www.thepeninsula.qa Wednesday 22 April 2020 Volume 25 | Number 8235 29 Sha'aban - 1441 2 Riyals

BUSINESS | 01 PENMAG | 06 SPORT | 12

Qatar participates in Classifieds Khan GCC Financial and and Services wants to Economic Cooperation section fight with Committee meeting included Pacquiao

Amir thanked by Iran President for medical aid Amir condoles with Portuguese President QNA — DOHA QNA — DOHA condolences to H E President of The call also reviewed the efforts of the provided by the State of Qatar to the Iranian Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin the Portuguese Republic and the Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al two countries in containing the corona- people during this global crisis. Hamad Al Thani held yesterday friendly Portuguese people on Thani held yesterday via telephone a virus (COVID-19) epidemic and the prospect The call also saw a discussion of the via telephone a conversation the death of the Ambassador of conversation with President of the Islamic of enhancing bilateral cooperation in that latest regional and international devel- with President of the Portuguese Portugal to the country, H E Republic of Iran, H E Hassan Rouhani, on field. In that regard, H E the Iranian Pres- opments, particularly the ones related to Republic, H E Marcelo Rebelo Ricardo Eduardo Vaz Pereira bilateral relations and the means to ident expressed his thanks and appreci- maintaining security and stability in the de Sousa. Pracana, who passed away enhance them in all fields. ation to H H the Amir for the medical aid region. H H the Amir expressed his yesterday. Qatar Airways carried over one million HMC prepares plan passengers home since mid-February with WHO to protect

THE PENINSULA — DOHA scheduled and charter services, elderly from pandemic the equivalent of roughly 500 In recent weeks Qatar Airways fully loaded Boeing 777 freighters. QNA — DOHA challenges that older people (QA) has carried over one million To continue to fulfil demand the with health problems face gen- people home plus transported Group’s cargo division is also uti- Hamad Medical Corporation erally and especially during the over 70,000 tonnes of medical lising passenger aircraft to carry (HMC) has said that they current situation that restricts equipment and aid relief, freight-only to destinations in prepared a plan to protect the social interaction. While the ensuring it is a reliable partner China, Europe, India and the elderly from the threats of current precautionary for passengers, governments, Airline helped repatriate over 45,000 Middle East. COVID-19. The plan was measures are there to reduce travel trade and freight passengers back home to France The airline has been working prepared in cooperation with the risk of the virus spreading companies in extremely chal- diligently to reduce or defer costs World Health Organization among our older adults; the lenging circumstances. Qatar Airways helped 70,000 Germans where possible. The airline (WHO). potential for social isolation can The COVID-19 pandemic has reach home recently worked with staff to Qatar has been a strategic also be difficult for the elderly. created an unprecedented chal- implement a ‘Solidarity Pro- partner in the World Health “Older people are a vul- lenge for QA and the aviation QA helped over 100,000 passengers reach UK gramme’ that would see mid- Organizations (WHO) global nerable group as their industry as a whole. While the level and above Doha based staff efforts to develop guidelines immunity tends to be lower airline continues to maintain QA Cargo transported over 70,000 tonnes defer a portion of their basic and frameworks for interven- than younger people, especially operations where possible to take of medical supplies, aid relief salary. For mid-level employees tions that also focus on at risk if they have other health people home and to transport and above, the basic monthly population groups, such as problems, such as heart or essential supplies, overall Qatar Airways is operating around 60 salary will be subject to a 50 older persons. kidney disease, or are being demand for air transport has percent deferral. This temporary An elderly telephone reas- treated for cancer or other ill- declined significantly. scheduled flights a day to around 40 measure is expected to last for surance service has been nesses. A less strong immune Since mid-February, QA has destinations three months, starting from April launched with staff from the system means their bodies are helped reunite over one million 2020, the position will be kept Geriatric and Long-term Care less able to fight off a viral passengers with their loved ones, under review depending on the Department at Hamad Medical infection. As there is no vaccine operating a mix of scheduled and home over 26,000 stranded With global air freight economic situation. Corporation contacting people for this virus, the emphasis charter services plus extra travellers. capacity declining, Qatar Airways Qatar Airways Group Chief who are 60 years and older. worldwide is largely on sectors, said the airline in a press The demand to help get Cargo has increased operations Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker, An additional aim of this adopting precautionary release yesterday. stranded travellers home has also to ensure the continuity of global said: “The entire team at Qatar initiative is to identify any measures for prevention and In the past several weeks, the seen Qatar Airways operate trade and movement of essential Airways has worked incredibly potential healthcare risks early slowing down the transmission airline has helped repatriate over flights to new destinations such medical and aid supplies. We hard to take people home over on and arrange appropriate of the illness,” Dr. Al Hamad 45,000 passengers back home as Brisbane, Christchurch and continue to operate a significant the past few weeks. We have medical care. This approach said. to France; 70,000 home to Toronto. The national carrier of cargo schedule with almost 100 built a strong level of trust with aims to reduce the danger of “It is important for our Germany and over 100,000 cus- the State of Qatar continues to flights per day, during the past our passengers, governments, the healthcare issue becoming older population to maintain tomers back to the United operate approximately 60 month the cargo operator has travel trade and cargo businesses more acute and possibly physical distancing measures Kingdom. Working with govern- scheduled flights a day to around worked closely with govern- as a reliable partner when we requiring hospitalisation. outlined by the Government for ments and group travel com- 40 destinations and is working ments and NGOs to transport were needed the most and we The National Lead for their protection as well as panies around the world, the closely with embassies across the over 70,000 tonnes of medical continue to offer a schedule Healthy Aeging in Qatar, Dr. others, and for this to continue airline operated over 90 charters globe to arrange charters to and aid supplies to impacted where possible and allowed by Hanadi Al Hamad, said it was during Ramadan and possibly and extra sector flights taking repatriate stranded citizens. regions around the world on both governments.” `P2 important to be aware of the Eid," said Dr. Al Hamad. `P2

Restaurants, cafes Qatar reports 59 COVID-19 COVID-19 QATAR UPDATES ON 14APRIL APRIL 21, 2020 2020 can take only NEW CASES home delivery recoveries, 518 new cases ANNOUNCED 518 NEW orders now THE PENINSULA — DOHA it was found that they were in RECOVERIES 59 contact with confirmed cases. THE PENINSULA — DOHA TOTAL The Ministry of Public Health All new infected cases have been CASES (MoPH) has announced 518 new put into isolation and are 6,533 The Ministry of Commerce and confirmed cases of COVID-19, receiving the necessary medical TOTAL Industry issued yesterday its and the recovery of 59 cases, care, said the Ministry. DEATHS 9 decision to allow restaurants bringing the total number of MoPH has stated that the TOTAL and cafes to operate by recovered cases in Qatar to 614, marked increase in the number RECOVERIES 614 processing only delivery yesterday. of confirmed new cases of coro- orders. The total number of positive navirus is due to several reasons, As per the new decision, COVID-19 cases recorded in including that the spread of the the owners of restaurants and Qatar stands at 6,533 and there virus has begun to enter its peak cafes (coffee shops) shall are 5,910 active cases under stage (i.e. the highest wave that comply with the procedures of treatment, by yesterday. affects the country), which may TOTAL POSITIVE TOTAL DEATHS TOTAL RECOVERED barring customers from col- Most of the new cases are for continue to increase for a period lecting orders, shutting the expatriate workers, who have of time before it begins to COVID-19 GLOBALLY 2,546,527 175,812 678,557 doors of restaurants and cafes been subject to quarantine after decline. `P2 (coffee shops) and refraining from hosting customers both inside and outside the store. The decision came fol- Qatari products play vital role in construction of Hamad Port’s CT-2 lowing state’s preventive measures to curb the spread SACHIN KUMAR Qatari companies. “As part of “We are pleased to announce 17m draft alongside, will have provides container, general of COVID-19 and ensure health THE PENINSULA QTerminals’ continuous efforts that the 36 reels of 12.7/22KV 3 annual capacity of 2 milion TEUs cargo, RORO, livestock and off- and safety of citizens and res- to support Qatari companies, we x 300mm² MV cable (over (twenty-foot equivalent units). shore supply services in Phase 1 idents, and in line with pre- Made in Qatar products are are pleased to announce that we 11kms) that were delivered to One of the key aspects of of Hamad Port. vious decisions and proce- playing vital role in the have received the steel “racking” CT2 yesterday were manufac- CT2 development is the use of Since commencing opera- dures, said the Ministry in a construction of second for the reefer containers stacks tured in #Doha by Doha Cables,” environmental friendly technol- tions in December 2016, Hamad release. Container Terminal (CT-2) at the for CT2 from Al Nasr Con- Qterminals had tweeted on ogies to facilitate sustainable Port has modernised the way This decision does not Hamad Port. Local companies struction Dynamics, a Qatari March 31. “QTerminals is very development. The Quay Cranes Qatar handles imports and apply to licensed kiosks such are providing materials which based company,” said QTer- proud to support Qatari com- being procured are regenerative exports and has helped in facil- as restaurants and cafes are being used in the minals on its official twitter panies manufacturing in Qatar, type, which will be generating itating the growth and diversi- located in tourist areas, sports construction of the second account. who can and do deliver mate- electricity during the lowering fication of the country’s clubs, Lusail City, and The Container Terminal, which is The second Container Ter- rials to the highest quality,” said cycles. The Rubber Tyre Gantries economy. Pearl among other locations, part of Hamad Port’s expansion minal is expected to become QTerminals. are of Hybrid Type, which will Hamad Port, Qatar’ gateway which will remain closed until project. operational this year. QTer- QTerminals, in November be utilizing electric drives along to world trade, is helping in further notice The Ministry QTerminals, the terminal minals has been awarded the 2018, had received approval to with the conventional engine. diversifying country’s economy. stated that administrative operating company set up to design, develop and operation design, develop and operate The second Container Ter- Along with general cargo traffic, employees and staff of restau- provide port services to Hamad contract for the second con- second Container Terminal of minal development at Hamad the port handles a variety of spe- rants and cafes (coffee shops) Port, recently received steel tainer terminal. Last month Hamad Port. Port is located immediately to cialist imports including live- must comply with health and ‘racking’ for the reefer con- QTerminal had received cables The second terminal, with the north of the existing Con- stock, automobiles, and bulk safety measures. `P2 tainers stacks and cables from from a local company. berth length of 1,200m and a tainer Terminal – 1. QTerminals grain. 02 HOME WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020 MADLSA continues efforts to educate workers on COVID-19

THE PENINSULA — DOHA manufacturing, construction, The Ministry had initiated the establishment of clinics, in addition to allocating were asked to work from home contracting, maintenance, 19 joint labor committees in major companies rooms for quarantine in the in order to reduce their mixing In the context of the continuous transportation and hospitality, employees’ residence sites (for with others and thus reduce the efforts of the Ministry of where these committees cover operating in the State of Qatar in the sectors individuals who have had risk of infection. Administrative Development, more than 20,000 workers. of manufacturing, construction, contracting, contact with one of those The Ministry of Adminis- Labor and Social Affairs The committees include infected with the coronavirus trative Development, Labor (MADLSA) to educate workers representatives of the com- maintenance, transportation and hospitality. or who have been infected with and Social Affairs is currently about all precautionary pany’s management and These committees cover more than 20,000 the disease), in order to com- preparing and developing measures to prevent the risk of elected representatives of workers. municate with the relevant guidelines on organizing elec- coronavirus infection (COVID- workers, and hold regular medical authorities to take the tions for workers representa- 19), the Ministry holds regular meetings to discuss matters necessary measures. tives electronically for com- meetings with joint labor related to labor affairs within coronavirus and provide them challenges of the pandemic The companies also allo- panies wishing to establish committees in companies, the the facility. with health advice. The joint requires full cooperation cated employees specialized in joint committees. last of which was held this The Ministry of Adminis- committees play a large and between all parties concerned, housing homes in order to take The Ministry has also week “remotely” using video trative Development, Labor vital role in developing and which includes the Ministry of note of health and safety developed its capacity-building calling technology. and Social Affairs seeks, implementing educational Administrative Development, measures on a daily basis and program for members of joint The Ministry had initiated through extensive communi- programs. Labor and Social Affairs, take additional measures to committees via the Internet, the establishment of 19 joint cation with workers’ repre- The importance of the com- employers and workers. protect workers who have and will publish a guidance labor committees in major sentatives, to participate in mittees appears amid the coro- For their parts, the com- chronic diseases such as trans- note for members of joint com- companies operating in the efforts to educate workers navirus outbreak crisis, as panies concerned examine the porting people with heart dis- mittees during the current State of Qatar in the sectors of about ways to prevent addressing the socio-economic workers in their medical eases to another location or coronavirus outbreak. Sidra Medicine announces Qatar reports Ramadan timings 518 new cases FROM PAGE 1 THE PENINSULA — DOHA 8am to 2pm. Patient families are advised It is also due to the steady Sidra Medicine, a member of to call 4003 0030 to coordinate increase in the efforts of the Qatar Foundation, has timings for pick up. There will Ministry and its medical teams announced the timings of its be no evening clinics in the OPC to track the transmission services during the holy month during Ramadan. chains of coronavirus and of Ramadan, which is expected Sidra Medicine’s main hos- expand the surveillance to start on Friday, April 24. pital (in-patient) and Emer- process, including of groups The Sidra Medicine Outpa- gency Services for children and of contacts with people who tient Clinic (OPC) services will women’s obstetrics triage will were previously diagnosed operate on weekdays during continue to operate 24 hours a with the disease. All of this has Ramadan: The OPC will be day, seven days a week during contributed to the early open from 9am to 3pm on Ramadan. detection of many cases of weekdays, while the Outpatient Please note that Sidra Med- infection and reduced the Infusion Center (OPIC) and the icine is not a designated spread of the virus. Hematology Oncology Outpa- COVID-19 hospital and has The Ministry also tient Center (HOOC) will be taken several precautionary requested all members of open from 7am to 3pm. measures to ensure the safety society to stay at home and Cardiology clinics (located and wellbeing of its patients, cooperate fully with all health in the main hospital building) their families and staff during guidelines and preventive Sunset at Doha harbour will operate from 8am to 3pm. this time. It is working closely measures to reduce the risk of Pharmacy services drive- with Qatar’s Ministry of Public infection, including sticking to A view of dhow boats anchored at Doha harbour during sunset, yesterday. PIC: BAHER AMIN/THE PENINSULA through for patients to collect Health regarding COVID-19 social and physical distancing medication will operate from guidelines and measures. guidelines. The Ministry also recommended that people regularly visit the MoPH website for the most up-to- Public urged to take extra precautions to reduce trauma cases date guidance on how to stay safe, including the guidelines FAZEENA SALEEM Program is the community allocated for COVID-19 Care Unit(ICU) at Hamad to assure the public that the related to the use of facemasks THE PENINSULA outreach arm of HMC’s patients, trauma leaders are General Hospital, said, “If high dedicated team of doctors and which was recently added on Hamad Trauma Center. asking the public to help number of trauma injuries are nurses of the Hamad Trauma the site. In a national campaign to “Hamad Injury Prevention reduce number of trauma- seen, more ventilators will be Centre are ready and prepared reduce road accident injuries Program and Hamad Trauma related injuries. used; more ICU hospital beds to provide, world class care for and trauma cases during Centre appeals to the public “In order to reduce the will be filled; and more victims of trauma,” he added. Four arrested for COVID-19 pandemic, Hamad to enhance road safety and load on the health sector and healthcare teams will be The Hamad Trauma Center Medical Corporation (HMC) not to become victim of better protect front lines of exposed to the risk of provides 24-hour availability violating ban on has urged the public to take unnecessary injury and the national COVID-19 infection. If trauma cases of dedicated surgeons, physi- extra precautions. reduce the burden on our response, Hamad Trauma reduce, more staff will be cians and other clinical staff public gathering Experts at Hamad Injury health sector as they respond Centre would like to appeal focused on the COVID-19 with specialized training in Prevention Program and to COVID-19,” said Dr. Rafael to the public to take precau- response.” trauma, acute care surgery and THE PENINSULA — DOHA HMC’s Hamad Trauma Center Consunji, Director of Hamad tions and reduce the number Dr. Sandro Rizoli, Medical critical care medicine. This have said that less volume of Injury Prevention Program, of traffic accidents,” said Dr Director of Hamad Trauma dedicated team play an The competent authorities of trauma cases will reduce the in a social media campaign. Aisha Obeid, Assistant Centre, has said the ongoing essential role in implementing the Ministry of Interior burden on the health sector A wide range of healthcare Director, Hamad Injury Pre- national response against an integrated care plan that is arrested four persons, who and help the national specialists in the country have vention Program. OCVID-19 has imposed a very thoughtfully designed to violated the decision to COVID-19 response. been involved in care and Dr. Talat Chughtai, high demand on the heath reduce disability and death prevent gatherings in public Hamad Injury Prevention protective equipment Director, Trauma Intensive sector in Qatar. “But we want from the disease of trauma. places. The Ministry tweeted yes- terday, “As a video was circu- Expat Affairs lated showing the persons at DI offers free online courses during Ramadan Al-Maroona beach, the infor- mation was confirmed by Dept services THE PENINSULA — DOHA Excellence Center for Training authorities and they were and Consulting said “The arrested.” It further said that available on Excellence Centre for Training center is launching four new those who photographed them and Consulting at the Doha training courses based on sci- were also referred to the Metrash2 Institute for Graduate Studies entific foundations commen- prosecution. (DI) is preparing to launch a set surate with the present circum- The Ministry of the Interior THE PENINSULA — DOHA of online courses free of cost stances to contribute to has called on citizens and res- to public during the holy month shaping new perspectives for idents to abide by decisions to The Ministry of Interior has of Ramadan. post coronavirus crisis. prevent public gatherings for said that most of the services As a precautionary and Dr. Farid clarified the their own safety and that of of the Expatriates Affairs preventive measures against purpose of each course, adding others from spreading the Department are now available the spread of COVID-19, these that the center provides coronavirus. on Metrash2 mobile app or the training courses will be held services to public, focusing on Ministry’s website. through virtual platforms, in variety of choices and novelty The Ministry said that terms of one course per week of ideas. Restaurants, cafes people can get these services starting from April 29, 2020 to The Excellence Center for from anywhere at any time May 13, 2020. Training and Consulting has can take only A view of Doha Institute for Graduate Studies campus. easily. The first course is “Digital launched last month a cam- “You can complete many PR Management” which will be paign entitled “Let us join home delivery of services of the expatriate effective on Wednesday, April 2020 entitled “Social Respon- pm through online platforms hands for Qatar”, which comes affairs through Metrash2 or 29, 2020, then on May 6, 2020 sibility”. The Excellence Center that will be announced later via within the framework of fos- orders now website of the Ministry, another course will be held will be concluded on DI social media. tering the principle of com- without going to service called “Post-Crisis Man- Wednesday, 13 May 2020 with In a statement about new munity partnership adopted by FROM PAGE 1 centres,” the Ministry tweeted. agement”, the following course “Emotional Intelligence”. training courses, Dr. Farid Al the center with different The services provided by will be on Sunday, 10 May The courses start at 3:00 Sahn, Director of the organizations in Qatar. The Ministry cautioned against the Ministry come as part of violating this decision, as doing the efforts to facilitate proce- so will subject transgressors to dures in light of the precau- HMC prepares plan the penalties stipulated in tionary measures taken to QA carried over one million passengers home applicable laws, decisions and contain the coronavirus. to protect elderly FROM PAGE 1 regulations. Among these services pro- Qatar Airways employees aircraft, the use of cleaning The Ministry noted that this vided by the Department are from pandemic “We also introduced an have left family and friends products recommended by decision, which was issued on residence permit renewal, res- FROM PAGE 1 employee pay deferral at home to commit to the International Air April 20, 2020, will be subject idence permit cancellation, scheme which the Company building this airline with me Transport Association (IATA) to amendments and changes extension of entry permits The National Lead for Healthy will credit salary back as and we will always do what and the World Health according to the latest devel- (visas), recruitment approvals, Aeging in Qatar, Dr. Hanadi Al soon as possible when cir- is in the best interest of both Organization (WHO), and opments in this regard. change passport details, Hamad, said, “It is equally important cumstances allow. Many the business and our com- thermal screening of crew. Accordingly, the Ministry replace lost or damaged ID that this is not misinterpreted as other work groups overseas mitted and hard-working Hamad International called on all citizens and res- card and certificates. social isolation as that could have and across all job levels have staff, I could not be more Airport (HIA) is also robustly idents to seek information only The Ministry recently detrimental effect on our elder’s also offered to take vol- proud of our team who have minimising any risks to the from official sources, and to launched a service for filing physical and mental well-being. untary salary deferrals in worked incredibly hard to health and safety of pas- consult the Ministry’s website criminal complaints at security Social isolation and limited access solidarity with their col- build even greater trust with sengers and staff. HIA has and social media pages for the departments through to COVID-19 related information or leagues, reinforcing the fact the travelling public,” H E implemented stringent latest news and updates. Metrash2. even access to misinformation that the Qatar Airways added. cleaning procedures and The Ministry of Commerce The Ministry of Interior has through various social media Group family is one who has As an airline, Qatar closed most of the non- and Industry has urged con- taken a number of steps to channels can compound the chal- the best interests of each Airways maintains the essential passenger facilities. sumers to report any viola- facilitate the public by intro- lenge of keeping them safe and other and the airline at highest possible hygiene All passenger touchpoints tions or infringements ducing online services through reducing the need to visit a heart,” Al Baker said. standards, which include the are sanitized every 10-15 through its communication Metrash2. hospital.” “I know many of our regular disinfection of minutes. channels. WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020 HOME 03

