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Emir condoles Emir: Qatar emerges stronger after siege with US President

Emir H H Sheikh QNA Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani addressed DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh the opening session Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani sent yesterday a cable of of Munich Security condolences to President of Conference. the United States of America Donald Trump, expressing his condolences on the victims The Emir said despite of the shooting incident at a the blockade imposed school in the state of Florida on the country since and wishing speedy recovery June 5 last year, Qatar for the injured. Deputy Emir H H Sheikh emerged stronger Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani and preserved its also sent a cable to the US sovereignty. President, expressing his con- dolences on the victims of the shooting incident at a school in the state of Florida, and THE PENINSULA wishing speedy recovery for the injured. DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim Prime Minister and bin Hamad Al Thani described Interior Minister H E Sheikh the most recent GCC crisis as “a Abdullah bin Nasser bin futile crisis manufactured by our Khalifa Al Thani also sent a neighbours” and the adven- similar cable. turous policies they imposed have undermined regional security. Speaking at the opening Emir greets session of the Munich Security Conference, H H the Emir President of outlined that “Even with the regional turmoil, Qatar remains Lithuania one of the most peaceful coun- tries in the world”. Despite the DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani addressing the opening session of Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, yesterday. blockade imposed on the country Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani since June 5 last year, “Qatar sent yesterday a cable of emerged stronger and preserved the storms of aggression from triggering the terrorism crisis, my own country was able economic outlook for the GCC congratulations to President its sovereignty” said the Emir, larger, ambitious neighbours. including the patterned failure to experience some of the factors as a strategic bloc”. The Emir of Lithuania, Dalia adding that Qatar has managed H H the Emir spoke about the of states in the Arab region, in full-force. It has been a futile added that having “regional rela- Grybauskaite, on the occasion to secure new trade routes to terrorism which “exists in every failure to fulfill promises to crisis manufactured by our tions being guided by a set of of her country’s National Day. accelerate diversification of its culture and Islam has no deliver freedom, social justice neighbours, some of whom are solid governance and the rule of Deputy Emir H H Sheikh economy and bonded together monopoly on them” but the and Arab unity to their people, major regional players, once law, we would not have seen Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani in unity. violent extremism has become suffering and injustice and believed to be stabilising factors nations with limited resources and Prime Minister and The Emir explained the failed major threat in my region, “while people are losing faith in inter- on the world stage. That is no being blackmailed into bartering Interior Minister H E Sheikh blockade shows how small states extremist ideologies can be national accountability. longer the case. The adventurous their foreign policies for external Abdullah bin Nasser bin can use diplomacy and strategic found anywhere”. The Emir The Emir stressed that policies have undermined aid. Khalifa Al Thani also sent economic planning to weather mentioned many factors “during the most recent GCC regional security and the →CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 similar cables. School vaccination drive begins tomorrow Transportation of Qataris’ FAZEENA SALEEM Protection and Communicable diseases like measles because of is to control and eliminate dis- camels from Saudi via THE PENINSULA Disease Control Department at vaccination. Personal hygiene eases from the community and the MoPH, said that vaccination also plays a major role in pre- world,” she added. The standard DOHA: With the Tetanus, Diph- is the best proven measure to venting some infectious dis- childhood vaccination schedule Kuwait to start soon theria and Pertussis (Tdap) protect children and adults from eases,” she said, speaking is administrated from the age of National School Vaccination infectious and communicable recently on the sidelines of a one. But two vaccines are given SIDI MOHAMED shipment of camels’ will resume campaign set to kick off diseases. workshop related to upcoming at birth for infants to prevent THE PENINSULA on February 19 or 20, adding tomorrow, the Ministry of Public “Through research by the Tdap National School Vacci- tuberculosis and hepatitis. Also that more than thirty camels Health (MoPH) has highlighted World Health Organisation, it nation campaign for students in several vaccinations are needed DOHA: The transportation of have already been transported the importance of immunisation has been proven that millions of the tenth grade. to be repeated and others are thousands of camels owned by to Qatar with other Qatari and personal hygiene in deaths have been prevented by “If we are committed as a given upon requirements such Qataris coming from Saudi camels that took part in race in controlling infectious and vaccines and communicable dis- community, we can achieve as travel plans and spread of Arabia via Kuwait is expected Kuwait. communicable diseases. eases have been on decrease in success and help in eliminating seasonal flu. to start from Kuwait’s Al Regarding the number Dr Soha Al Bayat, Head of many countries. Some countries diseases. One of our aims in Shuwaikh Port next week, a Qatari camels coming from Vaccination Unit, Health have been able to eliminate having vaccination campaigns →CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 source said. Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia and reached to denied the camels to enter Kuwait, he said the total Qatar through Salwa and Abu number was not final as more Samra border posts. camels are coming from there Fog Federer becomes The source told the but so far the count is more than Peninsula on condition of ano- 6,000. “According to the com- shrouds oldest world No. 1 nymity: “The owners of camels mittee, which is responsible of Doha ROTTERDAM: Roger Federer were forced by the Saudi counting Qatari camels that added yet another record to authorities to transport their reached Kuwait from Saudi, is Weather his vast collection when he camels only through Kuwaiti or 5,500”, he said. There are more remained guaranteed becoming the Saudi nationals. They were also than 22,000 camels and other foggy and hazy oldest ATP world number one forced to pay an amount livestock seized in Saudi Arabia. in Doha in the by beating Dutchman Robin ranging between QR2500 and Owners were also banned from early hours Haase 4-6, 6-1, 6-1 to reach QR3000 per each camel. They sending fodder to their camels. yesterday. the semi-finals in Rotterdam have exploited us in the trans- About other livestock, he said It affected yesterday. Fresh from portation of the camels. it is not till now there is no clear infor- visibility and winning his 20th grand slam fair to pay the amount. No mation. The Compensation smooth flow title in Melbourne this month, reason is given for the exploi- Claims Committee, which was of traffic at Federer took a wildcard into tation of the camel owners,” he established to protect the rights different the ABN AMRO World Tennis added. of residents and receives com- places. event with his eyes fixed on He said that the border plaints from people affected by a return to number one for checkpoints were closed three the ongoing blockade, said PIC BY: SALIM the first time since November days ago for transportation of earlier majority of the com- MATRAMKOT/ 2012 at the age of 36 years camels outside Saudi Arabia to plaints were from the people, THE PENINSULA and 195 days. Kuwait. He hoped the first who lost their animals in Saudi. 02 HOME SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2018 Emir: Qatar emerges stronger after siege CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Other nations, who also needed financial aid, refused the offer, and stood for their values. Had regional relations been guided by a set of solid gov- ernance principles and rule of law, we would not have seen the exploitation of wealth, power or geographical constraints to satisfy the thirst for power”. Speaking about Qatar’s success to resist the blockade the Emir said: “Even with the regional turmoil, Qatar remains one of the most peaceful coun- tries in the world”. “Despite the obstacles imposed upon us, including a full land, air and sea blockade beginning June 5, last Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani attending the opening session of Munich Security Conference, in the city of Munich, inthe Federal Republic of Germany, yesterday. year, Qatar secured new trade routes, accelerated economic diversity, and bonded together development like free media and values of freedom and the rule of the global mechanisms for reform. Huge sections of the physical sense, and on the other in unity. Qatar emerged free speech that the “blockading of law and a major pillar for the conflict resolution, and the population in many Arab coun- hand, their dignity, freedom, and stronger”. countries” insist we surrender. European Union, seen by many maintenance of rights have been tries have been marginalised, aspirations for social justice. He noted that Qatar continued The Emir called for the as a bastion of coexistence and paralyzed and sidelined” He giving oppressive regimes the The Emir stressed that “After to trade with the wider world establishment of basic security trans-national cooperation. added that the Arab region has chance to use sectarianism as a noting that eight of the 10 most without missing a single shipment principles and baseline of co- H H the Emir said: “The EU many examples such as Pales- tool to dominate multi-faith lethal conflicts are rooted in the of liquefied natural gas during this existence “It is time for wider demonstrates that a union can tinians since the Nakba, seventy societies. wider Middle East, this year’s time. “This is vital to the rest of the regional security in the Middle establish shared security based years ago; the situation in Syria, To this, we must add the Munich Security Report world, as we are the world’s East. It is time, for all nations of on mutual interests, even among Libya, Somalia, Afghanistan and growing sense that the youth in attributed these conflicts to a second-largest exporter of natural the region to forget the past - people who tore themselves Yemen. “The suffering of people my region hold that the world is definite set of factors: gas and our exports ensure the including us - and agree on basic apart in war. Like it or not, Brexit in my region may appear distant defined by hypocrisy and Lack of Social and Economic stability of global energy supplies,” security principles and rules of is an example of a peaceful res- to an audience in Munich, but the injustice. To many in the Middle Progress, Growing Sectarian he stressed. governance, and at least a olution of differences. No diplo- waves of refugees make these East, there is a feeling that the Divisions, Regional Rivalries, and “By diffusing the impact of the minimum level of security to allow matic ties were cut, and no blood injustices a European concern. “universality” of human rights Shifting Engagement from illegal and aggressive measures for peace and prosperity”. was shed. There is a lesson here And the darkness of terrorism of post-war order always rang External Powers. “I would also imposed on our people, Qatar pre- All nations in the Middle East, for us in the Arab region”. now casts a shadow on the entire hollow. This is one of the most add two factors; recklessness, served its sovereignty the Emir need to agree on a baseline of The European Union pro- world”. glaring consequences of failure and no framework for providing said. This failed blockade shows co-existence, backed by binding vides a framework for regional speaking about reasons to resolve regional conflicts and shared security”, the Emir said. how small states can use arbitration mechanisms and governance, and the peaceful paving way for terrorism the address grievances: people lose “The Middle East will need diplomacy and strategic economic enforced by the collective body arbitration of disputes. This Emir said “Suffering and injustice faith in their government, and help, from the larger interna- planning to weather the storms of of the region. framework is sorely needed in pave the way for terrorism to have no way to peacefully affect tional community to succeed in aggression from larger, ambitious “We can mirror the efforts of the Middle East. Today, many flourish. Evil actors will twist change. such a mission. neighbours”. the European Union’s ability to governments and international religious dogmas to poison the The Emir said: “ISIS is mili- I ask all nations in the Middle Those aggressive actors wish find common ground to rebuild powers act with impunity, minds of desperate people. tarily defeated in Iraq and will East to accept an invitation to to use small states as pawns and prosper. Shifting from feuds without regard for human rights. Extremist religious doctrines soon be defeated in Syria; but the participate in such a holistic within their power games and to cooperation will require that The lack of accountability for pose an undeniable challenge to real battle, laying the founda- security agreement. I urge all sectarian conflicts. It is vital to we each be held accountable, good governance is widespread. all of us. They exist in every tions for peaceful coexistence, nations to continue putting dip- the interests of the people of the like: allowing the flow of human- It’s no wonder that people are culture, and the Islam has no has yet to begin”. lomatic pressure on my region Middle East to guarantee the itarian aid to pass across borders, losing hope individuals who monopoly on them. It is clear In the Arab region, a group to get this done. We must start independence and sovereignty allowing safe and free passage would otherwise have stood trial that we are obliged to combat of leaders rising to power after with a regional security of states like Qatar, which for families, providing access to for war crimes against their own religious extremism”. independence had promised to agreement before the Middle refuses to be forced to take sides religious sites to all faiths, pre- people are possible candidates “The patterned failure of deliver. Instead of fulfilling those East can put the turmoil in the in the stand-off between two venting the desecration of his- in presidential elections. states in my region, to provide promises of freedom, social past”. entrenched camps. toric and religious sites, and The Emir questioned “why basic needs to its people, paves justice and Arab unity to their Later, the Emir left the city Preserving the sovereignty respecting common trade routes. many people, even entire the way for extremism. So often, people, the Arab state has degen- of Munich after participating the and the independent decision- In his speech the Emir also nations, are losing faith in inter- the very states which neglect erated to become one in which opening session of the 54th making of countries like Qatar lauded Germany describing it as national accountability. They basic needs also block every pos- the people have to choose edition of the Munich Security ensures accelerated a nation that “stands for the think arguably right that many sible pathway for peaceful between, “security” in a basic Conference.

Qatar condemns mine School vaccination drive begins tomorrow explosion in Algeria CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 communicable diseases. But maintaining don’t understand. But it’s wrong and the QNA MOPH will start the eight annual Tdap personal hygiene like washing hands reg- best time to teach a habit to anybody is campaign tomorrow and it will continue ularly with soap and water plays a major very young age,” she added. DOHA: The State of Qatar has condemned for three weeks aiming at vaccinating role as well. We encourage people to start Further, children and staff if diag- and denounced the explosion of a hand- 9,000 students in independent and focusing on simple measures and be safe nosed with infections or communicable crafted mine in the Governorate of Tebessa private schools. It will be administrated from infections. At home, we clean toilets, diseases should avoid going to school. in Algeria, which killed and wounded a as booster dose as when a child reaches sometimes more than once a day, because Dr Al Bayat said, “Sick children and number of soldiers. adolescent age the immune level induced we know there are germs. But there are staff should avoid going to school. If they In a statement, the Foreign Ministry reit- by the vaccine given at childhood much more germs on mobile phones, had severe illnesses, fever, rash or any erated Qatar’s firm stance rejecting violence becomes weak. laptops and desktops and such devices also other unusual symptoms should see a and terrorism regardless of motives and While, Dr Al Bayat also highlighted should be cleaned regularly,” she said. physician before returning to school and reasons. that simple measures followed in keeping Dr Al Bayat further said that children ensure that they are fully cured.” Dr Soha Al Bayat at the opening The statement expressed Qatar’s con- personal hygiene will help in preventing should be taught to adopt certain habits such Additionally, the MOPH should be of Tdap vaccination campaign dolences to the families of the victims, the spreading of infections. “Vaccine is the as cough and sneeze etiquette in order to notified of any suspected out breaks of workshop in Doha, yesterday. government and people of Algeria, wishing number one measure to protect children prevent infections spreading. fever, rashes and any other unusual PIC: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA the wounded speedy recovery. and adults from infectious and “Some people think that children symptoms. Expats SportEv 2018 draws huge response

THE PENINSULA with a colourful march past the national senior school ath- which was hugely participated letics championship, Aparna DOHA: Cultural Forum’s by all the 16 teams competing in Roy. Ali Faraj Al Ghanem, Sports “Expats SportEv 2018” drew a the event. Capt. Kapil Kaushik, Director of Al Sadd Sports Club, massive response from the Defence Attache at the Indian delivered a felicitation speech expatriate community at Al Sadd Embassy, received salute from on the occasion. Sports Club marking the the the participants, led by Kerala’s Hundreds of children joined National Sport Day in style. top school athlete and record the athletes and team officials The day’s events started holder in 100 metres hurdles in in putting up a spectacular display of solidarity with Qatar and the Sport Day. The teams, in an attempt to come on top in Officials during the games flame handing ceremony. the march past competition, dis- played talent and innovative methods to turn the entire event Baburaj, Indian Cultural Centre ceremony was held with KMCC Centre Executive Director, a very captivating one. General Secretary, Jootas Paul, President, SAM Bashir; Incas Habiburahman Kizhissery, taking Capt. Kaushik and M S handed over the sports meet’s flags General Secretary, Siddeeq part. Bukhari, Corporate Relations to Cultural Forum General Sec- Purayil; Samskruthi President, Also present on the occasion Chairman at Indian Sports Centre, retary Sadiq Ali, and Ladies Sports Sunil; Shantinikethan Indian were Mohammed Ismail, Director handed over the meet’s torch to Convener, Abida Subair. School President, K C Abdul- of E3 Theme Park, platinum Aparna Roy and Expats SportEv In a show of solidarity with latheef; Qatar Indian Football sponsor of the event, and Sujith General Convener, Majeed Ali. Qatar’s ongoing efforts to host the Forum General Secretary, Haider Kumar, Team Lader, ISUZU Motors, Indian Community Benevolent prestigious World Cup 2022, a Ali; QIA President, E P Abdul- Golden Sponsor, who presented Forum Vice -President, P N colourful balloon releasing Rahman and Friends Cultural mementos to some of the guests. SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2018 HOME 03 Emir meets US Congress delegation in Munich

