressures, while the losses, the Group’s bottom line the business and operational from roaming services. The (BCA) and A2 long-term the fact that operating sub- Group companies were relent- profitability reached to a net loss risks. The segment made con- weakness in Ooredoo’s opera- issuer rating. Ooredoo’s leverage sidiary debt is substantially in lessly working to recover from of QR10m for the financial year tinuous efforts to optimize cost tions in oil exporting countries — (debt to EBITDA) and cash flow local currency; its presence in the previous down cycle within 2020. in all possible areas of business, such as Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and (retained cash flow to debt) countries facing geopolitical the oil and gas industry. In light of the momentous to provide financial flexibility, Algeria, has been partially offset metrics have deteriorated slightly risks such as Iraq (Caa1 stable) These unprecedented macro challenges, demand for while ensuring that safety and by an improving performance in to 3.0x and 23.4 percent in 2020 or macro-economic challenges external factors led to significant the drilling rigs worldwide has performance standards are not other markets such as Indonesia. (including the prefunding of the such as Oman (Ba3 negative), cuts in oil and gas exploration, fallen drastically amid projects compromised. Moody’s expects the negative $1bn bond maturing in February which can create volatility in production and maintenance deferrals or cancellation, which Additional rigs are expected trend to reverse in 2021, driven 2021 from 2.8x and 26 percent EBITDA; and a structural trend activities across the globe and in turn led to a reduction in rates to commence operations in by a continued increase in in 2019 and the rating agency of data revenue, which makes negatively affected the Group of rigs, globally. various phases during first half revenue in Indonesia as well as expects those metrics to recover up around 50 percent of the entities in terms of operational Consequently, days-rates at of 2021, which will unlock solid a slight increase in revenue in to 2019 levels over the course of company’s revenue, replacing and financial performance for Gulf Drilling International (GDI) future growth opportunities for Qatar, as the economy recovers. the next couple of years as the voice revenue. `P13 the year. level were also negatively the segment. `P13

