Wednesday October 30, 2019 Rabi al-Awwal 2, 1441 Vol.13 no. 4777 qR 2

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Amir opens QITCOM 2019 S emart mov : Qatar’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy launched

Meriam Jelliti Doha

The Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani inau- gurated Qatar IT Exhibition (QITCOM 2019) at the Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC) on Tuesday. Organised by the Ministry of Transport and Communica- tions (MoTC) under the theme ‘Safe and Smart Cities’, the inauguration was attended by Rwandan President Paul Kag- ame. The inauguration was also attended by Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khal- ifa al Thani. The Amir and President of Rwanda toured the exhibition during which they were briefed by exhibitors in the fields of entrepreneurship, technologi- cal and digital projects, and The Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani during the opening of Qatar IT Exhibition (QITCOM 2019) at the Qatar National Convention Center on Tuesday. more on page 16 programmes related to smart transformation and ICT. They also listened to a I welcome the guests of Qatar participating in brief explanation on smart city Mo TC launches Tasdeeq, TAWASOL portals building services, infrastruc- QITCOM 2019 and the meeting of the core group ture development, smart solu- of the Munich Security Conference to discuss The Ministry of Transport and Communications (MoTC) tions and their role in promot- ways to keep our planet safe in the face of rapid launched ‘Tasdeeq’ and ‘TAWASOL’ portals on the ing digital transformation and sidelines of the first day of QITCOM 2019 on Tuesday. ways to benefit from them. technological progress! There is a worrying legislative Tawasol will offer a workspace where staff can set Speaking at the opening and technical gap in cybersecurity and recent years up audio and video meetings, chat, perform panel dis- ceremony, Minister of Trans- testifying to serious crises by doing so and our need cussions, and distribute tasks. The portal will also act port and Communications as a knowledge sharing centre, whereby staff will have HE Jassim bin Saif al Sulaiti to fill it as the need of our modern life for technology. access to essential documents related to their roles, announced the adoption of projects or domains, trainings manuals. Additionally, it will provide employees with the latest news, Qatar’s National Artificial In- related laws and policies, guidance, and services. Similarly, Tasdeeq, a shared service platform, telligence Strategy, in coopera- offers ratification and validation services to government and corporate organisations in Qatar. tion with Qatar Computing Re- Tasdeeq provides a collaborative environment where individuals, government and private entities search Institute (QCRI), with Vodafone Qatar’s 5G network goes live at HIA (PG 4) interact together through a single portal to validate and authenticate documents. page 5 the participation of a number of experts from international universities. pact on issues and challenges ership is keen to support the human capital to participate in of realising and bracing the quality of internet by launching laboration between the govern- Sulaiti highlighted the im- faced by the international com- digital transformation of the the building of a knowledge- concept of smart cities. In fact, the 5G services” he said. ment and a research institute.” portance of the ‘smart cities’ munity. country, create an integrated based economy. the initiative began with devel- “This strategy is the first of concept and its enormous im- He said Qatar’s wise lead- digital society, and prepare the “Qatar was at the forefront oping the infrastructure and the its kind to be developed in col- Continued on page 16 

MS C core group meeting kicks off Amir greets Erdogan GCC crisis is no longer Hosting MSC meet part of efforts The Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani on acceptable: Kuwait Amir Tuesday sent a cable of to reduce regional conflicts: FM congratulations to President QNA and pain over the escalation of the Republic of Turkey Re- Kuwait and instability in a number of QNA the region, which afflict many cep Tayyip Erdogan on the brotherly countries, express- Doha countries as well as the chal- occasion of his country’s The Gulf crisis has weakened ing hope that brothers in these lenges of the Gulf in particular. Republic Day. (QNA) the capabilities of the GCC countries enjoy security and The Munich Security Confer- He said discussions will countries and it is no longer prosperity. ence (MSC) core group meet- lead to the achievement of ef- acceptable or bearable for the “In these delicate circum- ing hosted by Qatar kicked fective solutions that can ben- crisis to continue, the Amir of stances, lesson of what is off Tuesday at Qatar National efit everyone. Kuwait HH Sheikh Sabah al happening around the region Museum. “It’s a great honour to wel- Ahmad al Jaber al Sabah said must be learned and there is Held under the auspices come everyone to #Doha for on Tuesday. no choice but to consolidate of the Ministry of Foreign Af- the @MunSecConf Core Group The Amir of Kuwait said the national unity and the fairs, the two-day meeting will Meeting. Through our partner- disputes between brothers in cohesion of society, as well be attended by high-level rep- ship with #MSC over the past the GCC are no longer accept- as to renounce the causes of resentatives of governments, years, we have created a firm able and called for strengthen- strife and division and incite- international institutions and platform to find ways to im- ing the Gulf unity and tran- ment,” the Amir of Kuwait academics. prove security, deepen coop- scendence above differences. pointing out that this is a his- said, adding that social media The meeting is an oppor- eration, resolve conflicts and “Differences must be over- torical responsibility.” has become one of the most tunity to discuss regional and advance reconciliation,” the FM Lebanon PM come at the Arab level and The Amir of Kuwait said dangerous tools that destroy global security issues. The said in a tweet. resigns after that the supreme interests the region is witnessing un- national unity and harm the meeting raises a range of cur- HE Sheikh Mohammed bin For his part, Chairman of of the nation must be placed precedented difficult circum- reputation of the people and rent issues of escalation in Abdulrahman al Thani. Munich Security Conference mass protests above all other considerations, stances and there are concerns their dignity. Middle East conflicts, as well Core Group Meeting Wolfgang Lebanese Prime Minister as general regional challenges the rest of the world. Ischinger said the conference is Saad Hariri on Tuesday such as cybersecurity and en- In a speech prior to the a leading platform for dialogue submitted his resignation ergy security. start of the meeting, Deputy and the development of cyber- to President Michel Aoun in The MSC meet provides Prime Minister and Minister security as well as initiatives response to two weeks of Qatar renews call for unconditional dialogue to end crisis a platform for discussion be- of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh linked between governments protests against his govern- tween 60 to 80 high-level po- Mohammed bin Abdulrahman and the private sector, as well ment. “I have reached a Qatar renewed the call for unconditional dialogue with the blockading countries to resolve the litical decision-makers, experts al Thani said the main objec- as discussing security issues in deadlock,” Hariri said in a fabricated crisis, stressing the failure of these countries to provide any evidence of their claims. and representatives of inter- tive of hosting the meeting the region and some countries televised speech before he This came in a statement delivered by Permanent Representative of Qatar to the UN Ambassador national civil society organisa- comes within the framework of that cast a shadow on global se- headed to the presidential HE Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif al Thani at the “The Situation in the Middle East, Including the tions from the region and their the efforts made to reduce the curity, especially the conflict in palace in Baabada. page 7 Palestinian Question” debate held at the UN Security Council meeting. page 2 counterparts from Europe and repercussions of the issues in Syria and Yemen. 02 Wednesday, October 30, 2019

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News FM MEETS PRESIDENT OF KURDISTAN, IRANIAN FM, GERMAN OFFICIAL in brief Amir sends message to president of El Salvador

The Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani has sent a written message to President of the Republic of El Salvador Najib Abu Kila, pertaining to the bilateral relations between the two countries and the means of supporting and develop- ing them. The message was handed over by Acting Charge d’Affairs of the Embassy of Qatar in El Salvador Tariq Othman al Othman during a meeting with the President of El Salvador. (qna) Amir congratulates Argentine president-elect The Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani sent a cable of congratulations to Alberto Fernandez on his election as the President of the Argentine Republic. (qna) Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Amir sends greetings to Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Mozambique president Abdulrahman al Thani on Tuesday met with President of Kurdistan Region of Iraq Nechir- The Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani has sent a ca- van Barzani on the sidelines of the Munich ble of congratulations to Filipe Jacinto Nyusi on his re-election Security Conference Core Group (MSC) meet- as the president of Mozambique. (qna) ing, which is being held in Doha in coopera- tion with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Deputy Amir congratulates deputy prime minister also met separately president of Turkey with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran Dr Mohammad Javad Zarif and Chairman of the The Deputy Amir HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al Thani sent Foreign Affairs Committee of the German on Tuesday a cable of congratulations to president of Turkey Parliament Norbert Rottgen. The meetings Recep Tayyip Erdogan on his country’s Republic Day. (qna) focused on bilateral relations between Qatar and these countries as well as issues of com- Deputy Amir sends greetings mon concern. (QNA) to Argentine president-elect The Deputy Amir HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al Thani sent a cable of congratulations to Alberto Fernandez on his election as president of Argentina. (qna) RACA, MADLSA Deputy Amir congratulates Qatar calls for unconditional Mozambique president sign agreement to The Deputy Amir His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al dialogue to resolve Gulf crisis share oversight Thani sent a cable of congratulations to Filipe Jacinto Nyusi on his re-election as president of Mozambique. (qna) QNA information New York PM sends congratulations QNA to president of Turkey Qatar has renewed the call for Doha unconditional dialogue with the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Abdullah blockading countries to resolve the The Regulatory Authority for Charitable Ac- bin Nasser bin Khalifa al Thani sent Tuesday a cable of con- ongoing GCC crisis, stressing the tivities (RACA) and the Ministry of Adminis- gratulations to President of the Republic of Turkey Recep Tayyip failure of the countries to provide trative Development, Labour and Social Af- Erdogan on the occasion of his country’s Republic Day. (qna) any evidence of their claims. fairs (MADLSA) have signed a memorandum Qatar also reiterated that the of understanding (MoU) for sharing over- PM congratulations Argentine countries’ insistence on imposing sight information in the field of supervision president-elect illegal unilateral measures and un- and control over private charitable institu- fair blockade contradicts the efforts tions and granting licenses and coordination Prime Mnister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Abdullah bin of the United Nations in preven- in this area. Nasser bin Khalifa al Thani congratulated HE Alberto Fernan- tive diplomacy and the promotion The MoU was signed by Director-General dez on his election as president of Argentina. (qna) of peaceful resolution of disputes, of the RACA Ibrahim Abdullah al Duhaimi stressing that the illegal actions and Assistant Undersecretary for Social Af- Muraikhi meets Greek Dy Foreign Minister constitute a flagrant violation of the fairs at the MADLSA Ghanem Mubarak al for Economic Diplomacy and Openness Charter of the United Nations, in- Kuwari. ternational law and human rights. Permanent Representative of Qatar to the UN HE Ambassador Sheikha Alya The memorandum included means of Minister of State for Foreign Affairs HE Sultan bin Saad Al Permanent Representative of Ahmed bin Saif al Thani during a debate at the UN Security Council meeting in New coordinating and exchanging information Muraikhi met yesterday with HE Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Qatar to the UN HE Ambassa- York on Tuesday. on the licenses issued by the two parties in for Economic Diplomacy and Openness Kostas Fragogiannis, dor Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif the field of fundraising, external remittance on the sideline of His Excellency’s visit to Greece. During the al Thani made the call at the ‘The its responsibility and take the nec- tance to the world, and in line with licenses and relevant financial transactions. meeting, bilateral relations between the two countries as well Situation in the Middle East, In- essary measures to stop the viola- its well-known policy towards re- It seeks to establish a joint action mechanism as issues of common concern were reviewed. (qna) cluding the Palestinian Question’ tions and alleviate tensions that spect for international law and the to implement it with regard to information debate at the UN Security Council have only had more catastrophic resolution of disputes by peaceful exchange and enhance cooperation in com- MoCI recalls Can-AM Ryker Bike model meeting on Tuesday. effects on international peace and means specified by the Charter of bating money laundering and terrorism fi- The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), in cooperation She said the gravity of the situ- security. the United Nations, continued to nancing. with SPEED MARINE Company, dealer of Can-AM in Qatar, has re- ation in the Middle East and the The Qatari diplomat said im- affirm its readiness to resolve the The MoU also included coordination and called Can-AM Ryker bike model of 2019 due to potential defect increasing and complexity of crises posing unilateral illegal measures crisis through unconditional dia- cooperation in the understanding, analysis in the wheel nuts that may crack and result in loss of control make respect for the international and unfair blockade on Qatar con- logue based on mutual respect. and evaluation of sectoral and national risks and an accident. The ministry has urged all customers to report law, international humanitarian tradicts the United Nations. She expressed Qatar’s appre- and the development of basis and controls any violation to its Consumer Protection and Anti-Commercial law and the international human She said that Qatar, in order to ciation for the sincere efforts of the to mitigate the risks in the law on combating Fraud Department. (TNN) rights law irreconcilable, calling ensure the security and stability of Amir of Kuwait HH Sheikh Sabah money laundering and terrorism financing on the Security Council to shoulder the region which is of great impor- al Ahmad al Jaber al Sabah. promulgated by law No. 20 of 2019. Doha-based Koreans enthral classic music lovers at Katara concert

Ailyn Agonia many Korean classical musi- Music Concert Series for Peace DOHA cians have long been loved by and Unity supported by six classical music fans around the diplomatic missions – the UK, Seven Doha-based Korean world. Seven musicians of to- Austria, Belgium, the Nether- musicians showcased their night are Doha-based Korean lands, Germany and France talents during a concert titled proving their excellence. We - which tries to bring people ‘An Autumn Night of Classical are lucky to have them here.” together through the power of Music” held in Katara Build- He also extended his ap- music. ing16 on Tuesday. preciation to the support of Also featured were Pianist The event was hosted by Katara General Manager Dr Kim Nayoung, Flutist Lee Eu- Cultural Village Foundation Khalid bin Ibrahim al Sulaiti nhye, Violinist Kim Taehyun, (Katara) in cooperation with and Katara Manager of Inter- Bassonist Lee Juncheol, Flut- the Embassy of Korea in Qatar. national Affairs Maryam Ma- ist Shin Jihoon and Cellist Speaking on the occasion, jed al Saad. Kim Jiyeon, Ambassador of South Korea to The music evening fea- The programme opened Qatar HE Kim Chang-mo reit- tured renowned pianist Sonja with a performance of Bee- erated the strong relations be- political, economic and cultur- lic of Korea and Qatar, and Minister Lee Nak-yon’s fruit- also reflected the strong bonds Park, who is also the co-found- thoven Piano Trio in E-flat tween his country and Qatar. al relations between the two the relations have never been ful visit to Qatar in July. The between Doha and Seoul,” the er of Moving Young Artist major and Nocturne and Al- He said the number of countries. stronger. In January, the Amir 5th Qatar-Korea High-Level envoy said. (MYA), which hosted the Qa- legro Scherzando by Philippe Korean cultural events to be “This year marks the 45th HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Strategic Cooperation Com- He added, “Korea is now tar National Music Competi- Gaubert. It concluded with hosted for the people in Qatar anniversary of diplomatic re- al Thani paid a successful visit mittee meeting, which con- widely known for its K-pop tion (QNMC) and the Founder a performance of Dong Jin is in line with the ever-growing lations between the Repub- to Korea, followed by Prime vened in Doha two weeks ago, music, but at the same time, of the International Chamber Kim’s New Arirang. Nation Wednesday, October 30, 2019 03

