Monday March 8, 2021 Rajab 24, 1442 Vol.14 no. 5200 QR 2

Fajr: 4:35 am Dhuhr: 11:45 am fine Asr: 3:08 pm Maghrib: 5:40 pm High : 26°C LOW : 16 °C Isha: 7:10 pm

World 7 Business 9 Sports 12 British-Iranian woman released Qatar expected to receive 7K Back to his ‘second family’, Federer from Tehran jail after five years hotel rooms in 2021: ValuStrat resets expectations in Doha

Mercury set to FM meets Yemeni counterpart soar in coming Over 327K vaccine days: QMD

Tribune News Network doses administered Doha

Weather will be moder- ate to relatively hot during daytime in the coming days, so far, says MoPH with temperatures hitting upper 30s in some areas, the Qatar Meteorology 10% of Qatar’s adult population received at least Department (QMD) said on Sunday. one COVID-19 vaccine dose: Health minister “Temperatures are expected to rise gradually Tribune News Network from Monday, and sig- DOHA nificantly on Friday during COVID-19 National daytime,” QMD said on A total of 327,582 COVID-19 Twitter along with a chart vaccine doses have been ad- that shows projected Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani ministered since the start of Vaccination Programme temperatures for the week met with Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriate of the Republic of Yemen Ahmad Awad bin Mubarak the COVID-19 National Vac- from March 8 to 16. in Doha on Sunday. During the meeting, they reviewed bilateral relations and the latest developments cination Programme, accord- As per the chart, Friday in Yemen. The FM stressed the firm position of Qatar regarding the importance of preserving the unity ing to the Ministry of Public Current priority groups ● 61% of people over 80 years of age have received at least one dose (March 12) is going to be of Yemen and achieving its security and stability. He underlined the need to end the state of war, adopt Health (MoPH). eligible for vaccination the hottest day of the week, dialogue and a political solution, achieve national reconciliation, and return to the outcomes of the “Ten percent of Qatar’s ● 61% of people over 70 years of with temperatures pos- comprehensive national dialogue agreed upon by the political forces and all segments of the Yemeni adult population have already ● People aged 50 years of age age have received at least one dose sibly rising to 40 degrees people as a basis for ending the crisis. The FM called for the implementation of the relevant UN Secu- received at least one vaccine and above regardless of their Celsius. rity Council resolutions, especially Resolution No 2216. (QNA) dose. It is very important that health conditions ● 55% of people over 60 years of age have received at least one dose everyone completes the vac- ● People with moderate chronic cine by having the second medical conditions at any age dose to ensure its efficacy,” HE Dr Hanan Mohamed Al ● Additional healthcare profes- Kuwari, Minister of Public sionals and other key workers in Health, said. different ministries and government Lusail bus depot with 474 parking institutions, including teachers and “Our decision to focus on administration staff in education the most vulnerable in the initial stages of the vaccina- It is very important that lots likely to be ready in 2022 Q1 tion programme has helped to ensure that we have been able everyone completes the vaccine and the whole project at large to protect many of the high- by having the second dose to Minister inspects in line with highest standards risk, elderly population. I urge ensure its efficacy. We are now significantly and specifications. all the remaining elderly and expanding our vaccination programme and work progress The Lusail bus depot will at risk population to take the have seen an impressive increase in the of public bus also include 217 150 kilowatt opportunity of getting the vac- number of vaccines administered each week dual bus charging devices and cine,” said Dr Al Kuwari. throughout the programme.” infra projects five 300 kilowatt fast bus elec- “We are now significantly tric charging devices. expanding our vaccination HE Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, QNA It will also include 474 bus programme and have seen Minister of Public Health Doha parking spaces. Works to es- an impressive increase in the tablish the bus parking spaces number of vaccines adminis- eligibility to include more sec- Minister of Transport and and solar panel canopies are tered each week throughout having been vaccinated. tions of our population,” said Communications HE Jassim scheduled to be completed in the programme,” she added. The MoPH stated that in Dr Abdullatif Al Khal, Chair of bin Saif Al Sulaiti on Sunday Q4 of 2021. The bus depot in Dr Al Kuwari said, “With the first six weeks of the vac- the National Health Strategic conducted an inspection tour Lusail is expected to be com- the recent availability of Mod- cination programme around Group on COVID-19 and Head of the ongoing projects of the Minister of Transport and Communications HE Jassim bin Saif Al pleted in Q1 of 2022. erna vaccines alongside the 60,000 doses were adminis- of Infectious Diseases at Ham- public bus infrastructure pro- Sulaiti takes a tour of the ongoing projects of the public bus infra- In addition to bus depots, Pfizer and BioNTech vaccines tered to people most at risk ad Medical Corporation. gramme. The projects are be- structure programme on Sunday. the programme also includes the vaccination programme is from severe complications due “There is growing clinical ing carried out by the Ministry the Park and Ride parking moving at pace.” to COVID-19, while the last six evidence around the world of Transport and Communica- The new depots will in- panels, making it the first bus spaces, bus stations and ferry The milestone comes as weeks have seen more than that both the Moderna and tions (MoTC) in collaboration clude a bus care centre and bus depot in the region to rely on (water taxi) terminals. Work to data shows that more than half 267,000 doses administered Pfizer vaccines provide a with Public Works Authority parking spaces fully equipped solar energy as a renewable establish four new sites under the people aged 60 and above to the priority groups. good level of protection af- (Ashghal). with an infrastructure sup- source of clean energy. the “Park and Ride” project among the most vulnerable in “Due to the availability of ter just one dose. However, The minister inspected portive of e-bus charging. They The solar panels — totaling has been wrapped up, as part the population have now re- more vaccines and the open- it remains very important the progress of work on the will also include residential 10,720 units to generate four of the first package of the pro- ceived at least their first dose ing of additional vaccination that everyone completes the programme’s fifth package in and recreational facilities and megawatts per day — plus the gramme. Two in Al Qassar and of the vaccine, with 61 percent centres, including Qatar Na- vaccine by having the second which four bus depots are be- mosques. power station as a convention- Al Wakra were inaugurated for of people over 80 years of age, tional Convention Center and dose to ensure its efficacy,” ing established at Lusail, Al The bus depot in Lusail will al source of energy will provide the public in January 2020. 61 percent of people over 70 the Lusail COVID-19 Drive- added Dr Al Khal. Rayyan, Al Wakra and New In- have parking canopies pow- the necessary energy for oper- years of age, and 55 percent Through Vaccination Centre, dustrial Area. ered by highly efficient solar ating electric charging devices Continued on page 2  of people over 60 years of age we have been able to widen the Continued on page 2 

Action against 495 for Ashghal partially opens flouting COVID norms The competent authorities on Sunday re- Lulu Intersection to traffic ferred 495 people to the Public Prosecution for violating the precautionary and preven- The Public Works Authority (Ashghal), in coordination with the General Directorate of Traf- tive measures enforced by the country to fic, has partially opened the traffic junction known as Lulu Intersection on D-Ring Road curb the spread of COVID-19. to traffic. Commuters from Jaber Bin Hayyan Street and Al Hurriya Street can now reach Of them, 471 people were referred to D-Ring Road towards north on left, or towards Al Matar Street on right. Commuters from the Public Prosecution for not wearing masks Al Matar Street via D-Ring Road can turn left to Jaber Bin Hayyan Street or turn back, and in places where they are mandatory, while those coming from the north via D-Ring Road towards Old Airport can take a right turn at nine were found violating the rule limiting Lulu Intersection to Jaber Bin Hayyan Street. The opening of the Lulu Intersection would the number of people allowed in a vehicle. smoothen the traffic flow in the area, especially for commuters tavelling to and from Old According to the rule, a maximum of four Airport via D-Ring Road. page 2 persons, including the driver, are allowed in a vehicle except when the occupants are mem- bers of the same family. Also, seven people were referred to the Public Prosecution for Arl Sadd c owned QNB not maintaining a safe physical distance and eight others for not installing the Ehteraz app on mobile phones. The measures are in line Stars League champions with a Cabinet decision and Decree Law No Al Sadd clinched the QNB Stars League title after a 3-0 win over Umm Salal in 17 of 1990 on infectious diseases, and the the Round 18 game at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium on Sunday. Al Sadd precautionary measures in force in the coun- secured their 15th league title. The result saw the Wolves establish an unassail- try to contain the spread of COVID-19. (QNA) able 13-point lead over closest rivals Al Duhail, with four games to go. page 15 02 Monday, March 8, 2021

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‘Doha, Capital of Culture in the Islamic FM MEETS US ENVOY FOR PEACE IN AFGHANISTAN Priority groups are eligible for World 2021’ activities to kick off today vaccination Under the patronage of the Amir His A special episode on the launching Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al ceremony of ‘Doha, Capital of Culture in Continued from page 1  Thani, the activities of ‘Doha, Capital of the Islamic World 2021’ will be broad- The current priority groups eligible for Culture in the Islamic World 2021’ will cast on Monday at 7:30 pm on Qatar TV, vaccination are as follows: People aged 50 commence on Monday. The activities the media partner, Al Rayyan channel, Al years of age and above regardless of their will continue for a year under the slogan Jazeera Mubasher, Al Araby TV, and via health conditions; People with moderate ‘Our Culture is Enlightenment’. the event’s website https://www.dcciw. chronic medical conditions at any age; The activities will be held under the qa, during which several personalities and additional healthcare professionals supervision of the Ministry of Culture will talk about the importance of Qatar and other key workers in different minis- and Sports, in cooperation with the Is- hosting this celebration, and what it re- tries and government institutions, includ- lamic World Organization for Education, flects on the state’s efforts in promoting ing teachers and administration staff in Science and Culture (ISESCO), the Qatar culture in the Islamic world. education. National Committee for Education, Cul- The episode will also include a speech The appointment process remains ture and Science, and the strategic part- by Minister of Culture and Sports HE the same, with Primary Health Care Cor- ners in the country, namely, the Ministry Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali and a speech poration teams contacting eligible people of Education and Higher Education, the by Director-General of ISESCO Dr Salim directly to offer appointments. Anyone Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Af- bin Mohammed Al Malik on Doha’s over 60 years of age can call PHCC on fairs, Qatar Foundation for Education hosting of the cultural celebration. Qa- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani 4027 7077 to book an appointment at Science and Community Development tari artiste Fahad AlKubaisi will perform met with US Envoy for Peace in Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad in Doha on Sunday. During the meet- a primary health center and an online (QF), Qatar Museums, the Cultural Vil- artistic shows and Omani poet Jamal Al ing, they reviewed the bilateral relations between the two countries and the latest developments in the registration system is available on the lage Foundation (Katara), and many par- Mulla will present a special poem on this region, especially in Afghanistan. (QNA) MOPH website for people to register ticipating entities in the country. occasion. (QNA) their interest in receiving the vaccine. Lusail, Education City bus Smoking increases risk of colorectal depots set to open soon

