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THURSDAY Vol. XXXX No. 11352 October 31, 2019 Rabia I 3, 1441 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

In brief Amir meets president of Amir receives message from Kuwaiti leader Kurdistan region of Iraq

QATAR | Offi cial Amir holds phone talk with Somalia president His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani held a telephone conversation with the President of Somalia Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo, yesterday. During the phone call, which the Amir received from the Somali president, the two leaders reviewed the strong relations between Qatar and Somalia and means of developing them. In this context, the Somali president thanked the Amir for Qatar’s position supporting the government and people of Somalia. They also exchanged views on issues of mutual concern.

QATAR | Offi cial His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani received a written message from the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, pertaining to the deep-rooted fraternal relations between both countries and means of further Amir invites Shura His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani met at his Amiri Diwan enhancing them, in addition to the latest developments on the regional and international arenas. Kuwait’s Deputy Prime Council to convene off ice yesterday the President of the Kurdistan region of Iraq Nechirvan Barzani. Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh Sabah al-Khaled al-Hamad al-Sabah handed over the message during a meeting His Highness the Amir Sheikh President Barzani was in Qatar to participate in Qatar IT Conference and Exhibition with the Amir at the Amiri Diwan yesterday. At the outset of the meeting, the Kuwaiti Deputy Prime Minister conveyed the Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani (Qitcom 2019), and the Munich Security Conference Core Group (MSC) meeting. greetings of the Kuwaiti Amir to His Highness the Amir, wishing him health and happiness and the Qatari people further yesterday issued Decree No 41 of They reviewed relations and ways to enhance them, besides issues of common progress and development. For his part, the Amir reciprocated his greetings to the Amir of Kuwait, wishing him health and the 2019 inviting the Shura Council to concern. Kuwaiti people further progress and prosperity. convene its 48th Ordinary Session on Tuesday, 8th of Rabi’ Al-awwal 1441, corresponding with November 5. The Amir also issued Amiri Decision No 47 of 2019, establishing a higher committee to prepare for the Shura Council elections. Global spotlight on Qatar PM, Erdogan review The committee will be chaired by HE the Prime Minister and have several ministers and specialists as members. The decisions are strategic relations eff ective from the date of issue as Smart City Expo opens and is to be published in the off icial gazette. By Peter Alagos for the region and it puts Qatar at the “Our two countries are united by two Business Reporter forefront in this fi eld. main and infl uential factors: visionary ARAB WORLD | Unrest “We are keen to showcase and high- and committed leaders, represented by light the Qatari experience in the glo- the leadership of the both countries; and Talks underway over atar’s hosting of the Smart City bal smart city community, and we will the accelerated pace of development, ouster of Iraq’s premier Expo Doha yesterday show- work with the Ministry of Transport thanks to smart investment in infra- Talks were underway yesterday Qcased the country’s eagerness and Communications in Qatar to ex- structure, enhancing the investment over the ouster of Iraq’s embattled to improve the lives of its people and pand and develop the next edition of climate, and the continued support by premier, as a rights commission said residents by utilising top tier technol- the event,” he said. the state for companies and institutions the latest week of anti-government ogies and innovation, according to Fira The Smart City Expo Doha, organ- from the government and private sectors demonstrations have left at least Barcelona president of International ised by the Ministry of Transport and to achieve the Sustainable Development 100 dead and 5,000 injured. Massive Business Ricardo Zapatero. Communications (MoTC), in part- Goals,” al-Sulaiti said. rallies broke out in Iraq’s capital and Fira de Barcelona is one of the most nership with Fira de Barcelona, aims For his part, Kagame said: “It is an south this month against corruption important trade fair organisations in to introduce innovative technology honour to be here at this important and unemployment, spiralling into Europe in terms of the volume and that will contribute to improving the event showcasing the important role Erdogan welcomes HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani at the angry calls for a total government quality of its events. lives of citizens, residents, and visitors technology is playing in urbanisation. Presidential Palace in Ankara. overhaul. In the latest week-long Zapatero made the statement dur- through social inclusion, sustainabil- We hope to work with the partners at wave of demonstrations, at least 100 ing the expo’s fi rst edition, which was ity, and empowerment. this event to develop the right technol- urkish President Recep Tayyip his greetings and wishes of happiness people have died and 5,500 more opened by HE the Prime Minister and In his opening speech, HE the Min- ogy to deal with the implications of ur- Erdogan met with HE the Prime and success to the Amir, and further wounded, the Iraqi Human Rights Interior Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin ister of Transport and Communica- banisation in order to achieve the best TMinister and Minister of Interior progress and prosperity to the Qatari Commission said. Page 13 Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani together tions Jassim Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti results and outcomes.” Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa people. with Rwandan President Paul Kagame. congratulated Kagame and his coun- Kagame also commended Rwanda’s al-Thani at the Presidential Palace in During the meeting, they reviewed BRITAIN | Politics “Doha’s accession to the global network try’s milestones in the fi elds of digital- partnership with Qatar in the fi eld Ankara yesterday. aspects of strategic co-operation be- of organised cities is a refl ection of the Qa- isation, making it “an inspiration for of smart cities, “especially that both At the outset of the meeting, HE the tween the two brotherly countries and UK starts unpredictable tari government’s applaudable commit- many economies around the world.” countries are among the top 10 glo- prime minister conveyed the greet- ways to develop them in various fi elds, poll battle over Brexit ment to the transition to smart cities, and “In a short period of time, the Re- bally in the future vision and speed of ings of His Highness the Amir Sheikh in addition to a number of regional and Prime Minister Boris Johnson locked cities are looking at Doha’s experience in public of Rwanda has been able to be- response to address its requirements.” Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and his international issues. horns yesterday with his rivals in this regard,” Zapatero stressed. come an inspiration to many in Africa Kagame also praised the eff orts of wishes of lasting health and success to The meeting was attended by Tur- a fiery launch to an unpredictable “Today, Qatar is showing the world and the world, and Kigali has earned the state of Qatar for corruption-free the Turkish president, and further de- key’s Vice President Fuat Oktay, a early general election aimed at that it is seeking to improve the lives itself a reputation as Africa’s leading societies “and the vision of His High- velopment and growth to the brotherly number of Turkish ministers and the breaking Britain’s protracted Brexit of citizens with the help of modern city and a true global example of what ness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Ha- Turkish people. delegation accompanying the Prime deadlock. Johnson’s sparring with technology, and this is a success story smart cities can achieve. mad al-Thani”. To Page 9 For his part, Erdogan reciprocated Minister. the main opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn came a day after MPs backed the premier’s call for Britain’s third election in four years. The December 12 poll was decided just a few hours after Brussels extended this week’s Brexit Umm Lekhba Interchange fl yover to open on Nov 2 deadline to give London more time to figure out what it plans to do. Page 18 he Public Works Authority (Ash- fl ow of traffi c from Al Gharrafa towards commercial facilities in the area to access ghal) is all set to open the fi rst 820m Doha and a parallel route to 22 Febru- 22 February Street directly. LATIN AMERICA | Protest Tfl yover bridge at Umm Lekhba ary Street. The bridge connects traffi c The bridge consists of a unidirec- (Landmark) Interchange on the prestigious from the new Al Hateem Street to Al tional lane from Al Gharrafa to Doha Chile pulls out as Apec, Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor on November 2. Gharrafa in the direction of Doha with and another emergency lane with a to- climate meet host Engineer Yousef Abdulrahman al- 22 February Street and Al Gharrafa tal width of about 9m and a height of Chile pulled out of hosting two Emadi, projects aff airs director at Ash- Interchange (Passport Interchange) 24m located on the fourth and topmost major international summits ghal, Lt Engineer Saoud Abdullah al- which will reduce travel time. level of Umm Lekhba Interchange. yesterday as it struggled to restore Hamad from Traffi c Engineering and Ashghal said the fl yover will improve Engineer Mashael Jolo said that 75% order after more than 10 days of Safety Department, Mubarak Ferish traffi c in the area and the bridge will ac- of the Umm Lekhba interchange devel- civil unrest that have left at least 20 Mubarak al-Salem, Central Munici- commodate around 1,500 vehicles per opment has been completed and point- dead. President Sebastian Pinera pal Council (CMC) member and Bader hour to serve those coming from Izghawa ed out that the construction of this said “common sense” dictated the Darwish, Highway Project department and Al Gharrafa areas towards Doha huge and vital interchange is under- decision to withdraw from the Asia manager along with a number of engi- without the need to use Al Shamal Road way round the clock. The interchange Pacific Economic Co-operation neers from Ashghal and the contracting and avoid the current construction works is scheduled to open a second bridge summit and the Cop25 climate company visited the site yesterday. in the area. It also off ers an alternative by the end of 2019 followed by other change conference. Page 23 The new fl yover will provide free route for road users coming from the openings until 2020. Page 28 Gulf Times 2 Thursday, October 31, 2019 QATAR

Amir issues Amir meets Omani foreign minister decisions Cabinet approves PM’s draft decision appointing ambassadors on anti-money laundering committee

His Highness the Amir Sheikh QNA agenda as following: between the governments of Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani Doha It approved a draft law Qatar and Angola, an agreement yesterday issued the following amending some provisions of on the Promotion and Protec- Amiri Decisions: the Labour Law promulgated by tion of Mutual Investments be- 1. Amiri Decision No 48 of he Cabinet’s regular Law No 14 of 2004. tween the governments of Qatar 2019, appointing Abdullah meeting, presided over According to the amendment, and Angola, and an agreement bin Abdulrahman Fakhroo as Tby HE the Prime Minis- one or more committees for set- on Economic, Commercial and ambassador to Poland. ter Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser tling labour disputes shall be Technical Co-operation be- 2. Amiri Decision No 49 of 2019, bin Khalifa al-Thani approved a formed, as stipulated in Article tween the governments of Qatar appointing Abdullah Hussein draft decision of the prime min- 115 bis/1 of the law, by a decision and Angola. Mohamed Jaber as ambassador ister to nominate the president, of the Minister of Administrative The Cabinet also approved to Holland. vice-president and members Development, Labour and Social a draft memorandum of un- 3. Amiri Decision No 50 of 2019, of the National Anti-Money Aff airs. derstanding (MoU) between appointing Abdullah Mohamed Laundering and Combating the The Cabinet then approved the Administrative Control Ibrahim Mohamed al-Derbasti as Financing of Terrorism Com- the following: and Transparency Authority ambassador to Cuba. mittee. - A draft law amending some (ACTA) in Qatar and the Pales- 4. Amiri Decision No 51 of Earlier the Cabinet also ap- provisions of Law No 14 of 2018 tinian Anti-Corruption Com- 2019, appointing Saoud proved a draft decision by HE on the unifi ed economic register. mission (PACC) for co-opera- Jassim Mohamed al-Jufairi as the Minister of Commerce and - A draft decision of HE the tion in the field of preventing ambassador to Singapore. Industry establishing the Anti- Minister of Commerce and In- and combating corruption, a 5. Amiri Decision No 52 of 2019, Money Laundering and Coun- dustry on strengthening the draft declaration of joint in- appointing Abdullah Ibrahim tering the Financing of Terror- transparency of commercial tentions in the field of digital Abdulrahman Sultan al-Hamar as ism Committee and defi ning its companies and authorising the technology development, dig- ambassador to Spain. competencies. real benefi ciary. ital innovation and entrepre- 6. Amiri Decision No 53 of 2019, The Cabinet also approved The Cabinet approved a draft neurship between the Ministry appointing Jassim Jabir Jassim the Cabinet’s draft decision to decision of HE the Minister of of Transport and Communica- al-Sorour as ambassador to Sri issue the executive regulation Municipality and Environment tions of Qatar and the Federal His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani met, at his Amiri Diwan off ice yesterday, Lanka. of the Anti-Money Laundering considering Riff a area as a natu- Ministry for Economic Affairs with the Minister Responsible for Foreign Aff airs of Oman Yusuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, on the The decisions are eff ective and Countering the Financing of ral reserve. and Energy of Germany. occasion of his visit to Qatar to participate in the Qatar IT Conference and Exhibition (Qitcom starting from their date of issue Terrorism Law issued by Law No The Cabinet also took the The Cabinet reviewed the 2019), and the Munich Security Conference Core Group (MSC) meeting. At the outset of the and are to be published in the 20 of 2019. necessary measures to ratify an proposed amendments to Pe- meeting, the Omani minister conveyed the greetings of Sultan Qaboos bin Said of Oman, wishing off icial gazette. Following the meeting, HE agreement on the cancellation of nal Code issued by Law No 11 the Amir health and happiness and the Qatari people further progress and prosperity. For his the Minister of Justice and Act- visa requirements for holders of of 2004, and the Law No 23 for part, the Amir entrusted the Omani Minister to convey his greetings to Sultan Qaboos bin Said, FM sends written ing Minister of State for Cabinet diplomatic, private and offi cial 2004 regarding Promulgating wishing him health and the brotherly Omani people further progress and prosperity. The meeting Aff airs Dr Issa Saad al-Jafari al- passports between the govern- the Criminal Procedure Code. reviewed the relations between Qatar and Oman and ways of boosting them as well as the latest message to Italian Nuaimi stated that the Cabinet ments of Qatar and Angola, a The Cabinet then took the ap- developments on the regional and international arenas. counterpart reviewed topics on its meeting’s Maritime Transport Agreement propriate decision.

HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani sent a written message to the Minister of Foreign Aff airs and International Co-operation of Italy Luigi Di Maio, pertaining to the bilateral relations and ways of enhancing them. The Criminology congress calls for message was handed over by Qatar’s ambassador to Italy Abdulaziz bin Ahmed al-Malki, during his meeting with the Director General for Political and Security Aff airs at the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs and International global eff orts to combat crime Co-operation of Italy, Sebastiano Cardi, in Rome. By Shafeeq Alingal Western countries and early Staff Reporter great progress occurred in in Director-general the US and Europe. But, non- Western societies are getting of QNA meets anel discussions, contem- attention,” he said and added Gambian minister plations, International So- that there are certain shortcom- Pciety of Criminology (ISC) ings prevailing while it comes Director-General of Qatar News General Assembly and conclud- to criminology in non-Western Agency (QNA) Yousuf Ibrahim ing remarks by delegates yester- countries. al-Malki yesterday met the day marked the formal valedic- He added that there is a need Minister of Information and tion of the 19th World Congress to develop the non-Western Communication Infrastructure of on Criminology. criminology and counter the co- Gambia Ebrima Sillah, in Doha. Discussions and presentations lonial criminology. Talks during the meeting dealt were held on topics ‘juvenile Earlier, while attending the with media relations between the delinquency’, ‘criminal justice ‘restorative justice and preven- two countries. and human rights’, ‘prosecution, tion: public input’, Dr Mohamed sentencing and prevention in Mattar, professor at the Faculty Qatar attends South Asia’, ‘religion and crime of Law at Qatar University, called and domestic violence’ at four for a distinction in legal settle- Arab parliament venues. ments between the natures of Dr Emilio C Viano, president, ISC, addressing the valediction of the World Congress of Criminology. panel meetings While addressing the General cases as there are crimes that are Assembly, Dr Emilio C Viano, very dangerous to reconcile with The meetings of the four president, ISC, thanked the or- the perpetrators such as crimi- permanent committees of the ganisers for hosting the mega nals who exploit minor children. Arab Parliament began yesterday event successfully. He said Qa- “The well-established rule at the headquarters of the tar’s contributions have helped in Arab Criminal Procedures General Secretariat of the Arab ISC and United Nations Offi ce on Laws is that a public prosecutor League in Cairo. Drugs and Crime (UNODC) dis- has the sole jurisdiction to fi le a The meetings prepare for the charge there duties for the bet- criminal suit. It is also a widely first plenary meeting of the terment of the world. He noted recognised rule that a criminal fourth regular session of the that the conference turned out trial may not be waived, aban- second legislative term to be to be spectacular with it’s higher doned or suspended by the par- held today. number of women participants. ties to the criminal action,” he Qatar is participating in the Jianhong Liu, president, Sci- said. meetings with a delegation from entifi c Commission, ISC, noted The paper also paid special the Shura Council. that criminologists have started attention to the application of The foreign and political aff airs paying increasing attention to these guidelines and principles and Arab national security non-Western societies as a re- to new forms of crimes, espe- committee will discuss the sult of the development of global cially those involving organised political and security situation interdependence. crimes, money laundering, hu- in some Arab countries and “Criminology originated in man traffi cking and terrorism. Brigadier General Dr Mohamed Abdullah al-Marri, Director General of Police College, addressing the World Congress of Criminology. the developments of joint Arab action. The economic and financial affairs committee will examine the draft budget of the Arab New ISC president praises Parliament for 2020. It will #Me Too movement gave women also discuss a number of draft guiding laws to facilitate trade Qatar’s contributions exchange and transport in the world along with parliamentary a global space to speak up views in the economic field, r Emilio C Viano, who including a parliamentary vision was re-elected as the on electrical interconnection he #Me Too movement platforms,” Dube said. Dpresident of the Inter- between Arab countries and a has given women a global She explained that the ris- national Society of Criminology vision to activate the common Tspace to speak up against ing number of crimes against (ISC) yesterday thanked Qatar Arab market. the crimes, said Dr Dipa Dube women in India reflects decay for its contributions to various from Indian Institute of Tech- in India’s Institutions. “Recent agencies to make the world safe. Real estate nology (IIT) Kharagpur. cases show how political elites While addressing the General Dube’s presentation ‘Rising and administrators choose to Assembly of the event, he said transactions Waves of Feminism or Falter- help perpetrators while do- ISC is happy and owes gratitude ing Steps of Criminal Justice- ing everything to shun efforts to the local committee for mak- The trading volume of registered What Plagues India’ at ‘Religion, to secure justice for victims. ing the congress a memorable real estates between October 20- Crime and Domestic Violence’ In many rape cases, the police event. 24 at the Ministry of Justice’s real session at World Congress of spend more time seeking rec- He said there is a need to en- estate registration department Criminology shed light into the onciliation between the attack- sure that downtrodden people stood at QR806,899,658. post #Me Too movement devel- er and the victim than investi- are accorded their rights and Dr Emilio C Viano The department’s weekly report opments and plight of women gating the facts. According to given justice. said that the trading included in India while it comes to the experts, the police are poorly The function also marked the were elected as the members of empty lands, residential units, shortcomings of delivering jus- organised to deal with seri- declaration of the new commit- board of directors. residential buildings, residential tice to the victims. Dr Dipa Dube and Ankita Chakraborty from Indian Institute of ous crimes, particularly those tee for the year 2019-2024. The ISC president said that complexes, multipurpose “The rage of Indian women Technology (IIT) Kharagpur at World Congress of Criminology. against women,” she said. And Jianhong Liu (Maccau), Zia the new committee is inclusive buildings and multipurpose — submerged thus far in the added that institutional failure Rahman (Bangladesh), Sanjeev P in terms of geography and asked empty lands. recesses of memory, wrapped silence; giving women a space to “Further, institutions and to deliver justice to victims re- Sahni (India), Xiaomei Liu (Chi- all members to work together Most of the trading took place in away in swathes of fear and self- speak up,” she said adding that companies set up exclusive sults in the grim scenario. na), Susan Edwarde (UK), Marco and joint hands to achieve the Al Daayen, Al Rayyan, Doha, Al doubt, and suppressed for years journalists, actors, directors and committees to look into such She said that there is a need to Monzani (Italy), David Weisburd goals of ISC. Wakrah, Umm Salal, Al Khor, Al by entrenched social stigma — writers — all accused of varying cases and many accused were build social cohesion and net- (USA/Israel), Emil Plywacze- He exhorted the members to Thakhira and Al Shamal. has fi nally come pouring out degrees of sexual harassment, expelled. The movement could works that will support and sus- wzski (Poland), Emilio C Viano determine that globalisation is a The trading volume of registered to set in motion India’s long- misconduct or assault were evoke an impact. Now, even tain change, foster mass move- (USA), Marina Rezende Bazon reality and become cognisant of real estates between October 13- overdue #MeToo moment. The caught in the swirl of the move- common women are capable to ment and aid in transforming (Brazil), Hugo Morales Cordova the current situation, needs and 17 was QR651,161,070. - QNA movement is about breaking the ment. speak up by using social media power relations in the society. (Peru) and Ichiro Tanioka (Japan) emerging challenges. Gulf Times Thursday, October 31, 2019 3 QATAR

Al-Attiyah attends GCC defence ministers’ meeting in Muscat Attorney-general meets ICC prosecutor

QNA Doha

HE the Deputy Prime Minister E the Attorney-General and Minister of State for Dr Ali bin Fetais al- Defence Aff airs Dr Khalid bin HMarri met the Prosecu- Mohamed al-Attiyah took tor of the International Criminal part in the 16th session of the Court Fatou Bensouda in Doha joint defence council of the yesterday. During the meeting, Ministers of Defence of the they reviewed issues of common GCC countries, in Muscat. concern and ways to enhance le- gal and judicial co-operation. Bensouda gave a lecture at the Prosecutor’s Offi ce in the presence of HE Dr al-Marri and prosecutors, in which she re- viewed the terms of reference of the work of the International Criminal Court. At the outset, the attorney- general welcomed the prosecu- tor of the ICC and expressed the value of the work she and her staff did at the ICC to enforce the law and combat international HE the Attorney-General Dr Ali bin Fetais al-Marri with the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court crimes and to establish the prin- Fatou Bensouda in Doha yesterday. ciple of punishment and reward. HE Dr al-Marri noted the ex- Prosecution Division and other portant cases on which the court in terms of the number of states perience of the prosecutor of the legal positions as well as her vast is working, as well as her eff orts that have acceded to the Rome ICC who has held several impor- knowledge of international legal since becoming prosecutor of Statute. tant national and international institutions and major fi les. the ICC. The lecture also dealt with positions in the Gambia, such as During the lecture, Fatou Ben- She further expressed that it some of the topics the ICC deals the second adviser to the presi- souda reviewed the history of has been interested in reaching with such as war crimes, crimes dent of the Gambia, the Deputy the establishment of the ICC, out to the Middle East because against humanity, genocides and Prosecutor in charge of the ICC its jurisdiction and the most im- its countries are less represented illegal crimes and others. Qatar’s eff orts in promoting international peace and security highlighted

QNA rights of women and children, and containing many confl icts ing many thorny international rights and freedom, emphasis- contribute to the promotion of Asia, and other themes related to Doha eliminating all forms of discrim- around the world, including the issues, easing tension in interna- ing that women’s empowerment peace and security in societies. crime and domestic violence. ination and adopting successful one that prevailed in Sudan’s tional relations and contributing has a multiplier eff ect and helps During the same session, par- The 19th World Congress of policies to reduce domestic vio- Darfur region. She also referred to the maintenance of interna- drive economic growth and de- ticipants reviewed the experi- Criminology, being held for he 19th World Congress of lence. to other mediation eff orts in re- tional peace and security, in ad- velopment in all areas. ences of a number of countries in the first time in the Middle Criminology devoted one Dr Deehring Melissa from the solving international disputes, dition to hosting conferences, She said that Qatar has fi ghting crimes, and establishing East, is the first global event Tof its sessions yesterday to College of Law at Qatar Univer- saying this indicates the impor- meetings and workshops on worked on the implementation justice and human rights, nota- that brings together the best discussing crime and domestic sity, in a working paper entitled tance of national eff orts stem- promoting international peace of item 16 of the sustainable de- bly Italy, Bangladesh, India and academics, professionals, poli- violence in relation to the security “crime and women: the agenda ming from principled positions and security. velopment related to the con- Nigeria. cymakers and representatives of states, and highlighted some of peace and security in Qatar,” that call for peace and promote She pointed out that Qatar is solidation of peace and justice The last day of the congress from the security and legal global experiences in this area. presented a number of successes regional and international sta- one of the countries that have and building strong institutions, witnessed four sessions on vari- sectors to discuss crime and The session witnessed a pres- achieved by the State of Qatar at bility. acceded to the Declaration on while noting the national, lo- ous topics, including juvenile delinquency issues, and ways entation on national eff orts in these levels locally and globally. She added that Qatar has been the Elimination of Violence cal and international initiatives delinquency, criminal justice, to address them through legal promoting international peace Dr Deehring Melissa said that praised by the international against Women and Children in the fi eld of education and the human rights, prosecution, gov- legislation, criminal justice and security, guaranteeing the Qatar has succeeded in ending community for its role in resolv- and has guaranteed women’s advancement of women, which ernance and prevention in South and other means. Gulf Times 4 Thursday, October 31, 2019 QATAR Czech Republic seeks to bolster trade ties with Qatar

HE the Minister of Public Health Dr Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari with other GCC health ministers. QNA Doha

inister of Foreign Af- Health minister takes part in fairs of the Czech Re- Mpublic Tomas Petricek said that his country seeks to strengthen co-operation with GCC panel meetings in Muscat Qatar in all economic fields and attract more foreign invest- ments, noting that there are QNA The fi fth meeting of the GCC Health Ministers’ many Czech delegations vis- Muscat Committee discussed many important issues, most ited Qatar to develop relations notably the decisions of the Supreme Council on to higher levels. a number of health issues in addition to the smart Speaking at a meeting at Qa- he fi fth meeting of the GCC Health Minis- card health fi le, medications, medical devices and tar Chamber (QC) yesterday, the ters Committee as well as the 82nd meeting supplies that are exempted from additional taxes, Czech foreign minister noted Tof the 44th session of the GCC Health Min- health cities, unifi ed classifi cation and registration that the visiting delegation in- isters Council were held here yesterday, with the procedures for medical specialisations, and the cluded representatives of 20 participation of HE the Minister of Public Health allocation of a daily sports class in schools in the Czech companies specialised in Dr Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari. GCC countries. tourism, lighting technologies, HE al-Kuwari emphasised the importance of The 82nd meeting of the GCC Health Ministers communication, fi nancial serv- the subjects discussed in the two meetings, while council discussed important issues, such as draft ices, real estate, energy and en- thanking Oman and the Omani Minister of Health decisions on unifi ed purchase, central registration, vironment management. Dr Ahmed bin Mohamed al-Saidi for the good or- expatriates check-up, and technical committees, in Czech Republic is strategically ganisation and hosting of the events. addition to the strategic plan of 2020-2022. located in Europe. It is a large market linking European Union, he added. HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani Qatar Committee for He also noted that Czech Re- yesterday met the Minister of Foreign Aff airs of the Czech Republic Tomas Petricek, currently visiting public sought to off er innova- Qatar. During the meeting, both sides discussed bilateral relations and issues of common concern. Alliance of Civilizations tive projects that attract more holds first meeting investments, especially as it is learn about the investment op- the march of accomplishing the panies to avail the business cli- known for high quality products. portunities available in Czech Qatar National Vision 2030,” he mate and investment opportu- “This forum provides a good Republic to build economic alli- noted. nities available in Qatar. Qatar Committee for the Alliance of opportunity for further co-op- ances with their Czech counter- The QC chairman stressed He called on Czech companies Civilizations held its first meeting eration between both parties in parts and establish joint projects that measures adopted by the and businessmen to boost their yesterday under the chairmanship of HE trade, investment and touris- in both countries. Qatari government, which in- co-operation and set up alli- the Secretary-General of the Ministry of tic and economic spheres,” he There are 6 Czech-Qatari cluded legislative reforms such ances and partnerships across Foreign Aff airs Dr Ahmed bin Hassan al- added. companies operating in Qatar in as Free Zones Law and Non- all economic sectors with their Hammadi, in the presence of members of HE the Qatar Chamber various sectors including serv- Qatari Capital Investment Law, Qatari counterparts. the committee representing the ministries Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin ices, hospitality, sports consul- contributed to increasing the During the meeting, Director of Foreign Aff airs, Education and Higher Jassim al-Thani said Qatar tancies and food stuff s, the Qatar competitiveness of national of Markets Department at Qatar Education, Administrative Development, and the Czech Republic enjoy Chamber chairman added. economy that successes to over- Free Zones Authority Fahad Ali Labour and Social Aff airs, Culture and strong relations in all fields, “Qatar has managed to build come the unjust siege imposed al-Kuwari gave a presentation Sports, Endowments (Awqaf) and noting that their trade volume one of the world’s strongest, on the country for over two on “Investment in Qatar”, which Islamic Aff airs. During the meeting, the registered a 28% growth in the fast-growing economies which years. touched on the most important tasks of the committee were discussed, last five years, estimated at is able to overcome all regional Qatar has built a business advantages off ered in Umm Al- Participants also reviewed the United $177mn last year. and global challenges through environment through develop- Houl and Ras Abu Fintas free Nations Alliance of Civilizations initiative HE Sheikh Khalifa said that adopting sound economic ing its infrastructure and pro- zones. Adam Moheb from the and the important programmes and Czech Republic is an attractive strategies aiming at diversify- viding incentives that attract Investment Promotion Agency projects it undertakes, and stressed the investment destination for the ing income resources and pro- investment in all sectors, he gave a presentation on the in- need to follow up the implementation of Qatari private sector, affi rming viding support for the private pointed out, assuring that the vestment climate and advan- the State’s plan. – QNA that Qatari investors are eager to sector to be a real partner in scope is open for Czech com- tages in Qatar. Gulf Times Thursday, October 31, 2019 5 QATAR Fifty One East, Nexstgo bring Vaio back to Qatari market By Peter Alagos It also comes with a variety of Business Reporter connection interfaces, includ- ing 4K HDMI, VGA/RGB, LAN, USB Type-CTM, 3 USB Type-A, ifty One East and Nexstgo SD card reader, security lock slot have announced the return and 3.5mm headset/headphone Fof the premier line of Vaio jack. laptops to Qatar during a launch The new Vaio A12 is made in event at FNAC in Lagoona Mall. Japan and powered with Win- The event was attended by dows 10 PRO, this device is avail- Nexstgo chief executive of- able in black tablet with silver fi cer Alex Chung, Fifty One East keyboard with anti-spill backlit chairman and managing direc- keyboard, Intel Core i5-8200Y tor Bader al-Darwish, Darwish with 12.5” full HD display, and Holding vice chairman Saoud al- has a memory of 8GB. Vaio A12 Darwish, Nexstgo senior man- two-in-one device is designed to agement team, VIPs, and other be a “True Laptop, True Tablet.” tech-savvy guests. Its exclusive ‘Stabilizer Flap’ The new range of Vaio lap- design improves stability of the tops is currently available exclu- device in use. The tablet part sively at FNAC in Lagoona Mall features a 12.5” multi-touch and Doha Festival City, Mod- screen with full HD resolution. ern Home in Al Maha Centre on When attached to the keyboard Salwa Road, Virgin Megastore base with built-in battery, the in Doha Festival City, Villag- Fifty One East chairman and managing director Bader al-Darwish, Darwish Holding vice chairman Saoud total weight is at approximately gio, Landmark Mall, and Mall al-Darwish, Nexstgo CEO Alex Chung, and other off icials at the launch. 1.2kg. In addition, A12 also goes of Qatar. Fifty One East chairman and managing director Bader al-Darwish with an all-black version with Bader al-Darwish said, “We and Nexstgo CEO Alex Chung at the launch. Intel Core i7-8200Y. share a longstanding relation- The stylish Vaio SE14 is ship with Vaio that goes back to innovation to the Qatari market.” It has an Intel Core i5-8265U powered with Windows 10 the 90s and today, we are thrilled Chung added, “We are excited Processor, Intel Core i7-8565U PRO / Home and is available in to welcome it back to our port- to bring Vaio back to the Mid- Processor with 12.5” (even in 11” red copper and dark grey col- folio and to the Qatari market, in dle East and especially in Qatar, footprint) full HD display, and our with Island Style Keyboard partnership with Nexstgo. together with our partner, Fifty has a memory of 8GB / 16GB. It and an optional backlit too “Fifty One East has been a One East. Vaio has always been a is built with integrated layers of with spill resistance. It has 8th partner of various Japanese market leader for its stylish and unidirectional carbon fi bre that Gen Intel Core Processor i5 – brands since its inception with durability range of laptops. With enhance the protection, while regular 5V cell phone charger. It 8265U, i7- 8565U with 14” full whom we have built relation- the launch, we aim to expand our still keeping the laptop thin and also comes with a variety of con- HD display, and has a memory ships of mutual trust that lasted distribution network in the local light at a mere 899g. nection interfaces including a of 8GB / 16GB. Connection op- for decades and are still present market and clock a phenomenal It supports VAIO TruePer- USB Type-C port, 3 USB ports, tions are also very comprehen- today. This further cements our growth by the end of 2019.” formance, a technology that a HDMI port, a VGA connector sive, with two USB Type-CTM commitment to providing top This year, Vaio adds a very re- helps optimise and maximise and LAN connection. ports, two USB 3.0 ports and a quality brands to our clientele freshing line-up of laptops to its CPU and overall performance. Powered with Windows 10 Models display the premier line of Vaio laptops. HDMI port. alongside the most outstand- product portfolio. Vaio SX12 is It’s fast charging feature al- PRO / Home, this device is It weighs approx. 1.35kgs with ing service that exceeds their made in Japan and powered with lows recharging of the laptop to available in black, silver, brown Processor with 14-inch (even in and features a lightweight UD 4-Speaker design (top-fi ring expectations. We are looking Windows 10 PRO / Home; this around 80% in merely an hour. colour with backlit keyboard. 13” foot print) full HD / 4K ultra carbon case. It supports VAIO dual speakers, down- fi ring dual forward to yet another success- device is available in black, sil- The USB Type-CTM port of The Vaio SX14 is made in Japan HD display and has a memory of TruePerformance, a technology speakers), microphone opti- ful journey with Vaio as we can ver, brown and pink colour with SX12 supports charging from and has an Intel Core i5-8265U 8GB / 16GB. that helps optimise and maxim- mised for Cortana and HD 720p, bring together excellence and full-size backlit keyboard. your handy power bank or any Processor, Intel Core i7-8565U It weighs approximately 1.05kg ise CPU and overall performance. FHD 1080p (optional) webcam.

