MUHARRAM 17, 1443 AH WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2021

16 Pages Max 46º Min 28º 150 Fils Established 1961

ISSUE NO: 18515 The First Daily in the Arabian Gulf www.kuwaittimes.net

Kuwait marks 30th anniversary Jailed Chadian ex-leader Businesses fear for Afghan rug European football giants to 4 of key education landmark 6 Habre dies in Senegal 13 weavers as Taleban take over 14 take 2bn euro COVID hit

Kuwait resumes direct flights with six countries

First flights from Egypt and India land in Kuwait today

By B Izzak

KUWAIT: The Civil Aviation Authority yester- Amir receives bronze medal winner Rashidi day announced the resumption of direct com- KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Nawaf mercial flights with India, Egypt and four Asian Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received at Bayan nations starting today after several months of Palace yesterday Minister of Electricity, Water, suspension to combat the coronavirus pandemic. and Renewable Energy, Minister of Social Affairs The resumption of the flights also includes and Community Development and Acting Minister Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Nepal. of State for Youth Affairs Dr Mishaan Al-Otaibi, Together, the six nations have more than 70 per- member of Kuwait Olympic Committee Sheikh cent of the 3.3 million expats living and working Faisal Al-Nawaf Al-Sabah, Committee member in Kuwait. The first flight is expected to arrive and Head of Kuwait Delegation to Tokyo from Egypt after midnight on Wednesday to be Olympics 2020 Fatima Hayat, and bronze medal followed with two flights from India. The civil winner Abdullah Turqi Al-Rashidi for winning aviation circular emphasized the need to observe Tokyo Olympics’ skeet competition. health guidelines. HH the Amir praised the outstanding sport The decision to resume direct flights was taken achievement by Al-Rashidi that contributed to the by the Council of Ministers earlier this week on hoisting of Kuwaiti flag at the Olympics stadium. recommendation by the coronavirus ministerial HH the Amir also expressed his pride in other committee following a sharp drop in the number of Kuwaiti athletes who participated in the Olympic new cases and the number of patients. The civil avi- KUWAIT: Passengers arrive at the Kuwait Games and thanked them for their efforts and ation also recalled that immunized passengers are International Airport in this file photo. high-level performance. Top officials in the Amiri those who had received two doses of Pfizer, KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al- Diwan attended the meeting. On his part, shooter Moderna and AstraZeneca and one dose of Those who had been vaccinated in Kuwait can Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah with Tokyo 2020 Al-Rashidi thanked His Highness for the consider- Johnson and Johnson. Those who had received two prove vaccination through Immune or Kuwait Olympics bronze medal winner Abdullah Turqi Al- able reception and continuous support for doses of unapproved vaccines abroad - Sinopharm, Mobile ID applications or Kuwait Mosafer plat- Rashidi. — Amiri Diwan photo Kuwait’s athletes. — KUNA Sinovac, Sputnik V - must receive and additional form, the civil aviation said. dose of one of the four approved vaccines. Continued on Page 2 Filipino couple’s fishing adventure turns into tragedy By Ben Garcia way. “We went last Friday for fishing because he really loves fishing,” said KUWAIT: Newlywed couple Horlan wife Mary Ann while talking to Kuwait Jeff Malaza, 28 and Mary Ann Malaza Times at the couple’s flat in Salmiya. 30, decided to go out for some quality “For me, it was the first time to go with time fishing on the weekend. They went him fishing, otherwise he would go fish- to a spot off Balajat Street in Salmiya on ing alone. That Friday, I was excited August 20, 2021. But two hours later because we both were off work, and I Horlan had gone missing. promised him many times that I will Thirty three hours later, his lifeless accompany him that day, so we went,” body was found in the sea about a kilo- she said. meter away from where he had last been When they arrived at the area around seen. His wife said Horlan worked the 5pm, Horlan immediately went to a ‘quiet Newlywed couple Horlan Jeff Malaza and Mary Ann KUWAIT: A photograph of Horlan Jeff Malaza taken shortly before he went shore, wading into the water while fish- spot’ for fishing. Malaza missing off Balajat, Salmiya. — Photos courtesy Mary Ann Malaza ing and must have been drowned that Continued on Page 2 Taleban issue new warning against Kuwait nears airlift extension herd immunity KABUL: The Taleban yesterday urged skilled Afghans not to flee the country, as the new rulers of in nine months Afghanistan warned the United States and its KUWAIT: Kuwait has nearly achieved herd NATO allies they would not accept an extension to immunity within just nine months of the start of a looming evacuation deadline-even as Western the country’s vaccination campaign against countries said time was running out. COVID-19, said Dr Khaled Al-Saeed, member A spokesman for the hardline Islamist group told of the Supreme Committee for COVID-19 yes- America to stop taking “Afghan experts” such as terday. Kuwait has reached record number of engineers and doctors out of the country. “This daily vaccinations, inoculating around two per- country needs their expertise. They should not be cent of the population per day, he said. The taken to other countries,” Zabihullah Mujahid told a country has managed to achieve this break- press conference in the capital Kabul. through administering only authorized vac- “They should not encourage the Afghan people cines while resisting pressures to use less effi- to flee Afghanistan.” European nations have said cient ones. they would not be able to airlift at-risk Afghans Minister of Health Sheikh Dr Basel Humoud before the August 31 cut-off, and United States Al-Sabah on Monday briefed the Cabinet min- President Joe Biden has faced calls from all corners isters on the country’s health situation amid to extend the evacuation window. the COVID-19 pandemic. The minister noted a But speaking at a press conference in the capital continuing decline in coronavirus-related Kabul, Taleban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said deaths, infections and hospitalizations, adding the Islamist group opposes an extension. “They KABUL: In this handout image courtesy of the US Marine Corps, a child (center) looks at the aircraft that the recovery rate has increased to 98.3 have planes, they have the airport, they should get as he is strolled towards his flight during an evacuation at Hamid Karzai International Airport, Kabul per cent. their citizens and contractors out of here,” said Continued on Page 2 Continued on Page 2 yesterday. — AFP 2 Established 1961 Wednesday, August 25, 2021 Local Kuwait’s Amir receives condolences over demise of Sheikha Badriah Amir, Crown Prince meet Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets His Highness His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. — Amiri Diwan and KUNA photos Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah.

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al- Amir received a phone call from Tunisian President Qais Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received at Bayan Palace yes- Saeed, expressing condolences over the demise of Britain, meanwhile, has said it will lobby for an exten- terday His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al- Sheikha Badriah. Taleban issue new sion at a virtual G7 summit later yesterday. Ahmad Al-Sabah. His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh His Highness the Amir also received cables from sen- About 50,000 foreigners and Afghans have fled Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah also received His ior Kuwaiti officials, all expressing deep condolences the country from Kabul’s airport since the Taleban Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad at Bayan Palace. over the demise of Sheikha Badriah Al-Sabah. The warning against... swept into power nine days ago, according to the US Meanwhile, His Highness the Amir received, on cables were from His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh government. Many Afghans fear a repeat of the brutal Monday, a cable from Saudi Arabia King Salman bin Mishal, National Assembly Speaker Marzouq Al- Continued from Page 1 interpretation of Islamic law that the Taleban imple- Abdulaziz Al-Saud, expressing condolences over the Ghanem, Chief of Kuwait National Guard His Highness mented when first in power from 1996-2001, or retri- demise of Sheikha Badriah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah, His Highness Sheikh Mujahid. US-led troops have ramped up opera- bution for working with the US-backed government Mubarak Al-Sabah, asking Allah Almighty to bestow Nasser Al-Mohammad, His Highness the Prime Minister tions to get thousands of people out of Kabul by over the past two decades. mercy upon her soul. In a reply cable, His Highness the Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, President August 31 — a deadline set by the US before the fall Yesterday, Mujahid said female Afghan govern- Amir expressed appreciation for the sincere sentiments, of Kuwait’s Supreme Judicial Council and Chairman of of the country for all foreign troops to have pulled out ment workers should stay home until security condi- wishing good health and wellness to King Salman. His the Court of Cassation Justice Ahmad Al-Ajeel and of Afghanistan. tions in the country improve. The Taleban achieved Highness the Amir received a similar cable from Saudi National Guard Deputy Chief Lt Gen Sheikh Ahmad President Biden has said he will stick to the sched- their stunning victory thanks to Biden pulling out Arabia Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman Al-Saud. Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. In reply cables, His ule but has faced growing pressure to negotiate more nearly all American troops from Afghanistan, follow- Furthermore, His Highness the Amir received cables Highness the Amir expressed appreciation for the sin- time for the evacuations. Germany said yesterday that ing through on a deal struck with the movement by of condolences on the demise of Sheikha Badriah from cere sentiments, wishing good health and wellness to all. Western allies simply cannot fly every Afghan who then-president Donald Trump. Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tariq, King of Bahrain The Amiri Diwan had announced on Monday the pass- needs protection out of Kabul before the cut-off date. However, Biden was forced to redeploy thousands Sheikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, Qatari Amir Sheikh ing of Sheikha Badriah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Mubarak “Even if (the evacuation) goes on until August 31 or of troops after the fall of Kabul to oversee the airlift. Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, UAE President Sheikh Al-Sabah, widow of the late Sheikh Abdullah Al-Khalifa even a few days longer, it will not be enough,” Foreign According to the Washington Post, US Central Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahyan. Earlier, His Highness the Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah. — KUNA Minister Heiko Maas told Bild TV. Intelligence Agency chief William Burns held a secret Earlier France said it would have to end evacua- meeting in Kabul on Monday with Taleban co- tions from Kabul’s airport on Thursday if the US stuck founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, although no to the deadline, and Spain said it would not be able to details were reported and neither the CIA nor the rescue all Afghans who served Spanish missions. Taleban confirmed it. — AFP

Another 520 people were cured of the virus, rais- Kuwait nears ing the total of cured to 401,837, ministry spokesperson Dr Abdallah Al-Sanad said in a statement. herd immunity... The number of people hospitalized with the virus currently stands at 309, with 132 of them in Continued from Page 1 intensive care units, he added, revealing that another 4,190 are receiving regular treatment. He highlighted the ministry’s efforts to speed up Some 11,840 swab tests were conducted over vaccination against the virus in order to achieve the last day out of a total of 3,687,295, said the herd immunity. The Cabinet, while appreciating the official. He urged nationals and expatriates to cooperation of nationals and expatriates in imple- continue to abide by health precautions includ- menting health guidelines, urged the public’s con- ing social distancing rules to halt the spread of tinued adherence to COVID-19 measures. the virus. The health authorities recently Meanwhile, Kuwait reported 189 new coron- announced the opening of a new vaccination avirus cases Monday raising the total number of center as the country has vaccinated nearly 70 infected to 408,434. Three deaths were also percent of the population against COVID-19, reported Monday, increasing the total number of with a daily capacity of 100,000 administered fatalities to 2,407, according to the health ministry. doses. — KUNA

to hear my husband was missing and helped me in Filipino couple’s searching for him. I called my sister to tell her about what happened. Meanwhile, my friends had also come to support me. I dialed up 112 emergency hot- fishing adventure... line and the police came,” she said. A search and rescue mission was launched. “I Continued from Page 1 saw divers, police cars, ambulance and boats at the scene and the search continued until 3 am when “It was crowded that day because probably it they came to me and requested me to go home and was Friday and people were swimming. So he went rest. I left the area only at 5.30 am. I went home a bit far from a place where he left me,” Mary Ann without my husband. Then, I tried to sleep a bit. said. “He went maybe around 200 meters but we Then at 5.30 pm that same day, I received a call could still see each other. I saw him set up his fish- from the authorities saying they had found a body. ing rod, and waited. A few moments later, I saw him They need me for identification. I thought the body dip his body in the water, with the rod in his hands. of my husband would be there, but he wasn’t there. In fact, I went closer to him just to take some pho- The moment I arrived at the police station, I imme- tos. But then I went back to my place where he left diately saw our wedding ring placed on a white me because he wants me to just wait there. So, I paper; I knew it was him,” she said. waited while browsing my Facebook and posted the The couple married only four months ago and several photos I took,” said Mary Ann who is three Mary Ann is three months pregnant. months pregnant now. “For 33 hours, I was crying and hoping for a mir- Around 6pm, Mary Ann could still see her hus- acle that he would come back to me alive. But he’s band from afar. But at 7pm, she noticed that he dis- gone forever and left me with our baby,” she cried. appeared from the place where he was fishing. “At She was not allowed to see her husband’s mortal first, I did not suspect anything, because maybe he remains, although her male companions were able would have just left for walking somewhere away to identify the corpse. from the spot where he was fishing. I did not mind Horlan Jeff Malaza’s body was handed over to anything, no bad thoughts at all. So, I waited at the the forensic department for investigation. Mary Ann place where he left me a bit longer. Then after some will accompany her husband’s body which will be time, I went back to the spot where he was fishing. flown to Manila. The repatriation process of And I saw some more Filipinos there already setting Horlan’s body is now being done with the assistance up their own fishing rods too. They were all shocked of the Philippines embassy in Kuwait.

available, the vaccination certificate should be Kuwait resumes uploaded to the health ministry website for authentication. Non-immunized domestic workers can be direct flights... recruited through registration in the Belsalamah Continued from Page 1 platform, the civil aviation said. In the meantime, the civil aviation authority has asked the Council Those who had been fully vaccinated outside of Ministers to increase the number of arriving Kuwait can prove vaccination by producing a passengers above the currently allowed 7,500 certificate with name identical to one in pass- because of the expected influx of expats into the port, type of vaccine and dates, vaccination country following the resumption of direct flights authority and the QR code. If the QR code is not with the six countries. Established 1961 3 Local Wednesday, August 25, 2021 Kuwait’s Prime Minister to take part in regional conference to support Iraq Cabinet reviews general framework for a low-carbon strategy

KUWAIT: His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah (center) chairs the Cabinet’s meeting. —KUNA photos Cabinet ministers attend the meeting.

Cabinet ministers attend the meeting.

KUWAIT: His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh two countries were discussed. Bureau of Kuwait. It decided to assign the agency, to reducing the recurrence of fire accidents. Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah will take part in cooperation with all government bodies, to in the regional conference to support Iraq on Government performance address and implement recommendations men- Low-carbon strategy August 28, the Kuwaiti Cabinet said during its Meanwhile, the Cabinet was briefed on a visual tioned in the report so as to upgrade the level per- The Cabinet was informed about a presentation weekly meeting that was held Monday. After the presentation submitted by Chairman of the Follow- formance. that EPA Director General Sheikh Abdullah Ahmad meeting, Foreign Minister and State Minister for Up of Government Furthermore, the Al-Humoud Al-Sabah submitted on the national Cabinet Affairs Sheikh Dr Ahmad Nasser Al- Performance Agency Cabinet took a decision to contributions document and Kuwait’s general Mohammad Al-Sabah affirmed that under the Sheikh Ahmad Mishal Al- Fire Force task Kuwait Fire Force with framework for a low-carbon strategy 2050, in line instructions of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Nawaf Ahmad Al-Sabah and some continuing cooperation and with the country’s endeavors to transform into a Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the of his aides regarding the coordination on coordination with the con- low-carbon economy for 2020-2035. The move is Prime Minister will participate at the regional con- agency’s annual report for cerned bodies so as to part of the country’s efforts to achieve development ference to support Iraq. the year 2020. The report environment complete efforts towards priorities regarding diversifying energy production The conference aims at supporting the constitu- includes violations and taking legal measures sources so as to avoid an increase in greenhouse tional process in Iraq, facing the challenges it faces procedures as well as gen- violations against all violators that gases by 2035. Finally, the Cabinet discussed the and strengthening efforts to promote stability, eral and specific recom- run counter to preventive political affairs on the latest developments on Arab development, reconstruction and combating terror- mendations to be taken to safety and environmental and international levels. It followed up the floodwa- ism and extremism, he added. His Highness the improve the level of gov- requirements. It also decid- ters that engulfed the US state of Tennessee that Prime Minister touched on the results of the latest ernment performance. The Cabinet praised the ed to entrust the Environment Public Authority to left dozens of people killed or wounded, offering its visit paid by the Prime Minister of Iraq, Mustafa Al- efforts made in preparing the report and the continue following up on all works in Al-Salmi used sincere condolences to American people and the Kadhemi and his accompanying delegation to agency’s endeavors to follow up on government tires site, and determine the final timetable neces- families of the victims. It also wished a rapid recov- Kuwait, during which the bilateral ties between the projects and the observations of the State Audit sary for completing these works, which contribute ery to those injured. — KUNA First flight of Afghan Canada hails Kuwait’s efforts evacuees arrives in Kuwait to evacuate foreign diplomats KUWAIT: US Ambassador to cooperation between them and in Kuwait Alina Romanowski continuation of the humanitarian announced that the first flight of role of the State of Kuwait, which from Afghanistan at-risk Afghan evacuees arrived calls for the importance of secur- safely to a coalition military ing safe passage for diplomats installation in Kuwait yesterday. and foreign nationals and the They were welcomed by dedicat- facilitation of evacuations from ed US and Kuwaiti military and Afghanistan.” diplomatic personnel, the envoy US Ambassador Romanowski wrote on her Twitter account had lauded Kuwait for the coop- yesterday. Up to 5,000 Afghans eration for evacuating American will transit in Kuwait before head- citizens and at-risk locals from ing to the US and other destina- Afghanistan and has deeply tions, she added. appreciated its support at this Kuwait had approved the tran- level. “Over the past several days, sit of 5,000 Afghan nationals, the United States has mobilized Canadian Foreign Minister Marc Garneau (left) and Kuwaiti Foreign who have been evacuated from an unprecedented global effort to their country to the US under the evacuate US citizens, personnel Minister Sheikh Dr Ahmad Al-Sabah. directions of His Highness the from partner nations, and at-risk Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al- individuals from Kabul,” the US KUWAIT: Canada appreciates ments in Afghanistan, Kuwaiti Jaber Al-Sabah, the foreign min- ambassador said in a press state- Kuwait’s efforts to repatriate Foreign Minister and State istry announced on Sunday. This ment released on Monday. “Since Canadian and other international Minister for Cabinet Affairs Sheikh move comes in “recognition of the August 16, more than 850 diplomats in Afghanistan, its for- Dr Ahmad Al-Nasser Al-Sabah and strategic relations between the Americans and personnel at eign minister told his Kuwaiti Canadian Foreign Minister Marc State of Kuwait and the United embassy in Kabul transited safely counterpart in a phone call yester- Garneau agreed that it was imper- States of America,” according to from Afghanistan to the United day, as countries press on with the ative to ensure the smooth exodus the ministry statement. It also States via Kuwait on five separate evacuation of their nationals from of foreign diplomats there, which is aims to “enhance the existing flights,” the statement added. Kabul. Discussing the develop- necessary to save lives. — KUNA