Turkey, Azerbaijan aim $15bn trade Cushman & Wakefield partners with Hapondo volume by 2023 THE PENINSULA — DOHA 100 percent Qatari home- ANATOLIA — ANKARA grown initiative.” Real estate consultants and Speaking about the part- Turkey and Azerbaijan set a brokers, Cushman & Wakefield nership, Abdulla Al Fadhala, co- target of reaching a $15bn Qatar, have signed a 12-month founder of Hapondo said “We trade volume by 2023, the partnership with Hapondo, are very excited and honoured Turkish vice president said Qatar’s home-grown property to be partnering with Cushman yesterday. marketplace. & Wakefield Qatar. Not only are Speaking at the Turkey- Created by Qatari entrepre- they an important player in Azerbaijan Business Forum, neurs, Hapondo is a website Qatar’s real estate landscape, Fuat Oktay said that apart dedicated to delivering the best but their brand has global rec- from the brotherhood between possible user experience. Edd ognition. We look forward to Turkey and Azerbaijan, the Brookes, General Manager of working together to help cus- two countries are important Cushman & Wakefield Qatar tomers in Qatar who are political and trade partners. said, “We are delighted to see looking for their new home.” "Our goal is to find new young Qatari entrepreneurs Cushman & Wakefield alternatives for our business- coming up with such techno- Qatar (formerly DTZ Qatar) people in the face of slowing logical innovation and no doubt established their office in Doha global economic growth due Hapondo will greatly assist res- in 2005, part of global real to the pandemic. Moreover, idents of Qatar in their search estate consultants Cushman & our target is to overcome weak for suitable homes”. Wakefield. The Qatar office and fragile growth trends with James Clarke, Head of Res- provides expert real estate projects to be carried out with idential with Cushman & Wake- advice in valuation, feasibility you, our precious brothers," field Qatar, said “As Qatar’s studies, commercial and resi- FROM LEFT: James Clark, Head of Residential, Cushman & Wakefield Qatar with Abdullah Al Fadhala Oktay said. premium residential broker, we dential brokerage and property and Abdulaziz Al Yazeedi from Hapondo during the agreement signing event. “In this direction, a crucial are delighted to partner with a management solutions. duty falls upon the business- people of our countries to put the current potential into practice,” he added. Siemens Energy’s ‘Qatar Energy Qatar has already adopted initiatives Pointing out Turkey's eco- to protect the environment and reduce nomic performance in 2020, Days’ highlights country’s global carbon emissions, but its energy the vice president stressed that transformation is still in the early Turkey and China are the only stages. We hope that discussions like countries at G20 that may end decarbonisation potential the year with growth. the ones we had will help accelerate In recent months, Turkey THE PENINSULA — DOHA participants and brought together a the energy transformation in Qatar. received $15bn foreign port- wide variety of perspectives from folio investment from abroad, Siemens Energy concluded a three-day local experts in generation, trans- Herbert Klausner he added. virtual conference, titled “Qatar Energy mission, and industrial applications, Managing Director of Siemens Energy in Qatar Meanwhile, Trade Minister Days,” which brought together partic- as well as government officials, in Ruhsar Pekcan stressed the ipants from across government, energy order to help shape the energy of preferential trade deal with and industrial sectors, focusing on the tomorrow. Azerbaijan will enter into force technologies to meet and surpass Qatar’s government is making it a accelerate the energy transformation excellence in oil and gas through digital as of March 1. energy-related goals under Qatar’s priority to find harmony between eco- in Qatar,” said Herbert Klausner, Man- transformation. "This is just the beginning. vision 2030. nomic growth and protecting the envi- aging Director of Siemens Energy in “This event was a great platform We want it [preferential trade The event highlighted Qatar’s role ronment in order to mitigate the Qatar. to discuss the potential for Qatar’s deal] to evolve into a free trade in advancing the energy transition glo- effects of pollution and global Topics discussed during the con- energy transformation. Qatar has the agreement, a target of both bally, its potential for creating a warming. ference included: Shaping the energy ability to leverage its existing expertise sides," Pekcan added. domestic hydrogen economy, as well “Qatar has already adopted initi- transformation in Qatar; Grid stabili- and technologies as a leader in the “Accordingly, in order to as the evolving global energy atives to protect the environment and zation through digitalizing trans- LNG industry to drive its transfor- achieve the $15bn trade target, trends. reduce carbon emissions, but its mission products and asset per- mation into cleaner energy,” said the two countries' business The virtual conference, which took energy transformation is still in the formance management; Why oil and Vinod Philip, EVP Chief Technology world must actively work with place from February 15 -17, was early stages. We hope that discussions gas companies should pivot to and Strategy Officer at Siemens us,” she added. attended by more than 350 like the ones we had will help hydrogen?; and Driving operational Energy. FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 BUSINESS 13 Ireland to provide more targeted Top 3 free messaging apps can be financial supports from Q3 downloaded from Huawei AppGallery BLOOMBERG THE PENINSULA — DOHA Leo Varadkar said Ireland will provide more Dublin will extend into Are you adept at social targeted financial support from the second quarter its messaging and in search of the the third quarter for sectors three main supports - best alternative free apps to hardest hit by the COVID-19 higher jobless payments benefit from? Don’t waste your pandemic, such as aviation, time searching further… here are tourism, hospitality and arts, for those temporarily the top-performing messaging the country’s business minister laid of due to the apps available on the Huawei said yesterday. pandemic, a wage AppGallery right now. Ranked Euro zone finance min- subsidy scheme and by the highest number of down- isters are likely to decide grants for businesses loads across the MEA region, between March and May when Botim, Imo, and Moya have videos. browsing, checking your SASSA and how governments should forced to significantly made their way to the top four imo is a global instant com- grant, live scores and more. No start tapering support to their shut down. most downloaded apps falling munication platform aiming to airtime? No worries! The Moya economies as vaccination under the “Communication” provide the most convenient, App works in all countries and campaigns allow the lifting of category in Huawei AppGallery. interactive and fun way for is #datafree. lockdowns, officials said this significantly shut down. beyond quarter two for those BOTIM - Unblocked Video people to connect. Through With over 96,000 applica- week. “In the short term, gov- sectors that have been partic- Call and Voice Call is a free accessible audio and video com- tions available across all cate- Leo Varadkar (pictured) ernment will extend into ularly wounded by this pan- worldwide calling and mes- munication services, rich multi- gories, Huawei AppGallery, the said Dublin will extend into the quarter two the vital financial demic, such as aviation, saging app for everyone. It can media content and other features third-largest global app distri- second quarter its three main supports in place,” Varadkar, tourism, hospitality, the arts bring your family and friends such as games, imo connects bution platform from Huawei, supports - higher jobless pay- who is also Ireland’s deputy and entertainment.” closer than ever. The application over 200 million users in 62 lan- offers a wide range of diverse ments for those temporarily prime minister, told The Restaurants Association supports both video and audio guages, across more than 150 apps and enables the users to laid of due to the pandemic, a parliament. of Ireland welcomed Varadkar’s calling among BOTIM users. In countries around the world. use these applications seam- wage subsidy scheme and “We will also provide more commitment to additional addition, it lets you sent text Moya App is a #datafree lessly with strict protection of grants for businesses forced to targeted financial support supports. messages, photos and short super-app for messaging, their privacy and security. Gulf International Services reports QR3bn revenue in 2020 Moody’s affirms FROM PAGE 12 Ooredoo’s A2 contracts, with higher occupancy levels at to reach QR162m, as compared to QR237m compared to 31 December 2019. The total In terms of topline performance, the the site camps. for last year. debt at Group level stood at QR4.4bn as at ratings; stable aviation segment continued the growth The Group reported an EBITDA of Revenue for the fourth quarter of 2020 31 December 2020. momentum and was able to sustain its QR565m for the year ended December 31, represented a moderate increase of 4 With new market dynamics and post outlook margins, while expanding its footprints 2020. Results were positively impacted, percent, compared to the third quarter of COVID-19 outlook, the Group management FROM PAGE 12 internationally via winning several new underpinned by growth in revenue within 2020, mainly on the back of growth from is still working closely with all stakeholders short-terms contracts during the year and the aviation segment on the back of strong aviation segment, where, segmental revenue including the financial advisor, to refor- Ooredoo’s A2 issuer rating further pushing ahead with the growth of operational performance owing to market grew by 32 percent, on a quarter-on-quarter mulate a funding strategy, including capital reflects its standalone credit- MRO business into new markets. expansion strategy, specifically in the basis. The growth in aviation segment’s and debt restructuring, and finalize a new worthiness as expressed by a The insurance segment witnessed sig- international markets, growth within the revenue was backed by improved flying sustainable restructuring and refinancing BCA of baa2, combined with a nificant growth in terms of premiums, domestic fleet and MRO business. Simi- hours within the domestic segment, revenue program, which would be financially viable ‘high’ level of dependence and amid successful renewal of existing con- larly, insurance segment continued its pos- growth from the Turkish subsidiary; Red Star for debt serviceability in the long term. a ‘high’ level of support from tracts with clients, along with improved itive trajectory while building on pre- aviation, and better revenue generated from Given the level of uncertainty amid the Government of Qatar (Aa3 price terms. Moreover, the segment was miums on the back of aggressive market MRO business due to increased maintenance macroeconomic dynamics, going forward, stable). Moody’s support able to gain new SME clients in its medical expansion strategies and successful con- and overhaul work performed in relation it is anticipated that with some stability assumptions remain line of business, which further added value tract renewals coupled with favorable to a domestic contract. reached at the macro level, there could be unchanged. to the top line. Al Koot Insurance currently pricing terms. The Group’s total assets declined by 8 a new funding strategy formulated, which The stable outlook reflects stands as the second largest company, in The Group also benefitted from the percent during the year, to reach QR10bn could lead tooptimum funding levels, with Moody’s expectation of sus- terms of gross written premiums within continued current low interest rates, which as at December 31, 2020, compared to last an efficient and effective interest cover for tained operating performance the medical insurance business in Qatar. positively impacted the financial per- year. On the liquidity front, the closing the Group, while unlocking future growth in next 12-18 months and a During the year, catering segment suc- formance for the year 2020, where cash, including short-term investments, opportunities, that could translate into gradual deleveraging within cessfully won new catering and manpower Group’s finance cost declined by 31 percent stood at QR691m, down by 24 percent as realizable shareholder value creation. Moody’s guidance for rating.

