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Friday 15 February 2019 | 10 Jumada II 1440 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 23 | Number 7803 | 2 Riyals

Amir in Munich to Amir meets Ambassadors of Kyrgyzstan and Peru attend security conference QNA The 55th session of MUNICH/DOHA the Munich Security Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Conference is Hamad Al Thani arrived expected to be the yesterday evening in Munich, the biggest and most Federal Republic of Germany, to participate in the 55th session of important since the Munich Security Conference the founding of the (MSC) which will begin today and conference. will run until February 17. H H the Amir is accompanied by an official delegation. most important since the founding MSC is one of the largest and of the conference. Over the course most important international con- of three days, MSC 2019 will be ferences on the global security held under the chairmanship and defence policies. Twenty-one Wolfgang Ischinger and with the heads of state and 75 foreign and participation of German Chan- defence ministers participated in cellor Angela Merkel, US Vice- the last session of the MSC. President Mike Pence and a A strong strategic part- number of heads of governments nership, between Qatar and the and international community MSC, emerged during the 18th organisations. session of Doha Forum. The year This year’s conference will be 2011 witnessed the convening of held in exceptional circumstances the first meeting of MSC officials amidst many problems, crises and in Doha, where the two sides events, which will give the 2019 agreed to work together more session great importance. Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met separately yesterday in his office at Al Bahr Palace with the Ambassador of regularly so that the Qatari rep- High on the agenda of the the Republic of Kyrgyzstan to the State of Qatar, Nuran Niyazaliyev, and the Ambassador of the Republic of Peru to the State resentation at the conference MSC 2019 are themes such as the of Qatar, Carlos Velasco Mendiola, who called on H H the Amir to greet him on the occasion of the end of their tenure in the becomes at the highest level with European Union’s self-assertion, country. During the meeting, H H the Amir granted the outgoing Ambassadors with Al Wajbah Decoration in recognition of their the participation of HH the Amir transatlantic cooperation, as well role in enhancing ties between the State of Qatar and their countries, wishing them success in their future assignments and for along with other world leaders. as possible consequences of a the relations between Qatar and their countries further progress and prosperity. For their part, the Ambassadors expressed The 55th session of the MSC renewed era of great power com- thanks and appreciation to H H the Amir and officials in the State for the cooperation they received which contributed to the is expected to be the biggest and petition. `P2 success of their missions. `P2 Prime Minister MME calls on residents to inaugurates refrain from Es’hailSat Teleport littering

QNA he stressed that the inauguration THE PENINSULA DOHA of the Teleport is an important DOHA step in the company’s plan to Prime Minister and Interior provide a safe and independent The Ministry of Municipalities Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin satellite service to meet all the and Environment, represented Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani inau- requirements of its current and by the General Cleanliness gurated yesterday the Teleport future customers. Department, has called on Control Station of Qatar Satellite The launch of this Teleport citizens and expatriates to stop Company (Es’hailSat) in Al will enable Es’hailSat to provide littering and place garbage espe- Ghuwairiya area. the best solutions to its customers cially the construction and solid The ceremony was attended in the region not only technically wastes at designated places. by a number of Their Excellencies but also in terms of security, The disposal of the waste in the Ministers and senior officials especially that Es’hail-1 and proper way eases the job of of the company. Es’hail-2 satellites were designed cleaning team which takes the At the beginning of the cer- with the latest anti-jamming garbage to the designated sites. emony, a documentary film about technology, Al Kuwari said. The The department removed Es’hailSat Company was dis- Prime Minister and Interior Min- over 2,025 tonnes of waste in played. Es’hailSat CEO Ali bin ister toured the station and was January under an intensified Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani inaugurating Ahmed Al Kuwari delivered a briefed on the advanced operation conducted by the the Teleport Control Station of Qatar Satellite Company, yesterday. speech on the occasion in which equipment and systems. `P3 Department last month in Doha and Al Rayyan area to remove the wastes that were thrown randomly. QU names Sheikha Al Mahmoud as CSR Person of Year 2018 Large quantity of construction and miscellaneous waste were THE PENINSULA leaders who have contributed to harmony with the international which demonstrates high trust dumped randomly in Doha, Al DOHA CSR on a national level. The standards of volunteering in in Qatari women’s abilities and Rayyan and Sheehaniya. The report is issued in QU under the preparation for the upcoming capabilities. Department removed 1,530 Qatar University (QU) has named patronage of Prime Minister and 2022 FIFA World Cup. In Her Excellency has played a tonnes of waste from Doha, 300 H E Sheikha Ahmed Al Mahmoud Interior Minister addition, this year’s CSR report major role in the development tonnes from Shihaniya and 195 (pictured), the former Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser will include a special chapter of social awareness and public tonnes from Al Rayyan. of Education as CSR Person of the bin Khalifa Al Thani, in part- entitled “The 21st Century Initi- vision towards education and the The cleaning campaigns Year 2018, in recognition of her nership with Qatar CSR Network; ative for Qatar 2022: Qatar’s involvement of all categories of were launched within the inspiring lifetime achievements and sponsored by the Ministry of Mission for Peace through Sport.” the society in the educational framework of the programme in support of generations of Foreign Affairs and Qatar Post, Dr. Hassan Al Derham, Pres- process. She supported the implemented by the Ministry to students, throughout her lengthy with the contribution of min- ident of Qatar University said, development of a socially clean throughout the country by career in education. isters, ambassadors and leading “H E Sheikha Al Mahmoud is the responsible culture that recog- removing waste, especially those Every year, the Corporate figures and major institutions. first female Minister of Education nizes quality education and came from anonymous source Social Responsibility network QU announcef that this and the first woman in Qatar and family rights in securing the best and thrown randomly. Such (CSR) report recognises the season is launched under the the GCC to hold such an educational opportunities for cleaning campaigns do not affect achievements of the inspiring theme of volunteering, in important ministerial position, their children.” `P2 routine cleaning operation. 02 HOME FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 Amir meets Ambassadors of Peru and Kyrgyzstan Amir in Munich

Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met to attend security separately yesterday in his office at Al Bahr Palace with the Ambassador of conference the Republic of Kyrgyzstan FROM PAGE 1 to the State of Qatar, United States, China, and Russia, Nuran Niyazaliyev, Additionally, experts from accompanied by a certain lead- and the Ambassador across the globe will discuss the ership vacuum in what has of the Republic of future of arms control and coop- become known as the liberal Peru to the State of eration in defence policy. The international order,” said MSC Qatar, Carlos Velasco intersection between trade and Chairman Wolfgang Ischinger Mendiola, who called on international security will be ahead of the upcoming H H the Amir to greet examined, as will the effects of conference. him on the occasion of climate change and techno- The Chancellor of Germany, the end of their tenure logical innovations on the inter- Angela Merkel, who is partici- in the country. During the national security. pating in the conference said she meeting, H H the Amir “When looking at the current intends to work towards pre- granted the outgoing state of international affairs, it serving international institution Ambassadors with Al is difficult to escape the feeling which is as important as it was Wajbah Decoration in that the world is not just wit- during the Cold War. recognitions of their role nessing a series of smaller and The German Foreign Min- in enhancing ties between bigger crises, but that there is a ister Heiko Maas recently called the State of Qatar and more fundamental problem. on forming an “alliance of mul- their countries, wishing Indeed, we seem to be experi- tilateralists” however the diffi- them success in their future encing a reshuffling of core culty of achieving this goal assignments and for the pieces of the international order. emerges from cooperation with relations between Qatar A new era of great power com- France, Germany’s most and their countries further petition is unfolding between the important partner in Europe. progress and prosperity. For their part, the Ambassadors expressed QU names Sheikha Al Mahmoud thanks and appreciation to H H the Amir and as CSR Person of Year 2018 officials in the State for the cooperation they received FROM PAGE 1 which contributed to the QU is hosting the launching success of their missions. H E Sheikha Ahmed Al ceremony of the report in the Mahmoud said, “It has always presence of senior officials and been the national responsibility academic personalities. The of the independent school report enhances the abilities of system to lead the moderni- QU students through their con- FM participates zation process, taking into tribution in its preparation. It is account that the contractor, the an academic book that monitors director, the educational and the CSR progress in Qatar and in meeting to administrative teams are highlights the achievements of partners in the social responsi- the major economic bodies in support peace bility of education, which social responsibility. The report requires that the independence honors CSR leading institutions; in Middle East of the school be established. To and enjoys wide media compete in educational fields coverage. such as curricula, teaching The award ceremony Deputy Prime Minister and Minister methods, the use of techno- includes the unveiling of a of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh logical media, the development painted portrait of the person of Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al of children’s abilities and the the year by a reputable artist to Thani participated in a meeting building of their personalities, be held permanently in a dedi- to support peace in the Middle are all part of a great structure cated place at the university’s East being held in the Polish that builds them and allows campus, in addition to granting capital Warsaw. The meeting, them to be qualified to deal with the named person a special which ended yesterday, discussed tomorrow with balance, confi- shield and a certificate made of issues related to war in Syria, the dence and competence.” fine wood. Yemeni issues and the peace process between Palestinians and Israelis. Qatar, Mali discuss culture & sports ties Expert lauds Qatar’s efforts for children with special needs

FAZEENA SALEEM information on Qatar Dr Thornton community engagement that will THE PENINSULA supporting children appreciated that connect families to information, with special needs. children with disabil- partners and support systems that Strengthening the support Qatar is a signatory to ities are embraced by will help children with special network around a child with the UN Convention the society in Qatar and needs live a fulfilling life without special needs will empower their on the Rights of Dis- not discriminated. hindrance. Dr Thornton also advo- lives, said Dr Lisa Thornton abled Persons, and is According to her, cates for a fan zone for people (pictured), Division Chief of Reha- working to ensure accessibility of people with special needs during the bilitation Medicine, Pediatrics, that Qatari laws and with special needs has World Cup 2022. Sidra Medicine. codes comply with to be taken into consid- The Pediatric Rehabilitation Dr Thornton lauded the efforts the Convention. Many eration while con- Medicine clinic at Sidra Medicine taken by Qatar to improve the of the laws in Qatar related to structing new buildings and setting helps manage the health of lives of children with special people with special needs are up facilities. Also increasing sport children with physical disabilities needs, however there is still much similar in terms of rights and and other activities suitable for such as paralysis, cerebral palsy more that needs to be done. She, reflect laws in the US. It’s pretty children with special needs is and brain damage. Patients are is a big disability rights advocate impressive,” Dr Thornton told The another area that can be referred internally from Sidra for the care and services for Peninsula. improved. “There are many things Medicine’s in-house teams, as well children with special needs. She “But there is still room for us as individuals, organisations and as HMC and PHCC. The clinic is urges that public and recreational to make places and events more communities that we can do to based on a multidisciplinary, com- spaces and other places should be accessible for children with disa- ensure that we are developing munity-based approach — Minister of Culture and Sports H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali met yesterday friendly to children with special bilities. And it is good to see that services to help children with working with young patients and with the Ambassador of the Republic of Mali to the State of Qatar, needs across Qatar. “During my organisations around Qatar are special needs,” she said. their families under the leadership research before moving to Qatar, receptive to making those Dr Thornton sees Sidra Med- of Dr Thornton, who has over 20 Cheick Ahmed Tidiany. They discussed aspects of joint cooperation I found a series of favourable changes,” she added. icine playing a key role in years of experience in the field. in the culture and sports fields and means to develop them. Qatar attends Gulf Committee for Tobacco Control meeting QNA Dr Kholood Al Mutawa said detailed presentation on Protocol MUSCAT the State of Qatar and the GCC to Eliminate Illicit Trade in continue to work to reach their Tobacco Products, signed by The State of Qatar represented by objectives of stopping the use of Qatar in June 2013. As Qatar is the the Ministry of Public Health tobacco which negatively affects 18th country in the list of country participated in the Gulf all countries. The committee’s to sign the protocol, which was Committee for Tobacco Control meeting came after the State took adopted in November 2012 in the meeting, which concluded positive steps by imposing the South Korean capital Seoul by the yesterday in Oman. selective tax on tobacco and its member states of the World The delegation included derivatives which was imple- Health Organization. The protocol Advisor to Minister of Public mented starting January 1, 2019. aims to eliminate all forms of Health, Head of the HMC Tobacco She said the efforts are con- illegal trade in tobacco products Control Center Ahmad Al Mulla tinuous to amend the standards and raise the financial revenues and Qatar representative in the by stopping the adding of flavors to be used in health education. committee, Head of Non-Com- in tobacco and intensifying health She said that during the municable Diseases at the min- The dignitaries at the meeting in Muscat. awareness by raising community meeting they discussed estab- istry Dr Kholood Al Mutawa. awareness about the dangers of lishing a unified goal for all the Al Mulla said meeting at this between the GCC countries to economics of tobacco in the GCC the GCC level. The meeting also tobacco to the individual, family GCC countries and work on the time contributes to the consoli- combat the tobacco epidemic. countries. The meeting also dis- revised the proposals for updating and society. issuance of a unified Gulf decla- dation of efforts, exchange of He said the meeting discussed cussed intensifying health the Gulf strategic plan for tobacco During the meeting Dr ration to reduce tobacco experiences and cooperation the preliminary report on the awareness to control tobacco at control. Kholood gave a consumption. FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 HOME 03 Prime Minister inaugurates Es’hailSat Teleport FROM PAGE 1 Company which was keen to design a The advanced systems control the station that can be developed in the operation of the satellites to ensure the future to meet the needs of its provision of safe and integrated broad- customers. casting services in accordance with An area of 50,000 square meters the highest quality standards. has been allocated north of Doha for The Prime Minister said the inau- the new Teleport which will provide guration is a new achievement for satellite control services, support com- Qatar which is steadily progressing in munications and control of satellite carrying out its strategic projects in capacities, in addition to a wide range accordance with its National Vision of services on broadcasting and 2030 and under the sound directives encryption which are designed spe- of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad cifically for the company’s partners Al Thani. He also hailed the efforts and customers. exerted over the past years, which The Teleport is designed according have so far resulted in the estab- to the latest technologies to provide lishment of Es’hail-1 and Es’hail-2 sat- back-up studios for TV channels and ellites, the Teleport is being celebrating serve as a disaster-recovery facility today and the training and qualifi- for broadcasters. It also will connect cation of national cadres that have with the most important media means proved their capability and efficiency in the State of Qatar through its fibre- in this important vital sector. optic technology. The Teleport includes all the basic Es’hailSat will broadcast a variety requirements to provide the best of major TV channels such as Al Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani at the Teleport Control Station of Qatar ground services and platform services Jazeera and beIN as well Qatar Media Satellite Company (Es’hailSat) in Al Ghuwairiya area, yesterday. for all customers of Es’hailSat Corporation’s channels. Wife of Somalian President visits health facilities

THE PENINSULA During the tour, the Mariam Al Misnad on the vision DOHA Somali President’s and mission of Dreama Center as a pioneering center in providing Sainab Abdi Moallim, wife of the wife was briefed on care for the orphans and inte- President of the Federal Republic the health services grating them into the society, and of Somalia Mohamed Abdullahi provided, the latest the Center’s efforts to maintain a Farmajo, accompanied by Minister methods of treatment safe and stable environment for of Public Health H E Dr Hanan the targeted categories, reduce the Mohamed Al Kuwari visited and the modern number of cases in the Homeless yesterday a number of health medical techniques House to the possible minimal facilities in the country. provided to serve the number, in addition to building Moallim visited Qatar Reha- patients. and developing the institutional bilitation Institute (QRI), Women’s capabilities. Wellness and Research Center, Al Moallim also got to know Wajbah Health Center and Sidra about the Center’s plans in respect Medicine. member of the charity association of the methods of care and During the tour, the Somali of the President’s wife and Nasra services being offered to the President’s wife was briefed on the Wahliya Malin, personal assistant orphans by maintaining alter- health services provided, the latest of the President’s wife, attended native fostering families, ensuring methods of treatment and the the visit. their stability in such families, modern medical techniques pro- At the headquarters of the training the fostering families on Sainab Abdi Moallim, wife of the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia Mohamed Abdullahi vided to serve the patients. center, she was welcomed by how to inform the fostered Farmajo, accompanied by Minister of Public Health H E Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari during their Moallim who is currently vis- Amal bint Abdullatif Al Mannai, children of their conditions, visit to Al Wajbah Health Center, yesterday. iting the country, also discussed Chief Executive Officer of Qatar ensuring their stability, raising with the Minister of Public Health Foundation for Social Work; their awareness on the importance on strengthening cooperation Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser Al of fostering and providing the psy- undertakes in providing high all fields. She also expressed her her appreciation for the visit, between the two countries in the Misnad, Executive Director of the chological support and guidance quality services for its children in expectations to establish strong saying: “The Center is playing a health sector. Orphan Care Center, a number of for the fostering families and the Qatar and its efforts to empower collaboration relationship with the key role in providing familial fos- Meanwhile, the Orphan Care leaders and officials of Dreama, children, legal, social, educational and integrate them into the com- Center in the near future and offer tering and continuous observation Center “Dreama” welcomed and Dr Aisha Al Mannai, member and medical services. munity, in addition to promoting programs for the Dreama children for the orphan children.” Sainab Abdi Moallim. The Somali of Shura Council, where she Moallim expressed her appre- the professional and personal in collaboration with a number of At the end of the visit, Dreama’ Ambassador to Qatar, Abdulraziq learned about the types of services ciation for the management of the skills of its children in line with the charity institutions which she Executive Director negotiated Fareh Ali; Aidaros Mahmoud being offered to the targeted cat- Dreama Center for the warm international standards in prepa- established. means of joint collaboration Othman, secretary of the Presi- egories and listened to the welcome and sufficient infor- ration for integrating them into the For her part, Mariam bint Ali during the upcoming period in the dent’s wife; Nour Direih Harsi, awareness presentation made by mation on the vital role Dreama society and empowering them in bin Nasser Al Misnad expressed interest of the children of Dreama. New Ooredoo tv to revolutionise home entertainment

THE PENINSULA new look, with a strong recom- DOHA mendation engine that works seamlessly between multiple Ooredoo announced yesterday content platforms and is able to Officials posing for a group picture. a new set-top box, which is now intuitively offer recommenda- available to all its Ooredoo tv tions based on the user’s viewing customers. pattern. QNRF holds seminar to share research The new Ooredoo tv — The new user interface also which provides all digital offers much faster channel services through one set-top box switching, Kids Mode, channel —includes conventional linear profile creation, a catch-up outcomes of sports-related studies TV, on-demand service, catch- feature of up to 48 hours, a up features, apps and games, locking mechanism to better THE PENINSULA University (QU), Qatar Football solutions for the sports industry. steps by Arabizing curricula, and is intended to be the premier provide parental control and DOHA Association, Aspetar, Aspire Dr Abdul Sattar Al Taie, Exec- ensuring better contextualisation digital hub for customers in much more. Academy, Anti-Doping Laboratory utive Director, QNRF, said: of education, creating new Qatar, meeting all their digital Manar Khalifa Al Muraikhi, Qatar National Research Fund Qatar, QF member Hamad Bin “Quality research on sport is majors, and finding better ways needs. Director PR and Corporate Com- (QNRF), a member of Qatar Foun- Khalifa University, QF partner uni- important, as it raises awareness for knowledge transfer in the Home entertainment munications at Ooredoo, said of dation (QF), has hosted its first versity Northwestern University about adopting healthy lifestyles field of sport.” services are provided by the the launch: “We’re incredibly Research Outcome Seminar (ROS) in Qatar, and Murdoch University, and emphasizes the importance Dr Fatemeh Darakhshan UHD 4K set-top box, which has pleased to be able to offer this of the year at Education City, Australia, participated in the of exercise in creating healthy Rassam, Programme Manager, been specially designed with a comprehensive, state-of-the-art which followed Qatar National seminar. Launched in 2013, ROS communities. In turn, this research Biomedical Sciences & Health, Qatari aesthetic appearance to digital entertainment solution Sport Day and invited researchers is a platform for the public to learn contributes to the development of QNRF, said: “This seminar is an appeal to Qatari citizens and to our customers at such great to share the outcomes of their about the impact of research the country, as it is in line with indication of the successful residents. value. We know access to quality sport-focused projects with the projects funded by QNRF and Qatar National Vision 2030, which multidisciplinary projects QNRF The new Ooredoo tv is entertainment is of great impor- local community. share their ideas and questions calls for people to come together has funded in sports-related powered by Android TV, widely tance to them, and we’re con- The event, titled ‘Sporting with the researchers. through sports. research over the years and the considered to be one of the best fident they will enjoy all the Research Excellence,’ saw partic- QNRF’s commitment to sup- Keynote speaker Dr Ahmed importance we place in profes- entertainment platforms cur- capabilities the new Ooredoo tv ipants offer audience interdisci- porting sport-related research Abdulrahman H.Y. Al Emadi, sional scientific development. rently available. provides.” plinary insights into multiple aligns with the Qatar National Dean of College of Education, “We hope that scientists will The new set-top box is real The new Ooredoo tv is sport-related themes and discuss Research Strategy, which calls for QU, said: “This was one of the build on the success of this event HDR 4K, offering unprecedented available priced at QR350, but outcomes of their research, the development and implemen- most successful gatherings of the to strengthen synergies with picture quality to viewers, and a limited time offer is available including topics such as temper- tation of research programs to sports science community in each other, and develop mech- includes 16 GB of memory, ena- at no upfront cost to customers. ature control in stadiums and the increase participation in sport and Qatar. In response to national anisms through which exercise bling users to download a Customers can get their hands integration of sport and tech- healthy activities in Qatar, and the calls and community needs, and sports can contribute to number of apps and games. on the new set-top box by vis- nology in promoting health. design of innovative, commer- Qatar University and the College health maintenance and disease The new Ooredoo tv features iting any Ooredoo Shop around Researchers from Qatar cially and technologically-viable of Education have taken effective prevention in Qatar.” a user interface with a brand town. 04 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 Turkey, Russia, Iran back Syria’s territorial integrity