MME, UNEP hold Wages, benefits for employees working from workshop on ozone-depleting home should not change: Labor Ministry substances

THE PENINSULA — DOHA According to the guidelines issued by the the ministry encourages man- should not perform other per- QNA — DOHA Ministry, the number of teleworking hours agers to share online tutorials sonal activities during work The Ministry of Administrative on how to use and access the hours. If at any time an A training workshop organised Development, Labor and Social should not exceed the average that was company intranet, to access employee is not performing by the Ministry of Municipality Affairs issued yesterday guide- previously applied at the workplace. emails remotely, and to install official duties, the employee and Environment (MME), lines about teleworking (work security protocols and handle must take leave as represented by the Department from home) for employees and sensitive files remotely. appropriate. of Radiation and Chemicals management explaining their which they can be contacted. overtime per day if mutually The employee’s home Teleworking should not be Protection, in cooperation with responsibilities and rights. The number of teleworking agreed with the employer. workspace, when used for tel- used in place of annual, sick, or the United Nations Envi- Teleworking is an important hours should not exceed the The effective management eworking, is an extension of the any other type of leave. ronment Program (UNEP), for component of the response to average that was previously of teleworking requires a result- workspace. Isolation at home Requests to use leave must be customs officials and the COVID-19 pandemic, said applied at the workplace. It based management approach. can have a significant impact submitted, discussed and inspectors, and inspectors of the Ministry yesterday on its should be noted that for most This involves identifying work on the mental health of approved by the supervisor fol- ozone-depleting substances website. sectors, the working hours were objectives and tasks, and then workers. Officials and super- lowing the usual policy. and illegal trade kicked off According to the guidelines, reduced from 7am to 1pm (6 monitoring and discussing visors should develop strategies The employee shall return yesterday. as per the terms and provisions hours per day) during the crisis. progress. to address safety and health of all enterprise-owned The three-day workshop of employment contract, tele- Regarding overtime, in It is necessary to factor in teleworkers. equipment, software and data aims to implement the working conditions of sectors where working hours some adjustments in the work This can for example files at the end of the tele- Hydrofluorocarbons Phase Out employment should remain the have been reduced to 6 hours plan and work targets, in include organizing virtual working period, while it is nec- Management Plan (HPMP), and same as before. per day: workers can agree to accordance with the challenges weekly team meetings and daily essary to maintain the confi- it is organized under the super- The employee’s wage and work maximum 2 hours as and changes engendered by the check-in calls. dentiality and security of the vision of the distance training benefits, including the provision overtime per day if mutually crisis. Teleworkers should be con- information. platform of the General of food and accommodation or agreed with the employer. To the extent possible, the tactable during the working Teleworkers should Authority of Customs. the payment of allowances, In sectors that are operating employer provides the nec- hours agreed upon with the maintain a balance between The first day of the should not change as a result of on normal working hours and essary equipment and supplies supervisor. Teleworkers are work and personal life by iden- workshop, which witnessed a teleworking. were excluded from the that are needed to ensure the expected to maintain the same tifying a dedicated workspace wide interaction and turnout Regarding working hours, decision on reduced working employees’ performance of level of competence, produc- and learning to disconnect from from the 40 participants, employers and teleworkers hours: workers should continue their job duties. tivity and quality of work as work at specified times covered the main axes related should discuss and agree on tel- to work 8 hours per day, and This includes electronic before the crisis. reserved for rest and personal to the Vienna Convention for eworking hours and time during can work maximum 2 hours of equipment. In this framework, While teleworking, workers life. Ozone Depleting Substances, the licensing and risk identifi- cation system to combat illegal Ooredoo to offer trade, and customs procedures Labor attachés laud efforts to protect workers for ozone-depleting new iPhone SE substances. QNA — DOHA to contain COVID-19, in appropriate precautions are hypertension, asthma and other On January 22, 1996, the THE PENINSULA — DOHA addition to the periodic being taken. conditions. There will also be a State of Qatar joined the 1985 The Ministry of Administrative inspection campaigns carried The Ministry said during the team from the Ministry that is Vienna Convention for the Pro- Ooredoo will offer the Development, Labor, and Social out at the work and housing meeting that it had allocated a available 24 hours to support tection of the Ozone Layer, the powerful and affordable new Affairs (MADLSA) held sites. hotline number to respond to workers and provide for their Montreal Executive Protocol of iPhone SE. yesterday a meeting with labor The participants praised the workers’ inquiries and resolve basic needs. 1987 relating to ozone- Featuring A13 Bionic, the attachés from the Philippines, policy followed by the Ministry complaints submitted by them, The meeting reviewed the depleting substances and the fastest chip ever in a smart- India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Indo- with respect to in this regard. in addition to the free text efforts made by the Ministry in London and Copenhagen phone, iPhone SE offers nesia, Pakistan, Kenya, The meeting also high- message service, and the ability cooperation with the Qatar Red amendments. On January 29, unparalleled performance Ethiopia, Morocco, and Tunisia, lighted the Ministry’s com- to receive inquiries and com- Crescent Society and the des- 2009, Qatar ratified the Mon- with great battery life, and the in addition to 15 of the leaders mitment to the continuation of plaints by e-mail. ignated authorities in the treal and Beijing amendments best single-camera system in and representatives of expat contractual relationship The meeting also touched country in terms of providing to the Montreal Protocol. an iPhone that unlocks the communities in the state. The between employers and on the Industrial Area, and what support and basic needs for On January 23, 1995, the UN benefits of Portrait mode. meeting was held using video workers by encouraging them was done regarding the transfer workers inside the quarantine General Assembly agreed to iPhone SE comes in three conferencing technology. to find appropriate solutions of workers in streets No. 1, facility in Mukaynis, in addition mark on September 16 every beautiful colours — black, During the meeting, the that ensures the interest of both Street No. 2 and Al Wakalat to providing all the capabilities year as an International Day for white and (product)red — with Ministry reviewed its con- parties. In that context, labor Street to Mukaynis (Barwa), for workers such as financial the Preservation of the Ozone a popular design built to with- tinuous efforts during this crisis dispute settlement sessions where priority will be given to transfers and communication Layer, commemorating the date stand the elements with dust to raise awareness among started to take place remotely people aged 55 years and over with their families and opening when the Montreal Protocol on and water resistance, said the workers on the importance of through video conferencing, in who suffer from chronic dis- supermarkets at subsidized Substances that Deplete the company yesterday in a press taking precautionary measures order to ensure that the eases such as diabetes, prices. Ozone Layer was signed in 1987. release. Customers can pre-order the new iPhone SE at www. ooredoo.qa/eshop with free Ministry, DFI launch short film home delivery. contest for school students

Agricultural THE PENINSULA — DOHA The films should cover introduction of coronavirus, or Research Dept The Ministry of Education and ways to prevent it, the risks of Higher Education, in part- infection and its social impact. grows six wild nership with Doha Film The student does not need Institute (DFI), has launched a specialized photography plant species competition, entitled School equipment, as students can Stars, for shooting short films shoot their films using only the QNA — DOHA for students of public and mobile phone. private schools in Qatar. Participants are divided, The Department of Agricul- The theme of first edition whether in the Arab compe- tural Research at the of the competition is ‘The Bright tition or other languages com- Ministry of Municipality and Side’. The contestants can petition, according to age Environment has succeeded submit short films, whether in groups into three categories: in the cultivation and Arabic or other languages the first category for students growing of six types of expressing their opinions, from grade 1 to 4, the second promising wild, pastoral and Traffic officials during a campaign to raise COVID-19 prevention awareness among motorists. Officials observations, and experience category for students from medicinal plants in the Field also distributed masks and gloves among the road users. regarding the COVID-19, said grade 5 to 8, and the third cat- Gene Bank at the Rawdat Al the Ministry in a release. egory is for the students from Faras Research Station. Upon the request of parents grade 9 to 12. Director of the Agricul- Traffic officials distribute gloves, masks and students, the deadline for The Ministry announced tural Research Department sending the films has been cash prizes to winners of future Hamad Saket Al Shammari among motorists; raise awareness extended to May 9, 2020, filmmakers and producers, and said that this achievement instead of April 24. in Arabic and other languages comes within the framework THE PENINSULA — DOHA cases of extreme necessity. driving, adherence to traffic The contesting students are such as English, French or of the Department’s They also must adhere to the rules, and cooperate with traffic required for making short films Hindi. The winner of first place keenness to preserve the As part of its efforts to limit safety instructions related to patrols to ensure the smooth of a minute duration as will get QR10,000, second prize important genetic assets at spread of coronavirus, the coronavirus in case of leaving flow of traffic in all roads. maximum. is QR7,500 and third prize the Arab region level and the General Directorate of Traffic house, and committing to the The initiative was launched Then they send the mate- QR5,000. global level, whether it is launched on Monday an use of various protective and in cooperation with Kidzmondo rials to the Doha Film Institute, The contestants are required indigenous plants or plants awareness campaign for protective methods. Doha, Aura Entertainment and where they will be evaluated to upload the films on the DFI that adapted to the environ- motorists in Al Khor city. Also, masks and gloves Palma Hospitality, with a goal by the experts of the institution, website. The winning films will mental and climatic condi- The campaign also included were distributed to the drivers to provide security and safety including artists and techni- be posted on the electronic plat- tions of the State of Qatar. Al Duhail area. During the cam- and their companions. and enhance its concept among cians who participated in the forms of the Ministry and the In this regard, he pointed paign, the motorists were urged The campaigns provide the the citizen, and give drivers judging of many cinematic Doha Film Institute, in addition out that a comprehensive on the importance of not necessary advice on safe some advice and guidance that competitions such as the Ajyal to the Qatar Educational TV national Field Gene Bank leaving the house except in driving, not to be busy during should be followed at this time. Film Festival competition. channels 1 and Education 2. was set up for all important wild and local species in the State of Qatar about 12 years ago, in addition to rare FBQ Museum announces open call for post-COVID-19 exhibition species adapted to their con- ditions, with a view to pro- RAYNALD C RIVERA Express your experience of COVID-19, it has taken the The new FBQ Car eclectic body of works across tecting and preserving them THE PENINSULA COVID-19 through art and get opportunity to work on the four themes including Islamic and conducting research and a chance to participate in an amazing collection and design Museum will display Art, Qatar Heritage, Vehicles, studies on them, as well as The Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim exhibition at FBQ Museum’s The a new museum experience, said 120 cars. and Coins & Currency coming to benefiting from it in food Al Thani Museum (FBQ White Majlis! No matter if Kees Wieringa, FBQ Museum from four continents and dif- security programs, provision Museum) is calling for submis- painting, photography, film or Director. ferent time periods. of alternative feeds, rehabil- sions from artists in Qatar for installation – we want to see “We are preparing the new collection. Envisaged by Sheikh Faisal itation of grazing land, wild an exhibition it is planning to your creativity burst and with- FBQ Car Museum and we are Meanwhile, FBQ Museum and purpose-built to preserve cultivation and desertifi- organise after the COVID-19 stand these uncertain times,” it also working on digitizing the continues to actively engage and display the extraordinary cation control. crisis. said. collection of artifacts which will with visitors, providing them collection, the museum design Agriculture Expert at the In its just released April Those who wish their works be accessible through our new inspiration through its vast col- is particularly dedicated to Department of Agricultural 2020 newsletter, the museum to be included in the exhibition software that will be available lection via its social media upholding and promoting Research Dr. Hayel Alwawi has announced an open call for may send the art work’s title for you online to view our channels. Islamic heritage. explained that most all artists in the country to take and description, photo and its unique collection and use it for Established in 1998 as a In 2010, the museum was important and rare plant part in an exhibition it is mulling dimensions along with a short research,” said Wieringa. non-profit museum foundation selected as one of Qatar’s cul- species that are endangered to organise after the pandemic artist bio to: events@fbq- Spread on a 5,000sqm of public interest, FBQ Museum tural landmarks as part of the in the Field Gene Bank were titled “Artists in the Time of museum.org space, the new car museum will is home to a growing collection ‘Qatar Capital of Culture’ activ- preserved with a focus on COVID-19 Crisis.” Since the time the museum display 120 cars, among them of more than 50,000 objects ities. The museum is a popular the species that are of food, “Let’s turn anxiety, fear and temporarily closed its doors in sports cars and classic cars, developed throughout decades tourist destination and a val- fodder, pastoral, medicinal negativity, but also hope and mid-March as part of measures selected out from around 700 of dedicated and enthusiastic uable resource for scholars and or aromatic importance. determination into creativity! to prevent the spread of cars of the museum collecting of a diverse and educational institutions. 04 HOME WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020 Qatar Museums sanitises its buildings and parks in cooperation with MME

THE PENINSULA — DOHA museums and parks, as internal streets, parking part of precautionary and areas, parks and play- Qatar Museums, in coop- preventive measures to grounds at the National eration with the Ministry counter the spread of Museum of Qatar, the of Municipality and Envi- coronavirus (COVID-19). Museum of Islamic Art, ronment (MME), has Sanitisation, spraying and the Fire Station: Artist organised a campaign to and disinfection work is in Residence. sanitise and disinfect its targeting buildings, Commenting on the initiative, the CEO of Qatar Museums Ahmad Al Namla, said: “Thanks to the support and in coop- eration with the Ministry of Municipality and Envi- Sanitisation drive at Ezdan Oasis as part of Ezdan Real Estate Company's efforts to limit the coronavirus spread. ronment, the sanitisation campaign of our museums has been achieved in line Ezdan Real Estate continues sanitisation with the preventive measures taken by the state to control the drive in Wakra, Wukair villages spreading of this emerging virus.” THE PENINSULA — DOHA the wide-scale efforts led by the State Company’s maintenance department “As we are facing this of Qatar and the government headed have participated in the sanitisation unprecedented situation, Ezdan Real Estate Company, in coop- by Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin drive at “Ezdan Oasis” project, which it is paramount to help eration with Al Wakra Municipality, Hamad Al Thani. All these efforts are includes 8,769 housing units spanning stop the spread of coro- has continued its sanitisation drive for consolidated to confront this crisis, over an area of one million square navirus and ensure the residential complexes and all its affil- and to protect the lives of citizens and meters. Ezdan Real Estate has also health and safety of our iated facilities in the Al Wakra and Al expatriates. launched an awareness campaign on society. So while our Wukair, as part of its initiatives and “Every company belonging to its social media platforms to direct the museums remain closed, efforts to limit coronavirus (COVID-19) Ezdan Holding Group has started from public and its audience to adhere to QM has taken steps to spread, and ramp up the protection the early beginning to contain the virus the precautionary and preventive give access to our gal- for society. outbreak and will not cease until this measures to control the virus leries, collections and For his part, H E Sheikh Abdullah pandemic vanishes away,” H E Sheikh outbreak. programs through digital bin Thani bin Abdullah Al Thani, Vice- Abdullah said, calling upon all people Ezdan Real Estate Company had platforms, in order to Chairman of the Ezdan Holding Group, in society to commit to staying at launched earlier the sanitisation continue to fulfill our emphasised the keenness of all Ezdan homes, observe home-quarantine and drive that covered Ezdan Mall Al A worker sanitising Qatar Museums floor as part of critical mission, virtually, Holding Group’s subsidiaries to con- social distancing so we can all be safe Wakra, and Ezdan Residential Vil- precautionary and preventive measures to counter the of providing places for tribute constructively to serving the and secure. lages (30, 31, 32), and will proceed spread of COVID-19. respite, education and country, and stand next to everyone A specialist team and several to include all the villages in Al Wakra inspiration.” who lives in Qatar, in conformity with workers at Ezdan Real Estate and Al Wukair. CCQ’s English Language Center receives 5-year accreditation from US-based CEA The ELC runs the CCQ across the world by advancing widely- Committee and English Lecturer, Com- held standards to foster continuous munity College of Qatar, said: “The CEA Foundation English program development through a rig- accreditation that CCQ’s ELC has Program; a series of orous process of regular self- received is a testament to the world- assessment and peer evaluation, as class educational standards that our courses designed to well as outlining globally-recognized institution upholds. prepare students for entry best practices in English language "It will bring and sustain quality in teaching and administration. curriculum, teaching and learning to CCQ college courses In order to qualify for CEA accred- processes, assessment, teacher training in both the English and itation, an institution must fully meet and evaluation, students’ achievement, Arabic tracks. The Center a rigorous set of 44 standards in 11 student counselling, facilities, and con- standards areas, developed by an tinuous program development is a vital link between Accreditation Advisory Committee that according to the evolving needs of students graduating from takes into consideration various students. English language program standards "We are immensely proud of this high school and accessing upheld in the US, Canada, UK and Aus- achievement and will continuously college-level courses. tralia. In addition to curriculum, among strive to raise the standards and capa- the areas that these standards cover bilities of the ELC to better serve the Dr. Michael King, Chair, English Language Dr. Waqar Khan, English Lecturer, are: testing, faculty qualification, Qatari community.” Center at Community College of Qatar Community College of Qatar THE PENINSULA — DOHA administrative and fiscal capacity, The ELC runs the CCQ Foundation student services and education facil- English Program; a series of courses The English Language Center (ELC) at ities. As part of the evaluation process, CCQ’s ELC to meet the stringent guide- collaboration and continuous support designed to prepare students for entry Community College of Qatar (CCQ) was which CCQ successfully passed, the lines of such a well-respected accred- throughout. to CCQ college courses in both the recently granted 5-year accreditation CEA also conducts a site visit to verify itation body in the field of English lan- "The ELC will use this recognition English and Arabic tracks. by the Commission on English the program’s compliance with the guage education as CEA. I would like as a basis to continue its development The Center is a vital link between Language Accreditation (CEA), an standards. to commend the efforts of the Accred- and further enhance its outstanding students graduating from high school internationally-recognized accrediting Highlighting his pride in everyone’s itation Committee and the many student-centered foundation English and accessing college-level courses, agency for English language programs efforts in receiving such recognition, faculty members who contributed to education,” he said. through four levels of intensive English and institutions in the US. Dr. Michael King, Chair, ELC, CCQ, said: the process.” Commenting on the new language instruction, mapped The CEA aims to promote excel- “This outcome has been the result of 2 “I would also like to thank the achievement of ELC members, Dr. according to the Common European lence in English language teaching years of review and improvement at wider CCQ community for their Waqar Khan, Chair of Accreditation Framework for Languages (CEFR). QC provides aid to several countries to fight coronavirus THE PENINSULA — DOHA This attempt falls within and equipment, sanitizers, 150,000 people, at a total its humanitarian efforts to disinfection and cleaning cost of QR474,300. As part of its endeavour to help the underprivileged, materials, preventive mate- In Lebanon, Qatar defeat COVID-19, Qatar oppressed, and the needy rials, masks, oxygen cyl- Charity worked at securing Charity has provided aid, across the globe, and comes inders, medical ventilators, food aid and cleaning and including medical and in solidarity with the com- autoclaves, microscopes, sterilization materials for protective equipment, food munities going through and sterilization sprinklers needy Lebanese, Syrian, and items, and the necessary disasters. to combat coronavirus. Palestinian families in support to Yemen, Lebanon, In Yemen, Qatar Charity The number of benefi- Bekaa, Arsal and El- Tunisia and Palestine. provided medical devices ciaries is expected to reach Kharroub. The project valued at QR350,000 is expected to benefit 1,696 families directly, and 8,480 bene- ficiaries indirectly. In support of Tunisia’s efforts to combat the coronavirus pan- demic, Qatar Charity has coor- dinated with local authorities to distribute urgent medical aid at a cost of QR380,000. Qatar Char- ity’s office in the Gaza Strip, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health, imple- mented a project to provide medi- cines and pro- tective supplies for quarantine centers and hos- pitals to combat coronavirus. WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020 HOME 05