QATAR STOCK EXCHANGE

QNBK - QNB 16.52 16.55 16.35 16.68 1,000 16.48 16.35 78,828 16.35 16.35 -0.17 -1.03 1,581 6,939,246 114,214,540.60 QIBK - Qatar Islamic Bank 16.88 16.88 16.65 16.99 7,468 16.86 16.65 67,362 16.65 16.65 -0.23 -1.36 649 1,467,035 24,697,700.23 CBQK - Comm. Bank of Qatar 4.30 4.350 4.243 4.399 25,531 4.357 4.355 9,000 4.355 4.355 +0.055 +1.28 254 1,807,415 7,880,201.890 DHBK - Doha Bank 2.289 2.307 2.251 2.307 39,411 2.28 2.265 88,790 2.265 2.27 -0.024 -1.05 54 460,338 1,045,349.506 ABQK - Ahli Bank 3.85 3.65 3.65 3.80 1,665 3.8 3.65 2,350 3.80 0.00 -0.05 -1.30 2 15,758 57,636.70 QIIK - Intl. Islamic Bank 8.86 8.831 8.701 8.900 25,953 8.782 8.701 145,664 8.701 8.701 -0.159 -1.79 369 1,207,686 10,579,904.110 MARK - Rayan 4.347 4.347 4.303 4.388 4,000 4.342 4.305 67,972 4.305 4.305 -0.042 -0.97 704 6,948,082 30,099,635.509 KCBK - Al khalij Commercial Bank 2.10 2.100 2.073 2.110 50,000 2.1 2.073 71,985 2.073 2.07 -0.027 -1.29 16 558,130 1,166,710.660 QFBQ - Qatar First Bank (QFC) 1.81 1.80 1.80 1.82 934,894 1.81 1.808 19,911 1.81 1.81 0.00 0.00 103 3,739,222 6,764,164.60 QETF - QE Index ETF 10.173 10.219 10.20 10.22 9,822 10.181 10.146 9,856 10.20 10.093 +0.03 +0.27 8 56,850 580,095.85 QATR - Al Rayan Qatar ETF 2.385 2.392 2.376 2.392 7,343 2.376 2.375 12,904 2.376 2.365 -0.009 -0.38 8 25,935 61,736.496 QATI - Qatar Insurance 2.30 2.28 2.25 2.28 175,496 2.25 2.245 10,000 2.25 2.25 -0.05 -2.17 80 543,678 1,233,499.78 DOHI - Doha Insurance 1.60 1.571 1.567 1.600 4,200 1.595 1.567 20,450 1.596 0.000 -0.004 -0.25 29 335,117 525,915.563 QLMI - QLM 3.906 3.90 3.80 3.90 4,426 3.89 3.851 4,300 3.89 3.890 -0.02 -0.41 34 157,546 610,597.47 QGRI - General Insurance 2.53 0.00 0.00 0.00 16,711 2.53 2.28 12,000 2.53 0.00 0.00 0.00 0 0 0.00 AKHI - Alkhaleej Takaful 2.795 2.81 2.75 2.82 271,726 2.8 2.761 56,625 2.80 0.000 0.00 +0.18 38 209,307 583,904.01 QISI - Islamic Insurance 7.023 7.023 7.023 7.200 12,500 7.098 7.002 10,000 7.099 0.000 +0.076 +1.08 15 138,000 978,955.720 QAMC - QAMCO 1.005 1.001 1.001 1.035 460,220 1.032 1.031 25,541 1.032 1.032 +0.027 +2.69 1,418 52,552,401 53,883,769.705 QIMD - Ind. Manf. Co. 2.80 2.80 2.80 2.92 34,237 2.85 2.825 3 2.85 2.85 +0.05 +1.79 27 174,945 492,136.50 QNCD - National Cement Co. 4.718 4.62 4.50 4.70 31,970 4.56 4.556 1,000 4.56 4.560 -0.16 -3.35 146 1,268,688 5,827,050.85 ZHCD - Zad Holding Company 14.40 14.41 14.41 14.41 1,250 14.41 14.11 4,410 14.41 14.41 +0.01 +0.07 2 1,000 14,410.00 IQCD - Industries Qatar 12.14 12.14 12.04 12.25 4,000 12.22 12.12 348,940 12.12 12.12 -0.02 -0.16 413 1,266,019 15,432,695.72 UDCD - United Dev. Company 1.584 1.59 1.57 1.59 22,991 1.579 1.57 108,029 1.57 1.570 -0.01 -0.88 131 1,704,552 2,695,883.65 QGMD - Qatar German Co. Med 3.271 3.295 3.270 3.295 118,726 3.279 3.275 54,710 3.279 3.28 +0.008 +0.24 122 1,918,681 6,281,252.414 QIGD - The Investors 1.924 1.924 1.912 1.944 57,358 1.934 1.925 5,000 1.934 1.934 +0.010 +0.52 100 817,789 1,577,471.494 ORDS - Ooredoo 7.78 7.87 7.71 7.87 20 7.734 7.71 88,000 7.71 7.71 -0.07 -0.90 452 1,147,075 8,881,907.80 QEWS - Electricity & Water 17.58 17.75 17.40 17.78 1,141 17.68 17.45 42,653 17.45 17.45 -0.13 -0.74 362 775,786 13,582,935.07 SIIS - Salam International 0.623 0.622 0.622 0.627 610,000 0.626 0.623 219,316 0.626 0.626 +0.003 +0.48 67 3,149,841 1,968,769.711 BLDN - Baladna 1.734 1.735 1.733 1.755 45,389 1.738 1.733 670,469 1.733 1.733 -0.001 -0.06 166 3,184,255 5,539,425.269 NLCS - National Leasing 1.18 1.18 1.18 1.19 126,467 1.18 1.177 33,500 1.18 1.180 0.00 0.00 116 2,456,838 2,902,089.87 QNNS - Qatar Navigation 7.40 7.39 7.39 7.57 50,000 7.489 7.4 4,282 7.40 7.40 0.00 0.00 134 828,533 6,179,156.97 MCGS - Medicare 8.312 8.31 8.31 8.54 654 8.54 8.46 6,497 8.46 8.46 +0.15 +1.78 47 211,421 1,788,506.37 QCFS - Cinema 3.85 3.608 3.608 3.848 2,850 3.838 3.608 6,328 3.848 0.00 -0.002 -0.05 2 3,682 13,287.056 QFLS - Qatar Fuel 17.70 17.88 17.70 17.88 5,000 17.72 17.71 1,688 17.72 17.72 +0.02 +0.11 287 355,479 6,302,852.35 WDAM - Widam 6.055 6.10 6.06 6.12 5,740 6.1 6.075 3,000 6.10 6.100 +0.04 +0.74 18 43,964 268,179.65 GWCS - Gulf warehousing Co 5.048 5.005 5.000 5.049 1,795 5.015 5.013 10,917 5.013 5.013 -0.035 -0.69 55 151,427 759,272.982 QGTS - Nakilat 3.30 3.30 3.26 3.32 1,716 3.3 3.295 5,000 3.30 3.300 0.00 0.00 296 2,386,188 7,867,630.89 DBIS - Dlala 1.846 1.87 1.82 1.87 105,051 1.84 1.828 10,470 1.84 1.84 -0.01 -0.33 95 1,449,679 2,675,906.77 BRES - Barwa 3.338 3.33 3.28 3.36 1,000 3.3 3.28 504,118 3.28 3.280 -0.06 -1.74 561 2,714,835 8,999,551.93 MCCS - Mannai Corp. 2.968 2.968 2.910 2.999 20,000 2.973 2.922 5,000 2.946 0.000 -0.022 -0.74 39 343,204 1,009,063.722 AHCS - Aamal 0.85 0.855 0.842 0.855 173,557 0.852 0.843 76,095 0.843 0.843 -0.007 -0.82 71 1,566,181 1,330,402.352 QOIS - Qatar Oman 0.863 0.864 0.853 0.869 16,839 0.869 0.86 145,040 0.869 0.000 +0.006 +0.70 19 278,053 239,996.477 ERES - Ezdan Holding 1.676 1.674 1.674 1.710 61,696 1.684 1.677 30,196 1.684 1.684 +0.008 +0.48 135 3,248,391 5,503,245.578 IHGS - Inma 5.334 5.290 5.266 5.348 11,446 5.297 5.281 8,000 5.297 5.297 -0.037 -0.69 25 149,547 790,924.897 GISS - Gulf International 1.643 1.643 1.643 1.676 5,673 1.658 1.651 139,458 1.651 1.651 +0.008 +0.49 268 7,463,471 12,418,221.240 MPHC - Mesaieed 1.977 1.972 1.955 1.988 25,000 1.986 1.955 71,732 1.955 1.955 -0.022 -1.11 300 3,446,617 6,792,998.913 IGRD - Investment Holding 0.56 0.561 0.561 0.572 368,320 0.564 0.563 72,042 0.564 0.564 +0.004 +0.71 173 11,935,099 6,747,502.842 VFQS - Vodafone Qatar 1.511 1.511 1.497 1.511 20,000 1.502 1.497 50,000 1.497 1.50 -0.014 -0.93 83 3,924,870 5,894,614.552 MERS - Al Meera 19.86 19.86 19.61 20.09 743 19.86 19.65 18,412 19.65 19.65 -0.21 -1.06 24 21,190 417,964.02 MRDS - Mazaya 1.23 1.226 1.219 1.240 50,000 1.224 1.219 40,111 1.219 1.22 -0.011 -0.89 172 4,032,550 4,938,401.679