ANATOLIA & REUTERS Turkish President differing priorities and interests. ANKARA/MOSCOW Recep Tayyip But tensions between Moscow Erdogan, his Russian and Ankara over Syria have risen Leaders of Turkey, Iran and counterpart Vladimir in recent months, fuelled in part Russia expressed firm stance by a planned withdrawal of US against “separatist agendas” in Putin and Iran’s forces which promises to free up Syria. “The presidents expressed Hassan Rowhani met territory controlled by US or US- their determination to stand in Russia’s Black Sea backed forces, spurring a race to against separatist agendas aimed fill the vacuum if and when it at undermining the sovereignty resort of Sochi for the opens up. Before the summit, the and territorial integrity of Syria fourth time to discuss Kremlin had made clear it wanted as well as the national security of the situation in Syria. a green light for action in Idlib neighboring countries,” read a where it says militants have made joint statement released following significant inroads despite the the trilateral summit on Syria. presidents said the move would area’s technical status as a Turkish President Recep strengthen stability and security Moscow- and Ankara-backed Tayyip Erdogan, his Russian in the region if Washington demilitarised zone. counterpart Vladimir Putin and implemented the decision. “...We should not put up with Iran’s Hassan Rowhani met in President Vladimir Putin said the presence of terrorist groups Iranian President Hassan Rowhani (left), his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin (centre) and Turkish Russia’s Black Sea resort of Sochi that Russia, Turkey and Iran had in Idlib,” Putin told Erdogan and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan during a trilateral meeting on Syria in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, for the fourth time to discuss the agreed to take unspecified extra Rowhani. “That’s why I propose situation in Syria. steps to clear Syria’s Idlib region of we consider practical concrete Russia, yesterday. According to the statement what he called “a hotbed of ter- steps that Russia, Turkey and Iran the leaders also discussed the sit- rorists,” but the Kremlin said there can take to completely destroy opening remarks, and after the Idlib province, but Ankara, assault on the region, the last uation in northeastern Syria and would be no military operation this hotbed of terrorists.” summit said that Turkey would which has called for the Syrian major bastion of Assad’s oppo- “agreed to coordinate their activ- there. Putin, one of Syrian Pres- Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s continue to do all it could to sta- leader to leave power, has so far nents after almost eight years ities to ensure security, safety and ident Bashar Al Assad’s closest spokesman, told Russian news bilise Idlib. But he also repeated successfully pushed back. of war. But Moscow has since stability in this area including allies, was speaking after hosting agencies that no new military a warning he has often made It brokered a deal with complained that Turkey has through existing agreements, the summit in southern Russia to operation against Idlib had been about the need not to spark a Russia in September to enforce not done enough to keep its while respecting sovereignty and weigh the future of Syria. agreed on. Rowhani had said he humanitarian catastrophe there. a demilitarised zone in Idlib. The side of the bargain and that territorial integrity” of the war- All three countries have backed tough action, but Erdogan Moscow is keen to help agreement, which envisaged Islamist militants who used to torn country. forces on the ground in Syria, was more circumspect. Assad retake territory from clearing the province of heavy belong to the Nusra Front On the US decision to where they have coordinated He did not respond to Putin’s rebels and militants, including weapons and jihadists, helped group have seized control of withdraw troops from Syria, the their efforts despite sometimes suggestion of a joint plan in his eventually the northwestern avert a Syrian government much of Idlib.

Egypt MPs approve Turkish police: Khashoggi remains may have been burned possible 3-decade

REUTERS had been killed and his body dis- rule by Al Sissi ANKARA membered when negotiations to Report: Khashoggi’s fiancee persuade him to return to Saudi could also have been a victim AP/CAIRO Turkish police believe the Arabia failed. remains of murdered Saudi Police believe information AP/ISTANBUL Egyptian lawmakers voted journalist Jamal Khashoggi may obtained in the investigation overwhelmingly yesterday to have been burned, Turkey’s indicate that the dismembered Turkey’s state-run news agency is quoting a police extend term limits for Pres- state-run news agency Anadolu remains of Khashoggi may have report suggesting that the Turkish fiancee of slain ident Abdel Fattah Al Sissi said yesterday, citing a police been burned, Anadolu said. journalist Jamal Khashoggi may have escaped until 2034, part of a package report. Despite Turkey’s investi- being a second victim of the killing. of constitutional amendments Khashoggi, a critic of Saudi gation looking at the kingdom’s Citing an annual report by Istanbul police yes- also set to further enshrine the Crown Prince Mohammed bin consulate in Istanbul, the con- terday, Anadolu says Khashoggi’s killers were military’s role in politics that Salman, was killed in the Saudi sul’s residence and several other most likely not informed that his fiancee Hatice will now face a national refer- consulate in Istanbul by a team locations, Khashoggi’s remains Cengiz was waiting for him outside the Saudi Con- endum. of Saudi operatives on October have not been found. sulate, where he was killed on October 2. Cengiz Of the 596-seat Parliament, 2, provoking international Khashoggi’s killing has had alerted Turkish authorities over his Murdered Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s 485 lawmakers backed the revulsion. severely strained ties between disappearance. fiancee Hatice Cengiz speaks during a press amendments, which could see The consulate had two wells Turkey and Saudi Arabia, Khashoggi’s fiancée, may have been a the former general ruling for the conference on a book entitled “Jamal Khashoggi: and a gas and wood floor furnace although Turkish President second victim in the murder if she had entered length of four US presidential His Life, Struggles and Secrets”at Turkish Arab that could reach heat of over Recep Tayyip Erdogan has good the Saudi consulate with Khashoggi, Anadolu terms, in addition to the nearly Media Association in Istanbul. 1,000 degrees, destroying any ties with the Saudi monarch, said. five years he’s already spent in DNA traces, Anadolu said yes- King Salman. office. terday, quoting a report by the Erdogan has said Khashoggi’s Critics of the move argue Turkish police. killing was ordered by the cooperator” involved in the police report shown on Turkish a man police say is the “local that Egypt is slipping back into After making numerous con- highest level of Saudi leadership killing. Riyadh has rejected accu- televisions showed a man cooperator” in the case. The authoritarianism, eight years tradictory statements about and has repeatedly called on sations that the crown prince believed to be a Khashoggi identity of the man was not after a pro-democracy uprising Khashoggi’s fate, Riyadh said he Saudi officials to identify a “local was involved. Footage from the impersonator walking alongside immediately clear. ended autocrat Hosni Mubarak’s three-decade rule, and nearly six years after Al Sissi led a popular military Last day of campaigning overthrow of the country’s first freely elected Islamist pres- ident, Mohammed Mursi, after in Nigeria before polling protests against his rule. With Parliament and state AFP in office. There has been little or no institutions packed with ABUJA reliable opinion polling but observers fervent Al Sissi supporters, expect a close race, with results the amendments focusing on Nigeria’s presidential candidates expected from early next week. him are almost certain to wrapped up their election campaigns Some voters said they were faced survive any scrutiny, yesterday, making a final pitch to with a stark choice between two allowing the general-turned voters before Africa’s most populous ageing candidates of the political president 12 more years of country heads to the polls. establishment who were becoming potential rule after his President Muhammadu Buhari ill-suited to an increasingly young second term expires in 2022. addressed crowds of supporters in his electorate. Parliament Speaker Ali home state of Katsina in the northwest, Just over half (51 percent) of the 84 Abdel Al said the motion would while his main challenger, Atiku Abu- million registered voters are aged 18 now be discussed by the Con- bakar, held his last rally in his native to 35. “It’s about time these old people stitutional and Legislative Adamawa, in the northeast. go,” said Modibbo Sadiq, a 23-year-old Affairs Committee for 60 days Buhari, 76, is seeking a second, university graduate, in the Adamawa before returning to Parliament four-year term of office on Saturday state capital, Yola. for a final vote followed by the Supporters attend the final campaign rally of the Nigerian opposition Peoples Democratic but is facing a strong challenge from “The same people who come out referendum, likely to take place Party (PDP) presidential candidate, at Ribadu Square in Jimeta, Adamawa State, eastern Abubakar, 72, who has campaigned for Buhari are the same who come for before early May, the start of Nigeria, yesterday. largely against the president’s record Atiku,” he said. Ramadan. Iran vows revenge on mercenaries behind attack Mine kills farmer, 3 security personnel in Jordan AFP/AMMAN AFP “The main root of terrorism of Justice), which is blacklisted were certainly linked to “the TEHRAN in the region is America and as a terrorist group by Iran, the spying agencies of some regional A Jordanian farmer and three members of the security forces Zionists, and some oil-producing SITE Intelligence Group and trans-regional countries.” were killed yesterday when two old mines exploded, a security President Hassan Rowhani countries in the region also reported. The organisation was The European Union con- source said. The first mine went off in a field killing the farmer vowed revenge yesterday against financially support the ter- formed in 2012 as a successor to demned the attack, saying “there and the second exploded when security forces came to inves- the “mercenary group” behind rorists,” he added. Sunni extremist group Jundallah can be no justification for such tigate, killing three of them and wounding seven others, the source a suicide bombing which killed Rowhani was speaking at (Soldiers of God), which waged an outrageous act of terror,” and said. 27 troops in southeastern Iran Tehran’s Mehrabad Airport a deadly insurgency for a decade expressing condolences to the Jordan had more than 300,000 landmines laid across its ter- and accused the US and Israel of before leaving for the Russian before being severely weakened families of the victims. ritory, most of them in the Jordan Valley during successive Arab- supporting “terrorism”. resort of Sochi for a summit with by the capture and execution of The bombing, which tar- Israeli wars, but also near the borders with Iraq and Syria. “We will certainly make this his Russian and Turkish coun- its leader Abdolmalek Rigi by geted a busload of Revolutionary The blasts occurred in the Salt region, northwest of Amman, mercenary group pay for the terparts Vladimir Putin and Tehran in 2010. Guards in the volatile south- which lies near the Jordan Valley and the border with Israel. blood of our martyrs,” the official Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the In comments reported by eastern province of Sistan-Bal- Some mines date from the Six-Day War of 1967 in which Israel Irna news agency quoted the future of war-battered Syria. state television, Iran’s supreme uchistan, was one of the dead- seized the West Bank from Jordan and from 1968 when Salt was a Iranian president as saying in The bombing was claimed leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei liest attacks on Iranian security key battlefront where artillery units were deployed to thwart an response to Wednesday’s attack. by the jihadist Jaish Al Adl (Army said the attack’s perpetrators forces in years. Israeli attack on the Jordan Valley village of Al Karameh. FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 ISLAM 05 Woman an independent personality

The Quran, in of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), women addressing the were often treated worse than animals! Pagan Arabs used to bury their female believers, often children alive, make women dance uses the expression naked in the vicinity of the Ka’ba during their annual fairs, and treat women as ‘believing men and mere chattels and objects of sexual women’ to emphasise pleasure — possessing no rights or position whatsoever, these teachings of the equality of men the Noble Quran were revolutionary. and women in regard Unlike other religions, which regarded women as being possessed of inherent to their respective sin and wickedness, and men as being duties, rights, virtues possessed of inherent virtue and and merits. nobility, Islam regards men and women as being of the same essence created from a single soul. n Islam there is absolutely no dif- O mankind! revere your Guardian- ference between men and women Lord, who created you from a single as far as their relationship to God soul, created, of like nature, its mate, is concerned, as both are promised and from the two, scattered (like seeds) the same reward for good conduct countless men and women;- revere God, Iand the same punishment for evil through whom ye demand your mutual conduct. (rights), and (revere) the wombs (That The Quran, in addressing the bore you): for God ever watches over believers, often uses the expression you. (Surah 4 Verse 1) ‘believing men and women’ to emphasise the equality of men and Marriage: uniting the two souls O ye who believe! Ye are forbidden to inherit women against their will. women in regard to their respective The Quran emphasises the essential Nor should ye treat them with harshness, that ye may Take away part of duties, rights, virtues and merits. unity of men and women in a most O ye who believe! Ye are forbidden beautiful metaphor: the dower ye have given them,-except where they have been guilty of to inherit women against their will. Nor …They (Your wives) are your gar- open lewdness; on the contrary live with them on a footing of kindness should ye treat them with harshness, ments and ye are their garments. …. that ye may Take away part of the dower (Surah 2 Verse 187) and equity. If ye take a dislike to them it may be that ye dislike a thing, ye have given them,-except where they Just as a garment hides our and God brings about through it a great deal of good. have been guilty of open lewdness; on nakedness, so do husband and wife, by (Holy Quran Chapter 4, Verse 19) the contrary live with them on a footing entering into the relationship of mar- of kindness and equity. If ye take a riage, secure each other’s chastity. The dislike to them it may be that ye dislike garment gives comfort to the body; so a thing, and God brings about through does the husband find comfort in his Arafat. This was in the presence of one Muslim umma. They carried provisions women as the spiritual and intellectual it a great deal of good. (Surah 4 Verse wife’s company and she in his. Actually hundred and twenty-four thousand of for the soldiers, nursed them, and even equals of men. The main distinction it 19) a garment is the grace, the beauty, the his Companions. who had gathered fought alongside them if it was nec- makes between them is in the physical The Prophet of Islam, peace be upon embellishment of the body, so too are there for hajjat al-wada” (farewell pil- essary. It became a common sight to see realm based on the equitable principle him, said:”Women are the twin halves wives to their husbands as their hus- grimage). It was in this famous Farewell women helping their husbands in the of fair division of labor. It allots the more of men.” bands are to them. Sermon that he ordered Muslim men to fields, carrying on trade and business strenuous work to man and makes him For Muslim men and women,- for Islam does not consider woman “an be respectful and kind towards women. independently, and going out of their responsible for the maintenance of the believing men and women, for devout instrument of the devil”, but rather the He said: “Fear God regarding homes to satisfy their needs. family. men and women, for true men and Quran calls her muhsana, a fortress women. Verily you have married them It allots the work of managing the women, for men and women who are against Satan. This is because a good with the trust of God, and made their A full-fledged partner home and the upbringing and training patient and constant, for men and woman, by marrying a man, helps him bodies lawful with the word of God. You The predominant idea in the of children to woman “ a mission, which women who humble themselves, for keep to the path of rectitude in his life. have got (rights) over them, and they teachings of Islam with regard to men has the greatest importance in the task men and women who give in Charity, It is for this reason that Prophet have got (rights) over you.” and women is that a husband and wife of building a healthy and prosperous for men and women who fast (and deny Muhammad (PBUH) considered mar- should be full-fledged partners in society. themselves), for men and women who riage as a most virtuous act. An Independent Personality making their home a happy and pros- It is a fact, however, that sound guard their chastity, and for men and The Quran has given the raison In Islam a woman is a completely perous place. They should also be loyal administration within the domestic field women who engage much in God’s d’etre of marriage in the following independent personality. She can make and faithful to one another, genuinely is impossible without a unified policy. praise,- for them has God prepared for- words: any contract or bequest in her own interested in each other’s welfare and For this reason shari’a requires man, as giveness and great reward. (Surah 33 And among His Signs is this, that He name. She is entitled to inherit in her the welfare of their children. A woman head of the family, to consult with his Verse 35) created for you mates from among your- position as mother, as wife, as sister and is expected to exercise a humanizing family and then to have the final say in This clearly contradicts the assertion selves, that ye may dwell in tranquillity as daughter. She has perfect liberty to influence over her husband and to soften decisions concerning it. In doing so, he that women do not possess souls and with them, and He has put love and choose her husband. the sternness inherent in his nature. must not abuse his prerogative to cause that they will exist as sexless beings in mercy between your (hearts): verily in Thus, after the advent of Islam, the Once a woman came to the Prophet any injury to his wife. the next life! The Quran says that women that are Signs for those who reflect Prophet’s followers accepted his (PBUH), with a complaint against her Any transgression of this principle have souls in exactly the same way as (Surah 30 Verse 21) teachings and brought about a revo- husband. He told her: involves for him the risk of losing the men and will enter Paradise if they Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) always lution in their social attitude towards “There is no woman who removes favor of God. That is because his wife is simply do good: praised virtuous and chaste women. He women. They no longer considered something to replace it in its proper not his subordinate but she is, the queen Whoever works righteousness, man said: “The world and all things in the women as mere chattels, but as an place, with a view to tidying her hus- of her house, and this is the position a or woman, and has Faith, verily, to him world are precious, but the most pre- integral part of society. band’s house, but that God sets it down true believer is expected to give his wife. will We give a new Life, a life that is good cious thing in the world is a virtuous For the first time women were given as a virtue for her. Nor is there a man In contrast to these enlightened and pure and We will bestow on such woman.” the right to have a share in inheritance. who walks with his wife hand-in-hand, teachings of Islam in respect of women, their reward according to the best of The Prophet (PBUH) was also most In the new social climate, women redis- but that God sets it down as a virtue for I can only say that the Western talk of their actions. (Surah 16 Verse 97) emphatic in enjoining upon Muslims, to covered themselves and became highly him; and if he puts his arm round her women’s liberation or emancipation, is be kind to their women, when he active members of society, rendering shoulder in love, his virtue is increased actually a disguised form of exploitation Woman, before and after Islam delivered his famous sermon, khutbat useful service, even during wars, which tenfold.” of her body, deprivation of her honor, As a matter of fact, before the arrival al-wada” on the Mount of Mercy, at the pagan Arabs forced on the emerging The Shariah (Islamic Law) regards and degradation of her soul! What the Prophet said Meaning of justice in Islam The greatest jihad (struggle) is to battle your n the Islamic worldview, “O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as of race, religion, colour, and justice denotes placing things witnesses to Allah, even if it be against yourselves, creed, as Muslims are com- own soul, to fight the evil in their rightful place. It also your parents, and your relatives, or whether it is manded to be just to their friends means giving others equal against the rich or the poor...” (Quran 4:135) and foes alike, and to be just at within yourself. treatment. In Islam, justice is all levels, as the Quran puts it: Ialso a moral virtue and an “O you who believe! Stand attribute of human personality, as basic objective of Islam to the scriptures sent to humanity. The out firmly for justice, as wit- it is in the Western tradition. degree that it stands next in verse also shows that justice nesses to Allah, even if it be Justice is close to equality in the order of priority to belief in God’s must be measured and imple- against yourselves, your parents, God does not look at your forms sense that it creates a state of equi- exclusive right to worship mented by the standards and and your relatives, or whether it librium in the distribution of rights (Tawheed) and the truth of guidelines set by revelation. is against the rich or the poor...” and possessions but he looks at and duties, but they are not iden- Muhammad’s prophethood. God Islam’s approach to justice is (Quran 4:135) tical. Sometimes, justice is declares in the Quran: comprehensive and all- According to another your hearts and your deeds. achieved through inequality, like “God commands justice and embracing. Any path that leads Quranic passage: “Let not the in unequal distribution of wealth. fair dealing...” (Quran 16:90) to justice is deemed to be in hatred of a people swerve you The Prophet of Islam (peace And in another passage: “O harmony with Islamic Law. God away from justice. Be just, for Riches are not from an abundance be upon him) declared: “There you who believe, be upright for has demanded justice and, this is closest to righteousness…” are seven categories of people God, and (be) bearers of witness although He has not prescribed (Quran 5:8) of worldly good but from a whom God will shelter under His with justice!...” (Quran 5:8) a specific route, has provided With regards to relations shade on the Day when there will Therefore, one may conclude general guidelines, on how to with non-Muslims, the Quran contented mind. be no shade except His. (One is) that justice is an obligation of achieve it. He has neither pre- further states: “God does not the just leader.”(Saheeh Muslim) Islam and injustice is forbidden. scribed a fixed means by which forbid you from doing good and God spoke to His Messenger The centrality of justice to the it can be obtained, nor has He being just to those who have in this manner: “O My slaves, I Qur’anic value system is dis- declared invalid any particular neither fought you over your Exchange gifts, you will have forbidden injustice for played by the following verse: means or methods that can lead faith nor evicted you from your Myself and forbade it also for “We sent Our Messengers to justice. Therefore, all means, homes...” (Quran 60:8) love one another. you. So avoid being unjust to one with clear signs and sent down procedures, and methods that The scholars of the Quran another.” (Saheeh Muslim) with them the Book and the facilitate, refine, and advance the have concluded that these Thus, justice represents Measure in order to establish cause of justice, and do not rulings apply to all nations, fol- A kind word is a form moral rectitude and fairness, justice among the people…” violate the Islamic Law are valid. lowers of all faiths, as a matter since it means things should be (Quran 57:25) of fact to all humanity. In the of charity. where they belong. The phrase ‘Our Messengers’ Equality in justice view of the Quran, justice is an From the sayings of Prophet Muhammad The Quran considers justice shows that justice has been the The Quranic standards of obligation. (peace be upon him) to be a supreme virtue. It is a goal of all revelation and justice transcend considerations www.islamreligion.com 06 ASIA FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 Suicide attack in Kashmir leaves 43 troopers dead