Education Disrupted, Education Reimagined, ‘Education cannot just a two-day online gathering organised by the World Innovation Summit for Education – a global go back to business as initiative of QF – and the Salzburg Global Seminar, brought together experts from around the world usual after COVID-19’ to analyse the consequences of COVID-19 for educational ecosystems, and how the pandemic could mark the start of a road to change. THE PENINSULA — DOHA equality of access, especially from people from disadvantaged Global education will not be able sectors of society.” to return to “business as usual” Other challenges, he said, happens in the world. And while the pandemic has in a post-coronavirus world, and include the acute inadequacy of Speakers also included Al led to much of the conversation must take the opportunity that education offerings. “In the case Jawhara Al Thani, QF’s Head of about the future of education the crisis has offered to rethink of higher education, it’s very Educational and Community being centered around remote and reshape itself, a Qatar Foun- evident there is an excessive aca- Programs, who told the online learning, she added: “When we dation educator has told an inter- demic workload, while there is audience: “This is a global reset have conversations about tradi- national online conference. also very limited articulation with button for everyone – it is not a tional education spaces, we can Education Disrupted, Edu- the previous levels of the edu- chance for education systems to be dismissive of the power of the cation Reimagined, a two-day cation systems and also a signif- be passive. school’s physical space – and this online gathering organised by the icant emphasis on disconnected “The whole world has to hold isn’t about the traditional World Innovation Summit for knowledge. Francisco Marmolejo, QF’s Education Adviser. up to the responsibility of inno- classroom, it’s about human Education – a global initiative of “Consciously designing for a vating, and thinking about what interaction and how this space Qatar Foundation (QF) – and the ‘new normal’ will require signif- at the World Bank, said the on rationalistic evidence”, adding: we can do better and do differ- can become a microcosm of the Salzburg Global Seminar, brought icant political willingness, an current crisis is one that “a lot of “Something that this crisis is ently, because we cannot wait for world outside. together experts from around the eagerness to disrupt, eagerness people in education were not helping all of us to recognize is someone else to do it for us. We The second day of the con- world to analyse the conse- to consider innovative and fea- prepared for”, although in the that, in a way, we have been have to serve our communities ference featured a session on UN quences of COVID-19 for educa- sible ideas, a participatory case of Qatar: “Possibly because missing the point. and think about their needs right agencies’ education response to tional ecosystems, and how the approach – especially with of the blockade experienced by “The significant emphasis we now, and I believe this has put a COVID-19, featuring represent- pandemic could mark the start teachers and parents – and more the country, the system was pre- have placed just on the employ- lot of education systems in the atives from countries including of a road to change. informed decision-making based pared to quickly react and imme- ability skills of people is, in my hotseat, forcing them to think the US, Jordan, Denmark, and Among the speakers was on evidence. We cannot miss this diately put in place systems for opinion, preventing us seeing and about how they interact with Austria. During this session, Francisco Marmolejo, QF’s Edu- opportunity for the disruption of the remote delivery of teaching remembering that, at the end of their community.” Manos Antoninis, UNESCO’s cation Adviser, who told the con- education systems, in order to and learning. It was a remarkable the day, education is about She said that when the time Director of the Global Education ference: “If we talk about this more adequately prepare the achievement in such a short forming personas. It is about comes for schools to reopen, edu- Monitoring Report, said: “The UN crisis as being a catalyst for next generation of professionals period of time.” integral, responsible citizens who, cators should consider “how to system should prioritize those at change, it may be an opportunity and the next leaders of our He also shared his view that, for sure, are employable, but can make it a space for a richer risk of exclusion, and that to recognise that, globally, today’s societies.” in the past, education systems more importantly are committed human exchange” and “how to includes remembering that tech- education systems are still facing Marmolejo, a former global have based too many decisions to their community and with a build intentionality into what nology does have some negative many challenges in terms of coordinator of higher education “on anecdotes and emotions, not broad perspective on what we’ve been doing accidentally”. consequences for equality.” MoPH issues guidelines for older people Georgetown professor’s economics award win puts to prevent contracting COVID-19 QF research on a global stage THE PENINSULA — DOHA conditions or other illnesses that require THE PENINSULA — DOHA to take regular medication. Though most people infected with the “If you need physical help in taking your Jose Asturias (pictured), COVID-19 virus will experience a mild to medications, make sure whoever gives the Assistant Professor of moderate respiratory illness and recover medication washed their hands well before Economics at Georgetown without requiring special treatment, older and after completing the task. Ensure you University in Qatar (GU-Q), people are more likely to develop serious have enough medication doses so you don’t along with co-authors Manuel illnesses, said the Ministry of Public Health run out. If you need a repeat prescription García-Santana, a professor at in guidance for older adults in view of the you can call your family physician. Please Barcelona Graduate School of outbreak. allow someone else to pick up the pre- Economics, and Roberto “If you are over 65 years of age, espe- scription and medication, even if you feel Ramos, an economist with the cially if you have underlying medical fine and have always done this yourself. Bank of Spain, have won the problems like cardiovascular disease, dia- family and friends visiting, including young Don’t put yourself or your family at risk if European Economic Associa- betes, chronic respiratory disease and children, as even though the children might you don’t have to” said the Ministry. tion’s (EEA) 2020 Hicks- cancer, you can experience more severe not be sick, they could be carriers of the If an older person are show symptoms Tinbergen Medal for their symptoms and are more likely to need virus. Avoid sharing living areas with family such as coughing, sneezing, fever or journal article, “Competition had on market competition intensive hospital care if you get the members - try to stay in a separate room shortness of breath, you may need and the Welfare Gains from between firms. infection,” the Ministry said issuing a set of to the rest of the family, and use a separate assessment by healthcare professional. Start Transportation Infrastructure: A country’s transportation guidelines. bathroom. Keep your distance from other self-quarantine, avoid any contact with Evidence from the Golden infrastructure plays an To protect themselves from COVID-19 people - maintain at least a 2m distance others and call the national hotline at Quadrilateral of India.” important role in its economic older people are advised to follow the between yourself and anyone around you. 16000. The EEA awards the medal performance, explained Dr. instructions of MoPH by practicing physical Avoid physical contact with others - refrain Older adults are also advice to practice once every two years to the Asturias. “A fifth of World Bank distancing, staying home, avoiding crowds, from kissing, shaking hands or hugging as the ‘Sick day rules’ and check blood authors of an outstanding lending goes to upgrading parks and refraining from touching one a greeting.” pressure more often, reduce sodium (salt) article published in their transport infrastructure. It’s another or surfaces. Personal hygiene is The Ministry has also advice to maintain and fat (that leads to higher cholesterol) in journal in the preceding two very important and policy- extremely important at this time of the virus a clean environment – regularly clean and diet. years. Congratulating the makers have devoted signif- outbreak. disinfect frequently touched surfaces, Especially older adults are advised winners, the EEA award com- icant resources to reducing According to the Ministry, “Wash your ensure household staff follow good prac- not to stop medication unless directed mittee said “The paper ele- their transportation costs. That hands regularly with soap and water. If soap tices - if employ household and/or private by the doctor and always follow recom- gantly combines theory with is what motivated us to study and water are not available, clean your nursing staff, ensure they adhere to the mendations given by healthcare profes- data to a highly policy relevant the Golden Quadrilateral, a hands with an alcohol-based solution (60%) strict hygiene protocols of hand washing sionals. The Ministry also advised older question,” setting their research 5,800 km highway connecting or a sanitiser. Avoid touching your eyes, and ask them to keep a mask on when near. adults to temperature, when needed use findings apart through a novel the urban centers of the nose and mouth (or ensure you wash your It is important for anyone who has to acetaminophen (paracetamol/Panadol) approach to an issue with country (Delhi, Mumbai, hands before and after). Refrain from take regular medication to continue with rather than anti-inflammatory (ibu- global relevance. Chennai, and Calcutta) via having visitors – this means not having this, especially if the person has chronic profen/Advil). Using India’s multi- modern highways.” billion dollar Golden Quad- The winning paper was rilateral road project as a published in the December case study, the research 2019 issue of the Journal of the Temporary closure on parts of Bani Hajer Interchange paper provides major new European Economic Associ- insights on measuring the ation (JEEA). Dr. Asturias is cur- THE PENINSULA — DOHA (6am) and the traffic flow from the traffic flow from Al Shahama Gharrafat Al Rayyan Interchange economic impact of invest- rently working on several new Bani Hajer to Al Rayyan and Street and Al Rayyan Al Jadeed and then exit right towards Bani ments in major infrastructure projects, one of which studies The Public Works Authority Doha will be changed starting Road will be directed to Al Wajba Hajer. Road users on Al Shahama projects. Specifically, the the evolution of internal trade (Ashghal) has announced a May 1 (midnight) to May 3, 2020 Interchange and Gharrafat Al Street heading towards Al research team found that the within Spain following the temporary closure on parts of (6am), to enable the asphalt Rayyan Interchange to reach Rayyan or Doha will have to investment in the highway 2008 global financial crisis. Dr. Bani Hajer Interchange, where works, as part of Khalifa their destinations. make a U-Turn on Al Wajba project has paid off at even Asturias conducts research and the traffic flow from Al Rayyan Avenue Project. Road users on Al Rayyan Al Interchange and then continue higher rates than previously teaches courses on interna- and Dukhan to Bani Hajer will During this traffic change Jadeed Road and Dukhan Road on Dukhan Road towards Doha known. They determined this tional trade and macroeco- be changed, starting April 24 which is in coordination with the heading towards Bani Hajer will or take second exit on Dukhan by studying the economic nomics at GU-Q, a QF partner (midnight) to April 26, 2020 General Directorate of Traffic, have to make a U-turn on Road towards Al Rayyan. impact road improvements university. WCM-Q launches weekly COVID-19 live webinar series

THE PENINSULA — DOHA locally by the Qatar Council for Sharon Kaur, Senior Lecturer in the Healthcare Practitioners-Accreditation Faculty of Law at the University of Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar has Department (QCHP-AD) and interna- Malaya in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on launched a live webinar series to allow tionally by the Accreditation Council the role of ethics in the COVID-19 pan- the healthcare community in Qatar to for Continuing Medical Education demic; and Dr. Mahrukh Rizvi, an discuss the challenges posed by the (ACCME). alumna of WCM-Q’s Class of 2011, now COVID-19 pandemic, its impact, Dr. Thurayya Arayssi, Senior Asso- a specialist in Internal Medicine, Neph- recommended responses and ciate Dean for Medical Education and rology and Critical Care in Rochester, treatment protocols. Continuing Professional Development, Minnesota. Every Wednesday at 4pm, a dif- said: “We decided to establish this Dr. Rizvi will give a presentation ferent medical expert will give a live series because it is very important that titled COVID-19 pneumonia investi- presentation to explain their under- the local healthcare community be able gational therapeutics – navigating the standing of the pandemic, how it can to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on uncharted. best be controlled, and how it will clinical practice in Qatar so that they The Division of Continuing Profes- affect the way healthcare is delivered can share knowledge and work out the sional Development has developed two in the future. best way each of them can help to further online webinar series: Biosta- The COVID-19 Live Webinar manage the crisis. It is also a socially tistics for Healthcare Practitioners Live Clinical Series was developed by useful way for us to continue to fulfil Webinar Series, a four-part series WCM-Q’s Division of Continuing Pro- our obligations to provide ongoing pro- beginning on April 28, 2020 and fessional Development. In addition to fessional development learning oppor- running from 3pm-4.15pm; and the WCM-Q has launched a weekly COVID-19 live webinar series that will be shown providing a means for discussing the tunities for local healthcare WCM-Q Grand Rounds Live online at 4pm every Wednesday, featuring a different healthcare expert each week. implications of the pandemic, the practitioners.” Webinar Series, starting on May 10, webinar series also addresses an urgent The first speaker in the series was 2020, running weekly from 2pm- need to support the ongoing learning Dr. Adeel Ajwad Butt, Vice-Chair of titled Containment and Management dation partner university. 3pm. For more details about Con- of the local healthcare community the Department of Medicine and of the SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 Pan- Other speakers in the series include tinuing Professional Development while physical distancing measures are Director of the Clinical Epidemiology demic. Dr. Butt is also Professor of Dr. Javaid Sheikh, Dean of WCM-Q, activities at WCM-Q, visit https:// being observed. Research Unit at Hamad Medical Cor- Medicine and Healthcare Policy and who will speak about the sociocultural qatar-weill.cornell.edu/ The live webinars are accredited poration, who gave a presentation Research at WCM-Q, a Qatar Foun- aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic; Dr. continuing-professional-development/ 06 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020 Lebanon MPs meet as protesters stage car convoy

AFP — BEIRUT Outside the venue where MPs sat yesterday,

Lebanon’s parliament sat dozens of protesters drove a noisy convoy yesterday in a conference hall of cars covered in slogans, drivers honking to allow for social distancing their horns and passengers brandishing between lawmakers amid the coronavirus pandemic, while the national flag and leaning out of the outside anti-government windows in face masks. protesters demonstrated in a car convoy. As the country struggles with a battered economy, MPs October. Among their 66 items to approved a $120m loan from Lebanon is grappling with discuss, legalising growing mar- the World Bank to help fight its worst economic crisis since ijuana for medical purposes was COVID-19, which has officially the 1975-1990 civil war, com- expected to be approved by a infected 677 people and killed pounded by the lockdown, and majority as it could generate 21 nationwide. poverty has risen to 45 percent revenue for the indebted state’s Also on the agenda of the of the population according to coffers. three-day session were pro- official estimates. Lebanon bans growing, posals for a divisive general The rallies had petered out selling and consuming cannabis, amnesty, to legalise cannabis for after a new government took but its underground production medical use, and to lift immunity office in January, and demon- in the country’s east has for ministers and lawmakers to strators have mostly remained developed over decades into an allow prosecutions over alleged at home since the coronavirus illicit multi-million-dollar corruption. lockdown started industry. Outside the venue, dozens mid-March. No consensus was in sight, of protesters drove a noisy But on Friday, hundreds however, for a general amnesty convoy of cars covered in again protested in the city of to free thousands of detainees Anti-government demonstrators hold Lebanese flags as they protest in their cars, during a countrywide slogans, drivers honking their Tripoli to mark six months since and to suspend arrest warrants lockdown to combat the spread of the coronavirus disease, in Beirut, Lebanon, yesterday. horns and passengers bran- the street movement started to for thousands more. dishing the national flag and demand an overhaul of a ruling Supporters — which include merely an attempt to boost dominant. They are accused of eastern regions of Baalbek and leaning out of the windows in class widely deemed inept and Shia movements Hezbollah and popular support. carrying out crimes including Hermel, where Hezbollah and face masks. corrupt. Amal as well as the Sunni Future The amnesty has long been fighting and assaulting the the parliament speaker’s Amal They defied a stay-at- The lawmakers met in a Movement — say an amnesty a demand of the families of army, taking part in clashes in are powerful. home order to protest deteri- conference hall at the Unesco could lessen overcrowding in some 1,200 so-called “Islamist the city, and planning explo- Most of these are accused orating living conditions and Palace in Beirut, with a capacity jails housing 9,000 prisoners. detainees”, most of whom hail sives attacks. of drug-linked crimes including maintain pressure on a of up to 1,000 people, as part of But its detractors, including from the Sunni-majority city of Families have also clam- growing hashish illegally, or political elite under fire since measures to halt the spread of the president’s Christian parlia- Tripoli, where the former pre- oured for the release of thou- other offences such as stealing mass protests erupted last the novel coronavirus. mentary bloc, allege the bill is mier’s Future Movement is sands more detainees from the cars. Gunman shoots Kuwait reports 85 new coronavirus cases, 2 deaths 7 people dead in QNA & ANATOLIA — DOHA Health Minister Sheikh Basel Al Sabah announced the recovery Lebanese village The Kuwaiti Ministry of Health of 45 patients in the last 24 reported 85 new coronavirus hours. AP — BEIRUT infections in the last 24 hours, Al Sanad added, according to bringing the total of infections to Kuwait News Agency, that the The bodies of seven persons, 2,080, while two deaths were travel-related cases of the 85 including five Syrians, were reported as well. infected individuals were 7 cases, found shot dead in a mountain Oman and Bahrain yesterday while 72 cases are due to contacts village southeast of the reported fresh deaths and cases with people who have been con- Lebanese capital Beirut from coronavirus. In Bahrain, the firmed with COVID-19 disease. The yesterday, state-run National death toll now stands at seven, six other cases are still under News Agency reported. while 773 people have recovered investigation to determine the The reason behind the in the country so far. causes. shooting and who was behind The Health Ministry added The two deaths are for resi- it were not immediately clear that 12 people have tested pos- dents who were receiving the nec- but NNA said the shooter fled itive for COVID-19, bringing the essary medical care in intensive to nearby fields and was being total number of cases to 1,907. care, and who are already suffering chased by security forces. In Oman, the death toll rose from chronic diseases, bringing the NNA said a pump action to eight after one more patient total deaths in the country to nine rifle and a Kalashnikov assault died yesterday. The Health Min- cases, he added. rifle were used in the istry said that 98 confirmed new He pointed out that the total shootings. Two Lebanese and cases brought the infections to number of cases receiving treat- five Syrians were found dead 1,508, including 238 recoveries. ments at intensive care unit in three separate locations in Kuwait’s Health Ministry reached 46 cases (20 critical and the village of Baakline, local spokesperson Dr. Abdullah Al 26 stable), bringing the total LBC TV reported. Sanad said in a press conference number of patients with COVID-19 Such shootings in Lebanon, Repatriated Kuwaitis from Amman, wearing protective face masks and suits, are seen after arriving yesterday that the total recov- disease that are still receiving where many people keep rifles at the Kuwait Airport, amid the outbreak of the coronavirus disease, in Kuwait City yesterday. eries stood at 412 after Kuwaiti treatments to 1,657 cases. or pistols in their homes, are rare. Lebanon is home to more than a million Syrian refugees and other Syrians who are Iran records 88 new virus Erdogan says pandemic residents. biggest crisis since WWII Israeli strike near deaths; frees 1,000 prisoners Tadmur kills 9 ANATOLIA — ANKARA Turkey will ensure that the AFP — TEHRAN is a significant move” compared overall total to 84,802. But more “highest-level” measures are AP — BEIRUT with what other countries had than 60,900 of those admitted The human cost and economic taken during the holy month of Iran yesterday announced 88 done, said judiciary spokesman to hospital had already fallout from the coronavirus Ramadan — set to start on An Israeli airstrike in central new deaths from the novel Gholamhossein Esmaili. recovered, he said, describing it pandemic have turned it into Friday — he said, adding, “We Syria killed nine fighters, coronavirus as the country said A panel of UN human rights as a “significant” number. an era-defining global crisis, aim to transition to normal life including six who were not it had released more than 1,000 experts last week called on Iran Iran had so far carried out said Turkey’s president after the Eid holiday” at the end Syrians and some who were foreign prisoners over the to expand the list of inmates it more than 365,700 COVID-19 yesterday. of Ramadan. loyal to the militant Hezbollah outbreak. has temporarily released over tests, the ministry official said. “With its economic fallout, Erdogan stressed the group, an opposition war According to health min- the COVID-19 outbreak to The country has struggled the pandemic has turned into importance of being prepared monitor said. istry spokesman Kianoush include “prisoners of con- to contain the virus outbreak the biggest crisis since World War for new developments in the The Britain-based Syrian Jahanpour, the latest fatalities science and dual and foreign since reporting its first cases on II,” Recep Tayyip Erdogan told a post-epidemic world in Turkey Observatory for Human in the past 24 hours brought the nationals”. February 19. Some officials and central executive board videocon- and around the region as well Rights gave no nationalities total to 5,297, in one of the It also raised concerns health experts in Iran and ference of his ruling Justice and as to combat the coronavirus. for the foreigners who were world’s deadliest outbreaks. about the spread in detention abroad have said the country’s Development (AK) Party. Turkey yesterday con- killed on a military post in the The foreign prisoners were facilities of the virus that causes casualty figures may be higher “Especially the desperation firmed 119 more fatalities from desert near the historic among 100,000 inmates tem- the COVID-19 disease. than those it declared. of developed countries in the the novel coronavirus over the central town of Tadmur porarily released in several In response, Esmaili said Iran has allowed businesses face of such a comprehensive past 24 hours, bringing the toll (Palmyra). It said the dead stages since March. They Iran should not be criticised for to reopen after shutting most crisis compels us to reconsider to 2,259. included some fighters loyal included British-Iranian “discriminatory conduct” as it of its economy down in mid- all future predictions,” Erdogan The total number of regis- to Lebanon’s Hezbollah woman Nazanin Zaghari-Rat- had an “excellent” track record March, except those with “high- added. tered coronavirus cases surged group. cliffe, arrested in 2016 and compared with Britain and the risk” like restaurants and gyms. Erdogan said that as the to 95,591, as 4,611 more people Israel says it has been serving a five-year jail term for United States. The reopening of the epidemic heavily hit both tested positive for the virus, the behind a series of airstrikes sedition. According to Jahanpour, an economy has drawn criticism neighboring Europe and Iran, Health Ministry said on Twitter. mainly targeting Iranian and “What Iran has done in additional 1,297 cases of from health experts and even there was no way for Turkey to So far, a total of 14,918 Hezbollah forces in Syria that guaranteeing prisoners’ health COVID-19 infection detected in some officials from the avoid feeling its effects. patients have been discharged have joined the country’s war and granting furlough to them the past 24 hours brought the government. But Turkey took necessary from hospitals after recovering fighting alongside the gov- measures in time thanks to its from the virus, with 1,488 dis- ernment. It rarely confirms the strong healthcare infra- charged yesterday alone, the attacks and did not comment structure, he said. ministry added. on Monday’s airstrike. Iraq eases some lockdown restrictions

