MONDAY MARCH 11, 2019 RAJAB 4, 1440 VOL.12 NO. 4570 QR 2

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AMIR REAFFIRMS QATAR’S SUPPORT 157 KILLED AS ETHIOPIAN FOR LIBYA’S UNITY AND STABILITY PLANE CRASHES Ethiopian Airlines plane crashed shortly after take-off from Addis Ababa, killing all on board Flight The crash 149 ET302 happened at passengers from the 08:44 Ethiopian local time, capital to six minutes after the 8 Nairobi months-old Boeing crew members in Kenya 737 Max-8 took off MORE ON PAGE 10 The Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani met Chairman of the Presidential Council of Libya and Prime Minister of the Government of National Accord of Libya Fayez Mustafa al Sarraj at the AMIR CONDOLES WITH ETHIOPIAN PRESIDENT & PM Amiri Diwan on Sunday. The meeting touched on bilateral relations and most prominent regional and THE Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani sent a cable of condolences to the President of the Federal Democratic Republic of international developments, especially the recent events and the challenges faced by Libya and the Ethiopia, Sahle-Work Zewde, and Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed Ali expressing his condolences over the deaths of so many efforts of the international community to maintain its unity and security. The Amir reaffirmed Qatar’s people in the crash of an Ethiopian Airlines passenger plane. (QNA) firm and supportive stance for Libya’s unity and stability.(QNA)

CMC reflects Qatar’s steps to Qatar project offering 6,400 jobs Qatar-Pakistan uphold freedom and justice in Gaza to start in days: UNRWA QNA get graduates, including new trade rises 233% QNA GAZA ones, “unskilled workers” such DOHA as cleaners, administrators, and A project funded by the Qatari workers in education, health, THE experience of the Central Committee for the Reconstruction municipalities, the private sector Municipal Council (CMC), as of Gaza offering 6,400 temporary and UNRWA institutions. to reach $2.6 bn the first house of democracy, jobs in Gaza will start within days. Qatari Committee for the proved the sound approach of This was announced by the Reconstruction of Gaza and UN- Qatar to uphold the values of United Nations Relief and Works months. The work is under way to RWA signed a memorandum of Qatar’s foreign trade freedom and justice, to consol- Agency (UNRWA) for Palestine prepare the list of beneficiaries of understanding on mechanisms idate the principle of consulta- Refugees on Sunday. this project. for implementing projects for the surplus increases 40% to tion and the democratic action UNRWA Media advisor Ad- As for the nature of the ben- employment of graduates and and to promote popular par- nan Abu Hasna said the operating eficiary groups, Abu Hasna said unemployed workers in the Gaza $52 bn in 2018: Kuwari ticipation, in light of the great period is between three and nine employment opportunities tar- Strip several weeks ago. development witnessed by the RAHUL PREETH State in various fields. DOHA CMC Chairman Moham- med bin Hamoud al Shafi said QATAR’S bilateral trade with Pa- the CMC keeps pace with the Vessel arrival at Qatari ports sees 647 scholarships from MoI kistan saw a massive increase fol- comprehensive development A total of 647 students have enrolled in Min- lowing the unjust siege imposed on of Qatar. He said the CMC, 53.2% increase year-on-year istry of Interior’s scholarship programmes as Doha by some of its neighbours more which consists of 29 members THE total number of on February 28, according to statistics. Of the than two years ago. representing 29 constituen- vessels arriving at Qatar total, 438 were interns and 209 were exter- The trade volume between the two cies, enjoys full independence Ports increased by an an- nal students at the levels of diploma, bach- countries increased 233 percent to in carrying out its responsi- nual rate of 53.2 percent, elor, master and doctorate. Five students are $2.6 billion in 2018 from $782 million bilities as defined by the law, resulting in an increase in currently enrolled in doctoral programmes, in 2016, Minister of Commerce and and has been able, over five the total net tonnage of while 22 others are enrolled in the Masters Industry HE Ali bin Ahmed al Kuwari sessions, to enrich the demo- ships at an annual rate of programme in military and civilian colleges, said at a high-level business forum in Minister of Commerce and Industry HE cratic experience and serve 159.1 percent (compared 563 at bachelor degree level and 57 at the Doha on Sunday. Ali bin Ahmed al Kuwari speaks at a the society. PAGE 2 to Jan 2018). (QNA) diploma level. (QNA) PAGE 2 The minister urged Pakistani in- high-level business forum in Doha on vestors and businessmen to be part Sunday. of Qatar’s future growth strategies, which has international trade and in- Citing his personal experience vestments as one of its crucial compo- from his former days as businessmen, nents. Dawood said Qatar was a wonderful ‘Momo Challenge’ a hoax, but kids must learn online safety This is evidenced by the 40 percent country to do business in. jump in Qatar’s foreign trade surplus “It is open, it is transparent and TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK them safe offline. of $52 billion in 2018 from 2017, he there is a level-playing field for eve- DOHA Empowering children and hav- added. ryone,” he said, adding that Qatar’s ing open conversations with them “Qatar and Pakistan have enjoyed continued supply of natural gas to the “Momo Challege”, a devilish and is the first step in ensuring their strong friendly relations since the UAE despite the Emirate being part of terrifying online meme that has online safety. 1990s. The strength of these relations a quartet that has imposed the siege on been spreading panic among par- Parents must teach children have been marked by the exchange of Qatar shows its commitment in hon- ents, is a hoax. But not if you ask about cyber bullying. several high-level visits, including the ouring and managing contracts. legions of parents who are still Vodafone Qatar’s research, con- latest visit of Pakistan Prime Minister QFC’s Jaida said Pakistan plays a warning about the online menace ducted through its digital literacy Imran Khan in January this year,” Ku- key role in its new strategic vision for and are worried about their chil- programme, AmanTECH, showed wari said. 2022, which focuses on four “clusters” dren’s safety. that there are children in the coun- The Pakistan Qatar Trade and In- or growth areas, including Islamic fi- What’s important is the par- try spending more than 8 hours per vestment Conference drew the partici- nance. ents need to grow up and they day on screens. pation of Qatar Finance Centre CEO Pakistan is part of QFC’s New must empower their children to be These staggering statistics dem- Yousuf Mohamed al Jaida, Pakistan’s Emerging Belt Initiative (NEBI), safe online. onstrate that it is vital for parents to advisor to the prime minister on com- which aims to tap markets worth $2.1 Although the challenge was Vodafone Qatar’s research showed that there are children in the country ensure that their children are well- merce, textiles, industries and produc- trillion. reported to be fake, it shows yet spending more than 8 hours per day on screens. equipped to handle any online dan- tion Abdul Razzaq Dawood, Chairman “The NEBI markets offer an unri- again how easy it is for children to gers that may face them. of Pakistan’s Board of Investment Ha- valled opportunity for businesses, and become victims to online predators. digital transformation, becoming countries, keeping children safe on- roon Sharif and leading businessmen include Kuwait, Oman, India, Turkey As Qatar heads towards a true one of the world’s most connected line is just as important as keeping Continued on page 2 Ô from Pakistan and Qatar. and of course, Pakistan,” he said. 02 Monday, March 11, 2019

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PM MEETS HIGH-LEVEL PAKISTANI DELEGATION News 13% increase in traffic in brief cases in January, says Deputy Amir sends condolences to Ethiopian president, PM PSA monthly report THE Deputy Amir HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al Thani sent A TOTAL of 591 traffic cases ulation of Qatar has increased a cable of condolences to the President of the Federal Demo- were recorded during Janu- from 2.64 million in January, cratic Republic of Ethiopia Sahle-Work Zewde and Ethiopia’s ary, 2019, showing a month- 2018, to 2.77 million at end of Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed Ali on the victims of the crash of ly increase of 13.2 percent. January, 2019, an annual in- an Ethiopian Airlines passenger plane. (QNA) Light injuries accounted for crease of 4.6 percent. 89 percent of traffic injury Another significant de- PM sends condolences cases followed by severe in- velopment revealed by the to Ethiopian counterpart juries with 9 percent, said report is the rise in total num- the monthly report of the ber of marriage contracts at a PRIME Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Abdullah Planning and Statistics Au- monthly rate of 8.5 percent, bin Nasser bin Khalifa al Thani sent a cable of condolences to thority for January. Howev- which is offset by a drop in to- Prime Minister of Ethiopia Abiy Ahmed Ali on the victims of the er, 12 deaths were recorded, tal number of divorce certifi- crash of an Ethiopian Airlines passenger plane. (QNA) equivalent to only 2 percent cates by a monthly rate of 7.6 of total road accidents. percent (compared to Decem- Civil Aviation Authority chief The total number of reg- ber, 2018). The total number meets Omani counterpart istered new vehicles dur- of marriage contracts was 308 ing January, 2019, reached against 97 divorce cases. PRESIDENT of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Abdullah bin PRIME Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al Thani met on Sunday 5,598, registering a month- Social Security state- Nasser Turki al Subaei met with CEO of the Public Authority with Prime Minister’s Adviser for Commerce, Textile, Industry and Investment of the Islamic Republic of ly increase of 6.4 percent ments, reached 85,266,000 for Civil Aviation of Oman Dr Mohammed bin Nasser al Zaabi. Pakistan Abdul Razak Dawood and his accompanying delegation, who are in the country to participate in and an annual decrease of for 15,323 beneficiaries. The meeting discussed means of enhancing cooperation in all Qatari-Pakistani Investment Forum. During the meeting they discussed bilateral cooperation between the 10.0 percent. Social Security statements fields of civil aviation between Qatar and Oman.(QNA) two countries and the ways to boost and develop them in various fields especially trade and investment. The demographic statis- reached QR85,266,000 for They also discussed a number of topics of common interest. (QNA) tics showed that the total pop- 15,323 beneficiaries. (QNA) ‘Open talks with children to ensure ‘CMC reflects Qatar’s approach their online safety’ to upholding democratic values’

Continued from page 1 Ô ties that the internet pro- vides while still staying CMC enjoys full independence in carrying out its responsibilities as defined by the law and ONE way to help children safe. Vodafone is commit- with Internet safety is to ted to raising digital safety has been able, over five sessions, to enrich the democratic experience and serve the society use parental controls, In- awareness in Qatar.” ternet filters and content- Vodafone said through QNA Hamad al Thani. the development process of He also noted the high ing to the members and their management apps to limit partnership with the Min- DOHA The council, which con- the State through its propos- level of awareness among the proposals, and they spare no their access to bad content. istry of Transport and sists of 29 members repre- als and recommendations on citizens about the importance effort to implement all that However, empowering chil- Communications, it has THE Central Municipal Coun- senting 29 constituencies, issues of public interest. The of participating in these elec- would serve the country and dren and having open con- been delivering online safe- cil (CMC), as the first house of enjoys full independence in council has played significant tions and the voters’ confi- the citizen, in line with the di- versations with them is the ty workshops at primary democracy in Qatar, reflects carrying out its responsibili- role in activating decisions dence in the council’s role in rectives of the wise leadership. first step in ensuring their schools since late 2017. To Qatar’s approach to uphold ties as defined by the law and and laws related to municipal promoting the development He noted that the fifth online safety. From teach- date, 30 workshops have the values of freedom and jus- has been able, over five ses- affairs, he pointed out. process and achieving the as- session of the council held ing them about cyber bul- been conducted for nearly tice and promote consultation sions, to enrich the democrat- It is noteworthy that there pirations of citizens in munic- 68 meetings and issued more lying to alerting them about 3,000 students in Years and popular participation, ic experience and serve the are 116 candidates in the fray ipal affairs. than 130 recommendations the dangers of speaking 3-8, with plans to conduct Chairman of the Council Mo- society, he noted. for the sixth CMC polls, in- Shafi underlined that the covering various municipal to strangers online, these 20 more workshops be- hammed bin Hamoud al Shafi Qatar formed the first mu- cludingfive women, accord- council has been able to con- matters, such as increasing steps will empower them to fore the end of 2019. At has said. nicipal council in the early fif- ing to the election superviso- solidate its relations with vari- green spaces in different re- identify such dangers and each workshop, children Speaking to Qatar News ties of the last century. This ry committee of the Ministry ous ministries and agencies in gions of the country, waste arm them with the knowl- are required to perform Agency (QNA) ahead of the experience was then devel- of Interior (MoI). the State, headed by the Min- recycling, establishment of edge that they can speak to tasks related to online end of the fifth session of the oped to hold the first elections On MoI’s preparations istry of Municipality and the public parks, bus stations and their parents if such situa- safety, learn specific skills CMC and marking 20 years of its members by direct vot- for the elections, the CMC Environment, over the years locations, establishment of tions arise. including identifying fake of its existence, Shafi said ing in 1999, in which citizens, chief expressed his satisfac- and has succeeded in over- halls for holding wedding cer- “By increasing their news vs real, safe online the CMC keeps pace with the both men and women, partici- tion, saying that the ministry coming many of the problems emonies, controlling workers’ digital literacy, we would gaming, and ways to deal comprehensive development pated. Currently, the State is has always ensured that the with growing experience. gatherings in residential areas enable children to access with cyber bullying and of the State of Qatar under the preparing for the sixth session electoral process is conducted He added that the minis- for families and development the wealth of opportuni- reputation online. patronage and guidance of the elections on April 16. with absolute transparency ters and officials are keen on of a system to monitor gov- Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin CMC has contributed to and with little obstacles. visiting the council and listen- ernment projects.

647 students avail QF, Qatar Shell sign agreement to MoI scholarships

promote health, safety of workers A total 647 students were en- rolled in its scholarship pro- TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK grammes as of February 28, DOHA including 438 interns and 209 external students at the QATAR Foundation (QF) and levels of diploma, bachelor’s, Qatar Shell on Sunday signed master’s and doctorate, the an agreement that will see the Ministry of Interior’s (MoI) two organisations collaborate statistics show. to share and promote best According to the statis- practices for workers’ welfare, tics, five students are cur- safety, and environmental rently enrolled in doctoral management. programmes, while 22 oth- The agreement was signed ers are enrolled in master’s by Ghanim Hassan al Ibrahim, programme in military and chief operations officer, QF, civilian colleges, 563 at bach- and Andrew Faulkner, man- elor degree level and 57 at the aging director and chairman, diploma level. Qatar Shell. The ceremony A total 352 students are Mahmoud invited to Eurasian took place at QF Headquarters enrolled in military insti- in Education City. tutes and colleges, while 295 Ibrahim said: “We’re de- students are enrolled in civil Countries’ Parliaments meet lighted to sign this agreement Ghanim Hassan al Ibrahim, chief operations officer, QF, and An- universities. The share of with Qatar Shell. This collabo- drew Faulkner, managing director and chairman, Qatar Shell, at an educational institutions in QNA of the National Assembly of Kazakhstan to Qatar HE Askar ration will see QF and Qatar agreement-signing event in Doha on Sunday. Qatar was the highest with DOHA South Korea Moon Hee-sang Shokybayev during a meeting Shell exchange ideas, share ex- 438 students, 72 in British to participate in the 4th Meet- with Mahmoud. periences and develop the best “QF and Qatar Shell have a fare and environment have al- universities, 67 in Ameri- SPEAKER of the Shura Coun- ing of Speakers of Eurasian During the meeting, they practices to promote sustain- long history of successful and ways been a priority for Shell can universities and 28 in cil HE Ahmed bin Abdullah Countries’ Parliaments. reviewed bilateral coopera- able and meaningful progress impactful partnerships and and run through everything Polish universities. The rest bin Zaid al Mahmoud has re- The meeting is due to be tion between Qatar and Ka- in this area. It represents our through this agreement we are we do in Qatar. of the students are distrib- ceived a joint invitation from held in the capital city of Ka- zakhstan and the ways of shared dedication to ensuring aiming to lead by example with “I greatly respect what uted across a number of the Chairman of the Mazhilis zakhstan, Astana, from Sep- supporting and developing that we maintain the highest regard to promoting a positive Qatar Foundation represents prestigious universities in of the Parliament of the Re- tember 23 to 24, under the them, especially in the par- standards of health and safe- health and safety culture with- and, therefore, am thrilled other countries. public of Kazakhstan Nurlan theme ‘Greater Eurasia: Dia- liamentary field. ty across our organisations, in all working practices.” that we will continue to work This year is expected to Nigmatulin, Chairman of the logue, Trust, Partnership’. The meeting was attended while also focusing on protect- Faulkner commented: together to achieve even more see the graduation of 196 stu- Russian State Duma Vyache- The invitation was deliv- by a number of officials at the ing our environment. “Health, safety, workers’ wel- progress in these areas.” dents. (QNA) slav Volodin and Speaker ered by Ambassador of the Shura Council. Nation Monday, March 11, 2019 03

Vodafone completes HAMMADI MEETS PURDUE UNIVERSITY TEAM GigaNet fibre CARTOON CORNER By: Saad al Mohannadi network roll-out at The Pearl Qatar VODAFONE Qatar has com- pleted the roll-out of its GigaNet fibre network across The Pearl- Qatar with customers already starting to enjoy a number of Vodafone services, the telecom provider has announced. Vodafone Qatar’s fibre net- work enables the island’s resi- dents to experience premium services through its high-speed internet and high quality fixed voice. In future, Vodafone will also be offering customers ex- citing entertainment and smart Minister of Education and Higher Education HE Dr Mohammed Abdul Wahed Ali al Hammadi met on Sunday home services. For businesses, with a delegation from the American University of Purdue headed by Dr Nasser Hamed Bidar, the university’s Vodafone Qatar’s fibre enables advisor, currently visiting the country. During the meeting, they discussed cooperation in the fields of higher a large suite of business ser- education and scientific research and the ways to support and promote them in addition to topics of vices including smart solutions, mutual interest. The meeting was attended by Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education and Higher Educa- smart security and smart me- tion HE Dr Ibrahim bin Saleh al Nuaimi and President of the College of the North Atlantic in Qatar Dr Khalifa tering. These technologies will Nasser al Khalifa. (QNA) help the organisations operat- ing in The Pearl to optimise, au- tomate and innovate. In April 2018, Vodafone Qatar and United Development Company (UDC), the island’s Slew of activities to mark Francophonie Fest in Qatar master developer, signed an agreement that would see The Pearl benefit from Vodafone The event, very popular in France and being held in Qatar for first time, will celebrate the French language and culture Qatar’s world-class telecommu- nications infrastructure includ- AILYN AGONIA bassador of France to Qatar theatre professionals. cophonie’, a series of sport- ing superior mobile coverage DOHA HE Franck Gellet said at a The speech contest will ing tournaments among the and a high-speed fibre technol- press conference held at the be followed by the second student faculties, which will ogy network, capable of han- A SHOWCASE of popular new French hotel, Al Wadi French Touch Rugby Tour- commence with fencing, the- dling speeds of up to 1Gbps. and well-loved French cui- Hotel, on Sunday. nament featuring 24 teams atrical performances, writing More than 27,000 of The sine, music and other forms The envoy said Qatar is and hosted by Blue Falcons contests and plastic arts, is Pearl’s current residents and of celebration of the French also a francophone coun- Rugby Club at the Doha Sport set to take place at the French 700 businesses will benefit from language will take place try since eight percent of its Park on March 15 from 8am Qatari Voltaire School, in Vodafone Qatar’s high-speed in different venues in Qa- total population or around to 6pm. Al Waab on March 23, from fibre network. As a unique and tar from March 13 to mark 200,000 people are speaking A French dictation event 10am to 4pm. innovative urban development Francophonie Festival. the French language. (La Grande dictée de langue Also on March 23 at 4pm, in Doha spanning over four mil- The French Embassy in He also expressed his Française) featuring two cat- French musical group called lion square-metres of land, The Doha and the French Institute admiration of Qatar resi- egories - French as a mother Cinq de Coeur will present Pearl-Qatar island offers its res- of Qatar are taking the lead in dents, especially Qataris, tongue and French as a sec- ‘The non-return concert’ at idents and visitors the ultimate honouring the annual festival who speaks the French lan- ond language - will be hosted the Katara Drama Theatre. luxury and lifestyle experience dedicated to those who love guage which is spoken by at Al Wadi Hotel on March 21, Access to the events is free in addition to being a preferred the French language and the 274 million people in five French Ambassador to Qatar He Franck Gellet (right) announces the from 5pm. of charge. Other programmes, investment destination for resi- culture around. continents and is expected to Francophonie Festival events with Sylvie Lamy of Institut Francais From March 21 to March including registration proce- dential, commercial and retail/ “During the week, the gain more prominence in the Qatar in a press conference in Doha on Sunday. 24, gastronomic event dures are detailed at: www. business investors. festival will feature different coming years. ‘Goût de France/ Good institutfrancais-qatar.com. Customers can learn more events that will be of inter- The upcoming pro- City Centre Rotana Doha on Qatar. It will present eight France’ featuring the fla- The festival is supported about Vodafone’s fixed services est not only to Francophones gramme will start with the el- March 13, from 5pm. finalists during their elimi- vours of Province will be cel- by and in partnership with and how to sign up to a Voda- (French-speaking) but also oquent speech tournaments The event is very popu- natory trials in front of a ebrated in many restaurants Qatar Foundation, Katara fone broadband plan at www. to those who wish to discover between students of French lar in France and this is the panel of judges comprised throughout Doha. Cultural Village, Fnac – Fifty vodafone.qa. (TNN) the French language,” Am- in Qatar to be held at the first time it will be hosted in of diplomats, lawyers and Olympiades of the Fran- One East and Qatar Airways. 04 Monday, March 11, 2019 Nation

FAREWELL FOR UKRAIN’S AMBASSADOR: Minister of State for Foreign Affairs MURAIKHI RECEIVES CREDENTIALS OF AMBASSADORS: Minister of State for Foreign Affairs HE Sultan bin Saad al Muraikhi on Sunday received the credentials HE Sultan bin Saad al Muraikhi met on Sunday with Ambassador of Ukraine to of Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to Qatar HE Mohamed Bahrin Abu Bakar and Ambassador of Portugal to Qatar HE Ricardo Pracana. The minister wished the Qatar HE Yevhen Mykytenko on the occasion of the end of his tenure in the coun- ambassadors success in their duties, assuring them of all support to promote bilateral relations between Qatar and their countries. The meetings were attended by try. The minister thanked the ambassador for his efforts in promoting and devel- a number of Foreign Ministry officials.(QNA) oping the bilateral relations, and wished him success in his future duties. (QNA) QC opens 5th multi-service Qatar Charity’s FCC hosts cultural programs for Asian communities centre in Sri Lanka’s East TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA

THE Friends Cultural Center The QR900mn facility (FCC), a community develop- is expected to benefit ment centre of Qatar Char- ity (QC), recently organised more than 500 people a slew of activities including competitions on public speak- TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK ing and literary meetings, with DOHA the participation of FCC’s members belonging to Asian QATAR Charity (QC) has communities. opened a multi-service centre The FCC held a speech in the Eastern Province of Sri competition for women par- Lanka, benefiting more than ticipating in the Toastmasters 500 people. The centre in- course, aiming to help them cludes 22 housing units and boost confidence, develop ef- all basic facilities. fective communication skills, The FCC held a speech competition for women participating in the Toast- The project seeks to con- enhance public speaking ca- masters course, aiming to help them boost confidence, develop effective tribute to the resettlement The 1,450-sqm centre has 22 housing units, each spreading over 50 square metres, a mosque, a kinder- pabilities and improve profes- communication skills and enhance public speaking capabilities. of the second generation of garten, a health center, four shops, an artesian well with a water reservoir, green spaces and corridors. sional abilities. families displaced due to the The literary meeting or- reviewed at the meeting. motion of culture and civilisa- past crises in the country, re- health centre. ganised by the FCC for book Habeeburahiman Kizhi– tion among the Asian commu- duce the migration of people QC’s humanitarian inter- lovers featured discussions on ssery, director of FCC, said, nities, as QC believes that the in search of housing and wa- vention in Sri Lanka dates a number of famous books. “Such events help community well-being of humankind can ter sources, and provide them back to 1993 when it used to An introduction was given members develop their cultur- only be achieved by coopera- with the necessary health and work in co-ordination with on six renowned Malayalam al knowledge and raise aware- tion and interaction between educational services. local charities. It opened its books, including ‘Meesha’ ness, while facilitating com- different religions, opinions The QR900mn centre office last March to directly by S Hareesh and ‘Mindaa munication and interaction and ideas. aims to establish security and oversee its projects and in- Prani’, a poetry collection by with other Asian nationals.” It is worth mentioning that stability, improve the living tensify its humanitarian and Veerankutti. He also noted that QC, the centre conducts weekly conditions and social environ- development efforts in the The literary meeting saw through the FCC, aims to courses in handicrafts, knit- ment of the people affected country. serious discussions and mean- achieve cultural interaction ting and crocheting for wom- by previous internal conflicts, In conjunction with the ingful conversations, as the and exchange of ideas that en. It also has classes for the and provide housing for them. opening of its office in the Sri participants shared their views contribute to the development Holy Quran and Arabic lan- It also aims at providing Lankan capital Colombo last and observations on the books of human values and the pro- guage, in addition to karate. employment opportunities in year, QC inaugurated four the fields of health, education multi-service centres, each and agriculture, contribute to water reservoir, green spaces the necessary services and fa- containing 22 houses (social community development and and corridors. cilities. housing units), a health centre, achieve social peace between The displaced families that The project was carried a kindergarten, a mosque, an different segments of the so- benefit from the project are out in coordination with the artesian water well, endowed ciety. considered vulnerable and Sri Lankan authorities, which shops and green spaces, ben- The 1,450-sqm centre has include farmers, fishermen provided the land free of efiting hundreds of families. 22 housing units, each spread- and daily-wage workers, who charge and facilitated the pro- With the opening of this ing over 50 square metres. It are unable to build their own cedures of electrical connec- centre, the number of multi- includes a mosque, a kinder- homes. QC, through this pro- tions to the housing units built service centers, inaugurated garten, a health center, four ject, aims to provide them with by QC. The Ministry of Health by QC in Sri Lanka in a year, shops, an artesian well with a adequate houses, which have of Sri Lanka will operate the reached five. Tasmeem Doha art and design conference from March 13 TASMEEM Doha 2019, an inter- ‘QAL, the anti-carpet’, an exhi- hibition at the Fire Station will ex- Tasmeem Doha 2019 (Tas- national art and design confer- bition by media artist and interac- plore the significance of natural gas meem is the Arabic word for de- ence hosted by Virginia Com- tion designer Ali Phi, will take place relations between Japan and Qatar sign) will be a creative event that monwealth University School of at the Gallery at VCUarts Qatar. by using 40 floating printers that will focus on ‘Hekayat’ (stories) the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), The opening reception in the pres- source text and images from the as its central theme. Hekayat will will be held at the Education City ence of the artist will take place on internet. The opening reception is provide a platform where storytell- from March 13 to 15. March 13 at 5.30pm and the exhibi- on March 14 and the exhibition will ing can be explored through vari- Prominent speakers from all tion will run until April 13. be open until March 22. ous mediums, and stories can be over the world are slated for the ‘Elemaun’, a performance- The project is a collaboration shared in a multitude of forms. conference which will feature driven audiovisual project by between faculty and students at Registration for the confer- workshops and exhibitions. The Ali Phi, will concentrate on VCUarts Qatar, Texas A&M Uni- ence and workshops are now open. event, which will be free and open Persian motifs and the regional versity at Qatar and the Advanced Anyone wishing to attend can visit to the public, will also host three music of Iran. Institute of Industrial Technology http://www.tasmeemdoha.com/ art exhibitions. The ‘-162° Trading Power’ ex- at Tokyo Metropolitan University. for more details. (TNN)

PHCC vaccinates 5,359 students in eight days THE Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) has concluded a vaccination campaign against diphthe- ria, tetanus and pertussis. The campaign was organ- ised for high school students in coordination with the Ministry of Public Health. Community Medicine Consultant and the Head of School Health Department Dr Layla al Dahnaim said the vaccination rate this year rose to 61 percent, with 5,359 students vaccinated in the eight-day campaign in 62 secondary schools. “This increase in the percentage reflects the ef- forts of the School Health Department and the suc- cess of the awareness drive which preceded the vac- cination campaign,” Dahnaim said. The PHCC deployed 50 doctors at schools dur- ing the vaccination campaign to check on students before vaccination and to deal with any emergency cases. In addition, 150 nurses also participated in the campaign. Dahnaim called on those who missed the vacci- nation to go to PHCC health centres, pointing out that receiving the vaccination is a precondition for admission to universities. (QNA) Nation Monday, March 11, 2019 05 QA launches ‘Qrewards’ Ooredoo, QTerminals ink digital solutions deal for business travellers Real-time technology optimises operations, helps expand throughput and enhances safety

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK jointly explore partnership op- yard capacity of 2 million DOHA portunities in the space of IoT TEUs. The port’s yard capac- and 5G technology to spur new ity is set to grow to 7.5 million OOREDOO, the region’s lead- levels of productivity, efficiency TEUs in the coming years, ing enabler of digital busi- and competitiveness. including being able to host ness innovation, has signed a Yousuf Abdulla Kubaisi, 1.7 million tonnes of general memorandum of understand- chief operating officer of freight and 500,000 vehicles ing with QTerminals WLL, to Ooredoo, said: “In signing per year. design a state-of-the-art, high this MoU with QTerminals, Neville Bissett, CEO of availability, WAN infrastruc- we’re leveraging best prac- QTerminals, said: “As Hamad ture and hosting solutions tices in innovative technology Port expands, the real-time ‘Beyond Business by Qatar Airways’ allows businesses to redeem which enable the complete and experience in supporting infrastructure to optimise port Qrewards on any flight with seats available. suite of unified communica- Qatar’s mega projects in or- operations, enhance security tions across their locations in der to explore ways that will and Customs inspections, and TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK cation by the Beyond Busi- Qatar, the telecom company Yousuf Abdulla Kubaisi, chief operating officer of Ooredoo, with Neville support QTerminals’ digital to share data across our em- DOHA ness team at Qatar Airways. has announced. Bissett, CEO of QTerminals, at the agreement-signing event. transformation. Using the IoT ployees and enhance work- Eligibility requirements can Ooredoo and QTermi- sensors on ships and contain- force productivity become QATAR Airways announced be found at the programme’s nals will also collaborate and Hamad Port, one of the Mid- At Hamad Port, QTermi- ers, with data transmitted via very crucial hence our discus- on Sunday that it has launched website at www.qatarairways. share information in rela- dle East’s largest ports, to drive nals provides container, gen- 5G, QTerminals can predict sions with Ooredoo regarding ‘Beyond Business by Qatar com/beyondbusiness. tion to the Internet of Things economic diversification and eral cargo and RORO, livestock shipping demand peaks, en- the IoT and 5G technology as Airways’ in Qatar, a corpo- Qatar Airways Chief Com- (IoT) Product and Services. enhance the country’s ports and offshore supply services. hance operations and opti- we are keen to continue the rate rewards programme that mercial Officer Ehab Amin In line with Qatar National and logistics innovations in the Thanks to this memo- mise throughput.” transformation of Hamad Port introduces a new currency, said: “As a preferred carrier Vision 2030, the government highly competitive ports and randum of understanding, The multi-modal Hamad into one of the world’s leading Qrewards, enabling business for business travellers,Qatar is supporting the growth of logistics fields. Ooredoo and QTerminals will Port currently has an annual ports and logistics innovators.” travellers to take advantage of Airways recognises the impor- exclusive benefits. tance of a premier corporate With ‘Beyond Business by rewards programme. We are Qatar Airways’, small and me- delighted to introduce ‘Be- dium enterprises earn valuable yond Business by Qatar Air- Harvey Nichols Doha and Bvlgari pre-launch Le Gemme Trilogy Qrewards which can be re- ways’, as it enables small and deemed on flights to any of Qa- medium-sized enterprises to TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK of perfume-making, musks are tar Airways’ 160+ destinations. be rewarded for their book- DOHA dynamic and multi-layered, Unlike other programmes ings and enjoy unique benefits shifting between sensual and where redemptions are per- that make business travel even LUXURY department store clean, and bridging the space mitted only on select flights at more rewarding. We invite all Harvey Nichols Doha and Bv- between masculinity and femi- select times, ‘Beyond Business small and medium-sized com- lgari exclusively pre-launched ninity. Many sources of musk by Qatar Airways’ allows busi- panies to take advantage of Le Gemme new Masculine Tril- are found in nature — and it was nesses to redeem Qrewards on this special programme.” ogy, the latest Bvlgari High Per- the uncovering of those natural any flight with seats available. A new full-service account fumery Collection for men. elements that inspired the new By progressing through three portal makes it easy for reg- “Men have used musks trilogy from Bvlgari and Master new rewarding tiers; Elevate, istered corporates to book since the dawn of time. They Perfumer Jacques Cavallier. Accelerate and Ascent, cus- flights, redeem their Qrewards were essential components in In so many ways, musks are tomers can unlock faster earn- and access insightful report- the first fragrances created to al- a perfect fit for Bvlgari. They ing and benefits including fast ing that will help manage their low early man to communicate mirror the duality of sensual- track Qatar Airways Privilege travel budget. Full information with the gods. The inspiration ity and freshness that is at the Club Gold status, lounge ac- including FAQs on Beyond for this new trilogy comes from Opalon Yasep Falkar heart of the Roman Jeweller’s cess and upgrades. Business by Qatar Airways can the colour of the stones and distinctive style. Often, musks In celebration of the be found on the programme’s the stones themselves. When Cavallier, master perfumer. sensual, or even both, but not at same and this is the way I use are used as a sort of background launch of the programme, Qa- website at www.qatarairways. I see the colour of Opal, I im- Cavallier added, “Musks are the same moment. musks. The difference is that to set a tone that is then punc- tar Airways will offer 3,000 com/beyondbusiness. mediately think of musk. The in Bvlgari’s DNA – they provide “They help reveal the beau- for Bvlgari I’m using musk as tuated by other ingredients and Qrewards for all new accounts For queries or assistance musks accords that I used here an element of sensuality and ty of other ingredients. It’s like a major ingredient. The back- notes. In this latest Bvlgari Le created from now until April required during the account are pure and crystalline musks cleanliness mixed with fresh in- in a painting, to see the colours ground becomes the principal Gemme trilogy, however, musk 10, 2019. Bonus Qrewards sign up, please contact be- for Opalon, opulent musks flections. Yet, they produce very you need a background, a black emotional actor.” is the principal actor, used to will be credited to the account yondbusinessdoha@qatarai- for Falkar and powdery wood different feelings on your skin. background, for example, to see One of the most enduring articulate a fascinating range of within a week after qualifi- rways.com.qa musks for Yasep,” said Jacques They can be very clean or very the light. For perfumes it is the ingredients in the ancient art emotion and artistry. 06 Monday, March 11, 2019 Nation Ambassadors’ spouses visit Dreama to promote ties TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK listened to the presentation by families, ensuring their stabili- DOHA Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser al ty in such families and training Misnad, Dreama’s executive the fostering families on how ORPHAN Care Center (Drea- director of the Orphan Care to inform the fostered children ma) recently received a del- Center, on the vision and mis- of their conditions and pro- egation from ‘Sohom Asso- sion of Dreama as a pioneering vide them with the psychologi- ciation’, a forum comprising centre in providing care for the cal support they need. wives of 16 ambassadors and orphans and integrating them The team was also given heads of diplomatic missions into the society. a tour to Dreama’s facilities, in Qatar, to learn about the The presentation also fo- including the Shelter Care types of services being of- cused on the safe and stable Building, Academic Support fered by the centre for the environment provided by the Villa, the Club, Library and targeted categories. centre for the targeted catego- Electronic Library. The visit aimed at pro- ries, in addition to its efforts At the end of their visit, moting cooperation between to reduce the number of such the association members ex- Dreama and the international cases and developing institu- pressed their appreciation community to provide chil- Members of the ‘Sohom Association’, a forum comprising spouses of 16 ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions in Qatar, during a visit tional capabilities. for the efforts that are being dren deprived of families with to Dreama recently. They also got to know exerted by Dreama with re- a familial environment and about the centre’s plans for the gard to providing protection, facilitate their integration into The visit also aimed to tise in the field of integrating suring their stability through in Qatar. orphans with regard to main- care and distinguished ser- the society successfully. discuss exchange of exper- children into society and en- cooperation with embassies The delegation members taining alternative fostering vices for orphans. NU-Q’s museum on ‘UK remains number one destination for media all set to hold first event tomorrow Qataris studying overseas, says report in Qatar and across the globe Study UK Fair 2019 consider studying in the UK. opens at La Cigale The first is that UK education opens doors, wherever you go in the world.” TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK Sheikha Alanoud bint Ham- DOHA ad al Thani, managing director of Business Development at Qa- THE United Kingdom remains tar Financial Centre and Board the number one destination for member of Qatar-UK Alumni Qataris studying overseas, says Network said: “The UK Study the most recent data released by Fair is an excellent opportu- the Higher Education Statistics nity for students in Qatar to The Media Majlis will host biannual exhibitions, weekly programmes Agency in the UK. learn about the many possibili- and other events that encourage the exploration, discussion and inter- The number of students ties available to them through rogation of media, journalism and communication through global, from Qatar studying in the higher education in the UK. I regional and local lenses. UK went up 13 percent in the am confident that the event will 2016/17 academic year, to more provide the ideal platform to TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK a series of weekly programmes than 3,000 students. explore the many opportunities DOHA that build upon the discussions The British Council, British Ambassador to Qatar HE Ajay Sharma with British Council’s Director in Qatar Sam Ayton and other available to students.” in the upcoming exhibition. which plays a key role in pro- officials at the opening of ‘Study UK Fair’ in Doha on Sunday. The exhibition take place NORTHWESTERN University The first programme on viding students in Qatar with from 4:30pm – 8:30pm at Le in Qatar’s (NU-Q) museum – March 12 will be moderated information about studying tions and representatives from to know about foundation Ajay Sharma said: “I was Crillon Ballroom at La Cigale the Media Majlis at Northwest- by Nancy Proctor, director of in the UK, opened its annual local scholarship providers and courses, English Language delighted to attend the opening Hotel Doha. ern University in Qatar – will the Peale Center for Baltimore ‘Study UK Fair’ at La Cigale school counsellors in Qatar. courses, career-based diplo- of this year’s Study UK exhibi- Admission to the event is host its first programme in col- History and Architecture, along hotel on Sunday. The two-day fair is spon- mas, first degree and post- tion. The UK offers world-class free, but online registration is laboration with UCL Qatar on with three technology, film and The opening ceremony of sored by British Council IELTS graduate degree courses. educational institutions which recommended in order to gain Tuesday, March 12. exhibition experts. the two-day fair being held un- and aims to connect students in With the increasing number equip students with the skills faster access to the exhibition. The programme titled ‘New Among the topics up for der the theme ‘Experience Life- Qatar with representatives from of UK educational providers in and experience to succeed in the https://qa.edukexhibition. Media + New Museum: Com- debate will be technological ad- Changing Learning’ was attend- 18 popular UK universities, Qatar and with the recognition global workplace.” org munication and Storytelling’ vancements aimed at increasing ed by the British Ambassador to colleges and English language of distance learning, parents Sam Ayton said: “I am Students not able to attend will comprise a panel discus- engagement with and between Qatar HE Ajay Sharma, British providers who can answer their and students can speak directly proud to see that the UK con- can consult the new Study UK sion on the evolving uses of new visitors, emergence of AR and Council’s Director in Qatar Sam questions about UK education. to representatives from 18 UK tinues to be the most popu- website for information about media in exhibitions and story- VR in storytelling, and the uses Ayton, official delegates from During the event, students institutions and discover tradi- lar destination by Qataris for living and studying in the telling in museums. of media in creating empathy the Ministry of Education and in Qatar will have the oppor- tional and flexible study options overseas studies. There are UK: https://study-uk.british- Housed in NU-Q’s build- and immersive environments. Higher Education, UK institu- tunity to find out all they need both in the UK and in Qatar. many reasons why students council.org/. ing, the Media Majlis will host “We are very happy to col- biannual exhibitions, weekly laborate with NU-Q’s the Me- programmes and other events dia Majlis, the first university that encourage the exploration, museum in Qatar, for its first discussion and interrogation event,” said Alexandra Bounia, of media, journalism and com- senior lecturer and course coor- HBKU, GU-Q’s seminar to explore legal munication through global, re- dinator at UCL Qatar. gional and local lenses. She added, “Having new Its first exhibition, Arab media and museums at the core Identities, images in film, will of our teaching in the Museums and other responses to political killings explore the deep and compli- and Galleries Programme, we cated meanings of identity in believe that a close collabora- TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK fessor; Professor Anatol Lieven, current events, this oppor- film, as well as the ideas and tion with a media museum is DOHA GU-Q; Professor Ilias Bantekas, tunity to bring an academic connections that influence exactly what will inspire our CLPP; Professor Eleni Polyme- focus on a contentious tool of people’s understanding of students and will help them to HAMAD Bin Khalifa Univer- nopoulou, CLPP; Dean Susan L statecraft could not be more that theme. connect theory and practice. In sity’s (HBKU) College of Law Karamanian, CLPP; and Dean timely. One of the goals of the “The Media Majlis, the first addition, this is a collaboration and Public Policy (CLPP), in Ahmad Dallal, GU-Q. university is to contribute to university museum in Qatar, is that will foster the development collaboration with George- Dr Karamanian said, “The the global body of knowledge part of the Qatar Foundation’s of closer connection among in- town University in Qatar (GU- colloquium will be a dynamic, on the issues that confront us, vision to bring exceptional edu- stitutions in Qatar, both inside Q), will on Wednesday, March academic forum for the ex- and to challenge our students cation and cultural experiences and outside the Education City.” 13 organise an academic change of ideas and knowl- to engage in the world and to Qatar,” Everette E. Dennis, “Our programmes are ex- seminar to examine the phe- edge, and will complement serve their communities. dean and CEO at NU-Q. “The tensions of our exhibitions, nomenon of targeted political CLPP’s efforts to provide con- “How we respond as schol- museum’s interdisciplinary delving into and discussing eliminations ordered or sanc- text on complex topics that ars, as policy advisers, as mem- capacity makes it a destina- aspects of public interest. tioned by a government or its Dr. Susan Karamanian. Dr. Ahmad Dallal. confront contemporary socie- bers of our respective commu- tion for international visitors, They serve as a great intro- institutions in modern times ties. It is one of many initiatives nities, will have a critical impact residents, and local citizens as duction to the forthcoming and throughout history. times of armed conflict or po- sponses available to restrict and that align our interests with on our society and our future.” well as students, scholars and exhibition Arab Identities, im- A panel discussion to be litical unrest. ultimately end such practices. GU-Q, and we look forward The colloquium, which media professionals interested ages in film, whose accompa- chaired by Dr Ahmad Dallal, The seminar will bring Speakers at the colloquium to a balanced and informative will be conducted in English, in exploring the Arab World nying publication is available dean of GU-Q, will explore this together leading experts to will include Professor Richard discussion on the political, le- is open to the public, and will through a pedagogical lens.” in the NU-Q Bookstore,” said complex issue from a variety of discuss the underpinnings of Steinberg, University of Califor- gal and social implications of take place from 4pm to 6pm at In the lead-up to the open- Pamela Erskine-Loftus, direc- perspectives and focus on the targeted political killings and nia, Los Angeles (UCLA), School this phenomenon.” GU-Q in Education City, in Fac- ing, the museum is launching tor of the museum. assassination of civilians in to address legal and other re- of Law and CLPP visiting pro- Dr Dallal said, “In light of ulty Conference Room 1D02. QNRF kicks off annual National Scientific Research Week