QE INDICES SUMMARY QE MARKET SUMMARY COMPARISON WORLD STOCK INDICES EXCHANGE RATE

QE Index 10,273.35 -0.67 % 18-02-2021 Index Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Currency Selling (QAR) Buying (QAR) QE Total Return Index 19,821.46 -0.67 % Index 10,273.35 Dow Jones Industrial Average 31,613.02 +90.27 +0.29% US$ 3.6500 3.6305 Australian Dollar AUD 2.89 2.81 QE Al Rayan Islamic Index - Price 2,376.85 -0.72 % Change -69.35 S&P 500 3,931.33 +0.00 +0.00% Bangladeshi Taka BDT 0.0455 0.042 % -0.67% Nasdaq Composite Index 13,965.50 -- --% QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 4,240.53 -0.72 % Canadian Dollar CAD 2.93 2.86 YTD% -1.56 FTSE 100 Index 6,675.20 -35.70 -0.53% QE All Share Index 3,152.35 -0.68 % Volume 139,678,488 Euro EUR 4.5 4. 4 DAX Index 13,943.81 +34.54 +0.25% QE All Share Banks & Value (QAR) 401,606,712.76 Indian Rupee INR 0.052 0.05 CAC 40 Index 5,754.65 -11.19 -0.19% Trades 10,290 Japanese Yen JPY 0.0351 0.0344 Financial Services 4,076.72 -0.93 % Malaysian Ringgit MYR 0.925 ---- Up 17 | Down 28 | Unchanged 04 Nikkei Stock Average 225 30,236.09 -56.10 -0.19% QE All Share Industrials 3,250.53 -0.31 % Hang Seng Index 30,595.27 -489.67 -1.58% Nepalese Rupee NPR 0.033 0.031 17-02-2021 QE All Share Transportation 3,419.64 -0.05 % Shanghai Composite Index 3,675.36 +20.27 +0.55% Pakistani Rupee PKR 0.02326 0.02299 Index 10,342.70 Philippine Peso PHP 0.0785 0.076 QE All Share Real Estate 1,844.29 -1.03 % ASX All Ordinaries Index 7,155.50 -3.30 -0.05% Change -117.24 Pound Sterling GBP 5.17 5.07 QE All Share Insurance 2,371.88 -1.27 % % -1.12% Singapore Dollar SGD 2.77 2.7 QE All Share Telecoms 1,059.43 -0.91 % YTD% -0.89 GOLD AND SILVER South African Rand ZAR 0.245 0.235 Volume 173,017,917 QE All Share Consumer GOLD QR220.20 per gramme Sri Lankan Rupee LKR 0.0197 0.0185 Goods & Services 7,794.36 +0.11 % Value (QAR) 457,352,103.53 Swiss Franc CHF 4.15 4.07 Trades 11,519 SILVER QR3.20 per gramme Turkish Lira TRY 0.55 0.52 Sport FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 14 Serena exits news conference in tears after loss