MUNICH: Emir H H Sheikh terrorism and combating its discussing the latest regional Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani financing. The meeting also and international yesterday received a delega- touched on regional and developments. tion from the US Congress, international developments. The Emir H H Sheikh including Senators Lindsey The US Congress mem- Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Graham, Jim Risch, Ben Sasse, bers expressed thanks to the met Chairman of the Munich Sheldon Whitehouse, Michael Emir for the role of the State Security Conference, Wolf- Bennet and Jeff Merkley; of Qatar and its efforts in gang Ischinger, and the House Representatives Joe fighting terrorism through Al accompanying delegation at Wilson, Joaquin Castro, and Udeid Air Base, as well as its the conference premises in former Senator Kelly Ayotte, constant efforts to maintain the German city of Munich. on the sidelines of the 54th stability in the region. The meeting reviewed the session of Munich Security The Emir also met with main topics on the agenda of Conference. the Prime Minister of the fra- the conference, notably those During the meeting, the ternal Republic of Turkey, related to combating ter- two sides reviewed coopera- Binali Yildirim, and his rorism and international tion between the two friendly accompanied delegation on security and peace. countries and the Qatari-US the sidelines of the 54th ses- In addition, the meeting strategic partnership in the sion of Munich Security exchanged views on the major framework of the joint decla- Conference. developments at the regional ration on security cooperation The meeting reviewed the and international levels. and the memorandums and strategic relations between Their Excellencies mem- agreements signed between the two countries, ways of bers of the official delegation Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani with the Prime Minister of Turkey, Binali Yildirim, on the sidelines the two countries, especially developing them in the dif- accompanying the Emir of the 54th session of Munich Security Conference in Munich, Germany, yesterday. in the field of countering ferent fields, in addition to attended the meetings. Education Excellence Award expo Untrained workers at Katara attracts visitors main cause behind MOHAMMED OSMAN violations at eateries THE PENINSULA SIDI MOHAMED To monitor global THE PENINSULA warnings issued The exhibition, that will against some continue until February 28 at DOHA: Lack of knowledge the building No. 18 in Katara, about health rules among food items and also provides an opportunity workers in the food facilities is inform local the main reason behind the to the former winners to increasing violations at the outlets about them share their experiences and eateries in different parts of the simultaneously, the impact of the awards on city, said a senior official at the the Health Control their life and career and the Ministry of Municipality and Environment. Section at Al motivation it has given to them “Most of the workers Rayyan Municipality to continue their efforts in serving food facilities, espe- has introduced a scientific research. cially restaurants, are not prop- erly trained and they do not new system called have enough awareness of food Zaheeb (ready) DOHA: The second documentary exhibition specifications and rules per- service. of the annual Education Excellence Award in taining to it,” he told The Katara is attracting visitors. The exhibition Peninsula. Medals displayed at the exhibition. showcases various items about the develop- The official added that the ments of the different phases of the award workers at luxury hotels are violations and this is a good throughout the past ten rounds including, nine categories spanning primary education The exhibition is designed to encourage more educated than the sign. For example, from January photos, documentary films and medals won students, preparatory education students, students and make them work hard for not workers at the restaurants and this year Al Rayyan Munici- and handeded over to winners during a special high school certificate holders, university only participating in the competion but also they know more about health pality closed only one restau- ceremony arranged on annual basis. graduates, master’s degree holders, PhD struggle for winning the award, Al Moham- rules. rant and conducted many The exhibition was inaugurated by Dr degree holders, excellence in teaching, excel- medi added. He informed that the winners Another problem with the inspection campaigns,” he Hamda Al Sulaiti, CEO of the Award, and lent school and excellent scientific research. of the 11th round of the award will be hon- workers at eateries, he said, is informed. Ahmed Al Sayed, Deputy General Manager for The aim of the exhibition is to create con- oured during a special ceremony on March their frequent change. “When To monitor global warnings operations of the Cultural village — Katara in ducive environment for the public and stu- 4, 2018. the municipalities provide issued against some food items the presences of several officials of the Min- dents willing to participate in the competi- The award, which aims at recognising awareness lectures to them, and inform local outlets about sitry of Education and Higher Education on tion to meet the former winners of the award those excelling in scientific fields, deepen next time they find new faces them simultaneously, the February 15 and it will continue until February and encourage students to take part in the the concept of excellence and encourage replacing the previous ones at Health Control Section at Al 28 at the building No. 18 in Katara. next rounds, said Dr Al Suaiti. individuals and educational institutions to those restaurants,” he Rayyan Municipality has intro- The exhibition also provides an oppor- Hassan Abdullah Al Mohammedi, chairman develop their performance, is an initiative remarked. duced a new system called tunity to the former winners of the awards of the executive committee of the award, said of the Ministry of Education and Higher Edu- “Earlier we submitted a Zaheeb (ready) service. to share their experiences and the impact of that the number of winners in the different cat- cation. Other objectives of the award, proposal to the Ministry of This application is very the awards on their life and career and the egories was 64 out of 291 applicants, which is according to the organising committee, are: Municipality and Environment important especially now as motivation it has given to them to continue a record in the history of the award. Al Moham- To enhance the positive developments to establish a centre that can Qatar is importing food items their efforts in scientific research. medi called upon the public to visit the exhi- towards knowledge and scientific research, provide training to the workers from many countries and it is The organising committee of the Educa- bition, which honours the winners who are and to stimulate the spirit of innovation and and educate them about health difficult to have an efficient tion Excellence Awards has announced 64 available to share their experiences and answer competition among students, researchers rules and give them certificates check to avoid hazard without winners in the 11th edition over the questions of the visitors. and educational institutions. but until now there is no this application. response despite the fact that “Now this system or appli- there is a committee at the Min- cation will be developed to istry to study initiatives pro- ‘early warning national centre QRCC to carry out heart catheterisation surgeries for kids in Bangladesh vided by municipalities and for food’ and the procedures are ministry’s departments,” he underway.” QNA February 25 and will cost more Palestine, Mauritania, Morocco, a crucial one for the humani- added. “For example, through this than QR677,000 QRC said in Jordan, and Bangladesh. The tarian organization, and is The proposed centre, he application they can contact DOHA: Qatar Red Crescent their statement today that it is humanitarian organization car- implemented thanks to the said, would also help food out- supermarkets through What- (QRC) announced yesterday that the 12th edition of that project. ried out the project in some of donations of the people of lets to avoid violations and fines sapp or email and send mes- it will take on a project to carry They have carried it out before those countries on more than Qatar. He added that the because there would be less sages in English advising them out heart catheterisation oper- in seven countries, helping a two occasions. project targets people who chances of committing viola- in case of warning against food ations for children in the capital total of 425 children. The pre- Head of QRC delegation in cannot afford the medical pro- tions by well-trained workers. items to remove that product of Bangladesh. vious editions took place in Bangladesh Ahmed Al Khulaifi cedure, or countries that don’t “There is keenness from from shelves in minutes,” he The project will go on to countries such as Sudan, said that the annual project is even provide that service. food facilities not to commit said. 04 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2018 Turkey & US agree to work together in Syria AFP US Secretary of State other official present at Tiller- Rex Tillerson and his son’s meeting with Erdogan at ANKARA: Turkey and United the presidential palace was States yesterday agreed to work Turkish counterpart Cavusoglu who also acted as together in Syria after weeks of Mevlut Cavusoglu said translator, US sources said. tensions over Ankara’s latest after talks in Ankara Turkey’s operation against cross-border operation that that the two sides the YPG, which Ankara black- raised fears of a military lists as a terror group, has pitted confrontation between the two would set up working Turkish troops against a militia Nato allies. groups to solve key which is closely allied with the US Secretary of State Rex issues that have US in the battle against Islamic Tillerson and his Turkish coun- bedevilled relations. State (IS) group jihadists. terpart Mevlut Cavusoglu said For Ankara, the YPG is a after talks in Ankara that the two branch of the outlawed sides would set up working Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), groups to solve key issues that to discuss issues that were which is blacklisted as a terror have bedevilled relations. causing problems. outfit by the US and the EU. They gave few details on A prime task of Tillerson was Erdogan this month raised how this could be achieved, but to allay Turkish anger over US the stakes by warning US troops indicated that solving a dispute policy in Syria, a dispute which to leave Manbij, a YPG-held town Turkish-backed Free Syrian Army fighters are seen next to military trucks in Northern Afrin countryside, over the control of the flashpoint has ignited the biggest crisis in east of Afrin, inflaming fears of Syria, yesterday. town of Manbij was a priority. bilateral ties since the 2003 Iraq a clash between the allies. The “We are not going to act war. Tillerson called on Ankara United States has a military pres- alone any longer, not US doing to “show restraint in its opera- ence in Manbij. knowledge of the discussions, however, just one of a litany of caught up in the post-coup one thing, Turkey doing tion” while insisting that Turkey Tillerson said that Turkey who asked not to be named. issues burdening Turkey-US crackdown. another,” Tillerson said after the and the United States “share the and the US had to solve the ten- The town was held by IS relations. Ties were damaged NASA scientist Serkan Golge, talks. same objectives in Syria”. sions surrounding Manbij as a before they were pushed out by after the failed coup of 2016 with a dual national, was jailed for “We will work together... we Tillerson the day earlier held “priority” and the issue would be Kurdish militia and Tillerson said Turkey stung by a perceived lack seven-and-a-half years for being have good mechanisms on how over three hours of talks with a focus of the working groups. it was vital it did not fall into of US solidarity and angered by a member of Gulen’s movement. we can achieve this,” he added. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, The talks will look at the jihadist hands again. Washington’s refusal to extra- US pastor Andrew Brunson, who Cavusoglu said Turkey and with presidential sources saying YPG moving out of Manbij fur- Cavusoglu said the YPG must dite Fethullah Gulen, a Pennsyl- ran a church in Izmir, has been the US agreed on the need to the Turkish leader “openly” laid ther east, beyond the Euphrates leave Manbij. “We must be sure vania-based cleric accused of held on similar charges since normalise relations. He said ties out Turkey’s expectations and River, so that the Turks could that YPG has gone east of the ordering the putsch. Tillerson October 2016. Tillerson said the were at a “critical phase” and priorities. In a hugely unusual then go into Manbij alongside the Euphrates,” the Turkish minister also urged the release of Turks US believed he was “unjustly” vowed to create “mechanisms” break from protocol, the only Americans, said a person with said. The squabble over Syria is, and Americans who have been detained.

Thousands Gunmen shoot dead dozens in Nigeria march against AFP vigilante groups to defend They moved into the village by “On (Wednesday), the ban- police force and rigorous legal graft in Israel themselves. the market and opened fire.” dits ambushed the hunters in the system. Without many prose- KANO: Dozens of people were Police said 18 people died in Another local resident, Hus- bush and there was a clash that cutions, victims become assail- AFP killed when an armed gang the violence but according to saini Abdu, gave the same death led to fatalities on both sides.” ants in search of revenge, trig- opened fire on locals in northern locals more than twice as many toll and account. “We are in Police and other security gering a destructive cycle of TEL AVIV: Thousands of Nigeria, police and residents said lost their lives. mourning because yesterday we agencies “discovered 18 dead reprisal attacks. Israelis marched against yesterday, in the latest violence “We buried 41 people yes- collected 41 bodies and gave bodies”, Shehu added. Abdu said the community corruption in Tel Aviv to hit West Africa’s largest terday (Thursday) as a result of them a mass burial,” he said. Nigerian President Muham- had been “under siege” from the yesterday, in the first protest economy. the attack from bandits who Zamfara police spokesman madu Buhari condemned the gangs, who live in surrounding since police recommended The carnage happened in came on motorcycles, opening Mohammed Shehu said hunters “heinous and inhuman attacks” forests. “They come, attack our that Prime Minister Benjamin Birani village, in the Zurmi area fire on anyone they could see,” from Birani came across a man in a statement. The president villages, steal our cows, abduct Netanyahu be indicted for of Zamfara state, where previous said villager Lawwali Bube. with suspected stolen livestock directed security agencies to our women and do all sorts of graft. bloody clashes have been “They started by attacking a in the bush on Tuesday. “immediately mobilise” and heinous things to us,” he added, Several thousand people blamed on cattle rustlers and truck conveying bridesmaids and “The herder abandoned the “ensure that the perpetrators are saying that had led to tit-for-tat gathered for the protest kidnapping gangs. Rural com- some traders. They stopped animals and escaped into the brought to face the full wrath of attacks. An increase in crimi- calling on Netanyahu to step munities in the region have long them, took out the driver and slit bush. Unknown to the hunters, the law.” Buhari has had to nality has been blamed on a gov- down, carrying banners been plagued by cattle thieves his throat. They then opened fire the cattle rustler... mobilised deploy security forces ernment crackdown on cattle reading ‘Crime Minister’ and who kill villagers, loot and torch on the truck, killing everybody. bandits to attack the hunters,” throughout Nigeria to quell vio- rustling, forcing those respon- ‘Bye bye Bibi’ -- a common homes, prompting locals to form “They then set it on fire. he said in a statement. lence in the absence of a strong sible into kidnapping for ransom. nickname for the Israeli leader. The crowd chanted “Liar! Liar!” when one speaker sar- castically repeated Netanya- Lebanon rejects US hu’s common refrain about the allegations that “there will be nothing because there is proposal on disputed nothing”. On Tuesday, police called for Netanyahu, 68, to be waters with Israel indicted for bribery, fraud and breach of public trust, in the REUTERS should be drawn up through a biggest challenge yet to the tripartite committee that right-wing premier’s long BEIRUT: Parliament Speaker stemmed from a 1996 cease- tenure in power. Nabih Berri told a US envoy fire, NNA said. yesterday that Lebanon rejects He said he wanted to see a current US proposals over the similar process as produced the 6 journalists disputed marine border with UN-demarcated Blue Line Israel, state media said. border between the two coun- sentenced to US diplomats have been tries, which marks Israel’s mil- mediating between Lebanon itary withdrawal from southern life in Turkey and Israel over tensions Lebanon in 2000. Supporters of the Zimbabwe opposition party Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) listen and including an Israeli border wall A consortium of France’s AP cheer as the party acting president addresses the crowd gathered outside Harvest House, the party and Lebanon’s decision to begin Total, Italy’s Eni and Russia’s exploring for offshore energy Novatek last week signed headquarters, in Harare, yesterday. ISTANBUL: A court yesterday near a disputed patch of water, exploration and production sentenced six journalists and officials said. agreements for two offshore media employees accused of “What is proposed is unac- blocks in Lebanon’s first off- Zimbabwe oppn risks split involvement in Turkey’s 2016 ceptable,” Lebanon’s NNA cited shore oil and gas licensing failed coup attempt to life Berri as saying in a meeting round. One of the blocks, Block prison terms, the country’s with acting Assistant US Secre- 9, contains waters disputed by AFP Fresh divisions could mean Tsvangirai’s death. Chamisa had state-run news agency tary of State David Satterfield. Israel. Israel has described the that President Emmerson Mnan- supposedly been named as the reported. This was an apparent ref- decision to explore there as HARARE: Zimbabwe’s main gagwa and the ruling ZANU-PF interim MDC leader by Tsvan- The court in Silivri con- erence to a maritime demarca- “very provocative”. opposition party is facing the face little opposition at the elec- girai as he underwent cancer victed prominent journalists tion line proposed by US dip- Lebanon’s energy minister threat of damaging splits just tion, which is expected before treatment in South Africa. Ahmet Altan, Mehmet Altan lomat Frederic Hof in 2012. The has said the dispute with Israel months before a historic elec- July. Voters will go to the polls Hundreds of party activists and Nazli Ilicak and three line would give Lebanon would not stop Lebanon bene- tion, as feuding erupts after the for the first time since Robert gathered outside the building to other media sector employees around two thirds and Israel fiting from potential undersea death on Wednesday of its Mugabe, who ruled Zimbabwe honour Tsvangirai - but without of crimes against the state. around one third of a disputed reserves in the contentious leader Morgan Tsvangirai. with an iron fist since 1980, was the party’s other deputies, One other defendant was triangular area of sea of around Block 9, while consortium Tsvangirai’s final months ousted in November after a mil- Thokozani Khupe and Elias acquitted. They are the first 860 sq km (330 square miles). operator Total said it would not were accompanied by increas- itary intervention. Mudzuri. A furious Khupe journalists to be convicted A source in Berri’s camp drill the block’s first well near ingly public quarrelling between “We are going to see a lashed out at Chamisa. over the July 15, 2016, coup, said Satterfield came with “a the disputed zone. his three deputies over who major split in the MDC now that “Tsvangirai dies and you go which Turkey says was new plan ... after the American US Secretary of State Rex would succeed him as head of Tsvangirai, who was the glue on with a meeting to appoint orchestrated by a network led side became convinced” that Tillerson visited Lebanon on the Movement for Democratic that held the party together, is yourself as leader. How by U.S.-based Muslim cleric, Lebanon would not accept the Thursday and said the United Change (MDC). gone,” Harare-based political shameful!” she told the local Fethullah Gulen. Their con- Hof line. It is unclear exactly States was engaging with Leb- The party - which has a his- analyst Alexander Rusero said. press. “You are power-hungry. viction came as another court what the new US suggestion to anon and Israel to ensure their tory of splintering - had been The latest bickering came to You can’t even wait for two days in the same courthouse Lebanon regarding the disputed border remained calm. trying reunite to fight the a head when one of the deputy to have Tsvangirai buried.” ordered German journalist waters involves.Berri insisted Satterfield also met Foreign coming election, but the death leaders, Nelson Chamisa, called Shortly before Tsvangirai’s Deniz Yucel - detained in during the meeting with Satter- Minister Gebran Bassil and of its widely-admired founder a meeting at MDC headquarters death, Mudzuri visited him in Turkey for a year - released field that the maritime border Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri. triggered renewed rivalry. in Harare the day after hospital in Johannesburg. from jail pending trial. SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2018 ASIA 05 SC reduces Tamil Nadu’s Cauvery water share