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK cellence in scientific research. on scientific experience through ment at the Ministry of Edu- said: “We are proud of our DOHA Students will explore various activities organised by partner- cation and Higher Education, partnership with the Minis- scientific themes through their ing academic institutions. said: “Engaging research insti- try of Education and Higher QATAR National Research research projects and aim to The finals of the FameLab tutions across the country will Education’s scientific team Fund (QNRF) – a member of address challenges facing Qatar competition, which encour- enable our youth to master re- as we seek to promote a cul- Qatar Foundation (QF) – in col- and countries around the world. ages students to explain com- search skills and develop criti- ture of scientific research at laboration with the Ministry of Participants will compete plex scientific topics in an eas- cal thinking and problem-solv- pre-university education level, Education and Higher Educa- across nine different categories ily understandable way, will be ing skills, thus enabling them particularly across preparatory tion on Sunday launched the in the Scientific Research and held on March 13, when the to contribute to the develop- and secondary schools.” annual National Scientific Re- Engineering Design competi- winners of the various com- ment of Qatar. These efforts Yosouf Abdulrahman Saleh, search Week (NSRW), a show- tion, with the top-performing petitions will be honoured at will empower Qatari youth to executive director of QSTP, case of scientific exploration students going on to represent a special awards ceremony to excel at local and international said: “QSTP is honoured to once and innovation, at Qatar Na- Qatar in prestigious regional mark the conclusion of this research competitions.” again participate in the NSRW, tional Convention Centre. and international competitions, year’s edition of the NSRW. The week-long series of a programme that nurtures the The annual science festival including the Intel Internation- The annual science festival is a nationwide competition that enhanc- Finals of the Qatar Na- competitions and science- creativity and inquisitive minds is a nationwide competition al Science and Engineering Fair es, develops and recognises the scientific research skills of prepara- tional Scratch Coding Compe- related activities received 722 of our youth and, through that enhances, develops and (Intel ISEF) in the US and the tory and secondary students in schools across Qatar. tition and 4th National Phys- research project submissions hands on experience in science recognises the scientific re- International Invention, Inno- ics and Astronomy Olympiad from students across schools and technology, teaches them to search skills of preparatory and vation and Technology Exhibi- lenges, in various categories fair for students from Grades 1 Finals were held today, among in Qatar, out of which 150 re- identify and solve global prob- secondary students in schools tion (ITEX) in Malaysia. at the 11th National Scientific to 5 will take place on March 12, other events. search projects were selected to lems. This dynamic is in line across Qatar, and promotes Students will showcase their Research Exhibition, which is with the aim of motivating stu- Reema Abu-Khadija, di- compete in the final round. with our mission to create an cooperation and competition scientific research projects, fo- open to the public on March 13. dents to study STEM subjects rector of the Curriculum and Dr Aisha al Obaidly, Capac- environment that fosters inno- among students to achieve ex- cused on local and global chal- Meanwhile, a Science Fun- by providing them with hands- Learning Resources Depart- ity Building director at QNRF, vation and collaboration.” Monday, March 11, 2019 07

Reports by Santhosh Chandran For events and press releases email Indian Experience [email protected] or call (974) 4000 2222 Indian instrumentalists’ virtuoso performance enthrals music buffs

Uttarakhand. The musical soiree was organised as part of the Earlier at a brief public func- ongoing Qatar-India Cultural Year 2019 festival tion, the artistes were felicitated with ‘plaque of appreciation’ presented by spearheaded by the embassy of India with co- Hemant Dwivedi, First Secretary (In- formation, Culture and Education) at ordination and support of the Indian Ministry of the Indian embassy in Qatar and the Culture and Qatar Museums chief guest at the programme along with AP Manikantan, President of Indian Cultural Centre and K M Var- NDIA’S first female logue’ on the tabla, violin and flute ghese, Chairman (Advisory Council) ‘tabla’ and percussion followed by an ensemble among of Indian Cultural Centre. virtuoso Anuradha Pal various musical instruments in- In his address to the gathering, and her team of talent- cluding pakhawaj, udu djembe and Hemant Dwivedi thanked the man- ed musicians regaled darabuka that kept the audience aging committee of Indian Cultural Imusic enthusiasts with their heart- spellbound. Centre for its outstanding contri- stealing performance at Ashoka Anuradha Pal is an internation- butions to the embassy’s efforts to Hall of the Indian Cultural Center in ally acclaimed accompanist with top make the India-Qatar Year of Cul- Doha, recently. Indian classical musicians and an ture a huge success and gave details The musical soiree was organised enthusiastic collaborator with Jazz- of the various cultural programmes as part of the ongoing Qatar-India -Afrobeats, Latino, Flamenco, cross- lined up for the next few weeks. Cultural Year 2019 festival spear- over classical music, percussion, President of Indian Cultural headed by the embassy of India with pop and Rock music. Other par- Centre AP Manikantan welcomed co-ordination and support of the In- ticipating artistes were Nihal Khan the guests. The programme was dian Ministry of Culture and Qatar Mangnehar (vocals, dholak and compered by Seenu Pillai, General Museums (QM), the official partner khadtal) from Rajasthan, Prasanna Secretary with Nirmala Shanmuga- nation for the 2019 Year of Culture. Raj Joshi (Hindustani flute) from pandian, and Nayana Wagh, Head The musical performance con- Maharashtra, Karthik Nagaraj (Car- of Cultural Activities at Indian Cul- tained an interactive narration natic violin) from Mysore and Tush- tural Centre, proposed the vote of through innovative rhythmic ‘dia- ar Raturi (keyboard and udu) from thanks. ICBF announces slew of welfare Indian forum bids farewell to programmes for the needy outgoing embassy official NDIAN apex body -- In- HE newly-elected Indian dian Community Benevo- Community Benevolent lent Forum (ICBF)--host- Forum (ICBF) Manage- ed a farewell party for the Tment Committee an- IIndian embassy’s Second nounced a slew of humanitar- Secretary and Coordinating ian programmes including a Officer of ICBF Mohammed medical camp for fishermen Aleem in Doha on Wednes- in April at its installation cere- day. Indian Ambassador to mony recently. ICBF functions Qatar HE P Kumaran attend- under the aegis of the embassy ed the event. of India with the Indian am- Recalling the services of bassador as its patron. the outgoing second secre- PN Baburajan is the newly- tary Ambassador P Kumaran Indian Embassy Second Secretary M Aleem with Indian Ambassador elected President of ICBF. He said that during his tenure HE P Kumaran and members of ICBF at a function in Doha, recently. is known for his social works here, Aleem was very sup- in Qatar spanning more than portive of the Indian expatri- ICBF President P Babur– two decades. Other ICBF Man- ate workers, helping to sort ajan complimented Aleem agement Committee members thil Athiban Agastheeswaran languishing in deportation ICBF activities are carried out their problems. for his services and sup- include Mahesh Gowda (Vice (Head of Medical Camps & centre, assisting in transpor- out with the generous support In his speech on the oc- President and Head of ICBF Fishermen’s Welfare). tation of mortal remains of of committee members, phi- casion, ICBF President P port to the activities of Associate Organisations), Avi- The different programmes the deceased and accompany- lanthropists and good-hearted Baburajan complimented ICBF as the organisation’s nash Gaikwad (General Secre- announced on the occasion ing person, providing shelter community members, organi- Aleem for his services and coordinating officer during tary), Nivedita Ketkar (Treas- include blood donation camp, and food to stranded persons, zations and companies eager support to the activities of his two-year tenure urer), Subramanya Hebbagelu a free health camp for fisher- one-time financial assistance to support the needy as part of ICBF as the organisation’s (Joint Secretary and Head of men and labour community, for medical treatment of life- their social responsibility. coordinating officer during tary Avinash Gaikwad, Vice Facilities), Santhosh Kumar besides Hajikka Essay com- threatening diseases at local ICBF came into being in his two-year tenure. While President Mahesh Gowda, Pillai (Joint Secretary and petition for school students in hospitals, etc. 1984, when some prominent addressing the gathering, M Treasurer Nivedita Ketkar, Head of Youth Activities & April. ICBF is also planning to Apart from these, ICBF Indian businessmen and com- Aleem thanked Ambassador Joint Secretary Santosh Ku- Labor Assistance), Juttas launch new initiatives for the also conducts awareness cam- munity leaders living in Qatar P Kumaran for his support mar Pillai, Indian Cultural Paul (Head of Media and De- benefit of Indian community paigns for children at schools, came together for the noble and guidance that helped Mohammed Aleem Centre President AP Mani- velopment) Rajani Murthy members. Its major activities yoga sessions for workers, objective of providing succor him perform his duties to the kantan, Indian Business and (Head of Medical Assistance include holding free medical health and hygiene sessions and solace to the underprivi- best of his abilities. ognition of his work and to Professionals Council Presi- & Domestic Workers Welfare), camps, arranging free medi- and also arranges shows and leged Indians in distress due ICBF president and man- mark the occasion. dent Azim Abbas and Indi- Ziad Usman (Head of Spon- cal cards for the needy, pro- recreational events for the en- to unforeseen circumstances aging committee presented a Others who spoke in- an Sports Centre President sorship and Events) and Sen- viding air tickets for those tertainment of workers. in Qatar. memento to M Aleem in rec- cluded ICBF General Secre- Nilangshu Dey. SDC organises karate belt award ceremony

KILLS Development Centre (SDC), egories. First time in its history, an SDC black belt award winners was the high- an Indian institution of performing student Zanava Subiwon received the ti- light of the programme. and martial arts organised a dem- tle of ‘Sensei’. President of Indian embassy’s apex Sonstration of karate on the occasion While 34 students won the black belt body, Indian Sports Centre, Azim Ab- of its belt awarding ceremony in Doha, with certificates issued by Japan Shoto- bas was the chief guest on the occasion. recently. kan Karate Association Head Office in SDC Managing Director PN Baburajan, More than 200 students received Japan 4 students were declared group SDC Karate Chief Instructor Sensei Shi- their certificates in ‘black’, ‘brown’, champions. habudheen, parents, teachers and stu- ‘blue’, ‘green’, ‘orange’ and ‘yellow’ cat- Live demonstration by the karate dents attended the programme. 08 Monday, March 11, 2019

ESTABLISHED SEPTEMBER 3, 2006 Opinion HAMAD BIN SUHAIM AL THANI CHAIRMAN ADEL ALI BIN ALI MANAGING DIRECTOR DR HASSAN MOHAMMED AL ANSARI EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

After Close Call, India and Pakistan Need Diplomacy America’s Costly Jingoism on social media and from ostensible journalists has whipped up an irresponsible war fever in India And Futile War HE most important story in the world that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, facing last week may not have been the Trump- an April national election, cannot allow to A war undertaken in Afghanistan right after 9/11 has devolved into a TKim summit or Michael Cohen’s con- engulf his populace. While Modi made his gressional testimony. Instead, it might have reputation as an unrepentant Hindu nation- generational conflict. The US military intervention must come to an end been the brinkmanship between nuclear- alist, he should be an Indian nationalist by armed India and Pakistan. embracing diplomacy over bellicosity. BONNIE KRISTIAN The two South Asian nations have fought In Islamabad, Pakistani Prime Minister TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE four wars since independence in 1947, and Imran Khan must go beyond bromides and they could have been on a path to a fifth, only convince Pakistan’s most powerful institu- MERICA would be more secure this time with an arsenal that could mean tion, its armed forces, that tacit acceptance and stronger economically if we catastrophic consequences for the region, if of terrorist groups will ruin the nation. (Pa- recognised that we have largely not the world. kistan’s overdue arrest of dozens of JeM sus- achieved our objectives in Af- The precipitating event was a February pects Tuesday is a good start.) “A ghanistan and moved aggres- 14 suicide car-bombing attack that killed “These two countries had become gripped sively to bring our troops and tax dollars about 40 paramilitary forces in India-ad- in an unsustainable cycle in which Pakistan home,” Sens Rand Paul and Tom Udall ministered Kashmir, an area also claimed by backed various terrorist and military groups write in an op-ed article. “Today, despite Pakistan in a dispute that’s one of the driving to launch attacks in Kashmir, and India, in vast investment in training and equipping dynamics in the decades of enmity between my opinion, showed remarkable restraint for Afghan forces, the country’s deep-seated the two countries. many years,” Jeff Smith, a research fellow at instability, rampant corruption and, in Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a Pakistan- the Heritage Foundation who specialises on some cases, compromised loyalties endure. based terrorist group, claimed responsibil- South Asia, told an editorial writer. Extending our commitment of combat ity, but India believes that Pakistan’s gov- India was rewarded as “the more mature troops will not remedy that situation.” ernment is ultimately responsible because partner” internationally, Smith said, but The senators are right, just as they were it hasn’t reined in JeM or similar terrorist this pattern changed when Modi responded right eight years ago when they penned groups. But India went beyond blaming to more martially in 2016. those words for the New York Times with bombing, and targeted what it said was a JeM From India, Bharath Gopalaswamy, di- Senator Jeff Merkley. In the near-decade camp in Pakistan. It was the most significant rector of the South Asia Center at the Atlantic since, the White House has gained a new military escalation since each country raised Council, told an editorial writer in an e-mail occupant from a different party, congres- the stakes with late-1990s proliferation. exchange that “India has primarily acted in sional control has shifted and the United Pakistan claims that no people or struc- self-defence.” States’ 17-year Afghan war has been gov- tures were struck — just pine trees — but it Ultimately, the Kashmir issue must be erned by ostensibly new strategies imple- retaliated by sending jets into Indian-ad- addressed. But Gopalaswamy said the so- mented by six different commanders. But ministered Kashmir to drop bombs in open lution needs to come from the two parties the US stalemate in Afghanistan remains country in a display of strength. A dogfight directly involved and that an outside power fundamentally the same: The war is still a ensued, and two Indian jets were downed — “should only involve itself if and when there costly and futile project that does nothing one in India (which India denies) and one in is an invitation by both India and Pakistan to to serve US interests or move Afghanistan Pakistan. resolve the issue.” meaningfully toward political reconcilia- An Indian pilot ejected and was captured That moment can’t come soon enough. tion or peace. tails — a few thousand more troops here, about the scale at which military interven- by Pakistani forces in what could have been As Khan warned after a meeting with his So little has changed in eight years that a new infrastructure project there, drone tion should continue forever, not whether it the tipping point into calamity. But the pilot country’s National Security Council: “I ask Paul and Udall this week introduced leg- and other aerial strikes scaled up or down should continue at all. was well treated, and then soon released, India: With the weapons you have and the islation that nearly duplicates their 2011 or back up again, with civilian casualty A less narrow and more realistic assess- and both sides have seemed to step back weapons we have, can we really afford a mis- push for withdrawal. The 2019 American rates following suit. ment makes evident what Paul, Udall and from the brink. Now the two countries need calculation?” Forces Going Home After Noble (AF- But in the task of adjusting anything other voices crying in Washington’s wilder- to do much more. In India, jingoism on so- Then, with words that must be acted GHAN) Service Act has updated numbers more substantive than tactics in Afghani- ness contend: There is no US-imposed, mil- cial media and from ostensible journalists upon, he added: “Let’s sit and settle this with — higher counts of US troops killed or stan, Washington is generally content with itarily enforced solution to Afghanistan’s has whipped up an irresponsible war fever talks.” wounded, and a larger tally of borrowed stalemate or slow loss. A war undertaken woes, and indefinitely prolonging our occu- tax dollars spent and often wasted — but right after 9/11 has devolved into a gen- pation cannot and will not change that. Our its core demand for a quick and responsi- erational conflict; it is now being fought by government is trying to bomb and spend ble exit from the longest war in US history soldiers born after the terrorist attack that Afghanistan into a political order that can is unaltered. precipitated it. And though, according to only be achieved by those who must live All the senators’ arguments against the an October study from the Charles Koch with the outcomes, both through promis- war in Afghanistan — that it is a reckless Institute, 57 percent of Americans — and ing (if still uncertain) diplomatic efforts led strategic failure that benefits no one — are 7 in 10 veterans — support a full US with- by US special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and no less applicable now than they were in drawal from Afghanistan, our government through conversations among various fac- 2011. Just as then, those against withdraw- has no such clarity. tions of the Afghan people themselves. al show no sign of ever wanting this war to President Trump, like President Oba- Whatever course and time frame those end. And once again, Paul and Udall are ma before him, campaigned on shuttering negotiations may take, the business at hand faced with a president who has promised reckless wars of choice, lambasting mission for Washington remains the same: US to bring American forces home but refused creep and the ineffectual nation building it military intervention in Afghanistan must to commit to any reasonably expeditious so often entails. Yet neither president has come to an end. It would be an appalling — timeline. succeeded in pushing past the inertia of if not exactly shocking — state of affairs if That stagnation is a telling indictment what’s been called the foreign policy “blob” this point must still be made another eight of what passes for foreign policy in Wash- — the Washington establishment who, as years hence. ington. Too many policymakers seem in- one pundit put it, “whine ceaselessly about capable, if not unwilling, of considering the collapse of the American security order.” (Bonnie Kristian is a fellow at the big picture, of asking whether continu- While the rest of the country is past Defence Priorities and a contribut- ing this war is in any sense good, useful, ready to move on, the locus of Washing- ing editor at the Week. Her writing or even in conformity with the will of the ton’s foreign policy conversation about Af- has also appeared in many publica- Politico (Tribune News Service) people they ostensibly represent. There is ghanistan (and our half a dozen other con- tions, including CNN, and plenty of energy for fiddling with the de- flicts in the Mideast and North Africa) is the American Conservative.) South Korea’s New Internet Controls As Seoul tightens its control over cyberspace, some privacy and free speech advocates are raising the alarm

TAE-JUN KANG ernment’s reach. Companies will thus be es providers as well as online users. She sively restricted freedom of expression. TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE required to follow South Korea’s rules for said she is concerned that the government The case is similar this time. The gov- data use and user privacy, and repeated would decide on a list of websites to block ernment’s latest crackdown lacks concrete OUTH Korea has laid out a new plan violations could lead to a shutdown. according to its own subjective tastes. guidelines; there is no clear definition of that could further undermine the Although the commission said its After the government’s decision was what is “obscene” and “harmful” when de- freedom of expression and violate move is aimed to form a fair playing field announced, more than 260,000 online ciding which websites to block. Sthe privacy of online users in the for both domestic and foreign companies users flocked to South Korea’s official on- Amid growing criticism, the chairman country. while protecting South Korean users’ in- line petition channel to oppose it, raising of the Korea Communications Commis- On March 7, the Korea Communica- terests, the change would also consolidate concerns over the privacy breach. sion, Lee Hyo-sung, made a public an- tions Commission announced a series of the government’s ongoing efforts to tight- Such concerns are not groundless. nouncement to dismiss suspicions and plans for 2019, which included the intro- en control over the country’s cyberspace. In the first half of last year alone, for in- allegations that the government’s recent duction of a new law giving the South Ko- One latest example is its decision to stance, 3.5 million pieces of data related moves are designed to tighten control of rean government authority to shut down block “obscene” and “harmful” websites to communication history were provided the cyberspace. domestic operations of foreign internet- that are served over HTTPS on top of the by telecommunication companies to pros- Lee stressed that the government’s related companies that hold personal in- current blocks on websites served over ecutors, police, and the National Intel- role would only be to make a list of banned formation of South Korean users, such as HTTP. The newly banned sites include ligence Service. The data include user websites and pass it to internet services Google and Facebook. websites offering gambling and pornog- names, identification numbers, and the providers. He also said that the govern- Currently, such foreign companies are raphy as well as propaganda outlets man- context of phone calls and text messages. ment is aware of “concerns” and “prob- not subject to domestic regulations regard- aged by North Korea. The Diplomat pointed out in October lems,” so it will gather experts’ opinion to ing violations of user privacy or misuse of The controversial part is that the gov- that it is unfair for the government to last year that the South Korean govern- improve policies. user information. Local firms had com- ernment plan includes eavesdropping on decide what online users can and cannot ment’s efforts to fight fake news had the Still, there are unanswered questions plained that this created a double standard SNI fields, which identify the hostname of watch. There are also concerns that the potential for abuse. The government failed about whether the government will issue that advantaged foreign companies. the target server. This allows service pro- “eavesdropping” could violate users’ pri- to set up a concrete definition of what con- concrete details or guidelines, the possi- However, the new law, once it’s viders to see which HTTPS sites users are vacy. stitutes false, fabricated, and fake infor- bility of a privacy breach, what impact the passed, will make it mandatory for foreign trying to access, so these can be blocked if Sohn Ji-won, a lawyer at Seoul-based mation or news as it moved to crack down new moves would have on South Korea’s firms to have a domestic partner in South they’re on the blacklist. civic group Open Net, is among the critics. the circulation of such information. Thus online users. The plan to regulate foreign Korea and operate through it, which will That decision faced criticism from Sohn said the government’s move means its actions sparked public concerns about internet firms remains similarly vague at bring them within the South Korean gov- public and industry players who believe more authority to control internet servic- violations of freedom of speech and exces- the moment.

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THE OPINION AND ANALYSIS PAGES ARE THE AUTHORS’ OWN. QATAR TRIBUNE BEARS NO RESPONSIBILITY. Asia Monday, March 11, 2019 09 Philippines health officials conduct Five people dead, three missing Nine policemen killed in attack in mass immunisation in Baguio City after Indonesia landslide Myanmar’s Rakhine: Police NEWS BAGUIO CITY: The mass immunization campaign of Baguio City JAKARTA: At least five people died and three were miss- YANGON: Nine policemen have been killed in a militant attack in Health Services Office (CHSO) undertaken to stem cases of ing after a landslide triggered by heavy rain hit Indonesia’s Myanmar’s western Rakhine state, police said on Sunday, as ten- IN BRIEF measles, Japanese encephalitis and polio will run until March 31 southernmost East Nusa Tenggara province, an official said sions ratchet up in a state riven by ethnic and religious conflict. in all health centers here. City health officer Rowena Galpo urged Sunday. A rescue team has been deployed to search for the “Nine police were killed, one was injured and another one is the public to have their children vaccinated, free of charge, to missing villagers, National Disaster Management Agency missing,” a senior police officer said. A leaked police report said protect them from the infectious diseases. (MANILATIMES) spokesman Sutopo Nugroho said. (DPA) weapons were also taken from the police station. (AFP)

‘Summoning Mirwaiz attack on Kashmiris’ Tell Pulwama victims’ kin who Centre trying to shield Choksi: Congress religious identity’ IANS 7 applied for incorporating he is a citizen of Belgium, with SRINAGAR: Former Jammu and released Masood Azhar: Rahul NEW DELHI his company “Reh Venture which India has an extradition Kashmir Chief Minister Mehboo- LLP” in London wherein he treaty. He gives his principal ba Mufti on Sunday said the IANS militants in Kandahar, Af- WITH fugitive scamster Me- has claimed to be a Belgium address as Dubai in UAE, a NIA summon to senior separa- NEW DELHI ghanistan, who were released hul Choksi incorporating a citizen and given his principal country with which we have an tist and religious leader Mirwaiz following the the hijack of the company in London after call- address to be “Miloni Gems, extradition treaty. So why are Umar Farooq is “emblematic of CONGRESS President Rahul Indian Airlines Flight 814. PM Modi, please, tell the ing himself a Belgian citizen, Jumeirah, Dubai, United Arab the Indian agencies trying to government’s repeated assaults Gandhi on Sunday attacked “PM Modi please tell families of our 40 CRPF the Congress on Sunday ac- Emirates (UAE)”. look for him in Antigua where on religious identity of Kash- Prime Minister Narendra Modi the families of our 40 martyrs who released their cused the Modi government Pointing out that India has he neither lives nor has citi- miris”. “Mirwaiz Farooq isn’t over the Pulwama terror at- CRPF Shaheeds (martyrs), murderer Masood Azhar? Also of trying to shield him by not extradition treaties with both zenship?” asked Khera. any ordinary separatist leader. tack,, pointing to National Se- who released their murderer, tell them that your current NSA seeking his extradition from Belgium and the UAE, Khera The Congress spokesman He is religious and spiritual curity Adviser Ajit Dovals role Masood Azhar? Also tell them was the deal maker, who went either the UAE or Belgium demanded to know why were asked if the Indian agencies head to Kash muslims. NIA in the 1999 release of Jaish- that your current NSA was the with which India has treaties. the Indian investigating agen- intentionally did not act summons to him are emblem- e-Mohammed (JeM) head deal maker, who went to Kan- to Kandahar to hand the Addressing the media, cies trying to get Choksi from to save Choksi, a prime ac- atic of GOIs (Government of Masood Azhar. dahar to hand the murderer murderer back to Pakistan Congress spokesperson Pawan Antigua, a country with which cused in the multi-million India’s) repeated assaults on Gandhi tweeted pictures of back to Pakistan,” the Con- Rahul Gandhi Khera showed documents re- India has no extradition trea- rupee Punjab National Bank our religious identity. (IANS) Doval accompanying the three gress chief said in a tweet. vealing that Choksi on March ty. “Choksi clearly states that (PNB) scam.