REUTERS — BAGHDAD where families tend to go out 25 percent and some shops will to shop in the evening. be allowed to reopen, though Iraq eased its coronavirus But this Ramadan will be malls, parks and mosques lockdown yesterday by letting different for Iraqis, as the new where large numbers of people some businesses reopen and measures will allow freedom normally gather will remain relaxing a month-long curfew of movement inside the capital closed, a government statement on movement imposed to curb Baghdad only between 6am said. The easing of the curfew the spread of the disease, the until 7pm while maintaining a is due to last until May 22 at the government said. complete curfew on the Friday- end of Ramadan. The authorities acted days Saturday weekend. Schools and universities before the start of the fasting Under the new regulations, will stay closed and all flights Iranians keep distance from each other while waiting for the bus in Tehran yesterday, amid the month of Ramadan, the holiest government offices can keep will remain halted, said the coronavirus pandemic. month in the Islamic calendar staffing levels at a maximum of statement. WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020 AFRICA 07 Hundreds of Tunisians Togo opposition leader held after stranded in Libya police raid cross the border AFP — LOME Togolese security forces AFP — RAS JEDIR, TUNISIA The chief of mission yesterday raided the home of opposition leader Agbeyome Hundreds of Tunisians stranded for the International Kodjo over accusations of for weeks in war-racked Libya Organization for threatening state security, one due to the coronavirus have Migration in Libya, of his lawyers said. returned home after forcing “Mr Kodjo was forcibly their way through a border Federico Soda, said arrested today. The security crossing, the UN and aid groups in a tweet: “Hundreds forces broke down his gate and said. front door before arresting him Tunisia’s interior ministry of Tunisian migrant and taking away,” Claver N’dry denied that Tunisians on workers who have said. A gendarmerie official Monday had crossed the Ras said Kodjo was arrested for Jedir border point using force, been stranded on the failing to comply with a police Tunisian workers stranded in Libya wait to board buses at the Ras Jedir border post to return to saying authorities at the frontier summons for a third time. Tunisia-Libya border their country, yesterday. allowed 652 to enter from The 65-year-old former Libya. for weeks have now prime minister was runner-up But the chief of mission for forced their way into According to human rights weeks— to cross from their side on board to ferry them back to in elections on February 22 the International Organization Tunisia.” activist Mostapha Abdelkebir, of the border. their region of origin, a corre- that returned the incumbent, for Migration in Libya, Federico around 1,300 Tunisians had “They are mostly workers, spondent said. Faure Gnassingbe, as president Soda, said in a tweet: “Hundreds massed close to the Ras Jedir day labourers, who are facing The interior ministry said of the poor West African of Tunisian migrant workers wheeling carry-on luggage border post since the lockdown a dire humanitarian situation,” they would be sent to quar- country. Kodjo’s lawyers said who have been stranded on the along a motorway towards the was imposed in March Regai said. A Tunisian diplo- antine centres before being he was unable to comply with Tunisia/Libya border for weeks border and chanting. demanding to be allowed back matic source estimated that allowed home. Since the any of the summonses — on have now forced their way into Tunisia closed its border home. around 20,000 Tunisians are country confirmed its first case April 1 and 9 as well as on Tunisia.” with Libya in March as part of “Yesterday 700 showed up, still in Libya. of the respiratory disease in Monday —for health reasons. “Hundreds more are still measures to contain the spread rather restless and making The source expected early March, Tunisia has Lome prosecutors stripped waiting to return home in the of the COVID-19 pandemic. The noise in a bid to force the police authorities on both sides to declared 38 deaths among 884 Kodjo of parliamentary absence of concrete action”, country is also under a night- to let them through,” Abdelkebir allow more crossings ahead of confirmed infections. immunity in mid-March after Soda said. time curfew. said. the holy fasting month of Thousands of Tunisians he declared himself Togo’s Soda posted on his Twitter On Sunday, Prime Minister Local Red Crescent official Ramadan, which is expected to have been stranded abroad due legitimate president and called account a video showing droves Elyes Fakhfakh said the Abdelkarim Regai said Libyan begin Friday. to the pandemic and their on the armed forces to rise up of Tunisians carrying personal lockdown would be extended authorities allowed the Tuni- Yesterday morning busses homeward movement was due against the Gnassingbe gov- belongings. to May 3 before it is progres- sians nationals —some of who escorted by police left the to be discussed during a cabinet ernment. The public prose- The video showed them sively eased. had been stranded there for border area with the Tunisians meeting yesterday. cutor has accused Kodjo, head of the Patriotic Movement for Democracy and Development, of public order offences and Over 60 test positive in Morocco jail; Africa cases exceed 23,000 threatening state security. AFP & ANATOLIA — RABAT Other Middle East and El Keib, Libya’s North African countries have More than 60 cases of corona- also released prisoners, a former PM dies virus infections have been measure UN human rights chief recorded in a jail in southern Michelle Bachelet has called for BLOOMBERG — TRIPOLI Morocco, mostly among staff, across the world as part of the the country’s prisons service fight against the coronavirus Abdurrahim El Keib, who said. pandemic. Morocco, a country served for around a year as The DGAPR agency, in a of 35 million, has closed its Libya’s interim prime minister statement late Monday, said 60 borders and imposed a shortly after the ouster of the workers and six inmates had lockdown until May 20, Opec member’s longtime tested positive for COVID-19 at enforced by security forces, to leader, has died of a heart the prison in the town of Ouar- stem the spread of the disease. attack, Al Wasat reported zazate after checks were carried The tally of infections from yesterday. He was 70, out on all prisoners. coronavirus has risen to 23,505 according to the news website. Nine staff and two inmates in Africa, a health authority said. El Keib, a professor of elec- had previously tested positive Meanwhile, the death toll trical engineering, was at a jail in the southern city of climbed to 1,158, said the Africa appointed as premier in Marrakesh and in Ksar Kebir, Centers for Disease Control and November 2011 by the coun- in the north of the kingdom, it Prevention in its daily update. try’s National Transitional said. More than 5,800 patients Council, with a mandate to The prison service said that have gone on to make a steer the war-torn nation cases of contamination in recovery. Algeria has reported toward elections. He took over Morocco’s prisons— which hold the most deaths — 384— on the from Mahmoud Jibril, who a total of 80,000 inmates— continent. In terms of cases, resigned from the post when were under control because of Health Extension workers of the Ministry of Health measure the temperature of a girl during a door- South Africa and Egypt both Libya’s liberation was declared “preventives measures” such as to-door screening to curb the spread of COVID-19, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, yesterday. have registered 3,300 cases on Oct. 23, three days after the quarantines for workers with each. Djibouti with a population death of Muammar Gaddafi. the respiratory disease. than 5,650 prisoners were the spread of coronavirus, Morocco and contaminated less than a million has 846 cases El Keib handed over power to At the start of April, more released to reduce the risks of which has cost 144 lives in more than 3,000 people. and two deaths. Ali Zaidan in November 2012.

Uganda detains prominent scribe UAE shipped tonnes of jet fuel to Haftar militias: Report for ‘subversive’ ANATOLIA — TRIPOLI shipment to eastern Libya last April, with more than command of Khalifa Haftar launched by Hifter’s forces could constitute a violation of 1,000 killed in the violence. It have been laying siege to struck two field hospitals, activities United Arab Emirates-based the embargo,” the newspaper launched Operation Peace Tripoli since last April, trying wounding five medical companies shipped tonnes of quoted Stephanie Williams, Storm on March 26 to counter to wrest the city from the UN- workers on Monday, according REUTERS — KAMPALA jet fuel to eastern Libya, the the acting UN envoy to Libya, attacks on the capital. backed government. to the Tripoli-based health stronghold of warlord Khalifa as saying. Since the ouster of The fighting has settled ministry. Last week, the UN Police in Uganda said Haftar, in a suspected violation Underlining that the legit- longtime ruler Muammar into a chaotic stalemate. said, artillery shells damaged yesterday they had arrested a of international arms embargo, imate Tripoli-based National Gaddafi in 2011, two seats of Western militias allied with the intensive care unit of prominent journalist and news according to an investigation by Oil Corporation is already sup- power have emerged in Libya: the beleaguered Tripoli gov- Tripoli’s Royal Hospital, a anchor at one of the country’s Financial Times. plying sufficient amounts of Haftar in eastern Libya, sup- ernment, known as the Gov- blow to an already strained biggest TV stations for alleged The companies sent in jet fuel to the eastern part of ported by Egypt and UAE, and ernment of National Accord, health care system struggling subversive activities. Samson March nearly 11,000 tonnes of the country for commercial the GNA in Tripoli, which have even reversed the tide in to respond to the COVID-19 Kasumba was being investi- jet fuel to the city of Benghazi, use, Williams said the illegally enjoys UN and international recent weeks and regained lost pandemic. gated along with other which is under the control of imported jet fuel would likely recognition. ground along the western The UN also expressed co-conspirators, police said. Haftar militias, the newspaper be used to support Haftar’s air Meanwhile, the United coast. GNA forces over the concern about the fate of Journalists from inde- said, adding that the shipment force operations. Nations warned of rapidly weekend attacked Tarhuna, civilians in Tarhuna following pendent media in the East had a market value of nearly UN officials endorsed that escalating violence and a the main western stronghold the GNA’s military offensive. African country are frequently $5m at the time it was loaded the companies involved in the worsening humanitarian crisis and supply line of Hifter’s Without naming Western-based targeted by the government of from the UAE. incident were registered in the in Libya, which it said could forces 45 miles southeast of forces, it lamented arbitrary President Yoweri Museveni The supplier of the fuel, UAE, and the fuel was supplied amount to war crimes. Tripoli. arrests, abuse of civilians and and have been jailed or inter- according to the publication, in UAE territory but refused to While the UN Mission in Over the past weeks, fighters and electricity and gas rogated over their work. was Afrifin Logistics FZE, declare the names of the firms. Libya did not identify a per- Haftar’s forces have launched supply cut-offs, which it said Museveni, in power since which is based in Sharjah. It They said that investiga- petrator, it detailed a “dra- rockets at civilian targets, amounted to “collective pun- 1986, has little tolerance for was loaded on to MT Gulf tions will continue to clarify matic increase” of indiscrim- including health facilities. ishment” in the strategic city. criticism, the opposition and Petroleum 4, a Liberian- how the financial transactions inate shelling on densely pop- Intensified shelling of Tripoli GNA forces claimed battle- rights activists say, adding that flagged tanker operated by were conducted and aims to ulated civilian areas in the has sent thousands of people field gains around Tarhuna, accusations of crimes against Gulf Shipping Services FZC. confirm the firms and people capital, Tripoli, that killed five fleeing from their homes while Hifter’s forces said they the state are often used to “In the UN’s judgment the involved in the shipping. civilians and wounded 28 over despite a lockdown to slow the thwarted the attack. Both sides intimidate or silence the media jet fuel was considered to be The GNA has been under the past few days. Eastern- spread of the coronavirus. In reported killing and capturing and political opponents. ‘combat supplies’ and the attack by Haftar’s forces since based forces under the the latest assault, Grad rockets rival militiamen. Kasumba, a news anchor and reporter at NBS Television, was arrested on Monday as he left the station, police West African nation Guinea-Bissau becomes ‘vulture graveyard’ spokesman Fred Enanga said. “He was picked up yes- ANATOLIA — BISSAU early February with 200 fatalities and Tavares, the head of the VCF. flew out of Guinea-Bissau before the terday evening as he was sharply increased to at least 1,603 con- Along with the VCF, International global lock-down imposed by the heading back home,” Enanga Guinea-Bissau has become a “vulture firmed cases, especially in the eastern Union for Conservation of Nature’s COVID-19 pandemic and toxicological told a news conference. graveyard” after estimated 2,000 part of the country, but the NGO sus- Vulture Specialist Group (VSG) and analysis are now being carried out in Enanga said detectives vultures died, the world’s biggest ever pects that the number of death vultures BirdLife International, as well as author- Lisbon university,” the group added. had interrogated Kasumba and vulture morality, according to a conser- could exceed 2,000. ities in the country have been working Mentioning that mass poisonings in would conduct searches at vation organization. “Guinea-Bissau holds one of the to enlighten the incident. Africa are common, it stressed that pop- various locations for potential “With the political turmoil in the healthiest populations of this African According to reports and some wit- ulations of some African species have evidence. He denied that the country and the global COVID-19 pan- species, with some estimates sug- nesses on the ground, the vultures were declined by 80% over the past 30 years. arrest was connected to Kas- demic, it has been even more difficult gesting the country holds more than killed intentionally via poison baits due Founded in 2009, the Vulture Con- umba’s work as a journalist. and slow to respond accordingly to the a fifth of the continent’s global popu- to the demand for ritual use of the servation Foundation is an international With Museveni widely expected circumstances,” Vulture Conservation lation of Hooded Vultures, but events raptors, the VCF said. NGO working for the conservation of to stand in presidential elections Foundation (VCF) said in a statement of this scale will have adverse effects “Vulture carcasses have been col- European vulture species — bearded due next year, security forces yesterday. “Unprecedented” hooded on their national but also regional lected and sent to Lisbon, the capital of vultures, griffon vultures, cinereous vul- have been clamping down on vulture deaths in the country started in West African population”, said Jose Portugal, with one of the last planes that tures, and Egyptian vultures. supporters of the opposition. 08 VIEWS WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020

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Migrants in the “Remain in Mexico” program walk on the Paso del Norte International Bridge to reschedule their immigration hearings EDITORIAL amid the coronavirus disease outbreak in Ciudad Juarez, yesterday. Timely efforts yield good results Immigration will be another QATAR’S untiring efforts in containing the novel coro- navirus disease (COVID-19) have been drawing praise from several quarters, including the World Health Organ- isation (WHO), different ambassadors accredited to Qatar and especially the domestic population, citizens casualty of the coronavirus and residents alike. For Qatar, as was in the case of other parts of the cold or HIV-AIDS. Even if the Alternatively, maybe many because they involve face-to- world, the virus is an invisible, imported enemy. Every US has COVID-19 under poorer (and richer?) countries face contact and time spent in detail, except the make up of this latest virus, is still control, there might be per- will acquire “herd immunity” enclosed spaces. Such profes- unknown and experts the world over are struggling to sistent if small pockets of even without good access to a sions as nursing and dental unravel it fully. Without knowing the vital traits of the COVID-19 in other countries, vaccine. But that will be hard assistants, for example, already virus, we cannot think of finding a solution, a medicine including populous, poor coun- to prove, and the casualties attracted many immigrants or vaccine to stop its march. Experts are yet to even tries such as India, Pakistan that mount along the way may even before COVID-19. finalise the incubation period of the virus, which is very TYLER COWEN and Nigeria. The US may be scare the US public away from Working on farms may yet crucial in releasing people from quarantine. Another BLOOMBERG reluctant to take new migrants allowing more immigration become more perilous if the major factor is to find out the period in which it spreads from those parts of the world. from those countries, even if virus strikes farm worker com- to others and when it becomes inactive or dormant. Whether or not that their citizens end up as safer munities. New migrants from These are the main factors which are crucial in con- Even before President Donald reaction is rational, it is easy to bets than Americans. poorer countries will be willing trolling the spread and treating the affected people. Trump announced that he imagine the public being In recent times China had to take on these risks - for extra Despite all these unfavourable situation, Qatar did intends to temporarily fearful about the potential of been the largest source of income of course - but most US its best thanks to the farsightedness of its wise lead- suspend immigration to the immigration to contribute to a immigrants to the US These citizens won’t go near them. ership and efficient healthcare system and infrastructure. US because of COVID-19, it pandemic resurgence. It does days it is difficult to imagine a The reality may be an The total number of recovered patients, 614 as of yes- was becoming clear that the seem that regions able to member of the US Congress uptick in some forms of terday, the lowest death rate in the Arab world, and the effect of the virus on restrict in-migration relatively taking to the floor and migration, mostly for relatively easing of some measures which were put in place migration would be easily - such as New Zealand, demanding that America open hazardous jobs. There could be sometime back to contain the virus spread are enough powerful, long-lasting and Iceland and Hawaii - have had its shores to the Chinese once a national guest-worker proof of this. unfortunate. Many countries less severe COVID-19 again, no matter what the program, managed by quota The Assistant Foreign Minister and Spokesperson besides the US have already problems. New York City, actual level of safety. by profession, to ensure that of the Supreme Committee for Crisis Management, H shuttered or severely limited which takes in people from In addition to these effects, such jobs are filled. It is a little- E Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed Al Khater, entry from foreigners - and around the world, has had many migrants currently living known fact that last month the announced on Monday the partial reopening of some many of those restrictions will America’s most severe out- in the US might go back home. US government eased H-2 visa parts of the Industrial Area, which had emerged as a not be so easily removed break. And the recent Say you are from southern rules, in part to make it easier hotspot in the country. Some parts of the area was when the worst of the appearance of a second wave India and live in Atlanta, and for Mexican farm workers to locked down completely and placed under quarantine. pandemic has passed. of COVID-19 in Singapore has typically your parents or enter this country and work to The reopening will start today for much of relief to the First, there is no guarantee been connected to ongoing grandparents come to visit secure the food supply chain. authorities and especially the residents and commercial that a good vaccine will be migration there. once a year. That is now much And this was from an adminis- establishments in the area. H E Al Khater shared some ready quickly, even within two I have never thought the harder for them to do, and will tration not favorable to greater very important and heartening information such as 90 years. There is still no vaccine, federal government would be for the foreseeable future. immigration. percent of the coronavirus infections in Qatar are light for instance, for the common build Trump’s wall on the US- Even if a vaccine comes So yes, immigration is and only one percent is serious. There are only 72 people Mexico border. But now I along in a few years, restrictions likely to remain at depressed in intensive care while 52 people left the intensive care. There is another wonder whether it may well on immigrants will have levels for years to come. At the For the last couple of days, Qatar has been wit- side to this issue, happen - perhaps in elec- become the legal status quo - same time, businesses will nessing a rise in positive cases. But there is no cause tronic form. and in a democracy with a lot of probably continue to furtively for alarm as the country is testing more and more people, of course: Many There is another side to checks and balances, status-quo appeal for foreign workers for proportionately the largest ratio of tests in the world. countries may this issue, of course: Many bias can be very strong. Those dangerous sectors, hire them The fact that almost every new case is from among the countries may decide to con- restrictions are not likely to be and then keep many of them quarantined people is another piece of good news. decide to continue tinue to limit visitors from the reversed very quickly. at arm’s length from main- But it is not yet time to sit back and relax. It depends to limit visitors US. The American gov- In spite of all those possible stream American society. That, on each one of us how far and how fast can we get out from the US. ernment might then respond restrictions, the pandemic itself at least as much as any of this imbroglio. If all of us take responsibility and play by restricting in-migration may offer new reasons to reduction in overall levels, our roles well, we can defeat this virus sooner rather from those countries. This embrace some forms of could be what the next wave than later. kind of tit-for-tat retaliation is migration, if only to help of immigration looks like. not always rational, but it is a Western economies continue Tyler Cowen is a pretty common phenomenon to function. Many jobs are now Bloomberg Opinion in international relations. more dangerous than before, columnist.

D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR Leaders must choose their words carefully amid global health crisis EMAIL: [email protected] JAPAN NEWS - YOMIURI from going out and to work whether the state’s response dealing with the crisis from home. was appropriate, but the fact without thought for political EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 The battle against the new The success of stronger that Cuomo continues to maneuvering. FAX: +974 4455 7758 coronavirus will inevitably be measures, such as mandatory reveal even unfavorable Leaders in crisis must also prolonged. Political leaders lockdowns, is all the more information in a humane send encouraging messages MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 around the world are dependent on whether manner may have led to a to people who are exposed to continuing their search for leaders can deliver correct certain level of trust. anxiety and tension, to DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 appropriate measures to gain information based on scien- German Chancellor prevent turmoil in society. the understanding and coop- tific knowledge and persuade Angela Merkel is sincerely In February when the LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 eration of their people. people. seeking the understanding of spread of the virus began, The heads of central and New York Gov. Andrew her nation, without flashiness. Singaporean Prime Minister BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 local governments are Cuomo explains detailed data She spoke in March on a Lee Hsien Loong said to the responsible for protecting on the infection situation and policy measure to partly nation, “Fear can do more SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 people’s lives and safety. the number of hospital beds close the borders, saying harm than the virus itself.” He Needless to say, measures to needed at press conferences these restrictions were only gave an early warning about ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 stop the spread of infection being held every day. He justifiable when absolutely the spread of false rumors on email: [email protected] are most important. candidly reveals grave pros- necessary. She emphasized the internet and the hoarding Many national and local pects, such as a plan to lift that it was an exceptional of food and other goods, PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 governments have imple- the restrictions on going out response because she grew inspiring the people. email: [email protected] mented strict measures to in stages over 1½ years. up in the former East US President Donald restrict economic and social The United States has the Germany, where travel to the Trump and Prime Minister ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 activities. To enhance the highest number of infected West was restricted. Shinzo Abe are also making FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] effectiveness of these people in the world, with Merkel has already every effort to publicize measures in a democratic deaths concentrated in New announced that she will measures to prevent the CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 country, it is essential to make York State. Still, polls in the retire from politics after she spread of infection and eco- email: [email protected] people aware of the necessity state show strong support for steps down as chancellor. It nomic measures. How are of the measures and the governor. may be to her advantage that these efforts viewed by the SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 encourage them to refrain It is too early to assess she can concentrate on people? FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar The world of work is facing the worst global crisis since World War II. The economic impact /Peninsula_Qatar of the pandemic is likely to be severe and /ThePeninsulaNewspaper sustained. Alette van Leur, ILO's Sectoral Policies Director +974 6698 6188 WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020 OPINION 09 Fighting coronavirus feels like fighting a war. That might bring us together