IANS “In totality, we deem Therefore, the share of Kar- it appropriate to nataka has been increased by NEW DELHI: In a setback to award to the State 14.75 TMC, which includes Tamil Nadu, the Supreme Court increased allocation for “global” yesterday reduced its share of of Karnataka an city of Bengaluru for drinking the Cauvery river water to 177.25 additional 14.75 purposes. thousand million cubic feet TMC of water, i.e., “Drinking water require- (TMC), down from 192 TMC allo- 10 TMC (on account ment of the overall population cated by a Tribunal in 2007. of all the States has to be placed A bench of Chief Justice of availability of on a higher pedestal as we treat Dipak Misra, Justice Amitava ground water in Tamil it as a hierarchically funda- Roy and Justice A M Khanwilkar Nadu) + 4.75 TMC mental principle of equitable reduced the share of the state as (for drinking and distribution,” said Chief Justice it noted that the Cauvery Tri- Dipak Misra speaking for the bunal had not taken into domestic purposes bench. Allocating 4.75 TMC to account the 20 TMC of ground including such need Bengaluru, the judgment said water available in Tamil Nadu’s that Karnataka could use the for the whole city of Police personnel detain Youth Congress activists during a protest against the detected fraud worth side of the river basin. increased allocation for irriga- $1.8bn, blaming government for their alleged involvement, in New Delhi, yesterday. “In totality, we deem it Bengaluru),” the court tion and industrial purposes by appropriate to award to the State said in its order. increasing its area under crop. of Karnataka an additional 14.75 “Keeping in mind the global TMC of water, ie, 10 TMC (on to the empirical data which sug- status that the city (Bengaluru) India suspends passport of Nirav Modi account of availability of ground gested that around 20 TMC of has attained, an addition of 4.75 water in Tamil Nadu) + 4.75 TMC groundwater was available in TMC is awarded to Karnataka,” AFP Authorities have registered response to offer and the MEA (for drinking and domestic pur- Tamil Nadu — a position which the court said. a money laundering case against (foreign ministry) will go ahead poses including such need for the the Tribunal did not take into The court hiked the alloca- NEW DELHI: Two days after Modi, one of India’s richest men with the revocation,” Kumar whole city of Bengaluru),” the account describing it as a tion of water for Bengaluru as it the $1.8bn fraud in Punjab and jeweller to top Hollywood said in a statement. court said in its order. “conjecture”. found “unsustainable” the Tri- National Bank (PNB) broke out, stars including Kate Winslet and Authorities searched Modi’s In view of the allocation of “We, while keeping in mind bunal drastically reducing Kar- the government yesterday Naomi Watts. Mumbai offices on Thursday, a an additional 14.75 TMC of water the risks associated with over- nataka’s share towards domestic suspended passports of Nirav Ministry spokesman day after PNB said it had to Karnataka, the court said: extraction of underground and industrial purposes for the Modi and Mehul Chinubhai Raveesh Kumar said their pass- detected fraud of almost $1.8 bil- “The State of Karnataka would water, deem it fit that 10 TMC of reason that only 1/3rd of Ben- Choksi for four weeks.. ports had been suspended for lion at a brand in the city. now be required to release the said available groundwater galuru falls within the river India’s financial crimes four weeks and would be The Central Bureau of 177.25 TMC of water at the inter- in Tamil Nadu can, in the facts basin and also on the presump- agency is investigating allega- revoked if they did not provide Investigation yesterday carried state border with Tamil Nadu, and circumstances of the tion that 50 percent of the tions that Nirav Modi and his a response. out raids on more properties i.e., at Billigundulu.” present case, be accounted for drinking water requirement business partner Mehul Choksi “If they fail to respond connected to the pair and said Justifying the cut in the share in the final determination of its would be met from ground were involved in defrauding the within the stipulated time it will it had contacted Interpol to track of Tamil Nadu, the court pointed share”, the court said. water supply. Punjab National Bank (PNB). be assumed that they have no down Modi.

Karnataka Sri Lanka’s ruling coalition to provide partner seeks reforms healthcare AFP transition without disruption,” he said. to all soon COLOMBO: A key partner in Sri Wickremesinghe dismissed Lanka’s ruling coalition calls for his resignation, high- IANS demanded “urgent” reforms lighting that his party had a yesterday after an election comfortable majority in the BENGALURU: In line with the defeat that sparked calls for the 225-member parliament. ‘Modicare’ of the Central prime minister to step down. But he admitted that they government, Karnataka too The National Heritage Party were slow to deliver on a 2015 would provide healthcare to all (JHU) said the local council vote, election promise to prosecute people in the state soon, Chief in which the ruling parties were corrupt members of the former Minister Siddaramaiah said hammered, showed people regime of Mahinda Rajapakse, yesterday. were unhappy with Prime Min- who served as president for 10 “The universal health cov- ister Ranil Wickremesinghe. years. erage scheme under the name “There must be urgent Rajapakse, whose family ‘Arogya Karnataka Yojane’ will reforms,” said JHU leader wields enormous influence in be started this month to pro- Chinese New Year celebrations Champika Ranawaka, who is Sri Lanka, has staged a dramatic vide primary, secondary and minister for urban comeback after launching his People gather to perform dragon dances on the first day of the Chinese Lunar New Year, in Mianyang, tertiary treatment to all people development. Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna China, yesterday. in the state,” Siddaramaiah said “There must be giant or People’s Front party. in the Assembly, presenting the changes that will directly The ruling coalition has also state Budget for the ensuing address the aspirations of the been plagued by internal divi- 2018-19 fiscal. people.” Wickremesinghe has sions that burst into the open in The Budget, however, does accepted responsibility for the the run-up to today’s election. not mention the funds allotted defeat and said he will change President Maithripala for the implementation of the Seven die while cleaning drainage pit the government as well as his Sirisena’s party contested the healthcare scheme or the spe- AP lage in Andhra Pradesh state. later in a hospital. United National Party (UNP). elections independently and cifics of how many people in After the first worker A large number of villagers “We will carry out restruc- suffered a worse defeat than the the state it benefits. “A total of HYDERABAD: Seven workers entered the drainage pit, he gathered outside the poultry turing. As far as the government prime minister’s party. 9,000 health and wellness died of suffocation yesterday shouted for help because he had farm and demanded the arrest is concerned, it is continuing,” Rajapakse’s party comfort- centres will be set up for every while cleaning an underground difficulty breathing. Chowde- of farm officials. Police said they Wickremesinghe told reporters ably won in all regions bar the 5,000 people over the next drainage pit at a poultry farm in sari, who uses one name, said were investigating the deaths. in Colombo yesterday. battle-scarred north and east seven years for providing southern India, police said. the eight other workers entered Such accidents are common He said he expected where, as president, he brutally quality primary healthcare Deputy Superintendent of the pit to help. in India, where workers clean younger politicians from his crushed a separatist Tamil services,” asserted Police Chowdesari said the He said four died on the spot deep drainage pits without pro- party to play a bigger role. movement to end the island’s Siddaramaiah. deaths occurred in Morem vil- and three others succumbed tective gear. “Transition has to take place, ethnic war in 2009.

Modi to inaugurate India’s largest Bangladesh gives names to begin repatriation container terminal tomorrow AP that they would be forced to “No specific timeframe has been The recent violence erupted IANS a whopping 100 lakh containers return and face unsafe condi- decided yet when they will start after an underground insurgent per year. DHAKA: A Bangladesh Cabinet tions in Myanmar. Hundreds of returning.” group, the Arakan Rohingya Sal- MUMBAI: Prime Minister The FCT was developed on minister gave a list of 8,032 Rohingya were reportedly killed Khan said Bangladesh vation Army, attacked security Narendra Modi will inaugurate Design, Build, Fund, Operate Rohingya refugees to his in the violence, and many houses expressed its desire for safe and outposts in Rakhine in late the country’s largest container and Transfer (DBFOT) basis for Myanmar counterpart yesterday and villages were burned to the secure conditions and a proper August. terminal at Jawaharlal Nehru a concession period of 30 years to begin repatriations of the ground. infrastructure for the refugees’ The military and Buddhist Port Trust here tomorrow, an with an estimated investment Muslim minority under a Khan said he presented the return. Impoverished Bangla- mobs launched retaliatory official said yesterday. of Rs7,915 crore for both the November agreement between list to Myanmar Home Minister desh has been overwhelmed attacks on Rohingya that were The JNPT’s Fourth Con- phases. the two countries. Lt. Gen. Kyaw Swe, who is visit- by the refugee onslaught and termed “clearance operations.” tainer Terminal (FCT)’s Phase I The terminal will be able to Bangladesh Home Minis- ing Bangladesh’s capital, Dhaka, is eager for them to return to Myanmar’s security forces have has been completed in a record dock mother vessels, handle the ter Asaduzzaman Khan said to discuss the repatriations and Myanmar. been accused of atrocities time at a cost of Rs 4,719 crore biggest containers ships from a list contained the members of other border issues. On Thursday, Kyaw Swe told against the Rohingya, includ- and is expected to boost con- quay length of one km, handle 1,673 Rohingya families. He did “The Myanmar side cordially Bangladesh President Abdul ing killing, rape and arson. The tainer trade and logistics in a three container ships simulta- not explain how the names had accepted the list, and they sought Hamid that Myanmar is ready United Nations and the US have big way. In October 2015, Modi neously with sufficient yard been chosen. our help to make it happen,” Khan to take back displaced people, described the army crackdown had laid the foundation stone space, and cranes which can About 700,000 Rohingya told reporters. Kyaw Swe did not presidential spokesman Joynal as “ethnic cleansing.” for this terminal which will reach 22 rows wide or more. Muslims have fled army-led speak to the reporters. Abedin said yesterday. The Rohingya have long been double JNPT’s current container The FCT will be linked to the violence in Buddhist-majority Khan said officials in Myan- Abedin also quoted Kyaw treated as outsiders in Myanmar, handling capacity. dedicated road access and a rail Myanmar since last August and mar would choose 6,500 people Swe as saying that Myanmar even though their families have The FCT will add capacity freight corridor and will receive are living in refugee camps in next Tuesday to be sent back in will implement the recommen- lived in the country for genera- of 2.4 million (24 lakh) con- around 350 containers per rake Bangladesh. The two countries an initial phase. He would not dations of a commission led by tions. Nearly all have been denied tainers per annum in the first besides provision for storing originally agreed to begin the say exactly when the repatria- former UN Secretary-General citizenship since 1982, effectively phase and after completion of 1,600 refrigerated containers for repatriations last month, but tion would start. Kofi Annan to improve condi- rendering them stateless. They the second phase in 2022, the perishables, agriculture and hor- they were delayed by concerns “They said they will take tions in Rakhine state, where the are denied freedom of movement capacity will be quadrupled to ticulture produce. among aid workers and Rohingya them all in three phases,” he said. refugees previously lived. and other basic rights. 06 ASIA SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2018 Pakistan to complete 10 mega projects this year

INTERNEWS These projects will completed at a cost of Rs8.8bn is all set to be inaugurated this ISLAMABAD: National Highway surely change the year in April. Authority (NHA) of Pakistan is entire national This project though not part all set to complete at least 10 landscape to the of CPEC, is quite significant in highway and motorway projects advantage of terms of providing the much- during 2018, says a press needed connectivity between release. country’s 200m Balochistan and Sindh and facil- These projects were initiated inhabitants in itating CPEC traffic originating during 2015-16 and are pro- the shape of from the Gwadar Port,” said the gressing as per their target NHA official. schedule. unprecedented Karachi-Hyderabad Being part of government’s growth in economic Motorway (M-9) where 95 per vision to expand and improve and trade activities cent work has already been road network stretching right through improved completed will see the finish line Desert racing from Khunjrab border and up in March. The 136km, the six- A Pakistani driver powers his vehicle during the Cholistan Desert Jeep Rally in Derawar, yesterday. to the Gwadar Port, these connectivity. lane motorway with the two- projects will surely change the lane service road on either side, entire national landscape to the funded by the Asian Develop- is being built on the BoT basis at advantage of country’s 200 mil- ment Bank (ADB) will be com- a cost of Rs44 billion. lion inhabitants in the shape of pleted by December 2018. Being the country’s busiest unprecedented growth in eco- The completion of these two section with over 30,000 daily nomic and trade activities projects will effectively com- traffic count, this motorway will Decision on Sharif’s travel ban soon through improved plete the Western route of be immensely helpful in catering connectivity. China-Pakistan Economic Cor- to the commercial traffic origi- INTERNEWS List (ECL). The ECL policy was These recommendations, Lahore-Abdul hakim ridor (CPEC). nating from the Karachi Port notified on September 16 2015. according to the notification, Motorway (230km) is expected With the completion of and the Port Qasim. Following ISLAMABAD: Under the Exit The policy, while giving the will be reviewed by the com- to complete by May. Built at a Hakla to Dera Ismail Khan the recent inauguration of the Control List (ECL) policy, parameters for placement of any mittee of Interior Ministry cost of Rs148bn, the six-lane motorway, the travel time Lyari Expressway, M-9 will offer approved and implemented by name on the ECL, said that it will officials. motorway will provide a swift between Islamabad and D I an added benefit to commuters the present government in 2015, be done on the recommenda- The committee comprises and easy route between Lahore Khan will get reduced from five to reach their destinations a five-member committee of the tion of Supreme Court, high Additional Secretary-III, Joint and Multan. The project is hours to just two-and-a-half without facing the city conges- Interior Ministry officials will courts, tribunals having equiv- Secretary (Law), Joint Secretary funded by the government hours besides facilitating move- tions. Gojra-Shorkot (62km) and approve or disapprove the NAB alent status, Defence Headquar- (Political/FIA), Representative through PSDP. ment to the country’s southern Shorkot-Khanewal (65km) sec- request for placing the names ters, federal intelligence agen- of the Department/Agency con- WWHakla-DI Khan having cities such as Quetta and tions of M-4 are scheduled to of former prime minister Nawaz cies, National Accountability cerned (which made the recom- the length 285km with a cost of Gwadar. Meanwhile, another complete by August with a cost Sharif, his daughter Maryam Bureau (NAB), Federal Investi- mendation) and Section Officer Rs122bn and 81km Zhob- important project - Khuzdar- of Rs17bn and Rs22bn, Nawaz and son-in-law Captain gation Agency (FIA) and the fed- (ECL), who is also the secretary Mughalkot costing Rs8.8bn Ratodero (151km) that has been respectively. (retd) Safdar on the Exit Control eral government. of the committee.