Continued from page 1  pany during Q1 of 2021. cancer, warn HMC center’s experts The Public Bus Infrastructure The other two in Lusail and Edu- Programme aims to achieve in- cation City are nearing 100 percent tegration with public transit sys- Smoking can negatively affect disease progression and response to treatment: Dr Mulla completion and are ready to open tems countrywide and support soon. Work is under way to estab- transportation operations during Tribune News Network enough to suggest that the risk of lish seven bus terminals within the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and Doha developing colon cancer as a result second and third packages of the beyond. It also wants to increase of smoking is high. The American programme. Delivery nears 68 per- public transit ridership by offering To mark March as the Colorectal Cancer Society (ACS) recommends cent for bus terminals in Al Sudan, high-quality service and facilities Cancer Awareness Month, experts that smokers, and especially those Lusail, Al Wakra, Education City with world best technologies and at Hamad Medical Corporation’s with a family history of colon cancer, and Industrial Area and would com- specifications. (HMC) Tobacco Control Center should get screened for colon cancer plete during Q3 of 2021. The programme reflects MoTC’s have warned that smoking is one at the age of 40 years compared to Works at bus terminals in attention to implementing the strat- of the leading causes of colorectal the normally recommended age of Msheireb and Al Gharafa are 31 egy of switching to clean energy in cancer, which is the third most com- 50 years for colon cancer screen- percent complete and would be fully transportation to reduce carbon mon cancer worldwide. ing,” added Dr Abdullah. delivered during Q1 of 2022. emissions of conventional vehicles Dr Ahmad al Mulla, head of He stressed the importance of The programme includes estab- and improve overall air and climate HMC Tobacco Control Center, said quitting smoking immediately for lishing a ferry terminal and parking quality in Qatar. Among key strat- several epidemiological studies those diagnosed with colorectal spaces (water taxi) under the fourth egy objectives is supporting transit indicate that smokers are at an in- cancer. package in Lusail, Doha Port, Ham- operations during FIFA 2022 to creased risk of developing colorectal Dr Ahmad Al Mulla Dr Jamal Abdullah, smoking cessation He explained that continuing ad International Airport and the make Qatar second-to-none world- cancer. specialist at HMC to smoke after a cancer diagnosis, Pearl, in addition to establishing a wide in using electric, eco-friendly Dr Mulla said while several fac- decreased among those who quit regardless of cancer type, can have bus terminal in the West Bay. Work vehicles during a FIFA champion- tors can lead to the development of smoking early (before at least 10 World Health Organization, lists very serious consequences in terms is underway to award the project ship, let alone integration with oth- colon cancer, including inherited years) compared to those who colon cancer as a smoking-related of increasing the pace of tumour tender to the most qualified com- er public transit systems. genetic mutations, unhealthy life- continued to smoke. Other stud- cancer. growth, negatively impacting the styles such as eating a low-fibre or ies have found that women who Commenting on the impor- patient’s response to treatment and high-fat diet and leading an inactive smoke are at more risk of develop- tance of quitting smoking as early increasing the risk of developing lifestyle, smoking can also nega- ing colon cancer than male smok- as possible and its role in prevent- more tumours. tively affect disease progression and ers,” Dr Mulla said. ing colorectal cancer, Dr Jamal He noted that several studies Mercedes-Benz A Class recalled response to treatment. A study conducted by the Nor- Abdullah, smoking cessation spe- have indicated a link between smok- He added that tobacco use has wegian Institute of Public Health in- cialist at HMC’s Tobacco Control ing cessation and the increased like- for faulty air condition system been associated with increased cluded data of more than 600,000 Center, said that the sooner an lihood of survival for people with cancer growth and metastasis of tu- men and women aged between 19 individual quits smoking, the less cancer compared to those who have Tribune News Network The recall campaign comes mour cells in patients with cancer, and 67 years, nearly 4,000 of whom likely he is to develop colorectal been diagnosed with cancer but did Doha within the framework of the min- thus increasing the risk of death due suffered from colon cancer, has re- cancer. not quit smoking. istry’s continuous efforts to protect to cancer. vealed that smokers, and especially Dr Abdullah added that there HMC’s Tobacco Control Center The Ministry of Commerce and consumers and ensure that dealers “Studies indicate that colorec- female smokers, are more at risk of are many cancer- causing ingre- takes the opportunity of the Colo- Industry (MoCI), in cooperation follow up on vehicle defects and re- tal cancer-related death rates are developing colon cancer than non- dients in tobacco that can damage rectal Cancer Awareness Month to with Nasser Bin Khaled Automo- pairs. significantly higher in smokers smokers. the DNA. Over time, the ability of call on smokers to take advantage of biles, dealer of Mercedes-Benz in The ministry said that it will compared to non-smokers. Stud- The risk of developing colon the body to repair this damage de- the services provided by the centre Qatar, has recalled Mercedes-Benz coordinate with the dealer to fol- ies also showed that the amount cancer increased by 19 percent creases. However, the body starts to and take immediate action on to- A Class, model of 2019 because the low up on the maintenance and and duration of smoking can play among female smokers compared dispose of all toxic tobacco ingredi- bacco smoking cessation and seek condensation drain hose of the air repair works and will commu- a role in increasing the risk of to eight percent in male smokers. ents if the smoker quits this harmful the centre’s support by calling one of conditioning system may not have nicate with customers to ensure developing colon cancer, as the Therefore, the International Agency habit early. the following numbers: 40254981 been correctly installed in certain that they carried out the neces- incidence of this type of cancer for Research on Cancer, part of the “Available evidence is strong -50800959. vehicles. sary repairs. Ashghal partially opens Lulu Intersection on D-Ring Road

Tribune News Network Doha

The Public Works Authority (Ash- ghal) has partially opened the traffic junction known as Lulu Intersection on D-Ring Road to traffic, in coordi- nation with the General Directorate of Traffic. With the opening, commuters from Jaber Bin Hayyan Street and Al Hurriya Street can reach D-Ring Road towards north on left or to- wards Al Matar Street on right. Commuters from Al Matar Street via D-Ring Road can turn left to Jaber Bin Hayyan Street or turn Intersection would smoothen traffic The opening of Lulu Intersection and largely reduce traffic congestion drainage tunnel with a total length Ashghal paid special attention to back and those coming from the flow in the area, especially for com- is the first achievement of D-Ring in the area, especially at Fereej Al of about 3.5 kilometres. maintain the Qatari heritage of the north via D-Ring Road towards Old muters to and from Old Airport via Road development project, which Ali Interchange (Al Tadamon Inter- The project also includes con- project area known as Rawdat Al Airport can take a right turn at Lulu D-Ring Road. includes development of Fereej Al change). struction of common path for pe- Khail, during designing the beautifi- Intersection to Jaber Bin Hayyan He said about 30 percent of Ali Intersection (known as Al Tada- The improvement works within destrian and cyclists on both sides cation elements of the tunnel under Street. works on D-Ring Road development mon Interchange), Nuaija Intersec- the project also include develop- of D-Ring Road along 4.5 kilome- construction within the project, and Engineer Abdulla Darwish from project is over and the complete de- tion (The Mall) and Lulu Intersec- ing rainwater drainage networks to tres, in addition to tree-plantation planned to implement murals con- Highway Projects Department of livery is expected in the first quarter tion. This expansion will enhance raise the efficiency of drainage in the and landscaping works throughout taining Qatari heritage inside the Ashghal said the opening of Lulu of 2022. traffic capacity of the interchanges area, by constructing a stormwater the project. tunnel. Nation Monday, March 8, 2021 03 HBKU Press publishes article on role of pharmacists during pandemic

Tribune News Network of the overall contribution of sis demonstrated how the across Qatar. The Clinical all strategic response initiated Doha healthcare providers in con- Pharmacy Team at the CDC Pharmacy Service established by Qatar’s Ministry of Public taining the effect of the pan- managed to plan, record and protocols within its team to Health. Hamad Bin Khalifa Univer- demic in Qatar. implement a full strategy to raise awareness and provide The article details how the sity Press (HBKU Press) has “As preventative measures maintain their critical health- education to prevent prescrip- effective maintenance of phar- recently published on its on- surrounding the COVID-19 care service despite the chal- tion errors. maceutical treatment plans line academic publishing plat- pandemic are re-introduced lenges presented by the COV- The result of such an ini- for COVID-19 patients, cou- form QScience.com a new ar- due to a spike in cases, the ID-19 pandemic. tiative by the CDC Pharmacy pled with the use of automated ticle detailing the effectiveness research published on QSci- During those months, it Team, along with the vari- disinfecting and distribution and dedication of pharmacists ence.com provides insight on was reported that the num- ous efforts of multiple other services in collaboration with and pharmacy technicians in successful protocols imple- ber of prescriptions increased healthcare sectors in HMC, other stakeholders in clinical responding to the COVID-19 mented in the past by frontline from approximately 7,000 was the containment of COV- workflows, allowed for life- pandemic in Qatar. healthcare sectors becomes in- per month to approximately ID-19 patient’s death rate. saving medications to be made The research was con- creasingly important,” said Dr 22,000 per month. In addi- This resulted in the overall available to those in dire need. ducted by Dr Rania A Hassa- Rima J Isaifan, head of Aca- tion to simply filling up pre- death rate in Qatar around 40 It can be concluded that nin, supervisor of Outpatient demic and Journals Publish- Female pharmacist wearing face shield and white coat holds medi- scriptions, the new inpatient percent lower than the global the infection control protocols Pharmacy at the Communica- ing at HBKU Press. cine in a pharmacy store during the COVID-19 pandemic. workflow for pharmacists and rate. applied by both pharmacists ble Diseases Center (CDC) of “This article is particularly pharmacy technicians estab- The research shows that and pharmacy technicians led Hamad Medical Corporation relevant as it highlights one ing, Infection Control, Clinical Pharmacy’s prudent response lished to maintain efficient the successful response to to the continuance of a critical (HMC), in coordination with part of the overall strategic Informatics and Transporta- to the COVID-19 pandemic in infection control increased the COVID-19 pandemic dur- healthcare service that contin- Dr Fatima Rustom, pharmacy plan to mitigate the effects of tion teams, to the effect of one the State of Qatar’, has been their overall workload by four ing the acute critical phase ued to save patient lives. director at the CDC. It high- the pandemic in Qatar. The of the lowest global death rates published in QScience.com’s times. The outpatient phar- between March and October For complete details and lights how the retrospective paper sheds light on the col- due to COVID-19 around the open journal, QScience Con- macy also expanded its scope 2020 can be broken down to to read the full article on QSci- analysis on the roles of these laboration between different world.” nect. The research took place of service to manage all refill the successful responses of ence.com, visit: https://www. particular healthcare work- corporate functions at HMC, The article, titled ‘Com- from March to October 2020 requests for COVID-19 cases individual healthcare sectors qscience.com/content/jour- ers provides key data as a part including the Pharmacy, Nurs- municable Disease Center and the post-research analy- in the 12 quarantine centres in conjunction with the over- nals/10.5339/connect.2021.1 QC ‘Renovation Challenge’ drive QNTC carries hands over first house this year out inspection Tribune News Network of motorcycles Doha

Qatar Charity (QC) handed over the first house this year in Sealine area as part of its ‘Renovation Chal- lenge’ initiative, which aims to Tribune News Network licences. With a safety and ser- repair the homes of low-income Doha vice key, we aim to help sellers families to improve their living protect their investments while conditions. Qatar National Tourism maintaining the safety of both The handover of the house Council (QNTC) carried out tenants and campers.” was made after completing its two motorcycle inspection cam- Mohammad Al-Ansari, Di- maintenance and renovation paigns in Sealine. It also con- rector of Tourism Licensing at work with the support of ben- ducted inspection of four-wheel QNTC, added: “The initiative efactors in Qatar. bike rental offices in the area. follows Circular No. (5)/2018, As part of the initiative, Qa- These inspections were carried which sets out the conditions tar Charity repairs and furnish for all members of society. The house should be owned in this initiative, inviting them with four companies - Voda- out to ensure the properties are and regulations for suppliers. the damaged houses of families The recipient of the house by the family living in it or the to give attractive discounts to fone, Ideal Solutions, Qatar licensed and committed to the The licensee shall keep periodic with low income adequately, in expressed delight with the household has been living for participate in the implementa- Power Engineering and Con- application of the provisions of maintenance records, which cooperation with many compa- renovation work carried out in a minimum period of 10 years tion of the initiative to provide tracting and Ansar Gallery. Be- Circular No. (5)/2018, which shall include the history of the nies, youth initiatives and vol- the house, thanking the donors in the rented house. Besides, a dignifiedlife for families with sides, five volunteer initiatives specifies the operating guide- maintenance of brake pads, fuel unteers within the country. The and Qatar Charity for extend- there are other conditions set low income in society. - Soul Riders, Jeepers Riders, lines for tourism transport ac- and oil pumps, filters, batteries initiative aims to improve the ing this significant support. by the aid committee of Qatar Since the launch of the ini- Wmnahyaha, Qatar Aware- tivities, as well as the terms and and other technical matters re- living conditions of low-income A house is selected for re- Charity. tiative in Ramadan 1439/2018, ness, and Do Good - have par- standards for four-wheel drive lating to the safety of passengers families and achieve social soli- pair and maintenance work Qatar Charity emphasises nine homes have been repaired ticipated in the initiative, in ad- bikes intended for tourists on and bikes.” darity to ensure a dignified life according to some conditions. the essential role of companies and renovated, in cooperation dition to 15 volunteers. desert trips. Al-Ansari went on to say: QNTC launched an inspec- ‘Requirements relating to the tion campaign in early 2021. storage of motorbikes and fuel During the first campaign, 26 are included in the circular; rental offices were notified of the motorcycle tracks and the existing violations, with final maximum speed allowed are QRCS dispatches third shipment of warnings issued during the sec- clearly stated. Modifications ond campaign. to motorcycles that may have Rental offices that continue an impact on safety are not to violate license and security permitted, nor are any modi- humanitarian aid to Lebanese people conditions will be closed dur- fications to the exhaust. These ing the third campaign, which measures help to give prior- started in February. ity to the safety of tenants and The aid included 50 These inspections are be- campers and to prevent envi- tons of food items to ing carried out by QNTC in col- ronmental pollution.” be distributed to laboration with the Department The circular outlines fur- of South Security, the General ther rules, including a stipula- 1,050 families Directorate-General of Traffic tion that bike renters must be and the Ministry of Municipal- 16 years of age or older, with Tribune News Network ity and Environment (MME), younger patrons only allowed Doha represented by the Department to drive suitable bicycles under of Protection and Wildlife, to the supervision of their parents. Qatar Red Crescent Soci- improve safety and security The licensee shall also require ety (QRCS) has dispatched the during the Sealine winter camp- bikers to wear safety gear, and third batch of humanitarian ing season. ensure sure that the correct of aid in support of the Lebanese Commenting on this occa- helmets, shoes, and gloves, and people in the aftermath of sion, Berthold Trenkel, Chief protective equipment are being the Beirut Harbor explosion. Operation Officer of the Qa- used. Drivers must wear seat- QRCS’s Lebanon mission A young boy carries a box of food items from a truck containing Qatar Red Crescent humanitarian aid items in Lebanon recently. tar National Tourism Council belts in vehicles accommodating cleared and transported the (QNTC) said: “We work closely more than one passenger. shipment to the Lebanese or 5,250 people. In addition, with food and medical sup- been damaged by the explo- Activities (RACA). QRCS and with all public and private insti- This inspection campaign Red Cross’s warehouses in 100 medical beds were deliv- plies included. A field relief sion. Qatar Charity co-launched a tutions to improve security and focuses on addressing safety collaboration with the latter. ered to hospitals in the vicinity delegation was dispatched to QRCS and Qatar Charity joint campaign called Heart safety during the camping sea- concerns with respect to motor- The aid will be distrib- of the explosion to help them assist the QRCS mission in co-launched a joint campaign for Lebanon, which raised son and to enhance the experi- cycle and four-wheel bike rent- uted to those who have been resume their medical services, distributing aid to the affected called Heart for Lebanon, over QR 94 million in dona- ence of visitors in Qatar. With a als. As the head of the tourism affected as well as hospitals. especially in the midst of the people. which raised over QR 94 mil- tions under the supervision strong focus on Service Excel- sector in the country and the li- The aid included 50 tons outbreak of COVID-19. The Lebanese Red Cross lion in donations under the of the Regulatory Author- lence, QNTC works with owners censing authority, QNTC focus- of food items to be distrib- QRCS also sent humani- and the QRCS collaborated supervision of the Regula- ity for Charitable Activities to help them meet the require- es on providing safe and secure uted to some 1,050 families tarian shipments in 2020, to repair the homes that had tory Authority for Charitable (RACA). ments and obtain the necessary experience. iSpot relocates Apple authorised store to new location in City Center Mall

