Qatar supports Qatar's Al Duhail efforts to eye special show enhance Islamic in maiden Club economic World Cup integration appearance

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TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021 20 JUMADA II - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8521 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS Give extra data to family or staff

NSD Committee World Cup Qatar 2022 hospitality amends guidelines pre-sales reach record-breaking $90m for activities THE PENINSULA — DOHA/ZURICH will capitalise on its principal QNA — DOHA attributes; the proximity of its MATCH Hospitality (‘MATCH’), The FIFA World Cup The amount sets eight stadiums, which are all The National Sports Day (NSD) the worldwide exclusive rights Qatar 2022 another FIFA located in or within a short Committee announced the holder of the FIFA Hospitality Hospitality World Cup driving distance of Doha, a fas- amendments in the conditions Programme, announced that pre- Programme will record, far cinating region with unique and guidelines for the sports sales for FIFA World Cup Qatar offer guests exceeding the attractions, spectacular state- activities after coordination with 2022 hospitality reached the hospitality packages sales targets of-the-art stadiums, and tradi- the Ministry of Public Health. unprecedented level of $90m. tional Arabic hospitality. The The committee said that this The hospitality pre-sale purchase which include secured by unique attributes of this FIFA was based on the public health period was conducted by MATCH official match tickets MATCH World Cup will enable MATCH indicators of the coronavirus and offered to FIFA’s Commercial plus a wide range of Hospitality for to deliver a truly ground- pandemic in Qatar, in order to Affiliates and select groups. on-site services at the equivalent breaking and unprecedented prevent its spread. The Com- MATCH is the only company the stadiums such as sales agent hospitality experience,” Byrom mittee decided that the sporting appointed by FIFA to promote gourmet catering, tender processes added. activities for this year should be and sell exclusively, either The FIFA World Cup Qatar individual and only in the open directly or via a network of preferential parking, conducted in 2022 Hospitality Programme places, so that the number of sales agents, official ticket- entertainment, and connection with will offer guests hospitality players or participants does not inclusive commercial hospi- gifts, as well as the 2014 FIFA packages which include official exceed four people in one group, tality packages for the FIFA additional ancillary World Cup Brazil match tickets plus a wide range while adhering to the safe dis- World Cup Qatar 2022. services, including and 2018 FIFA of on-site services at the sta- tance and distance that is not less Also, MATCH announced accommodation and World Cup diums such as gourmet catering, than three meters during the the conclusion of its worldwide air transportation. Russia. preferential parking, enter- sports activity. sales agent tender process, tainment, and gifts, as well as It is not allowed to organise where reputable and leading additional ancillary services, any sports events inside closed international sports travel and including accommodation and places and to allow only indi- hospitality agencies to sell FIFA equivalent sales agent tender transportation, and other cemented our belief that despite air transportation. MATCH has vidual sporting activities, and it World Cup hospitality services processes conducted by travel services. the unprecedented events of the exclusive right to deliver is also not allowed to hold group around the world. MATCH’s MATCH in connection with the “We are delighted to recent months due to the global on-site hospitality services in activities such as matches and tender process resulted in the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil confirm that demand for the pandemic, there remains unwa- private suites, lounges, and tem- others that require contact with appointment of 27 agents across and 2018 FIFA World Cup FIFA World Cup is stronger than vering enthusiasm and interest porary structures located within other players. The National 39 territories, who have collec- Russia. Official sales agents ever. The remarkable global in the FIFA World Cup Qatar the security perimeter next to the Sports Day Committee called on tively committed financially to are authorised by MATCH to response we have had to our 2022 Official Hospitality Pro- stadium bowls. MATCH offers a all authorities in the country not sales targets exceeding $260m. sell ticket inclusive official pre-sales and the enthusiasm gramme,” said Jaime Byrom, range of hospitality experiences to organise activities or events The amount sets another hospitality packages and, on and professionalism with which Executive Chairman of MATCH in the luxury, business, and that would cause gatherings, FIFA World Cup record, far an optional basis, travel our long-standing sales agents Hospitality. leisure categories, which cater to which violates the preventive exceeding the sales targets packages including accommo- have responded to our invi- “Qatar promises to deliver individual client preferences, protocol set by the Ministry of secured by MATCH for the dation, flights, ground tation to tender has further an amazing tournament that needs, and budgets. `P2 Public Health. High Internet dependence Qatar ready to stage FIFA Club World Cup RIZWAN REHMAT fan attendance is allowed. hosting the East and West Zone environment for the Feb 4-11 cause of cyber blackmail THE PENINSULA The Ministry of Public Health matches of the 2020 AFC Cham- event which will be covered by (MoPH)—which also monitored pions League —has already live TV broadcast right around SIDI MOHAMED is an act involving the unlawful The health and safety protocols and assisted state authorities in created a bubble-to-bubble the world. `P2 THE PENINSULA use of information technology are in place to stage the third technique, information system, major football tournament — The Economic and Cyber or the Internet illegally, in vio- the 2020 FIFA Club World Cup Crimes Combating Department lation of the provision of the —in Qatar in the last five at the Ministry of Interior (MoI) law. months. Three of the six partic- has highlighted the huge The seminar, which was ipating teams have already dependence on the Internet for attended by around 400 made touchdown in Doha — the recent increase in cyber people, aims to raise awareness first being Korean giants Ulsan blackmailing. on the tricks and means that Hyundai FC followed by Lt. Eng Abdulaziz Mohammad perpetrators of cybercrime Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly Al Kaabi, while addressing a employ. It also aims to ensure who arrived at the Hamad Inter- virtual seminar organised by the public safety by introducing the national Airport to a rapturous Department in collaboration with services provided by the welcome from their fans residing the Public Relations Department departments of the MoI within in Doha. Tigres UANL of Mexico at the MoI yesterday, said: “A jail the framework of strength- are also in town. term of not more than three years ening partnership and cooper- It won’t be long before Bra- and a fine of not more than ation with stakeholders. zil’s SE Palmeiras fly in QR100,000 or either of these Al Kaabi presented a set of alongwith European giants penalties, shall be imposed on critical educational tips that Bayern Munich this week for any person who uses infor- must be followed to protect the six-team continental block- mation network or information against falling victim to elec- buster that also includes top technology to threaten or tronic crimes. These include Qatari side Al Duhail. blackmail another person into ignoring fake messages sent to Two brand new 2022 FIFA Qatar's Al Duhail players are seen during a training session in Doha yesterday. Al Duhail are one of making him/her do or refrain e-mails or SMS claiming the World Cup venues — Ahmad the teams which will feature in the 2020 FIFA Club World Cup that also includes Korean giants Ulsan from doing a certain action.” receiver has won a prize or any Bin Ali Stadium and the Edu- Hyundai FC, Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly, Tigres UANL of Mexico, Brazil’s SE Palmeiras and European According to the other message from unknown cation City Stadium— will host giants Bayern Munich. The Feb 4-11 tournament will be played at two brand new 2022 FIFA World Department, cyber blackmailing origins. `P2 the matches where 30 percent Cup venues — Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium and the Education City Stadium. MME launches new census targeting agricultural, livestock farms SANAULLAH ATAULLAH for making policies and plans first phase census data about come in June 2022. “We encourage to take mation in person. THE PENINSULA to boost agriculture sector,” said agricultural farms and live- “Under the census, we are census time to time which aims “In Qatar agriculture sector Adel Al Yafei, Head of Technical stock farms will be taken, targeting farm operators, farms at increasing self-sufficiency of faced challenges, during last The Ministry of Municipality and Committee for Census at MME. however, in the second phase registered in Qatar, livestock Qatar in agricultural produce to three to four years we started Environment (MME) has Speaking in Qatar TV pro- survey on cost of the project farms (which is called locally ensure the food security imple- work to address these chal- launched new census of agri- gramme, Al Yafei said the and produce will be con- Azab) in different types mobile, menting Qatar National Vision lenges,” said Al Yafei. culture, targeting 1,230 agricul- census of agriculture will ducted,” said Al Yafei. complexes and those livestock 2030,” said Al Yafei. He said the challenges tural farms and 7,200 livestock identify the challenges which “We started taking census farms annexed with agricultural “We called farmers (agricul- include for example marketing farms operating across the will contribute greatly in state data under new census of agri- farms and livestock farms tural and livestock) to cooperate of agricultural produce and country. efforts which target to increase culture which will continue located in Al Nakhsh area,” said in taking census by giving accurate higher cost of production for “In Qatar the last census of self-sufficiency of Qatar in agri- until end of October 2021. After Al Yafei. information,” said Al Yafei. some sorts. “We brought about agriculture was taken in 2000. culture produce to 70 percent that the results of census will be He said there are 1,230 reg- He said census questioners solution to address marketing Now we need to take a fresh by 2023. released.” He said that the istered agricultural farms and will be issued for farmers to fill problems and we are working census with major goal to “Census of agriculture will survey on cost will continue 7,200 livestock farms are oper- it and census taker will also to make it better,” said Al provide a complete census data be conducted in two phases. In until May 2022 and results will ating across the country. approach to take other infor- Yafei. `P2 02 HOME TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021

Shura Council reviews OFFICIAL NEWS Amir sends draft law on endowments condolences to QNA — DOHA Custodian of the The draft will replace Law No. (8) Two Holy Mosques The Shura Council held its regular of 1996 regarding endowment, in weekly meeting under the chairmanship DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin of the Speaker, H E Ahmed bin Abdullah the framework of updating Hamad Al Thani sent yesterday a bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, yesterday. legislation to keep pace with cable of condolences to the Cus- During the meeting, the Council dis- developments in this regard. todian of the Two Holy Mosques cussed a draft law on endowment (Waqf) King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud that includes (9) chapters and (58) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on articles and involves provisions related Hamdan Daglo, in which they reviewed the death of H H Princess Noura bint to the establishment of the endowment, the relations between the two brotherly Fahd bin Mohammed bin Abdur- its distributions and conditions, the civil countries and exchanged views on a rahman Al Saud. — QNA endowment, and the supervision of the number of issues of common interest. endowment, its maintenance, archi- The Speaker also briefed the Council Prime Minister tecture and investment. on the results of his meeting with Pres- holds phone call The draft will replace Law No. (8) of ident of the Inter-Parliamentary Union 1996 regarding endowment, in the (IPU) H E Duarte Pacheco following the with Kuwait PM framework of updating legislation to previous session of the Council. keep pace with developments in this The Speaker described the meeting DOHA: Prime Minister and Min- Speaker of the Shura Council H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud chairing regard. as fruitful, adding that it opened new ister of Interior, H E Sheikh Khalid a regular weekly session of the Council, yesterday. After the discussion, the Council horizons for developing and expanding bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani decided to refer the aforementioned cooperation between the Council and held a telephone call with Prime draft law to the Legal and Legislative the IPU. H E the Speaker explained that expression of people’s aspirations in activities will cover the parliaments of Minister of the State of Kuwait, H Affairs Committee to study it and submit the discussions, in which H E the Deputy various countries of the world. the world, as well as the IPU’s support H Sheikh Sabah Khalid Al Moham- a report on it to the Council. Speaker of the Shura Council and a The discussions also included areas for The Global Organization of Parlia- mad Al Sabah yesterday. During H E the Speaker of the Shura Council number of members of the Shura Council of support provided by the IPU to the mentarians Against Corruption (GOPAC), the telephone conversation, they briefed the Council on his meeting on participated, focused on strengthening UNOCT Programme Office on Parlia- which elected the Speaker of the Shura reviewed the strong fraternal rela- Sunday with First Vice President of the the relationship and ways to improve mentary Engagement in Preventing and Council as its chairman, and Doha will tions between the two brotherly Transitional Sovereignty Council of the the performance and mechanisms of the Countering Terrorism, which was agreed be the headquarters of its General countries and means of promoting Republic of Sudan H E Lt. Gen. Mohamed IPU’s work and confirm its role as an to be headquartered in Doha and its Secretariat. and developing them, in addition to the regional and international QA Cargo to fly endangered animals to their habitats free developments. — QNA High Internet THE PENINSULA — DOHA the legacy we leave for the transport to bring wild animals society, economy, and culture. programmes, Qatar Airways future generation. As the back to where they belong.” The programme has the backing Cargo leads the way for a more dependence Qatar Airways Cargo has world’s leading cargo carrier, The airline has released a and support of Qatar Airways sustainable and socially announced Chapter 2 of its we strongly believe in giving series of striking advertise- Cargo employees. responsible air cargo industry main cause of sustainability programme back to the community and pro- ments and a special video to The cargo carrier believes and plays an active role in WeQare: Rewild the Planet. The tecting our environment. We all commemorate the that such positive actions will building tomorrow’s world. cyber blackmail cargo carrier is committed to know that animals have an announcement and importance have a ripple effect and inspire As an inaugural signatory to preserving wildlife and endan- important role in preserving of Chapter 2. Through them, people to put sustainability on the Buckingham Palace Decla- FROM PAGE 1 gered animals and has pledged ecological balance, which Qatar Airways Cargo aims to top of their agenda. ration in March 2016 and a to transport these animals back ensures the existence and sta- raise awareness of such issues Qatar Airways Cargo will founding member of the United Internet users are also to their natural habitat free of bility of the environment. among its customers and air launch more chapters in the for Wildlife Transport Task- enjoined to protect personal charge. Through Chapter 2 – Rewild the cargo stakeholders. coming months, all of which force, Qatar Airways has a zero data and not disclose them to Guillaume Halleux, Qatar Planet, we want to encourage All the chapters of WeQare are directly linked to the car- tolerance policy towards the unknown persons. People Airways Chief Officer Cargo, this preservation, and that is are based on the core pillars of rier’s everyday activities. illegal trade of endangered should also be cautious when said, “We are concerned about why we are offering free sustainability - environment, Through such innovative wildlife. dealing with programs and websites, protect e-mail and credit cards, and inform the MME launches new census for agricultural farms World Cup Qatar 2022 hospitality concerned authorities in case of suspicion of any procedures FROM PAGE 1 their produce. pre-sales reach record $90m that may represent an elec- Al Yafei said that census “We opened ‘yards’ winter FROM PAGE 1 tronic crime. of agriculture will con- vegetable markets and hospitality clients.” Nasser Al Responding to how credit tribute greatly in bringing launched programme to “We are delighted to see Khater, CEO of the FIFA World cards can be protected from about appropriate solutions market local agricultural such extraordinary interest in Cup Qatar 2022 LLC, said: “The theft, Al Kaabi said personal for the problems faced by produce in major shopping the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 launch of the global hospitality information should not be dis- the agriculture sector. centers. Contracts were also when following challenging packages for the FIFA World closed by e-mail, like name “To overcome on signed with Mahaseel times, the world can come Cup Qatar 2022 brings us and credit card details. He climate challenge in the Company for marketing local together for a global festival of another step closer to deliv- stressed that transactional country, we started adopting agricultural produce,” said Al football,” said FIFA Director of ering an extraordinary tour- PINs should be memorised and most advanced technologies Yafei. Commercial Revenue Nick nament in just under two years’ not written down for safety. like greenhouses, cooled He said taking census of Brown. time. We have always said that “Parents should not leave shaded farms and hydro- Adel Al Yafei, Head of Technical Committee agriculture at this time is very “The FIFA Hospitality Pro- Qatar 2022 will set new global phones or computers with ponics,” said Al Yafei. for Census at MME appropriate to evaluate the gramme has a proven track benchmarks to deliver mega- children unattended. Parental “We moved from tradi- resources as we have all data record of delivering a fantastic events, and hospitality is no control applications can be tional way of farming to high tech farming. This and agricultural infrastructure to identify the range of products, and in late exception. Making guests applied in children’s phones is one of the solution on which we are working.” problems enabling decision makers in gov- 2022 we will open the door to welcome and feel entirely at to filter harmful content,” Al He said that the ministry provided another ernment entities to take suitable decision in world-class services and mem- home is a central tenet of Arab Kaabi added. solution by helping farmers in marketing making policies and plans to solve the problems. orable experiences for and Middle Eastern culture." MME advises Qatar ready to stage FIFA Club World Cup amid COVID-19 precautions property FROM PAGE 1 to gear up for the FIFA World 2020 FIFA Club World Cup ferry fans from the stations — – wear a mask, show your verification before Nasser Al Khater, Chief Cup in 2022,” Al Khater said in issued guidelines for fans with easily accessible with cabs or EHTERAZ app when prompted Executive Officer of the LOC, an official statement. tickets for the eight-day tour- private cars — to match desti- and don’t get too close to anyone transaction said the event in Qatar will be He added: “During a global nament being held during nations. The venue gates will be who is not from the same THE PENINSULA — DOHA delivered with health and safety pandemic which is affecting COVID-19 times. thrown open to ticket holders household,” Al Mawlawi. “We in mind. “We’re very pleased to everyone, we continue to Abdulaziz Al Mawlawi, the three hours before kick off. are also advising people not to The Ministry of Municipality be hosting the FIFA Club World believe in the power of football LOC’s Host Country Operations Once the fans reach their be in a rush to leave the stadium and Environment (MME) has Cup for the second time in Feb- to unite people and spread joy Director, yesterday said: “Our venues, social distancing would after the match ends. Traffic is advised the public to carry ruary and will ensure it’s during these difficult times. main message to fans is to plan be paramount. According to likely to be heavy and people out property transactions delivered in a way that safe- Qatar is committed to playing ahead before you travel. Check LOC’s Al Mawlawi, arriving may need to wait to board the only after proper verification guards and prioritises the health a role in ensuring the continu- the official channels and social early and leaving late should be Doha Metro due to social dis- from the authorities and safety of fans, players and ation of top-level club football media for any updates in the mantra for the event. tancing measures. Metro concerned. officials. The tournament offers while the pandemic continues relation to road closures, public “We encourage all spectators services will be running much The Ministry said it us a golden opportunity to test to affect people’s lives.” transport and COVID-19 pro- to arrive at least one hour before later than usual to help ensure recently observed a growing our stadiums, training sites and Yesterday, the Local Organ- tocols.” The state-of-the-art kick-off. Be prepared to follow fans have a smooth journey back phenomenon of advertising infrastructure as we continue ising Committee (LOC) of the Metro is running smoothly to any social distancing measures home,” he added. through various media outlets to promote the sale of properties that are not Women’s Emergency Department proven on the pretext that they are land homes or sea chalets and other state- temporarily moved to Pediatric owned properties, said the Ministry in a statement. Emergency at Al Wakra Hospital Whereas the aforemen- tioned real estate is subjected THE PENINSULA — DOHA Gynecology Department at Al to the provisions of Law No. Wakra Hospital, Dr. Lolwa Al 10 of 1987 regarding public Hamad Medical Corporation Ansari, said that Women’s and private state property (HMC) has announced that Emergency Department treats and its amendments and Women’s Emergency 80-120 patients daily. It pro- executive decisions since Department at Al Wakra vides expectant women with they are state properties. Hospital will be temporarily urgent obstetric, gynaecologic, Therefore it is not transferred to Pediatric Emer- and other medical emergencies allowed for selling, buying, gency Department at the same healthcare services 24/7. assigning them, claiming hospital. The Women’s Emer- “Starting February 8th, patients their ownership, using them, gency Department will seeking care at the Department or arranging any rights In continue to provide healthcare will have to proceed to Gate No. kind, without the official services to patients at the 6 instead of Gate No.2 to reach approval by the State temporary location until some the temporary location. Property Department of the necessary expansion and reno- Services at the Pediatric Emer- Ministry. vation works are completed. gency Department will not be According to the provi- The intended works, which affected by the temporary sions of Law No. 10 of 1987, the pertain to security and safety transfer of Women’s Emer- Ministry advised the public not procedures at the hospital, are gency Department where the to deal with any advertise- expected to last for two con- PED will be fully operational ments related to land houses secutive months starting Feb- throughout the expansion and or chalets without visiting the ruary 8, 2021 after which time renovation works period. State Property Department or services would resume as usual Women’s Emergency Patients Livestock Department with at the original location. will have a separate entrance,” regard to the farms to ensure Head of Obstetrics & Dr. Al Ansari explained. their legal status. TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021 HOME 03 Qatar, India hold political consultations Public urged to wear face masks QNA — DOHA properly to curb spread of virus The Foreign Ministries of the State of Qatar and the FAZEENA SALEEM Masks should be used as Republic of India held a THE PENINSULA To date, 8,431 people part of comprehensive session of political consulta- have been referred to the measures to suppress trans- tions through visual commu- Amid the increase in number mission and save lives; the use nication technology of daily COVID-19 cases, the Public Prosecution for of a mask alone is not sufficient yesterday. Ministry of Public Health(MoPH) not wearing face masks to provide an adequate level of Secretary-General of the has reminded public that in public. protection against COVID-19. Ministry of Foreign Affairs H wearing a face mask in public MoI and health authorities E Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al helps prevent the spread of have been continuously Hammadi headed the Qatari COVID-19 — but only if worn Yesterday, the Ministry of warning the public to follow side, while Secretary of the properly, which is mandatory Interior (MoI) took action precautionary measures like Ministry of External Affairs as part of COVID-19 precau- against 263 individuals for not wearing masks, following social for Consular Affairs, Pass- tionary measures. wearing masks in public. distancing, active use of Ehteraz ports, Visas and Expatriate In a social media campaign The officials have referred app and restricting the number Affairs H E Sanjay Bhattach- the Ministry has highlighted these individuals to the Public of people in vehicles to stop the aryya chaired the Indian steps to follow to get the Prosecution for not wearing COVID-19 pandemic from side. maximum protection, saying, masks. spreading. During the political con- “Face masks are a proven way “In line with the cabinet The MoPH in its daily sultations round, they to help prevent the spread of decision based on Law No. 17 COVID-19 update report has reviewed the bilateral coop- COVID-19.” of 1990 regarding infectious said that due to the measures eration and relations, in The appropriate use, diseases, 263 people were put in place by government and Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E Dr. Ahmed bin addition to issues of common storage and cleaning or disposal referred to the Public Prose- support of the public in fol- Hassan Al Hammadi heading the Qatari delegation at the meeting. concern. of masks is essential to make cution for non-compliance with lowing preventive steps, Qatar them as effective as possible. wearing masks,” the Ministry succeeded in suppressing the The steps to follow while said on Twitter. spread of the virus since its wearing a face mask include: Till now 8,431 people have peak in July. However, over the Six arrested for violating home quarantine rules washing or sanitising hands been referred to the Public past month in Qatar has seen a QNA — DOHA dures of the health authorities are currently being referred to before putting on and after Prosecution for not wearing gradual and consistent increase in the country. the designate prosecution, are: removing the mask; ensuring masks. in the number of new daily The designated authorities The arrest of the violators Bassim Sameer Said, Hassan the mask fits to cover nose, “The competent authorities infections. MOPH reported yes- arrested yesterday six persons came in implementation of the Osama Hussein Abdulaziz, mouth and chin; washing hands call on the public to adhere to terday 385 new confirmed who violated the requirements precautionary measures in Ahmed Osama Hussein before and after touching the the precautionary and pre- cases of coronavirus during the of the home quarantine, they force in the country, approved Abdulaziz Al Motawa, Abdullah mask; not allowing the mask to ventive decisions in force to last 24 hours, of which 363 were committed to following, which by the Ministry of Public Health, Thani Bakhit Abdullah Al Sabie, hang around the neck; and protect them and others from from community cases and 22 they are legally accountable for, to curb the spread of the Mohammed Seyafiq bin Nordin changing the mask if its visibly the spread of the Coronavirus from travellers returning from in accordance with the proce- COVID-19. The violators, who Asimi, and Nseetor J R. soiled or moist. in society,” MoI added. abroad. Qatar National Library provides insights into past