Thai govt Afghans submit 1.17m war crime claims charges AP coalition, and foreign and statement might include multiple “I have the names of the Naimatullah, was on a bus in domestic spy agencies, said victims and one organization organisations, but because of the Dawalat Yar district in Afghan- 50 activists KABUL: Since the International Abdul Wadood Pedram of the might represent thousands of security issues, we don’t want to istan’s central Ghor Province in Criminal Court began collecting Human Rights and Eradication victim statements, the number name them because they will be 2014 when a band of gunmen AP material three months ago for a of Violence Organisation. of Afghans seeking justice from targeted,” said Pedram, whose stopped it and two other buses, possible war crimes case Based in part on the many the ICC could be several group is based in Kabul. forced the passengers off and BANGKOK: Thailand’s mili- involving Afghanistan, it has statements, ICC judges in The million. Many of the representations told them to hand over their tary government has filed gotten a staggering 1.17 million Hague would then have to decide “It is shocking there are so include statements involving identity cards. The 14 Shias criminal charges against 50 statements from Afghans who whether to seek a war crimes many,” Pedram said, noting that multiple victims, which could be among them were separated activists over a recent protest say they were victims. investigation. It’s uncertain when in some instances, whole villages the result of suicide bombings, from the rest and killed, one by in which they demanded the The statements include that decision will be made. were represented. “It shows how targeted killings or airstrikes, he one, he said. The slayings out- army give up power and accounts of alleged atrocities not The statements were col- the justice system in Afghanistan said. Among those alleging war raged the country. A Taliban restore civilian rule through only by groups like the Taliban lected between November 20, is not bringing justice for the vic- crimes is a man who asked The commander was soon arrested elections. and the Islamic State group, but 2017, and January 31, 2018, by tims and their families.” Associated Press to be identified and brought before the media, The Lawyers Association also involving Afghan Security organisations based in Europe The ICC did not give details only by his first name, Shoaib, but no news about a trial or pun- of Thailand said yesterday Forces and government-affili- and Afghanistan and sent to the about the victims or those pro- because he fears for his safety. ishment was ever reported, said that seven leading activists ated warlords, the US-led ICC, Pedram said. Because one viding the information. Shoaib said his father, Shoaib, who is in his 20s. were charged with sedition and 43 others with violating a ban on political assembly for the February 10 demon- stration, in which 400 people Philippines, China participated. The lawyers’ group said the charges filed this week eye joint exploration were meant to protect the military’s position and threaten those who criticise in disputed waters it. The military ousted an elected government in May AFP Duterte, who took office in mid- 2014. It has pushed back 2016, has since alarmed promised dates for new polls MANILA: China and the Phil- defence analysts and lawyers several times. ippines are discussing joint by down-playing the Philippine mineral exploration in the claim and largely setting aside South China Sea despite an the ruling so as to accomodate Thailand awards ongoing territorial conflict over China -- which is promising the strategic waterway, Manila’s military and economic aid. Myanmar’s foreign secretary said But yesterday Cayetano army chief yesterday. said the Philippines would con- The two countries, long sult with “international legal REUTERS embroiled in a dispute over experts” to make sure any their competing claims to the accord would not hurt Philip- BANGKOK: Thailand area, are hoping talks will open pine sovereign rights. Traditional grandeur awarded Myanmar’s army the door for them to jointly tap “Whatever we do, it will chief a royal decoration Ethnic Malaysian-Chinese devotees at a traditional building decorated with red lanterns in Kuala its resources, Secretary Alan not only (be) in accordance with yesterday amid allegations of Lumpur, yesterday. Peter Cayetano said. Philippine law but also the crimes by Myanmar security “We are pushing it aggres- UNCLOS,” referring to the UN forces against Rohingya sively because we need it,” Convention on the Law of the Muslims that have prompted Cayetano told reporters, adding Sea. He stressed the talks would international condemnation. the countries would each form only cover exploration, not Nearly 700,000 Rohingya a working group to explore actual development. have fled Myanmar’s Rakhine options for joint exploration. “Right now, we have not US urges Malaysia to protect Uighurs state and crossed into Bang- “Then we will find a frame- (been) discussing develop- ladesh since last August, work under our constitution ments. We are discussing explo- AP international condemnation. against their will.” Rights groups when attacks on security that will allow us... joint explo- ration first. What’s the use of The whereabouts and well- say hundreds, perhaps thou- posts by insurgents triggered ration,” he said. “We both want the debate whether or not the WASHINGTON: The United being of those who were sands, of Uighurs have fled a military crackdown that the it.” The South China Sea is a constitution allows a joint States urged Malaysia to provide returned are unknown, the China in recent years. The United Nations has said major trading route and fishing development if we don’t know temporary protection to 11 rights group says. Turkic-speaking Muslim amounts to ethnic cleansing, ground believed to have vast if there is anything we can har- Uighur Muslims reportedly held Michael Cavey, a State minority group complains of with reports of arson attacks, mineral resources, and is also vest,” he said. As a model for there, warning they could face Department spokesman for East harsh cultural and religious sup- murder and rape. claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, the possible accord, Cayetano torture or persecution if forcibly Asia, said the US has called on pression in the Xinjiang region Myanmar army com- Taiwan and Vietnam. cited a tripartite deal between returned to China. Malaysia to grant the UN refugee in China’s far west. Beijing has mander-in-chief Senior Gen- Beijing asserts sovereignty the oil companies of the Phil- Human Rights Watch says agency access to the Uighurs to accused Uighur separatists of eral Min Aung Hlaing was over almost all of the area but ippines, Vietnam and China for the Uighurs were among more determine their eligibility for terrorism in Xinjiang. The 11 granted the Knight Grand in 2016 a UN-backed tribunal joint exploration of part of the than 200 detained in neigh- resettlement in another country. Uighurs in Malaysian custody Cross (First Class) of the Most acting on a case brought by South China Sea that was signed boring Thailand in 2014. Thai- He called for temporary are believed to be part of a Exalted Order of the White then-Philippine leader Benigno under the government of then- land deported more than 100 of protection to any of the individ- group of 20 people who escaped Elephant at a ceremony in Aquino rejected its claims. president Gloria Arroyo in the group to China in July 2015 uals “who may be subject to tor- from immigration detention in Bangkok, according to the Current president Rodrigo 2005. in a move that brought ture or persecution if returned southern Thailand in November. general’s official website. SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2018 EUROPE 07 Lithuania marks 100 years of Independence

AFP

VILNIUS: Church bells tolled across Lithuania yesterday to mark 100 years of independence regained after World War I by the Baltic nation, which is now firmly anchored in the West but experiencing tension with powerful neighbour Russia. “At the start of the last cen- tury, we looked forward with great hope to any sign of sup- port,” President Dalia Grybauskaite said at a ceremony in the snowy capital Vilnius. “Today, we know that we have true friends and allies, and Guests attend a ceremony marking Lithuania’s 100 years of Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite looks on as Ukraine President, Petro Poroshenko, signs the their strong supportive independence. guestbook during a ceremony marking 100 years since Lithuania regained independence after World shoulder,” she added, speaking War I at the Presidential Palace, in Vilnius, yesterday. alongside top EU officials, pres- idents and royalty. President Dalia Lithuania can also boast solid most cities and towns. Lithuania won international rec- Lithuania finally won recog- Like fellow Nato and euro- Grybauskaite said economic growth of 3.9 percent Lithuania’s statehood ognition in the following years. nition from Moscow after the zone Baltic states Latvia and at a ceremony: “At last year, though it is beset by stretches back to the 13th cen- Just in time for the centenary failed coup by hardliners in the Estonia, Lithuania increased the start of the last daily concerns over rising prices, tury when its first king, Mind- and to the country’s delight, a Soviet capital in August 1991. defence spending and welcomed social inequality and emigration augas, was crowned in 1253. Lithuanian professor unearthed In 2004, Vilnius’s pro- troops from allies after Moscow’s century, we looked to the richer west. Later, the Polish-Lithuanian the 1918 declaration of inde- Western drive culminated with 2014 intervention in Ukraine. forward with great EU officials and the presi- Commonwealth was a major pendence in Berlin archives last EU and Nato membership. In Vilnius earlier this month hope to any sign of dents of Estonia, Finland, European powerhouse until the year. Last month, it was brought 2015, Lithuania adopted the euro. accused Moscow of deploying support. Today, we Georgia, Germany, Iceland, federation was wiped off the to Vilnius under a five-year loan Unlike certain other former nuclear-capable ballistic missiles Latvia, Poland and Ukraine as map in 1795 by imperial Russia, deal with Germany. communist countries, Lithuania to Russia’s Kaliningrad exclave know that we have well as Swedish Crown Princess Prussia and Austria. Modern Lithuania was an has sought to avoid major con- on the Baltic. true friends and Victoria attended the ceremony Until World War I, Lithuania independent nation between the frontations with the EU. To demonstrate collective allies, and their strong in central Vilnius. was a province of the Russian two World Wars. Then the Soviet “Only by being united can defence commitments, US and supportive shoulder.” Hours earlier, schoolchildren empire, which sought to crush Union invaded in 1940, Nazi Ger- European nations be sovereign Danish fighter jets deployed in marched across downtown to nationalism and even banned the many invaded in 1941, and the and free of dependency on the Lithuania roared across the cap- honour the 20 Lithuanian men Lithuanian alphabet. Soviets returned in 1944. great superpowers,” European ital’s cloudy skies yesterday. who signed the declaration of The Lithuanian council Democracy campaigners Council chief Donald Tusk said “Independent Lithuania’s “Although changes in gov- independence. declared independence on Feb- launched an independence drive on Thursday. major achievement has been the ernment have been frequent, and A hundred bonfires will be ruary 16, 1918, when the country in the 1980s that eventually “Lithuania understands this creation of a genuinely stable populist parties come and go, lit along the central pedestrian was still under German occupa- made it the first Soviet republic all too well, and that is why it has democracy,” said Vilnius Univer- election results have never been avenue later in the day, followed tion. Brief wars with Bolsheviks to declare independence in always played an active, and sity analyst Kestutis Girnius. challenged,” he said. by concerts and fireworks in and Poles followed before March 1990. constructive, role.”

Exhibition to explore Gogh’s EU seat: Serbia silent on recognition of Kosovo REUTERS take, but Germany’s foreign min- voters, many of whom consider wave of killings and expulsions In exchange, some of Vucic’s time in UK ister, Sigmar Gabriel, said that Kosovo the cradle of their of ethnic Albanian civilians by allies, including his foreign and AP BELGRADE: Serbs are unlikely Serbian “acceptance of Kosovo’s Orthodox faith. Serbian security forces waging defence ministers, have called to support full recognition of independence” was a “The people would decide; if a two-year counter-insurgency for Kosovo to be partitioned, LONDON: London’s Tate Kosovo as independent in condition. you think that can get a majority, war. with Serbia taking a northern Britain has announced an exchange for EU membership, Serbia’s leadership has been I’m not so sure,” Vucic said. It declared independence in slice populated by minority Serbs exhibition exploring how a so only a compromise can stop seeking a formula it can sell to “We have to look at today’s 2008 and has been recognised which Kosovo has struggled to formative period in Britain Kosovo’s status from festering the public in a referendum. Some reality and to understand rela- by more than 100 countries integrate. Vucic declined to com- inspired Vincent van Gogh. for decades in a “frozen conflict”, commentators have suggested a tions in the world and relations around the world, including the ment on such calls. The gallery says the show, Serbia’s president warned deal under which Belgrade might in Kosovo and to understand that major Western powers. How- He insisted agreement was due to open next year, will yesterday. stop short of recognising Kosovo it (Kosovo) is not ours as we ever, five of the EU’s 28 mem- possible, but that it would require focus on the Dutch artist’s cru- The European Union has told as sovereign, but accept it joining taught ourselves, but neither is bers do not recognise Kosovo as “political will in Brussels to reach cial but “obscure” years in UK. Serbia it could join the bloc by the United Nations, which Ser- it theirs as they try to show it,” sovereign, complicating the a compromise, rather than con- Van Gogh lived in London 2025, provided it carries out bia’s veto-wielding ally Russia he said. bloc’s ability to take a united tinuing to put pressure on Serbia.” between 1873 and 1876 as a reforms at home and resolves its has so far blocked. “If there is no compromise stand. Quoting the Serbian writer trainee art dealer. He later differences with Kosovo, a prov- Aleksandar Vucic, Serbia’s we will have a frozen conflict for On Tuesday, Kosovo’s Pres- Borislav Pekic, Vucic said Serbia moved to France and died in ince which declared independ- president, a former Serb nation- decades. We should not leave ident, Hashim Thaci, said that he should look to the future: “We 1890 after shooting himself. ence 10 years ago. alist who has changed his views that to our children to deal with.” expected a deal with Serbia should not kiss the ground our Tate Britain director Alex The bloc has not said explic- over the past decade to become Kosovo broke away from within the year and that it would ancestors walked on, but rather Farquharson said yesterday itly what form an agreement pro-European, said any decision Serbia in 1999 when Nato result in Kosovo’s membership the ground our children will that the exhibition is a chance between Serbia and Kosovo must would have to be put to Serbian bombed for 11 weeks to halt a of the United Nations. walk on.” “to reveal the impact Britain had on van Gogh as well as the enormous influence he had on British artists.” It will contain more than UN urges Hungary to 40 works. “Van Gogh and Britain” will run from March 27, 2019, to August 11, 2019. review anti-Soros bill AFP The proposed legislation represents Alleged Shabab GENEVA: The United Nations urged Hungary yesterday to an unjustified rebel arrested “review” newly proposed legis- restriction on the lation that targets civil society right to freedom of groups funded by the American association and is a in Germany billionaire George Soros, which AP offer services to migrants. worrying continuation The draft laws proposed by of the Government’s BERLIN: German authorities Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s assault on human have arrested a 20-year-old party are the latest moves aimed rights, civic space:UN Somali man on suspicion of at advancing the government’s being a member of the anti-immigration agenda. extremist militia Al Shabab. As in the original version of Government to review these Federal prosecutors say the law drafted last month, a tax proposed laws to ensure that A man walks next to election poster, in Rome, yesterday. the man was detained of 25% would be levied on for- freedom of association is fully Thursday in the central state eign funding given to organisa- guaranteed”, it added. of Hesse. tions considered to be “sup- Many of the organisations Prosecutors said in a Italian right-wing leads election race: Poll porting” illegal immigration. that would be affected if the bill statement yesterday that the The new draft also retains becomes law receive funding suspect, identified only as AFP European countries shift to the with 37.2% of the vote. provisions banning entry to from Soros’s Open Society Abduqaadir A. in line with right in recent years against a But a new voting law intro- Hungary for foreigners sus- Initiative. German privacy laws, is sus- ROME: Silvio Berlusconi’s right- backdrop of economic and duced in 2017 means this figure pected of supporting the entry Orban has been accusing pected of attempted murder wing coalition leads Italy’s elec- migration woes. is still insufficient for a parlia- of asylum seekers. Soros of orchestrating immigra- and accessory to murder. tion race, poll published The polls are the last to be mentary majority. “The proposed legislation tion into Europe. He has made He is alleged to have yesterday suggests, but the bloc released before the March 4 Within the coalition, centre- represents an unjustified clear that he wants to signifi- joined Al Shabab in Somalia falls short of an absolute vote, with a ban on publishing right Forza Italia is predicted to restriction on the right to cantly curb number of immi- in 2012, undergone weapons majority and millions of voters survey predictions coming into get 16.8% of the vote. The anti- freedom of association and is a grants entering Hungary. training and then taken part remain undecided. effect on yesterday evening. immigration Northern League, worrying continuation of the UN rights office spokesman in the killing of a person. The success of the coalition, YouTrend, which compiled 13.2% and the far-right Fratelli Government’s assault on Rupert Colville noted that for- The suspect is alleged to which includes the former pre- the data from seven different d’Italia, 4.7%. human rights and civic space”, eign funding was especially have later attempted to kill a mier’s Forza Italia (Go Italy) polling institutes over the past Behind the group, the pop- the UN rights office said in a important for organisations member of the Somali govern- party and two far-right groups, week, puts Berlusconi’s bloc ulist Five Star Movement (M5S) statement. doing work considered contrary ment, who survived the attack. is in keeping with some way ahead of its competitors is expected to get 27.8%. “We call on the Hungarian to the agenda of the ruling party. 08 VIEWS SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2018