Divers remove fishing nets south of Kuwait Bay

KUWAIT: Kuwait Dive Team meters under water in cooperation with announced yesterday its volunteers Kuwait Coast Guard and the Public have recently removed fishing nets Authority for Agricultural Affairs and KUWAIT: A combination of photos that US Ambassador to Kuwait Alina Romanowski posted on her Twitter account yesterday, south of Kuwait Bay near Jaber Fish Resources. Several dead fish were showing US military personnel and Kuwait-based volunteers helping at-risk Afghan evacuees following their arrival in Kuwait. Causeway. The nets, weighing one ton, found stuck in the nets, team leader were removed from a depth of three Waleed Al-Fadhel said. — KUNA 4 Established 1961 Local Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Established 1961 The First Daily in The Arabian Gulf Kuwait marks 30th anniversary THE LEADING INDEPENDENT DAILY IN THE ARABIAN GULF ESTABLISHED 1961 Founder and Publisher of key education landmark YOUSUF S. AL-ALYAN Editor-in-Chief ABD AL-RAHMAN AL-ALYAN Late Amir lit torch of post-invasion education resumption EDITORIAL : 24833199-24833358-24833432 ADVERTISING : 24835616/7 KUWAIT: It has been 30 years since the late Amir FAX : 24835620/1 Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad A-Jaber Al-Sabah lit the CIRCULATION : 24833199 Extn. 163 torch of education after Kuwait was liberated from ACCOUNTS : 24833199 Extn. 125 the Iraqi invasion in 1991. During the ‘Torch of COMMERCIAL : 24835618 Education’ ceremony which was held at Bayan P.O.Box 1301 Safat,13014 Kuwait. Palace, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad said “the Tyrant of Email: [email protected] Iraq sought to obliterate everything in Kuwait Website: www.kuwaittimes.net including education, but today Kuwait is gradually returning to normalcy.” Schools, which were once bustling with students Absconding maids who were eager for the pursuit of knowledge, were should be deported, Efforts led pay airfare: MP to drop in

illiteracy KUWAIT: This archive photo shows the late Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad A-Jaber Al-Sabah lighting the By B Izzak ‘Torch of Education’ during a ceremony to announce the resumption of education after Kuwait was liberated from the Iraqi invasion in 1991. — KUNA KUWAIT: MP Abdullah Al-Turaiji yesterday sub- mitted an amendment to shut down and turned into prisons and/or incarcera- the recent was the coronavirus pandemic. COVID- However, as Kuwait is accelerating COVID-19 the law governing tion centers during the seven-month Iraqi occupation. 19 forced suspension of education for a couple of vaccinations to reach herd immunity, Minister of domestic workers in the After the liberation, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad gave months, but the Ministry of Education worked hard Education Dr Ali Al-Mudhaf recently announced country that calls to instructions to draw up educational development on finding a solution to resume the school year as that schools will reopen their doors on October 3rd deport workers who flee plans in order to keep pace with education standards soon as possible, setting up an e-learning system 2021, taking into consideration health measures to their sponsors and make worldwide and enhance education in Kuwait. through Microsoft Teams, which continued for ensure safety of students and teachers as it is the them pay for the ticket Significant efforts were made to contribute to about a year and half. top priority of the Ministry. — KUNA back home. He said the the Amir’s vision of boosting education and indeed amendment aims at pro- Kuwait witnessed a great progress, leading ulti- tecting the rights of the mately to a decrease in illiteracy. In fact, Kuwait employers against the Abdullah Al-Turaiji always considered education to be an important workers who flee homes pillar of society development, as stated in Article 13 Fire reported without referring to the of the constitution: “Education is a fundamental reasons for leaving work. Many domestic workers requisite for the progress of society, assured and at Sulaibiya complain of ill-treatment and abuse by employers promoted by the State.” that sometimes reach the extent of beating and tor- Throughout the years, education in Kuwait carpentry ture, forcing maids to escape to safer places. In developed in many phases. The beginnings were some cases, workers flee to other employers for limited to learning and memorizing the holy Quran, KUWAIT: Firemen put out a better pay and working conditions. Turaiji said in his Arabic and basic Math principles. Since then, edu- blaze reported in a carpentry amendment that people who provide shelter or cation progressed and developed until the opening workshop in Sulaibiya Monday work to the absconding maids should be fined KD 2 of the first school: Al-Mubarakiya in 1911, which was night. The fire covered a 400- per day since the day of informing authorities. the foundation of education in Kuwait. Ten years square-meter area, Kuwait Fire Kuwaiti citizen Saleh Al-Rasheedi was yesterday later, the second school opened and was named Al- Force said in a statement. No released from the state security which held him for Ahmadiya. Moreover, the first school for girls ‘Al- injuries were reported as an inves- several days without stating any reason, MPs Saad Wusta’ opened in 1937, followed by Al-Qibliya, the tigation was opened to reveal the Al-Khanfour and Mohammad Al-Rasheedi said on second school for girls. cause of the fire, it added. Twitter. MP Rasheedi said he will not let this inci- Education faced several challenges and setbacks: dent pass without questioning those responsible. the Iraqi invasion and occupation in 1990-1991 and

Manpower authority teams inspect for daytime ban violations KUWAIT: Kuwait’s Public Authority for Manpower teams have been visiting construction sites to make sure contractors were abiding by a ban on laborers from working in open areas, which begins on June 1 and ends August 31. The daily ban, which starts at 11:00 am and ends at 4:00 pm, is an effort by the government to help guarantee safety of workers during harsh weather conditions. — KUNA International WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2021 US sanctions Eritrean army chief over Tigray US VP Harris accuses China of ‘intimidation’ in disputed seas Page 7 rights abuses Page 6

PANJSHIR, Afghanistan: Afghan resistance movement and anti-Taleban uprising forces personnel stand guard at an outpost in Kotal-e Anjuman of Paryan district in Panjshir province Monday. —AFP Panjshir resistance digs in to defend valley Amrullah Saleh says a humanitarian disaster is brewing

PANJSHIR VALLEY, Pakistan: Atop a craggy mountain ley, which begins around 80 kilometres (50 miles) north area in the late 1990s. An NRF spokesman told AFP on around Panjshir in recent days, with conflicting claims that has withstood foreign invaders for decades, anti- of Kabul. “We are going to rub their faces in the the weekend that it is ready to resist any Taleban from both sides that have been impossible to independ- Taleban fighters fire a mounted heavy machine gun into ground,” said one fighter at a position in the Panjshir aggression but wants to negotiate with the Islamists ently verify. The NRF has said it is ready for battle, but it a deep valley. They are members of the National heights, listing past victories against the Taleban. about an inclusive government. remains unclear if the force has the supplies and equip- Resistance Front (NRF) — the most prominent Afghan His comrades then raise their fists and chanted ment to withstand a long siege by the Taleban. opposition group to emerge since the Taleban captured “Allah-u Akbar” (God is great). The strategic valley- Taleban siege Ahmad Massoud said in his op-ed that they have Kabul nine days ago. populated primarily by ethnic Tajiks-offers natural The Taleban have also said they want to handle the arms and ammunition stores, as well as the weapons With militia fighters and former government soldiers defense points, with narrow entrances in the shadow of situation peacefully, but they have bared their teeth by brought to Panjshir by former Afghan forces. But he in its ranks, the NRF has set up machine gun nests, mor- high mountains. “If Taleban warlords launch an assault, sending hundreds of fighters to the area. Panjshir was added that without help from the outside world, his tars and surveillance posts fortified with sandbags in they will of course face staunch resistance from us,” surrounded from three sides, Taleban spokesman fighters would not be able to withstand the Taleban’s anticipation of a Taleban assault on their bastion, the Ahmad Massoud, one of the NRF leaders, said in a Zabihullah Mujahid said Monday. Former vice president siege for long. Panjshir Valley. Its fighters, many of them in military cam- Washington Post op-ed last week. He is the son of the Amrullah Saleh, who headed to the valley after the fall of “We know that our military forces and logistics will ouflage fatigues, patrol the area in US-made Humvees late guerrilla commander Ahmad Shah Massoud, Kabul, said a humanitarian disaster was brewing. not be sufficient,” he wrote. “They will be rapidly deplet- and technicals-pickup trucks with machine guns mount- revered for turning the Panjshir Valley into an anti- “Talibs aren’t allowing food & fuel to get into ed unless our friends in the West can find a way to sup- ed on the back. Soviet and anti-Taleban bastion. Andarab valley,” he tweeted, referring to an area under ply us without delay.” Many carry assault rifles, rocket-propelled grenades The defensive preparations are familiar for Panjshir Taleban control that abuts Panjshir from the northwest. Elders from the Panjshir Valley have reportedly been and walkie-talkies. Some pose on their vehicles with a residents who saw Massoud thwart multiple Soviet “Thousands of women & children have fled to moun- speaking with Taleban officials in the Afghan capital, but dramatic background of snow-covered peaks in the val- assaults in the 1980s and Taleban attempts to take the tains.” There have been scattered reports of clashes there has been no breakthrough yet. —AFP

videos were also produced. Afghanistan’s Afghanistan now has more than 50 TV channels, 165 radio stations and dozens of publications, watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said media enters this month, citing the national press federation. UK says extending Internet and social media access, especially through the unknown smartphones, has proliferated in recent years too. Kabul evacuations Most dramatically, the opening up of Afghan KABUL: Scores of journalists are among the tens of media allowed space and opportunities for the thousands of people trying to flee Afghanistan follow- country’s women, who were shut out from public life, deadline ‘unlikely’ ing the Taleban takeover, fearful of violent reprisals education and workplaces by the Taleban. Hundreds LONDON: Britain’s Defense Secretary Ben Wallace from the militants. Despite their assurances, the of women around the country worked on and behind said yesterday it is “unlikely” evacuations from Islamist group’s return to power is seen as a serious the screen as journalists, producers, hosts and per- Afghanistan will be extended beyond August 31, as G7 blow to Afghan media, which saw explosive growth formers. Dozens of Afghan journalists also worked leaders prepare to meet virtually to discuss the crisis. CHAMAN, Pakistan: Afghans walk along fences as they after the first Taleban regime was toppled in 2001. for foreign media. The UK will chair the emergency talks among the arrive in Pakistan through the Pakistan-Afghanistan bor- group of wealthy countries later Tuesday, and has said What was the Afghan media like under the der crossing point in Chaman yesterday following What have the Taleban promised now? it will urge the United States to extend the end-of- Taleban? - There was no Afghan media to speak of Taleban’s military takeover of Afghanistan. —AFP when the Islamists ruled Afghanistan from 1996 to After the fall of Kabul, Taleban officials in Doha the-month deadline to complete the Afghan airlifts. 2001. They banned television, movies and most other and Afghanistan stressed that the media could con- France has also called on Washington to push forms of entertainment for being immoral. Some elec- tinue to operate freely and that journalists would not northern province of Jawzjan, local radio station back the timeline. But hours before the summit, tronic products were outlawed as un-Islamic too. be harassed or harmed. They held a formal press Salam Watandar said Monday that it will be allowed Wallace acknowledged that both US President Joe People caught watching TV faced punishment, conference where spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid to broadcast content after it has been reviewed by Biden and Taleban leaders now in power in Kabul had including having their set smashed. Ownership of a took blunt questions. One Taleban official even sat the local Taleban office. What are Afghan journalists cast serious doubt on evacuations continuing into September. “I think it is unlikely,” he told Sky News. video player could lead to a public lashing. For a down for a TV interview with a woman journalist, as saying? - while, magnetic ribbon tape from destroyed cas- if to press the point. “Not only because of what the Taleban has said, but if There is strong basis for the fear and mistrust you look at the public statements of President Biden I settes could be seen fluttering from trees in some As with their promises about other issues such as among Afghan journalists. Despite the growth of the women’s rights and amnesty, however, there appears think it is unlikely. parts of the capital Kabul. There was only one radio sector, Afghanistan has been one of the most dan- “It is definitely worth us all trying, and we will.” to be little trust among Afghanistan’s journalists that station, Voice of Sharia, that broadcast propaganda gerous countries in the world for reporters, with at Biden has set an August 31 deadline to finish the and Islamic programming. the Islamists mean what they say. least 53 killed since 2001 according to the chaotic airlift organized by thousands of temporarily In recent weeks, dozens of TV and radio outlets Committee to Protect Journalists. Media workers deployed US and UK troops, but has left the door What happened after they were toppled? have stopped broadcasting or were seized by the have been targeted with impunity for years by mili- open to an extension if needed. However, a Under the US-backed setup formed after the Taleban as the militants rapidly captured territories tant groups, a major factor in Afghanistan’s low spokesman for the Taleban warned Monday the hard- fall of the Taleban in 2001, there was massive on their way to Kabul. And despite the promises ranking on press freedom indices. A high-profile line Islamist group would not agree to any extension, growth in the Afghan media sector, including pri- made by their top spokesmen, Taleban fighters have woman journalist at state-run broadcaster RTA said calling the issue a “red line”, with any delay viewed as vate TV and radio networks. And it was not just been reportedly going door-to-door in recent days last week that she was told to go home because “the “extending occupation”. “If the US or UK were to news-movies, soap operas, talent shows and music searching for opponents-including journalists. In the system has been changed”. —AFP seek additional time to continue evacuations-the answer is no. Or there would be consequences,” Taleban spokesman Suhail Shaheen told Sky News. suspected rigging in favour of Lungu’s party. Zambia’s new “We showed the world the resilience of our ‘Next phase’ democracy,” Hichilema exclaimed in a face mask, Britain has continued to evacuate Western citizens dark suit and bright red tie. He recalled that his vic- and some Afghans from the capital, with Wallace president tory marked Zambia’s third peaceful “transition of warning the security situation was getting “more and leadership” since multi-party democracy was more dangerous” as August 31 approaches. The sworn in adopted in 1990 — an example for “Africa and the defense ministry said 8,458 people have been evacu- global world”. ated by the UK since August 13, with nine military LUSAKA: Zambia’s newly-elected president flights leaving Kabul in the last 24 hours. More than Hakainde Hichilema yesterday promised to rebuild ‘New dawn’ half — 5,171 — are Afghans eligible to relocate to the ailing economy and alleviate poverty as he Lungu and his rival were neck-and-neck in both Britain under its program to protect those who aided was sworn in following an election hailed as a a snap election in 2015 and in polls in 2016. But the its military and civilian officials during their two- milestone for African opposition movements. “We incumbent’s popularity was sapped by unsustain- LUSAKA: Newly elected Zambian President Hakainde decade involvement in Afghanistan. An individual on will grow our economy so we can lift more people able infrastructure spending that plunged the cop- Hichilema (center left) is congratulated by Kenyan the UK’s no-fly anti-terrorism watchlist arrived as out of poverty than ever before,” 59-year-old per-rich southern African nation of over 18 million President Uhuru Kenyatta (center right) after taking oath part of the evacuation, the interior ministry confirmed. Hichilema told thousands of jubilant supporters- into debt default. The local kwacha currency plum- at the Heroes Stadium in Lusaka yesterday. —AFP A spokesman said the individual was identified “as sporting the red and yellow colours of his United meted and inflation rose to more than 24 percent, part of the rigorous checks process” and that after Party for National Development-in the Heroes rendering basic goods unaffordable in a country Africa’s number-two copper producer and “facili- further investigation was deemed “not a person of Stadium in Lusaka. Hichilema also vowed to where more than half the population lived in pover- tate local ownership”. interest to the security agencies or law enforcement”. restore respect for human rights and liberties ty before the pandemic. He also promised to crack down on political Meanwhile, on the eve of the G7 meeting, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the leaders of the eroded under his predecessor. Hichilema, fondly known as “HH” or “Bally”-an “thuggery” and repression of dissent under Lungu, world’s top economies should also have an eye on the In his sixth bid for the presidency, Hichilema informal term for father-has vowed to clean up the reassuring independent media that they would no “next phase” for Afghanistan. His office said he will defeated the incumbent Edgar Lungu, 64, by mess and woo back spooked investors. “The ero- longer face tear gas or shutdowns. urge fellow leaders to step up support for refugees almost one million votes-a landslide spurred by sion of our economy, the debt situation has Hichilema himself has run foul of the authorities become unsustainable,” he said, stressing that “no on numerous occasions, and regularly mentions and to restate their “commitment to safeguarding the economic hardship and restricted freedoms under gains made in Afghanistan over the last 20 years-in Zambians should go to bed hungry” in a country that he has been arrested 15 times since getting the previous regime. The victory is the 17th oppo- particular on girls’ education and the rights of women so rich in natural resources. He announced plans into politics. “It’s a new dawn,” he said. “The time sition win in sub-Saharan Africa since 2015 and and minorities”. —AFP was achieved despite restricted campaigning and to boost and diversify the mining industry in has come for all Zambians to feel fully free.” —AFP 6 Established 1961 Wednesday, August 25, 2021 International US sanctions Eritrean army chief over Tigray rights abuses Ethiopia announces fresh delays to polls