THE PENINSULA — DOHA extraction methods and dyeing significance of the issues and from all over the world. processes; and conservation techniques discussed and their “The importance of pre- Ancient manuscripts and issues and deterioration proc- impact on heritage conser- serving items from the past heritage objects were put under esses encountered with pig- vation, the first edition of the cannot be overstated, as these the spotlight when Qatar ments and dyes found in forum drew a huge crowd of documents are simply irre- National Library played host to Islamic manuscripts. over 600 specialists and placeable. I thought the forum a special six-day event. The Secretary-General of the enthusiasts from all around the was a wonderful event and I’m ‘Scientific Applications in Qatari National Commission for world, who enjoyed our now looking forward to being part Cultural Heritage Forum’, Education, Culture and Science, delivery of the lectures in both of similar events at our Library launched online on January 25 Dr. Hamda Al Sulaiti and English and Arabic. It was an over the course of this year – and attracted a sold-out Director of Distinctive Collec- honor to work with Qatar hopefully when our visitors will audience who enjoyed a series tions at Qatar National Library, National Library on such a suc- be able to attend in person.” of lectures and practical Stephane Ipert delivered cessful event and I am looking The Scientific Applications sessions led by renowned histo- opening day speeches. forward to our continued in Cultural Heritage Forum An ancient manuscripts section at Qatar National Library. rians and conservation experts Among the experts who cooperation on other comes in the framework of the from several fields of interest. gave talks were Amelie Couvrat important initiatives that con- Library’s mission to preserve the The principal focus of the Desvergnes, paper and book tribute to heritage preservation nation’s and region’s heritage by and services that are delivered environment and a technologi- event was on pigments and researcher and conservator; Dr. in the Arab region and the developing innovative programs in a trusted information cally exceptional setting. dyes used in manuscripts and Mandana Barkeshli, conser- Middle East.” heritage items. Audience vation scientist and principal Nasra said: “It was members also learned about the fellow at the University of Mel- delightful to engage in an most important spectroscopic bourne; Dr. Antonino immersive intellectual techniques for non-invasive Cosentino, cultural heritage sci- exchange with an enthusiastic and non-destructive analysis entist; Maxim Nasra, book con- audience around such fasci- of precious documents and servation specialist at Qatar nating topics, and I believe all objects, which has an impact on National Library; and Dr. Sadra of those participating got a fundamental knowledge, inter- Zekrgoo, materials conser- great deal out of it. It is a new pretation, and conservation. vation scientist at the University success for the IFLA PAC The forum also featured of Melbourne. regional center at Qatar lectures on Arabic and Persian On what the future holds National Library to organize pigments and how they were for the forum and the discus- this remarkable forum, which made; the various dyestuffs sions it has started, Dr. Al- despite being virtual success- used for Arabic manuscripts, Sulaiti said: “Owing to the fully attracted a large audience Mowasalat supports FIFA Club World Cup THE PENINSULA — DOHA the FIFA Club World Cup in Qatar. Our company owns a Mowasalat (Karwa) will provide diverse fleet of buses, including its services to the participating city buses, luxury coaches, clubs’ teams, including players, buses equipped with ramps for officials, and the organising wheelchair users, and eco- committee staff of the FIFA friendly CNG and electrical Club World Cup Qatar 2020. buses to serve the needs of all FIFA organises this interna- of our guests. Highly trained tional tournament between the professional drivers and tech- six continental champions nicians complete our turnkey worldwide and the host coun- transport solutions.” try’s champions. Al Duhail will “In the continuous fight of represent Qatar in the compe- COVID-19 and to ensure safe Mowasalat (Karwa) CEO Fahad tition, which will run from Feb- travels for our passengers, we Saad Al Qahtani ruary 4 to 11. In close collabo- have also developed an inte- ration with the local authorities grated plan for the cleaning and and committee, Mowasalat will Fahad Saad Al Qahtani, com- sterilisation process of all our also shuttle the big numbers of mented, “This event is a prelude vehicles, following the highest football lovers and fans to and on our road to 2022. We are international sanitary from the hosting FIFA World proud that we have the capacity standards. We look forward to Cup stadiums. and know-how to service a a thrilling and successful tour- Mowasalat (Karwa) CEO major international event like nament,” he added. Sidra Medicine awarded new ACGME-I accreditations in paediatric specialities THE PENINSULA — DOHA standards for institutional, foun- and administrative effec- dational, and advanced specialty tiveness, with a specific focus Sidra Medicine, a Qatar Foun- education. on the robustness of its internal dation entity, has been awarded The latest ACGME-I accred- quality assurance system. This new accreditations for its itations at Sidra Medicine includes policies, practices and fellowship programmes from include paediatric surgery, pae- how they impact the quality of the Accreditation Council for diatric radiology, paediatric all the medical programs Graduate Medical Education- nephrology and neo-natal- offered by the healthcare International (ACGME-I). perinatal medicine. These are organization. The ACGME-I is a body in addition to existing ACGME-I Chair of Medical Education directly aligned with ACGME, accreditations that Sidra Med- at Sidra Medicine, Prof. Ibrahim the international best practice icine already has for pediatric Janahi said: “The ACGME-I standard that accredits the pulmonology, paediatric car- employs a comprehensive, peer- majority of graduate medical diology, paediatric neurology review process not only to training programs for doctors in and child and adolescent evaluate but also to improve and the United States. The accredi- mental health. The accredi- publicly recognize programs and tation demonstrates that Sidra tation process for the new fel- sponsoring institutions in Medicine’s graduate medical lowship programs included a graduate medical education that education programs have met comprehensive evaluation of meet — and often exceed — ACGME-I’s established Sidra Medicine, its academic standards of educational quality." 04 HOME TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021 Msheireb Museums awards design competition winners

THE PENINSULA - DOHA without any adhesive. Coming consider their achievement as in second place, Hamzah Al a starting point in their future Msheireb Museums has Mujahed presented his design careers. Msheireb Properties announced the winners of the titled “Memories”; reflecting are proud of such initiatives that Msheireb Museums Design Msheireb Museums using four come under our social respon- Competition that was launched different candles representing sibility to support the creative last September; targeting the four heritage houses and community, especially the creative designers in Qatar. releasing different smells that youth”. The judging panel com- carried their memories. Nima Msheireb Museums Design prised Eng. Ali Al Kuwari, Acting Noorudin came third place for competition required all partic- CEO of Msheireb Properties, Dr. designing an oil diffuser made ipants to submit a creative Hafez Ali Msheireb Museums of wood and marble in gold design to create a unique sou- Director and Amir Berbić, Dean finish. venir product that represents of VCUarts Qatar. Dr. Hafez Ali, Director of Msheireb Museums or Msheireb The submitted designs were Msheireb Museums, handed the Downtown Doha, which can be evaluated according to specific awards and gifts to the winners, showcased and sold in the criteria, such as uniqueness and commenting: “Msheireb Msheireb Museums gift shop.The creativity of the invention, use Museums congratulates the invitation was open to all of Msheireb Museums, and or winners for showcasing profi- designers, innovators, students, Msheireb Downtown Doha con- ciency and creativity. Their and the general public aged 18 cepts. All submitted projects designs will be displayed with and above who are residents of were required not to have been their names in Msheireb Qatar. Its main objective is to submitted to other competitions Museums Gift Shop. We will inspire the creative youth, previously.The competition continue to support and explore new talents, and pre- received 207 designs, and after promote youth creativity and serve the Qatari national her- fierce competition Nimrah innovation.” itage and legacy.The gift shop at Kabiruddin won first place for He added: “The competition Msheireb Museums is a perfect her design that captures the received many entries, and it space to display and buy tradi- Winners of the Msheireb Museums Design Competition with officials at the awards ceremony held structure of Msheireb mosque was challenging to decide the tional gifts representing Qatar’s recently. using laser-cut plywood winners. We hope the winners identity and heritage. Awqaf Ministry partners with Qatari singer Fahad Al Kubaisi wins ‘A Flower Each Spring’ program Hollywood Music in Media Award MOHAMAD BWARY QNA- DOHA THE PENINSULA ONLINE

The Ministry of Awqaf and Qatari singer Fahad Al Kubaisi Islamic Affairs announced has won the prestigious support for ‘A Flower Each Hollywood Music in Media Spring’ program of Qatar Foun- Award (HMMA) for 2020 in Best dation’s Qur’anic Botanic World Music category. Garden, to implement its activ- The 2020 HMMA function ities and events throughout the was streamed virtually on year. January 27. Speaking at a press con- Al Kubaisi is a singer, record ference held on Sunday, producer and model. Director-General of the General He is known for producing Department of Endowments at a sophisticated genre of Khaliji the Ministry of Awqaf and music. He won the award for Islamic Affairs, Dr. Sheikh the song Yama Qlt Lek. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Thani “I am really happy and the world. advertisements, documentaries, expressed pleasure with this grateful to be receiving this He won the “Best Male and special programmes. environmental partnership award and I would like to thank Khaliji Singer Award” in 2018 The HMMA nominations with ‘A Flower Each Spring’ everyone who helped me to during the Golden Panther have historically been repre- program. make this dream happen. Music Awards in New York. sentative of the nominees of He noted that the part- Thank you very much,” Al “An important aspect of this key awards shows that are nership includes all activities Director-General of the General Department of Endowments at Kubaisi said after his name had award is that it sheds light on announced months later. and events of the program the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, Dr. Sheikh Khalid bin been picked as the winner Gulf and Arab music and its The HMMA also celebrates throughout this year, aiming to Mohammed Al Thani (right), and Chairman of A Flower Each Spring during the online event. development significantly. The emerging, independent artists realise the ‘endowment is a program, Dr. Saif Ali Al Hajari, during the press conference. “This award is very organizing committee of the and music influencers from Community Partnership’ slogan important to me in my artistic award was happy that it is the around the globe for creative and open horizons for cooper- program that targets the entire A Flower Each Spring career, and it is very important first time an Arab contestant and innovative ation to spread environmental community, especially the program celebrates each year that you communicate our had participated in this award contributions. awareness, which Islam has young people and the family, one of the plants that grow in music to international com- because our music is com- The Hollywood Music In been keen on. given the health effects of Qatar focusing on perennial posers and musicians. I was pletely different from European Media Academy was created as For his part, Chairman of A nature for the achievement of plants of special importance to very keen to present Arabic and global,” he added. a statutory voting body of Flower Each Spring program, sustainable development, indi- the coastal and desert nature music among the European and HMMA is the first award entertainment professionals Dr. Saif Ali Al Hajari, in remarks cating that the ‘Tribulus ter- of the country. international musicians partic- organization to honor original and journalists to assist in the to Qatar News Agency (QNA), restris’ has been chosen for the There are about 350 plants ipating in the award,” he told music (song and score) in all selection of winners from des- expressed thanks and appreci- year 2021. and flowers in Qatar. Qatar TV in an interview. visual media from around the ignated nomination categories ation for the endowment Dr. Al Hajari noted many This year, the program aims Al Kubaisi was picked from globe including film, TV, video within the Hollywood Music in support provided by the programs and activities such as to introduce to the society the a list 12 nominees from all over games, trailers, commercial Media Awards. General Department of Endow- land and sea field trips, beach contributions of the endow- ments which aims at contrib- cleaning activities, and the ments to the 17 United Nations uting to the field of the envi- childhood and environment principles in the fields of health, ronment as a heritage that must program which provides envi- poverty, agriculture and others. Ooredoo launches Manufacturing be preserved, developed and ronmental lectures for children Sponsored by H H Sheikha maintain its sustainability for via remote visual communi- Moza bint Nasser, A Flower future generations, thus rising cation technology in both Each Spring program is one of Management module the hope for a better environ- Arabic and English, in addition the initiatives of the Qur’anic mental future, in implemen- to the Green Tent Program and Botanic Garden at Qatar Foun- THE PENINSULA - DOHA enterprise, from SMEs to large corporations. The tation of Qatar National Vision other community events in dation for Education, Science Manufacturing Management module is particu- 2030. cooperation with schools, youth and Community Development. Ooredoo has launched a new module – Manu- larly geared towards the needs of industrial pro- Dr. Al Hajari said that A centers and cultural institutions The program is concerned with facturing Management – with its WallPost ERP ducers in the region. Flower Each Spring Program is to enhance environmental and environmental education about service. Enterprises using the service can rely on an educational and behavioral value awareness. wildlife in Qatar. The new Manufacturing Management module business continuity and future-proof technology, is the latest to become available with the service, with Ooredoo’s specialist 24/7 support team adding to the many modules already on offer. guiding digital transformation. Business customers wishing to experience Chief Business Officer, Ooredoo Sheikh Lulu announces ‘Win Half Million’ winners the WallPost ERP service, with core modules Nasser Bin Hamad Bin Nasser Al Thani – said: THE PENINSULA - DOHA including the new Manufacturing Management “We’re committed to supporting our business module, can currently do so on a 30-day free customers as they adapt to a new working envi- Mega e-raffle draw of ‘Win Half Million Riyals Shopping Gift Vouchers’ promotion was held at Lulu trial basis. ronment, due to both the ongoing pandemic sit- Hypermarket D-Ring Road branch under the supervision of an inspector from the Consumer Protection Ooredoo WallPost ERP combines Ooredoo’s uation and the organic development of tech- Department under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry whereby Lulu gift vouchers for a total communications expertise with software devel- nology and processes within their industries. We sum of half million Qatari riyals were given away to 230 winners. opment from Smart Management IT Solutions work closely with major technology and inno- Lulu Management has advised all winners to contact Lulu Customer Service counter or Accounts and the accounting and business acumen of vation giants to ensure the solutions reflect cus- Department at Lulu Hypermarket in D-Ring branch to collect their prizes. There are 10 winners of Moore Stephens. tomer needs and ensure customers - in turn - shopping vouchers QR10,000 each, 20 winners of shopping vouchers QR5,000 each, 100 winners Businesses can use Ooredoo WallPost ERP can focus on their own business and customers. of shopping vouchers QR2,000 each and 100 winners of shopping vouchers QR1,000 each. to remotely manage key operations such as A trial of the Ooredoo WallPost ERP with the The list of winners is available at LuLu Hypermarket’s website and at the customer service Human Resources, Sales and Customer Rela- Manufacturing module will let them evaluate just counters at all 14 Lulu outlets across Qatar. For more details, people can visit website: https://www. tionship Management and much more. how efficiently they can continue to manage their luluhypermarket.com/en-qa/winners. Adding to the existing modules’ capabilities, operations.” the WallPost Manufacturing Management module A 30-day trial of WallPost ERP includes one automates and streamlines business processes week of service implementation and can be for manufacturing industries. It uses integrated, requested until the end of February 2021. real-time sales and operational and financial Business customers can leverage the Ooredoo information to accurately anticipate, plan and Advantage, making Ooredoo’ Best for Business’ respond to orders and new demand and reduce thanks to its breadth and depth of talent, best forecasting errors. fixed and mobile networks, broadest portfolio of The module enables increased revenue and ICT services and solutions, and trusted partner reduced overall operating costs since it can elim- for 60 years. inate manual processes. Real-time data can be accessed from any device, anywhere in the world, using the solution’s central dash- board tool through intuitive apps available for both iOS and Android devices. The service also provides real-time per- formance visibility and decision-making across any organisation, project, or employee. Businesses can enjoy many benefits with Ooredoo WallPost ERP, especially enhanced productivity, efficiency, and cost optimi- Lulu officials and an inspector from the Consumer Protection Department during the Mega e-raffle sation. The solution is fully scalable and can draw of ‘Win Half Million’ at Lulu Hypermarket D-ring road branch. be tailored to all sizes and verticals of TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021 HOME 05 UNHCR winterisation plan to support 3.8 million refugees, IDPs