Aster Hospital Doha Al Wakra Hospital centres stresses importance of patient, healthcare attain global accreditation employees safety Five Al Wakra Hospital surgeons awarded ‘Excellent Surgeon’ certificate for their dedication, expertise and hard work Tribune News Network with other dignitaries. Doha Dr. Mahesh Patel pre- Tribune News Network sented a paper titled ‘Speak Doha Aster Hospital Doha, a di- up Patient Safety Aster Con- vision of Aster DM Health- text’ at the venue. The Urinary Stone Center care, celebrated the 5th During the week, con- and Bariatric Surgery Center Qatar Patient Safety Week cepts around patient safety at Al Wakra Hospital (AWH) to raise awareness of the and quality in the face of have been accredited as Cent- importance of safety in both emergencies and adversity ers of Excellence by the US- patients and healthcare em- were explored as a prerequi- based Surgery Review Corpo- ployees for a healthy hospi- site for achieving universal ration (SRC), making AWH tal environment. health coverage. the first hospital in the world Qatar Patient Safety Discussions included the to receive the award from the Week is an annual event or- impact of patient safety on SRC for its Urinary Stone ganised by the Ministry of the provision of health servic- Center. Public Health (MoPH) at a es and efforts at the regional Five surgeons were also national level as an initia- and international levels, dis- recognised for their excel- tive and an educational and cussing the practice of medi- lence as part of the accredita- awareness campaign aimed cine as per Qatari law as well tion process. at spreading the concept of as identifying shortcomings Stressing the impor- Dr Abdulla al Ansari Officials of the Urinary Stone Center and Bariatric Surgery Center at Al Wakra Hospital. patient safety among the and opportunities for im- tance of the international workforce in healthcare insti- provements in patient safety accreditation, Dr Abdulla al commitment to providing as Centers of Excellence by Surgeon’ certificate from tutions in Qatar. and the health workforce. Ansari, HMC’s Acting Chief the safest, most effective and the SRC is the result of hav- the SRC. The recognition of This year’s theme was “Aster Hospital is closely Medical Officer, said, “This most compassionate care to The accreditation validates ing state-of-the-art equip- these five surgeons is a tes- ‘Raise Your Voice for Patient working with the Ministry recognition is an important each and every one of our pa- our commitment to ment and ongoing profes- tament to their dedication, Safety’. of Public Health to promote milestone in the continu- tients,” Dr Ansari added. applying the latest surgical sional education and training expertise and hard work and Aster Hospital conducted the importance of safety of ing growth and success of Al Dr Sabah al Kadhi, Medi- techniques and implement- programmes for our highly- to their ongoing commitment a series of activities dur- patients and healthcare em- Wakra Hospital’s Urinary cal Director of AWH, said: ing evidence-based best skilled surgeons. This recog- to using the latest surgical ing the Qatar Patient Safety ployees,” said Dr Patel. Stone Center and Bariatric “This accreditation shows nition shows the enormous techniques, as well as their Week. Speaking about the initia- Surgery Center, and demon- our commitment to improv- practices expertise we have in different adherence to the best inter- The launching ceremony tive, Dr Vaitkiene said Aster strates the excellence of our ing patient care through the ~ Dr Abdulla al Ansari aspects of urinary stone treat- national surgical and patient held at Aster Hospital was at- Hospital is working towards surgeons, in which we take implementation of the high- ment and bariatric surgery safety policies and protocols. tended by Shimous Moham- adhering to the ministry’s great pride.” est clinical care standards. and our dedicated approach- SRC is a non-profit or- med Elamin Shams Eldin, standards for promoting a “The accreditation vali- We are proud to have met the es to patient safety.” ganisation from the United Dhouha Ammar Hamdani, healthy hospital environ- dates our commitment to challenge of obtaining this in- Dr Ahmad Shamsodini, As part of the accredita- States, known globally for Dr Nader Ahmed Abbas Badr ment and strictly complying applying the latest surgical ternational accreditation and chairman of AWH’s Surgical tion process, three surgeons its accreditation of Cent- and Dr Rasmeh Ali Salameh with all safety norms and techniques and implement- intend to consistently uphold Divisions, said: “The inter- from the Urinary Stone Cent- ers of Excellence in different al Huneiti. procedures to ensure opti- ing evidence-based best prac- the principles of quality im- national accreditation of the er and two surgeons from the branches of surgery. It has The event was graced by mum safety standards. tices, which will ensure we provement and patient care Urinary Stone Center and Bariatric Surgery Center have accredited a number of cen- Dr Sameer Moopen, chief She highlighted the vari- continue to deliver on HMC’s in the future.” the Bariatric Surgery Center been awarded the ‘Excellent tres in the United States. executive officer of Aster ous policies and procedures DMHealthcare Qatar; Kapil practiced at Aster Hospital to Chib, chief operating officer ensure safety of its patients. of Aster Hospital Doha; Dr Talking about the safety Nora Vaitkiene, consultant- procedures, Dr Shetty said MoPH, WISH symposium to promote ‘healthy city for children’ Obstetrics & Gynecology; Dr patient safety measures are Sharath Shetty, specialist- of paramount importance Tribune News Network The symposium will be in the urban environment. The symposium will re- tional experiences’ and ‘Vi- Urology; Dr Mahesh Patel, to ensure best surgical and Doha attended by decision makers The event will officially view regional and interna- sion for a healthy city in Qa- senior manager – Quality As- clinical outcomes. and local and international mark the start of a journey tional experiences in the tar: solutions, sustainability surance and other officials of He reiterated the com- The Ministry of Public experts. for building a coalition of field of healthy cities, such and commitments’. Aster Qatar. mitment and dedication of Health (MoPH) will organise The symposium will policy-makers, research- as those developed in Tirana, There will also be two Aster Hospital also fea- doctors, nurses and other a symposium on ‘A Healthy showcase key local, regional ers, academics and leaders thecapital of Albania, Swe- workshops – ‘Health policy: tured an Aster Pavilion at staff members in Aster City for Children’, in collab- and international plans, ini- from different sectors and den, Kuwait and Oman. Polices needed for Healthy the 5th Patient Safety Week Hospital who are focused oration with the World In- tiatives and experiences for industries to improve health The symposium will in- City for Children’ and organised by the Ministry on providing 360 degrees novation Summit for Health innovation and the develop- and wellbeing based on the clude two key panel discus- ‘Health Curricula: The role of Public Health, which wit- safety to their patients as (WISH), an initiative of Qatar ment of an action plan for ‘Health in all policies’ ap- sions under the theme ‘The of schools in education and nessed the visit of Minister of per the guidelines of the Foundation, at the Mandarin a healthy city for children proach, which is one of the challenges of combating the provision of healthy food Public Health HE Dr Hanan ministry and World Health Oriental Hotel in Musheireb, in Qatar with a focus on ad- National Health Strategy’s childhood obesity at the city and drink to healthy chil- Mohamed al Kuwari along Organization. on Thursday, October 31. dressing childhood obesity priorities. level: Reflections on interna- dren’. Partial closure of Jabber Bin Mohammed QA & Sky Express sign interline deal Street and Al Dostour Street from Friday Tribune News Network to connect 24 destinations in Greece Doha Tribune News Network tourism industry.” DOHA Sky Express CEO and President Theo- The Public Works Author- doros Krokidas said, “Sky Express is very ity (Ashghal) will imple- Qatar Airways (QA) has signed an inter- pleased for this new collaboration with such ment a partial closure in line agreement with Sky Express with im- a well-respected carrier as Qatar Airways. one direction of Jabber Bin mediate effect. This agreement allows all 32 Greek desti- Mohammed and Al Dostour The agreement will enable Greek pas- nations operated by Sky Express to con- Streets from Friday, Novem- sengers outside of Athens to travel seam- nect seamlessly with Qatar Airways’ global ber 1, 2019, for a period of lessly between Greece and Doha and on- network across Europe, Asia, Australia and five months. wards to destinations in Asia, the Middle Africa. This will open up new commercial To be implemented in East and Australasia. opportunities, thus offering passengers a coordination with the Gen- Qatar Airways’ passengers will ben- whole new range of destinations.” eral Directorate of Traffic, efit from access to 24 new destinations in The agreement will enable Greek passengers Qatar Airways has been operating to around 200 metres will be Greece, including Santorini, Crete, Corfu outside of Athens to travel seamlessly between Athens since June 2005, and in 2015 in- closed of Jabber Bin Mo- and many other destinations on Sky Ex- Greece and Doha and onwards to destinations creased its service to the Greek capital from hammed Street in the di- press’s domestic network. in Asia, the Middle East and Australasia. twice daily to three times daily to meet rection from Dar Al Kutub Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive growing demand. Intersection (temporary Akbar al Baker said, “With the largest do- connect global travellers with iconic desti- In 2018, the airline added Thessaloniki roundabout) to the inter- Amur Al Attiya Street. water drainage network and mestic network in Greece, this agreement nations throughout Greece and reinforces and Mykonos as its second and third gate- section of Jabber Bin Mo- During the period, road roads upgrading works, as with Sky Express increases our ability to our commitment to supporting the nation’s ways to the idyllic Mediterranean nation. hammed Street/Al Dostour users can use Al Rufaa In- part of the A-Ring Road De- Street; and around 150 me- tersection then get onto Al velopment Project. tres will be closed on Al Dos- Dostour Street to reach their The Public Works Au- tour Street in the direction destinations. thority will instal road signs from Jabber Bin Moham- The closure will facilitate to guide motorists of the Energy Conservation: Kahramaa, QTerminals med Street towards Ali Bin completion of the surface- temporary traffic closure. use coastal crane to generate electrical power Diversion on part of B-Ring Road Tribune News Network save the state’s resources of Doha electricity and water and diver- Tribune News Network sify energy sources in accord- Doha Qatar General Electricity ance with the Qatar national Vi- and Water Corporation (Kah- sion 2030 and the global goals The Public Works Authority ramaa), represented by the of sustainability.” (Ashghal) will divert traffic National Program for Conser- Abdul Hadi Fahad al Hajri, on part of B-Ring Road to a vation and Energy Efficiency director of Support Services at parallel alternative road with (Tarsheed), and QTerminals QTerminals, said: “The com- the same number of lanes. have joined hands, through a pany is aiming to be world-class The change will be in one unique initiative, to conserve terminal operator by setting direction from Al Rufaa In- and renew the use of energy reliability bar with operational tersection (known as Sanaa resulting from the operation of excellence and sustainability Intersection) to Al Doha Al coastal cranes in Hamad Port development. We are happy to Jadeeda Intersection. to conserve electrical power in work with Tarsheed on this ini- The diversion will start the port. tiative which, while producing on Friday, November 1, As an initial step in the green energy, also helps in re- 2019 and will last for three Pilot project, eight cranes are ducing carbon emissions.” months, in coordination with being utilised to regenerate To maximise the power gen- the General Directorate of power. Average of 380 MW•h servation & Energy Efficiency such as lighting, reefers and eration and utilise the full ca- Traffic, to facilitate comple- per year of electrical energy Department manager, said: “In other crane auxiliary systems pacity of Hamad Port, in addi- tion of infrastructure works can be saved from each crane the previous system, the excess within Hamad Port. tion to the current eight cranes, on the B-Ring Road. to guide motorists of the tem- to abide by the speed limit with total saving almost 3,000 power is dissipated as heat en- “The national programme three more cranes will be added The Public Works Au- porary traffic shift. Ashghal and follow the road signs to MW•h per year. ergy. Therefore, the system is ‘Tarsheed’ welcomes coopera- in 2020, bringing the total thority will instal road signs has requested all road users ensure their safety. Engineer Abdul Aziz al modified to reuse the excess tion with all sectors of the coun- number of regenerative power Hammadi, Kahramaa Con- power for other application try to raise energy efficiency, cranes to 11. 04 Wednesday, October 30, 2019 Nation

Qatar IT Conference and Exhibition 2019 MoI showcases futuristic security systems and electronic services departments including the for face recognition, as well as equipped with cameras to Face-recognition General Directorate of In- the latest equipment, mecha- serve security tasks in hard- robot and drone formation Systems, Security nisms and devices such as to-reach areas such as con- Systems Department, Cy- drone aircraft. fined spaces. aircraft on display bercrime Security Centre, The latest systems de- The Cybersecurity Center National Command Center, veloped at the National at the pavilion introduces its Tribune News Network Communications Depart- Command Center are also Central Operations Room, Doha ment, and Electronic and shown, that contribute to which enables the centre to Economic Crimes Depart- the response to disasters and respond quickly and deal with The Ministry of Interior ment. crises, including the crime any potential cyber-attacks. (MoI) is participating in the The pavilions of the MoI analysis system. The Economic and Elec- Qatar IT Conference and departments are presenting a The Security Systems tronic Crimes Combating Exhibition (QITCOM 2019), large number of security sys- Department presents the Department provides educa- organised by the Ministry of tems and electronic services use of modern technologi- tional presentations on how Transport and Communica- to the public to introduce the cal equipment, including to deal with economic and tions (MoTC). latest systems used for its drones equipped with cam- electronic crimes, and how to The MoI is represented services. The new initiatives eras to ensure the security of protect personal devices and at the event by a number of include the automated robot various activities, and robots credentials. The Ministry of Interior’s pavilion at QITCOM 2019.

Ooredoo unveils blockchain Vodafone Qatar projects platform to exchange digital ‘smart drive’ at QITCOM wallets and loyalty points The telecom major brings to life its vision for a 5G GigaNet Society capable of making Doha one of the most connected cities in world Tribune News Network Doha Rahul Preeth Doha Ooredoo, the region’s leading enabler of digital business innova- From cars that drive themselves tion, has announced the Ooredoo to homes that can be controlled Exchange concept of a new and in- remotely, Vodafone Qatar on novative blockchain platform for Tuesday gave a glimpse of how Qatar’s end-users to exchange dif- efficient everyday life could be in ferent digital wallets, loyalty points Doha. and reward programmes from any At its 1,000 sqm pavilion platform as well as to make instant modelled like a futuristic smart and digital payments. city at the Qatar IT Conference The announcement was made at and Exhibition (QITCOM 2019), QITCOM 2019 on Tuesday. the telecom major showcased a “In Qatar, merchants of any size The Ooredoo booth at QITCOM 2019. raft of possibilities that can be or industry vertical can quickly and achieved with 5G-enabled tech- easily board into a safe environment operability among different digital testing stage with select partners. nologies. that allows them to accept different wallets and loyalty points; instant Kubaisi added, “As a secure, in- Picture this: You get into your types of loyalty points and digital payment as another option besides novative, and interoperable Block- car and it drives itself. You are wallets,” the company explained. redemption; and enable merchants chain platform, Ooredoo Exchange heading to a popular mall in its End-users can turn their digi- board into different wallet, loyalty provides a new level of convenience busiest hour, but a “smart park- An autonomous car being displayed at Vodafone Qatar’s pavilion at the tal assets into programme-agnostic and reward programmes faster.” for organisations and end-users to ing” application in your phone ongoing QITCOM 2019 expo being in QNCC, on Tuesday. digital tokens, which can then be Ooredoo Exchange is built on exchange digital tokens and make has already found, booked and used for any loyalty programme or R3’s Corda Enterprise, a next-gen- instant payments. Ooredoo Ex- paid for a parking spot at the transform customer experiences digital wallet or be converted into eration Blockchain platform, and is change aims to transform customer mall. and help stores and retailers to digital payments. developed by IntellectEU, a finan- experiences, and also supports fi- On the way, you get all the ultimately increase revenues, Ooredoo Qatar’s Chief Oper- cial technology consultancy. Intel- nancial inclusion and economic “traffic analytics” at your fin- while the Connected Industry ating Officer Yousuf Abdulla al lectEU is a founding member of the growth in Qatar.” gertips, helping you choose the 5G will enable a whole new zone showcases ways construc- Kubaisi said, “In response to feed- Linux Foundation’s Hyperledger At QITCOM, Ooredoo’s stand quickest or the most hassle-free generation of digital services tion, manufacturing, oil and gas, back from our customers, Ooredoo collaborative for open source Block- is in Hall number 7, booth number route. capable of improving and other industries can embrace Exchange aims to solve three main chain technologies. Ooredoo Ex- A&B 12, at the Qatar National Con- Now at the mall, you want to transportation, housing, to increase efficiency and pro- customer challenges: Lack of inter- change is currently in Closed Beta vention Centre. buy a shirt. After picking the one healthcare, security and duction. you like in a clothing store, you A home model at the Smart walk into a “smart fitting room”. connectivity across Qatar Home zone equipped with the Tap the shirt’s tag on to the digi- Sheikh Hamad Abdulla Jassim latest technologies, many already tal smart mirror and it will show al Thani, Vodafone Qatar CEO available to subscribers of Voda- Ooredoo’s new WAF service to help you how well you fit into that fone GigaHome Smart, gave visi- shirt and a string of accessories tors a glimpse into the connected that go with it. homes of the future. businesses ward off cyber-attacks With shopping done, you the near future. It demonstrated The Smart Home zone fea- want to check on the work pro- the live versions of each of them tures gave visitors a glimpse Ooredoo, the region’s leading ena- Ooredoo’s Cloud WAF provides the curity costs, scale up as their business gress at your construction site. A at its QITCOM pavilion on Tues- into the connected homes of the bler of digital business innovation, an- shield to counter these threats,” said expands, and provide complete pro- “Smart Worker Band” shows you day, bringing to life its vision for future, featuring Smart plugs, nounced on Tuesday at QITCOM the the company in a press statement. tection as cyber-threats evolve.” the level of activity at your site, a 5G GigaNet Society through bulbs, televisions and motion- launch of Qatar’s first end-to-end Web As the latest release under its ex- In order to monitor and manage the workers’ body conditions five distinct zones — Smart City, sensors that can be accessed and Application Firewall (WAF) as a ser- tensive managed security portfolio, the cloud-based WAF, Ooredoo will such as their heart rates, and the Connected Retail, Smart Indus- controlled remotely by custom- vice solution, which will aid customers Ooredoo will leverage its expertise leverage its state-of-the-art Security areas they work in, among other try, Smart Home and a 5G Ar- ers through their smartphones. in protecting their online assets. as Qatar’s leading digital commu- Operations Centre. This centre col- data. cade. The 5G Arcade presented In the wake of increasing demand nications provider, along with its lectively provides next-generation Now, you want to see what is The Smart City zone features live AR, Cloud and VR gaming for robust web application protection, industry-leading connectivity and incident detection and response ca- happening at your supermarket smart waste management, water experiences over Vodafone’s 5G Ooredoo’s Cloud WAF provides cus- data centre services, to deliver its new pability coupled with local and global half a world away. So you open metering and lighting solutions network, on 5G handsets and VR tomers with a fully managed service Cloud-based managed WAF service. experts. what Vodafone calls the “5G besides autonomous car, cit traf- headsets. protecting their digital presence from Yousuf Abdulla al Kubaisi, Oore- Kubaisi added, “Our Cloud WAF Door to the Future”. It shows you fic analytics and smart parking “5G will enable a whole new a variety of cyber-attacks. doo Qatar chief operations officer, is built upon an end-to-end cyberse- in real time the store on a screen Driven by Vodafone’s recent- generation of digital services “Mission-critical applications can said, “As Qatar’s organisations digi- curity protection model, which has in front of you as you talk to your ly launched NB-IoT network, the capable of improving transpor- come under fire from automated bot tally transform, they also face a larg- been localised to comply with Qatar’s manager, creating a virtual real- smart city zone lays the founda- tation, housing, healthcare, se- attacks, injection attacks, as well as er number of increasingly complex data regulations. We are combining ity experience. tion for a connected, more effi- curity and connectivity across application-layer denial-of-service. cyber-threats. With Qatar’s first end- the best-in-class practices and web These are some of the several cient and safer city. Qatar,” said Vodafone Qatar CEO These cyber-attacks can in turn not to-end Cloud WAF solution, we are application firewall technology to en- smart possibilities Vodafone Qa- The Connected Retail zone Sheikh Hamad Abdulla Jassim al only lead to a loss of revenue, but may helping organisations with a digital sure our clients and their customers tar says it can roll out in Qatar in features technologies that can Thani. also impact a business’ reputation. presence to optimise their cyber-se- remain protected at all time.” (TNN) Malomatia, Oman ICT Group Vodafone 5G network goes live at HIA

sign cooperation agreement A memorandum of understanding intelligent 5G enabled wireless network (MoU) signed by Vodafone Qatar and that can power advanced technologies Tribune News Network CEO of Oman ICT Group. exchanging expertise to meet Hamad International Airport (HIA) on such as the Internet of Things, Artifi- Doha Naama said the signing of the needs of the regional IT Tuesday sets HIA on course to become cial Intelligence and Big Data will be at the MoU represents a strategic services market.” one of the smartest connected airports the heart of transforming the passenger malomatia, the leading system partnership leveraging ICT sec- malomatia supports its cli- in the world. The agreement will see experience, enhancing safety, boosting integrator in Qatar, has signed tor across the region. ent with the development and Vodafone Qatar become the first opera- operational efficiencies and generating a memorandum of under- “We at malomatia seek to deployment of Safe & Smart tor to deploy its world class GigaNet 5G revenue.” standing (MoU) with Oman share our expertise, practices City Solutions, Platforms, In- in-building network in the airport. Meer stated, “Hamad International ICT group, the leading ICT pro- and updated IT solutions with formation Security, Digital The agreement was signed on the Airport has been a pioneer in adopting vider in Oman. Oman ICT Group and create Transformation, Analytics, sidelines of QITCOM 2019 by Voda- emerging technology trends that de- The strategic partnership opportunities for Omani Youth Managed Services, System In- fone Qatar CEO Sheikh Hamad Abdul- liver tangible business outcomes. HIA’s was announced during the to work with us,” he added. tegration, IT consulting, Cus- la Jassim al Thani and Chief Operating partnership with Vodafone Qatar will be QITCOM 2019 and the MoU Manthri stated, “We hope, toms and Trade facilitation, Officer of HIA Engr Badr Mohammed pivotal in delivering ubiquitous ultra- Vodafone Qatar CEO Sheikh Hamad Abdulla was signed by Yousef al Naama, the MoU will mark the begin- Healthcare, Application Servic- al Meer. high-speed communication, providing Jassim al Thani and Chief Operating Officer CEO of malomatia, and Eng ning of a fruitful and solid es, Mobility and Contact Centre Commenting on the agreement, our passengers with connectivity like of HIA Engr Badr Mohammed al Meer at the Said bin Abdullah al Manthri, partnership with malomatia, Services. Sheikh Hamad said, “For airports, an never before.” (TNN) agreement signing ceremony. NATION Wednesday, October 30, 2019 05