- they grow more inclusive last weekend’s anti-quar- This pandemic might toward others. antine protests. The pan- For decades, psychologists demic has also highlighted be our best chance have wondered how far this and worsened inequality, as in decades to win the can go. Can we stretch the The pandemic has low income and minority fight, too. It is a slow diameter of “us” to include all communities bear the brunt of humanity? One difficulty is also highlighted of its sickness, death, and disaster, which will that groups are often defined and worsened economic hardship. And we continue to affect us JAMIL ZAKI by common enemies - many are failing to protect our THE WASHINGTON POST versions of “us” require a inequality, as protectors, in ways that for years. That is part “them.” In economic experi- low income rhyme with the past. Vet- of its tragedy, but also Last month, while the ments, individuals act more and minority erans have long been val- COVID-19 pandemic began generously toward their own orized for their service while gives us a chance to ravaging the United States, team when competing with communities bear left woefully alone to deal reboot parts of our President Donald Trump another; in the United States, the brunt of its with its toll. Now, health- invoked “wartime powers” to volunteering shot up fol- care workers are given culture that have direct the manufacture and lowing 9/11. Threats from sickness, death, and standing ovations while harmed us for far distribution of face masks and outside remind insiders of economic hardship. forced to wear garbage bags longer than the virus. ventilators. The decision their shared fate, and deepen instead of adequate pro- implies a metaphor, their commitments to one And we are failing tective gear, and grocery To do so, we must suggesting that we are at war, another. Call it wartime to protect our store workers have been turn the togetherness This moment “drafted” into taking with a silent, faceless enemy compassion. protectors, in ways provides a unique that has infiltrated at least 184 Wartime compassion immense risk, but not com- of this moment into countries and every US state. seems to have a hard ceiling. that rhyme with the pensated accordingly. chance to define a habit. Empathy is Terrifying as that may be, it The only way it could extend past. Wartime language can a global “us,” and also gives people around the across our entire species paper over these injustices - a skill, which we there have been world a rare opportunity to would be for Earth to be encouraging people to talk can practice like any come together. invaded by hostile extrater- about togetherness without other. There’s rarely glimpses of it. In Wartime metaphors can restrials. Or so it seemed. The the world have banded doing much to assure it. But February, the Vatican be dangerous, but they can COVID-19 pandemic is the together, launching hundreds wartime compassion can go been a better time to also increase the range of our closest one can imagine to of international clinical trials, deeper - shining a light on start than now. sent thousands of compassion, by highlighting that science fiction scenario. including a megaproject how we’d like to face shared medical masks to our role as co-combatants in Humanity now faces a named SOLIDARITY. The struggles, and how far from a global fight. Humans have common enemy, and a simul- United Nations General those ideals we are. This has China. The following an ancient tendency to divide taneous, global front line - Assembly unanimously spurred powerful change in month China returned the world into “us” and manned not by soldiers, but approved a resolution for the past. During World War “them.” Whether the lines we by health-care workers and “intensified international II, Britain laid the ground for the favour as Italy draw are ethnic, national or other essential personnel cooperation to contain, mit- its welfare state, including struggled, marking ideological, we respond by keeping our infrastructures igate and defeat” COVID-19. the National Health Service, social distancing when it is mistrusting or even hating afloat. There are limits to these in part to recognize the sac- framed as a way to help boxes of equipment those who are not on our side. This moment provides a effects, of course: The pan- rifice many had made. To one others, not just protect with a quote from the But those same divisions also unique chance to define a demic has brought humanity of its architects, Sir William themselves. drive us to care for those who global “us,” and there have together in some ways, but Beveridge, war clarified the Disaster compassion Roman philosopher are with us. been glimpses of it. In Feb- has also deepened divisions country’s responsibility to offers a moving image of who Seneca: “We are Crucially, we each belong ruary, the Vatican sent thou- between smaller versions of care for all its people. “A rev- we could be - indelibly linked, waves of the same to many groups at once. You sands of medical masks to “us.” Anti-Asian bias has olutionary moment in the vulnerable together and thus might be an Ohioan, a tuba China. The following month intensified. Many Americans world’s history is a time for strong. But it usually fades as sea. player, and a chiropractor. China returned the favor as are so committed to their revolutions, not for normal life reappears - espe- Each of those selves carries its Italy struggled, marking boxes partisan sense of belonging patching,” he wrote. cially when normal life was own “us,” and when people of equipment with a quote that they can’t agree on the If today’s wartime com- not that caring to begin with. focus on larger versions of from the Roman philosopher scope of the pandemic, let passion is to be meaningful, it In the US, empathy has been themselves - say, as Amer- Seneca: “We are waves of the alone how to address it - a must be planted into the declining steadily, as polari- icans rather than Californians same sea.” Scientists around rift that was on display in structures that rise from zation, inequality, and lone- COVID-19’s rubble. Spain has liness have risen. Especially moved in that direction, for the most vulnerable planning to institute uni- among us, “normal” has long versal basic income, “not just been cruel. Against this for this extraordinary situ- backdrop, compassion can ation, [but] that it remains feel like a radical act pushing forever.” Governments back against those trends. should also consider broad- This pandemic might be ening mental health infra- our best chance in decades to structures to treat the trauma win that fight, too. It is a slow that health-care workers and disaster, which will continue countless others are experi- to affect us for years. That is encing, and which will affect part of its tragedy, but also them for years. gives us a chance to reboot Individuals can be for- parts of our culture that have given for not trusting their harmed us for far longer than leaders to embody universal the virus. To do so, we must goodwill. Thankfully, wartime turn the togetherness of this compassion is not just up to moment into a habit. Empathy politicians. It typically rises is a skill, which we can from the bottom up. Disasters practice like any other. inspire grass-roots commu- There’s rarely been a better nities of mutual aid. After San time to start than now. Francisco’s 1906 earthquake, Disasters shake our cul- residents poured out of their tural and psychological foun- homes to help one another, dations. They also ask us: ignoring class and race what will we rebuild? boundaries that typically sep- Wartime compassion gives us arated them. After Hurricane a powerful, fleeting chance to Katrina, private boat captains answer that out of our shared formed the “Cajun Navy” to suffering, we created some- save fellow victims from thing better than was there drowning. The pandemic is no before. different. It has inspired vast Jamil Zaki is an associate amounts of kindness among professor of psychology at neighbors and strangers, and Stanford University and Nurses protest against the lack of personal protection equipment amid the COVID-19 pandemic in front of the White House in Washington, new research suggests people director of the Stanford Social DC, yesterday. are more willing to practice Neuroscience Laboratory.

In fact, use of ‘Social Distancing’ or ‘Distant Socialising’? the term, ‘social distancing’ is public in this context. and generally ‘easy to meet’. here, it could be interpreted crucial at this time. It is a far from new. In fact, use of the term, All these expressions describe as the creation of distance matter of concern that since ‘social distancing’ is far from and to some extent measure from others in social relation- people are being encouraged McKenna (2007) new. McKenna (2007) wrote ‘social distance’”. Evidently, ships, meaning reduced social to meet less often in person, wrote about how about how ‘social distancing’ Park was highlighting how connection with others they could also be failing to ‘social distancing’ helped cities survive the one’s physical distance from overall. communicate with each MOHAMMAD HOSAM ALNAHAS other by any other means. helped cities survive LECTURER OF ENGLISH, QATAR Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918, others mirrors one’s indi- Subsequent to the contro- UNIVERSITY referring to measures of social vidual characteristics or versy stirred up by this term, This would lead to reduced the Spanish Flu control – such as the banning relationships. the World Health Organi- socializing in general or of gatherings and closure of However, it could also be zation (WHO) recently sug- enforced isolation, pandemic of 1918, schools, which eventually argued that the term, ‘social gested replacing it with whereupon ‘social distance’ referring to measures Ever since the outbreak of slowed the advance of the distancing’ equally conveys ‘physical distancing’ (Tan- would become social the Coronavirus pandemic, pandemic. other meanings. For instance, germann, 2020). Never- disconnection. of social control – the term, ‘social distancing’ Back in 1924, Robert E. the verb ‘to distance’ is theless, in the media, ‘social Coronavirus is not trans- such as the banning has been widely used in the Park, then Professor of Soci- defined as “mak[ing] or distancing’ is still in use mitted through communi- media to refer to certain ology at the University of maintain[ing] a personal or almost everywhere. cation with others; rather, it of gatherings and behaviors that should be Chicago, stated that ‘distance’ emotional separation from”. Besides ‘physical dis- could be passed on if people closure of schools, adopted by people to limit evokes “degrees of under- In this noun phrase (‘social tancing’, ‘distant socializing’ get physically close to a which eventually the spread of the virus and its standing and intimacy”. distancing’), the adjective, could also be considered as source of infection. Therefore, concomitant worries. Defining ‘social distance’, ‘social’ modifies or qualifies an alternative. While both it is ‘distant socializing’ or slowed the advance However, an argument has Park wrote, “We frequently the verbal noun, ‘distancing’, terms convey the message of ‘physical distancing’ that of the pandemic. ensued about the appropri- say of A that he is very ‘close’ thereby potentially implying creating physical distance should be exercised, instead ateness of this term, which to B, but that C is distant and something other than the for protection, the emphasis of ‘social distancing’. In fact, it has potentially negative reserved, but that D, on the intended concept of creating in the latter is on main- is more important than ever connotations and could be other hand, is open-minded, physical distance. Since ‘dis- taining a social connection that we endeavor to stay interpreted as such by the sympathetic, understanding, tancing’ is described as ‘social’ in the process, which is closely connected! 10 ASIA WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020 Hong Kong extends curbs for 14 days to preserve success of virus efforts REUTERS — HONG KONG The Chinese-ruled city recorded zero new Hong Kong’s government will cases on Monday for the first time since early extend restrictions aimed at March, keeping the total at 1,025 infections tackling the coronavirus for and four deaths. Hong Kong banned public another 14 days to preserve the city’s success in keeping the gatherings of more than four people for 14 number of cases down, Chief days from March 29 and later extended that Executive Carrie Lam said yesterday. restriction until April 23. The extension comes as gov- ernments around the world, including those of Australia, airport have been suspended exponential infections seen else- Germany and the United States indefinitely. where and won praise for a Customers wear face masks as a precautionary measure against COVID-19 as they browse vegetables are gradually relaxing restrictions “This is indeed a very difficult strong community response, at a street stall, in Hong Kong yesterday. or considering doing so. balancing act,” Lam told a regular attributed to the city’s experience The Chinese-ruled city weekly news conference, with the 2003 Severe Acute Res- The residents’ self-discipline freedoms in the city. violent protests last year had recorded zero new cases on referring to the toll the restric- piratory Syndrome (SARS) also comes amid widespread lack Police arrested 15 activists on undermined its rule of law, pros- Monday for the first time since tions are taking on the recession- epidemic. of confidence in the govern- Saturday, including veteran pol- perity and stability. early March, keeping the total at hit economy. Although schools remain ment’s COVID-19 response. iticians, a publishing tycoon and Hong Kong returned to 1,025 infections and four deaths. “For the time being, the better closed, many people are working The restrictions extension senior barristers, in a move crit- Beijing rule in 1997 under a “one Hong Kong banned public balance to be struck and a safer from home and shopping malls limits the prospects of a icised by foreign governments, country, two systems” formula gatherings of more than four approach to ensure all these suc- and restaurants are less busy. resumption in anti-government international barristers and rights that guarantees it a high degree people for 14 days from March cesses that Hong Kong has Almost all Hong Kongers wear demonstrations amid growing groups. Luo Huining, the most of autonomy. 29 and later extended that achieved over the last months masks, while office buildings, anger over a crackdown on pro- senior mainland political official A previous attempt to draft a restriction until April 23. Game would not be wasted is to extend commercial centres and public democracy forces and as Beijing based in Hong Kong, said last national security law for Hong centres, gyms, cinemas and other these social distancing measures institutions run temperature and city government officials week the city should work to Kong, known as Article 23, was entertainment venues are also for another 14 days.” checks and free sanitizer dis- push for national security legis- introduce national security leg- met with mass protests in 2003 closed and foreign arrivals at the Hong Kong has avoided the pensers are widely available. lation that critics say would limit islation “as soon as possible” as and abandoned. Indonesia locks Singapore prolongs virus lockdown until at least June 1 virus violators in AP — SINGAPORE in cases was due to aggressive community has dropped to and meticulous tracing of con- struction sites. testing of workers in the dorms, below 30 per day, Lee said there tacts in the early stage of the The health ministry said ‘haunted house’ Singapore will extend its partial including those who are is still a number of cases that crisis, Singapore is grappling that all types of foreign worker AFP — SRAGEN lockdown by another four asymptomatic. cannot be linked to any clusters, with an explosion of cases in dormitories will be locked weeks after reporting thou- Although the viral clusters suggesting a larger, hidden res- foreign worker dorms that were down starting from today. It sands of new coronavirus cases in the dorms have remained ervoir of cases in the largely overlooked earlier. said the government is also Fed up with people breaking in recent days, Prime Minister largely contained, Lee said community. Singapore has nearly 1.4 monitoring workers who live virus quarantine rules, one Lee Hsien Loong said yesterday. circuit-breaker measures that “Many will be disappointed million migrant workers, a third in shophouses as well as private Indonesian politician has The tiny city-state reported shut down nonessential busi- by the extension of the circuit of its labor force, including and government housing. It said decided to scare rulebreakers 1,111 new cases earlier yesterday nesses and schools until May 4 breaker, especially our busi- more than 300,000 in the con- some 180,000 construction straight by locking them in a to increase its total to 9,125, the will be extended to June 1 or nesses and workers, who are struction sector alone. More workers and their dependents “haunted house”. most in Southeast Asia. It until infections ease. hurting greatly,” Lee said in a than 200,000 workers from have been ordered to quar- Sragen regency head Kus- marked the second straight day He said this will allow the televised speech. Bangladesh, India and other antine themselves at home. dinar Untung Yuni Sukowati of over 1,000 new cases after a government to detect and “But I hope you understand poor Asian countries live in 43 Lee said workers in says she issued the unusual single-day high of 1,426 were contain the virus spread early that this short-term pain is to registered dormitories that essential services like cleaning edict this week to deal with an announced on Monday. Foreign if there is a transmission from stamp out the virus, protect the house up to 20 in a room with and maintenance are also being influx of people to the area workers staying in crowded the dorms to the wider health and safety of our loved shared facilities. Tens of thou- tested and housed separately to after lockdowns in the capital dormitories account for nearly community. ones, and allow us to revive our sands more stay in factory con- ensure they don’t become Jakarta and other major cities. 80 percent of infections. Although the number of economy.” verted dormitories that serve potential channels for cross Some newcomers, Lee said the sharp upsurge new cases in the wider Praised for its swift response as temporary quarters at con- infection. however, weren’t respecting orders that they isolate them- selves for 14 days to prevent the spread of coronavirus India’s Presidential across the region on Indone- sia’s densely populated Java island. So Sukowati instructed Palace isolates 500 communities to repurpose abandoned houses that were feared to be haunted — tapping over virus scare widespread beliefs in the supernatural, which play a key REUTERS — NEW DELHI workers’ quarters tested pos- role in Indonesian folklore. itive, officials said. Five people have been About 500 people entered self- Neither President Kovind, tossed into Sragen’s spooky isolation at the Presidential 74, or his aides were required jails so far. House in the Indian capital to self-isolate, but palace “If there’s an empty and yesterday after a worker’s workers’ families living in 114 haunted house in the village, relative tested positive for coro- apartments on the grounds put people in there and lock navirus, officials said, as the were ordered to stay inside, them up,” Sukowati told AFP number of cases nationwide while the seven members of the Tuesday when asked about the neared 18,000 despite a strict sanitation worker’s family were rule. Officials in Sepat village lockdown. moved to a quarantine facility. chose a long-abandoned house India’s 1.3 billion people So far nobody else has been and outfitted it with beds have been ordered to remain infected on the premises. placed at a distance and sep- indoors for 40 days to slow the “It may be clarified that till arated by curtains. A health worker wearing protective gear uses an infrared thermometer to check the temperature spread of the virus so that the date no employee of President’s So far, the village has of a woman during a door-to-door verification of people to find out if they have developed any country’s hospitals are not Secretariat has tested positive locked up three recently- overwhelmed by a flood of for COVID-19 and the Secre- coronavirus disease symptoms, in a residential area, in Kolkata. arrived residents who are infections. tariat along with the Local being forced to spend the So far, three-quarters of the Administration is taking all the British colonial times, and lies infection are still increasing, Indian Some states like Kerala, on remainder of their two-week cases are concentrated in seven preventive measures required at the head of the ceremonial health officials said the speed of India’s southwest tip where the quarantine in the spooky of the country’s 28 states and under the government guide- boulevard, Rajpath, at the transmission was slowing thanks infection first emerged, had a abode. Among them was Heri these include the city-state of lines,” the president’s office said opposite end from India Gate. to the lockdown, which is due to far longer doubling rate than Susanto, who said his pun- Delhi, as well as the western in a statement. An employee of India’s par- end on May 3. the national average, allowing ishment hadn’t brought him state of Maharashtra where the Under India’s constitution, liament also tested positive, but The doubling rate or the some restrictions to be lifted, face to face with any ghosts -- finiancial centre Mumbai is the president is a titular head of had not come to their office, an number of days it takes infections officials said. so far. located. the republic with executive official said, as the adminis- to multiply by two, had increased Delhi’s Chief Minister “But whatever happens, The alarm was raised at power vested in the prime min- trative section of the legislature to 7.5 days, up from 3.4 days before Arvind Kejriwal said the happens,” said Susanto, who President Ram Nath Kovind’s ister and his Cabinet. opened on Monday as part of a the lockdown, health ministry joint lockdown would remain came from neighbouring residence in the centre of Delhi The palace, Rashtrapati staggered exit from the secretary Lav Agarwal said. strictly enforced in the capital Sumatra island. after the daughter-in-law of a Bhavan, was the former resi- lockdown. “This is an extremely positive and other high infection red “I know this is for every- sanitation worker living in the dence of the viceroy during While the number of cases of trend,” he said. zones. one’s safety. Lesson learned.” Death of 12-year-old Indian farm worker spurs child labour probe Japan waiting for Golden Week to REUTERS — CHENNAI of the girl’s home state of Chhat- in western Rajasthan state. which they sent her to work,” decide on extending virus emergency tisgarh, said the child was Kunjam said he had been said Bhuarya, the sub-divisional The death of a 12-year-old Indian working as a farmhand in urging workers not to make the magistrate of Bijapur. REUTERS — TOKYO as Japan’s coronavirus epicentre, farm worker during a 100km trek southern Telangana state and long journeys and stay where The state government had confirmed 123 new cases yes- home following the coronavirus was a part of a group of twelve they were till the lockout ended, awarded $1,300 compensation Japan will decide during its terday, bringing its total to 3,307, lockdown has sparked a probe that decided to make the journey despite calls by jobless migrant to Madkam’s parents and would Golden Week holiday between public broadcaster NHK said. into child labour in central India, home. workers to allow travel to their step up measures to monitor and April 29 and May 6 whether to Japan as a whole has more than officials said yesterday. “She had walked around homes as they have run out of tackle child labour and traf- extend its month-long state of 11,000 confirmed cases and 265 India’s 1.3 billion people have 60-70km and their village was money for food and shelter. ficking, Bhuarya added. emergency to fight a widening deaths, NHK reported. been ordered indoors to slow the around 20km from the place Bijapur official Hemendra The United Nations Interna- coronavirus outbreak, The World Health Organi- spread of the virus, which has so where she died,” Kunjam said. Bhuarya said the girl, Jamlo tional Labour Organisation (ILO) government and ruling party zation said on yesterday it was far claimed at least 600 lives and They trekked through hills Madkam, had died of dehy- estimates there are about 10 sources said yesterday. concerned about Japan’s rising infected more than 18,000 and forests in baking heat but she dration and exhaustion on million workers aged 5-14 in Prime Minister Shinzo Abe number of cases, although the people. started complaining of stomach Saturday. India. announced the state of emer- country was not yet seeing a Hundreds of thousands of pain and breathlessness by the “This is a clear case of child Indian labour laws ban the gency, which gives governors in large-scale community workers across India have fourth day, he said. labour and we are looking for the employment of anyone aged hard-hit prefectures more clout outbreak. embarked on long journeys Critics have slammed the contractor who took the girl to under 15 but children are per- to ask residents to stay home and Chief Cabinet Secretary home by foot since the gov- state and federal governments’ work,” Bhuarya, who is heading mitted to support family busi- businesses to close, on April 7 for Yoshihide Suga told a news con- ernment last month imposed a failure to address the concerns the investigation, told said. nesses outside of school hours. seven prefectures including ference that the government lockdown, which has since been of migrant workers, even as they “We are also trying to under- This provision is widely exploited Tokyo and Osaka, western Japan. would consult experts before extended until May 3. rushed to ferry Indians stranded stand if the parents were given by employers and human traf- There are, however, no penalties May 6 for their views, a prereq- KD Kunjam, the top abroad and students with mostly any advance by the contractor fickers, child rights campaigners for refusing those requests. uisite to extending the bureaucrat in the Bijapur district middle class backgrounds stuck and the circumstances under say. Tokyo, which has emerged emergency. WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020 ASIA 11 Imran warns of ‘action’ Australia eases restrictions if safety precautions not as coronavirus spread slows followed in mosques INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD REUTERS — SYDNEY Prime Minister Imran Khan Declaring Australia was on the yesterday said that the road to recovery with new government “will take action” coronavirus infections almost if safety precautions agreed stamped out, Prime Minister upon by the government and Scott Morrison said yesterday Pakistani ulema are not hospitals will resume many followed by people. elective surgeries and schools The Prime Minister was will be re-opened for more updating masses on the latest children. situation regarding the corona- As part of broad social dis- virus. The Prime Minister said tancing restrictions, Australia that Pakistan was an “inde- in March banned all non-emer- pendent nation” hence it could gency surgeries to free-up hos- not force worshippers to not pital beds amid expectations of pray in mosques. a surge in coronavirus cases. “The war against corona- Schools were also closed. virus is being fought by the But with infection rates entire country. The government falling from more than 25 will not differentiate between Pakistan Prime Minister percent in mid-March to its the rich and the poor,” he said. Imran Khan current level of less than 1 Imran Khan said that Paki- percent a day, Morrison said in stani ulema signed a 20-point restrictions as governments Canberra that Australia could agreement with President Alvi want to strike a balance relax some restrictions from on conditions based on which between protecting people and next week. mosques will be reopened. He, ensuring economic activity. “We are on the road back A man with a pre-existing condition is stretchered into an awaiting ambulance upon landing after a however, urged people to pray “A debate has started in and I think we have already repatriation flight, carrying passengers who were stranded abroad due to the COVID-19 outbreak, at home. countries to ease or lift reached a turning point,” Mor- arrived at Adelaide’s airport, in Australia yesterday. “I would urge my fellow lockdown and at the same time, rison told reporters yesterday. Pakistanis to stay at home and save people from the corona- Australia’s Health Minister With infection rates falling from more than 25 governments. The re-opening pray there,” he said. virus,” he said. Greg Hunt said yesterday the percent in mid-March to its current level of of schools has been a key “Other Muslim countries “Countries where 500-600 easing of elective surgery demand of the federal gov- have asked their citizens to do people have died so far, are restrictions was possible after less than 1 percent a day, Prime Minister Scott ernment, which hopes the move the same. But if you have to go opening shops and easing authorities secured more pro- Morrison said in Canberra that Australia could will stimulate Australia’s to mosques, you will have to restrictions.” tective and medical equipment, economy and allow parents to obey these conditions,” he He said that an “indefinite including a “full capacity” of relax some restrictions from next week. better juggle work added. lockdown” is not possible in any 7,500 ventilators. commitments. The Prime Minister said that society. The expanded list of sur- Australia’s most populous state, health provisions, including NSW, home to a third of if people do not follow the The PM said that no one geries, including IVF and joint New South Wales (NSW), said forehead thermometers and Australia’s population and the safety precautions and cases knows when the pandemic will replacements, can begin next all students will begin face-to- also extra health equipment in state that has recorded the most surged in mosques during come to an end. week. face lessons next month. our sick bays.” COVID-19 cases, reported just Ramadan, then the government The prime minister said that The government said it NSW state Premier Gladys Australia is one of the few six new cases of coronavirus in will have no choice but to take his government has taken would release details of a Berejiklian said students will nations around the world to the last day. back its decision. actions for the revival of eco- contact tracing app — designed begin to return to school on May detail plans to re-open schools. The southern state of Vic- He said that the government nomic activity by opening up to alert users if they come into 11 on a staggered basis in prep- Despite sometimes con- toria recorded seven new infec- will close mosques if the safety the construction sector. close contact with people later aration for full-time schooling flicting advice from the federal tions, while Queensland, in the precautions are not followed, “Other countries are trying diagnosed with COVID-19 — to re-start in July. government, which had wanted country’s north-east, docu- adding that it is mentioned in to figure out how to recover shortly. Authorities believe the “It’s time to turn our mind schools to remain open, mented six new cases. Iron-ore the agreement. from the economic setback tracing app needs to be put in to getting our kids back into the children of emergency workers rich Western Australia reported “No one wants to see from the coronavirus. Keeping place before many services are classroom,” Berejiklian told are among the few who have one additional infection over- mosques get empty,” he said. in mind the economic condition re-opened. reporters in Sydney. continued to go to school. night. Nationally, Australia has The PM said that several of the country, our priority is to After more than a month of “We will have extra Education is run by Aus- recorded about 6,600 cases of countries are thinking about bring our people out of teaching children online, cleaning, extra sanitiser, extra tralia’s state and territory coronavirus and 71 deaths. easing coronavirus lockdown poverty,” he said.