A view of the exhibition venue at Al Hazm. PICTURES: Jayaram Asjad Jewellery Exhibition to open at Al Hazm tomorrow

By Ayman Adly ration, mining, retail, trading and Staff Reporter industrial diamond manufacturing. “We have been preparing for the ex- hibition for almost four months and he Asjad Jewellery Exhibition its main focus is on direct sales to the will open to the public on Fri- public at reasonable prices from the Tday (tomorrow) at Al Hazm and suppliers themselves. In this distin- continue until November 7, it has been guished exhibition, we want to give announced. our visitors an elite luxury experience The exhibition is being held for the through the very special ambience of fi rst time in Qatar, and the participat- Al Hazm,” said al-Emadi. ing companies will sell their prod- He expects the exhibition to serve as ucts directly to visitors without going a valued addition to the Qatari market through agents. and off er new business opportuni- The daily timings of the exhibition ties for the country. It is not meant to are from 12noon to 10pm. compete with any other event in its Mohamed Abdul Karim al-Ema- category but rather off er new areas to di, chief executive offi cer, Al Hazm, explore, which will refl ect positively stressed that Asjad would showcase on the local market in diff erent sectors many new high-end jewellery prod- such as tourism, hospitality retail and ucts in gold, diamond, pearl and pre- Mohamed Abdul Karim al-Emadi transportation, among others. cious stones for the fi rst time in the He also appreciated the positive co- country, brought directly by the sup- place ahead of the grand event. operation of the various authorities and pliers and manufactures. Some 80-90 “We prepared everything and sup- entities concerned in the country, in local and foreign companies, including plied all the necessary logistics and particular the General Authority of Cus- from India, Kuwait, Asia and Europe, display equipment and installations, toms, for facilitating the relevant proce- have confi rmed their participation in down to the fi nest and smallest details. dures for the entry of goods and give the the event and some more international Every exhibitor, whether local or inter- participants a hassle-free experience. companies have also expressed their national, will have a designated booth This, he stressed, refl ects the inten- desire to join the event, the offi cial said with the necessary furnishings and ac- tion of the government to further boost at a conference on Tuesday. cessories. They will only have to bring the private sector and help attract more Al-Emadi said the designated their goods and staff and display them foreign investments to the country. exhibition hall has been fully pre- to the public,” he explained. Al-Emadi expressed hope that there pared by the Al Hazm management, The exhibition is being held in co- would be another edition of the exhi- with all necessary decorations, in- operation with De Beers Jewellers, bition in the future, building on the stallations and equipment put in which specialises in diamond explo- success of the upcoming event. Gulf Times 6 Thursday, October 31, 2019 QATAR S Koreans celebrate their National Day he embassy of Korea benefi ting each other, he in Doha yesterday said: “Qatar and Korea have Thosted a reception been maintaining the strong Visitors at a stall at Friday Souq. to mark their National Day ties in the energy and eco- with patriotic fervour and a nomic sectors over the dec- music performance. ades. Currently, Qatar is the A large number of South number one LNG supplier Korean expatriates, mem- and eighth largest foreign QF invites community bers of international diplo- construction market to Ko- matic corps in Doha and the rea, and Korea is the number Qatari dignitaries attended two trade partner to Qatar. the celebrations. Chang- We attach great importance members to Friday Souq mo Kim, ambassador of S to this mutually benefi cial Korea to Qatar, along with partnership and I sincerely the guests cut a cake. Ear- hope this co-operation be- lier, the proceedings started Chang-mo Kim is joined by HE Dr Issa Saad al-Jafali al-Nuaimi and HE Dr Mohamed Abdul Wahed Ali tween our two countries at Education City with the national anthems al-Hammadi in cutting a cake at the reception as the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs’ Protocol Department continues to grow. of both Qatar and Korea. director Ibrahim Fakhro, Eritrean ambassador Ali Ibrahim Ahmed look on. PICTURE: Ram Chand “Being proud of our long atar Foundation (QF) HE the Minister of Justice history of partnership, I is inviting commu- and Acting Minister of State tion and Higher Education Department director Ibra- rahim Ahmed were among have to say that year 2019 is Qnity members of all for Cabinet Aff airs Dr Issa Dr Mohamed Abdul Wahed him Fakhro, and the dean of the dignitaries. a signifi cant year for Qatar- ages to visit its new Friday Saad al-Jafali al-Nuaimi, Ali al-Hammadi, Ministry the Diplomatic Corps and Speaking on the occa- Korea relations. In Janu- Souq, which is being held HE the Minister of Educa- of Foreign Aff airs’ Protocol Eritrean ambassador Ali Ib- sion, ambassador Kim said, ary, His Highness the Amir every week at Oxygen Park “Originally, Gaecheonjeol Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad in Education City. – National Foundation Day al-Thani paid an offi cial Visitors to the family- – falls on October 3 but we visit to Korea, being the fi rst friendly market can fi nd celebrate the National Day head-of-state level guest of something to suit all tastes, today since we wanted to the year. The visit has con- including a diverse range of An acivity for children at Friday Souq. celebrate it with the talent- tributed to enhancing bilat- stalls selling food, clothes, ed Korean musicians.” eral co-operation and mu- handmade products and members of the commu- Catherine Thompson, “The National Founda- tual trust between our two other goods, as well as a nity to visit QF and see who also came to Friday tion Day honours the foun- friendly countries. On that children’s playground and the facilities here, includ- Souq on its opening day, dation of Gojoseon, the fi rst occasion, seven MoUs were an array of activities in- ing the Education City said: “Once the weather state of the Korean Peninsula signed, in various areas of cluding painting, colour- Mosque. We look forward starts to get better, families about 4,300 years ago. Gae- mutual interests, from ag- ing, and henna. Friday to coming to QF for more like take their children out- cheonjeol means “the day riculture to smart grid tech- Souq also has a kids’ care activities in the future.” doors, away from the shop- heaven opened its doors,” nology. facility where parents can Friday Souq visitor Ab- ping malls, and parks are symbolising the birth of the “Also in January, there leave their children to play dallah al-Yusuf said, “I the best option for them. Korean nation. In Korea, the was a Qatar-Korea Medical while they shop. chose to spend part of the “In Oxygen Park, chil- government commemorated Symposium in Doha. Jointly “I was keen to come to weekend at Friday Souq at dren have the chance to it three weeks ago under the held by the Medical Serv- Education City to experi- Oxygen Park because it al- play in a large green space theme, ‘All together, ben- ices of Qatar Armed Forces ence the Souq for the fi rst lowed me to take my family and enjoy diff erent activi- efi ting the world. and the Ministry of Health time, because I have visited for lunch and shopping. ties, and at the same time “The meaning of Gae- and Welfare of Korea, the the Torba Farmers Market “Being here in the after- people can shop, walk cheonjeol and the theme symposium saw the medi- at QF regularly with my noon in good weather meant around the various stalls, ‘All together, benefi ting the cal and healthcare experts children,” said Hessa al- we have already had a good and eat. It’s convenient, world’ certainly bears sig- of two countries share their Marri, a visitor to Friday time, and we will make sure there are plenty of facili- nifi cance for these days, knowledge and experiences. Souq on its fi rst day of op- to visit every Friday. This ties, and it’s well-lit in the since we are opening up “In July, Korean Prime eration last week. “These market is characterised by evening. Every time I visit doors of new era of peace Minister Lee Nakyon visited kinds of events always have the way it welcomes visitors Education City, I feel it’s and prosperity in the Ko- Qatar and had a very pro- a pleasant atmosphere, from diff erent age groups, a major centre for recrea- rean Peninsula and Asia. ductive meeting with HE and Oxygen Park is an ex- off ers activities to suit eve- tional and cultural events.” As President Moon Jae-in the Prime Minister Sheikh cellent location, where ryone, has a relaxed atmos- Friday Souq will be open said at the UN General As- Abdullah bin Nasser bin various outdoor activities phere, and sells a diverse every Friday until Decem- sembly, compared to the Khalifa al-Thani.” can be enjoyed. range of handmade goods, ber 13 from 9am-9pm. All past, the Korean Peninsula Seven talented Korean “These events are an clothing, and food. It is a children’s activities are has undergone a distinct musicians – who are active ideal opportunity for all good way to enjoy a Friday.” free. change. Of course, it’s an in Qatar – namely pianists ongoing challenge as he Sonja Park and Kim Nay- said. However, the Repub- oung, fl utists Lee Eunhye lic of Korea will continue and Shin Jihoon, violinist its eff orts toward complete Kim Taehyun, bassonist Lee denuclearisation and per- Juncheol, and cellist Kim manent peace.” Jiyeon enthralled the gath- Speaking of two coun- ering with their exquisite tries’ friendly relations music.

Air India aims to make Delhi-Doha fl ight seven trips a week

By Santhosh V Perumal day, Thursday and Saturday Business Reporter and arrive in Delhi at 5am (next day). On Friday, it will leave Doha at 11.35pm and ndia’s national fl ag car- reach Delhi at 5.50am (next rier Air India, which day). Irelaunched Delhi-Doha Malik said Qatar is a very direct service after a decade big market to be tapped by with weekly four fl ights, Air India because of the in- is aiming to make it seven creasing trade and business trips a week, consider- relations between Qatar ing the increasing business and India. potential between the two India is among the top countries. fi ve countries with which Although the move to Qatar has growing mer- extend the service to seven chandise trade ties and as days a week will depend on per the latest statistics, yields and the number of Doha’s imports from India passengers, the full service amounted to QR0.44bn and carrier, which is now under exports to India were valued disinvestment or privatisa- at QR2.61bn in September tion process, is hopeful of this year, according to the garnering sizeable share in Planning and Statistics Au- the ‘under-tapped’ market, thority data. said Veena Negi, Air India’s The re-entry of Air India country manager (Qatar) in in the sector will give more the presence of commercial options for customers as at director Meenakshi Mallik present, Qatar Airways and and regional manager (Gulf, Indigo off er direct fl ights Middle East and Africa) between the two capitals. Mohit Sain. The move from the national Air India, which was one carrier also comes in the of the fi rst airlines to start backdrop of now defunct operations to Qatar in 1976 Jet Airways, which had the and continued fl ying until fl ying rights between Doha 2009, now uses A320 Neo and Delhi. which comes in twin con- Negi said the timings, es- fi guration of 12 business pecially the return, would class seats and 150 economy be convenient for those seats. travellers who transit to On Tuesday, Thursday other destinations within and Saturday, AI971 will India and Saarc (South depart Delhi at 7.50pm and Asian Association for Re- arrive in Doha at 9.35pm. gional Co-operation) coun- On Friday, it will leave Delhi tries such as Nepal. at 8.50pm and reach Doha Air India allows 30kg at 10.35pm, the website baggage allowance for shows. economy class travellers Then, AI972 will depart and excess baggage would Doha at 10.35pm on Tues- be charged at QR55 per kg. Gulf Times Thursday, October 31, 2019 7 QATAR Ooredoo in new deal to provide onboard Wi-Fi to Qatar Airways

oredoo yesterday an- Qatar Airways fl ights equipped service is enabled on board each newed our agreement with Qatar enjoy the internet wherever they nounced it has signed a with onboard Wi-Fi. Enabling fl ight,” the statement notes. Airways, and proud to be contin- are.” Onew four-year agreement Ooredoo’s network on board air- Passengers will simply need uing to deliver our state-of-the- HE al-Baker added, “Qatar to continue the provision of on- craft will allow Qatar Airways to to look for the Ooredoo logo on art Wi-Fi service to passengers Airways is a fi ve-star airline with board Wi-Fi to Qatar Airways. off er travellers the latest genera- their next Qatar Airways flight so they can stay connected while a hard-won reputation for serv- The agreement was signed at tion of connections quickly and – it can be seen on the log-in travelling. We’re committed to ice quality, so it is crucial for our a special ceremony during Qit- cost-eff ectively, in a fl exible and screen and on information in enhancing people’s digital lives, passengers that we use cutting- com 2019 by HE Sheikh Abdulla scalable manner, Ooredoo has said seat pockets, as well as on ad- as well as to off ering the very lat- edge technology to provide them bin Mohamed bin Saud al-Thani, in a statement. verts on screen - to see if on- est in technology and telecoms with a Wi-Fi product on board Chairman of Ooredoo’s Board “The continued partnership board Wi-Fi is available on their developments. that meets their high expecta- of Directors, and Qatar Airways will mean passengers can access flight, then wait for the crew to “Ensuring that passengers can tions. Group Chief Executive HE Akbar unmatched connectivity in the announce onboard Wi-Fi has access the same quality connec- “I am pleased to have renewed al-Baker. air; they will be able to use port- been enabled and get online. tivity in the air as they do on the our agreement with Ooredoo The new agreement will see able electronic devices to check Speaking of the renewed ground is one of the many ways in which will enhance the travel ex- HE Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohamed bin Saud al-Thani and HE Akbar Ooredoo continue as Exclusive emails, browse the Internet and agreement, HE Sheikh Abdulla which we deliver on these com- perience and deliver operational al-Baker signing the agreement. Onboard Wi-Fi Sponsor for all send messages as soon as the said: “We’re delighted to have re- mitments and enable everyone to excellence.” Qatar Airways opens new ward at KHCC in Jordan

atar Airways commemo- and KHCF/KHCC, a press state- rated the opening of its ment notes. Qnew ward at the King In the past, Qatar Airways has Hussein Cancer Center (KHCC) supported the Foundation and in Amman, Jordan, with a special Center through the donation of ceremony on Tuesday, held under cutting edge lifesaving machinery the patronage of Prince Talal bin and medical equipment. Mohamed, Special Adviser to King Representatives from the airline Abdullah II. have also visited KHCC on several Following the inauguration of occasions, including various char- the ward, Qatar Airways Group acters from the Oryx Kids Club to Chief Executive HE Akbar al-Bak- distribute gifts to children under- HE Akbar al-Baker, Prince Talal bin Mohamed and Sheikh Saud bin Nasser er and other representatives of the going treatment at the Center. al-Thani with Lothar Matthäus and others. airline attended the King Hussein Qatar Airways has a longstand- Cancer Foundation’s (KHCF) 2019 ing relationship with KHCC, hav- Hope Gala Event. ing donated gifts to children at the Supported by Qatar Airways as Center on several occasions. a Diamond Sponsor and Offi cial HE Akbar al-Baker, Prince Talal bin Mohamed, Sheikh Saud bin Nasser al-Thani and others at the opening of the The airline has supported a number Airline Partner, the gala aimed to ward at the King Hussein Cancer Center in Amman. of other CSR initiatives in Jordan, in- raise funds to support the vital cluding the distribution of humani- work of KHCF. and for its dedicated and gener- from developing into its later stages the children’s play area to enter- tarian aid packages to underprivileged The ward’s opening was at- ous support, which has had a great through awareness-raising on a re- tain children currently undergoing families in co-operation with the Jor- tended by HE al-Baker alongside positive impact on the Center and gional and international level. treatment at KHCC, while HE al- danian Hashemite Charity Organisa- the ambassador extraordinary and helped save the lives of KHCC pa- “The opening of our new ward Baker gave out toys to the children. tion, Qatar Charity and the Qatar Red plenipotentiary of Qatar to Jordan, tients. at the King Hussein Cancer Center The toys were donated by Box of Crescent Society, the statement adds. Sheikh Saud bin Nasser al-Thani, HE al-Baker said, “Qatar Air- demonstrates our commitment to Happiness, a charitable initiative Jordan has become one of Qatar Oryx Kids Club mascot Orry with dignitaries and children. Bayern Munich legend Lothar ways is honoured to support the the Jordanian people and the region. that aims to bring joy to children Airways’ most important markets Matthäus and other dignitaries King Hussein Cancer Foundation “It is one small way Qatar Air- around the world. since it launched its fi rst fl ight to employed by the Qatar Airways greater number of destinations and senior representatives from and Center and its eff orts to fight ways can give back to the local The Qatar Airways Ward will Amman. Group in Doha and worldwide to around the world. Qatar Airways. cancer. community and contribute to this serve leukaemia in-patients Today, Amman is served by support its continued growth. The partnership was recently On the occasion of the inaugu- “I applaud their work to provide important cause.” through its 24 state-of-the-art 17 fl ights per week operated by A codeshare agreement between expanded to allow passengers of ration, Prince Talal thanked Qatar patients with the treatment and During the delegation’s visit to rooms, and its naming commemo- wide-body aircraft, including Qatar Airways and Royal Jordanian Royal Jordanian Airlines to book Airways for its belief in the lifesav- care they need to beat the disease, as KHCC, Qatar Airways’ Oryx Kids rates the longstanding and fruitful the Airbus A350. Airlines, signed in 2015, connects travel to Qatar Airways’ destina- ing mission of KHCF and KHCC, well as its eff orts to prevent cancer Club mascot, Orry, was present in partnership between the airline More than 400 Jordanians are passengers of both airlines to a tions in East Asia. Gulf Times 8 Thursday, October 31, 2019 QATAR

PM tours Qitcom Rwandan president visits MIA, NMoQ

President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and his accompanying delegation yesterday visited the Museum of Islamic Art HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani yesterday toured Qatar (MIA) and National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) as part of their current visit to the country. The Rwandan president IT Conference and Exhibition (Qitcom 2019), organised by the Ministry of Transport and Communications under the toured the museum’s various sections and viewed its collections of Islamic antiquities and artefacts that include rare theme ‘Safe and Smart Cities’. The PM was briefed on various entrepreneurship and digital technology projects, smart treasures of heritage, including books, manuscripts and coins made of silver, copper and bronze, in addition to items transformation programmes and the most important local and international ICT-related projects. HE the prime minister made of glass, ivory, textiles, wood and precious stones, and artefacts collected from three continents that date 14 also witnessed the signing of an agreement to implement the ‘TASMU’ project for smart cities between the Ministry of centuries back. President Kagame left Doha yesterday and was seen off upon departure from Hamad International Transport and Communications and Qatar telecommunications major Ooredoo. Airport by HE the Minister of Transport and Communications Jassim Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti. Qatar Rail, Mada ink pact for PWDs travel experience on Metro

By Joey Aguilar Virtual tour e-accessibility standards Staff Reporter The Doha Metro is a technologi- A team of digital accessibility experts from Mada worked with cally advanced rail transport event organisers to ensure that e-accessibility standards were atar Railways Company system that is safe and environ- implemented across all digital platforms for this year’s exhibition HE the Minister of Justice and Acting Minister of State for Cabinet Aff airs Dr Issa Saad al-Jafali al- (Qatar Rail) and Qatar mentally friendly. The highest and conference. In addition, Mada provided training on how to Nuaimi tours the ministry’s pavilion at Qatar IT Conference and Exhibition (Qitcom 2019) yesterday. QAssistive Technology global standards of sustain- organise accessible events, namely ensuring that all exhibition Center (Mada) forged a partner- ability have been adopted in stands, and the registration area are accessible to people with Ministry of Justice launches e-projects at Qitcom pavilion ship aimed at enhancing the all aspects of this project to disabilities and the elderly. Mada’s interactive pavilion highlights travel experience of persons with achieve the optimal balance best practices in digital access and assistive technology as part of disabilities (PWDs) and the eld- between technical and envi- its commitment to creating an Inclusive Qatar by enhancing access HE the Minister of Justice and to various government sectors Interior, Commerce and Industry, erly when using the Doha Metro. ronmental realms. Visitors to to ICT. Mada’s stand also highlights latest trends and provided Acting Minister of State for in order to keep pace with Qatar Transport and Communications, Mada CEO Maha al-Mansori Qatar Rail’s stand at Qitcom are resources across three key areas that reflect the Centre’s strategy: Cabinet Aff airs Dr Issa Saad National Vision 2030. This is Municipality and Environment, and Qatar Rail’s chief of Strategy able to discover this new mode education, culture and innovation. The stand showcases these areas al-Jafali al-Nuaimi launched, reflected in the large presence of and other bodies that have been and Business Development Ajlan of transport system through through six distinct zones identified by Mada as key building blocks at the ministry’s pavilion at various government sectors and linked to the ministry to achieve Eid al-Enazi signed the agree- interactive content, including a for an inclusive digital ecosystem. These are: Access to ICT and Qatar IT Conference and the quality of projects presented the strategic objectives of the ment yesterday on the second tour of the Doha Metro stations information; Transportation; Inclusive Digital Education; Culture, Exhibition (Qitcom 2019), a new in all areas of technology and sectoral projects of the National day of Qatar IT Conference and and its trains using virtual real- Leisure and Sports; Customer Service and Retail; and Innovation. package of projects. It included digital economy. Development Strategy 2018- Exhibition (Qitcom 2019), taking ity technology. a range of e-services under He added that the projects 2022. At the ministry’s pavilion place at the Qatar National Con- Additionally, they can also get SAK programme, such as the of the Ministry of Justice are in Qitcom, the digitisation of vention Centre. aquainted with various Doha evaluating the experience of Fehaida echoed the statement launch of the digitisation of witnessing a qualitative leap international agreements was “Qatar Rail aspires to be a Metro services, register their commuters with disabilities on of al-Enazi saying that PWDs international agreements and towards digital transformation. launched. It is implemented by world-class railway company data, explore location of the trains and at metro stations. have the right to access public the unified electronic contracts “The e-services that were the department of conventions by providing safe, reliable rail- stations and their surrounding Qatar Rail, participating at transport and communication project. launched today enhance and and international co-operation way transportation services. areas and how to access them Qitcom’s 5th edition as one of the in the country. He said this new HE the minister also launched facilitate the ministry services at the Ministry of Justice in co- We strive to adopt world-class through support services such offi cial sponsors, aims to high- partnership with Qatar Rail will a new legal application called to beneficiaries, noting that operation with the competent practices to address the needs as Metrolink, MetroExpress and light the aspects related to this give PWDs digital access to in- ‘Al Meezan’ to make available there are new projects to be authorities in the Ministry of of people with disability when it others. year’s theme: ‘Safe and Smart formation that will enable them Qatari legal portal services on announced soon and all support Transport and Communications. comes to using our transporta- Cities’. The company also un- to move around with more inde- smartphones to the general the national development The launch of this project tion services,” al-Enazi said in a derlines the signifi cant role that pendence. beneficiaries of the ministry’s process and enhance the quality comes within the framework of statement. He underscored the tours that will raise awareness on will be carried by the Doha Metro As Qitcom’s offi cial Digital Ac- services. In a statement, HE the of services provided to citizens.” government activity aimed at importance of providing com- such topic, hoping the Metro and in supporting Qatar’s eff orts to cessibility Partner, Mada, along minister said that His Highness HE al-Nuaimi expressed his enhancing Qatar’s international prehensive travel experience to Tram will be the preferred mode transform its cities into smart with its partners, is featuring the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin thanks to various government status, and the increasing all segments of society, which is a of transport for commuters with cities for a sustainable future. state-of-the-art pavilion where Hamad al-Thani’s patronage agencies working in co- requests received by the key to the success of the project. disabilities in Qatar. Besides or- Speaking to ‘Gulf Times’, best practices in the areas of dig- of Qatar IT Conference ordination with the ministry ministry to prepare or review Qatar Rail, al-Enazi noted, ganising a series of workshops, Mada’s communications and ital access and assistive technol- and Exhibition reflects the to launch these projects, agreements or memorandums plans to host more events and the agreement also includes marketing offi cer Mohamed al- ogy is being showcased. importance the Amir attaches especially the ministries of of understanding. (QNA) malomatia partners with Microsoft for cloud solutions Transport ministry

eading Qatari IT solutions platform to drive digital trans- signs agreement for provider malomatia has formation, business optimisa- Lannounced a partnership tion and innovation in Qatar. with Microsoft that will enable With our domain expertise and implementation of malomatia to enhance its service track record of executing secto- delivery and leverage the power ral digital transformation, this of the intelligent cloud for all partnership will pave the way for strategic projects businesses in the country across the development of Safe Smart every scale and industry. Cities in Qatar, working in align- This was announced at the ment with Qatar National Vision QNA their sectoral strategies. The sys- ongoing Qatar IT Conference (QNV) 2030,” said Yousef al- Doha tem will build dashboards that and Exhibition (Qitcom 2019) in Naama, CEO of malomatia. measure performance and allow Doha. Malomatia and Microsoft will leadership and stakeholders to Speaking at the nation’s top work together on leveraging Az- he Ministry of Transport see clearly how much progress is IT trade show, senior malomatia ure for capacity-building initia- and Communications being made on key initiatives and representatives explained how, tives while upskilling and reskill- Tsigned an automated sys- projects outlined in the National using Microsoft Azure, the part- ing Qatar’s workforce. Through tem agreement with an IT com- Development Strategy (NDS). nership will off er its clients the this, the two companies will play pany to oversee the implementa- The initiative to measure the prospect of true digital transfor- a key role in Qatar’s digital revo- tion of projects included in the NDS is run by a committee which mation. Public and private sec- lution and the diversifi cation of National Development Strategy. was established by a decision tor organisations in the country its economy, as they collaborate The signing took place on the from HE the Prime Minister and will now be able to innovate more on formulating and deliver- sidelines of Qatar Information Minister of Interior Sheikh Ab- freely – engaging customers, ing disruptive digital off erings Technology and Communica- dullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al- empowering employees, opti- aligned with QNV 2030. The ef- tions Conference and Exhibition Thani. The committee created mising operations and reinvent- forts will focus on developing (Qitcom 2019) yesterday, in the the framework for the system, ing business models, a press and sustaining local and regional presence of HE the Minister of the technical requirements and statement notes. IT delivery and domain expertise Transport and Communications timeframe for the project. “We, at malomatia, are excited in the government, healthcare Jassim Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti. The project also aims to build to embark on the next phase of and education sectors, and in- malomatia and Microsoft off icials mark the partnership. The agreement aims to estab- national capabilities in strategic our journey enabling the gov- creasing the contribution of the lish a system that can monitor planning and national develop- ernment and businesses to drive national technology industry to to develop and enable the lo- matia,” said Lana Khalaf, country empower them to accelerate dig- the progress of the National De- ment, and to lay a solid founda- their digital transformation with Qatar’s GDP growth, the state- cal partner ecosystem in Qatar, manager, Microsoft Qatar. “The ital transformation for their cus- velopment Strategy, and provide tion for data management and solutions off ered by Microsoft. ment explains. we are excited to announce this Microsoft intelligent cloud and tomers in the country and trans- the electronic infrastructure to measurement of government We see Microsoft Azure being the “As part of our commitment strategic partnership with malo- our innovative technologies will form their services.” connect the various sectors and performance. Gulf Times Thursday, October 31, 2019 9 QATAR

Smart City Rwanda president meets cyclists’ team PM meets president of Rwanda Expo Doha puts Qatar under global spotlight

From Page 1

The event was also attended by HE the Minister of Finance Ali Sherif al-Emadi, HE the Minister of State and Ooredoo Group chairman Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohamed bin Saud al-Thani, and HE the Minister of State and Qatar Free Zones Authority chairman Ahmed bin Mohamed al-Sayed. The expo’s second event today (October 31) at the Qatar National Convention Centre is scheduled to witness a ministe- rial session with the participation of al-Sulaiti and Rwanda’s Minis- Rwanda President Paul Kagame met yesterday with member of the Qatar Cyclists team who ter of Information Technology, recently made a 550km bicycle ride in Rwanda, in support of education and innovation in the Communications and Innovation country. The president commended the noble objectives of the trip. The team gave the president HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani met Paula Ingabeer, Iran’s Minister the shirt of the team. The Qatar Cyclists team made the cycling trip to support educational President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, on the sidelines of Qatar IT Conference and Exhibition (Qitcom of Information and Communica- institutions in Rwanda, with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Sports and the World 2019) at the Qatar National Convention Centre. During the meeting, they reviewed relations between tions Technology Mohamed Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), an initiative of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science the two countries and ways of developing them in various fields, in addition to exchanging views on Jawad Azari Jahrami, and and Community Development. the main topics on the agenda of the conference. Armenia’s Minister of Technology Hakob Archakian. MoTC signs agreement with QNB for roll-out of e-payment gateway he Ministry of Transport government services for individ- at the forefront of the global dig- and Communications uals and companies, raising the ital revolution. The State of Qatar T(MoTC) yesterday signed effi ciency of administrative proc- is taking confi dent steps toward a memorandum of understand- esses, and enhancing transparen- digital transformation in all sec- ing (MoU) with QNB to roll out an cy and community participation. tors in the country, and we affi rm e-payment gateway as one of the The e-payment portal will al- our support of this approach for most signifi cant new digital gov- low all private and corporate us- its vital role in the development of ernment projects in Qatar. ers to pay online for e-services all areas of the country.” The MoU was inked in the pres- provided by various government The Qatar Digital Government ence of HE the Minister of Trans- departments in the country. The vision seeks to support govern- port and Communications Jassim portal will cater for the current ment entities to integrate all the Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti and QNB and future needs of electronic services they provide by activat- Group acting CEO Abdullah Mu- payment by providing various ing and accelerating the digital barak al-Khalifa. payment options including credit transformation of all e-services The MoU signing event was cards, debit cards, prepaid cards provided in line with Qatar Digital held on the sidelines of the Qa- and bank account transfers. The Government 2020 Strategy and tar IT Conference and Exhibition portal will also employ multiple Qatar National Strategy. (Qitcom 2019) being held until payment channels such as the In- The number of government tomorrow at the Qatar National ternet, mobile phones and Points services launched as part of the Convention Centre. As per the of Sales (POS). Qatar Digital Government 2020 MoU, which is considered as one At the individual users’ level, Strategy reached more than 2,500 of the key new projects of the Qa- the portal will provide an easy, ef- services as of last April. tar Digital Government, which fi cient, reliable and multi-chan- In addition to the MoTC pa- includes the Ministry of Finance nel payment instrument com- vilion, where the ministry will as the entity responsible for the pared with conventional methods put on display all developments, collection of revenues in the while reducing the time and dura- projects and programmes related country, QNB will establish the tion required to process the pay- to the digital transformation of portal according to the highest ment. While this portal will bring various sectors of the country, international standards, and will to government agencies several Qitcom 2019 features a special eff ectively go online by the third advantages, most notably cutting Qatar e-Government corner quarter of 2020. operating expenses due to the de- bringing together various minis- The MoU was signed by crease in the number of resources tries and government institutions MoTC’s director of E-Govern- required to establish, operate and under the Qatar Digital Govern- ment Programs & Standards and support electronic payment, it HE the Minister of Transport and Communications Jassim Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti and QNB Group acting CEO Abdullah Mubarak al-Khalifa look on as ment programme. acting director of Information will also assist in providing gov- MoTC’s Mashael al-Hammadi, and QNB’s Heba al-Tamimi sign the MoU yesterday at Qitcom 2019. The exhibition will showcase Systems Department Mashael al- ernment e-services in as little the latest digital services off ered Hammadi, and QNB Group Retail time as possible. seeks to develop common services transformation.” “The portal will ices by enabling service users to munications and information by government entities and will general manager Heba al-Tamimi. Al-Hammadi said: “The sign- for government entities, simplify provide various online payment pay online safely and reliably,” she technology sector in the country. highlight investment opportuni- The Qatar e-Government 2020 ing of the MoU with the Ministry procedures, increase effi ciency, options to all government enti- added. We hereby reaffi rm QNB’s keen- ties and projects available to at- Strategy aims to make the Qatari of Finance and QNB for the devel- reduce eff ort, standardise proce- ties, which in turn aim to develop Al-Tamimi said: “We com- ness on providing advanced and tract the private sector and spe- government more effi cient, ef- opment of an e-payment gateway dures and ensure better utilisation their digital services that require mend the eff orts of the Ministry secure banking services, which is cialised companies and encourage fective and focused on serving the is one of Qatar e-Government of ICT resources through projects online payment. This will allow of Transport and Communica- what the e-Pay portal will off er, them to leverage these opportuni- public by improving the level of 2020 Strategy’s objectives, which that support the country’s digital for the full automation of serv- tions to develop the telecom- through which we aim to remain ties. Smart City Expo delegates discuss future of technology solutions

QNA Undersecretary for the Digital Qatar Smart Program (Tasmu) was cally. In health care sector, the Zones Authority Abdullah bin For his part, the Chief Execu- Doha Society Development Sector programme aims to enhance Hamad al-Misnad explained tive Officer and Chief Operat- at the Ministry of Transport launched in 2017, which harnesses the population’s access to qual- that the Authority was estab- ing Officer at QNB Group Ali and Communications Reem al- advanced technology and innovation ity health care services at af- lished in 2018 to oversee and Rashid al-Mohannadi talked articipants in the Smart Mansoori, Msheireb Properties fordable prices, reduce the risk regulate the free zones in Qatar, about the digital transforma- City Expo Doha, which Acting CEO Ali al-Kuwari and to drive sustainable economic of chronic diseases by reducing and these areas are based on tion witnessed by the group Pkicked off yesterday in Deputy CEO of the Free Zones diversification and improve quality obesity by 5%, reducing smok- providing a high level of digital since 1997 to provide smart the framework of the fifth edi- Authority Abdullah bin Hamad ing by 30%, and improving ac- infrastructure, which stimu- services and solutions for cus- tion of the Qatar IT Conference al-Misnad, Chief Executive of life cess to healthcare. lates companies and institu- tomers and then starting in and Exhibition (Qitcom 2019), Officer, Chief Operating Of- Reem al-Mansoori said that tions working on innovation 2000 when the group began to discussed the future plans of ficer, QNB Group Ali Rashid Al-Mansoori added that and environmentally friendly in the field of transportation, and performance in accordance provide smart solutions and smart cities and concepts re- al-Mohannadi, and the Head the Environment Preparation network by reducing 20% of there are 25 upcoming projects with smart city standards. services in cooperation with lated to the development of of Information, Qatar Airways phase includes the develop- congestion in the road net- that will help facilitate move- the government. smart initiatives for a sustain- Group Saeed Asfahani. ment of Qatar’s central smart work, and reducing road traffic ment of people through a safe In the field of He pointed out that the Group able future. In her speech, al-Mansoori platform and related services deaths to 6 people per 100,000, and environmentally friendly transportation, supports all digital transforma- Smart City Expo Doha 2019 talked about Qatar’s transfor- for more than 100 projects in and a 10% reduction in average transport network, in the envi- tion plans and contributes in its aims to gather smart city ex- mation into a smart country, five sectors, the development transport carbon emissions. ronment, 19 upcoming projects there are 25 work in support of smart cities, perts from all around the world supported by digital innovation of Qatar’s core technology In the logistics sector, the pro- will help promote sustainable upcoming and is working with many lo- to discuss and think of possi- and initiatives, with a govern- capabilities including cloud gramme aims to develop a com- consumption of natural re- cal and international partners ble solutions to the challenges ment that gives its citizens, services and analytics, and the petitive logistics sector that sup- sources and ensure water and projects that will to improve services based on cities are facing nowadays by residents and visitors the best establishment of Digital Valley ports international trade growth food security. help facilitate smart solutions. means of innovation and new possible experience and re- of Tasmu for economic empow- by reducing import costs by 50% For his part, Msheireb Prop- For his part, the Head of technologies that are advanc- sponds to their different and erment and technology invest- and raising the logistics per- erties Acting CEO Ali al-Ku- movement of Information, Qatar Airways ing the urban future. changing needs. ment and building a founda- formance index to 12 globally, in- wari spoke about Msheireb people through Group Saeed Asfahani talked The conference represents a She added that in order tion for technology developing creasing the contribution of the Downtown Doha project, which about the significant trans- platform for the government, to achieve this vision, Qatar smart sector capabilities, de- logistics sector to GDP to 10%, took into consideration the es- a safe and formation witnessed by Qatar semi-government and private Smart Program (Tasmu) was veloping a smart sector strat- while Tasmu programme seeks tablishment of an integrated environmentally Airways in the use of modern sectors in Qatar to review the launched in 2017, which har- egy as well as to disseminate to reduce import costs by 50%, technological infrastructure technology, and its initiative most important plans for the nesses advanced technology the strategy of the programme raising the logistics performance that supports Smart City plans, friendly transport was to launch applications establishment of smart cities and innovation to drive sus- and its main objectives in each index in Qatar to 12, and increas- and it incorporates high-qual- and programmes that support and the most important future tainable economic diversifica- sector, and develop a platform ing the contribution of the logis- ity platforms, facilities and network the company’s work to com- projects in this framework, in tion and improve quality of life. dedicated to each sector and tics sector to GDP to 10%. smart applications that make it He explained that free zones pete with existing applications addition to the most prominent She explained that the pro- integrated with Qatar’s central In the environment sector, easier for residents to live their are being established to provide in the world. Asfahani said technological solutions adopt- gramme has defined a roadmap smart platform. the programme aims to achieve daily lifestyle. companies with everything that Qatar Airways was one of ed by these entities in order to to be implemented over the She added that the pro- sustainable consumption of Al-Kuwari added that they need to succeed, starting the first and best companies improve the work. next seven years divided into gramme seeks to improve pub- natural resources and ensure Msheireb Downtown Doha with the new infrastructure to adopt modern technology, In this regard, a session was stages which are to prepare the lic services in Qatar through food and water security by re- project will soon host the first and access to facilities, in ad- from the use of passenger reg- held during the conference, environment, build a techno- five priority sectors, includ- ducing energy consumption by integrated digital bank, a fully dition to the tax incentives and istration at the airport based in which officials from vari- logical foundation, and develop ing the transportation sector, 20%, reducing water consump- digital consumer store and oth- investment fund, Qatar’s free on smart solutions to the use of ous sectors in the country took the capabilities of the smart to facilitate the transportation tion by 35%, in addition to cov- er state-of-the-art facilities. zones are highly competitive these solutions in the aircraft part, including the Assistant sector. of individuals through a safe ering 40% of food needs lo- The Deputy CEO of the Free and ready to start businesses. and the conduct of flights. Gulf Times 10 Thursday, October 31, 2019 QATAR

Alfardan Sports Motors hosts dinner for cancer survivors at Alfa Romeo showroom

lfardan Sports Motors, the authorised reseller of Alfa ARomeo in Qatar, and Qatar Cancer Society have held a din- ner for cancer survivors to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The dinner was catered by Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl — Doha. “As part of its corporate so- cial responsibility policy to give back to the community, Alfardan Sports Motors has always been a strong supporter of public wel- fare activities and organisations. This year’s dinner recognised the people who have been touched by cancer, spreading awareness about their fi ght against a disease Off icials at the event. that has aff ected many Arabs and Cancer survivors with off icials attending the event. their families across the region,” weekend test drive to one of the Qatar’s Medina Centrale area. a press statement noted. vivors. Alfardan Sports Motors is vors and their loved ones.” from the moment of diagnosis such as the one we are attending. survivors chosen by Qatar Can- Designed in line with Alfardan Charly Dagher, general manager delighted to be able to support men On an evening “infused with through treatment and remission. Having the opportunity to give cer Society, to explore the Ital- Sports Motors’ retail concept and of Alfardan Sports Motors — Alfa and women who are battling this hope, laughter, and inspiration”, Raghu Menon, general man- our support to the warriors bat- ian brand’s iconic luxury sports customer service standards, the Romeo, said: “We are proud to see disease. This event is a celebration many survivors shared their ex- ager of the Kempinski properties tling this disease is a noble privi- models. new showroom’s working hours our commitment to Qatar Cancer of life and optimism; an evening to periences with other guests and in Doha, added: “With true hon- lege that we carry with pride.” All Alfa Romeo lineup models are from Saturday to Thursday, Society come to life this month with refl ect on their journey and share noted the progress that has been our and gratitude, we contribute As a token of gratitude, Alfa are available at the Italian brand’s 10am to 10pm. Clients can call hosting a dinner for cancer sur- their experiences with other survi- made in battling the disease — to the realisation of a grand event Romeo off ered a complimentary showroom located in The Pearl- the landline number, 44209169. Stakeholders prepare new diabetes survey

By Joseph Varghese ties to raise awareness about the Staff Reporter dangers of Diabetes. “We have planned for a walk in the Oxygen Park in the Education atar is planning to con- City at Qatar Foundation on No- duct another survey for vember 15. In addition there will One of the winners of Carrefour’s 19th anniversary celebrations with an off icial. Qdiabetes statistics soon, be other activities such as work- disclosed an offi cial yesterday. shops and awareness programmes “The Ministry of Public Health throughout the fi rst two weeks of Carrefour celebrates 19th anniversary (MoPH) along with Hamad November leading to the World Carrefour’s 19th anniversary celebrations are un- gift vouchers, for a total of QR400,000. Medical Corporation and other Diabetes Day On November 14. derway with a series of unique off ers and rewards Laurent Hausknecht, country head of Carrefour healthcare entities are planning We hope to educate the people for customers until November 5, 2019 in all Car- Qatar said, “Our customers are our main focus. We for another survey for diabetes about their food habits as well refour stores, according to a statement. celebrate this year’s anniversary with the purpose prevalence in Qatar. However, as their diet. This, we hope, will The celebrations started with a Spin & Win game, of giving back to our customers, through special the details are yet to be worked equip the people to fi ght diabe- where every hour a lucky customer won their off ers, big rewards and a unique customer experi- out and will be announced when tes and overcome the challenges trolley for free, for a total of 1,050 trolleys spread ence. We invite everyone to visit any Carrefour it is fi nalised,” said Dr Abdulla al- posed by it,” noted Nahas. throughout the first week of the anniversary period, store during the anniversary period and participate Hamaq, executive director, Qa- Dr Hamaq pointed out that the from October 23-29. in the diverse activities.” tar Diabetes Association (QDA). The off icials at the press conference. PICTURE: Thajudheen number of people suff ering from Moreover, MyClub members entered an electron- Lorna Kabrira, a loyal customer who won her Dr al-Hamaq was speaking to diabetes especially type 2 is going ic draw every time they used their MyClub digital trolley worth QR300 said: “Thank you Carrefour for the media at a press conference which found out that 16.7% of the would struggle to spot the warn- up all over the world. card on the Carrefour application during check-out. off ering us such an opportunity during your 19th to announce the details of the population suff ers from diabetes. ing signs of diabetes in their own “It is reported that about In total, 19 members won QR1,000 each. anniversary. I was really surprised to discover I just World Diabetes Day observed on The theme for this year is ‘Dia- children. 400mn people are suff ering from The electronic draw took place yesterday. won my trolley for free and I highly appreciated the November 14 annually with sev- betes: Protect Your Family’. “Although the majority of peo- diabetes globally. What is needed The winners will be notified by the customer experience.” eral programmes. This November marks the sec- ple surveyed had a family mem- is to counter the issue. We need service department. Carrefour’s anniversary, a yearly celebration Dr Amel Adam, head of Health- ond year of a two-year theme ber with diabetes, an alarming to discover the issue and have to During the second week of the anniversary cel- awaited by many customers, also off ers special care, QDA and Katie Nahas, pro- dedicated to the overall theme, four-in-fi ve parents would have take steps to address it. The fam- ebrations, taking place until November 5, the festivi- deals on electronics, appliances, groceries and gramme manager, QDA were also ‘The Family and Diabetes’. trouble recognising the warning ily support plays a crucial role in ties continue, and all customers will automatically more. More information can be found on the Carre- present on the occasion. Research conducted by the signs,” explained Dr Adam. this regard. The next step is to enter a draw, with a chance to win one of the 5,000 four Qatar mobile app and Carrefour Qatar website. The previous Stewise Survey International Diabetes Federa- There will be a number of pro- take preventive measures to fi ght in Qatar was conducted in 2012 tion revealed than many parents grammes and educational activi- the disease,” added the offi cial.