Tribune News Network safest shopping environment pos- Doha sible as the health and safety of customers and employees is the The popular Apple authorised re- company’s top priority. seller iSpot’s store in City Center Speaking about the relocation, Doha has relocated from the third Imran said, “The new location will floor to the first floor of the mall, allow iSpot to serve the community next to the Home Centre store. better with more space for custom- The new revamped store of iS- ers’ favourite products. Our store pot opened its doors to the public on in City Center has always been March 2, 2021. iSpot is part of Ali popular among Apple users. I am Bin Ali Holding’s Prime Distribu- sure that the relocation of the store tion Trading Services division. to the first floor, near the main en- The store was inaugurated at trance, will make it more conveni- a ribbon-cutting ceremony by Ali ent for our customers. Bin Ali Holding’s Group Chief Fi- “With this opening, we are nancial Officer IftekharA hmad. pleased to inform that we would soon The launch was also attended by be launching many value-added ser- General Manager of Prime Distribu- vices such as extended financing, tion Trading Services Mohammad extended warranty, personal set-up, Imran, other senior officials ofA li Sales Head Rajesh Aiyar and Sales navigable layout, the new store is and open display of Apple products ple product lovers. gift vouchers and many more will fol- Bin Ali Holding, Apple Qatar Dis- Manager Bassam Halabi. planned for efficiency and custom- create an inviting ambience, mak- The new iSpot store is opti- low. We are also keen to roll out our tributor- Redington Qatar’s Country With a simple design and easily er convenience. The bright lighting ing it an attractive zone for all Ap- mised to provide the cleanest and trade-in programme shortly.” 04 Monday, March 8, 2021 Nation Diplomats for a day: Female heads of missions provide insight into their work to Qatari students Tribune News Network Doha

As the world comes together to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD 2021) on Monday (today), under the theme ‘Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world’, the am- bassadors of Austria, Canada, Ethiopia, Greece, Mexico, the Netherlands, Tanzania and the USA, and the director of the regional UNESCO and IOM USA embassy officials and students with the Qatar Air Sports Committee offices in Doha – all female The Ethiopian Embassy team with a student. Canopy Formation Demonstration Team. The Mexican Embassy team with students. heads of mission – recently organised the initiative ‘Diplo- comprised meeting with the them first-hand experience receive invites to meet distin- mat for a Day’. Consular Sections to witness in diplomatic offices,” Am- guished guests and speakers The programme aims at the documentation process, bassador of Canada to Qatar in the field of ForeignS ervice mentoring for a day young interacting with other ambas- HE Stefanie McCollum said, but when the opportunity to female Qatari students from sadors, receiving briefings speaking on behalf the female shadow an ambassador to Georgetown University and the on the various policies be- heads of missions. Qatar presented itself, I did American School of Doha and ing implemented, discussing “The experience was very not think twice. Being ‘Diplo- expose them to real diplomatic programmes within Embassy enriching for us too and the mat for a Day’ will allow me life. Each head of mission or- Trade and Cultural Sections, energy and enthusiasm exhib- to translate the theory I have ganised a unique programme meetings with other UN agen- ited by these amazing students learned in Georgetown into that highlighted their mandate cies, participating in techni- was contagious.” practice. and activities in Qatar. cal meetings and attending Maryam Al Thani, who “I will be able to experience Students were a shadow- field visits. spent the day with Mexico’s an in-depth look into the life of diplomat for the day, work- At the end of the day, a The IOM and their students meet with HE the Undersecretary of Ambassador to Qatar HE an ambassador, one that can ing side by side their head virtual wrap up session was Labour at MADLSA. Graciela Gómez García, said: oftentimes feel far and foreign of mission and participating organised to allow all par- “As a member of Georgetown to a politics major, like me. in various diplomatic activi- ticipants to meet and provide All COVID-19 precautions “The idea behind this women with exposure to some University in Qatar’s ‘Ambas- This opportunity is especially ties. Some of these activities feedback on their experience. were in place for the day. initiative is to provide young of the work we do and to give sador Society’, I frequently relevant to me as a female.” Be champions in bringing peace, PSG Academy marks IWD with diplomats, leaders urge women dedicated training programmes CATHERINE W GICHUKI DOHA Tribune News Network programme is designed to give drills and exercises. For novice print, it’s our role to fill gaps As the global community Doha adults the same opportunities players, this is the perfect op- and support the local com- celebrates the International as the young players. portunity to take part in a struc- munity. Today, we are pleased Women’s Day (IWD), women PSG Academy Qatar will cel- Claudine Lopez, women’s tured training environment to celebrate International diplomats and leaders have ebrate International Women’s head coach, said: “As a wom- while learning the basics of the Women’s day. Although at PSG sent words of encouragement to Day (IWD) on Monday (today) an living and playing football game. As for more advanced AcademY, every day is a Wom- women across the world. with more than 100 females in Qatar for over 10 years, it’s players, it’s an ideal way to keep en’s day “ Speaking at the Interna- taking part in weekly football nice to see the Academy grow- improving. All players have access to tional Women’s Day event or- and handball activities. ing in the right direction. We’re Paris Saint-Germain’s Re- unrivaled instructions both ganised by Bayanihan ng Man- Since December 2020, in extremely excited about this gional Office General Manager during and after every training gagawa sa Konstruksyon ng addition to the existing girls programme. Supporting the lo- Fabien Dilem said, “The idea session. Qatar (BMKQ) in collaboration training programme, PSG cal community and promoting for launching this programme As PSG Academy continues with Global Union Federation Academy has been running free women’s activities are part of stemmed after speaking with to grow and refine its develop- Building and Wood Workers’ women’s football sessions twice the many PSG Academy com- several groups of women look- mental methodology, the goal International (BWI) and the Tanzanian Ambassador HE Fatma Mohammed Rajab a week gathering more than 40 mitments.” ing for more than just a pitch to remains steadfast - bring eve- Kenyan Household Service women who have a passion for Participants benefit from play on, but a proper training ryone together through sports Workers’ Association (KH- awareness among the migrant “Yet, there are countless ex- sports. the PSG Academy training environment delivered by ex- and physical activity. SWA), Tanzanian Ambassador communities against any dis- amples on women in leadership Located in Duhail at The methodology which allows perienced coaches. For more information and to Qatar HE Fatma Moham- crimination and inequality for around the world and in our College of The North Atlan- them to interact and learn from “As a reputable sports acad- registration visit www.psgacad- med Rajab said, “This year the better achievements. Collec- history that prove that women tic and Qatar Foundation, the expert coaches through various emy with a strong local foot- emy.qa or call +974 3306 2115. International Women’s Day tively, we can all help create an are more capable and it’s been a comes with a theme ‘Women inclusive world. I wish you all very long time that women de- in Leadership: Achieving an Happy International Women’s serve to be given the opportu- Equal Future in the World’ but Day,” she said. nities to show their leadership most important is our role in Leader of Spouses of Heads capabilities,” she said. bringing peace and security. of Missions (SOHOM) and wife Sending a message to all “We have to be the cham- of the South African Ambas- women, she said, “All women pions in bringing peace to our sador to Qatar, Anika Moosa, in leadership - lean in... and place of work and also to ensure said, “On International Wom- give back. Share your exper- that peace is maintained to en- en’s Day, we celebrate the es- tise with other women, so that able us to work in a good envi- sence of a woman, her achieve- we can rise stronger together. ronment so that we can achieve ments and the rights we fought SOHOM members have made our goals. Peace must be ob- to have. Women should be an impact to promote their re- served to create good working achieving equal futures despite spective countries and also pro- conditions.” the challenges the world faces vide support for each other and She reiterated that the and in fact, perhaps even more our community even though working environment should so in a COVID-19 world.” 2020 was a difficult year with create good relationships, bet- According to her, women COVID-19. Women across the ter working conditions and a have been historically disad- world still manage to attain peaceful environment. vantaged across the globe and great heights in terms of wom- “With this gathering, the still do in 2021 in some parts of en’s empowerment and devel- event will educate and raise the world. opment.” Qatar Charity celebrates key role Mandarin Oriental launches Liang of women in fighting coronavirus with authentic cantonese cuisine Mandarin Oriental, Doha announced the relaunch of the Tribune News Network Subaey, a content specialist at Liang restaurant. Located next Doha the Marketing Department of to Mandarin Oriental, Doha in Qatar Charity, said she pro- Barahat Msheireb, in the heart Qatar Charity (QC) marked vided content necessary for the of Msheireb Downtown, this ex- the International Women’s Day awareness campaigns launched citing restaurant offers authen- celebrating the tremendous ef- by Qatar Charity to combat the tic Cantonese recipes and a se- forts made by women to fight COVID-19 pandemic. lection of traditional provincial the coronavirus in and outside Female media persons and dishes from all over China. Qatar. social media influencers have The name of the restaurant, Women, both employees contributed significantly to Liang, means “the beam of light Liang- Mushroom Bun Liang - Peking Duck and volunteers at Qatar Charity, raising awareness, encourag- reflected by the moon” in Chi- have demonstrated their abili- ing people to get involved in nese. Emphasising the moon specialties such as Hot and Sour ties during the current global volunteering and giving to limit as an iconic symbol in both the Soup and then share a variety health crisis, contributing to the negative effects of the pan- Qatari and Chinese cultures, the of signature dishes, including delivering effective and efficient demic. name of the restaurant seeks to Wagyu Beef Short Ribs, Kung assistance to fight the coronavi- contributed to distributing Qatari and expatriate women Nadine Al Bitar, a media celebrate this connection. Liang Pao Tiger Prawns and Wokfried rus. A year ago, Qatar Charity many items, including multi- in fighting the coronavirus, person and civil society activ- is decorated with atmospheric Spicy Chicken. launched an initiative under the lingual awareness leaflets and considering the step an incen- ist, said that she participated art and antiques from all over Then there’s the traditional hashtag of #VolunteerForQa- educational materials to the tive to encourage women to get in many awareness-raising China, including amorous ele- preparation of the exceptional tar to limit the spread of the workers to raise awareness involved in voluntary and hu- initiatives launched by Qatar ments such as poems about the Peking Duck, a roasted whole coronavirus. A good number among them of the importance manitarian work. Charity to motivate people to moon. duck presented to the din- of female Qatari and expatri- of health and personal hygiene. Female employees work- adhere to social distancing and Executive Chef Lam brings vanced wok cooking techniques ers and served with steamed ate volunteers took part in the They also took part in distribut- ing at different departments of wearing masks. She also took his expertise to Liang as a that highlight the flavours of the Peking-style pancakes – surely initiative to contribute to ar- ing the food items. Qatar Charity, as well as at its part in distributing winter items unique experience of Chinese fresh ingredients used. a unique treat in the region. To ranging aid, kits and preventive Fatima Jumah Al Mohan- offices outside Qatar, took part to workers and food packages cuisine offering unparalleled The delicious menu features end on a sweet note, guests can items that were distributed to nadi, head of Initiatives and in the campaigns aimed at pre- to expatriate families with low authenticity. The dishes are authentic Cantonese recipes delight to a selection of treats the workers across the country. Volunteering of Qatar Charity, venting the coronavirus. income affected by the corona- ideal for sharing with friends to and innovative lunch and din- including the chef’s signature The female volunteers also praised the role played by the Shaikha Mohammed Al virus. share classic Dim Sum with ad- ner creations. Guests can enjoy Deep-fried Ice Cream. (TNN) Nation Monday, March 8, 2021 05 Blackboard inks partnership deal with QF’s Education Development Institute EDI will leverage Blackboard products to power professional learning for pre-K-12 educators