Pakistan govt slams India over Pulwama India to hold mega poll attack ‘propaganda’

TRIBUNE.COM.PK from April 11 to May 19 ISLAMABAD

PAKISTAN on Sunday took a Election will see strong exception to the false right-wing Modi propaganda Indian govern- ment and its media spreading run for a second to mislead the international term against Rahul community and its own peo- ple for domestic political Gandhi to lead the gains while trying to cover up its failures and resultant em- world’s second-most barrassment in the aftermath populous nation of Pulwama attack. “Pakistan has categori- cally rejected false Indian Pakistan Foreign Office Spokes- AFP allegations about the Pul- man Dr Muhammad Faisal. NEW DELHI wama attack, which had in- digenous origin, including the other hand, responded INDIA announced Sunday the use of local explosives with maturity, responsibil- a general election to be held and vehicle, miles away ity and resolve in all do- over nearly six weeks starting from LoC,” said a statement mains including political, on April 11, when hundreds issued by the Foreign Office. information and response of millions of voters will cast Regarding Indian al- to Indian act of military ag- ballots in the world’s biggest legations on terrorism, the gression, it added. democracy. whole world recognises The statement stated The poll will see right- Pakistan’s successful fight that the Indian “dossier” wing Prime Minister Narendra against terrorism and the was being examined and Modi run for a second term efforts to root out extrem- any update in this re- against Rahul Gandhi of the ism are underway since gard will be shared in due Gandhi-Nehru dynasty to lead 2014 through National Ac- course, adding that, the the world’s second-most popu- tion Plan, it added. air intrusion and attempt- lous nation. The statement said that ed strike near Balakot Some 900 million voters the Indian government and through Pakistan-admin- from the Himalayan peaks to media wwere spreading istered Kashmir by IAF the deserts and tropical shores disinformation to to cover was in complete violation are eligible to vote for a new up its failures in combating of relevant provisions of government for the next five terrorism and resultant em- the UN charter and inter- years in an enormous demo- barrassment. Pakistan, on national law. cratic undertaking. From April 11 to May 19 (File photo) Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj and Congress President Rahul Gandhi at Parliament voters will elect 543 lawmak- House, in New Delhi, India. ers to India’s lower house of parliament, the Lok Sabha, whose right-wing party won an Kashmir. Doubts have been sought to contrast his humble Pakistan wants India out of which governs the Asian na- outright majority in the 2014 7-phase polls raised about what the raid origins as a tea seller against terror-financing review group tion of 1.25 billion people from elections, enters the race in a achieved, and when Pakistan Gandhi, the 48-year-old privi- the capital New Delhi, the elec- strong position, the 68-year- FROM April 11 to May carried out its own air raid a leged half-Italian princeling of ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has asked an international task force toral commission said Sunday. old remaining a popular figure 19 voters will elect 543 dogfight ensued and an Indian India’s most famous family. against money-laundering to remove India from co-chair of a body Counting will be completed and the BJP a well-oiled politi- lawmakers to India’s lower aircraft was shot down and the But opinion polls have reviewing its progress on controlling the funding of terrorism. and results announced on May cal machine. house of parliament, the pilot captured by Pakistan. suggested ebbing support for Finance Minister Asad Umar has asked the president of 23, it said. In recent weeks he has Lok Sabha, which governs But Modi has shrugged this the BJP, and even that it may the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to appoint any other FATF “The festival of democracy. been able to bolster his na- the Asian nation of 1.25 off and has continued to talk fall short of the 272 seats it member as co-chair of the Asia-Pacific Group in place of India Elections are here,” Modi post- tionalist credentials in India’s billion people from the capi- tough, accusing the opposition needs to form a government to ensure the FATF review process is “fair, unbiased and objec- ed on Twitter late Sunday. most serious standoff with tal New Delhi, the electoral of being weak. on its own. tive,” according to a statement. “India’s animosity towards “I hope this election wit- Pakistan in years, sparked by commission said Sunday. “We won’t spare anybody Gandhi, long criticised as Pakistan is well known, and the recent violation of Paksitan’s nesses a historic turnout,” he a suicide bombing in the dis- Counting will be completed who is looking to destroy our a lacklustre leader, has also airspace and dropping of bombs inside Pakistani territory is added, encouraging first-time puted Kashmir region on Feb- and results announced on country even if their (terror- started looking more recently another manifestation of India’s hostile attitude,” Umar said in voters to cast their ballots in ruary 14 that killed 40 Indian May 23, it said ists’) chiefs are sitting on the like a serious challenger. the statement from the Finance Ministry. record numbers. paramilitaries. other side of the border,” Modi Congress, which has ruled The minister had sent the letter on Saturday, the state- Modi’s Hindu nationalist The deadliest attack on told a recent rally. India for much of its time since ment said. The global body last year put Pakistan on its Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Indian forces in a 30-year- lamabad of harbouring. “But the oppositions have independence from Britain in grey list and warned that it could blacklist the country if it and Gandhi’s left-leaning Con- old insurgency in the part of Twelve days later the Indi- a problem with such stern 1947, won three key state elec- doesn’t take action to curb the financing of terrorists by gress are the two strongest Kashmir that New Delhi con- an air force bombed what New actions too. But I am going tion victories in December, September this year. A delegation of the the Asia-Pacific challengers among hundreds trols was claimed by a mili- Delhi said was a training camp ahead with my resolve to root chipping into Modi’s core sup- Group of the FATF is due in Islamabad on March 24 to re- of political parties from across tant group based in Pakistan, of the group deep inside Paki- out terrorism,” he said in his port base in the Hindi “Cow view the progress Pakistan has made. (DPA) the culturally and geographi- one of many that India and stan, the first time since 1971 home state of Gujarat. Belt” regions home to nearly cally diverse country. Modi, others have long accused Is- that India hit territory beyond The prime minister has also half a billion voters. Pakistan–the other great home of the world famous bagpipes

AFP ground. Covered in sawdust, uncles.” Honing such a craft is tivals. “People love the bag- de rigueur among the Paki- SIALKOT, PAKISTAN they carve the wood and polish not easy. South Asia has had pipe,” smiles Yaser Sain, the stanis. The Pakistani military, it. Rosewood or ebony serve as for centuries its pungi, a wind leader of a Sialkot trio who born out of the colonial British UMER Farooq’s grandfather the blowstick, into which play- instrument used for snake play at least two performances Indian Army, also still has a soft and father made bagpipes. ers exhale. The drones -- long charming, and shehnai, a tra- each day, he says. spot for the instrument. Now he is the third generation pipes with a lower tone -- fol- ditional oboe. Proudly he shows pictures In 2014 it established a to take up the tradition in Pa- low a similar process. But the bagpipe had to on his mobile phone of the camel-mounted bagpipe band kistan, which is thousands of They are then attached to wait until the mid-19th cen- band in colourful costumes. attached to a unit of Desert kilometres from Scotland yet a bag, and often covered with tury for British colonialists to Forrest says Pakistani Rangers. The camels, draped sells thousands of bagpipes tartan, a coloured plaid fabric bring it to subcontinental In- bands put the emphasis on in scarlet and gold as their each year. typical of Scotland. dia, of which Pakistan was a how they look, rather than mu- musicians sway above them, The fresh smell of wood “In my family, all the boys part before independence and sical technique, “which is less are particularly appreciated floats through the Mid East know how to make a bagpipe, partition in 1947. International musicians watch the process to make bagpipes at the important to them”. during parades. factory in Sialkot, on the east- step by step,” said Farooq. ”Anywhere the British Mid East bagpipe factory in the eastern city of Sialkot, Pakistan. (AFP) At the world bagpipe cham- But Pakistan’s main af- ern side of Punjab province, “When we were seven or army went, they took pipers pionship, which is held every filiation with bagpipes is its where Farooq is one of the eight, we would go to the fac- with them,” says Decker For- and Islands in Scotland. till this day, with dozens of year in Glasgow, they are “the mass production of them, managers. Workers are busy tory. It was like a school, but rest, a Gaelic music teacher at Locals seized on the tradi- bagpipe bands available for most beautifully dressed,” he though the quality of the in- standing or sitting on the the teachers were our dads and the University of the Highlands tion, which remains popular weddings and religious fes- says. The kilt, however, is not struments it makes can vary. 10 Monday, March 11, 2019 Gulf / Middle / East / World Palestinian president appoints ally Shtayyeh as new PM

AFP member of the central com- Rami Hamdallah as part of the backing of Hamas. does not recognise this sepa- RAMALLAH mittee of the Palestinian Abbas’s efforts to further iso- This government is in- ratist government because it president’s Fatah party, to late political rival Hamas, the stead expected to be domi- was formed without national PALESTINIAN president form a new government, Fa- Islamist movement that runs nated by Fatah, though consensus,” spokesman Fawzi Mahmud Abbas appointed tah vice president Mahmoud the Gaza Strip. other smaller parties will be Barhoum said in a statement. long-time ally Mohammad al-Aloul said. Shtayyeh, 61, is a long- represented. Hamas will not Shtayyeh has been part of Shtayyeh as prime minister Official Palestinian news term Abbas ally, while Ham- be included. a number of Palestinian nego- on Sunday, a senior official agency WAFA also reported dallah was politically inde- Hamas said the appoint- tiating teams in US-brokered said, in a move seen as part the move. pendent. ment reflected “Abbas’s uni- talks with Israel, and is a for- of efforts to further isolate Some analysts view bring- The previous government lateralism and monopoly of mer government minister. Hamas. ing in Shtayyeh to replace Newly-appointed Palestinian PM Mohammad Shtayyeh signs documents was formed during a period power”. He is also an academic and Abbas asked Shtayyeh, a outgoing prime minister at his office in the West Bank city of Ramallah, on Sunday.(AFP) of improved relations and had “Hamas stresses that it economics professor.

UN pays Yemen teacher wages After schools shut, anti-Bouteflika as millions out of school AFP strike halts Algiers transport services DUBAI THE United Nations children’s No trains, metros, trams or buses left or circulated within capital, employees of the companies running those networks say fund is paying some 100,000 teachers in Yemen, the UN AFP half of businesses were closed said Sunday, as two million ALGIERS in Constantine, Algeria’s third children go without education city, adding that high schools in the war-torn country. THOUSANDS of students took students had taken to the UNICEF has disbursed to the streets of Algeria on Sun- streets there. the equivalent of $50 per day against President Abdelaziz “Everything is closed” in month to more than 97,000 Bouteflika’s bid for a fifth term, the city of Bejaia in the Kab- eligible teachers and school as schools shut and transport ylie region, Achour Idir, a trade staff, and aims to increase in the capital halted as part of a unionist in the education sec- that figure to 136,000. protest strike. tor, said. He said the city was The UN estimates that out No trains, metros, trams in “total paralysis” due to high of seven million school-age or buses left or circulated schools, colleges, government children in Yemen over two within Algiers, employees of offices and businesses closing. million are not being educated the companies running those Local news site TSA said as infrastructure has been de- networks said. strikes by workers had brought stroyed or repurposed to house Around 1,000 high school sugar and oil production “to a those displaced by the four- students gathered peacefully halt” at the privately-owned year conflict. Salaries for teach- in central Algiers, while others Cevital firm, and also hit sev- ers were suspended in 2016 marched in cities elsewhere. eral sectors at state-owned oil as the war between the coun- Bouteflika has been in giant Sonatrach. try’s rebels and a government power since 1999 but suffered backed by a Saudi-led alliance a stroke in 2013, and his rare brought the economy to a halt. public appearances since have Thousands join Schools in some areas been in a wheelchair. have since reopened. “The His announcement on Algeria protests situation of Yemen’s educa- February 10 that he will run in across France tion sector is daunting,” said next month’s elections has pro- Geert Cappelaere, UNICEF’s voked weeks of protests, with PARIS: Thousands of regional director for the Mid- tens of thousands taking to the Algerian-origin protesters dle East and North Africa. streets after weekly prayers demonstrated in Paris and “Without a regular sal- on consecutive Fridays. Most other cities around France ary and due to the conflict and shops in the capital’s commer- on Sunday against President the ongoing economic crisis, cial centre were closed on Sun- Abdelaziz Bouteflika, calling teachers have been unable to day, a journalist said. Protesters attend a rally in support of the ongoing protests in Algeria against the president’s bid for a fifth term in power, ta Place de la Republique on him not to seek another commute to their schools or Residents said shops were in Paris, on Sunday. (AFP) term in office. had to look for other livelihood also closed in the poor district Several thousand opportunities to sustain their of Bab el Oued and in the sub- to bring holidays forward. Plane thought to be carrying Bouteflika lands in Algeria Ali Benflis, in an interview with gathered for the second families.” Rights groups have urb of Zeralda, but they were Students have been at the France’s Le Journal du Diman- weekend in a row at the Re- warned the loss of education open in other areas. heart of protests and the de- ALGIERS: A plane thought to be carrying Algerian President Abdelaziz che newspaper. publique square in central poses a major threat to the well- As protests have gained cision to start spring break Bouteflika from Geneva, where he had been receiving medical treat- But while businesses were Paris, while there were oth- being of children, who are at in- pace over the past two weeks, on Sunday, instead of March ment, landed Sunday at Boufarik military base south of Algiers, media shut and protests continued in er smaller demonstrations creased risk of being recruited Bouteflika has been in Swit- 21, will affect many whose reported. The 82-year-old president, who suffered a stroke in 2013, Algiers, in the second city Oran in regional cities Marseille into militias, forced into labour zerland for what his office has family homes are far from left Algeria for medical checks in the Swiss city on February 24, two all the shops in the commercial and Bordeaux. “We need or married off young. called routine medical checks. campuses which are set to days after major demonstrations broke out against his rule. (AFP) centre opened. to get rid of the system,” Yemen’s Huthi rebels, As the protest strike con- close over the holidays. “We don’t have the im- 24-year-old protester Ahmed linked to Iran, in 2014 drove tinued, students and teachers “Algeria free and democrat- where around 2,000 gathered sition to the president shows pression that there’s a general Eddaidj, who was wrapped the government out of the capi- occupied a number of univer- ic!” cried students at the Univer- Sunday to rally against the de- that “the Bouteflika system is strike,” a journalist for Algerian in the an Algerian flag, said tal Sanaa and south into Aden, sities, defying the education sity of Science and Technology cision and keep up their protest broken and that it will break media said from the city. in Paris. (AFP) hometown of beleaguered Presi- ministry’s ruling a day earlier Houari Boumediene in Algiers, against Bouteflika. The oppo- up”, said former prime minister Another local reporter said dent Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi.

News Tensions as Nigeria army blocks counting centre in volatile state Israel strikes Hamas targets in in brief Gaza after alleged rocket fire AFP toring the situation closely and UN chief proposes PORT HARCOURT urged authorities to allow In- JERUSALEM: Israeli aircraft struck Hamas targets in the Gaza cutting DR Congo dependent National Electoral Strip early Sunday after a rocket from the Palestinian enclave peacekeeping force DOZENS of Nigerian soldiers in Commission (INEC) staff “to hit the Jewish state, the army said. armoured vehicles encircled a do their job in safety, without “Fighter jets and aircraft struck several military targets in a US: UN chief Antonio vote counting centre in the op- intimidation”. “Extremely con- Hamas compound in the northern Gaza Strip in addition to two Guterres has proposed position-held oil-rich southern cerned by reports, including Hamas vessels,” a statement from the army said. shrinking the large peace- city of Port Harcourt on Sun- from @UKinnigeria observers, The attacks were in response to a rocket fired from Gaza keeping force in the Demo- day, in the latest flashpoint as of military interference in the late Saturday “in addition to the continued violence emanating cratic Republic of Congo. violence overshadowed Satur- election process in Rivers State,” from the Gaza Strip,” the army said. After presidential elections in day’s closely-watched regional Soldiers block with truck and armoured tank the road leading to the the commission said on Twitter. The rocket hit an open field in Israel’s Eshkol region, December that ended Joseph elections. state headquarters of Independent National Electoral Commission Counting is on going after causing no casualties or damages, a local government spokes- Kabila’s rule and improved International observers ex- (INEC) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Sunday. (AFP) elections on Saturday for gover- woman said. security, the 16,000-strong pressed concern over the army nors in 29 of Nigeria’s 36 states, A security source in Gaza said a Hamas site in the north- mission known as MONUSCO action in the capital of southern roads around the building, gas but ultimately backed down. all state assemblies and admin- ern Gaza Strip was hit as well as fishing boats west of Deir now can be reconfigured, UN Rivers State, where reporters at sparking a standoff with police The British High Commis- istrative councils in the Federal al-Balah in the central part of the enclave. (AFP) officials have said. Guterres the scene said soldiers blocked who initially resisted with tear- sion in Abuja said it was moni- Capital Territory of Abuja suggested a reduction of about 2,000 people, in a report to the Security Council obtained Saturday. (AFP) Civilian exodus from last IS No survivors as Ethiopian plane with 157 aboard crashes US ‘optimistic’ France scrap slows down to trickle and Britain will join AFP 10:25 am (0725 GMT), it came residual Syria force OMAR Oil Field: US-backed Syrian forces awaited orders Sun- BISHOFTU down near the village of Tulu day to relaunch their push against the Islamic State group’s Fara outside Bishoftu. A re- WASHINGTON: The United final scrap of territory as an earlier exodus of civilians from A Nairobi-bound Boeing 737 porter said there was a massive States is “very optimistic” the redoubt slowed to a trickle. crashed minutes after an early- crater at the crash site, with that France and Britain will The Syrian Democratic Forces renewed their offensive morning takeoff from Addis belongings and airplane parts participate in a residual against the jihadists on March 1 after a weeks-long pause to Ababa Sunday, killing all 149 scattered widely. force that US President Don- empty the bombed-out bastion of non-combattants. passengers and eight crew on Rescue crews were re- ald Trump wants to leave in But the Kurdish-led fighters and their US-led coalition back- board, Ethiopian Airlines said trieving human remains from Syria, his national security ers were forced to again dial down the push early last week, as world leaders offered condo- the wreckage. Ethiopian Air- advisor said Sunday. “Cer- as thousands more dusty women, children and men streamed lences to distraught next-of-kin. lines confirmed “there are no tainly in conversations this out of the dying “caliphate”. People from 35 countries Rescue team walk past collected bodies in bags at the crash site of survivors,” adding it was too past week with my British A fragile ceasefire has since held on the front lines, inter- and a UN passport-holder were Ethiopia Airlines near Bishoftu, a town some 60 kilometres southeast early to speculate about the and French counterparts, rupted by sporadic clashes and occasional air strikes and on board flight ET 302 which of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Sunday. (AFP) cause of the crash. I’m very optimistic that artillery fire. “Yesterday only about 100 people left, including ploughed into a field 60 kilo- Police and troops were on they’re going to participate,” three Chinese Uighurs and three Moroccan women,” SDF metres (37 miles) southeast Peter Kimani, who had come Airlines, Africa’s largest car- the scene, as well as a crash John Bolton said, in an spokesman Mustefa Bali said. of Addis Ababa, the carrier’s to fetch his sister at Nairobi’s rier, said the ill-fated Boeing investigation team from Ethi- interview with ABC’s “This No one came out of the redoubt on Friday, he said, adding CEO Tewolde GebreMariam Jomo Kenyatta International 737-800MAX had taken off opia’s civil aviation agency. Week.” “It hasn’t happened that IS was preventing people from leaving. He said a group told journalists in the capital, Airport (JKIA), said after at 8:38 am (0538 GMT) from In the Kenyan capital, fam- formally yet, but they’re look- of lorries had been deployed to a search point outside the lamenting this “very sad and news of the disaster reached Bole International Airport and ily members, friends, and col- ing at it,” he said. (AFP) redoubt in the hope that evacuations would resume. (AFP) tragic day.” “We can only hope those waiting in the arrivals “lost contact” six minutes later. leagues of passengers waited that she is not on that flight,” hall. State-owned Ethiopian Scheduled to land in Nairobi at for news at the airport. Europe / Americas Monday, March 11, 2019 11