ESTABLISHED IN 1996

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

EDITORIAL

Qatar’s victory

atar has gained another victory in its fight against the illegal blockade by four nations led by Saudi Arabia, which was imposed over a fabricated statement falsely attributed to The Omani factor in Q the Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani after the hacking of official Qatar News Agency (QNA) on May 24. The decision by the Saudi-owned news channel Al India’s foreign policy Arabiya to surrender its licence with the UK broadcasting regulator Ofcom with immediate effect after the channel’s involvement in covering the crime of hacking QNA was diversifying its security allies beyond Based on all that Oman revealed, underlines the nefarious attempts by the siege Muscat’s most important Western countries to tarnish the image of Qatar. defense ally, the United States. and India offer each other, Propagating fabricated news by some channels The growth of defense cooperation odds are good that as New owned by the siege countries was part of a conspiracy between Oman and India is not new. In Delhi asserts an increasingly against Qatar to justify their blockade. QNA had assigned the 1970s, the Sultanate was the first influential foreign policy country to establish security ties. Having the London-based law firm Carter-Ruck to file an official DR. KHALID AL JABER & in the Middle East the two complaint with Ofcom against the UAE-based Al Arabiya GIORGIO CAFIERO opened a consulate and later embassy in and Sky News Arabia for violating impartiality code and Oman in 1965 and 1973, respectively, countries will build on accuracy in news sourcing. ollowing Indian Prime Minister India gained favor in Muscat by keeping their history of ancient According to the complaint, the two channels did not Narendra Modi’s historic trip to its diplomatic presence in the Sultanate maritime trade and elevate comply with Ofcom’s Broadcasting Code, including those Palestine earlier this month he despite the Dhofar rebellion, which items that require impartiality and accuracy in the news. made official visits to the United caused many foreign governments to their decades-old strategic F withdraw their diplomats from Oman partnership to new heights Based on the complaint the regulator had announced Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Sultanate that it was taking measures to handle the issue. of Oman, marking a landmark in India- during the years of bloody violence that in the years ahead. To avoid an investigation by Ofcom, which could have Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) beset the Sultanate. resulted in the imposition of substantial fines and other relations. Modi’s trip further signaled In 1996, Oman and India signed an penalties, Al Arabiya has been India’s determination to play a more MoU to enhance bilateral cooperation in forced to leave its space in the confident role in the Middle East at a the fight against transnational crime and transportation that more global trade is UK or elsewhere in the time when New Delhi’s interests in the terrorism. Two years later, naval coop- to help flourish. European Union. Arab world have grown far beyond pro- eration commenced with joint naval Similarly, Oman has its sights set on This is the second time that tecting steady access to hydrocarbon drills beginning in 2004, four years enhancing relations with India’s arch- the Saudi-owned channel has resources and have entered domains before the two countries established a rival, Pakistan, as well as states on both Since the been censured by the British such as anti-terror cooperation and “strategic partnership” that deepened sides of other rivalries including the beginning of the media regulator. In January Al countering China’s international the security dimensions of Muscat-New United States, Russia, Iran, Egypt, and all siege, official Arabiya was fined £120,000 influence. Delhi relations. In 2009, Oman and GCC states involved in the Qatar crisis. channels of ($171,000) by Ofcom for While in the India’s air forces began conducting joint Indeed, for years there has been talk of broadcasting ‘confessions’ by an UAE, Modi’s exercises and six years later the two an India-Iran-Oman triangular gas the blockading imprisoned Bahraini opposition second official countries’ armies carried out Najah-I, a partnership. Although such plans may countries have leader Hassan Mushaima trip to the joint-training exercise in Jebel Akhdar. challenge U.S. and Saudi geostrategic been extensively without making clear he had Emirates since By 2016, India’s Defense Minister Mano- interests in the Gulf and Indian Ocean, airing fabricated been tortured. Modi visited Oman 2015, India’s har Parrikar visited the Sultanate and New Delhi, Tehran, and Muscat’s foreign Al Arabiya, telecasting from Prime Minister signed several bilateral defense pacts, ministers met in New York last year and news against Dubai, featured Mushaima’s where he met met with the which included Indian arms sales to affirmed their plans for deeper energy Qatar. statements in a February 2016 with His Majesty Crown Prince Oman. Last September, the Indians sent cooperation. programme, that dealt with the Sultan Qaboos. of Abu Dhabi, an attack submarine to Duqm, along Future of Indo-Oman Relations Bahraini uprising of 2011 and Mohammed bin with a naval ship and two long-range Looking ahead, Oman is set to play purported ties between the Representatives of Zayed, and maritime patrol aircraft. an important role in New Delhi’s foreign Bahraini opposition and Iran. In the clip, Mushaima both governments signed five The Grander Geopolitical Picture policy throughout the greater Indian confesses to wanting to overthrow the Bahraini signed eight memorandums The MoU signed this month raises Ocean and the Middle East. As many government and replace it with an Iranian style regime. agreements, of understand- questions about Oman’s role in the Sino- Arab states grapple with the crises of The comments were filmed while he was in Bahraini ing (MoUs) in Indo geopolitical rivalry. sectarian unrest, terrorism, and unsta- police detention. The network was found to have including an MoU the energy, Unquestionably, a key factor motivating ble post-revolution transitions, Oman’s breached two rules of the broadcasting code covering that will permit financial, and India to secure access to Duqm is New unique climate of stability and peaceful unfair treatment of individuals and infringement of the Indian Navy to transportation Delhi’s interest in countering China’s sectarian co-existence will add to the privacy. use the Sultanate’s sectors. At the growing leverage in the Indian Ocean value that India places on the Sultanate Since the beginning of the siege, official channels of Wahat al-Kar- via its network of sites that enable the as a reliable partner. With Oman’s larg- the blockading countries have been extensively airing Port of Duqm. At ama memorial, People’s Liberation Army Navy to patrol est foreign community being from India, fabricated news against Qatar. They even use social- this juncture, this Modi paid trib- the greater region. Yet Oman, which is people-to-people bonds that link these media platforms such as Twitter to channel their port on Oman’s ute to the UAE’s committed to a foreign policy based on two Indian Ocean countries will con- propaganda. But these social-media trends have so far Arabian Sea coast, military forces cordial and cooperative relations with as tinue to strengthen the New failed because users from Qatar promptly reveal the and he wit- many countries as possible, is not taking Delhi-Muscat relationship. truth about what’s happening on the ground. which is within nessed the sides in the between rivalry between India and all Asian powers view With the exposure of Al Arabiya in propagating close geographic opening cere- Beijing and New Delhi. Muscat’s interest Oman and Kuwait as the two GCC states fabricated news, it is high time for the siege countries to proximity to mony for Abu is in deepening ties with both simultane- most capable of helping different sides stop their malicious propaganda against Qatar and Mumbai, is set to Dhabi’s first ously and making Oman of greater of Middle Eastern disputes through apologise for their misdeeds. Hindu temple, strategic value to all major Asian eco- mediation and compromise, as opposed serve as India’s both illustrating nomic powers. Historically, Oman has to war. On top of Muscat’s role in help- strategic gateway the deep ties successfully balanced the ambitions of ing the P5+1 and Iran reach the Joint to the Middle East between India larger states against each other as a Comprehensive Plan of Action in 2015, and the UAE, strategy to further Muscat’s interests by Oman is a commendable mediator in and East Africa. which is home securing autonomy from any one ally. the Yemeni crisis—the continuation of to three million In seeking to benefit from global which threatens Indian and other Asian Indians. trade near/via the Strait of Hormuz, the countries’ trade interests in the Bab-el- QUOTE OF THE DAY Modi in Muscat development of Oman’s infrastructure Mandab and Red Sea, a vital saltwater After leaving Dubai, Modi visited will position the Sultanate to compete inlet for East-West trade. Oman where he met with His Majesty with the UAE and other countries that Based on all that Oman and India Hungary’s proposed anti- Sultan Qaboos. Representatives of both are keen on capitalizing on their logis- offer each other, odds are good that as immigration law represents governments signed eight agreements, tics hubs to play a more pivotal role in New Delhi asserts an increasingly influ- an unjustified restriction including an MoU that will permit the global trade via the Gulf. With both Bei- ential foreign policy in the Middle East on the right to freedom Indian Navy to use the Sultanate’s Port jing and New Delhi determined to take the two countries will build on their his- of association and is a of Duqm. At this juncture, this port on advantage of Omani trade networks to tory of ancient maritime trade and worrying continuation of Oman’s Arabian Sea coast, which is gain access to more markets in African elevate their decades-old strategic part- within close geographic proximity to and Middle Eastern markets, Muscat nership to new heights in the years the government’s assault on Mumbai, is set to serve as India’s strate- seeks to benefit from Sino-Indo compe- ahead. human rights and civic space. gic gateway to the Middle East and East tition to accelerate the Sultanate’s Dr. Khalid Al Jaber is the Director of Africa. Likewise, Delhi’s quest to secure economic diversification beyond its Gulf International Forum and Giorgio Rupert Colville a military foothold in Duqm fits neatly hydrocarbon sector through the growth Cafiero is the CEO and founder of Gulf UN Human Rights Spokesman into Oman’s foreign policy agenda of of non-oil sectors such as logistics and State Analytics. SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2018 OPINION 09 Maldives in crisis: Beijing faces tough choices N a cold December A constitutional crisis On brief examination of China’s Initiative (BRI) partner nation. home could stick to you or tilt day in 2017, China’s February 5, 2018, Yameen aims, interests and actions in A 2015 amendment to the towards democracy. There is, of President Xi Jinping declared a 15-day emergency the region. Speaking at the Maldivian constitution per- course, room for manoeuvre welcomed a special following a Supreme Court 19th National Party Congress mitting foreign ownership of between these two ends of the O in October last year, Xi had land was largely seen as a guest at the Great Hall of the order quashing terrorism spectrum, but none of those People: Abdulla Yameen charges against nine leading outlined China’s short and China-focussed move, which choices are easy to execute and Abdul Gayoom. The President opposition figures, including long-term goals: to emerge as was then followed by the 2017 each will come with their own MANOJ KEWALRAMANI of the Maldives walked along former president Mohamed a leading power in Asia before FTA. costs. AL JAZEERA the red carpet with the Nasheed. In a matter of hours, growing to assume global For the Maldives, clearly For instance, unyielding sup- swagger of a leader in security forces swept across leadership status by 2050. China has become a crucial port by Beijing coupled with an complete control. A week Male, detaining two Supreme Beijing seeks to accom- economic parter. But given extension of the emergency in the earlier, his government had Court judges. Other opposi- plish this by expanding what it the size of Beijing’s coffers Maldives and further suppression engineered parliamentary tion figures, including the calls its comprehensive and its investments in other of opposition could force other approval of a landmark Free country’s longest-serving national power, leveraging its parts of the world, in pure international actors to intervene. Trade Agreement (FTA) with leader Maumoon Abdul growing economic strength to financial terms, the invest- Such intervention can range from China, sidelining the Gayoom, were also arrested. deepen strategic engagement ments in the Maldives are imposing political and economic opposition. The final deal was The Maldives was set for with developing countries and insignificant. A recent sanctions on the regime to even to be inked during this visit. elections later this year, but increasingly playing an active Moody’s analysis estimates covert and overt force options. In Indeed this was a tipping now the country is in the role in issues of global gov- the Maldives’ total foreign addition, it could further under- point in the not-so-gradual midst of a constitutional crisis. ernance while defining new direct investment (FDI) in score the logic of engagement shift towards China that had The ripple effects of these norms. 2017 at roughly $485m. Eco- under the Indo-Pacific rubric and been under way in Maldivian events are also being felt It is an ambitious agenda, nomics, therefore, is not override sceptical domestic con- foreign policy over the past across the Indian Ocean, which requires deft diplo- Beijing’s driving motivation. stituencies in each of these states. few years. During the visit given the ongoing strategic macy in terms of actions and Rather, it is a strategic objec- The Chinese are also likely to President Xi emphatically tussle for influence between messaging in order to mitigate tive that Xi is pursuing. be closely assessing how events in In that context, described Yameen as “a China and India, which views potential counter-balancing Building a blue-water the Maldives are being perceived member of the neighbouring the region as its traditional by smaller states and opposi- navy that is capable of pro- by its allies and BRI nations. Not Yameen’s decision extended family of China.” But sphere of influence. tion of rival powers. tecting crucial trade routes, standing by a trusted partner could poses an intriguing only two short months later, In that context, Yameen’s An increasingly cozy rela- ensuring energy supplies and imply adverse signalling for lead- strategic challenge the bonds between the two decision poses an intriguing tionship Applying that model securing overseas Chinese ers like Nicolas Maduro or Rodrigo for Beijing. nations are unexpectedly put strategic challenge for Beijing. to the Sino-Maldives relation- assets is a stated goal of the Duterte. On the other hand, back- to test. Understanding this requires a ship reveals certain key PLA’s modernisation pro- ing Yameen unconditionally could underlying dynamics. For gramme. The Maldives’ vitiate political and public percep- starters, despite having estab- geographic position, there- tion of China in BRI nations. lished formal bilateral ties in fore, is key, given that at least Moreover, it would further inten- 1972, the relationship between one-third of the world’s bulk sify the systemic values the two countries only began cargo traffic and even greater competition between China and to deepen after China opened volumes of oil shipments pass the West for shaping global norms. its first full diplomatic mission through the Indian Ocean. The These constraints already in Male in 2011. Since then, it first explicit evidence of this appear to be at play in China’s has expanded exponentially, agenda was witnessed when actions so far. For instance, Beijing with Xi becoming the first three Chinese naval frigates has described, as expected, the Chinese head of state to visit docked in Male in August 2017 emergency as an internal matter the Maldives in 2014. for a “friendly” visit. and provided cover for Yameen at China has already pledged China between two the UN. But it has also acknowl- hundreds of millions of dol- extreme choices This increas- edged India’s influence, saying it is lars in grants. It accounts for ingly cozy relationship, in India and China’s “common nearly one-fourth of all tour- however, has been rudely interest” to maintain stability in ists visiting the country. interrupted by the emergency. the Maldives. Chinese companies are exe- From Beijing’s perspective, cuting mega infrastructure Yameen has left it with two projects across the archipel- extreme choices - stand by an ago, which is a Belt and Road ally who’s unpopularity at

D-RING ROAD N its five months in Syria last year, a though it no longer has any clearly artic- Putin effectively declared victory for POST BOX: 3488 single US Marine Corps artillery ulated mission of its own. Last Moscow’s military campaign in the DOHA - QATAR battalion fired more shells than any Wednesday, the US-led coalition struck region, pledging that some of its forces equivalent American military unit pro-government forces that were moving would return home. [email protected] I Whether that will truly happen since Vietnam. on its allies in the SDF. The statistic - revealed this month by Reports suggested that as many as divides analysts. The prospect of a Rus- EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE PETER APPS the Marine Corps Times - was another 100 may have been killed in the air- sian withdrawal, however, has been TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 REUTERS reminder of just how violent, out-of-con- strikes, prompted by what the United accompanied by growing activity by FAX: +974 4455 7758 trol and complex the largely hidden war States says was an unprovoked attack on forces linked to Tehran. Iran had been nearby SDF forces and the handful of frustrated that Russia initially seized the MANAGING EDITOR American troops accompanying them. If agenda and is keen to retain territory and TEL: 4462 7505 those figures are correct, that would influence for itself and its primary make it the bloodiest engagement yet regional proxy Hezbollah. DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR between Washington and the Syrian gov- This, of course, has inevitably antag- TEL: 4455 7769 The US is stuck ernment. Speaking the following day, US onized Israel. This weekend’s strikes Defense Secretary James Mattis described were prompted after a suspected Iranian LOCAL NEWS SECTION the strike as a matter of self-defense. drone launched from Syrian territory TEL: 4455 7743 Democratic Virginia Senator Tim Kaine penetrated Israeli airspace, and intensi- in Syria - with expressed concern, however, accusing fied after an Israeli F-16 jet crashed after BUSINESS NEWS SECTION the Trump administration of “deliber- apparently being hit by Syrian TEL: 4462 7535 ately stumbling” into a broader war in antiaircraft fire. Such largely accidental Syria, without consulting Congress. escalations are becoming ever easier, SPORT NEWS SECTION no mission That may be overstating it - not least and could push US forces in further con- TEL: 4455 7745 because there does not seem much that is frontations, not just with Syria, but with deliberate about US actions. The issue for Russia and NATO ally Turkey as well. It ONLINE SECTION Washington, as for most of the other emerged this week that at least two Rus- TEL: 4462 7501 in Syria remains. With the support of major players, is that having become sian contractors may have been killed in [email protected] Russia, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad embroiled in the war, it finds itself forced the US airstrikes the previous week, a has secured his position and is no longer ever deeper simply to have any hope of sign of just how confused and risky PUBLIC RELATIONS fighting for his life. But the government in maintaining influence. things may get. TEL: 4455 7613 Damascus still lacks control of vast por- Still, there’s no doubt the Pentagon For the government of Turkish Presi- [email protected] tions of the country, and a complex range has been keen to hold as much of a veil as dent Tayyip Erdogan, the success of of outside actors have found themselves possible over events in Syria. In Decem- US-backed Kurdish militias against IS ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT increasingly dragged in. ber, it revealed it now had roughly 2,000 risks becoming a very different kind of TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 Major Israeli airstrikes this weekend troops in the country - four times the fig- disaster. The Kurdish-led Syrian Demo- FAX: 4455 7870 against Syrian forces, and Turkey’s ongo- ure previously released. The newer cratic Forces and their US allies now [email protected] ing offensive against Kurdish militants, numbers, it said, were already a reduc- control an area roughly the size of Indi- were the latest indications of just how tion from those early in the year, when ana. The United States says its focus in CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT dangerously tensions have escalated. the fight against IS still raged in earnest. Syria remains counterterrorism, but it TEL: 4455 7857 Washington did Both Israel and Turkey had largely Further withdrawals are planned, but has also pledged not to withdraw from [email protected] everything it avoided direct involvement over the whether they will be possible is a very key strongholds in the area the SDF cur- could to stay out nearly seven years the Syrian war has different matter. It’s a dynamic that is rently controls, such as the strategic town SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION been raging. Now both have concluded just as true for Russia and Iran, Assad’s of Manbij. Such promises - along with the TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 of the war, now that their interests require them to get primary backers, as well as a now creation of a border force in collabora- FAX: 44557819 the bloodiest of their hands more seriously dirty. increasingly involved Turkey. tion with the Syrian Kurdish authorities [email protected] the century. The For the United States, this is an awk- Having come so close to losing power - have simply infuriated Turkey further. speed and scope ward dynamic. Washington did entirely, the Assad government clearly In the weeks and months to come, everything it could to stay out of the war, intends to retrieve every inch of territory Washington will have to work out what it All thoughts and views of Islamic State’s now the bloodiest of the century. The it can. Having apparently concluded that realistically can achieve. Holding the ter- rise forced it to speed and scope of Islamic State’s rise a renewed coordination of external pres- rain it currently occupies with the SDF is expressed in these change course but, forced it to change course but, beyond sure for regime change is no longer likely, achievable, but could require further columns are those of the beyond defeating defeating the militants, US President the Syrian military is once again quietly reinforcements in the face of Syrian and writers, not of the Donald Trump’s administration does not intensifying the ferocity of its onslaught Turkish pressure. Working with Moscow, newspaper. the militants, seem to know what it wants to achieve. on surviving rebel areas, including Tehran and Ankara on a peace deal might US President The United States has helped the pre- reported use of limited strikes with also have merit - but in the short term, all Donald Trump’s dominantly Kurdish Syrian Democratic chemical weapons. sides appear too focused on testing their All correspondence administration does Forces to carve out large swaths of terri- Such ongoing brutality might be strength militarily to seriously consider regarding Views and tory. But that is ground the SDF probably enough to eventually crush some of the such negotiations. Opinion pages should be not seem to know cannot hold against its Turkish and Syr- last rebel enclaves, primarily around Don’t expect things to get better any- what it wants to ian government enemies without Damascus. But it is unlikely to restore time soon. Syria’s long nightmare isn’t send to editor-in-chief achieve. significant US backing. Now the United security to the country entirely. In over yet, and if anything, it will continue office or mailed to the States is finding itself forced to engage, December, Russian President Vladimir to become more complicated. [email protected] 10 EUROPE SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2018 Germany vows to boost military budget