Duterte: Reward for China’s Shaanxi province reports 21 infections from abroad Filipino who can REUTERS — BEIJING/SHANGHAI Health Commission said, the lowest since March 12. discover vaccine A northwestern province on the Despite the curbs, the ANATOLIA — MANILA frontline of China’s coronavirus arrival of imported cases has battle reported yesterday its proved difficult to predict, Philippines President Rodrigo first cases in nearly three weeks, although in the last 14 days, Duterte has offered a reward of all involving travellers from Chinese citizens returning home almost $200,000 to any citizen overseas, as imported infections from, or through, neighbouring who can develop a vaccine started to level off elsewhere. Russia have constituted the against COVID-19, local media Like other countries hit by majority. With links by both air reported yesterday. the pandemic, China has and land to Russia, the north- “COVID-19 is a public ordered tough curbs for arriving eastern province of Hei- enemy not only in the Philip- travellers, such as mandatory longjiang has so far taken the pines but in the entire world. quarantine, besides cutting back brunt of such infections. The President announced he on international flights and lim- Fearing infections from Hei- will give a reward of up to iting arrivals of foreigners, longjiang, authorities in neigh- $197,092 to any Filipino who including business visitors. bouring Jilin province have will discover a vaccine against The province of Shaanxi ordered quarantine and three COVID-19,” Presidential reported 21 new infections from rounds of testing for people Spokesperson Harry Roque said abroad, as well as seven cases who have lived in, or travelled at a news briefing, local daily with no clinical symptoms, all to, Heilongjiang’s cities of Manila Bulletin reported. travellers on a commercial Harbin or Mudanjiang this Duterte’s offer came as flight from Moscow bound for month. Shenyang, capital of the coronavirus cases in the Philip- the Chinese capital of Beijing. northeastern province of pines increased to 6,599 yes- As the result of a ban on Liaoning, issued similar rules terday after 140 more people international flights arriving in on Monday for people from tested positive over the past 24 Beijing, the Air China jet landed either city. hours. Nine more fatalities on Monday in the provincial Last week, a case in the People wearing face masks outside a shopping mall, in Beijing. raised the death toll to 437, capital of Xian, where the virus province’s city of Fushun was while recoveries reached 654 was detected by medical staff linked to a locally transmitted disbursed within 24 hours, for province with Vietnam, will bar Monday, six of them local infec- after 41 patients were dis- running tests at the airport, and case at a hospital in Harbin, key information on illegal inter- foreigners lacking certificates tions in Heilongjiang and one charged from hospitals, the confirmed yesterday. spurring fears of a widening national arrivals, including of negative tests for the virus. in the southern province of Health Ministry said. All those infected were outbreak. those by sea. Mainland China’s tally of Guangdong. Meanwhile, 1,084 Filipinos Chinese nationals. In the fight on cross-border Even remote international confirmed cases stood at People under observation have been diagnosed with New imported infections in infection, the southeastern crossings face scrutiny. 82,758, with 4,632 deaths, the for symptoms following contact COVID-19 in 42 countries and mainland China fell to four coastal city of Xiamen offered Hekou, an isolated estuary National Health Commission with sufferers numbered 8,791 153 have died, according to the cases on Monday, the National a bounty of $2,118, to be town near the border of Yunnan said, including 11 new cases on on Monday. Foreign Ministry. South Korea downplays concerns over Kim Jong-Un’s health Bangladesh threatens legal action as AP — SEOUL Sung on April 15, the country’s unlikely as Kim’s sister, Kim Yo thousands of workers go unpaid most important holiday. Jong, is already exercising signif- South Korean officials reported But he presided over a icant influence within the gov- REUTERS — DHAKA Shibnath Roy said businesses no unusual activity in North meeting on April 11, discussing ernment, and most members of that did not pay staff would not Korea yesterday following coronavirus prevention and North Korea’s leadership share Bangladesh will sue factory receive any money from a $588 unconfirmed media reports that electing his sister as an alternate an interest with the Kim family owners that do not pay their staff million rescue package that leader Kim Jong-Un (pictured) member of the political bureau in maintaining the North’s during the coronavirus Bangladesh announced last was in fragile health after of the ruling Workers’ Party, system. lockdown, an official has month for its crucial export surgery. according to the North’s official While North Korea has not warned, with tens of thousands sector. But the possibly of high-level Korean Central News Agency. made clear who would poten- of garment workers struggling “We have taken these steps instability raised troubling ques- And state media have since tially succeed Kim, some experts after factories shut without to create pressure on factory tions about the future of a reported he sent greetings to believe Kim Yo Jong would step paying March wages. owners. If they still don’t pay, we nuclear-armed state that has Syrian President Bashar Assad in as leader, at least during a Workers have taken to the will file cases against them in the been steadily building an arsenal and Cuban President Miguel transitional period. Others streets to demand they be paid, labour court,” he said. The head meant to threaten the US Díaz-Canel as well as “birthday believe North Korea could be defying a mass lockdown that of the Bangladesh Garment Man- mainland amid stalled talks Korea, and whether it will spreads” to two North Korean ruled by collective leadership of has seen thousands of factories ufacturers and Exporters Asso- between Kim and US President address the reports — something officials and a new ruling party elites, similar to the shut as orders from Western ciation Rubana Huq said 98 of Donald Trump. it has not yet done. centenarian. post-Stalin Soviet Union. retailers dry up. The government the 2,274 factories it represents South Korea’s presidential Speculation often surfaces It’s unclear what would “We have no information to has said at least 350 factory had yet to pay workers. office said Kim appeared to be about North Korea’s leadership happen if Kim is sidelined by confirm regarding rumours owners have not yet paid March Most are small-scale sub- handling state affairs as usual and based on attendance at important health problems or dies. about Chairman Kim Jong Un’s wages, with more than 150,000 contractors and would likely that it had no information about state events. Kim, who is in his Cheong Seong-Chang, an health issue that have been workers affected, though labour have to close, she said, calling it rumors regarding his health. But mid-30s, missed the celebration analyst at the private Sejong reported by some media outlets,” leaders say the true figure is “the unfortunate reality of the many will be watching closely for of the birthday of his late grand- Institute in South Korea, said South Korean presidential much higher. sudden change in global com- any signs of trouble in North father and state founder Kim Il political upheaval would be spokesman Kang Min-seok said. Labour ministry official merce caused by COVID-19”. 12 EUROPE WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020 ONS: Coronavirus deaths in England, Muted celebrations Wales over 40% higher than reported as Britain’s Queen REUTERS — LONDON Elizabeth turns 94 The true extent of Britain’s COVID-19 death toll was more REUTERS — LONDON than 40 percent higher than the government’s daily figures indi- Britain’s Queen Elizabeth turned cated as of April 10, according 94 yesterday but the coronavirus to data that put the country on lockdown meant there was little track to become among the fanfare to mark the occasion. worst-hit in Europe. Elizabeth, the world’s eldest The Office for National Sta- and longest-reigning monarch, tistics said it recorded 13,121 typically spends her birthday pri- deaths by April 10 in England vately without much public cel- and Wales, which account for ebration but this year the event the vast majority of Britain’s will be even more muted. population, compared with Royal birthdays and anniver- 9,288 in the government’s daily saries are traditionally marked toll for those who died in by ceremonial gun salutes, in hospital. which blank rounds are fired Britain’s Queen Elizabeth. The ONS figures include from various locations across deaths in care homes and hos- London, but the queen felt it Your Majesty!” the message said. pices as well as in hospitals. would be inappropriate to allow The queen is spending the Britain, which scientists say this to go ahead given the day at Windsor Castle, west of is probably now around the Paramedics wheel a patient into The Royal London Hospital, in east London, yesterday. circumstances. London, where she has been peak of the outbreak, has The latest official figures during the lockdown with her reported the world’s fifth- The Office for National Statistics said it show that about 16,000 Britons 98-year-old husband Prince highest national death toll from least some of these were indi- infected with the new corona- Philip. COVID-19, the respiratory recorded 13,121 deaths by April 10 in England rectly involved, such as through virus have died in hospital, the From there, she has issued a disease caused by the novel and Wales, which account for the vast majority inability to access typical fifth highest number globally. number of rallying messages to coronavirus. The global death medical care for other condi- The nation is in its fourth week the nation, including only the toll from COVID-19 now stands of Britain’s population, compared with 9,288 in tions because of COVID-19 of lockdown, with most busi- fifth televised address of her at around 170,000. the government’s daily toll for those who died activities.” nesses closed and citizens 68-year reign. The latest hospital death COVID-19 was mentioned ordered to stay at home. On Monday Philip made a data show 16,509 people with in hospital. in a third of all death certificates Flags are usually flown on statement, a rare event since he COVID-19 had died across the issued in England and Wales in government buildings to mark retired from public life three United Kingdom as of this reports on the latest toll. Still, Wales during the seven days to the week to April 19. the queen’s birthday but officials years ago, to thank those Sunday. yesterday’s figures are likely to April 10 — almost 8,000 more In London, more than half have been told that this year not involved in the response to the If these figures underes- raise further questions about than normal for the time of year of the death certificates issued everyone would be expected to coronavirus crisis. timate the overall death toll by Britain’s decision to impose its and marking the deadliest week that week mentioned arrange for that to happen. Elizabeth, who was born on a similar amount, then the true lockdown of society at a later since a severe flu outbreak COVID-19. The ONS figures are The only official acknowl- April 21, 1926, in Bruton Street, human cost for the United date than European peers, more than 20 years ago. based on mentions of COVID-19 edgment from the royal family central London, grew up not Kingdom as a whole could be many of which have had less Martin Hibberd, professor on death certificates, whether came via Twitter where Buck- expecting to become queen. Her above 23,000 based on the severe outbreaks of the novel of emerging infectious disease or not the deceased had tested ingham Palace posted a private father, George VI, only took the latest data — making it the coronavirus. at the London School of positive for coronavirus. family film of Elizabeth as a crown when his elder brother second worst hit in Europe after Prime Minister Boris Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, “In care homes settings child, playing with her late Edward VIII abdicated in 1936 Italy. Johnson is still on sick leave said the figures marked a there are now double the younger sister Margaret. to marry American divorcee However, the difference after falling ill with COVID-19 “rapid” increase. number of deaths from all “Head of the Common- Wallis Simpson. between the initial daily figures as his ministers attempt to “With limited testing being causes... than there were two wealth, Head of the Armed Elizabeth ascended to the published by the government tackle urgent issues such as a carried out, it may be that all weeks previously,” ONS statis- Forces, Head of State in 16 coun- throne in 1952 at the age of 25, and the later ONS data has nar- shortage of personal protective of the 7,996 excess deaths tician Nick Stripe told the BBC. tries and the longest reigning and surpassed her great-great- rowed with each week that equipment for health workers. were directly due to COVID- “About 17 percent of those Monarch in British History. Wife, grandmother Queen Victoria as passes, and may have reduced Including all deaths, 18,516 19,” Hibberd said. deaths mention COVID on the mother, grandmother and great- Britain’s longest reigning further by the time the ONS people died in England and “(But) it is also likely that at death certificate.” grandmother. Happy birthday, monarch in September 2015. Spain’s San Fermin France close bull-running festival to 21,000 cancelled due to virus virus deaths REUTERS — PARIS REUTERS — MADRID lockdown in Europe, which has caused economic paralysis. Coronavirus fatalities in Spain registered another 430 Authorities in the northern France increased steadily coronavirus deaths yesterday city of Pamplona regretfully yesterday to nearly 21,000, and cancelled its famous San called off the annual San Fermin but the number of patients in Fermin bull-running festival, bull-running festival, which intensive care registered its but officials maintained the draws thousands of tourists and sharpest decline since the pandemic was slowing in one was made famous in Ernest beginning of the outbreak. of the world’s worst-hit nations. Hemingway’s novel “The Sun Public health chief Jerome The latest 24-hour tallies Also Rises”. Salomon said the rate of took fatalities to 21,282 and It was the first time the increase of confirmed coro- infections to 204,178 - but they week-long party had been sus- navirus cases, now 117,324 in represented just a 2 percent pended in its entirety since 1978 total, was up for the second increase, fuelling optimism the during Spain’s turbulent tran- day running, but the number crisis may be waning at last. sition to democracy after the Members of Madrid’s Emergency Service wearing protective equipment push a stretcher with a patient of people in hospital was Monday’s 399 deaths was dictatorship of Francisco suffering from coronavirus disease as they transfer him to another hospital, in Madrid, yesterday. down for the seventh consec- the lowest number since March Franco. utive day. 22. Health emergencies coor- “As expected as it was, it still diagnosed. Her participation in extend the lockdown by two with their neighbours again for “This pandemic is dinator Fernando Simon said leaves us deeply sad,” said March 8 Women’s Day rallies, weeks to May 9, but will con- some time. massive. The virus is still cir- death data was still worrying acting mayor Ana Elizalde. alongside other government tinue easing some restrictions. There had been growing culating at a high level. We but an overall downward trend On a positive note, Equality members who later contracted The government is consid- calls for children to be allowed must keep up our full com- was clear. Minister Irene Montero rejoined the disease, had caused wide- ering allowing limited outings out, including from Colombian mitment”, Salomon told a Despite last week’s easing other ministers in a video-link spread criticism in Spain. for children and for people to pop singer Shakira who lives in news conference. of restrictions to allow some cabinet meeting on Tuesday Prime Minister Pedro practice non-contact sports like Barcelona with footballer France has entered its workers to return, Spain still after testing negative for the Sanchez has said he will seek jogging or cycling, but children Gerard Pique and their two fifth week of lockdown, remains under the strictest virus 40 days since she was first parliamentary approval to would be unable to play freely children. which will remain in place until May 11. Education minister Jean- Michel Blanquer said that Italy PM signals longer lockdown despite drop in cases after May 11 children will go back to school in stages and AFP — ROME as more data come in over the in much smaller classes in coming days. order to minimise infection Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte But the latest figures risk. prepared Italians for a longer showed that the existing France reported 531 more lockdown yesterday despite a measures were producing the coronavirus deaths yesterday, second successive drop in the desired results. bringing the total to 20,796, number of registered corona- The number of people who a 2.6 percent daily increase virus cases. are officially being treated for after 2.8 percent on Monday. Italy is approaching a fateful COVID-19 — either at home or That is the fourth-highest decision on whether to lift stay- in hospital — is falling in every tally in the world, behind the at-home orders and reopen region. The number dropped by United States, Italy and Spain. businesses for the first time in 528 nationally yesterday to a The number of people in nearly two months on May 4. total of 107,709. The new daily intensive care units in France Its virus death total of infections rate is down to a low fell 4.4 percent to 5,433, the 24,648 is still Europe’s highest of just 1.5 percent. lowest since March 30 and the and second globally after the Conte’s advisers appear to 13th consecutive daily decline. United States. sense Italians’ eagerness to get Meanwhile, French law- Conte is being pushed into going — especially as other makers will vote next week on erring on the side of caution by European nations are starting allowing contact tracking via leading doctors — and to think to gradually open up. mobile phones as the gov- more about the economic toll “We must not make any ernment prepares for a gradual by big business leaders and hasty decisions,” Conte’s coro- lifting of coronavirus con- some regional chiefs. Medical professionals pose while working at the Intensive Care Unit of a hospital, in Rome. navirus commissioner finement orders from May 11. Governments across the Domenico Arcuri said Prime Minister Edouard world fear that premature yesterday. Philippe agreed to hold the lockdown exits could set off a that they will not be able stand economists and health experts say, let’s open everything. Right “The virus is still among us vote, which will take place second pandemic wave that idle much longer and Italy’s to weigh all the pros and cons. away,” Conte wrote on — a little less strongly, but it is after a National Assembly requires another economically push for a comprehensive eco- But he indicated yesterday Facebook. still there.” Conte’s decision debate, amid widespread devastating closure. nomic rescue from the that Italians will probably have “But such a decision would could also be influenced by the worries about privacy breaches Waiting for another few European Union is running into to put up with various forms of be irresponsible.” outcome of an economic from the unprecedented data- weeks or even months could resistance in Brussels. restrictions for some time to Conte said he will spell out response teleconference that EU tracking initiative for France, potentially avert that cost. Conte has convened a task- come. the details of the next stage of leaders have scheduled for a parliamentary source said But many businesses warn force comprised of leading “I would like to be able to Italy’s battle against outbreak tomorrow yestersday. WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020 EUROPE 13