New German leftist movement Guaido calls for march on Caracas as Venezuela blackout drags on wobbles as AFP litical standoff between Guai- CARACAS Venezuela military members in do, who is recognized as Vene- co-founder quits contact with oppn, says Bolton zuela’s leader by more than 50 VENEZUELA’S embattled countries, and Maduro, who is President Nicolas Maduro WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump’s national security advi- clinging to power. grappled Sunday with a crip- sor said Sunday that members of Venezuela’s military have been No national data was avail- pling power outage and in conversation with National Assembly members about how they able about the impact of the mounting protests as a top might move to support the opposition. National Security Advisor John power outage, but an NGO White House aide said mem- Bolton stopped short of predicting the ouster of President Nicolas said at least 15 patients with bers of the country’s military Maduro but said momentum is on the side of Juan Guaido, the Na- advanced kidney disease died were talking about possibly tional Assembly leader who proclaimed himself acting president. after they stopped receiving shifting allegiance to the op- “There are countless conversations going on between members dialysis treatments in dark- position. of the National Assembly and members of the military in Venezuela, ened hospitals. Opposition leader Juan talking about what might come, how they might move to support the In Washington, National Guaido has called for a na- opposition,” Bolton said in an interview on ABC’s “This Week.” (AFP) Security Advisor John Bolton Sahra Wagenknecht. tionwide march on Caracas to suggested members of the crank up the pressure on Ma- Venezuelan military were re- AFP duro, as the country entered power. The massive blackout cally troubled South American considering their support for Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido (centre) leaves the Nation- FRANKFURT AM MAIN its fourth day largely without in the oil-rich but economi- nation has intensified the po- Maduro. al Assembly in Caracas on Sunday. (AFP)

THE German far left’s star poli- tician Sahra Wagenknecht said Sunday she was quitting the leadership of a new populist Biden tops 2020 Iowa prez poll movement that aims to address the concerns of the poor and win as Sanders gains momentum back working-class voters but British lawmakers set has struggled to gain momen- REUTERS The newspaper’s Iowa poll tum. WASHINGTON has a long track record of rela- Wagenknecht, a leading tive accuracy in the state that member of the far-left Die Linke FORMER US Vice President kicks off the presidential nom- party, said the “Stand Up” alli- Joe Biden topped a poll of inating process. In this cycle, ance she co-founded last Sep- to vote again on May’s Iowa voters on Saturday that Iowa will hold the first contest tember needed a complete re- also showed Senator Bernie in the Democratic race in Feb- organisation at the top. “The Sanders gaining momentum ruary 2020. party politicians should take a against him in the No. 2 spot. Nearly 65 percent of the step back, that also applies to Biden, who has not an- voters said Biden, 76, who was myself,” she told the Frankfurter nounced whether he is run- also a U.S. senator first elected Allgemeine daily in an interview. Brexit deal tomorrow ning in the 2020 election, is in 1972, has more experience “Their experience was needed the first choice for president than any other candidate and at the start but now it’s right of likely Iowa Democratic should enter the race, while 31 to hand over responsibility” to The House of Commons rejected the withdrawal agreement by a huge caucus-goers with 27 percent percent said his time as a can- grassroots supporters, she said. in the Des Moines Register/ didate has passed. The surprise retreat comes majority two months ago compelling PM May to renegotiate the deal CNN/Mediacom Iowa Poll. Sanders, a progressive as the movement “has gone qui- Sanders, 77, got 25 percent. populist who held a rally in et”, Der Spiegel weekly noted, “If I’m Joe Biden sitting on Iowa as the poll was being con- after an initial burst of activ- the fence and I see this poll, ducted last week, gained 6 per- ity when it attracted 100,000 this might make me want to centage points from 19 percent members in the first month of jump in,” J. Ann Selzer, presi- in the group’s previous poll re- existence. Some six months later dent of Selzer & Co, which leased in December. Biden fell that number has climbed to just conducted the poll, told the 5 percentage points from 32 170,000, despite the fact that Des Moines Register. percent in the last poll. membership is free and requires only an online registration. Der Spiegel said the envis- aged loose alliance of leftist groups has run into scepticism Over 2,000 quarantined in from established parties and lacks a clear profile -- with even US immigration detention Wagenknecht’s own Die Linke “unsure how to deal with the po- REUTERS describing weeks without visits litical initiative”. NEW YORK and access to the library and dining hall. CHRISTIAN Mejia thought His attorney wasn’t allowed he had a shot at getting out of in, but his immigration court Poland, Czech immigration detention in ru- case continued anyway - over a ral Louisiana after he’d found video conference line. On Feb. Republic, Hungary a lawyer to help him seek asy- 12, the judge ordered Mejia de- lum. ported back to Honduras. celebrate NATO Then he was quarantined. The number of people membership In early January, a mumps amassed in immigration deten- outbreak at the privately-run tion under the Trump admin- DPA Pine Prairie US Immigration istration has reached record WARSAW and Customs Enforcement highs, raising concerns among (File photo) Protesters with Union Jack and EU flags are seen outside the Houses of Parliament in central London. (AFP) (ICE) Processing Center put migrant advocates about dis- THE accession of Poland, the Mejia and hundreds of other ease outbreaks and resulting Czech Republic and Hungary AFP Unless it negotiates a delay, But foreign minister Jer- frontier checks. Many MPs fear detainees on lockdown. “When quarantines that limit access to to the Western military alli- LONDON Britain would then be on emy Hunt warned on Sunday it is a trap to keep them tied to there is just one person who is legal services. ance NATO 20 years ago was that any delay would only help EU rules, but Brussels has re- sick, everybody pays,” Mejia, As of March 6, more than celebrated with a military cer- BRITISH MPs will on Tuesday course to leave the EU after those seeking to keep Britain in jected calls for a time limit or 19, said in a phone interview 50,000 migrants were in de- emony in Warsaw on Sunday. vote again on Prime Minis- 46 years of membership the EU by holding another ref- unilateral way out of the back- from the Pine Prairie center tention, according to ICE data. The first armoured brigade ter Theresa May’s Brexit deal, with no plan on March 29, erendum. stop arrangement. of the Polish Army displayed making the historic decision causing huge disruption on “There is a risk and possibil- EU chief negotiator Michel their vehicles and equipment whether to back her plan or risk both sides ity that we end up losing Brexit Barnier repeated on Friday that as part of the ceremony, the a chaotic exit from the EU in if we get the votes wrong in the the bloc could offer a legally Polish news agency PAP re- less than three weeks time. next couple of weeks,” he told binding statement confirming Italy PM heads off coalition split ported. Among the guests of Two months ago, the House Brussels if needed. the BBC. the backstop was only meant to honour were Czech Prime of Commons rejected the with- In the absence of visible pro- Speaking in Grimsby, a be temporary. over high-speed rail project Minister Andrej Babis and his drawal agreement by a huge gress, she has sought to remind North Sea fishing port that vot- But this is unlikely to be Hungarian counterpart, Viktor majority, and sent May back to MPs of the stakes involved in re- ed to leave the EU in the 2016 enough to convince May’s crit- AFP said Italian daily Corriere del- Orban. renegotiate. jecting her divorce agreement. referendum, May asked Brus- ics in the Commons, which re- ROME la Sera. But European Union lead- “Back it and the UK will sels for “one more push” to get jected the deal by 432 votes to Italian papers described ers have rejected her demands leave the European Union. Re- an agreement. 202 in January. ITALY’S Prime Minister Gi- Conte’s solution as a piece of The first armoured brigade as impossible, and without a ject it and no one knows what “The decisions that the Eu- “It is inevitable this un- useppe Conte appears to have “legal acrobacy” -- it keeps of the Polish Army dis- breakthrough in the next 24 will happen,” she said in a ropean Union makes over the changed withdrawal agreement headed off a crisis over the dis- the project and the European played their vehicles and hours, some MPs have warned speech on Friday. next few days will have a big will be voted down again,” two puted Turin-Lyon high-speed funding on track without mak- equipment as part of the another defeat is “inevitable”. “We may not leave the EU impact on the outcome of the senior Brexit-supporting MPs, rail project that threatened ing a final decision on it. ceremony. Among the Unless it negotiates a delay, for many months. We may leave vote,” she said. Conservative Steve Baker and to split the coalition govern- Conte’s position has been Britain would then be on course without the protections that the The talks are focused on the Nigel Dodds of the Democratic ment, Italian media reported closer to that taken by M5S. guests of honour were to leave the EU after 46 years of deal provides. We may never so-called backstop, an arrange- Unionist Party (DUP), warned Sunday. In comments last week, he Czech Prime Minister Andrej membership with no plan on leave at all.” ment in the Brexit deal intended on Sunday. May has been woo- Conte, a trained lawyer, expressed doubts about the Babis and his Hungarian March 29, causing huge disrup- A threatened cabinet revolt to keep the Irish border open. ing opposition Labour MPs helped draft a legal document project. counterpart, Viktor Orban tion on both sides. over the risks of leaving with no It would keep Britain in the with promises of protection for late Friday to find a way out of His compromise gives both British and European offi- deal forced May to agree that EU’s customs union and parts workers’ rights and new funds the conflict between coalition France and Italy six months to cials have continued their talks MPs would be able to vote on of its single market until and for poor towns, but the La- partners the far-right League take another look at the pro- The three former Warsaw this weekend, and May is ready Thursday on delaying Brexit, if unless another way -- such as bour party leadership remains and the anti-establishment ject before making a definitive Pact countries joined the alli- to make a last-minute visit to her agreement is rejected. a trade deal -- is found to avoid against her deal. Five Star movement (M5S), commitment. ance on March 12, 1999. “Our countries have prov- en that they are valuable mem- bers of NATO, and the alliance has shown that it continues to UK’s May staggers on amid predictions of political demise be a guarantor of common se- curity,” Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said. AFP ated with under three weeks to Spectator magazine. It reluc- ropeans. The splits in her Con- As new challenges, LONDON go until exit day, has prompted tantly urged MPs to back May’s servative party became a seri- Morawiecki cited cybersecu- frustration and anger on all divorce deal on Tuesday, but ous problem after a disastrous rity and hybrid warfare. WHETHER her Brexit deal sides. Pro-European minis- only so that Britain could “turn snap election in June 2017, On Tuesday, a ceremony passes parliament or not this ters are in revolt over the risk the page on this unhappy chap- when May lost her parliamen- is scheduled to take place in week, British Prime Minister of a “no deal” exit, while Brexit ter of our political history”. tary majority. Prague to mark the actual Theresa May’s days are num- hardliners are livid that her May took office after the She was forced to strike a NATO accession anniversary. bered, experts have said. promise of a decisive divorce 2016 referendum, and despite deal with Northern Ireland’s Since the beginning of the The Conservative leader has appears to be receding. having campaigned to stay in pro-Brexit Democratic Unionist conflict between Russia and in the past won praise for her At the same time, criticism the EU, embraced the cause Party (DUP), and since then has Ukraine, NATO has strength- determination and ability to of May’s legacy from six years with the mantra “Brexit means struggled to keep her party and ened its presence in the eastern survive what has often felt like as interior minister is growing Brexit”. its allies together. part of its territory. Last June, one long political crisis since the following a surge in knife crime Her promise to leave the Naturally reserved and reli- the defence exercise “Saber 2016 EU referendum. and an ongoing row over the British Prime Minister Theresa May. EU’s institutions and end free ant on her husband Philip and a Strike” took place in Poland But her approach to the treatment of migrants. movement of workers delighted few close aides, May often says and the Baltic states, involving Brexit endgame, seeking chang- “At first she appeared to be have too little courage, imagina- negotiations,” said an edito- eurosceptic MPs, but caused she is just quietly “getting on about 18,000 soldiers. es to the deal she herself negoti- a unifier, but she turned out to tion or skill to lead the Brexit rial in the Conservative-backing dismay among many pro-Eu- with the job”. US sanctions against Venezuela scaring off banks PAGE 14

MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2019

DOW25,450.24 QE 9,769.04 SENSEX 36,671.43 GOLD 1,299.30 China central bank pledges to -22.99 PTS -12.14 PTS -53.99 PTS +1.03% further boost economy PAGE 14 PRICE PERCENTAGE PRICE PERCENTAGE 15.35 BRENT 65.74 -0.84% WTI 56.07 -1.04% SILVER +2.05% ‘GIS building capabilities to cash in on Qatar’s oil, gas sector expansion’

The expansion activities in the country’s oil and gas sector will provide significant opportunities for our drilling and aviation subsidiaries: GIS Chairman

SATYENDRA PATHAK by regaining lost contracts, he DOHA said adding GDI utilisation rates increased from 81 per- GULF International Services cent in 2017 to 85 percent in (GIS) has started building ca- 2018 by gaining new business pabilities of its drilling and opportunities. aviation subsidiaries to cap- With a modest growth in ture business opportunities revenue and marginal savings arising from expansion activi- in the general and adminis- ties in the country’s oil and gas trative expenses, he said, the sector, the company’s top offi- group reported an impressive cial said on Sunday. EBITDA of QR746 million, Addressing shareholders marginally up on last year, in- during the company’s annual dicating the group’s ability to general assembly meeting, GIS generate significant cash op- Chairman Khalid bin Khalifa erating profits. al Thani said, “Given that our About dividends, he said strategy rollout is in full swing, “For the period from the ini- the future performance of GIS tial public offering in Febru- in the medium and long run ary 2008 to 2016, the group’s would be improved. There are shareholders have received a number of opportunities, accumulated cash dividends which are most likely avail- of QR2.7 billion, which is able to GIS in the immediate equivalent to QR16.6 per future.” GIS Chairman Khalid bin Khalifa al Thani during the company’s annual general assembly meeting in Doha on Sunday. (JALAL PATHIYOOR) share, with an average pay- “The expansion activities out ratio of approximately in the country’s oil and gas its fleet more efficiently and lost clients. Al Koot has also available opportunities. Terming 2018 as a year of 52 percent. sector will provide significant entering new profitable mar- won a number of new clients The capital expenditure consolidation, he said, “The “In addition, shareholders opportunities for our drilling kets,” he said. that were not part of its port- relating to the potential op- group is in various stages have received a total of 63 mil- and aviation subsidiaries,” he The aviation segment will folio. This demonstrates the portunities will be assessed on of implementing its growth lion additional shares through said. continue to focus on maintain- clients’ endorsement of our The aviation segment will a case-by-case basis, he said. strategy initiatives and cost three bonus issuances.” “The drilling segment is ag- ing its current market share quality of services and com- continue to focus on The debt of the parent optimisation programmes. Given the potential oppor- gressively focusing on imple- and penetrating new markets petitiveness in insurance pric- maintaining its current company, he said, will be set- Some of these initiatives are tunities present to the group menting the previously identi- in Asia and Africa, he said. ing,” he said. market share and tled in 2021 providing some fi- already bearing results with and the need to remain fi- fied strategy. These strategies “We will also focus on The company’s catering nancial flexibility to the group. the group’s ability to regain nancially flexible, he said the currently being implemented growing our non-aviation subsidiary will also benefit penetrating new markets in “The debt was mainly used some of its lost businesses and board of directors believe that are at different stages with the business such as maintenance from the various development Asia and Africa for acquiring Amwaj and 30 optimise costs. Revenue grew a dividend payment in 2018 full benefit to be seen over the repair and overhaul business activities in the country as GIS Chairman Khalid bin percent of GDI,” he said. modestly while the general will be a burden to the group’s coming years,” he said. in order to reduce dependence these activities would require Above all, the chairman and administrative expenses liquidity position and will “Our aviation subsidiary on direct aviation revenues,” additional catering and man- Khalifa al Thani said, the company actively fo- were slightly down on last place several bottlenecks for Gulf Helicopters Company he said. power services, he said. cuses on cost and operational year despite the inflationary future strategy deployment. (GHC) has actively engaged “Our insurance subsidiary With respect to the com- optimisation programmes pressure in the year.” “GIS will deploy the re- in market development, in- Al Koot Insurance and Re- pany’s future capital expendi- the next five years for enhanc- to ensure that its cost base is All segments except cater- tained funds to invest and cluding overseas expansions. insurance Company, has re- ture programmes, he said, the ing efficiency, reducing op- within the acceptable bench- ing segment, reported a de- capture the present and future This will help GHC in utilising gained some of its previously group expects to invest over erating costs, and to capture marks. cent growth in revenue driven opportunities,” he said. Qatar M2 reaches QR562 bn in Jan QIIB to expand presence in large

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK uary 2018. commercial centres, says CEO DOHA Meanwhile, the build- ings permits issued in Janu- QATAR’S total broad money ary 2019 reached 790, an General assembly meet approves distribution of cash dividend of QR4 per share to shareholders supply (M2) reached QR562.3 increase by 16.7 percent com- billion in January 2019, an pared to previous month. annual decrease of 6.1 percent Total electricity consump- SATYENDRA PATHAK lah al Thani said QIIB was compared with January 2018, tion in January 2019 reached DOHA able to maintain its strong data released by the Planning 2034.3 GWh, a monthly de- financial position and stable and Statistics Authority (PSA) crease of 18.5 percent and an QATAR International Islamic growth and built partnerships showed on Sunday. annual drop of 12.2 percent. Bank (QIIB) will continue to with different investment di- PSA said cash equiva- The total water consumption focus on the local market given mensions abroad based on its lents, including commer- reached 33934.4 thousand the significant opportunities reputation and the reputation cial bank deposits reached m3 during the same month provided by the Qatari econ- of the country’s leading econ- QR789.7 billion in January attaining a monthly decrease omy, the top executive of the omy. 2019, an annual decrease of of 2.4 percent and an annual bank said on Sunday. During the previous year, 1.7 percent compared to Jan- drop of 11.6 percent. Talking to Qatar Tribune he said, the bank continued on the sidelines of the bank’s to achieve growth in the most ordinary general assembly important financial indicators meeting in Doha, QIIB Chief such as assets, revenues and Executive Officer Abdulbasit net profits. Kia considers suspending Ahmad al Shaibei said, “The “This growth helped the bank will implement plans to bank maintain high rankings its No 1 plant in China reengineer its branches and fo- given to it by international cus on increasing its presence rating agencies during 2018, in large commercial centres reflecting the bank’s ability to REUTERS to provide integrated banking execute its interim and strate- SEOUL services to customers for the Qatar International Islamic Bank Chairman and Managing Director Sheikh Khalid bin Thani bin gic plans and benefit from the longest hours possible.” Abdullah al Thani and CEO Abdulbasit Ahmad al Shaibei (right) during the bank’s ordinary general strength of the Qatari econo- KIA Motors may halt opera- While there are no imme- assembly meeting in Doha on Sunday. my,” he said. tions at its No.1 plant in China diate plan to increase the num- Despite the exceptional cir- as part of its longer-term ef- ber of branches, Shaibei said, nificant strides in the develop- projects in line with the bank’s neurs representing the future,” cumstances witnessed by Qa- forts to enhance competitive- the bank will ensure that all its ment of its banking services strategy to contribute to the he added. tar, he said, QIIB’s total assets ness, a source familiar with customers are served well in through alternative channels, country’s economy. In terms of our expan- by the end of 2018 amounted the matter said on Sunday. every part of the country. which increased the number of “We will continue to con- sion abroad, he said, the bank to QR50.3 billion compared Kia Motors said in a state- “In line with the global mobile banking users signifi- tribute as much as possible would seek to seize available to QR46.6 billion by the end ment on Sunday that the trend to enhance technology cantly. through the financing of vari- opportunities that meet the of 2017 with a growth rate of company is reviewing various in the banking sector, the bank “The bank also focused on ous projects in all sectors, in conditions of economic fea- 7.8 percent whereas the bank’s plans to strengthen produc- has invested heavily in the im- the development of its services particular infrastructure pro- sibility, especially in terms of operating revenues amounted tion and sales competitiveness angsu Province in China. provement of its technological via telephone banking and in- jects as an important driving low risks. to QR2.1 billion compared to in China. Hyundai Motor also said structures, both in terms of ternet banking as well as its force in the growth of the na- Earlier addressing share- QR1.9 billion at the end of the Kia Motors, an affiliate of the automaker was consider- technologies and software and call center so as to best meet tional economy,” he said. holders during the meeting, previous year, with a growth Hyundai Motor, makes cars in ing suspending production in terms of facilitating custom- its customers’ requirements,” “We would also continue Qatar International Islamic rate of 11.9 percent. China in a tie-up with Dong- at its oldest plant in China as ers’ access to its banking ser- he said. to pay particular attention to Bank (QIIB) Chairman and The meeting approved dis- feng Motor Group and Jiangsu sales tumble and it struggles vices. Shaibei said the bank SMEs as it positively reflects Managing Director Sheikh tribution of a cash dividend of Yueda Investment Co Ltd. with overcapacity in its biggest “In 2018, QIIB made sig- would continue finance local on the segment of entrepre- Khalid bin Thani bin Abdul- QR4 per share to shareholders. They run three factories in Ji- market. Economy & Business Monday, March 11, 2019 13 QFBA, Euromoney Doha Bank officials meet African envoys, Learning to host workshop on AI provide insights into Qatar banking sector