IANS Jaish-e-Mohammad another CRPF vehicle was partly SRINAGAR claimed responsibility damaged. “It is difficult to believe for suicide attack how anyone in that bus could have In the worst-ever terror attack survived,” said a police officer. in Jammu and Kashmir since on a CRPF bus and Jammu and Kashmir Police militancy erupted in 1989, a released a video clip chief Dilbag Singh said it could have suicide bomber yesterday of the suicide bomber, been a suicide attack. This was con- rammed his SUV packed with firmed by other officials later. explosives into a CRPF bus on the a ‘commander’ In a statement to a local news Srinagar-Jammu highway in identified as Adil agency GNS, a caller claiming to Pulwama district, killing at least Ahmad Dar, which be a spokesman of JeM said it 43 troopers and leaving the it claimed was shot was a ‘fidayeen’ (suicide) attack. security established stunned. All the injured were shifted The Pakistan-based Jaish-e- before the young man to the Army’s 92 Base Hospital Mohammad (JeM) claimed respon- carried out the strike. in the Badamibagh cantonment sibility for the horror and released of Srinagar city. Some of them a video clip of the suicide bomber, were in critical condition. Soldiers examine the debris after an explosion in Lethpora in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district, a ‘commander’ identified as Adil Srinagar and rammed it into the Prime Minister Narendra yesterday. Ahmad Dar, which it claimed was bus around 3.15pm, triggering a Modi led the nation in con- shot before the young man carried deafening explosion. demning the horror. Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba cut abrupt halt. Senior police and the worst attack carried out by mil- out the strike in Lethpora, about So devastating was the attack “The attack... is despicable. I short his visit to Bhutan to rush CRPF officers rushed to the spot itants after the one on the Uri Army 30km from here. — one report spoke of 200kg of strongly condemn this dastardly to Srinagar for a high-level for a post-explosion analysis. camp on September 18, 2016 left While precise details of the explosives, including probably attack. The sacrifices of our security meeting today. An officer said the CRPF and 19 soldiers dead — forcing New attack were still unclear, police RDX, packed into the SUV — that brave security personnel shall “Today’s dastardly attack... police would carry out a detailed Delhi to launch ‘surgical strikes’ on sources said the suicide bomber- the CRPF bus was left in a not go in vain. The entire nation is extremely painful and dis- investigation to understand the terrorist camps in Pakistan. driven SUV came along the mangled heap, many of its occu- stands shoulder to shoulder with turbing. I bow to each and every circumstances in which the Officials said the reason why Central Reserve Police Force pants losing their limbs. The bus the families of the brave CRPF jawan who has sacrificed attack took place. so many CRPF personnel were (CRPF) bus when a 78-vehicle was transporting 39 troopers. martyrs,” he tweeted. his life in service to the nation,” This is the worst single attack on the move at one go was convoy carrying 2,547 security CRPF officials said the bus Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Rajnath Singh said. in Jammu and Kashmir since a because the Srinagar-Jammu personnel was going from the which was the main target of the who was to visit Bihar today, is All traffic on the Srinagar- nascent Pakistan-backed separatist highway had been shut the past transit camp in Jammu to militants was destroyed fully while set to reach Srinagar instead. Jammu Highway came to an campaign began in 1989. It is also two days due to bad weather.

Sushil Chandra appointed new Rahul places Cong ahead of others, says will shock Modi IANS Election NEW DELHI Accusing the Modi gov- position in Parliament,” he said. lot of pride that we are the “We see what is going on ernment of launching “sys- Attacking Modi over cor- uniting party in this country.” today and you can look any- Commissioner Congress President Rahul Gandhi tematic attacks” on institutions ruption, he said: “There is not a Gandhi said BJP leaders were where. You can look at the yesterday said the Congress and causing divisions in the single leg for the Prime Minister afraid to speak their mind. Supreme Court, where four IANS alone spoke for the whole of society, Gandhi said that after to stand on. You can see it on his “There is only one voice in judges came out. It’s being done NEW DELHI India within the opposition ranks five years of Modi regime, the face, you can see the expression. the Lok Sabha in the BJP and to the Election Commission, it’s and predicted that the 2019 Lok Congress’ name was firmly The bluster has gone.” Gandhi that’s Narendra Modi. Before being done to the defence CBDT Chairman Sushil Chandra Sabha election outcome will stun entrenched in the minds of the said the Congress stood out they speak they think ‘What is forces, it’s being done to Par- was yesterday appointed the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. people. among other opposition parties he (Modi) going to say, what is liament. This is what you are new Election Commissioner Addressing Congress MPs Gandhi, whose speech saw as it spoke for the country and he going to think’ and this is fighting... And we are actually ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, after his mother and UPA Chair- repeated thumping of desks by it was the first to defend the idea what is systematically being now winning,” he said to cheers. making the poll panel a three- person Sonia Gandhi had spoken, MPs, said that the results of the of India. done.” Gandhi said the common Gandhi also led a protest member entity again. Rahul Gandhi said his party was Lok Sabha battle will be a “With respect to all my man had realised that “Modi is against the government in the The other two members of now defeating the BJP in the ide- stunner. opposition friends, there is only not what he claimed to be, that parliament House complex. the Commission are Chief ological fight and in the daily “You will get a shock as to one party that speaks for the the RSS is not what they claim Former Prime Minister Man- Election Commissioner (CEC) news cycle and said his MPs had what is going to happen in 2019. entire country. Every other party to be”. mohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi Sunil Arora and Election Com- fought “animosity and unfairness” This would not have been pos- speaks for a part of Indian He said modern India arises were among those who took missioner (EC) Ashok Lavasa. over the last five years. sible if you had not defended our society, and we say this with a out of the Constitution. part in the protest. Chandra, 61, an IRS-IT officer of the 1980 batch, will fill the vacancy caused by the retirement of O P Rawat, who demitted SC issues split verdict office as Chief Election Commis- sioner (CEC) late last year. Chandra is the second Indian Revenue Service (IRS) on Delhi govt’s powers officer to be appointed to the Commission after T S Krishnamurthy. on control of services “In pursuance of clause (2) of Article 324 of the Consti- tution, the President is pleased IANS Centre alone can control the to appoint Sushil Chandra, NEW DELHI Anti-Corruption Bureau and former IRS (IT)-1980 officer as pass orders under the Com- the Election Commissioner with A Division Bench of the Supreme mission of Inquiry Act. effect from the date he assumes Court yesterday delivered a split The bench rejected the Cen- the office,” said a government verdict on the issue of control of tre’s contention that it alone had order issued yesterday. services between the Delhi independent powers to appoint Chandra’s tenure as chairman government and the Centre, and special public prosecutor, and of the Central Board of Direct referred the matter to a larger said the Delhi government had Taxes (CBDT) was to expire in May bench. the power to appoint special this year. He has already got two While Justice A K Sikri said public prosecutors and the Lt. extensions since 2016. Chandra, the transfers and postings of Governor had to act on the aid a B Tech from IIT Roorkee and joint secretaries and officers and advice of the Council of who also holds a law degree, above were the Lieutenant Gov- Ministers under Article 239AA. joined the Revenue Service in ernor’s domain and those below It said the Delhi government 1980 and was posted in various Celebrating failure of Citizenship Bill them were controlled by the had the power to decide the places in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi government, Justice Ashok minimum rate of agricultural Rajasthan, Gujarat, Delhi and Activists from various Assamese rights groups celebrate the failure in parliament of the Bill to amend Bhushan said services were land in the national capital and Mumbai. provisions of 1955 Citizenship Act, in Guwahati, yesterday. totally outside the purview of the regulate electricity. Delhi government. Speaking for the Bench on Pointing to out that “Entry 41” issues other than services, Justice relating to services in the list of Sikri said there had to be mutual Bangladesh rescues Malaysia-bound Rohingya State subjects of the Constitution respect between the Delhi gov- was not available in the Delhi ernment and the Lieutenant Gov- Assembly, Justice Bhushan said: ernor as it was an essential part AFP 300,000 Rohingya who have refugee camps were lured by the waiting to board a Malaysian- “There is no occasion to exercise of good governance. DHAKA already been living in overcrowded traffickers. They were promised bound boat. any executive power with regard The court asked both the Lieu- camps in Cox’s Bazar following they would be sent to Malaysia. “They paid some 20,000 to services by the GNCTD, since tenant Governor and the Delhi Bangladesh police have stopped previous bouts of violence. They were then brought to Cox’s taka ($240) each to the traf- the executive power of the government to realise that they 43 Rohingya refugees from being Officials fear many may end Bazar and kept in a house,” RAB fickers for the journey,” he said. GNCTD as per Article 239AA(4) were there to serve the people and smuggled to Malaysia by boat up being exploited by an inter- spokesman Mashkur Rahman said. He said they arrested a extends in relation to matters that the Lieutenant Governor must with a dozen women claiming nationally organised human Rahman said they were woman trafficker and were with respect to which the Legis- not routinely differ with the state they were abducted by traf- smuggling racket who have pre- treating it as a case of abduction “searching for others”. lative Assembly has the power to government. fickers, officials said yesterday. viously sent thousands of after the women claimed they An analyst said the latest dis- make laws.” Justice Sikri said on issues Acting on tip-offs, police Rohingya to Malaysia by boats were confined in a room without covery of Malaysia-bound Holding that the Delhi gov- where differences are funda- found the refugees at two separate until Bangladesh launched a consent. Rohingya was a “dangerous” sign ernment had no executive mental backed by cogent places in the southeastern border crackdown in 2015 following the In another drive late and shows the desperation at powers over services, Justice reasons, the Lieutenant Gov- district of Cox’s Bazar, raising the discovery of mass graves of ref- Wednesday, Cox’s Bazar police more than 30 refugee camps Bhushan said: “With regard to ernor could refer the matter to number of Rohingya being ugees in Thailand. rescued another 31 Rohingya where the Rohingya live in services, the GNCTD (Gov- the President for a decision, rescued from the traffickers to Rapid Action Battalion, an from the southern island of bamboo and tarpaulin made ernment of National Capital Ter- which would be binding. more than 100 in less than a week. elite police unit, said they rescued Maheshkhali, some 110km away shanties in squalid conditions. ritory of Delhi) can exercise only The court also made it clear About 740,000 of the Muslim 12 women — mostly in their 20s from the overcrowded “It is very natural for the des- those executive powers, which that the Lieutenant Governor minority fled Myanmar for Bang- — from a residential room in Kutupalong refugee camp. perate refugees to attempt the can be exercised by it under any should not unduly delay ladesh after a military Cox’s Bazar city early Thursday Local police chief Provash risk to search for a better future,” law framed by Parliament or it referring matters to the Pres- clampdown in the Buddhist- morning and arrested two alleged Chandra said the 14 women, 11 Tasneem Siddiqui, who heads a may exercise those executive ident in which there is a funda- majority nation in August 2017. traffickers for “abducting” them. men and six children were hiding Bangladeshi think tank on powers which have been dele- mental difference of opinion They have joined another “The young women from the in a coastal forest at Maheskhali migration issues, said. gated to it.” The bench said the with the Delhi government. FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 ASIA 07 No unilateral troop withdrawal from Afghanistan: US

REUTERS “There will be no unilateral troop reduction, troops currently in Afghanistan and US forces from Syria. Shanahan echoed that. BRUSSELS a renewed focus on counter Despite public fatigue in “We work together, President it will be coordinated,” Acting US Defence terrorism. Western countries about their Trump said it is an opportunity for Acting US Defence Secretary Secretary Patrick Shanahan told reporters Taliban negotiators will meet involvement in the 17-year con- peace... so what we talked about Patrick Shanahan sought to following his first meeting of Nato defence their US counterparts on Feb- flict, European governments was how do we double down in reassure nervous Nato allies ministers after his predecessor quit in ruary 18 in Pakistan’s capital including Germany are wary of our support for an Afghan national yesterday that any potential US. Islamabad. withdrawing from Afghanistan defense and security forces to put troop withdrawal from Afghan- December. U S officials have said the before a peace deal with Taliban even more pressure on the istan will be done in a coordi- military is planning what a with- militants is reached. Taliban,” he told reporters. nated fashion, which could calm drawal of about half of the Many fear seeing the country “I feel really good about our European concern about a diplomats familiar with discus- coordinated,” Shanahan told 14,000 US troops in Afghanistan collapse and then having to send alignment I feel we are creating precipitous drawdown. sions say that many tough reporters following his first would look like. troops back in again to deal with the diplomatic leverage that US officials have held several hurdles lie ahead. meeting of Nato defence min- That has raised concerns a new threat. Ambassador Khalilzad needs.” rounds of talks with the Taliban Shanahan said he told his isters after his predecessor quit about whether a smaller force US special envoy Zalmay The US troops in Afghanistan are in Qatar since last year, in what Nato counterparts that the in December. “We came out of would be able to support the Khalilzad briefed Nato envoys part of a Nato-led mission known is widely seen as the most serious US-led alliance would work here much stronger and Afghan military and whether on Monday about his push to as Resolute Support, and a US bid for peace in the 17-year war. together to increase what he coordinated.” other European armies that rely agree a political settlement and counter-terrorism mission largely Both the hardline Islamist called diplomatic leverage over In his State of the Union address on American helicopters and Nato Secretary-General Jens directed against groups such as movement and the United States the Taliban as the West seeks a last week, President Donald Trump other gear would pull out. Stoltenberg promised the Islamic State and al Qaeda. hailed progress after the end of political settlement. said progress in negotiations with Concern was also fuelled by alliance would draw down its Some 8,000 troops from 38 the last round of negotiations “There will be no unilateral the Taliban would allow a reduction Trump’s abrupt announcement military presence together if a other countries are participating last month, although Western troop reduction, it will be in the approximately 14,000 U S last year that he would withdraw deal was agreed. in Resolute Support.

Pakistani court Govt medical board orders release may allow Nawaz’s of oppn leader ANATOLIA KARACHI treatment in London A Pakistani court yesterday ordered the release of oppo- INTERNEWS London and thus his “primary sition leader Shehbaz Sharif ISLAMABAD treating cardiologist/cardiac granting him bail in two surgeon” is/are in London. corruption cases, court records If former Pakistani Prime The board in its final recom- and local media reported. Minister Nawaz Sharif’s mendations highlighted the fol- A two-member bench of the departure to London for lowing conclusions: “The Special Lahore High Court accepted the treatment will be considered a Medical board is of a unanimous bail application of three-time National Reconciliation Order opinion that Muhammad Nawaz chief minister of the country’s (NRO) as is generally speculated Sharif, 69 years of age, is a well- largest province Punjab in two by ruling PTI ministers and established case of coronary cases related to a housing scam leaders then no one else but the artery disease with recently doc- and holding assets beyond government itself has offered it. umented reversible ischemia on known income sources, local Report of one of the four thallium scan and having broadcaster Geo News medical boards constituted by recurrent angina which is his reported. the party’s own government in primary problem.” Shehbaz Sharif, the younger Punjab to examine and “He needs continuous expert Protest against Valentine’s Day celebrations brother of the jailed former determine former prime minis- cardiac care in a facility where Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, ter’s health condition has opened 24 hours cardiology intervention A supporter of the Pakistan Sunni Tehreek (PST) organisation holds a burning Valentine’s card was arrested last October by a window of opportunity for and multidisciplinary backup is while others carry placards and a banner during a protest against Valentine’s Day celebrations, in authorities for his alleged allowing the former premier to available therefore he is referred Hyderabad, Pakistan yesterday. involvement in the graft cases. go abroad on medical grounds. back to be shifted to the insti- Report of the Special tution where all above men- Medical Board, constituted by tioned facilities are available the Punjab government on Feb- under one roof around the clock. ruary 5 to examine Nawaz Sharif If in the opinion of expert car- Philippine journalist Ressa freed on bail had concluded that Sharif not diologists it is considered nec- only needs continuous expert essary then the previous cardiac AFP arrested the veteran reporter at government is sending is very Magazine “Person of the Year” cardiac care facility where 24 history and present investiga- MANILA her Manila office on Wednesday clear... be silent or you’re next,” in 2018 for her journalism. hours cardiology intervention tions may be further discussed in a sharp upping of government an emotional Ressa told International condemnation and multidisciplinary backup is with his primary treating cardi- Philippine journalist Maria Ressa pressure on her and her website reporters outside a Manila court. from dignitaries, press freedom available but his case may be ologist/cardiac surgeon.” was freed on bail yesterday Rappler. She stumped up a bond of and human rights groups has further discussed with his The above recommenda- following an arrest that sparked The site and Ressa have been 100,000-pesos ($1,900), the poured in since plainclothes “primary treating cardiologist/ tions were given by the Special international censure and alle- hit with tax evasion charges and sixth time since December she agents appeared at Rappler to cardiac surgeon”. Medical Board, which according gations she is being targeted over now a libel case after clashing has paid bail on a government serve an arrest warrant. Everyone knows that in the to the report document, was her news site’s criticism of Pres- repeatedly with Duterte over his case. “I am appealing to you not Canadian Foreign Minister case of Nawaz Sharif, his heart constituted by the government ident Rodrigo Duterte. deadly crackdown on narcotics to be silent, even if — and espe- Chrystia Freeland tweeted she bypass surgery and other of Punjab’s Health Care and Ressa, 55, spent a night in that has killed thousands. cially if — you’re next,” added was “deeply troubled” by Ressa’s cardiac treatment was done in Medical Education Department. detention after authorities “The message that the Ressa, who was named a Time arrest on Wednesday. Australia IMF programme for Pakistan to be wrapped in tough conditions admits ‘failing’ to improve INTERNEWS under uniform tax collection government and Islamabad would The adoption of this mech- The primary budget deficit ISLAMABAD agency for striking the staff level have to take decisive measures to anism will result into hiking the excluding interest payment has Aboriginal lives agreement with the IMF. overcome the imbalances on the discount rates as the SBP had been estimated at negative 2.2 per Pakistan will have to erase The upcoming IMF bailout macroeconomic front. raised policy rates by 450 basis cent of the GDP on the basis of last AFP borrowings from the State Bank package will be folded into the In order to bring down bor- points going up from 6.75 per fiscal year data. The IMF wants to SYDNEY of Pakistan (SBP) from the toughest conditions, but the PTI rowing of government from the SBP cent to 10.25 per cent. convert this deficit into surplus so existing level of Rs3.8 trillion to led government is claiming that to zero, the federal government will Official sources said the IMF the government will have to make More than a decade after zero, hiking electricity tariff up to the Fund mission will agree for have to make a commitment to programme will have a condition the fiscal adjustment of 1.1 percent vowing to “close the gap” 30 per cent and placing Inte- “gradual adjustments”. bring down borrowings on quar- to achieve primary balance of of GDP each in next two years between indigenous grated Value Added Tax (VAT) for Many insiders believe that it terly basis and the reliance will be budget into surplus, which is cur- period to convert primary deficit Australians and the rest of the bringing both goods and services could only be a wish of the shifted on commercial banks. rency witnessing huge deficit. into surplus. country, the government yesterday admitted it was still falling far short. Prime Minister Scott Mor- Thai party behind nomination rison said that only two of seven government targets to improve of princess faces court decision the wealth, health and well- being of the first Australians were being met. AP because the monarchy was Efforts to improve early BANGKOK above politics. The party education and rates of high responded by professing its school qualifications were on A Thai court said yesterday that loyalty to the monarch and track, but targets in other areas it will decide whether to dissolve accepting his order. — including boosting a political party that broke Dissolving the party would employment and increasing life tradition by nominating a likely increase already sharp expectancy — were falling member of the royal family as political divisions and deepen behind. “I want Aboriginal and its candidate for prime minister concerns about the fairness of Torres Strait Islander children in next month’s general election. next month’s poll. to have the same opportunities The Constitutional Court The Constitutional Court as all other children growing up made the announcement a day said in a statement that the in Australia,” Morrison told after the Election Commission charges are being forwarded to parliament. recommended that the Thai the party, which will have seven “But this is not true for Abo- Raksa Chart Party be dissolved days to respond. It scheduled the riginal and Torres Strait for its February 8 nomination of next hearing for Feb. 27. Islander children in Australia Princess Ubolratana Mahidol. The Election Commission today. It’s never been true. And King Maha Vajiralongkorn said the party should be dis- I don’t know when it will be Two-wheeler ride aboard raft issued a royal order hours after solved because its candidate was true. And that is the truth we his sister’s nomination, stating “in conflict with the system of must confront again today,” he Motorists are being transported on a raft as they cross a river in Jakarta, Indonesia, yesterday. that the nomination was inap- rule of democracy with king as said in parliament. propriate and unconstitutional head of state.” 08 VIEWS FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 In House’s Yemen vote, Congress ESTABLISHED IN 1996 reasserts war-making powers CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