Deepotsava 2019 today evening at InterContinental The Indian embassy, in partnership with amalgamation of dance and technology. This Sidra Medicine operates on four patients during live workshop the North Indian Association, a prominent visiting troupe, Kartikeya & group, won ac- community organisation in Qatar, will hold a colades for their performance in the reality idra Medicine successfully Dr Pippi Salle surgeons were trained using mini- gala cultural event — Deepotsava 2019 — this TV show, ‘India’s Got Talent’. conducted four live surgeries performing mally invasive laparoscopic and evening as part of the ongoing Qatar-India ‘Flamenco-Kathak’ is a creative blend of Son day one of its fi rst interna- the surgery robotic technologies for appendec- 2019 Year of Culture. two dance disciplines in their pure and col- tional workshop on reconstructive during the tomy, hernias, abdominal testis as The event will be held at 7pm at InterCon- laborative form. paediatric urology. workshop well as to learn camera navigation tinental Doha The City. “Flamenco and kathak seamlessly overlap, The paediatric surgeries were at Sidra and cutting techniques. The cultural event will feature several creating rhythmic patterns and nuances performed by Prof Pippi Salle, di- Medicine. The robotics programme was troupes visiting from India. unique and new to the two dance forms. vision chief of Urology at Sidra The surgery run by the Middle East Chapter of Some of the key elements of the show are When the purity and essence of two cultures Medicine and chair of the workshop was live- the International Pediatric Endo- Incredible Mallakhamb, a performance by come together in unison, the energy is just organising committee as well as streamed Surgery Group with Sidra Medicine dance group Illuminati and ‘Fusion on Feet, enthralling. The flamenco shoes and the world-renowned international sur- during the surgeons Dr Abdalla Zarroug and Dr Flamenco & Kathak’. kathak ghungroos come alive, sometimes geons Dr Warren Snodgrass and Dr event. Muthanna Alsalihi. Mallakhamb is a traditional Indian sport in speak, and sometimes argue, giving a collec- Nicole Bush. Dr Warren Snodgrass The course faculty also included which a gymnast performs feats and strikes tive rhythmic experience that leaves a spar- and Dr Nicole Bush are joint found- several renowned surgeons from poses in concert with a vertical wooden pole kle in the eyes of the viewers,” the embassy ers of the Hypospadias Specialty Asia, Africa, Europe and North or rope. Mallakhamb is derived from the has said in a statement. Centre in Texas, USA. America. The urology and robotic terms ‘malla’, which denotes a wrestler, and The performance will be delivered by The surgeries were streamed live torium. The four patients are recov- teractive hands-on training course workshops are a precursor to the 6th ‘khamba’, which means a pole. renowned personalities such as kathak expo- from Sidra Medicine’s operating ering and expected to be discharged on basic and advanced laparoscopy World Congress of Pediatric Surgery Illuminati, a group of artists who create nent Aditi Bhagwat, flamenco artiste Kunal rooms to more than 150 international within the next couple of days. and robotic surgery. conference which will be held on an alternative visual reality through the Om and percussion player Aditya. delegates at the hospital’s main audi- Sidra Medicine also hosted an in- Over 50 consultant paediatric November 1-3. Italy, Qatar discuss co-operation in cybersecurity, defence

By Peter Alagos Italy can not only provide Qatar fairs for security issues, delivered Business Reporter with “a very high level of gov- a short speech, while Professor ernment research”, but also the Roberto Baldoni, director of the expertise of leading and interna- Italian Cybersecurity Manage- taly is in talks with Qatar to tionally renowned Italian private ment Board – Prime Minister’s help in the country’s strate- sector companies. Offi ce, delivered the keynote Igies in cybersecurity, trans- “Through this workshop, what speech on ‘The Italian System for port and defence, according to we are trying to demonstrate Cybersecurity’. Angelo Tofalo, undersecretary at today is how public and pri- “The workshop was jointly the Italian Minister of Defence. vate partnerships (PPPs) in Italy organised by diff erent Italian in- Tofalo was speaking on the could play a signifi cant role in stitutions: the embassy of Italy sidelines of a workshop, ‘Italian Qatar’s cybersecurity strategies in Doha, the Presidency of the Cyber-Protection of the Defence and how our PPPs could serve as Council of Ministers, the Min- Sector and of Critical Infrastruc- a model for this country and help istry of Defence, the Ministry of tures’, organised by the Italian it achieve its goals,” Salzano ex- Foreign Aff airs and International embassy in Doha on the sidelines plained. Co-operation, and the Italian of Qitcom 2019, which runs until At the private sector level, Ital- Trade Agency. The very fi rst edi- tomorrow at the Qatar National ian companies are forerunners in tion of this format was held in Convention Centre. Undersecretary at the Italian Minister of Defence, Angelo Tofalo. many fi elds and they could provide London and the second in Wash- Tofalo said his meetings with PICTURES: Noushad Thekkayil Qatar with a wide range of exper- Italian ambassador Pasquale Salzano. ington this year. The choice of HE the Minister of Transport tise in cybersecurity, as well as in Doha to host the third event - and and Communications Jassim Seif to further strengthen Qatar-Italy project related to cyberspace... other main sectors to assist the as the technological innovations but also the expertise of major fi rst in the region - refl ects both Ahmed al-Sulaiti, Ministry of co-operation in various fi elds, and we could further enhance Qatari government, Tofalo said. to be used in the stadiums dur- Italian companies, which are well the great potential for co-op- Transport and Communications’ such as transport, cybersecurity our relationship with Qatar by “One of the main concerns of ing the 2022 FIFA World Cup and known internationally,” Salzano eration between Italy and Qatar cyber security assistant under- and defence. off ering more assistance in this Qatar is how to protect its trans- radars used to monitor Qatar’s added. in the fi eld of cybersecurity and secretary Khalid Sadiq al-Hash- “Italy has built this year a fi eld,” Tofalo told Gulf Times. port infrastructure and the Ital- borders…we not only provide At the workshop, Carmine smart cities, as well as the great imi, and offi cials from the Minis- new command for the fi fth do- Italian ambassador Pasquale ian defence ships or ‘fl oating cit- both our vision on cybersecurity America, special adviser to the attention for Qitcom platform,” try of Interior, among others, aim main, and we will also start a new Salzano also pointed out that ies’ that we export here, as well and our political commitment, Italian Minister of Foreign Af- Salzano said. Gulf Times Thursday, October 31, 2019 11 QATAR 21 new e-services launched Huawei offi cial praises Tasmu for maritime transport sector platform, eyes total of 21 new electron- port and Communications. ic services to serve the “The ministry plans not only Amaritime transport sec- to support integration between more collaboration tor, particularly large vessels the various means of maritime with a capacity of more than 200 transport and the development tonnes, were launched yesterday of the industry’s infrastructure, by HE the Minister of Transport but also seek to make a qualita- with Qatar and Communications Jassim tive shift in the digitisation of Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti. maritime services by providing Qatar Airways Group chief smart services and solutions to By Joseph Varghese executive and Qatar National the public and leveraging mod- Staff Reporter Tourism Council secretary- ern technology to provide the general HE Akbar al-Baker at- best service possible. These new tended the launch ceremony on electronic services will enable he Tasmu platform an- the sidelines of the ongoing Qa- the public to submit their ap- nounced by the Min- tar Information Technology and plications at anytime and any- Tistry of Transport and Communication Conference and where around the clock, saving Communications is an incred- Exhibition (Qitcom) at the Qatar them time and eff ort to reach ible programme with great National Convention Centre. the shipping service offi ces in Al opportunities for Huawei to The new services, which are Khor, Ruwais and Doha.” participate and move forward in addition to the 25 services Mashael Ali al-Hammadi, in Qatar, a top global offi cial of launched in early 2019 serving director of E-Government Huawei told Gulf Times. Andy Purdy small and large vessels, aim to Standards Programmes in “Qatar is an important develop the maritime transport charge of information systems market for us. We are excited As for the US sanctions sector. management at the Ministry of about potential opportunities against Huawei, Purdy said They are also designed to fa- HE the Minister of Transport and Communications Jassim Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti and Qatar Airways Group Communications, said: “The with the government of Qa- that the concern of the US cilitate operations and proce- chief executive and Qatar National Tourism Council secretary-general HE Akbar al-Baker at the launch of new electronic services are tar as well as with the Tasmu government is China, not dures and keep pace with tech- the new maritime transport e-services yesterday at Qitcom 2019. part of the Ministry of Com- platform, rollout of the 5G Huawei. “Cyber security ex- nological advancements through munications’ efforts to im- networks and the develop- perts say that it is important the automation of all ships’ The new services include: the is- gage decomposition; issuance of safe manning certifi cate and plement the standards of the ment of smart cities which to have an objective and trans- services. suance of provisional registra- deratting certifi cate; annual ship lost-damaged replacement re- government system, e-Qatar. is upcoming; we hope our parent basis for trust. We have All new services will be made tion certifi cate; renewal of pro- fees; certifi cate of report marine quest. The maritime transport affairs contributions are going to be been promoting global uni- available on the ministry’s por- visional registration certifi cate; incident; certifi cate of authori- “The launch of the new e- division is participating in the very signifi cant in Qatar,” said form standards and best prac- tal, while the ministry’s mobile issuance of registration certifi - sation; certifi cate of extension; services is part of the ministry’s ministry’s pavilion at Qitcom Andy Purdy, chief security of- tices and independent testing app will off er only 15 of them. cate; issuance of seaworthiness certifi cate of relaxation regis- eff orts to modernise and develop 2019 which is organised by the fi cer, Huawei USA. for trust verifi cation process. The various services are pro- certifi cate; application of own- tration for vessels; exemption a maritime transport industry in ministry under the title, “Safe “Huawei is providing in- This proves that we are not vided through integration with ership transfer for vessels; issu- certifi cate; “To whom it may support of technological devel- Smart Cities”. The ministry and building solutions for the under the infl uence of any the ministry’s national docu- ance of certifi cate of deletion; concern” certifi cate; certifi cate opment and economic diversifi - its various divisions will re- wireless cellular coverage government,” he pointed out. mentation and archiving system issuance of specifi cation amend of safety insurance; continuous cation,” said Dr Saleh bin Fetais view the latest developments, within many of the 2022 FIFA “Some of the governments, to ensure business procedures certifi cate; application of mort- synopsis record (CSR) docu- al-Marri, assistant undersec- projects and programmes re- World Cup stadiums. Many such as the UK and Germany are facilitated and completed gage registration; application of ment; NOL for the announce- retary for Maritime Transport lated to the digital transforma- other collaborations eff orts have said that the US has not through the mobile app or portal. non-encumbrance; craft mort- ment of a navigational warning; Aff airs at the Ministry of Trans- tion process. for the World Cup and other given any credible evidence areas are under discussion,” about any signifi cant cyber explained Purdy. security wrongdoing by Hua- HMC to open The offi cial said that the im- wei anywhere in the world,” portance of privacy and trans- he said. Sealine Medical parency is growing day by day “Huawei is becoming more Clinic for season Jaidah Group partners with Ridgid to and there are ways to assure optimistic about our abil- cyber security through objec- ity to do business without Hamad Medical Corporation tive practices. the American suppliers. We (HMC) will open its medical clinic “Resilience is a factor and prefer to buy from American in the Sealine area for the camp- showcase high-quality products in Qatar the operators should develop suppliers as we buy from vari- ing season today, QNA reported. platforms so that if any bad ous organisations around the The clinic will operate from 3pm guy encroaches, they should world. We spend an average of on Thursdays until 5pm on Sat- aidah Group, in collabora- be able to limit the harm. Se- $11bn yearly on the US suppli- urdays throughout the camping tion with Ridgid Interna- curity is a journey and not a ers which translates to around season and will remain open until Jtional, recently organised destination. As the bad guys 40,000 jobs a year in the US. at least the end of March 2020. an exclusive event in Doha to can hack in real time, creating Shortly after the sanctions introduce customers in Qatar trust is a shared responsibility were imposed, we estimated to a full range of high-quality to take advantage of the great that the impact of the sanc- Katara to launch products. technologies,” added the Hua- tions in the projected growth The event welcomed 200 wei security offi cer. of revenue would be around Cultural Diversity of Jaidah Group’s most valued Purdy said that Huawei’s $30bn. Despite the challenges, Festival today customers who enjoyed a cel- overall approach in the last we have 24% global market ebratory dinner and demon- seven to eight years has been share with 8% profi t on a year Katara Cultural Foundation will launch stration. to create a global assurance on year growth in the third the fourth edition of the Cultural Diver- Jaidah Group managing di- programme for cyber security quarter of 2019. So we now sity Festival today, with the participa- rector - Industrial Supply Divi- and privacy to create an objec- estimate there may be $10bn tion of 13 countries and it will continue sion, Altug Okay, and Ridgid’s tive basis trust for customers, reduction in growth or maybe until December 2020, QNA reported. country manager for Qatar and suppliers, and governments. less than that,” said Purdy Katara amphitheatre will host the Kuwait, Sinan Ozturk, presided “We work with a global The offi cial also highlighted Turkish group “Anatolia Music Group” over the event. committee and we have an in- that Huawei provides great on October 31 & Nov 1 at 7pm. “Anato- The event was an opportuni- ternal process to set require- energy effi ciency for their lia Music Group” is a popular Turkish ty for Jaidah Group’s customers Off icials at the event. ments, track conformance products resulting in reducing music group from Istanbul. to gain fi rst-hand knowledge and test our systems. We buy the carbon footprints. about Ridgid and its products. lights Jaidah Group’s con- proud to bring Ridgid’s quality ration with the brand.” numerous tools from around “It is possible that Huawei They were the fi rst to experi- tinuing commitment to work products to the consumers in Ozturk added, “We are the world to double-check may go without Google and QOC to mark World ence the products and services with international companies Qatar. It is of utmost impor- thankful for Jaidah Group’s our products for vulnerabili- we are working on the alter- Ridgid off ers in Qatar. to provide consumers in Qa- tance for us to collaborate with support of our products and we ties, fi x problems and build natives. In 5G there are now Walking Day Offi cials from the oil & gas tar with the most innovative industry-leading professionals pride ourselves on providing new technologies to provide no US components. It might Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) and construction sectors at- and technologically advanced who value quality, effi ciency the best tools for the needs of greater assurance,” noted the take sometime to fi nd an is celebrating the 7th World Walk- tended the event as part of their products. Ridgid is an impor- and innovation. It is an honour Jaidah Group’s customers.” offi cial. equally trusted medium such ing Day 2019 in Katara today. The interest in using Ridgid’s qual- tant brand for Jaidah Group, for us to host such an important Jaidah Group off ers Ridgid “In 5G, we have a third party as Google and the Android event is held under Association ity products in their industries, having worked together for over event to provide our custom- products under three catego- solution to monitor security platform. But we hope that we For International Sport for All Jaidah Group said in a state- 30 years,” the statement noted. ers with exclusive access to ries, including core products, mechanism and gateways as don’t have to do so as things (TAFISA), which is responsible for ment. Okay marked this occasion Ridgid’s quality products. I look underground technology and well as tools to make sure that might be settled amicably,” sport for all in the world. “This collaboration high- by saying: “Jaidah Group is forward for continued collabo- electrical products. risk are managed,” he added. Purdy added.

Parents’ concern over CRA’s Telecom Complaints Management System introduced

school’s closure plan E the Minister of Trans- the rights of consumers with the to this effort.” The CRA will port and Communica- needs of service providers. The also be able to generate related Htions Jassim Seif Ahmed new system will support our ef- reports easily, which will help oha Modern Indian some administrative issues al-Sulaiti yesterday launched forts to protect consumers and identify trends and work with School (DMIS) has and eff orts were on to resolve the Telecom Complaints Man- ensure the provision of smart, service providers to reduce Dsent a text message to them. The message left the agement System of the Commu- innovative and high-quality the future occurrence of com- parents of its students, say- parents a worried lot, as they nications Regulatory Authority services. The system is a key plaints. The system will sup- ing that 2019-2020 will be the sought information through (CRA), at the Qatar IT Confer- part of the CRA’s strategy to use port the authority to provide an school’s last academic year. social media and some also re- ence and Exhibition 2019 (Qit- technological tools to provide a accurate, transparent and fair In the message, DMIS has quested the Indian embassy to com 2019). better experience to the stake- resolution for both parties, as requested the parents to look intervene. The new system aims at auto- holders and consumers,” noted all consumers’ records will be to other schools for their chil- Several frantic parents also mating all the processes related al-Mannai. available in one private and safe dren for the next academic contacted Gulf Times and said to resolving telecom consumers’ Managing the life cycle of place and can be retrieved upon year (2020-2021). it was a worrying situation. complaints and is supported by consumers’ complaints and request. The full message said, “Dear “In recent years, it is very dif- the Government Cloud-Services inquiries will become easier, The next phase will integrate Parent, We are constrained to fi cult to get admission in In- (Sadeem), the authority has said as stakeholders will manage all different channels in the new inform you that due to una- dian schools in the country in a statement. the related activities through system, such as social media, voidable reasons, the last aca- and in such a scenario, I don’t The launch event was at- the system and they will be able interactive voice response, the demic year of the School will know what to do. Getting ad- tended by Abdi Ashur Hassan, to track complaints all the way CRA website and mobile app. be 2019-20 and hence you are mission in other schools is go- Minister of Posts, Telecommu- from submission to resolution. Under the CRA’s telecom requested to ensure places for ing to be extremely tough and nications and Technology of So- The system will enable stake- complaint resolution proc- your kids in other schools in I hope the situation improves. malia; Mohamed Ali al-Mannai, HE the Minister of Transport and Communications Jassim Seif holders to follow up and update ess, consumers with a com- Qatar for the academic year Otherwise, it will be a night- president of the CRA; Lana Kha- Ahmed al-Sulaiti and other dignitaries at the launch of the Telecom consumers about the status of plaint are free to approach the 2020-21. However, we shall mare,” a parent said. laf, country manager, Microsoft Complaints Management System. their complaints or inquiries authority if their complaint update you on this matter in “We don’t know what to do. Qatar; Dr Ahmed Salman Ali in real time, or even request lodged directly to their service the coming days in case of any What is the future of the stu- al-Sulaiti, CEO, Qatar National on CRA’s Complaint Resolution in order to realise the integrated them to send documents that provider about a mobile service development otherwise. We dents, especially those who are Broadband Network, (Qnbn); Process, Telecommunications and connected government, support their complaints, the disconnection remains open are extremely sorry for the in- in Class 9 and Class 11? They and Mohamed al-Emadi, chief Law, Telecom Consumer Protec- which is in line with the Qatar statement explained. or unresolved for 48 hours, or convenience caused to you and have been registered with the operation offi cer at malomatia. tion Policy and a set of regula- Digital Government 2020 strat- “The Qatar Digital Govern- 72 hours in case of fixed-line this message is sent to you as Central Board of Secondary The system brings all stake- tions. egy. The Sadeem platform will ment 2020 strategy thrives to disconnection, and also if the advance intimation. DMIS” Education and have to com- holders together: the CRA, “We are pleased to launch the support the CRA by accelerating enhance customer experiences complaint is not related to a Though Gulf Times tried to plete the examinations with the Government Contact Centre Telecom Complaints Manage- the process of its digital trans- through greater access to gov- service disconnection and re- contact the school principal board. If DMIS closes down, that manages the CRA’s hotline ment System, as we constantly formation, accelerating access ernment services, leading to mains unresolved for 30 cal- since yesterday afternoon, what will happen to these stu- (103), Ooredoo Qatar and Vo- work to ensure the provision of to users and increasing the effi - better outcomes for the na- endar days or if the complaint there was no response to re- dents? The schools should have dafone Qatar. The stakeholders technical solutions that support ciency of the provided services,” tion,” added Khalaf. “And the is closed at any time and they peated phone calls. Sources a responsible approach,” anoth- will manage and resolve telecom government entities to acceler- said HE al-Sulaiti. Telecom Complaints Manage- were dissatisfied with the of- said the matter was related to er parent added. consumers’ complaints based ate their digital transformation, “The CRA ensures to balance ment System speaks directly fered resolution. Gulf Times 12 Thursday, October 31, 2019 HOL STIC Wellbeing Staying fi t during pregnancy

might mask injuries or other pain. Eat Vegan, Ditch Products 3- Your body needs good and continuous blood circulation and fl ow as your body requires more appearance — specifically to the oxygen and energy for your baby’s area around the eye. For many, health. acne and spots on the skin can be 4- You are injury prone, due to a daily irritation. There are several being off balance and because of contributors to a build-up of acne, loose joints. but it’s worth highlighting that the 5- Your body’s core temperature worst food culprit when it comes increases to skin issues — acne in particular — is dairy. Studies have shown that Just make sure to be aware of removing dairy from a person’s diet By Reem Abdulrahman Jassim the following and to always listen improves their acne. The majority al-Muftah to your body: of people who try removing dairy 1- Don’t lie fl at on your back. from their diet for one month see 2- Don’t put much pressure By Ghanim al-Sulaiti a mild to moderate acne improve- s we women embrace the on your stomach, increase risk of ment over the course of just four beautiful and challeng- blows to the abdominal area or weeks. An eff ective vegan solution Aing experience of preg- twist the area. Marketplaces, department stores to helping clear a face with acne or nancy, we must understand the 4- Stay away from contact and designer brands around spots is to begin introducing food great benefi ts that come with be- sports. the world are flooded with face with probiotics, or begin drinking ing active during this special and 5- Stay away from falling-prone creams and products promising fermented-based juices. Cutting out sensitive time and how it is life- activities. the consumer the same ambitious sugar and caff eine will speed up the changing and almost necessary. 6- Do not scuba-dive. pledge: to improve skin. And while healing process of the face. For any So what are the general benefi ts of 7- Steer away from high altitude some products — especially those skin blotches, blemishes or spots breaking a sweat while pregnant? activities. that are made from natural, organic that you may be trying to tackle First of all, you should either 8- Do not engage in hot yoga, ingredients — can work wonders on your chin, the problems tend to maintain your active lifestyle to Pilates or any activities during hot in positively aff ecting the skin, it’s stem from either the stomach, or stay in shape or take advantage of and humid weather. important to remember that the hormonal imbalance. Consuming one of the best opportunities you 9- Steer away from running, path to beautiful skin starts with fast-food could also deteriorate the will get to actually get into shape. hopping and bouncing. nourishment from within. Fruit skin quality on your chin. A fast way Moreover, it helps you prevent or and vegetables contain powerful to heal this sensitive area of the decrease the risks and complica- 8- Stress and high blood pres- activities (most studies recom- eventually 30 minutes a day. Staying fi t while you are preg- antioxidants that help to protect face is to introduce clean proteins tions associated with pregnancy. sure mend the ideal 30 minutes a day). Top fi ve activities recommend- nant is very possible and easy to skin from the cellular damage, and into your diet, such as nuts and Lastly, it helps prepare you for 9- Low energy and poor muscle If you are already an active person, ed by doctors and reliable clinical accomplish if you act with caution. as older cells are constantly shed- beans. Dark leafy greens and spices childbirth, delivery and recovery. strength continue your healthy lifestyle but studies, include walking, swim- Our bodies are strong and were ding and are being replaced by new such as cinnamon will also help. And if those reasons aren’t con- be sure to reduce any high-impact ming, stationary cycling, step and meant for use to maintain activ- cells, a continuous supply of key Apples, kiwis and ginger will boost vincing enough, well, exercising Potential benefi ts from and high-intensity activities to elliptical machines and low im- ity unless told otherwise by physi- nutrients is essential to support the the health of the skin surrounding cautiously while you’re pregnant working out: low-impact and moderate-inten- pact aerobics/dancing. cians. Just remember, everything rapid growth, and ‘changing faces’ your nose, specifically your pores — can reduce the following symp- 1- Reduced risk of C-section. sity. If you are not an active person, Don’t forget: Always remember is connected to another, especially of your skin. Eating certain vegan which thrive on vegan foods. toms: 2- Reduced labour time. start slow and gradual and let your to stretch but be careful and take when it comes to our health and foods can ensure that you are feed- Our right cheek is linked with our 1- Backaches 3- Reduced risk of gestational pregnancy be your motivation to care to not bounce while stretch- wellness so stay hydrated, eat well ing your skin with vital nutrients lungs and respiratory system, and 2- Bloating and swelling diabetes (diabetes during preg- get fi t! Trust me, this is the golden ing as your joints loosen during and always give yourself time to that will naturally achieve better consuming leafy greens which 3- Constipation and haemor- nancy). opportunity to make a change and pregnancy. relax and unwind, because you de- skin results than any manufactured are full of chlorophyll, as well as rhoids make a long-lasting impact to you serve it! Best of luck during your skin product could. There are ways avocado (a source of good fat) will 4- Cramps and fatigue Is it safe? Make sure to get the and your child’s lives. What should I watch out for? blessed journey and wish me luck in which you can consume certain bring oxygen to the cheek and 5- Bad mood and bad sleep “go-ahead” from your doctor and How can I start if I am not usu- 1- Your balance as your centre during mine. God bless. vegan foods as a natural treatment ensure a more radiant, healthy ap- 6- Low self-image to confi rm that they support your ally active? Start breaking a sweat of gravity is off . and remedy for very common skin pearance. On the other side, our left 7- Excess weight and bad pos- intent to be active and to engage for around 10 minutes a day until 2- Your back and pelvis pain „ The author is a wellness advocate issues — issues that I am asked cheek is closer-linked to our liver. ture in moderate-intensity physical you can work up to 15, then 20 and from added pressure and weight and infl uencer @keys2balance. about frequently. We’ll start with Antioxidants such as blueberries dark circles under the eye. In a and grapes, as well as beetroot fast-paced world, whether you’re a juices and herbal teas will hydrate student nearing exams, or a busi- and provide good health to the cells ness-owner juggling the complexi- on our left cheek. Digital Fast Food Addicts ties of running a company, a lack of If I had to choose one vegan ingredi- sleep can quickly form a visible dark ent key to the overall good-health shadow under the eye. However, of our skin, it’s turmeric. Turmeric they learn in classrooms. There is it’s not just lack of sleep that can encourages blood flow and regen- too much exposure too early; yet lead to them, and sometimes issues eration of new skin cells in a very the topics concern their new and with kidney, liver and intestines can natural, very powerful way. Our rapidly changing worlds. It could be cause a tired-eye appearance too. bodies are extremely clever, and the argued that we no longer possess An eff ective, proven Vegan solution skin is quickly able to absorb the the communication skills to garner is by consuming cucumber and best nutrients of vegan foods such their total respect or shortened celery (perhaps as a juice) as the as turmeric, which can enhance attention. What are you going to say enzymes and astringent properties glow in ways almost unachievable when your child’s anxiety comes in both help reduce inflammation by several products. from their bad day ‘going viral’? You and tighten the skin. Cucumber don’t even know what a ‘meme’ is! hydrates the skin which in turn „ The author is an expert in vegan As we struggle to cope with their brings it back to its natural colour, wellbeing and health. Instagram demands and their tantrums, people giving an overall fresher, healthier handle: @Ghanim92  debate how best to re-establish their By Sanah Thakur equilibrium so they can engage their children again. Do we give in to their digital Even if you weren’t dazzled by the demands (which shut them up) or interactive nature of the Internet deprive them as a deterrent? Either Wellness Meal Plan when it first exploded, the majority way, we cannot win; we either numb of people were. Almost everybody their senses through exposure devoured the eff iciency of e-mail; or agitate them until they crave a marvelling at the demise of ‘snail ‘hit’. In their tautological world of mail’ as messages bounced world- manufactured connection and com- wide reconnecting us with long lost munication, they become further ‘friends’. It was mentally intoxicat- immersed; engaging in behaviour ing and we were fed this delicious you wish they’d avoid. You are only unhealthy meal without caution or a permitted to enter if you play nicely second thought. by their fast-food addicted rules. Could the same be said for children This is everybody’s discussion exposed to this ‘digital fast food’? In and everybody’s legacy. I’m not a 1995, worldwide Internet use was parent, but I can imagine what the just 16 million, by 2005 it was over 1 direction of action needs to be. As billion. Today, it’s almost 3.9. There’s parents, educators and members of been no worldwide change of this society, we constantly have to take magnitude in recorded history. In responsibility. It might not be your just nineteen years, we have digitally problem today, however, it’s only rewired the minds of half the world’s a matter of time before some- population, and there are no signs of body else’s ‘problem’ introduces it slowing or going back. The storage the children growing up today. Parents, institutions and teachers too, but they need their ‘fix’. your ‘angel’ to an absurd Internet of personal data and social history The children today are inevitably no longer possess the clout they Children have questions, but par- video or worse. While fast food has Raw Vegan Date Pie: online is normalised. Looking at ‘the hooked on this ‘digital fast food’. once did. Do you have to accept ent’s teachings are often outdated. destroyed multiple lives, healthy cloud’ has nothing to do with the Infants who still in pushchairs ma- the world you cling to is long gone? The — birds and the bee’s — talk living has protected many. However, To make the crust you will need: weather. Social media sites haven’t nipulate an iPad with more expertise Children don’t learn the same way is more redundant than a used this time there is no protection. The 2 cups of walnuts even reached teen age, yet hold than you ever did; Kids have grown they used to. In the classroom, we prophylactic; especially as your children already have the unhealthy 2 cups of almonds more of our secrets than a govern- up with digital cameras shoved in deprive students of their digital pre-teen probably knows more option in the palm of their hand. If 1 cup of powdered biscuits ment intelligence agency. their faces. Overzealous parents addiction. Confiscating their mobile risqué tricks than you do. -Turning they haven’t been given it already, 1 tbs of coff ee Despite rewiring our minds, one revelled in documenting every mo- phones, yet teasing them with iPads a blind eye only increases your they’re just waiting to try. Now the A pinch of salt constant remains. The human ment of their child’s development to for ‘educational’ purposes. Then we distress when that awkward call real question is, what are ‘we’ going 5 medjool dates desire for loving connections and share on social media. However, the wonder why they binge on Snapchat from school comes to address to do about it? 1/4 cup of date or maple syrup the natural consequences of this; hypocrisy is rampant as parents now and Instagram when they should be your child’s ‘extracurricular’ 1/4 cup of tahini children! The scariest impact of our chastise their off spring for indulging doing homework. They know they behaviour. Access to information „ The author can be contacted on Mix everything in a food processor and press into a pie plate. Refrig- Internet usage is what it’s brought to in the ‘selfie’ craze. aren’t posting anything worthwhile on the internet far surpasses what Instagram @sincerelysanah erate until you prepare the filling.