QATAR IT CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION QITCOM 2019 MoTC, MoCI unveil e-commerce platform Theqa MoTC launches documents Tribune News Network Doha Minister of Transport and handling website ‘Tasdeeq’ Communications HE Jas- sim bin Saif al Sulaiti and Minister of Commerce and Platform to offer documents ratification and verification services anytime, anywhere Industry HE Ali bin Ahmed Tribune News Network experience the simplicity of the al Kuwari launched ‘Theqa’ Doha validation process either by -- a new website of Qatar’s checking the documents them- e-commerce gateway. The In its bid to provide a secure selves or through the QGCC. The website was launched on the document system that allows service will equally help in time- sidelines of the fifth edition users and organisations to saving by reducing the number of the Qatar Information validate and authenticate docu- of visits to government agencies Technology Conference & ments anytime and anywhere in for documents verification while Milaha ties up with Exhibition (QITCOM 2019). Qatar, the Ministry of Transport at the same time help in curbing Following the launch, and Communications (MoTC) attempts to falsify documents the two ministers toured the on Tuesday announced the and make documents archived Microsoft to build pavilions of local companies launch of Tasdeeq, a shared ser- and retrieved in a secure man- providing e-commerce and vice platform which offers ratifi- ner among others. certified by HET QA, which cation and validation services to Major features of Tasdeeq a smart logistics so far has given its stamp of government and corporate or- include personal identification trust to 42 companies. The ganisations in Qatar. The launch verification – in which users can launch is part of the Ministry took place on the sidelines of the access the required service only platform using Al of Transport and Commu- Qatar IT Conference and Exhi- by using their credentials in the nications (MoTC’s) efforts bition (QITCOM 2019). national identification system Azure’s Internet of Things and artificial to enhance consumer con- Tasdeeq(www.tasdeeq. (Tawtheeq); data encryption fidence in the local e-com- gov.qa), a MoTC wholly owned ized or authorised parties to organisations, its validation ser- which further enhances docu- intelligence capabilities are harnessed for merce sector and improve the and managed portal provides access and verify user informa- vice, however, is available to the ment security as documents will quality of services provided a collaborative environment tion. Documents validation can general public. be released using a cutting-edge digital transformation project by local online suppliers, in where individuals, government additionally be done by calling With the launch, citizens QR code that contains encrypt- addition to providing traders and private entities interact to- Qatar Government Contact and residents of Qatar can now ed data, where only authorized Tribune News Network us to digitally transform our and shoppers with the latest gether through a single portal Center (QGCC), where informa- check the status of their docu- or authorized parties can view Doha operations and build a smart updates in the sector. to validate and authenticate tion can be communicated with ments anytime and anywhere, and verify information provided logistics layer that delivers The portal, http://www. documents. The portal allows the agent and vice versa in a se- whether online or offline and by users; and digital signature Milaha, Qatar’s leading boundless efficiencies and Theqa.qa is a non-profit users to share information in a cure manner. access their personal documents which enables digital signage force in maritime and logistics, sustain our mission of being and voluntary government secured manner and with a high Tasdeeq is also available as a in their privacy, which makes ofany document or certificate on Tuesday partnered with the partner of choice in Qatar programme aimed at stimu- level of confidentiality, using mobile app which can be down- Tasdeeq the first citizen docu- electronically thereby prevent- Microsoft to build a smart-lo- and beyond.” lating Qatar’s e-commerce their credentials in the national loaded from both Android and ments vault implemented. They ing tampering as the digital sig- gistics platform using artificial Milaha had previously sector and develop local identification system (i.e. Taw- iOS app stores and while the can also enjoy more security for natures becomes automatically intelligence (AI) and Internet adopted Microsoft Azure online retail sales by en- theeq), thanks to the encryption platform’s ratification service their documents,with forgery damaged if document is tam- of Things elements from Mi- Infrastructure Services to couraging citizens and resi- feature that allows only author- is exclusively for governmental and tampering prevented, and pered with. crosoft’s Azure cloud ecosys- migrate its technology stack dents to trust the country’s tem. to the Microsoft intelligent e-commerce ecosystem. It Both companies signed a cloud. also seeks to encourage buy- Memorandum of Understand- With the partnership an- ers to use local websites and ing (MoU) during QITCOM, nounced today, Milaha and platforms for effective and Qatar’s premier technology Microsoft will team up to safe online shopping, and to MoTC floats TAWASOL portal at QITCOM trade show. focus on the design, imple- provide merchants with the The collaboration will en- mentation and deployment tools, capabilities, and skills Tribune News network and share knowledge, and ser- able Milaha to better engage of systems that will enable needed to succeed quickly. Doha vices to help build an efficient customers, empower em- smart logistics and connected To obtain Theqa’s trust working environment . In line ployees, optimise operations operations through Azure AI mark, local companies or e- The Ministry of Transport with Qatar Digital Govern- and reinvent business models and IoT services, thereby en- commerce businesses must and Communications (MoTC) ment 2020 Strategy, Through through digital transforma- abling data-driven insights, fulfill a set of standards. The on Tuesday launched ‘Taw- Tawasol, we aim to empower tion. reducing operating costs and portal will help evaluate par- asol’ (https://tawasol.gov. government employees to “Milaha serves some of the further increasing efficiency. ticipating company’s website qa/) – a portal designed for share information, collaborate, region’s biggest petrochemi- “Every industry today is to check if it meets up with secure electronic collaboration and create knowledge centers. cal players, as well as major undergoing massive transfor- Theqa’s security and safety between government employ- Tawasol has been designed to import-export and shipping mation, and technology is at requirements and also en- ees. The portal was launched increase efficiency in produc- companies,” said Abdulrah- the heart of this,” Said Lana sure that services on offer on the sidelines of the Qatar tivity and reduce overall costs. man Essa al Mannai, Milaha Khalaf, Country Manager, are according to specifica- IT Conference and Exhibition It will also help governments President & CEO. Microsoft Qatar. tions before it is granted a (QITCOM 2019) being held achieve organizational excel- “We have always aimed “We are excited about this certificate and a trust mark, under the theme ‘Safe, Smart lence and improve corporate to synchronise our offerings partnership where Milaha has which is subject to annual Cities’. governance. Governmental of logistics, port services, re- taken a leap forward today in renewal on Theqa’s website. Tawasol will offer a work- domains, trainings manuals. the Assistant Undersecre- staff across all sectors is en- pairs and shipping agency its digital transformation jour- Theqa works to ensure space where staff can set up The platform will enable staff tary of Information Technol- couraged to collaborate and services for a simpler, more ney by harnessing the power of that local websites provide audio and video meetings, to manage their meetings, ogy Affairs at the Ministry of use Tawasol to perform their efficient and more value-add- the Microsoft intelligent cloud. clear data and information chat, perform panel discus- upload and share documents, Transport and Communica- work more effectively.” ing supply chain. Microsoft’s Azure IoT and AI capabilities to customers including con- sions, and distribute tasks. and calendars. Additionally, tions said, “We are excited to During the launch, Fajr Azure PaaS, specifically IoT will empower the company sumer rights, privacy policy, The portal will also act as a it will provide employees with announce the launch of Taw- al Ansari, Project Manager, and AI, was the most obvi- to build a smart logistics plat- terms and conditions of knowledge-sharing centrE, the latest news, related laws asol, a one-stop gateway for Tawasol, MoTC, delivered a ous path to futureproofing form that is right for them – a service, etc., in order to aid whereby staff will have access and policies, guidance, and the employees in the public presentation on Tawasol as an our ability to adapt to our cli- catalyst for transforming its more public interest in the to essential documents re- services. sector to access all wide range e-collaboration platform be- ents’ needs. Our partnership operations that will enable Mi- local e-commerce sector. lated to their roles, projects or Hassan Jassim al Sayed, of information and resources, tween government employees. with Microsoft will enable laha to achieve more.”

Harvard University champion of ‘US New bookstore of Universities Arabic Debating contest’ HBKU Press opens Tribune News Network in Education City Doha Tribune News Network QatarDebate’s first US Universities Doha Arabic Debating Championship came to a remarkable close with awards and honours The grand opening of Hamad Bin Khalifa University being presented to students and universities Press (HKBU’s) dedicated bookstore in Minaretein who impressed everyone with their Arabic (College of Islamic Studies building) took place on debating skills. Organised by QatarDebate Monday highlighting more than 10 years of excel- Center (QD) a member of Qatar Founda- lence in the publishing industry. As part of the event, tion (QF), from October 25-27 and hosted Qatar Academy-Sidra students were invited to book by the Harvard Society of Arab Students, readings by HBKU Press authors Muneera Saad al USA,around 24 teams competed from 23 Romaihi, Dr. Jabr al Naoimi, Zoya Anjum and Jo- American universities. The closing ceremo- hanna Handley. ny was held at Harvard University in the Guests were invited to join members of the pub- presence of VIP invitees. lishing house for an informative evening to explore Harvard University debating team won the publishing process and learn how HBKU Press the championship after putting on an im- leads the way with innovative initiatives that go be- pressive display against the University of yond producing books. Chicago debating team in the final debate “This is a momentous achievement for HBKU round and the topic was “How far are we Press,” explained Bachar Chebaro, Executive Direc- willing to go to reach vulnerable groups, es- tor of HBKU Press. “From our diverse portfolio of pecially children, in conflict zones?”. genres that includes award-winning and bestselling Dr. Hayat Abdullah Maarafi, Executive original works and works of translation to how we Director, QatarDebate Center, said: “The are represented on the global stage, HBKU Press has American Championship is a new begin- tance of debate using the Arabic language. always sought to redefine the publishing landscape ning for receiving useful luminous doses of He pointed out that the Arabic language in Qatar.” thought that help young people consolidate is the fastest-growing language in America HBKU Press’s bookstore is open Sunday to the Arabic language”. because it is a meaningful component rep- Thursday from 11am to 5:30pm. “If the signs are true and the evidence is resenting the culture of many people around not mistaken, the American championship the world and it has a high position among is the starting point towards spreading the languages; and because of its importance, Arabic language as a global language of com- the US State Department has classified it munication, the language of dialogue and with international languages as a “dynamic the language of reason and logic throughout language”. America and the world,” Dr. Maarafi added. During the closing ceremony, Abdulrah- Pointing out that QD has taken on this task man al Subaie, Head of Outreach Program - and invested the youth energies to achieve QatarDebate said: “We conclude the cham- this goal. pionship to begin a new era of projects and Dr. Ahmed Ferhadi, Clinical Professor initiatives that encourage academics and of Middle Eastern & Islamic Studies, New students to activate debate in American uni- York University, and one of the champion- versities as an educational tool to facilitate ship’s adjudicators; emphasised the impor- the practice and proficiency of Arabic”. 06 Wednesday, October 30, 2019

Established September 3, 2006 hamad bin suhaim al thani chairman Opinion adel ali bin ali managing director dr hassan mohammed al ansari editor-in-chief

Congress, Fearing China, Threatens A Chicago Factory I’m Proud To Be

Paranoia and protectionism have persuaded the US House and Senate to vote against a Chinese factory Called Human Scum that won the bid to manufacture rail cars – a thoughtless decision that will cost jobs If a person holding a belief in enduring American ideas, rule of law, and system of governance that enshrines the principle of the Constitution hen the Chicago Transit Authority cars in the US, taking sales from existing awarded a contract for 800 new rail domestic producers. and the value of a free press can be described as a ‘scum’, so be it Wcars to CRRC Sifang in 2016, it looked The critics also fantasise that the Chinese like a good deal for everyone. The agency company could incorporate technology to spy would get spiffy modern rolling stock to on Americans or sabotage transit systems. replace much of its aging fleet, at a savings Said Senator John Cornyn, R-Texas, “China of $226 million compared with the compet- poses a clear and present danger to our na- ing bid. The Far Southeast Side would get tional security and has already infiltrated our a new factory to build the Chinese rail cars, rail and bus manufacturing industries.” employing 169 people. If by “infiltrated” he means that Chinese Mayor Rahm Emanuel took great pride firms have built factories and won contracts in the deal. “It’s one thing to order new cars for rail cars and buses, he’s right. But what’s and the customers will get a great experi- wrong with that? Foreign investment is ence,” he said. “It’s another thing to order good for the US economy and American those cars and create great manufacturing workers. Transit agencies benefit from hav- jobs in the city of Chicago and bring back ing more choices. Any threat to the privacy rail car manufacturing to its proper home.” of Americans is far more likely to come from Union workers at the plant start out making their Chinese-made smartphones, comput- $55,000 a year and average about $77,000. ers and other electronics. Before the rail The plant has also generated business for 14 cars are delivered, they are subject to thor- different suppliers in Illinois. ough inspection by the purchasers. After- But the operation is now in peril because ward, they come under the control of transit of paranoia and protectionism. Both the agencies, not the Chinese government. US House and Senate have voted to forbid As for any potential illegitimate business transit agencies from using federal funds to practices on the part of Beijing, there are bet- purchase Chinese rail cars, though they still ter safeguards. “The US already has ample have to work out differences in their bills. tools to address issues of unfair competition The existing CTA contract wouldn’t be af- through antitrust, countervailing duties and fected, but Metra would lose the option of other policies,” Scott Kennedy, an economist Paul Rosenzweig Party in May 2016 when his nomination against an administration—any adminis- getting the 200 rail cars it wants to buy from at the Center for Strategic and International Tribune News Service was guaranteed, and I declined a couple tration—that attempts to undermine the a local manufacturer. Studies in Washington, tells us. of opportunities to be considered for po- rule of law and denigrate these American Any chance the Hegewisch plant could The Rail Security Alliance, representing pparently, I’m human scum. sitions in his administration. Though I truths: A president cannot overrule con- expand to build equipment for agencies in US makers of freight cars, sees a danger if Though that is normally a char- am sure that Trump does not know me stitutional precedent by executive order; other cities would also be gone. Eventually, CRRC were to compete in that business. It’s acterisation that would cause me from Adam, I am confident that when he a president cannot order the Department we can expect, it would have to shut down hard to see any security threat there, either. grave concern, in this case I wear it speaks of Never Trumper Republicans of Justice to investigate his political op- for lack of business. Besides, the company says it has no plans to as a badge of honour. who are human scum, he means me. ponents for alleged criminal acts; a presi- Critics fear the company, owned by the manufacture freight cars in the US. Should AThe other day, President Donald What makes me human scum? Evi- dent cannot “open up” the libel laws, or Chinese government, could someday put it change course, there will be plenty of time Trump tweeted: “The Never Trumper dently, a belief in enduring American ideals, govern by lies; a president cannot punish American companies out of business. As to address any possible concerns the deci- Republicans, though on respirators with like the rule of law and the value of a free political opponents who exercise their it happens, there are no domestic rail car sion would raise. If the legislation becomes not many left, are in certain ways worse press. A belief in a system of governance First Amendment freedom of speech. producers for it to compete with. But alarm- law, it will cost American jobs and needless- and more dangerous for our country than that enshrines the principle of checks and No president should ever call the press ists fear that CRRC, with unfair help from ly raise the cost of mass transit. It deserves the Do Nothing Democrats. Watch out for balances in our Constitution—a system in the “enemy of the people”; no president Beijing, will eventually want to build freight to be left at the station. them, they are human scum!” which Congress and the judiciary serve as should use his position for self-enrich- That’s me. I’m a proud “Never Trump- limits on authoritarian executive overreach. ment; no president should use his execu- er Republican.” I’ve been a conservative Many conservative lawyers have been tive authority to withhold military aid au- Republican most of my adult life. I joined too quiet for too long. Now, in the wake of thorised by Congress as leverage to solicit the Federalist Society in 1983, and re- recent revelations, it is all the more impor- an investigation of his political opponent; main a member to this day. I have worked tant for us to speak up: First, to make our and most assuredly, no president should at the Heritage Foundation, a conserva- concerns and objections to Trump—already seek to divide the nation, lifting up those tive think tank, and today I work at a felt among conservatives devoted to the rule who advance racial and religious griev- center-right think tank, the R Street Insti- of law—more public, and second, to make ances at the expense of national unity. tute. I served as the first deputy assistant sure that crucial legal principles do not get No president who does these things secretary for policy at the Department of swamped in the counter-reaction to Trump. can claim the mantle of conservatism or Homeland Security, as a political appoin- So I gladly step forward to reaffirm the leadership of our great nation. Quite tee in the George W Bush administra- important American norms. To para- to the contrary, this form of radical pop- tion, where, I assure you, many activists phrase the mission statement of Checks ulism is the very antithesis of conservative did not view me as a raving liberal. And, and Balances: I believe in the rule of law, legal thought and American values. perhaps most notable for our purposes the power of truth, the imperative of in- And so, my goal is simple: to partici- today, I served as a senior counsel during dividual rights, and the necessity of civil pate in the reinvigoration of legal norms the Whitewater/Lewinsky investigation discourse. I believe these principles ap- and reaffirm that executive authority is of President Bill Clinton, which led to his ply regardless of the party or persons in constrained by the rule of law. impeachment in 1998. power. I believe in “a government of laws, All who wish to reclaim this view of the Nevertheless, I have opposed Trump’s not of men.” I believe in free speech, a free law should share that goal. So here I stand, political ambitions almost from the begin- press, separation of powers, and limited athwart the degradation of American val- ning: I warned against his election in early government. ues, yelling “stop.” If that makes me hu- Tribune News Service 2016, I deregistered from the Republican In support of these values, I stand man scum, I wear that title with pride. Don’t Trust Facebook’s Libra Cryptocurrency Plan If serving the underbanked, reducing the cost of remittances and payments and digitising the banking system are important projects, why entrust them to Facebook, of all companies?

Annie Lowrey he understood the point that the many, Zuckerberg admitted as much during countries every year, even as processors mittance system, central bank, and foreign Tribune News Service many, many, many, many, many critics the hearing—or, at least, admitted take a 7 percent cut, on average. exchange. But it wouldn’t quite be any of of the Libra project have made since its But Libra is hardly the only way to those things, and thus would fall into a revolutionary technology in- unveiling earlier this year. “I believe that that he understood the point that the serve the underbanked, eliminate mid- queasy regulatory gray space, in the Unit- novator is tackling one of the best- this is something that needs to get built. many, many, many, many, many, many dlemen, and make remittances fast and ed States as well as abroad. known and least tractable problems I get I’m not the ideal messenger for this critics of the Libra project have made cheap. As Representative Gregory Meeks, The fact that cryptocurrencies are in financial inclusion, for the benefit of right now,” he said in his opening remarks. since its unveiling earlier this year. a New York Democrat, argued in the hear- highly attractive to criminals—scammers, the global poor. A rapacious business “I’m sure there are a lot of people that wish ing, Facebook has not previously shown gangs and cartels, and so on—was another monopolyA with a history of offering danger- it were anyone but Facebook … There’s project would create a low-volatility, sta- interest in addressing the needs of finan- concern raised in the hearing. “You’re cre- ous products is creating an exotic financial a reason we care about this. That’s be- ble-price cryptocurrency. Users of Face- cially marginalised communities through, ating a whole new currency, which could instrument that falls in a loosely regulated cause Facebook is about putting power in book and other services would be able to say, non-profit microloan services or be anonymous, that could create a whole and systemically important space. people’s hands.” buy Libras in their local currency and then postal-banking advocacy groups or minor- new threat to Americans and national se- The former narrative is the one Mark It’s not quite the answer you would ex- ping payments back and forth, fast, cheap, ity depository institutions. “How much of curity,” argued Democratic Representa- Zuckerberg presented to members of pect Zuckerberg to give if he were trying to and free. Facebook’s money is helping the under- tive Carolyn Maloney of New York. the House Financial Services Commit- get people to trust him; Facebook is about Libra would help provide bare-bones banked?” he asked Zuckerberg. “Have you These issues would become far thorn- tee during a hearing yesterday on Fa- soaking up user data to sell to advertisers financial services to the 8.4 millionA meri- invested in development institutions in ier, given that Libra would be transna- cebook’s Libra cryptocurrency and re- of various degrees of scrupulousness more can households who are “unbanked,” or America or elsewhere in the world? Is any tional, based in Switzerland but functional mittance project. The world’s existing than it is about anything else. And with Li- without a bank account, as well as the of your money sitting in those banks?,” anywhere with cell service. In small coun- financial infrastructure is failing the coun- bra, it—or, technically, the project it kicked hundreds of millions more unbanked and meaning minority depository institutions. tries, Libra might even pose a significant try’s and the world’s poor, he argued. The off—would also be about offering cheap fi- underbanked people around the world. Zuckerberg mumbled his excuses. risk to financial stability. tech giant, in concert with other compa- nancial services to help it better compete It would slash the price of payments pro- Moreover, Libra would address the is- Serving the underbanked, reducing the nies and nonprofits, wants to make pay- with companies such as WeChat and to ce- cessing, which in the United States and sues of financial inclusion and the price cost of remittances and payments, easing ments instant and free and borderless. But ment its place as the essential digital utility other countries acts as a hidden, regres- of moving money in a potentially danger- foreign-exchange transactions, and dig- that latter narrative is a credible one, too. around the world. sive sales tax. And it would support global ous and destabilising way. Libra would itising the banking system—these are im- Zuckerberg admitted as much during Financial inclusion would be a real, remittances—the half a trillion dollars that amount to an all-in-one pseudo-bank, portant projects. Why entrust them to Fa- the hearing—or, at least, admitted that if perhaps ancillary, benefit.T he Libra immigrants send to people in their home cryptocurrency, payments processor, re- cebook, of all companies?