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

LISA MASCARO ACTING MANAGING EDITOR AP MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected] sserting congressional authority over war-making DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR powers, the House passed a MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI Aresolution Wednesday that [email protected] would force the administration to withdraw US troops from involvement in Yemen, in a rebuke of President Donald Trump’s alliance with the Saudi-led coalition behind the military intervention. A Yemeni man checks debris of a building destroyed in Saudi-led air strikes in Lawmakers in both parties are Yemen’s capital Sanaa. EDITORIAL increasingly uneasy over the human- itarian crisis in Yemen and skeptical of the US partnership with that coalition, Yemen, where the coalition is fighting the national security interest to oppose especially in light of Saudi Arabia’s role Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in a con- boycotts of Israel. That’s a reference to in the killing of Washington Post col- flict largely seen as a proxy war involving the Boycott, Divest and Sanction move- Beyond sports umnist Jamal Khashoggi, a critic of the the Mideast’s dominant regional players. ment that has gained support of some t is heartening to see that National Sport Day is royal family. Since 2015, the administration says, lawmakers. inspiring people to change their lifestyle and add Passage would mark the first time the US has provided support to the coa- First-term Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., Ia sport into their day-to-day life. Many times, such Congress has relied on the decades-old lition, including intelligence and, until one of the Muslim-American women initiatives turn out into a holiday for people to laze War Powers Resolution to halt military recently, aerial refueling, but it has not elected to Congress, came under criti- around at home and the purpose loses out steam intervention. It also would set up a poten- had forces involved in “hostilities.” cism this week for her comments against over the years. But Qatar National Sport Day has tial confrontation with the White House, Congress has not invoked the War the Israel lobbying organisation AIPAC caught the imagination of the citizens and residents which has threatened a veto. The House Power Resolution, which requires that raised anti-Semitic stereotypes. She alike and keeping fit has turned out into a movement voted 248-177 to approve the measure, approval of military actions, since it was later apologized. of sorts. sending it to the Senate, where a simi- enacted in 1973. Lawmakers approved The House added another GOP When an Amiri decree was issued eight years lar resolution passed last year. more sweeping authorizations for the amendment that would allow contin- back, in 2011, announcing an annual National Sport “We have helped create, and worsen, wars in Iraq and Afghanistan that some ued intelligence sharing, which drew Day on second Tuesday of every February, it was a the world’s largest humanitarian crisis,” argue are being used too broadly for other fire from the American Civil Liberties path breaking and unprecedented move. said Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Calif., during military actions. Union. The ACLU warned it gives the The initiative, under the Qatar National Vision the debate. “Our involvement in this war, Newly emboldened Democrats in president broad authority to provide 2030, was announced with the goal of promoting a quite frankly, is shameful.” the House, eager to confront Trump on the Saudis and others with US intelli- healthy lifestyle among the community by introducing The chairman of the House For- foreign policy, and Republicans in both gence information about Yemen, and and engaging them in various sports activities over eign Relations chambers have shown a willingness to the group said the package, overall, is the day. Committee, put a legislative check on the president’s now weaker than originally proposed. The Day has evolved over the years and everyone, Rep. Eliot Engel, agenda. In the House, 18 Republicans, Now the Yemen measure goes to the including the Amir, take part in various events held D-N Y, said the including members of the GOP’s liber- Senate, where a similar resolution on all over the country. This year also saw participation vote repre- tarian-leaning wing and Trump allies removing US involvement in the war from the top leadership First-term Rep. Ilhan sents “Congress in the conservative Freedom Caucus, was approved with Republican support and this in turn inspired Omar, D-Minn., one of reclaiming its joined Democrats in passing the Yemen late last year. the people as thousands the Muslim-American role in foreign measure. At the time, Congress was eager to were seen crowding the women elected to policy.” Senate Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., who drafted send a message to both the president and venues. approval would the legislation, said there’s an emerg- the Saudis after the October murder of The day also goes Congress, came under set up a show- ing bipartisan alliance that’s skeptical the US-based journalist Khashoggi at Qatar was the beyond sports, it helps criticism this week for down with the of military intervention without con- the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul. first country in build a stronger bond her comments against administration gressional oversight. “It’s not just about The US has sanctioned 17 Saudi indi- the world to among the community, the Israel lobbying — a veto would Yemen. viduals for their involvement in the killing, introduce such nudging people to come be Trump’s first It’s about the Congress taking a stand and US intelligence officials have con- step out of their home and organisation AIPAC — over the pres- and every future president having to think cluded that the Saudi crown prince, a unique idea to get involved. When the that raised anti- ident’s shifting twice about whether to authorise a mili- Mohammed bin Salman, must have at foster a healthy whole world is worried Semitic stereotypes. approach on tary intervention without congressional least known of the plot. Trump so far has lifestyle among about digital addiction of She later apologised. foreign policy. approval,” Khanna said in an interview. decided not to impose harsher penal- its citizens and children and adults, initi- Lawmak- The Senate version is from independ- ties on the prince. The kingdom insists atives like this will ers are quick ent Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont and he did not order the killing. residents. introduce them to the to point out that backed by Utah Republican Sen. Mike Lee. The outcome of the legislation is various other options Trump wants to withdraw troops from Before Wednesday’s vote, the House uncertain. Republicans control the available to keep yourself the wars in Syria and Afghanistan as overwhelmingly agreed to add an amend- Senate, 53-47, and a simple majority is fit. part of his “America First” approach, ment offered by Republicans who are needed to pass. Keeping an active lifestyle helps maintaining a but he has shown less interest in limit- seeking to expose emerging Democratic Trump has yet to veto any meas- healthy body and mind and researches have proven ing the US role in Yemen. divisions over support for Israel. ures from Congress. If he did veto the that fit body and mind will not only help the indi- The White House says the House res- The amendment reaffirms the US Yemen resolution, it’s unclear whether vidual but also the larger society by increasing the olution is “flawed” because US troops are commitment “to combat anti-Semitism lawmakers would have enough support general productivity and by reducing the burden on not directly involved in military action in around the world” and says it’s in the to override him. the health sector. Qatar was the first country in the world to introduce such a unique idea to foster a healthy life- style among its citizens and residents. And the success of the initiative can we gauged from the fact that Regulate Facebook and Twitter? The case is getting stronger there many more people using the cycle paths and jogging tracks build all cover the country. day. The first reason, and the problem, it is worth starting to - increased by Facebook’s The visionary thought of instilling a disciplined most fundamental, involves explore what, if anything, to do acquisition of Instagram and sport culture in the country is also visible in the fact democracy itself. Everyone now about all uses of “dirty tricks” WhatsApp - means that regu- that a good number players in Qatar’s Asian Cup knows that foreign governments, on social media - as, for exam- lators need to consider, more winning team has been together from a very young most notably Russia, have been ple, through the creation of fake carefully than they have done age at the Aspire academy. Investing in the future, using social media aggressively pages and accounts to spread thus far, how antitrust law might by providing them the resources, have proved CASS R SUNSTEIN to promote their interests. known falsehoods to achieve apply to situations that were once effective with the historic victory. BLOOMBERG Before the 2016 election, electoral goals. The second unimaginable. Healthy people are great assets for any nation Russian agents worked hard problem involves consumer In some ways, the rise of and Qatar, by providing a helping hand, has shown to divide Americans and influ- protection. social media is analogous to the the way forward for a creating a healthy society. he US government ence their votes. They succeeded In view of recent abuses, it rise of radio and television, which should not regulate in reaching 126 million Face- is worth considering whether inspired the original creation of social media. It should book users - and they published to adopt some kind of user’s bill the Federal Communications Tstay far away from more than 131,000 messages of rights, designed to protect Commission in 1934. Impor- Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, on Twitter. against unwanted or unknow- tantly, the FCC was established QUOTE OF THE DAY Instagram and the rest. Any Whatever the impact of ing disclosure of personal data. as an “independent” agency. regulatory effort might well Russia’s efforts, foreign inter- Prominent social media plat- That means unlike the heads violate the First Amendment. ference with the operations of forms already tell users how their of Cabinet departments, its five Today, as we hold in Even if it turned out to be con- our democracy is intolerable. information might be used, but members are not supposed to be our hearts each of stitutional, it would squelch Because other nations, and not those disclosures are not exactly subject to the day-to-day con- those lost a year ago creativity and innovation in only Russia, have a lot to gain transparent. trol of the White House. Nor can in Parkland, let us the very places where they are and growing technological capa- The third problem involves they be fired simply because the most needed. bilities, the problem is likely to the antitrust laws. Is Facebook a president disagrees with their declare together, as Until recently, I would have get worse. kind of monopoly? If so, should decisions as a matter of policy. Americans, that we endorsed every sentence in the True, social media can act on it be regulated as what econo- With respect to communica- will not rest until our above paragraph. But as Baron its own to reduce the problem. mists call a “natural monopoly,” tions, a degree of independence Bramwell, the English judge, Facebook has taken down hun- which exists when the market makes sense. It would be dan- schools are secure once put it, “The matter does not dreds of pages linked to Russian can efficiently support only one gerous if any president could and our communities appear to me now as it appears propaganda efforts, and there is supplier (as in the case of elec- grant broadcast licenses to his are safe. to have appeared to me then.”(2) some evidence that its correc- tric utility providers)? friends and deny them to his ene- The argument for targeted tive measures are succeeding. These are hardly simple mies -- or if he could oversee forms of federal regulation, But because the stakes are questions, and they are com- regulatory decisions involving Donald Trump respectful of the First Amend- so high, federal regulation is not plicated by the fact that Facebook companies that offer informa- US President ment, might not yet be decisive hard to justify. And while foreign does not charge its users. But tion, and points of view, whose - but it is getting stronger every interference is the most obvious the sheer size of the platform dissemination he might abhor. FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 OPINION 09 Palestine’s other open-air prison

nder a debilitating siege for concrete blocks and gates lying at the people who have never entered Jeru- such as Container and Za’tara, more than a decade, Gaza entrance to most villages in the West salem, despite living less than an hour which can completely paralyse the has been rightfully declared Bank. Apart from that, Palestinians are away. You would also meet many Pal- West Bank. When Container is the biggest open-air prison in barred from entering or using land estinians who hold American or closed, it cuts off a third of the West U European passports, are able to travel the world. But there is another, similar, (even if it’s theirs) within the so-called Bank population living in the south, prison in Palestine that is less obvious Area C - a territory outlined in the Oslo most of the world without a visa, but including big cities like Bethlehem JALAL ABUKHATER because it suffers from a different kind Accords where most illegal Israeli set- find it impossible to get a permit to visit and Hebron, from Ramallah and the AL JAZEERA of siege, undeclared and indirect: the tlements are located and which consti- Jaffa, for example, which is just 20km north. Similarly, Za’tara checkpoint West Bank. Every Palestinian who tutes about 61 percent of the West away. blocks traffic in and out of the entire resides there and holds official Pales- Bank. I have three Palestinian friends northern regions of the West Bank, tinian identification papers is a For example, 270 of the entire 291 with foreign passports (French, including cities such as Nablus, prisoner in their own home. Freedom hectares that belong to the Palestinian American and Russian), whom I can Tulkarem and Jenin. of movement is non-existent for the village of Wadi Fukin near Bethlehem never host in my house in Jerusalem. With the ever-changing clo- vast majority of the population are designated as Area C. Palestinians On paper, all three don’t need a visa to sures, restrictions, separation and because of a myriad of Israeli policies who live there rely almost entirely on enter Israel (and the Palestinian terri- isolation, it is hardly surprising that aimed at restricting it to the bare agriculture for their livelihood and tories), just like the hundreds of thou- it can feel really suffocating in the minimum. The situation is certainly struggle on a daily basis to access their sands of French people, Americans and West Bank for many Palestinians. shocking yet seems to be largely lands. In fact, they have to get an Israeli Russians, who visit the place every And, since many of us are unable to ignored by the world, especially by our permit to go work their land. year. But the Israeli authorities know leave or go elsewhere, we should at Israeli neighbours. Talking about permits - Pales- they have Palestinian IDs, so they least be able to find somewhere to Movement and life in the West tinians need one in order to leave the block them from entering; and since breathe and relax in our own land. Bank are governed by the whims of the West Bank. Those are mainly given to they are neither politically important But even recreational spaces are Israeli security apparatus, which has people in important positions (big nor rich, they can’t get a permit either. becoming increasingly scarce in the set up hundreds of checkpoints, gates, businessmen and politicians) who have Apart from not being able to leave the West Bank. artificial barriers, forbidden and segre- the right financial records or political West Bank, travelling within it is a These are just a few examples gated roads and of course, the 700km credentials and to poorer Palestinians, nightmare. Checkpoints are arbitrarily from my life of how my friends and I separation wall, as the Israelis call it, or who provide Israelis with much- opened and closed to control Pales- have been affected by Israel’s apartheid wall, as we call it. So what is needed cheap labour, especially in the tinian movement. There is never an massive mechanism to control and Movement and life it like for a Palestinian who tries to go construction business. The rest of the official reason given, but most of the limit Palestinian movement in the in the West Bank anywhere in the West Bank? Palestinian population can only leave time it is to facilitate traffic for Israeli West Bank. But there are many are governed by According to Israeli rights organi- if they are issued a permit for medical settlers in the area, just to make our others, and many that are worse. the whims of the sations B’Tselem, as of January 2017, or family reasons - and those are rare lives miserable or to impose a rather Think of all the sick people who there were 59 permanent checkpoints and easily revoked. In 2017, some pernicious form of collective pun- have suffered or died in traffic Israeli security within the West Bank and 39 on its 700,000 Palestinians (including ishment on the Palestinian population. before reaching hospitals, all the apparatus, which has periphery to control the movement of labourers in Israel) applied for permits The Beit El checkpoint at the relatives who have missed wed- set up hundreds of people in and out of it. Then there are to leave the West Bank in total; about northern entrance of Ramallah and dings or funerals, all the employees the “flying checkpoints”, which the 560,000 got them and the rest were Jaba at the southern one are two great who have lost jobs because they’ve checkpoints, gates, Israeli military sets up temporarily on rejected. examples. My friend Manar, who lives been late, all the poor farmers who artificial barriers, any given Palestinian road. According You have probably guessed by now in Deir Dibwan, a village 4km outside have not been able to put bread on forbidden and to the United Nations Office for the that all these restrictions imposed on of Ramallah, has to drive for an hour the table because they’ve lost all segregated roads and Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs the Palestinians have a disastrous on average when there is no traffic to their produce stuck at a checkpoint (UNOCHA), there were some 4,924 effect on the economy. One World get to her job in the city. However, that for a whole day. of course, the 700km flying checkpoints on West Bank roads Bank paper estimated that placing one commute gets exponentially longer This is the suffocating and separation wall, as between January 2017 and July 2018 checkpoint a minute away from a when the Beit El checkpoint is closed oppressive daily reality in our open- the Israelis call it, or alone. town decreases employability of a Pal- to non-VIP card holders (and it often air prison called the West Bank. apartheid wall. All this, in addition to hundreds of estinian resident by 0.5 percent and is). In theory, she can take multiple other barriers such as dirt mounds, his/her hourly wage by 5.2 percent. alternative routes that could cut the The author is a Jerusalemite, holds an The combined commute time down to 10 minutes, but MA from the University of Dundee. impact of all check- those can be used only by Israelis. points in 2007 in the David, a colleague of mine who West Bank was a loss of commutes from Aboud, a Christian $229m or six percent of town about 18km northwest of Ram- its gross domestic allah, is often late to work because “the product (GDP) in that gate was shut”. The gate is an year. Another World unmanned Israeli installation at the D-RING ROAD Bank study found that entrance of Deir Ibzi town, just outside POST BOX: 3488 all these restrictions of Ramallah, which he has to pass DOHA - QATAR cost the local economy through. [email protected] $3.4bn, or 35 percent of The frequent closure of that gate the GDP in 2011. And — doubles or triples the distance for com- if you’re wondering — muters in over 10 towns and villages EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE the combined cost of all lying within the Ramallah district. It TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 deleterious aspects of gets closed quite often because it is FAX: +974 4455 7758 the Israeli occupation meant to facilitate the movement of cost Palestinians Israeli settlers at peak hours. So on any MANAGING EDITOR $9.46bn (that was 74 given day, that the gate would be shut, TEL: 4462 7505 percent of Palestinian say, when David leaves Ramallah to go GDP in 2014). And this home at 4pm, it would still be shut at DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR is just the economic 5pm when his cousin tries to cross, and TEL: 4455 7769 impact; what about the then it would be open again at 7pm, human cost? then shut around 10pm when his LOCAL NEWS SECTION In the West Bank, brother tries to cross. TEL: 4455 7743 Palestinians walk next to the Israeli wall in Bethlehem city. you regularly run into There are also major checkpoints, BUSINESS NEWS SECTION TEL: 4462 7535