Tribune News Network “We are pleased to welcome fessional learning services and Doha the Education Development In- provide schools and educators stitute to the Blackboard family,” with access to state-of-the-art pro- Blackboard Inc., a leading said Oleg Figlin, vice-president grams,” said Mehdi Benchaabane, global EdTech software and solu- for Europe, Middle East and Af- director of the EDI. “With the use tions company, has announced that rica at Blackboard. “We look of Blackboard’s robust LMS and WCM-Q recognises 57 the Education Development Insti- forward to working closely with virtual classroom solutions, we are tute (EDI), a member of the Qatar educators at EDI and providing ready to take blended learning to Foundation (QF), has selected its them with access to our latest in- the next level.” students for academic teaching and learning solutions. novations. This partnership is one “As a part of our focus on Qa- EDI will utilise Blackboard’s more example of our continued tar and the pre-K-12 market, we cloud-based learning manage- investment in the region.” are pleased to work with EDI,” excellence in 2019-20 ment system, Blackboard Learn, Since its inception in 2015, EDI said Hanny Alshazly, regional vice- and virtual classroom solution, has supported pre-K-12 education Mehdi Benchaabane president for the Middle East at Blackboard Collaborate, to provide by providing professional learning Blackboard. “Working closely with Tribune News Network The students have all achieved a professional learning services for resources, building leadership ca- lum development in Pre-University the educators at EDI will allow us to Doha grade point average of at least 3.75 over 1,300 Pre-K-12 educators at pacity and supporting curriculum Education at QF. serve their students and give them for the 2019-2020 academic year, a 13 schools in Qatar and across the improvement. EDI is the centre for “We are excited to partner access to our latest technologies Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar (WCM- Middle East. professional learning and curricu- with Blackboard to scale our pro- and services.” Q) has recognised the academic achieve- difficult goal during the best of times ments of 57 of its students by inducting but even more so with the additional them into the Dean’s Honour List. challenges of the coronavirus pan- The students have all achieved a demic and working from home grade point average of at least 3.75 for the 2019-2020 academic year, a diffi- QGBC, SC organise first in series of sustainability cult goal during the best of times but that during this time, he is especially even more so with the additional chal- thankful and grateful for the normal lenges of the coronavirus pandemic aspects of life which are often taken for workshops to support hotel sector ahead of WC and working from home. granted. At an online ceremony hosted by He concluded by praising the work Tribune News Network MEA, Winno; and Richard Ekke- Dr Sean Holroyd, acting assistant dean of WCM-Q’s faculty and staff in help- Doha bus, culinary director of The Land- for student affairs at WCM-Q, and ing to graduate exceptional doctors. mark Mandarin Oriental Hong watched by family friends, faculty and He said: “I am what I am today In the lead up to the FIFA World Kong. staff members, the students were hon- thanks to the medical education at Cup Qatar 2022, Qatar Green Bodour Al Meer, sustainability oured for their hard work and commit- WCM-Q.” Building Council (QGBC) recently director, SC, said: “We are less than ment to their studies. The students who were inducted hosted the first in a series of work- two years away from hosting the Dr Javaid Sheikh, dean of WCM-Q, into the Dean’s Honour List -- one of shops on ‘Green Hotels for Qa- FIFA World Cup 2022, and have said making the honour list at this time whom chose not to have her name pub- tar -- Challenges and Pathways’, been on an extraordinary journey was an impressive feat. lished -- are: Amal AlNaemi, Haya Al- in partnership with the Supreme over the last decade with our vari- He said: “I’m thankful that modern Kuwari, AlDana Al-Khalaf, Mohammed Committee for Delivery & Legacy ous stakeholders to ensure a sus- technology allows me to speak with Al-Ansari, Ahmad Altamimi, Jawa- (SC) and supported by Qatar Na- tainable delivery of the event that you all so we can share this moment of her Alemadi, Nafla Al-Attiyah, Ghalya tional Tourism Council (QNTC). will leave a lasting legacy. pride and celebration. Given the cur- Hashim, Nuran Bayraktar, Mohammed The three-part workshop series “While we have achieved great rent situation with the pandemic, you Khalid, Omar Mourad, Ahamed Abdul aims to support the hospitality in- progress in this regard, maintain- particularly deserve this accolade. Rahman Lebbe, Kevin Zhai, Asma Al- dustry to achieve lasting and tangi- ing this green momentum is of “Throughout the unprecedented Kaabi, Siddhant Nair, Sara Mohamed, ble green transformation. The first ing the best practices from certified tional Tourism Council to provide crucial importance as we transition challenges of the past year, you have Aisha Serpedin, Alia Ashkanani, Ghalya workshop, ‘Environmental Man- green hotels in Qatar and how best this invaluable platform for fruitful into refining the operational plan- remained calm and resolute in your Ashkanani, Fatima Al-Kubaisi, Imane agement and Policies, F&B’, saw to make these scalable. discussion that will contribute to ning leading to and during the tour- pursuit of academic excellence. In- Bouhali, Beshr Mushannen, Pradipta industry professionals, including Engineer Meshal Al Shamari, sustainable transformation within nament – including that associated deed, your strength and resilience have Paul, Ayaterahman Draidia, Lina Al- hotel general managers, directors director of QGBC, said: “QGBC is the hotel sector.” with hospitality.” been impressive to all of us at the col- Ani, Mohammad Yaghmour, Maryam of engineering, housekeeping and delighted with the overwhelming The virtual workshop included The second and third work- lege. “You have demonstrated a dedi- Al-Kuwari, Mohammed Al-Mohamedi, F&B staff come together to identify success of the first part of the work- presentations from various hotel shops will be held in March and cation and commitment that is admi- Turki Almutairi, Basma Abdellatif, current operational challenges dur- shop series designed to support and industry professionals, including May respectively. Outcomes from rable and will be of huge benefit to you Tala Abu Samaan, Muhammad Jan- ing the three-day virtual session. further drive sustainability within Sara Stocker, sustainability man- the workshop series will be docu- in your careers as physicians.” jua, Ateeque Mohamed Ali, Maryam Attendees explored the ways in Qatar’s hospitality sector. ager, FIFA; Sven Wiltink, director mented and published in a joint re- The students, seven of whom are Al-Quradaghi, Ghadeer Abdelwahab, which current challenges can be re- “We are honoured to join hands of responsible business, Radisson port in November 2021. The work- in the foundation class, 23 in pre-med Doo Hee Jang, Ammar Khan, Sang Gon solved with the support of national with the Supreme Committee for Hotel Group; Kamaran Abdollahi, shop presentations are available on 1 and 27 in pre-med 2, were also con- Yi, Shamin Mahmud, Syed Muhammad stakeholders while also highlight- Delivery & Legacy and Qatar Na- business development manager, the QGBC YouTube channel. gratulated by WCM-Q alumnus and Jalil, Ahmad Al Theyab, Laila Khalil, keynote speaker Dr Nigel Pereira, as- Hamza Chaudry, Safaa Elmoh, Areej sistant professor of reproductive medi- Nauman, Ahamed Lazim Vattoth, San- cine and obstetrics and gynaecology at jith Ganesan, Wafa Khan, Mohammed Weill Cornell Medicine in New York. Javed, Kuan-Han Chen, Amr Taha, Dr Pereira said it was an honour Lina Shroof, Hussam Kawas, Ridhima Ooredoo celebrates business partners to be speaking before the students Kaul, Alhanoof Aljalahma and Shahd and celebrating with them, and said Jaouni. Tribune News Network for Mobile; Ericsson for Internet focus of our corporate strategy is Doha of Things; Netscout Arbor for Se- to seek, establish and maintain curity; Cisco for Collaboration; partnerships that will enable us Ooredoo held a virtual award and VMWare and Dell Technolo- to leverage the most advanced ceremony to name and celebrate gies for Connectivity. technology, latest innovations and its 2020 Partners of the Year. Sheikh Nasser and Mustafa industry expertise to ensure that The event was attended by Peracha, Ooredoo’s senior direc- our offering is second to none. We Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Tha- tor, Operations and Partnerships, would like to thank all our part- ni, chief business officer at Oore- A Partner of the Year was se- gave opening remarks before an- ners for their trust and support doo, along with other senior repre- lected for each of Ooredoo’s busi- nouncing the winners of each cat- and look forward to many more sentatives of Ooredoo and business ness platforms: Microsoft won for egory. years of successful mutual benefit partners named as winners. Data Centre & Cloud; EshailSat Sheikh Nasser said: “A key partnerships.” Total wins 2 QNRF grants, sponsors Tamuq students to promote research

Tribune News Network on innovating reactor technolo- Doha gies to develop a sustainable pro- cess for the synthesis of high-value Two of Total’s research projects platform chemicals and hydrogen are being awarded funding in Cycle from methane, with the purpose 13 of National Priorities Research of achieving low to near zero CO2 Program (NPRP), a flagship pro- emission from the source, and gramme of Qatar National Re- maximising energy-efficiency. This search Fund (QNRF). The NPRP project was built by TRC-Q and Ta- bases its decision on projects with muq in coordination with the Total exceptional ideas, approaches and Representatives from Total and Tamuq pose with the students who will be Research and Technology Center models that may solve key issues of sponsored for an eight-month research. Feluy (TRTF - Belgium), who will national, regional or global interest. provide additional technical guid- The two winning proposals, Total, Qatar University (QU) and structures and specifically oil plat- ance and experimental support. namely ‘Assessing the contribu- Texas A&M University at Qatar (Ta- forms are seen as a disturbance to On this occasion, two students tion of oil platforms and the impact muq) for this great achievement. It the marine environment. We found from Tamuq have been sponsored of decommissioning scenarios to is a recognition of our commitment, out in our recent researches that by Total starting January 2021, as marine biodiversity, productivity dedication and efforts in addressing these platforms constitute actually a part of Total’s effort to further and connectivity (PlatDeCom)’ and priority topics of national interest a hotspot and a refuge for marine research in sustainable natural gas ‘Reactor Innovation for a Low Car- in Qatar and a part of our ongoing biodiversity and boost biological conversion to chemical products. bon Process to Upgrade Methane commitment to support a knowl- productivity. As these structures The 8-month programme will see to Chemicals and Hydrogen’ have edge-based economy in Qatar.” are phased out and need to be de- graduate students Nagat Elrefaei been awarded a maximum grant of The first project, PlatDeCom, commissioned, we see here an op- and Muhammad Jamil innovating $700,000 each, and have a dura- conducted in partnership with QU, portunity to turn these ‘threats’ into new processes to sustainably con- tion of 4 years per project. will assess the contribution of oil opportunity by reefing them and vert natural gas to chemical prod- These grants are a clear indica- platforms and the impact of their taking advantage of their associated ucts. They will now work under tion of the trust placed on Total for decommissioning on marine bio- biodiversity, productivity and cru- the guidance of Tamuq faculty Dr engaging in research that can posi- diversity, productivity and connec- cial role as a stepping stone for ma- Ma’moun Al Rawashdeh. tively impact the citizens and resi- tivity. It will include international rine connectivity. This is an innova- Dr. César Octavio Malavé, dean dents of Qatar. As of January 2021, researchers from the US, Denmark tive approach, thinking outside the of Tamuq, said, “It is also our mis- the total number of Total’s active and Australia. box, to further advance practices of sion to train the next generation of NPRP research projects are 9. Associate Professor in Marine ecosystem restoration and marine engineering leaders in Qatar, and Total Qatar’s VP Innovation Sciences at QU and a member of life conservation in Qatar, the re- we are grateful to our partners at & Change Management Yousef Al the PlatDeCom research team Dr gion and worldwide.” Total for supporting graduate stu- Jaber, said “I would like to con- Radhouan Ben-Hamadou com- Total’s second project, in col- dent research that could lead to new gratulate the research teams from mented, “Offshore man-made laboration with Tamuq will focus opportunities for industry in Qatar.” 06 Monday, March 8, 2021