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THE OPINION AND ANALYSIS PAGES ARE THE AUTHORS’ OWN. QATAR TRIBUNE BEARS NO RESPONSIBILITY. Gulf / Middle East / World Wednesday, October 30, 2019 07

As deadline looms, pullout of Lebanon’s PM resigns, bowing Kurdish fighters in northern Syria complete: Moscow AFP Shoigu told his Armenian to anti-government protesters Moscow counterpart Davit Tonoyan. A deadline for the with- Russia said on Tuesday drawal had been set at 6:00 Saad Hariri calls on all that Kurdish forces in north- pm local time (1500 GMT) his political partners to ern Syria had withdrawn on Tuesday. from areas along Turkey’s Last week Russia and assume the responsibility border as planned under a Turkey signed a deal for of protecting Lebanon deal between Moscow and Russian military police and and revive its economy Ankara. Syrian border guards to “The withdrawal of “facilitate the removal” of DPA armed units from territory Kurdish People’s Protection Beirut where a security corridor Units (YPG) from within 30 should be created has been kilometres (18 miles) of the Lebanese Prime Minister completed ahead of time,” border. Saad Hariri on Tuesday hand- Russian news agencies quot- The Turkey-Russia ed his resignation to President ed Defence Minister Sergei agreement was reached af- Michel Aoun in response to Shoigu as saying on a visit to ter marathon talks between two weeks of protests against Armenia. President Recep Tayyip his government. “Syrian border guards Erdogan and President “I have reached a dead- and our military police Vladimir Putin in the Black lock,” Hariri said in a televised have been deployed there,” Sea resort of Sochi. speech before he headed to the presidential palace in Baaba- da. He urged the Lebanese people to maintain the stabil- Six Syria soldiers killed in first ity and security of their coun- border clash with Turkey try. “No one is bigger than the country,” he said. AFP the Britain-based monitor- Lebanese protesters have Beirut ing group said. been in the streets since Oc- The Turkish military and tober 17, keeping major roads At least six Syrian regime its Syrian proxies attacked blocked and paralysing the en- fighters were killed as heavy Kurdish forces in northeast- tire country. clashes broke out on Tuesday ern Syria on October 9 with The protesters accuse the between the army and Turk- the aim of creating a roughly country’s political class of ish forces for the first time 30kms deep buffer zone. mismanagement, the waste of Lebanese anti-government protesters celebrate the resignation of Prime Minister Saad Hariri in Beirut on Tuesday. (AFP) since Ankara attacked north- “Turkish artillery fire public funds and rampant cor- eastern Syria three weeks ago, killed five regime forces in ruption. erupted between anti-govern- them and repeated the words a war monitor said. battles on the edge of the vil- Hariri called on all his po- ment protesters and followers “I have reached a deadlock “peaceful, peaceful.” Follow- The Syrian Observatory lage of Assadiya,” Rami Ab- litical partners to assume the of two Lebanese Shiite move- ... No one is bigger than ers of both Shiite groups also for Human Rights said ar- del Rahman, the head of the responsibility of protecting ments who tried to reopen a the country. There is a dismantled tents that were set tillery and machine-gun fire Observatory, told AFP. Lebanon and promoting its major road blocked by protest- serious opportunity that up by protesters on the Ring was exchanged near Assadi- He added that the pro- economy. ers in the capital, Beirut. shouldn’t be missed, and I Bridge, which was the bound- ya, south of the border town Ankara fighters being used “There is a serious op- The Lebanese Red Cross place my resignation at the ary between west and east Bei- of Ras al-Ain. by Turkey as the main portunity that shouldn’t be said the six suffered injuries disposal of the president rut during the 1975-1990 civil “Heavy fighting erupted ground force for the inva- missed, and I place my resig- from stones and being hit and all of the Lebanese war in Lebanon. for the first time between the sion executed a government nation at the disposal of the by sticks in the area of Ring The country’s leaders Syrian and Turkish armies,” soldier they had captured. president and all of the Leba- Bridge. - Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri have held a series of talks in nese,” he said. The followers of the Amal in a resignation speech after 13 days a bid to end the stand-off that Hariri’s resignation means and Hezbollah movements of anti-government protests threatens to push the country the president will have to hold also forcefully dismantled to the brink of a political and TURKEY MARKS 96th REPUBLIC DAY parliamentary consultations tents set up by protesters in ● Lebanese protesters have been in the streets since financial crisis. However, the to name a new premier to form Martyr Square in central Bei- October 17 and kept major roads across blocked, paralysing protesters had rejected the Military personnel a new government. rut, setting fire to some of the promises of reforms and de- pose for a ‘selfie’ Hariri’s resignation tents. “They are closing roads the country manded the government’s res- photograph at prompted Lebanese protesters to the Lebanese who are try- ● The protesters have accused the country’s political class ignation. the Anitkabir, the at major squares in the capi- ing to reach their work and of mismanagement, wasting public funds and rampant Nasrallah, an ally of Aoun, mausoleum of tal and in other parts of the run their daily lives. This is corruption on Friday warned the protest- Mustafa Kemal country to celebrate and chant not fair. We will open the road ers against triggering chaos Ataturk, founder of “No one is bigger than the no matter what,” a follower of ● Hariri’s resignation means President Michel Aoun will and causing a political vac- Turkish Republic, Lebanese people.” They were Amal movement told dpa. have to hold parliamentary consultations to name a new uum. He urged the protest- as part of Turkey’s seen dancing in the streets The counter-protesters premier to form a new government ers to give more time to the 96th Republic and waving Lebanese flags. also broke the cameras and government, which last week Day commemora- Shortly before the resignation attacked the television crews unveiled a package of eco- tions in Ankara on address, at least six people of private Lebanese chan- Amal and Hezbollah chanted Hassan Nasrallah,” while pro- nomic reforms in an effort to Tuesday. (AFP) were wounded in violence that nel MTV. The supporters of “God bless [Hezbollah chief] testers sang the national an- appease them.

HK bars democracy activist News Baghdadi’s top replacement also killed, says Trump Dog wounded in in brief Baghdadi raid Joshua Wong from local poll AFP “Just confirmed ordinated operation between back on duty Washington that Abu Bakr SDF intelligence and the US AFP North Korea refuses army.” Abdi tweeted then Washington: The military Hong Kong talks with South over US President Donald Trump al-Baghdadi’s that Al-Muhajir was targeted dog slightly wounded in the flagship resort said on Tuesday the person number one replacement near Jarabulus as part of op- US raid which resulted in the Hong KONG democracy ac- likely to be first in line to re- erations to chase out Islamic death of jihadist leader Abu tivist Joshua Wong was barred S eoul: North Korea on Tues- place Islamic State’s slain has been terminated by State leaders. That raid was Bakr al-Baghdadi is recovering on Tuesday from standing in day rejected Seoul’s request leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi American troops. Most carried out a day after US and back on duty, the chair- upcoming local elections after for talks on the fate of a flag- has also been “terminated.” likely would have taken commandos stormed Bagh- man of the US Joint Chiefs of months of huge and frequently ship complex condemned by “Just confirmed thatA bu dadi’s hideout in northwest- Staff said on Monday. violent protests in the city. leader Kim Jong-n, dismiss- Bakr al-Baghdadi’s number the top spot - Now he ern Syria. General Mark Milley said Wong, one of the most Joshua Wong ing meetings as “unneces- one replacement has been ter- is also Dead!” The Islamic State founder the dog had performed a prominent figures in the oth- sary”, the South said. minated by American troops. detonated a suicide vest, kill- “tremendous service” during erwise leaderless movement, Wong was the only candi- The abrupt rebuff is Most likely would have taken US President Donald Trump ing himself and three chil- the special forces weekend accused the government of date barred from standing in a stark illustration of the the top spot - Now he is also dren, as he was being chased assault in Syria that led to “political screening” after an an election for district coun- dire state of inter-Korean Dead!” Trump tweeted. the village of Ain Al-Baydah. into a dead end tunnel, ac- the death of the leader of the election officer ruled invalid cils, which tackle regional is- relations, which have plum- Trump did not identify It was unclear if that was cording to the US account. Islamic State group. his nomination for the No- sues. The election is the first to meted since the collapse of the person or give more detail the person Trump was refer- A Kurdish official on President Donald Trump vember poll. be held since the current mass a February summit between on how he was killed. ring to in his tweet. Monday said the SDF pro- tweeted a picture of the The 22-year-old was sent to protests started. He accused the Kim and US President Don- A top Kurdish official said Mazloum Abdi, com- vided crucial intelligence “beautiful” and “talented” prison earlier this year over the government Tuesday of censor- ald Trump in Hanoi on the Baghdadi’s spokesman and mander of the Kurdish-led from a source who infiltrated dog on Monday, saying it did democracy protests he helped ship in disqualifying him. North’s nuclear programme. right hand man, Abu Has- SDF, had said on Twitter that Baghdadi’s house, bringing “GREAT JOB.” He said the lead in 2014. He immediately “The decision to ban me Pyongyang has repeat- san al-Muhajir, was killed on al-Muhajir was targeted in out underwear that provided name of the dog has not joined the historic anti-govern- from running for office was edly excoriated Seoul, saying Sunday in a separate raid in what he described as a “co- positive DNA identification. been declassified yet.(AFP) ment protests rocking the city clearly politically driven,” he it has “nothing to talk any upon his release in June. said on Tuesday. more” with the South. (AFP) Australian court gives man 36 years for rape and murder of Israeli Populist cleric joins Iraq protests as political crisis deepens T el Aviv: A Melbourne court AFP He was seen in a white car on Tuesday sentenced Najaf in the city just after airport One killed, 192 wounded in Iraq’s Codey Herrmann to 36 sources told AFP he had land- Karbala province, says rights group years in prison for the rape Populist Iraqi cleric Mo- ed from neighbouring Iran. and murder of Aiia Maasar- qtada Sadr joined thousands Sadr himself is one of Karbala, Iraq: One person was killed and 192 people injured we, an Arab-Israeli student of demonstrators in the holy the current government’s during unrest in Iraq’s Karbala province on Tuesday, with secu- who was killed in January at city of Najaf on Tuesday amid two main sponsors, after his rity forces arresting dozens of protesters, the Iraqi High Com- the age of 21. a spiralling political crisis Saeroon bloc won the larg- mission for Human Rights said. Herrmann, 21, will sparked by deadly anti-gov- est share of parliament’s 329 The independent rights group said that those injured were be eligible for release on ernment protests. seats in a vote last year. 142 security personnel and 50 protesters. At least 140 people parole after spending 30 At least 240 people have But he tweeted in support were arrested, 80 of them later released, in the province lo- years in prison, the Austral- died and 8,000 been wounded of an initial six-day wave of cated south of the capital Baghdad, it added. ian Associated Press (AAP) since demonstrations broke protests that rocked the coun- Witnesses said that the security forces used tear gas and reported. He confessed to out on October 1 over unem- try early this month and re- fired live rounds to disperse protesters. beating Maasarwe with a ployment and corruption, be- sumed last week. In the early hours of Tuesday, masked men wearing black metal pole, raping her and fore evolving into calls for the Demonstrators have so far stormed al-Tarbiya Square in Karbala city and attacked protest- setting her on fire. government to quit. been unimpressed by premier ers who had gathered there, Samir Abdullah, a protester, said. “The murder and rape Sadr, an ex-militiaman Abdel Mahdi’s laundry list of “This led to scuffles between the two sides,” he said. were completely random of- with a cult-like following in Iraqi Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr drives a car as he joins anti-govern- reforms, which includes hiring Following that, some protesters headed towards the pro- fences, committed against swathes of Iraq, has spear- ment demonstration in the central holy city of Najaf on Tuesday. (AFP) drives and more social welfare. vincial council headquarters in the city, where clashes erupted a stranger, late at night,” headed demands for Prime Instead, they have increas- between them and security forces around the building, he said Justice Elizabeth Hol- Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi’s On Tuesday, he was spot- government demonstrators in ingly pushed for early elec- added. Security forces used live bullets as they chased protest- lingworth. (DPA) resignation and early parlia- ted by an AFP correspond- his native Najaf, a holy city in tions, a new government and a ers away. (DPA) mentary elections. ent amid thousands of anti- southern Iraq. reworked constitution. 08 Wednesday, October 30, 2019 US / Europe / Asia EU lawmakers make first foreign visit to Kashmir since lockdown UN body demands full restoration of DPA There was a shutdown in human rights in India-occupied Kashmir Srinagar, Kashmir Srinagar and at least four peo- ple were injured in clashes be- Dawn.com continues to be deprived of a “Although some of these A GROUP of European Par- tween protestors and security ISLAMABAD wide range of human rights measures have been relaxed, liament members on Tuesday forces in the region, media re- and we urge the Indian author- their impact on human rights visited India-administered ports said. The United Nations High ities to unlock the situation continues to be widely felt,” Kashmir, the first foreign dele- Opposition leaders also Commissioner for Human and fully restore the rights that the spokesperson said. gation to visit the region since lashed out against the govern- Rights (UNHCHR) on Tuesday are currently being denied”. The UNHCHR said that New Delhi stripped it of its ment for allowing the visit at a expressed “extreme concern” “On August 5, India re- the undeclared curfew was lift- semi-autonomous status. time when Kashmiri political over human rights abuses in voked constitutional provi- ed from much of Jammu and The tour was sharply criti- leaders were still detained, add- India-occupied Kashmir and sions granting partial autono- Ladakh region within a few cised by Indian opposition ing the delegation mainly com- asked the Indian authorities to my to the state of Jammu and days, but is reportedly still in parties who questioned how prised of members of parlia- “fully restore” human rights in Kashmir and announced the place in large parts of the Kash- the government allowed for- ment from right-wing parties. the occupied territory. creation of two separate feder- mir Valley, preventing the free eign lawmakers into the area A television news channel shows the European parliament delegation EU diplomats in New Del- UNHCHR Spokesperson ally-administered Union Ter- movement of people, as well while barring Indian members during their visit to Indian-administered Kashmir on Tuesday. (AFP) hi clarified that the members Rupert Colville in a statement ritories, which will come into as hampering their ability to of parliament from the state of parliament were not part of said that the international hu- effect this Thursday (Oct 31),” exercise their right to peaceful for over two months. with military officials as well Kashmir, a day after they met an official parliamentary dele- man rights body is “extremely the statement said, adding that assembly, and restricting their The 27-member group as civil society members to Premier Narendra Modi in gation and the visit was organ- concerned that the population at the same time, very restric- rights to health, education and from 11 countries, held talks assess the ground situation in New Delhi. ised in a private capacity. of India-occupied Kashmir tive measures were imposed. freedom of religion and belief.