SPORT NEWS SECTION and 56 abstentions. lation through parliament. TEL: 4455 7745 They would take effect 18 “Europe has just armed itself to months later. They aim to protect be able to respond to this kind of ONLINE SECTION EU to keep closer eye on sectors like energy, transport, com- strategy and not become a super- TEL: 4462 7501 munications, data, space and finance market for great powers,” said [email protected] as well as technologies such as semi- Proust, a member of the centre-right Chinese takeover moves conductors, artificial intelligence and European People’s Party, the largest PUBLIC RELATIONS robotics. group in the assembly. TEL: 4455 7613 The rules call for sharing foreign European Parliament negotia- [email protected] tiors added sectors such as water, direct investment information AFP health, defence, media, biotech- among EU member states, which can ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT nology and food security. issue comments on FDI targeting TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 he EU took a major step The European Commission, the other member states. FAX: 4455 7870 towards tightening its 28-nation EU’s executive arm, has The Commission can ask for [email protected] scrutiny of foreign takeovers pushed for screening such sectors for information and send its opinion to in strategic sectors like com- more than a year amid growing the country concerned, which none- CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT T theless makes the final decision. munications and artificial intelli- alarm over China’s investments. TEL: 4455 7857 gence amid concern about EU Trade Commissioner Cecilia The new framework will build [email protected] investment by China. Malmstrom said earlier this week the on and complement various ones in Under a proposal adopted by the draft is “non-discriminatory” but 14 EU countries: Austria, Denmark, SUBSCRIPTION & European Parliament, EU countries acknowledged there “is no secret” Germany, Finland, France, Latvia, DISTRIBUTION would supply information on foreign about concerns over China. Lithuania, Hungary, Italy, the Neth- TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 investment to other members if In December, Commission Vice erlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain and FAX: 44557819 public order or security are President Andrus Ansip echoed US Britain. [email protected] concerned. warnings about the threat posed by Juncker launched the campaign “We must defend Europe’s stra- telecoms giant Huawei which for investment screening during his tegic interests,” European Com- Chinese law requires to cooperate annual state of the union speech to mission chief Jean-Claude Juncker with Beijing’s intelligence services. the European Parliament in Sep- All thoughts and views Under a proposal said as he welcomed the vote Huawei is seen as an attractive tember 2017. expressed in these columns adopted by the passing in the assembly in Stras- investor in EU countries as they The plan fulfils a request by are those of the writers, European Parliament, bourg, France. prepare to roll out fifth-generation French President Emmanuel “And for that we need scrutiny networks that will bring near- Macron, backed by Germany and not of the newspaper. EU countries would over purchases by foreign com- instantaneous connectivity, vast data Italy, that Brussels draw up a supply information panies that target Europe’s strategic capacity and futuristic technologies. strategy to counter a wave of take- All correspondence on foreign investm- assets,” Juncker said, while insisting - ‘Supermarket for great powers’ - overs by Chinese companies in regarding Views and ent to other members Europe will remain open to Huawei strenuously denies its Europe. German concerns were investment. equipment could be used for espi- sparked by acquisitions at the time Opinion pages should be if public order The parliament said it now onage. “Some foreign powers plan in the tech sector, most notably send to editor-in-chief expects European Union countries their policy of economic conquest Chinese household goods maker or security are office or mailed to the concerned. on March 5 to endorse the rules it abroad,” French MEP Franck Proust Midea’s takeover of industrial adopted by 500 votes for, 49 against warned after he steered the legis- robotics firm Kuka last year. [email protected] 10 EUROPE FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 May loses latest Brexit vote REUTERS & AP The House of Commons voted by 303 votes to LONDON 258 against a motion reiterating support for British Prime Minister Theresa May’s approach to Brexit— support expressed May suffered an embarrassing by lawmakers in votes just two weeks ago. defeat by lawmakers yesterday The defeat is symbolic rather than binding, but in a vote that left her bid to secure a European Union divorce shows how weak May’s hand is as she tries to deal stuck between an intran- secure changes to her divorce deal from the EU sigent EU and a resistant UK in order to win backing for it in parliament. Parliament — with Brexit just six weeks away. Prime Minister Theresa May lost or convince Brussels to grant her The House of Commons a symbolic Brexit vote in some concessions. voted by 303 votes to 258 against parliament, weakening her hand She had lost her first attempt a motion reiterating support for as she seeks to renegotiate her at seeking parliamentary May’s approach to Brexit— withdrawal agreement with approval by an even bigger support expressed by lawmakers Brussels. margin. With six weeks to go in votes just two weeks ago. The British currency was before Britain is due to leave the The defeat is symbolic rather little moved after the result of the EU, markets are growing more than binding, but shows how motion, which sought to reaffirm anxious. Many traders are weak May’s hand is as she tries support for May’s plan to seek avoiding taking positions until a to secure changes to her divorce changes to her deal, after earlier firm resolution on Brexit is deal from the EU in order to win tumbling on media reports that secured. Scotiabank analysts backing for it in parliament. the government would lose. had said Thursday’s defeat The government was Eurosceptic lawmakers in “would be embarrassing for PM Pro-Brexit demonstrators protest outside the Houses of Parliament, in Westminster, London, Britain, defeated when hard-line pro- May’s own party had been May but perhaps nothing more before the parliament vote yesterday. Brexit lawmakers in the gov- expected to abstain or vote serious at this stage”. erning Conservatives abstained against May as they feared she The pound fell to $1.2773, a because they feel the gov- was softening her position on a one-month low, earlier on down to broad-based dollar in sterling, currency derivative newspaper reported that up to ernment is effectively ruling out no-deal departure from the Thursday, but was trading weakness rather than Brexit- markets appeared somewhat 10 frontbench opposition Labour the threat of leaving the European Union. Britain is due around $1.28 after the vote, down related angst. relaxed on the near-term pros- MPs have threatened to resign if European Union without an to set the EU on March 29. 0.4 percent on the day. It fell “The debate this week has pects for the pound. Implied vol- party leader Jeremy Corbyn does agreement on departure terms Thursday’s defeat, while more than half a percent against been between the Fed pause or atility - a measure of expected not support a pro-referendum and future relations, a move they humiliating for the prime min- the euro to 88.40 pence. whether other central banks swings in the British currency - amendment. say undermines Britain’s bar- ister, will also further worry Commerzbank FX strategist have become more dovish, and has fallen to a more-than-three- If May did open the door to gaining position. investors fearful that she cannot Ulrich Leuchtmann, speaking that is basically moving the U.S. month low of nearly 10 vol com- a second referendum, analysts Sterling was stuck near one- persuade lawmakers to back her before the parliamentary votes, dollar,” he said. pared to 14 vol in early say sterling would bounce month lows yesterday after agreement in a forthcoming vote, said the fall in euro/sterling was Despite jumpy cash markets December. The Guardian significantly. ‘I am a political prisoner’, Catalan separatist leader tells court Germany to let Nato use its REUTERS triggered Spain’s biggest political referendum on secession, conviction for rebellion under “If at times I’m a little pas- MADRID crisis in decades. deemed constitutionally illegal Spanish law - during the vote. sionate in my answers, it’s cyber skills “I am convinced that I am by the courts and to which Junqueras, who along with because I’ve been a year and a Former Catalan deputy leader being accused for my ideas and central government responded his co-accused faces up to 25 half without being able to talk,” AFP Oriol Junqueras, standing trial in not for my deeds,” he told the by sending riot police. years in jail if found guilty on that he said. He declined to answer BRUSSELS Madrid for rebellion, said court. Heavy-handedness by the charge, still chairs the ERC, the questions from prosecutors. yesterday he was a political “...I was dismissed as deputy security forces in trying to left-wing pro-independence The defendants and their Germany is to join the ranks of prisoner and insisted his region head of the Catalan government prevent the vote led to wide- party that governs Catalonia supporters say they are political Nato countries making its cyber had the right to secede from after (Madrid took control)... and spread criticism. alongside the conservative prisoners, while the government warfare skills available to the Spain. because of that I believe I am a Asked by his lawyer about PDeCAT. says they are being judged alliance to help fight hacking Junqueras is the most prom- political prisoner”. that day, Junqueras said: “Voting He has been in jail since strictly in line with the rule of and electronic warfare, officials inent of 12 Catalan leaders being Madrid closed down the is not a crime but it is a crime to November 2017. law. said yesterday. tried at the Supreme Court since region’s parliament and took prevent people from doing so In testimony that veered Nine of 12 are already in Nato has designated cyber- Tuesday over a failed inde- over its government after Cata- using force.” from quietly spoken to emo- detention while the three others, space as a conflict domain pendence bid in 2017, in a lonia declared independence in He rejected any suggestion tional, Junqueras at one point who face a maximum of seven alongside land, sea and air and landmark case that has laid bare October 2017. he had incited violence - a nec- apologised for his sometimes years in jail on lesser charges, are says electronic attacks by the deep social divisions and That declaration followed a essary component of any rambling answers. on bail. likes of Russia and China — but also criminals and so-called “hacktivists” — are becoming France to tighten online bullying laws more frequent and more destructive. after media ‘boys’ club’ scandal German officials used a meeting of defence ministers AFP/PARIS in Brussels on Thursday to tell allies that Berlin would make France said yesterday it is toughening its online abuse laws after its cyber capabilities available, an outcry over young media executives hounded female colleagues. including offensive elements. Two government ministers said new rules will be tabled before “Just as we provide army, the end of June to force social media platforms to pull hateful posts, air force and naval forces to with Twitter coming in for particular criticism. Nato, we are now also in a Eight journalists and public relations executives who belonged position to provide Nato capa- to the “League of LOL” Facebook group have either been suspended bilities on the issue of cyber or stepped down this week since they were accused of targeting within the national and legal feminists and minority colleagues online. framework that we have,” The affair is being dubbed the “French media’s #MeToo”, with German Defence Minister the closed group condemned for bullying women online with por- Ursula von der Leyen said. nographic memes and off-colour jokes about rape culture. The US, Britain, Denmark, France’s Digital Affairs Minister Mounir Mahjoubi said the gov- the Netherlands and Estonia ernment was considering changing the legal status of social media have all made their offensive to make them face up to their responsibilities. cyber weapons available to the “It’s unacceptable to have them dictating the rules all by them- alliance — and announced it selves,” he told Le Figaro newspaper. publicly — in the expectation Mahjoubi rounded on Twitter, saying: “I find it intolerable when that the threat of counterattack Sunset view I see the head of Twitter (Jack Dorsey) informing the world in a may deter would-be aggressors. single message that the conditions have changed, without anybody As with other military A view of northeastern Ukrainian industrial city of Kharkiv at sunset, yesterday. having the right to weigh in.” resources such as tanks and jets, alliance members retain control over their cyber capa- bilities and make them Enough! French want an end to ‘yellow vest’ protests available to Nato when requested for missions and operations. REUTERS are named after the high-visi- last month launched a two- Targets for offensive cyber At least 8,400 arrested PARIS bility jackets French motorists month national debate, prom- tactics can include anything must carry in their car. ising policy change that address with an internet connection, ANATOLIA/PARIS remanded in custody while More than half of French people The unrest quickly morphed voter grievances. including computers and 1,422 others are still waiting for want the “yellow vests” to end into a broader revolt against Yesterday, the 41-year-old smartphones, right up to French interior minister said trial since the beginning of the their sometimes violent anti- President Emmanuel Macron and president met with rural mayors devices which control key that some 8,400 people were protests. Since November 17, government protests, with many inequality. Much of the worst in the remote village of Gargi- machinery at power plants and arrested since the beginning of thousands of protesters believing demonstrators still rioting, vandalism and looting lesse-Dampierre in central transport networks. yellow vest protests three wearing bright yellow vests — marching through cities each has been blamed on anarchists France. One after the other, the Russia is seen by the West months ago, according to local dubbed the Yellow Vests — weekend no longer reflect the as well as hard-left and extreme- mayors presented their grumbles: as the biggest cyber threat after media yesterday. have gathered in major French group’s early demands. right militants with no con- the dearth of doctors, shortage a string of attacks blamed on French daily Le Figaro cities, including Paris, to protest A survey by respected pollster nection to the protest movement. of money for technology, decline the Kremlin on targets including quoted Christophe Castaner as President Emmanuel Macron’s Elabe published late on While a majority of people of public transport, and lack of world sports bodies, the US saying that around 1,300 police controversial fuel tax hikes and Wednesday showed 56 percent support the movement, two in power for local officials. Democratic Party and the world officers, firefighters and gen- deteriorating economic think the movement should call every three believe those still “I will try and respond to each chemical weapons watchdog darmes were injured since the situation. off the weekly protests, an protesting each weekend in Paris of the points you have raised,” in the Netherlands. beginning of the protests on Demonstrators held pro- increase of 11 points from a and other cities are not repre- Macron said as he got to his feet, In a sign of the growing Nov. 17 last year. tests blocking roads as well as month earlier and the first time sentative of its early ambitions. dressed as always in a sharp suit, importance Nato countries On Tuesday, French Prime entrances and exits to gas sta- they have been a majority. The “yellow vests” have crisp white shirt and dark tie. “I attach to the cyber battlefield, Minister Edouard Philippe said tions and factories across the The protests erupted in posed the greatest challenge to share your opinion, the country this year Britain said it would that 1,796 people were country. November over the high cost of the authority of Macron, who has is tired. We must rise to the spend £65m (¤74m/$83m) on diesel and high living costs, and made costly tax concessions and challenge.” offensive capabilities. FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 EUROPE / AMERICAS 11 US Congress advances border security bill

REUTERS According to what Trump had been WASHINGTON congressional aides, demanding. It is the same level of funding The US Congress yesterday the final version of Congress appropriated for aimed to end a dispute over legislation would border security measures last border security with legislation give the Trump year, including barriers but not that would ignore President administration concrete walls. Since he ran for Donald Trump’s request for office in 2016, Trump has been $5.7bn to help build a wall on the $1.37bn in new money demanding billions of dollars to US-Mexico border but avoid a to help build 88.5km build a wall on the southwest partial government shutdown. of new physical border, saying “crisis” conditions Late on Wednesday, negoti- barriers on the required a quick response to stop ators put the finishing touches the flow of illegal drugs and Police and investigators examine the wreckage of a bus at the crash site in the village of Laskarci, on legislation to fund the southwest border, far undocumented immigrants, west of Skopje, yesterday. Department of Homeland less than what Trump largely from Central America. Security (DHS) through Sep- had been demanding. He originally said Mexico tember 30, the end of the fiscal would pay for a 3,200km con- year, along with a range of other crete wall — an idea that Mexico federal agencies. controller training programs to dismissed. 14 dead in bus accident Racing against a Friday mid- the collection and publication of Trump has not yet said night deadline, when operating important data for financial whether he would sign the leg- funds expire for the agencies that markets, for the second time this islation into law if the Demo- in North Macedonia employ about 800,000 workers year. “This agreement denies cratic-controlled House of Rep- at the DHS, the departments of funding for President Trump’s resentatives and Republican-led Agriculture, Commerce, Justice border wall and includes several Senate approve it, even as many AFP The bus was carrying 51 Tetovo and Gostivar. and others, the Senate and key measures to make our immi- of his fellow Republicans in Con- SKOPJE people when it turned over 20km Minister Venko Filipce added House of Representatives aimed gration system more humane,” gress were urging him to do so. from the capital Skopje, the that “the number of dead may to pass the legislation later. House Appropriations Com- Instead, he said on The death toll from a passenger interior minister said. Most of increase because there are people That would give Trump time mittee Chairwoman Nita Lowey, Wednesday he would hold off bus crash in North Macedonia them were treated in hospital. in surgery and in critical con- to review the measure and sign a Democrat, said in a statement. on a decision until he examines climbed to 14 yesterday, author- Witnesses quoted by local dition” following the accident. it into law before temporary According to congressional the final version of legislation. ities said. media said the driver appeared to Around 50 people were on the funding for about one-quarter aides, the final version of legis- But Trump, widely blamed Seven people died when the lose control of the bus on the Sko- bus. of the government expires. lation would give the Trump for a five-week shutdown that bus overturned on Wednesday pje-Tetovo highway. Authorities Ilir Asani, head of the emer- Failure to do so would administration $1.37bn in new ended in January, said he did not and seven others in hospital, have not yet commented on the gency centre at Skopje’s main hos- shutter many government pro- money to help build 88.5km of want to see federal agencies Prime Minister Zoran Zaev told a cause of the crash. Workers in the pital, told local media that at least grammes, from national parks new physical barriers on the close again because of fighting press conference, updating an capital Skopje often take the bus “five people were severely injured, maintenance and air traffic southwest border, far less than over funds for the wall. earlier toll of 13. route to get home to the towns of including a pregnant woman”. EU voices concern as Romania EU to ban use moves to block prosecutor of electricity BUCHAREST the European Public Prosecutor’s AP Office, due to become operational in fishing at the end of 2020. Prosecutors applying for the post Toader removed Kovesi from BLOOMBERG of European chief prosecutor her post last year, citing misman- STRASBOURG must be treated fairly, the agement and asserting she over- European Commission said stepped her authority. Some The European Union will impose yesterday, after Romania moved viewed the dismissal as politically a blanket ban on the use of elec- to block one of its own nationals. motivated. During her five-year tricity in fishing under a plan Commission spokesman Mar- tenure at the National Anti-Cor- opposed by The Netherlands and garitis Schinas said Brussels is fol- ruption Directorate, Kovesi suc- championed by France and envi- lowing the case closely adding it cessfully prosecuted hundreds of ronmental groups. is crucial that candidates put officials including ministers, Representatives of EU gov- forward by an independent mayors and state company ernments and the European Par- selection panel are “treated directors. liament agreed to prohibit all fairly.” He spoke after Romanian Separately, Kovesi is suing electric “pulse” fishing for com- Justice Minister Tudorel Toader Romania’s government in the mercial purposes as of July 2021, wrote to EU justice ministers European Court of Human Rights ending exemptions that have accusing Laura Codruta Kovesi, over her firing. She says she was allowed five percent of Dutch the former chief anti-corruption dismissed unfairly and had her Anniversary of Florida shooting trawlers to use the technique in prosecutor, of signing “secret and rights violated when she was the North Sea. anti-democratic pacts” with the denied the right to appeal a Con- Cheryl Rothenberg embraces her daughters Emma and Sophia as they view a memorial on the one The practice, in which elec- intelligence agency in corruption stitutional Court decision that year anniversary of the shooting which claimed 17 lives at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School trodes are used along the seabed and national security probes. ordered her firing based on the in Parkland, Florida, yesterday. Sophia is a student at the school and Emma is a recent graduate. to scoop fish into nets, may con- Kovesi has been shortlisted to lead minister’s recommendation. tinue to be permitted for scien- tific research. The deal reached on Wednesday in Strasbourg, France, highlights the political Former acting FBI chief says probe of Trump began after Comey firing appeal of environmental initia- tives in the run-up to EU Par- REUTERS May 2017, CBS News reported broadcast on Sunday. greatly.” McCabe has written a public confirmation of the inves- liament elections in late May. The WASHINGTON yesterday. “I was speaking to the man book to be released next week. “I tigation by an official who was negotiators added the prohibition Former FBI Acting Director who had just run for the presi- was very concerned that I was involved. McCabe told CBS that to a draft European law on tech- The FBI’s former acting director Andrew McCabe said he was dis- dency and won the election for the able to put the Russia case on there were meetings at the Justice nical measures for fleets. said he began an obstruction of turbed by his conversation with presidency and who might have absolutely solid ground in an Department to discuss the possi- Environmental groups say justice and counterintelligence Trump following Comey’s dis- done so with the aid of the gov- indelible fashion that were I bility of removing Trump under electric pulse fishing causes investigation involving US Pres- missal and got the investigations ernment of Russia, our most for- removed quickly and reassigned the Constitution’s 25th unacceptably high damage to ident Donald Trump and his ties started the following day, midable adversary on the world or fired that the case could not be Amendment outlining how the marine habitats and life, depletes to Russia shortly after Trump fired according to excerpts from an stage,” McCabe said. “And that was closed or vanish in the night Cabinet can decide whether a the oceans and undercuts small- bureau Director James Comey in interview with “60 Minutes” to be something that troubled me without a trace.” It was the first president can no longer do his job. scale operators. After ex-cop’s murder sentence, divisions in Chicago persist REUTERS for an American law enforcement that policing in communities of CHICAGO officer, found the sentence far too colour remained aggressive, mil- lenient for a policeman who itarised and without trust. Can- After white former Chicago police prosecutors said shot McDonald didates in this month’s mayoral officer Jason Van Dyke was 16 times. On Monday, the newly election have prioritised policing sentenced last month for the 2014 sworn-in Illinois attorney general in their campaigns, an issue that killing of black teen Laquan and special prosecutor in the case has extended to national McDonald, top local officials asked the state’s Supreme Court politics. urged the third-largest US city to to review it. “There’s just this great divide pull together to close a painful The head of Chicago’s police and overwhelming imbalance. chapter in its history. union said that officers had It’s oppressive,” said Arewa But the nearly seven-year grown more cautious since Van Winters, a Chicago activist whose prison sentence has accentuated Dyke’s prosecution. They wait to 16-year-old nephew, Pierre the divisions and mistrust that be called to a scene rather than Loury, was fatally shot by police have gripped Chicago since a responding proactively, and stop in 2016. “I hope there is even- video showing the shooting of the fewer suspects on the street, said tually a meeting of the hearts and 17-year-old who carried a knife Kevin Graham, president of the the minds when it comes to police was made public in 2015, Fraternal Order of Police, Chicago and the community,” Winters Largest robotic light festival prompting days of protests, com- Lodge 7. said. “We need each other.” People enjoy a light show during the festivities for the 477th anniversary of the foundation of munity activists and police said. “It’s a very sad situation that Chicago, with a population of 2.7 Guadalajara, Mexico, yesterday. The city begins the anniversary celebrations with the largest robotic Activists who had praised we’re in today.” Graham said in million people, is a racially Van Dyke’s second-degree an interview at union head- divided city long scarred by alle- light festival in Latin America. murder conviction, a rare verdict quarters. However, activists said gations of police abuse. 12 AMERICAS / CLASSIFIEDS FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro (centre) speaking next to Vice-President Delcy Rodriguez (left) and Agriculture Minister Wilmar Catro Soteldo during a television programme in Caracas. Venezuela military reinforces Colombian border blockade

AFP There was also a URENA contingent of around Cuba charges 20 National Guard Venezuela’s military reinforced a blockade yesterday at the troops guarding the US moving border with Colombia where blockade. opposition leader Juan Guaido special forces has vowed to bring in desper- ately-needed humanitarian aid Venezuela has suffered four REUTERS HAVANA despite President Nicolas years of recession and is now Maduro’s vow to keep it out. ravaged by hyperinflation that Several new freight con- the International Monetary Fund Cuba charged yesterday that tainers were blocking the road predicts will reach a staggering the United States was that connects the town of Urena 10 million percent this year. secretly moving special in Venezuela to Cucuta in Salaries and savings have forces closer to Venezuela as Colombia, where tonnes of US been rendered worthless while part of a plan to intervene in aid has been piling up for a millions have been left in the South American country week. poverty faced with shortages of using the pretext of a There was also a contingent basic necessities such as food humanitarian crisis. of around 20 National Guard and medicines. A “Declaration of the troops guarding the blockade. The United Nations says Revolutionary Government” Last week, the military ini- some 2.3 million Venezuelans charged recent events tially placed two freight con- have fled the country since 2015. amounted to an attempted tainers and a tanker across the Guaido has been recognised coup that had so far failed. road to prevent vehicles from as interim president by 50 coun- “Between February 6 and 10 passing. tries and has strong backing military transport aircraft During a mass street protest from the US and neighbours have flown to the Rafael on Tuesday, self-proclaimed Colombia and Brazil as he Miranda Airport of Puerto acting president Guaido said the attempts to wrest power from Rico, the San Isidro Air Base, aid would be brought in on Feb- Maduro, whose reelection last in the Dominican Republic ruary 23 and issued a direct year the opposition denounced and to other strategically order to the military not to block as fraudulent. located Caribbean islands, it. Maduro, who has presided The National Assembly pres- probably without knowledge over an economic meltdown in ident has also announced plans of the governments of those Venezuela, has vowed to stop it for a second collection centre in nations. These flights origi- from entering. The armed forces the northwestern Brazilian state nated in American military remain loyal to him. of Roraima, which borders Ven- installations from which His regime denies Venezuela ezuela. A third storage facility is units of Special Operations is suffering from a humanitarian to be established in Curacao, a and Marine Corps operate, crisis and has dismissed the aid Dutch island around 65km off which are used for covert as a “publicity show” and pretext the northern coast of actions,” it said. to a US-led invasion. Venezuela. Cabinet crisis Trudeau’s lawmakers rattles Bolsonaro as key pension limit scope of probe into bill awaited SNC-Lavalin furore BLOOMBERG BLOOMBERG BRASILIA OTTAWA

Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro A parliamentary committee will is suffering his first cabinet study the SNC-Lavalin Group crisis over a campaign financing Inc. controversy in Canada scandal that’s jolting his without hearing from key government just as he prepares witnesses after Prime Minister to send his flag bill to Congress. Justin Trudeau’s (pictured) Gustavo Bebianno, Sec- lawmakers rejected a broader retary-General of the presidency, investigation. has come under pressure to step The House of Commons down amid reports the PSL party justice committee, on which the he presided and Bolsonaro governing Liberals hold a belongs to may have misused majority, voted to study the ins- campaign funds in last year’s and-outs of remediation agree- Trudeau’s office but consistently election. The President told TV ments — like that being sought lowered expectations for the Record night that he ordered a by the company to settle its case committee’s investigation. “We police investigation into the case — and “the discussions between are not here to replace what the that triggered a rift between his the office of the attorney general ethics commissioner will do,” family, friends and allies, and government colleagues” on Liberal lawmaker Iqra Khalid including a tweet from his son the matter. They voted to hear told the committee. Carlos calling Bebianno a liar. from at least three witnesses, but The controversy centres The scandal, the second not all those whom opposition around whether Trudeau or his involving one of Bolsonaro’s lawmakers had proposed. staff pressured Wilson-Ray- sons since he took office on Jan. The hearing in Ottawa came bould, who isn’t on the commit- 1, comes at an inopportune after Jody Wilson-Raybould tee’s witness list, to order Can- time. The administration is resigned from Trudeau’s Cabinet ada’s federal prosecution service about to send to Congress a amid a report that she faced to grant the Montreal-based proposal to cut pension benefits pressure to intervene on behalf engineering and construction that investors say could make of SNC-Lavalin to solve a legal giant a remediation agreement or break both the country’s eco- problem while serving as justice that would resolve long- nomic health and Bolsonaro’s minister. The parliamentary standing fraud and corruption political future. The gov- ethics watchdog is also investi- charges out of court. ernment needs every vote from gating the issue, which has dom- Wilson-Raybould was the PSL, which has come to inated political debate at the start shuffled out of the justice port- rival the opposition PT party as of an election year in Canada. folio in January, serving as min- the largest in the lower house, Throughout the nearly three- ister of veterans affairs before according to the Chamber’s hour hearing, Liberals insisted announcing her resignation website. they weren’t acting on behalf of Tuesday. FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 CLASSIFIEDS 13

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0OMZ  E-mail: [email protected] BUSINESS Friday 15 February 2019 PAGE | 15 PAGE | 15 US and India seek Coke drops most to boost trade since 2008 ties in energy, as pressure defence rises

Your Global Remittance Partner Currency TT Rate Currency TT Rate Currency TT Rate Currency TT Rate QAR/INR : 19.37 QAR/PHP : 14.26 QAR/LKR : 48.82 QAR/BDT : 23.25 EUR/QAR : 4.23 GBP/QAR : 4.83 CAD/QAR : 2.84 AUD/QAR : 2.70 CHF/QAR : 3.73 SGD/QAR : 2.77 KWD/QAR : 12.12 OMR/QAR : 9.55 MAIN BRANCH LULU HYPER MARKET SANAYYA (STREET 17) AL KHOR PH: 44441448 PH: 44650768 PH: 44510088 PH: 44213444 MATAR QADEEM MANSOURA - AL MEERA ABU HAMOUR BIN OMRAN - ALMEERA PH: 44655559 PH: 44357552 PH: 44621271 PH: 44162002 alzamanexchange www.alzamanexchange.com 44441448 MPHC posts robust net profit of QR1.4bn for 2018

THE PENINSULA QR1.1bn. The profit for the year region’s premier diversified pet- long-term supply agreements. market environment. The Board of Directors DOHA was also aided by the recog- rochemical conglomerates with QChem and QChem II also ben- The closing cash position as therefore recommends a total nition of a tax refund of approx- interests in the production of efitted from the increased avail- at December 31, 2018 after dis- annual dividend distribution of Mesaieed Petrochemical imately QR169m during the olefins, polyolefins, alpha ability of feedstock of 8 percent tribution of the previous years’ QR1bn, equivalent to a payout Holding Company (MPHC) year. olefins and chlor-alkali during the year through sep- dividends of QR855m, was a of QR0.8 per share representing posted a robust net profit of Earnings per share reached products. arate agreements. These con- robust QR1.9bn. The total assets 72 percent of the group’s profit. QR1.4bn for the last financial at QR1.11 in 2018 against QR0.87 The group continued to tractual arrangements are an as at December 31, 2018 was The dividend distributions, year ended December 3, up by (87 dirhams) previous year. benefit from the supply of com- important value driver for the QR15.3bn, compared to since inception including the 28 percent compared to pre- MPHC is a subsidiary of petitively priced Ethane feed- group to sustain its strong prof- QR14.8bn as at December 31, proposed distribution for 2018, vious year’s net profit of Qatar Petroleum and one of the stock and Fuel gas under itability in a highly competitive 2017. amounts to QR5.3bn. Oil gains on US-China trade hopes, Opec cuts

REUTERS LONDON

Oil rose for a third day yes- terday to reach its highest so far Brent crude this year as financial markets drew support from investor futures were up optimism that the United States 24 cents at $63.85 Jet Airways and China could resolve their a barrel by 1417 trade dispute. approves The price of crude has GMT, after hitting gained about 20 percent this a 2019 high of rescue deal to year, driven primarily by the $64.81, while US prospect of a decline in oil crude futures plug $1.2bn gap supply from OPEC and other top ATM with cutting-edge technology exporters such as Russia. slipped 7 cents to REUTERS “This rally that we’re seeing $53.83 a barrel, A woman uses an ATM with facial recognition technology during the presentation of the new service by NEW DELHI over the last two to three days reversing an CaixaBank in Barcelona, Spain, yesterday. is completely justified when you earlier gain. India’s Jet Airways said yes- put the predicted Opec pro- terday its board had approved duction cuts into your global oil a rescue deal which will make supply and demand equation,” its lenders its largest share- Tamas Varga of PVM Oil Asso- sharp rise in imports of crude holders and fix a near 85 billion ciates said. oil before the Lunar New Year rupee ($1.2bn) funding gap. Brent crude futures were holidays in early February. QSE’s main index closes With debts of more than up 24 cents at $63.85 a barrel This week’s positive tone $1bn, Jet has struggled over the by 1417 GMT, after hitting a 2019 in oil futures has masked a dis- last year as competition inten- high of $64.81, while US crude location in the physical markets. at 9,941.50 points sified, the Indian rupee depre- futures slipped 7 cents to $53.83 The steep rise in availability of ciated and high oil prices hurt a barrel, reversing an earlier US shale oil is leading not only margins. gain. to a build in domestic inven- THE PENINSULA QNA. accounted for 25.08 percent. The airline said in a regu- The Organization of the tories of crude, but also in DOHA Banking and Financial Real Estate sector accounted for latory filing that its board has Petroleum Exporting Countries refined products. The US Energy Services sector led traded value 15.67 percent and Telecoms approved the rescue deal by the and allies such as Russia, a Information Administration Qatar Stock Exchange’s (QSE) last week with 42.56 percent of sector accounted for 9.83 lenders, led by State Bank of group known as Opec+, have said on Wednesday US crude benchmark index lost 563.69 the total trading value. Industries percent. India, which includes an equity agreed to cut crude output by a stocks rose to their highest since points, or 5.37 percent, last week sector accounted for 27.42 From the 46 listed com- infusion, debt restructuring and joint 1.2 million barrels per day. November 2017 as refiners cut when the bourse closed yes- percent. Real Estate sector panies five ended last week the sale or sale and lease back Top exporter Saudi Arabia said runs to the lowest since October terday at 9,941.50 points. accounted for 9.45 percent and higher, while 41 fell. of aircraft. it would cut even more in March 2017 to combat tumbling Trading value during last Consumer Goods and Services QNB led trading value during Vinay Dube (pictured), Jet’s than called for under the deal. margins, particularly for week decreased by 14.42 percent sector accounted 8.16 percent. last week accounted for 23.43 Chief Executive Officer, said the “Thanks to healthy oil gasoline. to reach QR900.36m compared Industries sector led traded percent of the total traded value. airline is confident of delivering demand growth and lower Prices for physical barrels to QR1.05bn. volume last week with 35.87 Industries Qatar accounted for a “more strategic, efficient and Opec+ production... we see the of light, sweet crude that yield Trading volume decreased percent of the total traded 8.98 percent and Qatar Islamic financially viable airline” market tightening further over large quantities of gasoline have by 23.32 percent to reach 29.40 volume. Banking and Financial Bank accounted 6.99 percent. through the plan. the coming months,” UBS come under pressure. Heavier, million shares, as against 38.34 Services sector accounted for When compared on daily The plan will also need reg- analyst Giovanni Staunovo said. sour grades that yield higher- million shares, while the number 20.19 percent. Telecoms sector basis, the QSE index dropped ulatory approval from the Secu- “As such, we continue to value middle distillates such as of transactions fell by 8.96 accounted for 19.24 percent and 239.19 points, or 2.35 percent, rities & Exchange Board of India, expect Brent oil prices will diesel, like Russian Urals, have percent, to reach 22,024 trans- Real Estate sector accounted compared to Wednesday’s India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation, move up to $70 to $80 a barrel benefited from Opec’s output actions as compared to 24,192 16.29 percent. closing. The volume of shares and the Competition Com- over three to six months.” cuts and US sanctions on com- transactions. Industries sector led traded traded decreased to 8.79 million mission of India, Jet said. Adding to the positive peting grades such as Iran’s. Market cap fell by 6.40 number of transactions last week from 9.67 million on Wednesday It did not mention any cash backdrop was data showing a Crude inventories rose for percent to reach QR565.64bn as with 38.14 percent of the total and the value of shares also injections from existing share- surprise increase in China’s a fourth week in a row, by 3.6 compared to QR604.30bn at the number of transactions. Banking decreased to QR286.86m from holders such as founder and exports in January, as well as a million barrels. end of previous week, reports and Financial Services sector QR306.79m on Wednesday. chairman Naresh Goyal and Etihad Airways, which owns 24 percent of Jet. The airline reported a fourth consecutive JPMorgan Chase unveils cryptocurrency prototype quarterly loss on Thursday as it sought to allay concerns of its AFP aircraft lessors, employees and NEW YORK Coin and which for now is only The system is based on US dollars a pilot program later this year, we will actively engage our reg- other creditors with the plan, at the prototype stage, would but could be expanded to other the company said on its ulators to explain its design and which must be approved at a JPMorgan Chase yesterday permit institutional clients to currencies, the bank said. website. The system is solicit their feedback and any shareholder meeting on Feb. 21. unveiled a prototype for a make instantaneous payments The framework employs designed for business-to- necessary approvals.” Jet reported a net loss of digital coin system using block- with other bank clients. the digital ledger technology business transactions and not In announcing the system, 5.88 billion rupees ($83m) for chain, a first among major Customers would receive known as blockchain and is for individuals at this point. JPMorgan becomes the first the three months ended banks in the fast-changing JPM Coins that could be trans- being tested with a small “JPM Coin is currently a major bank with concrete plans December 31, compared with a cryptocurrency world. ferred to other customers, who number of institutional clients, prototype,” the bank said. “As to permit clients to transact in profit of 1.65 billion rupees a The system, called JPM are then free to redeem the sum. with plans to be expanded into we move towards production cryptocurrencies. year earlier. FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 BUSINESS 15 US and India seek to boost trade ties in energy, defence

REUTERS security ties. But bilateral trade, data localisation, Juster said, but NEW DELHI which stood at $126bn in 2017, is it was not directly addressed by widely seen to be performing at Indian and US government offi- The United States and India plan nearly a quarter of its potential. cials, rather left to private discus- to boost bilateral trade in energy, “We resolved to facilitate sions being held separately. aerospace, defence, pharmaceu- two-way trade and investment to Last year India announced ticals and healthcare as part of a build on such growth,” Indian proposals to force foreign com- continuing commercial dialogue, Trade Minister Suresh Prabhu said panies to store more of their user officials from both governments in a tweet. data locally so as to make it acces- said yesterday. Executives participating in the sible to any legal investigations. United States and what it sees as They have set up seven discussions included Tata US lobby groups voiced the Indian government’s lax intel- working groups of chief executives chairman N Chandrasekaran and doubts, saying this made it difficult lectual property enforcement. with top US and Indian firms that American Tower CEO James for firms to do business in India. New Delhi defends the will focus on financial trade and Taiclet, an Indian government The two governments were measures on e-commerce as a way investments as well as bring statement said. US and Indian offi- also discussing US tariffs imposed to protect the interests of small together small and medium enter- cials pressed on with talks yes- blast year on steel and aluminium businesses and says it has been prises (SME) from the two terday to resolve differences over imports, he said. cutting tariffs gradually to give countries. trade and investment, Indian gov- India and the United States are local industry a level playing field “The working groups have ernment sources said, after US at odds over a range of trade and create jobs for a very large been formed among the CEOs. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross issues, from India’s new rules on youth population. They will be providing recommen- called off his visit because of bad e-commerce that affect firms such The meeting coincides with a dations to the government,” weather at home. as Amazon and Walmart to Indian USTR review of India’s eligibility Kenneth Juster (pictured), US Ross addressed the forum in data localisation and tariffs that as a beneficiary of its Generalised Ambassador to India, told Delhi through teleconference after US President Donald Trump says System of Preferences (GSP), under reporters at a briefing on the side- his flight was cancelled, a gov- are exceptionally high. which the country has enjoyed lines of the talks. ernment statement said. Washington has also had a zero tariffs for about 2,000 goods India and the United States Chief executives of top US and longstanding grievance with India worth $5.6bn exported to the have developed close political and Indian firms raised the issue of over its large trade deficit with the United States. Coke drops most since 2008 as pressure rises BLOOMBERG beverage company. He’s now under pressure NEW YORK to show his company’s big bet on UK coffee chain Costa can drive growth. Investors will Coca-Cola Co sold fewer drinks in the Americas be listening on the call this morning for more in the fourth quarter despite a boost from zero- details about the coffee strategy. Coke, like calorie offerings as rival PepsiCo Inc ramps up Pepsi, has raised prices to offset higher costs marketing spending. Shares fell as much as 7.9 -- moves the company said caused some con- percent -- the most since intraday since 2008. sumer backlash in the quarter. In addition, it Unit case volume fell 1 percent in North sold less juice, dairy and plant-based bev- America and 2 percent in Latin America in the erages. The drinks business has become more quarter ended Dec. 31, though adjusted earnings competitive in the U.S., with sparkling water, per share matched analyst forecasts. A lack- bottled coffee and other options gaining pop- luster profit forecast for 2019 weighed on the ularity.Market Reaction beverage giant’s shares.Key Insights Coke shares declined 7.2 percent to $46.20 While the beverage giant has made progress at 9:33 am. in New York. The stock had gained with its Diet Coke and Coke Zero Sugar brands, 5.2 percent this year through Wednesday’s the results show that a broader decline in soda close.Get More consumption may still be weighing down per- The company said adjusted earnings per formance. Coke, like its rivals in the beverage Chief Executive Officer James Quincey share could be down 1 percent in 2019, with business, is also facing higher transportation (pictured) has been banking on a pivot away 1 percent growth the high end of the range. costs. from sugary soda at the world’s largest For more on the results, click here.

CROSSWORD MALL ROYAL PLAZA

Racetime (2D/Animation) 2:00 & 3:30pm; Oru Adaar Love (2D/Malayalam) 2:15 & 11:30pm; Dev (Tamil) Dev (Tamil) 2:00pm; Allu Ramendran (2D/ 2:15pm; Racetime (2D/Animation) 2:15 & 3:45pm; Alita: The Malayalam) 2:15pm; Kumbalangi Night (2D/ Battle Angel (2D/Action) 4:45 & 7:15pm; Kumbalangi Night Malayalam) 4:45pm; Gully Boy (2D/Hindi) 5:00 (2D/Malayalam) 5:00pm; Time Freak (2D/Comedy) 5:30pm; & 11:30pm; Alita: The Battle Angel (2D/Action) Gully Boy (2D/Hindi) 7:00 & 11:30pm; Stan And Ollie (2D/ 5:00 & 7:15pm; #Qest_Hob (2D/Arabic) 7:00pm; Comedy) 7:15pm; The Vanishing (2D/Thriller) 9:30pm; Happy The Vanishing (2D/Thriller) 7:45pm; Death Day 2U (2D/Horror) 9:45pm; Allu Ramendran (2D/ Oru Adaar Love (2D/Malayalam) 9:00pm; Malayalam) 9:00pm; Peranbu (2D/Tamil) 11:30pm. Happy Death Day 2U (2D/Horror) 9:45pm; The Quake (2D/Action) 9:30pm; Kala Shah Kala (2D/Punjabi) 11:30pm; ASIAN TOWN Peranbu (2D/Tamil) 11:30pm. Peranbu (2D/Tamil) 12:00 noon & 8:15pm; Oru Adaar Love (2D/Malayalam) 12:00, 2:45; 5:30, 8:15, 11:00pm, 1:45am & LANDMARK 2:30am; 9 (2D/Malayalam) 5:30pm; Gully Boy (2D/Hindi) 5:30 & 11:00pm; Kumbalangi Night (2D/Malayalam) 3:30, 9:00pm Oru Adaar Love (2D/Malayalam) 2:00 & & 1:45am; Allu Ramendran (2D/Malayalam) 12:15, 2:45, 8:30, 11:30pm; Peranbu (2D/Tamil) 2:15pm; Racetime 11:15pm & 2:00am; Dev (Tamil) 12:30, 6:00 & 11:30pm (2D/Animation) 2:30 & 4:15pm; Kala Shah Kala (2D/Punjabi) 4:30pm; Alita: The Battle Angel (2D/Action) 5:00 & 7:15pm; Kumbalangi Night FLIK Mirqab Mall (2D/Malayalam) 6:00pm; Happy Death Day 2U Alita: The Battle Angel (2D/Action) 12:15, 2:40, 5:05, 7:30, (2D/Horror) 7:00pm; Gully Boy (2D/Hindi) 8:30 9:55pm & 0:20am; Alita: The Battle Angel (3D/Action) & 11:15pm; #Qest_Hob (2D/Arabic) 9:30pm; Allu 10:50am, 1:20, 3:50, 6:20, 8:50 & 11:20pm; Cold Pursuit (2D/ Ramendran (2D/Malayalam) 8:45pm; Dev (Tamil) Action) 10:30; 11:40am, 12:55; 2:00, 4:20, 6:40, 9:00 & 11:20pm 11:15pm. Gully Boy (2D/Hindi) 6:10 & 10:45pm; Happy Death Day 2U (2D/Horror) 12:20, 2:45, 4:30, 6:35, 8:40, 10:45 & 11:45pm ROXY Kumbalangi Night (2D/Malayalam) 3:15, 9;20pm & 0:15am; Oru Adaar Love (2D/Malayalam) 12:30 & The Lego Movie 2 (2D/Action) 10:00am, 12:15, 2:30, 4:45 & 6:15pm 7:00pm; Nadi Alregal Alserri (Arabic) 10:15pm; Oru Adaar Love Alita: The Battle Angel (2D/Action) 12:30, 1:30, (2D/Malayalam) 4:45 & 7:45pm; #Qest_Hob (2D/Arabic) 5:45, 5:10, 6:10 & 9:50pm 8:00pm & 0:30am; The Vanishing (2D/Thriller) 12:00, 1:15, Allu Ramendran (2D/Malayalam) 9:15pm 2:15 & 3:30pm Dev (Tamil) 11:55pm & 0;30am. AL KHOR Gully Boy (2D/Hindi) 12:30 & 3:30pm Happy Death Day 2U (2D/Horror) 3:00, 4:00, Dev (Tamil) 12:00, 6:00pm & 12:00 midnight; Gully Boy 7:40, 8:40, 9:50pm & 0:20am (2D/Hindi) 12:15, 6:00 & 11:45pm; Lovers Day (2D/Telugu) The Lego Movie 2 (2D/Action) 12:30, 2:50, 5:10 12:30pm; Oru Adaar Love (2D/Malayalam) 3:00 & & 7:30pm 9:00pm;; Allu Ramendran (2D/Malayalam) 3:15 & 9:00pm; Alita: The Battle Angel (2D/Action) 3:30, 6:00 & 11:30pm; Peranbu (2D/Tamil) 8:30pm Note: Programme is subject to change without prior notice.