REUTERS German defence minister said that Germany was prepared to play a bigger international MUNICH: Germany’s defence minister pledged to spend more role, by increasing its military spending and its on its military and the United contributions to the UN. But she urged the US to Nations, but she called in return stick to a multilateral path. for other countries not to turn away from mulitlateralism. Ursula von der Leyen’s der Leyen said Germany was see that some partners keep cut- remarks came days after US Sec- prepared to play a bigger inter- ting funds for diplomacy, devel- retary of Defense Jim Mattis reit- national role, by increasing its opment cooperation and the erated President Donald Trump’s military spending and its contri- United Nations,” she said. The US demand that European countries butions to the United Nations. State Department has been sub- spend more on their militaries. But she urged the United States ject to deep cuts under Trump’s In a speech yesterday to the to stick to a multilateral path. presidency. Munich Security Conference, von “We are concerned when we Germany’s memories of Nazi Call for continued intelligence-sharing BLOOMBERG that they announced it in a press would mean our cooperation in release. the fight against crime and ter- MUNICH: The intelligence “To have effect, our efforts rorism would be weakened.” chiefs of Britain, France and must be combined in partner- By contrast, Britain’s spies Germany said they won’t allow ship,” they said in a joint state- have been at great pains to German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen talks at the Munich Security Conference, yesterday. Brexit to divide them or prevent ment. “Even after the UK’s exit promise their EU counterparts cooperation on fighting from the EU, close cooperation that they’re not going away. crimes in World War Two have the continent’s pre-eminent the face of global challenges terrorism, an unprecedented and cross-border information- Andrew Parker, the head of the generally made it reluctant to political power-broker, a role from terrorism, poverty and cli- public show of unity that also sharing must be taken forward domestic security service, MI5, take a leading role in interna- generations of post-war politi- mate change,” she said. amounted to a rejection of on themes such as international has talked about the need to tional security. cians have shied away from “Those who want to must be Prime Minister Theresa May’s terrorism, illegal migration, “invest reassurance time” with But in their deal for another Von der Leyen said Germany able to advance without being earlier stance on the issue. proliferation and cyber attacks.” European agencies. four years of a “grand coalition” wanted to work with France on blocked by individual The meeting between Alex May has tried to link British Ever since the Brexit vote in government, Chancellor Angela deeper European cooperation countries.” Younger of the UK’s MI6, Ber- security cooperation to a deal 2016, Britain has seen security Merkel’s conservatives and the and called on “all Europeans” to The newly assertive posture, nard Emie of the French DGSE on free trade after the UK as something it can offer the EU. Social Democrats have agreed participate. But deeper cooper- coming amid growing tensions and Bruno Kahl, head of Ger- leaves the European Union. It has the second largest defence to boost spending on the armed ation would need a move with Russia and Turkey and many’s BND, on the fringes of Her Article 50 letter sent in budget in Nato after the US, and forces after years of post-Cold towards majority voting in for- uncertainty over the future role the Munich Security Conference March 2017, which triggered the has stationed small numbers of War decline. eign policy, she said, acknowl- of a Trump-led US in the inter- yesterday wasn’t in itself Brexit talks, mentioned “security” “tripwire” forces in countries The deal, which must still be edging that not all European national order, reflects a growing unusual. 11 times and included the line that along the EU’s eastern frontier ratified by the Social Democrat countries would want to sense in Berlin that Germany has The remarkable aspect was “failure to reach agreement to deter Russian aggression. membership, comes as Germany participate. to accept more of a leadership reluctantly takes on the role of “Europe has to up its pace in role.

German reporter freed Army chief made in charge of France’s national service

REUTERS and gritty suburbs. Menaouine, who commanded centre at the same time,” one from Turkish jail But his plans have irritated UN peacekeepers in Mali and officer said. PARIS: Emmanuel Macron has the army, which is already served as chief of staff to Defence Minister Florence AP political reasons badly soured placed an army general who led stretched fighting Islamist mili- France’s top land army general Parly last week appeared to sug- relations between the two UN operations in Mali in charge tants in Africa and the Middle from 2010 to 2014. gest national service would be BERLIN: A German reporter countries. of rolling out mandatory East as well as combating home- Military officers privately voluntary. But on Tuesday, detained in Turkey for more German Chancellor Angela national service, sources said, a grown jihadists. express concerns about both the Macron was clear he was not than a year was released from Merkel welcomed his release sign of the French president’s “The president wants it to cost and the resources that rowing back on his campaign jail pending trial, even as six yesterday, saying she was desire to stamp the military’s have a military feel and it’s training up to 800,000 young- pledge. other journalists and news- happy for Yucel and his family mark on the exercise. exactly that which is causing sters a year will drain from an “I want this to be manda- paper employees were “who had to endure a very dif- Macron, France’s first post- problems,” said one lawmaker already under pressure army. tory,” he told journalists. sentenced yesterday to life ficult year of separation.” war president not to complete from Macron’s Republic on the Others complain that it is not “How long the obligatory imprisonment by a Turkish A picture tweeted by lawyer military service, bills national Move party who is familiar with the army’s role to install disci- component will last if not final- court. Veysal Ok showed Yucel out- service as a way to foster patri- the planning. pline and patriotism in France’s ised, but I am thinking three to Deniz Yucel, a corre- side jail embracing his wife. otism and heal social divisions The lawmaker and a military youth. six months.” spondent for the German daily Germany’s foreign minister by bringing together youngsters source said Macron had picked “It’s not our job. We can’t be Government officials target Die Welt, was detained as part later saidthat Yucel was on his from rural areas, wealthy cities Brigadier General Daniel a combat army and educational a 2019 start. of a Turkish government way to an Istanbul airport and clampdown on civil society in can “freely leave Turkey.” the wake of a failed coup Minister Sigmar Gabriel attempt in 2016. said the court appeared to have Tourist guilty The 44-year-old, who has set no conditions on Yucel’s Facebook faces fine over privacy case both German and Turkish citi- release, and insisted it didn’t of punching zenship, was arrested in result from any kind of deal REUTERS Facebook said the website by placing ********s and Istanbul on February 14, 2017, between Berlin and Ankara. technologies it uses invisible pixels on third-party London police on terrorism and propaganda “I can assure you there BRUSSELS: A Belgian court were in line with web sites, the court said AP charges that he denies. His case were no agreements, no quid threatened Facebook on Friday recently. and that of five other German pro quo and no - as some with a fine of up to $125m if it industry standards Facebook said that the LONDON: A tourist from citizens still held in Turkey for people call it - deal in this case,” continued to break privacy laws and it gives users technologies it uses were in line Hawaii pleaded guilty what Germany considers Gabriel said. by tracking people on third- the right to opt out with industry standards and it yesterday to punching two party websites. of data collection gives users the right to opt out London police officers outside In a case brought by Bel- of data collection on websites Buckingham Palace on Valen- gium’s privacy watchdog, the on websites and and applications off its platform tine’s Day. court also ruled that Facebook applications off its being used for A prosecutor said Ryan had to delete all data it had gath- platform being used advertisements. Robinson of Kahekili ered illegally on Belgian citizens, “We’ll comply with this new Highway asked the armed including people who were not for advertisements. law, just as we’ve complied with officers, “Do you know any Facebook users themselves. existing data protection law in jokes?” before punching one Facebook, which will be Europe,” said Richard Allan, in the face and trying to grab fined 250,000 euros a day or up data and how long it stores it,” Facebook’s vice-president of his Taser on Wednesday. to 100 million euros if it does the court said. public policy for Europe, Middle When the second officer not comply with the court’s “It also does not gain our East Africa. pointed his gun at Robinson judgement, said in a statement consent to collect and store all Belgium’s privacy watchdog and ordered him to stand still, released yesterday that it would this information,” it added in a welcomed the ruling. Robinson knocked him to the appeal the ruling. statement. “Facebook has just launched ground, prosecutor Henry “Facebook informs us insuf- The social media group uses a large campaign where they Fitch said. Robinson then German-Turkish journalist Deniz Yucel and his wife, Dilek Mayaturk ficiently about gathering infor- different methods to track the stress the importance of privacy. pulled the two officers to their Yucel, are pictured in front of their home after Deniz Yucel was mation about us, the kind of data online behaviour of people if We hope they will now make feet in “an extraordinary dis- released from prison in Istanbul, Turkey, yesterday. it collects, what it does with that they are not on the company’s this a reality,” it said. play of strength” and punched one of them again. He said Robinson was heavily intoxicated and it took several other officers to EU ‘confident’ Macedonia name to settle by July restrain and arrest him. Robinson admitted two AFP The row, which has festered arrived for talks in Sofia between geographic designation to its counts of assaulting a police since Macedonia’s independence EU foreign ministers and their name. officer. SOFIA: The European Union is in the break-up of Yugoslavia in counterparts from candidate Ekaterina Zaharieva, the A judge at Westminster “very confident” Macedonia will 1991, has hindered Skopje’s plans countries to join the bloc. Bulgarian foreign minister, said Magistrates’ Court gave him settle a long-running row with to join Nato and the European The EU last week unveiled a it was “very likely” that the EU an eight-week suspended Greece over its name before July, Union. new plan to give membership to could decide to open member- sentence and ordered him to a senior official from the bloc Asked if the row could be Western Balkan states, including ship talks with Macedonia and pay each victim $280. said yesterday. settled by the end of Bulgaria’s Macedonia, but said they must Albania in June. District Judge Margot Athens has long objected to presidency of the bloc, which settle disputes before they can Macedonia’s Foreign Min- Coleman told Robinson that Macedonia’s name, arguing it ends in June, the EU’s Enlarge- join. ister Nikola Dimitrov told “the fact that you were intoxi- suggests Skopje has claims to the ment Commissioner Johannes Macedonian Prime Minister reporters in Sofia his country had cated at the time makes you territory and heritage of Greece’s Hahn (pictured) said he was Zoran Zaev said last week his matured and no longer needed the author of your own mis- historic northern region of the “very confident about this”. country was ready to make a “roots back 2,000 years to feel fortunes.” “It does not diminish same name. Hahn was speaking as he concession by adding an extra self-confident”. the offence in any way.” SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2018 AMERICAS 11 Florida shooting sparks call for gun control

AFP Republican House vived the shooting. leader Paul Ryan Stoneman Douglas students PARKLAND: Anger boiled have taken to social media to among parents and students in said that it was not a blast defenders of the nation’s Parkland, Florida yesterday over time for arguing over loose gun laws. America’s unwillingness to gun control, while In an eloquent essay pub- toughen gun control laws, after Republican Florida lished online, 17-year-old Cam- a disturbed teenager armed with eron Kasky blasted both Repub- an assault rifle murdered 17 at Senator Marco Rubio lican and Democratic politicians the local high school. said new gun laws for not doing anything. With President Donald alone would not stop “We can’t ignore the issues Trump planning to visit bereaved shootings. of gun control that this tragedy families in the shocked southern raises,” he wrote. community, a groundswell arose “And so, I’m asking -- no, for a new push to restrict the demanding -- we take action availability of guns and better like, saying your thoughts and now. Why? Because at the end protect schools. prayers and all of these things, of the day, the students at my Lori Alhadeff, whose but it doesn’t make a difference school felt one shared experi- Hector Romero Assistant Public Defender (left) and Melisa McNeill, Public Defender (right) are seen on 14-year-old daughter Alyssa if nothing ever changes.” ence -- our politicians aban- screen at the first court appearance of high school shooting suspect Nikolas Cruz (centre) at Broward died in Wednesday’s shooting, Trump tweeted yesterday doned us by failing to keep guns County Court House, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, yesterday. and who made a powerfully that he planned to meet with vic- out of schools.” emotional appeal to Trump the tims in the sprawling suburban In Washington the political shootings, the focus of gun con- following day, addressing a tel- community about 60km north response so far makes clear that trol advocates was on the ready FBI ignored tip on school shooter evision camera with tears rolling of Miami, although it was not yet the powerful National Rifle availability of the AR-15, a semi- down her face. clear when the meeting would Association pro-gun lobby - automatic civilian version of the AP “We need action! action! take place. which spent $30m to support US military’s standard-issue action!” Alhadeff urged in an The US leader is spending Trump’s election in 2016 - M16. PARKLAND: The FBI received a specific report in January that interview yesterday, addressing the long President’s Day remains formidable. The NRA calls the AR-15 the suspect in the Florida school shooting could be plotting an the US leader as the father of an weekend at his Mar-a-Lago On Thursday, Trump’s “America’s most popular rifle. attack, but agents failed to investigate the tip, the agency said 11-year-old son of his own. resort, a 45 minute drive from nationally televised address Millions have been sold yesterday. “President Trump, Barron Parkland. made no mention of guns, or of around the United States -- a A tipster who was close to Nikola Cruz called the FBI and pro- goes to school,” she said. “Let’s “I will be leaving for Florida previous mass shootings. new one costs as little as $600. vided information about Cruz’s guns and his erratic behaviour, protect Barron, and let’s also today to meet with some of the Trump instead treated the Stephen Paddock, who opened including his expressed desire to kill people and his disturbing protect all these other kids here bravest people on earth -- but Parkland massacre -- the 30th fire on a Las Vegas country social media posts. The caller was concerned that Cruz could attack in Parkland, in Florida, and eve- people whose lives have been mass shooting of 2018 according music concert on October 1, a school. ryone everywhere else in the totally shattered,” he said. to the Gun Violence Archive -- 2017, killing 58 and wounding In a statement issued yesterday, the agency acknowledged United States of America,” she But Trump risked being as a singular event. He focused hundreds more, had more than that the tip should have been investigated thoroughly. said. greeted with angry demands for on offering sympathies to the a dozen AR-15s. The FBI was also notified about a comment on a YouTube video “My child is dead. I can’t help action on laws that allowed families of the victims, on the Devin Patrick Kelley, who posted by a “Nikolas Cruz” last year. It investigated the comment her. But I can help all those other 19-year-old Nikolas Cruz - a need to tackle the challenges of shot and killed 26 in a church in but did not determine who made it. kids at Stoneman Douglas High 19-year-old who was expelled mental health. Sutherland Springs, Texas on Cruz has been charged with killing 17 people at Marjory School. We have to protect our from Stoneman Douglas and Republican House leader November 5, used an AR-15. Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, north of Miami. children.” whose behavior had unnerved Paul Ryan, whose campaigns And it was with an AR-15 Authorities have not described any specific motive, except to Carly Novell, a senior at the acquaintances - to buy an AR-15 have earned NRA support, said that 20-year-old Adam Lanza say that Cruz had been kicked out of the high school, which has school who survived the semi-automatic assault rifle. that it was not a time for arguing murdered 26 students and adults about 3,000 students and serves an affluent suburb where the shooting, said it was time for “It’s illogical that the law over gun control, while Repub- at Sandy Hook Elementary median home price is nearly $600,000. politicians to act. says a minor can’t have a drink, lican Florida Senator Marco School in Newtown, Connecticut Students who knew him described a volatile teenager whose “I just want people to stop, but can buy a gun,” said Mavy Rubio said new gun laws alone on December 14, 2012, the dead- strange behaviour had caused others to end friendships. like, talking about it and then not Rubiano, the 47-year-old would not stop shootings. liest school shooting in US Cruz was ordered held without bond at a brief court hearing. doing anything. People keep, mother of a student who sur- As with previous mass history.