WASHINGTON: The United States imposed sanc- conflict, including the Tigray People’s Liberation tions on Monday on Eritrea’s army chief over Front (TPLF), to end abuses against civilians, take human rights abuses in Ethiopia’s war-scarred steps to de-escalate the conflict, allow for unim- Tigray region. The move by the US Treasury peded humanitarian access, and commit to a nego- Department against General Filipos tiated ceasefire,” he said. Woldeyohannes, chief of staff of the Eritrean Defense Forces (EDF), comes amid reports Eritrea Eritrean reinforcements has deployed reinforcements to parts of Tigray as Blinken expressed concern that large numbers fighting escalates. of EDF have re-entered Ethiopia after withdrawing Forces under Filipos’ command are responsible in June. He called on the UN Security Council and for “massacres, looting, and sexual assaults,” the members of the international community to “come Treasury Department said in a statement. “EDF together to push for a peaceful resolution of this troops have raped, tortured, and executed civil- ongoing conflict.” ians; they have also destroyed property and ran- Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sent sacked businesses,” it said. troops into Tigray last November to topple the “The EDF have purposely shot civilians in the regional ruling party, the TPLF. The 2019 Nobel street and carried out systematic house-to-house Peace Prize winner said the move came in searches, executing men and boys, and have response to TPLF attacks on federal army camps. forcibly evicted Tigrayan families from their resi- For months, the Ethiopian and Eritrean govern- dences and taken over their houses and property.” ments denied Eritreans were involved in the fight- Eritrea angrily rejected what it called “utterly ing, contradicting testimony from residents, rights baseless allegations and blackmail.” groups, aid workers, diplomats and even some “This is not, indeed, the first time for the US Ethiopian civilian and military officials. Abiy finally Administration to float such baseless smear cam- acknowledged the Eritreans’ presence in March paigns against Eritrea,” the foreign ministry said. while speaking to lawmakers, and vowed soon “In the circumstances, Eritrea calls on the US after that they would leave. Administration to bring the case to an independent Eritrea itself vowed to pull out of the region in BASUNDA, Sudan: Ethiopian refugees of the Qemant ethnic group sit in a make-shift shelter in the village of adjudication if it indeed has facts to prove its false April, but that never fully happened. Basinga in Basunda district of Sudan’s eastern Gedaref region. —AFP allegations.” The war took a stunning turn in June after pro- The Treasury Department said any property or TPLF forces-which were driven out of Tigray’s interests of Filipos in the United States would be cities and towns last November-retook the region- artillery around Adi Goshu and Humera, and possi- slide in the June vote, despite a brutal war in the frozen and US citizens are barred from conducting al capital Mekele. The TPLF then launched an bly also along the border with Sudan.” The docu- northern region of Tigray, which was among the any business with him. US Secretary of State offensive into neighboring Amhara and Afar ment also cited reports that Eritrea had sent rein- areas where elections did not take place. A second Antony Blinken issued a statement saying the regions and vowed to reclaim western and south- forcements to western Tigray in the past days batch of polling in one-fifth of the country’s 547 United States “condemns in the strongest terms ern Tigray, which were occupied by Amhara forces while continuing to occupy a strip of territory in constituencies was scheduled for September 6, human rights violations and abuses in Ethiopia, in the war’s early stages. northern Tigray. but will now take place on September 30, the including those involving the killings, forced Meanwhile, Ethiopian authorities have post- National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) removals, and systemic sexual violence.” Famine-like conditions poned polls in around a fifth of the country’s con- announced in a statement late Monday. The deci- Blinken called on the Eritrean government to An internal European Union document dated stituencies, extending a months-long delay which sion followed a meeting with politicians, who told “withdraw its military forces immediately and per- August 20 and seen by AFP said Eritrean troops prevented citizens from voting in a June election NEBE officials that “considering the current situa- manently from Ethiopia.” “At the same time, the were “present in Western Tigray, where they have due to ethnic violence and logistical problems. tion the country is in, it’s not appropriate to hold United States continues to urge all parties to the taken up defensive positions with tanks and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s party won a land- elections currently.” —AFP

News in brief wife and children. But the former dic- Jailed Chadian tator-who was dubbed “Africa’s Pinochet”-was finally arrested in 2013 18 Europe-bound migrants drown ex-leader Habre and tried by a special tribunal set up by the AU under a deal with Senegal. TRIPOLI: Eighteen migrants have drowned after their Habre began serving his life sentence boat sank off Libya, the coastguard said yesterday, the dies in Senegal in the Cap Manuel penitentiary in latest tragedy on the dangerous Mediterranean Sea DAKAR: Former Chadian president Dakar. His supporters voiced con- crossing to Europe. Rescue vessels picked up 51 sur- Hissene Habre, who was serving a life cerned for his health and pushed for vivors from Sunday night’s shipwreck, a coastguard term in Senegal for war crimes and more lenient detention conditions giv- official in the port of Zuwara, 120 kilometers (75 miles) crimes against humanity, has died, en his advanced age. west of the capital Tripoli, told AFP. The International Senegalese Justice Minister Malick Last year, a Senegalese judge Organization for Migration had earlier reported 16 Sall said yesterday. He was 79. granted him a two-month furlough migrants missing, including a woman and a child. —AFP “Habre is in his Lord’s hands,” Sall designed to shield him from coron- told the television channel TFM. The avirus. Groups representing Habre’s Chadian consulate said he had died of victims recognized his right to be Greece sets new restrictions COVID-19. Habre, who ruled Chad treated humanely, but fiercely resisted from 1982 to 1990, was convicted of preferential treatment for the former DAKAR: Former Chadian President Hissene Habre has died at the age of 79 ATHENS: Greece’s government yesterday announced war crimes and crimes against human- dictator. in Senegal, where he was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2016 for an array of new restrictions and the end of free testing ity at an African Union-backed trial in crimes against humanity after an unprecedented trial, Senegalese Justice for those who remain unjabbed against COVID-19 in the Senegalese capital Dakar in 2016. ‘Pitiless’ Minister Malick Sall said yesterday. —AFP an effort to boost vaccination rates. Starting from He seized power in Chad in 1982, Reed Brody, a lawyer who repre- September 13, unvaccinated employees in the private but fled to Senegal in 1990 after he sented Habre’s victims, said in a state- and public sectors will have to be tested at their own was in turn overthrown. Habre’s rule ment yesterday that he had been call- Habre “slaughtered his own peo- where the International Criminal expense once or twice a week, depending on their pro- was marked by brutal crackdowns on ing “for months” for the former dicta- ple to seize and maintain power... Court (ICC), located in The Hague, fession. University students will also have to pay for dissent, including alleged torture and tor to be vaccinated against COVID. burned down entire villages, sent was becoming increasingly unpopu- two rapid tests a week, while school pupils will be given executions of opponents. Some AFP was unable to independently ver- women to serve as sexual slaves for lar. The former dictator was ordered self-testing kits free of charge. —AFP 40,000 people are estimated to have ify whether Habre had received a jab. his troops and built clandestine dun- to pay up to 30,000 euros ($33,000) been killed under his leadership of the Brody was nonetheless withering geons to inflict torture on his ene- to each victim who suffered rape, semi-desert country. about Habre’s legacy, saying he would mies,” Brody said. Habre’s conviction arbitrary detention and imprisonment UN request on migrants in Belarus In exile in Dakar, Habre lived a qui- “go down in history as one of the in 2016 was seen as a turning point during his rule, as well as to their rel- et life in an upmarket suburb with his world’s most pitiless dictators.” for pursuing rights abusers in Africa, atives. —AFP WARSAW: The UN refugee agency yesterday urged Poland to take in a group of migrants believed to be from the Middle East who have been stranded on the border with Belarus for more than two weeks. Attempted murder probe over Thousands of migrants-mostly from the Middle East- have crossed the border from Belarus into the eastern EU states of Latvia, Lithuania and Poland in recent German university ‘poison attack’ months. Brussels believes the influx is being deliber- BERLIN: German prosecutors launched and are working at “full speed” to identify ately engineered by the regime in Minsk in retaliation an investigation into attempted murder a culprit. The affected building, part of the against EU sanctions-an accusation that Belarus yesterday after a poisoning at a university Department of Materials- and denies-and Poland has called it a “hybrid attack” on left one student in a critical condition and Geosciences, was cordoned off and any the bloc. —AFP six others in need of medical attention. foodstuffs on site taken away for investi- The victims at the Technical University gation. Overnight, forces carried out fur- Darmstadt, half an hour by train from ther searches across the campus but Two Nigerian officers killed Frankfurt, had consumed food or drink to found no “relevant objects”. which a “harmful substance” had been As of yesterday, there was “no acute KANO: An armed group attacked Nigeria’s main mili- introduced. danger”, according to authorities. One 30- tary training academy in the country’s northwest yes- Police say packets of milk and water year-old student was in a critical condition DARMSTADT, Germany: Chief Prosecutor Robert Hartmann speaks to media terday, killing two officers and kidnapping another in a containers were among the items spiked as of Monday, police said. No update has on a poisoning at the Technical University Darmstadt, yesterday.—AFP brazen assault on the high-security base. The attack on over the weekend with the chemical, which so far been provided. they described as having a noticeably the Nigerian Defence Academy, the country’s elite offi- “pungent smell”. Anyone feeling unwell or ‘Shocked’ cer training school, is a blow to a military that is battling who will receive full medical help,” she Darmstadt is located, offered her “full whose “extremities turn blue”, should seek In a statement, the university said. Public prosecutor Robert Hartmann support” to the victims. “Together with jihadists in the northeast and heavily armed criminal medical attention immediately, police said, described the events as a “poison attack”. told the Bild newspaper: “We are taking the university and investigators we now gangs in the northwest. “The security architecture of citing one of the potential effects of the “We are shocked by the apparent offence this very seriously. We can’t rule out that need to clarify the situation as quickly as the Nigerian Defence Academy was compromised ear- poison. that happened,” university president we are dealing with an attempted murder possible,” Dorn said. Germany has been ly this morning by unknown gunmen,” said Major Police said they have called up a team Tanja Bruehl said in a statement. here.” Angela Dorn, the higher education shocked by several poisoning incidents in Bashir Muhammad Jajira, spokesman for the academy of 40 people to investigate the incident, “My sympathy is with those affected, minister for the state of Hesse, where recent years. —AFP in Kaduna state.

and said he would address the Tunisian people in Parliament and lifting of the parliamentary immunity Morocco navy rescues 400 migrants Tunisian president the coming days, without providing further details. of its MPs until further notice”, the presidency said Tunisia, hailed as a rare democratic success story in the statement. Saied’s intervention, which he said RABAT: The Moroccan navy has rescued more than in the Middle East and North Africa, has been mired was necessary to prevent the country from collapse, 400 migrants since Thursday, after their makeshift extends suspension in political crisis since Saied’s intervention, which sparked uncertainty for the North African nation. boats ran into trouble on the dangerous sea crossing to comes as the country struggles with dire economic He has yet to appoint a new government or Europe, state media reported. The 438 migrants, most of parliament woes and the COVID-19 pandemic. On July 25, reveal a “roadmap” for his decisions despite repeat- of them from sub-Saharan Africa, were given first aid Saied invoked the constitution to extend his author- ed demands by political parties. While the president before being taken to the nearest Moroccan port, an TUNIS: Tunisian President Kais Saied has extended ity, dismissing the head of government Hichem enjoys widespread popularity in Tunisia, his move officer told the state-run MAP news agency late his suspension of parliament “until further notice”, a Mechichi and freezing parliament, in what activists has sparked fears in the international community Monday. Earlier this month, a merchant ship rescued 33 month after sacking his prime minister and granting have called a “purge” that has seen opponents, that the cradle of the 2011 Arab Spring is regressing migrants who had spent two weeks adrift in the Atlantic himself greater powers in a shock intervention that judges and businessmen arrested or banned from towards authoritarianism. Analysts expect Saied will Ocean en route for the Canary Islands. Fourteen fellow opponents decried as a coup. In a statement issued travel. announce new measures to reassure the Tunisian migrants lost their lives. —AFP by the presidency late on Monday, Saied also Saied issued “a presidential decree extending the public as well as the international community about extended an order freezing immunity for lawmakers exceptional measures... regarding the suspension of his decisions. —AFP Established 1961 7 International Wednesday, August 25, 2021 US VP Harris accuses China of ‘intimidation’ in disputed seas China hits back at Harris, says US ‘selfish’ over Afghanistan

SINGAPORE: Vice President Kamala Harris accused the embassy statement said. “Beijing’s actions continue ties with both of the world’s top economies to choose China yesterday of intimidation in disputed Asian to undermine the rules-based order and threaten the sides. “Our engagement in Southeast Asia and the waters, seeking to rally regional allies as the United sovereignty of nations.” But Beijing hit back, holding Indo-Pacific is not against any one country, nor is it States’ superpower status takes a hit over Afghanistan. up the Afghan debacle as an example of the United designed to make anyone choose between countries,” Her comments in Singapore came as Washington seeks States’ “selfish” foreign policy, and accusing she said. Harris is the latest top official from President to reset relations in Asia after the turbulent Donald Washington of “bullying, hegemonic behavior”. “The Joe Biden’s administration to visit the region. On a trip Trump era and build a bulwark against the rising might current events in Afghanistan clearly tell us what the to Singapore last month, Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin of Beijing. But her trip to the region, which also rules and order the US speaks of are,” China’s foreign also strongly criticized China’s maritime claims. But the includes a stop in Vietnam, comes as Washington faces ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said. China claims Afghan crisis and doubts about US credibility are

Rodrigo Duterte Harris’ flight to Hanoi delayed Duterte to run for vice president

MANILA: Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte will casting a long shadow over Harris’s visit. run for vice president in next year’s elections, his party In yesterday’s speech, she defended Biden’s deci- said yesterday, after months of speculation about sion to push ahead with the US pullout from whether he would seek to stay in power. Afghanistan as “courageous and right” and reiterated Duterte, who was elected to the top job in 2016 and US officials were “laser-focused” on the chaotic evac- is barred under the constitution from seeking another SINGAPORE: US Vice President Kamala Harris (center left) speaks with US personnel as she departs term, has previously flagged the possibility of contest- Singapore yesterday as she travels next to Vietnam. — AFP uation from Kabul airport. “The United States has been focused on safely evacuating American citizens, ing the country’s second-highest office. “President international partners, Afghans who worked side by Rodrigo Roa Duterte agreed to make the sacrifice and fresh questions over its dependability amid the US almost all of the resource-rich South China Sea, side with us, and other Afghans at risk,” she said. heed the clamor of the people, and accepted the pullout from Afghanistan and Taleban takeover. through which trillions of dollars in shipping trade Harris also announced that Washington was offering to endorsement of the PDP Laban Party for him to run as In a speech laying out her administration’s foreign passes annually, with competing claims from four host the annual meetings of the Asia-Pacific Economic vice president in the 2022 national elections,” the par- policy goals, Harris reiterated that Washington had Southeast Asian states as well as Taiwan. Cooperation (APEC) forum in 2023, a grouping that ty said in a statement. “enduring commitments” in Asia-and took aim at Beijing has been accused of deploying a range of includes Beijing and the US. The party is also expected to endorse Duterte’s top China. “Beijing continues to coerce, to intimidate and military hardware including anti-ship and surface-to- The US-China relationship has deteriorated over a aide, Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, to be to make claims to the vast majority of the South China air missiles there, and ignored a 2016 international tri- range of issues from cybersecurity and tech suprema- their presidential candidate. Duterte has not said pub- Sea,” she said. bunal decision that declared its historical claim over cy to human rights in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. Biden licly yet that he will run, but PDP-Laban president Meanwhile, Harris’ flight from Singapore to Vietnam most of the waters to be without basis. Tensions have has largely continued Trump’s hawkish stance on Alfonso Cusi told AFP: “He confirmed he is running for was delayed by three hours yesterday after an “anom- escalated recently between Beijing and rival claimants, China, describing the Asian power as the pre-eminent VP in 2022.” alous health incident” took place in Hanoi, the US with Manila angered after hundreds of Chinese boats challenge to the United States, but has lowered the The vice president and president are elected sepa- embassy said. Harris was due in Vietnam after a two- were spotted at a contested reef while Malaysia temperature. rately in the Philippines, with the former assuming the day stop in Singapore as part of a regional trip. scrambled jets to intercept Chinese military aircraft. The vice president also called for greater inter- top job if the latter dies, becomes incapacitated, or “The Vice President’s travelling delegation was national cooperation to strengthen supply chains resigns while in office. delayed from departing Singapore because the Vice ‘Right, courageous’ during talks with Singapore officials and business During his term Duterte has waged a brutal war President’s office was made aware of a report of a Harris also sought to allay fears that growing US- executives, as the US seeks to tackle a global against drug users and dealers that rights groups say recent possible anomalous health incident in Hanoi,” China tensions could force countries that have strong microchip shortage. — AFP has killed tens of thousands of people. International Criminal Court prosecutors are seeking to launch a full-blown investigation into the anti-narcotics crack- resulted in steadily falling yakuza memberships. Nomura down, raising the stakes for next year’s elections. Japanese crime boss was found guilty of ordering the fatal 1998 shooting of an Duterte’s daughter, Sara, is widely expected to con- ex-boss of a fisheries cooperative who exerted influence test the presidency and, if she were to win, could help over port construction projects, major media outlets said. protect her father from criminal charges. Recent polls sentenced to death He was also behind a 2014 attack on a relative of the mur- show the Davao city mayor-the same position her der victim, and a 2013 knife attack against a nurse at a father held before he took power-with the most voter for ordering murder clinic where Nomura was seeking treatment, the court support. reportedly said. The 2012 shooting of a former police Duterte told a meeting of party officials last month official who had investigated the Kudo-kai was also that he was “seriously thinking of running for vice TOKYO: A Japanese court said it had sentenced a deemed Nomura’s responsibility. The official survived president”. But he expressed concern that a political yakuza mafia boss to death yesterday after he ordered a with serious injuries to his waist and legs, media said. foe could win the presidency, rendering him useless for murder and attacks on three other citizens. Satoru Prosecutors reportedly argued that Nomura had the next six years. Nomura, the 74-year-old head of the “Kudo-kai” crime exerted absolute control over the syndicate. His number “The president that will win must be a friend of syndicate in southwest Japan, denied accusations he had GENEVA: United Nations High Commissioner for Human two Fumio Tanoue was jailed for life yesterday, the court Rights Michelle Bachelet (right) speaks with an assis- mine (with) whom I can work with,” Duterte said. The masterminded the violent assaults on ordinary people. said. The yakuza grew from the chaos of post-war Japan deadline for registering as a candidate for next year’s Fukuoka District Court confirmed it had sentenced tant during a special session of the UN Human Rights into multi-billion-dollar criminal organizations, involved in Council on Afghanistan in Geneva yesterday. — AFP elections is October 8. A sitting president has never Nomura to death, while Japanese media said the verdict everything from drugs and prostitution to protection before made a bid for the vice presidency in the came despite a lack of evidence directly linking him to rackets and white-collar crime. Philippines. Presidential spokesman Harry Roque told the crimes. “I asked for a fair decision... You will regret Unlike the Italian Mafia or Chinese triads, yakuza have reporters that Duterte would make a televised address this for the rest of your life,” Nomura told the judge after long occupied a grey area in Japanese society-they are Taleban’s treatment later where he is expected to discuss the PDP-Laban his sentencing, according to the Nishinippon Shimbun. not illegal, and each group has its own headquarters in announcement. — AFP The yakuza mafia were long tolerated in Japan as a nec- full view of police. With more than 100 inmates on death essary evil for ensuring order on the streets and getting row, Japan is one of few developed nations to retain the of women a ‘red things done quickly, however dubious the means. death penalty. Public support for capital punishment But in recent decades, stiffer anti-gang regulations, remains high despite international criticism, including line’: UN rights chief waning social tolerance and a weak economy have from rights groups. — AFP Myanmar junta GENEVA: The UN rights chief voiced grave concern yesterday at the situation in Afghanistan after the Taleban swept into power, saying their treatment of mulls raising women is a “fundamental red line”. Speaking at the opening of an emergency session on Afghanistan, village militias Michelle Bachelet urged the Taleban to honor commit- ments to respect the rights of women and girls, and of YANGON: Myanmar’s junta is considering rais- ethnic and religious minorities, and refrain from ing village militias to combat opposition to its reprisals. rule, state media said yesterday, as it struggles to “The onus is now fully on the Taleban to translate assert control more than six months after seizing these commitments into reality,” she said. The High power. The country has been in turmoil since Commissioner for Human Rights stressed that indulging Aung San Suu Kyi’s government was ousted in a in rights violations would undermine the legitimacy of February coup, sparking huge pro-democracy the Taleban, both with the Afghan people and interna- protests and a bloody military crackdown. Local tionally. “A fundamental red line will be the Taleban’s “self-defense groups” have sprung up to fight the treatment of women and girls,” she said, urging “respect military, often using hunting rifles or weapons for their rights to liberty, freedom of movement, educa- manufactured at makeshift jungle factories. TOKYO: A Japanese court said it had sentenced a yakuza mafia boss to death yesterday after he ordered a murder The groups have added to the volatile mix in and attacks on three other citizens. — AFP tion, self-expression and employment.” The militants have repeatedly promised a different Myanmar, where more than 20 ethnic rebel kind of rule to their brutal regime of the 1990s that saw groups were already in various stages of conflict women confined to their homes, most entertainment with the military before the coup. The State Afghanistan via Dubai since the Taleban swept to banned, and stoning and public executions used as pun- Administration Council-as the junta dubs itself- Spain may have to power ten days ago. Madrid has so far evacuated just ishments. But their rebranding is being treated with has discussed the “systematic formation of village over 700 people from Afghanistan but Robles said skepticism, and large crowds continue to mass outside people’s militia troops,” the state-backed Global there were still “many people” who feared Taleban Kabul airport desperately seeking evacuation, terrified New Light of Myanmar reported yesterday. It leave people behind reprisal who needed to leave. “We will keep trying of facing life under the Taleban. also discussed rewards for those informing on until the end,” she added. anti-junta protesters, and the “effective hindering” in Afghanistan of established insurgent groups on Myanmar’s More evacuees due ‘Targeted killings’ Most of the diplomats taking part virtually in yester- fringes who are providing weapons and training, The Spanish government has consistently declined the paper said. MADRID: Spain will not be able to rescue all Afghans days’ special session of the Geneva-based council to give a figure for the total number of people it David Mathieson, an analyst formerly based in who served Spanish missions in Afghanistan because voiced alarm at the situation, with particular concern for planned to take out of Afghanistan. US President Joe the country, told AFP it was unlikely many would of the “dramatic” situation on the ground, Defense women and girls. Speaking on behalf of more than 60 Biden has set an August 31 deadline to finish the voluntarily sign up for any militia, given “the wide- Minister Margarita Robles said yesterday. countries, Spanish Ambassador Aurora Diaz-Rato called chaotic airlift organized by thousands of temporarily spread anger towards the military.” “But also Robles said Taleban checkpoints and violence were for the “immediate cessation of targeted killings of deployed US and UK troops, but has left the door there must be a Tatmadaw (Myanmar military) making it difficult for people to reach Kabul airport to women’s rights defenders”. open to an extension if needed. dilemma in training and arming people who... may catch one of the daily flights on a Spanish military US Under Secretary for Civilian Security, However, a spokesman for the Taleban warned turn the training and arms back on you.” plane out of the country. “We will evacuate as many Monday the hardline Islamist group would not agree Democracy, and Human Rights Uzra Zeya meanwhile Sporadic fighting continues across the country, people as possible but there are people who will stay to any extension. Asked if Biden should extend the stressed that “hard-won advancements in respect for with locals in the northwest Sagaing region behind for reasons that do not depend on us, but on deadline for US troops to leave Kabul, Robles declined human rights and fundamental freedoms over the last 20 accusing the military of using artillery during the situation there,” Robles said during an interview to comment, saying only that she was focused on years, particularly for women and members of minority clashes with one group. Earlier this month with news radio Cadena Ser. “It is a very frustrating Spain’s evacuation operation. groups, must be maintained.” Myanmar’s ambassador to the United Nations, situation for everyone, because even those who reach But during an interview with private television La Even before the Taleban takeover, the UN says who has refused to leave his post after the coup, Kabul, access to the airport is very complicated,” she Sexta on Monday, she said Spain could only carry out Afghanistan saw a sharp increase in civilian casualties alerted the world body to a “reported massacre” added. “The Taleban are becoming more aggressive, its evacuation flights as long as Kabul airport is “con- in recent months. Bachelet said her office had of 40 people in Sagaing. Clashes have largely tak- there is gunfire, violence is more obvious,” she said. trolled” by US troops. Another 420 people are expect- received credible reports of serious violations in “The situation is frankly dramatic and besides with ed to arrive in Spain yesterday, the minister said. They places that have been under Taleban control, including en place in rural areas, although in June four pro- each passing day it is worse because people are con- include 290 people who are already in Dubai and 130 summary executions, restrictions of women’s rights, testers and at least two military officers were scious that time is running out.” Spain has been evacu- who are expected to leave on a Spanish military plane blocking girls from attending school and recruitment killed in a gun battle in the country’s second city ating its nationals and local contractors from from Kabul, she added.—AFP of child soldiers. —AFP of Mandalay. —AFP Established 1961