REUTERS — MELBOURNE Before yesterday, Williams has a lot of weight, a lot of had looked her sharpest in years pressure,” the 17-times Grand Serena Williams broke down in If I ever say farewell, I at the tournament but 24 Slam champion told reporters tears and cut short her post- wouldn’t tell anyone. I unforced errors proved costly after reaching the final. match news conference against Osaka, who also beat her “She’s such an amazing yesterday after her 6-3, 6-4 don’t know. in the 2018 US Open final. champion... what she has been defeat to Naomi Osaka in the “The difference today was doing, is still doing at her age is Australian Open semi-finals Serena Williams errors,” Williams said earlier in extraordinary. ended her bid for a record- her news conference. “She’s one of the greatest equalling 24th Grand Slam title. US tennis star “Honestly, it was opportu- ever, there is no doubt, (among) Williams won her last major nities where I could have won. athletes as well as tennis players. title in 2017 at Melbourne Park I could have been up 5-Love. I So, I’m just proud and honoured before taking a break to give Williams, sporting a “Queen” just made so many errors. to be playing at the same time birth to daughter Alexis necklace, told reporters. When “Not like I was on the run or as she does.” Olympia, and has lost four major asked if her exit from the court anything, they were just easy, Seven-time Grand Slam finals since returning to tennis was a final farewell to Melbourne easy mistakes. It was a big error champion Mats Wilander said in 2018. Park, she said with a smile: day for me today.” Williams’ tears were purely The 39-year-old, who is one “If I ever say farewell, I World number one Novak disappointment. Grand Slam title short of Mar- wouldn’t tell anyone.” Djokovic, who is chasing Roger “For her this is a bigger loss, garet Court’s record, walked off But the smile soon faded, Federer and Rafa Nadal’s all- because she is moving better, Rod Laver Arena to a standing and a question about whether time record of 20 Grand Slam she is playing better and she is ovation yesterday, pausing for her defeat to Osaka was just a titles in the men’s game, said he still not really close to Osaka,” a moment to put her hand on “bad day at the office” saw her empathised with Williams’ said the Eurosport pundit. her heart and wave to the take a sip of water before frustrations. “I feel that’s where the emo- Serena Williams of the US leaves the court after losing crowd. choking up. “I don’t know. I’m “When you’re chasing big tions start - she’s probably her semi final match against Japan’s Naomi Osaka. “The Aussie crowd is so done,” she said, leaving the things that are related to the thinking, what do I need to do amazing, so it was nice to see,” room in tears. history of the sport, obviously it now?” Djokovic keeps perfect record in Australian Open semi-finals

AP — MELBOURNE seventh game, Karatsev broke AUSTRALIAN OPEN RESULTS Djokovic’s serve for the first time Novak Djokovic had a perfect Men's Singles Semi-finals in the match and then narrowed record in Australian Open semi- Novak Djokovic (1), Serbia, def. Aslan Karatsev, Russia, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2. the gap to 5-4. finals, and he was playing almost Women's Singles Semi-finals Djokovic regathered his flawless tennis to protect it. Naomi Osaka (3), Japan, def. Serena Williams (10), United States, 6-3, 6-4. composure to earn two set points It didn’t matter that across Jennifer Brady (22), United States, def. Karolina Muchova (25), Czech Republic, but again got tight, losing them the net was Aslan Karatsev, a 6-4, 3-6, 6-4. with a forehand long and a 114th-ranked, 27-year-old Men's Doubles Semi-finals netted attempted drop shot at the Russian who had come through end of a 32-shot exchange. Ivan Dodig, Croatia, and Filip Polasek (9), Slovakia, def. Nikola Mektic and Mate qualifying to make his debut in He had to save break points Pavic (2), Croatia, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3. a Grand Slam tournament after before getting another go. So nine failed attempts. when Karatsev shanked a Djokovic made only one have a day off today when No. 4 Federer, with eight at Wim- forehand, Djokovic leaped as he unforced error in more than 50 Daniil Medvedev and No. 5 Ste- bledon, currently share second punched the air and went back minutes. fanos Tsitsipas, who is coming place. “Recovery is the priority to his changeover chair yelling, It was tight for the first seven off a five-set win over Rafael right now,” Djokovic said. “I’ve “Yeah, Yeah, Yeah.” games - before Djokovic reeled Nadal, meet in the other semi- had enough match play, enough The crowd was back on his off eight straight points to win final. He said he’d have a rest and practice. side, chanting his nickname: the first set - and again when get the popcorn ready to watch “Right now it’s just gathering “Nole, Nole, Nole, Nole.” Karatsev went on an all-or- and see who he gets to face in all the necessary energy for the He broke to open the third nothing roll late in the second set. Sunday’s final. most important match of the set and again twice more to Sensing a shift in support for Given his past success in Mel- Australian Open.” finish off. After the win, Djokovic the underdog - there was a loud, bourne, Djokovic should feel Djokovic has played and said Karatsev deserved plenty of Serbia’s Novak vocal crowd at Rod Laver Arena confident going into another beaten the likes of Federer - four praise for his amazing major Djokovic celebrates after a five-day span when fans championship match. He already times - Andy Murray and Stan breakthrough. Karatsev will after winning his were barred during a local owns an all-time record eight Wawrinka in the semifinals at move into the Top 50 for the first semi-final match COVID-19 outbreak - Djokovic Australian titles, and he’s aiming Melbourne Park and was time next week, meaning he against Russia’s moved up a gear and finished off for an 18th major title, which bringing that kind of game won’t have to go through quali- Aslan Karatsev. his opponent 6-3, 6-4, 6-2. would reduce the gap to Roger against Karatsev right up until fying for the majors. He’s now 9-0 in semifinals Federer and Nadal, who share he was serving for the second set. “It’s given me more confi- at the season-opening major, the men’s record at 20. Then the Russian qualifier dence - I’ve started to believe and one win from a ninth Aus- The 33-year-old Serb also is lifted his game, as he did in wins more,” Karatsev said of his run. tralian title. aiming to be only the second over three seeded players as he The biggest thing he’s learned “The more I win, the better I man to win nine or more titles at became the first man in the pro- in Melbourne, he added, is “that feel coming back,” the top- one of the four Grand Slams. fessional era to reach the semi- I can play with everyone - to be ranked Djokovic said. “The love Nadal has 13 at Roland Garros. finals in his debut at a major. there, to compete with affair continues.” Djokovic will Djokovic, in Australia, and After a difficult hold in the everyone.” Medvedev, Tsitsipas set to renew rivalry in ssemisemis