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

A Better Way To Support States During Downturns COVID-19: There Is The US approach to fiscal federalism needs improvement Still Much Work For n previous US recessions, a famil- the COVID-19 pandemic created similar iar fiscal pattern has almost always headwinds. Granted, state and local gov- Iplayed out. Deprived of revenue, the ernments are doing much better than state and local governments closest to once feared: Sales and income taxes All Of Us To Do the American people lay off employees have in some cases proven surprisingly and cut essential services. If and when resilient. Still, taxes and fees for the use Congress comes to the rescue, it’s of- of infrastructure and institutions such March 11 is the day the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus a pandemic ten too late. The economic damage as airports, subways, universities and has been done. hotels have declined sharply. The total In some ways, the coronavirus cri- revenue shortfall — current and pro- sis has disrupted this sequence. Federal spective — will amount to as much as support has been substantial and, by $300 billion through 2022, according to earlier standards at least, prompt. Con- a recent estimate from the Brookings In- gress was quick to recognize the eco- stitution. That’s not counting the signifi- nomic danger posed by the pandemic cant added costs of procuring essential and didn’t stint on outlays. The third medical supplies, reopening schools and big stimulus package currently before distributing vaccines. Congress actually risks overshooting. Congress moved to fill the breach, Providing another $1.9 trillion in total, and relief packages enacted last year it promises state and local governments have provided more than $300 billion an additional $350 billion of aid, all told to state and local governments. The — a good deal more than the remaining additional support in the Biden ad- revenue shortfall. ministration’s new stimulus package Even so, the same underlying flaw is more than will actually be needed in the US approach to fiscal federalism — but the point is, the aid already de- has again been apparent: Instead of livered arrived too late to prevent cuts being ready for the next recession, the that made the slowdown worse. From fiscal machinery was taken by surprise. March through December, state and What’s needed is a system that doesn’t local governments shed about 1.4 mil- require so much frantic improvisation lion jobs, with the biggest layoffs fall- when economic conditions shift – one ing on schools. Cities including San that delivers help quickly and predict- Francisco, Denver and Atlanta have ably when it’s needed, but without un- shut down large parts of their public dermining accountability, or treating transit networks. states unfairly by rewarding those that Officials can’t wait while Wash- fail to exercise strong fiscal control in ington debates: When they make their ordinary times. budgets, they must work with the rev- State and local governments play enues they have. DAVID ZURAWIK of the “Today” show. The program “will take its tendency is toward superficial. a huge role in the US economy. They Instead of cobbling together aid Tribune News Network a sweeping look at how everyone’s lives have So, don’t let TV control what you think about employ about one in eight workers, and packages whenever a crisis hits, Con- changed this past year, as well as the path for- COVID-19 and the year we have survived in its their expenditures account for about a gress should make federal support his is not a year that a lot of us are prob- ward to regaining a sense of normalcy,” ac- deadly grip. Let the one-year TV shows trig- fifth of gross domestic product (accord- more systematic. The aid should start ably going to want to remember. For the cording to the network. ger reflection, but let your heart and mind, not ing to Census data). They’re responsi- promptly, when a state’s economy en- millions who lost loved ones to COVID-19, NBC is not alone in its pandemic coverage. something created for the screen by others, ble for schools, police, hospitals, public ters a downturn, as defined by an objec- it is likely to be especially painful. For better All the networks and cable channels will be of- drive your personal reflection on this existential transportation and more. They admin- tive measure such as employment. To or worse, many of us will never forget how fering such programs this week and next. They moment. If you need a spark to start the process, ister most of the country’s social safety ensure predictable funding, Congress Tour lives have changed since last March. will be hard to ignore, especially with a presi- read a thoughtful op-ed or listen to a moving net, including housing assistance, un- could create a special rainy-day account One of the primary functions of media is dent in the White House who believes in com- podcast from someone who has reexamined her employment insurance and Medicaid. for the purpose. to sift through the deluge of developments and memorating the happy and sad moments in a or his own mortality this year because of the vi- Yet their finances are quite different For the sake of good fiscal discipline, events in our national life and decide which are nation’s life as he did with the grim milestone of rus. If you want an example of such a reflection, from those of the federal government: and as a matter of basic fairness, it’s vi- worth collectively remembering and how we 500,000 COVID-19 deaths recently. consider this op-ed from The Sun last month They don’t issue their own currencies, tal to avoid rewarding states that spend should go about doing so. Think 9/11 or the as- But even as I welcome the special programs headlined: “Doctor expected to get COVID-19, so they don’t have the money-printing carelessly in good times and then find it sassination of President John F Kennedy for ex- looking back at this deadly dark year and know I but didn’t expect it to change his life.” power of a central bank like the Federal necessary to cut more severely when the amples of that. The process of shared memory will watch many of them, I have some concerns And to my media colleagues, don’t let the Reserve standing behind their debts. A economy turns down. A higher baseline kicks into gear this week for COVID-19. about how they might affect viewers and even process of looking back across the year lead long history of fiscal crises — including of state spending per capita shouldn’t March 11 is the day the World Health Or- some of us who work in media. to a sense that the worst is behind us. That is a wave of defaults in the mid-19th cen- automatically attract extra support. ganization declared the coronavirus a pan- Media can be great catalysts, signaling us particularly easy to do with all the hope vac- tury and New York City’s near-bank- This means tying the amount of demic. Leading up to that date, 11 days of spe- to the importance of certain moments and the cines are engendering. ruptcy in the 1970s — has made the dis- emergency help to indicators that can’t cial coverage titled, “Covid One Year Later: Life value of remembering them. Media can also There is still heavy lifting to do in covering tinction clear to investors. The result is be gamed, such as the local unemploy- After Lockdown,” launched Monday on “NBC connect us to the civic life of the nation, show- how those vaccines are or are not getting into strict self-imposed limits on borrowing, ment data produced by the Bureau of Nightly News” with interviews that ranged ing us what others are feeling and thinking, and the arms of people who need them. Here in reflected in the balanced-budget rules Labor Statistics. To further encourage from National Institutes of Health Director offering symbolic events that we can participate Maryland, we all need to pitch in to chronicle that almost all states have adopted. fiscal control in good times, aid could Francis Collins on the scientific road ahead to in vicariously for a sense of catharsis or com- the chaos of the system set up by Gov. Larry Justified as these may be, such be linked to states’ own prior contri- patients hoping for relief from their long-term munity. That’s a good thing, but we shouldn’t let Hogan and press as hard as we can for some- constraints inhibit the kind of deficit butions to the federal rainy-day fund. symptoms from the virus. media tell us what to think and feel. thing better from his administration immedi- spending required to counteract eco- When it comes to disbursement, the The “Life after Lockdown” programming Television, for example, is inherently super- ately ― not sometime down the road later in nomic slumps. When revenues decline, funds might be unrestricted, allowing will continue on NBC, MSNBC and other ficial. Having covered and championed it for March. This is too serious and deadly for his so must expenditures — a procyclical local officials the flexibility to spend as network platforms concluding on March 11 more than 30 years, I feel I can say that. When public relations games. dynamic that makes recessions deeper required, or delivered through existing with a live prime-time special from the Lin- done right, it can also be profound as anyone and more destructive. state-run programs such as Medicaid, coln Memorial anchored by Lester Holt of who has watched a Ken Burns documentary or (David Zurawik is The Baltimore Sun’s Despite the strong fiscal response, which prioritize the neediest citizens. “NBC Nightly News” and Savannah Guthrie, an episode of HBO’s “The Sopranos” knows. But media critic)

A Decade After The Fukushima Disaster, Evacuees Still Feel Adrift

High levels of radiation have prevented many former residents of affected areas from returning home

Takehiko Kambayashi river,” Sanpei recalls. Mashio and her family never consid- anything,” she says. DPA However, the close-knit community was ered returning to Tsushima. Sanpei’s family also faced difficulties ripped apart by the 2011 triple meltdown at Instead they settled in Hatoyama, a after being forced to evacuate, as her 10 n a recent snowy day, Harue Sanpei the plant, run by Tokyo Electric Power. small town north of Tokyo, where they family members could not stay together. returned briefly to her abandoned The nuclear emergency was triggered by had no acquaintances. But local volun- They were separated into six locations Ohouse in a hilly area of Fukushima a magnitude-9 earthquake and subsequent teers helped them become acclimatized until they found a place in the city of Fuku- prefecture, where residents are still barred tsunami. Then, winds sent a plume of radia- to the place. shima to live together four years later. from living because of extensive radioac- tion north-westward toward Tsushima. Mashio says that while moving more As of January, the number of evacuees tive contamination from Japan’s worst nu- “It is very sad that we lost our home- than 10 times since the disaster, her hus- from Fukushima stood at about 36,000, clear disaster a decade ago. town because of the nuclear disaster,” says band’s health condition deteriorated and according to the Reconstruction Agency. Her family’s two-story traditional Sachiko Mashio, who used to run a restau- he later died. Critics say the actual number is far wooden house has been left untouched rant in Tsushima. However, a vast majority of them Like many nuclear evacuees, Mashio larger, as the central government and local since their evacuation, so it has huge, gap- “Tsushima was a healing place sur- have not done so due to few job oppor- felt isolated, as the disaster put her far Fukushima government have never looked ing holes in ceilings, with tatami mats cav- rounded by mountains. We used to enjoy tunities and concerns about radioactive away from her friends and old neighbours. into the living conditions of evacuees who ing in and mouldy chests. seeing its breathtaking autumn foliage,” contamination, though government of- The Covid-19 pandemic added to her were forced to scatter around the country, Sanpei says she is heartbroken by the Mashio says. ficials stressed decontamination work isolation, especially when the area was despite repeated requests. house, which is full of fond memories of The Tsushima district is now desig- was completed. under a coronavirus state of emergency in “A decrease in the number of evacuees her four-generation family of 10, being in nated as a “difficult to return” zone, and “Even though the government lifted April and May. does not mean Fukushima’s recovery has such disorder. its residents have no idea as to when they the evacuation orders, locals still cannot “It was very hard. But I managed to proceeded,” says Ayako Oga, an executive She also says local residents have a would be able to return home. grow rice and vegetables. They cannot eat overcome it,” she says. member of a citizens group of Fukushima profound attachment to their land – the Meanwhile, the central government fish they catch in a river,” Sanpei says. The pandemic has also had a devastat- evacuees. Tsushima district in Namie Town, about once again wants to emphasize Fukushi- “I wonder whether Tokyo Electric em- ing economic toll on many victims of the “We would like people to understand 30 kilometres north-west of the crippled ma’s “recovery” on the 10th anniversary of ployees and government officials could nuclear disaster, civic groups say. various situations evacuees are put in,” Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station. the nuclear disaster on Thursday. It lifted live there with their children and grand- When looking back on her life says Oga, who fled to Niigata prefecture “Tsushima is full of natural riches. We evacuation orders in many of the affected children even after the evacuation order post-evacuation, Mashio recalls being from Okuma, which co-hosts the Fuku- used to enjoy a cherry blossom viewing areas, including central parts of Namie was lifted,” she says. “I urge the govern- completely stressed out due to repeat- shima plant. party together, collect edible wild vegetables Town, near the nuclear plant, allowing ment to be far more careful when they lift ed relocations. “We urge the government to respond and mushrooms and catch fish in a local residents to return to their homes. an evacuation order.” “I was so worn out I did not want to do to individual circumstances,” she says.