To make the filling you will need: 1/2 cup of cashew cheese (if you are not vegan you can use Greek yogurt or any kind of organic cream cheese you like) 5-6 medjool dates The Haunted House 1/2 cup walnuts 1/2 cup almonds 2 tbs of tahini will dress up as ghosts and witches I have realised over the years that what ever you are going through 2 tbs of cacao powder and there will be Haunted House you can’t escape what you carry now is making you stronger for 2 tbs of date or maple syrup themed parties. My question to you within, and since I have to live with a brighter tomorrow, and those Mix all in a food processor until it’s creamy and thick. this Halloween is what’s haunting it, I have learned how to deal with threats that keep you in a constant Add a little water or cashew milk if needed. your heart? What happens when it. As the years go by, the guilt, the state of fear can be turned into an Pour in and refrigerate for 30minutes. you carry dead nations with you? hopelessness, the feeling of being opportunity to have a deeper trust You can add some date syrup or maple syrup to glaze. What happens when your soul and off ended or betrayed, the sorry in God. heart are in anguish? What haunts and the feeling of fear that threat You can’t have a Haunted House Enjoy the taste of eating right! your heart late at night? poses start to haunt you at night. once the lights are turned on. No matter how much time we Walking the spiritual path has Once I learnt how to turn the lights spend working on developing taught me, when you live and walk on, I am not scared anymore. It’s ourselves, no matter how much in the light, you can expose the not that I don’t have fear, but fear faith we have; we all have skeletons ghosts that haunt you. It is pos- doesn’t have me. I hope this Hal- in the closet and things that haunt sible to turn guilt into grace, it is loween is an opportunity for you to our souls. Maybe it’s something that possible to turn hopelessness into overcome darkness and walk into By Shefa Ali might happen, maybe it’s some- great faith, and it is possible to turn the light. thing that already has happened those times people have deeply many years ago, or maybe it’s off ended us into an opportunity for „ The author is a consultant and This weekend a lot of people will be something that you want to happen forgiveness. All those years of sor- coach. Instagram handle: @miss_ busy celebrating Halloween, they that just hasn’t happened yet. row can be turned into strength, shefa, Website: missshefa.com Gulf Times Thursday, October 31, 2019 13 ARAB WORLD

Machar urges delay to unity govt as peace eff orts stall

South Sudan’s main opposi- Hariri ready to be Lebanese PM tion accused the government yesterday of failing to push through a peace deal and called for a six-month delay in the formation of a unity administra- tion, casting a shadow over again but with conditions: offi cial efforts to end years of fighting. The spokesman for former z No obvious alternative with demonstrators. The Ring rebel leader Riek Machar said to be Lebanon’s next PM Bridge in the centre of the capi- he did not believe he would be z Main roads reopen as tal opened after negotiations able to join a unity government security forces try to restore with some protesters who did on Nov 12 — a deadline agreed normality not want to leave, saying they in September after months z Banks remain closed wanted more of the authorities of talks, broken ceasefires to resign. and pressure from the United Reuters Many protesters stayed on, Nations, the United States and Beirut but did not block the whole regional powers. road. Speaking later at a public event, In a statement, the army President Salva Kiir did not aad al-Hariri is ready to command said people had a directly address the comments return as prime minister right to protest, but that applied from Machar’s camp. Sof a new Lebanese govern- “in public squares only”.The He said all parties to the ment, a senior offi cial familiar main protest camp in a square agreement had committed to with his thinking said, on con- in the centre of the capital was forming the unity government dition it includes technocrats quiet but was closed to traffi c by on Nov 12 and the international and can quickly implement re- security forces. community expected that to forms to stave off economic col- Hariri made his resignation happen. lapse. speech on Tuesday after a crowd “I want to welcome (the opposi- Hariri’s resignation on Tues- loyal to Hezbollah and Amal tion) and forget all the bitter- day left a political vacuum at a movements attacked and de- ness,” Kiir said. moment of acute crisis, with re- stroyed a camp in central Beirut. There was no immediate com- forms urgently needed to ward The strife was the most seri- ment from other countries that off even deeper fi nancial prob- ous on the streets of Beirut since helped broker the accord. lems in one of the world’s most 2008, when Hezbollah fi ghters US officials said this month they heavily indebted states. seized control of the capital in would not accept more delays After two weeks of anti- a brief eruption of armed con- and might impose sanctions if government protests largely fl ict with Lebanese adversaries deadlines are not met.”It’s not subsided following Hariri’s an- loyal to Hariri and his allies at rocket science that the govern- nouncement, main roads in the time. ment in Juba lacks political will Lebanon reopened yesterday as US Secretary of State Mike to implement the peace deal,” security forces sought to restore Pompeo urged the formation of Machar’s spokesman Puok Both a semblance of normality. a new government responsive Buluang said. Banks remained closed for an to the needs of the people.”The He called on the government to 11th working day but the Asso- Lebanese army soldiers clash with protesters as they attempt to reopen the main highway that links the cities of Saida and Beirut near the Lebanese people want an effi - release funds it had agreed to ciation of Lebanese Banks said town of Jiyeh, south of Beirut, yesterday. cient and eff ective government, spend on rolling out the accord. they would resume normal op- economic reform, and an end to The extra six months would erations and receive customers going coalition government, a long-time opponent of the their closure. Bankers and ana- government.There is no obvious endemic corruption,” he said. “give room” for resolving issues, tomorrow. without naming them. group. lysts have also cited concern alternative to Hariri as prime Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayat- he added. Hariri resigned after massive The cabinet comprised top The crisis has weighed on about a rush by savers to with- minister. ollah Ali Khamenei accused the Fighting is unlikely to resume protests against the political representatives of most of Leb- the country’s sovereign debt draw their savings or transfer Hariri, Lebanon’s leading United States and another Gulf after the missed deadline, said elite, accused by demonstra- anon’s sectarian parties, among and increased pressure on the them abroad once the banks politician, is seen as the focal country of stoking unrest in Alan Boswell, a senior analyst tors of overseeing rampant state them foreign minister Gebran Lebanese pound, which has reopen. point for Western and Gulf sup- Lebanon and urged protesters to with Brussels-based think-tank corruption, saying he had hit a Bassil of the Christian Free Pa- been weakening on the parallel The education minister called port for Lebanon, which is in seek changes in a lawful way. International Crisis Group. “dead end” in trying to resolve triotic Movement, a prominent market below the offi cial rate of on schools and universities to dire need of external fi nancial Aoun said recent events had This is largely because most of the crisis. target of protesters. 1,507.5 to the US dollar. reopen today. support to revive its economy “opened the door to signifi cant the international community is The senior offi cial, who de- Bassil is a political ally of the Prices in the black market President Michel Aoun for- and boost its foreign exchange reform,” but people would re- now urging both sides to agree clined to be identifi ed, said any powerful Hezbollah, which had for dollars varied from 1,750 to mally asked Hariri yesterday reserves. turn to the streets if obstacles on a new road map by the new cabinet led by Hariri should opposed the government’s res- 1,850 pounds yesterday. to continue in a caretaker role Early yesterday, troops were placed in the way of the deadline in order to salvage the not include a group of top-tier ignation and has yet to com- The banks had publicly raised until a new cabinet is formed, as cleared one major route north formation of a “clean govern- deal, he said. politicians who were in the out- ment on the departure of Hariri, security fears as the reason for required by Lebanon’s system of of Beirut after briefl y scuffl ing ment”. Turkey-Russia joint patrols Syria govt raps ‘occupation’, opposition to start tomorrow: Erdogan urges justice as peace panel opens

AFP Reuters The 150-member committee Ankara Geneva is designed to pave the way for political reform and free and fair, UN-supervised elections oint Turkish-Russian pa- yria’s government con- in Syria, where the war has trols will start in Syria to- demned what it called killed hundreds of thousands Jmorrow, Turkey’s president Sthe occupation of its land of people and forced millions to has said, after the Kremlin said while the opposition demanded flee since March 2011. Syrian Kurdish fi ghters had justice and peace yesterday at The government, Syr- withdrawn under a deal be- the opening of a UN-backed ian opposition and civil society tween Ankara and Moscow. panel meant to usher in recon- groups each have 50 members “We will start the joint work ciliation after 8-1/2 years of civil serving on the panel. on the ground on Friday, name- war. Each delegation includes ly we are starting the joint pa- The fi rst meeting of Syria’s UN Special Envoy to Syria Geir Pedersen (centre), co-chair Syrian MP Kurds, but there is no repre- trols,” President Recep Tayyip Constitutional Committee, Ahmad al-Kuzbari (left) and co-chair opposition Syrian Negotiations sentation from the SDF militia Erdogan told parliament yes- A vehicle belonging to Turkey-backed Syrian rebel fighters is composed of government and Commission Hadi al-Bahra attend a ceremony to mark the opening or its main Kurdish YPG com- terday in a televised speech. parked next to a Turkish military bulldozer in the town of Ras opposition members as well as of a meeting of the Syria constitution-writing committee yesterday at ponent. Under an agreement ham- Al Ain, as seen from the Turkish border town of Ceylanpinar, in civil society, is a step forward in the United Nations Off ices in Geneva. A sub-group of 45 is charged mered out in the Russian Black Sanliurfa province, yesterday. what the United Nations says with drafting a new constitu- Sea resort of Sochi last week will be a long road to political any occupying forces on our ter- tory in Syria is achieving justice tion or revising the 2012 one. after Turkey’s cross-border from a zone running 30km an off ensive against Kurdish rapprochement. ritory, the spoliation of the re- and peace, not winning the war. “This is an historic moment,” off ensive into Syria, Kurdish from the Turkish-Syrian bor- forces in northeastern Syria Experts question whether sources of our country, the con- “The memory of 1mn victims Pedersen said, while recognis- forces were given a 150-hour der. “The data we have points on October 9 with the aim of President Bashar al-Assad will tinuing imposition of unilateral must guide us out of this dark ing that it was not easy for the deadline to withdraw from a to the fact that this wasn’t fully creating a buff er zone. The in- be willing to cede much in any sanctions threaten the entire po- tunnel. The aspirations of mil- delegations to sit in the same band of territory along the bor- achieved,” Erdogan said, refer- vasion left hundreds dead and negotiations after his Russian litical process as well as being in lions of Syrians to go back to room and the “road ahead will der. ring to the Russian assurances. displaced tens of thousands of and other countries backed contradiction with international their homeland and find their not be easy”. Under the Sochi deal, Turk- “We will give the necessary people, prompting Ankara and forces recaptured large areas of legitimacy.” loved ones must be our com- “But the fact that you are ish and Russian joint patrols response after we carry out Russia to hold a summit in So- the country in off ensives against However, Kuzbari hailed the pass,” al-Bahra said. here sitting together face-to- were meant to begin after the work in the fi eld,” he added. chi. rebels and militants since 2015. talks as “one of the entry points Government and opposition face ready to start a dialogue deadline expired on Tuesday. Erdogan again stressed that Under the deal signed In opening remarks, Ahmad to the political process to solve delegations sat stony-faced and negotiations is I believe a Erdogan said Russian au- Turkey “reserves the right to there, Turkey would keep one Kuzbari, the panel’s government the crisis that has ravaged our opposite each other in a gilded powerful sign of hope for Syr- thorities had informed Ankara carry out its own operation” if 120-kilometre-long segment co-chair, hit out at “terrorism” beloved homeland”. Opposi- hall at the United Nations’ Eu- ians everywhere, both inside that some 34,000 members of it identifi es any Syrian Kurdish roughly in the middle of the — a reference to insurgents — tion co-chair Hadi al-Bahra said ropean headquarters in Geneva, and outside the country.” the “terror group” had with- militia or if its forces come un- buff er strip, while regime forc- and hailed “the sacrifi ces and 65% of Syria’s infrastructure convened by UN Special Envoy The co-chairs did not drawn — together with 3,260 der attack. The Turkish army es would deploy to sections of heroic deeds of our army.” had been destroyed, adding: “It Geir Pedersen with the backing shake hands at the end of the pieces of heavy weaponry — and its Syrian proxies launched the border to the east and west. He added: “The presence of is time for us to believe that vic- of major powers. 45-minute ceremony.

PROTEST Jordan recalls envoy to Israel Jordan has recalled its ambassador to Israel in protest over Israel’s refusal Iraq PM’s fate in limbo as crowds of demonstrators swell to release two citizens the kingdom says have been illegally detained for months without charge, the Jordanian foreign minister said. Ayman Safadi, the foreign minister, said in a tweet he held the Israeli government respon- Reuters what they saw as an eff ort by accordance with the public sible for the lives of Hiba Labadi and Abdul Rahman Miri, adding that their Baghdad the leaders of parliament’s two good,” Amiri had said in the health had severely deteriorated. He said that recalling the envoy was a first largest blocs — populist cleric overnight statement. step, but did not elaborate. Israel’s deputy foreign minister, Tzipi Hotovely, Moqtada al-Sadr and militia Many young women and older said both detainees were suspected of security off ences, without being more raq’s most powerful politi- leader Hadi al-Amiri — to cling people joined the protests as they specific. Labadi, 24, was arrested in August after crossing to the occupied cians appeared to withhold to power behind the scenes with gained momentum and appeared West Bank to attend a family wedding and so far has not been indicted. She Isupport for Prime Minister or without the prime minister safer. The mood was jubilant yet subsequently went on a hunger strike and was hospitalised after her health Adel Abdul Mahdi yesterday, they installed a year ago. defi ant, with many singing and deteriorated. Safadi said Israel’s administrative detention of both citizens was as anti-government protests Sadr has demanded Abdul dancing and a group of young illegal and vowed his country would take “all necessary legal and diplomatic swelled into the biggest mass Mahdi call an early election. men even playing dominos, in measures” to ensure their safe return home. demonstrations the country When the premier refused, contrast with the tense situation has seen since the fall of Sadd- Sadr called on Amiri, his main earlier this week when scores am Hussein. political rival, to help oust him. were killed nationwide. CONFLICT Protesters from across Iraq’s Amiri issued a statement over- One wheelchair-bound man Troops injure Palestinian woman sectarian and ethnic divides Demonstrators and tuk-tuk drivers take part in anti-government night that was initially seen as said he came with his two young thronged the centre of the capi- protests in Baghdad, yesterday. accepting Sadr’s call to ditch granddaughters to support the A Palestinian woman was shot and injured yesterday by Israeli occupa- tal Baghdad in a show of fury at Abdul Mahdi. protesters. tion forces near the Ibrahimi Mosque, in the centre of Hebron, QNA the political class. 250 people have been killed, the claimed “revolutionary” youths But a day of silence followed, The protesters have drawn reported. The Israeli occupation forces shot at the Palestinian woman, While Abdul Mahdi’s fate past 24 hours saw the demon- from poor neighbourhoods to leaving the prime minister’s inspiration from a similar up- leaving her bleeding on the ground, Palestinian News Agency quoted was not yet clear, demonstra- strations swell to a previously brave tear gas and barricades in fate in limbo. rising in Lebanon, where pan- eyewitnesses as saying. The eyewitnesses pointed out that the occupa- tors said removing him would unseen scale in the capital. Baghdad’s Tahrir Square. “We will work together to sectarian anti-government tion forces closed the Ibrahimi Mosque in front of the Palestinians, and not be enough. After four weeks Middle class families with “No Moqtada, no Hadi,” pro- secure the interests of the Iraqi protests forced Prime Minister intensified their presence around it. of protests in which more than small children joined self-pro- testers chanted, denouncing people and save the nation in Saad Harari to step down. Gulf Times 14 Thursday, October 31, 2019 AFRICA Russian disinformation campaign targeted Africa: Facebook

AFP ated networks of accounts to mis- foreign infl uence eff orts in the criticism of French and US poli- used fake accounts to misrepre- the Wagner Group. with the audience, including Fa- Washington lead others about who they were United States and other parts of cies. sent themselves, and that was the A statement from Stanford’s cebook Live videos, Google Forms and what they were doing,” Face- the world. A separate operation targeting basis for our action.” Cyber Policy Centre said the op- for feedback, and a contest.” book cybersecurity chief Nathan- The company described three Sudan included 20 diff erent ac- Stanford University researchers erations appear to be “at least in The researchers said the opera- acebook said yesterday it iel Gleicher said in a statement. separate operations targeting counts and 18 pages, some posing who worked in parallel with Fa- part at the behest of a state actor” tion appears to be part of “Russia’s took down accounts linked “We have shared information both Facebook and Instagram us- as news organisations. cebook on the investigation said but also relied on subcontractors global strategy for reasserting it- Fto a Russian ally of President about our fi ndings with law en- ers. The third network, focused on at least some of the Facebook ac- who are native speakers or peo- self as a geopolitical superpower” Vladimir Putin seeking to spread forcement, policymakers and in- One operation included 35 ac- Libya, involved 15 accounts and counts came from Russia’s Wag- ple within the region, making it and follows the deployment of disinformation on the social net- dustry partners.” counts and 53 pages that focused 12 pages posting about local news ner Group, a shadowy private harder to detect. paramilitary groups in Libya and work in eight African countries. The accounts originated in on Central African Republic, Mo- and geopolitical issues. army which is believed to have “In addition to well-known the Central African Republic. The operations hiding behind Russia and targeted Madagas- zambique, Democratic Republic “We’re constantly working to been active in confl icts in Syria social media platforms such as Putin last year surprised the fake identities were linked to car, Central African Republic, of Congo, Ivory Coast and Cam- detect and stop this type of ac- and Ukraine, and sent mercenar- Twitter and Facebook, the actors West with a string of high-profi le Yevgeny Prigozhin, who has been Mozambique, the Democratic eroon. tivity because we don’t want our ies to the Central African Republic leveraged public WhatsApp and moves that strengthened Russia’s indicted in the United States in Republic of Congo, Ivory Coast, The eff ort attracted some services to be used to manipulate and Sudan. Telegram groups,” the Stanford infl uence in the CAR, an extreme- connection with an infl uence Cameroon, Sudan and Libya, ac- 475,000 followers and spent people,” Gleicher said. Prigozhin is believed to be be- team said. ly poor but strategically impor- campaign targeting the 2016 US cording to Facebook. $77,000 for ads posting on global “In each of these cases, the hind the Internet Research Agen- “The operation used social me- tant country that has tradition- elections. The move is the latest eff ort and local political news includ- people behind this activity co- cy, which has been linked to US dia engagement tactics designed ally had close ties to France, the “Each of these operations cre- by the social media giant to halt ing Russian policies in Africa and ordinated with one another and election interference, as well as to develop a close relationship former colonial power. 10 killed in militant raid on military base in Niger

AFP tacks late last year, but they have Niamey ramped up since March when 10 civilians were killed by a suicide bomber in the town of N’Guigmi, unmen launched a deadly about 40km from the Blabrine pre-dawn raid yester- base. Gday on a military base in The mayor of Kabalewa, a vil- southeastern Niger’s Diff a re- lage close to N’Guigmi, and his gion, which has been a target wife were kidnapped by Boko of Boko Haram militants, local Haram members earlier this sources said. month. It is the latest in an increas- The group has also previously ingly brazen string of attacks carried out large-scale assaults near the west African country’s on military posts, including a Nigerian border, where the radi- raid on a base near the south- cal insurgency has claimed hun- eastern town of Bosso in 2016 in dreds of lives. which 26 soldiers were killed. A man holds a sign while demonstrating against South African police who forcefully removed refugees camping outside the Cape Town off ices of the United Nations Council for “The Blabrine military unit Boko Haram wants to create a Refugees (UNHCR), in Cape Town yesterday. was targeted last night. The situ- hardline Islamic state. ation is ongoing,” a municipal A regional military coalition is source told AFP on condition of battling the group, but the dec- anonymity. ade-long insurgency has killed Around 10 people were at least 35,000 people in Nigeria killed during the raid which alone. was launched around 3am Located in the Lake Chad (0200GMT), the source said, basin in the middle of the Sa- adding that the situation was hel, the Diffa region is home to S Africa police arrest unclear and not yet under con- 120,000 refugees from Nigeria trol. fleeing the Boko Haram vio- “The local civil authorities are lence, as well as 110,000 peo- preparing to assist the popula- ple internally displaced within tion,” the source said. Niger, according to UN data re- A senior offi cial in Diff a, where leased this month. the Blabrine base is located, con- The region has also seen fl ood- protesting refugees fi rmed the attack. ing after heavy rains caused “There have been deaths and the Komadougou Yobe river to AFP police said in a statement. lice xenophobia”. nerable refugees”. of people granted refugee sta- military equipment has been burst its banks, aff ecting at least Cape Town “Police are executing a court “South Africa you (are) killing Instead, the agency en- tus has remained unchanged torched,” the offi cial said. 40,000 people, the government order to evict about 300 refugees refugees”, said a slogan painted couraged asylum-seekers to for the past decade, suggesting Diff a, which borders the birth- has said. and asylum-seekers who have on a white banner. “participate in constructive an intentional culling of for- place of Boko Haram in north- As well as facing Boko Haram outh African police yes- been occupying the building.” Police fi red water guns and dialogue” and find “peaceful eign national acceptance. eastern Nigeria, has been hit by to the southeast, Niger is also terday arrested around The foreigners, mainly from stun grenades to disperse the resolution”. As the continent’s most in- repeated cross-border attacks by battling militants - including S100 foreign nationals oc- other African nations, say they crowd. South Africa is home to dustrialised economy, South the Nigerian militant group since those from the Islamic State cupying an office building in are fed up with being ill-treat- The situation became more 268,000 refugees and asylum- Africa is also a magnet for 2015. group - in the west near the Mal- Cape Town as part of a sit-in ed and discriminated against. subdued after the arrests. seekers, according to govern- migrants seeking better job There was a lull in the at- ian border. protest against xenophobia. They have asked the United Waldorf Arcade was cordoned ment statistics. prospects. Seen as competing Hundreds of asylum-seekers Nations to relocate them to an- off and protesters started mov- They are mainly from Soma- with locals for work, foreign- have been camping at UN refu- other country, claiming they no ing their belongings to a nearby lia, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe and DR ers are often the first to come Court upholds Buhari’s election victory gee agency (UNHCR) offices in longer feel safe in South Africa church. Congo. under fire when South Africa’s Nigeria’s Supreme Court and we agree that there is no South Africa’s capital Pretoria after a surge of xenophobic at- The UN called on the pro- The country boasts some chronic unemployment and in- yesterday dismissed the appeal merit in this appeal,” Chief and the coastal city of Cape tacks last month. testers to “respect the laws” of the world’s most progres- equality boils into resentment. of opposition presidential Justice Tanko Muhammad said Town since October 8. Clashes broke out with the and “return peacefully to their sive asylum policies, allowing Xenophobic violence left at candidate Atiku Abubakar, in the judgment. “The appeal The sit-in overflowed into police as protesters refused to residences”. foreigners to apply for refugee least 62 dead in 2008. eff ectively upholding the is dismissed,” he concluded, in the building housing the UN’s move from the Waldorf Arcade “UNHCR has been engaging status within the country itself Seven people were killed election victory of President a unanimous decision with six Cape Town office, prompting - a 12-storey block of offices in with the refugees and asylum- and to work during the process. in 2015 and 12 died in the lat- Muhammadu Buhari in court justices. The chief justice the landlord to successfully ap- Cape Town’s central business seekers since the onset of the But the UN has voiced con- est spate of attacks this year - February’s polls. “We have did not give reasons for the ply for their eviction. district. protests,” the agency said in a cern over the more than 50,000 most of them South African. examined all the briefs and the judgment but announced they “About 100 people have been They banged on pots and statement, adding that reset- pending asylum claims - the The incidents occurred exhibits for over two weeks would be released at a later date. arrested after they failed to plastic bottles, chanting “xen- tlement was “only available for highest in sub-Saharan Africa. mainly in the Johannesburg heed the call to disperse,” the ophobia government” and “po- a limited number of very vul- Rights groups say the number area.

Cameroon rescuers hunt for Parliament suspends victims after deadly landslide dos Santos’ daughter

AFP ism from the body amounted to AFP ramshackle houses having crum- ou told AFP by telephone while Luanda “unjust enrichment”. Yaounde bled into the ochre-coloured ter- being treated in hospital with Tchize, the former presi- rain and men in hard hats digging three of his surviving children. dent’s second daughter, moved away at piles of mud in the search He said his 16-year-old ngola’s parliament has to Britain last year after claim- ameroon rescue workers for survivors. daughter had died in the tragedy suspended a daughter of ing Angola’s secret services were resumed a grim search The disaster has triggered an and that “mud completely cov- Aformer president Jose Ed- threatening her. Cfor victims yesterday af- outcry in opposition circles and ered her”. uardo dos Santos for “unjust en- Lower profi le than her half- ter torrential rains triggered a on social media about the state A local administrative of- richment” as his successor seeks sister Isabel - a billionaire busi- mudslide that swept homes off a of urban housing development in fi cer said the collapsed houses to crack down on nepotism past nesswoman appointed to head hillside, killing dozens of people the central African country. were built on a hillside in a risky and present. the state oil company during her including children. “No new body has yet been area of the city, which lies about Dos Santos appointed several father’s reign - Tchize was an in- A number of residents are removed from the rubble,” said 300km northwest of the capital family members to key economic fl uential fi gure in Angolan media still missing after part of a hill Francois Fotso, head of the rescue Yaounde. and political positions during his and controlled one of the coun- collapsed in the mudslide that service for the Gouache IV neigh- “There were sometimes land- 38-year rule, which ended after he try’s leading advertising agen- hit the city of Bafoussam in the bourhood, where dozens of houses slides below, but we were far stepped down in September 2017. cies. highlands of western Cameroon that were built precariously on a from imagining that this place Welwitschia dos Santos, From Britain, Tchize has re- on Tuesday. hillside were swept away. was a risky area,” Fotso added, nicknamed “Tchize”, was elect- peatedly used WhatsApp to Among the 42 confi rmed dead “There are still people miss- claiming that the local residents ed to parliament in 2008 and blast her father’s successor Joao were 26 children and 14 women, ing but it would be risky to give had never been informed of the joined the central committee Lourenco. four of whom were pregnant, ac- a fi gure,” Fotso told AFP by tel- dangers by the authorities. of the ruling Movement for the In her latest recording she ac- cording to the local authorities. ephone. The Social Democratic Front Liberation of Angola (MPLA) in cused parliament of political Rescue workers had suspend- “I had the impression that the (SDF), one of Cameroon’s main 2016. persecution and claimed she did ed the search on Tuesday night roof of my house had fl own away. opposition parties, lashed out at The National Assembly late not choose to leave Angola. because of the dangerous con- As I was getting up to check what the authorities for “abandoning on Tuesday voted to suspend “I had to fl ee because I was be- ditions in the area after days of was happening, the house col- the vulnerable people” who live A video grab shows locals carrying out excavation work Welwitschia - one of the ex- ing threatened with death by the heavy rain. lapsed on me and my family,” in such areas to stay close to ur- following landslides which led to the death of at least 42 people in president’s six children - from MPLA,” Tchize said via What- Pictures social media showed Gauche IV resident Victor Tank- ban centres. the western Cameroon city of Bafoussam, yesterday. parliament, saying her absentee- sApp on Tuesday. Gulf Times Thursday, October 31, 2019 15 AMERICA

CRIME JUSTICE DAMAGES WAGE WOES FALL FOLIAGE Three people shot dead at Judge postpones trial of Pennsylvania settles suit Chicago teachers picket California Halloween party Maryland paper shooter in Antwon Rose shooting on 10th day of strike

Three people were killed and nine others A Maryland judge yesterday postponed the trial The parents of Antwon Rose II, a black teenager A teachers’ strike in Chicago moved yesterday wounded in a shooting during a Halloween party of a man who fatally shot five people at the Capital shot dead by a police off icer in East Pittsburgh, into the 10th school day as the teachers’ union at a home in Long Beach, California, on Tuesday Gazette newspaper, the newspaper reported, at Pennsylvania, in 2018, will receive a settlement and district worked to resolve a contract night, police and fire department off icials said. the request of defence lawyers who argue the man worth about $2mn of their civil damage claim. deadlock over class sizes, support staff levels The scene was filled with chaos when firefighters was not criminally responsible due to a mental The case, settled on Tuesday, says Rose’s and pay at the bargaining table. The strike is the reached the residence, Long Beach Police disorder. Jarrod Ramos pleaded guilty on Monday parents, Michelle Kenney and Antwon Rose, Sr., second-longest in a wave of teachers’ strikes Department spokeswoman Karen Owens said. to shooting five people at the Capital Gazette in one will receive a net settlement of $1,173,439.19 after that played out across West Virginia, Oklahoma, One suspect had fled. The three dead were all of the deadliest attacks on a US media outlet. The lawyers’ fees of 40% and other expenses are Arizona and California over the past few years. males in their 20’s, police said. The condition defence yesterday asked Judge Laura Ripken to subtracted, according to documents filed in the , topped only by a three-week strike in June in of the wounded was not immediately made preclude mental health experts from testifying for Orphans Court Division of the Allegheny County Union City, California. Chicago Teachers Union available. People at the residence were attending the prosecution because they said state attorneys Court of Common Pleas. Rose, 17, died on June leadership gave its 825 members of the House a party and were wearing Halloween costumes, had not disclosed certain information about the 19, 2018, after he was shot three times while of Delegates an update on negotiations behind Owens said. The Los Angeles Times reported experts, the Gazette reported. When Ripken denied running from a traff ic stop related to a drive-by closed doors on Tuesday evening. “It’s not too Fall foliage makes a contrast to the US Capitol that witnesses said they heard up to 20 shots. the request, the defence asked for a postponement. shooting investigation. late,” union president Emerita Karen Lewis said. in Washington, DC.

Appeals court blocks release Lobbyist tried to get US of unredacted Mueller report

Reuters envoy to Ukraine fi red Washington Reuters Republicans, Dems clash Washington on whistleblower identity US appeals court on Tues- day issued a stay that blocks Republican and Democratic law- Athe release to a congressional Republican former congress- makers clashed on Tuesday over committee of an unredacted copy of man turned lobbyist repeat- questions about the identity of the former Special Counsel Robert Muel- Aedly pushed for the dismissal whistleblower whose complaint led ler’s report detailing Russian meddling of US ambassador to Ukraine Marie to the impeachment investigation of in the 2016 US election. Yovanovitch, an action later taken by President Donald Trump. US District Judge Beryl Howell had President Donald Trump after he was The skirmish revealed a growing on Friday ordered President Donald urged to do so by his personal lawyer dispute between the two sides, as Trump’s administration to hand over Rudy Giuliani, a US diplomat said in Republicans say they need to hear by yesterday a copy of the Mueller re- testimony yesterday. from the intelligence off icial who port that included material that had Catherine Croft and Christopher An- initially raised the alarm over Trump’s been blacked out. derson, Ukraine specialists at the State attempts to get Ukraine to investigate The Justice Department requested Department, became the latest current his political rivals in order to assess the stay by the Court of Appeals in and former US offi cials called as witness- the whistleblower’s credibility. Washington while it appeals Howell’s es in the Democrat-led impeachment in- Democrats say the whistleblower’s ruling. quiry against the Republican president in testimony is not needed at this point The department is trying to block the House of Representatives. because it has been corroborated by Democrats from accessing the full Croft said she was a member of the other witnesses. Bringing him or her Mueller report on the grounds that National Security Council (NSC) staff forward after repeated attacks by doing so would require the disclosure at the White House from July 2017 to Trump would only put the whistle- of secret grand jury materials and po- July 2018. “During my time at the NSC, blower’s safety at risk, they said. tentially harm ongoing investigations. I received multiple calls from lobbyist “We have a long-standing concern The US House of Representatives Robert Livingston, who told me that that the president and his allies in Con- Judiciary Committee issued a sub- Ambassador Yovanovitch should be gress aren’t interested in the underly- poena seeking the full report as part fi red. He characterized Ambassador ing act but are interested in risking the of Democrats’ eff ort to build a case for Yovanovitch as an ‘Obama holdover’ life of the whistleblower,” Representa- removing Trump from offi ce through and associated with George Soros,” tive Eric Swalwell told reporters. impeachment. Croft said in her opening statement Government personnel have been Mueller submitted his report to to lawmakers, posted online by the assigned to protect the whistleblower, US Attorney General William Barr in Washington Post. according to sources familiar with the March after completing a 22-month “It was not clear to me at the time matter, after Trump has attacked the investigation that detailed Russia’s — or now — at whose direction or at whistleblower and conservative news campaign of hacking and propaganda whose expense Mr Livingston was outlets and social-media activists spec- to boost Trump’s candidacy in the seeking the removal of Ambassador Catherine Croft, Special Adviser for Ukraine, arrives on Capitol Hill to attend a closed-door deposition yesterday in ulated about the individual’s identity. 2016 election as well as extensive con- Yovanovitch,” Croft said. Washington, DC. tacts between Trump’s campaign and She said she told Fiona Hill, Trump’s Moscow. former top Russia adviser, and George May, Anderson said “my colleagues Department quickly prepared a state- on Tuesday by US Army Lieutenant The rough transcript left out an asser- Barr, a Trump appointee who Dem- Kent, a senior State Department and I saw a tweet by Rudolph Giuliani” ment condemning Russia for its es- Colonel Alexander Vindman, an NSC tion by Trump that there were record- ocrats have accused of trying to pro- Ukraine expert, but was “not aware of alleging that Ukraine’s incoming calation, senior offi cials in the White Ukraine expert who raised the alarm af- ings of Biden discussing corruption in tect the president politically, released any action that was taken in response.” leader “was surrounded by enemies of House blocked it from being issued,” ter listening in on the July call between Ukraine and Zelenskiy’s explicit men- the 448-page report in April with The impeachment inquiry focuses President Trump.” Anderson said he Anderson said. Trump and Zelenskiy over Trump’s re- tion of Burisma, the Times said, citing some parts redacted. on a July 25 telephone call in which sought to counter the “negative narra- He said Kurt Volker, at the time the quest for a Biden investigation. three people familiar with his testimony. The House impeachment inquiry Trump asked Ukrainian President Vo- tive” sparked by Yovanovitch’s remov- US special representative for Ukraine, The call is at the heart of the con- More witnesses are expected later centers not on the fi ndings of the Mu- lodymr Zelenskiy to investigate politi- al and Giuliani’s statements. drafted a tweet condemning Russia’s gressional inquiry into whether Trump this week, including Timothy Mor- eller report but on Trump’s request cal rival Joe Biden, the former US vice Trump made his request to Zel- actions, which he posted to his account. misused the power of his offi ce for per- rison, the National Security Council that Ukraine investigate a domestic president, and his son Hunter, who enskiy after withholding $391mn in “Russia’s aggression in Ukraine sonal political gain and, if so, whether Senior Director for Europe and Rus- political rival, former vice president had served as a director for Ukrainian security aid approved by Congress to posed, and continues to pose, a real that rises to the level of “high crimes sia, testifying today and Robert Blair, Joe Biden. energy company Burisma. help Ukraine fi ght Russian-backed and immediate threat to our national and misdemeanors” that merit im- a senior adviser to acting White House House Democrats have described Trump removed Yovanovitch as am- separatists in eastern Ukraine. interest in a Europe free, whole, and at peachment and removal from offi ce chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney, to testify that as an improper solicitation of for- bassador in May. Zelenskiy agreed to Trump’s re- peace,” Croft said. under the Constitution. tomorrow. eign interference in a US election. Giuliani has said he went to Trump quests. The aid was later provided. She said that “we do not lose sight Trump has denied wrongdoing. The House is expected to vote this In her ruling on Friday, Howell also and the State Department as part of Anderson and Croft described of what is happening in Ukraine and During the conversation, summa- week on the formal process of mov- said the House need not pass a resolu- his eff ort to have her removed from the Trump’s negative view toward Ukraine its great promise as a prosperous and rized in a memo released by the White ing forward with the impeachment in- tion formally initiating its impeach- post at a time when he was seeking to even as other State Department and democratic member of the European House, Trump also sought an inves- quiry after Republicans criticized the ment inquiry, undercutting an argu- persuade Ukraine to open an inves- White House offi cials underscored community.” tigation into a debunked conspiracy process as unfair to Trump. ment that Trump’s fellow Republicans tigation of Biden, a contender for the Kyiv’s importance to US national se- Later yesterday, the House Rules theory that Ukraine, not Russia, inter- Trump has urged his allies to direct- have made in attacking the probe. Democratic nomination to face Trump curity in the face of Russian aggression. Committee was to take up a resolution fered in the 2016 US election. ly tackle the allegations against him. Democrats began the inquiry with- in the November 2020 US election. Anderson said that in November 2018 proposed by House Democrats laying Vindman had told lawmakers on “This Impeachment nonsense is out putting such a resolution to a vote, Anderson, in his opening state- Russia escalated the confl ict when its out the procedures as they move for- Tuesday that the summary of the call just a continuation of the Witch Hunt but on Tuesday they unveiled legis- ment seen by Reuters, also mentioned forces attacked and seized Ukrainian mil- ward with impeachment of Trump. released by the White House left out Hoax,” he tweeted yesterday morning, lation laying out procedures for the Giuliani’s actions. itary vessels heading to a Ukrainian port. The closed-door testimony yester- information he had sought to include, urging Republicans to “go with Sub- probe that could be voted on a early as Before Zelenskiy’s inauguration in “While my colleagues at the State day followed 10 hours of testimony the New York Times reported. stance and close it out!” this week.