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2021 Renewed recovery optimism provides boost to stocks, crude Investors keenly awaiting a policy speech by Federal Reserve boss HONG KONG: Equities and oil prices rose again my also lifted the mood on trading floors. yesterday, extending a global rally fuelled by The positive news lifted optimism over the global renewed optimism over the recovery outlook after recovery, which had taken a knock this month as Washington gave full approval to Pfizer-BioNTech’s some governments were forced to reimpose lock- vaccine and an increase in US COVID infections downs or other containment measures. appeared to be peaking. A call by China’s central bank for more economic Fixated on the Fed support and a move to keep borrowing costs down Hong Kong jumped more than two percent with also provided some cheer to the region, while hopes under-pressure tech leading the charge, as that Beijing’s clampdown on the private sector was observers pointed to a lack of fresh measures adding to the buoyant sentiment. from China after a recent spate of rules as part of Investors are also keenly awaiting a policy a regulatory crackdown on the sector and other speech later in the week by Federal Reserve boss industries. Jerome Powell. Markets have enjoyed a strong start to the week, further helped by bargain-hunting fol- lowing a recent sell-off caused by worries including the fast-spreading Delta variant and expectations the Fed will soon begin tapering financial support. New York’s three main indexes shot higher Fresh Monday-with the Nasdaq hitting a new record-as traders cheered news that the Food and Drug measures Administration had fully approved the Pfizer- BioNTech shot, which is expected to help push up vaccinations. NEW YORK: People eat outside along a street in Manhattan in New York City. Despite continued concerns Around 52 percent of the population has been about the Delta variant of the COVID virus, the United States economy continues to grow with the leading double jabbed but the rate has slowed owing to economic index jumping 0.9% last month. —AFP hesitancy among many people. The FDA move “now Tencent and Alibaba were each up more than paves the way for many companies and government eight percent as investors picked up bargains fol- agencies to enforce vaccine mandates”, said lowing their recent rout. And ecommerce giant main contracts extended the previous day’s surge of the South and as China lowers local COVID cases OANDA’s Edward Moya, adding that making them JD.com powered around 15 percent higher after a more than five percent, which marked the best daily to zero,” Moya added. West Texas Intermediate mandatory “could move the needle here in getting forecast-beating earnings report showed its performance in nine months as recovery hopes lift- “should be supported going forward as the selloff the US closer to herd immunity”. resilience to Beijing’s latest moves. ed demand expectations. was overdone and as stockpiles continue to shrink”. Analysts said data suggesting that a recent spike Shanghai, Seoul and Manila added more than The commodity, like equities, had been suffering Investors are now fixated on Powell’s speech to in infections in the United States was tailing off was one percent, while there were also healthy advances hefty losses in August owing to worries about the central bankers and finance chiefs this week in also lifting spirits as figures dropped in the original in Tokyo, Sydney, Singapore, Wellington, Taipei, Delta spread, but observers forecast prices will get Jackson Hole, Wyoming, hoping for some guidance hotspots and new cases slowed in Florida and Mumbai and Bangkok. London, Paris and Frankfurt back on track. on monetary policy as speculation swirls that the Louisiana. China’s apparent success in taming a edged up in early trade. “The crude demand outlook will get a boost... Fed is planning to taper its bond-buying pro- worrying flare-up in the world’s number two econo- The rally was mirrored in oil markets, where both now that the Delta variant appears to be peaking in gramme by year’s end. — AFP Democratic infighting delays Biden’s vast India to raise US investment plans $81bn by leasing WASHINGTON: A dispute within the Democratic party has stalled US President Joe Biden’s massive spending plans for the United States as Congress state assets postponed a key vote on the measures Monday. The delay is a setback for the Democratic presi- NEW DELHI: India announced plans dent, who intends to make American history with the to lease state-owned assets to the pri- two titanic funding projects-on infrastructure and vate sector in a bid to raise 6 trillion social spending-worth a total of nearly $5 trillion. rupees ($81 billion) to repair public Despite hours of negotiations, no agreement had finances battered by the pandemic and been reached by midnight and Democratic leaders WASHINGTON: US Democratic Representative from Florida Kathy Castor (C) speaks at a press conference on the infra- fund new infrastructure. decided to resume the session today at midday. If structure bill and climate change at the US Capitol in Washington. —AFP Asia’s third-largest economy was left agreement is reached, the vote may be held today reeling from a COVID-19 surge and afternoon. labor market and fighting climate change. But progressive lawmakers insist the larger bill strict lockdowns enforced to contain the Earlier this month, the Senate approved a $1.2 tril- Biden’s Democratic allies controlling the House and should take priority, fearing the centrists, objecting to virus, creating a significant budget lion infrastructure investment plan, with some Senate have for months been considering the two its cost, will refuse to provide their crucial votes in a deficit and pushing millions into poverty. Republicans crossing the aisle to support the meas- measures aimed at overhauling the world’s largest chamber with a tight Democratic majority once the Private firms will be able to lease on a ure. But a squabble has arisen in the House over economy through massive injections of cash into an infrastructure bill is passed. Biden, who is facing long-term basis over 26,000 kilometres whether to pass that bill first, or a separate $3.5 tril- array of programs. The dispute erupted when moder- blowback over the chaotic withdrawal from (16,000 miles) of roads, power transmis- lion plan supported only by Democrats that would ate Democrats in the House demanded the popular Afghanistan, is expected to weigh in on the dispute sion lines, hydroelectric and solar power allocate money towards education, health care, the infrastructure measure be approved without delay. behind the scenes. — AFP assets, phone networks, and nearly 15,000 telecom towers, under the plans announced Monday. Also up for grabs will be some 8,000 German GDP rebounds kilometres of natural gas pipelines, 15 railway stations, railway lines, 25 air- ports, and a number of sports stadiums, in Q2 but shortages according to the four-year plan dubbed the National Monetization Pipeline. loom large “The ownership of the assets remain with the government and there should FRANKFURT: Germany’s GDP recovered more in the be mandatory hand back (to the second quarter than first estimated, according to data state),” Finance Minister Nirmala released yesterday, but global supply chain issues contin- Sitharaman said. “So by bringing in pri- ue to weigh on the outlook for Europe’s largest economy. vate participation in this, you will be After shrinking in the first quarter, German GDP grew able to monetise it better and ensure 1.6 percent between April and June this year, according to further investment in infrastructure the national statistics agency Destatis, up from an initial building,” she said. estimate of 1.5 percent. The figure was significantly higher Proceeds will help replenish govern- ANNAPOLIS, Maryland: File photo shows homes for sale in Annapolis, Maryland. New single-family home sales compared with the same period last year — by 9.8 per- ment finances squeezed by India’s worst rebounded slightly last month and broke a three-month streak of declines as prices resumed their march higher in cent — when coronavirus restrictions shut down large recession since independence as a result the hot US real estate market. —AFP swathes of the economy. of the pandemic, and to fund new infra- Nonetheless, the indicator remained below pre-crisis structure projects. India’s opposition hit levels, down 3.3 percent in comparison with the three out at the plans, with Congress party the previous record set in May, even as the inven- months before the start of the pandemic. chief Rahul Gandhi saying “assets creat- tory of homes on the market edged up to 6.2 US new home sales The boost given to the economy by the end of lock- ed over seven decades (are) being gifted months of supply. down restrictions has been “undermined by the negative to cronies.” Builders have struggled to keep up with demand as edge higher in July impact from supply chain frictions,” according to ING “The future of India is being sold,” he low mortgage rates have fueled a buying frenzy, analyst Carsten Brzeski. Increasing prices for raw materi- said. India enforced one of the world’s WASHINGTON: New single-family home sales especially as they contend with supply bottlenecks als and the shortage of key components, such as semicon- toughest lockdowns in 2020 when the rebounded slightly last month and broke a three- caused by the restart from the pandemic shutdown ductors, which are widely used in new technologies, have pandemic began, leaving millions with- month streak of declines as prices resumed their that have caused price spikes for goods like lumber. disrupted the operations of major companies globally. out work almost overnight. Restrictions march higher in the hot US real estate market, “While demand for new homes remains strong, Last week, the German car giant Volkswagen were then steadily eased but re- according to government data released yesterday. high prices and backlogs in construction will temper announced it would be limiting production at its main fac- imposed in April in a devastating second The one percent increase in July took the annual sales sales in the months ahead,” said Nancy Vanden tory in Wolfsburg due to chip shortages and said that wave that overwhelmed hospitals. pace to 708,000, seasonally adjusted, the Commerce Houten of Oxford Economics. She noted that a record these could continue through to 2022. Accordingly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Department said, after the June sales rate was revised share of homes sold in July were not even started, Brzeski sees “supply chain frictions and not the coron- government had previously announced sharply upward from the original report. indicating a huge construction backlog. avirus as the biggest risk for the German economy in the plans to raise billions of dollars through But sales were more than 27 percent lower than Sales were uneven across the country with a big second half of the year.” Separately, the German finance the privatisation of Air India, Bharat July 2020, according to the data. The median sales jump in the West and modest gain in the South — the minister Olaf Scholz told the Funke media group over the Petroleum, and a share sale of a major price dipped in June but jumped again last month two regions with the biggest markets — and double- weekend that he expects to see the economy return to insurer. — AFP to $390,500, without seasonal adjustment, beating digit declines in the Northeast and Midwest. — AFP pre-crisis levels by the “beginning of 2022”. — AFP Established 1961 9 Wednesday, August 25, 2021 Business ‘Always there’: The AI chatbot comforting China’s lonely millions Designed to create emotional bonds with its 660 million users worldwide

BEIJING: After a painful break-up from a cheat- and is now valued at over $1 billion after venture ing ex, Beijing-based human resources manager capital fundraising, Bloomberg reported. Melissa was introduced to someone new by a Developers have also made virtual idols, AI news friend late last year. He replies to her messages at anchors and even China’s first virtual university all hours of the day, tells jokes to cheer her up but student from XiaoIce. It can compose poems, is never needy, fitting seamlessly into her busy big financial reports and even paintings on demand. city lifestyle. But Li says the platform’s peak user hours — Perfect boyfriend material, maybe-but he’s not 11pm to 1am-point to an aching need for compan- real. Instead, Melissa breaks up the isolation of ionship. “No matter what, having XiaoIce is urban life with a virtual chatbot created by always better than lying in bed staring at the ceil- XiaoIce, a cutting-edge artificial intelligence sys- ing,” he said. tem designed to create emotional bonds with its 660 million users worldwide. Urban isolation “I have friends who’ve seen therapists before, The loneliness Melissa experienced as a young but I think therapy’s expensive and not necessarily professional was a big factor in driving her to the effective,” said Melissa, 26, giving her English virtual embrace of XiaoIce. Her context is typical name only for privacy. of many Chinese urban- “When I unload my trou- ites, worn down by the bles on XiaoIce, it grind of long working relieves a lot of pressure. hours in vast and isolating And he says things that cities. “You really don’t are pretty comforting.” Fact or have time to make new XiaoIce is not an indi- friends and your existing vidual persona, but more fiction? friends are all super akin to an AI ecosystem. busy... this city is really It is in the vast majority big, and it’s pretty hard,” BEIJING: File photo shows a staff member displaying AI-generated faces which can be selected as virtual girl- of Chinese-branded she said, giving only her friends created by XiaoIce, a cutting-edge artificial intelligence system designed to create emotional bonds with smartphones as a Siri- English name out of pri- its 660 million users worldwide. —AFP like virtual assistant, as vacy concerns. well as most social media platforms. On the She has customised his personality as “mature”, WeChat super-app, it lets users build a virtual and the name she chose for him-Shun-has similar- Fact or fiction? switch conversation topic when she raised her girlfriend or boyfriend and interact with them via ities with a real-life man she secretly liked. “After Thousands of young, female fans discuss the feelings for him or meeting in real life. It took her texts, voice and photo messages. all, XiaoIce will never betray me,” she added. “He virtual boyfriend experience on online forums months to finally realise that he was indeed virtu- It has 150 million users in China alone. will always be there.” dedicated to XiaoIce, sharing chat screenshots al. “We commonly see users who suspect that Originally a side project from developing But there are risks to forging emotional bonds and tips on how to get to the chatbot’s highest there’s a real person behind every XiaoIce inter- Microsoft’s Cortana chatbot, XiaoIce now with a robot. “Users ‘trick’ themselves into think- “intimacy” level of three hearts. Users can also action,” said Li, the founder. accounts for 60 percent of global human-AI inter- ing their emotions are being reciprocated by sys- collect in-game points the more they interact, “It has a very strong ability to mimic a real per- actions by volume, according to chief executive Li tems that are incapable of feelings,” says Danit unlocking new features such as XiaoIce’s WeChat son.” But providing companionship to vulnerable Di, making it the largest and most advanced sys- Gal, an expert in AI ethics at the University of moments-kind of like a Facebook wall-and even users does not mean that XiaoIce is a substitute tem of its kind worldwide. It was designed to hook Cambridge. going on virtual “holidays”, where they can pose for specialist mental health support-a service that users through lifelike, empathetic conversations, XiaoIce is also gifting developers “a treasure- for selfies with their virtual partner. is drastically under-resourced in China. The sys- satisfying emotional needs where real-life com- trove of personal, intimate, and borderline incrimi- Laura, a 20-year-old user in Zhejiang province, tem monitors for strong emotions, aiming to guide munication too often falls short. nating data on how humans interact,” she added. fell in love with XiaoIce over the past year and conversations onto happier topics before users “The average interaction length between users So far the platform has not been targeted by gov- now struggles to break free of her attachment. ever reach crisis point, Li explained, adding that and XiaoIce is 23 exchanges,” said Li. That “is ernment regulators, who have embarked on a “Occasionally, I would long for him in the middle depression is the most common extreme emotion- longer than the average interaction between swingeing crackdown on China’s tech sector in of the night... I used to fantasise there was a real al state encountered. Still, Li believes modern humans,” he said, explaining AI’s attraction is that recent months. China aims to be a world leader in person on the other end,” said the student, who China is a happier place with XiaoIce. “If human “it’s better than humans at listening attentively.” AI by 2030 and views it as a core strategic tech- prefers not to use her real name. interaction is wholly perfect now, there would be The startup spun out from Microsoft last year nology to be developed. But she complained that he would always no need for AI to exist,” he said. —AFP