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THE OPINION AND ANALYSIS PAGES ARE THE AUTHORS’ OWN. QATAR TRIBUNE BEARS NO RESPONSIBILITY. World Monday, March 8, 2021 07 Three fishermen in Gaza killed in explosion Saudi coalition bombards Yemen’s dpa radical Islamist Hamas move- Gaza City ment ruling Gaza. Israel im- rebel capital after Houthi attacks poses tight restrictions on the Three fishermen were killed work of fishermen off thecoast dpa tion started a military campaign ing to the official Saudi news in an explosion off the coast of the Gaza Sea, citing security Sana’a against the Houthis in Yemen. agency SPA. of the southern Gaza Strip on reasons. It says it combats at- On Sunday, the coalition Earlier Sunday, the coali- Sunday. tempts to smuggle weapons or A Saudi-led coalition on Sun- unleashed at least 12 air raids in tion said it had intercepted The chairman of the Fish- raw materials for rockets into day mounted a series of air- different parts of Sana’a, result- and destroyed 10 drones fired ermen’s Association in Gaza, the coastal enclave, as part of strikes on Yemen’s rebel-held ing in heavy explosions, local by the Houthis targeting civil- Nizar Ayyash, told reporters the blockade it has imposed capital Sana’a amid an increase residents said. ians in the oil-rich monarchy. that the three fishermen had on the Strip along with Egypt in attacks by the Houthi rebels No casualties were reported. In recent weeks, the Hou- died but he was unable to con- since 2007. against neighbouring Saudi The Saudi-led coalition this have stepped up their firm what had caused the ex- Gaza has some 3,000 fish- Arabia, residents said. confirmedthe strikes, describ- drone and missile attacks in plosion. Relatives of Palestinian fishermen mourn during their funeral in Khan ermen, of whom only 800 Yemen has been roiled by ing them as painful. Saudi territory. The Israel Defence Forces Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip, on Sunday. (afp) work on some 700 boats. a devastating power struggle “The military operation tar- Last month, the rebels ini- (IDF) said it had not targeted Some 70,000 Gazans make a between a Saudi-backed gov- gets the Houthi capabilities in tiated an offensive to capture anyone. “The IDF is not re- deaths were caused by an ex- Israel Army Radio said living from fishing and selling ernment and the Iran-aligned the occupied capital Sana’a and Yemen’s energy-rich province sponsible for the incident, and plosion inside Gaza,” said an that cause was a rocket fish, according to official Pal- Houthis since late 2014. a number of [Yemeni] provinc- of Marib from government our indications show that their Israeli military statement. launched by mistake by the estinian statistics. In 2015, the Saudi-led coali- es,” the coalition, said, accord- loyalists. DAMAGE CONTROL British-Iranian woman released China to US: Taiwan is a ‘red from Tehran jail line that should not be crossed’ after five years dpa for Zaghari-Ratcliffe to be Tehran allowed to return to Britain as soon as possible. A British-Iranian citi- “We welcome the re- zen serving a prison sen- moval of Nazanin Zaghari- tence for espionage was Ratcliffe’s ankle tag, but released after completing Iran’s continued treatment fiveyears in prison and can of her is intolerable,” he now rejoin her family, her said on Twitter. lawyer said. Zaghari-Ratcliffe was Lawyer Hojjat Kermani arrested in 2016 after visit- told the ISNA news agency ing her parents in Iran and on Sunday that Nazanin sentenced to five years in Zaghari-Ratcliffe was let prison for espionage and out of the infamous Evin other offences. She was prison in Tehran. also accused of working However, British op- with a foreign network to position Labour lawmaker topple the Iranian govern- Tulip Siddiq, who repre- ment. sents Zaghari-Ratcliffe’s She has denied all London constituency, said charges, saying she only that Zaghari-Ratcliffe was had wanted to visit her par- summoned again to court ents. next Sunday. Her imprisonment led Siddiq added that her to a diplomatic crisis be- ankle tag had been re- tween Britain and Iran. moved and she was going Efforts by British dip- to see her grandmother, the lomats to give her consu- Press Association reported. lar support were thwarted British Foreign Secre- as Iran does not recognize tary Dominic Raab called dual national status.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi speaks via live video transmission during a press conference in Beijing on Sunday. (AFP)

dpa ous administration’s danger- The investment agreement pirants,” Wang said. “This is a Beijing ous practice of crossing the No room for for which Beijing and Brus- requirement anywhere in the line and playing with fire, and sels finalized negotiations in world. Hong Kong is no excep- China’s understanding of we hope the Taiwan question compromise December serves the needs of tion.” its relationship to self-ruled will be handled prudently and The Chinese both parties, he added. “In the The change to the elec- Taiwan, known as the “One properly,” Wang said. government has ‘no face of crises and challenges, toral system, currently being China” policy, is a “red line Wang said China is will- room for compromise China-EU relations have dem- reviewed by China’s rubber- that should not be crossed” by ing to work with US Presi- onstrated resilience and vital- stamp parliament, is to ensure the United States, Beijing’s top dent Joe Biden’s administra- or concession’ when it ity, sending out a positive mes- that only “patriots administer diplomat said on Sunday. tion to set relations “on a new comes to Taiwan, sage to the world,” he said. Hong Kong.” It comes after File photo of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe (left) with her daughter The Chinese government path of healthy and steady Foreign Minister Wang China wants to collaborate Beijing last year approved Gabriella. (afp) has “no room for compromise growth,” and that the two na- Yi said with the EU in areas such as a national security law for or concession” when it comes tions could cooperate in areas economic recovery and climate Hong Kong that has essential- to Taiwan, which Beijing sees such as responding to the cor- change, and to reach “more ly criminalised dissent in the as a breakaway Chinese prov- onavirus pandemic, economic China says its policies in Xin- stability” in international rela- financial hub and led to dozens ince, Foreign Minister Wang Yi recovery and climate change. jiang are lawful and intended tions, the diplomat added. of arrests. said during a press conference Wang said the US has been to curb terrorism and separa- The Chinese Communist Hong Kong voters in No- Libya’s divided parliament to on the sidelines of the National interfering in other countries’ tism. Party’s controversial move to vember 2019 installed a slate People’s Congress, China’s an- internal affairs “in the name of However, Beijing does not overhaul Hong Kong’s elec- of pro-democracy candidates meet for vote on interim govt nual parliamentary session. democracy and human rights.” allow foreign journalists or toral system so that all can- during district council elec- Wang’s comments came On the issue of Xinjiang, diplomats to move freely in the didates for the legislature are tions as a rebuke of Beijing fol- dpa ing day. after the US last year had the the far-western territory where region nor visit the detention pre-approved by a pro-Beijing lowing massive protests Tripoli The line-up includes 27 highest-level exchanges in dec- China is accused of conducting centres. election committee is “con- against an extradition bill to ministers and six state min- ades with Taiwan and sold the mass internment, forced la- Meanwhile, relations be- stitutional, lawful and justi- mainland China. Libya’s divided parliament isters, according to Dbeibeh’s democratically ruled island bour and forced sterilizations tween China and the European fied,” Wang said. By overhauling the elec- is scheduled to meet on Mon- media office. arms worth 5.1 billion dollars. of ethnic minorities, Wang Union over the past year have “Loyalty to the motherland toral system, Beijing wants to day for a confidence vote on an The interim administra- “We would hope to see a said such accusations “could shown “resilience and vital- is a basic political ethic of all make sure that cannot happen interim unity government to tion will replace the UN-backed clear departure from the previ- not be more preposterous.” ity,” Wang said. public office holders and as- again. lead the conflict-torn country Government of National Ac- to long-delayed elections, law- cord, which has been in charge makers said. of Tripoli and western areas, The meeting is to be held in and the competing eastern ad- the Libyan coastal city of Sirte. ministration linked with war- Pope prays for victims in former bastion of IS in Iraq Last month, delegates from lord Khalifa Haftar. Libya’s rival factions elected A Sirte official on Sunday dpa al-Bieaa, a square comprising a large Christian commu- Abdul-Hamid Mohammed said the city was ready for the Ba ghdad churches which are heavily nity until Islamic State attacks Dbeibeh as interim premier meeting due to be held in a con- damaged in Old Mosul, ahead destroyed the place and forced and Mohammed Menfi as head vention centre. Pope Francis on Sunday of the prayers. “If God is the people to flee. of a three-person Presidency “The security situation in prayed for victims of Islamic God of love - for so he is - then “Our gathering here today Council in a UN-hosted process Sirte is good and favourable State in the terrorist group’s it is wrong for us to hate our shows that terrorism and death in Switzerland. for holding the session,” city one-time stronghold in north- brothers and sisters.” “Today never have the last word,” the Earlier this week, Dbeibeh spokesman Mohammed al- ern Iraq, during the pontiff’s we raise our voices in prayer pope told a crowd of people at said he had sent his proposed Ameel told dpa without elabo- first-ever trip to the country. to Almighty God for all the vic- the restored Grand Church of line-up to parliament ahead of rating. Sunday is the third day of tims of war and armed conflict. the Immaculate Conception in the confidence vote. Libya’s elected legislature the 84-year-old’s visit to Iraq, Here in Mosul, the tragic con- Qaraqosh. Lawmaker Jalal al-Shou- is divided between two assem- where the Christian commu- sequences of war and hostility “Forgiveness: That is a key heidi, who plans to attend the blies: one in the eastern city of nity has dwindled after years of are all too evident,” he said. word. Forgiveness is necessary voting session, said he expect- Tobruk and the other in Tripoli. war and persecution. “How cruel it is that this to remain in love, to remain ed the quorum needed for the The UN envoy for Lib- The pope had flown to the country, the cradle of civiliza- Christian,” the pope added. meeting - 98 of the 188-mem- ya, Jan Kubis, called Monday’s northern city of Mosul, which tion, should have been afflicted Pope Francis (centre) greets people dressed in traditional outfits upon “The road to a full recovery ber legislature - would be met. meeting an “important step” was occupied by Islamic State by so barbarous a blow, with his arrival at Arbil on Sunday. (afp) may still be long, but I ask you, “According to information for Libya. from 2014 to 2017, from Erbil, ancient places of worship de- please, not to grow discour- available, all preparations are “This session ... is another the capital of the northern au- stroyed and many thousands of “Today, however, we war,” he said. aged. What is needed is the in place to hold the session,” he important step towards restor- tonomous Kurdistan region. people - Muslims, Christians, reaffirm our conviction that The pope later arrived in ability to forgive, but also the told dpa. ing the unity and legitimacy “If God is the God of Yezidis and others - forcibly fraternity is more durable the town of Qaraqosh, on the courage not to give up.” Thou- He expected the parlia- of Libya’s institutions and au- peace - for so he is - then it is displaced or killed!” The pope than fratricide, that hope is plains of Nineveh, roughly 30 sands of Christians lined the ment to discuss the proposed thorities, in order to achieve the wrong for us to wage war in his toured the ruins in Mosul and more powerful than hatred, kilometres to the east of Mosul. streets of Qaraqosh to welcome membership of the Cabinet on unity, sovereignty, and stability name,” the pope said at Hosh also prayed there. that peace more powerful than Qaraqosh was home to the pope. Monday and to vote the follow- of Libya,” Kubis said. 08 Monday, March 8, 2021 World Britain first to infect US Senate passes $1.9 trillion healthy volunteers with coronavirus for study COVID-19 economic relief bill dpa caused by the coronavirus. London They are initially to be ex- dpa 6 - and expands the Child and posed to the lowest dosage of Washington Dependent Care Tax Credit Britain has become the virus necessary for infection. up to $4,000 for the childcare first country to infect healthy The aim of the study is The Senate passed a $1.9 expenses of one child, and up volunteers with the corona- to research how the immune trillion COVID-19 relief pack- to $8,000 for two or more. virus as part of a so-called system reacts to the virus and age on Saturday, scaling back It also includes billions human challenge study, the how virus particles react to the unemployment benefits ap- for food aid programs, ex- Health Ministry confirmed to environment. proved by the House and tends the 15% SNAP increase dpa on Sunday. According to earlier reports narrowing the number of through September, and The first tests in the study, by the British government, this Americans who receive $1,400 sets aside $45 billion for which involves volunteers who is the first human challenge payments in an effort to mol- rental, mortgage and utility have not received the COV- trial conducted worldwide re- lify centrist Democrats and get assistance. ID-19 vaccine yet, started on garding the novel coronavirus, a bill to President Joe Biden as To directly address the Saturday, it said. Sars-CoV-2. early as next week. coronavirus, the bill includes “The Human Challenge Human challenge trials, After some surprise last- $14 billion for vaccine distri- Programme will improve and in which healthy humans are minute haggling on Friday bution; $49 billion for COV- accelerate the development of exposed to a pathogen, have between moderates and pro- ID-19 testing, tracing and vaccines and treatments against been conducted in the research gressives, Senate Democrats genomic sequencing; and $8 COVID-19, and the first group of of flu or malaria vaccinations, passed the landmark bill on billion to expand the public volunteers have now started the although in those studies, the Saturday morning by a vote health workforce. virus characterisation study at respondents had previously re- of 50 to 49, with all Demo- Republicans dismissed the Royal Free Hospital in Lon- ceived a possible treatment. crats voting in favour and all the bill as an expensive, un- don,” a Health Ministry spokes- German scientists have crit- Republicans opposed. Repub- necessary Democratic wish woman told dpa. icized such human challenge lican Senator Dan Sullivan, list that spends too little on “These carefully selected trials, saying infections in a lab R-Alaska, was absent due to a directly fighting the disease. adults will be exposed to the are not the same as infections death in the family. GOP senators tried to delay virus in a safe and controlled in real life. The measure next moves passage Friday night and environment, with medics and The German Association of back to the House, which is ex- Saturday morning and re- scientists on hand to monitor Research-Based Pharmaceuti- pected to approve the Senate Protestors march across the Brooklyn Bridge to demand funding for excluded workers in the New York duce the cost of the bill by and look after them 24 hours a cal Companies (VfA) said these changes and send the bill to State budget in New York recently. (afp) offering a series of amend- day,” she added. studies are unethical and might the president before March 14, ments to the bill. For the study, scientists produce distorted results, as when some current unemploy- increase the federal minimum ing now.” Biden had wanted “The Senate has never selected up to 90 volunteers they are only conducted with ment benefits are set to expire. wage to $15 an hour, reduced a $400 weekly federal unem- spent $2 trillion in a more who are young, healthy and young, healthy respondents The sweeping package the federal unemployment ployment supplemental to last haphazard way or through a unlikely to contract severe and the findings might not be could be the last major legisla- supplement from $400 to through September. He had less rigorous process,” Senate COVID-19, the lung disease applicable to elderly people. tive response to the pandemic. $300 a week and lowered the also asked for a larger pool Minority Leader Mitch McCo- It includes direct financial as- income caps used to deter- of Americans to receive the nnell, R-Ky., said. sistance for struggling Ameri- mine who gets a $1,400 check. Relief plan $1,4000 direct checks. The The GOP amendments cans, targeted aid to the res- But progressives won a White House said he is satis- - nearly all voted down - in- taurant, child care and airline provision to provide tax relief The bill includes direct fied with the compromise. cluded limiting whether industries, funding for vac- to workers who received pan- financial assistance for The Senate changed the schools could receive money cines and testing, aid to small demic-related unemployment struggling Americans, targeted bill so the full $1,400 goes to if they allowed transgender businesses and support for compensation. Those with an- aid to the restaurant, child single filers with an annual students to play on certain state and local governments. nual incomes under $150,000 care and airline industries, income less than $75,000, sports teams; changing which “This bill will deliver will not be required to pay funding for vaccines and joint filers who make less than dependents qualify for the more help to more people taxes on up to $10,200 of the testing, aid to small $150,000, and head of house- $1,400 checks; and prevent- than anything the federal unemployment benefits. businesses and support for hold filers who earn less than ing inmates and parole viola- government has done in dec- Biden and Democrats say state and local governments $112,500. Dependents listed tors from getting the checks. ades,” Senate Majority Lead- the relief bill is sorely needed will also receive $1,400 each. Republicans have also er Charles E. Schumer, D-NY, to help families and the U.S. From there the $1,400 criticised Biden and Demo- said. “It is broader, deeper economy rebuild after the may never come back to pre- payment quickly phases out crats for using a special and more comprehensive in healthcare crisis triggered na- pandemic levels as business- to zero for individuals with budget reconciliation process, Mourners pray during a funeral for National League for Democracy helping working families and tionwide shutdowns, massive es turn to automation and annual incomes of $80,000 which allowed them to pass party member Khin Maung Latt during his funeral in Muslim tradition lifting people out of poverty layoffs and a brief recession. make other changes to their or more, joint-filing taxpay- the measure with a simple held by his family and NLD members in Yangon on Sunday. (AFP) than anything Congress has Millions of Americans remain operations. ers with annual incomes in majority, rather than the 60- seen or accomplished in a out of work. “This is the longest exten- excess of $160,000, and head vote threshold usually needed very long time.” Though vaccine distribu- sion of benefits possible,” said of household filers who make in the Senate. Republicans Myanmar’s protesters In the end, it was a less tions could get the pandem- Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., of more than $120,000. said Biden had betrayed his generous package than many ic under control this year, the final compromise. “This The bill also temporarily promise to work in a biparti- remember those killed and Democrats envisioned. The economists say it could take is not everything I would have expands the child tax credit to san manner. Democrats said Senate removed language in- much longer for job growth written. This is the best that $3,000 from $2,000 - and to Republicans never offered march on against coup cluded in the House bill to to return. Some industries can be done for people hurt- $3,600 for children under age any credible compromises.