As winds worsen, new wildfi re erupts near Reagan Library outside Los Angeles

Reuters Statewide, the weather serv- The Santa Ana winds are a Tuesday in a narrow window Los Angeles ice issued warnings of dangerous regional weather phenomenon of slower winds. By yesterday fi re weather conditions covering that sends gusts westward off the morning, crews had managed to more than 88,000sq km), en- desert out to the Southern Cali- contain about 15% of the blaze. fresh wildfi re ignited yes- compassing some 21mn people. fornia coast. In Northern California, where terday near the Ronald Re- Scientists have linked an in- They are forecast to reach sus- fi refi ghters struggled for a sixth Aagan Presidential Library crease in frequency and intensity tained speeds of 80kph to 110kph day against a 76,000 acre blaze outside Los Angeles as extraor- of wildfi res to climate change. till today evening, raising the in Sonoma County’s winemak- dinarily dry, prolonged Santa The Easy Fire in Simi Valley risk of sparks and embers being ing region, high-wind forecasts Ana winds whipped through the quickly grew to 200 acres. whipped into fresh wildfi res in prompted Pacifi c Gas and Elec- region, forcing meteorologists to A long wall of orange fl ames unburned areas. tric Co to impose a new round grasp for new language to warn of and thick, gray smoke could be Los Angeles Fire Chief Ralph of blackouts for nearly 600,000 the danger. seen just down the slope from Terrazas said extremely high homes and business. The fi re broke out in Ven- the hilltop Reagan Library, which winds could also force the That included about 400,000 tura County’s Simi Valley, just a houses many of the former presi- grounding of water-dropping customers blacked out in a pow- few miles away from a 600 acre dent’s records and the plane he helicopters, a vital component of er shutoff that PG&E instituted blaze that has been consum- used for offi cial travel. the fi refi ghting arsenal. days earlier, the company said. ing the shrub-covered hills near At least two helicopters op- City arson investigators say PG&E yesterday announced the Getty Center museum in Los erated by county fi re offi cials the Getty fi re was likely caused that it had restored power to Angeles for two days, displac- dropped water on the fl ames. by a broken tree branch being about 73% of the 970,000 or ing thousands of residents from Fire offi cials ordered residents blown into power lines during so customers aff ected in earlier some of the area’s priciest neigh- to evacuate the area around the high winds on Monday morning. shutoff s. borhoods. library, which includes a number Electricity remained cut off Utilities serving Southern Cal- For fi refi ghters, the weather of sprawling ranch properties. to roughly half a million homes ifornia’s more urban areas have forecast could not be worse: The A few employees remained at and businesses in Northern and imposed smaller-scale outages. National Weather Service issued the library, which has a fi re pro- Central California on Tuesday as PG&E has been implicated an unprecedented “extreme red tection system that included fi re a precaution by the state’s largest in the Sonoma County blaze, A firefighter tends to a structure lost during the Kincade fire off Highway 128, east of Healdsburg, fl ag” warning for wildfi res in Los doors and sprinklers, spokes- utility. dubbed the Kincade fi re. California on Tuesday evening. Angeles and Ventura counties woman Melissa Giller told ABC7 Governor Gavin Newsom has The utility acknowledged last ahead of two days of intense dry News. accused utilities of failing to ad- week that the Kincade fi re broke The company fi led for bank- Citing progress made against that blaze to 130,000 on Tuesday. wind gusts. The library has trucked in goats equately modernize and safely out near a damaged PG&E trans- ruptcy in January, citing $30bn in the Kincade fi re, Newsom said Property losses from the Kin- “I don’t know if I’ve ever seen us in years past to eat away fl amma- maintain their power systems. mission tower at about the time a potential liability from a series of the number of evacuees in cade, listed at 15% contained, use this warning,” said forecaster ble scrub around the building’s An army of some 1,100 fi re- live high-voltage line carried by deadly fi res sparked by its equip- Northern California had dimin- were put at 189 homes and other Marc Chenard. “It’s pretty bad.” perimeter. fi ghters battled the Getty fi re that tower malfunctioned. ment in 2017 and 2018. ished from 190,000 at the peak of structures, double Monday’s tally. Gulf Times 16 Thursday, October 31, 2019 ASIA

Cylinder blast kills 5 Thai villagers protest as children in Bangladesh

DPA Laos opens Mekong dam Dhaka t least fi ve children were Reuters on the Thai side of the Mekong killed after a gas cylinder Ban Namprai, Thailand chanted and provided bless- Abeing used to infl ate toy ings in a ceremony for the river, balloons exploded in the Bang- which activists from the Free- ladeshi capital Dhaka yesterday, he fi rst hydropower dam dom Mekong Group says is in police and fi refi ghters said. on the lower Mekong danger of dying. The cylinder went off when a TRiver has begun com- “When Xayaburi dam offi - vendor was infl ating the balloons mercial operations in Laos amid cially generates electricity... we to sell them among children protests from villagers in Thai- won’t be able to know how the gathered on the wayside in the land who say the Xayaburi Dam river will change and how bad Mirpur neighbourhood of Dhaka, and several others in the works it will deteriorate, said activist leaving four of them dead at the will destroy their livelihoods. Montri Chanthawong. scene, Mohamed Rasel, an offi - The 1,285-megawatt Xay- About 150km (90 miles) to cial at the Fire Service and Civil aburi Dam’s debut coincides the south of Xayaburi, the fi sh- Defence department, said. with parts of the Mekong dry- ing village of Ban Namprai is The children are between the ages ing to a trickle even at the end having its driest year in living of 7 and 14, he said, adding that an- of the rainy season, though its memory. other child died later in hospital. builders and operators say it is Villagers say the Mekong is Rescuers found the bodies of not responsible for the reduced normally at least 3m high at the some of the children lying torn river fl ow. end of the rainy season, when apart in a pool of blood at the Xayaburi, which will sell 95% Ban Namprai typically holds scene, Rasel said. of its power to Thailand at an dragon boat races, which this Fourteen others, including eight average rate of 2 baht ($0.066) year had to be cancelled. children, were rushed to state-run per unit, is the fi rst of at least Fishermen and fi sh farmers Dhaka Medical College Hospital nine more hydropower projects said that since March, when after they suff ered injuries, police either under construction or Xayaburi fi rst started testing offi cer Abul Kalam Azad said. planned on the lower Mekong in their turbines, they’ve seen Physician Alauddin, who goes Laos. ever-more erratic river fl ow by a single name, said the condi- The new spate of dam-build- that can’t be explained just by a tion of four of them is critical. ing is poised to turbo-charge drought earlier in the year. Television footage showed the already-fraught water and food “I think the future of the river relatives of the victims wailing security disputes after years is dire. This is just the begin- at the blood-soaked scene, while of worry about the 11 existing ning,” said Ban Nampai’s village others crowded hospitals. Beijing-built dams on the up- chief, Sangtong Siengtid, 45, A fi refi ghting offi cial could not per Mekong in China are chok- who is a fi sherman himself. specify the type of gas that was ing the river on which millions “With more dams, the once being used by the vendor, who depend for their livelihoods in powerful Mekong river will be- was also critically wounded, to Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and come just a small creek,” he said. Activists and villagers protest against Laos dam on Mekong river outside of Loei in Thailand. infl ate the balloons. Vietnam. Some fi sh farmers in the He said an investigation had Xayaburi Dam has been nine nearby town of Nong Khai have ers, Thailand’s CK Power PCL, Karnchang Public Co Ltd, de- sediment gates that CK Power “the most sustainable manner”, been launched to determine the years in the making and the begun moving fi sh enclosures blamed the dried-up patches clined requests for interviews says will ensure the Mekong’s said Thanawat Trivisvavet, CK reason behind the accident. 135bn baht ($4.47bn) project, out of the river and into man- of riverbed downstream on late from Reuters and did not re- fragile ecosystem of fi sh migra- Power’s managing director, in Deaths from cylinder blasts built and fi nanced by Thai com- made ponds fed by pumped-in monsoon rains and an upstream spond to written questions. tion and the sediment crucial to an article in a local newspaper are common in Bangladesh due panies and banks, has been con- water, said Krit Hemarak, 39, a Chinese dam. Its Facebook page features farming in Vietnam’s Mekong on Tuesday. to a lack of inspections and the troversial since inception. local fi sh farm entrepreneur. CK Power, a subsidiary of videos of special 6bn baht Delta will not be harmed. Environmental groups say the users’ unwillingness to get the On Tuesday, Buddhist monks Xayaburi’s main develop- Thai construction company CH ($200mn) “fi sh ladders” and The company will invest in technology has not been tested. containers tested regularly. Thai king Bangladesh opposition stalwart fi res four jailed for threatening PM Hasina

AFP Sheikh Hasina, who has tight- be “worse” than that of her fa- gapore being treated in hospital. leader Khaleda Zia – herself a Chittagong ened her grip on power since be- ther, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Chowdhury comes from a former prime minister – is serv- offi cials in ing re-elected in December. Bangladesh’s fi rst president who controversial and politically in- ing a 10-year jail sentence for Giasuddin Quader Chowd- was assassinated in 1975. fl uential family based in Chit- corruption, also criticised the Bangladesh opposition hury, a vice-chairman of the “We wanted a harsher punish- tagong. verdict. stalwart was jailed in ab- Bangladesh Nationalist Party ment as we believe in the rule of His elder brother Salahuddin “He did not get justice,” party Asentia for three years yes- (BNP), was found guilty of law,” prosecutor Samir Dasgupta Quader Chowdhury was hanged spokesman Rizvi Ahmed said, latest purge terday for threatening the prime making statements “condu- said. in 2015 after being convicted of adding the government was fi l- minister in what his party said cive to public mischief” and Defence lawyer Enamul crimes committed in 1971 during ing “imaginary cases” to “muz- DPA the palace for being lax in their was another example of govern- “criminal conspiracy”, the Hoque said the judgement was Bangladesh’s war of independ- zle” the opposition. Bangkok duties and behaving inappro- ment critics being muzzled. court said. “politically motivated and bi- ence with Pakistan. Last week an infl uential BNP priately for their ranks and Thousands of opposition ac- The charges arose from a ased”. The tribunal that convicted lawmaker was sentenced to fi ve titles. tivists have been arrested un- speech he gave at a rally in 2018 Chowdhury’s lawyers said the him was established by Hasina. years in jail on tax evasion hailand’s King Maha The sackings follow the dis- der the rule of Prime Minister when he said Hasina’s fate would 70-year-old was currently in Sin- The BNP, whose de-facto charges. Vajiralongkorn has fi red missal of former royal consort Tfour palace offi cials, in- Sineenatra Wongvajirabhakdi cluding two for adultery and who had her military and royal “extremely evil” behaviour, ranks revoked last Monday for, according to two palace state- according to a palace state- ments published late Tuesday. ment, showing “disloyalty” One palace statement re- towards the king and plotting Sirisena to continue in active voked military ranks and ex- against the newly crowned pelled two palace offi cials queen by making eff orts to be- who were assigned to the royal come queen herself.” bedrooms because of inappro- Six other palace offi cials priate acts which amounted were also fi red in palace an- politics after term concludes to “extremely evil” behaviour nouncements last Wednesday and also for committing adul- for “extremely evil” behav- tery. iour, an often cited reason IANS the Daily Financial Times Peramuna’s (SLPP), headed by Of the 35 hopefuls, SLPP’s The two had held army when Vajiralongkorn has dis- Colombo quoted the president as saying former president Mahinda Ra- Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the ranks of Lieutenant Colonel. missed palace offi cials since on Twitter on Monday evening. japakse, and the Sirisena-led Sri ruling United National Party’s Another palace statement ascending the throne after his Sirisena’s term will end in Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), (UNP) Deputy Leader Sajith dismissed and revoked the father’s death in 2016. ri Lanka President January 2020. to form an alliance called the Premadasa, who is contesting as ranks and titles of two other Since his ascension, Vaji- Maithripala Sirisena, This was the clearest indica- Sri Lanka Nidahas Podujana the National Democratic Front ka’s brutal 25-year civil war palace staff . ralongkorn has sought greater Spictured, has said that he tion that Sirisena has planned Sandanaya will be signed today. (NDF) contender, have emerged in 2009. One of them was a former control of royal fi nances as would continue in active politics to enter Parliament through Sirisena and Rajapaksa will be as the two favourites. Premadasa is the son of late king’s guard and the other was well as some military units. after his term in offi ce was slated the National List at the end of named co-leaders of the party. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who president Ranasinghe Prema- a woman who was in a unit re- He has also dismissed many to end with the election of his his term as has been speculated A record 35 candidates served as the defence min- dasa, who ruled the country sponsible for the husbandry of palace offi cials to replace his successor following the Novem- for days. have fi led their nominations ister in his brother Mahinda with an iron fi st before he was royal dogs and animals. late father’s loyalists with his ber 16 election.“I prefer active Meanwhile, an agreement be- for the island nation’s eighth Rajapakse’s administration, assassinated by a Tamil suicide They were dismissed from own. politics to a life of retirement,” tween the Sri Lanka Podujana presidential election. oversaw the end of Sri Lan- bomber on May 1, 1993.

Street vendors Myanmar court jails satirical performers

Reuters It pokes fun at the fl aws wrongdoing in a case that ments and carries a maxi- Yangon and foibles of the social had been condemned by mum sentence of two years and political system. human rights groups as a in prison. During shows and a Fa- negative step in Myanmar’s The Thangyat tradition court in Myan- cebook broadcast, they faltering transition to features a mix of com- mar sentenced criticised the army’s share democracy. edy and slam poetry set Afi ve satirical per- of a quarter of the seats in One of the fi ve, to drums. formers to a year in jail parliament and shared pic- 28-year-old Zayar Lwin, Troupes complained with hard labour yester- tures of a dog in a military told reporters after the that they were told to day for shows that criti- jacket. verdict: “I do not recog- submit lyrics to a cen- cised the army’s role in “It is obvious that this nise the authority of the sor this year by the fi rst politics. is not unintentional, as judiciary. Whether it is democratic government The fi ve were arrested they performed in front of one day or a year makes in 50 years. after taking part in Thang- public with those phrases,” no diff erence.” According to Athan, yat, a centuries-old tra- Judge Tun Kyaw told the It was the fi rst of fi ve a free speech group, 26 dition during Myanmar’s court. “The troupe was cases brought by the mili- people were charged un- Bangladeshi street shoe vendors wait for customers in Dhaka yesterday. new year water festival in found guilty.” tary under law 505.A, der 505.A in the fi rst six April. The fi ve had denied any which covers public state- months of 2019. Gulf Times Thursday, October 31, 2019 17 ASIA/AUSTRALASIA China pushes higher ‘moral quality’ for its citizens in key conclave

AFP direction. On Sunday the gov- The texts urge citizens to avoid national interests must be dis- of ideology and morality. “We has resulted in a massive gender duced a list of 58 national “moral Beijing ernment published its “Outline pornography and vulgarity online, ciplined according to the law,” it must strengthen marital educa- gap, and Beijing is anxious about models” who exemplify patriot- for the Implementation of Citi- and follow correct etiquette when says. A separate set of behaviour- tion for young people, and put the potential social impact of ism and “lofty morality” for the zen Moral Construction in the raising the fl ag or singing the na- al guidelines published this week to full use the Communist Youth millions of unmarried men in the celebration of China’s 70th na- rom budgeting for rural New Era” — which advises read- tional anthem. Public institutions targeted China’s rural areas, and League, women’s federations, countryside. tional holiday on October 1. weddings to dressing ap- ers how to use the Internet, raise like libraries and youth centres must urged local governments to weed and other group organisations,” Zhang called for offi cial or- The latest round of moral Fpropriately, China’s Com- children, celebrate public holi- carry out “targeted moral educa- out “bad customs”. said Zhang. ganisations to be more closely guidelines update an earlier set munist Party has issued new days and behave while travelling tion” to improve people’s ideological These included abuse of the State broadcaster CCTV said involved in the lives of rural vil- published in 2001. “Money- guidelines to improve the “moral abroad. awareness and moral standards, ac- elderly as well as the practice of that the custom to spend a lot on lagers. The rules were published worship, hedonism, and extreme quality” of its citizens. Offi - The guidelines from the Cen- cording to the rules. The guideline extravagant weddings and funer- weddings and provide a house as Beijing holds The Fourth Ple- individualism have grown,” cials have released several sets tral Commission for Guiding also stresses patriotism and loyalty als, according to Zhang Zhiyong, and gifts for a new bride — often num of the Party’s Central Com- according to the 2001 guide- of guidelines this week along- Cultural and Ethical Progress to the motherland. an offi cial from the commission. beyond the means or poorer rural mittee, a closed-door meeting of lines. Eighteen years later, the side a secretive conclave of high- calls for building “Chinese spir- “People who have a servile Zhang said the most important families— was “putting pressure high-ranking offi cials where the refreshed guidelines listed the ranking offi cials in Beijing which it, Chinese values, and Chinese attitude to foreign countries, thing for “rural civility” is the on unmarried males”. China’s country’s roadmap and future di- same off ences — and described discusses the country’s future power”. damage national dignity and sell construction and improvement decades-long one-child policy rection is discussed. Beijing pro- them as “still outstanding”. Hong Kong braces for protests on Halloween

Reuters in Hong Kong, which returned Hong Kong from British to Chinese rule in 1997 under a “one country, two systems” formula intended to ong Kong is bracing for guarantee freedoms not seen on a rowdy and possibly the mainland. Hhugely dangerous Hal- Some are increasingly fo- loween tomorrow, when thou- cusing their fury on mainland sands of pro-democracy pro- Chinese in the city. China de- testers, many wearing banned nies meddling and has accused face masks, plan to combine foreign governments, including with fancy-dress clubbers in the the United States and Britain, of party district of Lan Kwai Fong. stirring up trouble. The protesters say they will Lam said she expected nega- march, without police permis- tive economic growth in the sion, from a park in the Cause- Asian fi nancial hub this year, way Bay shopping district in part as a result of the unrest. through the heaving bar streets “The increasingly violent real- of Wan Chai to the steep, nar- ity since June is hurting Hong row foothills of the Peak above Kong’s economy,” Lam said in Central. Every weekend, the a speech yesterday. “...what bars in Lan Kwai Fong spill on to started off as peaceful protests, the streets offi ce goers, clubbers a hallmark of Hong Kong’s rights and expatriate families, even and freedoms, have turned into without the activists who have violent acts by rioters.” A member of riot police talks with a protester during an anti-government thrown petrol bombs at police, With visitors deterred by rally in Hong Kong, China October 30, 2019. set fi res and trashed buildings Riot police members are deployed to disperse protesters during an anti-government rally in Hong Kong. months of violence, many small during fi ve months of unrest. fi rms across the city have al- A stampede at midnight on from wearing face masks under make it diffi cult for police to in a statement. “Members of ready closed or are struggling to cession, meaning two successive dition bill, have plunged the city New Year’s Eve in 1992, when a resuscitated British colonial- identify protesters. “Based on the public should avoid travel- turn a profi t. quarters of contraction. That into its biggest crisis in decades thousands had gathered, killed era emergency law, but few have past experience, such unau- ling to the concerned area when Lam’s gloomy forecast came is expected to be confi rmed by and also pose the biggest popu- at least 20 and wounded scores. taken any notice. thorised assembly will impose public disorder occurs.” Protest- two days after Financial Secre- Thursday’s third-quarter GDP list challenge to Chinese Presi- This month Hong Kong leader And Halloween masks have serious threat to public order ers are angry at what they see as tary Paul Chan said Hong Kong data. The protests, which start- dent Xi Jinping since he came to Carrie Lam banned protesters not been banned, which will and public safety,” police said Beijing’s increasing interference had slipped into a technical re- ed over a now-withdrawn extra- power in 2012.

Latest Australia Retrial starts for confi dante of South Korea’s ex-president shark attack sparks AFP rors in the judgements. In her off ences. The cases have high- Seoul fi rst court appearance in court lighted shady links between big in 14 months, Choi, 63, denied business and politics in South tourism concerns the accusations, claiming she Korea, with Park and Choi ac- new bribery trial opened did not play an infl uential role cused of taking bribes from cor- for the former confi dante in the Park government but only porate bigwigs in exchange for AFP region dropped more than 6% A of ousted South Korean “helped” her longtime friend preferential treatment. Sydney to 226,000 in the year ending president Park Geun-hye in while “living an ordinary life”. But Choi’s retrial is unlikely March 2019, the latest available connection with the sprawling “I can vow to the heavens I to result in a signifi cant change fi gures. Wheeler said tourism scandal that brought down her didn’t know any of the compa- to her initial verdict or sentence, ourism operators want operators were seeking govern- friend, media reported. nies,” she was quoted as say- independent attorney Shin aerial shark patrols to be ment funding for aerial patrols Choi Soon-sil -- who became ing by the South’s Yonhap news Jang-sik told AFP. Tintroduced in Australia’s of the Whitsundays as an “in- close to Park through her father, agency, adding: “I was not in any “The Supreme Court ordered Whitsunday Islands as they try terim measure” while research a shadowy religious fi gure -- re- way a secret power behind the a retrial because it saw that to stem falling visitor numbers is undertaken into sharks in the ceived a 20-year prison term last throne.” those who bribed Choi did so following a spate of attacks area, which had been consid- year for using her presidential Her defence team requested rather actively,” Shin said, “not along the Great Barrier Reef. ered safe for swimming. connections to force companies former president Park be sum- by Choi’s coercion”. An English tourist is recover- The latest attack comes just including Samsung to donate moned as a witness in the next “But that judgement won’t ing in hospital after his foot was over a month after the Queens- to foundations she controlled, hearing. No date has yet been Choi Soon-sil (centre), the woman at the centre of the South Korean much alter the equation in the ripped off by a shark on Tues- land state government removed among other charges. set for the retrial of Park, who political scandal and long-time friend of President Park Geun-hye, court ruling on her.” One of the day while another had his leg dozens of unmanned shark But the Supreme Court in is serving a 25-year jail term arrives for hearing arguments for South Korean President Park bribery charges Choi faces re- mauled in the same attack at a traps, known as “drum lines”, August sent both their cases, after being convicted last year Geun-hye’s impeachment trial at the Constitutional Court in Seoul. lates to three horses worth 3.4bn popular snorkelling spot in the from popular swimming beach- along with several others, back on bribery and abuse of power won (US$ 2.9m) that Samsung region. es after losing a court battle over to the Seoul High Court for re- charges. for Lee Jae-yong, the vice chair- Electronics, on charges of brib- Group donated for her daugh- In the past year there have its decades-old shark control trials, saying there had been er- Proceedings began last week man of tech giant Samsung ery, embezzlement and other ter’s equestrian training. been several shark attacks in programme. waters around the Whitsun- The Federal Court ruled that days, a chain of islands that sharks found alive on baits in the Hundreds of attracts both Australian and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park foreign tourists. In two sepa- had to be released -- which the Raring to go koalas feared rate incidents late last year, a government argued would be dead in Australia 12-year-old girl lost a leg and a too dangerous for its workers to man died of his injuries. do. After Tuesday’s attack, the bushfire Tourism Whitsundays CEO Queensland government an- Tash Wheeler said tourist num- nounced it would install 32 ad- Hundreds of koalas are feared bers had fallen in the past year, ditional drum lines just outside to have burned to death in partly as a result of the shark at- the protected area. an out-of-control bushfire on tacks. “Looking back over the The Humane Society Inter- Australia’s east coast, wildlife last 12 months I can certainly national, which launched the authorities said yesterday. say that there has been some court action, denied the most A bushfire believed to have impact to our industry in terms recent attack was linked to the been sparked by a lightning of visitation,” she told reporters. rolling back of “outdated” shark strike on Saturday some International visitors to the control practices. 400km north of Sydney has ravaged an area of over 2,000 hectares (4,942 acres) with ‘‘Backpacker tax illegaly targets foreigners’ authorities battling to bring it under control. Wildlife rescuers in northern Australia’s “backpacker tax” illegally targeted some foreign workers, a New South Wales state hold court ruled yesterday, leaving people who spent time in the country grave fears for a “very rare” on holiday working visas in line for tax rebates. From 2017, Canberra population of hundreds of applied a 15% levy for every dollar earned for two categories of work- koalas living in the fire zone. ing holiday visas linked to seasonal labour. In a landmark decision “The special importance of yesterday, a Brisbane court ruled the levy -- dubbeda the “backpacker those koalas is that they are tax” -- cannot be applied to a British woman due to a double taxation very genetically diverse,” Sue treaty between Australia and the UK. Ashton, president of the Port Similar agreements are also in place with the United States, Germany, Macquarie Koala Hospital, Finland, Chile, Japan, Norway and Turkey according to international told AFP. Her fears are that accounting firm Taxback.com. “That is a disguised form of discrimina- “hundreds” in the known koala tion based on nationality,” judge John Logan said. breeding area “have perished Australians begin paying tax once their annual income exceeds in the fire”. “It’s a national A$18,200. That was also the previous threshold for the working holi- tragedy because this koala day visas. The Australian Tax Off ice said it was considering whether to Hot air balloons displayed on a square during the 2019 Outdoor Sports Conference in Xingyi in China’s southwestern Guizhou province. population is so unique,” she appeal the decision. added. Gulf Times 18 Thursday, October 31, 2019 BRITAIN

No-deal Brexit risk persists, trade talks to be diffi cult: Barnier

Reuters stalemate after his fractious par- happen at the end of January, if the manding set of negotiations,” he and be extremely vigilant on... fi cult juncture. But after Brexit... with a special relationship, very Brussels liament refused to swiftly ratify British parliament failed to ratify said. “The time we have at hand social rights, environmental pro- we will need to re-establish all close,” Barnier said. “Brexit does his divorce deal with the EU. Johnson’s deal and London did not to conclude this negotiation will tection, state aid and obviously sorts of things.” not mean business as usual. “The risk of Brexit happen- get another delay on the divorce. be extremely short, 11 months. on issues of taxation. We want He said those included trade in “Brexit is breaking away from he European Union’s ing without a ratifi ed deal still It could also happen at the end Because of our geographic close- zero tariff s, zero quotas and zero goods, services and investment, almost 45 years of partnership.” Brexit negotiator Michel exists,” Barnier told a speech in of the status-quo transition period ness and our economic interde- dumping.” data protection, transport and But Barnier also stressed the TBarnier yesterday said the Brussels. “We still need to pre- envisaged after Brexit until the end pendence...we want to have solid Barnier said Johnson’s aim of energy, fi sheries, judicial and po- 27 EU states staying on together risk of Britain’s chaotic departure pare. In all member states, there of 2020, Barnier said, if no new guarantees on the level-playing getting a trade deal with no tariff s lice cooperation, foreign policy, must draw lessons from Brexit from the bloc without a divorce is a big diff erence in prepared- trade deal is agreed between the fi eld aspects.” or quotas was “insuffi cient” and security and defence. and seek to address their popula- agreement still existed, and that ness between bigger companies two sides by then and no extra time Barnier warned the bloc will that the fi rst “moment of truth” While he stressed the bloc tion’s anger and frustrations. future trade talks would be “dif- and SMEs. It’s not time to be- is given to achieve that. only give Britain as much access to assess whether more time was keen to keep Britain close in In a thinly veiled reference fi cult and demanding”. Barnier come complacent. Work with The Frenchman warned there to its single market after Brexit as was needed for trade talks would the all these fi elds, things would to inaccuracies spread by cam- spoke as Britain was headed for SMEs in particular needs to con- was precious little time between is justifi ed by London ensuring come next summer. change. paigners during Britain’s 2016 a December 12 national election tinue,” he said, referring to small the Brexit day and the end of that EU rules and standards are “Brexit is not a destination. It’s “Once the UK has left the EU, Brexit referendum, Barnier add- that Prime Minister Boris John- and medium enterprises. 2020 to agree a new trade deal. preserved. not an end in itself, at least not they cannot be treated as a mem- ed: “One of the lessons of Brexit son hopes will unlock the Brexit He said a no-deal split could “It will be a diffi cult and de- “We will keep a close watch for us. It’s a staging post, it’s dif- ber. They will be a third country is — tell the truth, quite simply.” Bercow steps down as Speaker today

Reuters that affiliation when he was London chosen to be Speaker by fellow lawmakers in 2009. Fond of long, wordy state- ouse of Commons ments — often incorporating Speaker John Bercow will obscure historical facts — he Hstep down today, ending has been accused of overstep- a 10-year term in which he has ping the mark and abandoning become a central player in Brit- the political neutrality of his ain’s protracted Brexit debate — office. feted by the “Remain” side but Not least on Brexit when his reviled by many Brexiteers. rulings on complex procedural Bercow, in charge of referee- points have allowed those op- ing debates and procedural dis- posed to the government’s putes, announced his retire- plans to add extra checks and ment last month, relinquishing balances to the Brexit process. his ornate wooden throne at the “The dilemmas you face mean heart of parliament’s debat- that, on occasion, you will some- ing chamber and a grace-and- times have to please some and favour home inside its Gothic not others, but it is becoming palace. remarkable how often you please His bellowing, often caus- one lot and not the other lot,” tic, put-downs of misbehav- lawmaker Bernard Jenkin, chair ing lawmakers and contorted of the committee that scrutinises cries of “Order! Order!” have the Speaker’s work, told Bercow Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn listens to staff as he visits Crawley Hospital in Crawley, south of London, yesterday ahead of the launch of a general election campaign. made him one of British poli- last week in a testy exchange. tics’ most recognisable figures Unsurprisingly, in a deeply — inspiring viral video clips divided parliament, Bercow’s replayed on news bulletins approach earned him as much around the world. praise as it did rancour. The three years since Brit- “You have stood up for par- ain voted to leave the European liament when it has to be stood Union have tested the limits of up for, and we thank you for PM, Corbyn trade blows the country’s unwritten con- that,” Labour Party Leader Jer- stitution as successive govern- emy Corbyn said. ments repeatedly clashed with Beyond Brexit, Bercow has rival lawmakers over the right led major reform of the anti- way to leave the bloc. quated procedures and tradi- Bercow, 56, has found tions inside parliament. himself, and sometimes put He turned a popular bar into a as parties gear up for polls himself, at the centre of big nursery for the children of staff moments in the Brexit tug-of- and ditched the Speaker’s tra- AFP ure out what it plans to do. cused the socialist Labour leader Britain’s fi rst December vote in for real change after years of war between the legislature ditional court dress for a busi- London Parliament now has up until of pushing an “economically nearly 100 years and third gen- Conservative and Liberal Demo- and the executive, habitually ness suit worn under a gown. January 31 to either lend its sup- disastrous” re-nationalisation eral election in four years fi nds crat cuts.” favouring scrutiny and debate But he has also courted con- port to Johnson’s divorce deal or programme and “continually to his party splintered by bitter in- Labour’s Brexit promise is to over allowing the government troversy, surviving an outcry rime Minister Boris John- even push for a second EU ref- fl ip-fl op one way or the other” fi ghting. seize power and then strike a control of the exit process. over expense claims — includ- son yesterday locked horns erendum that might help Britain on Brexit. Pro-EU supporters from big more European-friendly agree- Prime Minister Boris John- ing costly use of official cars Pwith his rivals in a fi ery de- move past its biggest political Corbyn shot back by claiming cities have been at loggerheads ment with Brussels that pre- son yesterday paid tennis-lover and overseas trips — and fac- bate, setting the tone for an un- crisis since World War II. that the Conservative prime min- with Brexit-backing groups such serves many of the existing trade Bercow a backhanded com- ing allegations of bullying from predictable early general election Weary leaders in Europe will ister’s post-Brexit trade proposals as the powerful trade unions. ties. pliment, describing him not former members of staff, which aimed at breaking Britain’s pro- hope the vote ends a year of un- were selling out British interests to Some of Corbyn’s chief lieu- It would then let voters choose just as a “ruthless” umpire of he has denied. tracted Brexit deadlock. certainty that has chilled the US President Donald Trump. tenants have further suggested between that deal and the option parliamentary procedure, but He promised his family he Johnson’s battle of wits with business investment climate and “Despite his denials, (the Na- the party should pick a new lead- of simply staying in the EU. a sometimes cruel commenta- would not contest another the main opposition Labour Par- required costly preparations for tional Health Service) is up for er should it fl ounder at the polls. Government fi gures indicated tor and a partisan player in his election and his replacement ty leader Jeremy Corbyn came a the possibility of a chaotic “no- grabs by US corporations in a But the 70-year-old Corbyn, a there had been a spike in voter own right: “Peppering every will be elected next week, with day after parliament backed the deal” end to the 46-year rela- Trump-style trade deal,” Corbyn veteran socialist, is an energetic registration since Tuesday, with part of the chamber with your the favourite currently deputy premier’s call for Britain’s third tionship. said. campaigner who nearly managed people aged 18 to 34 leading the own thoughts and opinions like speaker Lindsay Hoyle — a 62 vote in four years. Johnson said at a record- Corbyn’s attack line under- to score an upset victory in the way, although their intentions some uncontrollable tennis- year-old member of the oppo- The December 12 poll was de- breaking 71-minute question- scores Labour’s desire to shift the last general election in 2017. are diffi cult to predict. ball machine.” sition Labour Party who says cided two days before Britain was and-answer session with MPs campaign’s focus to traditional “The choice at this election Announcements by dozens of Bercow was elected as a the Speaker must be independ- due to leave the European Union the “only way to deliver a great social issues and away from its couldn’t be clearer,” he said yes- sitting MPs that they would not member of the ruling Conserv- ent and fair, and promises to and a few hours after Brussels Brexit is to vote for this party past diffi culties with the defi ning terday. be seeking re-election have also ative Party in 1997, but gave up work to unite parliament. granted London more time to fi g- and for this government”. He ac- issue of UK politics. “People have a chance to vote complicated forecasts. LibDems ‘could win Braine resigns hundreds of seats’ as Ukip leader Guardian News and Media waste time on internal confl ict, London but I have found myself power- Guardian News and Media that could push through Brexit. within a small swing of winning less to prevent a purge of good London John McDonnell, the shadow hundreds of seats, because the members from the party,” Braine chancellor, told broadcasters that political landscape is so totally he Ukip leader, Richard wrote. Labour expected to confound the changed by what has happened in Braine, has resigned “I had believed that Ukip was he Liberal Democrats are polls as it did in the 2017 election, our country post-Brexit.” T after less than three a highly democratic party, but I “within a small swing of and warned that Swinson’s Lib- Neither Johnson nor Corbyn months in the post after a have not been able to stop po- Twinning hundreds of seats”, Dems could go into coalition with were “fi t to lead our country and clash with the party’s national litical interference in Ukip bal- Jo Swinson has claimed, as the the Conservatives. be prime minister”, Swinson ar- executive, leaving Ukip seek- lots. I cannot therefore stand main parties began pushing out Swinson rejected the idea of sup- gued. “And I know there are mil- ing its seventh permanent publicly for Ukip with a clear key messages before what is billed porting either Boris Johnson or Jer- lions of people out there who are leader since 2016. conscience.” as the most volatile general elec- emy Corbyn in government and told longing for a positive alternative A party spokesman confi rmed The row has formed part of a tion in living memory. BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that is looking to the future.” that Braine had said he would wider tussle over the future of Although the offi cial campaign that her party’s “stop Brexit” mes- Speaking on Sky News, Han- step down. It comes just over a the party following Braine’s elec- does not begin until parliament is sage was resonating in “seats with cock said a vote for the LibDems week after Braine said the na- tion in August to replace Gerard dissolved next week, the near-cer- all sorts of permutations”. or another party was “a vote to put tional executive had tried to Batten as leader. tain passage through parliament of She said the local elections in Corbyn in Downing Street and have suspend him amid a struggle for Herriot and some other na- a bill calling a December 12 poll has May showed that the party could more referenda and more block- control of the party. tional executive members had prompted party election machines win in areas beyond its current age and delay”. He said the Labour One source said Ukip appeared hoped the election would mean to swing immediately into action. scope of 19 MPs, a total boosted leader would be “completely unable to be on its last legs as a party, an end to policies seen under MPs voted on Tuesday night by defections and a byelection win to unblock the deadlock, because he and might potentially fi eld no Batten, who appointed the far- to pass the bill, unblocking a long after the LibDems won 12 seats in can’t govern without SNP, without candidates in the general elec- right activist Tommy Robinson deadlock. It will now be sent to the 2017 election. the Liberal Democrats.” tion in December. as an adviser. the Lords and is set to become law Challenged on whether she Speaking later to the BBC, Han- In a resignation letter seen However, Braine has endorsed within days. could really move the party into cock dismissed the idea of a notable by the Kipper Central website, Batten’s views. While Swinson took to the government from such a low base, LibDem surge. He said: “There’s no Braine said his eff orts to lead the The national executive re- airwaves to talk up her party’s Swinson said: “This is a volatile chance of them getting a major- party had been “met with pre- sponded by seeking to bar Bat- chances of making a signifi cant time in politics. Nobody needs to ity. Instead, if you want to move this emptive opposition” from senior ten-associated members from breakthrough, the Health Secre- look at received wisdom or what’s country forward, get things moving, fi gures including the Ukip chair, standing in just-completed elec- tary, Matt Hancock, insisted the happened in the past. there’s only way to do it, and that’s Liberal Democrats leader Jo Swinson speaks outside Parliament in Kirstan Herriot. tions to the body, as part of an ef- Conservatives were the only party “Our polling show that we are by voting Conservative.” London yesterday. “I did not join Ukip in order to fort to seize control. Gulf Times Thursday, October 31, 2019 19

BRITAIN BBC mounts defence in Samira Ahmed equal pay case

Guardian News and Media Ahmed arrived at the central at the broadcaster, Jeremy Vine, than double that of Points of View. tribunal claimed the two viewer journalist, which means it has al- by Tina Daheley, who receives London London tribunal to give evidence was paid £3,000 an episode for In response, the BBC has taken feedback programmes were diff er- ways commanded a much lower £400 an episode for providing a yesterday accompanied by sup- presenting Points of View. Both the unusual decision to play down ent shows for diff erent audiences, salary. voiceover. Ahmed will claim that porters including fellow BBC pre- are short television programmes the impact of its own output. It which justifi ed the diff erent sala- The broadcaster said Vine the decision to cut the presenting he BBC has said its rolling senters Jane Garvey, Richard Coles of similar length that deal with also said the only reason the cor- ries paid to their presenters. The earned substantially more because fee for Points of View is related to news channel is a “rela- and Aasmah Mir, in the fi rst major viewer feedback about BBC out- poration repeated the Newswatch corporation claims Points of View of his star status across the broad- her employment tribunal claim. Ttively niche” service that employment tribunal case since put, with Ahmed claiming the pay programme on BBC One on a Sat- is an entertainment show which caster’s output, having negoti- Ahmed, who is being sup- airs little-watched programmes, the corporation become embroiled diff erence is an example of gender urday morning was to “fi ll out the has always attracted high-paid, ated a bumper pay contract in early ported by the National Union of in an attempt to convince an em- in the gender pay row. discrimination. programme at the weekend”, sug- high-profi le presenters who have 2008 when an unnamed commer- Journalists, has already settled ployment tribunal that presenter Ahmed is bringing the case As part of her case, Ahmed’s gesting it was only watched be- the skills to deal with a topic in a cial broadcaster was off ering the equal pay claims with the BBC Samira Ahmed should not receive against the BBC on the basis that team have said Newswatch at- cause viewers had already turned “light-hearted way”. By contrast, Eggheads host a salary of about for her work on Radio 3 and Radio more than £500,000 in back pay she was paid £440 an episode for tracts about 1.6mn combined on their TV in the hope of seeing Newswatch is a “serious pro- £1mn to leave the BBC. 4, where she was paid up to 50% for alleged equal pay discrimina- presenting Newswatch since 2012, viewers across the BBC News BBC Breakfast. gramme, which deals with mat- Vine stopped presenting Points less than her male colleagues tion. at a time when her male equivalent channel and BBC One – more The BBC’s initial evidence at the ters seriously”, presented by a news of View last year and was replaced over several years.