MOHAMMED OSMAN The wars in Syria and Iraq have thrown millions out THE PENINSULA of their homelands pushing them to take refuge in neighbouring countries like Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey Civil wars and political turmoil and Egypt depending for years on humanitarian aids in some Middle Eastern coun- which only meet their minimum needs to survive. tries during past many years have forced millions of people to become refugees in neigh- support 3.8 million Syrian and warm, through the campaign bouring countries or Internally Iraqi IDPs and refugees,” she website https://giving.unhcr. Displaced Persons (IDPs). said, noting that most of the org/winter/. Internally The wars in Syria and Iraq planned interventions will be Additionally, she said there is displaced children have thrown millions out of in the form of seasonal cash the newly launched Zakat mobile stand in snow their homelands pushing them assistance, with a small com- application “GiveZakat App”, the near tents at to take refuge in neighbouring ponent of winter items such as first official UN Zakat app to an informal countries like Lebanon, Jordan, blankets, mattresses, winter harness the power of Islamic displacement Turkey and Egypt depending for warm clothes, fuel, upgrading finance to transform the lives of camp in Azaz years on humanitarian aids winter related infrastructures those in dire need of assistance. She which only meet their minimum and other items. said that it is another way to give needs to survive. Asked about what makes Zakat for winter assistance with pandemic, curb outbreak’s been strongly advocating for the of 90 countries currently devel- The needs of refugees differ different the winter-related sup- peace of mind and simply by a click spread in refugee camps/areas, inclusion of refugees, internally oping national COVID-19 vac- from season to season, partic- ports from the assistance the of the mouse. It can be by done provision of vaccine to them, displaced people (IDPs) and cination strategies, 51 – or 57 ularly in winter when they need UNHCR provides during other through she said the COVID-19 pan- stateless individuals in the host per cent – have included ref- timely and substantial months of the year, Rula GiveZakat App via https://play. demic is a global health crisis, countries’ health response plans ugees in their vaccination plans. assistance to shield them from explained, “Most of the refugees google.com/store/apps/ and it requires a global to the virus, while urging world We are engaged in discussions the harsh weather. are living in urban areas and details?id=org.unhcr.zakat&hl=en response. leaders to ensure refugees, and decision-making processes Recently heavy storms and alike the local communities have for Android and for IOS, it can be “According to UNHCR’s latest IDP’s and stateless individuals within COVAX, the global initi- floods in North West Syria access to markets and services done via https://apps.apple.com/ data, global forced displacement have access to vaccinations and ative to ensure rapid and equi- damaged or destroyed more what necessitate providing ref- lb/app/givezakat-refugee-zakat- crossed the 80-million-mark are included in national vacci- table access to COVID-19 vac- than 62 camps and 2,558 tents, ugees with cash enables them to fund/id1510296509 midway last year, more than 50 nation roll out plans. “UNHCR cines for all countries. We are and tens of thousands of people fulfil their needs in a dignified Regarding situation in million of whom are forcibly dis- had also been supporting also working with international have been affected by the hard- manner, decide on their prior- Yemen, Rula Amin pointed out placed within their own coun- hosting governments to upgrade partners to ensure that ‘leaving ships they were already facing ities and contributes to the local that the winter in Yemen is less try’s borders. Governments’ full their national capacities like no one behind’ and ‘equitable for the tenth consecutive year economy.” severe compared to elsewhere inclusion of forcibly displaced hospitals, ICU units, supporting access to vaccines’ are not just since they have been uprooted UNHCR uses cash-based in the region. “The Shelter people and migrants in the entire with ventilators and PPE, in phrases, but practice.” from their homes. The COVID-19 interventions to provide pro- Cluster led by UNHCR released spectrum of responses to the order to help governments Since the onset of the pan- pandemic has further devastated include refugees in all health demic, she said, refugees have the situation of families this year plans and initiatives to contain been included in the national who are facing even greater The UNHCR has identified an estimated the spread of the pandemic.” response plan in Jordan and hardships than before. The UNHCR official noted have been able to access health Anticipation of such suf- 3.8 million people of the most vulnerable that more than half of the care and medical treatment on ferings and fear of the critical and need timely and substantial help Middle East and North Africa par with Jordanian citizens. dangers the refugees may be countries have indicated that “Jordan has also begun vac- exposed to in winter season, are to cope with the hardships anticipated refugees will be included but cinating refugees. As part of the the factors which drive inter- during this winter season and it will roll out plans in many of these national COVID-19 vaccination national organizations such as cost $211.3m to ensure that life-saving countries have not started yet. plan which began mid-January, UNHCR to launch initiatives “In some countries, the anyone living on Jordanian soil, every year before the winter winterisation assistance is in place before national services capacity is not including refugees and asylum season with the aim of securing the harsh and challenging winter season equipped to serve all those who seekers, is eligible to receive the the basic needs of these are eligible. Equally, refugees vaccine free of charge. Over the refugees. starts. and IDP’s continue to face coming months, Jordan aims to For better understanding of various challenges including vaccinate 20 per cent of its pop- the situation and support the movement restriction and access ulation against the virus and has UNHCR in its endeavors, The Rula Amin - Senior Communication to livelihood as well as other currently procured three million Peninsula approached Rula Advisor/ Spokesperson, UNHCR office service provision, which may doses of the vaccine to enable this Amin, Senior Communication also become an obstacle to get to happen,” she added. Advisor/ Spokesperson, UNHCR access to medical services.” She said that globally, office of the Director of the Middle tection, assistance and services recommendations for the win- pandemic – from preparedness, She added: “UNHCR is con- including refugees in national East and North Africa Bureau. to the most vulnerable. Cash terization response based on a to health responses, access to tinuously advocating at country, vaccination roll out plans is not Rula Amin pointed out that helps the displaced meet a mapping of districts that are vaccines and social safety nets – regional and global levels for only the moral thing to do but a there are over 10 million Syrian variety of needs, including susceptible to extreme winter is a lifeline for people forced to refugees and other people we must if the battle to stop or at and Iraqi IDPs and refugees in access to food, water, temperatures (nights below 10 flee.” protect to be included in least contain the spread of the Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan and healthcare, shelter, that allow C°) and among the governorates Amin said that UNHCR has national strategies. To date, out virus is to succeed. Egypt. “Many had been dis- them to build and support live- where the temperatures get low placed for years and had spent lihoods. During the winter, during winters are Dhamar, most of their savings already; UNHCR provides an additional Sana’a, Amran and Sa’ada. We the devastating impact of the seasonal cash assistance in the have prioritized our response COVID-19 pandemic is exacer- form of a one-off payment in to assist the most vulnerable bating their burdens especially order to help these families families among those displaced during the winter season,” she cover the extra costs of heating, by the conflict or natural dis- said. clothes, home insulation, asters and are currently living The UNHCR has identified repairs, and/or medicine that in camp-like settings.” an estimated 3.8 million people are needed during the cold Further talking on Yemen, of the most vulnerable and need months. she said: “One-fourth of the four timely and substantial help to To a question how the million displaced Yemenis are cope with the hardships antic- UNHCR managed to raise funds living in 1,600 camp-like set- ipated during this winter to meet the urgent and essential tings in very difficult conditions. season, she said, adding it will needs of the refugees, the So, the priority is to provide vul- cost $211.3m to ensure that life- UNHCR’s Senior Communi- nerable families without shelter saving winterization assistance cation Advisor and Spokes- with an emergency shelter to is in place before the harsh and person said, “Funds are raised protect them from cold. Addi- challenging winter season from donor governments and tionally, we are providing cash starts. international institutions as well assistance to displaced Yemenis Underlining the UNHCR ini- as from private citizens and which gives them the freedom tiative “Winterization businesses. Some funds are of choice to buy what they need Assistance Plan 2020-2021”, the raised electronically, and the most - blankets, stoves and UNHCR’s Senior Communi- people are welcome to donate fuels and warm clothes or cation Advisor and Spokes- safely and securely from the perform basic shelter repairs or person Rula Amin pointed out comfort of their homes.” upgrade to ensure that their that winterization plan is Furthermore she noted that shelter is sealed and can protect UNHCR’s winter appeal to the UNHCR launched winter them from the harsh weather support the most vulnerable campaign, ‘This Winter, Commit conditions. In some parts of the refugees and internally dis- to Kindness’, where the public country, with the support of placed people in the MENA was invited to donate and share partners, we are distributing region this winter and covers their kindness with refugees warm clothes and blankets.” the period from September and IDPs during these harsh To another question about 2020 to March 2021. cold months, and provide UNHCR efforts to protect ref- “The programme aims to urgent support to help families ugees from COVID-19 24-hour 'Pharmacy & More' opens at The Pearl-Qatar

THE PENINSULA- DOHA

Pharmacy & More, the leading innovative pharmacy in Qatar, has announced the opening of its newest branch in Medina Centrale at The Pearl-Qatar. This step comes as part of the pharmacy’s strategy to introduce its products to new markets in Doha and as part of The Pearl-Qatar’s continuous endeavors to introduce inno- vative offerings that serve its residents and visitors. Newly opened branch of Pharmacy & More in Medina Centrale The new 24-hour branch at The Pearl-Qatar of Pharmacy & More will be a one-stop-shop for all cus- tomers’ needs and will offer a Pharmacy & More is also open more than 33,000 current res- range of medicine and other on the Island in Porto Arabia. idents and 15 million annual products including, beauty Delivery service will also be visitors. More than 350 retail products, grocery, gadgets, offered by both branches and shops are currently opera- and stationery, thus bringing it aims be the fastest 24/7 tional on the Island and to Doha the concept of the delivery service in The Pearl. include popular fashion innovative and all-inclusive The Pearl-Qatar is one of brands, coffee shops, restau- pharmacy, which proved to be the largest real-estate devel- rants and other lifestyle beneficial to customers in the opments in the Middle East offerings occupying more than US and Europe. and houses Doha’s fastest 135,000 sqm of leased retail Another branch of growing community with spaces. 06 HOME TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021 TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021 GULF / MIDDLE EAST 07 Mere signature won’t fix N-deal, Iran tells US

BLOOMBERG — TEHRAN existing mechanism that’s out- The statement is a clear lined within the Joint Compre- Iran said the US has to remove signal to the Biden hensive Plan of Action. “As soon key economic sanctions and administration that Iran as the US starts to take effective return to full compliance with measures, Iran will respond pro- the 2015 nuclear deal before expects relief from portionately,” Khatibzadeh said. any talks on resetting the sanctions, and the full The stalemate raises ques- Islamic Republic’s atomic restoration of the United tions over whether the crisis program. Nations resolution that can be resolved before the The US “cannot return to underpins the deal, Islamic Republic hits a deadline the nuclear accord with one later this month to secure sanc- signature in the way that they before it starts scaling tions removal, or else end vol- left with one,” Foreign Ministry back its nuclear activities. untary international nuclear spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh It also illustrates the inspections. Moderates in Iran said in a press conference in major gulf between the are also hoping for a boost from Tehran yesterday. the lifting of some sanctions longtime rivals. Last A picture released by Hezbollah media center shows what they said is an Israeli drone at an unspecified The statement is a clear ahead of presidential elections location in Lebanon. The Arabic reads: “Military media”. signal to the Biden adminis- week, new Secretary of set for June. tration that Iran expects relief State Anthony Blinken The White House on Friday from sanctions, and the full res- said Iran needs to act first appointed Robert Malley, who toration of the United Nations and any US return to the served on the Obama adminis- Hezbollah claims downing resolution that underpins the accord may take a while. tration team that negotiated the deal, before it starts scaling original deal, to serve as envoy back its nuclear activities. It to Iran. Malley has a long back- Israeli drone near border also illustrates the major gulf ground in conflict resolution in between the longtime rivals. overseas because of banking the Middle East and his arrival AP — BEIRUT the killing of one of its fighters Israeli warplanes and Last week, new Secretary of sanctions. was broadly welcomed by pro- in an Israeli strike in Syria last drones violate Lebanon’s air- State Anthony Blinken said Iran Iran began enriching ponents of the accord. Lebanon’s Hezbollah group said year. space almost daily, sometimes needs to act first and any US uranium to levels that exceed Iranian state TV yesterday its fighters shot down an Israeli Hezbollah’s Al Manar TV to carry out airstrike in neigh- return to the accord may take allowed limits after Donald aired the launch of the coun- drone yesterday over a southern said the drone was shot down boring Syria. The frequency of a while. Trump pulled the US from the try's newest satellite-carrying village near the border with after it entered Lebanon’s air low-flying warplanes over “We’re waiting for US action accord and imposed sanctions rocket, which it said was able Israel. The Israeli military did not space and crashed in the village Beirut and other parts of to effectively undo sanctions, in 2018. to reach a height of 500km, confirm the shootdown but said of Blida, near the border with Lebanon has intensified in the give us access to our own funds, Khatibzadeh said there Associated Press reported. a drone had crashed on Lebanese Israel. Hezbollah fighters now past weeks, making residents permit easy oil exports and won’t be any direct bilateral The footage of the solid- territory. have the unmanned aircraft, the jittery as tensions run high in allow the transfer of oil talks with the US until it first liquid-fuelled rocket showed Tensions in the region have report said. The Israeli military the region. revenue, shipping and returns to the original bloc of the launch taking place during been rising over the past said the drone was on opera- Israel and Hezbollah fought insurance,” Khatibzadeh told six powers that brokered the daytime in a desert envi- months amid Israeli airstrikes tional activity along the border to a draw in a month-long war reporters, referring to billions accord. Washington can then ronment. The report did not say on Iran-backed fighters in before it crashed. “There is no in Lebanon in 2006. Hezbollah of dollars of payments for oil join discussions over Iran’s when or where the launch neighboring Syria. Hezbollah risk of breach of information,” has in the past claimed downing exports that are trapped nuclear work but within the happened. has also vowed to respond for the military added. Israeli drones. Saudi records four more Lebanese army arrests 18 people COVID-19 deaths; Kuwait linked to IS confirms 586 new cases REUTERS — BEIRUT Lebanon’s army said yesterday AGENCIES — RIYADH/KUWAIT care units amounted to 54, thus it had arrested 18 people, some the whole count of the con- Lebanese and others Syrian, Saudi Arabia reported four new firmed infection cases and with links to Islamic State. COVID-19 related deaths remained under medical care The arrests came in “field yesterday, raising the total has stood at 6,408. operations” that took place number of fatalities to 6,379. The Ministry of Health also over the past two weeks in the The Ministry of Health con- announced the recovery of 545 border town of Arsal in the firmed 255 new confirmed people in the past 24 hours, north, an army statement said. cases reported in the Kingdom bringing the total number of The individuals arrested in the previous 24 hours, cases of COVID-19 to 158,476. confessed to belonging to the meaning 368,329 people have Meanwhile, Israel said yes- Islamic State jihadist group now contracted the disease. terday it supplied the Pales- and supporting it, and several Of the total number of tinians with their first shipment weapons were also confis- cases, 2,111 remain active and of COVID-19 shots, totalling cated, it said. 371 in critical condition. 2,000 doses of Moderna’s Juroud Arsal, a barren area According to the ministry, the vaccine. in the mountains between highest number of cases were The vaccines were trans- Syria and Lebanon, was pre- recorded in the capital Riyadh ferred into the occupied West viously a base of operations for with 99, followed by the Eastern Bank and will be used by Pal- insurgents fighting in the Province with 58, Makkah with estinian Authority medical Syrian civil war, including mil- 46, Asir recorded 12 and Qassim teams, according to a statement itants from Islamic State and A woman reads the Holy Quran as she waits to leave Rafah border crossing after it was opened by confirmed 10 cases. The min- by COGAT, Israel’s military the group formerly known as Egyptian authorities, amid the coronavirus disease outbreak, in the southern Gaza Strip, yesterday. istry also announced that 266 liaison to the Palestinians. the Nusra Front. patients had recovered from Palestinian officials COVID-19, bringing the total declined to confirm or deny the Another quake number of recoveries in the delivery. Israel has earmarked Egypt reopens Rafah crossing for 4 days Kingdom to 359,839. an additional 3,000 doses for measuring 5.1 Kuwait's Ministry of Health the Palestinians, said a COGAT ANATOLIA — GAZA CITY authorities have closed the ter- Al Nakhala, comes upon an (MoH) yesterday listed 586 spokesman. minal, in cooperation with invitation from the Russian strikes Izmir in new coronavirus (COVID-19) Israel has emerged as a Egypt yesterday reopened the Hamas, which rules the coastal Foreign Ministry. cases bringing caseload of con- world leader in vaccinating its Rafah crossing with the strip. The talks will focus on western Turkey taminations with the contagion citizens and the Palestinian blockaded Gaza Strip, according Egypt, however, reopens bilateral relations and mobi- to 165,843. Authority has separately been to the Palestinian Interior the gate from time to time to lizing international support to QNA — ANKARA MoH official spokesperson trying to secure its own doses. Ministry. allow stranded Palestinians go the Palestinian rights, the Dr. Abdullah Al Sanad said in a It has ordered a batch of Rus- The border terminal will into and out of the strip. statement read. A second earthquake, meas- statement that no new fatalities sia’s Sputnik V vaccine. remain open in both directions In another development, a It remains unclear for how uring 5.1 on the Richter scale, with the contagious disease The Palestinians will also for four days to allow stranded delegation from the Palestinian long the delegation will stay in struck yesterday the coast of were registered during the be receiving upwards of 35,000 Palestinians to enter and exit Islamic Jihad group arrived in Moscow. Karaburun, in the state of same period, thus mortalities’ to 40,000 vaccines from the the blockaded enclave, the Moscow yesterday for talks Russia has invited several Izmir, in western Turkey. toll steadied at 959. COVAX global vaccine sharing Hamas-run ministry said in a with Russian officials. Palestinian groups in the past Turkish Disaster and Emer- Dr. Al Sanad added the programme in the coming statement. In a statement, the group year in an effort to actively con- gency Management stated that number of people who are weeks, a World Health Organ- Since the coronavirus out- said the visit of the delegation, tribute to achieving inter-Pal- the earthquake occurred at a receiving treatment at intensive ization official said yesterday. break in March, the Egyptian led by Secretary-General Zeyad estinian reconciliation. depth of 3.42 km under the surface of the earth. So far, no human or material losses has been Activists chain gates at UK factory of Israeli arms company reported. Earlier yesterday, an earth- AP — LONDON take direct action until we quake with the same mag- shut Elbit down and end nitude hit the same area. No Protesters have blocked all complicity in sys- casualties or property damage the entrance of an Israeli- tematic injustice.” were reported. owned factory in England Greater Manchester It is noteworthy that a where they claim deadly Police said officers were violent earthquake with a weapons are made. sent to the scene. Elbit magnitude of 6.6 on the Richter Activists from Pal- Systems UK, which has 10 scale hit in late in October in estine Action and sites across the UK, the Turkish state of Izmir, Extinction Rebellion declined to comment. leaving more than 44 people chained the gates of the Elbit recently won a dead and 896 injured. Elbit Ferranti factory in contract with Britain’s An earthquake measuring Greater Manchester early Ministry of Defence to 4.9 magnitude on the Richter yesterday. Two pro- provide technology ena- scale hit Faryab City in the testers climbed onto a bling frontline soldiers to Iranian province of Kerman on ledge in front of the detect and engage enemy Sunday. building, daubing red targets in seconds. The Geophysics Institute paint over the windows The company employs of the University of Tehran and spraying the words over 500 people in the stated that the quake’s epi- “Shut Elbit Down.” UK in high-tech and spe- center was at a depth 21 kil- The two groups said cialist manufacturing, ometer, state news agency their joint action was and it also supplies a fleet Irna reported. meant to show Elbit, of 38 aircraft to the UK There have been no initial Israel’s largest arms firm, military flying training Activists lie in sleeping bags as protesters from Palestine Action and Extinction Rebellion occupy the Elbit-Ferranti reports of damage or casualties that they will “continue to school. factory, where they say weapons are being made, in Waterhead, Oldham, Britain, yesterday. as a result of the earthquake. 08 VIEWS TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021

Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI [email protected] EDITORIAL

Fans, pay attention! A file photo of Yemeni children standing outside a tent at a makeshift camp for Internally Displaced Persons in Nehm region, west of Marib city.