EU confirms TRUMP’S CALL TO UKRAINE News Brexit delay; in brief Tusk warns Pakistan ramps up security in capital New impeachment ahead of ‘Azadi (Freedom) March’ ‘it may be Islamabad: Pakistani officials have ordered additional secu- rity forces be deployed to the capital Islamabad, authorities the last one’ confirmed on Tuesday, days ahead of the expected arrival of thousands of Islamist protesters calling for the dissolution of AFP witness’s testimony the government. Brussels Islamabad police spokesperson Zia Bajwa said extra police forces from across the country were being deployed “at the European Council President main entry points” of the capital, adding that security was Donald Tusk confirmed on also being increased around main government buildings and Tuesday the latest Brexit ex- shakes White House the diplomatic enclave. A senior law enforcement official also tension has been approved for confirmed the deployment of reinforcements.(AFP) up to January 31 -- and warned “it may be the last one”. Lt Col Vindman says “To my British friends, The he personally listened Pakistani court suspends sentence of EU27 has formally adopted ailing former premier Sharif the extension. It may be the to Trump pressure the last one. Please make the best Islamabad: A Pakistani court on Tuesday suspended the use of this time,” he tweeted. Ukrainian president seven-year jail term of ailing former prime minister Nawaz Sha- The confirmation followed over rival Joe Biden rif, who was recently moved from jail to hospital as he fights for British Prime Minister Boris his life. Johnson last week reluctantly and son Hunter in The Islamabad High Court suspended Sharif’s sentence for asking the EU to extend the a July 25 phone call eight weeks to allow for medical treatment. The suspension Brexit deadline again -- for a can be extended, if needed, former interior minister and Sharif third time -- from October 31 AFP loyalist Ahsan Iqbal told media. “Prime Minister Imran Khan to January 31 next year, in line Washington and his government are responsible for Sharif’s health since he was denied treatment in jail,” he said. A NEW witness in the im- Sharif, 69, was shifted from a high security prison in the peachment investigation of eastern city of Lahore to a nearby hospital after he was found President Donald Trump to have a “critically low platelet count” last week. rocked the White House Tues- The former premier is “fighting the battle for his life,” day with testimony that he Adnan Khan, Sharif’s personal physician said in a tweet. Sharif personally witnessed officials suffered a minor heart attack and his kidney functions are pressuring Ukraine to help deteriorating, he said. (dpa) Trump politically. National Security Coun- cil Ukraine expert Lieutenant New tuberculosis Argentinian Grossi Britain’s Prime Minister Colonel Alexander Vindman vaccine shows is new UN nuclear Boris Johnson was to tell the House inquiry promising results watchdog head that he twice reported con- Lt Col Alexander Vindman, (centre), director for European Affairs at the National Security Council, arrives at with a law passed by the UK cerns about improper White the US Capitol in Washington on Tuesday. (AFP) New Delhi: An experimental Vienna: Argentina’s Rafael parliament. House efforts to get Kiev to tuberculosis vaccine has Grossi was elected on Tues- After days of delibera- open investigations designed Ukraine call ‘concerned’ to- shown promising results in day to head the UN’s nuclear tion, the 27 other EU member to help Trump politically. day’s Never Trumper witness. protecting half the people watchdog, which is tasked states on Monday said they In explosive prepared House to hold vote formalising Was he on the same call that I who received it, scientists in particular with monitor- agreed to that new deadline, testimony, Vindman said he was? Can’t be possible!” said on Tuesday, marking a ing the implementation of with the option of Britain leav- personally listened to Trump Trump impeachment inquiry Republicans mobilised to potential breakthrough in the the increasingly shaky Iran ing the bloc earlier if it man- pressure Ukraine President Washington: House Democrats will hold a vote this week undercut Vindman’s credibility, fight against the world’s most nuclear deal. aged to ratify a withdrawal Volodymyr Zelensky in a July to formalise their impeachment inquiry into President Donald questioning his loyalty by not- lethal infectious disease. Grossi beat Romanian agreement struck this month 25 phone call. Trump, according to US news reports on Monday. ing he immigrated to the United About 1.5 million people diplomat Cornel Feruta to with Johnson. His testimony, released The resolution will come up for a vote on the floor of the States from the Soviet Union at die of tuberculosis each year, become director general Johnson followed up with late on Monday, offers some House, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in a letter to fellow the age of three, and suggesting meaning that even a vaccine of the International Atomic a letter to Tusk the same day of the strongest evidence yet Democrats. She said the resolution “affirms the ongoing, exist- he is part of an effort by the US with a partial success rate Energy Agency (IAEA) following confirming he agreed to the for accusations that Trump ing investigation that is currently being conducted by our com- national security bureaucracy to could have major impact. the death of the former head new delay, but urging the abused his presidential pow- mittees as part of this impeachment inquiry.” undermine Trump. The results of the trial were Yukiya Amano of Japan in July. EU27 “to make clear that a ers and broke election laws to She also said it establishes the procedure for future inves- Vindman says in the pre- reported at a conference in The election of Grossi, further extension after 31 Jan- gain Kiev’s support for his re- tigative steps and would “eliminate any doubt as to whether the pared testimony that a senior Hyderabad, India, the country Argentinia’s ambassador to uary is not possible”. election effort next year. Trump administration may withhold documents, prevent witness US diplomat close to Trump, worst-affected by tuberculo- the IAEA, comes at a critical The EU has not gone that The first White House of- testimony, disregard duly authorised subpoenas, or continue ambassador to the European sis, and published in the New time for the Vienna-based far. But Tusk’s tweet indicat- ficial to appear before the in- obstructing the House of Representatives.” Pelosi made the Union Gordon Sondland, was England Journal of Medicine. agency as Iran is decreasing ed the level of frustration felt quiry, the decorated Iraq war comments in a letter sent Monday to her House colleagues. It the first person he witnessed The vaccine, was tested its commitments under the by European Union member veteran arrived on Capital Hill was quoted by NBC News and other US news outlets. The vote pressing Ukraine for the in- at 11 sites in Kenya, South 2015 landmark deal. states over the repeated exten- Tuesday morning in full mili- is to take place Thursday, the reports said. (DPA) vestigations. “I stated to Amb Africa and Zambia in over Grossi received 24 votes sions for Brexit and the tur- tary dress uniform, as Trump Sondland that his statements 3,500 HIV-negative adults to Feruta’s 10 from the IAEA’s moil in British politics. blasted him on Twitter as a were inappropriate, that the re- with latent tuberculosis infec- 35-member Board of Gover- Tusk also used his tweet to “Never Trumper” -- his label “How many more Never priate phone call,” he asked. quest to investigate Biden and tion, pharma giant GlaxoS- nors in the third official round bid farewell to the British in for Republicans who funda- Trumpers will be allowed to “Supposedly, according his son had nothing to do with mithKline said. (dpa) of voting. (aFP) his current post. mentally oppose the president. testify about a perfectly appro- to the Corrupt Media, the national security,” he says.

Afghan government demands month-long MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! ceasefire as precondition for Taliban talks DPA KABUL 20 soldiers killed in northern Afghanistan In a change of policy, the Af- Kabul: At least 20 soldiers were killed in an overnight Taliban ghan government in the capi- attack in Afghanistan’s northern province of Jawzjan, officials tal Kabul has set a month-long said on Tuesday. At least two other soldiers disappeared follow- ceasefire with the Taliban as a ing the attack on a military base in the Aqchah district of the precondition for talks with the province, a member of parliament representing the province, militant group. Mohammad Karim Jawzjani, and provincial council member While elaborating on Abdul Hai Hayat said. President Ashraf Ghani’s new Over the past months the security situation in the province seven-point peace plan during bordering Turkmenistan has deteriorated. Officials say the a press conference, National Taliban have maintained a presence in all districts of Jawzjan, Security Advisor Hamdullah except the provincial capital. In the past four months alone, the Mohib said that the precondi- Taliban took control of two districts, first overrunning Qushtepa in tion is not to delay the process Afghanistan’s National security adviser Hamdullah Mohib as he July and then taking Darzab district nearly three weeks ago. (DPA) A Nepali mountaineer on Tuesday smashed the speed record for summit- further, but for the Taliban to speaks during a press conference in Kabul on Tuesday. (AFP) ing the world’s 14 highest peaks, racing up all ‘8000ers’ in just six months prove they control their fight- and six days, organisers said. The previous record for the 14 mountains ers and commanders. Prior to the role of Pakistan in the Af- The Taliban have so far re- ful solution to the Afghan for Afghanistan Reconcilia- above 8,000 metres (around 26,250 feet) -- completed by Nirmal Purja this plan, the Afghan govern- ghan peace process. fused to speak to the Afghan conflict. The talks were called tion Zalmay Khalilzad visited at 8.59 am (1259 GMT) on Tuesday -- was almost eight years. ment had set no preconditions Afghans have long accused government directly, which off by US President Donald Afghanistan and countries in- “MISSION ACHIEVED! says @nimsdai from the summit of on talking with the Taliban. Pakistan of providing a safe the militants deem a “puppet Trump in early September af- volved in the process recently, #Shishapangma,” read a post on Purja’s Facebook page. “It has been Mohib said the plan has haven and support to Taliban regime.” The group instead ter a Taliban suicide bombing signalling a possible push to a gruelling but humbling six months, and I hope to have proven that been shared with the partners militants, a claim Pakistan has was negotiating with the US in left a US soldier dead. resume the negotiations with anything is possible with some determination, self-belief and positivity,” concerned and emphasized denied repeatedly. talks aimed at finding a peace- US Special Representative the Taliban. the 36-year-old said. (AFP) Ooredoo Group net profit jumps 16% to QR1.3 bn in nine months page 10

wednesday, october 30, 2019

27,088.41 10,220.72 39,831.84 1,489.90 -2.31 pts -1.48 pts +581.64 pts Gold -0.17% Qatar- France trade increases 40% Dow QE sensex to $1.7 billion in 2018: QC page 11 Price percentage Price percentage 17.84 Brent 61.52 -0.08% WTI 55.46 -0.63% Silver -0.23% GIS revenue jumps 18% to QR2.2 bn  Net profit for the third quarter of 2019 rises 31 percent to QR5.3 million  Total assets reach QR10.5 billion as on September 30, 2019

Tribune news network percent to reach QR5.3 mil- Furthermore, the segment of the year. In a bid to mini- Doha lion, compared with QR4.0 continued to focus on maxi- mise the risk associated with million in the second quarter mum utilisation of its assets medical insurance claims, the Gulf International Services of 2019. such as the deployment of the Group entered into a reinsur- (GIS) Group has reported a The Group’s total assets lift-boat ‘Rumailah’ at the be- ance model, wherein the claim revenue of QR2.2 billion, an largely remained unchanged at ginning of the year, after un- settlement process would be increase of 18 percent com- QR10.5 billion as at 30 Septem- dergoing repair services. carried out more efficiently. pared to the corresponding ber 30, 2019. On the liquidity As a result of improved ac- Aviation: The aviation period last year, the company front, the closing cash, includ- tivities, the segment on overall segment reported a moder- announced in a statement on ing short-term investments, basis was able to reduce the net ate growth compared to the Tuesday. loss in the first nine months of last year, driven mainly by The revenue growth, this year, when compared to its international division that supported by the strong op- The financial results the same period last year. secured short-term contracts erational performance, was reflected continued per- Looking ahead, the drilling in Pakistan and South Africa, largely reflective of the growth formance by the drilling segment is uniquely placed to and supported by higher rev- recorded by insurance and segment, demonstrating a unlock solid growth opportu- enues by its Turkish subsidi- drilling segments. strong recovery due to nities, mainly due to the North ary, Red Star Aviation. The For the nine month pe- high utilisation of its off- Field expansion project for domestic aviation business, riod, the Group has averaged shore rigs GIS’ net profit for the nine month period reached QR35 million, a decline of 12 percent compared to the which GIS was awarded a con- primarily comprising of Oil & an EBITDA of QR526 million, same period last year. tract to provide six premium Gas services and VIP services, representing a marginal de- jack-up rigs, which will com- continued its positive business cline of 4 percent compared to stood at QR1.1 billion with a The financial results re- Group’s performance, GIS embarked on new initiatives mence operations in various trajectory. Furthermore, the the same period of last year. total debt of QR4.9 billion. flected continued performance management, said, “GIS deliv- to improve the capital and phases in 2020. acquisition of 49 percent stake Net profit for the nine GIS said since the begin- by the drilling segment, dem- ered an improved set of finan- debt structures and we are Insurance: The insurance in Air Ocean Maroc is set to month period reached QR35 ning of 2019, the company onstrating a strong recovery cial and operational results led confident that this would fur- segment improved against a reignite growth within the seg- million, a decline of 12 percent has undertaken commendable due to high utilisation of its by the Group’s focus on high ther improve the overall op- backdrop of expansion in the ment going forward. compared to the same period measures aimed at improv- offshore rigs. utilisation of its assets, com- erational efficiency in the near core energy business. Also, Catering: The Group’s ca- last year. ing its financial performance The insurance and aviation bined with a commitment to future.” the ongoing market expansion tering segment was impacted Revenue for the third through cost optimisation, segments also delivered im- expand market share. Drilling: The performance strategy by the Group’s medi- due to the demobilisation of quarter reached QR767 mil- supported by stronger opera- proved set of financial results, “The Group continues to of the drilling segment was cal business acted as a criti- major contracts and a reduc- lion, representing an increase tional performance. contributing to the Group’s work on rationalising operat- fueled by the offshore sector cal catalyst in securing a large tion in labour accommodation of 2 percent compared to the The Group continues to bottom line, mainly led by mar- ing costs, which are at various with the successful deployment number of corporate clients. occupancy. However, the seg- second quarter of 2019. execute some of the initiatives, ket share gains and the intro- stages of implementation to of the new offshore drilling rig, Notably, the segment also se- ment continues to explore op- Net profit for the third which are in various stages of duction of new business lines. reposition the Group’s market ‘West Tucana’, contracted via a cured three major contracts portunities from both industri- quarter of 2019 advanced 31 completion and are on track. Commenting on the standing. Also, the Group has strategic partnership. during the first nine months al and non-oil and gas sectors. 10 Wednesday, October 30, 2019 Economy & Business Ooredoo Group net profit jumps 16% to QR1.3 bn in nine months The Group’s customer base reaches 116 million, up by 1 million over Q2, 2019, mainly driven by new customers in Indonesia and Iraq

Tribune news network year. percent year on year deprecia- Doha “The continued recovery in tion of the Tunisian dinar. Indonesia demonstrates that Ooredoo Tunisia’s custom- Ooredoo Group has re- we have the right strategy in er base grew 3 percent to 9.1 ported a revenue of QR22 bil- place to deliver growth in the million at 9M 2019, reaffirm- lion for the first nine-months new market environment. In- ing its position as the number (9M) of 2019, a decline of 3 dosat Ooredoo reported sig- one telecom player by custom- percent compared to the same nificant growth, with revenue er market share. period last year, and net profit up 11 percent and EBITDA up of QR1.3 billion, an increase of 37 percent for the nine-month Indosat Ooredoo 16 percent compared with the period. Indosat Ooredoo (Indone- same period of 2018, the com- “In Kuwait we are seeing sia) maintained its growth tra- pany announced in a state- good demand for our offerings jectory reporting an 11 percent ment on Tuesday. with our customer base in- increase in 9M 2019 revenues Commenting on the re- creasing 13 percent during the to QR4.8 billion, compared to sults, Ooredoo Chairman nine months, contributing to a the same period last year. The Sheikh Abdulla bin Moham- 43 percent increase in EBIT- sustained growth is testament med bin Saud al Thani said, DA during the same period. to the refreshed commercial “We are seeing very good pro- Ooredoo Tunisia reaf- strategy designed to attract gress with the execution of our firmed its position as the longer term, higher value cus- digital strategy, positioning number one telecom player tomers and reduce churn. Ooredoo Group as the leading by customer market share and Customer numbers in- operator for innovative digital increased revenues by 10 per- creased again sequentially solutions across our ten mar- cent in local currency terms. by 2 million. EBITDA for the kets of operations. nine-month period grew faster “At the same time, we con- than revenue to reach QR 2.1 tinued to leverage group syn- Strong results billion, up 37 percent com- ergies and digitisation to op- pared to 9M 2018,and leading timise our cost base to deliver ● Ooredoo Oman’s to an improved EBITDA mar- value in a fast evolving tel- customer base increased 2 gin of 44 percent at 9M 2019, ecommunications landscape. percent to 3 million during compared to 36 percent for the “Growth was achieved the nine-month period same period last year. despite challenges from in- Ooredoo Chairman Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Saud al Thani Ooredoo Group CEO Sheikh Saud bin Nasser al Thani Margin improvement was dustry wide shifts away from ● Ooredoo Qatar leveraged driven by various cost optimi- voice and SMS services, which its sporting heritage and took place in Doha. impact. 9M 2019 revenue de- weak consumer sentiment, sation initiatives. means that our strategy is network excellence during The Ooredoo network pro- creased to QR2 billion, com- compounded by intense price working and showing positive the period to provide smart vided connectivity, speed and pared to QR2.2 billion for the competition from other opera- Ooredoo Myanmar results.” stadium support for the reliable voice calling for thou- Our focus on efficiency and same period last year, mainly tors in the market. Currency Ooredoo Myanmar con- He added, “We remain IAAF World Athletics sands of visitors, athletes, me- digitisation continues to due to a reduction of handset depreciation was 3 percent tinued to leverage its exper- focused on the future with an Championships that took dia and support staff during deliver positive results as sales. year on year. tise in digitisation to simul- emphasis on transforming our place in Doha the event. Ooredoo Kuwait’s custom- Ooredoo Algeria reported taneously grow its customer business to meet the digital In addition, the company we harness group wide er base increased to 2.6 million revenues of QR1.9 billion at base and further drive op- needs of our customers and extended its partnership with synergies to deliver award for the nine-month period, up 9M 2019, compared to QR2.1 erational efficiency. Ooredoo support the adoption of new The Group’s customer Qatari Diar Real Estate Invest- winning products and by 13 percent compared to 9M billion for the same period last Myanmar increased its cus- technologies. base reached 116 million, up ment Company to provide a services for our customers 2018, driven by a good uptake year. EBITDA was QR663 mil- tomer base by 6 percent to “In our home market in by one million over Q2 2019, full smart city network for the of our data and voice packages lion at 9M 2019 compared to reach 10 million customers at Qatar, we continued our 5G mainly driven by new custom- in-development Lusail City. Ooredoo Chairman Sheikh and promotions. QR801 million for the same 9M 2019, driven by the com- roll out, which will power the ers in Indonesia and Iraq. Innovation helped to en- Abdulla bin Mohammed bin During the period Oore- period last year. pany’s strategy to expand its IoT (Internet of Things) ser- hance the customer experi- Saud al Thani doo Kuwait launched 5G plans Ooredoo Algeria’s custom- digital distribution network. vices that we launched dur- Ooredoo Qatar ence in the home entertain- with handset bundles, utilis- er base stood at 13.4 million at Simultaneously, the com- ing the quarter. Our leading Ooredoo Qatar continued ment and retail fields. The ing its 5G network to deliver 9M 2019. pany increased its Ooredoo network infrastructure con- to focus upon operational effi- launch of the new Ooredoo 56 percent, up from 54 percent the highest level of connectiv- App monthly active users tinues to receive international ciency and innovation through ONE ‘All-In-One’ Home Ser- at 9M 2018. ity for its customers in Kuwait. Ooredoo Tunisia to 1.3 million, while its VIP acclaim, with Ooredoo Qatar the first nine months (9M) of vice supported the expansion Ooredoo Oman’s customer Ooredoo Tunisia continues digital loyalty programme winning four awards from 2019. Revenue stood at QR5.4 of the customer base for triple base increased 2 percent to 3 Asiacell - Iraq to perform well despite oper- reached 1.6 million users. Ookla for the best and fastest billion (9M 2018: QR5.8 bil- play (entertainment, broad- million during the nine-month Asiacell reported stable ating in a challenging market EBITDA increased by 30 mobile network, best mobile lion) impacted by lower hand- band and landline) services period as compared to 2.9 mil- revenues of QR3.3 billion for environment. 9M 2019 EBIT- percent to QR226 million at coverage and fastest ISP.” set sales. during the period. lion in the same period last the nine-month period, and a DA increased 10 percent to 9M 2019, with growth sup- Ooredoo Group CEO EBITDA reached QR3 bil- In addition, Ooredoo Qa- year. The increase was driven growing customer base, up 6 QR523 million, contributing ported by a positive IFRS16 Sheikh Saud bin Nasser al lion, an increase of 2 percent tar premiered a world first by Ooredoo’s roll out of its percent to 14 million custom- to an EBITDA margin of 48 impact. Consequently, EBIT- Thani said, “Our focus on effi- year-on-year, enabled by an with the launch of ‘Virtual Maktabi+ packages, and Oore- ers at 9M 2019. percent (2018: 41 percent). DA margin improved to 28 ciency and digitisation contin- increasing focus on digitisa- Store,’ an online 360-degree doo Oman’s market leading While EBITDA margin was Growth was supported by percent during the nine- ues to deliver positive results tion and a range of cost opti- retail experience that enabled customer experience, as evi- strong at 45 percent, EBITDA the ongoing implementation month period (2018: 17 per- as we harness group wide syn- misation measures, including visitors to browse and buy de- denced by the “Best Customer was down 8 percent to QR1.5 of Ooredoo Tunisia’s efficiency cent). ergies to deliver award win- renegotiating major content vices and products in a virtual Experience” award won in billion at 9M 2019, due to an program and digitisation. Revenues during the pe- ning products and services for deals. EBITDA margin sus- environment. the Telecom category during increase in costs related to im- In local currency terms, riod remained under pres- our customers. tained its positive trend, ris- Customer Experience Week – provement in network quality, revenue increased 10 percent sure due to aggressive price “The results for the first ing to 56 percent (9M 2018: 51 Ooredoo Oman Middle East. network expansion, and en- during 9M 2019 compared competition in the market, nine months of 2019 reflect percent). In Oman business was hanced sales and marketing to the same period last year, following the entrance of the these initiatives with the im- Customer numbers stood driven by a strong perfor- Ooredoo Kuwait activities associated with the supported by a strong perfor- fourth operator. Revenue provement of our nine months at 3.2 million mance in the fixed line seg- Ooredoo Kuwait’s EBITDA increase in customer base and mance in data and fixed reve- for the first nine months of EBITDA margin to 44 percent Ooredoo Qatar leveraged ment, which helped to deliver margin improved to 31 per- data traffic. nues as well as increasing con- 2019 was QR807 million compared to 41 percent for the its sporting heritage and net- stable revenues of QR2 billion cent at 9M 2019, up from 20 tributions from digital service compared to QR1.0 billion same period last year, support- work excellence during the pe- for the nine-month period of percent for the same period Ooredoo Algeria revenues. for the same period last year, ed by a good EBITDA growth riod to provide smart stadium 2019. EBITDA increased 3 last year, supported by fewer Market conditions in Al- However, in Qatari riyals negatively impacted by an 8 of 4 percent to QR9.7 billion support for the IAAF World percent to QR1.1 billion, and handset sales, better market geria remain challenging due revenues decreased 5 percent percent depreciation of the for the first nine months of the Athletics Championships that EBITDA margin was strong at pricing and a positive IFRS 16 to economic instability and to QR1.1 billion due to the 15 Myanmar kyat. QFB Q3 net profit hits QR1.54 mn Barwa Real Estate posts net Tribune news network ity in line with the bank’s strat- Doha egy for monetising its private profit of QR804 mn in 9 months equity portfolio and reinvesting Qatar First Bank (QFB) has in more secure assets across reported a net profit of QR1.54 politically stable jurisdictions. Total assets rise by QR1.1 bn to QR31.5 billion million for the third quarter QFB was able to generate net ended September 30, 2019, proceeds of $22 million from Tribune news network The equity attributable to compared with a net loss of the disposal. Doha the shareholders of the parent QR71.6 million in the same peri- QFB’s Deputy CEO Ayman amounted to QR19.2 billion. od of 2018, the bank announced Zaidan, said, “QFB had owned Barwa Real Estate Group The group maintained a cash in statement on Tuesday. this asset for more than 10 has reported a net profit of balance of QR1.4 billion. QFB Chairman Sheikh years. As part of our commit- QR804 million and earnings Despite the challenges Faisal bin Thani al Thani com- ment to the shareholders, we per share of QR0.21 in the first Key projects currently facing the real estate mented, “We witness another have been exploring liquidity nine months of 2019, reflect- market, Barwa Real Estate profitable quarter after generat- options for all the bank’s invest- ing a decline compared to the Developmental works are still Group is working to strength- ing a net profit in first quarter ments.” same period of the previous on-going in some of Barwa en its operating revenues of 2019 and the outlook is op- He added, “I am optimistic year, the company announced projects including Dara (A) through enriching its opera- timistic. It is evident that QFB with the outcome of this exit as in a statement on Tuesday. project; Phase two of Al Khor tional real estate portfolio with is harnessing the opportunities it demonstrates that our new Barwa said the decline Recreation Facilities project; a number of new projects. created thorough revised strate- strategy is achievable. I look was a result of a decrease in phase three of Madinat Leasing activities have al- gy where our key priority is sus- Qatar First Bank headquarters building. forward towards future col- the revenues from items that Mawater project; phase three ready commenced in a num- tainable organic growth of the laboration with Toppan on new non-recurring in nature such of Barwa Al Baraha, and ber of Barwa’s recent devel- bank’s customer base of HN- mainly derived through struc- month period like the exit of its projects”. as the sale of properties, gain second phase of Umm opments such as Mukaynis WIs, institutional investors and tured products and investments investments in English Home, Newly appointed board of on debt restructure in addi- Shahrain Warehouses project Compound - Affordable Hous- government related entities. and a reduction of 18 percent in Kuwait Energy and, subse- directors has embarked in a tion to the adoption of Inter- ing Project and Al Baraha “We have finalised few vi- returns to unrestricted invest- quently Future Industries Hold- promising journey on bank’s national Financial Reporting Workshops & Wahrehouses. able options to further fuel our ment account holders (the cost ing. transformational shift align Standard 16. QR1.62 billion including re- Developmental works are growth through acquiring sev- of funding) due to the better The bank is in the final stage with its revised strategy in shift- However, the net profit for curring revenue amounting still on-going in some of Bar- eral yielding real estate proper- management of its loan to de- of completing its exit from its ing its revenue streams on a the three months (Q3) ended to QR1.15 billion, which ex- wa projects including Dara (A) ties in US while structuring sev- posit ratio as compared with the investments in Food Services more prudent measure of fee- September 30, 2019, reached ceeded 70 percent of the total project; Phase two of Al Khor eral capital protected structured same period of 2018. Company. based revenue. As an endorse- QR294 million, an increase revenues. Recreation Facilities pro- products.” QFC stated it is continu- In October 2019, QFB an- ment, QFB has already begun of 5 percent compared to the Total assets amounted to ject; phase three of Madinat The bank reported an in- ing its strategy on liquidating nounced the successful exit of generating fee income by offer- same period of the previous QR31.5 billion, showing an Mawater project; phase three crease of 39 percent and 19 its proprietary investments; its 71.3 percent stake in the Fu- ing client-focused investment year. increase of QR1.1 billion com- of Barwa Al Baraha, and sec- percent in both fee income and significant progress has ture Industries Holding. QFB’s products, primarily in real es- The Group successfully pared to the total assets as at ond phase of Umm Shahrain and other income respectively been made during current nine stake was sold to Toppan Grav- tate and aviation. generated a total income of December 31, 2018. Warehouses project. Economy & Business Wednesday, October 30, 2019 11 Qatar’s PPI rises 0.5% in September