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK al clients. Qatar achieved a successful return to the global financial markets with a total of three tranches worth a total of $12 bn: Doha Bank CEO DOHA Mohammed Abdulla al Emadi, Head of Sales and QATAR Finance & Busi- Marketing, QFBA, said, ness Academy (QFBA) has “We are living in the dy- partnered with Euromon- namic times where quickly ey Learning to organise a adopting to the ever-evolv- workshop on artificial in- ing technology changes is telligence (AI), machine essential for the sustain- learning and big data for ability of the financial ser- banks & financial institu- vices sector.” tions on March 14, QFBA “Realising the growing announced in a statement demand for the upcoming on Sunday. new age technologies that have a significant impact The programme will be on the growth of a busi- ness, we are pleased to held under the mentor- partner with Euromoney ship of Dr Maria G Learning and present this Vigliotti who is a recog- cutting-edge workshop for nised expert in block- our next generation.” chain technology (or dis- Participants at the tributed ledger technolo- workshop will be able to enhance their understand- gy) and cybersecurity ing of big data and strat- egy. We are confident that QFBA said. “This students and companies workshop introduces par- would benefit a lot out of ticipants to the big data this workshop, which will canvas, a methodology for indirectly lead to a tech- ensuring that data strate- driven economy.” gies remain feasible while Upon completion of pursuing the most valuable the two-day workshop, outcomes.” participants will be able The programme will to recognise the dynamics be held under the mentor- of big data, analytics and ship of Dr Maria G Vigliotti data science in various fi- The ‘Breakfast Meeting’ was attended by African Ambassadors, Doha Bank senior management and other key staff from leading corporate bodies in Qatar. who is a recognised expert nancial applications. They in blockchain technology will be equipped to identify TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK from 77mtpa, which is likely STABILITY versity of funding sources and Council’s recommendations (or distributed ledger tech- the critical success factors DOHA to increase Qatar’s trade with deposit maturity structure. on the matter. The draft legis- nology) and cybersecurity. for an organisation’s big various countries.” Qatar’s banking sector Official deposits placed with lation was prepared to replace She leads an influential data strategy and shape it DOHA Bank hosted ‘Break- “Last week, Qatar achieved remains sound. Foreign banks after the rift have been Law No 13 of 2000 regulating UK- based boutique-con- by leveraging data science fast meeting between African a successful return to the inter- liabilities withdrawn in the reduced. As higher oil prices the investment of non-Qatari sultancy, with internation- best practices. Ambassadors and the CEO of national financial markets with immediate aftermath of the and returning foreign liabili- capital in the country’s eco- Doha Bank Dr R Seetharaman a total of three tranches of total ties have enhanced banking nomic activity.” on Sunday. $12 billion. The first tranche diplomatic rift have been liquidity, credit to the private “The draft law stipulates The meeting was organ- included five-year bonds worth partially replaced with greater sector has been growing at a that non-Qatari investors ised by South African Embassy $2 billion – pricing 90 basis attention being paid to the healthy pace. QCB continues “may invest in all economic on behalf of all the African em- points over US treasury bonds diversity of funding sources to closely monitor develop- sectors up to 100 percent of bassies. HE Faizel Moosa, the on five-year bonds and the and deposit maturity structure ments in the real estate sec- the capital, and may own no QIMC AGM approves South African Ambassador, second tranche for 10 years’ tor in view of the softening in more than 49 percent of the gave the welcome address. The worth $4 billion - was 135 basis Dr R Seetharaman prices and potential implica- share capital of Qatari listed to distribute dividend event was attended by African points over US treasury basis CEO of Doha Bank tions for the banking sector.” companies on the Qatar Ex- Ambassadors, Doha Bank sen- points, while the third tranche Dr R Seetharaman high- change, after the approval of ior management and other key was for 30 years worth $6 bil- lighted the reforms in Qatar. the Ministry of Economy and of QR2.50 per share staff from leading corporate lion, 175 basis points above US Dr R Seetharaman provid- He said “Qatar has amended Commerce on the percentage bodies in Qatar. treasury bonds. The book was ed insights into Qatar banking various laws, and one of them proposed in the company’s TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK Dr R Seetharaman said, oversubscribed and the current sector. He said “Qatar’s bank- being the investment law. The memorandum of association DOHA “IMF expects Qatar to grow issuance reflects Qatar’s ability ing sector remains sound. Cabinet took the necessary and articles of association. by 2.7 percent in 2018 and 2.8 to borrow at cost effective rate. Foreign liabilities withdrawn measures to issue a draft law They may also hold a percent- QATAR Industrial Manufac- percent in 2019 with upward Qatar is the first country in the in the immediate aftermath of that aims to attract non-Qatari age exceeding the mentioned turing Company’s (QIMC) revision of growth. Qatar world to issue Formosa bonds the diplomatic rift have been capital to the country and pro- percentage with the approval annual general assembly plans to increase its LNG pro- on the Taipei Stock Exchange partially replaced with greater mote economic development, of the Cabinet upon a propos- meeting (AGM) on Sunday duction capacity to 110mtpa since 2018.” attention being paid to the di- after reviewing the Advisory al by the minister concerned.” approved to distribute divi- dend of QR2.50 per share, to its shareholders for the year ending December 31, 2018. The company elected fol- Oil majors strut into Houston for annual energy summit lowing members of the board of directors for the next three REUTERS by a combination of OPEC’s additional sanctions. Its shale deliberations now years (2019-2021): Sheikh AUSTIN output cuts and large-scale Both US Secretary of State including asking, “What does Abdulrahman bin Mohamed Chairman Sheikh Abdulrahman sanctions placed on Iran and Mike Pompeo and Energy Sec- that mean for the folks down- bin Jabor al Thani, Sheikh bin Mohamed bin Jabor THE oil industry converges Venezuela by the United States. This is the first CERAWeek retary Rick Perry will speak at stream and on the Gulf Coast Rashid bin Awaidha Moham- this week on Houston at CER- US crude output has rock- ever where the world’s the conference. and vice versa?” Gjervik said. med Thani al Thani, Nasser Thani as the chairman and AWeek, the largest gathering eted to more than 12 million largest producer is the The larger presence of the Shale wells are cheaper to bin Rashid S al Kaabi, Saad Nasser bin Rashid al Kaabi as of top energy executives in barrels a day, surpassing for- country where we are majors, including US compa- drill and faster to start pro- Mohammed Saad J al Ru- vice-chairman. the Americas, with oil majors mer leaders Russia and Saudi nies Exxon Mobil and Chev- duction, offsetting the ma- maihi, Abdullah Mohammed The extraordinary general showing a bigger presence as Arabia, but that success comes holding the conference, ron, comes as those firms are jors’ past focus on giant fields Shamsan al Saada, Abdul- assembly, which was also held the United States has taken as independent US shale com- which is the United States shifting investments to shale whose payoff can be decades mohsen bin Youssef al Mana on Sunday, approved the split the crown as the largest crude panies are reducing drilling in west Texas and New Mex- into the future. and Abdulla Ali al Abdulla, Al of the par value of the ordi- producer in the world. under pressure from investors Daniel Yergin ico, and connecting those oil “This is the first CERAWeek Hermaz Investment Co rep- nary share at QR1 instead of After a year that saw inter- demanding improved returns. fields to their coastal refineries ever where the world’s largest resentative Ahmed Youssef QR10, as per the instructions national crude oil prices surge Even with prices at rela- whether the United States will and chemical plants. producer is the country where Hussain Kamal. of Qatar Financial Markets to more than $87 a barrel in the tively stable levels, US sanc- continue to offer some Iranian “It’s a little bit different we are holding the conference, The board of directors Authority, and amendment of fall then tumble, the market has tions on Iran and Venezuela oil buyers purchase waivers, than what’s been seen histori- which is the United States,” elected Sheikh Abdulrahman the Articles in the Company’s been calmer of late, even with could disrupt the current and whether Venezuela’s Pres- cally,” said Staale Gjervik, pres- said Daniel Yergin, vice chair- bin Mohamed bin Jabor al Articles of Association. production limitations imposed calm. It remains unclear ident Nicolas Maduro will face ident of Exxon’s shale business. man of organiser IHS Markit.

Redefining commercial elegance Just Real Estate launches luxury landmark Treve Tower at Pearl tecture on The Pearl Island, this avail the office spaces in either fur- The tallest architecture on The Pearl Island is available 42-storey tower offers amenities de- nished or unfurnished option as per signed to provide the best possible their requirements. Equipped with for both sale, rent and the owners can avail office spaces working environment among the hi-end 352 CCTVs, this tower offers best facilities such as a full-service the safest working environment. TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK The design language is es- cafe andrestaurant that overlook “JRE is on a continuous expan- DOHA sentially a contemporary inter- the Gulf waters, a high-tech fitness sion of its portfolio and with the pretation of traditional styles and centre for the use of office tenants. inclusion of Treve Tower in our JUST Real Estate (JRE) has truly themes, which in turn has been in- With a total of more than 75,778 influential portfolio, we are bet- set its sights on the luxury real spired by the regional climate and sqm of built area and a 52,921 sqm ter placed to provide fellow Qatari estate market of Qatar. The com- culture. leasable area, the project has eight companies a whole new experience. pany has launched the commercial Located strategically at the en- level parking space that can accom- Treve Tower’s strategic location marvel - Treve Tower at the Pearl trance of The Peal Qatar, Treve modate more than 900 vehicles. makes it even more appealing for Qatar, JRE said in a statement on Tower is in close proximity to the The luxurious commercial prop- companies wanting to take up com- Sunday. city’s main attractions such as La- erty comes with many enhanced mercial space in the heart of Qatar. Treve Tower is considered as goona Mall, Mondrian Hotel, West amenities such as 24/7 security, “Our whole host of amenities will the ideal location of choice for many lagoon, Katara and to the commer- top-end maintenance and cleaning offer owners the comfort and ease in businesses and companies, stand- cial hub of West bay, offering great- services, a dedicated cigar lounge, facilitating their employees with the ing at around 201 metres, housing er business opportunities. etc. TreveTower has a state-of-the- best in class infrastructure settings. a panoramic floor of breathtaking This property also shares close art business lounge to facilitate While this is just one of the many views towards the mainland across connectivity with the much await- Treve Tower draws its exclusivity by being the sole luxurious commercial tower in meetings in a quaint environment. engineering marvels we have in our the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf. ed Lusail City, which is one of the The Pearl Qatar project. Additionally, a world-class busi- portfolio, we are poised to present The beacon-like office tower largest commercial projects of the ness centre is set to augment its de- many more in the future to position flanks the main access road and Middle East. Lusail City is Qatar’s real estate ambitions laid down in by being the sole luxurious commer- mand among its corporate clients. Qatar as one of the luxury real estate serve as the gateway to the overall largest single sustainable develop- the country’s National Vision 2030. cial tower in The Pearl Qatar project. Treve Tower is available for both hot beds around the world,” said Pearl development. ment and embodies the ’smart city’ Treve Tower draws its exclusivity Standing as the tallest archi- sale and rent and the owners can JRE Chairman Nasser al Ansari. 14 Monday, March 11, 2019 Economy & Business ‘US, China driving oil China central bank pledges to further demand, but no April OPEC policy change’ boost economy as lending slides REUTERS said oil output in April was NEW DELHI expected to remain at this PBOC is expected to ease monetary policy to encourage lending to small and private firms vital for growth month’s level of 9.8 million SAUDI oil minister Khalid bpd. “Aramco is finalising al-Falih said on Sunday that their April allocations to- China and the US would lead day or tomorrow so we will healthy global demand for oil know more on Monday. But this year but that it would be my expectation is that April too early to change OPEC+ is going to be pretty much output policy at the group’s like March”. next meeting in April. The Organization of He said total global oil the Petroleum Export- demand is set to grow by ing Countries and its allies around 1.5 million barrels such as Russia — known as per day (bpd). the OPEC+ alliance — will “If you look at Ven- meet in Vienna on April 17- ezuela alone you would 18 and another gathering is panic, if you look at the US scheduled for June 25-26. you would say the world is Falih said the group was awash with oil. You have unlikely to change its out- to look at the market as put policy in April and if a whole. We think 2019 required will make adjust- demand is actually quite ments in June. healthy,” Falih told Reuters. “We will see what hap- In Venezuela, suffer- pens by April if there is ing from a political and any unforeseen disruption economic crisis, oil exports somewhere else but barring have plunged by 40 per- this I think we will just be cent to around 920,000 bpd kicking the can forward,” since Washington slapped Falih said. sanctions on its petroleum “We will see where the industry on January 28. market is by June and adjust On the other hand, pro- appropriately,” Falih said. duction in US hit a record of On January 1, OPEC+ more than 12 million bpd in began new production cuts February. to avoid a supply glut that The International En- threatened to soften prices. ergy Agency in a report The group agreed to reduce last month left its demand supply by 1.2 million barrels growth forecast for 2019 per day for six months. unchanged from January at Sources recently said the (File photo) Headquarters of the People’s Bank of China is pictured in Beijing, China. 1.4 million barrels per day. OPEC+ production policy is Falih said Chinese de- expected to be agreed on in REUTERS sure and China faces many 885.8 billion yuan ($131.81 mand was breaking records June with an extension of the BEIJING risks and challenges in its DEBT DEFAULTS billion) in net new yuan loans month after month and es- current pact the likely scenar- economy and financial sector,” in February, down sharply timated the country would io so far, but much depends CHINA’S central bank on Sun- Yi said at a press conference on Analysts say China needs to from a record 3.23 trillion breach 11 million barrels on the extent of US sanctions day pledged to further support the sidelines of the country’s revive weak credit growth to yuan in January, when sev- per day (bpd) in 2019. on both OPEC members Iran the slowing economy by spur- annual meeting of parliament. help head off a sharper eral other key credit gauges For Saudi Arabia, he and Venezuela. ring loans and lowering bor- There is still some room economic slowdown this also picked up modestly in rowing costs, following data for the PBOC to cut reserve year, but investors are response to the central bank’s that showed a sharp drop in requirement ratios (RRRs), al- policy easing. February’s bank lending due though the amount of room is worried about a further jump Yi said combined Janu- to seasonal factors. less compared with a few years in corporate debt and the ary-February new loans and The central bank is widely ago, Yi said. risk to banks as they relax total social financing (TSF), expected to ease monetary The PBOC has cut the their lending standards Yi Gang a broad measure of credit policy further this year to en- amount of cash that commer- Governor, People’s Bank of China and liquidity in the economy, courage lending especially to cial banks need to set aside as could paint a more accurate small and private firms vital reserves five times in the past to lower such risk premiums. seasonal factors, while policy- picture as they showed a rise for growth and job creation. year to spur lending to small High risk premiums on makers continue to press lend- of 374.8 billion yuan and 1.05 The central bank’s “pru- businesses in the private sec- loans to small firms reflect ers to help cash-strapped firms trillion yuan from a year ear- dent” monetary policy will tor. The RRR for big banks is commercial banks’ traditional stay afloat. lier, respectively. emphasize on counter-cyclical now at 13.5 percent and the ra- reluctance to extend credit to A pull-back in February’s Analysts say China needs adjustments, said People’s tio for small- to medium-size the sector because of concerns tally had been widely expect- to revive weak credit growth Bank of China (PBOC) Gov- banks is at 11.5 percent. about their creditworthiness. ed as Chinese banks tend to to help head off a sharper eco- ernor Yi Gang, using a phrase Yi said lending rates for PBOC data on Sunday front-load loans at the begin- nomic slowdown this year, but that implies the need to fight small firms are still relatively showed new bank loans in Chi- ning of the year to get higher- investors are worried about a (File photo) Pumpjacks are seen against the setting sun at the an economic slowdown. elevated due to higher risk pre- na fell sharply in February from quality customers and win further jump in corporate debt Daqing oil field in Heilongjiang province, in China. “The global economy still miums and the central bank a record the previous month, market share. and the risk to banks as they faces some downward pres- will forge ahead with reforms but the drop was likely due to Chinese banks made relax their lending standards. US sanctions against Venezuela scaring off banks risk of being hit with a fine of “How am I supposed to Sanctions target a growing list of individuals more than $1 million by the know, as your bank, if for ex- US Treasury Department if ample a wire transaction is for and companies linked to the Maduro regime they get it wrong, Gutierrez Because the penalties are the purposes of exporting a told AFP. complex and the cost of a diluent?” Gutierrez asked. AFP lifeblood of the Caribbean na- That not only presents a violation is so high, some “The banks find them- MIAMI tion’s crumbling economy. challenge for banks and busi- banks are beginning to selves in a situation where But “because the penal- nesses but for families in the avoid doing any business they have to do a cost/benefit AS the United States has ties are complex and the cost United States, many in Flor- analysis on their clients.” quickly ratcheted up sanctions of a violation is so high, some ida, who send money to rela- with Venezuela at all But the potential vacuum against Venezuela to pressure banks are beginning to avoid tives left in Venezuela to help Daniel Gutierrez opens opportunities for some Nicolas Maduro, bankers say doing any business with Ven- them weather the nation’s Florida International banks willing to take the risk, they are shying away from do- ezuela at all,” said Daniel widespread food shortages and especially in the massive mar- ing even legitimate business Gutierrez, head of the Florida hyperinflation that could reach Bankers Association ket for remittances. with the crisis-wracked oil- International Bankers Associa- 10 million percent this year. Martin Litwak, lawyer producing country for fear of tion’s anti-money laundering As a result, “there are many Washington targeted PD- based in Miami who specializ- getting caught in the crossfire. committee. major banks in the United VSA in sanctions announced A supporter of Venezuelan opposition leader and self-proclaimed es in offshore investments and The sanctions target a Banks must review each States that have made the de- January 28 but granted a hand- acting president Juan Guaido, demonstrates with a sign reading ‘No anti-money laundering regu- growing list of individuals transaction and examine the cision to decouple from Ven- ful of exemptions, such as one electricity, no subway’ in Caracas on Saturday. (AFP) lations, said the banks could and companies linked to the sanctions one by one, consult- ezuela,” said Gutierrez, who that allows the banks to work begin “de-risking” -- cutting Maduro regime -- including ing lawyers to verify exemp- works with 60 domestic and with US oil industry giants forbids transactions involving thin the heavy crude that domi- off all operations -- if the Ven- state oil company PDVSA, the tions and requirements, at the international banks in Florida. Chevron and Halliburton, but diluents -- chemicals used the nates Venezuela’s reserves. ezuelan crisis is prolonged. China’s February crude imports surge 22%; gas imports drop from January

crude oil importer, took in building,” said Seng-Yick Tee With the heating season Crude oil imports for 39.23 million tonnes of crude Natural gas imports in of consultancy SIA Energy. ending in mid-March, China’s the first two months oil last month, the data from February fell from a month Imports for the first two LNG import demand, which the General Administration of ago as temperatures rose months of 2019 gained 12.4 hit record in January, will of 2019 gained 12.4% Customs showed. but were up from the percent from a year ago at ease, said Lu Xiao, an analyst from a year ago That is the equivalent of 81.83 million tonnes, or 10.12 with IHS Markit. 10.23 million barrels per day same time in 2018 million bpd. “We’re expecting slower (bpd), up 21.6 percent from Natural gas imports in demand growth in total gas REUTERS 8.41 million bpd during the eration by the end of March. February fell from a month consumption and LNG im- SINGAPORE/BEIJING same period the year before. Zhejiang Petrochemical ago as temperatures rose but ports this year,” said Lu. This the fourth month in has also begun test runs at were up from the same time in Gas imports for the first CHINA’S crude oil imports a row that China’s crude im- some units at its refinery in 2018. two months of 2019 reached rose to the third-highest vol- ports held above the 10 mil- east China though full pilot Total natural gas imports 17.36 million tonnes, up 18.5 ume on record on a daily ba- lion bpd mark. Last month’s production is expected only including both liquefied natu- percent from a year earlier, sis on increasing purchases by crude arrivals also rose from during the second quarter. ral gas (LNG) and pipeline gas the data showed. new private refineries, while January’s 10.03 million bpd. “The new plants are one were at 7.57 million tonnes Data also showed China’s natural gas imports eased as Hengli Petrochemical, factor...The strong crude im- last month, down from 9.81 refined fuel exports were up 9.4 demand dropped amid warm- the operator of China’s first ports are also a reflection of million tonnes in January, percent from a year ago at 3.81 (File photo) Hengli Petrochemical, the operator of China’s first private- er temperatures, customs data privately-owned large-scale fundamental demand support but up 9.2 percent from a million tonnes while imports ly-owned large-scale refinery, said on January 28 that the plant is set showed on Friday. refinery, said on January 28 from the property sector and year earlier, the customs data fell 10 percent from a year ear- for full operation by the end of March. China, the world’s biggest that the plant is set for full op- the speed-up in infrastructure showed. lier to 2.35 million tonnes. www.guide.com.qa  Monday, March 11, 2019

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MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2019

Concrete works completed at World Cup 2022 Qatar stadium in Al Thumama PAGE 19 AFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE RAYYAN VS LOKOMOTIV (6.35PM)

SHEIKH JOAAN ATTENDS IAAF COUNCIL MEETING IN DOHA

HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al Thani, President of Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) and Chairman of the Organising Committee for the World Athletics Championships Doha 2019, attended the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Council Meeting which began in Doha on Sunday. The two-day meeting, which is being held at the Doha Sheraton, will conclude on Monday. Big finish hands Harding maiden title at gusty Doha Golf Course

South African ends his long European Tour title wait with three birdies on last four holes TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA

JUSTIN Harding’s nine-year- long wait for a maiden Euro- pean Tour title met a happy ending finally at an unlikely venue like the treacherous Doha Golf Club course with the South African firing a final day six under to win the Com- mercial Bank Qatar Masters on Sunday. After an identical four un- Justin Harding receives the Mother of Pearl trophy from Commercial Bank Group CEO Joseph Abraham and der for the first two days, the Qatar Golf Association President Hassan al Naimi at the Doha Golf Club course on Sunday. Justin Harding with the winner’s cheque. He was also rewarded with a Rolex watch for his triumph. 191-cm tall Harding had a hor- rible time on Saturday when LEADERBOARD he carded one over par on the third day due to his five bogeys PLAYER COUNTRY TO PAR R1 R2 R3 R4 TOTAL PRIZE and four birides and was three 1 Harding Justin RSA -13 68 68 73 66 275 €259,669 shots off leader Oliver Wilson. 2 Bezuidenhout Christiaan RSA -11 72 71 66 68 277 €68,988 But the 33-year-old Hard- 2 Campillo Jorge ESP -11 72 69 68 68 277 €68,988 ing started his charge on a 2 Choi Jinho KOR -11 72 69 72 64 277 €68,988 terribly gusty day with three 2 Coetzee George RSA -11 68 68 73 68 277 €68,988 birdies in the first four holes and later, he fell behind the 2 Elvira Nacho ESP -11 71 67 69 70 277 €68,988 pack as he lost two strokes. 2 Karlsson Anton SWE -11 72 66 70 69 277 €68,988 He mounted another push and 2 Lorenzo-Vera Mike FRA -11 68 68 71 70 277 €68,988 collected three birdies in the 2 Van Rooyen Erik RSA -11 69 68 70 70 277 €68,988 last four holes to secure his 2 Wilson Oliver ENG -11 69 68 69 71 277 €68,988 breakthrough triumph in his 11 Detry Thomas BEL -10 70 68 70 70 278 €26,850 54th Tour start. 11 Sullivan Andy ENG -10 70 71 69 68 278 €26,850 Harding’s 13 under 275 The SA surge 11 Zanotti Fabrizio PAR -10 72 68 70 68 278 €26,850 aggregate fetched him a mas- Justin Harding becomes sive $291,660 in prize money, But he suffered two setbacks 2017 Maybank Championship. along with a Rolex watch. This the fifth South African before wrapping up his round “I’m putting myself in conten- is his career’s fifth title across winner of this event after with a birdie. Just like him tion and on a Sunday and that’s different tours. He posted two Darren Fichardt, Ernie Els, others also tried their best but a good thing. I just keep work- back-to-back Sunshine Tour Retief Goosen and Branden could not keep up the pace ing hard and progressing and wins in May and did the same Grace – who successfully with Harding, who waited hopefully I can get back in the on the Asian Tour in July. anxiously and was rewarded winner’s circle soon enough.” This triumph makes him defended the Mother of Golf enthusiasts follow the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters 2019 stars at Doha Golf Club on the final day. with the title eventually. Nick Cullen, Maximilian fifth South African winner of Pearl trophy in 2016. A further stroke down locked Kieffer, Jeff Winther and 2018 this event after Darren Fich- rea’s Jihho Choi. looking forward to seeing what The South Korean, also on the 11th spot were three play- Challenge Tour Grand Final ardt (2003), Ernie Els (2005), One shot off Harding was Harding, who was third on happens going forward and looking for his first Tour title, ers – Thomas Detry, Andy Sulli- winner Adri Arnaus shared Retief Goosen (2007) and a European Tour record nine- the last seasson’s Asian Tour but playing in some bigger events.” may call himself a bit unlucky van and Fabrizio Zanotti. It was 14th position while Bradley Branden Grace (2015, 2016). player group tied for the sec- did not have full playing privi- Choi earlier in the day set for not being able to raise the another near miss for Zanotti af- Dredge and Mikko Korhonen Harding, on a surge with ond - three compatriots Chris- leges on the European Tour, the clubhouse target at 11 under bar further. On the last hole, ter finishing one stroke behind split 18th place. two top fives and three more tiaan Bezuidenhout, George added, “I didn’t enjoy it but it’s total with a hot 64. After hitting he had a short birdie putt but Kurt Kitayama at last week’s Commercial Bank Group top 20s in eights events this Coetzee and Erik van Rooyen, good fun, I’m glad it happened three birdies on the first three he could not hole it in. Oman Open but the Paraguayan CEO Joseph Abraham and Qa- season, was choked with emo- Spanish players Jorge Campil- and now we move on. holes, he gained two more shots At one stage, Choi, Hard- remained upbeat with where his tar Golf Association President tions. “It feels good. It was lo and Nacho Elvira, Swede “I get into the events that I’d before his back nine. He had ing and Elvira were all locked game is at. Hassan al Naimi were the chief nerve wracking, especially Anton Karlsson, Frenchman like to be into again, the sched- another birdie and followed it at the top with 11 under total. “I am very happy with my guests at the closing ceremony coming off, it’s a situation I Mike Lorenzo-Vera, England’s ules change, I’m no longer up with a sizzling eagle on par- The Spaniard birdied the 12th golf right now,” said Zanotti, and presented the Mother of haven’t really been in.” Oliver Wilson and South Ko- having to pick and choose. I’m 4 281-metre 16th. to move into the solo lead. whose last triumph came at the Pearl Trophy and cheque. Sports Monday, March 11, 2019 17 DOVIZIOSO DOES IT AGAIN! Italian edges RESULTS 1.Andrea Dovizioso ITA Ducati Team (Desmosedici reigning world GP19) 42m 36.902s 2.Marc Marquez ESP Repsol Honda (RC213V) 42m champ Marquez 36.925s 3.Cal Crutchlow GBR LCR Honda (RC213V) 42m by 0.023secs for 37.222s 4.Alex Rins ESP Suzuki Ecstar (GSX-RR) 42m 37.359s consecutive Qatar 5.Valentino Rossi ITA Monster Yamaha (YZR-M1) 42m 37.502s MotoGP win 6.Danilo Petrucci ITA Ducati Team (Desmosedici GP19) 42m 39.222s RAAJIV TRIPATHI 7.Maverick Viñales ESP Monster Yamaha (YZR-M1) 42m 39.383s DOHA 8.Joan Mir SPA Suzuki Ecstar (GSX-RR)* 42m 41.990s IT was a classic duel in the 9.Takaaki Nakagami JPN LCR Honda (RC213V) 42m 44.308s closing stages of the Premier 10.Aleix Espargaro ESP Factory Aprilia Gresini (RS- Class racing at the season- GP) 42m 46.538s opening VisitQatar Grand 11.Franco Morbidelli ITA Petronas Yamaha SRT (YZR- M1) 42m 46.549s Prix between the two top rid- 12.Pol Espargaro ESP Red Bull KTM Factory (RC16) ers in the world and Andrea 42m 49.676s Dovizioso edged reigning 13.Jorge Lorenzo ESP Repsol Honda (RC213V) 42m Marc Marquez once again to 51.209s 14.Andrea Iannone ITA Factory Aprilia Gresini (RS- win at the Losail International GP) 42m 51.251s Circuit on Sunday. 15.Johann Zarco FRA Red Bull KTM Factory (RC16) Last year also, Mission 42m 51.995s Winnow Ducati’s Dovizioso MOTO2 1. Lorenzo Baldassarri (ITA/Kalex) 39min had beaten Repsol Honda’s 56.109sec, 2. Thomas Luethi (SUI/Kalex) at five-time world champion 0.026sec, 3. Marcel Schrotter (GER/Kalex) 2.123. Marquez here. But the race British Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton, who attended the Qatar Grand Prix, at the Petronas Moto2 standings: was not as close as this one. Yamaha SRT pit at the Losail International Circuit. 1. Lorenzo Baldassarri (ITA/Kalex) 25 points, 2. Thomas Luethi (SUI/Kalex) 20 points, 3. Marcel A packed stand held its Schrotter: 16 points (GER/Kalex) breath when the two went MOTO3 about attacking each other 1. Kaito Toba (JPN/Honda) 38 min 8.887sec, 2. in the final rounds of the 22- Lorenzo Dalla Porta (ITA/Honda) at 0.053sec, 3.Aron Canet (ESP/KTM) at 0.174 lap race. Marquez shot ahead MOTO3 STANDINGS: in the 21st lap’s Turn 4 as the 1. Kaito Toba (JPN/Honda) 25 points, 2. Lorenzo Italian went wide. Dalla Porta (ITA/Honda) 20, 3. Aron Canet (ESP/ The Spaniard, who last KTM) 16. won at Losail in 2014 from the pole, lost the lead on the Historic win by Toba straight before the final lap, Kaito Toba (Honda Team but he regained it and ap- Asia) used the slipstream bril- peared to be giving final push liantly to his advantage as the for the triumph. Mission Winnow Ducati’s Italian rider Andrea Dovizioso with his first Japanese rider won the Moto3 However, just as Marquez place trophy in the Qatar MotoGP Grand Prix at the Losail Interna- race and created history in Lo- lunged forward after the final tional Circuit on Sunday. (PHOTOS: HANSON K JOSEPH) sail Sunday. turn 16, Dovizioso zoomed Toba, Lorenzo Dalla Porta inside of him to power ahead Dovizioso. team, they worked so hard.” (Leopard Racing) and pole drawing the crowd to the edge Marquez said, “It was ex- Veteran Italian Valentino rider Aron Canet (Sterilgarda of the seats. Getting the ben- actly the same as last year. Rossi also turned in an incred- Max Racing Team) forged a efit of Ducati’s stronger accel- It’s difficult because when you ible performance in his 24th bit ahead of the chasing pack eration, he went on to record overtake, you’re on the dirt MotoGP season and landed in the final of the 18-lap race. an epic victory by 0.023 of a there is no grip. Here I strug- the fifth spot. The-old 40-year- And it was Leopard Rac- second. gled a lot with the front tyre 0Monster Energy Yamaha rid- ing rider who moved a slight After his ‘lucky’ 13th vic- but I finished the race with 20 er started the race from 14th ahead of the two when the fi- tory, Dovizioso, who has points. I’m really very happy but displayed his sheer com- nal straight started. been finishing runner-up to about this performance.” petitiveness to collect valuable (From left) Repsol Honda’s Spanish rider Marc Marquez, Mission Winnow Ducati’s Italian rider Andrea The Japanese however Marquez for two successive Cal Crutchlow (LCR Hon- points for his team. Dovizioso, and LCR Honda Castrol’s British rider Cal Crutchlow on the podium with their trophies after produced a thrilling slip- seasons, commented, “It was da Castrol) managed to hold Danilo Petrucci (Mission the Qatar MotoGP at the Losail International Circuit on Sunday. stream move to pip Dalla a strange race. I didn’t have off Alex Rins (Team Suzuki Winnow Ducati) got the better Porta on the finish line to a really good strategy. I was Ecstar) to get the third spot of pole rider Maverick Viñales Steady Baldassarri Premier Class last season with appeared to be taking the third become the first Japanese to managing a lot the rear tyre. for his 18th podium. This is (Monster Energy Yamaha) in wins Moto2 Honda, made up his way bril- spot but he was overtaken by win the lightweight class race Overall I’m so happy because I the 10th time that the British the sixth spot, while Joan Mir Lorenzo Baldassarri (Flexbox liantly. The Italian however German pole-sitter Marcel since Tomoyoshi Koyama’s didn’t see anyone so I couldn’t rider secured the last step of was the second fastest Su- HP 40’s Lorenzo) held off for- managed to keep him at bay Schrotter (Dynavolt Intact 125cc triumph at the Catalan know my positive or negative the podium. zuki rider in the seventh spot. mer MotoGP rider Thomas to win by 0.026 of a second for GP) on the straight by two GP in 2007. Also he is the first points. As he is recovering from his Takaaki Nakagami, Alexis Luthi (Dynavolt Intact GP) to his third career win in the in- thousandths of a second. first Idemitsu Asia Talent Cup “I tried to stop Rins be- last season’s injuries, Crutch- Espargaro and Franco were clinch a pulsating Moto2 vic- termediate class. Flexbox HP 40’s Augusto champion to win a Grand Prix. cause his speed in the middle low commented: “I think like eighth, ninth and tenth, re- tory on Sunday, Baldassarri was second Fernandez earned the fifth Marcos Ramirez (Leopard of the corner was really good. I’ve got a left bum as someone spectively. Three-time world Both were side by side to Francesco Bagnaia here spot, starting the race from Racing) was fourth on Honda, I was able to answer to Mar- hit me with a footpeg. But I champion Jorge Lorenzo, mak- on the final straight after Lu- last year and Alex Marquez from the fourth row, beating while Celestino Vietti (SKY quez because he was really pushed as hard as I could go. ing debut for Repsol Honda, thi, the 2017 championship was third. Remy Gardner Sam Lowes (Federal Oil Gres- Racing Team VR46) complet- on the limit,” added a smiling All credit to my LCR Honda was 13th. runner-up who moved to the (ONEXOX TKKR SAG Team) ini Moto2). ed the top five. New FIM President meets women Djokovic dumps Fratangelo to riders at Qatar Motorsport Academy book clash with Kohlschreiber AFP INDIAN WELLS, UNITED STATES

WORLD number one Novak Djokovic shook off a nervy start to dispatch US qualifier Bjorn Fratangelo in straight sets on Saturday to reach the third round of the ATP Indian Wells Masters. Djokovic, playing his first match since winning a record seventh Australian Open title in January, was less than sharp in conceding an early break to his 128th-ranked rival. FIM President Jorge Viegas at the Qatar Motorsport Academy (QMA) facility at the Losail International Circuit (LIC). He broke back as Fratan- gelo served for the set to knot TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK maihi, the Vice President and their riding skills but due to skills set. These lessons are it at 5-5, and then raced to a DOHA General Manager of Losail the huge demand of ladies that conducted on Tuesday at the 4-1 lead in the tiebreaker. Circuit Sports Club (LCSC) want to learn how to ride a mo- QMA. The feedback we re- Djokovic had to dig deep, NEWLY-ELECTED FIM Pres- and QMMF President Abdul- torbike, the QMA is providing ceived is very positive and we however, when Fratangelo Novak Djokovic of ident Jorge Viegas visited the rahman Al Mannai. riding courses to the ladies. want to encourage more ladies battled back to lead the tie- celebrates after his Qatar Motorsport Academy The visit was conducted “Qatar is helping young to join us “ he added. breaker 5-4. win against Bjorn (QMA) and met with woman during the opening round of the riders - boys and girls - in all The FIM President also After a double fault and Fratangelo at the riders enrolled at the special 2019 MotoGP World Champi- ages to help them learn the talked to with riders enrolled a forehand error from the Indian Wells Masters facility inside Losail Interna- onship. The FIM President was sport from the experts,” Al at QMA and praised Qatar’s 25-year-old American, Djoko- on Saturday. (AFP) tional Circuit (LIC). informed that the QMA was Remaihi said. “Also, we have role on developing young rid- vic suddenly had a set point, The FIM President was ac- launched in November last year special classes for female rid- ers including girls and the pro- and once he’d pocketed the set, companied by Khalid Al Re- to help young riders improve ers wanting to improve their motion of motorsport in Qatar. the second went all his way. doing it myself. injury with the German lead- “To be honest, I was a bit “I was lucky to get the first ing 6-3, 2-0. nervous in the beginning,” set. After that, things went bet- Action opened on stadium admitted Djokovic, who is go- ter for me,” added Djokovic. court with 18-year-old Cana- Quick Read ing for a record sixth Indian Djokovic next faces Ger- dian Felix Auger-Aliassime Wells title. man Philipp Kohlschreiber, a powering past Greece’s Stefa- Djokovic, currently tied 6-4, 6-4 winner over Austral- nos Tsitsipas, 6-4, 6-2, for his Second edition of Qatar Men’s ITF world tennis tour begins today with Roger Federer on five ian Nick Kyrgios. first win over a top-10 player. wins in the California desert, Kyrgios, seeded 31st, was In a battle of two ATP DOHA: The second edition of tion is $15000. It is organized tion, which will help Qatari play- can also tie world number two coming off a scintillating run young guns, 58th-ranked the Qatar Men’s ITF World Tennis by Qatar Tennis Federation (QTF) ers gain experience by competing Rafael Nadal’s record of 33 to the Mexico Open title in Auger-Aliassime came out Tour will begin Monday. Three in cooperation with International some of the best young players.” Masters 1000 titles. Acapulco. firing, and his aggression Qatari players will participate in Tennis Federation at Khalifa Inter- He added that the competition “I haven’t competed for As men’s seeds swung into paid off with a victory over the competition. The players are national Tennis and Squash Com- will also promote the sport in over five weeks. I was a bit action after first-round byes, 20-year-old Tsitsipas, who Mousa and Mubarak Shanan, plex. Director of the competition the region, which was another rusty in the first set. I was kind third-seeded Zverev advanced shot to prominence with a as well as Jaber al Mutawa. The Saad al Mohannadi said “QTF is motivation the federation had in of waiting for him to do some- when Slovakian foe Martin victory over Federer at the total prize money for the competi- proud to organise the competi- Mubarak Shanan of Qatar. organising the event. (TNN) thing with the ball rather than Klizan retired with an ankle Australian Open. 18 Monday, March 11, 2019 Sports Al RAYYAN SET TO ROAR AGAINST UZBEK CLUB TODAY Messi, Suarez both score to keep Barcelona clear at the top DPA more importance than that. BARCELONA He fought to score and we al- ways think he is going to pull BARCELONA maintained something out of the hat. The their seven-point lead at the secret is to persevere.” top of La Liga with a 3-1 win Pique was asked if he over Rayo Vallecano on Sat- thought the league was now urday at the Camp Nou. a two-team affair between Rayo stunned the league Barcelona and Atletico Ma- leaders on 24 minutes when drid, who earlier managed a Raul de Tomas put the Ma- 1-0 win over Leganes. drid club, second from bot- Third-placed Real Ma- tom in the table, ahead. drid are now 15 points behind A long ball forward from Barcelona but play Sunday at Alvaro found the Real Ma- Valladolid. Pique said: “We drid loanee and he got away are not going to rule out any- from Nelson Semedo and body until they can’t catch us Gerard Pique before shoot- mathematically.” ing past Marc Andre ter Ste- Atletico’s Saul Niguez gen. scored the only goal of their Barcelona equalised game on 50 minutes. on 38 minutes when Pique Angel Correa was was left unmarked to head brought down in the area in a Lionel Messi free-kick. and although Saul’s spot- Messi then made it 2-1 on kick was saved, he scored the 51 minutes scoring a pen- rebound. alty after Semedo had been Atletico could have ex- Al Rayyan coach Gilson Souza (right) and player Mohammed Alaaeldin during their AFC Champions League press conference at Al Sadd stadium in Doha on Sunday. brought down in the area by tended their lead with Thom- Jordi Amat. as Partey hitting the crossbar Luis Suarez sealed the from long range. Rodrigo points when he ran on to a appeared to foul Leganes pass from Ivan Rakitic to winger Jose Arnaiz late on Rayyan have chance to score the third eight minutes but referee Mateu Lahoz from time. There were some waved play on. whistles from Barcelona sup- “It was a hard-fought porters for Philippe Coutin- win,” said scorer Saul. ho when he was replaced by “I was lucky with the pen- Rakitic with 10 minutes left. alty because the ball came beat Lokomotiv: Souza Barcelona coach Ernesto straight back to me.” Later Valverde said: “In any club Getafe moved to within three in the world there are mas- points of Real Madrid with a The task for the Lions is to put up better defence and coordination between midfield and attack sive expectations to win and 2-1 win over Huesca. In Sat- at this club even more so. urday’s other match Alaves IKOLI VICTOR The Lions have now been dah. He stressed the need to edition when they defeated “We cannot give it any drew 1-1 with Eibar. DOHA beaten in their past three Concern for forget the run of poor results Nasaf home and away before games on the continent, and that players should focus exiting at the group stage. AL Rayyan look to turn the stretching back to April last defence on the upcoming games to While Al Rayyan will need page on their worst week in year. return the team to winning to find someone to step up in a long time by earning a vic- Speaking at the pre-match O Al Rayyan will need to find ways. the attack, the biggest concern tory in their AFC Champions press conference on Sun- someone to step up in the Lokomotiv, meanwhile, is the defence. With twelve League Group B match on day, new coach Souza said: attack, the biggest concern got off to the perfect start last goals conceded in their last Monday when it host Uzbeki- “We have a chance to return is the defense. With twelve week when goals from Te- three matches, the Lions have stan’s Lokomotiv at Jassim and achieve a positive result goals conceded in their last murkhuja Abdukholikov and fallen out of form and just Bin Hamad Stadium. against Lokomotiv, who have three matches, the Lions Islom Tukhtakhujaev secured look heartless. Al Rayyan have lost three a good team and play in a have fallen out of form and a 2-0 victory over the United The task for Rayyan is matches in a row, two in the high-speed and fast-perform- Arab Emirates’ Al Wahda in to put up better defence and QNB Stars League against ing way, but we’ll strive to just look heartless. Tashkent. ensure coordination between Al Sadd and Shahaniya and provide the best and equip the The Uzbek champions, midfield and attack. the third to Al Ittihad in the team to win the game.” whose domestic league has Souza will rely on the ser- Champions League last Mon- “We need time to harmo- yet to begin, have exited at vices of veteran Rodrigo Taba- day. nise the technical and tacti- I have trained several teams, the group stage in the past ta to provide all the ammuni- Turkish coach Bulent Uy- cal aspects with the players,” and I have trained the first two years but a second suc- tion for the attacking players, gun resigned from his position Souza added. team for a long time.” cessive win would put them while Gonzalo Viera will following mounting pressure The Brazilian clarified the Asian Cup winner Mo- in a strong position after two provide cover from the back. coming off their demoralis- position about his new role hammed Alaaeldin revealed games. Lucca Borges and Gelmin Ri- ing 5-1 loss to Saudi’s Al Hi- in the Rayyan technical crew, that the players met with Al Rayyan, who have never vas are expected to be the ar- lal, where he gave way for the “This is not my first match the administrative officials faced Lokomotiv in the AFC rowhead in the attack with Se- Barcelona’s forward Lionel Messi (centre) vies for the ball with Rayo club’s Under-23 coach Gilson with Al Rayyan as I have been in order to restore normalcy Champions League, last faced bastian Soria is likely to play a Vallecano’s players during the Spanish league match at the Camp Nou Souza, who has taken charge. with the club for nine years. following the big loss in Jed- Uzbek opposition in the 2012 substitute role. Stadium in Barcelona on Saturday. (AFP)

Politano, Gagliardini lift Inter Liverpool restore Premier League before Milan derby showdown credentials as Arsenal end Man U run AFP assist nine minutes later. MILAN The race for Champions League football remains tight AFP MATTEO Politano and Rob- with Roma, Torino and Atal- LONDON erto Gagliardini scored in the anta six points behind fourth- second half as Inter Milan beat placed Inter Milan. LIVERPOOL cut Manchester SPAL 2-0 on Sunday to revive Torino continued their City’s lead at the top of the Pre- their Champions League chase impressive form with An- mier League to a single point before next week’s derby show- drea Belotti bagging a brace on Sunday as Manchester down with local rivals AC Mi- to extend their winning run to United slipped to their first do- lan. Inter had taken just a point three games with a 2-1 win at mestic defeat under Ole Gun- from their last two games, fall- Frosinone. nar Solskjaer at Arsenal. ing at Cagliari last time out, and Walter Mazzarri’s side Chelsea, also in the hunt desperately needed a morale- move sixth and into the Eu- for the Champions League boosting win to keep pace with ropa League places, level on 44 qualification spots, needed AC Milan before next week’s points with Roma, who play at a last-gasp equaliser from Derby della Madonnina. Empoli on Monday under new Eden Hazard to earn 1-1 draw The win keeps Inter one coach Claudio Ranieri, and Ata- against Wolves. point behind third-placed AC lanta who beat Sampdoria 2-1. A disappointing run of Milan who beat bottom club Colombian Duvan Zapata results has badly dented Liv- Chievo 2-1 on Saturday for a broke through for the Bergamo erpool’s bid for a first English fifth league win in a row. outfit on 50 minutes and Robin league title since 1990 and Argentina star Mauro Icar- Gosens scored the winner after fans’ nerves were jangling after di remained on the Inter side- 77 minutes. they fell behind against strug- lines and has not played since Fabio Quagliarella had gling Burnley at Anfield on Liverpool’s midfielder Roberto Firmino (centre) celebrates scoring their Arsenal’s striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang celebrates scoring his being stripped of the captaincy equalised for Sampdoria from Sunday. third goal during the English Premier League match against Burnley at goal from the penalty spot during their EPL match at the Emirates a month ago. the spot on 67 minutes as the But Roberto Firmino and Anfield in Liverpool, on Sunday.(AFP) Stadium in London on Sunday. (AFP) Luciano Spalletti’s side 36-year-old went top of the Se- Sadio Mane both scored twice were frustrated in the first half rie A goal-scoring charts with as Jurgen Klopp’s team battled sure that we stay in this really tonishing Champions League The home side doubled two seasons away from Eu- by SPAL who are just two points 20 in 27 games, one more than back to win 4-2, lifting them interesting competition on top comeback against Paris Saint- their lead midway through rope’s top club competition. above the relegation zone. Juventus star Cristiano Ron- to 73 points, one behind Pep of the table. We have no prob- Germain in midweek and with- the second half when Pierre- - Hazard strike -Earlier, Lautaro Martinez looked to aldo. Bologna earned a valuable Guardiola’s City, who saw off lem with confidence, we’re in out a single domestic defeat Emerick Aubameyang scored Hazard came to Chelsea’s res- have given Inter the lead after three points with a 2-0 win over Watford on Saturday. a good moment.” Tottenham’s since interim boss Solskjaer from the penalty spot after cue in injury time, firing in half an hour on front of 61,000 relegation rivals Cagliari. “The message from today third defeat in four Premier took over in mid-December. Fred was penalised for bring- from long range to grab a point fans in the San Siro but a VAR Erick Pulgar converted a is that nobody gets rid of us,” League matches on Saturday But Granit Xhaka shocked ing down Alexandre Lacazette. as they drew 1-1 with Wolves at review awarded handball. 34th-minute penalty with Rob- said a defiant Klopp, whose has thrown the race for the the visitors early, with David Arsenal’s 2-0 victory lifted Stamford Bridge. The hosts also lost Croatian erto Soriano adding a second team had won just two of their top four -- the passport to the de Gea badly misjudging his Unai Emery’s side to within Chelsea enjoyed the bulk of midfielder Marcelo Brozovic, on 77 minutes to give Bologna previous six Premier League Champions League -- wide swerving shot. one point of north London the possession but Wolves took who limped off and was re- just their fourth win of the sea- matches. “We had the perfect open. United came back strongly rivals Spurs and meant they the lead through Raul Jimenez placed by Antonio Candreva. son. mixture of fighting the oppo- United travelled to the but were unable to take their leapfrogged United in the pro- in the 56th minute with their Politano finally broke Bologna remain third from nent and playing football. Emirates Stadium brimful chances, thwarted by Bernd cess as they target a return to first shot on goal after an inci- through after 68 minutes with bottom with Cagliari just six “All we have to do is make of confidence after their as- Leno in the Arsenal goal. the Champions League after sive counter-attack. Gagliardini turning in a Cedric points clear of safety. Sports Monday, March 11, 2019 19