Dutch Supreme COVID-19 could Court expands euthanasia laws for double number dementia patients REUTERS — THE HAGUE facing acute The Dutch Supreme Court yesterday ruled that doctors could legally carry out eutha- nasia on people with advanced hunger: UN dementia who had earlier put their wishes in writing even if AFP — PARIS “The number of they could no longer confirm people facing acute them because of their illness. The coronavirus pandemic The ruling is a landmark in could nearly double the food insecurity Dutch euthanasia legislation number of people around the stands to rise to 265 which up to now had required world facing acute hunger, the patients to confirm euthanasia UN’s World Food Programme million in 2020, up requests. This had not been (WFP) warned yesterday. by 130 million from considered possible for men- “The number of people tally incapacitated patients like facing acute food insecurity the 135 million in advanced dementia stands to rise to 265 million in 2019, as a result sufferers. 2020, up by 130 million from “A doctor can carry out an of the economic Elderly patients on the balconies of the Evangelismos hospital listen to a concert by the Greek the 135 million in 2019, as a national symphony broadcaster’s orchestra from the yard of the hospital in Athens yesterday, amid (earlier) written request for result of the economic impact euthanasia from people with impact of COVID- the COVID-19 pandemic. of COVID-19,” the WFP said its 19,” the World Food advanced dementia,” the projections had shown. Supreme Court said in a The warning came as the Programme (WFP), summary of its decision. WFP and other partners said its projections Coronavirus hits migrant hostel as Doctors would need to released a new report on food take care that the other criteria crises around the world. had shown. of unbearable suffering with The fourth annual Global Greece plans to ease lockdown no hope of recovery were also Report on Food Crises found weather-related events such as fulfilled. that food insecurity was drought. REUTERS — ATHENS been infected, although none be reinforced. The ruling came after pros- already on the rise last year The report found another had developed any symptoms He added that the ‘R0’ ecutors brought a criminal before the outbreak of the 183 million were at risk of Dozens of migrants in a hostel of COVID-19, the disease caused (R-naught) factor, a medical case against a nursing home coronavirus crisis. slipping into food crisis “if con- in southern Greece tested by the coronavirus, Deputy Civil gauge to show how an infec- doctor carried out a mercy It found that 135 million fronted by an additional shock positive for the coronavirus Protection Minister Nikos Har- tious virus could multiply, was killing of a 74-year old people in 55 countries were in or stressor”. yesterday as the government set dalias said.“There is no reason “significantly” below 1 in Alzheimer sufferer, who had living in situations of acute food COVID-19 could easily turn a date to start a gradual easing for panic,” Hardalias told Greece, meaning that, on a living will confirming she crises or outright humanitarian out to be such a shock, both as of a lockdown. reporters outside the facility. average, less than 1 person wanted euthanasia. The eutha- emergencies last year. ill people overwhelm hospitals Compared with Italy, Spain, “The measures (we have taken) could be infected from a person nasia was carried out with the The increase by more than and governments impose lock- France and Britain, Greece’s toll are adequate to contain the already COVID-19 positive. support of the patients’ family. 20 million people takes it to a downs that have disrupted the from the coronavirus is low, but spread of the virus.” “That gives us some room The doctor was cleared of record level in the four years economy and thrown people concern is mounting over its Sotiris Tsiodras, the gov- to relax the measures, which all charges last year but pros- the report has been compiled. out of work. migrant population. ernment’s chief scientific advisor will be done gradually and ecutors asked for a Supreme The report is due to be pre- “COVID-19 is potentially The hostel has been quar- on the virus, said the country ver- carefully,” he said. Court ruling in order to have a sented later Tuesday to the UN catastrophic for millions who antined since April 16, the third ified 156 more COVID-19 positive Greece, which adopted legal precedent because the Security Council by the UN’s are already hanging by a migrant facility in the country cases yesterday, 150 focused on lockdown measures to try to law was still unclear on the Food and Agricultural Organ- thread,” the WFP’s Senior to be hit by the virus. the hostel in the small town of slow the spread of the new issue, they said. ization and World Food Economist Arif Husain said in The 497 people who live Kranidi, some 170km south of coronavirus on March 23, has The case was seen as a test Programme. a statement. and work there were tested Athens. registered 2,401 infections since for the legal boundaries of Comparing the 50 countries “We must collectively act after a pregnant woman tested “Until now we have not its first case surfaced in late euthanasia cases in the Neth- in the reports this and last year, now to mitigate the impact of positive last week, the detected any symptomatic February. The death toll is 121. erlands, where assisted suicide the number of people in food this global catastrophe,” he migration minister said. Among patients who may require Government spokesman and mercy killing is allowed crisis rose by nearly 10 percent added. The report is compiled the migrants, mainly from further care,” Tsiodras said. He Stelios Petsas told reporters the by law under restricted con- to 123 million people. and published annually by a Africa, are many children, offi- said a field clinic was being cabinet was working on a tran- ditions when overseen by The increase was due to number of groups and aid cials said. yesterday, test results created in the area and the sition plan to gradually ease the medical professionals. conflicts, economic shocks and organisations. showed that 150 people had regional medical centre would lockdown. The conditions include that a patient is experiencing unbearable suffering with no hope of recovery, and wishes Lockdown: Russian opposition plans online protest to die. Pirates seize AFP — MOSCOW that the peak has not yet passed. It was not immediately clear Portugal-flagged Russia’s opposition has called if top opposition leader Alexei for an online protest next week Navalny planned to join the ship off Benin to press the Kremlin for online rally. REUTERS — SOFIA financial aid for people strug- But in a blog post on gling under the coronavirus Monday, the 43-year-old poli- lockdown. tician said the government had Pirates attacked a Portugal- During an online Youtube enough resources and should flagged ship and kidnapped its rally next Tuesday, Moscow in April support Russians with Bulgarian captain and seven councillors Yulia Galyamina, coronavirus payouts of 20,000 sailors off the coast of Benin, Ilya Azar and their allies also rubles ($260) per adult and Bulgaria’s foreign ministry plan to seek an amnesty for 10,000 rubles per child. said. prisoners and oppose President He urged Russians to join a A ministry statement said Vladimir Putin’s plan to change public campaign to urge the the pirates who boarded the the constitution in a move that Kremlin to distribute the Tommi Ritscher container ship could allow him to stay in money. Citing data from Mos- at the port of Cotonou in the power until 2036. cow’s Higher School of Eco- Gulf of Guinea on Sunday had Putin has been forced to nomics, Navalny said that a released 11 other members of defer a key vote on the pro- quarter of Russians have lost the crew. posed amendment. their income during the It said it has requested “We demand that the pres- A woman walks down a deserted street in central Moscow yesterday, during a strict lockdown to lockdown. more details from Benin’s ident and the Russian gov- stop the spread of the novel coronavirus. On Monday, hundreds of foreign ministry but no infor- ernment adopt emergency people defied social distancing mation had been received so measures to save people during during the protest. employers to continue paying businesses. Some are also con- recommendations in the city of far. the crisis,” the organisers said The coronavirus outbreak their salaries but given the com- cerned that many medics and Vladikavkaz in the Northern A representative of the in a manifesto posted on and a fall in oil prices have hit panies little tangible support. clinics complain of protective Caucasus to protest against the Russian Embassy in Benin and Galyamina’s Facebook page. the Russian economy, and Anger is growing at what gear shortages. coronavirus restrictions and Togo was quoted as saying by The organisers invited sup- many have been left without many say is a lack of adequate Russia reported 52,763 economic hardship, in one of TASS news agency that three porters to send them “virtual” jobs. Putin has urged Russians support for ordinary people and coronavirus cases and 456 the first major lockdown pro- Russian citizens were among placards that will be shown live to stay home and told their for small and medium-sized fatalities, and Putin has warned tests in the country. the hostages seized. Primary schools Europe’s wildlife sanctuaries struggle under virus lockdown to reopen on AFP — BUCHAREST The 69-hectare (171-acre) The wildlife group currently wildlife reintegration. It shelters said Miguel Higueras, head of May 11 in the park in the Transylvanian town cares for 24 bears, 12 wolves, 25 bears and wolves mainly from the Madrid regional forestry In a bear sanctuary in Roma- of Zarnesti is home to over 100 sheepdogs and a deer near the Balkans but has also taken agency. Netherlands nia’s Carpathian Mountains, bears freed from captivity. Mount Vitsi, some 600km large predators from as far “For example, roe deer are AFP — THE HAGUE chestnut-gold Lidia and her The business of keeping northwest of Athens, and was away as Austria and Georgia. rarely seen outside forests. Now dark brown companion Jean them fed is not cheap. counting on thousands of Wild fauna has also capi- we see them near urban centres Dutch primary schools will enjoy a welcome respite from “Bears need two tonnes of monthly visits starting March. talised on humanity’s mass and highways,” he said. start to reopen on May 11 but human presence inside the food each day,” she said. “(Our monetary reserves) retreat indoors. The Wild Animals foun- other measures to stem the world’s largest brown bear “We can manage for a can hold out until the end of In Tel Aviv last week, dation in Sofia, which cares for spread of the coronavirus sanctuary. month, hoping that the April,” he said. dozens of jackals took over a smaller wild animals found pandemic will remain, Prime The bears may well appre- lockdown will end in early May Arcturos faces a monthly deserted park in Tel Aviv, scav- wounded, points out that urban Minister Mark Rutte said. ciate the tranquility — but their so we can resume accepting vis- bill of €43,000 ($46,000), enging for food in what is areas “are territories which we Following a month-long minders are significantly more itors,” Lapis said. including €12,000 to feed the usually a playground for joggers should not forget we took from closure, pupils will be allowed concerned by lost income since In Tirana, staff at the city animals, he added. and families. nature”. back on a “part time” basis at the sanctuary has been closed zoo are working round the clock Two of the animals— a In the northern lake city The Bulgarian group has primary schools and nurs- for weeks under coronavirus to feed the animals, which male bear and a she-wolf — are of Kastoria earlier this warned the public not to feed eries, Rutte told a press con- lockdown regulations. include four bears, manager injured and in need of addi- month, a bear and her three wild animals, merely to evaluate ference after a cabinet “Tickets and souvenirs rep- Luli Shehaj said. tional care. cubs took advantage of the whether they are injured and meeting on the measures. resented around a third of our Shutdowns enforced by A call for help on March 26 coronavirus lockdown in by may require assistance. The Netherlands, which annual revenue,” said Cristina countries across Europe last helped cover expenses for two strolling along the normally “A wild animal’s life is a dif- has opted for what Rutte calls Lapis, the founder and president month come at the worst pos- weeks. “We will launch another busy shore. ficult one, there is no need to an “intelligent lockdown”, is of the AMP (Millions of Friends) sible time for bears, as the appeal to donors and sponsors,” In Spain, the unfamiliar lull make it more complicated,” following the lead of Germany organisation that runs the animals were just awakening Stefanou said. in traffic has led to spottings of they noted. “Wild animals have and some Scandinavian Libearty sanctuary. from their winter slumber. But if the lockdown con- roe deer, boar, monk vultures to stay away from people, it is nations on slowly reopening The hardship has become For the Arcturos sanctuary tinues to the end of May, the and Eurasian eagle-owls. for their own good.” schools. “These are difficult commonplace at sanctuaries in northern Greece, the group will sustain an economic “We have observed changes If everything appears to be considerations, but caution is and zoos across Europe that lockdown was “an economic hit of € 180,000, he added. in some species due to con- normal, admire the animal from better than regrets after- have been hammered by coro- shock”, said organisation Arcturos runs awareness finement. We have observed it a distance and then walk away,” wards,” Rutte said. navirus quarantine measures. spokesman Panos Stefanou. campaigns, veterinary care and especially in forest species,” the group said. 14 AMERICAS WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020 Trump says he will halt immigration; Georgia plans partial reopening REUTERS — WASHINGTON “In light of the attack over a lack of testing and medical equipment to fight the President Donald Trump’s from the Invisible outbreak. response to the coronavirus Enemy,” Trump By contrast, Georgia Gov- outbreak took on a sharper ernor Brian Kemp, a Repub- political tone with his pledge to tweeted, referring to lican, on Monday said that suspend immigration into the the pandemic, “as well gyms, hair salons, bowling country, while Georgia and alleys, tattoo parlors and other US states began lifting as the need to protect massage parlors could reopen restrictions that stalled their the jobs of our GREAT on Friday, followed next economies. American Citizens, Monday by movie theaters and Trump made the immi- restaurants. gration announcement in a I will be signing an Kemp described it as a Twitter message late on Monday Executive Order to measured approach to balance night, suggesting his action the health of the state’s would prevent further con- temporarily suspend economy with public health US President Donald Trump addresses the daily coronavirus task force briefing in the presence of tagion from outsiders while immigration into the concerns, saying stay-home US Assistant Secretary for Health, Admiral Brett Giroir, and Vice-President Mike Pence at the White saving American jobs. orders, social distancing and House in Washington, DC, yesterday. Trump, elected in 2016 in United States.” other steps to stanch the out- part on his vow to stamp out break would remain in place. Some local officials have announced steps to reopen “These are the two things he illegal immigration, had staked Georgia has reported questioned Kemp’s decision, some businesses, subject to has dropped the ball on,” de his re-election in November on protect the jobs of our GREAT 174,000 positive cases and six saying it may jeopardize the certain social distancing Blasio said on CNN, describing the strength of the US economy, American Citizens, I will be deaths per 100,000 people, health of residents. measures remaining in force. Trump’s comments on immi- which has been sapped by the signing an Executive Order to both below the national “I really am at a loss as to New York City is moving in gration as a diversion. “You are economic shutdown aimed at temporarily suspend immi- average, according to an what the governor is basing this the opposite direction by can- not going to have a restart and stopping the pandemic. He has gration into the United States.” analysis of data collected by the decision on other than getting celing all concerts and other economic recovery if cities and now been pressing for states to The White House declined to Covid Tracking Project. people back to work, which is large events through June. states are back on their heels.” begin easing restrictions that offer further details on the rea- But the state has one of the extremely important,” Atlanta The city’s mayor, Bill de In Washington, the US Congress have left a record 22 million soning behind the decision, its lowest testing rates, ranking Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms Blasio, yesterday said Trump moved toward a fourth coro- people seeking unemployment timing or its legal basis. 42nd out of the 50 states and told CNN yesterday. “But for us could “kiss his re-election navirus economic relief bill benefits. The Democratic governor the District of Columbia, giving to have a strong economy we goodbye” if he did not address expected to top $450bn. Senate “In light of the attack from of New York, has voiced strong health officials less data on the have to have a strong, healthy the shortage of testing supplies Democratic Leader Chuck the Invisible Enemy,” he opposition to Trump’s record reach of the illness to base deci- community.” and provide more federal Schumer said the Trump tweeted, referring to the pan- on immigration and has clashed sions on reopening, the data The governors of Colorado assistance to cities and states administration has signed off demic, “as well as the need to with the Republican president showed. and South Carolina also with battered finances. on a national testing strategy. Missouri sues China over COVID-19 economic losses Cuomo and Trump ready

REUTERS — JEFFERSON CITY lied to the world about the spread to infect more than 2.5 of international law at the Uni- danger and contagious nature million people worldwide. But versity of Chicago. to meet after trading Missouri yesterday became the of COVID-19, silenced whistle- he and other senior US officials Ginsburg said he thought first US state to sue the Chinese blowers, and did little to stop have also referred to it as the the recent flurry of lawsuits virus barbs, praise government over its handling the spread of the disease,” “Chinese virus” and in recent against China serve a political of the coronavirus, saying that Schmitt, a Republican, said in a days have ramped up their end for Republican leaders AP — WASHINGTON admonished Cuomo to “do your China’s response to the statement. “They must be held rhetoric. facing an election in November. job.” Cuomo, in turn, has ques- outbreak that originated in accountable for their actions.” China is already facing “We are seeing a lot of Their back-and-forth during tioned Trump’s grasp of the Wuhan city led to devastating The lawsuit also accuses the similar lawsuits filed in US people on the political right the coronavirus pandemic has Constitution and suggested the economic losses in the state. Chinese government of making courts on behalf of US business focus on the China issue to included insults, sharply president is trying to act like a The civil lawsuit, filed in the pandemic worse by owners. cover up for the US govern- contrasting views on the role “king.” For all of that, though, federal court by Missouri “hoarding” masks and other International law experts ment’s own errors,” Ginsburg of the federal government and Trump said on Monday that Attorney General Eric Schmitt, personal protective equipment told Reuters that efforts to hold said. some moments of mutual “we, believe it or not, have — alleges negligence, among other (PPE). China liable for the coronavirus Trump initially downplayed admiration. we get along. Okay?” He added claims. The complaint alleges US President Donald in US courts will likely fail. the seriousness of the corona- Now President Donald that Cuomo had been “very Missouri and its residents have Trump, also a Republican, ini- A legal doctrine called sov- virus, which has killed more Trump and New York Governor generous” with recent praise. suffered possibly tens of billions tially lavished praise on China ereign immunity offers foreign than 43,000 people in the Andrew Cuomo was to meet Through daily briefings and of dollars in economic damages, and his counterpart Xi Jinping governments broad protection United States out of nearly face-to-face yesterday for the scores of media appearances, and seeks cash compensation. for the official response to the from being sued in US courts, 800,000 cases as of first time since the global crisis Cuomo has in many ways “The Chinese government outbreak, which has since said Tom Ginsburg, a professor yesterday. began. emerged as the Democratic Ahead of their Oval Office face of the response to the meeting, Cuomo said he pandemic. United Auto wanted to discuss the need for With the party’s likely pres- more federal help in increasing idential nominee, Joe Biden, Workers union testing capacity — a persistent largely sidelined at his Del- sticking point between the gov- aware home, Cuomo has endorses Biden ernors and Washington. become one of several gov- Cuomo said Trump is right ernors thrust into the spotlight for president in saying that “states should as the pandemic has forced a take the lead” on testing, but reordering of American life. REUTERS — WASHINGTON the federal government needs As Cuomo conducts to manage the flow of supplies briefings from New York, he The United Auto Workers from abroad while governors has vacillated between being union announced yesterday are “trying to put together their Trump’s foil and his unlikely that it is endorsing Democrat testing protocol in their state.” ally. The two Queens natives Joe Biden for president in the “I think in many ways we’re —they grew up just a few 2020 election. talking past each other,” neighborhoods apart — have US President Donald Trump, Cuomo said. traded barbs on Twitter but a Republican, has heavily Despite well-documented also consulted in late-night courted auto workers in key bat- shortages of testing supplies, phone calls. tleground states like Michigan Trump and White House aides Asked if he’s had to walk a and Ohio, while Biden has touted have insisted that states have “fine line” in dealing with the his support for autoworkers enough test capacity to move president, Cuomo said: “Life is when he served as vice president ahead with the first phase of a fine line.” “He has no problem and his support of policies cham- efforts to reopen their telling me when he disagrees,” pioned by unions. economies. Cuomo told reporters yesterday “In these dangerous and dif- The hot-and-cold rela- before departing for ficult times, the country needs tionship between Trump and Washington. a president who will demon- Mobile testing campaign in Louisiana Cuomo has been on full display “And he tells me when he strate clear, stable leadership, in their respective briefings and agrees. I have no problem less partisan acrimony and Walk-up testing begins during the start of a metro-wide mobile campaign for coronavirus disease Twitter posts during the crisis. telling him when I disagree and more balance to the rights and testing at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans, US, yesterday. In recent days, Trump has when I agree.” protections of working Amer- icans,” UAW President Rory Gamble said in a statement. Senators call on NSA, DHS to On Monday, the UAW Poll: Americans sour on China endorsed Biden’s plan to reopen the US economy closed defend healthcare agencies to try to curb the spread of the amid pandemic, broader rivalry coronavirus outbreak. REUTERS — WASHINGTON to DHS’ Cybersecurity and The union, which repre- Infrastructure Security Agency AP — WASHINGTON in 2017. The results suggest that progressing. sents about 400,000 US US senators have called on the and NSA’s Cyber Command - Americans are receptive to the “Since President Donald workers, has been in talks with National Security Agency and which spearheads the military’s Americans are increasingly Trump administration’s broad Trump took office in 2017, his General Motors Co, Ford Motor the Department of Homeland online operations. hostile to China as the corona- antagonism toward China, approach to US-China relations Co and Fiat Chrysler Automo- Security to aggressively protect At one point, the letter virus pandemic wreaks havoc which has increased in recent has included increased pressure biles NV about when to reopen health and research organisa- urged the agencies to consider on the US and global economies weeks over criticism of Beijing’s via tariffs and trade war rhetoric, US auto plants. tions amid the coronavirus operations to “defend forward” and after three years of Trump handling of the COVID-19 out- and now, with the onset of an “This issue demonstrates outbreak. — a phrase often used as a administration antagonism break that originated in the unprecedented pandemic, the the need for presidential lead- In a letter sent Monday, euphemism for hacking. The toward the country, according Chinese city of Wuhan. stage has been set for both sides ership to follow the guidance Democratic Senator Richard DHS and the NSA did not to a nationwide poll released The poll suggests the change to cast aspersions on the other,” of science and give workers a Blumenthal of Connecticut and immediately return messages yesterday. is so far not directly linked to the the authors said. “Against this seat in discussions over their Republican Senator Tom seeking comment on the letter. The poll, conducted last coronavirus outbreak, that the backdrop, negative views of safety and well-being. Now it Cotton of Arkansas, along with Cybersecurity concerns month by the nonpartisan Pew Trump administration’s trade China have continued to grow.” is time for workers to take their three others, asked the NSA and have been bubbling in the Research Center, found that war with China and relentless The poll of 1,000 Americans place at the table,” Gamble said. the DHS to consider action background as the coronavirus two-thirds of those surveyed, or criticism of its policies may be found unfavorable opinions of Trump last week named top against hackers who threatened rages across the world. Some 66 percent, had an unfavorable having that effect. China are shared across party executives at the Detroit Three the healthcare sector. cybersecurity experts have view of China. That’s the most The upward trend in neg- lines, with about 70 percent of automakers and AFL-CIO Pres- “We urge you to take all warned that hackers’ success since the center first asked the ative views began in 2019, and Republicans and Republican- ident Richard Trumka to advise necessary measures to protect rates are going up amid the question 15 years ago and a sig- the survey did not find changing leaning independents and 60 the administration on reopening these institutions during the economic turmoil and changing nificant jump of 20 percentage attitudes toward China over the percent of Democrats and the economy, but did not coronavirus pandemic,” said patterns of work triggered by points since President Donald course of March, when the virus Democratic-leaning inde- include the UAW. the letter, which was addressed the virus’ spread. Trump entered the White House outbreak was rapidly pendents holding them. WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020 AMERICAS 15 Venezuela Socialists, opposition begin secret talks REUTERS — CARACAS The discussions emerged from concerns about parts of the sanctions if nation’s legitimate leader. But other Guaido accuses him of using the members of the Socialist Party powers such as China and Russia pandemic as an excuse for disas- Allies of both Venezuelan Pres- COVID-19, hyperinflation and growing fuel form an interim government still back Maduro. trous economic policies. ident Nicolas Maduro and his shortages, as well as worries among some without Maduro, a plan backed One source linked to the Venezuela as of Monday had bitter foe, opposition leader by Guaido but quickly shot government acknowledged the reported 285 coronavirus infec- Juan Guaido, have secretly members of the ruling Socialist Party about down by the government. talks were going on. tions. The United Nations has begun exploratory talks as how to ensure their political survival under a Venezuela’s information “There are proposals called it one of the most vul- concerns grow about the possible change of government ministry and Guaido’s press coming and going” between nerable countries in the world possible impact of coronavirus, team did not immediately reply Maduro allies and members of to the virus due to the lack of according to sources on both to a request for comment about the four principal opposition soap and water in hospitals and sides. the current talks. parties, said the source. the overall impoverishment of The discussions emerged push Maduro from office. confirmed the talks. Maduro has frequently said “There are approaches,” the population. from concerns about COVID-19, “There are two extremes: Maduro and Guaido are he is willing to hold dialogue. said one opposition deputy who Guaido, who controls Ven- hyperinflation and growing fuel Maduro and those who believe competing with one another to “We are ready for dialogue, is aware of the discussions. ezuelan government funds held shortages, as well as worries that the virus will end Guaido’s help combat the effects of the to understand one another and “There are key elements in the in offshore accounts, is seeking among some members of the leadership, and those on the pandemic, with each side con- reach a humanitarian government that want to nego- to provide $20 million to the ruling Socialist Party about how other side (who) hope this crisis vinced the outbreak will agreement to attend to the tiate their salvation.” The two Pan American Health Organi- to ensure their political survival will bring down Maduro,” said undermine the other politically, coronavirus (pandemic),” sides last year participated in a zation to acquire supplies, under a possible change of gov- an opposition legislator in favor said the sources, who asked not Maduro said during a televised dialogue brokered by Norway according to three sources. ernment as Washington tightens of the rapprochement. to be identified. broadcast over the weekend, in which the opposition had But Maduro’s government is sanctions, the sources said. “I think we have to find solu- Activists and rights groups without making reference to pressed for a new presidential aiming to block the operation via The talks, which have no tions.” It was unable to determine around the world have urged any specific set of talks. election. But Maduro’s side the United Nations, which still clear agenda, show that allies when the talks began, where or the two factions to seek a truce Guaido, head of the national walked away from the process recognizes his government. of both Maduro and Guaido how they are taking place, and in order to coordinate the assembly who assumed an interim in protest at US sanctions. The Venezuelan offices of remain unconvinced that they how Maduro and Guaido view delivery of aid and boost presidency last year after disa- Maduro assures his gov- the Pan American Health can defeat the other amid a them. Seven sources, who rep- gasoline imports. vowing Maduro’s 2018 re-election, ernment has controlled the coro- Organization and the United global pandemic and a broad resent both sides of Vene- The US State Department in is recognized by the United States navirus outbreak in Venezuela Nations did not respond to US sanctions program meant to zuela’s deep political divide, March offered to begin lifting and more than 50 countries as the with the support of China, while request for comment. Venezuelan migrants head home amid pandemic fears