THE Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the Feb- Yemen can’t wait: Millions of Yemenis urgently ruary 4-11 FIFA Club World Cup has turned its attention to fans, urging them to follow strict guide- lines issued on Monday. The six-team tournament need our help to survive war and winter will see 30 per cent of fan attendance at the two venues to be used during the popular event - Ahmad How will they survive the Six years of raging cash, they would have Bin Ali Stadium and the Education City Stadium. winter and COVID in one stopped eating to make sure Fans attending the games involving Qatar’s Al Duhail, single room? What will war has forced 4 that their children had Germany’s Bayern Munich, Egypt’s Al Ahly, Brazil’s happen if they get evicted? million Yemenis out enough. I have seen the sac- SE Palmeiras, Korea’s Ulsan Hyundai FC and Mex- What will they eat when rifices parents are ready to ico’s Tigres UANL - will have to make sure they Abdu’s earning will not be of their homes. The make to protect their adhere to social distancing rules after they settle sufficient? conflict and now children. Nobody should into their seats. Six years of raging war have to make such dramatic But before stepping out of their homes or work has forced 4 million Yemenis COVID has finished choices. Like you and me, place to attend the games, the fans must - according out of their homes. The con- destroying the they know better how to to LOC - arrive at the match venues at least an hour flict and now COVID has fin- protect their loved ones. before kick off. With security filters to clear, the fans JEAN-NICOLAS BEUZE economy. Inflation UNHCR representative in Yemen ished destroying the In Yemen, this year, we will need to show patience and have to sport face economy. Inflation is soaring. is soaring. Famine helped more than 1 million masks at all times, the LOC said on Monday. The Famine is, looming. And this is, looming. And this Yemenis displaced by the early arrival at match venues has also been under- As the mercury takes a dip, year, the humanitarian conflict through cash grants. lined keeping in mind the temporary road restric- biting cold reels across the partners did not receive half year, the humanitarian With more funding, we tions around the two tournament venues, LOC’s Middle East, including some of the money we needed to partners did not would save many more lives. LOC’s Host Country Operations Director Abdulaziz parts of Yemen. For four save lives. This is why I am now making Al Mawlawi said in a statement. Al Mawlawi said: million war-displaced I am heartbroken every receive half of the this appeal to you to join us in “Our main message to fans is to plan ahead before Yemenis, this is their sixth time I see children shivering money we needed to making a difference for you travel. Check the official channels and social year anguishing in makeshift in the cold under flimsy tents Yemeni families. Your gener- media for any updates in relation to road closures, shelters and struggling to or in damaged buildings save lives. osity is an example to the public transport and COVID-19 protocols.” bring food to their children. without proper heating, warm world and with your help; I Arriving early at the match venues should not be Abdu Ubadi is among clothes and food. know we can support many an issue as fans can use the Doha Metro, hitch hike them. He paddles across the The conditions are equally more of the 196,000 families a car or a taxi ride, Al Mawlawi said. The LOC official city of Dhamar, from dawn to precarious for those living in we have identified as in need said fans wanting to be in their seats early can do so dusk, selling belts and sec- urban slums or damaged and of our support to get through with ease as the match open three hours prior to ondhand clothes but barely abandoned buildings. Like rebuilding their lives in these the cold season. every kick-off. The LOC’s key message is: “show earns enough to afford one Abdu, most families have temporary shelters. We give I cannot end my appeal your EHTERAZ app when prompted and don’t get meal a day, let alone buying exhausted their financial families cash so that they can without telling you that too close to anyone who is not from the same extra blankets or warm savings on food and rents. buy food for their children or through your support, Abdu household.” clothes for his five children. With the generous zakat medicines for their elderly retained his tenancy Domestic and international fans need not show I met Abdu inside a donation from Sheikh Thani parents. Qatar Charity also agreement. One room only concern on the timing of the new guidelines. Qatar - cramped room he rents in Bin Abdullah Bin Thani Al- supported the most vul- but one that will protect him in the last four months - has hosted two month-long Dhamar. One single room for Thani Humanitarian Fund, nerable families in Yemen and his family in the coming football tournaments with 32 teams featuring in dozen the entire family. And he is Eid Charity amongst many through providing cash for months. I hope to visit him of matches. not even sure he will be able others who support our work burials to ease the burden on again and hopefully give him The LOC is well versed on how to keep the event, to keep it as he is unable to through the UNHCR Refugee families with dignity. the good news that we can the players, the officials, the fans and the technical pay the rent. Zakat Fund, my organization Our cash programme is a continue to help him until he staff safe in these trying times. The best news from a This winter is particularly the UN Refugee Agency lifeline for hundreds of thou- can stand on his own feet player’s perspective is a number of them will be back difficult – Abdu and other (UNHCR), is helping Abdu and sands displaced Yemeni fam- and provide for his beloved with their national team for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. fathers and mothers - like you millions of families across ilies. With this money, they family. Your zakat and gen- Appearing at the FIFA Club World Cup would be a and me – will be worried Yemen. We deliver shelters to can choose what to prioritize: erous donations are an dress rehearsal for them, the fans reaching the sta- about their kids or their own those who just had their some will buy new clothes essential gesture of soli- diums and the staff putting together what should be parents catching COVID-19. houses destroyed by the con- while others will pay their darity helping millions a spectacular football event. The pandemic has made their flict. We give blankets and rent. Many parents like Abdu regain their hopes and situation, from dire to deadly. mattresses to those who are told me that without this dignity. Promote decarbonization at companies via investments, loans D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR JAPAN NEWS-YOMIURI EMAIL: [email protected] funds and life insurance com- money, it is important for the from company to company panies are increasing their companies receiving invest- and are sometimes difficult for To achieve the government’s investments in ESG fields. The ments to actively disclose investors to understand. The EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 goal of reducing greenhouse global trend is to demand that information, and there are government should consider FAX: +974 4455 7758 gas emissions to net zero by companies not only maximize already an increasing number unifying disclosure standards 2050, it is essential to attract short-term profits, but also of cases in which companies and fair evaluation methods. MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 significant funds. An envi- contribute to society. In par- are voluntarily doing so. It is also important for ronment must be created that ticular, the promotion of In the manufacturing financial institutions to DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 encourages corporate behavior decarbonization to reduce industry, many companies encourage the companies they through investment and loans. greenhouse gas emissions is have set targets for reducing finance to strengthen their LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 There is a growing trend an urgent task. CO2 emissions and are environmental measures. The to focus not only on corporate Technological innovations explaining how they are three megabanks in Japan BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 profits but also on sustainable such as renewable energy, improving the energy-saving have announced that they will, growth when selecting large-scale storage batteries performance of their products. in principle, suspend new SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 investment targets. This is and the utilization of Some manufacturers are pro- loans for coal-fired power called ESG investment, hydrogen will be necessary if moting themselves through the generation. ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 focusing on environmental, Japan is to meet its goal of net disclosure of their development Furthermore, it is email: [email protected] social and governance efforts. zero emissions. It is important schedule for materials for desirable to accurately This concept was put to encourage companies to electric vehicle batteries and identify areas where techno- PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 forward by the United Nations focus on these areas through the production times for their logical innovation can be email: [email protected] in 2006, and it spread as it was investment and loans. products. Many companies are expected and effectively adopted by institutional To create a mechanism for participating in an interna- allocate funds. ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 investors such as U.S. and this, the Financial Services tional framework that aims to Rather than viewing FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] European public pensions, Agency has said it will hold utilize renewable energy global warming counter- which manage large amounts of discussions by an expert sources for 100% of the elec- measures as an increasing CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 assets over the long term. The panel to map out concrete tricity used in their businesses. burden, companies should email: [email protected] outstanding amount worldwide measures around May. However, unlike financial view them as promising was about $31 trillion in 2018. To make it easier for information, disclosure growth projects and develop SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 In Japan, too, pension investors to invest their methods on ESG efforts vary strategies to attract funds. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar We all have to play our part in the battle against the coronavirus. We are also calling on the international /Peninsula_Qatar community to act together to ensure a level playing field in relation to access to vaccines, treatments /ThePeninsulaNewspaper and diagnostic tests across the globe. +974 6698 6188 Gianni Infantino, FIFA President TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 09 Libya’s future in balance in UN-backed leadership vote

AP — GENEVA The 75-member forum Delegates from Libya’s opposing represents the three main sides kicked off a five-day meeting yesterday to choose an regions of old Libya. The interim prime minister and a voting process is taking three-person presidency council place under the mediation in a bid to reunite the troubled of the UN secretary- oil-rich country before an general’s acting special election in December. The Libyan Political Dia- representative for Libya, logue Forum, including envoys Stephanie Williams. The from around Libya, was interim authority to be meeting under UN mediation in chosen will seek to rebuild an undisclosed site outside state institutions and lead Geneva in hopes of stabilising the North African country that Libya to a national has been largely lawless since election on December 24. Muammar Gaddafi’s fall and killing in 2011. The voting process is taking December vote. An overview of the first day of the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum at an undisclosed location in Switzerland, yesterday. place under the mediation of Since Gaddafi’s ouster, the UN secretary-general’s Libya has been in turmoil and acting special representative for split between rival administra- Supreme Council of State. from a successful ending of a countries, like Russia, Turkey progress has been made on that. Libya, Stephanie Williams. The tions in the east and west — Libya’s top judge Mohammed long hectic process. Failure is and the United Arab Emirates, Williams said in December interim authority to be chosen each backed by an array of Al Hafi’s candidacy for the pres- definitely not an option,” he are likely exerting their sway there were at least 20,000 will seek to rebuild state insti- militias and foreign powers. idential council has stirred up tweeted on Sunday. on the choices too. foreign fighters and merce- tutions and lead Libya to a The 75-member forum rep- controversy. The country’s Given the sheer number of “In fact, we don’t even know naries in Libya, and warned national election on December resents the three main regions Judges’ Association decried the candidates and the high bar whether a cabinet can be about a “serious crisis” as 24. A list of possible candidates of old Libya: Tripolitania in the move, saying he should have needed to declare a winner, the formed at all, even assuming the weapons continue to pour into has already been agreed upon. west, Cyrenaica in the east, and retired before running, UN mission is likely to resort to four positions are filled thanks the country. “Reaching this far and Fezzan in the southwest — each Twenty-one candidates are lists formed from Libya’s three to the UN process. Turkey is the main patron achieving this progress in the to be represented on the three- running for prime minister, regions, with each list consisting Last week, the United States of the UN-supported gov- political dialogue has been an member presidential council. including Fathi Bashaga, the of four names, nominated for called on Russia, Turkey and the ernment in Tripoli, the capital, arduous journey fraught with The prime minister is to be powerful interior minister in the presidential council and a United Arab Emirates to halt while Egypt, Russia and UAE challenges,” Williams told the chosen by the candidate Tripoli, and Ahmed Meitig, prime minister position. their military interventions in back the forces of military com- gathering. “Indeed, a year ago, winning 70% of votes. deputy prime minister of the This is likely to lead to can- Libya, as has been sought under mander Khalifa Haftar — who this would not have been Twenty-four candidates are UN-supported government. didates working together to the ceasefire agreement that runs most of the east and south. possible.” running for the presidential Bashaga, a front-runner, said form a most-likely-to-win list, has largely held in recent UN Secretary-General The warring factions also council posts. Those include the transitional government said Jalel Harchaoui, a research months. The ceasefire deal, Antonio Guterres has said agreed that a national refer- Aguila Saleh, speaker of the east- should be a national unity one fellow specialising in Libyan inked in October, included Libyans are making a endum would be held on con- based House of Representatives, that brings all Libyans together affairs at the Clingendael Neth- having foreign forces and mer- “remarkable effort to come stitutional arrangements, laying Khaled Al Meshri, the head of the without discrimination. erlands Institute of Interna- cenaries leave Libya within together” and said it’s crucial for the legal groundwork for the Tripoli-based government’s “We are one kilometer away tional Relations. He said foreign three months but so far no foreign forces to withdraw. 9 killed in hotel attack Erdogan says some schools to in Somalia capital gradually reopen

REUTERS — MOGADISHU are skilled at complex opera- from March 1 tions against high level al Nine people died after Al Shabaab targets. REUTERS — ANKARA Qaeda-linked insurgents They also enjoyed consid- stormed a hotel in the Somali erable support from the Amer- Turkish President Recep capital Mogadishu, battling icans, including air support and Tayyip Erdogan said yesterday security forces until the early medical evacuations, and some some schools would begin to hours of yesterday, a police Somali politicians have raised gradually reopen from March spokesman said. fears the pullout ordered by U.S. 1, as Ankara continues a A suicide car bombing on President Donald Trump could COVID-19 vaccination Sunday evening was followed weaken the fight against Al programme which has so far by a shootout between Al Shabaab. administered shots to more Shabaab militants and security The insurgency has battled than 2.1 million people. forces at the Hotel Afrik. since 2008 to overthrow Soma- Schools had been slated to “The operation is over now. lia’s internationally-backed resume physical education on Nine people including four central government and February. 15, and Erdogan said attackers died and over 10 establish its rule, based on its some in small villages will be civilians were injured,” Sadik own harsh interpretation of able to resume general edu- Ali, told reporters from the Islamic law. cation then, while schools scene and via Facebook. It carries out regular gun would reopen on March 1 for The attack on a hotel in the and bomb attacks in Mogadishu Somali military pallbearers carry the body of former Army General Mohamed Nur Galal who was killed other age groups and grades. heart of the heavily fortified city and elsewhere in Somalia. during a suicide attack at the Afrik hotel in Mogadishu, Somalia, yesterday. “Parallel to the comes as Somali politicians It has also vowed to disrupt improvement in new wrangle acrimoniously over national elections, which were meant to pick a president on ordered to concentrate on was among those killed in Mon- (COVID-19) case numbers, delayed elections and follows the scheduled to begin in December February 8, but even the elec- political rivals rather than al day’s attack. “I condemn the preparations are underway for withdrawal of around 700 US but have been delayed after the tions for lawmakers have yet to Shabaab. barbaric attack,” he said. education to gradually continue military personnel last month. opposition accused the pres- be held. Times of political Prime Minister Mohamed “General Mohamed Nur Galal in a provincial basis as of March The US troops were largely ident of packing the electoral turmoil have also traditionally Hussein Roble said in a will be remembered for his over 1,” Erdogan told a news con- supporting Somali special board with his allies. Newly provided a boost to the insur- statement that former military 50 year role in defending the ference after a cabinet meeting. forces known as Danaab who appointed legislators were gency, as security chiefs may be general Mohamed Nur Galal country.” UK announces sanctions against South Africa welcomes first delivery of COVID-19 vaccines 4 security officials AP — JOHANNESBURG looking forward to getting vac- cinated, according to a recent in Zimbabwe South Africa gave a hero’s survey. An impressive 67% of welcome yesterday to the adults said they would definitely AP — LONDON delivery of its first COVID-19 or probably take a vaccine if it vaccines - 1 million doses of the was available, according to a The UK has imposed sanctions AstraZeneca vaccine produced survey by the University of on four top Zimbabwean by the Serum Institute of India. Johannesburg and the Human security officials blamed for a South African President Sciences Research Council. variety of human rights Cyril Ramaphosa greeted the Those who said they would abuses, including the deaths crates of vaccine that arrived at definitely not or probably not of 23 anti-government Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo take a vaccine were at 18%, protesters. International Airport, which will according to the survey of more The measures, which bar be followed up later this month than 10,000 South Africans. the four men from traveling to by another 500,000 doses of About 15% of those surveyed the UK or channeling money the vaccine. said they had not decided if they through the country’s banks, The vaccine will be effective would take a jab. are part of a wider British push in preventing severe disease South African health experts for economic and political and death from the variant that are encouraged by the results reform in Zimbabwe. has become dominant in South of the survey, saying many of The sanctions are the first An aircraft carrying South Africa’s first COVID-19 vaccine doses arrives at OR Tambo Airport in Africa, a vaccine expert says. the undecided would probably Britain has imposed unilat- The AstraZeneca vaccines Johannesburg, yesterday. get vaccines when many others erally since it severed ties with will be used to inoculate South are. The South African gov- the European Union at the Africa’s front-line health initial trials indicate that all the country’s population of 60 expected to arrive in the second ernment has already launched beginning of this year. workers, which will kickstart various inoculations will still million, by the end of the year. quarter of the year, the gov- a social media campaign to The sanctions apply to the country’s vaccination cam- offer good protection. South Africa has by far the ernment confirmed. Minister of build enthusiasm for vaccines. Owen Ncube, minister for paign. The first jabs are “The most important point highest number of COVID-19 Health Zweli Mkhize will Hashtags like #VacciNation state security; Isaac Moyo, expected to be administered in that should be emphasized is that cases in all of Africa, with 1.45 announce the cost of the Pfizer and #ListenToTheExperts director general of the mid-February, after the vac- while the vaccines offer variable million confirmed cases, vaccines at a later date, said accompanied by attractive Central Intelligence Organi- cines are tested and approved efficacy in preventing infection including 44,164 deaths, Lwazi Manzi, spokeswoman for graphics are circulating to zation; Godwin Matanga, by South Africa’s drug regu- with COVID-19, so far severe according to official figures the health ministry. promote support for vaccines commissioner general of the latory authorities. disease and death are prevented released on Sunday. That repre- In the coming months, and to counteract rumors and Zimbabwe Republic Police; “The arrival of the first vac- by all the vaccines,” he said from sents about 41% of all cases South Africa is expecting to misinformation about and Anselem Sanyatwe, com- cines is excellent news and a his office in Durban. reported by Africa’s 54 countries, receive 6 million vaccine doses COVID-19. mander of the Presidential step in the right direction for “So it doesn’t matter the according to the Africa Centers from the international COVAX “We really need these vac- Guard. South Africa,” Professor Willem level of efficacy, the vaccines for Disease Control and facility, 9 million of the Johnson cines as quickly as possible,” “These sanctions send a Hanekom, director of the Africa all seem to work pretty well Prevention. & Johnson vaccine when it is Michael Makhethe, an ambu- clear message that we will Health Research Institute, told against severe disease and death, South Africa’s scramble to approved, and an additional 20 lance driver and first aid pro- hold to account those respon- The Associated Press. even against this new variant, it acquire adequate vaccines to million from the African Union’s vider who works in the Soweto sible for the most egregious Although the variant that appears. And that is very good reach that ambitious target vaccine acquisition task team. area of southern Johannesburg, human rights violations, has become dominant in South news,” Hanekom said. received a substantial boost Further acquisitions of vaccines said. “We front-line health care including the deaths of Africa is expected to reduce the South Africa’s government with the news that it has will be needed to meet the gov- workers are exposed to the innocent Zimbabweans,’’ efficacy of the AstraZeneca and intends to inoculate 40 million acquired 20 million doses of the ernment’s inoculation target. virus in our work. We need Foreign Secretary Dominic other vaccines, Hanekom said people, representing 67% of the Pfizer vaccine. They are Most South Africans are protection.” Raab said. 10 ASIA TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021 Myanmar military stages coup, detains Suu Kyi