REUTERS — MELBOURNE “Might have said in the past that Tsitsipas was denied by NadalNadal and he plays boring, but I don’t really think Novak Djokovic in his previousious two Stefanos Stefanos Tsitsipas and Daniil he plays boring,” Tsitsipas said. Grand Slam semi-final appearancesarances Tsitsipas Medvedev have not seen eye-to-eye “He’s in very good shape, playing but Medvedev knows what itt tatakeskes since their stormy clash in Miami in good tennis, playing accurate, playing to reach a final, getting too the 2018 but with the pair set to meet in simple.” Daniil decider at the 2019 US Openpen today’s Australian Open semi-final it Earlier this week, Medvedev said Medvedev before losing to Nadal. appears there is growing respect Tsitsipas had improved physically and The Russian fourth seeded between the two. he would be no pushover if a match has won 19 consecutivee Sparks flew when they met for the went the distance. matches dating back to thee first time on the ATP Tour in Miami, “I think he’s improving physically Paris Masters in November with Medvedev confronting the Greek because maybe two years ago could and is in no mood to stop over his on-court conduct. say, yeah, out of five sets it’s maybe now. Tsitsipas stirred the pot in 2019 not bad to play him,” Medvedev said. quarter-finals, with Tsitsipas digging “The best feeling is whenn when he described the Russian’s “I don’t think it’s the case right deep to recover from two sets down you win matches, so the moree yyouou win, playing style as “boring” but that is not now.” and pull off an astonishing comeback the more you win in a row, the more the term he would use now. Medvedev was proven right in the victory over second seed Rafa Nadal. it’s better as a feeling,” he said.aid. Hashimoto chosen as head of Tokyo 2020 organisers

REUTERS — TOKYO Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, who Japan’s delegation to the Olympic whether they should even aim for the encouraged her to make the Games Games multiple times, she is the Olympics and Paralympics amid the Japanese athlete-turned-politician successful. perfect choice for this position,” IOC pandemic,” she said. Seiko Hashimoto has been chosen as “As someone with an athletic President Thomas Bach said in a A 56-year-old lawmaker in Japan’s president of the Tokyo 2020 Organ- background, I will carry out a safe statement. ruling party, Hashimoto served as the ising committee, replacing a man who Games for both athletes and citizens,” “Seiko Hashimoto can draw on her Olympics minister, doubling as minister resigned after setting off a furore with she told a news conference. She rich political experience as a Minister for women’s empowerment, since 2019 sexist remarks. replaces Yoshiro Mori, an 83-year- and many other political functions. until resigning yesterday. Hashimoto, who competed in old former prime minister, who This will help to deliver safe and suc- She was born days before Japan seven Summer and Winter Olympics resigned as Tokyo 2020 president last cessful Olympic and Paralympic hosted the 1964 summer Games and as a cyclist and a skater, now faces a week after saying women talk too Games.” her name comes from a Chinese char- raft of tough issues at the helm of one much. Opinion polls have repeatedly acter used for the Olympic flame. She of the world’s biggest sporting events Her appointment was welcomed shown that more than 80 percent of lived up to it by taking part in four with less than half a year before its Seiko by the International Olympic Com- Japanese do not believe the Games Winter Olympics as a speed skater and delayed start. Hashimoto mittee which had not demanded should be held this year due to the three Summer Olympics as a cyclist. She must ensure athletes and offi- Mori’s resignation and had initially pandemic - a concern Hashimoto However, Hashimoto has faced cials are kept safe from the corona- considered the case closed after his pledged to address for both ordinary scrutiny over reports that she made virus, while also facing strong public Hashimoto announced her first apology and refusal to step down. citizens and athletes. unwanted advances to a sportsman opposition to the Games being held selection shortly after submitting her “With her great Olympic expe- “I can imagine how tough it is for at a party during the Sochi Winter amid the pandemic. resignation as Olympics minister to rience....and having led athletes with so many questions about Olympics in 2014. FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 SPORT 15

The winning group of Aaley Al Magam are seen at the prize distribution ceremony following the feature race at Al Rayyan Park on day one of the Amir Sword Festival. RIGHT: Jockey JP Guillambert receives his trophy after guiding Aaley A Magam to win in the $150,000 race. Results at Al Rayyan Park Amir Sword Festival begins at Al Rayyan Park AL ZUBARA TROPHY Distance: 2000 Total Prize Money: $150,000 Race Time: 02:16.02 Al Zubara Trophy: Guillambert Horse, Trainer, Jockey Aaley Al Magam, Gassim Ghazali, JP Guillambert Lekhraib, Mohammed Ghazali, Julien Augé guides Aaley Al Magam to win Khatafaynee, Julian Colin Smart, Maxime Guyon THOROUGHBREDS (Class 2) Distance: 1200 DOHA - THE PENINSULA 4YO gelding to Total Prize Money: $30,000 success in the Race Time: 01:11.50 Veteran rider JP Guillambert 2000m run. Hydroxide, Mohammed Riyaz, Alberto Sanna yesterday guided Meshaal Bin Massam, Munira Eyes, Hadi Al Ramzani, Marco Casamento Ali Al Attiyah’s Aaley Al Magam trained by Monsieur Noir, Stefano Ibido, Carlo Fiocchi Al Zubara Trophy win on the Ibrahim Saeed opening day of the Amir’s Al Malki and THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP (Class 3) Sword Festival at Al Rayyan ridden by Distance: 1600 Park. Tomas Total Prize Money: $30,000 Trained by Jassim Al Lukasek, Race Time: 01:35.78 Ghazali, Aaley Al Magam grabbed the Fuwayrit, Alban Elie De Mieulle, Soufiane Saadi clocked a time of 2:16.02 to win second spot Noble Masterpiece, Mohammed Riyaz, Julien Augé the 2000m marathon on turf while Wemyss On The Line, Mohammed Riyaz, Maxime Guyon under lights. Ware, with Guillambert won $85,500 jockey Auge in THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP (Class 4) for his superb effort as the sea- the saddle, fin- Distance: 2000 son’s biggest horse racing week ished third. Total Prize Money: $30,000 kicked off with fanfare at Al Also yes- Race Time: 02:03.06 Rayyan Park. terday, the Eng. Burano Boy, Gassim Ghazali, Soufiane Saadi Lekhraib, trained by Jockey JP Guillambert guides Aaley A Magam past the finishing line to win the Al Osama Omer Al Massam, Ibrahim Saeed Al Malki, Tomas Lukasek Mohammed Ghazali and ridden Zubara Trophy at Al Rayyan Park yesterday. Dafea-owned & Wemyss Ware, Ali Yousuf Al-Kubaisi, Julien Augé by Julien Auge, finished in trained Tahar second spot while Khatafaynee Handicap with Soufiane Saadi by Auge, while On The Line fin- (TM Fred PUREBRED ARABIAN HANDICAP - with Maxime Guyon in the in the saddle. Saadi rode the ished third with Maxime Guyon Texas) won the P/A Handicap Distance: 1600 saddle - clinched the third Alban de Mieulle -trained 4YO in the saddle. at Al Rayyan Park. Jockey Carlo Total Prize Money: $30,000 place. colt to a ¼-length win in the In race five, Mansoor Fiocchi rode the 6YO horse to Race Time: 01:45.55 Also yesterday, Alberto mile class 3 run in a time of Ebrahim Al Mahmoud’s Burano a neck win in the mile run in a Tahar, Osama Al-Dafea, Carlo Fiocchi Sanna rode Mohammed Riyaz- 1:35.78. Boy (Footstepsinthesand) won time of 01:45.55 Umm Bab, Alban Elie De Mieulle, Ronan Thomas trained Hydroxide to win in the The second fastest entry the TB Handicap. Jockey Saadi Umm Bab (trained by Alban Al Neksh, Gassim Ghazali, Saleh Salem Al-Marri* (-5kg) 6f Class 2 Thoroughbred. was Noble Masterpiece, ridden rode the Jassim Ghazali-trained Elie De Mieulle) finished second Owned by Abu with jockey Ronan LOCAL THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP Fass Stud, the Thomas in the saddle. Al Distance: 2000 7YO gelding Neksh (Gassim Ghazali) Total Prize Money: $30,000 managed a was guided to third Race Time: 02:06.98 ¾-length win in a place by Saleh Salem Dukhan, Mohammed Hussain Afroz, Carlos Henrique time of 1:11.50. Al-Marri. Al Hindi, Gassim Ghazali, Maxime Guyon Munira Eyes, In race three, Eng. Sky Blue, Bader Al Balushi, Soufiane Saadi trained by Hadi Al Dhafi Rashid Al Marri’s Ramzani and homebred Dukhan THOROUGHBRED MAIDEN PLATE (Class 6) ridden by Marco (Farhh x Dorrati) won Distance: 1200 Casamento, fin- the Local TB Handicap Total Prize Money: $30,000 ished second. The with Carlos Henrique in Race Time: 01:11.27 third place was the saddle. Henrique Flirty Rascal, Mohammed Afroz, Marco Casamento sealed by Mon- rode Mohammed Hus- Swagger, Gassim Ghazali, Maxime Guyon sieur Noir with sain’s trainee to a ½ L Release The Beast, Mohammed Afroz, Rashid Al-Marri jockey Carlo win in the 2000m run. Fiocchi. Al Hindi (Gassim PUREBRED ARABIAN PLATE (4 Year Olds) In the sixth Ghazali, Maxime Guyon) Distance: 1600 race of the day, and Sky Blue (Bader Al Race Time: 01:45.55 Noora Racing Balushi, Soufiane Saadi) Antar, Alban Elie De Mieulle, Ronan Thomas Limited’s finished in second and Muqla, Alban Elie De Mieulle, Soufiane Saadi Alberto Sanna rides Mohammed Riyaz-trained Hydroxide to a win in the Class 2 Thoroughbred Fuwayrit yes- third spots Ael Star, Gassim Ghazali, Saleh Salem Al-Marri* (-5kg) race at Al Rayyan Park yesterday. terday won TB respectively. Battle for Amir Sword begins today at QEF’s Outdoor Arena