Meghan Edenbridge Bonfire Celebrations urged to Combustible end bitter family feud cladding on Daily Mail London

ith the Duchess of Sussex having cut Grenfell Tower Wcontact with her fa- ther, Thomas Markle, an unlikely peacemaker has stepped for- ward. Meghan’s half-brother, Tho- mas Markle Jr, has made an im- passioned plea for an end to their ‘key to blaze’ long-running family feud. “I have been a bad son and a Reuters Chelsea local authority, which housing more widely”, pledging bad brother to Meg,” he admitted London owned the building, and the to implement a series of recom- from his home town of Grants companies involved in the re- mendations made by Moore- Pass, Oregon. furbishment, had questions to Bick to improve many aspects of “I just want to put things right ombustible materials answer. fi re safety rules. before it’s too late.” used to refurbish Lon- “This fi nding adds to our “We must expose and fi x the The 53-year-old reveals that Cdon’s Grenfell Tower were determination to see criminal failings that allowed an other- he’s been in contact with their central to the catastrophic chain charges brought against those re- wise safe building to become so father and apologised for pub- of events in June 2017 that turned sponsible for turning our homes dangerous,” Johnson said. licly criticising Meghan. an ordinary kitchen fi re into an into a death trap,” the group said Many buildings across Britain “I’ve had no business mak- inferno that killed 71 people, an in a statement. are still covered with cladding ing things worse between him, offi cial inquiry said yesterday. A criminal investigation into similar to that used at Grenfell. Meghan and Harry, and I want us The blaze at Grenfell Tower, a the disaster is ongoing, but police Johnson said work to remove all, but especially them, to be a 23-storey social housing block have said no decision on charges dangerous cladding from high- proper family and reconcile.” owned by one of London’s rich- will be made until the public in- rise blocks had been completed He said he wanted the Duch- est local authorities, shocked quiry process has concluded. or was scheduled in all gov- ess to make amends with her Britain and threw up a range of Phase 2 of the inquiry, expected ernment-owned buildings but estranged dad. “I hope Meg- disturbing questions about how to last about two years, will seek to progress was slower in the pri- han gets in contact but my dad the building had been allowed to establish how, why and by whom vate sector. needs to prepare himself for it become a tinderbox. the decision to install the fl amma- He said the government would never happening. She did not “Grenfell Tower was home to ble cladding system was made. release an extra £600mn to go get in contact after his heart at- a strong and vibrant community In the House of Commons, towards the removal of risky tack.” that was torn apart by the fi re,” Prime Minister Boris Johnson cladding. He adds: “But what she needs said inquiry chairman Martin and members of parliament Located in the wealthy area of to remember is that she is only in Moore-Bick in an introduction marked the publication of the Kensington, Grenfell Tower was Buckingham Palace with Harry to his report on phase 1 of the in- Phase 1 report with a minute’s home to a close-knit community because of her dad. He paid for quiry, which focused on events silence. that traced its roots to places as her education and fancy clothes. on the night of the blaze. Johnson said there was a need diverse as Britain, Afghanistan, He helped her become the ex- Having started in a fourth- for “a change in our approach to Lebanon, Morocco, Gambia, ceptional woman she is and I beg fl oor fl at due to an electrical fault fi re safety and indeed to social Ethiopia, Italy and Trinidad. her to recognise that.” in a refrigerator, the fi re spread Before Thomas Markle Sr wed to the outside of the building Meghan’s mother, Doria Rag- and set it ablaze, racing up to Fridge-maker faces crippling legal battle land, he was married for 11 years the roof in less than half an hour to his university sweetheart, and quickly engulfi ng the entire Home appliance firm fire engulfed the building Roslyn Loveless. They have two building. Whirlpool faces a multi- after burning through into the children: Thomas Markle Jr and The speed with which the million pound legal fight after tower’s combustible cladding. Samantha, 55. fl ames spread was due to the fact the Grenfell report found a During the public inquiry, It’s not the fi rst time that Tho- that the tower’s external walls faulty fridge-freezer sparked Whirlpool was accused of a mas Jr, a window fi tter, has tried had been fi tted during a refur- the inferno. Investigators ‘desperate’ attempt to dodge to unite his divided family. This bishment completed in 2016 were unable to establish the blame by suggesting the fire summer, he urged the Queen and with a combustible cladding and exact nature of the electrical could have been caused by Prince Charles to “step in” and insulation system that acted as failure in the Hotpoint a cigarette. Rajiv Menon QC, tell Prince Harry’s wife to “make fuel, Moore-Bick said. machine, supplied by the US lawyer for Kebede, called it amends” to heal the rift with her He said there was compelling manufacturer, but the report a “transparent attempt by father. evidence the cladding did not said Behailu Kebede, who lived a multinational corporation He had spoken of his joy af- Andrea Deans, author of the 11-metre eff igy of Speaker of the House of Commons John Bercow, comply with regulations. in the fourth-floor flat where to try to avoid liability and ter Meghan became engaged to poses after her piece was unveiled yesterday, ahead of the Edenbridge Bonfire Celebrations, in Grenfell United, a group rep- the blaze started, was not to minimise reputational damage Harry. “I couldn’t be happier for Edenbridge, Britain, yesterday. resenting survivors and bereaved blame. The ‘relatively modest’ and financial loss”. her,” he said in 2017. families, said the Kensington and

Trust reception Brain illness spread Bride-to-be who stole by ticks reaches UK stag party cash spared jail Daily Mail ever, the risk to the general public London is currently assessed to be very low.” Daily Mail Jet2.com booking confi rmation wanted nothing to do with her. Ticks in England are already London form. He then received a text message icks carrying a potentially known to carry Lyme disease She was also ordered to pay stating, erroneously, she was deadly brain disease have – thought to aff ect up to 3,000 £3,600 compensation to her pregnant. Tbeen found in Britain for people. Lyme disease can cause ‘deceitful and callous’ victims. Judge Nicholas Barker In a victim impact statement, the fi rst time. fl u-like symptoms and intense bride-to-be conned her told her: “On the face of it you Mahone said: “I trusted her, I Scientists discovered ticks fatigue, being linked to menin- Afi ance out of £11,000 he have acted in a deceitful and loved her at the time and put all with the encephalitis virus on gitis in severe cases. The ticks, had saved for his stag do in Ibiza. callous way. You must have of my trust in her. I’ve lost con- deer in Thetford Forest, Nor- which are found throughout Eu- Rachel Doran forged travel known the theft would be found fi dence, I fi nd it diffi cult to talk folk, and on the border between rope and Scandinavia, as well as documents for Chris Mahone out. You did all this at a time to women because I’m scared of Hampshire and Dorset. But the Asia and Russia, are believed to and 30 friends, pretending she you were preparing for your getting hurt. risk of infection is ‘very low’, ac- have come to Britain on migrat- had booked their trip beginning marriage.” “My friends are gutted. They cording to Public Health Eng- ing birds. 10 days before the wedding was Doran and Mahone had known don’t want the money back. They land, which made the threat As well as living on deer, they due to take place. each other since school. They just want justice done. I do not public for the fi rst time. can be found on dogs and live They only realised she had de- were engaged in 2015 and were want to see Rachel again. I just Most people who are bitten by in undergrowth. It is believed ceived them when they arrived at due to marry in September 2017. want her to know what devasta- ticks carrying the virus have no that the ticks have spread from Leeds Bradford Airport for their But Doran began dipping into tion she left behind. She let me symptoms, or mild ones like fl u, Asia because climate change has fl ight to fi nd there were no tickets her fi ance’s stag party fund, the down at a time when we were but up to 10% suff er neurologi- made conditions in Europe more in their names. court heard. She gambled and supposed to be happy and look- cal symptoms, which range from habitable. Doran had even kissed Mahone applied for loans in a bid to cover ing forward to living together as poor co-ordination to psychosis. Dr Ava Easton, of the En- goodbye as he set off from their her theft. man and wife.” Infected children can devel- cephalitis Society, said: “People home in Cleator Moor, Cumbria. One of Mahone’s friends ar- Kim Whittlestone, defend- op meningitis, while adults are living or walking in wooded or But she had stolen the £360-a- rived at the airport to fi nd there ing, said Doran, who has a new more likely to suff er swelling of rural areas where ticks carry- head her fi ance of two years and were no tickets and no hotel partner and works in a factory, the brain. Up to one in 50 people ing this disease have been found his friends had paid into a kitty, booking, said prosecutor Gerard suffered three miscarriages in who fall ill after being bitten by a should wear long trousers and then frittered the money away, Rogerson. “It was then it dawned the 14 months before the stag tick carrying European encepha- sleeves, use insect repellent, Carlisle Crown Court heard. on Mahone what was going on,” do, which may have affected her litis will die. inspect their skin for ticks and Doran, 32, was given a he said. state of mind. Doran had not set Queen Elizabeth II attends a reception at Buckingham Palace Dr Nick Phin, of Public Health remove them. Another form of 15-month suspended jail sen- Mahone tried to ring Doran but out to steal. “It was a drip, drip in London to celebrate the work of The Queen Elizabeth England, said: “These are early protection is a vaccine available tence after she pleaded guilty to she did not answer. She rang later that got out of control,” she Diamond Jubilee Trust. research fi ndings and indicate from GPs, pharmacies and travel stealing £11,160 and forging a “wanting to talk” but was told he said. the need for further work. How- health providers.” Gulf Times 20 Thursday, October 31, 2019 EUROPE

IN FROM THE COLD DEFENCE NEW INFORMATION RESCUE CASH-STRAPPED 12 migrants found alive Russia’s newest nuclear sub 1948 mystery death of Polish zoo to take in tigers Ukraine farmers protest in a refrigerated truck test fires ballistic missile diplomat to be probed stranded at the border farmland sale reform

Belgian police yesterday found 12 migrants alive Russia’s newest nuclear submarine yesterday The mysterious death of Czechoslovak foreign A Polish zoo said yesterday it would take in nine Around 2,000 people, most of them farmers, in a refrigerated truck at a motorway parking successfully test fired a Bulava intercontinental minister Jan Masaryk seven decades ago tigers left stranded at the border with Belarus on rallied yesterday in Kyiv to protest a government area in northern Belgium after the driver alerted ballistic missile from the White Sea off Russia’s will once again be re-investigated after new a gruelling journey from Italy to Russia in which plan to sell its farmland, fearing a foreign takeover. the authorities, a federal police spokeswoman northwestern coast, the defence ministry said. information came to light, the state attorney in one of the animals has died. The ambush of The government said last month it would allow said. The driver, who was transporting fruit and The Knyaz Vladimir, or Prince Vladimir, fired the Prague said. According to yesterday’s edition of tigers, which originally numbered 10 when they the sale of the land — which has been available vegetables, called police after he found 12 adult missile from underwater that landed on target the Pravo daily, state attorney Michal Muravsky set off on October 22, was left in “nightmare” only for rent since the Soviet period — starting men — 11 Syrians and one of Sudanese origin — in on the Kamchatka peninsula in far eastern said a recently uncovered audio recording led conditions when their truck was barred from next year to boost investment. “If Ukrainian land the truck yesterday morning after a stop for the Russia, the ministry said. The defence ministry him to reopen the case into Masaryk’s death entering Belarus on October 26. “The tigers are is put up for sale, Ukrainians will be pushed out night. Police took them to the Immigration Off ice in said the “missile’s flight went according to on March 10, 1948, shortly after the Communist extremely exhausted...The battle begins to keep by the Americans, Chinese and Russians who the city of Antwerp. All were in good health, police plan” and it landed at the set time. Launched Party took power in a coup. Masaryk’s body was them alive...We don’t know how many will make will be ready to buy it,” said farmer Oleksandr said. A spokeswoman for the federal police said in 2017, the Prince Vladimir submarine is the found outdoors underneath his second-storey it,” the zoo in the western city of Poznan said. Klepach, who came from the south of the country the prosecutor’s off ice in Antwerp had opened an first upgraded model of Russia’s Borei class of apartment’s bathroom window. Prior to the Local media reported that the tigers were meant to protest. The land would “be acquired by investigation into the incident, which occurred on ballistic missile submarines. It is to enter service end of Communist rule in 1989, his death was to be a gift from a breeding facility to a zoo in foreigners, they have the money,” said Valentyna motorway E34 near the town of Turnhout. with the northern fleet in December. attributed to an accident or possibly suicide. Russia’s Dagestan Republic. Zemliana, a farmer from Kharkiv.

Bosnian Germany to tighten hate speech Serb jailed for killing and gun laws to fi ght far right Muslims Reuters AFP It came after the arrival of more diffi cult for fi rearms to land in the Sarajevo Berlin than one mn asylum-seekers since hands of criminals. 2015 fuelled far-right propaganda, and The domestic intelligence watchdog gives companies such as Twitter and will review arms purchases to make Bosnian court yester- he German government yes- Facebook 24 hours to remove posts sure the buyer is not a known sympa- day jailed a former Bos- terday approved a draft law to that openly violate German law after thiser with radical movements. A nian Serb soldier for Tcrack down on the far right, they are fl agged by users. The measures come three weeks 20 years for setting ablaze 57 three weeks after a deadly attack by Detractors have criticised the law as after a right-wing extremist who had Muslim Bosniaks, of whom 26 an alleged neo-Nazi targeting a syna- curbing free speech and putting inter- posted a racist, misogynistic and an- including a two-day-old baby gogue. net companies in the role of censors. ti-Semitic manifesto online tried and died, near the eastern town Chancellor Angela Merkel’s cabinet The new legislation goes further, failed to storm a synagogue in the east- of Visegrad early in Bosnia’s signed off on a raft of measures that compelling Internet companies to fl ag ern city of Halle on the holiest day of 1992-95 war. in particular target weapons sales and problematic content including death the Jewish calendar. Radomir Susnjar, 64, known hate speech online. threats and incitement of racial hatred When he was unable to blast open as Lalco, was also found guilty of The bill must still be approved by to police. the locked door of the temple, he shot robbery and illegal detention of parliament. Law enforcement authorities will and killed two non-Jewish Germans — civilians, the court said. “The threat from far-right ex- have the power to order online plat- one on the street outside and another The group of Muslim Bosniaks tremism and far-right terrorism, and forms to provide them with user data at a Turkish snack shop. had been seized after an attack with them anti-Semitism, is high in in these cases for possible criminal Seehofer noted the fact that his on the village of Koritnik and Germany and we can’t stress it often prosecution. weapons — reportedly built using a 3D locked in a house that was set enough,” Interior Minister Horst See- “It has to be clear that the Internet is printer — repeatedly failed to fi re had ablaze with an accelerant and hofer told a news conference. not a lawless zone and that while free prevented a potential “massacre”. explosives while Susnjar and Germany had already in 2017 passed speech reigns in the digital as well as “I don’t even want to imagine what other Bosnian Serb Army mem- one of the most restrictive laws in the the analogue world, it reaches its lim- might have happened in Halle if we bers shot at it to prevent anyone world to combat racist and incendiary its when it breaks the criminal code,” had American-style gun laws” See- fl eeing. speech online, requiring social media Justice Minister Christine Lambrecht hofer said, referring to the far less re- (From left) German Family Minister Franziska Giff ey, German Justice Minister Christine “The attack resulted in the giants to remove illegal content or risk told reporters. strictive weapons legislation in the Lambrecht and German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer present in Berlin yesterday killing of 25 civilians and a two- fi nes of up to 50mn euros ($56mn). The measures will also make it more United States. the government’s new measures to fight right-wing extremism. day-old baby whose remains were never found,” the court said in a statement. One civilian sustained serious injuries while others managed to escape. Hundreds join protest camp Susnjar had lived in France for many years before being tracked down and arrested on a Bosnian over Catalan separatist crisis warrant. He was held in custody there for four years before being extra- AFP peaceful movement turned violent. dited to Bosnia last year. Barcelona “The sentence was a tipping point which Bosnian Serbs Milan and Sre- caused us to stand up to this constant vio- doje Lukic were sentenced by lation of our rights,” 24-year-old protester the International Criminal Tri- undreds of young people, mostly Jaume Maeso told AFP. bunal for the Former Yugosla- students, set up a protest camp in The initiative began a day after pro-in- via (ICTY) in 2012 to life and 27 HBarcelona yesterday over the jail- dependence student organisations began years in prison respectively for ing of Catalan separatist leaders and to de- an indefi nite strike, prompting confronta- the same crimes. mand a self-determination referendum. tions between those wanting to attend lec- Bosnian Serb forces, helped Set up in the city’s central University tures and others manning a picket line. by the now-defunct Serb- Square, the improvised camp was made up The sentences were criticised by all sev- dominated Yugoslav People’s of around 50 tents decorated with separa- en of the region’s public universities, who Army (JNA) and Serbian para- tist fl ags and banners, many bearing the issued a rare manifesto condemning the militaries, committed atrocities slogan: “We are the October 14 generation”. “repression and erosion of freedoms and against Muslims in eastern Bos- That was the date Spain’s top court rights” and demanding the “immediate re- nia early in the confl ict as part handed down heavy prison sentences to lease of those unjustly convicted”. of their bid to create exclusively nine Catalan leaders who were convicted of But the move was denounced as Serb territories. sedition for organising a banned referen- “strange” in a joint statement by 800 uni- Around 100,000 people died dum and a short-lived declaration of inde- versity professors from Catalonia and oth- in the war, a large majority of pendence in 2017. er regions, who demanded its immediate them Bosniaks. The ruling unleashed a wave of mass withdrawal. The ICTY, set up to prosecute protest across this wealthy northeastern Writing on Twitter, Pedro Duque, an as- atrocities committed during region, with tens of thousands joining daily tronaut who is also Spain’s minister of uni- the breakup of Yugoslavia in demonstrations that by night deteriorated versities, threw his full support behind the the 1990s, closed its doors late into violent clashes with police. lecturers’ position. in 2017, having tried 161 sus- The worst unrest took place in the days “The ideas held by some must not be al- pects. following the verdict, with more than lowed to become a muzzle for others. No to Lower-ranking cases have Pro-independence protesters hold placards reading “sit and talk” and “release political prisoners” as they demonstrate 600 people injured and over 200 ar- ideological control and yes to coexistence been handled by the Bosnian war yesterday in Viladecans, southeastern Spain. rests as a fringe elements of the formerly in universities,” he wrote. crimes court. Energy deals on menu as Putin visits closest EU ally Hungary

By Peter Murphy, AFP Orban with the word “Dictators”. tant leader he is,” said Andras Racz, sia for around 85% of its energy Budapest Meanwhile pro-Putin sym- a Russia expert with the German needs, the pair are also due to pathisers from the local Syr- Council on Foreign Relations. sign a major gas supply deal. ian community erected Russian, “But it is equally symbolic that They will also fi nalise a joint ussian President Vladimir Syrian and Hungarian fl ags at a Putin is the only important lead- consortium project to make rail- Putin arrived yesterday in main junction along Putin’s route er doing so, no one from the EU way carriages for Egypt and dis- RBudapest for trade and en- to the venue. or Nato is,” he told AFP. cuss the headquarters move to ergy talks with nationalist Prime “Orban presents himself as the Next week and Turkish Presi- Budapest of a controversial Rus- Minister Viktor Orban, the latest bridge between the East and the dent Recep Tayyip Erdogan visits sian-led development bank. in a regular series of meetings West,” said Peter Kreko, director Orban in Budapest, soon after Called “Putin’s Trojan horse” with his closest ally in the EU. of Budapest-based think tank praising the Hungarian for his by critics, the International In- Putin’s proximity to an EU and Political Capital. “support” of Ankara’s military vestment Bank (IIB)’s shift to an Nato member state leader has “Even if Hungary is a member operation in Syria. EU capital is seen by some ob- unsettled Western powers. of the Euro-Atlantic alliance, he Orban has argued that Hunga- servers, including the US, as po- Orban, a self-styled “illiberal” opens to the East,” he told AFP. ry’s national interest lies in ally- tentially enabling spying activity strongman and anti-immigra- During a visit to Moscow last ing with Turkey to avoid it send- by Russia. tion fi gurehead for national- year, Orban denounced EU sanc- ing millions of Syrian refugees The bank fi rmly denies the ists around Europe and beyond, tions on Russia over its annexa- currently in the country towards claims, while Budapest says has adopted a policy of “Eastern tion of Crimea. Europe. hosting the IIB will help Hungary opening” in recent years. Orban held an anti-Russian Yesterday’s agenda was to become an international fi nan- He has tasked his foreign min- stance before becoming premier cover talks on trade and energy cial hub. istry with striking trade deals in in 2010, but now calls his foreign relations — primarily the joint Kreko said there were “in- countries such as China, Russia policy a “pragmatic” courting of project to expand Hungary’s only creasing signs that the Hunga- and Turkey, a strategy that has regional powers. nuclear plant at Paks, south of ry-Russia relationship is highly seen the 55-year-old accused of Brushing off western criticism Budapest. asymmetrical,” Kreko said. cosying up to autocrats and dic- as “hypocrisy”, he often cites In 2014, Orban signed a 10bn The IIB headquarters move, the tators. French and German business and euro ($11bn) loan deal with Putin Egypt train carriages deal, and a Near Orban’s offi ce where he political ties with Moscow. to build two reactors at the facil- separate expensive refurbishment will meet Putin, some opposition Putin’s regular visits to Orban ity, but the two sides have agreed of Budapest metro carriages by a protesters unfurled a large ban- allow the latter to “demonstrate to to renegotiate the loan terms. Russian fi rm are “good for Russia, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban greet members of their ner, showing images of Putin and his own electorate what an impor- With Hungary relying on Rus- bad for Hungary,” he said. delegations during a meeting in Budapest yesterday. Gulf Times Thursday, October 31, 2019 21 INDIA Chidambaram seeks interim bail on health grounds

IANS has lost 7.5kg since his arrest on tines was due to Crohns disease. rhoea, fatigue, weight loss and ing supplements regularly. the applicant is likely to be more Money Laundering Act on October New Delhi August 21, and was taken to hos- “The applicant’s (Chidambar- malnutrition. Chidambaram needs to be susceptible to contracting other 16 by Enforcement Directorate. pital fi ve-times while in custody am) regular doctor has further His lawyers also told the court placed in a sterile environment, infections and diseases. It is sub- He is being probed for his al- – on October 7, 23, 25, 26 and Oc- indicated that he needs immedi- that Chidambaram is under the lawyers said, adding the mitted that with the onset of cold leged involvement in irregu- ormer fi nance minister P tober 28. ate medical attention in a sterile treatment and medication for former minister is currently on weather, the applicant’s health is larities in granting the Foreign Chidambaram yesterday In his interim bail plea fi led by environment including a change several ailments, including coro- a liquid diet and considering his more vulnerable,” the lawyers said. Investment Promotion Board Ffi led a petition in the Delhi lawyers Arshdeep Singh and Ak- of diet to a bland and sterile one,” nary artery disease and hyper- age and medical condition, there They also said that Chidambar- (FIPB) approval to INX Media High Court seeking interim bail shat Gupta, Chidambaram said the lawyers said. tension for 17 years for which he is a high likelihood of his condi- am will abide by any conditions during his term as the fi nance in the INX Media case on health that after his condition deterio- Chidambaram, 74, is suff ering has been taking regular medica- tion deteriorating unless he is imposed by the court while con- minister. grounds. rated, his medical reports were from Crohn’s disease since 2017, tion. He is also suff ering from ir- treated by his regular doctor. sidering his interim bail. However, the ED is yet to con- The court will hear the petition sent to his family doctor in Hy- which causes infl ammation in ritable bowel disease since 2014 “It is known that steroids lower Chidambaram is in judicial cus- front him with some of the other today. derabad who said an infl amma- the digestive tract and can lead and Vitamin D defi ciency since immunity and as such, in the ab- tody till November 13 following accused including the then FIPB The veteran Congress leader tion in former minister’s intes- to abdominal pain, severe diar- 2014 for which he has been tak- sence of adequate precautions, his arrest under the Prevention of offi cials, sources said. EU lawmakers link Kashmir crisis to terror, support India

DPA ism. We would like the interna- Srinagar tional community to work jointly against terrorism.” Five workers were shot dead by group of European Par- militants in the Kulgam district liament members who on Tuesday, the opening day of Atoured Jammu and Kash- the lawmakers’ two-day visit, mir yesterday said the prob- marking the deadliest single-day lems in the troubled region were attack by insurgents in recent linked to terrorism and support- months. ed New Delhi’s eff orts to restore The European lawmakers also peace. called India’s changes to its con- The European lawmakers, stitution to change Kashmir’s many of them from right-wing status an “internal issue” and parties, were the fi rst foreign hoped it would bring greater de- delegation to visit the region velopment and uplift people’s since India stripped it of its lives. semi-autonomous status in Au- EU diplomats in New Delhi A Kashmir girl rides her cycle past security force personnel standing guard in front of closed shops in a street in Srinagar, yesterday. gust and split it into two federally clarifi ed that the members of administered territories. parliament were not part of an The 23-member delegation offi cial parliamentary delegation that toured the region to assess and the visit was organised in a the situation on the ground told private capacity. select media in Srinagar that it Malosse said some Indian “fully supports India in its ef- news outlets had given a wrong forts for lasting peace and end of perspective on their visit, saying terror.” they had been presented as “fas- Jammu and Kashmir to The visit has attracted con- cists or Islamaphobes,” which troversy as Indian media and was “absolutely not the case.” political leaders allege that the The European lawmakers government invited the Europe- toured Srinagar and took a boat an lawmakers to get an endorse- ride on the Dal Lake under heavy ment of New Delhi’s stand as security, amid a shutdown in well as to counter criticism over parts of the state. be formally split today Kashmir. They met with army offi cials The European lawmakers re- as well as civil society members Reuters sisting of Jammu and Kashmir separatists fi ghting for Kashmir’s Truckers involved in the apple that the turmoil there had hurt jected the criticism, saying they on Tuesday, after they met Prime Srinagar and the other the remote Bud- secession from India, remain in trade were targeted earlier in the its own growth prospects. were not in Kashmir to interfere Minister Narendra Modi in New dhist enclave of Ladakh. custody for fear that they could month, also in the southern part The Modi administration is in domestic Indian politics and Delhi. At the same time it poured whip up mass protests that have of Kashmir, a hotbed of militant hoping to ramp up tourism and the motive behind their visit was Opposition parties have ques- ndia will formally split up thousands of more troops into in the past turned violent. activity. infrastructure investment in La- to have information about the tioned how the government al- Jammu and Kashmir state the Muslim-majority Kashmir Wajahat Habibullah, a former Crowds have also been gath- dakh, known for its snow capped situation. lowed foreign lawmakers into the Iinto two federal territories Valley where separatists have bureaucrat who served in Kash- ering this week in the streets peaks and rocky desert plateaus, France’s Henri Malosse, who area while barring Indian mem- today, aiming to tighten its grip been fi ghting against Indian rule mir and travelled to the region’s of Srinagar, the biggest city in and is also an area of dispute with is not a lawmaker but sits on the bers of parliament from the state on the region that has been in the for decades, and made sweeping main city last month, said Kash- Kashmir, and elsewhere, throw- China which lays claims to parts European Economic and Social for over two months. grip of a harsh security clamp- arrests to prevent any outbreak of miris felt humiliated to lose their ing stones at security forces in of it. Committee, an EU consultative The Congress party said the down for nearly three months. violence. statehood. protest against the continuing Within the Hindu-dominated body, said the problems in Kash- visit of the EU team was a “diplo- Street protests against the The government also imposed “Whatever the attitude of (fed- clampdown. Jammu region, there are expec- mir were linked to militancy. matic blunder” facilitated by an measures have erupted sporadi- severe restrictions on travel and eral) governments in the past, they Today, G C Murmu, a former tations that the takeover by the “Terrorism in Kashmir is not “international business broker”. cally, while militants have killed cut telephone and Internet lines. at least felt they had something bureaucrat from Modi’s home federal government will lead to only the problem of India. I think Party spokesman Randeep Sur- about a dozen people from out- Some measures have been of their own. Now, there is a kind state of Gujarat, will be sworn in development and shift the focus it’s our problem, as well as of the jewala said that over the last three side the state in recent weeks. scaled back but a security lock- of feeling of having lost whatever as the fi rst lieutenant governor of away from the Kashmir Valley, international community,” said days, India witnessed an imma- Prime Minister Narendra Mo- down is still largely in place and freedom they had,” he said. the union territory of Jammu and where the insurgency is centred. Malosse, who was travelling with ture, ill-advised and ill-conceived di’s Bharatiya Janata Party gov- broadband and mobile Internet On Tuesday, suspected mili- Kashmir, the government said. “There are three parts to this the parliamentary delegation. PR exercise of the government or- ernment scrapped Article 370 connections remain unavailable tants shot dead fi ve construction Another former civil servant, story, Jammu, Kashmir and La- “All problems of Kashmir are ganised by an “international busi- of the constitution withdrawing to most Kashmiris. workers who had come to work Radha Krishna Mathur, will take dakh. The problem is confi ned to linked to terrorism,” he added. ness broker”, in which the mem- Kashmir’s autonomy in August Schools and colleges are empty from eastern India. offi ce as the lieutenant governor Kashmir and that too a handful of “We see possibilities for devel- bers of the European Parliament but in addition it also announced and most shops, restaurants and Offi cials said the killings ap- of Ladakh, the Buddhist-dom- districts. Why should the rest of opment of tourism, agriculture, were brought to India by a nonde- the division of the state into two hotels shut. peared to be part of a campaign inated high altitude region that the state suff er,” said a top offi cial industry and handicraft here are script think-tank with question- union territories to be directly Hundreds of people, including to deter outsiders from working has long sought to disentangle in New Delhi involved in the politi- being brought to a stop by terror- able credentials. ruled from New Delhi – one con- mainstream political leaders and in Kashmir. itself from Kashmir, on grounds cal strategy to deal with Kashmir.