AP — NAYPYITAW An announcement was finally on the path to democracy. There will likely be Myanmar’s military staged a read on military- calls for a reintroduction of at coup yesterday and detained owned Myawaddy least some of the sanctions the senior politicians including country had long faced. Nobel laureate Aung San Suu TV said the military The first signs that the mil- Kyi — a sharp reversal of the would take control itary was planning to seize significant, if uneven, progress of the country for power were reports that Suu Kyi toward democracy the and Win Myint, the country’s Southeast Asian nation has one year. It said president, had been detained made following five decades of the seizure was before dawn. military rule. Myo Nyunt, a spokesman for An announcement read on necessary because the Suu Kyi’s party, told the online military-owned Myawaddy TV government had not news service The Irrawaddy said the military would take that in addition to Suu Kyi and control of the country for one acted on the military’s the president, members of the year. It said the seizure was claims of fraud in party’s Central Executive Com- necessary because the gov- mittee, many of its lawmakers Soldiers stand guard at a Myanmar’s military checkpoint on the way to the Congress compound in ernment had not acted on the November’s elections. and other senior leaders had Naypyitaw, Myanmar, yesterday. military’s claims of fraud in also been taken into custody. November’s elections — in which Suu Kyi’s ruling party her National League for won a majority of the parlia- Democracy won elections in West condemns move; China’s response more muted mentary seats up for grabs - and 2015. because it allowed the election While Suu Kyi had been a REUTERS — NEW YORK understanding the situation,” detained by the military. and unconditional release” of to go ahead despite the corona- fierce antagonist of the army Foreign Ministry spokesman “We call on Burmese mil- all those detained. virus pandemic. while under house arrest, since The United Nations led Wang Wenbin told a daily news itary leaders to release all Switzerland’s foreign min- The takeover came the her release and return to pol- condemnation of Myanmar’s briefing in Beijing. government officials and civil istry also called for the release morning the country’s new par- itics, she has had to work with military yesterday after it seized “China is a friendly society leaders and respect of those detained and, voicing liamentary session was to begin the country’s generals, who power, calling for the release of neighbour of Myanmar’s. We the will of the people of support for “the aspirations of and follows days of concern that never fully gave up power. elected leaders, including Nobel hope that all sides in Myanmar Burma as expressed in dem- the people of Myanmar for the military was plotting a coup. While the 75-year-old has laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. can appropriately handle their ocratic elections on November democracy, freedom, peace and The military maintains its remained wildly popular at UN Secretary-General differences under the consti- 8,” Blinken said in a development”, it urged the mil- actions are legally justified — home, Suu Kyi’s deference to Antonio Guterres said the tution and legal framework and statement, using another itary to reverse its actions. citing a section of the consti- the generals — going so far as developments were a “serious safeguard political and social name for Myanmar. Australian Foreign Minister tution it drafted that allows it to to defend their crackdown on blow to democratic reforms” stability,” he added. British Prime Minister Boris Marise Payne called on the mil- take control in times of national Rohingya Muslims that the and urged all leaders to refrain US President Joe Biden has Johnson also condemned the itary “to respect the rule of law, emergency — though Suu Kyi’s United States and others have from violence and respect been briefed on the situation, coup. “The vote of the people to resolve disputes through party spokesman as well as labeled genocide — has left her human rights, a UN spokesman the White House said. must be respected and civilian lawful mechanisms and to many international observers reputation internationally in said. “The United States opposes leaders released,” he said on release immediately all civilian have said it amounts to a coup. tatters. The United States, Britain, any attempt to alter the Twitter. leaders and others” who had It was a dramatic backslide For some, yesterday’s Australia and the European outcome of recent elections or Japan said it opposed any been detained. for Myanmar, which was takeover was seen as confir- Union condemned the military’s impede Myanmar’s democratic reversal of the democratic Singapore’s Foreign Min- emerging from decades of strict mation that the military holds coup and detentions and its transition, and will take action process in Myanmar. istry urged all parties to exercise military rule and international ultimate power despite the declaration of a state of emer- against those responsible if “We strongly call on the mil- restraint and work towards a isolation that began in 1962. It veneer of democracy. gency. The army said it had these steps are not reversed,” itary government to restore positive and peaceful outcome was also a shocking fall from The coup presents a test for taken action in response to White House spokeswoman Jen democracy as soon as possible,” in comments that were echoed power for Suu Kyi, a Nobel the international community, “election fraud”. Psaki said. said a Foreign Ministry by Malaysia and Indonesia. peace laureate who had lived which had ostracized Myanmar China’s response, however, Reflecting similar views of statement. However, other fellow under house arrest for years as while it was under military rule was more muted. several Western governments, That was echoed by the members of regional grouping, she tried to push her country and then enthusiastically “We have noted what has US Secretary of State Antony head of the European Com- the Association of Southeast toward democracy and then embraced Suu Kyi’s gov- happened in Myanmar and are Blinken called for the release mission, Ursula von der Leyen, Asian Nations (Asean), took a became its de facto leader after ernment as a sign the country in the process of further of Suu Kyi and the others who called for the “immediate more hands-off approach. Dhaka expects Myanmar to keep India: Budget boosts healthcare spending by 135% REUTERS — NEW DELHI from the seven percent capital expenditure for announcing a big stimulus, economic stress, the govern- Rohingya expected earlier. 2021/2022 at Rs5.54 trillion, 35 offering greater liquidity to ment’s responsibility was to India boosted healthcare Prime Minister Narendra percent more than the previous firms instead, and held off using spend enough to revive the commitments spending by 135 percent and Modi said the budget was aimed year’s budget estimate. its fiscal firepower until curbs economy or else face enormous lifted caps on foreign at creating “wealth and “All of us decided to give to contain the virus were lifted. human suffering,” said Anand REUTERS — DHAKA investment in its vast insurance wellness” in a country that is impetus to the economy and The government estimates Mahindra, chairman of market yesterday to help revive battling the world’s second that impetus, we thought, would the economy will contract 7.7 Mahindra group, an autos to Bangladesh called for “peace an economy that suffered its highest coronavirus caseload be qualitatively spent and give percent in the current fiscal technology conglomerate. and stability” in Myanmar after deepest recorded slump as a after the United States. necessary demand push if we year ending in March, in what “So I had one expectation a military coup yesterday, and result of the pandemic. India currently spends choose to spend big on infra- would be the biggest fall ever from this budget: that we should said it hoped its neighbour Delivering a budget about one percent of GDP on structure,” Sitharaman told recorded. However, it foresees be very liberal in terms of the makes genuine efforts to move statement to parliament, health, among the lowest for reporters after the presentation a strong recovery in 2021/2022 targeted fiscal deficit.” forward the stalled process of Finance Minister Nirmala Sith- any major economy. of the budget in parliament. with growth of 11 percent. To bridge some of the voluntary repatriation of araman projected a fiscal deficit Sitharaman proposed Millions of people lost their That would make it the deficit, the government plans Rohingya Muslim refugees. of 6.8 percent of gross domestic increasing healthcare spending jobs when the government world’s fastest growing major to raise Rs1.75 trillion from Mainly-Muslim Bang- product for 2021/22, higher than to 2.2 trillion Indian rupees ordered a lockdown last year economy ahead of China’s pro- selling its stake in the state run ladesh has sheltered 1 million the 5.5 percent forecast by a ($30.2bn) to help improve to combat the coronavirus. jected 8.1 percent growth, but companies and banks including Rohingya who had fled vio- recent poll of economists. public health systems and fund Thousands of small businesses the government said it would IDBI bank, an insurance lence in Buddhist-majority The current year was a huge vaccination drive to remain shut. take the economy two years to company and oil companies. It Myanmar, where most of them expected to end with a deficit immunise 1.3 billion people. Unlike other countries, reach pre-pandemic levels. also wants to sell state firms’ are denied citizenship. of 9.5 percent, she said, well up Overall, the government set India refrained from “In a time of unprecedented surplus land. A UN-backed repatriation process has failed to take off despite multiple attempts from Bangladesh, which has now Bing could replace Google: started sending some refugees to an isolated island in the Bay Australian Prime Minister of Bengal. “We have been persistent in developing mutually bene- AP — CANBERRA analytics service Statcounter. ficial relations with Myanmar Google says it has 95 percent. and have been working with Australia’s Prime Minister said Nadella initiated the Zoom con- Myanmar for the voluntary, yesterday that Microsoft is versation with Morrison, The safe and sustained repatriation confident it can fill the void if Australian newspaper reported. of the Rohingya sheltered in Google carries out its threat to A Microsoft statement con- Bangladesh,” the Ministry of remove its search engine from firmed that the online meeting Foreign Affairs told Reuters in Australia. had taken place last week but a statement. A Google executive told a released no details of the “We expect these processes Senate hearing last month that conversation. to continue in right earnest.” it would likely make its search “We recognise the impor- Myanmar’s military seized engine unavailable in Australia tance of a vibrant media sector power on Monday in a coup if the government goes ahead and public interest journalism against the democratically with a draft law that would make in a democracy and we rec- elected government of Nobel tech giants pay for news content. ognize the challenges the laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, Prime Minister Scott Mor- media sector has faced over who was detained along with rison said he has spoken to many years through changing other leaders of her National Microsoft chief executive Satya business models and consumer League for Democracy party in Nadella about its search engine, preferences,” Microsoft said. early morning raids. People wearing face masks disembark a suburban train at a railway station in Mumbai, yesterday. Bing, filling the space. “With respect to the current “We hope that the demo- “I can tell you, Microsoft’s controversy over a potential cratic process and constitu- Suburban train services restored in Mumbai pretty confident” that Aus- code of conduct governing tional arrangements will be tralians would not be worse off, Google and Facebook, Microsoft upheld in Myanmar,” Bang- REUTERS — MUMBAI imposed by the government. Mumbai has been one of Morrison told the National is not directly involved and we ladesh said. Only government workers worst affected cities, recording Press Club of Australia. wouldn’t want to comment on Nevertheless, Rohingya in One of the world’s busiest in “essential services” were more than 300,000 cases and “These are big technology that ongoing process involving Bangladesh expressed fears for urban rail systems situated in allowed to travel on the train over 11,000 deaths since March. companies and what’s important the ACCC and those companies,” their people still in Myanmar India’s financial capital Mumbai network after it was partially “It was really bad when to Australia, I think, is that we set the statement added, referring following the military’s ouster was restarted for all commuters opened in June. trains were shut. I live far away the rules that are right for our to the Australian Competition of Suu Kyi. yesterday, 11 months after it Yesterday, commuters and to travel to college took a people,” Morrison said. and Consumer Commission, the “She was no good for us was shut down to prevent the trickled into still empty train long time,” said Disha Maurya, “Having a news environment national regulator that devised but there was still hope that spread of coronavirus infection coaches, wearing masks and a 16 year-old student before she in this country that is one that is the draft law. through the democratic in the city. armed with sanitisers. boarded a train. sustainable and is supported com- The mandatory code of process we could achieve our An average of eight million “From today, regular com- India has recorded the mercially, then this is vital to how conduct proposed by the gov- rights. Now it seems Myanmar people were using the train muters will be allowed to travel, world’s second-highest number democracies function,” he added. ernment aims to make Google has no democratic future in services daily before the pan- but only during non-peak of coronavirus cases in the Although Bing is Australia’s and Facebook pay Australian the near term,” a 31-year-old demic. Operations were hours,” said Sumit Thakur, a world, but its daily case count second most popular search media companies fairly for Rohingya said by telephone stopped in March last year, as spokesman for Western has dipped sharply in the last engine, it has only a 3.6% market using news content the tech from a refugee camp part of a strict lockdown Railways. few months. share, according to web giants siphon from news sites. TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021 ASIA 11 Taliban attacks increase in Kabul: US watchdog AP — KABUL The report said Taliban-initiated attacks Osama bin Laden. The US is aid agency reports said that The White House said that still spending about $4bn a more than half of Afghans are President Joe Biden’s national Taliban attacks in the Afghan across Afghanistan during the last quarter of year to assist Afghan security in dire need of assistance just security adviser, Jake Sullivan, capital of Kabul are on the rise, 2020 were slightly lower than in the previous forces. to survive 2021. told his Afghan counterpart in with increasing targeted killings The US military said earlier The relentless corruption a phone call last week that the of government officials, civil- quarter, but exceeded those of the same period this month that it had met its has alienated most Afghans new administration will society leaders and journalists, in 2019, according to numbers provided by US goal of reducing the number caught between a war and “review” the February a report by a US watchdog said forces in Afghanistan. of troops in Afghanistan to relentless poverty, despite bil- agreement between the US and yesterday. about 2,500. Senior US com- lions of dollars in international the Taliban. It comes as the Biden manders are sceptical of the aid. By the end of 2020, Afghan- Pentagon chief spokesman administration plans to take a Taliban’s stated commitment istan’s unemployment rate was John Kirby said last week that new look at the peace Afghanistan. devices increased by nearly to peace, though they have projected to rise to 37.9 percent, the US stands by its com- agreement between the US and The Taliban unleashed a 17 percent in this quarter, cor- said they can accomplish their up from 23.9 percent in 2019, mitment under the deal for a the Taliban signed last February wave of attacks in Afghanistan relating with an increase in mission in Afghanistan at that said the report. full troop withdrawal, but the under President Donald Trump. in December, including strikes magnetically attached IEDs or troop level. Taliban representatives and agreement also calls for the The report said Taliban-ini- in northern Baghlan and “sticky bomb” attacks, the “As the footprint of US the Afghan government earlier Taliban to cut ties with Al Qaida tiated attacks across Afghan- southern Uruzgan provinces report said. agencies continues to shrink, it this month resumed peace talks and reduce violence. istan during the last quarter of over a two-day period that Despite the ongoing vio- will become more important in Qatar, the Gulf Arab state The authorized goal 2020 were slightly lower than killed at least 19 members of the lence, casualties across Afghan- that the US and other donors where the insurgents maintain strength of Afghan defence in the previous quarter, but Afghan security forces. In Kabul, istan in the last quarter of 2020 perform aggressive and an office. forces has been adjusted exceeded those of the same a roadside bomb struck a decreased by 14 percent, com- effective oversight of its dollars The stop-and-go talks are downward to 208,000 per- period in 2019, according to vehicle, wounding two, and a pared to the previous quarter. and programs,” said Special aimed at ending decades of sonnel, the SIGAR report said. numbers provided by US forces lawyer was shot in a targeted The quarter saw an excep- Inspector General for Afghan conflict but frustration and fear It had been roughly 227,000 for in Afghanistan. killing. tionally high number of casu- Reconstruction John F Sopko. have grown over the recent many years. “Enemy attacks in Kabul Resolute Support, the Nato- alties for the winter months, Corruption is rampant spike in violence, and both sides Afghan special forces con- were higher than during the led mission in Afghanistan, however, when fighting nor- among Afghan government blame one another. ducted the highest number of previous quarter,” the report reported 2,586 civilian casu- mally subsides. ministries, driving a wedge US airstrikes increased in ground operations in the last quoted US forces. “They were alties from October 1 to The US has been the prime between the government and the last quarter of 2020 as US quarter of 2020 in more than a much higher than in the same December 31 last year, backer of the Afghan gov- much of the population, frus- forces provided defensive year, Nato said. quarter last year.” including 810 killed and 1,776 ernment since it invaded the trating international donors, support to Afghan security The 1,152 ground operations The Special Inspector wounded, according to the country soon after the Sep- and contributing to a poverty forces, according to the US mil- were nearly double the number General for Afghanistan Recon- SIGAR report. tember 11, 2001, attacks and level in the country of more itary. It reiterated that since the conducted during the same struction, known as SIGAR, The report said the pro- overthrew the Taliban, who than 72 percent, according to signing of the US-Taliban deal, period last year, reflecting a monitors the billions of dollars portion of casualties caused were running the country and the World Bank. US forces have ceased offensive four percent increase compared the US spends in war-ravaged by improvised explosive harboring Al Qaida leader Also, recent international strikes against the Taliban. to the previous quarter. Pakistan military airlifts Senior Afghan official survives vaccines from China bomb attack in

REUTERS — ISLAMABAD for another one million doses. Kabul, say police It has also been pledged 17 A Pakistan military aircraft million doses of AstraZeneca’s REUTERS — KABUL brought back the country’s first COVID-19 vaccine under a consignment of COVID-19 global scheme to deliver coro- An Afghan peace ministry vaccines from China yesterday, navirus treatments to devel- official suffered light injuries the country’s health adviser, oping nations. in a bomb blast in the capital Faisal Sultan, said. About six million doses will Kabul yesterday, police said, China’s envoy in Islamabad arrive by the end of March the latest in a recent series of would formally handover the under the COVAX scheme, with attacks on civilian targets. 500,000 doses of vaccine pro- the remainder due by mid-year, Killings by small, mag- duced by Sinopharm later on Sultan announced last week. netic bombs attached to the Monday, enabling Pakistan to Pakistan, a country of 220 undercarriages of vehicles, as begin its vaccination drive this million people, reported 1,615 well as shootings, are week, officials said. new infections and 26 deaths unnerving Afghan officials, “Thank God, the first batch in the latest 24-hours, taking the activists and journalists, and of Sinopharm vaccine has total number of cases to they are on the rise despite arrived! Grateful to China and 546,428, with 11,683 deaths. negotiations to end two everyone who made this “All eligible citizens as per decades of war. happen,” Sultan said in a phases will be informed to reg- A general view of the first consignment of the coronavirus disease vaccines from China, being offloaded The latest explosion statement released on Twitter. ister once the vaccine process from a plane at the Noor Khan Airbase Rawalpindi, Pakistan, yesterday. occurred near an armoured “I salute our frontline will start,” health ministry vehicle that was taking healthcare workers for their announced at its website. Health Organization to support and will review their approval approved for emergency use as Khoshnood Nabizada, a peace efforts and they’ll be first to get Pakistan signed up last year lower-income countries. quarterly, officials said. the Drug Regulatory Authority ministry official who is also vaccinated,” he said. to the vaccine sharing scheme Pakistan has approved both \The Russian Sputnik-V of Pakistan has accepted its editor in chief of the local Pakistan has asked China coordinated by the World the vaccines for emergency use vaccine is also set to be data. Khaama Press agency, to work, Kabul police said. The United Nations Vietnam shuts Assistance Mission in Afghan- China slams Pompeo over Xinjiang genocide remarks istan (UNAMA) condemned schools due to the attack. “Today’s targeted AP — BEIJING with the next US The Biden administration is ire at Pompeo. Xu called him “hys- attack in Kabul against a virus outbreak administration.” formulating its policies toward terical,” a “rat” and “the worst sec- senior official involved in the An official from China’s far west Since 2016, China has swept China, which many analysts see retary of state in history.” peace process is another REUTERS — HANOI Xinjiang region accused former a million or more Uighurs and as America’s largest geopolitical Pompeo said one of the deplorable incident, akin to US Secretary of State Mike other predominantly Muslim challenge. main reasons for the genocide an attack on the peace process Vietnam has shut schools in 22 Pompeo yesterday of trying to minorities into prisons and Last week, US Secretary of designation was widespread itself,” UNAMA said on provinces ahead of the Lunar undermine Beijing’s relations indoctrination camps that the State Antony Blinken reiterated forced birth control among the Twitter. New Year “Tet” holiday and with new President Joe Biden state calls training centers, on his first day in office that he Uighurs. There was no immediate ended a ruling Communist by declaring that China’s according to estimates by believed genocide was being Another reason he cited was claim of responsibility for the Party congress early yesterday actions against the Uighur researchers and rights groups. committed against Xinjiang’s forced labour. Reporters found attack. Government officials following the detection of a ethnic group are “genocide.” People have been subjected ethnic minorities, signaling that that Uighur workers at OFILM, an generally blame Islamist new cluster of coronavirus Xu Guixiang, a spokes- to torture, sterilisation and Biden plans to continue some of Apple supplier nearly 3,200km Taliban insurgents for all tar- cases in northern areas last person for Xinjiang’s Com- political indoctrination in former President Donald Trump’s from Xinjiang in the eastern city geted killings, a tactic senior week. munist Party, spoke at a tightly addition to forced labour as part tough stances against Beijing. of Nanchang, were not allowed security officials and Western Thanks to targeted mass controlled media briefing, the of an assimilation campaign, Over the course of two to leave their factory compound diplomats say is meant to instil testing and strict quarantining, latest in a Chinese effort to according to former residents hours, Xu and others, including freely and could only come out fear while avoiding large-scale Vietnam has kept its tally to a counter Western accusations of and detainees, as well as an imam and former centre on rare, chaperoned trips. civilian casualties. low 1,850 cases and 35 deaths, rights abuses in the region. experts and leaked government “trainees,” took turns denying Asked about OFILM, Xin- In a separate attack in winning plaudits worldwide “Why is he putting on such documents. China denies any forced sterilisation, forced jiang government spokesperson Kabul yesterday, a bomb for one of the most successful a show, such a farce, telling the abuses and says the steps it has labor, restrictions on religion Elijan Anayat said that workers attached to an army vehicle in national responses to the lie of the century?” Xu said. “He taken are necessary to combat and other allegations. were employed voluntarily and a western district of the city pandemic. wants to plant land mines and terrorism and a separatist They did not name Biden or that their labor rights were killed one officer and a “We’ll have a difficult and set up obstacles to dialogue movement. Trump and instead trained their protected. civilian, police said. special Tet ahead, but I’m sure we all will overcome this together,” said Vu Duc Dam, the country’s coronavirus Japan ramps up freezer taskforce chief, according to state media. The school closures affect output for vaccine rollout more than a third of Vietnam’s provinces and cities. REUTERS — TOKYO dependence on overseas Most of the new cases have makers and a requirement that been recorded in Hai Duong, Japanese companies are the vaccines go through where 2,340 factory workers ramping up production of domestic trials. have been isolated after a Viet- ultra-cold freezers to store and Medical equipment maker namese employee came into deliver COVID-19 vaccines, as PHC Holdings Corporation, contact with a person who Japan aims to launch vaccina- which has been tapped by the tested positive for the more tions in the country as soon as government for its ultra-low contagious B.1.1.7 British February. temperature freezers, said the variant of the disease in Japan The government’s vaccine company had doubled output in mid-January. roll-out faces logistical hurdles at its factory in Gunma Pre- The outbreak first reported that could further delay the fecture from January. on Thursday has spread to at slow-moving campaign, Although no specific orders least nine cities and provinces. experts and officials say, com- have been made by the gov- On Monday, the health min- plicating plans to deliver wide- ernment yet, PHC said their istry reported 33 more cases, scale coronavirus inoculations freezer can store the Pfizer most in the capital Hanoi. in time for the Olympics. vaccine, which has to be kept Long told state media the Japan plans to begin its at minus 75 degrees Celsius. ministry would support Hanoi inoculation push in late Feb- “We are determined to to upgrade its capacity to ruary with the Pfizer Inc fulfil our responsibility to 40,000 tests per day. On Filipinos protest on anniversary of university uprising vaccine for front-line medical supply our products in order Friday, Vietnam’s health min- workers. to contain the novel corona- ister said the outbreak was An activist holds a placard with the text “Junk Terror Law” during a protest in commemoration of an The country trails most virus,” said PHC’s public rela- “basically under control” in the 1971 uprising at the University of the Philippines, in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines, yesterday. major economies in starting tions representative, Chisato most affected areas. inoculations due to its Hirata. 12 EUROPE TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021 UK detects SA variant strain in people with no travel links