GULLY BOY

A coming-of-age story based on the lives of street rappers in Mumbai. SPORT Friday 15 February 2019 PAGE | 18 PAGE | 19 Mourinho’s dismissal Al Attiyah, Abu Issa cost Manchester headline Qatar’s United £19.6m in presence at compensations Manateq QCCR Halep fights for semis spot as gutsy Kerber stays on course for Doha final

RIZWAN REHMAT THE PENINSULA

Top seed and Romanian tennis icon Simona Halep yesterday survived a mid-match crisis to beat Germany’s Julia Goerges in straight sets to book a semi- final spot at the Qatar Total Open. Halep, winner in Doha in 2014, was stretched in the 2 hour 1-minute battle on the Center Court before the Romanian won 7-6, 7-6 to seal a semi-final match against Elina Svitolina of Ukraine. Earlier, Svitolina produced a convincing performance to outlast Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic 6-4, 6-2. Also yesterday, second Qatar Tennis Federation President Nasser Al Khelaifi, along with guests, watching the action during the quarter- seed and German Grand Slam finals of the Qatar Total Open, in Doha, yesterday. star Angelique Kerber pro- duced a gutsy performance to rally from a set down to beat a slick performance to beat Barbora Strycova of the Czech qualifier Muchova 6-4, 6-2 in Republic 1-6, 6-2, 7-6. 82 minutes. After losing the first set For Svitolina, who is rather tamely, Kerber got her She (Goerges) is very strong appearing in the Qatar Total show together and put and I didn’t give up. That’s Open as a wild card, this will pressure on the 32-year-old why I won this match. I be her best ever performance opponent. It was Kerber’s 8th always enjoy playing in in Doha where she never win over Strycova in nine Doha so I didn’t want to reached the quarter-finals meetings on the tour. previously. For Halep, it was her third leave. I want to thank the For the losing quarter- successive win over Goerges fans who came here to finalist Muchova, it was her in as many meetings. support me. It is always a first loss after eight successive “I am very happy. Honestly nice atmosphere. I want to wins in the qualifiers. it was a tough match. It is thank Doha for making us Svitolina, who broke always tough to play (against) feel welcome: Halep Muchova in game eight of the her because she has a big first set and then a couple more serve,” Halep said after the times in the second, later match. “Yes, I knew it will be a praised the Czech youngster “She is very strong and I great match. I knew I could for a great fight. didn’t give up. That’s why I come back after losing the first “Yes, she was a tough won this match,” the Romanian set,” Kerber said after the opponent for me. I didn’t know added. match. “I was trying to play much about her or her style. “I always enjoy playing in better than I did in the first set. She can play really good tennis Germany’s Doha so I didn’t want to leave,” I knew she fights all the time so I tried to move really quickly Angelique Kerber she said with a smile. so I had to be better than her. to get going for my shots,” Svi- reacts after defeating “I want to thank the fans The crowd was just amazing tolina said. Czech Republic’s who came here to support me. and that gave me the energy “I am taking one day at a Barbora Strycova Romanian World No. 3 Simona Halep hits a return against It is always a nice atmosphere. and emotion in the end,” she time,” Svitolina said about her yesterday. Germany’s Julia Goerges during her quarter-final match of I want to thank Doha for added. just the second match after the PICTURES: making us feel welcome,” the Qatar Total Open at the Khalifa International Tennis and Kerber said: “We are Australian Open last month. VADAKKEMURIYIL RAJAN Halep said. Squash Complex, in Doha, yesterday. getting older (smiles). We “I am trying to stay warm “It will be a big challenge practice a lot. We have been in these chilly conditions. I am QATAR TOTAL OPEN for me against Elina. She has lead and quickly closed out the experienced German, broke on the tour for so long. We just trying to recover and be Results of yesterday’s quarter-finals beaten me a few times. It is set at 7-6, only allowing 1 point Strycova in games 2, 4 and 8 have had great matches over ready for next match,” she always a challenge to play to Goerges. The second set also in the second set to draw level the years. It’s always nice to added. Simona Halep (ROM x1) bt Julia Goerges against her,” Halep said of her went into a tie-breaker and in the match. The third set play this way. It’s great we are About her next match, she (GER x9) 7-6 (7/1), 7-6 (8/6) match against Svitolina today. after a brief fight, Halep went into a tie-breaker and still competing at this level.” said: “I am just going to focus Elina Svitolina (UKR x4) bt Karolina Muchova Halep raced to a 5-1 lead wrapped up the match with a Kerber remained calm in front Kerber will play Belgian on my own game, just try to (CZE) 6-4, 6-2 after breaking Goerges three powerful shot close to the net. of a rattled and angry Strycova. Elise Mertens who beat fifth move really good and it is Angelique Kerber (GER x3) bt Barbora times in the first set but the Earlier Strycova broke At 6-3 up in the tie-breaker, seed Kiki Bertens 6-4, 6-3 in enjoyable to play here so I will Strycova (CZE) 1-6, 6-2, 7-6 (7/4) German fought back to force Kerber in two games to take Kerber smashed a forehand to the day’s last quarter-final try to enjoy the semi-final. I am Elise Mertens (BEL) bt Kiki Bertens (NED x5) a tie-breaker. In the tie- the first set at 6-1 in just 30 take the match in a little over yesterday. sure it will be a great match for 6-4, 6-3 breaker, Halep raced to a 4-1 minutes. Kerber, the two hours. Earlier, Svitolina produced the fans to watch.”

Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina in action against Czech Republic’s Karolina Muchova. I am just going to focus on my own game, just try to move really good and it is enjoyable to play here so I will try to enjoy the semi-final. I am sure it will be a great match for the fans to watch: Svitolina

Fans of Angelique Kerber cheer for her with posters during her quarter-final match against Barbora Strycova, yesterday. FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 SPORT 17 Stage set for FINA Marathon Swim World Series Doha 2019 Top stars ready for Corniche battle

FAWAD HUSSAIN THE PENINSULA

Reigning Olympic champion Sharon Van Rouwendaal and Italian star Simone Ruffini are hoping to overcome strong fields as Qatar is set to host the star- We are holding studded FINA Marathon Swim the event for World Series Doha (QAT) 2019, which will be held on pictur- the second time esque Corniche tomorrow. and I am happy The Qatari capital will kick the number has off the FINA Marathon (10km) Swim World Series 2019, which increased from comprises a total of 9 legs. the last time. We The Doha meet, which will are ready to host play an important role in these world’s best swimmers qualification for this year’s World Aquatics Champi- swimmers: Khaleel onships in South Korea, has Al Jabir From left: Dutch swimmer Sharon Van Rouwendaal, QSA attracted higher number of entries as compared to the 2018 President Khaleel Al Jabir, FINA Technical Delegate John West edition in both the men and and Italian star Simone Ruffini pose for a group picture after women line-ups. press conference, yesterday. A total of 136 swimmers (84 male and 52 female) including several Olympic and World the number has increased from competition, as we prepare for World Series 2019,” he said. 2017 Ruffini hoped to start the champions will take a plunge in the last time. We are ready to the World Championships, in Van Rouwendaal, who won season on a positive note. Conditions are Corniche waters, deemed host these world’s best which more than 15,000 athletes in Doha last year, hoped to “I had problems before but looking very good. ‘excellent’ by Dutch star Van swimmers,” said QSA President will take part in Doha,” the QSA repeat her performance. now I am strong for the race and Rouwendaal. and FINA Bureau Member president added. “Conditions are looking very I will try my best because this I like the water Qatar has hosted multiple Khaleel Al Jabir, at a pre-event Also present on the occasion, good. I like the water temper- race is important for the World temperature, I like top-level FINA events, including press conference yesterday on FINA Technical Delegate John ature, I like 20 degrees. The Championships,” said Ruffini. 20 degrees. The seven FINA Swimming World Corniche, near Orry the Oryx West praised Organising Commit- course is excellent again like last Tomorrow, the women’s race Cups and the 2014 World Statue, where the races will take tee’s effort to prepare for the event. year. It’s always good to be back will start at 9am while the men’s course is excellent Swimming Championships. place. “Over the past couple of in Doha,” Van Rouwendaal said. race will kick off at 1pm. again like last The FINA Marathon Swim “Qatar will host this FINA days, we have been reviewing “Last year, I ended up Meanwhile, a total of 338 year. It’s always World Series is adding a valuable Marathon till 2021 and it is very all the arrangements for the winning it though my prepara- Qatari residents have signed up good to be back in experience and expertise as QSA good for us as everybody knows competition, and we are very tions were not good. This year, I for Doha Open Water Challenge, builds up to the Doha 2023 FINA Qatar will host the World Cham- pleased with the level of organ- feel strong but the other girls are which will be held today. Doha: Sharon Van World Aquatics pionships in 2023, where this isation and cooperation we are also strong. The field will be The event, open to public Rouwendaal Championships. competition is one of the events.” receiving. We would like to thank strong and tough so I will try my comprises several category races “We are holding the event for “We are getting a lot of expe- QSA for hosting the opening best,” she added. for swimmers over 11 years of the second time and I am happy rience by hosting this meet of the FINA Marathon Swim Overall winner in 2016 and age. The races will start at 1pm.

Saleh Ali Musbah Al Kaabi of Qatar in action during the Qatar Open Professional and Amateur Golf Championship 2019 Round 1 at Doha Golf Club, yesterday. PIC: QASSIM RAHMATULLAH/THE PENINSULA

PSL kicks off with spectacular opening ceremony Players march during the opening ceremony of Pakistan Super League in Dubai, yesterday. Thirty-four matches will be played in the PSL -- eight in Pakistan including the March 17 final -- with Islamabad United as defending champions of the six-team competition. The other five teams are Peshawar Zalmi, Quetta Gladiators, Karachi Kings, Multan Sultans and Lahore Qalandars. Returning Dembele primed to inject Johansson and Sagoo share opening day’s urgency back into stumbling Barca Without Dembele, Barca REUTERS Luis Suarez. His progress, leg next week before visiting honours at Qatar Open BARCELONA however, was cut short by an saw an eight-game fourth-placed Sevilla. ankle injury against Leganes on winning run interrupted They then visit Real for the Barcelona’s seemingly unstop- January 20. by a 2-2 draw at home second leg of the Copa del Rey THE PENINSULA the championship to take place pable march to a 26th La Liga Without Dembele, Barca saw to Valencia, and a 1-1 semi-final before returning to DOHA tomorrow. title has slowed with two consec- an eight-game winning run stalemate in a Copa del the Santiago Bernabeu for a Around 100 golfers from 33 utive draws but Ousmane interrupted by a 2-2 draw at league fixture which could have Rey semi-final first leg Niclas Johansson and Pavan countries are taking part in the Dembele can return them to full home to Valencia, and a 1-1 a huge say in the destination of Sagoo, shared the lead on the championship. Both professional speed when he makes his first stalemate in a Copa del Rey semi- against Real Madrid. the title. first day of the Qatar Open and amateur players are taking start in four weeks against Real final first leg against Real Madrid. Real, who have won their last Amateur Championship, which part in the event. Valladolid tomorrow. He came on for 15 minutes With a resurgent Real Madrid five league games and earned a got under way at the scenic Doha Of the 22 professional While the Catalans have against Athletic Bilbao, where closing a gap of 10 points two 2-1 victory at Ajax Amsterdam Golf Club, yesterday. players, three with the best been sweating on the fitness of Barca drew 0-0, with Suarez games ago down to six and in the Champions League on Adrian Meronk is in the record in the championship will Lionel Messi, who has completed saying the team’s attackers suf- emerging as a late threat to Wednesday, play at home on second spot while three players, qualify for the Qatar Masters, an their last two league games fered from a lack of Barca’s title ambitions, Dem- Sunday against a free-falling including former Qatar Masters European tour event, which take despite some discomfort in his communication. bele’s return to full fitness could Girona side who last won in the winner Paul Lawrie’s son Craig place at the Doha Golf Club in thigh, the absence of Dembele Barca’s record signing hardly come at a more urgent league in November. Lawrie are tied at the third place. March this year. has been felt just as keenly. Philippe Coutinho has filled in time. Atletico Madrid meanwhile Besides Craig, Jan Szmidt Jr The winner of the champi- The France forward had put for Dembele but has failed to After facing 15th-place Val- visit struggling Rayo Vallecano, and Mikkel Mathiesen along are onship along with three Qatari his disciplinary problems aside dovetail with his fellow South ladolid, Barca face four consec- plotting their recovery from in the fourth place. players will also get a chance to in the last two months, carving Americans, Suarez in particular, utive tricky away games which consecutive defeats to Real Round two continues today play in the prestigious Qatar up opponents with his unpre- who thrives off the space the could define their season, taking Betis and Real which have seen with the last and final round of Masters. dictable dribbles and forming a Frenchman’s rampaging runs on Olympique Lyonnais in a them drop to third, seven points profitable trident with Messi and create for him. Champions League last-16 first from Barca. 18 SPORT FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 Mourinho’s dismissal cost United £19.6m AFP 2-0 at home in the Champions The sum, which is listed regime with Solskjaer and assistant LONDON League by Paris Saint-Germain. under ‘exceptional items’ manager Mike Phelan, the club have Speaking on a conference call in United’s second-quarter recently agreed new contracts Manchester United revealed with investors, Woodward hailed the financial results, includes with Anthony Martial, Ashley yesterday that sacking Jose Mourinho “fantastic start” under the Norwegian, pay-outs for the five Young, Chris Smalling, Phil cost the club nearly £20m, with exec- who set a club record by winning his Jones and Scott McTominay. utive vice-chairman Ed Woodward first eight matches in charge. members of Mourinho’s The club’s wage bill for hailing the impact of Ole Gunnar But he refused to be drawn on the staff who left with him on the quarter, which ended Solskjaer. process of appointing a new per- December 18 after United on December 31, was The sum of £19.6m ($25m) manent boss. recorded their worst start to £77.9m, an increase of which is listed under “exceptional “We communicated around a campaign in 28 years. 11.8 percent on the items” in the club’s second-quarter December-time about what we were corresponding results, includes pay-outs for the doing putting Ole in place as a care- period a year members of Mourinho’s staff who taker and the next communication United, under Solskjaer, are ago. left with him after he was sacked in with regard to this will be when we now in the top four after Real December. have something to announce being 11 points adrift of the Madrid The fortunes of the Premier regarding the manager,” he said. Champions League places last month League club have been transformed “We’re not going to give updates part- when Mourinho left. knocked since Solskjaer took the helm as way through.” Manchester interim boss. And he was also coy on the club’s United off the United are now in the top four reported move for a director of In their earnings report, the club top of Deloitte’s after being 11 points adrift of the football. announced record revenues of Football Money Champions League places when “A lot has obviously been written £208.6m for the quarter, which League after two years at Mourinho left. about this.... With regard to the overall translate into earnings before the top for the Premier Solskjaer won 10 and drew one structure, we are looking at that and interest, tax, depreciation and amor- League club. of his opening 11 games but the looking at ways that we can make it tisation (EBITDA) of £104.3m and an United’s share price, which hit remarkable run came to an end on stronger and that is something we do operating profit of £44m. $17.28 in New York in December, is Jose Mourinho Tuesday, when United were beaten on a continual basis,” he said. As well as replacing the Mourinho now heading back towards $20. Al Rayyan too good for Al Arabi Umm Salal fight for 2-1 THE PENINSULA win against Al Gharafa DOHA

THE PENINSULA A commanding performance yesterday helped who referred to VAR to make his DOHA Al Rayyan beat Al Arabi. A double by Gelmin call. Eisa in an effort to clear a Javier Rivas saw Al Rayyan win 3-1. loopy cross ended up hitting his After a few intense minutes, Al Rayyan Umm Salal yesterday fought spikes on Mahmoud Kamal opened the scoring through Gelmin Javier Rivas back in spectacular fashion to Almawas’ right leg. Almawas who found the net for boys in red in the 13th post a 2-1 win over former suffered a cut on his right leg. minute at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium. Rivas champions Al Gharafa. Moments later Umm Salal’s smashed a powerful shot into the top end of the Al Gharafa’s Ahmed Ismail Ebrahim Dahqani brought net for his side’s first goal. Alaaeldin produced two near- down Mehdi Alireza Taremi with In the 19th minute, Korean international goal scoring opportunities in the a rough tackle as intense battle Myongin Koh produced a powerful left-footed first 20 minutes of the match. On for ball possession continued. drive to send the ball crashing into the Al Arabi one occasion, Alaaeldin almost A few seconds on Al Gharafa net with keeper Mahmoud Ibrahim in no position scored from close range by captain Fahid Sattam Al to block the shot. Umm Salal keeper Basel Zaidan Shammari fired the ball into the In the 37th minute, Al Rayyan’s overseas palmed the ball away in the 20th net off an indirect free-kick that import Lucca Borges Brito was booked with a minute. resulted from the foul on yellow card by referee Abdulrahman Ibrahim Al Gharafa’s Saied Elhag Eisa Taremi. The goal was scored in Al-Jassim for a rough tackle on Diego Jardel. was sent off in the 32nd minute the 39th minute. Just when it Earlier Mohammed Juma Al-Alawi was the first by referee Saoud Ali Al Athba seemed the first half would be one to be booked by the referee in the 20th goalless, Al Shammari found the Al Rayyan’s Ahmad Mohamed Al Sayyid (second minute. net with a fast flick into the top left) vies for the ball with Al Arabi’s Wilfried Five minutes from the first-half whistle, Al of the Umm Salal goal. Arabi’s Ivory Coast striker Wilfried Bony curled Bony during their QNB Stars League match In the 68th minute, Almawas in a beautiful shot from inside the Al Rayyan box played at the Al Sadd Stadium, yesterday. produced a header from close but the ball narrowly swung away from the range on a loopy cross but AL QNB STARS LEAGUE - ROUND 16 goalpost. Gharafa keeper Yousof Hassan Early in the second half, Al Arabi pulled one Ali palmed the ball away with a YESTERDAY'S RESULTS back when Wilfried Bony clipped a ball from close slick save. Umm Salal beat Al Gharafa 2-1 range above the head of Al Rayyan keeper Fahad Al Rayyan beat Al Arabi 3-1 Umm Salal struck back in Younis Baker following a goal-mouth melee. TODAY'S FIXTURES the space of seven minutes to In the 67th minute, Rivas scored his second Al Kharaitiyat vs Al Ahli at Al Khor Stadium score two goals. Dheyab Hassan of the match and his team’s third goal as Al (6.45pm) Al Inabi produced the equaliser Rayyan started to dictate terms with Qatar SC vs Al Shahania at Qatar SC Stadium in the 72nd minute and then confidence. (7.10pm) Umm Salal’s Luwrance Quaya and Anderson Benedito fired the In the dying seconds of the match, Wilfried TOMORROW'S FIXTURES Al Gharafa’s Muath Yahya Al Salemi vie winner in the 70th minute as Bony hit the crossbar as Al Arabi failed to score Al Duhail vs Al Sailiya at Al Duhail Stadium (6.45pm) for the ball possession during yesterday’s Umm Salal turned the game in despite the referee allowing eight minutes of Al Sadd vs Al Khor at Al Sadd Stadium (7.10pm) QNB Stars League Round 16 clash. their favour in spectacular injury time. fashion. Moscardo Masterclass help Real juniors seal fifth spot

THE PENINSULA Real Madrid and Spartak Moscow DOHA players vie for the ball possession during their Al Kass Cup fifth Real Madrid secured fifth place place play-off match played at the following a hugely entertaining Aspire Zone in Doha, yesterday. 4-2 victory over Spartak Real Madrid won 4-2. Moscow, in their Al Kass Cup encounter that showcased the precocious attacking talents of both sides at the Aspire Zone in Doha, yesterday. The match was a repeat of the Group D opener, an absorbing encounter in which the Spaniards prevailed by the odd goal in five. On that occasion, both Real and Spartak had Altinordu and Ecoile Sportive du Sahel players in action during the seventh place shown enough to suggest that play-off of the Al Kass Cup, yesterday. they could go far at Al Kass 2019, but ultimately neither team ful- usual combative approach that Picking up the ball midway Spartak had well and truly on a loose ball in the Spartak Carmona produced an filled their early potential. Real matched with some robust inside the Madrid half, Daniil settled into their stride, and Real area and slotting home following incredible curling effort from The tie was perhaps most challenges flying in from both Grigorev expertly threaded a were beginning to struggle with great work from Andri Gud- outside the area that looked in notable for the way in which Ilya sides. And, with 12 minutes gone, pass into the path of Golyatov, their opponents’ physicality. johnsen, on as a substitute. all the way, only for Boriskin to Gloyatov announced himself on Madrid took the lead when and the prolific striker took a However, they stuck to their task Astonishingly, Moscardo still somehow get his fingers to the the Al Kass stage, with two goals Moscardo sprung the offside trap touch before dispatching a low and, as the first half drew to a wasn’t finished, adding his ball and tip it wide. that demonstrated the talismanic to run clear and round keeper shot that left goalkeeper Marcos close, drew level. Carmona sup- fourth minutes later with a care- Belatedly, Real had demon- Spartak skipper’s rich talents. He Pavel Boriskin, before rolling the Lara with no chance. plied Moscardo, who twisted and fully placed shot that evaded strated their true quality, while came into this play off as the ball into an empty net. On the half hour, Moscow turned in the area before fin- Moscow’s massed defensive Spartak could perhaps feel a tournament’s top scorer and, by Five minutes later, the went in front following a skilful ishing adroitly. ranks. little hard done by to lose such the end of the night, had estab- Spanish striker went close to run into the area by Grigorev, The gripping spectacle con- As the game entered its final a pulsating contest. Ultimately, lished an unassailable lead in the doubling his tally when he rose which was abruptly – and ille- tinued as the second period got ten minutes, the effervescent this was a tale of two strikers, striking charts. Yet it was his highest to get his head to Peter gally – curtailed by Rafael underway, with Spartak’s Aslan Golyatov almost scored a third who lit up Aspire Zone on a Spanish counterpart, Carles Carmona’s corner from the left, Zamora. Referee Frappart had Mutaliev unleashing a rising with a wonderful bicycle kick chilly winter night. Moscardo, who grabbed the but his effort was inches wide of no hesitation in pointing to the drive that Lara athletically tipped that cannoned off the post, with Earlier, Altinordu finished headlines with a consummate the far post. spot, and Golyatov had no hesi- over. keeper Lara a mere spectator. their Al Kass 2019 campaign exhibition in the art of Real were well on top, so it tation in slotting home the As the half reached its It was another stunning example with an emphatic 3-0 victory finishing. was somewhat against the run resultant spot kick. Astonish- midway point, Real regained of skill in a game that had against Ecoile Sportive du Sahel, The game started brightly, of play when Spartak equalised ingly, this was his seventh goal their lead - and Moscardo com- offered so many, and there was in the seventh place play-off with Moscow adopting their at the end of the first quarter. in five Al Kass matches. pleted his hat-trick - after seizing still time for another, when yesterday. FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019 SPORT 19

Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah driving his Toyota Hilux in this file photo.