Indira remembered Manipur rebels announce I will complete my exiled government in UK term: Yediyurappa IANS fl ood-hit people and complete Bengaluru development projects across the Agencies 2012 was read aloud. other countries and connected state,” Yediyurappa said. London “We will seek recognition to the rest of India by a sliver of The chief minister said the from diff erent nations to become land arching over Bangladesh, nfazed by opposition party’s present priority is to a (UN) member. We hope many has been wracked by armed con- criticism of his three- win by-elections in 15 assembly issident political lead- of the countries will recognise fl ict and instability. Umonth-old government, seats, to be held on December 5. ers from the northeast- our independence.” It has spawned more than 100 Karnataka Chief Minister B S “We are focused on fl ood re- Dern state of Manipur said Another dissident leader Yam- militant groups over the decades Yediyurappa yesterday said he lief works, implementing pro- they were unilaterally declaring ben Biren, who called himself whose demands range from au- would complete his term with grammes and winning all the independence from India and ‘chief minister of Manipur State tonomy to secession. the “blessings” of the ruling upcoming by-polls to ensure forming a government-in-exile Council’, also addressed the press Violence has been part of dai- Bharatiya Janata Party’s national the government’s survival with a in Britain. conference with Samarjit. ly life for decades in Manipur, leadership. simple majority”, he said. The former princely state be- They claimed they had sup- which borders Myanmar, with “I am confi dent of complet- The strength of the 225-member came part of India in 1949, two port from the state’s former king a strong presence of the Indian ing my tenure in offi ce over the assembly has been reduced to 208 years after the country won in- Leishemba Sanajaoba. military. next three-and-a-half-years (42 after 14 rebel Congress and three Ja- dependence from Britain, but However, the erstwhile ruler The state has a strong ethnic months), as I have been given a nata Dal-Secular (JD-S) legislators has since seen decades-long vio- has denied he has ever backed mix, and its Meitei, Naga, Kuki free hand by our party leadership resigned and were disqualifi ed by lent separatist campaigns. such a move. and Pangal communities are all in governing the state,” Yediyru- former speaker K R Ramesh Kumar Narengbam Samarjit, exter- Samarjit is said to be a well- deeply committed to preserving appa told reporters. under the anti-defection law. nal aff airs minister in the self- known businessman of Manipur. their own cultural autonomy. Denying diff erences between The BJP has 105 members and declared Manipur State Coun- Manipur Chief Minister N Bi- Its people have also always him and his cabinet colleagues or the support of an independent – cil, said the exiled government ren Singh has said the case was tended to look eastwards in their the party’s state unit leaders, the H Nagaesh, who is also the excise would push for recognition at the being probed. search for cultural links. Members of All India Anti Terrorist Front (AIATF) shower 76-year-old four-time chief min- minister. The party will have to United Nations. Manipur, one of India’s small- Samarjit said he hoped the flower petals as they pay tribute to the late prime minister ister said all were united in the com- win eight of the 15 by-elections “We will run the de jure ex- est states with a population of world would support its inde- Indira Gandhi on the eve of her 34th death anniversary in mon cause of serving the people. to reach the 113-half-way mark iled government here...from around just 2.8mn people, is one pendence cause. Amritsar yesterday. Gandhi was assassinated by her Sikh “Neither our party’s high for a simple majority. today onwards,” he told report- of the so-called “Seven Sisters” “We are not free there and our bodyguards in 1984, four months after she ordered troops command nor the union govern- The BJP is waiting for the Su- ers in London on Tuesday, after – a group of restive northeastern history is going to be destroyed, into the Golden Temple in Amritsar to flush out Sikh ment has complained about me preme Court verdict on the dis- a declaration of independence states. our culture is going to be ex- militants fighting for an independent state. or my style of working as eff orts qualifi ed members’ appeal against first announced in Manipur in The region, encircled by fi ve tinct,” he warned. are on to provide relief to the the former speaker’s ruling. Gulf Times 22 Thursday, October 31, 2019 INDIA Andhra sand shortage pushes thousands of workers into misery IANS and to provide treatment to his banned sand mining, which cre- ration (APMDC) Ltd will under- There have been allegations are sourcing sand from neigh- nancial assistance to the work- Amaravati ailing son, he hanged himself at ated a severe shortage and sky- take sand quarrying and supply that the sand is being diverted bouring Odisha at a cost of ers who were rendered jobless his house in Guntur district a rocketing of the price. sand to customers on behalf of from stockyards to cities like Rs45,000. because of its faulty policies. few days ago. Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mo- the government at the stockyards Bengaluru, Chennai and Hy- APMDC officials have been “This is a man-made shortage,” severe shortage of sand The spate of suicides led to han Reddy’s government accused set up across the state. The con- derabad and being sold for assuring people for the last the opposition leader said. in Andhra Pradesh has an outcry from opposition par- the previous government of Tel- sumers were asked to book the Rs80,000-100,000 per truck. two months that the situa- Jana Sena chief and actor Pa- A hit the construction ac- ties, which blamed YSR Congress ugu Desam Party (TDP) of illegal sand online and it was also an- The prices of sand within tion will be under control soon. wan Kalyan expressed shock tivity in the state leading to Party government’s wrong poli- sand mining to favour those close nounced that the movement of Andhra Pradesh have skyrock- They said they were not able over the suicides and sought the suicide of five workers this cies for the crisis. The ruling par- to the ruling party. trucks will be tracked to prevent eted, affecting the construction to quarry sand from Godavari, the central government’s inter- month and pushing hundreds of ty denied the allegations and hit The new government scrapped black marketing, hoarding and sector. The construction activ- Krishna, Vamsadhara, Nagavali vention to help more than 3mn thousands of workers into mis- back at the opposition for carry- the earlier “free sand policy”, un- artifi cial supply shortage. ity in the state came to a halt, and Tungabhadra rivers due to people dependent on construc- ery. ing out a false propaganda. der which the cess on sand was However, ever since the new throwing hundreds of thou- floods. The water levels have tion industry. Jana Sena plans The issue came into sharp The suicides, all reported from waived and consumers had to pay policy came into effect, the au- sands of labourers out of work. still not receded, affecting the to hold a massive rally in Visa- focus on Monday when a selfie areas in and around state capital only the transportation charges. thorities could not make more Former chief minister and sand quarrying. khapatnam on November 3. video taken by a worker before region Amaravati, are linked to Promising to provide sand than 40,000 tonnes of sand TDP president N Chandrababu The opposition parties “I appeal to the centre to committing suicide went viral. the slump in construction activ- at low cost from government- available on any given day while Naidu said the sand has become slammed the government for come to the rescue of construc- Polepalli Venkatesh, a ity in the state due to the scarcity owned stockyards, the govern- the daily demand is around as costly as cement. pushing the construction work- tion workers. The AP govern- plumber, said he was commit- of sand following a change in the ment introduced a new policy 150,000 tonnes. A truck of sand from AP- ers into depression. ment’s chaotic sand policy has ting suicide as he could not find sand policy after YSRCP came to on September 5. People complained that the MDC stockyard in Visakhap- Blaming the government for put lakhs of workers out of job work for four months. Unable to power in May. Under this, the state-owned stocks made available online atnam costs Rs20,000 but due the shortage, Naidu demanded and put their families in a state deal with the financial hardship The new government initially AP Mineral Development Corpo- are getting exhausted very fast. to severe shortage, builders that the government provide fi- of misery,” said Pawan Kalyan.

Congress to launch anti-govt Calls grow in protests on Nov 5 Delhi to shut

IANS New Delhi he Congress yesterday schools, axe rolled out its plan for pro- Ttests across the country in November on several issues in- cluding the economic crisis, farm- ers’ distress and unemployment. A statement released by party general secretary K C Venugopal said that the Congress has de- sport events cided to hold nationwide pro- tests between November 5 and Air pollution remains at the most severe level for the second day 15 against the “misrule” of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Agencies lot of medical problems in Delhi, Some citizens’ groups and doc- Bharatiya Janata Party govern- New Delhi especially in kids. In our hospital, tors took to Twitter to call for ment, “with special focus on the we have witnessed a rise in the schools to be temporarily closed adverse impact of the Regional number of people with respiratory until the air quality improved. Comprehensive Economic Part- ome doctors and residents and eye problems,” Arvind Aggar- Former cricket captain Bishan nership, current economic cri- urged New Delhi authorities wal, a doctor at Sri Balaji Action Singh Bedi, meanwhile, led a cho- sis, mounting unemployment, Sto shut schools and cancel Medical Institute said. rus of warnings over Delhi hosting spiralling price rise, collapse of outdoor sporting events in the “We have witnessed 20-22% a limited-overs Twenty20 cricket banking system, heavy loss of Indian capital as air pollution re- increase in OPD visits, where the match between India and Bangla- jobs in public and private sectors, mained at the most severe level for patients are facing symptoms as- desh on Sunday, citing “hazardous and omnipresent farm distress”. the second day running yesterday. sociated with pollution like irri- air quality”. The protests across India will Farm fi res raging in neigh- tation in the eyes and throat, dry But match organisers at the Del- culminate in a massive pro- bouring states have sent clouds skin, skin allergy, chronic cough hi & District Cricket Association gramme in Delhi in the last week of smoke fl oating over the city, and breathlessness,” Aggarwal announced the sale of tickets yes- of November, he said. trapped in a toxic smog, posing a said, adding that the asthmatic terday in a sign they were pressing At the state level, the party has health risk to its 20mn residents, patients, elderly and children ahead. asked its state unit presidents, according to the Central Pollution should try to stay indoors. Delhi’s Chief Minister Arvind legislature party leaders and Control Board’s (CPCB) air warn- According to Navneet Sood of Kejriwal said: “I hope that pollu- senior party offi cials to lead the ing guidance. Dharamshila Narayana Superspe- tion will not come in the way of agitation. The CPCB air quality index ciality Hospital, people should see cricket.” Interim president Sonia Gan- (AQI) has exceeded 400, classi- a doctor if they experience symp- Some residents also called for dhi has called a meeting of the fi ed as “severe” on the scale, which toms like redness in eyes, breath- the cancellation of a 6km run general secretaries, state offi - means it can seriously aff ect those ing problems, uneasiness, and fre- planned for today to mark the an- cials, heads of frontal organisa- with existing respiratory illnesses, quent headaches. niversary of the birth of former tions and departments on No- and even those who are healthy. “We have witnessed visits by 15- home minister Sardar Patel, re- vember 2 to review preparations Pollution readings in some 16 patients on a daily basis after Di- vered by the Bharatiya Janata for the protests. places had peaked at 500, the most wali. Three-fourth of the cases were Party. Venugopal said that the party severe level on the government in- related to the worsening of asthma “You will be putting thousands has also decided to depute 31 dex. and chronic obstructive pulmonary of citizens in harm’s way by mak- senior leaders as observers to “It is a public health emer- disease or COPD. Rest one-fourth ing them run in this pollution,” various states and union terri- gency,” said Desh Deepak, a chest of the cases were for bronchitis,” posted Brikesh, a Twitter user. tories to monitor the agitation physician at the city’s Ram Mano- Sood said. The CPCB index measures the programme. Senior Congress har Lohia Hospital. Delhi’s air quality took a hit after concentration of tiny poisonous leaders will also hold 35 press “Today, lungs are far blacker Diwali night due to a combination particulate matter that can be car- conferences in major towns and compared to 20 years ago.” of fi recracker emissions, stubble ried deep into the lungs, causing cities highlighting the issues re- Hospitals across the National burning and unfavourable mete- deadly diseases including cancer lating to the “adverse impact” of Capital Region have reported a orological conditions. and cardiac problems. the RCEP, the economic slow- rise in visits of patients, with most Since then, pollution levels have “We are in a severe situa- down, unemployment, farm cri- complaining about respiratory and been oscillating between the lower tion because there are no winds,” sis, collapse of banking system eye problems. and higher ends of the “very poor” Prashant Gargava, a top offi cial at and other key issues. Vehicles drive through smog in New Delhi yesterday. “After Diwali, smog brings a category. the CPCB said.

Kejriwal rides buses to know Run for Unity to mark women’s response to free ride Patel birth anniversary IANS the Run for Unity. New Delhi “Since 2014, October 31 is be- IANS Rs1,500-2,000 and that would the lowest in the world, while ing celebrated as National Unity New Delhi help in building a better future violence against women in the Day. This day gives the message for her child. world’s second-most populous he central government has to protect the unity, integrity Most women also praised Ke- country is rife. planned a series of events and security of our country at n an unusual move, Delhi jriwal for deploying marshals On Tuesday women were Tto mark the fi rst birth an- any cost. Like every year, Run for Chief Minister Arvind Kejri- and said it would help in provid- given pink tickets entitling niversary of Sardar Patel, the Unity is being organised on Oc- Iwal travelled on Delhi Trans- ing a safe and secure bus ride. them to free travel, with a mes- ‘Iron Man’ of India, after Arti- tober 31. People from all sections port Corporation (DTC) buses The presence of marshals was sage from Kejriwal on the back cle 370 of the constitution was of society will participate in it,” yesterday to gauge women pas- creating a sense of safety among that said he hoped the move scrapped, today. he said. sengers’ response to a free ride women bus commuters and it would empower them and their The 144th birth anniversary Home Minister Amit Shah will scheme. would make commuting easier families. of Patel is also promoted as ‘Na- take part in a run and later will “Correct. I boarded a few for them, Kejriwal said. Before, bus fares cost between tional Unity Day’ through a “Run inaugurate the new Delhi police buses to get direct feedback Even men commuters praised Rs5 and Rs25 for vehicles with for Unity” event. Thousands headquarters near Mandir Marg. from women. In addition to stu- the Delhi government’s initia- air conditioning, according to will take to streets all across In- Shah, who is also the Bharatiya dents, working women, women tives. government data. dia. From top political leaders to Janata Party president, has asked going for shopping, I also met Earlier in the day Kejriwal The safety of women in the celebrities - everyone will run a all the 303 BJP Lok Sabha MPs to a few who have to visit doctors said women in Delhi have now Indian capital has been under marathon. take part in the run. regularly. They are very happy,” become VIPs as until now only the spotlight since the 2012 gang Prime Minister Narendra Modi Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Kejriwal tweeted. MPs and MLAs used to get free rape and murder of a female stu- himself will be in Kevadiya in Gu- Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath One woman commuter told rides. But now the women in the dent on a bus that sparked major jarat where he will pay tributes to will fl ag off the Run for Unity to- Kejriwal his government was the national capital were also get- protests. Patel at the ‘Statue of Unity’. He day. The run will be organised in fi rst to think of women’s wel- ting this facility, he added. Since the scheme was will also take part in an Ekta Di- all districts of the state. fare and with this initiative she The Aam Aadmi Party gov- launched, around 220,000 com- vas parade. Modi has celebrated In Lucknow, the run will start would be able to save around ernment rolled out the free bus muters have enjoyed free bus this day with much fanfare every from the statue of Patel located Rs2,000 a month which could travel on Tuesday in what the rides. year since he became the prime near GPO Hazratganj and culmi- be used for her child’s education chief minister called an “historic Prime Minister Narendra Mo- minister in 2014. nate at K D Singh Babu Stadium. and other purposes. step” for safety and female em- di’s Bharatiya Janata Party called On Sunday, in his monthly The state government has Appreciating the Delhi gov- ployment. the move a gimmick ahead of radio programme Mann Ki Baat, asked all district magistrates and ernment’s initiative, another Female participation in the state elections in Delhi due in Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal interacts with passengers Modi urged people to come out police chiefs to celebrate the day woman said she could now save Indian workforce is among early 2020. inside a bus in New Delhi yesterday. in huge numbers to take part in as National Integration Day. Gulf Times Thursday, October 31, 2019 23

LATIN AMERICA

LEGAL POLITICS VIOLENCE DECISION LAW AND ORDER EU warns Ecuador Bolivia election monitor Attack kills five indigenous Mexican lawmakers vote to Remains of 42 over illegal fishing begins ‘binding’ audit guards in Colombia end presidential immunity people found

The EU yesterday warned Ecuador over illegal The Organisation of American States (OAS) Five indigenous guards were killed and six A proposal to allow for the prosecution of Mexican authorities have found the remains of fishing, saying it could impose a ban on fish will begin a “binding” audit of Bolivia’s fiercely injured in Colombia during an attack authorities Mexican presidents for a wide range of crimes 42 people in a vacant lot in the northern border imports from the country if it does take more contested presidential vote, which sparked blamed on a dissident insurgent group that overwhelmingly passed the lower house of state of Sonora, a group dedicated to finding action to address the situation. “We invite the nationwide protests and allegations of fraud refused to join the country’s peace accord. Congress, giving the proposal backed by missing people said. “That was the last we could Ecuadoran authorities to step up their eff orts after handing socialist leader Evo Morales a first- The victims were members of the authority President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador a shot find, they’ve stopped us from searching because and implement the necessary reforms to fight round win. All parties will be obliged to comply responsible for security in indigenous territory of momentum. Under current law, presidents can there have been a lot of bodies,” said Ceci Flores, against IUU (illegal, unreported and unregulated) with the outcome, Bolivia’s Foreign Minister across Colombia and were attacked in Tacueyo, only be prosecuted for treason. If ratified by the the leader of Madres Buscadoras de Sonora, fishing,” the commissioner for fishing, Karmenu Diego Pary said. The October 20 election handed southwest of capital Bogota, according to a Mexican Senate and then passed by a majority a group of mothers in Sonora trying to locate Vella, said in a statement. The “yellow card” Morales an outright win, giving him just above statement by the Association of Indigenous of state legislatures, the proposal would reform missing loved ones. The skeletons of 40 people issued by the European Commission puts the 10-point lead needed to avoid a risky sound Councils of Toribio, a local organisation. They the country’s constitution to allow presidents to and two recent corpses were discovered by Ecuador on notice to improve its enforcement round run-off against main rival Carlos Mesa. The were attacked soon after capturing three be charged for crimes including corruption and off icials and the mothers’ group during searches over illegal fishing and to ensure “adequate initial count, however, was disrupted, sparking members of a rebel group, who were rescued organised crime. Lawmakers in the lower house for missing people near the resort town of control” over its fish-processing plants, an angry reaction from opposition supporters, by other guerrillas in an ambush, Colombia’s approved the proposal on a vote of 420 to 29, Puerto Penasco, the attorney general’s off ice for especially those that export to the EU. and allegations the count was fixed. military said in a statement. and it now moves to the senate. Sonora said in a statement. Bolsonaro fl ays TV network’s claim of link to murder case

Reuters said. “You’d better hope I’m dead Rio de Janeiro by then, because the renewal process won’t be persecution, but... there won’t be any worka- resident Jair Bolsonaro rounds for you or anyone else.” yesterday said he could In a statement, Globo expressed Pcancel the licence of Bra- regret about Bolsonaro’s com- zil’s largest TV network Globo ments and said its aim was to in- after it reported an allegation form the Brazilian public. connecting him with a former Referring to its licence renewal, police offi cer accused of the kill- it said that it had complied with ing of a Rio de Janeiro city coun- its obligations during the past 54 cilwoman last year. years. TV Globo reported on Tuesday TV Globo said the doorman to that on March 14, 2018, the day Bolsonaro’s gated community in of the murder, the suspect told Rio told police that someone in a doorman he was going to Bol- the Bolsonaro residence identifi ed sonaro’s house, gaining access to as “Mr Jair” confi rmed the visi- a gated community where he met tor on the day of Franco’s murder instead with another former po- and then waved off the doorman’s lice offi cer accused of murdering concern that the car went to a dif- People demonstrate against the government economic policies in front of La Moneda presidential palace in Santiago yesterday. the left-wing politician Marielle ferent house. Franco. “It looks like either the door- The case led to widespread pro- man lied or someone induced him tests by Brazilians outraged to see to commit a false testimony,” Bol- a black, human rights advocate sonaro said. gunned down. He accused Rio state governor Investigators arrested two Wilson Witzel of leaking details former police offi cers Ronnie from a confi dential investigation Lessa and Elcio de Queiroz nearly to the press to “destroy the Bol- Chile cancels Apec a year later and charged them sonaro family” before the 2022 with killing her in return for about presidential elections. $50,000. Witzel denied any political Their lawyers said they did not interference with the investiga- commit the crime. tion. “I deeply regret the un- Bolsonaro, who took offi ce on timely reaction of President Jair January 1, 2019, denied any con- Bolsonaro,” the governor said in meet as protests rage nection to the case. a statement. He said he was in Brasilia the Bolsonaro later told journal- new social plan. trade summit caught the Trump how to reduce global emissions problems and interests of the day of the murder voting in Con- ists that he was asking Justice Reuters Riots, arson and protests over administration by surprise, a to meet the Paris climate agree- Chileans, their needs, their de- gress, where he was then serving Minister Sergio Moro to question Santiago inequality this month have left White House offi cial told Reu- ment. sires and their hopes.” as a deputy. TV Globo’s report said the doorman again, according to at least 18 people dead, 7,000 ters. The cancellations are a further With Pinera’s popularity at an that Bolsonaro was in Brasilia the press reports. Investigators have arrested and Chilean businesses The offi cial said Washington blow to Chile’s much-vaunted all-time low, Chileans were call- day of Franco’s murder. still not answered the question of hile has withdrawn as hit with losses of around $1.4bn. learned about the decision from image as one of the most stable ing for new protests and the UN The president accused the me- who paid for the assassination. host of an Apec trade The metro public transport news reports and is seeking more countries in Latin America. was sending a team to investi- dia and a former ally of conspiring In September, Brazil’s top Csummit in November system in the capital suff ered information. “This has been a very diffi cult gate allegations of human rights to attack him and his family. prosecutor charged fi ve people where the US and China had been nearly $400mn in damages. Chile will also not be able to decision, a decision that causes abuses by security forces. “This is rotten, villainous jour- including police offi cers and a expected to take major steps to- The Apec summit was sched- host the COP25 global climate us a lot of pain, because we fully Meanwhile, the United Na- nalism by TV Globo,” an enraged former state lawmaker with sab- ward ending a 15-month-old uled to bring together 20 world summit between December 2 understand the importance of tions is looking for a new venue Bolsonaro said in a live video on otaging the investigation. trade war that has slowed world leaders, including US President and December 13, said Pinera, Apec and COP-25 for Chile and for a climate change confer- social media. Meanwhile, Justice Minister economic growth. Donald Trump and Chinese who fi red almost half his Cabi- for the world,” Pinera said in a ence planned for December, UN Bolsonaro went on to discuss Sergio Moro said he has asked the Chilean President Sebastian President Xi Jinping, on Novem- net this week — including his brief statement from La Moneda spokesman Farhan Haq said. the timeline for renewing the li- top public prosecutor to investi- Pinera said he had taken the ber 16-17. fi nance, interior and economy presidential palace. The United Nations Frame- cence of the network, which is part gate a statement by the doorman. “painful” decision to cancel the US and Chinese negotiators ministers — in a bid to quell the He said Chile was “deeply work Convention on Climate of Grupo Globo, the largest media Moro said the doorman might summit in Santiago, as well as a were racing to have the text of an protests, to little eff ect. sorry for the problems and in- Change (UNFCCC), which or- group in Brazil that includes TV, have given false testimony, either high-profi le international gath- interim trade agreement ready in The climate summit would conveniences that this decision ganises the global climate talks, publishing, internet content and in error or as part of a wider con- ering on climate change in De- time for Trump and Xi to sign at have brought delegates from will mean for both Apec and was “currently exploring alter- music labels. spiracy to implicate the presi- cember, to focus on restoring law the meeting. around 190 nations to talks the COP. But as president of all native hosting options,” Haq “We’ll talk in 2022,” Bolsonaro dent. and order and pushing through a Chile’s cancellation of the aimed at thrashing out details of Chileans I always have to put the said. Caracas slams UN-EU Murder plot claims Brazil says 17 killed in police action in Manaus meet on Venezuela crisis a strategic area for the transport AFP Rio de Janeiro of cocaine from neighbouring AFP pledging conference, several EU that Venezuelans and the host countries such as Colombia, Brussels countries and the US used it to communities are facing,” EU for- Peru and Bolivia. announce more than $110mn in eign policy chief Federica Mogh- shoot-out in the northern “We intervened to save lives, to donations to help cope with the erini told the conference. Brazilian city of Manaus apply the law and unfortunately resident Nicolas Madu- crisis. She said the event was an im- Abetween police and sus- they instigated a confrontation ro’s government sharply A collapsing economy under portant step in providing “an pected drug traffi ckers left 17 and were defeated,” said Norte. Pcriticised a UN-EU con- Maduro, who remains in power urgent response to the humani- people dead, local authorities “Good always overcomes evil. ference on Venezuela’s refugee through the support of his se- tarian situation that Venezuelans announced yesterday. Whomsoever dares to take on the crisis, calling it a “hypocritical” curity forces, has prompted and the host communities are “The individuals exchanged police will face the appropriate exercise by countries seeking to more than 4.5mn Venezuelans facing”. fi re with the police, 17 were hit by response.” isolate Caracas. to leave, most of them to Latin But Arreaza, in his tweet, dis- bullets and transported to hospi- Local news website Portal do The slapdown was delivered American countries including missed the conference as “cyni- tal, where they were confi rmed Holanda said a 14-year-old and by Venezuelan Foreign Minis- Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and cism”. dead,” the state security secre- 17-year-old were among those ter Jorge Arreaza on Twitter af- Brazil. “The EU, UNHCR and OIM tariat said of the clash. killed, although authorities have ter the two-day gathering — to That outflow is expected to brought together governments The aim of the police operation not confi rmed that. Gang rival- which Caracas was not invited grow to 6.5mn in the coming blocking the Venezuelan econ- had been “to intercept a group of ries have frequently fl ared into — wrapped up in Brussels on year, rivalling the refugee crisis omy, creating suff ering and mi- drug traffi ckers from a criminal gruesome prison massacres in Tuesday. from Syria, the conference put gration, stealing resources and faction that was preparing to mur- recent years. His response contrasted with together by the European Com- threatening to isolate and attack der rivals to take control of drug At the end of July, 57 inmates the view of the organisers — and mission and the UN refugee and Venezuela. selling positions” in the city. were killed during a riot at a pris- the US representatives who took migration agencies UNHCR and “A sad scramble for resources Police seized 17 weapons, in- on in Para state, which neigh- part — who hailed it as a success. OIM was told. under the hypocritical pretext of cluding an Uzi submachine gun, bours Amazonas, whose capital They said it raised aware- Despite punishing US sanc- a ‘preoccupation’ for migration,” as well as a huge amount of am- is Manaus. ness not only about the mil- tions and demands from the US, he said. munition. In January 2017, more than 100 lions of Venezuelan refugees the EU and most Latin American The US, which has thrown its Military police commander inmates were killed in a spate of and migrants fleeing economic nations pushing Maduro to allow weight behind Venezuelan op- Ayrton Norte told reporters that prison clashes, the bloodiest of despair, but also the increas- elections to choose a successor position leader Juan Guaido as Former Honduran president (2010-2014) Porfirio Lobo speaks authorities were tipped off that which was in Manaus. ing burden being shouldered by government, a political solution the “legitimate” leader and Ma- with the press to denounce the existence of an armed 50 armed people were in a truck Prison conditions in Brazil Latin American countries host- remains elusive. duro as a “dictator” kept in pow- command ready to kill him following his accusations against heading to attack a rival gang. have been widely condemned ing them. “In the meantime, we cannot er through support from Cuba President Juan Orlando Hernandez in relation with his alleged Various groups are fi ghting for due to chronic overcrowding, Even though it was meant to avoid giving an urgent response and Russia, said the conference links to drug traff icking and corruption, in Tegucigalpa. control of the drug traffi cking while riots and attempted break- prepare the ground for a future to the humanitarian situation showing international unity. business in the north of Brazil, outs are common. Gulf Times 24 Thursday, October 31, 2019 PAKISTAN Court issues ‘Azadi March’ set to contempt arrive in capital today notice to media AFP Islamabad regulator

akistan Prime Minister Internews trary to what the court had Imran Khan faces the fi rst Islamabad ordered, the regulator im- Pmajor challenge to his posed a ban on anchorper- leadership this week as a rival he sons’ appearance as analysts calls “Maulana Diesel” marches he Islamabad High in talk shows of diff erent tel- to Islamabad with thousands of Court (IHC) has issued evision channels. supporters hoping to bring down Ta contempt of court When Minallah resumed the government. notice to Pakistan Electronic hearing, he called the Pemra Maulana Fazlur Rehman - one Media Regulatory Author- chairman to the rostrum and of the country’s most seasoned ity (Pemra) chairman Saleem asked if the court directed the political operators - has domi- Baig for using the court’s regulator to impose a ban on nated the airwaves in recent days name to issue strict guide- anchorpersons’ appearance with his calls to unseat his old lines to media houses and an- on television channels as ana- adversary Khan. chorpersons, court sources lysts. Baig responded in the “This movement will contin- said yesterday. negative. ue until the end of this govern- Pemra earlier this week is- When the court asked why ment,” Rehman told reporters sued a notice to private TV then Pemra issued such direc- ahead of the march. channels, restricting appear- tions to TV channels by giving “There is no other way... to ance of anchorpersons on dif- an impression as if this court bring Pakistan back on the dem- ferent television channels as had given instructions in this ocratic path.” analysts. regard, Baig could not give a Rehman, who heads the Ja- Since the court has already plausible explanation. miat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) issued show cause notices The Pemra chairman was - one of the country’s larg- to the chief executive offi cer also not able to show any pro- est Islamist parties - has been of Bol TV and anchorperson vision which empowers the leading supporters from across Sami Ibrahim, IHC Chief Jus- regulator to impose such re- Pakistan for days on a “Azadi tice Athar Minallah appointed strictions. (Freedom) March” towards the advocate general for Is- The court observed, “The Islamabad, with tens of thou- lamabad “for prosecuting the conduct of the chairman sands expected to converge on persons against whom show and the restrictions imposed the capital. cause notices have been is- through guidelines by giving Rehman was in Lahore yester- sued”. the impression that these were day and set to arrive in Islama- The court appointed jour- pursuant to directions given bad today, but so far has refused Activists and supporters of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party gather during an anti-government “Azadi March” towards Islamabad, in Lahore yesterday. nalists I A Rehman, Muhamed by this court, prima facie ap- to clarify what happens next. Ziauddin, Javed Jabbar, Afzal pears to constitute off ence It is a scenario Khan him- whose orange turban sports ploit the unhappiness during the “He’s been left out of a game recently has tried to rebrand as a Butt and Shakeel Masood as under the Contempt of Court self is familiar with. As opposi- a traditional pattern from his march. and he thinks he’s been cheated moderate. amici curiae in the matter re- Ordinance, 2003.” tion leader in 2014 he organised northwest hometown, lost his As the protest moved toward out of his rightful place,” said That has not stopped him from lated to regulations for private Regarding the anchorper- months of mass protests in Is- parliamentary seat in 2018 to a the capital this week, traders columnist Arifa Noor. dismissing the attack on Nobel media houses. son who linked the release of lamabad that failed in a bid to candidate from Khan’s Pakistan across the country launched a “The (economy) is more of prize winner Malala Yousafzai in Chief Justice Minallah was Sharif with a deal, the court bring down the government. Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. two-day strike, piling further a stick to beat the government 2012 as a fabricated conspiracy, hearing a contempt of court ordered Bol TV and Hum TV With the ability to mobilise Still smarting from that loss, pressure on Khan. with.” and protesting the exoneration case against anchorperson to submit recordings of their tens of thousands of madrassa Rehman has chosen this moment The cleric insists that Khan Rehman has rotated in and out of Asia Bibi - a Christian woman Ibrahim for linking the bail programmes in three days. students, JUI-F protests have a carefully. needs to be removed from offi ce, of successive governments for at the centre of Pakistan’s most granted to former prime The court ordered anchor- history of stirring unrest, and Khan’s government has been and a new “free and fair” election decades, forging alliances with high-profi le blasphemy case. minister Nawaz Sharif to a person Ibrahim and Bol TV’s authorities are sealing off the under pressure for months as an- held. both Islamist and secular parties Whether the march ends in deal. chief executive to submit their capital’s diplomatic enclave with ger simmers over the dire state of But he remains vague about while enjoying occasional sup- violence or not, it has undeni- The IHC on October 26 written replies within seven shipping containers. the economy. how he aims to achieve their port from the military establish- ably thrust Rehman back into grilled Pemra for not taking days. Anchorpersons Mo- A violent crackdown risks Unemployment, double-digit goals. ment. the spotlight after suggestions action against the broadcast- hamed Malick, Hamid Mir, sparking a wider backlash in the infl ation, and rising utility costs That lack of substance has led He was once a hardline Islam- he was increasingly becoming ir- ers who were violating the Amir Mateen and Kashif Ab- country, where mainstream pol- have hit ordinary Pakistanis hard some observers to suggest Re- ist and anti-American fi rebrand, relevant. code of conduct for them. basi have also been directed to iticians have long tried to keep - issues other opposition par- hman’s protest is more a salve calling for the implementation “When was the last time the Subsequently, Pemra is- submit their replies. the conservative right on side. ties have also railed against - and for his ego after the humiliating of Shariah law publically back- maulana dominated the news sued a directive to private The hearing was adjourned Rehman, a maulana (cleric) Rehman has been eager to ex- election drubbing. ing the Afghan Taliban, but more agenda this much?” asked Noor. media outlets in which con- till November 18. Speaker, chairman to help Traders’ strike resolve poll panel row Internews Swati and Attorney General order of the Islamabad High election commissioner (CEC). Islamabad Anwar Mansoor Khan briefed Court regarding the contro- After failure of Prime Min- the chairman and the speaker versial and unilateral appoint- ister Imran Khan and leader of on the legal and constitutional ment of the ECP members the opposition Shahbaz Sharif enate Chairman Sadiq aspects of the issue in the light from Sindh and Balochistan by to reach a consensus on the Sanjrani and National of the October 15 decision of the President Arif Alvi. names, the matter was referred SAssembly Speaker Asad Islamabad High Court. The law minister and the at- to a bi-partisan parliamentary Qaiser have decided to hold Sources said the participants torney-general had been asked committee, but it also failed to consultations with the op- were of the view that in or- to suggest a way out to resolve reach a consensus. position parties to resolve der to resolve the matter once the controversy that had been President Alvi, using his the controversy over the ap- and for all, they might have to lingering on since the retire- ‘discretionary power’, then ap- pointment of the members of amend the constitution or do ment of ECP members Ghaff ar pointed Khalid Siddiqui from the Election Commission of legislation and for this purpose Soomro from Sindh and Sha- Sindh and Munir Kakar from Pakistan (ECP). they would need the support of keel Baloch from Balochistan in Balochistan on August 22 The decision to engage the the opposition parties, espe- January. against two vacant positions opposition was made by the cially in the Senate where the Under the law, their replace- from the respective provinces, custodians of the two houses of government was in a minority. ments were to be appointed prompting a strong protest by parliament after discussing the The chairman and the within 45 days. the opposition parties. matter with the government’s speaker had discussed the is- Under the constitution, The controversy deep- legal team and constitutional sue between themselves also a consultation between the ened when in an unprec- experts during a meeting here and decided to meet again in prime minister and the leader edented move, CEC Sardar Traders sit on a cart along a street of a shutdown market area during a countrywide traders strike, earlier this week. the presence of the law minister of the opposition in the Na- Raza refused to administer in Rawalpindi yesterday. Traders have joined hands to observe the strike against the government In the meeting, Law Min- and the attorney general. tional Assembly is required for the oath to the two members, over its “anti-business” policies, seeking to bring trade and economic activities across Pakistan to a ister Farogh Naseem, Parlia- The meetings were held in the appointment of the ECP terming their appointments standstill. mentary Aff airs Minister Azam the wake of the last month’s members as well as the chief unconstitutional.

Drones banned Sparring ministers confound in Islamabad PM in cabinet meeting Internet services restored after major fault The district administration of Pakistani federal capital city has The latest meeting of the part of the opposition. imposed a ban on use of unmanned federal cabinet saw a slanging She said criticism of the Internews ing but technical teams were Both PTA and Pak Telecom did According to a ProPakistani aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly match between ministers decision by some cabinet Karachi working on fully restoring In- not confi rm how long it would website report, two submarine known as drones, in Islamabad for a confounding Prime Minister ministers had exposed the ternet services in the shortest take to restore Internet services cables had gone offl ine. period of two months. Imran Khan who chaired the government to serious possible time. completely in the country. “IMEWE and SEAMEWE 4, According to a notification meeting, reports say. humiliation. nternet services started “Pak Telecom sincerely Multiple users said they that carry almost 50 per cent issued from the off ice of district “The federal cabinet saw two of Firdous had hardly coming back online across regrets this temporary in- were experiencing slow of Pakistan’s Internet traffi c, magistrate, “it has been informed its members having a tiff over finished when Science and IPakistan yesterday a day convenience caused to val- browsing. Storm Fiber sent went offl ine due to a fault at a that certain segments of the an issue in the presence of the Technology Minister Fawad after the country faced a dis- ued customers, under the out an alert to its customers location that’s yet not deter- public operate UAVs in Islamabad prime minister,” The News daily Chaudhry quipped that real ruption in Internet services prevalent circumstances,” the explaining that “you may face mined,” the report said. which pose a unique threat to the reported yesterday. embarrassment was caused following a fault in its subma- spokesperson added. degradation on Internet serv- Internet users across Paki- precarious security situation of During the cabinet meeting, when decisions were retracted rine cables even as the world The Pakistan Telecommu- ices and variation in latency to stan would experience down- the Islamabad Capital Territory.” Special Assistant to the Prime within hours. observed the International nication Authority (PTA) in diff erent destinations”. graded speeds until the fault These UAVs can be used by Minister (SAPM) on Information The prime minister got upset Internet Day on Tuesday. a statement said: “Due to a “We are receiving com- is fi xed, ProPakistani reported, miscreants to conduct terrorist and Broadcasting Firdous and advised all ministers to stop “We regret to inform you that fault in international subma- plaints of slow browsing from adding that, Internet service acts in areas that have been Ashiq complained to the prime sparring and avoid confronting due to international submarine rine cables at around 5pm on across Pakistan. We received providers “are in the process secured and safeguarded against minister that the Pakistan government decisions in public. cable fault, Internet services Tuesday, users can face some an update from our upstream of shifting the load to other ground attacks, it added. Electronic Media Regulatory The prime minister also advised are impacted across Pakistan,” problems in Internet brows- providers that they have been submarine systems that will Any possible terrorist attack Authority’s (Pemra) decision the cabinet members against the Pakistan Telecommunica- ing quality. The Pak Telecom observing outages on multiple balance the load to an extent”. would jeopardise security of about senior anchorpersons issuing any statement on the tion Co Ltd (Pak Telecom) said is working with international submarine cables. We are co- The IMEWE submarine the residents of the capital and had taken a lot of flak on the health of incarcerated former in a post on Twitter. consortiums to rectify the ordinating with PTA to resolve cable is an ultra-high capac- sensitive installations that would social media and it appeared prime minister Nawaz Pak Telecom’s spokesperson fault and to determine the the problem at the earliest,” a ity fi bre optic undersea cable create law and order situation as though some ministers were Sharif. (Internews) Fariha Shah said customers cause and exact location of the Storm Fiber customer repre- system which links India and and threaten public peace at might experience slow brows- fault occurred.” sentative said when contacted. Europe via the Middle East. large, the notification stated. Gulf Times Thursday, October 31, 2019 25 PHILIPPINES

17-year-old More than 1.6mn children dies after alleged receive polio vaccination road rage By Frederick Silverio DPA The vaccination campaign Manila Times Manila was launched on October 14 as part of efforts to stop the spread of polio, which re- 17-year-old tricycle driver ore than 1.6mn chil- emerged in the country 19 died after he was shot by a dren were vacci- years since the Philippines Astill unidentifi ed suspect M nated against polio was declared free of the dis- over an alleged road rage in front in a two-week immunisa- ease. The first case, which of a church in Barangay Pobla- tion drive in the Philippines, was announced on September cion, Pandi, Bulacan on Monday where three cases of the dis- 19, was a three-year-old girl night. ease have been confirmed from the southern province Major Joy Placido, chief of since last month, the health of Lanao del Sur, while the Pandi Police Station, identifi ed department said yesterday. second case was a five-year- the victim as John Paul Bonifa- The children were from old boy from Laguna prov- cio, a resident of Barangay Mali- metropolitan Manila and four ince, just south of Manila. bung Bata. areas in the southern region On Monday, the depart- The suspect and his compan- of Mindanao, where a total ment said a four-year-old girl ions were the subject of a man- of 1.8mn children under five from southern Maguindanao hunt. years old were targeted to be province also tested positive At about 8pm in front of Im- covered by the campaign, the for the vaccine-derived po- maculate Conception Parish Department of Health said. liovirus 2. Church, the victim was waiting “We are elated over this There is no cure for polio, for his passenger when the sus- high turnout of parents and but it can be prevented with pect on board a white Mitsubishi caregivers who had their vaccination. car stopped and confronted him. young children immunised While polio is rarely fatal, The suspect drew a short fi re- against polio,” Health Secre- it causes paralysis. The de- arm and fi red several times at the tary Francisco Duque said. partment’s vaccination drive victim. “This means that the ma- aims to immunise a total of The victim’s mother, Merced- jority of them have overcome more than 6.6mn children A child receives a polio vaccine during a mass immunisation programme in Barangay Payatas in Quezon City. ita dela Cruz, appealed to any- their distrust of our vaccines under five years old. body who witnessed the shoot- and this augurs well for our Another round is sched- cess throughout the succeed- ease, and to make the country low immunisation coverage, and busy lifestyles as some ing to help identify the suspect other immunisation pro- uled for January. ing rounds of vaccination, to polio-free,” Duque said. vaccine hesitancy, compla- of the causes for disease out- who allegedly was under the in- grammes,” he added. “Let us sustain this suc- stop the spread of the dis- Health experts have blamed cency, logistical concerns breaks. fl uence of liquor.