REUTERS — LONDON testing in the areas to contain To contain the new out- the outbreak. breaks, residents in eight areas Eleven people in different Britain, with the fifth- of the country will now be regions of England have tested highest COVID-19 death toll in tested whether or not they are positive for the South African the world, has moved to tighten showing any symptoms, a coronavirus variant without its borders out of concern that process known as "surge having any links to people who new variants of the virus will testing". have travelled, prompting mass undermine its vaccination drive. There are about 10,000 people in each area. Three are in London, two in the southeast, UK orders more Valneva vaccine one in central England, one in the east and another in the to prepare for repeated jabs northwest. The government said yes- AP — LONDON terday the 11 cases were self- in Scotland, is still undergoing isolating and contact tracing The UK has ordered another clinical trials and hasn’t been would help to halt the spread. 40 million doses of the coro- approved by regulators. Positive tests in the areas Prime Minister Boris Johnson shows thumbs up to patients after they were given the vaccine during navirus vaccine developed by “The Valneva vaccine will be sequenced to identify his visit to a COVID-19 vaccination centre in Batley, West Yorkshire, Britain, yesterday. the French company Valneva showcases the best of Scottish any further spread of the South as the government prepares expertise right at the heart of African variant, the government for the likelihood that our UK vaccine endeavour, statement said. African variant since December under control quickly, so Public repeated vaccinations will be demonstrating the strength of All viruses mutate, and sci- 22. Scientists have said the Health England's house-to- needed to keep the virus in our union and what the UK entists have identified several Scientists have said the South African variant house checks, and intensive check. can achieve when it works variants of the coronavirus South African variant appears testing are the right thing to do." Britain had previously together,’’ Health Secretary found to be more transmissible to be more transmissible, but appears to be more Britain is battling a new ordered 60 million doses of Matt Hancock said. “If the than the original strain. there is no evidence it causes transmissible, but there is wave of COVID-19 turbo- the vaccine and retains an vaccine is authorised by the Their emergence has raised more severe disease. But several no evidence it causes charged by the emergence in option for 90 million more. health regulator, it will be questions over whether vac- laboratory studies have found more severe disease. September of a more transmit- The total value of the 190 rolled out across the four cines will prove as effective in that it reduces vaccine and table variant found in the million doses is ¤1.4bn nations as quickly as possible.” containing them. antibody therapy efficacy. southeast of England. The coun- ($1.7bn), Valneva said in a Britain has seen the deadliest Britain said on January 24 it Simon Clarke, associate "The discovery of a handful try's official death toll passed statement. coronavirus outbreak in had detected 77 cases of the professor in cellular microbi- of cases with no links to travel 100,000 last week. Britain is If the UK exercises all of Europe — with over 106,000 South African variant and nine ology at the University of to Africa, indicates that it might however making rapid progress its options, Valneva’s deliv- confirmed victims — but it is cases of the Brazilian variant, Reading, said there was be more widespread in the in its vaccination programme, eries would continue through pushing ahead with one of the but said all were linked to emerging evidence to suggest community than previously with nearly 9 million people 2025, the company said. The world’s quickest vaccine travel. In total, Public Health the variant was less susceptible thought," he said. receiving the first shot of either vaccine, which will be made programmes. England said it had now iden- to immunity induced by the "This spread, even if small the Pfizer-BioNTech or the tified 105 cases of the South current crop of vaccines. in scale, needs to be brought Oxford-AstraZeneca shot. Prince Harry accepts apology, damages in UK libel suit Macron asks AP — LONDON The articles claimed that and moved to the US in early character but also wrongly an apology in December but it EU to help Harry had “not been in touch” 2019. brought into question his wasn’t enough to stop the Prince Harry yesterday with the force since his last His honorary military titles service to this country,” Afia lawsuit. Harry will donate the nearby nations accepted an apology and appearance as an honorary were put on hold, and they were said. damages to the Invictus Games damages from the publisher of Marine in March, and that mil- due to be reviewed in March as She said Harry was “proud Foundation, a charity for get vaccines British tabloid The Mail on itary leaders were considering part of the monarchy’s review to have served in the British wounded or sick servicemen Sunday and its online version, replacing him as Captain of the couple’s departure armed forces for 10 years in Her and women that he founded, AP — PARIS MailOnline, in a libel lawsuit General of the Royal Marines. arrangements. Majesty’s name” and “has main- she added. The amount of the relating to articles about his Harry had served for a Lawyer Jenny Afia, repre- tained active links with those damages was not disclosed. French President Emmanuel relationship with the British decade in the British army. senting Harry, said the pub- forces ever since and will con- Separately, Meghan is also Macron urged the EU to better armed forces. His lawyers said in court lisher has accepted that allega- tinue to do so in the future.” suing Associated Newspapers help its European neighbours Harry sued Associated documents that he was “frus- tions that he had turned his After the brief remote for invasion of privacy and cop- in the race to get COVID-19 Newspapers for libel over two trated and saddened” because back on the force were false. hearing, a spokesman for Harry yright infringement over vaccines, ahead of a meeting articles published in October the articles would diminish his The articles were “baseless, said his “commitment to the articles that published portions in Paris with Serbia’s President which claimed he had snubbed credibility with veterans. false and defamatory” and military community is of a letter she wrote to her Aleksandar Vucic. the Royal Marines after stepping Harry and his wife, Meghan, “constituted not only a personal unquestionable.” father, Thomas Markle, after her Macron, speaking from the down as a senior royal. stepped down as working royals attack upon the Duke’s The Mail on Sunday printed marriage to Harry in 2018. Elysee presidential palace, acknowledged France and Europe “could have been more Madrid relaxes present” by Serbia’s side, in an Italy scrambles to form new apparent response to earlier virus restrictions criticism from Vucic, who said govt with deadline looming last week he had been despite high counting on a lot more support REUTERS — ROME the party, said they would not from the EU. caseload let Gualtieri be sacrificed. Serbia, which sits at the REUTERS — MADRID Italy’s co-ruling Democratic “Renzi kicks up four or five heart of the Balkans region, Party (PD) will not let Economy dust storms, but then settles received doses of China’s The Madrid region will start Minister Roberto Gualtieri be back on more achievable goals,” Sinopharm that enable the relaxing its COVID-19 restric- shunted aside in any cabinet a PD minister told Reuters, country to launch its vacci- tions this week, officials said reshuffle that might arise from declining to be named. nation campaign earlier this yesterday, even as the rest of the government crisis, political Separately a source who month. Macron called on the Spain and Europe are tough- sources said yesterday. had talked with President EU to be “even more efficient” ening up measures to tame a Prime Minister Giuseppe Sergio Mattarella — the man and “keep accelerating things” third wave of infection. Conte was forced to resign last tasked with finding a solution in the coming months to From Friday, groups of up week when a junior partner, to the turmoil — said the head provide vaccines to the popu- Italy’s caretaker Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte leaves his house on to six people will be allowed Italia Viva, quit the 17-month- of state wanted “continuity” in lation in the bloc but also to the second day of political consultations in Rome, on January 28, 2021. to gather at outdoor restaurant old coalition in a row over its the main ministries, including better help its neighbours. terraces, up from the current handling of the coronavirus the economy, health and Meanwhile, the Astra- limit of four, while a 10 pm pandemic and subsequent eco- defence portfolios. Italy’s battered economy. In a efforts between the coalition Zeneca COVID-19 vaccine, curfew might be pushed to nomic meltdown. The source added that con- newsletter to supporters yes- parties. He is due to report back which was approved by the midnight. The former government tinuity could be provided by terday, he sounded upbeat to Mattarella on his progress on European Commission last People are still allowed to allies are holding talks to try to another person, but only if they about the prospect of finding a Tuesday. week, will start arriving in eat and drink inside restau- overcome their differences and were heavyweight figures. deal. “At the end of this week Renzi said last week that if France next week at the latest, rants but they have to leave at revive their alliance. Renzi has not publicly crit- we will have, I hope, a new gov- a political accord could not be French European Affairs Min- 9 pm. Political sources say Italia icised Gualtieri and has ernment. It will have to be up found, he would support the ister Clement Beaune said “In Madrid, we are doing Viva, headed by former premier repeatedly refused to talk to the challenges of this time. creation of a government of yesterday. everything in our power to Matteo Renzi, wants to see a openly about any eventual And it must be a government of technocrats that would need "From the end of this keep our bars and restaurants major cabinet shake-up, reshuffle, saying it was capable and competent people. cross-party support in par- week, latest early next week, and our cultural space open including the removal of Gual- important to focus instead on This is the only way to save liament. An Italia Viva source AstraZeneca vaccine doses will despite political pressure,” said tieri, a leading PD figure, to policies, such as how best to Italy,” he wrote. said on Sunday that the party start arriving in France... We conservative regional leader signal a clear break with the spend more than ¤200bn The speaker of the lower would like to former European will be able to start vaccinating Isabel Diaz Ayuso, who has past. However, PD sources, as ($243bn) from a European house of parliament, Roberto Central Bank chief Mario Draghi (with it)," Beaune said on repeatedly clashed with the well as political sources outside Union fund to help Fico, is leading mediation become prime minister. France Inter radio. left-wing central government on how to tackle the pandemic. Her administration has Woman dies in snowshoeing studied accelerating the vac- cination programme for accident in Germany workers in “highly exposed sectors” she said on Monday, AP — BERLIN top of her and rescue teams adding that this could include were not able to dig her out teachers, but also waiters and A 27-year-old woman died for several hours, police said. taxi drivers. while snowshoeing in the She was brought to a hospital Madrid’s 14-day incidence Black Forest region of south- but died overnight. of the virus reached 993 cases western Germany after Local broadcaster SWR per 100,000 people on Friday, falling into a hole in deep reported there had been slightly above the national snow and into a stream several avalanches after the average of 887 cases. In the below, police said yesterday. accident that complicated past two weeks, the health Freiburg police said the the rescue efforts, and that department reported over accident occurred outside the woman had lain under 66,000 new infections, more nearby Feldberg on Sunday the snow in the water at the than any other region. afternoon when the woman bottom of the three-meter The total number of infec- was hiking with a 28-year- (10-foot) deep hole until tions recorded in Spain is more old friend. found. than 2.7 million, has recorded She broke through a top A rescue helicopter was more than 2.7 million cases. layer of snow and fell into a also unable to fly due to poor The death toll stands at 58,319 Making way for railway deep hole and into the weather conditions and the people. Some Spanish regions stream that flowed below, darkness. Workers stand near trees that have been felled as Extinction Rebellion activists continue to occupy tunnels had to suspend vaccinating and was unable to free The woman’s companion under Euston Square Gardens to protest against the HS2 high-speed railway in London, yesterday. new people last week due to herself. was treated for shock but he vaccine shipment delays. Ever more snow fell in on was otherwise unharmed. TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021 EUROPE 13 Prosecutors seek jail term for Navalny; US told to back off

REUTERS — MOSCOW saying the move showed Navalny’s Anti-corruption Foundation was acting Russian state prosecutors said they as a “foreign agent”, a designation for- would ask a court today to jail oppo- mally given to the group in 2019 under sition politician Alexei Navalny a law that civil society workers in (pictured) for up to three and a half Russia say is often used to harass years, and the Kremlin said it would critics. not listen to US complaints about his Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, case. also said a large number of “hooligans Riot police detained more than and provocateurs” had been present 5,300 people who took part in protests at Sunday’s nationwide rallies and across Russia on Sunday calling for the accused them of acting aggressively release of Navalny, a prominent critic towards the police. of President Vladimir Putin who was “There can be no conversation with detained last month on his return from hooligans and provocateurs, the law Germany. should be applied with the utmost The political unrest is a headache severity,” Peskov told reporters. for Putin, 68, who has dominated Pavel Chikov, a lawyer and rights Yulia Navalnaya, wife of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, enters a court Russian politics for over two decades. advocate, said police had opened 40 building in Moscow, Russia, yesterday. The case has set off new talk of criminal cases in 18 different regions Western sanctions on Russia and raised Sunday’s rallies prompted related to the two weekends of pro- tension as US President Joe Biden tests. The OVD-Info protest monitor launches his administration. US Secretary of State said at least 82 journalists were Court fines Navalny’s wife after protests Sunday’s rallies prompted US Sec- Antony Blinken to condemn detained at Sunday’s rally. AP — MOSCOW Navalny’s allies have called for retary of State Antony Blinken to Navalny’s allies have called on sup- another demonstration in Moscow condemn what he said was the per- what he said was the porters to gather outside the Moscow A Moscow court yesterday ordered the today, when a court is scheduled to sistent use of harsh tactics against persistent use of harsh court on Tuesday during his hearing. wife of Russian opposition leader hear the authorities’ motion to send peaceful protesters and journalists, and A court placed his spokeswoman, Alexei Navalny to pay a fine of 20,000 him to prison for up to 3 1/2 years. to call for Navalny’s release. tactics against peaceful Kira Yarmysh, under house arrest until rubles ($265) for violating protest regu- His wife, Yulia Navalnaya, joined The Kremlin said Moscow would protesters and journalists, March on suspicion of breaching lations after she attended a demon- a protest in Moscow on Sunday that ignore Blinken’s comments about what COVID-19 regulations at unsanctioned stration in the Russian capital to took place despite unprecedented it said were illegal protests inside and to call for Navalny’s rallies on January 23. Several others, demand his release. security measures that city authorities Russia and warned against Washington release. including Navalny’s brother Oleg, are Tens of thousands protested across took ahead of the rally. She was quickly imposing any new sanctions. already under house arrest. Russia’s 11 time zones on Sunday, detained and charged with partici- “...We are not prepared to accept When asked about the mass deten- chanting slogans against Russian Pres- pating in an unauthorised rally. A court or heed American statements about Navalny, 44, is serving a 30-day tions, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry ident Vladimir Putin and demanding yesterday ordered Navalnaya to pay a this,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry stint in jail after being immediately Peskov noted that the protest was that authorities free Navalny, who was fine, her lawyer Svetlana Davydova Peskov said. arrested upon arrival back in Russia “unlawful” and charged that “there was jailed last month and faces a prison told the Interfax, adding that the A court is set to consider today a after having treatment in Germany fol- a fairly large number of hooligans, pro- term. Over 5,400 protesters were defence plans to appeal the ruling. request from Moscow’s prison service lowing a nerve agent attack in Russia. vocateurs with more or less aggressive detained by authorities, one group said. In an effort to quell the protests, to hand Navalny a jail term of up to He says Putin ordered the attack, behavior towards law enforcement While Russia’s state-run media dis- the authorities have jailed Navalny’s three and a half years for alleged parole something the Kremlin denies. officers.” In response to provocations, missed the demonstrations as small associates and activists across the violations which he calls trumped up. Navalny ally Vladimir Ashurkov the police act harshly and within the and claimed that they showed the country. The Prosecutor General’s office published a letter addressed to Biden law,” Peskov added. opposition’s failure, Navalny’s team A total of 40 criminal probes have said yesterday that the request was on Saturday appealing for sanctions Russian state media also high- said the turnout on Sunday demon- been opened in 18 Russian regions in legal and justified, and that state pros- against businessmen and officials iden- lighted “aggressive actions” of the pro- strated “overwhelming nationwide connection to the protests, said Pavel ecutors would ask a court to grant the tified as being close Putin allies. testers in their coverage of Sunday’s support” for the Kremlin’s fiercest Chikov, head of the human rights prison service’s request. The Kremlin hit back yesterday, demonstrations. critic. organisation Agora. Ukraine leader’s party expels lawmaker for US election interference Moldova expects to receive first REUTERS — KIEV interference in US elections and of the last three weeks have and another lawmaker, Olha to Ukraine as Trump pressed associating with a pro-Russian clearly and distinctly demon- Vasylevska-Smahliuk, said the Zelenskiy’s administration to COVAX vaccines Ukrainian President Volodymyr Ukrainian lawmaker linked to strated the true face of the majority of the its 246 law- investigate Biden. Zelenskiy’s party voted efforts by then-President actors on the political stage of makers had voted to expel Washington has been in mid-February yesterday to expel Oleksandr Donald Trump’s allies to dig up Ukraine,” he said. Dubinsky. Kiev’s most powerful ally Dubinsky after the lawmaker dirt on his successor, Joe Biden, Daniil Getmantsev, a law- Ukraine has sought to turn against Russia since Moscow’s REUTERS — CHISINAU was put on a US sanctions list and his son. maker with the ruling Servant the page on relations with annexation of Crimea in year for election meddling, fellow Dubinsky denies the of the People party, told Interfax Washington after being unwill- 2014. Moldova expects to receive the legislators said. election meddling allegations Ukraine that Dubinsky had been ingly sucked into the political Zelenskiy’s administration first batch of COVID-19 Last month Washington and in a statement yesterday ejected after a vote that was battle over Trump’s has said it will hold people to vaccines under the global slapped sanctions on several accused his colleagues of “cow- held over three days. impeachment in 2019. account for meddling in US COVAX scheme in mid- Ukrainian individuals and ardice and meanness”. The party’s parliamentary The Trump administration elections, “regardless of party February, its health ministry entities, accusing them of “Unfortunately, the events faction leader David Arakhamia temporarily froze military aid affiliation”. said yesterday. The batch will comprise 24,570 doses of Pfizer- BioNTech vaccines and Nearly half of virus deaths Moldova has received confir- mation of the supply from in Portugal were in January COVAX, the ministry said in a statement. REUTERS — LISBON Hard-hit neighbour Spain Vaccines will be delivered has offered help, too, but Por- to the National Public Health Portugal reported close to half tugal has yet to accept, a Agency, which has the nec- of all its COVID-19 deaths in Spanish foreign ministry source essary conditions for its January, highlighting a severe said. storage. acceleration in cases that has Foreign Minister Arancha The ministry said the first prompted several European Gonzalez Laya told LaSexta TV batches of another vaccine, nations to offer help. that the two countries were in from AstraZeneca, would be Hospitals across the nation “direct contact every day, at all shipped to Moldova at the end of a little more than 10 million levels”. of February and the country appear on the verge of collapse, Portugal’s 5,576 COVID-19 hoped to receive 264,000 with ambulances sometimes fatalities in January represent doses of that vaccine in the queuing for hours because of a 44.7 percent of the 12,482 reg- first half of this year. lack of beds while some health istered since the start of the Moldova registered units are struggling to find pandemic. 159,894 virus cases and 3,438 enough refrigerated space to Portuguese officials have deaths, as of yesterday. preserve the bodies of the blamed the huge increase in A small ex-Soviet republic deceased. infection and death rates on the sandwiched between Ukraine Austria is willing to take more contagious variant of the and EU member state intensive-care patients and is disease first detected in Britain, Romania, Moldova has said it waiting for Portuguese author- while acknowledging that a plans to receive enough free ities to propose how many they relaxation of restrictions on vaccines through the COVAX want to transfer, the Austrian movement over the Christmas A health worker gestures next to ambulances carrying patients with the coronavirus disease outside scheme to vaccinate 20 embassy in Lisbon said. holidays also played a role. the Santa Maria Hospital, in Lisbon. percent of its 3.5 million pop- Germany will send medical More than 711,000 infec- ulation. Later, Chisinau plans staff and equipment, with a tions have been reported since highest seven-day rolling effects,” Health Secretary With 865 coronavirus to purchase vaccines through plane carrying 26 doctors, March 2020, with 43 percent of average of new daily cases per Antonio Sales said. patients in intensive care and COVAX at a reduced price. nurses and hygiene experts, as those in January, according to million inhabitants, according Though case numbers are 6,869 in hospital wards, hos- In December, Romanian well as 40 mobile and 10 sta- health authority DGS. On to data tracker ourworldindata. still on the rise, Sales added that pitals in Portugal are running President Klaus Iohannis said tionary ventilators. The flight is Monday, it reported 5,805 cases, org. the virus reproduction rate is out of beds and there is a Bucharest would donate due to leave for Lisbon on with 275 deaths. “We are confident the now falling. “We know we still shortage of doctors, nurses and 200,000 doses of the Pfizer- Wednesday. Portugal has the world’s lockdown will have its (positive) have a tough two weeks ahead”. health workers. BioNTech vaccine to Moldova. Poland finds first case of coronavirus in mink: Ministry Elderly in Poland won’t be given