dpa legations without proof of elec- Yangon tion tampering. On Saturday night, police US, S Korea Swiss in favour of banning face coverings in key vote Hundreds of thousands of and security forces in Yangon people turned out to demon- carried out raids targeting cam- to conduct dpa ic xenophobia and only want- strate in Yangon, Mandalay paign leaders, opposition activ- Geneva ing to stir up sentiment against and cities and towns across My- ists and members of the Na- reduced Muslims, arguing that in a anmar on Sunday, in one of the tional League for Democracy, Switzerland will ban the free society, such dress codes biggest days of protest since the Suu Kyi’s party. wearing in public of burqas, should not exist. military coup. “They came to our street, military drill the full-body covering worn It’s estimated that Muslims Tens of thousands of pro- destroyed our defence line of by some Muslim women, and made up only 5.3 percent of the testers in Mandalay stood barricades and damaged cars dpa other full-face coverings, after a population as of 2018. in silence for two minutes in in the street,” said Zar Zar, a Seoul referendum showed a majority The European Court of Hu- memory of those killed in the protester based in Pazundaung in favour of it. man Rights ruled in 2014 that bloody crackdown on demon- township, Yangon. The armed forces of the United More than 52 percent of such bans do not violate a per- strations by the police and se- NLD lawmaker Sithu States and South Korea plan to voters were in favour of the ban. son’s right to freedom of reli- curity forces. Maung, of Pabedan township organize a summer manoeuvre By Sunday afternoon, 19 gion or expression. “Even if guns are pointing in Yangon, said that a NLD lo- on a reduced scale due to the out of 22 cantons counted had Other issues voted on in- at us, we must shout our dis- cal official had been arrested on coronavirus pandemic, South approved the ban. There are 26 cluded a law regarding an elec- satisfactions from our heart,” Saturday night during the raids Korea’s joint chiefs of staff cantons in total. tronic identity card, which is one protester told the crowd and had died. (JCS) said on Sunday. The result means the ban A photograph shows two campaign posters, one in favour of a “burqa controversial because private in Mandalay. Many chanted in He said that efforts were be- The joint exercise is set must now be incorporated ban” (left) and the other against a free trade agreement with Indone- companies are set to offer the response, condemning the mili- ing made to recover the body of to begin on Monday and last into the constitution and will sia, in Geneva recently. (afp) card. That proposal was clearly tary. Khin Maung Latt, in a post on nine days, a statement by the apply in restaurants, shops rejected by the Swiss. At the beginning of Febru- Facebook. The cause of death JCS said. and in public. in general - which would ap- group, Egerkingen Commit- A free-trade agreement ary, the military mounted a was initially unclear. Washington and Seoul de- Similar bans exist in Aus- ply to football hooligans, for tee, pushed through a ban on with Indonesia that reduces coup to topple the government Yangon residents said sol- cided to hold the drills “after tria, the Netherlands and example - it was put forward the building of new minarets tariffs on a certain amount of of Aung San Suu Kyi. diers and police had fired shots comprehensively taking into France. by a right-wing, anti-Islam through a referendum. sustainably produced palm oil, Her party had gained power in several districts during the consideration the COVID-19 While on paper, the ban group that’s made no secret of Opponents accuse the on the other hand, was narrow- again in November elections, night and arrested at least three situation, the maintenance of applies to covering one’s face its stance. In 2009, the same group of promoting anti-Islam- ly approved. but the armed forces made al- people in Kyauktada township. the combat readiness posture, the denuclearization of the Ko- rean Peninsula and the estab- lishment of peace,” the state- ment said according to news agency Yonhap. Queen not planning to watch Oprah interview, says report The computer-simulated exercise will not include out- dpa “only on duty and Philip.” In Cambridge will chat in a video Buckingham Palace could door manoeuvres, which have London extracts of the Oprah Winfrey call with Dr Zolelwa Sifumba, also question the Duchess of been carried out through- interview released over the from South Africa, an advo- Cambridge in its inquiry into out the year, and troops and The Queen will “ignore” the last few days, Meghan has cate for the rights of health- bullying allegations made equipment involved will be Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s criticised the constraints she care workers on the front line, against Meghan, according “minimized” due to the pan- much-anticipated interview faced as a working royal, and while the Prince of Wales will to the Sunday Mirror, which demic, it added. The exercise with Oprah Winfrey, it has said it was “liberating” to be pay tribute to the “extraordi- claimed aides will name Kate is set to focus mainly on ensur- been reported. able to “say yes” to a request nary determination, courage as a witness. ing troops’ readiness posture. Harry and Meghan’s tel- for an interview with the US and creativity’’ of the Com- Meghan is facing accusa- The US has 28,500 soldiers evised conversation with the chat show host. monwealth’s people during tions that she drove out two stationed in South Korea to famous talk show host, which She accused The Firm - as the COVID crisis in a speech personal assistants and that deter North Korea. has fuelled tensions within the the royal family is sometimes from Westminster Abbey.” It staff were “humiliated” on Pyongyang has previously monarchy, will air in the US known - of “perpetuating false- was at Westminster Abbey’s several occasions, with The slammed similar manoeuvres on Sunday night before being hoods” about her and Harry. Commonwealth Day service Sun reporting the probe will as being part of plans to invade broadcast on ITV on Monday. The Sunday Times report- in March last year when the focus on the Sussexes’ tour of North Korea. Both the US and The Sunday Times report- ed royal advisers are “pre- File photo of Britain’s Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, (left) and Meghan, Sussexes were last seen with Australia in 2018. South Korea deny that is the ed the monarch will not watch pared to retaliate with fresh Duchess of Sussex. (afp) their family, sitting close to Past and present employ- case. Washington and Seoul the programme and is instead disclosures about the couple’s the Queen, Charles, Camilla ees have been invited to speak have cancelled or scaled back focusing on national issues, behaviour if the monarchy is their own television special, and the Countess of Wessex - and William and Kate. in confidence about their a number of joint military ex- while the paper said royal attacked.” Buckingham Palace just hours before Harry and will appear in the pre-recorded A few months before that experiences of working for ercises since 2018 in order to courtiers have branded the in- declined to comment on the Meghan, on a BBC One pro- show called A Celebration For they had sent shockwaves the duchess, who responded help facilitate talks with North terview a “circus.” Meanwhile, reports. gramme on Sunday evening. Commonwealth Day, which is through the monarchy by an- by saying she was “saddened Korea about its nuclear weap- the Sunday Express reported Several members of the The Queen, the Prince of marked on Monday. nouncing they would be step- by this latest attack on her ons programme. that The Queen’s mind is royal family will appear in Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall The Duke and Duchess of ping down as working royals. character.” Honda Motor Company launches all-new City 2021 page 10

Monday, march 8, 2021

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Zad Holding registers Qatar expected to receive 7K QR201 mn net profit hotel rooms in 2021: ValuStrat for 2020 Tribune News Network As many as 8,200 residential units are expected to be supplied in 2021 with 80% in Lusail, The Pearl and West Bay Doha