Aftershocks keep residents on edge in quake-hit southern Philippines

DPA Nearly 400 were injured in the national disaster relief earthquakes,” Phivolcs said. Manila the quake, which struck just agency said. Schools remained “Affected buildings should hours after most schools, offic- closed in more than 100 mu- not be re-occupied unless cer- es and commercial establish- nicipalities in Mindanao, while tified safe by (civil) engineers,” undreds of aftershocks ments opened in the morning. some government and com- it added. kept residents on edge Since then, more than 270 mercial offices resumed op- The Philippines is located on Hin earthquake-affected aftershocks have been recorded erations yesterday. Power was the Pacific Ring of Fire, where areas in the southern Philip- by the Philippine Institute of restored in most areas affected about 90% of the world’s pines yesterday, as authori- Volcanology and Seismology by the quake, it added. earthquakes take place. The ties rushed relief supplies and (Phivolcs). Tuesday’s earthquake jolted last major quake to hit the checked the safety of damaged The strongest of the after- the same areas that were hit country was a 7.1-magnitude infrastructure. shocks recorded a magnitude by a 6.3-magnitude tremor on event that killed more than 220 At least seven people were of 6.1, the institute added. October 16, which left seven people in the central Philip- killed in the 6.6-magnitude Many residents slept in people dead and 215 injured. pines in October 2013. tremor that jolted many parts makeshift tents outside their “People are reminded to be In July 1990, more than of the southern region of houses, fearing that stronger cautious of structures vis- 2,400 people were killed on Mindanao on Tuesday, the sec- aftershocks could cause more ibly weakened or with signs of the northern island of Luzon ond to hit the same area in just damage to their homes. damaged caused by the (two) in a 7.8-magnitude quake, one This handout photo taken Tuesday from a Facebook page shows school children and teachers sitting two weeks, disaster relief agen- More than 8,000 people were earthquakes as these may be of the strongest ever to hit the outside the collapsed school building after a 6.6-magnitude earthquake hit Tulunan town, North Cotabato cies said. displaced by the earthquake, further damaged by succeeding country. province, on the southern island of Mindanao.

Higher education agency to off er Amazon sells Duterte Halloween assistance to Bangsamoro region mask, spokesman fi nds it ‘amusing’ By Divina NJD Cruz er and Technical Education Carlito Galvez Jr said education Manila Times (MBHTE) have committed to would serve as the foundation DPA “This mask looks more alive ensure that higher education- for the youth to help transform Manila and has better skin than the ac- related initiatives are met con- BARMM through developing tual Duterte,” said another. he Commission on Higher sistent with Executive Order 79 critical thinking and give them Some netizens said the mask Education (CHEd) will or the “Implementing Annex a better understanding of the hilippine President Rod- was too expensive, adding, “It Tbe providing assistance on Normalisation Under the armed and other pressing is- rigo Duterte’s spokesman has to be cheaper so DDS trolls to higher education demands of Comprehensive Agreement on sues in the region to propose Pyesterday found it “amus- can afford it.” Duterte is noto- the Bangsamoro Autonomous the Bangsamoro.” CHEd chair- solutions to problems by them- ing” that online shopping site rious for his violent crackdown Region in Muslim Mindanao man Prospero de Vera 3rd said selves. He hoped the agreement Amazon was selling a Halloween against illegal drugs in the Phil- (BARMM) as it undergoes a nor- the commission off ered its as- would help them reach out to mask resembling the controver- ippines, which has left more malisation programme. sistance to help move forward students in the area, the under- sial leader. than 5,000 suspects dead, and Yesterday, CHEd signed a the autonomy and develop- served and the children of the “It means he has arrived,” for his rough demeanour even memorandum of understand- ment of higher education in the decommissioned Moro Islamic presidential spokesman Sal- in international gatherings. ing (MoU) with the Offi ce of BARMM. Liberation Front (MILF) com- vador Panelo told reporters. The 74-year-old leader has the Presidential Adviser on “We are assisting the BAR- batants. “Amusing! He really scares the also been criticised for sex- the Peace Process (Opapp) to MM consistent with the policy BARRM Education Minister criminals.” ist and misogynistic remarks provide technical assistance to of President (Rodrigo) Duterte Mohagher Mohamed Iqbal said The latex mask, called “Ro- in speeches that are full of higher education institutions that all young Filipinos must education was one of the pro- drigo Duterte Rodi DU30,” was A latex mask inspired by President Rodrigo Duterte is being sold on profanities. He has in the past (HEIs) and ensure accessible have access to quality educa- grammes that would help in the being sold for $32.99 on Ama- Amazon online site. cursed at such international quality education in the new tion and that no qualifi ed stu- transition of decommission- zon by Caili’s Company, which leaders as Pope Francis, former autonomous region. dent is denied access to edu- ing combatants and would also specialises in diff erent kinds of as “demonic,” “super scary” and DDS (diehard Duterte supporters) US president Barack Obama CHEd, OPAPP and BAR- cation on account of poverty,” help in responding to social and masks and Halloween props. “ugly.” “Finally, Duterte has have been clamouring for. A Hal- and former UN secretary-gen- MM’s Ministry of Basic, High- de Vera said. Opapp Secretary economic challenges. Netizens described the mask earned international recognition loween mask,” one tweet said. eral Ban Ki-moon. Security enhanced ahead of religious gatherings

By Darwin Pesco director, told reporters in a news food and drinks as vendors will around 400 policemen deployed ment offi ces today, to allow em- working holidays in the country. Force for Transport and Traffi c led Manila Times briefi ng. not be allowed inside for reasons inside the cemetery, both roving ployees to go home ahead of the Suspension of classes in private by Ariel Inton,” Quezon City May- Data from the PNP-HPG of safety and order, the cem- and stationary. observance of All Saints’ Day and schools and work in private com- or Josefi na Belmonte said. showed that of the 695 person- etery’s director, Roselle Cas- Aside from readily available All Souls’ Day. Through Memo- panies, on the other hand, were The mayor ordered the Quezon he Philippine National nel, 360 were deployed to cem- taneda said. wheelchairs, the cemetery also randum Circular 69, Executive left to the discretion of their re- City Police District, Department Police-Highway Patrol eteries, 260 to bus terminals, 26 Despite the ban on vendors, mobilised 30 electric-powered Secretary Salvador Medialdea spective heads or employers. of Public Order and Safety and TGroup (PNP-HPG) has to train stations, 34 to seaports Castaneda added that there is a tricycles to transport visitors from suspended work in government Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Barangay Public Safety Offi cers deployed 695 personnel around and 15 to airports. small portion outside the cem- the gate to the nearest street of the offi ces from 12pm onward today “ Domagoso signed an executive or- to station personnel in the villages the country for the observance Additionally, 1,946 force mul- etery dedicated to candles and grave of their family member. to provide government employees der suspending classes in all levels near cemeteries to assist in traffi c of the All Saints’ and All Souls’ tipliers and 1,155 volunteers were fl owers. Persons with disability, preg- full opportunity to properly ob- for both private and public schools and security at the vicinity. Day, its chief said yesterday. mobilized to assist the PNP- “The Manila North Cemetery nant women and the elderly will serve All Saints’ Day.” and government work in the city The QC Disaster Risk Reduc- “Our highway patrol team HPG. still does not allow vendors, the be given priority to use the wheel- The work suspension would for today. tion and Management Offi ce units are ready, so we are as- Lt Gen Archie Francisco Gam- area that these vendors used to chairs and tricycles. also allow the government work- In Quezon City, a traffi c and will deploy Emergency Response sisting them providing motor- boa, PNP offi cer in charge, said occupy is where our fi re trucks According to Castaneda, buri- ers “to travel to and from the dif- rerouting scheme has been laid Preparedness Team in Incident ist assistance in the national no threat has been reported na- and ambulances are now,” she als in the cemetery will be put on ferent regions in the country.” out for motorists who plan to visit Command System areas located highways… we will be deploying tionwide. said. hold and will resume on Novem- All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ cemeteries. “We have prepared on Mindanao Avenue and Quirino available personnel to look at the The Manila North Cemetery Castaneda gave a “fair warn- ber 4. Day, when Catholics visit cem- for the commemoration of Undas Highway, Himlayan Cemetery fl ow (of) traffi c,” Brig. Gen. Di- also yesterday advised people ing” to vendors that their goods Malacanang also yesterday de- eteries to honour deceased loved (Feast of the Dead) this year by and Manila North Cemetery to onardo Carlos, PNP-HPG acting visiting their departed to pack would be confi scated as there are clared half-day work in govern- ones, are declared special non- mobilising our newly formed Task ensure safety and order. Gulf Times 26 Thursday, October 31, 2019 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), 44466636 (Home delivery) 44350474 facebook.com/gulftimes twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar GULF TIMES Climate change has set California on fi re: Is the world paying attention?

California is in a state of emergency. Since early October, millions of people in the northern and southern parts of the state have had their electricity shut off to prevent downed power lines from setting off deadly fi res, like the ones that ravaged the state last year. But these unprecedented outages haven’t been as eff ective as had been hoped; despite them, a series of wildfi res, fanned by extraordinarily heavy winds, have swept through the state forcing hundreds of thousands of people to evacuate their homes. Nobody can honestly say this is a surprise, given the devastating fi res of recent years. Yet it feels surprising all the same. How did things get so bad in California, so quickly? The answer is climate change. It is here and the The silence of the communities are not ready for it. California is no stranger to fi re, especially when the dry Santa Ana winds sweep through the southern end of the state, turning sparks into confl agrations. However, countless researchers and government reports have warned for years that climate change would amplify natural variations in the Republican lambs weather, leading to more frequent and more destructive wildfi res. By Nina L Khrushcheva Under Trump, a man with no moral the other three were widely seen as of US policy toward Ukraine. There has It’s clear that conditions are getting worse throughout New York compass whatsoever, the Republicans’ the “adults in the room,” who could even been speculation that Bolton or a the state. Five of California’s 20 deadliest wildfires have policy priorities have remained the same, counterbalance Trump’s chaotic show- protégé of his is the whistleblower who occurred during the last two years. And 10 of the 20 most but any remaining semblance of “values” business instincts. They persuaded called attention to the July 25 phone call destructive wildfires, in terms of structures lost, occurred n the 1960s, the dissident poet has all but vanished. Trump’s betrayal of themselves that rather than trying to in which Trump pressured Ukrainian Alexander Galich wrote about allies, denial of Russia’s interference in remove Trump from offi ce, they could President Volodymyr Zelensky to over the last 10 years. the mute complicity of Soviet the 2016 US presidential election, affi nity instead control him and thus perpetuate investigate Joe Biden, a contender And it’s also woefully apparatchiks in Joseph Stalin’s for neo-Nazis and white supremacists, their own power. And by upholding the for the 2020 Democratic presidential apparent that the state’s I California crimes, notably the Great Purges in and inability to distinguish his offi ce from US system of checks and balances, they nomination. This, however, is the same infrastructure cannot handle which millions were detained or died his business should deter any Republican would be the saviours parachuting us all Bolton who argued for the disastrous has to retrofi t this new normal. The power in the Gulag. “Those who were silent from serving in or defending this back to normalcy. 2003 Iraq invasion while he was serving outages left many regions became the bosses, because silence is administration. Yet, even those offi cials But although Trump initially called in the US State Department. itself to make without cellular service, gold,” Galich wrote. “Keep silent, you with apparent concerns about Trump these former military men “my generals,” Better late than never, some might say. emergency information, will be on top.” have ended up helping to normalise his he later ousted them after falling out with Still, the recent fl urry of “resistance” communities I never would have imagined that presidency. each in turn. In the end, their complicity is more than a little late. These silent traffi c lights or the other those lines also could resonate in the In September 2018, Anonymous, in the Trumpian catastrophe was not so “resisters” want us to believe that they more resistant essentials of a modern, United States. But President Donald allegedly a senior Trump administration diff erent from the communist silence that put their country fi rst, when in fact functioning community. Trump has changed everyone’s offi cial, wrote an op-ed in The New Galich condemned, and which imposed Trump’s presidency was further dividing to wildfi res Roads clogged as people tried perception of what is possible. York Times declaring that “I am part such an enormous cost on the Soviet both the US and the world. to evacuate. And the fi res have Even as Trump’s presidency fast of the Resistance,” as if that were Union’s population. Moreover, these In the 2018 op-ed, Anonymous proved again and again that even homes and commercial approaches the abyss, leading members supposed to assuage our concerns mostly retired former US generals and lamented that America had “sunk low of the Republican Party have stayed about Republican silence. “To be clear,” lieutenant-generals didn’t have to serve with [Trump] and allowed our discourse areas in suburban-style neighbourhoods seemingly far from largely silent. They include not Anonymous wrote, “ours is not the out of fear, as former Soviet leader Nikita to be stripped of civility.” Now, with the forests or chaparral can be torched by embers carried for only Senate Majority Leader Mitch popular ‘resistance’ of the left. We Khrushchev and others had done under likes of Bolton set to become a hero, US miles by hurricane-force winds. McConnell and fellow Senator Lindsey want the administration to succeed Stalin. political discourse seems to have been The latest fi re broke out near the Getty Centre museum, Graham, but also former president and think that many of its policies have Now, fi nally, some of the resisters stripped of common sense as well. housing priceless artworks, on the west side of Los Angeles, George W Bush, James Baker, and Dick already made America safer and more are speaking out. Anonymous, who Khrushchev, the main subject of Galich’s hundreds of miles from where crews were fi ghting the Cheney. Their loyalty to “Republican prosperous.” But the prosperity claim is might even be one of those generals, poem, denounced Stalin in 1956, having biggest and most destructive fi re, the Kincade, north of San values” entrenched since the Ronald questionable, and Trump’s disastrous has written A Warning, touted by previously been loyal to the dictator for Reagan era – low taxes, light regulation, foreign policy – even more than George its publisher prior to its release in decades. And he owned up to his own Francisco. and social conservatism – has made W. Bush’s – has cost America the November as an “explosive” book that crimes, declaring that his arms were Los Angeles Lakers basketball great LeBron James, them complicit in the harm that the world’s trust and respect. “off ers a shocking, first-hand account “covered with blood up to the elbows.” “Terminator” actor and former California Governor Arnold Trump administration is infl icting on Many also had hoped for resistance of President Trump and his record.” And Let that be the test. Before we rush to Schwarzenegger, as well other celebrities, said on Twitter America and the world. from the several former US military McMaster is writing a book scheduled embrace Bolton, McMaster, and others they had been forced to leave their homes. Those Republican values have failed leaders who have served in the Trump for 2020 about the “gravest geopolitical because they are now anti-Trump, let’s Weather forecasters are forecasting there could be worse to to bring economic benefi ts to ordinary administration – in particular ex-US challenges” of our time, in which see if they have the courage to blame come. Americans in recent decades. Moreover, national security advisers Michael Trump is likely to feature. themselves for their earlier complicity. California has to retrofi t itself to make communities the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq Flynn and H.R. McMaster, former The latest Republican resister is – Project Syndicate under Bush badly damaged America’s Secretary of Defense James Mattis, and John Bolton, the third of Trump’s more resistant to wildfi res. That will mean, for example, international standing, and nationalist John Kelly, who headed the Department national security advisers, who left z Nina L Khrushcheva is Professor of making sure buildings are fi re resistant and burying power governments in Russia, Turkey, of Homeland Security before becoming the administration in September and International Aff airs at The New School. Her lines in high-fi re-risk areas when feasible and developing Hungary, and elsewhere increasingly White House Chief of Staff . is also allegedly working on a tell-all latest book (with Jeff rey Tayler) is In Putin’s microgrids that can provide backup power. It will be questioned the morality of US global Although Flynn lasted only weeks in book. Some are now praising Bolton for Footsteps: Searching for the Soul of an extraordinarily expensive and politically fraught, but it’s leadership. his role and is now a convicted felon, expressing concern about the conduct Empire Across Russia’s Eleven Time Zones. essential to protect lives and control the chaos created by the growing fi re threat. But the wildfi res are just the beginning of what Californians can expect. One knows what’s coming as the eff ects of climate change became more pronounced. The state will have to contend with more fl oods, coastal erosion and deadly heat waves. Intense weather will overwhelm existing public and private infrastructure unless people adapt now and build more resilient communities. California has been a leader in trying to slow climate change by cutting greenhouse gas emissions. That is still essential work because there’s still time to avoid some of the worst eff ects of global warming. Climate change is at people’s doorstep in California. The rest of the world should be paying attention.

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© 2019 Gulf Times. All rights reserved Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and fellow Senator Lindsey Graham Gulf Times Thursday, October 31, 2019 27 COMMENT Mir-roring change through leadership

By Kamran Rehmat Founded in 1956 by John D featured in the Top 20 ODI rankings. Doha Rockefellar 3rd, the Asia Society is Mir’s succinct acceptance speech the leading educational organisation truly refl ected her selfl ess conduct and dedicated to promoting mutual world vision (https://asiasociety.org/ emale empowerment is a understanding and strengthening video/cricket-star-sana-mir-accepts- universal subject regardless partnerships among peoples, leaders asia-game-changer-award). Typically, of where the action is — the and institutions of Asia and the US in a she eschewed revelling in her glorious FFirst World or the Third. In global context. hour and instead dedicated it to those that realm, the degree of freedom and The Society’s Game Changers award standing up for climate change, women inalienable right to seek and achieve identifi es and honours true leaders helping each other and children excellence is relative. In a more pro- who are making a positive contribution of war-torn nations. She did this nounced way, it is refl ective of the odds to the future of Asia. What makes Sana by poignantly evoking Sir Allama women all over the world have to face Mir’s inclusion amongst this year’s Muhammad Iqbal, Pakistan’s national — and eventually, overcome — to make honourees special was that it marked poet, whose famous verses underlining their mark. the fi rst time since the awards were a universal message of seeking the light Pakistan is no diff erent even instituted fi ve years ago that all the of education and staying the course though it has produced a fair share of awardees were path-breaking females! of humanity and compassion most daughters of substance who could hold The list this year included Japan’s Pakistani children learn at school. their heads high for what they came Yuriko Koike, the current and fi rst Saying that she was truly humbled to represent on a global scale. From female governor of Tokyo; China’s Jane and honoured to receive the award, Fatima Jinnah, the resolute sister of Jie Sun, the leader of Ctrip, a $25-bn Mir implored the world to comprehend Pakistan’s founder Muhammad Ali travel company in China; Sheikha the scale of global issues by seeing it Jinnah living a life of self-denial to Hoor al-Qasimi from the United Arab through a child’s eyes. realise the dream of an independent Emirates, a pioneer in the art world; “My prayer today is that the leaders state, to Benazir Bhutto, the Muslim Chhaya Sharma, a senior Indian of today and tomorrow see the world world’s fi rst female chief executive, police offi cer in charge of a team of through the lens of the child, the way and from Malala Yousafzai, the investigators that solves some of New the child sees the world, so we can youngest Nobel laureate (just a Delhi’s toughest crimes; and last but safeguard their rights without regard to schoolgirl when she captured the not least, Kung Fu Nuns, a group of the colour of their skin, race, religion, imagination of the world with her Buddhist nuns, who have harnessed or nationality”. courage and activism for the right to their mastery of martial arts and are Holding on to her values, Mir has education for the girl child) to more also widely known for their social refused to endorse beauty products recently, Sana Mir, the game changing activism and humanitarian work. throughout her career, and famously cricketer of merit, there’s plenty of While presenting the award, Asia called out adverts for associating being inspiration. Society Co-Chairperson Ambassador beautiful with success in sport. The An inspiring fi gure in the Chan Heng Chee said: “Sana Mir is takeaway quote? “Make no mistake: international women’s game, 33-year- fi rst and foremost a true champion you need strong arms, not smooth old Mir was contemplating retirement in her fi eld, she’s also a champion for arms, on a sports fi eld”. after passing on the baton of leadership millions of girls and young women on GAME-CHANGER: Pakistan’s Sana Mir seen here at the Asia Society event in New York last week has infused a generational But her best gift to the cricket- in an unprecedented transition the fi eld and off . As a child growing change in parents with daughters through her exploits, including exceptional leadership skills. mad nation lies in the generational of power in Pakistan to a younger up in Pakistan, Sana Mir saw few change she has infused in parents with teammate only two years ago but other girls — and even fewer women (Pakistan) to gold medal wins at similar to the US Congressional Medal Mir, who was declared the fi rst daughters. “When I started in 2005, mercifully, she is not done yet. — playing the national sport: cricket. the Asia Games in 2010 and 2014. of Honor; won the People’s Choice Pakistani ‘Woman Cricketer of the people would ask me why I’m doing Last week Mir was honoured with Refusing to let that stop her, Mir Mir recently became the world’s Award at the Pakistan Sports Awards; Year’ in 2013, is also her country’s fi rst this, it’s not a women’s game,” Mir the prestigious 2019 Asia Society joined the country’s fl edgling women’s top-ranked bowler for one-day and, was recently inducted into the female player to take hundred ODI recalled recently. “But now when I talk Game Changers award in New York — cricket team and went on to become its internationals; and, the top wicket- ICC Women’s Committee as one of wickets, fi rst to feature in 100 T20s to people they say, ‘We are so proud of the second Pakistani after Malala — in captain and eventually, (amongst) the taker for spinners ever among women three female players’ representatives as well as the highest wicket-taker in the team. We want our daughters to be the latest recognition of her stellar top female cricketers in the world”. in ODIs. She has been decorated with to the preeminent cricket body. And in both formats. She has also been ranked a part of this team.’” work beyond the cricket fi eld that fi rst The citation underlined her the Pakistani medal of excellence 2017, she became a member of the Asia in the Top 20 for nine years and under z The writer is Features Editor. He made her famous. leadership métier thus: “She led known as the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, 21 Young Leaders network”. her captaincy, 8 Pakistani players tweets @kaamyabi

Falklands banking on king penguins to drive nature tourism Three-day forecast macaronis and the burrowing oystercatchers, South American terns “Antarctica and South Georgia are TODAY AFP Maximum Temperature : 360c Stanley, Falkland Islands magellanics. and ruddy-headed geese. nothing compared to the variety and The Falklands have incredibly rich Another of the Falklands’ stunning accessibility of wildlife in the Falkland Minimum Temperature : 270c biodiversity, including more than 25 locations for wildlife watching is Islands and it costs about a quarter,” FRIDAY addling up the beach in species of whales and dolphins, but Kidney Island, where rockhoppers use she said, adding that there was nearly Maximum Temperature : 330c single fi le, their heads it is the guaranteed ability to get up their claws and beaks to help them a “guarantee” to see whatever wildlife Minimum Temperature : 260c held high with an almost close with penguins that makes it a get to the top of cliff s where they will is desired. SATURDAY self-important demean- particularly enticing destination. mate. Beyond birds the endangered sei Maximum Temperature : 330c W Minimum Temperature : 260c our, king penguins are a major draw in Tourism is a growing industry in the In order to see the birds, visitors whale is found off the coast of the Falklands despite their remote location must trek a half hour through tall, Falklands while the distinctive black the Falkland Islands’ tourism industry. Fisherman's forecast Their fl uff y brown chicks are nearly in the South Atlantic some 480km off three-meter tussac grass while and white Commerson’s dolphins fearless of humans, meaning tourists Argentina and occasional political and avoiding ground bird nests. swim near Yorke Bay and Gypsy WARNING But a bird called the sooty Cove. Inshore : Nil at Volunteer Point, a peninsula on East economic hostility from Buenos Aires. Offshore : Expected thunder rain Falkland Island, might get almost close In 2018, there was a 6.3% increase shearwater is what makes the island In addition to nature watching, to the north/strong enough to touch one. in tourist arrivals and a 29.4% surge in truly unique. “Kidney Island is home adventure tourism is also growing on wind with high sea by “We’re the furthest location north tourist expenditure to almost £8.8mn to 140,000 breeding pairs of sooty the islands, where enterprising locals noon WEATHER in the world that you can see king ($11.3mn). shearwaters that are just rafting off the are branching into the industry. Inshore : Relatively humid penguins,” said Tony Heathman, a “One of the key attractions for us coast here ready to come in,” Denise Tom and Jane Chater recently by early morning former sheep farmer who has spent was the king penguins at Volunteer Blake, the Falklands government’s launched a business off ering becomes, relatively hot daytime with slight dust the last 16 years taking tour groups Point, so we saw plenty of those,” said environmental offi cer, said during a helicopter trips and tours. and scattered clouds to Volunteer Point, where a thousand Flavia Tang, 29, from London, who visit to the outlying island. The married couple is hoping to with chance of rain pairs of the islands’ signature species came for a week with her partner. “So as night falls you really see attract some of the 60,000 people a Offshore : Partly cloudy to cloudy at times with go to breed. Volunteer Point is one of the islands’ them swooping in over the heads a bit year who arrive in the Falklands from a chance of scattered “We get lots and lots of people most popular destinations, accessible like the Hitchcock movie where all the cruise ships by off ering the chance to rain who... love to come here and get as from the capital Stanley by a three- birds start circling in: It’s incredible explore the islands from their four- WIND Inshore : Northeasterly-North- close to the king penguins as they hour ride in a four-wheel drive vehicle, for that.” seater Robinson R-44 helicopter. westerly 06-16/20 KT possibly can,” the 70-year-old said. including 11 miles of bumpy, boggy, While many nature-lovers head “It’s been a very busy and exciting Offshore : Northeasterly 07-17/28 Kings are just one of five penguin off -road track. to places such as Antarctica and time for us,” said Tom Chater, 43. KT species in the Falklands, alongside The peninsula is also home to South Georgia, an island in the South “It’s something we thought about Visibility : 4-8 KM Atlantic, Sally Ellis, the manager at for a long time,” added 46-year-old the wacky-looking rockhoppers gentoos and magellanic penguins – Around the region which have yellow tassels sprouting known locally as jackasses because International Tours and Travel, feels Jane. “It’s a leap of faith but we’re keen Weather from the side of their heads, gentoos, of their braying-like call – as well as the Falklands are a better option. to see how it works out.” Weather today Max/min tomorrow Max/min Baghdad Sunny 26/14 Sunny 27/14 Kuwait City Sunny 29/19 Sunny 29/19 Manama Sunny 33/28 Sunny 31/27 Muscat P Cloudy 31/24 Sunny 32/25 Live issues Tehran Sunny 18/10 M Sunny 18/10 Heavy soda consumption tied to higher fracture risk after menopause

By Lisa Rapaport medications, diabetes, coff ee intake, Reuters Health income, exercise levels, and maternal hip fracture history. The study wasn’t a controlled lder women who drink more experiment designed to prove whether soda may be more likely to or how heavy soda consumption might suff er hip fractures than directly cause fractures. Otheir counterparts who con- One limitation of the study is Around the world sume little to no soda, a recent study that researchers lacked data on soda Weather Weather suggests. consumption throughout the entire today Max/min tomorrow Max/min Researchers examined data on follow-up period, and it’s possible that Athens Rain 22/16 M Cloudy 21/14 soda consumption, bone health and this might have impacted fracture risk, the Beirut Sunny 26/20 Showers 24/20 fractures for more than 70,000 women study team notes. Also, they weren’t able Bangkok P Cloudy 34/24 Showers 27/23 who were 69 years old on average. Half to distinguish between consumption of Berlin M Sunny 07/-2 M Cloudy 09/06 the women were tracked for at least diet soda and sugar-sweetened soda. Cairo Sunny 28/16 M Sunny 28/18 12 years. Overall, 2,578 hip fractures A woman holds a drink while using her mobile phone on a hot summer day in More research is also needed to Cape Town Cloudy 21/13 M Cloudy 23/14 occurred during follow-up. Central Park, Manhattan, New York, US. examine the impact of sugar and other Colombo S T Storms 28/24 P Cloudy 29/24 When the researchers looked at sweeteners in soda on fracture risk, Dhaka M Sunny 31/22 M Sunny 31/22 consumption of carbonated beverages, California San Diego and San Diego previous studies, researchers note in researchers point out. Hong Kong M Cloudy 25/22 P Cloudy 26/22 they found that women who drank State University. Menopause. But results have been Even so, cutting back on soda may Istanbul M Cloudy 19/13 Rain 15/10 an average of more than 14 12-ounce “However, after a certain amount mixed and prior studies haven’t have health benefi ts and be one of Jakarta M Sunny 34/25 S T Storms 33/24 servings a week were 26% more likely -the equivalent of two cans per day- off ered a clear picture of whether several modifi able risk factors that Karachi Sunny 33/24 Sunny 34/25 to experience a hip fracture during the the risk would be signifi cantly higher,” sodas are a particular problem. women can control to minimise their London P Cloudy 12/08 Showers 17/10 study period than women who never Kremer said by e-mail. In the current study, researchers risk of fractures, Kremer said. Manila S T Storms 32/26 S T Storms 31/26 had soda. And women who had more During menopause and afterwards, didn’t fi nd a connection between “It is important to avoid behaviours Moscow M Cloudy -2/-4 Snow 02/-1 than 14 servings a week of caff eine- the body slows production of new lower levels of soda consumption and that could raise the chances (of New Delhi Sunny 32/19 P Cloudy 32/20 free soda were 32% more likely to bone tissue and women can face an fracture risk. The increased risk was fractures) even more, like sedentarism, New York Rain 22/11 Sunny 13/05 experience hip fractures. increased risk of osteoporosis. When only present when women consumed certain medications, tobacco, and Paris Showers 13/10 Rain 16/13 “Based on our results, low or regular bones become more porous and more than two sodas daily. unbalanced diets,” Kremer said. Sao Paulo M Sunny 33/20 P Cloudy 27/19 levels of soda consumption would brittle, women have an increased risk The risk with heavy soda “Drinking high amounts of sodas Seoul M Sunny 22/06 Sunny 18/06 not increase the risk of fractures in of fractures. consumption persisted even after should probably be added to that list of Singapore S T Storms 31/26 S T Storms 31/26 postmenopausal women,” said Dr Soda and other carbonated researchers accounted for other factors behaviours, as an additional measure Sydney M Sunny 24/17 Cloudy 24/18 Pedro Kremer, lead author of the study beverages have been linked to that can impact bone health and to avoid increased chances of hip Tokyo Cloudy 22/14 Clear 24/12 and a researcher at the University of lower bone mineral density in some fracture risk like use of osteoporosis fractures.” Gulf Times 28 Thursday, October 31, 2019 QATAR

Improving connectivity

Ashghal off icials visiting the site of the Umm Lekhba (Landmark) Interchange yesterday PICTURES: Ram Chand Interchange to ease traffi c on Doha Expressway ith four levels and nine nat Khalifa and Duhail in the direction bridges, the 11km-long of Al Shamal Road, Sabah Al Ahmad WUmm Lekhba (Landmark) Corridor, Al Gharrafa and Gharrafat Al interchange is largest of its kind and Rayyan areas to Al Luqta and Al Rayyan. second highest in Qatar. Once com- Besides, it assumes importance as pleted, the interchange will function it’s located in a densely populated area as the northern gate of Doha due to its with vibrant commercial activities, strategic location, in an key spot where many government entities and edu- Al Shamal Road intersects with the cational and health facilities as well as Doha Expressway, Al Markhiya Street complexes and commercial markets. and Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor. The Interchange includes a so- The interchange will ease the traffi c phisticated intelligent transportation congestion on Doha Expressway espe- system where surveillance cameras, cially at Al Gharrafa interchange known vehicle number monitor, vehicle clas- as Immigration and Al Duhail inter- sifi cation and emergency traffi c system sections. It will also achieve a smooth will be installed. This system will pro- traffi c fl ow in front of those coming vide important facilities and control from Doha Corniche, Markhiya, Madi- for traffi c in Qatar. Construction works of Umm Lekhba Intersection underway.

Vodafone Qatar, Hewlett Packard Enterprise sign digital transformation agreement

odafone Qatar and Hewlett Pack- Moreover, Vodafone Qatar will work Arafeh added: “Our partnership with ard Enterprise (HPE) yesterday with HPE to launch cloud services for Vodafone allows us to showcase disrup- Vannounced the signing of a mem- mission critical applications and business tive technologies and off er a glimpse of orandum of understanding (MoU) that continuity services for customers in Qatar. HPE’s leading technologies, and solu- will see the two companies collaborate Vodafone Qatar also joins the HPE tions, to redefi ne enterprise experiences to provide enterprises and government in Partner Ready Service Provider pro- and drive smarter, hyper-effi cient en- Qatar with advanced ICT solutions. gramme as a Gold partner for Qatar. terprise operations. HPE makes IT envi- The agreement was signed by Voda- “By working shoulder to shoulder with ronments more effi cient, productive and fone Qatar chief operating offi cer Diego many of the country’s most signifi cant secure, enabling fast, fl exible responses Camberos and Hewlett Packard Qatar organisations and entities, we intimately to a rapidly changing competitive land- managing director Ashraf Arafeh on the understand the power and potential of scape. sidelines of Qitcom 2019, the largest in- technological innovation and disrup- “We aspire to contribute to Qatar’s vi- formation and communications show- tion. Our business exists to help connect sion of a smart and safe country, by ena- case in Qatar. the ideas of today with the technologies bling organisations to act quickly on ide- The MoU states that Vodafone Qatar of tomorrow. Our partnership with HPE as by delivering infrastructure that can and HPE will jointly draw up an innova- comes as part of our commitment to be easily composed and recomposed to tion roadmap for government and enter- turn Qatar into one of the world’s most meet shifting demands, so that they can prises to transition from traditional tech- advanced and digitally connected coun- lead in today’s marketplace of disruptive nology platforms to futuristic services. tries,” Camberos said. innovation.” Diego Camberos and Ashraf Arafeh during the signing ceremony.