REUTERS — WARSAW being transmitted to humans. Denmark, the world’s top The agriculture ministry did AstraZeneca shot, says minister Late on Sunday, the ministry exporter of mink furs, ordered not immediately respond to an REUTERS — WARSAW enough results for people over Poland has found its first case said in a statement it had been a cull of the country’s entire emailed request for comment. 55 to determine how well the of the new novel coronavirus informed by veterinary population of some 17 million The General Veterinary Elderly people in Poland will vaccine will work. (COVID-19) in mink, the agri- inspectors on Saturday of a case mink in 2020, and in January Inspectorate said in a statement not be given the AstraZeneca “If we are talking about the culture ministry said, raising in Kartuzy county in northern announced it would com- it was investigating whether the COVID-19 vaccine, the minister decision of the medical council, fears of costly culls in an Poland. pensate farmers with up to farm had followed sanitary reg- in charge of the programme we expect it in the coming days industry that counts over 350 “I hope this is a single case, $3.09bn. ulations and that possible com- said yesterday, but he added or possibly hours, but it is clear farms in the country. although we must take all In a statement sent to state- pensation or penalties would that a final decision would be that elderly people will not be With new variants of the measures to limit possible run news agency PAP, repre- depend on its findings. made after recommendations vaccinated with this shot,” COVID-19 threatening global transmission of the virus,” sentatives of the Polish fur The Regional Veterinary from medical experts. Michal Dworczyk, the prime efforts to get the pandemic under Deputy Health Minister Wal- industry said the state was not Inspectorate in Gdansk said four Europe’s medicines regu- minister’s top aide, said. “We control, authorities in several demar Kraska told local broad- offering any compensation for samples from the farm had lator on Friday approved Astra- are waiting for a clear recom- countries have begun mass culls caster Radio Gdansk yesterday, culled animals, and that they tested positive on Saturday, and Zeneca and Oxford University’s mendation from the medical of the animals due to fears of a adding that all mink at the would launch a class action that 5,845 mink were in the area COVID-19 shot for people over council and then... we will take mutated strain of the illness affected farm would be culled. lawsuit demanding damages. affected by the outbreak. 18, but said there were not yet a decision,” he added. 14 AMERICAS TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021

Biden threatens Winter storm batters US Northeast sanctions on New York state Governor Andrew Cuomo Myanmar after declared a state of emergency in the city and military coup

44 other counties. Upwards of 90 percent of REUTERS — WASHINGTON flights at New York City-area airports have been cancelled and operations at La Guardia US President Joe Biden yesterday threatened to and John F. Kennedy airports have been reimpose sanctions on Myan- suspended. mar’s military leaders and called for a concerted interna- tional response to press them REUTERS — NEW YORK Murphy declared a state of to relinquish power they emergency on Sunday, sus- seized in a coup. A powerful winter storm pending public bus and com- A Biden statement con- engulfed much of the US muter rail service. demned the military’s takeover Northeast yesterday as several In New York City, Mayor Bill from the civilian-led gov- inches of snow fell across vast de Blasio imposed restrictions ernment yesterday and its swaths of the region and high on non-essential travel starting detention of elected leader and winds swept coastal areas, at 6am EST (1100 GMT) due to Nobel laureate Aung San Suu causing widespread disruption heavy snowfall and strong Kyi as “a direct assault on the in New York City and other major winds expected to batter the country’s transition to urban centers in the region. city. De Blasio also announced democracy and the rule of law”. The powerful nor’easter — the suspension of in-person The Myanmar crisis marks a storm whose winds blow from learning at the city’s public a first major test of Biden’s the northeast — is forecast to schools through today. pledge to collaborate more with bring 1 to 2 feet (31cm to 61cm) New York state Governor A pedestrian walks past snow-covered taxis during a snow storm in the Brooklyn borough of New allies on international chal- of snow across the United Andrew Cuomo declared a state York City, New York, US, yesterday. lenges, especially on China’s States’ most densely populated of emergency in the city and 44 rising influence, in contrast to region through today, according other counties, and warned of airports in the city have been also suspended at New York media to share photos of streets, former President Donald to the National Weather Service. possible road closures in the suspended. City public hospitals and health parks and backyards blanketed Trump’s often go-it-alone Snowfall rates could reach 2 to hours ahead. “This is a dan- The PATH commuter train centers. De Blasio said that, with with the white stuff, as well as “America First” approach. 4 inches (5cm to 10cm) per hour gerous situation. A life-threat- service linking Manhattan with the city facing up to 22 inches happy pets playing in the snow. “The international com- during the storm’s peak. ening situation,” Cuomo said. New Jersey will also suspend (56cm) of snow, vaccinations Even the giant pandas at the munity should come together If it achieves its maximum “Expect closures. It’s going to service as of 2000 GMT, Cotton would be postponed today as Smithsonian’s National Zoo in in one voice to press the potential, it would be the first get very bad very quickly.” said. The stormy weather well. “The storm is disrupting Washington seemed to enjoy Burmese military to immedi- winter storm to generate more Outdoor subway service in affected more than just roads our vaccination effort, and we the winter weather when it hit ately relinquish the power they than 2 feet of snow in New York New York City will be sus- and travel as COVID-19 vacci- need to keep people safe,” he the nation’s capital on Sunday. have seized, release the City since 2016, when a record- pended as of 1900 GMT, offi- nation sites and testing loca- told a news briefing. “Slides, somersaults and pure activists and officials they have breaking blizzard dumped 27.5 cials said. Upwards of 90 tions were forced to close or In Boston, health officials panda joy. Happy snow day detained,” Biden said. inches (70cm) on the country’s percent of flights at New York change their schedules. announced the closure yesterday from giant pandas Mei Xiang “The United States most populous city, according City-area airports have been All six vaccine mega-sites of a COVID-19 vaccine clinic at and Tian Tian!,” the zoo wrote removed sanctions on Burma to the weather service. cancelled, according to Rick across New Jersey were closed the Reggie Lewis Center, a large on Twitter, with a video over the past decade based on Winter storm warnings and Cotton, executive director of the yesterday, and vaccine appoint- indoor sports center. showing the furry black-and- progress toward democracy. weather advisories were in Port Authority of New York and ments were rescheduled at But many Northeasterners white creatures rolling in the The reversal of that progress place across the Northeast. New Jersey, and operations at many New York state-run sites. greeted the heavy snowfall with fresh powder and sliding down will necessitate an immediate New Jersey Governor Phil La Guardia and John F. Kennedy Vaccinations and testing were excitement, taking to social a snow-covered incline. review of our sanction laws and authorities, followed by appropriate action,” he said. Videos show Rochester officers Biden also called on the military in Myanmar, which is pepper-spraying 9-year-old also known as Burma, to lift all restrictions on telecommu- AP — ROCHESTER wanted to kill her mom,” he said. nications and to refrain from Officers tried to force the girl into violence against civilians. Police in Rochester released a patrol car but she pulled away He said the United States two body-camera videos on and kicked at them. In a was “taking note of those who Sunday of officers restraining statement on Saturday, the stand with the people of Burma a distraught 9-year-old girl police department said this in this difficult hour”. who was handcuffed and action “required” an officer to Suu Kyi’s National League sprayed with what police called take the girl down to the ground. for Democracy party won a a chemical “irritant”. Then, the department said, landslide 83% in a November 8 The Democrat and Chronicle “for the minor’s safety and at election. The army said in taking reported that prior to the release the request of the custodial over in the early hours yes- of the videos, Rochester Mayor parent on scene,” the child was terday that it had responded to Lovely Warren expressed her handcuffed and put in the back what it called election fraud. concern for the “child that was of a police car as they waited harmed during this incident that for an ambulance to arrive. COVAX to send happened on Friday”. Police said the girl diso- “I have a 10-year-old child, beyed commands to put her AstraZeneca shot so she’s a child, she’s a baby. feet in the car. An officer was This video, as a mother, is not then “required” to spray an to Latin America anything you want to see,” “irritant” in the handcuffed Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro leaves the Supreme Court building after the opening ceremony of Warren went on to say. girl’s face, the department said. REUTERS — GENEVA this year’s judiciary in Brasilia, Brazil, yesterday. A total of nine officers and Police Chief Cynthia Her- supervisors responded to the riott-Sullivan described the The COVAX global vaccine report of “family trouble” on irritant as pepper spray. She sharing scheme expects to Bolsonaro allies poised to win Friday. The girl can be heard in declined to defend the officers’ deliver 35.3 million doses of the body-camera videos from actions. “I’m not going to stand AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 officers at the scene screaming here and tell you that for a vaccine to 36 Caribbean and leadership of Brazil Congress frantically for her father as the 9-year-old to have to be pepper- Latin American states from officers try to restrain her. sprayed is OK. It’s not,” Herriott- mid-February to the end of REUTERS — BRASILIA disagrees with Bolsonaro’s pol- keep Congress independent At a news conference, Sullivan said. “I don’t see that as June, the World Health Organ- icies easing environmental from the Bolsonaro government Deputy Police Chief Andre who we are as a department, and ization’s regional office said. Allies of Brazil’s right-wing enforcement and gun sales. in setting the legislative agenda. Anderson described the girl as we’re going to do the work we The Pan American Health President Jair Bolsonaro are set For Speaker of the lower Lira has some 280-300 suicidal. “She indicated she have to do to ensure that these Organization (PAHO) said the to win leadership roles in Con- house, the right-wing Liberal votes, according to Congressman wanted to kill herself and she kinds of things don’t happen.” Americas region needed to gress, bolstering his standing Party’s candidate, Arthur Lira, Marcelo Ramos who is in line to immunise about 500 million but not necessarily his eco- has widened his lead over Luiz become his deputy speaker. Bol- people to control the pandemic. nomic team’s reform agenda, Felipe Baleia Rossi, of the cen- sonaro’s growing influence over It said WHO would complete its analysts and politicians said. trist MDB party, who is backed Congress should dispel for now review in a few days of the Rodrigo Pacheco of the by left-wing lawmakers pushing the growing clamor for AstraZeneca vaccine for emer- center-right Democrats party, to spend more on assistance to impeachment from critics who gency use listing (EUL). whom Bolsonaro has endorsed, low-income Brazilians hurt by have filed 57 requests to unseat Of the 36 nations receiving is expected to easily win the coronavirus pandemic. him, mainly for his handling of AstraZeneca’s shot, it said four election as president of the On Sunday, the center-right the pandemic that has killed countries — Bolivia, Colombia, Senate, with 55-60 votes in the Democrats party decided not some 224,000 Brazilians. El Salvador and Peru, would 81-seat chamber, according to to back any candidate in the Upset by the news that his also receive 377,910 doses of the risk consultancy Arko Advice. 513-seat chamber, effectively party was abandoning his Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine Pacheco recently said he pulling its support for Baleia favored candidate, Maia from mid-February. would not make a priority of Rossi and ensuring Lira a reportedly threatened to The 36 nations to receive privatizing Eletrobras, Latin majority. authorize the opening of the AstraZeneca vaccine A Rochester police officer asks a handcuffed nine-year-old girl to America’s largest utility and one The decision was a defeat impeachment proceedings on his ranged from regional giants get into a patrol car, prior to the girl being sprayed with a chemical of the government’s biggest for incumbent speaker Rodrigo last day as speaker, according to Brazil and Mexico to small potential asset sales as it works Maia, a member of the Demo- newspapers Estado de S Paulo irritant in a still image from bodycam video taken in Rochester, islands such as Dominica and to cut the fiscal deficit. He also crats party, who has sought to and Folha de S.Paulo. New York, US, on January 29, 2021. Montserrat. Death threat against 11-year-old activist outrages Colombia

AP — VILLETA, COLOMBIA to use social media to “support causes On January 15, the boy received a Twitter suspended the threatening of oil fracking technology in Colombia they believe in”. gruesome, profanely worded death account and the boy received hundreds and will also keep up pressure on pol- A social media death threat aimed at Vera, who has drawn comparisons threat from a Twitter account using a of messages of support, including a iticians to ban single-use plastics. Last an 11-year-old environmental activist to teenage Swedish environmental false name in response to a video he letter that was hand-delivered by year, the group collected 24,000 sig- has roused outrage in Colombia, a activist Greta Thunberg, got together posted urging Duque to improve United Nations officials. Signed by the natures in an online petition for such nation where attacks on social with six friends from school about two internet access for children studying UN High Commissioner for Human a ban. leaders are common and threats are years ago and marched to the main park from home during the pandemic. Rights, Michelle Bachelet, it congrat- His mother, Ana Maria Manzanares, taken seriously. in his hometown of Villeta carrying card- Such threats have weight in ulated Francisco for his work on behalf said she hopes the threat is nothing Colombian officials said they are board signs and chanting slogans about Colombia. The United Nations says of the environment. more than a cruel joke. investigating the death threat against climate change, under the supervision that at least 53 community leaders At home in Villeta, a small town She said a town official suggested Francisco Vera and President Ivan of his grandmother. were murdered in the South surrounded by mountains, Francisco shutting down her son’s social media Duque recently promised in a tele- His Guardians for Life group now American country last year and it is said he welcomes “constructive crit- account, but she prefers to let him vision appearance that his government has at least 11 chapters and more than examining reports of an additional icism” and is trying to ignore the threat decide whether to stop campaigning. would find “the bandits” behind the 200 members across Colombia. It 80 such slayings. as well as messages in which critics “I want him to be aware that he is Twitter message. planted hundreds of trees last year and The nation is struggling to achieve accuse him of being an instrument of doing something that is very valuable,” For his part, the boy says he will petitioned Colombia’s government to peace following decades of guerrilla leftist politicians. Manzanares said. “And that it is pos- continue to lead environmental cam- ban single-use plastics. He spoke conflict and clashes involving drug He said his group of young activists sible for him and thousands of children paigns and urged other young people before the country’s congress last year. gangs and paramilitary groups. will campaign against the introduction around the world to change things.” TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021 AMERICAS 15 Biden to meet Republicans proposing $618bn virus aid

AP — WASHINGTON Winning the support of 10 Republicans would be significant for Biden in the 50-50 Senate President Joe Biden is set to meet with a group of 10 Repub- where Vice-President Kamala Harris is the lican senators who have pro- tie-breaker. If all Democrats were to back posed $618bn in coronavirus an eventual compromise bill, the legislation relief, about a third of the $1.9 trillion he is seeking as congres- would reach the 60-vote threshold necessary sional Democrats are poised to to overcome potential blocking efforts and move ahead without Repub- pass under regular Senate procedures. lican support. The Republicans propose slimmer benefits, including business aid. Democratic and Republican $1,000 in direct payments to An invitation to the GOP lawmakers are far apart in their individuals earning up to senators to meet at the White proposals for assistance. $40,000 a year, or $80,000 for House came hours after the White House Press Sec- couples, according to a draft lawmakers sent Biden a letter retary Jen Psaki said on Sunday obtained by AP. on Sunday urging him to nego- that Biden had spoken with the The proposal would begin tiate rather than try to ram leader of the group, Senator to phase out the benefit after through his relief package solely Susan Collins, R-Maine. Though that, with no payments for those on Democratic votes. Biden wants “a full exchange of individuals earning more than The House and Senate are views,” Psaki reiterated that the $50,000, or $100,000 for on track to vote as soon as this President remains in favour of couples. That’s less than Biden’s week on a budget resolution, moving forward with a far- proposal for $1,400 direct pay- which would lay the reaching relief package. US President Joe Biden speaks before signing executive orders strengthening access to affordable ments at higher incomes levels. groundwork for passing an aid Winning the support of 10 healthcare at the White House in Washington, DC, in this January 28, 2021 picture. The cornerstone of the GOP package under rules requiring Republicans would be significant plan appears to be $160bn for only a simple majority vote in for Biden in the 50-50 Senate provide many details of their to move forward with Biden’s Tillis of North Carolina. the health care response — the closely divided Senate. where Vice-President Kamala proposal. One of the signa- legislation with or without Under the Biden plan, fam- vaccine distribution, a “massive The goal is for passage by Harris is the tie-breaker. If all tories, Louisiana Senator Bill Republican support. ilies with incomes up to expansion” of testing, protective March, when extra unem- Democrats were to back an Cassidy, said that it would cost The other GOP senators $300,000 could receive some gear and funds for rural hos- ployment assistance and other eventual compromise bill, the about $600bn. Biden also invited to meet with Biden are stimulus money. pitals, according to the draft. pandemic aid expires. The legislation would reach the spoke with House Speaker Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Mitt “I support passing COVID Others elements of the meeting to be hosted by Biden 60-vote threshold necessary to Nancy Pelosi and Senate Romney of Utah, Shelley relief with support from package are similar but at far would amount to the most overcome potential blocking Majority Leader Chuck Moore Capito of West Virginia, Republicans if we can get it. lesser amounts, with $20bn to public involvement for the Pres- efforts and pass under regular Schumer, who are facing a Todd Young of Indiana, Jerry But the COVID relief has to reopen schools and $40bn for ident in the negotiations for the Senate procedures. growing push from the more Moran of Kansas, Mike Rounds pass — no ifs, ands or buts,” Paycheck Protection Program next round of virus relief. The Republicans did not liberal Democratic members of South Dakota, and Thom Biden said on Friday. ACLU, for first Republicans grapple time, elects with divisions as Black person as Trump trial looms its president AP — NEW YORK