Romney US Senate rejects immigration bills announces AP are still working hard.” despite their sky-high support the left and the right win again Democrats for failing to accept to run for US Also defeated was a compro- in public polling. on immigration,” said Sen. what he said was a “generous” WASHINGTON: The Senate has mise by a bipartisan group of The Senate votes left the Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., who offer from Trump. Senate left hundreds of thousands of senators that would have young immigrants facing a helped craft the bipartisan “They turned away from a “Dreamer” immigrants in limbo, shielded the young immigrants March 5 deadline that Trump has package but also backed Trump’s golden opportunity to solve the REUTERS rejecting rival plans that would and financed Trump’s demands given Congress to restore the plan. He added, “The only way issue,” said McConnell. have spared them from depor- for money to build his border Deferred Action for Childhood forward is for President Trump He expressed openness to WASHINGTON: Former tation and strengthened the wall, though more gradually than Arrivals program, or DACA, that to grab the reins and lead us to considering a future compromise Republican presidential candi- nation’s border security. he wants. Eight Republicans he annulled last year. Federal a solution.” but said, “For that to happen, date Mitt Romney, a frequent Senators dealt President joined most Democrats in courts have blocked him tempo- That scenario wasn’t in sight. Democrats will need to take a critic of President Donald Donald Trump an especially backing that plan, but it fell short rarily from dismantling the The White House trashed the second look” at Trump’s Trump, announced yesterday galling defeat as more than a after the White House threatened Obama-era initiative, but bipartisan proposal as “dan- demands. he would run for a US Senate quarter of fellow Republicans a veto and GOP leaders opposed without congressional action, the gerous policy that will harm the Trump had dangled a chance seat in Utah, confirming abandoned him on an issue that it. immigrants will face growing nation,” denouncing a provision at citizenship for 1.8 million months of speculation about a helped propel him to the White The day’s votes, in which risks of deportation as their pro- directing the government to pri- young immigrants, meeting a top return to national politics. House. four separate proposals were tections expire. oritise enforcement efforts Democratic demand. “I’VE decided to run for United Trump, on Twitter yes- defeated, illustrated anew Con- “Dreamers” are immigrants against immigrants who arrive But that plan also included States Senate because I’ve terday, accused Democrats of gress’ steep challenge in striking who were brought to the US as illegally - beginning in July. $25bn to build his border wall decided I can help bring Utah’s abandoning Dreamers because a deal on an issue that’s proven children and now risk deporta- Trump proved unwilling to fold with Mexico and enact other values and Utah’s lessons to they wouldn’t back his immi- intractable for years and on tion because they lack perma- on his demands for a tougher bill, border security measures, tighter Washington,” Romney, who is gration plan. the president which each party’s most fervent nent authorization to stay. DACA reflecting the hard-line immi- curbs on relatives whom legal seeking to replace retiring tweeted: “Cannot believe how supporters refuse to budge. The gives them the ability to live and gration stance that fueled his immigrants could sponsor for Senator Orrin Hatch, said in a BADLY DACA recipients have outcome suggests there may be work in the US for two-year presidential run. citizenship and an end to a visa video posted to Twitter. been treated by the Democrats... no permanent solution soon to periods that can be renewed. Senate Majority Leader Mitch lottery that encourages immi- Romney’s video made no totally abandoned! Republicans help the young immigrants, “It looks like demagogues on McConnell, R-Ky., blamed gration from diverse nations. mention of Trump but his relationship with the presi- dent looms as a major issue in the campaign. Much of the Long Island gang video focused on Utah values versus the Washington cul- members jailed Armed men torch 15 trucks in Chile ture. “Utah has a lot to teach AP the politicians in Wash- over murder ington,” he said. “... Utah wel- SANTIAGO: At least 15 trucks comes legal immigrants from AP were torched in a southern around the world. Wash- region of Chile that the Mapuche ington sends immigrants a NEW YORK : Three members indigenous community claims message of exclusion. And on of the notorious street gang as its ancestral territory, author- Utah’s Capitol Hill, people MS-13 convicted in the death ities said yesterday. treat one another with of a teen because they The Chilean equivalent of respect.” believed he was cooperating the FBI said the trucks were Trump has called for with law enforcement have burned in three attacks against building a wall on the coun- been sent to federal prison. logging companies. Firearm- try’s border with Mexico and Milton Contreras, Oscar wielding vandals forced the limiting legal migration. Welman Espinoza-Merino drivers to descend from their Republicans hold 52 of and Jose Osmin Rubio, all of trucks before they set the vehi- the Senate’s 100 seats but that Brentwood, were each sen- cles on fire in the regions of Bio majority is not always big tenced to over two decades Bio and Araucania, about 700km enough to pass the Trump behind bars. south of the Chilean capital. agenda. Nineteen-year-old Sidney Local prosecutor Nelson Police officers work next to burned trucks after several people threw incendiary bombs, in Los If Romney wins the Valverde was lured to a beach Moreno said that authorities Alamos, Chile, yesterday. Senate race, it could set him in Miller Place, Long Island, found pamphlets scattered up for a direct collision with and shot in February 2014. nearby that were signed by a The latest attack comes after on WhatsApp, which were alleg- The detained Mapuches had Trump, with whom he has Authorities believe the radical Mapuche group. But prosecutors recently accused edly introduced into phones been accused of coordinating publicly sparred. gang is behind 25 killings on authorities said that no one some members of the national seized from eight Mapuche attacks on churches and trucks During the 2016 presiden- Long Island in the last two claimed the latest attack and no police force of altering evidence activists who were arrested in as part of the so-called “Hurri- tial campaign, Romney exco- years. arrests have been made yet. by creating incriminatory chats September and later released. cane Case.” riated Trump as a “fraud”. 12 AMERICAS SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2018 13 Russian citizens indicted for US interference AFP “There is no allegation luded with this portion of Mos- in this indictment that cow’s election activities. WASHINGTON: US Special Four Trump campaign offi- Counsel Robert Mueller any American was a cials, including his campaign yesterday indicted 13 Russian knowing participant manager Paul Manafort and his nationals and three companies in this illegal national security advisor Michael accused of running a secret activity,” said Deputy Flynn have already been indicted campaign to tilt the 2016 presi- as part of Mueller’s broader dential election. Attorney General Rod investigation. The unsealed indictment Rosensten. Trump has publicly mulled details a stunning operation that firing the former FBI director and began in 2014 and aimed to sow has repeatedly sought to influ- social division inside the United It provided content that was ence his investigation through States, influence US politics retweeted by both the president’s public warnings. “including the presidential elec- sons Eric Trump and Donald The White House said that tion of 2016.” Trump Jr as well as other top Trump had been briefed on the Mueller alleges the cam- campaign officials and members findings and it expected to issue paign -- under the direction of of Trump’s inner circle. a statement later in the day. Yevgeny Prigozhin, a close ally “There is no allegation in this None of the 13 individuals are of Vladimir Putin -- by mid-2016 indictment that any American in US custody. became focused on boosting was a knowing participant in this The group was said to be Donald Trump and demeaning illegal activity,” said Deputy based in Putin’s home town of his rivals. Attorney General Rod Saint Petersburg, but some of the It allegedly involved “hun- Rosensten. accused traveled to the United dreds” of people working in He added that there was also States for political intelligence shifts and with a budget of mil- no judgment on whether the gathering. US Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein announces the indictment of  Russian nationals and  lions of dollars. campaign “altered the Stops included Nevada, Cal- Russian organisations for meddling in the  US presidential election at the Justice Department, in According to the indictment, outcome.” ifornia, New Mexico, Colorado, Washington DC, yesterday. the group posed as US citizens The allegations are a double- Illinois, Michigan -- a pivotal on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube edged sword for Trump, who has state in the election -- Louisiana, York, but much of its work was Bernie Sanders. already under US sanction. and Instagram and posted con- repeatedly dismissed claims of Texas, Georgia and New York. focused on producing material Two of the firms are said to In carrying out the influence tent that reached “significant Russian interference as “fake An unnamed Texas-based that was damaging to the Dem- have Russian government campaign, Prigozhin’s group is numbers” of Americans. news” and a “hoax” designed to American political operative is ocrat Hillary Clinton and to contracts. accused of buying US social The group was allegedly in take away from his election said to have instructed them to Trump’s Republican rivals Ted Known as Putin’s “chef,” security numbers and bank contact with “unwitting” mem- victory. focus on so-called “purple states” Cruz and Marco Rubio. Prigozhin runs a company that account numbers. bers of the Trump campaign, but On one hand they confirm which swing between Repub- Aside from Trump, the group works for the Kremlin to cater at In a separate filling Mueller had a broader “strategic goal to Russia interference, but they lican and Democratic control. is said to have supported Green receptions. He has been photo- indicted an American named as sow discord in the US political seem to exonerate his staff from The group organized pro- presidential candidate Jill Stein graphed with the Russian pres- Ricardo Pinedo for selling such system.” suspicions they knowingly col- Trump rallies in Florida and New and Clinton’s Democratic rival ident. His Concord group is items.

Two stabbed Honduran president to death in Missouri vows to fight graft as AP mission head resigns MARYLAND HEIGHTS: Police said yesterday that a REUTERS man stabbed some of his rela- tives at their suburban St TEGUCIGALPA: Honduran Louis home, leaving a man President Juan Orlando Hern- and his toddler son dead and andez has pledged to keep two other people fighting for fighting corruption after the their lives. head of an international anti- The crime happened in graft mission resigned and Maryland Heights, a middle- accused authorities in the class suburb with a low crime Central American nation of not rate. Police Chief Bill Carson, providing enough support. at a news conference, identi- Hernandez wrote on fied those killed as Malcom B. Twitter yesterday that he were also a reason for his FROM LEFT: Brazilian Justice Minister Torquato Jardim; Brazilian President Michel Temer; Chamber Mathis II, 33, and his regretted the resignation of resignation. of Deputies head Rodrigo Maia; Rio de Janeiro’s Governor Luiz Fernando Pezao and Defense Minister 22-month-old son, Malcom Juan Jimenez (pictured), a In an interview, Jimenez Mathis III. Mathis’ 4-year-old Raul Jungmann during the signature of a decree to send in the army to lead public safety in Rio de Peruvian who led the Organi- said the mission could not be daughter was hospitalised in Janeiro state, at the Planalto Palace, in Brasilia, yesterday. zation of American States (OAS) successful without the support “very critical” condition, and mission, and would meet with of OAS leadership. his 57-year-old aunt was in mission officials to discuss the “We here on the ground do critical but stable condition. Army takes control of Brazil security best way forward. not have the capacity to mobi- A 20-year-old nephew of “The government of Hon- lise resources - everything is Mathis and a woman were AFP measures because circumstances whole neighbourhoods duras reiterates its commitment done from Washington,” said arrested early yesterday at a demand it,” Temer said after besieged, schools in the cross- to the fight against corruption Jimenez, who previously served motel but have not yet been RIO DE JANEIRO: Brazil’s signing the decree to combat hairs of rifles and avenues trans- and impunity and its intent to as minister of justice in Peru. charged. Carson declined to President Michel Temer seemingly endless waves of formed into trenches.” continue to strengthen its oper- The OAS did not respond to provide a possible motive but yesterday handed the military gang-driven violence. Chamber of Deputies head ators of justice,” wrote Hern- a request for comment. said the nephew had been full control of security in Rio de “The government will give Rodrigo Maia -- who took part andez, who late last year was Heide Fulton, who heads kicked out of the home within Janeiro in an increasingly tough and firm answers, taking in a preparatory meeting with declared the winner of a dis- the US mission in Honduras, the past year. He said the desperate fight to tame runaway all necessary measures to erad- Temer -- described the move to puted November 26 election. expressed support on Thursday family had allowed the nephew gang violence. icate organised crime.” as “hard and extreme”. The Mission to Support the for the OAS effort in a post on to live at their home for a time Army patrols are already He described organised Congress is expected to Fight Against Corruption and Twitter that included a photo in an effort to help him. used in Rio’s gang-ruled favelas, crime as “a metastasis that ratify the decree within 10 days. Impunity in Honduras of her with Jimenez. Carson said the man went but a decree signed by Temer spreads through the country and The country has seen a wave (MACCIH) was created by the “Standing shoulder-to- to the home Thursday and will now give the military full threatens the tranquility of our of violence that prompted OAS in 2016 at the request of shoulder with @OEA_MACCIH,” stabbed the woman, who was control of security operations in people.” Defense Minister Raul Jung- the Honduran government, fol- she wrote. “Their work is his great-aunt, along with the Rio state, which the president “We cannot passively accept mann to declare last month that lowing popular marches incredibly important for the children. Carson said the man said had virtually been seized the death of innocents,” Temer “the security system is broken.” demanding an independent future of Honduras.” then waited until his uncle by organised crime gangs. said in a speech at his Planalto Rio state Governor Luiz investigation of corruption. An anti-corruption body in came home and stabbed him The army will now have pri- palace in the capital Brasilia in Fernando Pezao issued an Jimenez, 53, resigned on neighbouring Guatemala, the as well. macy over the state police, a sit- which he outlined the human apology on Wednesday after the Thursday, a day after Luis UN-backed International Com- “The stabbings actually uation unheard of since the cost of the violence. carnival in Rio was marred by Almagro, the secretary-general mission Against Impunity in took place over a period of country’s return to democracy “It is intolerable to be bur- violence and muggings: “We of the OAS, sent a letter to Her- Guatemala (CICIG), has recently time” from late-afternoon in 1985 after two decades of mil- ying fathers and mothers, were not ready. There were mis- nandez criticising the results of come under political pressure through early-evening itary rule. workers, policemen, young takes in the first days and we the mission. Jimenez said after investigating the Guate- Thursday, Carson said. “I am taking these extreme people and children and seeing reinforced the patrols.” clashes with the OAS leadership malan president’s family. Food box idea draws criticism from Democrats, advocates AP delivery service, and said the their own food choices,” said it’s patronising. This is pro- themselves and their families.” Rep Jim McGovern, D-Mass., plan could save nearly $130bn Craig Gundersen, a professor in hunger, because people will But the proposal doesn’t the ranking member of the WASHINGTON: The Trump over 10 years. But the idea, agricultural strategy at the leave the program,” Gunderson include any concrete details House nutrition subcommittee, administration is pushing what tucked into President Donald Department of Agricultural and said. about how much the programme called the proposal a “cruel it calls a “bold new approach to Trump’s 2019 budget, has Consumer Economics at the Under the proposed plan, would cost or how it would be joke” that came out of nowhere. nutrition assistance”: replacing caused a firestorm, prompting University of Illinois at households that receive more implemented, saying only that He said despite having the traditional cash-on-a-card scathing criticism from Demo- Urbana-Champaign. than $90 in SNAP benefits each states will be given flexibility to numerous hearings on SNAP, that food stamp recipients crats and nutrition experts who SNAP - the Supplemental month - roughly 81% of house- distribute the boxes “through budget was the first time he’d currently get with a pre-assem- say its primary purpose is to Nutrition Assistance Program - holds in the program, or about existing infrastructure, partner- heard of the food box proposal. bled box of canned foods and punish the poor. is the official name for the food 16.4 million - would be affected. ship, and/or directly to resi- “I don’t even know how to other shelf-stable goods dubbed “The main goal is to alleviate stamp programmes. Agriculture Secretary Sonny dences through commercial and/ implement it. Who would dis- “America’s Harvest Box.” food insecurity, and the reason “All of a sudden you’re Perdue called the box “a bold, or retail delivery services.” tribute these boxes?” he said. Office of Management and SNAP is so successful is because saying, ‘we don’t trust you to innovative approach to pro- Lawmakers say they aren’t “How would we do this? Do they Budget Director Mick Mulvaney it gives low-income families the make the right decisions for viding nutritious food to people even sure where the idea came anticipate recipients getting likened the box to a meal kit autonomy and dignity to make your family.’ It’s demeaning and who need assistance feeding from. them at supermarkets? SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2018 CLASSIFIEDS 13

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147 MES students attend ‘Flower of Each Spring’ event

The students of MES Indian School with staff during the inaugural session of the th edition of “Flower of Each Spring” event in Al Khor .