FIFA WORLD CUP QATAR 2022 Concrete works at stadium ‘Gahfiya’ design The design of the 40,000-seat stadium is Qatar Gymnastics Federation inspired by the ‘gahfiya’ President Ali al Hitmi. headpiece worn by men in in Al Thumama completed Qatar and across the MENA region. It is the first QGF gears venue to be designed solely by a Qatari architect, up for Artistic Ibrahim Mohammed Jaidah. Gymnastics ONSTRUCTION of Al Thumama Sta- World Cup dium, a host venue for the FIFA World QNA CupC Qatar 2022, continues DOHA to progress rapidly with the stadium concrete works now AHEAD of the 12th Artistic completed. Gymnastics World Cup to The team building the be held at the Aspire Dome venue – proposed to host from March 20 to 23, Qatar games up to and including Gymnastics Federation (QGF) the quarter-final stage – is in- President Ali al Hitmi said stalling the steel and cables in that the success of the World preparation for the operation Gymnastics Championships, known as the ‘big lift’ of the hosted by Doha for the first roof structure. time in the region back in Oc- Al Thumama Stadium tober, will reflect positively on Project Manager, Saoud al An- More than 50,000 m3 of concrete have been cast at the site, the next Doha round. sari, said: “The roof columns while 2,285 tonnes of steel have been installed and approximately Speaking to the media, Al and compression ring serve as 38,400 m2 of masonry works have been completed. Hitmi discussed the prepara- an integral part for the roof’s tions for the Doha round with structure. Successfully install- 58 countries participating. He ing these items means we are a expected to take approxi- different countries including After Qatar 2022, Al ments, such as a hotel and a ly employed. Another design said that they take the task of step closer to the big lift, which mately seven to 14 days.” USA, Spain, Japan, South Thumama Stadium’s seat- sports clinic. target is to decrease the car- organising the round as a chal- is considered the main event More than 50,000 m³ of Korea, Luxemburg, Turkey, ing capacity will be reduced Given its potential loca- bon footprint of the structure lenge that they want to succeed in stadium construction.” concrete have been cast at Germany and Switzerland. from 40,000 to 20,000. The tion as a major component of in the long term, which is tar- in, especially after having organ- He continued: “The big the site, while 2,285 tonnes of The design of the 40,000- 20,000 seats removed from the south region, the precinct geting a four-star Global Sus- ised the world championships. lift requires the use of 80 hy- steel have been installed and seat stadium is inspired by the stadium will be donated to will provide a long-term focus tainability Assessment System On whether the participa- draulic jacks and 10 hydraulic approximately 38,400 m² of the ‘gahfiya’ headpiece worn countries in need of sporting on sport, leisure, community, (GSAS) certification for both tion of the largest number of pumps installed around the masonry works have been by men in Qatar and across infrastructure. housing and cultural uses. design, and construction. competitors in this version compression ring to carefully completed. the MENA region. It is the It is envisaged the sta- Cooling technology was Main contractor works adds to the pressure for the lift an intricate 727-tonne Materials to build Al Thu- first venue to be designed dium will be transformed into also devised in the design of at Al Thumama Stadium are organising committee, he said cable net system into place. mama Stadium are brought solely by a Qatari architect, a ‘sport city’ complemented the stadium where 2,500 con- scheduled for completion by that the number of partici- This laborious procedure is from many providers from Ibrahim Mohammed Jaidah. by other mixed use develop- struction workers are current- 2020. (SC.QA) pants was the highest in the history of the competition. He, however, maintained that they are well capable of organising the competition. He added that everyone is working on showing the real image of Qatar, highlighting that the federation has strat- egy for hosting the large num- ber of participants. On the most important gains from hosting the world championships and the Word Cup, he said that the eyes of participating countries will be on Qatar at a time the country is subjected to an unjust block- ade and fake news propagated against Qatar. He highlighted that the best way to respond to those lies is by organising ma- jor international tournaments After Qatar 2022, Al Thumama Stadium’s seating capacity will be reduced from 40,000 to 20,000. The 20,000 seats removed from the stadium will be donated to countries in need of sporting infrastructure. that will show the real image It is envisaged the stadium will be transformed into a ‘sport city’ complemented by other mixed use developments, such as a hotel and a sports clinic. of Qatar to the world.

Qatar Olympic Committee 40th Anniversary celebrations Aneesh and Salim star as Team Qatar’s Selex emerge champions women TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK overs. The two however Aneesh was declared the handball DOHA succeeded in cutting short Man of the Final for his top Mosanada innings, despite bowling show. team’s A three-wicket haul each by An- Anwar Afridi’s superb unde- Qatar Airways was the of- eesh and Salim propelled Selex feated half-century. ficial airline sponsor of the masterclass to an eight-wicket win over Afridi blasted three fours annual Qatar Cricket Tourna- Mosanda to emerge as champi- and as many sixes to get 51 not ment. QCA President Yousuf ons in the Qatar Airways Divi- out off just 28 balls. Jeham al Kuwari and QCA to students sion A Twenty20 Tournament Ahmed Khan made 17 with Operations Manager Manzoor at the West Bay Ground. two sixes in 22 deliveries. Ahmad congratulated the win- TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK The double-edged attack of In reply, Selex suffered two ners Selex for their fine all- DOHA Aneesh and Salim saw the two blows but the target was not big round performance. skittle Mosanada, batting first, enough to pose any real threat. SCORES: Division A Final AHEAD of Qatar Olympic for 106 runs in 17 overs. With Asif Abdullah and Afnas Mosanada: 106 all out in 17 Committee’s (QOC) 40th an- Aneesh was particularly batting fluently, they achieved overs (Anwar Afridi 51 not out in niversary celebration, Team more effective of the two. He the target in 13.5 overs. 28 balls, Ahmed Khan Qatar’s women’s handball just gave away 11 runs in his ex- Abdullah cracked half 17; Aneesh 3/11, Salim 3/35) team made a special visit to but the students had the op- tremely economical four-over a dozen fours in his 38-ball lost to Selex: 108 for two in Al Shefaa Primary School for portunity to be coached by spell picking up three wickets unbeaten knock of 48. He 13.5 overs (Asif Abdullah 48 girls for another memorable professionals as well as learn with one over being a maiden. was well supported by Afnas, no.o., Afnas 30 n.o.; Shahbaz masterclass. more about living a sporty In contrast, Salim’s three whose 22-ball unbeaten 30 1/16, Hasan 1/24) by 8 wkts. The female athletes went life and how they can be- wickets cost him 35 in four had three hits to the fence. Man of the final: Aneesh (Selex). on a mission to raise aware- come more involved in sports ness and promote physical around the country. activity amongst young girls Commenting on the visit, as well as to highlight the im- school principle Najlaa al portance of working as a team. Kuwari said, “With Interna- Through the two-hour master- tional Women’s Day being cel- class session, aspiring school- ebrated all over the world this girls were able to grasp the week, it was good timing for basic knowledge of handball our schoolgirls to look up at as well as learn more about the the team encouraged students enal experience that brought inspirational role models from national women’s team and to warm up and learn how back good memories from my the female handball team. I what motivates them. to work as a team with their childhood. was glad to see our students Six of Team Qatar’s female classmates by passing the ball Starting any sport from engage with the athletes and handball athletes delivered an around to one another. grassroots is important and show interest in handball – inspirational masterclass to Team Qatar’s handball I’m grateful to see schools in- many are interested to take 30 female students from the playmaker Maryam al Suwai- vest time in physical educa- up team sport and consider a 6th grade. di commented on her school tion and encourage a culture healthy lifestyle.” During the session, ath- visit experience: “I remember of sport and physical activity”. QOC is celebrating its 40th letes took the opportunity to being 13 and full of energy The masterclass included anniversary on March 14 and first introduce themselves and excited to try new sports tips on passing the ball, com- to celebrate the occasion, the to the 12-year-old students and interests. I remember the municating with team mem- QOC in collaboration with and give a brief background first time I tried handball and bers, controlling techniques the Ministry of education and about handball, its rules and realized that my passion lies on court and learning about higher education and national team structure. Before going within sport. Engaging with the scoring system. Not only federations are arranging for The Selex team with Qatar Cricket Association officials and the trophy at the West Bay ground. straight into trying handball, the students was a phenom- was this an effective workout 40 school visits this year. 20 Monday, March 11, 2019 The Last Word MoPH to mark World HMC Ambulance Service fetes Glaucoma Week with Qatar’s national football team an array of activities QNA important to have periodic DOHA eye tests. For his part, Dr Shadi al THE Ministry of Public Health Ashwal, ophthalmologist at (MoPH ), in collaboration with the MoPH, said the most im- the Hamad Medical Corpo- portant factors that increase ration, Primary Health Care the chances of getting glau- Corporation and Qatar Red coma are for persons over the Crescent Society will organise a age of 40 years, and if there is number of events to mark the an infection in the history of World Glaucoma Week under the family, or the incidence of the theme ‘Protect and check diabetes. your eyes from Glaucoma’. He pointed out that in Head of Non-Communica- March each year, the Minis- Minister of Public Health HE Dr Hanan Mohamed al Kuwari and HMC’s Ambulance Service welcomed the Qatar national football team to its headquarters to show its admiration for ble Diseases Section at MoPH try of Public Health organises the team’s recent victory at the 2019 Asian Cup. Dr Kholoud al Mutawa said a free screening campaign for the Global Glaucoma Week glaucoma and visits to various national team captain Has- “Winning the Asian Cup ecutive officer of the Ambu- football team to the event. aims to shed light on the im- government agencies and insti- Health minister san al Haydos and the team’s for the first time is an incred- lance Service, explained how “As a proud Qatari and a keen portance of eye diseases that tutions to promote awareness management who brought ible achievement and one the football team’s historic football fan, I followed the cause blindness, especially aimed at eye health and pre- presents gifts to the Asian Cup trophy to an which has brought so much win impacted his staff. “As team’s courageous journey glaucoma, the first cause of vention of blinding diseases. informal celebratory event at joy to people in Qatar. On the team progressed through through the Asian Cup with blindness in Qatar for people Awareness booklets, bro- team members the Ambulance Service base behalf of everyone at HMC, I the rounds of the Asian Cup, great delight and emotion. To over the age of 50 years. chures and educational video where they met with Minister congratulate the entire foot- it was clear that there was a be able to celebrate hand-in- If left untreated, most are distributed in all PHCC TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK of Public Health HE Dr Hanan ball team and its management sense that something special hand with the players today is types of glaucoma progress health centres and Qatar Red DOHA Mohamed al Kuwari, senior on this historic victory. Today was about to happen and eve- wonderful for all of us at the without warning, gradually Crescent Society as part of the leaders from across HMC, and we are proud and honoured ryone in the Ambulance Ser- Ambulance Service and is a worsening visual damage campaign. HAMAD Medical Corpora- more than 100 Ambulance to welcome the players and vice was full of excitement and memory that will stay with us and later leading to blind- Glaucoma occurs as a tion’s (HMC) Ambulance Service staff. management to the Ambu- pride. The team played with forever,” he said. ness. Once incurred, visual result of high eye pressure, Service on Sunday welcomed During a short informal lance Service and to celebrate confidence, respect and belief, After the speeches and damage is mostly irreversible which leads to damage to the members of the Qatar national ceremony, Dr Kuwari and this success with them,” said and it was truly inspirational presentation of gifts, members and this has led to glaucoma optic nerve. However, there football team to its headquar- members of the Ambulance Ali Abdulla al Khater, HMC’s to everyone watching,” said Dr of the Ambulance Service in being described as the “silent are also other causes which ters to show its respect and ad- Service leadership presented chief communications officer Owen. attendance were able to inter- blinding disease”, she added, are not associated with high miration for the team’s recent gifts to the football team as a and chair of the Healthcare Faleh al Hajri, senior act with the players and con- confirming that early detec- eye pressure but can be associ- victory at the Asian Cup 2019. sign of their appreciation for Communications Committee. production manager for Am- vey their personal congratula- tion is the only way to treat ated with certain disorders in Those present included what they have achieved. Dr Robert Owen, chief ex- bulance fleet, welcomed the tions and admiration. the disease and it is therefore the optic nerve.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY QNL event discusses women’s Promoting gender equality a joint effort contributions to Islamic art scene of men and women, says Dutch envoy TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK AILYN AGONIA DOHA DOHA

WORLD-RENOWNED artists THE Netherlands Ambassador to delivered a series of talks at Qatar Qatar HE Bahia Tahzib-Lie has de- National Library, tracing wom- scribed the promotion of gender en’s contributions to enriching equality as a collective responsibility Islamic art throughout the past of men and women. centuries. On the occasion of International The lectures shed light on Women’s Day, the ambassador un- various topics, including the role derscored the Embassy’s full support of women in developing a tradi- to the empowerment and leadership tion of librarianship during the The lectures shed light on various topics, including how female artists ad- role of women in Qatar. Ottoman era and how female art- vanced calligraphy and manuscript development in the Mughal Empire. The envoy, who is one of the few ists during the time of the Mughal female ambassadors in the country Empire advanced calligraphy and insights on the topic at the event. work available in libraries across and a known advocate of women em- manuscript development. Dr Sabiha discussed how roy- the world, and Qatar National Li- powerment, is all praise for the signif- The day-long event, entitled al women or sultanas during the brary in particular, to advance in- icant contributions made by women Netherlands Ambassador to Qatar HE Bahia Tahzib-Lie is an avid biker. ‘The Arts of the Book in the Is- period of Ottoman Empire pro- depth research into these fields,” to Qatar’s transition from a hydrocar- lamic World and the Role of moted both libraries and a culture said Dr Marika. bon-based economy to a diversified, source of inspiration for females in much as she loves outdoors activities, Women’’, was one of the events of reading across communities. Qatar-based miniature artist, knowledge-based economy. Qatar to engage and excel. especially riding a bike. organised by the library in cel- “In the nineteenth century, Sumaira Aamer, who attended “The percentage of Qatar’s female She added, “We are delighted that Last week, the ambassador took ebration of International Wom- Ottoman royal women had an the event, said: “Such events at participation in labour is growing Qatari female professionals actively part in the mountain bike cycling en’s Day. important role in the dissemi- the library will contribute to re- and is the highest in the Gulf region. take part in our female leadership event called Al Adaid Desert Challenge Visitors at the full day event nation and recitation of prayer viving the dying art of miniature. It is promising that Qatari women and entrepreneurship programmes wherein she and a friend biked 40 kil- learned about the creative role books in public and private I thank the library for organsing are attaining prominent roles and in the Netherlands and share their ometres across seven sand dunes. that women have played in the spheres. Prayer books were such an interesting event to ap- positions in a wide range of sec- gained knowledge and experience “Being a woman and represent- evolution of Islamic book art, owned by prominent women and preciate women’s work in the art tors. This is so important because with their peers. ing the Netherlands and its values the most fundamental element endowed to libraries and recited scene. By highlighting women’s by strengthening women’s economic “In the field of sport, the Nether- provides me with a unique oppor- of Islamic art, including callig- in mosques. On the occasion of achievements, the library is rais- independence and increasing female lands Embassy is proud to work with tunity to reach out to and connect raphy, illumination and minia- International Women’s Day, it is ing awareness of women’s im- workforce participation, economies the Qatar Women Sport Committee. with women and girls of all walks ture painting. particularly stimulating to pre- portant role in every dimension become more inclusive and sustain- Together, we promote the develop- of life in Qatar. I see this as a very Dr Sabiha Göloğlu, a post- sent a paper at Qatar National of the society. These events are able,” Ambassador Tahzib-Lie told ment of female football in Qatar and important and rewarding part of my doctoral fellow at the Museum Library, a place where several Ot- also important for the art of hand Qatar Tribune during an interview. organise trainings for women to be service in Qatar. Humankind, like for Islamic Art in Berlin; Dr toman manuscripts and a collec- drawing to stay relevant, which is She hailed Qatar for listing wom- successful football coaches. We also a bird, needs two wings. One wing Veeda Ahmed, a famous Paki- tion on women are housed,” Dr a skill that should be promoted en’s empowerment as one of its top involve girls in our trainings.” represents women and the other stani painter; Dr Mehreen Chida- Sabiha said. among the youth.” goals in its National Development Ambassador Tahzib-Lie joined men. Both wings need to be equally Razvi, art historian and research In an informative talk, Dr “The speakers highlighted Strategy and the National Vision 2030. the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the developed for the bird to fly. Gender associate at the Department of Marika stressed the importance how women actively participated She also expressed admiration Netherlands in 1996. equality has to be a joint effort of History of Art and Archaeology of learning from women’s his- in their societies across the Gulf of Qatar leadership’s strong empha- She has been serving as envoy to men and women,” she said. at the School of Oriental and Af- torical achievements, and using region, Central and South Asia. sis on the importance of enhancing the Netherlands Embassy in Doha The proud mother of two is also rican Studies (SOAS); Dr Marika their work to advance contem- The presentations were incred- women’s capacities and empowering since 2016. a fan of organic food from any part Sardar, curator of South Asian porary art. ibly enlightening and provided them to participate fully in the po- Apart from her remarkable work of the world. But she said her mom’s Art at the Museum of Islamic Art “Women in this region have interesting information about litical, economic, social and cultural behind her desk, the envoy is also homemade khoreshbademjan (a Per- in Qatar; Anita Chowdry, artist, always played prominent roles in how women promoted knowl- spheres, including in decision-mak- well-recognised for her many ad- sian stew that is prepared with egg- freelance educator and research- all areas and contributed signifi- edge, art and book writing,” said ing and leadership roles. vocacies such as sports and healthy plants, tomatoes, yellow split peas er; and Khadiga El Ghawas, a re- cantly to enriching art, literature Sabika Shaban, an art enthusiast The envoy said HH Sheikha Moza lifestyle. and beef) will always be her all-time nown graffiti artist, shared their and science. We should use their attending the event. bint Nasser is a role model and a She is passionate about arts as favourite dish. Over 53,000 people visited Aspire International Kite Festival

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK Dolphin Energy Hassan al Ema- Director of PR and Communi- DOHA di led the closing ceremony’s Numbers speak cations at AZF and a member proceedings. of the organising committee AFTER another tremendous Commenting on the festi- O 2,500 students from Nasser Abdullah al Hajri gave success, Aspire Zone Founda- val’s conclusion, Mohammed various schools in Qatar awards to the German’s ‘Team tion (AZF) has bid farewell to Khalifa al Suwaidi, CEO of As- 4 Fun’ and America’s Spencer the third edition of its Aspire In- pire Zone Foundation, said, O 24,000 attended the Watson for the Best Acrobatic ternational Kite Festival. “The kite extravaganza has be- side-line workshops Kites. Over four days, over 53,000 come a key local, regional and Scott and Marilynn Hamp- visitors and 18 international international attraction, help- O 300 vivid kites designed ton won the Design and Innova- teams contributed to one of ing Aspire achieve its objectives by international kiters have tion Award and Kuwait’s al Farsi AZF’s most popular annual of- of promoting active lifestyles. been on display team won the Best National team ferings. Already a firm favourite among award. Jon and Jill Bloom from AZF organised a one-of-its- families, we are particularly O 10,000 kites sold to the UK won awards for the best kind closing ceremony to an- pleased to have seen 2,500 stu- visitors during the festival kites reflecting Qatari culture. nounce the winners of the vari- dents from schools across Qatar The participating teams from various countries at the Aspire International Kite Festival. In addition, an Encourage- ous competitions. attend this year. I look forward ment Award went to the Qatari Nasser Abdullah al Hajri, to welcoming everyone back for managed to capture best pho- ing committee, awarded the top distributed the awards to the International School with an team for its promising partici- director of PR and Communica- the 2020 edition.” tographic shots throughout the four winners, with first place go- three winning schools. award of QR30,000; and third pation in the third edition of the tion at AZF and the member of During the ceremony, AZF festival. ing to Denis Ghamarsha. Oscar Academy attained first place went to Birla public school kite festival. The Qatari team was the organising committee, and also announced the winners of Mohammed bin Fahad al Hassan al Emadi, general place and received QR50,000; with an award of QR20,000. also notably the youngest delega- General Manager of sponsor the photography contest that Thani, a member of the organis- manager of Dolphin Energy, second place went to Edison After the school’s awards, tion among all the participants.