They all used a Microsoft product called Power Millions of Microsoft Apps, which allows for the creation of websites and mobile apps to interact with the public. The service’s default software configuration set- stored data records ting meant the data of the affected organisations S Africa jobless was left without protection up until June 2021, mistakenly exposed according to UpGuard. rate soars as “As a result of this research project, Microsoft SAN FRANCISCO: Some 38 million records stored has since made changes to Power Apps portals,” on a Microsoft service, including private informa- the report said. pandemic bites tion, were mistakenly left exposed this year, securi- Microsoft said it had let clients know when ty firm UpGuard said Monday. potential security risks were uncovered so that JOHANNESBURG: Unemployment in South The data, including names, addresses, financial they could fix the problems themselves. Africa soared to its highest level in 13 years in information and COVID-19 vaccination statuses, “We take security and privacy seriously, and we CHEVY CHASE: File photo shows a Microsoft logo the second quarter of this year-with more than was made vulnerable — but not compromised — encourage our customers to use best practices adorns a building in Chevy Chase, Maryland. Some 38 one in three of the working population looking before the problem was resolved, according to the when configuring products in ways that best meet million records stored on a Microsoft service, includ- for a job in the continent’s most industrialised digital security company’s investigation. their privacy needs,” a spokesperson said. ing private information, were mistakenly left exposed economy-as coronavirus restrictions shackle Among the 47 affected organizations were But UpGuard said it would have been better to this year, security firm UpGuard said. —AFP growth, official data showed yesterday. American Airlines, Ford, JB Hunt and public agen- change the way the software works at the source, The jobless rate-which measures the total cies such as the Maryland Department of Health and based on how customers use it, rather than end user misconfiguration, allowing the problem number of people out of work against the and New York City’s public transit system. “to label systemic loss of data confidentiality an to persist.” —AFP working population as a whole-rose to 34.4 percent in the April-June period from 32.6 per- cent in the preceding three months, Statistics even easier for businesses of all sizes to create engag- South Africa said in a statement. TikTok to offer in-app ing content that drives consumers directly to the digital point of purchase.” Harley Finkelstein, Shopify presi- That was the highest level since the agency shopping with Shopify dent, said the partnership will help boost platform “cre- began compiling quarterly unemployment data ators” who promote products online by “enabling new in 2008. In concrete terms, the total number of people out of work in South Africa increased WASHINGTON: TikTok unveiled plans to allow users in-app shopping experiences and product discovery on to buy products while using the video-sharing app in a TikTok for the first time.” by 584,000 to 7.8 million in the second quarter, partnership with e-commerce platform Shopify. The “Shopify is powering the creator economy on one the statisticians calculated. fast-growing social media app said it would begin of the fastest-growing social and entertainment plat- The country has an overall population of 59 pilot-testing TikTok Shopping with a group of Shopify forms in the world,” he said. “We are excited to help million. Most of the job losses were recorded in merchants in the United States, Britain and Canada in this next generation of entrepreneurs connect with the financial, service and industrial sectors. Black the coming weeks. their audiences.” women were hit hardest, too, with their jobless The news comes amid rising interest in “social com- “TikTok Shopping will bring new features that help CULVER CITY, California: File photo shoes the logo of rate standing at 41 percent, compared with just Shopify merchants create engaging, organic content that merce” that is expected to be worth some $36 billion in 8.2 percent for white women, the statistics office the United States this year, according to the research Chinese video app TikTok is seen on the side of the sends consumers directly to their online store for check- company’s office space at the C3 campus in Culver said. out, making it easy for people to explore and buy the firm eMarketer. An eMarketer report said Facebook was Overall, the proportion of women out of leading this segment, and that an estimated 56 million US City, in the westside of Los Angeles. —AFP products they discover on TikTok,” said a statement from work is higher than men, standing at 36.8 per- residents would be making at least one purchase on the the app owned by China-based ByteDance. cent and 32.4 percent respectively. South Africa Blake Chandlee, head of global business solutions at leading social network this year. TikTok came under pressure last year from former president Donald Trump, tion shelved plans to ban TikTok or force a sale to US is the country that has been hit hardest by the TikTok, said the app “is uniquely placed at the center of COVID-19 pandemic in Africa. content and commerce, and these new solutions make it who claimed the platform represented a national security investors, instead ordering a national security review of risk because of its links to China. Joe Biden’s administra- foreign-controlled platforms. —AFP Already in recession before the global out- break, its economy shrank by seven percent last makeshift court set up under a canvas tent erected at the time. Mozambique’s former head of security year. Unemployment rates in South Africa have Mozambique begins on the premises of the high security prison of and intelligence, Gregorio Leao, is also among the stood at over 20 percent for at least two Machava, where he has been in pre-trial custody accused. decades. —AFP since February 2019. Revelations of the secret loans plunged ‘hidden debt’ Mozambique’s courts were deemed too small to Mozambique-one of the world’s poorest countries accommodate the dozens of lawyers and witnesses and which relies on donor aid-into its worst finan- scandal trial and over 250 journalists accredited to follow the cial crisis since independence from Portugal in 1975. hearings, which are scheduled to run over the next The United States alleges that at least $200 mil- MAPUTO: The Mozambique trial of 19 suspects 43 days. Only two of the defendants were heard on lion was spent on bribes and kickbacks, including linked to a $2-billion secret loan scandal that Monday, during which lawyers argued that their $12 million pocketed by former finance minister plunged the southern African country into its detention was illegal. Manuel Chang, who also signed off on the debt worst-ever financial crisis began Monday in the None of the 19 have yet commented on the guarantees. Chang, who been under detention in capital Maputo. charges. They are accused of having a hand in the neighbouring South Africa since 2018, is set to be The scheme, known as the “hidden debt” scan- $2 billion (1.7 billion euros) the three companies extradited to Mozambique despite a competing dal, involved state-guaranteed loans contracted borrowed from Swiss banking giant Credit Suisse arrest warrant issued by US authorities, South between 2013 and 2015 by three public enterpris- and Russian bank VTB among others. Africa’s justice ministry said Monday. es-ProIndicus, Mozambique Asset Management An independent audit later found that $500 Several other judicial procedures involving and Ematum-to buy a tuna-fishing fleet and sur- million (426 million euros) of the loans were Credit Suisse are also underway. Three of the veillance ships that never materialised. diverted, and remain unaccounted for. The gov- bank’s former employees pleaded guilty to US Former president Armando Guebuza’s son, ernment hid the loans from the country’s parlia- charges of money-laundering over the matter in Ndambi Guebuza, is among 19 suspects charged ment and donors such as the International October 2020. with a combination of blackmail, counterfeiting, Monetary Fund, who cut off financial support US-led investigations into the “hidden debt” embezzlement and money laundering. Dressed in a JOHANNESBURG: Young people have borne the when the scandal surfaced in 2016. scandal have also implicated Mozambique’s current brunt of the jobless crisis in South Africa. —AFP winter coat and striped shirt, Guebuza sat along- Guebuza allegedly acted as a facilitator between President Filipe Nyusi, who was defence minister side his counterparts as proceedings started in a interested parties and his father, who was president at the time. —AFP 10 Established 1961

Wednesday, August 25, 2021 Business

NBK Economic Report Spending solid amid vaccination progress and economy reopening Spending supported by renewed debt repayment deferrals and recent pick-up in consumer loans

KUWAIT: Rising consumer spending continues to be 1H21. Growth in point-of-sale transactions declined one of the main drivers of Kuwait’s economic recovery, 12.8% y/y in July after reaching a record high of 302% supported by renewed debt repayment deferrals in May, as May last year saw closures and movement (April-September) for Kuwaiti borrowers and a recent restrictions due to COVID. Online spending growth, pick-up in consumer loans. Spending remained strong, however, remained strong at 42.8%, pushing the although slowed recently, given the good progress on amount of online transactions to a record KD 0.92bil- vaccinations and the recent sharp drop in the infection lion, or 38.3% of total spending. rate and the easing of COVID restrictions. However, a possible drop in public spending (to contain budgetary Consumer confidence improved pressures), further weakening in the labor market par- on economic reopening ticularly among expatriates, and possibly another virus With the reopening of the economy and rising oil wave could weigh on spending in the period ahead. prices, confidence about jobs and the economic out- look improved, boosting household expenditure on Spending growth slows as the base effect fades durables purchases. Ara’s consumer confidence index Despite a monthly increase of 4% m/m, spending continued its upward trend from 93 in March to 99 in which picked up in 2Q21 following two weak quarters. in 4Q20 to 3% in 1Q21, while the private sector record- growth decelerated to 18% y/y in July, its lowest rate May, the highest level since December 2020. This Moreover, spending is in part supported by accumulat- ed a drop of 0.7% y/y. Thus, softness in the private since last November and well down from the 137% reflects mainly consumers’ hopes that the worst of the ed savings, thanks to the renewed six-month repay- labor market is likely to weigh on the consumer-spend- recorded in May. It is also worth noting that year-to- pandemic’s impact may have passed. Most index sub- ment deferral for Kuwaiti borrowers, which is expected ing outlook in the near-to-medium term. The public date, spending was up more than 12% in July, which is components, including current employment (132) and to temporarily free up about KD 1 billion for possible sector has fared quite well in comparison to the private decent by historical standards. The recent slowdown durable goods (108), remained robust, though the cur- spending, equivalent to around 5% of estimated house- sector, but this could mostly be attributed to the effects reflects mostly the fading of y/y base effects that had rent economic situation (87) and current personal hold spending in 2020. of Kuwaitization efforts. pushed up growth earlier this year on the anniversary income (85) segments remained lower. With the continued successful rollout of the vacci- of the start of the pandemic. With this base effect now Public sector hiring trends supportive of spending nation program and the further reopening of the econ- in the past, spending growth should be more stable Strong consumer lending is supporting spending Rising spending levels continue to come against the omy and businesses, consumer spending is expected to going forward, with less fluctuations in mobility restric- Consumer spending was also supported by a pick- backdrop of solid employment growth among the remain solid. However, the outlook will remain contin- tions, in the absence of another surge of the COVID up in borrowing coming in the wake of a sharp drop in Kuwait national segment. According to the recently gent on the recovery of the labor market especially in cases. 2020 due to the pandemic. In fact, overall household released data by the Public Institution for Social the private sector, as well as worries about another As for consumers’ method of payment, growth in credit growth accelerated in 2Q21, with the y/y Security (PIFSS), employment growth among Kuwaitis virus wave in the coming months. Also, the easing of ATM cash withdrawals fell back into negative territory increase at 11.6% through June, the highest annual increased by 2.3% y/y in 1Q21from 1.7% in 4Q20. This travel restrictions is encouraging Kuwaitis and non- after being positive for four months in a row, decreasing expansion since early 2016. This robust increase was reflects an improvement in hiring activity growth in the Kuwaitis to spend their summer holiday outside Kuwait, by 3.9% y/y in July following average growth of 17% in driven in part by personal consumption loans (+12.8%), public sector from an over three-year low of 2.2% y/y diverting more spending overseas.

Aleesa added that KFH lease fleet comprises a finance lease products, KFH offers variety of variety of wide-spread and well-known brands, thus enabling the corpo- approximating 70 different kinds. KFH is distin- rate sector to deal with the ‘Mercedes’ cars through guished for providing its (retail and corporate) cus- product easily and swiftly. tomers with a unique and high-level service, thus giv- Lease products comprise Delegates hash out its leasing product ing them the opportunity to pick the cars of their several attractive advan- KUWAIT: Executive Manager Automotive & choice through the lease products provided at KFH tages including compre- UN biodiversity Equipment at Kuwait Finance House (KFH), Ahed showrooms and the agents showrooms. The opera- hensive maintenance, Aleesa said: KFH is providing, through its amazing tional lease period, 12-36 months, plays a major role Takaful insurance, replace- goals online lease products, a variety of “Mercedes” cars as part in identifying the best and easiest ways to enhance ment car, round the clock of KFH lease fleet. “Mercedes” cars are distinguished KFH role and contributions to customer service and road assistance service PARIS: Country delegates met online on Monday for fulfilling the needs of all society classes. The prod- the enhancement of the automotive market. and travel in the leased car to start tackling a draft agreement for the pan- uct provides a competitive monthly lease value start- Aleesa said that KFH is distinguished for providing according to certain terms Ahed Aleesa demic-delayed COP15 global summit on biodi- ing from KD 279. amazing programs through its retail and corporate and conditions. versity, days after the new summit date of April 2022 was set. The virtual discussions between delegations from 195 countries are the first to be them a richer banking held since the UN unveiled the text in July and NBK provides customers experience.” are slated to run until September 3. Family Banking The fruit of months of online talks, the draft 50% discount from Samsonite Services are available for calls for the preservation of at least 30 percent of new and existing Kuwaiti land and oceans, along with other biodiversity KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) is keen to Club) Visa Signature Credit Card, and NBK World customers and their fami- targets. It maps out the route for humanity to be offer best services for all customers, and as part of its Mastercard Credit Card. lies. Eligibility conditions “living in harmony with nature” by 2050, outlin- endeavors to meet their needs and provide a wide Speaking on this offer, Mohammed Akram Hashim, for Privilege Family ing dozens of targets and milestones to be hit by range of services that suit their lifestyle, the bank is Head of Segments, Consumer Banking Group at Banking Customers are 2030 to preserve biodiversity. offering premium Family Banking Services Customers National Bank of Kuwait:”At NBK, we are keen to minimum KD 5,000 com- But environmental and conservation groups 50% discount from Samsonite. keep pace with our customers’ needs and to ensure bined salaries, or minimum are lobbying for stronger language in the draft Simply using the promo code they will receive by offering them exceptional banking experience packed KD 150,000 combined agreement around several key issues, including SMS, customers will get 50% off when purchasing the with exclusive offers and rewards for all family mem- deposits/AUM of family Mohamed Akram Hashim the measures needed to stave off further out- Cosmolite Bundle from Samsonite website, or present bers from different segments.” members, whereas for breaks of deadly viruses such as SARS-CoV-2. the code at the cashier when shopping in-store at “NBK always seeks to add various special offers to Thahabi Family Banking “It’s not ambitious enough at all,” Wildlife Marina Mall, The Avenues, AlKout, and 360 Mall. Family Banking Services Customers, as part of its Customers, minimum KD 2,500 combined salaries, or Conservation society vice president Susan Customers can avail the offer by making their pur- efforts to provide exclusive benefits and offers to all minimum KD 50,000 combined deposits/AUM of Lieberman told AFP, adding “There is no mention chases using eligible NBK Credit Cards including: family members,” he added. family members. of the pandemic.” Eleven civil society organisa- NBK Visa Infinite Credit Card, NBK-Kuwait Airways Hashim indicated: “We promise our customers to All family members are eligible to enjoy Family tions warned in a statement that the current lan- (Oasis Club) Visa Infinite Credit Card, NBK Visa continue introducing innovative banking services Banking Services (parents, spouse and children), up to guage on wildlife trade was dangerously weak, Signature Credit Card, NBK-Kuwait Airways (Oasis that are in line with their lifestyle so as to offer 6 members in total. despite it’s probable link to the COVID outbreak. “The (text) calls only for such trade to be ‘safe for human health’,” a representative for the Biologics and Samsung Bioepisit. groups said in an email, proposing new language Samsung Group The conglomerate said it would build two that would outlaw any activity that carries a risk new manufacturing plants on top of three cur- LuLu Hypermarket of “pathogen spillover”. rently in operation with a view to tapping into Highlighting further concerns, the Avaaz online announces $205bn the manufacturing of vaccines. Of the 240 tril- activist network called for the agreement to lion won ($205 billion) it plans to spend, it will holds ‘Super include the full recognition of indigenous peoples investment plan commit 180 trillion won to South Korea. The and the elimination of at least $800 billion in domestic investment is expected to create Deals’ promotion subsidies for environmentally harmful activities. SEOUL, South Korea: Samsung Group unveiled another 10,000 jobs on top of 30,000 already It also said the text should “conserve and pro- a $205 billion investment blueprint yesterday planned. KUWAIT: The week-long promotion offered tect at least half of the planet by 2030 as a aimed at making the company a leader in a It could also induce as many as 560,000 new massive deals on a wide gamut of products means of staying below 1.5C and addressing the range of technologies from semiconductors to hirings in related industries, it said. The ranging from groceries, fruits and vegetables, acceleration of biodiversity loss”. The text will robotics and creating 40,000 new jobs. The announcement comes just days after Lee Jae- to fresh and frozen products, meat and fish need to withstand the crucial online negotiations tech giant is South Korea’s largest conglomerate items, as well as to non-food items including yong, the de-facto leader of the conglomerate, consumer electronics such as mobile phones, phase in October as China assumes the presi- and its overall turnover is equivalent to a fifth of walked out of prison on parole after completing televisions, IT products and a whole lot more. dency of the summit. —AFP the national gross domestic product. Samsung only about half of his jail term. In addition, popular clothing and garment Electronics, its flagship subsidiary, is the world’s It was the latest instance of the country’s brands such as Cortigiani, De Backers, Eten, biggest smartphone maker. long tradition of freeing business leaders on Ruff and Sin were also available at unbeliev- The plan will “help Samsung strengthen its economic grounds after imprisonment for cor- ably amazing discounts. Besides being held Burgan Bank announces global standing in key industries while spear- ruption or tax evasion. Lee was serving a two- simultaneously in all outlets of LuLu heading innovation in new fields”, the company and-a-half year prison sentence for bribery, Hypermarkets in the country, the ‘Super Deals’ special monthly ‘Mega Hit’ said in a statement, adding that it will also pur- embezzlement and other offences in connection promotion was also available on the hypermar- sue corporate acquisitions. On the semicon- with a corruption scandal that brought down ket’s online platform at https://www.luluhyper- offer on ‘GoPro Hero 9’ ductor front, the firm said it will seek to former South Korean president Park Geun-hye. market.com/. enhance cutting-edge technologies to meet But his parole is not the end of his legal travails: Access to the promotion deals, both online and offline, allowed shoppers the choice of KUWAIT: Burgan Bank’s prepaid and credit card- “long-term demand rather than short-term he remains on trial over alleged stock manipula- holders can now benefit from the exclusive monthly changes”. It is also looking to expand its bio- selecting their preferred method and conven- tion that effectively eased his path to take con- ient time for shopping and ordering from the ‘Mega Hit Offer’ through its partnership with ‘Best pharmaceutical business run by Samsung trol of the family conglomerate. —AFP Al-Yousifi’, the leading electronics store in Kuwait. entire range of products on offer at the hyper- The bank’s valued customers will be given the market. A main benefit for those ordering on chance to purchase “GoPro Hero 9”for a special the online platform was that LuLu with a stable that includes Alfa Romeo, Jeep and Hypermarket offered free home-delivery for discounted price today ( 25thof August, 2021). Stellantis, Foxconn Maserati. purchase of all products ordered online worth The offer provides limited quantities of the highly The joint venture with Foxconn, named Mobile over KD 30. The free home-delivery offer was demanded camera and is valid for 24 hours only. Drive, and will make the smart cockpits available valid on purchases made from the start of the Customers can benefit from the ‘Mega Hit Offer’ to make ‘smart to other car makers. promotion on 25 August, until the penultimate while making other purchases only through the “Best “Its roadmap of software innovations will Super Deals day on 31 August. Al-Yousifi” website or mobile application. As the cockpit’ for cars include artificial intelligence-based applications, Super Deals promotion, which coincided only bank in Kuwait to provide this special offer, the navigation, voice assistance, e-commerce store with the country slowly returning to normal selected product’s price can also be viewed on PARIS: Global auto group Stellantis and Taiwanese operations, and payment services integration, activity, was a major draw for shoppers eager Burgan Bank’s social media platforms on the same electronics giant Foxconn unveiled a joint venture amongst others,” the companies said in a joint at avail of the best offers at extraordinary day of the offer. To learn more about Burgan Bank’s yesterday to make a “smart cockpit” for cars that statement. prices. The promotion also once again reiterat- latest offers or any of its products and services, will feature navigation, voice assistance and pay- Foxconn, more famous for assembling Apple’s ed LuLu Hypermarket’s resolve to offer cus- customers can visit any of the bank’s branches or ment services. iPhone, is trying to diversify into the auto business. tomers what they require, when they require, Burgan Banks Instagram page on The US-European automaker was formed in a Stellantis plans to invest 30 billion euros in at the most competitive prices and on the @BurganBankKuwait, contact the call center or via merger between France’s Peugeot and the US- electric vehicles and new software over the next widest selection of products. WhatsApp at 1804080. Italian company Fiat Chrysler earlier this year, four years. —AFP Established 1961 11