THE PENINSULA Centre (FEC) in Al khor on Lippi’, which is an indigenous ISC organises ‘Fitness with Yoga’ session February 10. flower of Qatar, and also briefed DOHA: As many as 147 members The programme aimed at about the importance of pre- Indian Sports Center (ISC) organised “Fitness with Yoga” session at MIA Park on February 9 as part of the Scouts and Guides of MES spreading awareness about serving birds too. Several fun- of the National Sport Day celebrations. The second “Fitness by Yoga” session at MIA park is lined up Indian School participated in the Qatar’s environment and eco- filled activities were conducted to be held on February 23 at 8.30am. Indian Sports Centre also organised Yoga sessions at Khalifa inaugural session of the 17th system among the local commu- for the school students. Rajesh, Tennis and Squash Complex on National Sports Day. edition of “Flower of Each nity. Dr Saif Ali Al Hajari, Coordinator, MES Scouts and Spring” event, an environmental Chairman, ‘A Flower of Each Guides, along with his team mem- awareness programme under Spring’, introduced the flower of bers comprising, Rosy Johnson, the patronage of H H Sheikha this spring, ‘Helianthemun Lippi’. Suchitra Kotian, Dhanya Shibu Moza bint Nasser, organised by The participants were given infor- and Saritha Shiral accompanied Friends of the Environment mation about Helianthemun the school students.

Voltas Qatar Toastmasters Club holds speech contest

THE PENINSULA

DOHA: Voltas Qatar Toastmas- ters Club recently held their maiden ‘speech contest’ in Doha. Toastmasters Kausik Sarathy, The winners of the speech contest with trophy Voltas Qatar New OIA UP executive team elected Pawan Pandey and D S Murthy Toastmasters Club recently ‘in Doha. won first place in International, The new One India Association (OIA) UP elected its executive team for the year 2018-19. OIA is Humorous and Table Topic cate- affiliated to ICC under the aegis of Indian Embassy (Qatar). The election meeting was held at Kochi gories, respectively. Rangamani Ravi apart from the Toastmasters International with Hall of ICC on February 10. Ziauddin Ahmad, is elected unopposed as Convener, while Vaqaus The contest was held under continuous involvement of Divi- a mission to improve commu- Sidiqui was elected as General-Secretary. Tahir Ali Haider was elected as Treasurer and Rakesh the guidance of the Area Director, sion “E” Director H P Singh nication and leadership skills. Aggarwal as Joint-Secretary. Bhanu Dhawan and Shahabuddin Khan were elected as sports and T M Balkrishna Karande, and sup- Bhullar, as well as support from Over a hundred corporate toast- cultural secretary respectively. Other executives selected were Musharraf G Khan, Hamid Zafar, ported by Nirmala Raghuraman other clubs. It is a corporate club masters’ clubs function world- Zoheb Aslam, Mohd Sayeed, Kashif Habeeb and Junaid Khan. Mohd Ajmal from OIA was present as and senior members of Doha formed under the aegis of non- wide. For more information observer during the election procedure. Toastmasters Club, Girish Jain and profit organisation contact 55709197/55615261.

CROSSWORD NOVO Pearl Qatar ROYAL PLAZA VILLAGGIO & CITY CENTER Black Panther (2D/Action) 10:00, 10:30, 11:30am, 12:45, 1:15, Aadhi (2D/Malayalam) 2:00, 6:30 & 11:00pm 2:30, 3:30, 4:00, 5:30, 6:15, 6:45, 8:30, 9:00, 9:30, 11:30, Black Panther (2D/Action) 2:15, 4:30, 6:30, 8:45 & 11:15pm 11:45pm & 12:15am Okdet El Khawaga (2D/Arabic) 4:45 & 9:15pm Den of Thieves (2D/Action) 10:30am, 1:00, 330, 6:00, 8:30 & All I See Is You (2D/Drama) 4:45pm 11:00pm The 15.17 To Paris (2D/History) 10:00, 2:15, Rupture (2D/Horror) 7:00pm 6:30 & 10:45pm Aiyaary (2D/Hindi) 2:00 & 11:00pm Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle (2D/Action) 12:00noon, 4:15, Naachiyaar (2D/Tamil) 9:00pm 6:30 & 8:30pm Rupture (2D/Horror) 10:00am, 12:10, 2:20, 4:30, 6:40, 8:50 & 11:00pm ASIAN TOWN Braven (2D/Action) 10:00am, 12:00noon, 2:00, 4:00, 6:00, 8:00, Naachiyaar (Tamil) 12:30, 2:45, 7:30 & 9:45pm 10:00pm & 12:00midnight Aadhi (Malayalam) 1:00, 2:30, 3:00, 4:00, 5:30, 7:00, 8:30, 9:00, 10:00, Winchester (2D/Horror) 10:00am, 12:00noon, 2:00, 4:00, 6:00, 11:30 & 11:45pm 8:00, 10:00pm & 12:00midnight Carbon (Malayalam) 12:15pm Queen (Malayalam) 12:00noon All I See Is You (2D/Drama) 10:00am, 12:00noon, 2:00, 4:00, 6:00, Awe (Telugu) 5:00pm Aiyaary (2D/Hindi) 6:00pm 8:00, 10:00pm & 12:00midnight Black Panther (2D IMAX/Action) 11:00am, 2:00, 5:00, 8:00 & AL KHOR 11:00pm Early Man (Animation) 10:30am & 1:45pm Black Panther (Action) 11:15am, 2:15, 5:15, 8:15 & 11:15pm MALL Aadhi (Malayalam) 12:30noon, 3:30, 6:30 & 9:30pm Naachiyar (Tamil) 11:30am, 6:30 & 11:30pm Aadhi (2D/Malayalam) 2:15, 8:45 & 11:30pm Awe (Telugu) 3:45 & 8:45pm Black Panther (2D/Action) 2:15, 4:45, 7:00, 9:00 & 11:30pm Aiyaary (2/Hindi) 2:30 & 11:30pm ROXY Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle (2D/Action) 5:00pm Okdet El Khawaga (2D/Arabic) 5:15pm The Bread Winner (Animation) 12:30, 4:30 & 6:30pm Rupture (2D/Horror) 7:00pm Aadhi (Thriller) 10:30am, 1:20, 4:10, 7:00 & 10:10pm All I See Is You (2D/Drama) 7:15pm Naachiyar (Tamil) 10:30am, 12:45, 5:15, 7:30 & 11:50pm Naachiyaar (2D/Tamil) 9:30pm Black Panther (Action) 10:30am, 1:15, 4:00, 6:45, 9:30pm & 12:15am Awe (Telugu) 8:30 & 11:15pm Okdet El Khawaga (2D/Arabic) 3:00 & 9:45pm

Yestserday’s answer LANDMARK Note: Programme is subject to change without prior notice. Black Panther (2D/Action) 2:15, 4:30, 6:45, 8:45 & 11:15pm Aadhi (2D/Malayalam) 2:15, 8:30 & 11:15pm Aiyaary (2/Hindi) 2:15 & 11:15pm AADHI Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle (2D/Action) 5:00pm All I See Is You (2D/Drama) 5:00pm Okdet El Khawaga (2D/Arabic) 6:45pm Rupture (2D/Horror) 7:00pm Naachiyaar (2D/Tamil) 9:15pm

Aadhi is a 2018 Indian Malayalam-language action thriller film written and directed by Jeethu Joseph. The film stars Pranav Mohanlal in the title role. It was produced by Antony Perumbavoor through Aashirvad Cinemas. 16 MORNING BREAK SATURDAY 17 FEBRUARY 2018

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR 04.51 am Nasa mulls atomic SHOROOK 06.08 am powered rockets ZUHR 11.48 am MAGHRIB 05.31pm ASR 03.03 pm ISHA 07.01pm to get into Mars WEATHER TODAY BLOOMBERG WASHINGTON: In the race to land humans on Mars, Nasa is blowing the cobwebs off a technology it shelved in the 1970s - nuclear-powered rockets. Last year, Nasa partnered with BWXT Nuclear Energy Inc. for an $18.8m contract to design a reactor and develop fuel for use in a nuclear-thermal pro- pulsion engine for deep-space travel. While that small start is a long way from the heady days of the Space Race of the Cold War, it marks the US return to an idea that is also being pursued by Russia and China. Unlike conventional rockets that burn fuel to create thrust, the atomic system uses the reactor to heat a propellant like liquid hydrogen, which then expands through a nozzle to power the craft. That doubles the efficiency at which the rocket ‘Pollen-robots’ uses fuel, allowing for a “drastically smaller” craft An employee of Japanese weather forecasting company Weathernews displaying pollen detector and shorter transit time, said Stephen Heister, a pro- spherical robots called “Pollen-robots” at the company’s headquarters in Chiba, suburban Tokyo. fessor at Purdue University’s School of Aeronautics and Astronautics. “This factor is absolutely huge, The Pollen-robot, which has two LED eyes and glows a range of five different colours to indicate especially for very difficult missions that necessi- pollen levels, will be placed outside houses and can send reports recording pollen, temperatures, tate a lot of propellant such as a Mars flight.” humidity and air pressure to the company through Internet. While the system would be a niche market in the global nuclear industry, it could be highly lucra- o o tive for the company that cracks the technology, especially for nations like the U.S., where the atomic 17 C 28 C energy sector has been in the doldrums for Minimum Maximum decades. “The application of BWXT capabilities for man- ‘French fries will not cure baldness’ Hazy to misty / foggy at places at first be- ufacturing systems for space applications is a modest comes moderate temperature daytime but extremely important area of technical develop- REUTERS growing hair on the backs of breakthrough as scientists had with some clouds. ment,” said Jonathan Cirtain, vice president for mice after transplantation in a previously struggled to produce advanced technology programs at BWXT. “The size TOKYO: Japanese scientists relatively short period of time. the large quantities of HFGs

HIGH TIDE 06:15 – 17:45 LOW TIDE 13:00 – 23:30 of the market is directly tied to how easily these have warned that eating french After dimethylpolysiloxane needed to generate significant COURTESY: Qatar Meteorology Department systems can be manufactured and how these in- fries will not cure baldness, after was reported as being used in hair growth. space nuclear power systems for either electrical research was published oil to fry potatoes, researchers “Up until now we’ve only or propulsive power compare to alternative sources.” suggesting that chemicals used received a number of inquiries been able to produce a few In the U.S., Europe and Japan, tighter regula- in cooking fried potatoes could asking how many french fries dozen hair follicle germs at a tions, construction delays, public mistrust and polit- help fight hair loss. people should eat to cure time, but with this new tech- ical opposition stalled nuclear power development A research team at Yoko- baldness. nology we’ve developed a and helped push industry pioneers like Westing- hama National University suc- “No matter how many fried simple method to produce hun- house Electric Co. into bankruptcy. And countries ceeded in producing clusters of potatoes you eat, you’ll never dreds and thousands,” Fukuda like Germany, South Korea and Taiwan are looking 5,000 hair follicle germs (HFGs), grow more hair. That’s a total said. to renewable energy or cheap natural gas instead, the base organs that produce misunderstanding that’s gone The team have also received leaving China and Russia to take the lead in the hair, with the aid of dimethyl- viral,” lead researcher Junji many serious inquiries from development of new nuclear plants. polysiloxane, a material that was Fukuda told Reuters. researchers and people seeking Russia’s Rosatom Corp. has said it plans this key to cultivating large numbers Fukuda said the research, hair-regenerative medicine to year to test a prototype nuclear engine for a space- of HFGs. published in the journal Bioma- offer their cells to test and craft that can go to Mars. The team also succeeded in terials this month, was a develop the research, he said. Spacewalking astronauts finish robot arm repair AP Vande Hei and Japan’s Ground controllers eventually objectives so fast that they had Vande Hei, making his fourth Norishige Kanai quickly solved the problem. Further time to tackle extra chores. spacewalk. He returns to Earth CAPE CANAVERAL, FLA.: moved one of those old hands delays were caused by this “Great job, guys,” Mission at the end of this month. Spacewalking astronauts to a long-term storage loca- week’s late arrival of a Rus- Control radioed. It was the first spacewalk wrapped up months of repair tion outside, and prepped the sian supply ship. The astronauts emerged for Kanai, a surgeon who work yesterday on the Inter- other to bring it back inside so The old mechanical hands from the orbiting complex as arrived at the space station in national Space Station ‘s big it can be returned to Earth for are original space station the sun rose over Peru, 250 December. An experienced robot arm. a tuneup and then flown back parts, in orbit since 2001. Each miles below. A half-hour later, Japanese astronaut who pre- The Canadian-built, up. This last spacewalk in the hand - a bulky bundle of they were soaring over viously visited the station, Aki- 58-foot robot arm had both of series should have been com- latches - is more than 3 feet, London and, 15 minutes after hiko Hoshide, relayed direc- its aging mechanical hands pleted by now, but was post- or a meter, long and more that, over Turkmenistan. tions to the spacewalkers from replaced on spacewalks con- poned because of complica- than 440 pounds (200 kilo- “It’s an amazing view over Mission Control in Houston. ducted in October and Jan- tions with the robotic hand grams). Vande Hei and Kanai someplace that’s got lots of Four other men currently uary. Nasa astronaut Mark that was installed last month. accomplished their main snow ... or maybe not,” radioed live at the space station. Borneo’s orangutan population plunged by 100,000 since 1999 AP He said the estimates vary because of uncertainty JAKARTA: The most comprehensive study about how many animals of Borneo’s orangutans estimates their are living in alien habitats numbers have plummeted by more than such as plantations and 100,000 since 1999, as the palm oil and burnt forests. paper industries shrink their jungle habitat According to the IUCN, and fatal conflicts with people increase. their numbers could drop The finding, which is to be published to 47,000 by 2025 from in the journal Current Biology, is in line their 2016 population esti- with the International Union for Conser- mate of about 105,000. vation of Nature’s 2016 designation of Bor- Sumatra’s orangutan, a neo’s orangutans as critically separate species, is even endangered. more endangered, with a Researchers from the Max Planck population estimated at Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology about 12,000 animals. and other institutions said the original In a positive twist, the population of the gentle ginger-haired new study found Bornean great apes is larger than previously esti- orangutans are more resil- mated but so is the rate of decline. An orangutan holds its baby at the Sepilok Orangutan ient and adaptable than The most dramatic declines were Rehabilitation Center in the Malaysian state of Sabah thought. They walk on the found in areas where tropical forests were on Borneo island. ground more often than cut down and converted to plantations previously known and can for palm oil, which is used in a vast array orangutan on the Indonesian part of feed on plants that have not been part of of consumer products, and for timber. Borneo island died after being shot at least their natural diet. The authors said this But significant population declines 130 times with an air gun, stabbed and may allow them to survive in smaller for- occurred in selectively logged forests. clubbed, the second known killing of an ests and in landscapes where the forest is “In these forest areas human pres- orangutan in the Indonesian part of fragmented. “The one thing they cannot sures, such as conflict killing, poaching, Borneo this year. cope with, however, is the high killing Sparrows in a row and the collection of baby orangutans for Erik Meijaard, a conservationist rates seen currently,” said Serge Wich of Sparrows sit on the wall of a basin in Berlin. the pet trade have probably been the involved in the study, said current esti- Liverpool John Moores University, one of major drivers of decline,” the authors of mates of the orangutan population on the researchers.“Orangutans are a very the study said. Earlier this month, an Borneo range from 75,000 to 100,000. slow breeding species,” he said.