QNA es were noticed in ‘cement Doha and other non-metallic prod- ucts’ by 0.4 percent, ‘grain Qatar’s industrial sector mill and other products’ by producer price index (PPI) 0.1 percent. No changes were has reached 61.4 points in noticed in ‘juices’, ‘dairy September 2019, an increase products’, ‘beverages’ and by 0.5 percent compared to ‘other chemical products and August 2019, and decreased fibers’. by 17.7 percent compared to On year-on-year basis, PPI of September 2018, data the manufacturing PPI of released by Planning and September 2019 showed a Officials of Qatar Chamber with members of a French delegation in Doha on Tuesday. Statistics Authority (PSA) decrease of 6.9 percent. The showed on Tuesday. major groups which explain PPI covers goods relating this price fall are ‘refined to ‘mining’ with weightage petroleum products’ by 19.9 of 72.7 percent, manufactur- percent, ‘basic chemicals’ by Qatar- France trade increases ing with weightage of 26.8 14.1 percent, ‘basic metals’ percent, and ‘electricity and by 10.1 percent, and ‘cement water’ with weightage of 0.5 and other non-metallic prod- percent. ucts’ by 3.4 percent. 40% to $1.7 billion in 2018: QC The PPI of September However, prices in- 2019 for the mining sec- creased in ‘rubber and plas- Satyendra Pathak tor increased by 1.1 percent tics products’ by 4.3 percent, Doha compared with PPI of August followed by ‘other chemical 2019, primarily due to the products and fibers’ by 3.8 The bilateral trade between increase of ‘crude petroleum percent, ‘juices’ by 2.2 per- Qatar and France grew more and natural gas’ prices by 1.1 cent, ‘dairy products’ and than 40 percent to $1.7 billion percent. ‘paper and paper products’ in 2018 from $1.2 billion in the On year-on-year ba- by 1.6 percent each, ‘beverag- previous year, Qatar Chamber sis, the PPI of September es’ by 0.7 percent and ‘grain Board Member Adel Abdul 2019 shows a decrease of 18 mill and other products’ by Rahman al Mannai said on percent. 0.4 percent. Tuesday. A decrease of 0.4 percent The September PPI of the Speaking at a meeting be- has been recorded in Sep- electricity and water group tween officials of Qatar Cham- tember, when compared with showed a decrease of 1.5 ber and members of a French the previous month’s manu- percent compared to August delegation in Doha, Mannai facturing index in August. 2019, resulting from the de- said that trade relations be- The drop in prices are crease in ‘water’ prices by 3.9 tween Qatar and France have seen in ‘rubber and plastics percent and increase in ‘elec- reached new heights in the products’ by 2.5 percent, fol- tricity’ prices by 0.8 percent. past few years. lowed ‘basic metals’ by 2.4 On year-on-year basis, According to data provided percent, ‘paper and paper the group showed a decrease by Qatar Chamber, Qatar’s products’ by 0.5 percent , of 6.6 percent in September exports to France more than ‘basic chemicals’ by 0.4 per- 2019, affected by fall in ‘wa- doubled from $327.1 million in cent, and ‘refined petroleum ter’ prices by 13.4 percent 2017 to $771.5 million in 2018, products’ by 0.1 percent. and rise in ‘electricity’ prices while Qatar’s imports from However, the rise in pric- by .07 percent. France increased to $972.2 Qatari and French business officials during a meerting in Doha on Tuesday. million in 2018 from $928.7 million in the previous year. services, transport, commu- sides, he said the upcom- ciation (Qardan) was headed He said the association Major Qatari imports from nications and sports, Mannai ing 2022 Fifa World Cup has by its president Alexander Zi- includes 53 members from France during 2018 included said, many French companies opened doors for firms of both baunt. leading French companies and tubes, pipes, padlocks, medi- have also invested in the Qa- countries to cooperate in inno- Speaking on the occa- Qatari companies operating in cal furniture, fruits, vegeta- tari market. vative projects. sion, Zibaunt said the visit of France, stressing that it repre- bles, generators, and electric “Over 200 French com- French companies have French delegation aimed at sents a platform for dialogue machinery and others. Qatari panies are working in Qatar the expertise and experience identifying opportunities for and a link between Qatari and exports to France in 2018 in- either with full ownership or of organising this internation- cooperation with the Qatari French companies and busi- cluded polyethylene, cyclic with Qatari partners on key al tournament, he said adding side. nessmen. hydrocarbons, hydrogen rare projects in oil and gas, elec- that Qatar Chamber supports Founded in 2015 in The meeting was also at- gases, polymers, petroleum tricity and water, transport, companies from both coun- France, he said, Qardan has tended by Qatar Chamber oils, and others. urban development, and other tries to forge trade and eco- many founding members Board Member Khalid bin Kle- While there are several fields,” he said. nomic alliances. from Qatar like Qatar Na- feekh al Hajri, First Secretary On year-on-year basis, the PPI of September 2019 shows a de- Qatari investments in various Highlighting the wide The French trade delega- tional Bank, Qatar Embassy in of Qatar’s Embassy to France crease of 18 percent. sectors of France such as ener- range of opportunities for co- tion under the umbrella of France, BEIN Sport and Qatar Huda al Jefairi and many busi- gy, real estate, hotels, financial operation between the two Qatari-French Business Asso- Airways. nessmen from Qatar. Commercial Bank sponsors Heya Arabian fashion exhibition

Tribune News Network The fashion exhibition commitment to providing number of first-in-market fea- Doha brought together over 250 best-in-class services for its tures, and has been designed brands from 11 countries in- valued customers, eligible to fit the needs and lifestyles of Commercial Bank, one of cluding Qatar, GCC and oth- members of Sadara Youth, a its young Qataris. the pioneering private banks ers, showcasing the latest in new proposition targeted for It provides its audience in Qatar, sponsored the 16th Arabian and modest designs, Qataris aged between 18 and with a style of banking through edition of Heya Arabian Fash- in addition to several interest- 25, received exclusive VIP in- a dedicated digital app that is ion Exhibition, which was held ing discussions related to fash- vitations to attend the opening educational and fun to use at under the patronage of Her ion and today’s trends. ceremony of the exhibition. the same time. Excellency Sheikha al Mayas- During the opening cer- Commercial Bank EGM Customers who wish to sa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al emony which took place on Retail Banking Head Amit join Sadara Youth programme Thani. Friday at DECC, VIP seats Sah said, “Our sponsorship are invited to visit the bank’s The five-day exhibition were reserved for Commercial of such a prime exhibition booth at the Mall of Qa- held at Doha Exhibition and Bank’s private banking and directly relates to the bank’s tar and Doha Festival City, Convention Centre ended on Sadara customers. commitment in supporting dividuals. The Heya VIP day many exclusive invitations our expected to enjoy.” available from October 31 to October 29. In line with the bank’s local events and talented in- coincides to be the first of the Sadara Youth customers are Sadara Youth offers a November 2. Tunisian coach Ahmed El Abyad takes charge at Umm Salal page 14

WEDNESday, OCTOBER 30, 2019

‘Sodeifi’ gets a warm welcome at Al Bidda Tower Arabian Gulf Cup mascot on promotional tour in Qatar

The Schedule

Tribune News Network Nov 24: Qatar vs Yemen Doha and Iraq vs Oman

With less than a month to go Nov 27: Yemen vs Kuwait for the 24th Arabian Gulf foot- and Oman vs Qatar ball tournament, the mascot ‘Sodeifi’, as part of the promo- Nov 30: Kuwait vs Iraq tional tour, was welcomed at Sodeifi (an oyster holding a pearl), also the Arabic word for ‘shell’ which features the colours of the Qatari flag and pays homage to the country’s seafaring and pearl diving past, at and Oman vs Yemen the Qatar Football Asoocia- the Qatar Football Association headquarters at Al Bidda Tower on Tuesday. Dec 3: Kuwait vs Oman, tion’s headquarters at Al Bid- da on Tuesday. pays homage to the country’s ment, the symbol of supremacy the 24th Arabian Gulf football and Yemen besides hosts Qa- Qatar will play Yemen on Qatar vs Iraq Sodeifi (an oyster holding seafaring and pearl diving past in the region as far as football tournament will walk away tar will compete in a round- the opening day of the tourna- Dec 6: Yemen vs Iraq a pearl), also the Arabic word is being welcomed all around is concerned, will be played in with a whopping $2mn. robin format, with the side fin- ment. All matches would be for ‘shell’ which features the ahead of the big event. Doha from November 24 to Kuwait, who have won the ishing top of the table claiming played at the Khalifa Interna- and Qatar vs Kuwait colours of the Qatari flag and The prestigious tourna- December 6. The winners of event 10 times, Iraq, Oman the coveted trophy. tional Stadium.

Qatar athletes continue to excel at GCC Women’s Games

Qatar’s Rania al Naji, who won the hammer throw gold at the 6th GCC Women’s Games 2019 in Kuwait, in action during the event on Tuesday.

Christophe Gaussin, Chairman & CEO of GAUSSIN Group (left) with PSG ambassador Pedro Miguel Pauleta at the Qatar IT Conference and Exhibition (QITCOM 2019) in Doha on Tuesday. PSG team up with France’s engineering group GAUSSIN The Qatar 4x400m relay team which won a silver medal. ment one of its landmarks, Tie-up for innovative GAUSSIN, who are known thereby embodying the as- next-generation leaders in the mobility of pirations of the next genera- tion. Our collaboration with mobility solutions goods and people, will GAUSSIN will enable us to produce driverless,100% strengthen this commitment.” IKOLI VICTOR electric vehicles for PSG. One of the legends of the Doha capital club, Pedro Miguel Pauleta attended the ceremo- The Qatar-owned French ment. Our strategic alliance ny in his role as ambassador of professional football club Paris with Paris Saint-Germain, the club. Saint-Germain (PSG) signed a one of the most popular and Under the terms of the strategic partnership with en- innovative football clubs in agreement, the GAUSSIN gineering company GAUSSIN the world will enable us to Group will initially conduct at the Qatar IT Conference and promote our cutting-edge so- studies before deploying auto- Exhibition (QITCOM 2019) in lutions to the general public mated electric people carriers Doha on Tuesday. worldwide.” to transport players, employ- The new pact means Jean-Claude Blanc, Dep- ees, visitors and goods includ- GAUSSIN, who are known Training Centre in France vative solutions in the field of uty CEO of the Paris Saint- ing food, training and main- leaders in the mobility of which will open its doors in sustainable development and Germain, added: “We are very tenance equipment at all the goods and people, will pro- 2022. The GAUSSIN Group, self-driving. pleased to welcome GAUSSIN Paris Saint-Germain locations. duce driverless,100% electric one of the world’s leading Christophe Gaussin, Chair- into the Paris Saint-Germain As part of the partnership, vehicles for PSG. transport and services provid- man and CEO of GAUSSIN family. Alongside the club’s the GAUSSIN Group will work Qatar’s para athlete Mona al Qatar’s Kenza Sosse on way This long-term agreement ers and Paris Saint-Germain, Group, said, “The GAUSSIN training centre project, sched- with the teams at the future Saadi, who won gold medal in to winning silver medal in the involves equipping the Paris- the leading football club of Group has developed unique uled to open in 2022, Paris PSG Training Center with the discus competition category heptathlon event in Kuwait City ian club’s entire infrastruc- the new generation, boast the expertise in terms of urbanisa- Saint-Germain also aims to the aim of making it the first 20 at the GCC Women’s Games. on Tuesday. ture, including the future PSG shared ambition to offer inno- tion, transport, and environ- make sustainable develop- Smart City sports complex. Sports Wednesday, October 30, 2019 13 Qatar Sustainability Summit honours Qatar Football Association, QSL

Hani Taleb Ballan, Board Member of the QFA and CEO of QSL, receiv- ing the honorary shield from Dr. Yousef bin Mohammed al Hor, Chair- man of the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development (GORD).

Tribune News Network experts and those interested in Doha sustainability of the environ- ment, namely international The Qatar Sustainability Sum- agencies, research institutions, mit honoured Qatar Football government agencies and Association (QFA) and Qatar other organisations associated Stars League (QSL) for their with climate change and envi- roles in promoting activities ronmental conservation in Qa- which combat climate change tar, the region and worldwide. and for encouraging green as The summit reviewed the National Vision 2030. man of the Gulf Organisation great importance in the Qa- with GORD to build sustaina- tional and regional perspective well as sustainable initiatives. significant development that Hani Taleb Ballan, Board for Research and Develop- tar National Vision, and Dr. bility in the sport,” said Ballan. related to climate change chal- The summit was held on Qatar has witnessed in the Member of the QFA and CEO ment (GORD). Yousef. “We believe in the im- The summit featured panel lenges and solutions for a low- October 27th and 28th at the areas of sustainability and of QSL, received the honorary On his part, Hani thanked portance of sustainability and discussions on various sustain- carbon future, and networking St Regis Hotel with the partici- environmental protection, in shield from Dr. Yousef bin all sponsors of the Qatar Sus- its role. At QSL, we’ll have fu- ability and green building is- opportunities for professionals pation of a number of officials, line with the pillars of Qatar Mohammed al Hor, Chair- tainability Summit, which has ture initiatives in collaboration sues, and provided an interna- and decision-makers.