Wednesday, August 25, 2021 Lifestyle Features

scar-winning French actress matic, comedy and action roles,” the the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise. Marion Cotillard will receive a life- statement added. The decision has sparked controversy Otime achievement award at Spain’s The actress has also appeared in since Depp recently lost a libel case San Sebastian film festival next month, Woody Allen’s “Midnight in Paris,” and against a British tabloid newspaper that organizers said yesterday. The 45-year- Batman movie “The Dark Knight Rises.” branded him a “wife-beater” during his Marion Cotillard attends old, who won the Best Actress Academy Past recipients of the Donostia award-the tempestuous relationship with his ex-wife, a special screening of Award for her role as Edith Piaf in “La Vie festival’s highest honour which is named actress Amber Heard. The 69th San Amazon’s original movie en Rose” will collect the festival’s after the Basque word for the coastal town Sebastian film festival, the highest-profile ‘Annette’ at Hollywood Donostia award during the event’s open- of San Sebastian-include actors Meryl movie event in the Spanish-speaking Forever in Hollywood, ing ceremony on September 17, they said Streep, Richard Gere and Robert De Niro. world, takes place from September 17 to California. — AFP in a statement. Cotillard “has shone The festival will also give the award this 25.—AFP brightly in European and North American year to Hollywood star Johnny Depp, best productions, putting equal talent into dra- known as the swaggering Jack Sparrow in

allowing voting on a “majority rules basis” have been considered as the initiators of during his efforts to protect the Sex a new counter-culture. Famous songs Ex-Sex Pistols Pistols’ legacy. including “God Save the Queen” and “A man with those concerns would “Anarchy in the UK” scandalized conser- expect to be made to understand impor- vative British public opinion and were win court battle tant documents that he was signing. He viewed as an assault on the monarchy would not have been cavalier about that,” during Queen Elizabeth II’s 1977 Silver said Mann. “He must have made an Jubilee. Lydon previously told The to use songs in informed decision to sign it and-if it is a Sunday Times newspaper that Jones’s shackle-to shackle himself,” he conclud- 2016 memoir “Lonely Boy: Tales From A ed. The Sex Pistols formed in 1975 and Sex Pistol” was extremely “disrespectful”. revolutionized rock music with their punk “Pistol” is based on the memoir and is due Disney series style before splitting up in 1978. to air next year. Their music, fashion and hairstyles Lawyer Mark Cunningham, represent- ing Lydon, said the memoir “depicts him in wo former members of the Sex a hostile and unflattering light”. Lydon had Pistols on Monday won a London argued the licenses could not be granted CinemaCon Managing Director Mitch Neuhauser speaks onstage during CinemaCon 2021 Opening court battle against ex-frontman T without his permission, adding that the Night Event: The Big Screen is Back and Sony Pictures Entertainment Presentation at The John Lydon, better known as Johnny band member agreement “smacks of Colosseum at Caesars Palace during CinemaCon. — AFP photos Rotten, who opposed the use of the some kind of slave labor”. But Edmund groundbreaking punk band’s music in an Cullen, representing Jones and Cook, upcoming Disney series. Judge Anthony had said the agreement allowed licensing Mann ruled at the High Court that the requests to be approved on a “majority band’s former drummer Paul Cook and rules basis”, with Lydon the only resister. guitarist Steve Jones were entitled to Cullen added in written evidence that invoke majority voting rules against Lydon Glen Matlock, who left the band in 1977, to license their 1970s-era back catalogue. and the estate of his replacement Sid Lydon-known to the world as the Vicious, who died in 1979, also supported band’s sneering, ginger-haired singer the licensing. Jones and Cook welcomed Johnny Rotten-had opposed approving pooked by the pandemic and the ruling, saying the week-long hearing the licenses for “Pistol”, a six-part Disney streaming platforms, the embattled was “necessary to allow us to move for- drama about the band directed by Oscar- Smovie theater industry called on ward and hopefully work together in the winning British director Danny Boyle, new “Ghostbusters” and “Spider-Man” future with better relations”. — AFP claiming they could not be granted without films as it vowed to fight back at a major his consent. But Mann said it was “impos- trade summit in Las Vegas Monday. sible to believe” Lydon was unaware of CinemaCon-which typically sees the consequences of a 1998 agreement Ex-frontman John Lydon Hollywood studios bring glitzy stars and never-before-seen footage to a Las host said: “We got the whole thing locked Vegas casino to woo theater bosses-did down now. This is huge. What are we not take place at all last year as the pan- Dave Bautista gonna call it? “Let’s put it out to the room. demic shuttered cinemas around the If anyone can come up with a good title, I world. But with nearly 90 percent of actually think we’ve got a good chance of domestic theaters now back open, Sony this being passed through, because I Pictures used its opening night presenta- wants buddy don’t think either of them are in this for the tion slot at Caesars Palace to set the tone (From left) Jason Reitman and Ivan Reitman art.” Bautista and Momoa star together in for a returning event that is determined to speak onstage during CinemaCon 2021 the second series of the AppleTV+ drama prove the future of the big screen. Opening Night Event. eanie Feldstein “almost flashed the cop film with ‘See’ and took to social media to push for Studio bosses showed a new trailer for entire world” at the Academy the pair’s possible movie. The 52-year-old its much-anticipated “Spider-Man: No the mantle-and vacuum backpack. BAwards. The 28-year-old actress star tweeted: “Just going to throw this out Way Home” superhero sequel, before has opened up on the moment she suf- Jason Momoa into the atmosphere and see what hap- previewing “Ghostbusters: Afterlife”-a ‘Not too bright’ fered a very embarrassing wardrobe mal- pens. Here we go... Me and Momoa in a heavily nostalgic follow-up to the 1984 CinemaCon is taking place despite function seconds before she stepped out ‘Lethal Weapon’ type buddy cop movie supernatural comedy classic-in full to a fears about the Delta variant that have to introduce presenter Mindy Kaling at the rapturous crowd. “Over the last 19 ason Momoa is open to starring in a directed by David Leitch. Ok! There it is. caused some pandemic restrictions to be 2020 Oscars. She told W Magazine: “I months, there’s been a lot of doom and buddy cop movie with Dave Bautista. Now we wait (sic)” — Bang Showbiz reimposed on Hollywood in California, was wearing a stunning dress that had a gloom,” said Josh Greenstein, president Former WWE star Bautista suggest- and glitzy A-listers have largely stayed halter clasp at the neck... The gown had J of Sony’s motion pictures division. “But we ed on Twitter last week that the pair away from the Las Vegas event. boning and a sort of shelf for the bust, but know movie theaters, and the theatrical should star together in a ‘Lethal Weapon’ Organizers have forged ahead with there was no bra involved.”I’m all about movie experience, will triumph,” he type of film and Momoa has now suggest- COVID protocols in place, including proof representation, and I’m here to represent added. The presentation also squeezed in ed that he is keen on the proposal. of vaccination or a recent negative test for big, low-hanging Jewish breasts. The hal- brief footage of “Bullet Train” starring Brad Speaking on Monday’s episode of ‘The attendees. ter on the dress was struggling. It was Pitt, and future superhero fare including a Late Late Show with James Corden’, he While Disney is largely absent, other hanging on for dear life. “There was a sequel to “Venom,” and “Morbius.” said: “I’m not on Twitter, but he literally traditional major Hollywood studios countdown clock backstage, and there Clips from Denzel Washington’s “A texted me about four days ago, going, showing their wares this week include was a minute and 20 seconds left before I Journal for Jordan” and a movie adapta- ‘We need to do a buddy cop film.’ “We Warner, Universal and Paramount. Each had to go on in front of an audience of tion of bestselling novel “Where the love each other, you know, obviously we of those studios has experimented in millions. Crawdads Sing” produced by Reese met on ‘See’, we’re on ‘Dune’ together, so some form during the pandemic with Witherspoon were also shown, before a I said ‘absolutely’. And he’s like, ‘Let’s do using streaming platforms to launch their longer “Spider-Man” trailer teased how it in Hawaii.’ I’m like, ‘Let’s do it.’ I’m like, ‘I movies-an ever-growing concern for big- the film will tie in with other popular got an idea’. So it’s off to the races now. screen movie theater chains. Sony, the Marvel characters including Benedict We’re doing it.” Momoa, 42, joked: “It sells only major Hollywood studio without its Cumberbatch’s “Doctor Strange.” itself. Dave loves wearing speedos. own streaming service, drew loud cheers Attendees then settled in for I love wearing board shorts. Ya know, with its “commitment to preserving and “Ghostbusters: After Life,” introduced by both of us with our shirts off. You know, protecting the exclusive theatrical win- its director Jason Reitman and his father buddy cop film. He’ll be grumpy, I’ll be dow”-referring to the traditional time-peri- Ivan, who directed the original. Plot details charming. Boom. It sells itself, bro. Bam!” od in which movies can initially only be are under strict embargo, but the film, set The ‘Aquaman’ star quipped that the shown in theaters.—AFP Jason Momoa almost four decades after the first movie, movie was “locked down” and invited the finds young descendants of the original’s show’s audience to suggest a title. The wise-cracking ghoul hunters picking up

skin is not feeling great, it’s usually also opened up on his battle with because I’m dehydrated. And it really won’t Beanie Feldstein Kate Hudson Billy Connolly Parkinson’s after being diagnosed in 2013 matter what you put on your skin if you’re and later deciding to step back from the “Next to me was the wall of Oscar not drinking enough water or getting stage to focus on TV work. Asked whether statues that they were about to hand out reveals secrets enough sleep.” The 42-year-old actress is receives Edinburgh or not filming presents new challenges for to incredible people. I was nervous and also not afraid to slather her skin in “heav- him, he said: “Not really, but the way I accidentally stepped on the front hem of ier creams” because it can take it better think, everything is a new challenge. “I my dress, and with that step, the clasp to glowy skin than when she was in her 20s. Festival Lifetime hardly prepare, so I turn up unprepared gave way.” The ‘Booksmart’ star She explained: “As your skin ages, I and everything is a new challenge. It revealed how there were less than 30 think it can handle more moisture and Achievement Award keeps your eyes open. seconds until she was due on stage, but ate Hudson says the secret to her more product. When I was much “Well, the challenges lately have been someone jumped in to help and saved glowing complexion is drinking younger, in my 20s, I had quite sensitive medical, aye, they’re getting worse. “Have her from any further embarrassment. Kwater and getting plenty of shut- skin and did better using fewer products. ir Billy Connolly has joked his you noticed I’ve been holding my left hand She added: “At that point, there was 18 eye. The ‘Almost Famous’ star has Now that I’m older, my skin is still sensi- Lifetime Achievement Award makes as we have been going on? It is starting seconds to go. “Luckily, someone back- revealed the secret to her ageless tive, but I can use heavier creams and Shim feel like he “should be dead”. to jump around. “So I will have to way it stage had a safety pin and reclasped appearance is ensuring she is fully other products without breaking out.” And The 78-year-old comedian - who was up and see how bad it gets, I don’t know, me, but I almost flashed the entire world hydrated and getting enough sleep. as well as drinking plenty of H20 and honored at the Edinburgh TV Festival this we will play it by ear.” During the inter- that night...The moral of this story is, I’m Asked what the best piece of skincare resting, Kate - who has three kids - week - has opened up about the prize as view, Billy also reflected on his career, a busty, low-hanging Jewish girl, and you advice she has received is, she said: swears by never skipping her daily sup- he spoke to his wife Dr Pamela including 2019 BBC series ‘Made In have to be who you are. Which means “Drink water and get sleep! Whenever my plements, and loves lip balm and eye Stephenson Connolly in a rare interview Scotland’ - and he reflected on wearing a no more halters.” cream. She added to Byrdie.com: “Taking from their home in Florida. Speaking dur- kilt even in Florida, although he doesn’t Now, Beanie is set to play Fanny Brice my supplements is the skincare step that ing the festival, he quipped: “I feel I should wear it like a true Scot. He added: “The in the first-ever Broadway revival of 1964 I never skip because it’s the one thing be dead. These lifetime things, I feel like wool in it... I have got very sensitive skin, production ‘Funny Girl’, which she that affects my skin the most. I notice that they know something that I don’t.” Billy a new shirt is torture to me. I’m happy to described as a “dream come true”. She when I’m taking my InBloom Essential tell people I wear underwear. “I would said in a statement: “The first time I Elements ($59) and Beauty Aura regular- wear long underwear given half the played Fanny Brice was at my third birth- ly, I can see it in my skin. “I also never chance. It eats me alive, the kilt. My legs day party, in a head-to-toe leopard print skip lip balm and eye cream. Even if my are purple and my willy gets purple.” outfit my mom made for me. “So, it’s safe skin doesn’t need moisturizing, I like to Meanwhile, last year the comedian to say that stepping into this iconic role, put a little cream under my eyes to give revealed he has come to terms with the on Broadway and not in my family’s back- them a little love and use a nice balm to fact that his Parkinson’s disease will even- yard, is truly my lifelong dream come true. keep my lips moisturized.”— AFP tually kill him but said he is remaining pos- Kate Hudson — Bang Showbiz Billy Connolly itive. — Bang Showbiz 12 Established 1961 Wednesday, August 25, 2021 Lifestyle Features

This file photo shows destruction caused by the Islamic State (IS) group at the archaeological site of Nimrud, a few days after Iraqi forces retook the ancient city from IS jihadists. — AFP photos

This file photo shows destruction caused by the Islamic State (IS) group at the archaeological site of Nimrud.