AFP — CALI, COLOMBIA through closed borders or official at the border between taking advantage of opened the two countries. humanitarian corridors. Many Colombia is home to about For the second time in less than attempted to rebuild their lives 1.8 million of the 4.9 million a year, Jesus Pena is on the run. in Colombia but have since Venezuelan migrants who fled The first time, he was fleeing given up. their country in recent as the poverty in his native Venezuela. They decided to go home former oil power’s economy Now, he’s heading back to his after finding themselves crumbled. crisis-stricken home to escape without jobs or income during Bogota, which like the US the death spread by the novel government-imposed does not recognize Nicolas coronavirus. COVID-19 lockdowns — or out Maduro as Venezuela’s pres- “We want to go back so we of fear of epidemic-fueled ident, has appealed for interna- don’t die,” the 49-year-old xenophobia. tional aid to manage a migrant explained during a stop in Cali, Pena lived only nine months crisis made more acute by the Colombia. He arrived after 12 in Loja, in the south of Ecuador. pandemic’s attendant health days of traveling, mostly on But he quickly grew afraid: and economic emergencies. foot, from neighboring Ecuador “People are dying, no one pays Colombia has recorded — one of the Latin American attention or wears a mask, eve- more than 3,700 cases of the countries worst hit by the ryone is out in the streets.” coronavirus, versus some 250 pandemic. He also worried about what reported in Venezuela. Ecuador, Immigrants set off for Venezuela on foot amid the spread of the coronavirus disease, in Duran, Ecuador. The blisters dotting his feet would happen if he or one of his at 10,000 cases, is the region’s are the least of his worries. He family members fell ill. At the worst-hit country after Brazil. tures as they leave. in Cali, he decided to leave to Plazas found himself in the is relieved because he, his wife, hospital, “they would never Pena is aware that the low Luis Plazas, 24, considers escape growing hunger. Since same boat as 47 percent of their son and his sister-in-law move an Ecuadoran to make number of Venezuelan cases himself one of the lucky ones. the start of the lockdown — Colombia’s working population, will soon board a bus chartered room for a Venezuelan,” he said. has been doubted by Maduro’s The street fruit vendor, his wife March 20 in the major who work informally and often by the city to ferry Venezuelan “It’s better to go back to our opposition and he is bracing and their children — eight years Colombian cities — his family on the street. The lockdown has migrants the 957km to the country,” he added. himself for the worst. “There’s and eight months old — were has only had one meal a day. left them penniless. border. More than 35,000 Vene- no food, no water nor gas. But able to board one of the buses “If an adult only eats once a Soon he was unable to pay Dozens of others wait along zuelans have already crossed what can we do?,” he said. going from Cali to Cucuta, a city day, he can handle it. But how his rent. “It was getting very dif- with them. They fled Ecuador the region, coming from Colombia said the migrants on the Venezuelan border. do you tell a child that there’s ficult, and we had already been and other countries in the Colombia and elsewhere, are leaving of their own accord After two years away, one nothing. It’s really hard!” he said thrown out on the street,” he region, carefully sneaking according to Felipe Munoz, an and is checking their tempera- spent in Bogota and the other by phone, during his trip. said. Protests reignite From Queen to rock bands, in Chile amid virus outbreak, tributes pour in for Canada 14 arrested mass shooting victims

REUTERS — SANTIAGO AFP — OTTAWA Trudeau said. A “virtual vigil” was Police in Chile broke up a fresh A message of condolence from planned for Friday evening, but round of anti-government Queen Elizabeth II and musical already several popped up on protests in one of Santiago´s tributes for the victims of the social media. central squares late on worst mass shooting in A plane’s flight path marked Monday, arresting 14 and Canadian history poured in a heart-shape over the Atlantic citing rules against congrega- yesterday as the death toll coast town in mourning, unable tions intended to ward off the continued to rise. to gather for in-person memo- spread of coronavirus. According to public broad- rials or even hug each other Protests over deep-rooted caster CBC, police uncovered due to coronavirus restrictions inequality erupted last October in the rubble of a home burned on large gatherings. over a hike in metro fares, to the ground by the suspect the “I wanted to reach out to devastating the economy and remains of a couple reported the community. I wanted to be leading to thousands of arrests missing, bringing the total there with them. I wanted to and injuries. number of victims to 20. tell them that I love them,” pilot But the fast-spreading The gunman, 51-year-old Neonakis told CBC, adding that coronavirus, and the measures Gabriel Wortman, had begun because of social distancing, put in place to combat it, had Susana Prieto, a lawyer and labor activist (in white protective suit), advises employees of an his rampage late on Saturday “my only avenue was through all but silenced the masses that Electrocomponentes de Mexico factory during a protest to halt work amid the spread of the coronavirus in the seaside village of Por- the air.” His flight was shown once turned out on a near disease, in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, on Monday. tapique, Nova Scotia, dying 14 on flight tracker website nightly basis. hours later in a hail of police FlightAware. Chile´s “Carabinero” police gunfire outside Halifax, 100km A church in Banff, Alberta, force said on Twitter the arrests Mexico enters most serious ‘Phase away. meanwhile, rang its bells to the in Santiago´s Plaza Italia, were Queen Elizabeth II said she tune of “Farewell to Nova warranted “because mass con- and Prince Philip “have been Scotia.” gregations are prohibited in 3’ spread of coronavirus epidemic deeply saddened by the The Canadian rock band public spaces.” Police did not appalling events in Nova Northern Pikes and others specify how many people had REUTERS — MEXICO CITY of Phase 3 is to further reduce other countries around the globe Scotia.” Canada’s head of state posted online bagpipes and gathered in the square. But movement of people in public have implemented. also paid tribute to the Royal acoustic guitar versions of videos on social media showed Mexico has entered what the spaces and that it was vital that Mexico has extended gov- Canadian Mounted Police “Amazing Grace,” while several relatively small groups government calls “Phase 3” of the Mexicans followed govern- ernment restrictions to contain the (RCMP) officers — one of whom Toronto-based Choir! Choir! shouting and touting signs of spread of the new coronavirus, ment’s social distancing coronavirus until May 30 but plans died, and another wounded — Choir! offered to lead an online protest. the most serious stage, as trans- instructions to prevent the to begin easing up restrictions from and others who “selflessly rendition of Leonard Cohen’s Health authorities have mission of the virus is intensifying, country’s health system from June 1 onwards if the current responded to these devastating “Hallelujah” at 8pm. banned gatherings of more than Deputy Health Minister Hugo being overwhelmed. measures are successful. attacks.” And Winnipeg musician 50 people nationwide to thwart Lopez-Gatell said yesterday. “Today we want to Lopez-Gatell stressed that Across Canada, flags flew Scott Nolan wrote a new the spread of coronavirus. The Mexico has registered 712 announce the start of ‘Phase 3’ Mexico’s strategy is based on at half-mast, while Prime Min- “gentle tune” for Nova country remains under curfew coronavirus deaths and 8,772 of the COVID epidemic, mitigation measures rather ister Justin Trudeau pro- Scotians. each evening. Restaurants, bars, infections, with 511 new cases remembering that we are in the than an effort to extinguish the claimed: “Today we are all “Tonight I grieve for sons malls and movie theaters have reported on Monday. phase of rapid spread where a epidemic, which he said would Nova Scotians.” He recounted and daughters who never got all been shuttered. But health officials expect large number of infections and require “freezing” the country how members of his RCMP to say goodbye... from Por- But protesters´ anger over the real number to be substan- hospitalizations are accumu- for several years and could lead security detail knew and tapique to Shubenacadie, no low wages, high cost of living tially higher as Mexico has lated,” Lopez-Gatell said during to an economic collapse. remembered fondly Constable one here will forget today,” he and meager pensions con- limited testing capacity. Lopez- the daily morning news con- Lopez Obrador has placed Heidi Stevenson, who was sang. tinues to simmer. President Gatell on Thursday said the ference held by President shielding the poor at the heart of killed while responding to the “The neighbour said he Sebastian Pinera sparked government’s “Sentinel Surveil- Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. his economic response to the shootings. couldn’t believe it... I thought I outrage in early April when he lance” mathematical model Mexico’s leftist leader once pandemic, but analysts say the “It really goes to show just heard distant sirens, I see fire by posed for photographs at estimated there were 55,951 again vowed that the country government’s stimulus package how tightly knit, not just the down the road, we can still hear the empty plaza amid a strict cases across the country. would not enforce “authoritarian” pales in comparison with those RCMP is as a force, but how the gunshots, at night it’s hard lockdown in the city. Lopez-Gatell said the focus measures such as curfews, which of other nations in Latin America. close we are as a country,” to be alone.” 16 MORNING BREAK WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL 2020

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER TODAY o o Relatively hot daytime with scattered clouds and a chance FAJR03.45 am SUNRISE 05.05 am 25 C 30 C of rain maybe thundery at places. ZUHR 11.32 am ASR 03.02 pm Minimum Maximum HIGH TIDE 03:24– 16:33 LOW TIDE 11:10 – 22:49 MAGHRIB 06.02 pm ISHA 07.32 pm W ALRUWAIS: 23o↗28o W ALKHOR: 22o↗30o W DUKHAN: 23o↗29o W WAKRAH: 23o↗29o W MESAIEED 23o↗29o W ABUSAMRA 21o↗31o

Humans to blame for spread of COVID-19 & other ‘zoonoses’

AFP — PARIS report. Scientists think it originated “Changes in the envi- in bats and could have been Whether it came from a bat or ronment are usually the result passed on via another mammal a pangolin is not certain, but of human activities, ranging like a pangolin, an endangered one thing is: the coronavirus from land use change to climate species whose meat and scales outbreak that has killed tens of change.” are highly prized in parts of thousands and turned the world Gwenael Vourc’h of INRAE, Asia. upside down comes from the a French public research But researchers have yet to animal world. institute, also blames human come up with a definitive It is human activity that activity for the crossover answer on how it migrated to enabled the virus to jump to between species. people. people, and specialists are “Given the growth of the The only sure thing is that warning that if nothing changes human population and its ever human activity facilitated the many other pandemics of this more intense use of planetary jump. nature will follow. resources, the destruction of “The process that leads a The name given to diseases more and more ecosystems microbe, such as a virus, from transmitted from animals to multiplies contacts,” she says. a population of vertebrates such humans is “zoonoses”, based on A key area of concern is as bats to humans is complex, the Greek words for “animal” deforestation to make way for but driven by people,” says and “sickness”. agriculture and intensive live- Anne Larigauderie, executive They are not new — tuber- stock farming. secretary of IPBES, the panel of People queue outside a post office on the 35th day of a strict lockdown in France to stop the spread culosis, rabies, toxoplasmosis, Domesticated animals are UN experts on biodiversity. of COVID-19, in Paris. malaria, to name just a few, are often a “bridge” between path- “People, through their all zoonoses. ogens from the wild and actions, create opportunities for rodents, primates and bats as “This also increases the fre- Vourc’h is also calling for a According to the UN Envi- humans. The widespread use of the microbes to come closer to hosts of three-quarters of quency and intensity of contact systemic response. ronment Programme (UNEP), antibiotics in the livestock human populations. viruses transmitted to humans. between humans and wildlife “Beyond the essential 60 percent of human infectious industry has also led to bacterial “The rate of global change But domestic animals also — creating the perfect condi- response to each epidemic, we diseases originate from animals. pathogens building up in nature during the past 50 carry about 50 percent of the tions for virus spillover,” she must think about our model... This figure climbs to 75 immunity to front-line drugs. years is unprecedented in zoonoses identified. says. rethink our relationship with percent for “emerging” diseases Urbanisation and habitat human history, and the most In terms of endangered According to Larigauderie, natural ecosystems and the such as Ebola, HIV, avian flu, fragmentation are also highly important direct driver of wildlife, the study shows that this coronavirus outbreak may services they provide,” she says. Zika, or SARS, another type of disruptive of the balance change in nature is land use those who share the most just be the tip of the iceberg. The 2016 UNEP report, coronavirus. The list goes on. between species, while global change.” viruses with humans are pre- “Increased trends in land which noted that “ecosystem “The emergence of zoonotic warming can push disease-car- Beyond the current out- cisely “populations declining use change, combined with integrity underlines human diseases is often associated with rying animals into new break of coronavirus, IPBES due to exploitation and loss of increased trends in trade, and health and development”, said environmental changes or eco- territory. estimates that zoonoses kill habitat”. global travels, are expected to effective strategies already exist logical disturbances, such as The novel coronavirus is some 700,000 people a year. Christine Johnson, of the increase the frequency of pan- to control most neglected agricultural intensification and believed to have emerged in a A study by American University of California veter- demics in future,” she says. zoonoses. The main constraint, human settlement, or encroach- wet market in the central researchers published last week inary school, who led the study, “Transformative change is however, appeared to be “lack ments into forests and other Chinese city of Wuhan late last and completed before the new blames the human urge to “alter needed in order to find a of investment”. habitats,” said a 2016 UNEP year. coronavirus outbreak identifies the landscape”. solution to this global tragedy.” 'One World' celebrity Origin of human language may special for COVID-19 draws 21 million be 25 million years old: Study American viewers IANS — LONDON processing speech and language. REUTERS — LOS ANGELES Researchers have discovered Although speech and lan- an earlier origin to the human guage are unique to humans, the Almost 21 million Americans language pathway in the brain, link via the auditory pathway in watched the "One World: suggesting that its origins lie other primates suggests an evo- Together At Home" global around 25 million years ago — lutionary basis in auditory cog- special on Saturday in 20 million years earlier than nition & vocal communication. support of frontline workers previously thought. “We predicted but could not battling the coronavirus Previously, a precursor of know for sure whether the pandemic, according to the language pathway was human language pathway may Nielsen data released thought by many scientists to have had an evolutionary basis yesterday. have emerged more recently, in the auditory system of non- Nielsen said that the two- about 5 million years ago, with human primates. I admit we hour concert, which featured a common ancestor of both were astounded to see a similar appearances and performances apes and humans. pathway hiding in plain sight from their homes by multiple For neuroscientists, this is within the auditory system of celebrities including Taylor comparable to finding a fossil nonhuman primates,” Petkov Swift, Lady Gaga, the Rolling that illuminates evolutionary added. Stones, Oprah Winfrey and history. However, unlike bones, The study also illuminates Beyonce, was aired on 26 US brains did not fossilize. Instead, the remarkable transformation Artist Sergei Pronin works on a painting, which depicts a monument to Russian poet Alexander television networks. neuroscientists need to infer of the human language pathway. Pushkin, in an art gallery in Zheleznovodsk, Russia, recently. The event, the biggest what the brains of common A key human unique dif- celebrity effort during the ancestors may have been like ference was found: the human coronavirus outbreak, was by studying brain scans of left side of this brain pathway viewed by an estimated 20.7 Russian artist self-isolates in gallery living primates and comparing was stronger and the right side million viewers in the United them to humans. appears to have diverged from States, Nielsen said. Audiences REUTERS — ZHELEZNOVODSK Gallery itself,” said Pronin, 31, Pronin, who does daily “It is like finding a new the auditory evolutionary pro- in other nations and on who, since March 28, has spent aerobics and stretching in one fossil of a long lost ancestor. It totype to involve non-auditory streaming platforms were not When an art gallery in southern his days creating art in the of the gallery’s several rooms, is also exciting that there may parts of the brain. available. Russia closed its doors to help venue in Zheleznovodsk, in the said he planned to stay there be an older origin yet to be dis- The study relied on brain The concert, organised by curb the spread of the corona- Stavropol region. for the duration of the covered still,” said study lead scans from openly shared the World Health Organization virus, one artist asked to self- He has finished painting a lockdown, which is currently author Chris Petkov from New- resources by the global scien- (WHO) and nonprofit Global isolate there rather than leave view of the gallery and is now in place in Russia until April 30. castle University in the UK. tific community. It also gen- Citizen, raised some $127m his place of work. working on a piece dedicated Museums and galleries have For the findings, published erated original new brain scans from corporations and philan- Sergei Pronin had only just to poet Alexander Pushkin, after been among the many venues in the journal Nature Neuro- that are globally shared to thropists for the work of the started work as an administrator whom the gallery is named and and businesses to close in an science, the international teams inspire further discovery. WHO's COVID-19 Solidarity at the Pushkin Gallery when the whose sculpture features as a effort to contain the corona- of European and US scientists Also since the authors have Response Fund. lockdown was imposed. centrepiece of its main virus, with 47,121 cases and 405 carried out the brain imaging predicted that the auditory pre- Members of the public He was granted permission exhibition. deaths reported in the country. study and analysis of auditory cursor to the human language were not asked to donate but to stay and now paints, sleeps, “In the near future I want to The domed gallery, which regions and brain pathways in pathway maybe even older, the were encouraged to practice cooks and exercises in the paint Isadora Duncan dancing opened in 1902, operated as a humans, apes and monkeys. work inspires the neurobio- social distancing and hand- company of a sole companion on the stage in the Pushkin military hospital for a brief They discovered a segment logical search for its earliest shaking and to show their — a canary named Hertz. Gallery,” Pronin said, referring period during WWII and now of this language pathway in the evolutionary origin — the next appreciation for healthcare, “I had an idea that it was to the time the American dancer houses paintings by local artists human brain that interconnects brain ‘fossil’ — to be found in grocery, delivery, transport interesting to work on a series performed there in the early and has a stage for concerts and the auditory cortex with frontal animals more distantly related and other workers. of paintings about the Pushkin 1920s. theatre performances. lobe regions, important for to humans. Dance at home: Georgian national ballet moves lessons online

REUTERS — TBILISI dance lessons at least three Georgian folk dances,” said greatest stages. brother Iliko Sukhishvili Jr. was movement ... we will continue times a week, were left without Nino Sukhishvili, the group’s art Lively music combined with forced to interrupt its tour in to teach lessons to children Georgia’s National Ballet, the regular rehearsals for folk director and granddaughter of shows of strength, rapid spins eastern Europe in March due to online and I’m sure that former Soviet country’s famous dancing, a key part of Georgian its founders. and jumps for male dancers the coronavirus outbreak. children will take our lessons folk dance ensemble, started culture and great source of The husband and wife team alongside the gliding and “This is a challenge for us very well.” giving lessons online after the national pride. of Iliko Sukhishvili and Nino elegant movements of female teachers,” said Nutsi Bez- The Caucasus republic of 3.7 group’s popular dance schools “We’ve moved to online Ramishvili started the ensemble performers in vibrantly col- hashvili, a soloist with the million people has reported closed their doors due to the lessons, which are available to more than 70 years ago and oured costumes make Georgian Sukhishvili ensemble. about 400 cases of COVID-19, coronavirus. our students as well as for turned it into famous troupe, dance a dazzling spectacle. “But I believe that every- the respiratory disease caused Around 5,000 kids and anyone around the world who which has travelled the globe The current troupe led by thing is better than being at by the coronavirus, and four teenagers, who used to attend likes and wants to dance and performed on the world’s Nino Sukhishvili and her home in isolation without deaths.