Bangladesh cricket suffers a blow ahead of India tour ICC bans Shakib for two years for graft AFP Dhaka Hasan vows Kiki Bertens of Netherlands hits a return against Ashleigh Barty of Australia during their women’s singles match at the WTA Finals Bangladesh captain and to come back in Shenzhen, China, on Tuesday. (AFP) star all-rounder Shakib al Hasan was banned Tuesday from all cricket for two years, stronger with one year suspended, the Kiki Bertens stuns International Cricket Council AFP (ICC) said. Dhaka The ban came after Shak- World No. 1 Barty ib “accepted three charges of Suspended Bangladesh all- breaching the ICC Anti-Corrup- rounder Shakib al Hasan on AFP an injured Naomi Osaka – won tion Code”, the sport’s govern- Tuesday pleaded for support Shenzhen (China) 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 in two hours and ing body said in a statement. from the cricketing fraternity nine minutes in a see-saw match These included failing to and expressed his determina- Late entry Kiki Bertens on featuring 12 breaks of serve. disclose to the ICC’s Anti-Cor- tion to return after he com- Tuesday stunned world num- Osaka, the world number ruption Unit full details of ap- pletes his ban. ber one Ashleigh Barty with a three, withdrew from the round- proaches or invitations made “Those who have support- comeback three-set victory to robin tournament earlier in the in relation to the Bangladesh, ed me over the years I hope shake-up the season-ending day due to a shoulder injury. Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe Tri- they, the fans, Bangladesh WTA Finals in Shenzhen. “Of course you’re always Series in January 2018 as well Bangladesh national cricket team captain Shakib al Hasan (centre) speaks with media as Bangladesh Cricket Board, the govern- All four players in the Red ready to play, but I did not see as the 2018 Indian Premier Cricket Board (BCB) president Nazmul Hassan Papon (left) stands next to him at the Sher-e-Bangla ment, the journalists will con- Group can still qualify for the it coming today,” Bertens said League (IPL), it said. National Stadium in Dhaka on Tuesday. (AFP) tinue to support me in my bad semi-finals, after Belinda Ben- of her late call-up. The 32-year-old’s ban came and good time,” Shakib told cic’s three-set victory over Pe- “In the beginning, I was as a blow to Bangladesh’s prep- became the fastest and only the expected to name the teams He is possibly Bangladesh’s reporters in Dhaka hours after tra Kvitova in the later match. struggling. As the match con- arations for next month’s tour fifth cricketer to reach 5,000 for the India Tests and T20s most loved cricketer and only the ban was announced. Bertens looked in deep tinued, I felt better and better.” of India where the all-rounder runs and 250 wickets in ODIs. on Wednesday. But Bangla- last week successfully led a “If you continue your sup- trouble at a set and a break In the later match, Bencic was set to lead the team for a Shakib will be free to re- deshi Prime Minister Sheikh brief strike by Bangladesh’s port, I am hopeful I will come down, but turned the tide with fought back from a second set two-Test series and three T20 sume international cricket Oc- Hasina said that the country’s professional cricketers to press back to cricket soon. I will be ruthless returning and aggres- spiral to beat Kvitova 6-3, 1-6, international matches. tober 29, 2020 subject to him cricket board “will always be for better pay and benefits. But stronger and will perform my sive play at the net to over- 6-4 in one hour and 47 minutes. Shakib, who has played satisfying the conditions in re- with Shakib and will help him this is not the first time the left responsibilities with more sin- whelm a deflated Barty, who It kept her tournament 56 Test, 206 ODIs and 76 spect of the suspended part of in every way.” arm orthodox spinner and left cerity,” he said. could have sealed a spot in the hopes alive after she had lost her Twenty20 internationals, is by the sanction, the ICC said. She said that while match- handed batsman has faced dis- Shakib will be free to re- semis with a win. opening match to Barty. “I was far Bangladesh’s best known “I am obviously extremely fixers often contact players, ciplinary actions. sume international cricket from Bertens – the world No.10 proud that I was able to block player, having topped the ICC sad to have been banned from Sbakib’s “mistake is that when In 2014, Shakib was sus- October 29, 2020 subject to his who was a late replacement for away her big shots,” Bencic said. all-rounder rankings in all the game I love, but I com- he was contacted he didn’t pended by the BCB from all satisfying the conditions in re- three formats several times pletely accept my sanction for give it too much importance. cricket for six months follow- spect to the suspended part of since 2009. not reporting the approaches,” He didn’t inform... the ICC.” ing “serious misbehaviour” the sanction, the ICC said. He starred for the team Shakib was quoted as saying in Having grown up in a rural with Bangladesh’s coach The ban effectively ruled during the recent World Cup in the ICC statement. town west of the capital Dha- Chandika Hathurusingha, out Shakib from next year’s ‘Devastated’ Xhaka should England, where he scored over There was no immediate ka, Shakib burst into the inter- and for his altercation with a ICC World Twenty20, which 600 runs and picked 11 wickets. comment from the country’s national scene after excelling spectator during a ODI against will be held from October 8 to apologise, says Emery In the World Cup, he also cricket authorities who were in age-level cricket. India in Dhaka. November 15 in Australia. BCB praised Shakib for his AFP cooperation with the ICC in- London vestigators and promised its Eden to host full support for him. Granit Xhaka has been left “While the BCB is shocked “devastated” by the confron- India’s first Mahmudullah, Mominul and extremely disappointed tation with Arsenal support- day-night Test that an experienced player like ers on Sunday but still should Shakib had failed to report a apologise said Gunners man- Kolkata: India will stage its named T20, Test captains corrupt approach on three oc- ager Unai Emery on Tuesday. first ever day-night Test inK ol- casions, at the same time we Emery, though, would kata next month against Bang- AFP SQUADS are pleased that he has cooper- not be drawn on whether the ladesh in what the new head Dhaka ated fully with the ICC ACU and 27-year-old Swiss internation- of Indian cricket said would be Twenty20: Mahmudullah Riyad (capt), Liton Test: Mominul Haque (capt), Shadman Islam, has pledged his commitment to al midfielder will remain the Arsenal coach Unai Emery. a major boost to the five-day Bangladesh named Mah- Das, Soumya Sarkar, Naim Sheikh, Mushfiqur Imrul Kayes, Saif Hasan, Liton Das, Mushfiqur its education programme,” BCB captain following his tantrum game. The second Test against Rahim, Mohammad Mithun, Afif Hossain, Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad, Mohammad mudullah Riyad and Mominul Mosaddek Hossain, Aminul Islam, Arafat Sunny, Mithun, Mosaddek Hossain, Mehedi Hasan, Taijul president Nazmul Hassan said. on being substituted in the 2-2 “Yes (he should apolo- Bangladesh from November 22 Haque as their Twenty20 and Taijul Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Shafiul Islam, Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman, Al “We hope he will come draw with Crystal Palace. gise),” said Emery, speaking will be played under floodlights Test captains on Tuesday for Abu Hider, al Amin Hossain. Amin Hossain, Abu Jayed, Ebadat Hossain. back as a better and wiser Xhaka – who was voted on the eve of the Gunners at Eden Gardens, the Board next month’s India tour, replac- cricketer and serve Bangla- in as captain by secret ballot fourth round League Cup of Control for Cricket in India ing suspended Shakib al Hasan. Shakib’s place while pacer Abu on November 3. desh for many more years of his team-mates in the close clash with Liverpool. (BCCI) announced on Tuesday. The Bangladesh Cricket Hider and middle-order bats- The remaining two match- when his sanction will be over. season – has enjoyed a frac- “We make mistakes, we Media reports said both teams Board was forced to make the man Mohammad Mithun re- es will be played on Novem- BCB will continue to sup- tious relationship with the need to apologise and we sug- had to be convinced to take change after the International placed Mohammad Saifuddin ber 7 in Rajkot and in Nagpur port his efforts at returning to Arsenal supporters since he gested for him to do that. part. Sourav Ganguly, who took Cricket Council handed regu- and Tamim Iqbal respectively. three days later. cricket,” he said. joined in 2016. “Really, he knows he was over as BCCI chief last week, lar Test and Twenty20 skipper Saifuddin was earlier ruled Opening batsman Saif Shakib, who has played 56 It reached its nadir on Sun- wrong and he feels inside said, “For me, as former captain Shakib a two-year ban ear- out of the series with a back in- Hasan received his maiden Tests, 206 ODIs and 76 Twen- day when they booed him as he very deep. Now we are look- of India and as president of lier in the day for his failure jury while Tamim opted out to call-up in the Test squad while ty20Is, is by far Bangladesh’s walked off with him cupping ing, seeing he is devastated BCCI, Test is of utmost priority to report multiple corrupt ap- be with his pregnant wife. the Bangladesh selectors also best known player, having his hand to his ear and then and the first thing is to recov- and we will leave no stone un- proaches in 2018. Bangladesh will play the recalled batsman Imrul Kayes topped the ICC all-rounder apparently mouthing ‘Fxxx off’ er him. We need our family, turned to bring this format back In the white-ball squad left- first of their three-match and pacer Al Amin Hossain for rankings in all three formats in their direction before storm- friends and supporters to sup- to its feet.” (AFP) arm spinner Taijul Islam takes Twenty20 series in New Delhi the two Test series. several times since 2009. ing down the tunnel. port us, love us.” 14 Wednesday, October 30, 2019 Sports Aspire Academy to host 4th ‘ASIA’ Congress in November

Tribune News Network programmes. “ASIA was founded in “High-performing sports tures speakers from Aspire Doha “As Asia continues to 2015 with the vision to build institutes are aware of that Academy, the event hosts. make history in the sporting a vibrant and active commu- and they adapt their way of Furthermore, there is The Aspire Academy will arena, it is timely that we nity of sports institutes by working and their organiza- going to be a very interest- host the 4th Association of encourage discussions and combining forces between its tional culture to the needs of ing panel discussion on the Sports Institutes in Asia sharing around the develop- member organizations. What their top-athletes. I am hop- topic “Transitioning athletes (ASIA) Congress (from No- ment of a high performance lies at the centre of ASIA’s ing for a similar spirit during from Youth to Senior” on vember 5 to 7) that will bring environment for aspiring endeavours? I think it has to this Congress,” says Markus Monday featuring two suc- together the leading inter- athletes and the program of be the support of our athletes Egger, Director of Sport and cessful graduates of Aspire national and regional sports this congress should stimu- in their quest to reach the Strategy at Aspire Academy. Academy, Squash player performance practitioners to late new ideas as well as top of their potential. Some The programme of the and World No. 46 Abdulla al share insights and spark dis- time to reflect on pertinent of our athletes are competing Congress includes panel Tamimi as well as track-and- cussions on considerations issues such as transition- with the world’s best in their and group discussions that field athlete and 2019 Asian in Youth Athlete Develop- ing athletes from youth to fields. For elite-athletes, are going to take place on Games 800m champion ment, developing high per- senior level,” said Ali Salem the journey to the top is ex- November 5 and 6. Besides Abubaker Haydar and also to formance environments and Afifa, Chairman of the 4th tremely challenging and it international speakers from include Qatar Football Na- the implementation of sports ASIA Congress and Deputy demands a lot, including re- the US, United Kingdom, tional Coach Felix Sanchez technology, research and in- Director General of Aspire lentless focus, commitment Ireland, New Zealand and and squash coach and former novation into performance Academy. and incredibly hard work. Australia, the event also fea- World No. 1 Geoff Hunt.

Goetze could play for Dortmund Bale’s Real future: Zidane says despite broken arm, Alcacer out DPA he gets to play when available Dusseldorf Mario Goetze could play for ple will always speak about Borussia Dortmund in the Ger- The player hasn’t these things but he’s here and man Cup on Wednesday despite everyone is happy he’s here.” being diagnosed with a broken played since Zidane claimed he has a bone in his arm. “good relationship” with Bale The Bundesliga club said injuring his calf but sources have told AFP the Tuesday that medical staff con- during a game for forward remains on bad terms firmed “a hairline fracture in his with the Frenchman. forearm and a ligament strain Wales on Oct 13 Bale was particularly un- in his wrist,” from an injury sus- impressed by his omission tained during Saturday’s goal- Borussia Dortmund’s German AFP from Madrid’s squad to face less draw at local rivals Schalke. midfielder Mario Goetze Madrid Club Brugge in the Champions However, 2014 World Cup League earlier this month. winner Goetze “may none- handful of players for the tie Zinedine Zidane insists Ga- After the match, Zidane theless be able to make an including defender Matthi- reth Bale was given permission put his absence down to a fit- appearance” against Borus- as Ginter, midfielder Breel by Real Madrid to travel to Lon- ness issue but those close to sia Moenchengladbach in the Embolo. don on Monday, and claims the Bale insist he was fully fit. German Cup second round, “We lost 1-0 but we didn’t Welshman never talks about “I spoke to him and I spoke Dortmund said. play badly,” coach Marco Rose leaving the club. to James (Rodriguez). Both of Forward Paco Alcacer and said of their October 19 defeat Bale has not played since them weren’t available to play full back Marcel Schmelzer in Dortmund. injuring his calf during a game against Brugge and they didn’t remain out but coach Lucien “In the match tomorrow we for Wales on October 13 and his play,” said Zidane. Favre said goalkeeper Roman need to believe that we can win trip to England has prompted “There’s nothing else to Buerki “is feeling better,” afer right up until the final whistle.” speculation he will seek an exit say about that.” flu, “but we still have to wait on Favre, a former Gladbach from Madrid in January. Bale will miss Madrid’s La his progress.” boss, is coming under pres- But Zidane insists Bale had Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane and forward Gareth Bale. Liga game at home to Leganes Dortmund have been in- sure with Dortmund fifth. The permission to be absent on on Wednesday, along with Na- consistent this season but did Swiss, however, said he “does Monday and Tuesday morning “But I don’t think he ever greement over the transfer fee everyone. cho, who has a knee problem, defeat Bundesliga leaders 1-0 in not have much time” to worry and that he is not aware the speaks about leaving. When he and Zidane is not expecting “It’s true what was said and Marco Asensio, who is re- their last home game. about his job security and was 30-year-old wants to be sold. is available he plays, that’s all any fresh offers in January. didn’t help but for me the re- covering from a anterior cruci- “We need to take full advan- also backed by Gladbach sport- “It was a personal issue there is to it.” “I don’t think there will be sult is the most important ate ligament injury. tage of the home environment ing director Max Eberl. and he had permission yes- Bale came close to a move an offer and I haven’t thought thing. He’s an important play- James Rodriguez is also and play with complete con- “Lucien Favre did a fantas- terday to go,” Zidane said in a to Chinese club Jiangsu Sun- about it either. Gareth is a Real er and it’s important he plays unlikely to be involved as he centration,” said sporting direc- tic job in his four-and-a-half press conference on Tuesday. ing last summer after Zidane Madrid player,” said Zidane. and he plays well. missed training on Tuesday tor Michael Zorc. years here,” he said. “It was a personal issue said it would be “best for eve- “What happened in the “If in January he says he’ll due to the birth of his child. “You can’t afford to make “He’s also done well at his and he went, that’s it, no story. ryone” if he left Real Madrid. summer was the situation at stay, there will be talk about Real Madrid are sixth in the big mistakes in knockout other clubs. I know how many He also went because he’s not But the deal fell through at the time and in the end Gareth the transfer window in the table but only two points off the matches.” qualities Lucien has, and I think available to play. the last minute due to a disa- stayed and all the better for summer. Unfortunately peo- top, with a game in hand. Gladbach are missing a Dortmund know that as well.”