This file photo shows destruction caused by the Islamic State (IS) group at the archaeological site of Nimrud.

o you want to buy a more than antiquity is a real problem in Iraq, where Iraq, and that makes it a land of choice for money earned from trafficking feeds crimi- The group did well from the trade in ille- D5,000-year-old Sumerian tablet, list- corruption is prevalent and archaeological smugglers. It teems with archaeological nal networks, in a country where armed gal antiquities, according to a 2020 report ed as the property of a gentleman sites are poorly protected. For some sites where traffickers engage in “random groups, some close to Iran, have grown in published by the Global Initiative Against from Sussex in England and passed down objects, it can be hard to prove that it was exhumations”, said Laith Majid Hussein, power. Corruption also plays a role in a Transnational Organized Crime, a as a family heirloom? On auction site not in fact stolen from lands where the director of the Iraqi State Board of state where government officials are poor- Geneva-based organization. It said that in liveauctioneers.com, bidding for the Sumerian empire stood in the fourth mil- Antiquities and Heritage. “We don’t have ly paid. Graft watchdog Transparency 2015, “of IS’s annual income, deemed to Sumerian clay tablet starts at 550 pounds lennium BC. Chris Wren, from the British statistics on the number of antiquities that International ranks Iraq as 160th out of be between US $2.35 billion and $2.68 bil- ($750). The item weighs just 70 grams firm TimeLine Auctions, parent company end up as contraband,” Majid said. 180 countries listed for corruption. lion, antiquities trafficking and (in-state) (2.5 ounces) but bears traces of cuneiform of liveauctioneers.com, says they are Corruption and the prevalence of armed groups have encouraged the growth of this lucrative business. In one site in southern Iraq, where the Sumerian and Babylonian civilizations once flourished, a security guard described the challenges he faced. “One day, I saw a truck arrive with three armed men,” the guard said, who asked not to be named to protect both himself and the location of the site. “They started digging, and when I intervened they started shoot- ing in the air and shouting at me-’You think you own this place?’” The lack of Pottery and other ancient fragments are scat- resources to protect Iraq’s ancient sites is tered in the open air at the Tell Al-Ubayd dire. In a country where an estimated 27 archaeological site, 6Km to the west of the percent of the 40 million citizens live below remains of the ancient city of Ur in Iraq’s south- Ancient stone blocks are scattered in the open the poverty line, the authorities say they ern Dhi Qar province. air at the Tell Al-Ubayd archaeological site. have other priorities. Iraq’s ancient sites are concentrated in the south, around Kut, Major earner taxation accounted for US $20 million”. Samawa and Nasiriyah. When the Islamic State group (IS) Earlier this month, the United States Archeological findings are pictured inside an underground tunnel dug by the Islamic State (IS) From there, smugglers transport their occupied large swathes of Iraqi territory returned to Iraq about 17,000 archaeologi- group to carry out archaeological excavations in the heart of the hill that houses the tomb of the booty to the southern marshes, and to between 2014 and 2017, the jihadists cal treasures dating back 4,000 years that Prophet Jonah (Nabi Younes) in east Mosul. Amara, a city not far from Iran, which has used bulldozers, pickaxes and explosives had been looted in recent decades. become a “hub for antiquities trafficking”, to ransack dozens of pre-Islamic sites Despite welcoming such moves, the Iraqi writing-the oldest recorded in the world- aware “of the potential for looted, smug- according to one archaeologist who asked and their treasures. Nimrud, a jewel of government source said he believes the and is listed as “Property of a West gled or other stolen materials” to come to remain anonymous. The stolen antiqui- the Assyrian empire founded in the 13th problem “lies in neighboring states” that Sussex, UK, gentleman”. This example onto the market. “We spend a great deal ties are then taken into Iran “to cross the Century BC and located outside Mosul in are complicit in the smuggling. “The Iraqi comes with letters of provenance by of effort and money in seeking to weed sea in fishing boats to the Gulf countries”, the north of the country, was one such state is weak,” he said. “Archaeological experts. But the ownership history of some such possibilities out,” he said. he said. target. The jihadists “also engaged in artefacts are not a priority.” — AFP such objects can be harder to prove. Alternatively, they may be smuggled smuggling”, said one European security They may not have been handed down Lucrative trade overland across Iraq’s western desert, expert, speaking on condition of but handed on, via smugglers and middle- Sumerians, Assyrians and Babylonians which borders Jordan, Syria and Turkey. anonymity. “That earned them money-but men. The boom in looted objects from all trod on the ancient land that is now An Iraqi government source said that the it affected Syria more.”

the Olympics theme music, as spectators watched through the fence. Queen Changing of the Elizabeth II is not in residence at the palace as she is on her annual holiday at Guard back on Balmoral, Scotland. Garrison Sergeant Major Andrew Stokes, of the Coldstream Guards, who was in charge of the cere- at Buckingham mony’s return, said: “It’s been a long time coming.” Palace Many of the young soldiers had not taken part in the ceremony before, having joined the Guards since it was postponed, oldiers in bearskin hats and red he said. For those taking part, “it instils an Stunics marched outside awful lot of pride knowing that all these Buckingham Palace in London on people have come to watch these very Monday for the first Changing of the young guardsmen and musicians.” During Guard ceremony since the pandemic Members of the band of the Nijmegen Company Grenadier Guards take part in the Changing of the pandemic, the Grenadier Guards began. The elite 1st Battalion Coldstream the Guard. have helped run virus testing and vacci- Guard soldiers performed the colorful tra- nation centers. The Changing of the A member of the Irish Guards (right) takes dition in the palace courtyard for the first pause in holding the ceremony since Monday’s event included a musical Guard at Windsor Castle near London part in the Changing of the Guard, in the fore- time since March 2020, when it was halt- World War II. The Changing of the Guard tribute to the UK’s Olympic athletes with resumed last month. — AFP court of Buckingham Palace. ed to avoid spreading infection. Forces is a ceremonial handover between the military brass band playing tunes News reported that this was the longest guards on duty and those taking over. including “Gold” by Spandau Ballet and

Members of the Nijmegen Company Grenadier Guards and the first Battalion the Coldstream Guards take part in the Members of the first Battalion the Coldstream Guards take part in the Changing of the Guard, in the forecourt of Changing of the Guard.— AFP photos Buckingham Palace, which is taking place for the first time since the start of the coronavirus pandemic in London. Established 1961 13

Wednesday, August 25, 2021 Lifestyle Features

The Afghan Rug Shop owner James Wilthew poses for a photograph outside his shop Hebden Bridge, northern England. The Afghan Rug Shop owner James Wilthew arranges a display at his shop in Hebden Bridge. — AFP photos

verseas businesses selling colorful Reconstruction Team, set up to help handwoven rugs and vivid hand- development projects. Oblown glass from Afghanistan are Asked if Islamist hardliners could target concerned for their suppliers as the those who worked with him due to his UK Taleban’s takeover of the country threat- military background, he said: “Yes, of ens those with links to the West. British course”. The Taleban could say, “You’ve businessman James Wilthew has built up been working for Mr James”, he said. “It’s close ties with Afghan rug weavers and just the association.” “I’m not necessarily sellers, buying the sought-after carpets how sure the Taleban will go with these directly from the northern provinces, things: we just don’t know what the spec- where the industry is traditionally based. trum of danger is.” The ex-serviceman sells the carpets at his shop in Hebden Bridge in Yorkshire in Major export commodity northern England and estimates that his Afghan rugs are a major commodity company, The Afghan Rug Shop, supports and the country’s second largest non-agri- about 200 families. A share of the pro- cultural export, according to the World ceeds goes to Afghanaid, a British charity Trade Organization. Textiles are by far the supporting people in Afghanistan. most significant Afghan import to the UK, Now he is battling to fly out contacts he worth some £2.4 million ($3.3 million, 2.8 believes will be Taleban targets due to million euros) per year, government fig- their association with a former NATO base ures show. The ancient carpet trade exist- in the region. “As a result of that, they are ed under the previous Taleban regime, now in immediate danger,” as they do not which ruled Afghanistan with an iron fist fall under the British government criteria from 1996 until they were ousted in the for evacuation, Wilthew told AFP. He said US-led invasion in 2001.

A customer browses at The Afghan Rug Shop in Hebden Bridge.

Wilthew is unusual in dealing directly with tumblers, jewelry and clothes. thing possible to continue working with artisans and traders inside the country. The brand’s creative director, Electra people in Afghanistan, if it doesn’t put That could force him to change his busi- Simon, said she was in daily contact with them at risk,” she said “Some of them will ness model, possibly using a middleman people in Afghanistan, and “pretty much be (at risk), others probably not as much in Pakistan, and switching from US dollars everybody is trying to leave”. because they are just traditional artisans if the greenback is banned in Afghanistan. “They just basically want to get out, working, so hopefully we can continue He is also unlikely to be able to con- they can’t leave their houses right now,” working with them.” Afghan scarves are arranged for sale at The Afghan rugs are arranged for sale at The tinue using international shipping and she said, adding they felt “sheer despera- Some artisans in areas captured by the Afghan Rug Shop in Hebden Bridge. Afghan Rug Shop. delivery companies DHL and FedEx for tion” at the situation. “It’s really hard: the Taleban have been able to keep working, delivery, he added. “Acquiring rugs from relationships we’ve built up with people, she said, although the logistics of export- Afghanistan is not a concern for me. It’s seeing them in these massively tricky situ- ing to Britain were now “completely impos- he was frustrated by the British govern- The uncertainty and chaos since the not an issue, the issue is my friends,” ations,” she said. Ishkar’s online shop is sible”. Both she and Wilthew said the situ- ment’s response, despite an emotive return of the hardline Islamists was “a tem- he said. selling photographic prints of Afghanistan ation was still too fluid to predict, and a emergency debate on the crisis in parlia- porary issue”, said Wilthew. “Under the to raise funds for Emergency, which pro- clearer picture will emerge in the coming ment and urgent calls for help. “Nothing Taleban regime, that trade (in textiles) will ‘Impossible’ logistics vides medical treatment to conflict victims. weeks. “It will definitely be different for us, happens, there’s been no action,” he said, continue, they need the tax from that busi- Another high-end company that sells The company, which works with some that’s 100 percent,” said Simon. — AFP warning: “Government bureaucracy will ness, the employment,” he added. “It’s goods made by Afghan artisans is 30 people in the country, has removed ref- result in the death of thousands of peo- their export commodity, it’s how they make London-based Ishkar, which sells contem- erences to Afghan partners from its web- ple.” The former RAF officer worked in an income.” Most Afghan carpets are porary-design carpets, as well handblown site to protect them. “We want to do every- Afghanistan in 2004 on the UK Provincial exported via neighboring Pakistan, but

The Afghan Rug Shop owner James Wilthew photographs new arrivals on display to upload to the shop’s social media accounts at his shop in The Afghan Rug Shop owner James Wilthew arranges a display at his shop in Hebden Bridge. Hebden Bridge.

caused excessive secretion of growth a political rally. Vovkovinskiy was wear- hormone. His mother, who said her son ing a T-shirt that called him the “World’s America’s died Friday in Minnesota, had brought Biggest Obama Supporter.” He shook him from their home in Ukraine in 1989 hands with the politician. to get medical treatment at the Mayo Guinness World Records says the Clinic in the northern US state. tallest person in the world now is a tallest man Two surgeries saved his life but failed Turkish man named Sultan Kosen, who to stop his growth. At age 27, Guinness is 8 feet 2 inches tall (2.51 meters). The World Records declared Vovkovinskiy tallest man in modern US history was dies at age 38 the tallest person in America. In the Robert Wadlow, who was 8 feet 9 inches 2013 edition of the Eurovision song con- (2.72 meters). He also suffered from a test, Vovkovinskiy walked on stage growth hormone disorder, and died in he tallest man in America-he stood cradling Ukraine’s singer, Zlata 1940 at the age of 22. — AFP 7 feet 8 inches (2.35 meters) — Ognevich, in his arms. She looked tiny Thas died of a heart problem at the and doll-like. Vovkovinskiy enjoyed age of 38, his mother said on Facebook. another moment of celebrity in 2009 Ukrainian-born Igor Vovkovinskiy had a when then-president Barack Obama condition called pituitary gigantism that noticed him towering above the crowd at 14 Established 1961 Sports Wednesday, August 25, 2021 European football giants to take two billion euro COVID hit: KPMG report Compared to 500 million euros lost in 2019/20

LONDON: Matchday revenues across the five the five leagues during the 2020/21 season, as it per- major European football leagues took a nearly 2 mitted some fans to attend during parts of the cam- billion euro hit last season ($2.35 billion) after paign. The financial impact is also set to continue in spectators were largely barred from attending the present season. The Premier League and Ligue 1 matches due to the pandemic, a report by consul- are the only ones among the big five leagues to have tancy KPMG said yesterday. The projected rev- allowed full capacity stadia this season. enue losses dwarf the 500 million euros that clubs Temporary guidelines are in place for La Liga in the leagues suffered in the 2019/20 season, until August 29, with a re-evaluation of the situa- when the virus first affected Europe and led to tion in September, only 40 percent of stadia sport being suspended in March 2020, only capacity set to be used and fans obligated to wear resuming months later without spectators. masks, the report noted. Italy’s Serie A currently The continent’s top five allows grounds to be half leagues are England’s full, with fans required to Premier League, Italy’s show a COVID-19 passes Serie A, Spain’s La Liga, proving that they have Germany’s Bundesliga and Clubs to make either been vaccinated the French Ligue 1. “It is against the virus or expected that clubs in the ‘little-to-no recovered from infection, big five leagues will make income’ it added. little-to-no income from “Similarly, half of the this source in 2020/21, stadiums can be filled in potentially losing out on the German Bundesliga, over 2 billion euros of but only up to the limit of matchday revenues com- 25,000 fans in total,” the bined,” the report said. report said. The analysis added this summer’s For the 2019/20 season the Bundesliga, which delayed Euro 2020 tournament had laid the LONDON: A fire display and ‘Welcome Home’ signs greet West Ham fans as they take their seats ahead of has the average highest attendance, was the most groundwork for the return of fans but that it had the English Premier League football match between West Ham United and Leicester City at The London impacted (an estimated 157 million euros drop in also had a negative side effect. Stadium, in east London on Monday. —AFP revenues) while Ligue 1 suffered the least (48 mil- “With regard to players’ health, UEFA measures lion euros). The report stated that of five big clubs, were considered rather successful, as only few Barcelona saw the biggest dip, registering a 39- incidents occurred,” it stated. “However, there es in the general population. cases across Europe, mainly driven by the mixing million euros contraction in matchday revenues. were also loud voices that condemned the tourna- “The World Health Organization (WHO) blamed of crowds in host cities, as well as travelling and The Premier League was the exception amongst ment for some increases of new corona(virus) cas- Euro 2020 for a rise of 10 percent in COVID-19 the easing of social restrictions.” —AFP

lating last season’s sixth place finish. News in brief Antonio stars as The Hammers have won their opening two fixtures of a Premier Egypt without Salah West Ham crush League campaign for only the second time. “It’s a super night for us. The CAIRO: Egypt’s football association (EFA) 10-man Leicester team played really well. The sending- said on Monday Liverpool had refused to off changes the game a little bit we release Mohamed Salah for the Pharaohs’ LONDON: West Ham extended their did a lot of good things,” Moyes said. upcoming World Cup qualifiers against perfect start to the season as Michail “I’ve challenged the players to find Angola and Gabon due to UK quarantine reg- Antonio became the club’s record that extra few points that could have ulations. British media reported earlier that Premier League goalscorer with a been enough to get us in the the Reds were also refusing to release double in their 4-1 win against 10- Champions League. I could be asking Fabinho, Roberto Firmino and Alisson Becker man Leicester on Monday. David far too much but what else am I going for Brazil’s three upcoming World Cup quali- Moyes’ side took the lead through to do? Stand here and say we want to fiers. Both Egypt and Brazil and are on the Pablo Fornals’ first half goal at the avoid relegation!” UK Government’s ‘red list’. Egypt’s governing London Stadium. body said the decision by Liverpool was Leicester’s Ayoze Perez was sent Memorable moment prompted by “mandatory isolation for 10 off for a dangerous stamp on Fornals West Ham were the only team to days” for travellers returning from those just before half-time. Said Benrahma beat Leicester twice in the league last countries. In the summer, Liverpool refused to bagged West Ham’s second after the season and they maintained that hold LONDON: West Ham United’s English midfielder Michail Antonio (second allow star striker Salah to play in the break before Youri Tielemans got one over Brendan Rodgers’ men as the FA right) celebrates with teammates after scoring their fourth goal against Olympics, where Egypt reached the quarter- back for Leicester. Cup holders slumped to their first Leicester City at The London Stadium in east London on Monday. —AFP finals before losing to eventual gold medalists Antonio went into the game tied defeat of the new campaign. Brazil. —AFP with Paolo Di Canio on a joint-record Allowed a capacity crowd for the 47 goals for West Ham in the Premier first time since February 2020 after Leicester suffered a self-inflicted stabbed home from close-range after League era. The 31-year-old took the easing of coronavirus restrictions, wound in the 40th minute when West Ham failed to clear James sole possession of the record with a West Ham fed off the fans’ energy in a Michael Oliver sent off Perez after Maddison’s 69th minute cross. But Lyon complete signing brace in the closing stages as West fast start that saw Benrahma’s 20- consulting the pitchside monitor to Antonio wrapped up the points with Ham followed up last weekend’s 4-2 yard curler saved by Kasper review the forward’s reckless stamp 10 minutes remaining when he took LYON: Lyon have completed the signing of win at Newcastle with another four- Schmeichel. on Fornals’ ankle. Declan Rice’s cross, held off Soyuncu Swiss international midfielder Xherdan goal blitz. Containing Leicester effectively In the 56th minute, Caglar Soyuncu and swiveled to blast past Schmeichel. Shaqiri from Liverpool, the two clubs “I’m really pleased for him. I was and launching counter-attacks at will, played a woeful backpass towards After celebrating his goal by hold- announced on Monday. The 29-year-old disappointed with the way he played West Ham’s confident display was Schmeichel without looking and ing up a large cardboard cut-out of moves for an initial fee of six million euros, in the first half but he did enough to rewarded in the 26th minute. A Antonio intercepted. Antonio slipped himself on the touchline, Antonio pro- rising to a potential total of 11 million euros shut the manager up after what I said sweeping move ended with Fornals the ball to the unmarked Benrahma duced another memorable moment in ($12.9m) with bonuses, Lyon said, and has to him at half-time,” Moyes said of finding Benrahma wide on the left and the Algerian smashed in his first the 84th minute. Cleverly flicking the signed a contract until 2024. Capped 96 times Antonio. Despite a quiet summer in before racing into the area to meet the goal at the London Stadium since ball over his head, Antonio got by Switzerland, Shaqiri played for Basel, the transfer market, West Ham sit top cross with a clipped finish into the far signing from Brentford last season. between two defenders before poking Bayern Munich and Inter Milan before moving of the table and look capable of emu- corner from 12 yards. Against the run of play, Tielemans home from close-range. —AFP to England in 2015 when he signed for Stoke City. He then joined Liverpool in 2018 and made 63 appearances for the Anfield club between the goalposts, with Mike over the last three seasons, leaving with win- Diaz gets Milan Maignan, recruited from French champi- ners medals in the Premier League, ons Lille to try to fill the outsize boots of Champions League, Club World Cup and Italy’s Euro 2020 winner Gianluigi UEFA Super Cup. —AFP off the mark Donnarumma, now with Paris Saint- Germain. Looking assured in his new at Sampdoria surroundings it was Maignan’s long pass that set up the only goal of the game, Williams loaned to Norwich MILAN: AC Milan opened their Serie A Davide Calabria then providing the campaign on Monday with a 1-0 win at assist with Sampdoria keeper Emil LONDON: Manchester United defender Sampdoria as coach Stefano Pioli fielded Audero unable to cope with Brahim Brandon Williams joined Premier League side a host of new signings including Olivier Diaz’s low shot. The Spanish midfielder Norwich on a season-long loan on Monday. Giroud. Giroud, who turns 35 next joined on loan from Real Madrid last England Under-21 international Williams month, is expected to make a sizeable season and that has been extended for made his United debut in September 2019 impact for the Rossoneri alongside the two more years. after coming through the youth ranks at Old club’s other ageing star Zlatan With Sampdoria marking Giroud out Trafford. The 20-year-old left-back has been Ibrahmivoc. of the game, the French forward was unable to hold down a regular place in Ole As the towering Swede recovers from given little chance to open his Milan Gunnar Solskjaer’s team due to the fine form knee surgery, Piolo will hope France’s account. Towards the end Piolo blooded GENOA: AC Milan’s French forward Olivier Giroud gestures at supporters at the end of the Italian Serie A football match between Sampdoria and AC of Luke Shaw. Promoted Norwich have lost second-highest scorer of all time can another of his summer intake, Milan at the Luigi Ferraris stadium in Genoa on Monday. —AFP their first two games of the season against make as big an impact as he did at Alessandro Florenzi, who completed his Liverpool and Manchester City, conceding Chelsea, helping the Blues to the season-long loan move from Roma at eight goals and scoring none. Canaries boss Champions League title last season. the weekend. ex-Italy international, a successor to into an early lead, with Simone Bastoni Daniel Farke hopes Williams can help steady With Milan back in the Champions Earlier, former Paris Saint-Germain Vincenzo Italiano, was back in the doubling up on 58 minutes. But home the ship. —AFP League for the first time since 2013/14, a midfielder Thiago Motta had hopes of dugout for the first time in 18 months side Cagliari were back in it when Joao reliable presence in front of goal could opening his second stint as a Serie A after his first managerial role at Genoa Pedro scored in the 62nd minute, and be just what Pioli’s team need. manager with victory, when Spezia led ended after 10 games in the sack. leveled from the penalty spot four min- There was a new presence too Cagliari 2-0 with an hour played. The Emmanuel Gyasi put his new club utes later. —AFP Green opts for England