REUTERS — WASHINGTON the House. House Republicans Deborah Archer, a professor are expected to address the at New York University School US congressional Republicans issue when they meet as a of Law with expertise in civil face a week of reckoning ahead group tomorrow. rights and racial justice, has of Donald Trump’s second House Republican Adam become the first Black person impeachment trial as the Kinzinger, who also voted to in the 101-year history of the former president contends with impeach, announced a new American Civil Liberties Union a deadline to respond to the political action committee to be elected its president. charges and his party mulls called the Country First PAC, The ACLU announced yes- whether to punish Represent- intended to challenge Trump’s terday that Archer was elected ative Liz Cheney for backing ongoing grip on the party. over the weekend in a virtual impeachment. Speaking on NBC’s “Meet meeting of the organization’s Trump is due to file a response the Press”, Kinzinger said his 69-member board of directors. to the House impeachment party had “lost its moral She succeeds Susan Herman, charges by today. He named two authority in a lot of areas” and a professor at Brooklyn Law A worker takes a break after a vaccination drive in Avondale, Louisiana, in this January 9 picture. new lead lawyers to his defense under Trump had pedaled School who had served as team on Sunday after abruptly “darkness and division”. president since 2008. parting ways with his lead Speaking on CNN’s “State of As the ACLU’s eighth pres- Second dose: Patients in US impeachment counsel the day the Union” program, Senator ident since 1920, Archer will act before. Rob Portman urged his fellow as chair of its board of the David Schoen, who Republicans in the House not to directors, overseeing organiza- operates a criminal defense rebuke Cheney. “I think she is tional matters and the setting of scramble for appointments practice based in Alabama, and very smart, and she plays a key civil liberties policies. The fight Bruce Castor, a former Phila- role in our party, particularly on against racial injustice is REUTERS — NEW YORK creating long wait times at its vaccine allocations to fall delphia-area district attorney, foreign affairs. So I would hope expected to be a top priority. call center. sharply this week. will replace lawyers Butch that they would not go down that The ACLU’s day-to-day As the number of Americans Practices vary. Seminole “When this started, it was Bowers and Deborah Barberi, road,” Portman said. operations are managed by its ready for their second County in Florida schedules only for hospitals. Now a smaller Trump’s office said. During the impeachment executive director - a post cur- COVID-19 vaccine shot grows, follow-ups during the pot needs to be divided between The Democratic-led House debate, Cheney said of Trump’s rently held by Anthony Romero. some are falling through the 15-minute observation period many more - the pharmacies, the voted on January 13 to impeach actions: “There has never been During former President Donald cracks of an increasingly after people get their first mega sites and everyone else,” Trump, with 10 Republicans a greater betrayal by a Pres- Trump’s four years in office, the complex web of providers and shots. New York’s Onondaga said Felipe Osorno, executive voting in favour, on a charge of ident of the United States of his ACLU filed 413 lawsuits and appointment systems. County holds off on sched- administrator of continuum of inciting a insurrection for his office and his oath to the Con- other legal actions against his While many people are uling second appointments care operations and value incendiary speech to supporters stitution” - remarks seized administration. “The ACLU has getting the required second until days before the shot. improvement at Keck Medicine before the January 6 US Capitol upon by Democrats. proven itself as an invaluable doses, the process is taking a After an online system of the University of Southern siege. A pro-Trump mob inter- There are strong indications voice in the fight for civil rights toll on some of the most vul- showed no appointments, Stacey California. rupted the formal congressional that too few Republicans will in the last four years of the nerable — older adults who in Champion secured a second People in recent days have certification of Biden’s election join the Democrats to achieve Trump era, and we are better many cases rely on family appointment for her 78-year-old been showing up at USC hos- victory in a rampage that left five the two-thirds majority needed positioned than ever to face members or friends to navigate friend Dan Pochoda at Cardinal pitals seeking their second people dead. to convict Trump in the Senate. the work ahead,” Archer said. complex sign-up systems and Stadium in Phoenix, Arizona - at vaccine dose, saying their Trump’s Republican Party Forty-five of the 50 Repub- inconvenient locations. 1:51am on February 9. It took original vaccine provider could remained deeply divided lican senators last Tuesday sup- Man stabbed in Available vaccines need to several calls to get even that, not confirm an appointment, between those who supported ported a resolution declaring be given as two separate doses Champion said. Osorno said. impeachment and those who the trial unconstitutional Tennessee over weeks apart, and confusion is “If they had been saving As of Friday, nearly 23 have remained loyal to the because Trump is now a private further taxing an already chal- appointments for second doses, million people in the United former president. citizen, having left office on Jan. mask dispute lenged system. For example, would they really need to send States had received a first vaccine Lawmakers on the Repub- 20. “That sets up a precedent. Houston’s health department people way out to the edges of shot, and almost 5 million had lican right flank are aiming to And I think all former presi- AP — NASHVILLE on Friday told those seeking a the city in the middle of the the second, according to the US remove Cheney, the daughter dents, those alive and those not, second dose to be patient, night?” Champion asked. Centers for Disease Control and of former Vice-President Dick could be affected in a negative A Tennessee man is accused of saying the volume of calls was Many providers expect their Prevention. Cheney, as the party’s No. 3 in way,” Portman said. stabbing another person with whom he got into an argument over not wearing a mask and later swinging two metal Chicago teachers face work stoppage in COVID-19 safety plan row baseball bats at police officers. A Metro Nashville police REUTERS — CHICAGO students today. The union, Tension between the two affidavit says Jerry Cowan, 53, which represents the city’s sides grew in recent days after began arguing with another Chicago teachers appeared 28,000 public school educators, rank-and-file members voted man outside of an apartment headed for a strike or lockout has been locked in negotiations in favour of staying remote and complex early Sunday because over their latest dispute with the with the district for months over not going back to their schools Cowan was not wearing a third-largest US school district a gradual reopening of schools until their needs are met. mask. Cowan allegedly pulled after the two sides failed to for the system’s 355,000 stu- The union has threatened out a pocket knife and a “long reach an deal on a COVID-19 dents. The two sides have been to stop working altogether, blade with a makeshift safety plan even as they vowed at odds on teachers’ demands form picket lines and strike if wooden handle” and stabbed to keep talking. for stronger safety protocols to the district retaliates against the other man in his arm and The Chicago Public Schools prevent the spread of the novel any members who fail to report near his chin. late on Sunday told the parents coronavirus in classrooms. to school buildings. The victim escaped into a of 67,000 pre-kindergarten, During separate news con- Chicago Public Schools CEO nearby residence and called special education, elementary ferences on Sunday night, Mayor Janice Jackson ordered 10,000 police, the records showed. and middle school students who Lori Lightfoot said talks stalled teachers to report to work in- Investigators wrote that Cowan were scheduled to attend in- while union president Jesse Supporters of the Chicago Teachers Union participate in a car caravan person yesterday and said those retreated into his home. Officers person classes yesterday to Sharkey said it was “disap- in Chicago, Illinois, in this January 30, 2021 picture. who did not have a valid reason busted down the door and keep their children at home pointed” and “frustrated” with for their absence would be con- found Cowan holding a metal after it could not reach an the process. Both sides vowed to kids.” Lightfoot added that offi- halfway”. Vaccines remained sidered absent without leave. baseball bat in each hand. He agreement with the Chicago continue to negotiate. cials were awaiting a response an issue, and Lightfoot said offi- The school district has been swung the bats toward officers Teachers Union. “I think we can still get a deal from the union after the city put cials were working to get teaching its 355,000 students and ran away, the documents The district, in a letter to done,” Lightfoot told MNSBC yes- forward its latest proposal, saying teachers, particularly those remotely since the pandemic stated. Officers later used a stun parents, said it hoped to hold terday morning. “A strike would a few tough issues remained and working or living in the hardest- forced it to close school gun on him multiple times and in-person classes for those be catastrophic, mostly for our urging teachers “to meet us hit areas, vaccinated soon. buildings last spring. took him into custody. TUESDAY 2 FEBRUARY 2021 16

QDF partners with Dior to launch exclusive fragrance

THE PENINSULA — DOHA Tobacolor — an oud,

Qatar Duty Free (QDF) inspired by notes and PRAYER announced yesterday the tones from the Middle TIMINGS worldwide exclusive launch of East — marks the PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING Tobacolor at a grand unveiling ceremony at the Dior boutique first-ever launch of a at Hamad International Airport. Maison Christian Dior FAJR 04.57 am Tobacolor — an oud, inspired fragrance within travel SUNRISE 06.17 am by notes and tones from the Middle East — marks the first- retail and will be DHUHR 11.48 am ever launch of a Maison ASR 02.56 pm Christian Dior fragrance within exclusively available MAGHRIB 05.21 pm travel retail and will be exclu- at QDF in February ISHA 06.51 pm sively available at QDF during February before becoming before becoming available worldwide. available worldwide. The official reveal of Toba- color was celebrated at an unveiling ceremony at HIA. The for excellence and innovation event was attended by VIP in all areas. Product exclusives guests and officiated by Qatar are an important part of our Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker, and French Ambassador to Qatar, H E Franck Airways Group Chief Executive, world-class retail offer – giving Gellet, with other officials during the launch. H E Akbar Al Baker, Hamad our passengers yet another WEATHER International Airport Chief reason to fly with us via the Best TODAY Operating Officer, Engr. Badr Airport in the Middle East.” and attractions. product portfolio to create a complimentary engraving on the Al Meer, Qatar Duty Free Vice- Engr. Al Meer said: “We con- Thabet Musleh said: “We are world-class shopping expe- purchase of any 250 ml bottle of President Operations, Thabet tinue to work with our partners proud to once again partner rience for our travellers.” the Maison Christian Dior fra- Musleh, Frank Dagher, General at QDF and Qatar Airways to with Maison Christian Dior to Frank Dagher, General Manager grance. The airline’s Premium Manager Travel Retail, LVMH elevate the passengers experience launch their latest fragrance, Travel Retail, LVMH Perfumes & Class passengers are also invited Perfumes and Cosmetics, and throughout their entire journey. Tobocolor, at Qatar Duty Free Cosmetics, said: “At Christian Dior, to collect a discovery size bottle the French Ambassador to This exclusive launch speaks to as a worldwide exclusive. We we have always been passionate of Tobacolor from the boutique. o o Qatar, H E Franck Gellet. our ever-expanding offerings that are delighted to be uniquely about perfume, and it is part of our For those looking for a unique 16 C 25 C As part of its position within bring the finest names in luxury positioned to work with our history. In addition to our love for gift, all travellers passing Minimum Maximum a powerful trinity of a retailer, retail together under one roof for brand partners to bring amazing fragrances, we have built a unique through HIA can purchase cus- Moderate temperature daytime an award-winning airport, and our passengers to enjoy. As we and unique personalised expe- relationship with the Qatar Airways tomised ‘Qatar’ gifting sets fea- with some clouds and slight dust at a global airline, QDF is uniquely expand to accommodate more riences to our customers at group for many years now. Today I turing Arabic calligraphy along times, cold by night. positioned to partner with travel passengers in the coming years, every stage of their journey. It am delighted to be here with you to with their purchase of the Toba- retail brands to launch products we will continue to deliver on is because of this and the resil- launch officially the worldwide color fragrance. W ALRUWAIS : 19o → 21o and services, bringing exclusive Qatar’s well-earned reputation as ience of Qatar Airways and HIA exclusivity of Tobacolor, the latest Tobacolor can be found at W ALKHOR : 11o → 22o experiences to customers. a destination of authentic and — both awarded the 5-Star iconic fragrance from Maison the Dior Boutique inside the W DUKHAN : 19o → 21o Akbar Al Baker said: “I am diverse experiences.” COVID-19 Airline Safety Rating Christian Dior, created by François Beauty Store of QDF’s South W WAKRAH : 12o → 26o delighted to unveil a worldwide HIA and its award-winning By Skytrax — that QDF was the Demachy, our Perfumer-Creator.” node retail plaza, which exclusive for our trinity of Qatar partner, QDF, have developed preferred partner for Dior and Passengers flying with Qatar includes an impressive selection W MESAIEED : 12o → 26o Duty Free, Hamad International pioneering partnerships with to host the worldwide launch Airways in February will receive of global brands such as Dolce W ABUSAMRA : 16o → 21o Airport, and Qatar Airways, in leading luxury brands to bring of the amazing Tobacolor. We personalised invites to visit the & Gabbana, Tom Ford, Estee partnership with Dior. Within travellers the world’s best in are delighted to continue to Dior boutique to discover Toba- Lauder, Lancôme, and Yves HIGH TIDE our enviable trinity, we strive airport entertainment, leisure, build on our strong brand and color and are offered a Saint Laurent. 07:25 – 19:20 LOW TIDE 01:56 – 15:20 Four women set to circumnavigate Qatar on foot Berlin festival chooses 6 former ALEXANDRA EVANGELISTA belonging to the same running community, Innes-Smith shared: “We certainly feel THE PENINSULA ONLINE the four women were able to establish a we’re in a position where we’re able to try winners as this Spacewalkers team that could try the record-breaking and I think anyone can start small and build Ahead of the National Sports Day, “The adventure in the country. up and be committed to it.” year’s jury finishing 4 years Desert Roses” will attempt to make history The group’s goal does not simply end With two teachers in the same team, as the first women to circumnavigate Qatar, by completing the 500km distance. Much Isobel Bushell and Innes-Smith, their AP — BERLIN of station power on foot. Starting on Friday, the four female like the team’s name, “The Desert Roses” passion for sports and running also ties ultra-runners will begin camping by the also wants to highlight and encourage with their vision to lead the students they A six-member jury of former upgrades roadside and take on the 500 kilometre exploration in the country beyond Doha. teach by setting as an example. Educa- winners has been chosen to distance by walking, jogging, and running The challenge also serves a greater tional Psychologist Heather Lee and allocate the prizes at this year’s AP — CAPE CANAVERAL around the periphery of the country in a vision to inspire women and girls to engage finance professional Ross Ayuro completes Berlin International Film period of five days (Feb 5-9). in challenging, arduous outdoor activities. the team. Festival, which is taking place A pair of Nasa astronauts The Desert Roses, composed of They also aim to raise the profile of female “Our other message is to children, in a revamped form because ventured out on their second Stephanie Innes-Smith and Isobel Bushell sporting competence in Qatar as well as to again you’re never too young to start and of the coronavirus pandemic. spacewalk in under a week from the UK; Heather Lee from Canada; inspire amateur athletes to set ambitious you just get involved and get going. You Organisers announced in yesterday to complete a four- and Ross Ayuro from the Philippines, share and unconventional personal goals. never know, you might really like it,” December that the “Berlinale” year effort to modernize the a common passion for running. With a In an interview with the Qabayan Radio, Innes-Smith added. will be split into two parts International Space Station’s shared history on sporting activities and teacher and army reservist Stephanie Ahead of the journey, preparations because of coronavirus curbs. power grid. and training are underway along with An online event for the Over the weekend, flight identifying inevitable challenges they industry, with the jury controllers in Houston used might encounter such as food supply, choosing the winners, is to be the station’s big robot arm to weather conditions and the on-going held March 1-5. Plans call for replace the last pair of old- pandemic. a “summer special” to follow style batteries with a single The quartet received overwhelming June 9-20, at which the public better-quality one. support from local sports communities, will get a chance to see the Astronauts Mike Hopkins such as a Filipino cycling community and winners and a selection of and Victor Glover needed to the Doha Bay Running Club (DBRC), who other films. The award cer- put the finishing touches on are willing to accompany the team and be emony is to take place in June. this newest lithium-ion battery of help along the journey. The festival said yesterday to complete a series of space- Bringing the community spirit ahead of that it is also taking a new walks that began in 2017. the much-awaited Qatar National Sports approach to the international “Beautiful day. Let’s go for Day on February 9, The Desert Roses have jury this year. It will do without a walk outside,” Mission a few days to go to gear up and train for the a jury president, and instead Control radioed as the historical record that could mark them as is having six directors whose spacewalk got off to a late the first women to travel around Qatar, by films all won the event’s top start. foot. Golden Bear award judge this The space station is now Also speaking to Qabayan Radio, Fil- year’s entries. equipped with 24 lithium-ion ipina expat Ayuro shared a short message The jury includes the batteries to store power col- to all amateur athletes and fellow runners directors of the five most lected by the solar panels. The ahead of the 500km challenge. recent winners: Iran’s big, boxy batteries, surpassing “Do whatever you can with whatever Mohammad Rasoulof, Nadav 400 pounds (180 kilograms) you have and wherever we are, in line with Lipid from Israel, Romania’s each, provide electricity for the Qatar’s vision 2030, like spreading sporting Adina Pintilie, Hungary’s orbiting lab when it’s on the The Desert Roses members Stephanie Innes-Smith and Isobel Bushell from the UK; Heather awareness and get involved in physical Ildiko Enyedi and Gianfranco night side of Earth. They’re so Lee from Canada; and Ross Ayuro from the Philippines. activities,” Ayuro concluded. Rosi of Italy. powerful that only half as many are needed as the old nickel-hydrogen batteries they replaced. Angelina Jolie sells painting Churchill gave as gift to FDR The upgrade took longer than expected after one of the AP — LONDON completed during the 1939-45 up painting in his 40s. Orchard 2016 and have spent years new batteries failed following conflict. said that “the light in Morocco enmeshed in divorce pro- its installation two years ago A painting by Winston Churchill He painted it after the and over Marrakech was some- ceedings, amid speculation and had to be replaced. In all, that is a piece of both political January 1943 Casablanca Con- thing that Churchill was pas- about the division of their 14 spacewalks were needed to and Hollywood history is ference, where Churchill and sionate about” and painted extensive art collection. They complete the battery work. coming up for auction. Roosevelt planned the defeat of again and again. were declared divorced in 2019 NASA expects these bat- Christie’s auction house said Nazi Germany. The two leaders “He loved the dry air, the after their lawyers asked for a teries to last the rest of the Monday that the Moroccan visited Marrakech after the con- light, the sun and the way it bifurcated judgment, meaning space station’s operating life. landscape “Tower of the Kout- ference so that Churchill could played on the landscapes,” he that two married people can be Other spacewalking chores oubia Mosque” — a gift from show Roosevelt the city’s beauty. said. “And that’s absolutely declared single while other yesterday for Hopkins and Churchill to US President “Roosevelt was blown away visible here in this painting. You issues, including finances and Glover include installing a new Franklin D Roosevelt — is being by it and thought it was can see the long shadows and child custody, remain. camera on the US Destiny lab sold by Angelina Jolie (pictured) incredible,” said Nick Orchard, the turning purple of the moun- The painting is being sold by and replacing parts in the next month with an estimated head of Christie’s modern tains and the deepening of the the Jolie Family Collection as camera system outside the sta- price of £1.5m to £2.5m ($2.1 to British art department. He said sky - classic sunset time.” part of Christie’s March 1 tion’s Japanese lab, named $3.4m). Churchill captured the view in The painting was sold by modern British art auction in Kibo, or Hope in English. The image of the 12th- the “wonderful, evocative Roosevelt’s son after the pres- London. for Churchill is about 1.8 million During a spacewalk on century mosque in Marrakech painting” and gave it to Roo- ident’s death in 1945, and had Orchard said the auction (pounds) for a painting that, in Wednesday, the two astro- at sunset, with the Atlas Moun- sevelt as a memento of the trip. several owners before Jolie and house was hopeful it could set my view, is not as important as nauts made improvements tains in the background, is the Churchill was a keen partner Brad Pitt bought it in a new record for a Churchill this,” he said. “And I think this to the European lab, only painting that Britain’s amateur artist who completed 2011. work. is probably his most important Columbus. Second World War leader some 500 paintings after taking The couple separated in “The record price at auction work.”