DOHA - THE PENINSULA Al Rumaihi venue. “The event will be held amidst said the popular strict procedures, as only 10 percent A trainer takes Qatar’s best riders will get cracking event will be held of the field capacity is allowed, with her horse for today at QEF’s Outdoor Arena where in accordance seats that exceed this permitted a vet check at the much-awaited Amir Sword Festival with the rules number being covered,” he said earlier kicks off. the Outdoor and regulations in the week. A total of QR 500,000 is up for Arena of the of the Interna- Regarding QEF’s preparations for grabs at the popular event where the Qatar Equestrian tional Federation the event, Al Rumaihi said: “The prep- winner of the Amir’s Sword will also Federation. The for Equestrian arations began a long time ago with receive a brand new car. Amir Sword Sports (FEI). the launch of the new season.” The day’s first competition will see Festival kicks “The value of Vodafone Qatar in the main riders competing for honours in the off today at the the prizes sponsor of the event, also supported Small Tour event (100/120cm) at same venue. increases based by Baladna Food Industries, Abdullah 2:00pm. QEF and AEF President on the ranking of Abdulghani & Bros, and Al Emadi The day’s second competition - the Hamad bin Abdulrahman a tournament. Enterprises. Medium Tour - will start at 5:15pm with Al Attiyah The Amir Sword Yesterday two Future Riders com- riders aiming for top honours in the Festival is a petitions were held at the same venue. 120/135cm competition. The Big Tour, the day’s main com- Equestrian Federations Hamad Abdul- Al Attiyah thanked the wise lead- premier event petition, will start at 7:30pm. rahman Al Attiyah said: “The Amir ership for the continued support for on our calendar The three-day event has attracted Sword Festival is the most prestigious Qatari equestrian, adding that the and therefore, more than 100 riders and it is held in and glamorous equestrian event for all Qatar Equestrian Federation works the prizes on A young rider coordination with the Ministry of Public equestrian fans in Qatar. Every year according to the directives of HE Pres- offer are also competes Health (MOPH) in order to ensure that there is a fierce competition to win this ident of Qatar Olympic Committee high,” Al during the it is staged in accordance with safety prestigious title.” Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani. Rumaihi said. Future Riders measures in the country. He added: “We have seen that the Ali bin Yusuf Al Rumaihi, Secretary- He also said the competition The festival is a great opportunity riders have prepared well to compete General of QEF, said: “More than 100 championship at the Indoor for Qatari riders to prepare for the as they participated in the equestrian riders will feature in various compe- will be held Arena of Qatar upcoming international competitions championship rounds organized by titions. The riders and equestrian amidst strict Equestrian besides preparing for the Al Shaqab QEF in cooperation with Al Shaqab - enthusiasts are waiting for this great COVID-19 pro- Federation. International Championship and the a member of Qatar Foundation.” annual event. Our preparations for all cedures as only Longines International Equestrian Tour Al Attiyah said the prize distribution competitions are complete. We expect 10 percent of which will open in Al Shaqab in March ceremony tomorrow will be held a stiff competition among the young fan attendance in Doha. jointly with Qatar Racing and Eques- riders as this is the Amir Sword Fes- will be allowed President of the Qatari and Asian trian Club (QREC) at Al Rayyan Park. tival from Friday.” at the event Sport

FRIDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2021 Djokovic keeps perfect record in Australian Open semi-finals with impressive victory The more I win, the better I feel coming back. The love affair continues. Recovery is the priority right now. I’ve had enough match play, enough practice. Novak Djokovic Sport | 14 World No.1 tennis player NBA RESULTS: Jazz 114 - Clippers 96; Pacers 134 - Timberwolves 128 (OT); Hawks 122 - Celtics 114; Warriors 120 - Heat 112 (OT)

Wolves down Al Rayyan as Red Knights edge Al Gharafa in semis Al Sadd, Al Duhail set up Qatar Cup final

FAWAD HUSSAIN THE PENINSULA

Arch-rivals Al Sadd and Al We are happy to reach the Duhail will face off in the final final as the match was very of Qatar Cup – a rematch of last difficult. Al Rayyan showed year’s edition – after both the a strong performance but Qatari football giants won their we were not at our best. respective semi-finals, yesterday. Our aim is to win this title Seven-time champions Al but we will shift focus back Sadd edged Al Rayyan 1-0 in a to our next QSL game. thrilling first semi-final before Al Duhail dispatched Al Gharafa 2-1 following a feisty clash at Al Xavi Hernandez Duhail Stadium. Al Sadd Al Sadd coach thrashed Al Duhail 4-0 in the 2020 edition final. Yesterday, Xavi Hernandez- coached booked their spot in the title clash with a second- half penalty over traditional Despite the loss, I am rivals Al Rayyan, following an satisfied with the action-packed first semi-final performance. Al Rayyan at Al Duhail Stadium. played well throughout the Santiago Cazorla produced the game-winning goal in (84th match. I am happy with the minute) with a clinical spot kick. performance as we were “We are happy to reach the against a top side who are final as the match was very dif- in a very good form. ficult. Al Rayyan showed a strong performance but we were not at our best,” Xavi said Laurent Blanc yesterday after the win. Al Rayyan coach “Our aim is to win this title but we will shift focus back to our next QSL game,” he added. As expected, the match got Al Duhail players off to a fast start with both the celebrate a goal against Qatari football giants exchanging attacks, looking to Al Gharafa. RIGHT: Al take early control of the match. Sadd's Santiago Cazorla Al Sadd’s Cazorla produced (centre) in action during a low free-kick that hit the the first semi-final goalpost to the left of Al Rayyan against Al Rayyan. keeper Soud Abdulla Al Hajri as The Wolves looked a better side, making fiery attacks. decision that turned in favour Among the attempts was of Al Sadd. Baghdad Bounedjah’s strike – In the 83rd minute, Cazorla which hit the crossbar – after a smashed the ball into the centre sharp cross from Afif in the 36th of the net with Al Rayyan minute. keeper Al Hajri diving to his left, The thrilling action con- sealing the win for Wolves. tinued in the second session but “Despite the loss, I am sat- Al Sadd still held an upper hand isfied with the performance. Al with their threatening moves. Rayyan played well throughout Al Rayyan also made some the match,” Al Rayyan coach attacks and once they seem- Laurent Blanc said after the loss. ingly broke the deadlock when “I am happy with the per- Shojae Khalilzadeh headed formance as we were against a home off a free-kick but the top side who are in a very good linesman called it an offside form,” he added. move. Al Duhail edge Al Gharafa In the 79th minute, drama The second semi-final also unfolded when Shojae Khalil- saw a pulsating battle as Al zadeh could not avoid a Duhail rallied from a goal down Hussain Al-Brake (72nd minute) of proceedings. After early Al Duhail struck back as shot inside the goal, sealing final handball infringement while to edge Al Gharafa. took The Red Knights into the attacks, Al Gharafa took lead Karimi rectified his mistake by against Al Sadd. chasing Bounedjah inside his Al Gharafa took the lead in final. when Karimi tried to block an finding the equaliser with a The title clash between the own box. 20th minute when Othman Al Gharafa started the attempt from Alyahri but the header from a close range. two arch-rivals will be played Play was stopped and it Alawi Alyahri took them ahead match well and created some ball deflected inside the goal The Red Knights dominated on February 26 at Al Duhail took more than 4 minutes to before goals from Ali Nozar good chances in the start as Al with Al Duhail goalkeeper Salah the second half and got a goal Stadium, with kick off set for get a VAR call on a penalty Karimi (36th minute) and Sultan Duhail took time to take control Zakaria having no chance. when Al-Brake fired a powerful 4:45pm. Auction: Morris and Maxwell become IPL millionaires

REUTERSREUTERS — NEW DELHI all phases of the game, and he million. Australia’s Steve Smith, Chris Morris becomes the IPL’s most expensive overseas player after can win a game with a bat as who led Rajasthan last year but Chris MorrisMo of South Africa and returning to the Rajasthan Royals for 162.5m Indian rupees ($2.2m) well.” was subsequently released by the Australia’sAustral Glenn Maxwell Maxwell also triggered a franchise, went to Delhi Capitals, (pictured)(picture emerged as million- following a fierce bidding war involving the Punjab Kings. bidding war in which Royal coached by compatriot Ricky airesaires frfromo the early round of the Challengers Bangalore outbid Ponting, for 22 million rupees. playersplayers auction for this year’s Chennai to snap up the Earlier, IPL governing IndianIndian Premier League (IPL), Maxwell also triggered a bidding war in which Royal Challengers explosive all-rounder for 142.5 council chairman Brijesh Patel whichwh welcomed back Bangalore outbid Chennai to snap up the explosive all-rounder for million rupees. confirmed Chinese smartphone China’sC Vivo as its title 142.5m rupees. He joins Bangalore’s star- maker Vivo’s return as title sponsors yesterday. studded lineup that includes sponsor of the world’s richest Morris became the India captain Virat Kohli and Twenty20 league. IPL’s most expensive South African stalwart AB de Vivo had secured the IPL overseas player after involving the Punjab Kings. a video conference yesterday. Villiers. England all-rounder sponsorship rights for 2018- returning to the “He’s one of those players “We’ve rebalanced the side Moeen Ali was sold to Chennai 2022 for nearly 22bn rupees Rajasthan Royals for with experience who can deal this year. He fills an important Super Kings for 70 million but pulled out of last year’s 162.5m Indian rupees with a price tag like that,” role for us,” he said of the rupees, while compatriot and tournament amid a backlash ($2.2m) following a Rajasthan chief operating 33-year-old bowling all- top-ranked T20 batsman Dawid against Chinese firms in the fiercefi bidding war officer Jake Lush McCrum told rounder. “A quality bowler for Malan joined Punjab for 15 country.