SAINT-ETIENNE: Saint-Etienne goalkeeper Levante last Sunday. and show what he’s all about and he’s going to Etienne Green has chosen to represent Bale’s Real form ticks It was his first La Liga goal for the club since start playing games.” England rather than France, he announced on September 2019. His form augurs well for Wales’s “Thankfully he’s had a positive impact on the Instagram on Monday. In a post written in all the boxes for friendly with Finland followed by qualifiers against manager and started the season in good form. He’s French, the 21-year-old who was born in Belarus and Estonia next month. Wales resume scoring goals, which is great for us,” added Page England but moved to France as a child, wrote: their World Cup qualifying campaign having who has taken temporary charge of the team while “If the English FA are interested and decide to Wales coach Page opened with a 3-1 away defeat to group favorites full-time boss Ryan Giggs prepares to go on trial call me up, I’ll go with pride and commit to it Belgium and a 1-0 home victory over Czech in January next year, accused of assault and coer- 200 per cent.” Green has been at Saint- LONDON: Gareth Bale is “ticking all the boxes” Republic in March. cive behavior towards his ex-girlfriend. Etienne since he was nine and made his Ligue since returning to Real Madrid which is a boost for “You’ve got to give it your best and play for Page is delighted too to have Bale and his other 1 debut for Les Verts last April. He was select- Wales ahead of their forthcoming 2022 World Cup your club,” said Page. “There’s no argument there, star player Aaron Ramsey both fit and in form. ed for France’s under-21s in the age-grade qualifiers said Welsh manager Robert Page. Bale is he’s (Bale) ticking all the boxes. He’s got a manager They have not played together in a qualifier since Euro in the Hungary this summer as the third back in favor at Real under new coach Carlo now who’s been impressed in what he’s done in Wales beat Hungary to qualify for the Euros in goalkeeper. He did not play a single minute as Ancelotti — having been sent on loan to pre-season and watched him through the Euros. November 2019, largely due to the Juventus mid- France reached the quarter-finals. —AFP Tottenham Hotspur by his predecessor Zinedine That’s all he can influence. Give his best in training fielder’s injury problems. —AFP Zidane — and scored in their 3-3 draw with Established 1961 15 Sports Wednesday, August 25, 2021 Safe in Spain, Afghan women’s basketball star hopes to play again Bayat reached Madrid after ‘nerve-wracking escape’ from Kabul BILBAO: As captain of Afghanistan’s been in too many videos and spoken this former law student. wheelchair basketball team and a about the Taleban, about all I’ve done in women’s rights activist, Nilofar Bayat basketball and working for women’s ‘Others are still there’ fled for her life when the Taleban took rights in Afghanistan. There can be a big With the help of several German sol- over, seeking safety in Spain where she case for the Taleban to kill me and my diers, they managed to get in but spent hopes to soon be back on the court. family.” two days there in the blazing Kabul sun Speaking to reporters in the northern With the help of the Spanish embassy with “nothing to sleep on.. and not city of Bilbao just days after arriving on she managed to secure a seat on a plane, enough food” before finally being flown a Spanish military plane, this 28-year-old and set off for the airport where she out on a Spanish military plane. athlete spoke of her shock at how quick- found scenes of chaos with the Taleban But she’s acutely aware that in getting ly the Taleban swept into the capital away, she was one of the lucky ones. Kabul and of her struggle to get out. “I’m luckier than other Afghan people “I really want the UN and all coun- in that I’ve left and am here and can tries to help Afghanistan.. because the start a new life. But I’m just one per- Taleban are the same as they were 20 They don’t son, others are still there,” she said. years ago,” she said. “If you see When the Taleban were in power Afghanistan now, it’s all men, there are accept women in the late 1990s, a rocket hit Bayat’s no women because they don’t accept family home when she was just two- women as part of society.” as part years-old. In the attack, her brother After a nerve-wracking escape, was killed, her father was injured and she and her husband Ramesh, who of society she lost a leg. BILBAO: The captain of Afghanistan’s women’s wheelchair basketball team Nilofar plays for Afghanistan’s national bas- “They changed my life forever, Bayat poses in the Spanish Basque city of Bilbao on Monday. —AFP ketball team, landed at an airbase just they caused pain and something that outside Madrid on Friday and are now shooting and beating people to stop I’ll carry forever in my life,” said Bayat. “I attacks or polio, Bayat became interest- ability,” she said. She came to Spain with starting a new life in Bilbao. them reaching the airport. am the best proof of how dangerous the ed in wheelchair basketball after seeing the help of a Spanish journalist friend “When the Taleban came and I saw “It was a really difficult day.. I’ve nev- Taleban are.. and how living in the men play and went on to play a key and has received “many offers” to play them around my home, I was scared and er seen this much danger in my country. I Afghanistan is hard and difficult: there is role in setting up an Afghan women’s with wheelchair basketball teams, includ- I started to think about myself and my cried a lot, not because they beat me or no future and no hope.” team. “When I’m in the gym and playing ing one from Bidaideak Bilbao BSR, with family,” said Bayat after the insurgents my husband, but because of who had In a country where many people have basketball, I forget what’s happening in whom she hopes to start playing “as swept into the capital on August 15. “I’ve taken control of the country,” explained been left with disabilities due to the my country and also that I have a dis- soon as possible”. — AFP

appearing at AfroBasket in 1993, the Australian coach blazes trail for team make their return to the top-tier continental championships which run the Rwandan capital Kigali from August 24 women in African basketball to September 5. NAIROBI: When she was growing up says, adding that she was often over- in Australia’s biggest city of Sydney, Liz looked because of her age and her gen- ‘More inches’ Mills dreamt of one day becoming a der. Mills says she is now proud to be a “Back in 2012 I said in Zambia that I professional basketball coach. Little did “pioneer” as a female coach. “I hope that wanted to be the first woman to coach at she know that she would end up having I’ve been able to inspire especially the AfroBasket,” says Mills. “Qualifying fame thrust upon her thousands of kilo- female coaches in Africa to start working the Kenyan Morans is a dream which has meters away in Africa, where she has with men’s teams as well as women’s come true. There have been a lot of ups- made history as the first woman to teams across the continent.” and-downs to get here, but I am very coach a men’s basketball team in a con- But she says that in 2021 she should happy to have been able to achieve this.” tinental tournament. not be the first woman to be coaching a On the court, she wears knee-high After a decade in Africa, Mills is national men’s basketball team, and black leather boots and black jeans now head coach of the Kenyan Morans called on federations to do more to along with a red team polo shirt, saying NAIROBI: Kenyan Men’s National Basketball team head coach Liz Mills (center) talks and in just a short time has steered engage women and girls. “I am planning the heels give her “more inches” along- with the national team after the training session at the Nyayo national stadium gym- them to their first AfroBasket champi- on holding the door open and encourag- side the towering players. Mills saw the nasium in Nairobi on August 20, 2021. —AFP onship in 28 years. From Australia, ing as many women through the door... Morans edge out 11-times African cham- Mills started out on her African adven- so hopefully in the next couple of years pions Angola 74-73 in Cameroon in better and better, with the development success as a coach, Mills puts it down to ture in 2011 in Zambia, where she it will be the 100th or 500th to do what February to break their almost three- of the NBA academies, Giants of Africa, her philosophy of building good rela- coached the Heroes during the 2011- I’ve done this year.” decade absence from the continent’s Basketball Without Borders, independent tionships with her players. “Players don’t 2012 season and they ended up win- Having served as deputy coach of the basketball showpiece. She voices confi- camps for juniors and academies. With care about how much you know until ning the national championship. national Zambia and Cameroon men’s dence that African basketball is heading all these structures in place, basketball in they know how much you care about “I was a bit of rarity... I felt discrimi- basketball teams, Mills joined the Kenyan for bigger and better things. Africa is trending in the right direction.” them, and not just a player but as a per- nated in terms of opportunities,” she Morans in January this year. After last “I think the standards are only getting Asked about the secret of her own son on the court.” — AFP

Kuwait women’s handball team heads for Bosnia training camp KUWAIT: Kuwait women’s handball team leaves today to Bosnia for a training camp in preparation for the 18th Asian Women’s Handball Championship, due to be hosted by Jordan on September 15-25. The ‘Blue’ team will be within Group B along with Jordan, Afghanistan, India, Iran and Japan, as this championship is a qualification for World Cup scheduled to be hosted by Spain at the end of this year. Women’s Handball Committee Vice President Dr Dalal Hussain said yesterday that the 10-day camp comes in preparation for the first abroad participation, hoping to strengthen the player’s performance and achieve a great level. Meanwhile, the team’s coach Bobaker Zermani said despite the short period of preparation, the team is ready for this championship as the KUWAIT: Members of the Kuwait women’s handball team, management and coaching staff. — KUNA camp would also improve their level for more upcoming events. — KUNA Established 1961 Sport

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25, 2021 Tokyo Paralympics open after year’s virus delay Emperor inaugurates event in near empty stadium as per virus rules

TOKYO: Performers and delegations take part in the opening ceremony for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo yesterday. — AFP

TOKYO: Japan’s emperor declared the the stadium, wearing masks but waving but the virus situation in Japan has wors- Tokyo Paralympics open in a nearly empty and dancing after the disappointment of ened dramatically in recent weeks. The stadium yesterday, with athletes ready to the postponement and worries about a country has recorded more than 25,000 defy stereotypes and shatter records potential cancellation. daily infections in the past week, and while despite a year-long pandemic delay. A volunteer carried Afghanistan’s flag the death toll remains comparatively small Emperor Naruhito made the announce- into the stadium as a “sign of solidarity” at around 15,500, just 40 percent of the ment surrounded by banks of vacant mul- with athletes from the country, which is one population is fully vaccinated. ticolored seats at Tokyo’s 68,000-capacity of 21 nations unable to compete at the The opening ceremony came with Olympic Stadium, with virus rules banning Games. International Paralympic Committee Tokyo and 12 other regions under a virus spectators from almost all Games events. president Andrew Parsons said the event state of emergency that largely limits the “I declare open the 2020 Tokyo could be a “platform for change”. opening hours of bars and restaurants and Paralympic Games,” he said, wearing a “Many doubted this day would happen, bans them from selling alcohol. But several many thought it impossible, but hundred people gathered outside the sta- thanks to the efforts of many, the dium before the ceremony started, hoping most transformative sports event to taste the atmosphere despite being on Earth is about to begin,” he said, locked out. 539 gold medals as a steady drizzle fell in the stadi- “I know this is a difficult time, but the um. The 13-day Games, with 539 athletes came to Japan despite the risks,” up for grabs gold medals up for grabs across 22 said 41-year-old Haruyo Yamamoto. “Since sports, arrive two weeks after the we’re hosting the Games, I want them to Andrew Parsons (front left), president of the International Paralympic Committee close of an Olympics that also took perform at their best.” A small handful of (IPC), and Japan’s Emperor Naruhito (center) wave as Japan’s Prime Minister place almost entirely behind closed protesters also gathered outside the stadi- Yoshihide Suga (right) walks in at the start of the opening ceremony for the Tokyo doors over virus fears. um, holding signs saying “No Paralympics” 2020 Paralympic Games at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo yesterday. — AFP and shouting through megaphones. white surgical mask. The pared-down cer- Virus surge in Japan will shift when the sporting action begins is expected to continue its long-running emony took place in front of around 800 Paralympic athletes will be subject to ‘Blade Jumper’ on Wednesday, with over 4,400 athletes Paralympic gold medal dominance, but VIPs and officials, but there was a celebra- the same rules as their Olympic counter- On Tuesday afternoon, crowds gath- itching to get started. Among those com- host Japan will be hoping its record 254- tory mood as 162 teams enjoyed their parts — including daily testing, mandatory ered in parts of Tokyo to watch the Blue peting are German long-jumper Markus strong team can repeat the country’s long-awaited moment in the global spot- mask-wearing and limits on their move- Impulse air display team fly over trailing Rehm, dubbed the ‘Blade Jumper’, who is Olympic gold rush. light. The ceremony took “We Have ment. The run-up to the Games has been smoke in the blue, red and green colors of aiming to break the 8.62 meter world Badminton and taekwondo will make Wings” as its concept, creating a mini “air- fraught, with polling for months showing the Paralympic symbol. But in a sign of the record he set himself in June. their Paralympic debuts in Tokyo. The port” on the stadium field and telling the Japanese were opposed to hosting them ongoing concerns, New Zealand’s Japan’s wheelchair tennis legend Shingo Games will also put the spotlight on story of a one-winged plane that takes to this summer. Paralympic team did not participate in the Kunieda will be aiming to excite home Japan’s record of disability inclusion, with the skies. The mood seemed to shift once the opening ceremony, though organizers said fans, while United States wheelchair racer activists saying more remains to be done A reduced parade of roughly 3,400 Olympics got under way, with a majority it was the only team to opt out. Tatyana McFadden is hoping to add to her despite some progress, especially in Tokyo, Paralympians and team officials entered saying they were glad it had gone ahead, Paralympic chiefs are hoping the mood collection of 17 Paralympic medals. China on accessibility. — AFP

Will the Tokyo Paralympics bring change?

TOKYO: As the Paralympic Games begin, free infrastructure, with officials calling chair. “In Canada, I live without noticing Japan’s efforts to improve accessibility accessibility important both for people my disability at all.” and inclusion are in the spotlight, with with disabilities but also the country’s Activists say the workplace is an exam- many arguing there is still plenty of work large elderly population. A barrier-free ple of the barriers that remain. Under gov- to do. Some 4,400 athletes with impair- enforcement law has been revised twice in ernment rules, workers with disabilities ments will compete in Tokyo at the world’s recent years to promote accessibility at must make up at least 2.3 percent of staff biggest parasports tournament. public facilities. at all companies. Larger firms face fines It’s a place for sporting history, but also for non-compliance. an event organizers say can change atti- ‘Marginal’ change In 2018, the government was forced to tudes towards people with disabilities. “It’s Particular efforts have been made in apologize for routinely overstating the a precious event,” said Masaaki Suwa, a Tokyo’s mammoth train system, with ele- number of disabled people on its staff to Japanese para-canoeist who missed the vators operating at around 96 percent of meet quotas. Motoaki Fujita, a sports TOKYO: This picture taken on Monday shows Japanese para-canoeist Masaaki cut for the Tokyo Games but will be stations as of 2019, the city government sociology professor at Nihon Fukushi Suwa commuting in a train station in Tokyo. — AFP cheering for Japan’s team on television. says. By 2019, 82 percent of Tokyo sub- University and a parasports expert, says “They are doing great things but they way stations also had platform gates to Japan has become more inclusive, “but the Paralympics is a very good chance to cult for me to have hope that people will are not superhumans. I want people to keep visually impaired passengers and change is still marginal.” change people’s thinking,” said Shigeo feel something”, added the 29-year-old, know that they are human beings just like others safe — up from 56 percent in 2013. Some 57 percent of people surveyed Toda, head of a Tokyo-based research who is contesting her third Paralympics. you,” the 35-year-old told AFP. It’s a bit- New hotels with more than 50 rooms by Fujita’s team last year said they “cer- institute studying the lifestyles of people International Paralympic Committee tersweet moment for Suwa, who had are also required to make at least one of tainly or somewhat” believe people with with disabilities. President Andrew Parsons admits the hoped to compete in his hometown, but every 100 barrier-free. “In terms of the disabilities are weak and have difficulty “But we can’t help but think that spectator ban is “a challenge,” but he’s counting on other Paralympians to number of barrier-free facilities, Japan living with non-disabled people. That’s momentum could sag if people can’t watch argues broadcasts will reach billions make an impact on Japanese society. appears advanced,” said Miki Matheson, only slightly less than the 61 percent who them in person,” Toda said. Saki around the world. “I hope (the Paralympics) will be a deputy chief of Japan’s Paralympic dele- felt the same in a 2014 poll. Takakuwa, a Paralympic runner who com- “The Games themselves are a catalyst,” springboard that allows people to live gation. But the three-time Paralympic gold petes with a prosthetic blade, worries he told AFP. “It’s the moment when people more closely alongside disabled people,” medalist, who lives in Canada and is in Paralympic ‘catalyst’ about the spectator ban’s effect. “I know see athletes in action, and that’s when this said Suwa, who uses a wheelchair. Tokyo for the Games, says accessibility is Tokyo’s Paralympics will take place people will watch the Games on TV, but I change really occurs.” In Japan, he added, Disability rights experts and activists paint not the same as inclusion. “I’m often treat- with almost no spectators because of wonder how they will respond,” she told there is “still a lot of progress to be made. a mixed picture of the situation in Japan. ed as a disabled person when I’m back in virus rules, which some fear could blunt its the Mainichi Shimbun daily. But we believe that we have started to see There has been progress on barrier- Japan,” said Matheson, who uses a wheel- impact on Japanese society. “The “Compared to past Games, it’s diffi- a change.” — AFP