Qatar’s three-time Dakar Rally champion Mohammed Abu Issa during a previous edition Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah of the Manateq Qatar Cross-Country Rally. Al Attiyah, Abu Issa headline Qatar’s presence

THE PENINSULA The recent Dakar Rally DOHA 2019 FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies, round 1 champion, Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah starts as the The Manateq Qatar Cross- year, but the recent Dakar fend off the challenge from the Oman, Russia, Romania and The T4 truck category has favourite to win the Country Rally (QCCR) has winner starts as the favourite to likes of the Saudi Arabian duo Saudi Arabia. not been the most popular in the attracted a quality international win the event for a sixth time in of Yasir Seaidan and Yazeed Al The sole female competitor Middle East region in the past. Manateq Qatar field of the world’s leading his trusty Toyota Hilux. Rajhi, Czech driver Miroslav on the provisional entry list is The factory Kamaz team com- Cross-Country Rally for a drivers, who will do battle across Poland’s Jakub Przygonski Zapletal and the returning Qatari the experienced former Italian peted at the Desert Challenge sixth time in his trusty the length and breadth of the won the FIA World Cup last Mohammed Abu Issa in an SMG quad rider Camelia Liparoti. She several years ago, but Saudi Toyota Hilux next week. State of Qatar at the opening season and the MINI John Buggy. has switched to the T3 category Arabian driver Ibrahim Al round of the FIA World Cup for Cooper Works Rally driver tops The likes of Abdullah Al and heads to Qatar with French Muhanna switched from a Cross-Country Rallies next week the field and returns to try and Rabban, Khaled Al Feraihi and navigator Max Delfino in a Nissan to a Mercedes Unimog at this event. It is a truly interna- (February 21-26). repeat the outright Qatar win he Eugenio Amos bolster the T1 Yamaha YZX 1000R. the Ha’il International Rally in tional field with strength in Organised by the Qatar secured last year. The Pole section. Three drivers from Qatar December and is hoping to give depth.” Motor and Motorcycle Feder- teams up with new German co- Recent events in Qatar have will fight for supremacy in the the impressive truck its Qatar The Manateq Qatar Cross- ation (QMMF) and running as the driver Timo Gottschalk this only attracted four or five T2 category for series pro- debut next week. Country Rally gets underway first round of the prestigious FIA season. His former navigator entrants in the T3 category for duction cross-country vehicles “We had a slot in the cal- with a ceremonial start on The off-road series for the first time, Tom Colsoul has switched to the Improved Cross-Country and try and follow in the foot- endar in February this year and Pearl-Qatar on February 21 and the event has attracted a provi- Toyota team and will sit Vehicles, but 13 crews will battle steps of both Saudi Arabia’s that was very close to the finish finishes on February 26. sional 28 vehicles. Drivers and alongside Dutchman Bernhard for honours and the impressive Ahmed Al Shegawi and Qatar’s of the Dakar Rally in Peru in Further information about co-drivers from 19 countries Ten Brinke. prize fund on this occasion. Adel Abdulla, who have domi- mid-January,” QMMF President the event can be obtained by feature on an impressive entry The competition at the head Brazilian Reinaldo Varela nated the section in the last three Abdulrahman Al Mannai said. contacting the Qatar Motor and list that has been sent to the FIA of the field in likely to be frenetic won the Side-by-Side (SxS) cat- years. “Nevertheless, our team has Motor Cycle Federation (QMMF), for final approval. with Russian driver Vladimir egory at the Dakar Rally last Mohammed Al Meer, worked hard to support teams Losail Sports Arena, Al Wusail, Technical issues cost Qatar’s Vasilyev and his navigator Kon- year and he tops a superb field Mohammed Al Harqan and with their logistics in a short North Relief Road, PO Box 8708, Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah the stantin Zhiltsov hoping to of T3 Can-Am, Yamaha and Abdulla Najeeb Al Baker wheel time frame and I am delighted Doha, + 974 443 79885, info@ chance to continue his overcome the event’s notori- Polaris derivatives that includes out a Toyota Land Cruiser and with the response and the qmmf.com.qa and the official remarkable run of successes last ously difficult navigation and further drivers from Qatar, Italy, a pair of Nissan Patrols. quality of the field we have for website, www.qmmf.com

South Africa’s Dale Steyn (left) celebrates after taking Shannon SCOREBOARD Gabriel the wicket of Sri Lanka’s Oshada Fernando during day SOUTH AFRICA, first innings, 235 2 of their first Test match at the Kingsmead Stadium in SRI LANKA, first innings Durban, yesterday. (Overnight 49-1) D. Karunaratne lbw b Philander ...... 30 L. Thirimanne c De Kock b Steyn ...... 0 O. Fernando lbw b Steyn ...... 19 K. Mendis c Du Plessis b Philander ...... 12 K. Perera c sub (Hamza) b Steyn ...... 51 N. Dickwella c Steyn b Olivier ...... 8 D. de Silva c Olivier b Rabada ...... 23 S. Lakmal c Du Plessis b Steyn ...... 4 L. Embuldeniya c Steyn b Rabada ...... 24 K. Rajitha run out (Markram) ...... 12 V. Fernando not out ...... 1 Extras (b3, lb3, w1) ...... 7 Total (59.2 overs) ...... 191 Fall of wickets: 1-19 (Thirimanne), 2-51 (O. Fernando), 3-53 (Karunaratne), 4-76 (Mendis), 5-90 (Dickwella) , 6-133 (De Silva), Josh Hazlewood 7-142 (Lakmal), 8-152 (Perera), 9-184 (Ra- West Indies’ jitha) Bowling: Steyn 20-7-48-4, Philander 10-2- 32-2, Rabada 12.2-2-48-2, Olivier 13-2-36-1 Aussie paceman Gabriel apologises (1w), Maharaj 3-0-16-0, Elgar 1-0-5-0 SOUTH AFRICA, second innings Hazlewood over Root sledge D. Elgar c and b Embuldeniya ...... 35 A. Markram c Mendis b Rajitha ...... 28 H. Amla c Thirimanne b V. Fernando ...... 16 confident he’ll be REUTERS T. Bavuma lbw b Embuldeniya ...... 3 ST LUCIA F. du Plessis not out ...... 25 Q. de Kock not out ...... 15 fit for World Cup West Indies fast bowler Shannon Extras (lb2, nb1, w1) ...... 4 Gabriel sought to clear the air over Total (4 wkts, 37 overs) ...... 126 REUTERS Fall of wickets: 1-36 (Markram), 2-70 (Amla), MELBOURNE what he said to England captain 3-77 (Bavuma), 4-95 (Elgar) Joe Root and extended an “unre- Bowling: Lakmal 9-1-25-0, V. Fernando 9-1- served apology” for his comments 32-1 (1w), Rajitha 7-1-31-1 (1nb), Embuldeni- Strike bowler Josh Hazlewood is during the third test against ya 12-1-36-2 confident he’ll have plenty of time to England in St Lucia. recover from a stress fracture in his back Gabriel, 30, had accepted a before Australia’s defence of the World charge for breaching the Interna- Cup in England later this year. tional Cricket Council’s code of The paceman, who has taken 72 conduct on Wednesday and was Steyn puts South Africa on top wickets in 44 one-dayers, has been ruled banned for the first four one-day out of the upcoming limited overs tour internationals against England that of India and the ODI series against begin on Wednesday. AFP taking three wickets in the first 10 overs With bright sunshine following the Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates that “The exchange occurred during DURBAN of the morning. morning’s overcast conditions, the stage follows. a tense moment on the field,” Kusal Perera played some bold and seemed set for South Africa to move into The 28-year-old quick said he would Gabriel explained in a written Dale Steyn and his fellow fast bowlers occasionally lucky strokes in making a commanding position as Markram be having another scan on the damaged statement. enabled South Africa to gain an 51 off 63 balls for Sri Lanka and the struck the ball crisply in making 28 off back that has kept him sidelined since “The pressure was on and Eng- advantage over Sri Lanka on the second hosts were frustrated when a barrage 31 balls in an opening partnership of 36 mid-January in Sydney today and was land’s captain Joe Root was looking day of the first Test against Sri Lanka at of short-pitched bowling could not with Elgar. happy there would be plenty of playing at me intensely as I prepared to Kingsmead in Durban yesterday. break a stubborn ninth wicket part- But Markram played one attacking opportunities to get match-fit before bowl, which may have been the Steyn took four for 48 as South nership of 32, the joint second-highest shot too many when an attempted back June. usual psychological strategy with Africa took a first innings lead of 44. of the innings, between debutant Lasith foot force off Rajitha flew to Kusal “I think, working back (for) the World which all test cricketers are familiar. They stretched their lead to 170 by Embuldeniya and Kasun Rajitha. Mendis at second slip. Cup mostly,” he told reporters on “I recognise now that I was reaching 126 for four at the close. It was particularly frustrating for Three more wickets fell reasonably Thursday at the Melbourne Cricket attempting to break through my South Africa’s decision to pick five Steyn, who bowled unchanged for a ten- cheaply as South Africa’s top-order Ground, where he helped Australia beat own tension when I said to Joe specialist bowlers meant that their over spell after lunch in a bid to claim batting again proved fragile. New Zealand in the 2015 final. Root: ‘Why are you smiling at me? advantage was some way short of being the 27th five-wicket haul of his Test Hashim Amla edged Vishwa “That’ll give me plenty of time to get Do you like boys?’ His response, decisive, with Faf du Plessis (25 not out) career. Fernando to gully before Embuldeniya fit for the World Cup and the Ashes. which was picked up by the micro- and Quinton de Kock (15 not out) their He had already taken four wickets followed up his courageous innings of “There’s quite a long build-up... phone, was: ‘Don’t use it as an last two recognised batsmen going into when Rajitha, on ten, gloved what looked 24 off 63 balls by dismissing Temba there’s still quite a lot of cricket I can get insult. There’s nothing wrong with day three. a simple chance to Dean Elgar in the Bavumgrabs advantage for south Africa to before the World Cup actually starts. being gay.’ I then responded: ‘I Sri Lanka were bowled out for 191 gully, only for the fielder to put it down. and Elgar with his left-arm spin “It’s already been six weeks and, as have no issues with that, but you and were unable to build on a good first The stand was eventually ended by bowling. I say, we’ll know more tomorrow, but should stop smiling at me.’” day when their inexperienced bowlers a smart run-out of Rajitha by Aiden Bavuma was leg before wicket for everything’s feeling pretty good. We’ll Gabriel also said there were no surprised the South African batsmen, Markram at short leg. three when he missed a sweep and probably start walk-through bowling in hard feelings between him and who could manage only 235 in their first Steyn took his career tally to 437 Elgar fell for 35 to a superb return catch the next couple of weeks if all goes well.” Root and that he saw this incident innings. Test wickets, passing India’s Kapil Dev when he skipped down the wicket and Australia open their title defence in as an opportunity to recognise the Steyn and Vernon Philander soon (434) and drawing level with Stuart hit the ball hard but close enough for England with a group match against “need for sensitivity and respect put their stamp on the game when Sri Broad of England in joint seventh place the bowler to take a reflex catch to his Afghanistan at Bristol’s County Ground in their interactions with all”. Lanka resumed at 49 for one yesterday, on the all-time list. left. on June 1. 20 MORNING BREAK FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY 2019

PRAYER TIMINGS US fencer Ibtihaj Muhammed shares FAJR 04. 52 AM SHOROOK 06. 09 AM experience with Aspire students ZUHR 11. 48 AM MAGHRIB 05. 29 PM THE PENINSULA ASR 03. 02 PM ISHA 06. 59 PM the first US athlete to compete can share with Aspire student DOHA at the Olympic Games in a hijab. athletes and the athletes in She became a sporting icon in Qatar in general especially WEATHER TODAY American-Muslim fencer Ibtihaj the US. Major sports apparel young females, it’s my life story Muhammed visited Aspire company Nike launched the and the journey of overcoming Academy yesterday, spending ‘Nike-Pro hijab’ for female obstacles and barriers to realise time with Qatar’s young Muslim athletes, with my dreams. Don’t let anyone tell athletes, hearing about the Muhammed as its main sponsor. you ‘No you can’t pursue your Academy’s philosophy on a During a 30-minute-long goals’. Set yourself out to chase guided tour and gaining first Q&A session with Aspire Acad- your dreams with determi- hand insight on Aspire’s fencing emy’s fencing team, she shared nation and hard work and do programme. many experiences with the not give up – keep on perse- Ibtihaj Muhammed is a Qatari boys and told them about vering and do your best renowned sabre fencer on the the time she began fencing always,” said Ibtihaj United States Fencing Team. when she was 13. Muhammed. She joined the team in 2010 and Ibtihaj had words of Ibtihaj also paid tribute to participated in the 2016 Rio de encouragement for student ath- the ethos of holistic approach Janeiro Olympics with the US, letes imploring them to to education that Aspire becoming the first Muslim- embrace challenges and turn Academy pursues. “Aspire American female athlete to win them into success through per- Academy is simply phe- American Muslim fencer Ibtihaj Muhammed (right) is being an Olympic medal. severance and a never-give-up nomenal. I am in awe of this presented with a momento during her visit to Aspire Academy. She is also best known as attitude. “If there is anything l place and what it offers from

the unbelievably good facil- Champion. She also wrote a ities to the entire perspective book titled ‘Proud’ where to development of student she depicts her challenges athletes academically and as a Muslim-American and sport-wise. It’s a joy to be her successes with the US here in Qatar and at Aspire fencing Olympic team. o o and see people with passion Ibtihaj Muhammed’s 16 C 23 C and sound plans for sport visit to Qatar was organised development, l am inspired by the Government Commu- Minimum Maximum and impressed,” said nications Office as part of Moderate temperature daytime becomes Muhammed. their activities around partly cloudy at times with a chance of rain Her success as a young Qatar’s National Sport Day at some places by night. fencer landed her a schol- and aimed to amplify Qatar’s

HIGH TIDE 01:46 – 10:34 LOW TIDE 08:10 –18:46 arship with Duke University efforts and central role in Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department where she competed for the empowering women in Duke fencing team for 4 Sports and many other years and became a 3-time areas. Following her tour, All-American athlete and the she presented a signed copy Ibtihaj Muhammed with the student athletes at Aspire Academy. 2005 Junior Olympic of her book to the Academy. Five DFI supported films to be screened at Berlin Festival QNA USA, Qatar) by Mariam Ghani. strengthen world cinema.” skin as part of her “beauty routine” and DOHA Nominated for the Best Docu- In addition to the official selection, Nasser Goes to Space (2018) by mentary Feature Film at the 2019 the Institute is presenting five short Mohammed Al-Mahmeed follows a The Doha Film Institute (DFI) is partic- Academy Awards and winner of the films by Qatar-based talent under the highly-creative young boy who uses ipating in the 69th Berlin International Documentary Grand Jury Prize at the theme, ‘Shortcuts to Qatar’ as part of an imaginary world as a coping mech- Film Festival. Recognised as one of the 2018 Sundance Film Festival, “Of the European Film Market screenings. anism to deal with his parents’ most acclaimed and established film Fathers and Sons” (Germany, Syria, The selection includes narratives, doc- impending divorce. festivals in the world, projects Lebanon, Qatar) by Talal Derki screens umentaries, and experimental short The Doha Film Institute’s funding supported by DFI have been selected in Lola at Berlinale programme. films that shine a light on the ever- initiatives offer creative and financial to screen in the Festival’s key cate- Fatma Al Remaihi, Chief Exec- changing landscape of Qatar. support to filmmakers based in Qatar gories of Panorama and Forum, at the utive Officer of the Doha Film The films in the segment are: and around the world, helping them prestigious film event that showcases Institute, said: “The strong achieve- Where Are You Right Meow (2018) by unlock their artistry, manage their the best in world cinema. ments for the Institute continue in Maysam Al Ani about a young artist productions effectively and make “Talking About Trees” (Sudan, Berlin, underlining our mandate to struggling with a creative block whose high-quality films. The Grants Pro- France, Germany, Chad, Qatar) by support quality films, especially by beloved cat suddenly goes missing; gramme provides development, pro- Suhaib Gasmelbari World Premieres emerging talents from the region and Voyager (2018) by Khalifa Al Marri, duction and post-production funding in the Panorama section which also the world. We are delighted to follows a world traveller who embarks to filmmakers from Qatar and around screens the European Premiere of present riveting stories of humanity on a motorcycle journey across the world. “Midnight Traveler” (Afghanistan, UK, to audiences at one of the world’s top Europe; I Am Not My Father (2018) by The Doha Film Institute Co- USA, Canada, Qatar) by Hassan Fazili. festivals known for celebrating inde- Naif Al-Malki is about a father whose Financing invests in strategic partner- World Premieres in the Forum pendent and art house productions. dreams have long since died, tries to ships with film projects that are cul- section include Lemohang Jeremiah Through our Grants programme, we stop his son from being a real-life turally relevant and commercially Mosese’s “Mother, I Am Suffocating. continue to support an ambitious new superhero; Bleaching Syndrome (2018) viable. The Institute also has the Qatari This Is My Last Film About You” generation of storytellers and con- by Eiman Mirghani depicts a Sudanese Film Fund, dedicated to supporting (Lesotho, Germany, Qatar) and “What tribute to captivating storylines and beautician who, like many other short and feature filmmaking by Qatari We Left Unfinished” (Afghanistan, unconventional aesthetic styles that Sudanese women today, bleaches her directors. Too big to sell: Airbus bids pained adieu to superjumbo A380

AP on special low-speed flights has boomed in recent years. Even TOULOUSE, FRANCE when they deliberately stalled on longer routes, airlines seemed the plane to test its reactions. to prefer smaller planes that To passengers, the A380 feels Then French President were easier to fill. immediately different - spacious, Jacques Chirac hailed the plane Salesman Leahy spent much smooth and oddly elegant for a jet as “a symbol of what Europeans of the 2000s trying to persuade so gargantuan. Yet to Airbus, it’s can do together.” Airbus’ then customers not to cancel orders. become a burden so super-sized chief salesman, John Leahy, The last major order was in 2013, that the European manufacturer called it “game-changing” for the from trusted Emirates. is ending its production for good. industry. Yet to detractors, the Enders said he was “knee- The A380 is simply too big to A380 smacked of hubris, a vanity deep” in the A380, and per- sell. With funereal faces, Airbus project by managers who saw sonally suffered from its failures, CEO Tom Enders and other exec- bigger as better despite an but the only way to get out of this utives made a stunning yet long- uncertain market for a plane so “trap” was to say good-bye. anticipated admission yesterday huge that airports had to modify “The 380 may have just been that it was the wrong product at their runways and gates. too large of a step for the market the wrong time, created to feed It faced repeated production to handle,” said Rob Watts, CEO a demand for 800-seat jets that setbacks and cost overruns. of aviation consulting company never materialised. Order cancellations led to a Aerotask. The end came yes- Less than 14 years after its restructuring at Airbus that saw terday, as Airbus and Emirates maiden flight, barely a decade thousands of job cuts. announced that the airline had after it started carrying pas- One emblematic problem: a decided to transfer existing sengers, the A380 is being moth- standoff between German and orders for A380s to smaller balled. Just 17 more of the planes French engineers over which A350s and A320s. will be completed, wrapping up An A380 Airbus superjumbo sits on the tarmac where it is dismantled at the site of French recycling software to use to design the The chairman and CEO of in 2021. Emirates, its last and and storage aerospace company Tarmac Aerosave in Tarbes, southwest France, yesterday. cockpit. The company lost a Emirates, Sheikh Ahmed bin most loyal customer, said yes- quarter of its market value in a Saeed al Maktoum, said: “While terday it’s switching to smaller be remembered for pushing the This isn’t how things were was used for the body to make it single day in 2006 when the we are disappointed to have to planes instead. barriers of aviation, like the supposed to pan out for the lighter and easier to maneuver. resulting delays became public. give up our order, and sad that Distraught fans - even within supersonic Concorde. world’s biggest passenger jet. Its double-decker construction Enders says the A380 wasn’t the program could not be sus- Airbus’ own ranks - decried the “Both made history and Development talks for the allowed room for bars, duty-free a flight of folly but a carefully tained, we accept that this is the decision. Unions in Britain, Spain allowed progress, technological plane began in 2000, meant to shops and even showers. studied gamble. “We didn’t reality of the situation.” and France fear for the 3,500 progress,” he told The Associated be Airbus’ 21st-century answer Lelaie was a co-pilot aboard stumble into it,” he said. “Little The A380 has been the jobs Airbus says it might threaten. Press from the southern French to rival Boeing’s 1960s-era 747, the maiden flight of the super- did we know how the world backbone of the Emirates fleet, One of the jetliner’s first test city of Toulouse, the cradle of and one of the most ambitious jumbo in 2005, 101 years after would look in 2010, in 2019.” based out of Dubai. The pall of pilots took a more philosophical Airbus’ worldwide operations. endeavors in aviation. Its Rolls the Wright brothers’ first flight. Airlines in fact seemed more grief at Airbus headquarters was view. While he’s “feeling a bit “That’s business - you have to Royce engines were quieter than Despite its huge size and interested in mid-size planes for tinged with a hint of relief, after sad” about the news, Claude ensure the success of the ever, far out on the extra-long weight, he called the A380 a regional routes, notably in Asia, years of straining to keep the Lelaie says the giant plane will company.” wings. Carbon-fiber technology “very nice aircraft to fly” - even where travel within the region A380 alive.