Full of talent, Verstappen prepares for F1 landmark Coach Abyad takes charge at Umm Salal DPA damage was done in Saturday ply agreed: “Copy and paste.” Tunisian coach Ahmed El Austin qualifying. Germany’s Vettel remains Abyad took charge of his first Verstappen had effectively F1’s youngest world cham- training session after being Max Verstappen has one year already secured pole position pion, claiming the 2010 title appointed as coach of QNB left to become the youngest when he ignored yellow warn- aged 23 years and 134 days. Stars League side Umm Salal. world champion in Formu- ing flags on his final flying lap to But Verstappen has snatched Abyad replaces Raul Caneda la One history. A year to prove earn a three-place grid penalty. other records from him. who was fired after the club’s what he is convinced is possible. Sunday’s race then start- Verstappen was 18 years 5-0 drubbing by Qatar Sports “I can get the title,” he ed dramatically with a bump 228 days old when he took Club. The Spaniard had come insists. against the Mercedes of Lewis his maiden win in Spain, no- under immense pressure af- Celebrated as a once in a Hamilton before he sustained tably younger than Vettel’s 21 ter a poor start to the season generation talent, Verstap- a puncture on a risky pass and Michael Schumacher’s 23. by the Barzan Falcons, who pen entered the elite series of against Valtteri Bottas. Ayrton Senna even had to are languishing in 11th. motorsport aged 17 - before he “I don’t think it was in- wait until 25. Abyad on the other hand said even had a driving license. tentional what happened on Naturally Verstappen is he is not new to the team, Within a year he had his first the first lap, but he’s a magnet aware of his mixed image but is according to a statement on victory and the now 22-year-old for those kind of things,” was not in the least bothered by it. Umm Salal’s Twitter handle. Red Bull driver will enter his Red Bull driver Max Verstappen, Hamilton’s view, and he add- “Let’s say it like this: after my He has coached teams such 100th race at the United States runs to pit lane prior to the F1 ed: “with Max it is very likely career, if I would have won five as Esperance Sportive Zarzis, Grand Prix on Sunday. Mexico Grand Prix on Sunday. (AFP) you are going to come together championships but I’m maybe Etihad Ben Guerdane, as well There have been six fur- with him if you don’t give him not the most liked person, for as coaching the Saudi team ther triumphs but a poten- seemed to have matured from. the extra space.” me that doesn’t matter, because Al-Fayha FC. tial eighth was given away “Sixth obviously isn’t Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel at the end of the day it’s all about Umm Salal take on Al Ahli last weekend in Mexico by where I wanted to finish to- was sitting beside Hamilton winning,” he told the BBC in an on Friday. a relapse into behaviour he day,” he said although the when the Briton spoke and sim- interview early this month. New look Warriors bounce back, Sixers stay unbeaten AFP comfortable 17-point cushion. played with some energy and Kawhi Leonard delivered The Philadelphia 76ers re- Los Angeles Another big third quar- the result was different for us.” a 30-point performance in the main the only unbeaten team ter extended their lead to 24 With Kevin Durant joining win, with Lou Williams scoring in the Eastern Conference after Stephen Curry scored 26 points heading into the final pe- the Brooklyn Nets this year 23 from the bench. claiming their third win of the points and Draymond Green riod, and although the Pelicans and Klay Thompson injured In Houston, James Harden season on the road against the bagged a triple double as the closed the gap, the result was and likely out for the season, exploded for 40 points as the Atlanta Hawks on Monday. Golden State Warriors bounced never seriously in question. Green said he felt dutybound Rockets outgunned Oklahoma Fit-again Cameroon inter- back from successive thrashings All five starters finished in to lead the Warriors youthful City 116-112. national Joel Embiid starred to down the New Orleans Peli- double-digits for the Warriors, new-look squad. Harden added three re- for the Sixers, leading with 36 cans on Monday. with Curry leading the scorers “We’ll get better and bet- bounds and seven assists while points including two game- The reigning Western Con- and contributing 11 assists. ter as we get more experience,” point guard Russell Westbrook winning free throws with 5.3 ference champions, routed 120- Green’s triple-double in- Green said. narrowly missed out on a triple- seconds on the clock to seal a 92 by Oklahoma City on Sun- cluded 16 points, 17 rebounds “I have to be (a leader). double with 21 points, 12 re- 105-103 win. day, rediscovered their scoring and 10 assists, while new recruit The first two nights I wasn’t bounds and nine assists. In Toronto, the NBA cham- touch to claim a 134-123 win at D’Angelo Russell finished with at all. My energy was worse Harden later saluted West- pion Raptors improved to 3-1 the Smoothie King Center. 24 points, seven rebounds and than everybody’s elses. And if brook’s contribution to the for the season with a 104-95 de- After toothless displays eight assists. Damion Lee added I want us to have a successful Rockets offense. feat of the Orlando Magic. Kyle against Oklahoma City and the 23 points from the bench. year and teach these guys how “He just brings a different Lowry had 26 points and Pascal Los Angeles Clippers, the War- Afterwards Green said the Golden State Warriors Stephen Curry drives the ball around New Orleans to be successful I have to bring element to the game,” Harden Siakam 24 points as the Raptors riors rediscovered their offense Warriors had been determined Pelicans Josh Hart at Smoothie King Center in New Orleans on Monday. (AFP) that energy.” said. “His speed, his pace, his kept Orlando in check. in a high-scoring first half. to raise their game after the de- In Los Angeles, the Clippers athleticism, his playmaking. The San Antonio Spurs re- A 45-point second quarter bacles against the Thunder and about competing at an NBA didn’t compete at a level of improved to 3-1 with a comfort- “He does so much and cre- main unbeaten in the Western saw them surge into a 72-55 the Clippers. level,” Green said. an NBA game. But the guys able 111-96 defeat of the Char- ates for his teammates and it’s Conference after notching a lead at half-time, giving them a “We’ve just been talking “First couple of nights we got fired up and came out and lotte Hornets. tough to guard.” third win of the season. Wednesday, October 30, 2019 15 Reports by L N Mallick For events and press releases email [email protected] or Pakistan Prism call (974) 4000 2222 Pakistani community upbeat on launch of direct PIA flights to Lahore he Pakistani com- its passengers, the present system engines. The booking procedure munity in Qatar has of the airline should be brought at should be flexible and they should welcomed the deci- par with best standards and practic- offer competitive rates. sion taken by Pakistan es in the aviation industry, the most International Airlines important being the adherence to Arshad Hussain, Project Manager, T(PIA) to start two weekly flights to departure and arrival timings. Manateq Qatar Lahore from October 29. The direct I extend my and non-stop flights will be oper- Abdul Ahad Khan, Sales Manager, best wishes to ated on Airbus A320 every Sunday Unique Trading Co PIA for hav- and Wednesday. With the inaugu- We are very excited to see PIA ex- ing six flights ration of the new frequencies, the panding its network of flights. My to various total number of weekly flights from children don’t believe when they destinations Qatar to Pakistan becomes six, two hear success in Pakistan. each for Lahore, Islamabad and Pe- stories from It was a genu- shawar. The launching of the two us and how ine demand new flights was announced recently wonderful the of community members to restart by the national carrier’s new coun- PIA used to the direct flights to Lahore. I hope try manager Mohammad Raza. He be in the ‘70s more flights will be added to other said the PIA’s new leadership is and ‘80s. I destinations. It is time for the com- taking every step to provide excel- am optimistic munity to support the national car- lent services to its valued custom- that PIA has rier. On the other hand, PIA needs ers and is determined to attain the the potential to improve its services and focus on national carrier’s past glory. Qatar to once again become the pride customers’ satisfaction. I recently Tribune spoke to a cross section of for our country. I hope that under travelled by PIA and witnessed community members to seek their the new leadership of our country, considerable improvement in their views on the new flights and invited PIA will soon be counted among service. However, there is always them to give suggestions with a view the best airlines of the world. The a room for further improvements. to further improving the services of airline needs to focus on hospital- I would like to congratulate Coun- the national carrier. ity, punctuality and service to get try Manager Mohammad Raza and back the lost trust of its loyal pas- Qatar Tours Manager Zaheer Yousuf presents a bouquet to PIA’s new Country Manager Muhammad Raza on the launch of Sales Executive Kabeer Uddin Siraj Mohammad Ajmal Chaudhary, Founder sengers. I look forward to flying the new destination to Lahore from Doha. The event, ‘PARTY 3’, was held at Holiday Villa Hotel Doha. Qatar Tours is PIA’s for their efforts. of PWF and Advisor to PBFD with PIA again and hope they live GSA. PIA Sales Executive Kabiruddin Siraj is also seen in the picture. On behalf of the Pakistani commu- up to to our expectations. Nadeem B Chaudhry, nity, I warmly the PIA will become an airline of GM, Creative Media Centre welcome Muhammad Khan, well-known business- choice. I urge all Pakistanis to travel I wish PIA the best of luck. The step PIA’s new man and long-time Qatar resident by PIA to make it more profitable. will definitely country man- It is highly appreciable to add new help in get- ager Moham- flights on this Shahida Khan, Chairperson, ting back the mad Raza. It’s route as it is Pakistan Women’s Forum Qatar community’s heartening to badly needed The launch of trust. I hope learn that PIA due to the new flights is the airline will has started monopoliza- indeed a good regain its past two weekly tion of other Saleem Baloch, Chairman, Sohni would suggest two points if the PIA step by PIA. glory. I urge flights for Lahore. I have learnt with commercial Dharti Forum really believes in the popular max- The decision the commu- great delight that the airline has im- airline in If someone asks me which airline im “Great People to Fly With.” First, will give an nity members to extend full support proved overall flight regularity and this route. It my family has always preferred, my they should maintain their integrity opportunity to the national carrier. upgraded in-flight services for pas- would also answer will be PIA. Yes, it’s true. In by strictly following departure and to Pakistani sengers while expanding its fleet. help the community to get com- fact, from 1993 to 2014, my fam- arrival timings. Second, they should community Baber Iqbal Malik, Group Chief HR petitive pricing and a national car- ily has always travelled on PIA. Its provide excellent inboard/outboard to have more Officer, Abu Issa Holding Faisal Anis rier service quality. We hope to services were services at affordable rates. options while making their travel This is a great news by PIA and I It was quite pleasing to know that see more frequent flights opened compatible plans. On the other hand, it will also hope more sectors will be covered one of the best airlines of the 60’s for other cities of Pakistan as well. with conveni- Ghulam Farid benefit Pakistan’s economy. Hearti- in future. The launch of two more and 70’s, has Our best wishes and full support for ent routes The two additional flights will give est congratulations to PIA manage- frequences expanded its our national carrier. and could be us more flex- ment on this landmark decision. will bring re- operations compared ibility in lief to a lot of and is now Tahir Jamil with any oth- choosing the Muhammad Idrees, CEO, Pakistanis to flying to three PIA is doing very good business er good air- carrier while Lancaster Trading, Contracting Services have another destinations these days line. The fare travelling to It’s really a travel option. in Pakistan and is re- structure was our home- great news This will cre- from Qatar. covering its competitive and the routes were land. It is that PIA has ate a better However, we losses. I don’t more convenient. But due to some good to know started two and healthy would also know why are safety issues and limited routes, that PIA au- more flights competition like to have flights for Karachi and they neglect- my family stopped flying with PIA thorities are for Lahore. and will bring competitive air fares. Quetta. Karachi, the hub of eco- ing Karachi in from 2015 onward. Since PIA has expanding their business by adding Travelling by Besides good in-flight services, I nomic activities, is the largest city of their expan- increased the number of its flights new routes and increasing the num- the national would like to suggest the PIA au- Pakistan and the 7th largest in the sion plans. from Doha to Pakistan, I am tempt- ber of aircraft. I request PIA offi- carrier will thorities to keep the timings of the world. Flight operations to Karachi Earlier, they ed to switch back to PIA. Here, I cials to see the possibility of launch- be a boon for flights different from other carri- will not only benefit residents of Sind were having two weekly flights to would like to request that many ing Multan-Qatar flight. the country’s economy. I will sug- ers. A flight reaching Pakistan dur- province but also enhance postal and Karachi. Qatar Airways and Oman Pakistanis in Qatar hail from South gest the PIA to focus more on cus- ing the day time will attract many other commercial activities. Air have daily flights to Kara- Punjab so there should be at least Janan Khan, prominent tomer services and fulfill customers’ families. They should also offer chi. Salam Air also flies between one or two weekly flights for Mul- community leader demands to make it their favourite better baggage allowance to attract Adeel Akbar, General Secretary, Doha and Karachi. After the block- tan. Well done airline. passengers. Online booking facility Pakistan Arts Society Qatar ade of Qatar, we are not left with PIA! Now you should be made available and must PIA’s decision to launch two weekly many options for Karachi. I request Imran Naqvi, Manager, Alishan need to open Major (Retd) Mohammad Asim Khattak be user friendly. non-stop flights for Lahore is a very the PIA management to launch at Properties new routes It is a mat- good step. The news has been wel- least one weekly flight to the metro- I am living outside Pakistan for like Karachi, ter of great Asif Qadir Memon, Co-founder, QSindhis comed not only by those who are liv- politan city of Karachi. the past two decades. The PIA has Multan and pride for us The Sindhi community in Qatar ing in Lahore but also the residents always been my first priority. We Quetta and that the PIA, is extremely delighted to see the of adjoining Aqeb Yahya could talk of PIA’s past with our focus on in- which helped PIA expanding its operations by areas. Those Direct flights for Lahore is really heads held high. However, things creasing fre- in setting up introducing new routes. Having a who live in a good initiative by PIA. I believe had changed lately. I am happy to quencies for Peshawar and Islama- other airlines marvellous far-flung ar- this route will bring good returns see that the airline is on its way to bad. like Emirates, history and eas can eas- to the airline. The PIA should also regaining its is regaining renewed com- ily travel on consider direct flight to Karachi for lost glory. Asif Shafi, well noted poet and its lost glory. mitment, domestic the benefit of those living in interior My recent author of many books We wish and pray for the success we are con- connections. Sindh and experience This indeed of the PIA. Long live PIA, long live fident that I hope the Balochistan. with PIA was comes as good Pakistan. PIA will lead Doha-Mul- I have a feel- from Kuala news that PIA the regional tan-Doha sector will also be inau- ing that PIA Lumpur to has increased Syed Ali Zaidi, Chairman, Sports Village commercial gurated to facilitate those living in needs to work Lahore last number of Event Management aviation sector. We assure of our South Punjab. The management even harder year. The air- flights forThe launch unconditional support to PIA and should realise they are living in an to bring back craft was new Lahore. The of two direct request the management to consid- era of marketing and competition. its loyal cus- with decent leg room and in-flight quality of ser- flights to La- er starting direct flights for Karachi. They should give more attention to tomers who entertainment facilities. The cabin vice provided hore is an- customer care and other facilities to are opting for crew was smart and attentive. Good by the national airline needs to be other feather Malik Nasir Nawaz, CEO–Trainer at MN improve brand imaging. PIA’s Doha other options. Proper 24/7 call cen- quality food was served. Good to see improved and upgraded as per in- in the cap of Learning Solutions, Pakistan office is located in a small building. tre must be introduced to benefit PIA is changing. ternational standards. Karachi is PIA. My best The national carrier needs to work They should find a better and more the community members. Further- the biggest city of Pakistan. Hope wishes to on different aspects to live upto the spacious premises. PIA should ac- more, multiple payment options Anwar Ali Rana the PIA will start service to Karachi the PIA for expectations of its valued custom- tively participate in different events with local currency should be in- It is a moment of pride for all Pa- too. their future ers. These organised by the community and troduced in online booking system. kistani living endeavours. Overseas Pakistanis are my sug- schools to promote their business. These changes will definitely attract here in Qatar. Sajid Mansoor, Principal, should come forward to support gestions. PIA has always been my favourite more passengers towards PIA. The addition Bright Future International School their national carrier. Adequate ar- airline. of two flights As a Pakistani, it is indeed a mat- rangements Zahid Sheikh, Chairman, APOO World on weekly ba- ter pleasure that PIA has increased Sarmad M Qureshi, General should be Nabila Kaukab, Principal, Pak Shamaa Wonderful decision! I would re- sis from La- flight frequencies from Qatar. PIA Manager, Avanceon Qatar made before School quest my compatriots to patronize the hore to Qatar has been one PIA should announcing While welcoming the PIA’s deci- national carrier by making it a first and vice versa of the top air- increase as flight delays. sion to launch two weekly flights choice for all their travelling needs. On by our nation- lines of the many flights In case of delays or cancellations, to Lahore, the other hand, al carrier will world in the as possible they should offer two or more op- I sincerely I would re- provide more travelling options to past. Recent and bring tions. Leg room space should be hope the quest the PIA Pakistani community in Qatar. The changes in value on the enhanced for comfortable journey. management to further im- step was much needed and should the airline op- table with Good quality food should be served will consider prove their ser- have been announced much ear- erations have strict timings, and cabin crew should have thor- opening other vices and make lier, especially after the blockade. enabled it to better food ough knowledge of products and routes as well. it at par with It is satisfying to note that our na- move forward and customer services. Any change in rules and To win back international tional carrier is trying to regain its towards regaining its lost pride and friendliness. PIA flights should be regulations should be intimated to the loyalty of standards. lost glory by adding new routes. I glory. I firmly believe that very soon visible in all online flight search passengers well in time. 16 Wednesday, October 30, 2019 The Last Word Amir meets Rwandan president, top officials taking part in QITCOM 2019 and MSC Core Group meeting

QNA ‘Safe and Smart Cities’, and the President of the Kurdistan Communication and Media mation and Communications ence Wolfgang Ischinger; Na- of Jordan Dr Ghazi Salem al Doha Munich Security Conference Region of Iraq Nechirvan Bar- of Cote d’Ivoire Sidi Toure; Technology of Iran Moham- tional Security Council Adviser Joboor; Information Network Core Group (MSC) meeting at zani; Minister of Communica- Minister of Communications mad Javad Azari Jahromi; of Iraq Salih al Fayadh; CEO of Security Agency official from The Amir His Highness the Qatar National Convention tion Technology and Digital of Ghana Ursula Owusu-Eku- Minister of Communications Information Technology Au- Ethiopia Efrah Ali Musa; and Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Center (QNCC). Economy of Tunisia Mohamed ful; Minister of Transport of and Information Technology thority of Oman Dr Salim bin Executive Director of Human Thani met on Tuesday morn- The Amir met with Presi- Anouar Maarouf; Minister for Ethiopia Dagmawit Moges; of Bulgaria Rossen Jeliazkov; Sultan al Ruzaiqi; Vice Chair- Rights Watch Kenneth Roth. ing with a number of partici- dent of Rwanda Paul Kagame; Post, Telecom and Technology Minister of Information and Undersecretary of Defence of man of Oman State Council The meetings were at- pants of the Qatar IT Confer- Oman’s Minister Responsible of Somalia Abdi Ashur Hassan; Communication Infrastruc- Italy Angelo Tofalo; Undersec- Sheikh Alkhattab bin Ghalib tended by Prime Minister and ence and Exhibition (QITCOM for Foreign Affairs Yusuf bin Minister of Information and ture of The Gambia Ebrima retary of the Ministry of Awqaf Alhinai; Chairman of the Minister of Interior HE Sheikh 2019), organised by the Min- Alawi bin Abdullah; Minis- Communications Technol- Sillah; Minister of High-Tech and Islamic Affairs of Kuwait Board of Commissioners and Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khal- istry of Transport and Com- ter of Foreign Affairs of Iran ogy and Innovation of Rwanda Industry of Armenia Hakob Waleed al Ammar; Chairman CEO of the Telecommunica- ifa al Thani and a number of munications under the theme Dr Mohammad Javad Zarif; Paula Ingabire; Minister of Arshakyan; Minister of Infor- of the Munich Security Confer- tions Regulatory Commission ministers.

MoTC to organise first Expo Doha SJC and MADLSA sign MoU The Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) has signed labour inspection and stages of the lawsuit. a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with The MoU also included the possibility of Smart Cities during QITCOM 2019 the Ministry of Administrative Development, La- forming executive committees and joint task bour and Social Affairs (MADLSA) to cooperate forces, holding consultation meetings to coor- Continued from page 1  He said the hosting of such COM 2019, in cooperation with tionalising energy consumption, on electronic linking and exchange of informa- dinate in the areas falling within the scope of events by Qatar reflects the lead- Fira de Barcelona organisation, developing security services and tion and data. The MoU was signed on the side- the MoU and the possibility of preparing one or “It aims to adopt artificial in- ership’s keenness to support the which is the organiser of Smart developing transportation and lines of their participation in the QITCOM 2019 more executive programmes between the dif- telligence and harness it to se- country’s digital transformation City Expo World Congress, with sustainability, he said. at Qatar National Convention Center on Tuesday. ferent administrative sectors of the two parties, cure the economic and strategic process, the creation of a digital the participation of a number of Sualiti said the ‘TASMU’ Under the MoU, the two sides will cooper- and appointing a representative to act as a liai- future of Qatar as envisaged by society and enhance the abil- specialists in the fields of entre- programme will pledge for enor- ate on the exchange of information and data son between the two parties. Qatar National Strategy 2030,” ity of its members to participate preneurship, artificial intelli- mous investments concerning on labour disputes, sending judgments to the Chief of First Instance Court at SJC Ayedh Sulaiti said. in building a knowledge-based gence, cybersecurity and urban the development of digital in- Dispute Settlement Committee, inquiring about Saad al Qahtani said the agreement will con- “Doha is honoured to host economy, in line with the great planning. frastructure, which will support appeals on judgments, requesting copies of em- tribute to the achievement of total justice by the Munich Security Conference digital boom witnessed in the He pointed out that in terms Qatar’s national development ployment contracts and salary details, inquiring contributing to the resolution of labour disputes in conjunction with QITCOM world, he said. of the global economy, smart cit- strategy in the field of artificial about the judgments issued against the violating more quickly. 2019 to discuss regional and Sulaiti said the Ministry ies and their technologies have intelligence, all aiming to keep establishment that did not commit to transfer Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Affairs global security issues and raise of Transport and Communi- major roles in the economic Qatar up to date with the digital the wages, and inquiring about the judgments at MADLSA Mohammed Hassan al Obaidli said awareness of cybersecurity is- cations will organise the first growth. It is estimated that the boom the world is witnessing issued against the establishment violating the the agreement will help to quickly get informa- sues and their implications and edition of Expo Doha Smart use of 5G technologies will save and help advance its economic provisions of the Labour Law No (14) of 2004, tion about judgments, appeals and the stages of impacts.” Cities exclusively during QIT- about $160 billion globally by ra- development. as well as on the requirements of safety, health, proceedings. (QNA)

PMe me ts ministers participating in QITCOM 2019 and MSC Core Group meeting

Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al Thani met on Tuesday with a number of ministers participating in the QITCOM 2019 and the Munich Security Conference Core Group (MSC) meeting at the Qatar Nation- al Convention Center. The prime minister met with Minister of Information and Communication Infrastructure of The Gambia Ebrima Sillah; Minister of Posts Telecommunications and Technology of Somalia Abdi Ashur Hassan; and Minister of Transport of Ethiopia Dagmawit Moges. The PM also met with Minister of Communications and Information Technology of Iran Mohammad Javad Azari Jahromi and Minister of Transport, Information Technology and Communications of Bulgaria Rossen Jeliazkov. The prime minister met with President of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq Nechirvan Barzani on the sidelines of the exhibition. The meetings discussed the means of enhancing and developing bilateral relations between Qatar and these countries in various fields and reviewed a number of topics of common interest. (QNA)