Satyendra Pathak ing the second half of 2021 which Zad Holding Company on Doha may lead to softer declines in rents Sunday disclosed its finan- by the end of 2021. cial statements for 2020. Qatar is expected to receive 7,000 An estimated 880,000 sqm GLA The statement shows that hotel rooms including 6,250 keys of office space is predicted to be the company registered a net and 750 serviced apartments in added during 2021, the report said profit of QR201 million for 2021, ValuStrat has said in its ‘Qa- adding that there is an expected 2020 compared to net profit tar 2021 Outlook’ report released increase in companies working in amounting to QR211 million on Sunday. e-commerce, logistics, finance and in the previous year. According to the report, hospi- technology. The company’s earnings tality establishments like The Plaza Despite the influx of supply, the per share (EPS) amounted to Doha, Katara Towers, Waldorf As- projected pick-up in market senti- QR0.85 for 2020 compared toria, Zulal Wellness Resort, Salwa ment and demand might contribute to EPS of QR 0.89 in the pre- Beach resort, Jouri Murwab Ho- towards a slower pace in decline of vious year. tel, Steigenberger Hotel, Banyan office rents, it said. The board has recom- Tree Doha, JW Mariott Hotel, Al Talking about the Qatari econo- mended a dividend of 70 Baker Novotel and Sofitel, Majlis my in general, the report said, “Qa- percent cash and 10 percent Grand Mercure Hotel & Apartment tar’s economy is projected to grow bonus shares distribution and Dream Doha are expected by 2.5 percent during 2021 as per for 2020. to start operations by the end of International Monetary Fund. The Zad Holding Company this year. ‘Al-Ula Declaration’ that resulted in was established in 1969 Approximately 1,300 keys were the reopening of borders, resump- and works in the field of added during 2020, as per ValuStrat tion of air and sea travel and trade business development and research. of Qatar with Saudi Arabia, the investments. “Assuming no closures during United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and The company provides the year, the total supply is estimat- Egypt is expected to boost trade and the market with daily food ed to exceed 28,500 keys. The sup- tourism sectors.” products, as well as construc- ply of serviced apartments (branded “Government of Qatar unveiled tion equipment, real estate and non-branded) was estimated a budget of QR194.7 billion for the and distribution services. to reach 9,300 rooms in 2020,” the fiscal year 2021. The budget is ex- The company was listed report said. pected to support upcoming as well on the Qatar Stock Exchange Lifting of quarantine measures as ongoing development projects in 1997. expected in the second half of 2021 The iconic Katara Towers in Lusail Marina is expected to open in 2021. in various sectors and those relat- Meanwhile, Qatari Ger- might provide a boost to tourism, ed to World Cup 2022, education man for Medical Devices the report said adding that during the addition of 530 units during the towards stabilisation of rents by the mated mall supply for 2021 stood at and healthcare and infrastructure Company also disclosed the the first half of 2021, mandatory ho- last quarter, the report said adding end of 2021,” the report said. 209,000 sqm GLA. development in the economic, in- financial statement for 2020 tel quarantine and domestic tourism that despite COVID-19 and slow- Growing ownership by foreign- Highlighting that the govern- dustrial and logistics zones,” the and revealed a net profit of may provide support to the hospital- down in the growth of the expatriate ers coupled with competitive listings ment of Qatar is encouraging re- report said. QR884,183 in comparison to ity industry. population, the annual fall in rents for residential sales might slow down tailers to shift to e-commerce “FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 net loss of QR10,386,277 in As many as 8,200 residential and capital values of residential units the rate of decline in capital values platforms in order to capitalise tickets inclusive of hospital- the previous year. units are expected to be supplied during 2020 was less compared to potentially bottoming out by the end on the growing trend of rising on- ity and optional travel packages The profit per share in 2021, the report said adding that YoY decline in 2019. of 2021, the report said. line transactions, the report said, are expected to go on sale during amounted to QR0.008 in approximately 80 percent of the up- “Growth in the expatriate popu- With the expected opening of “Rentals in malls and shopping the year. Ashghal’s infrastructural 2020 against loss per share coming supply is concentrated in lation is predicted to rise in the sec- shopping centres like Doha Mall centres will continue to soften due projects intended to serve World of QR0.090 in 2019 Lusail, The Pearl and West Bay. ond half of 2021 post lifting of social in Al Maamoura, Boulevard Mall to pressures of online trading.” Cup 2022 have been cited to com- The board has recom- At the end of 2020, the residen- mobility restrictions, resulting in a in Jeryan Jenaihat and 04 Mall in The report, however, said that plete as per scheduled time,” the mended no dividends for tial stock stood at 303,015 units with pick-up in demand which could head The Pear, the report said, the esti- demand is predicted to increase dur- report said. this year. AirAsia plans to launch air taxi Dukhan Bank net operating profit business by 2022 rises 33% to QR1 billion in 2020 Tribune News Network “Therefore, Dukhan Bank takes Agencies commercially viable air taxis. Doha confident steps towards achieving AirAsia, which sold its India strategic objectives in a way that en- AirAsia Group, one of Asia’s operation amid pandemic-driv- Dukhan Bank on Sunday an- hances its position in the banking biggest low-cost airlines, plans en challenges, is diversifying its nounced that the Group’s assets grew sector, grows its market share, and to launch a flying taxi service business. It is set to launch its significantly by 12 percent exceeding contributes to achieving the goals of as soon as next year as the e-hailing services in April and QR86 billion, underscored by growth Qatar Vision 2030,” he said. company looks to diversify its expects its drone delivery busi- in its financing activities exceeded Dukhan Bank Group CEO Khalid business amid pandemic-driv- ness to take off in 2021. 12.7 percent recording over QR58 Yousef Al Subeai said, “Following the en headwinds for the global billion, as compared to 2019. completion of the first merger in the aviation industry, its chief ex- Total revenues grew by 15.7 per- Qatari banking sector in record time, ecutive said. Air Asia is about a year- cent to reach QR3.8 billion, while we were able to realise benefits from “We are doing drones to- and-a-half away from profit before the loss of impairment the merger in terms of cost reduc- day and AirAsia is not far away launching its air-taxi of intangible assets and taxes ex- tion, with the cost-to-income ratio from the air-taxi business,” operations, likely be a ceeded QR1 billion, a growth rate of dropping to 27.6 percent compared Tony Fernandes, chief ex- quadcopter with four seats 33 percent as compared to QR766 to 39.2 percent for 2019. The Group ecutive of AirAsia Group, said million for the previous year. has succeeded in widening its cus- during an online discussion as “You will be able to soon Total expenses declined by 15.6 tomer base and market share, which part of Malaysia’s Youth Eco- have a drone delivery to your percent to QR939 million when com- reflects positively on its performance nomic Forum 2021. “We are home. I’m hoping by the end pared to the previous year stemming and financial results.” working on that.” of this year,” Fernandes said. from the Group’s efforts to control Highlighted the bank’s flexibility The Kuala Lumpur-based Electric aircraft such as operating and financing expenses. Dukhan Bank Chairman and MD Sheikh Dukhan Bank Group CEO Khalid Yousef in overcoming the impacts of COV- company is about a year-and- drones could account for 30 Following a conservative assess- Mohammed bin Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani Al Subeai ID-19, Subeai said, “Dukhan Bank a-half away from launching its per cent of same-day pack- ment on the part of the manage- has fully coordinated with the con- air-taxi operations, which will age deliveries by 2040 as net- ment, the Group recorded a QR450 with the challenges imposed by the tity, which marked the beginning of cerned authorities in the country to likely be a quadcopter with work scale dramatically brings million decline in its intangible as- pandemic but has also achieved un- a banking journey to make Dukhan respond to the aftermath of the crisis. four seats, he said. down costs, according to LEK sets from subsidiaries acquired be- precedented growth at all levels. The Bank ‘Qatar’s bank of choice’. Within The bank activated an extensive cri- “We have pilots, we un- Consulting. tween 2009 and 2010. Group has been able to overcome the its endeavours to confirm this posi- sis management plan in addition to derstand propulsion, we un- Fernandes expects air trav- The charge was recorded in the impact of the decline in intangible as- tion, the new identity comes in light strengthening its portfolio of online derstand navigating the skies, el to bounce back as nations income statement for this year, sets due to its conservative approach of major positive transformations banking services. These steps enabled so we have a team working on across the globe roll out mass which accounted for a decrease in in evaluating subsidiary companies witnessed by the bank alongside am- business continuity, allowing cus- that right now,” he said. inoculation programmes. the net profit reaching QR566 mil- and leveraging the QR600 million bitions to digitise its services and tomers to conduct all their banking Air taxis have captured the “I hope interstate travel lion. The bank, however, noted that contingency reserve, accumulated in operations in providing operational transactions easily and conveniently interest of both investors and will start in the next two to the decline does not affect the level of previous years, to manage the cir- efficiency and profitability as well as from their homes without the need airlines, but the industry is at a three weeks” within Malaysia, liquidity or adequacy of the Group’s cumstances. Moving on, the board secure, safe and seamless banking ex- to visit any of the bank’s branches. nascent stage and it is yet to be he said. “We are hearing peo- capital nor its operating results. recommends distributing cash divi- perience for customers.” Moreover, Dukhan Bank participat- seen if they can be mass pro- ple who have been vaccinated Commenting on these results, dends amounting to 10 percent of the Furthermore, he said, Dukhan ed in the launch of the (COVID-19) duced to decarbonise air travel will allowed to fly,” he said. Dukhan Bank Chairman and Man- nominal value of the shares to share- Bank aspires to provide innovative National Guarantee Program under and ease congestion. Technol- International borders, he aging Director Sheikh Mohammed holders for the year 2020.” banking products and services that the directive of Qatar Central Bank ogy start-ups and major cor- said, are likely to start open- bin Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani said, He said, “The most prominent meet customers’ evolving needs us- to alleviate the financial pressures porations including Boeing, ing in July or August this year, “Stemming from a strong resilience, event of this year for Dukhan Bank ing the latest technological innova- on private companies and small and Hyundai, Airbus, Toyota and which bodes well for the avia- we have not only managed to deal was the unveiling of its new iden- tions in this field. medium-sized enterprises.” Uber are in a race to develop tion industry. 10 Monday, March 8, 2021 Economy & Business Honda Motor Company launches all-new City 2021 The fifth generation Honda City — longest and widest in segment — unveiled virtually for the markets in GCC , Jordan and Egypt

Tribune News Network airbags to protect passengers from Doha collisions from any side. Body rigidity not only provides Honda Motor Company on Sun- strength to the vehicle but also day launched the all-new City 2021 contributes to Noise Vibration and for the GCC, Jordan and Egypt at Harshness (NVH) characteristics. a virtual launch event held on its The City body provides an excellent YouTube channels and the social safety cell and protection with our media channels of its distributors. Advanced Compatibility engineer- The all-new 5th generation Honda ing (ACE) City is the longest and the widest se- Some of the other safety features dan in its segment and has exceeded include: the benchmark with its premium  Front SRS Airbag System design, technological prowess, un-  Side and Side Curtain Airbags matched comfort, advanced safety,  Anti-Lock Brake System(ABS) with class leading fuel economy,  Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) rear AC vents and advanced con- with Electronic Stability & Traction nectivity. Control  Hill Start Assist (HSA) Grand concept All-New City follows a continuity • Black Trunk Spoiler and refinement giving the All-New tion (P, N, D, R)  Emergency Stop Signal The Grand Concept of the All of lights with a sharp shoulder-line • Sport Badge City a feel that exceeds its class. DX,  Agile Handling Assist New City 2021 is based on ’Ambi- that accentuates its premium look • 16” Alloy Diamond Cut Wheels LX and LX Sport all have fabric in- Audio and Connectivity  Indirect Tyre Pressure Moni- tious Sedan’ giving ambitious peo- and length. This character line runs teriors whereas the EX grade has The 2021 Honda City is a tech- toring System (Deflation Warning ple seeking better living confidence right from the headlamp all the way Spacious interior premium leather seats. nologically-advanced vehicle, which System) to upgrade their lives. All New City to the taillights defining its shape Achieving a clear vision while The City comes with manual air offers the latest features in technol- is based on Our Grand Concept and making the hood seem longer driving, with a balance of open- conditioning for DX grade and au- ogy and connectivity. Some of the Powertrain which is supported by the City’s core giving the car a distinguishably pre- ness and security the design is the tomatic air conditioning for LX on- features include: A powerful engine is equipped in values of Smart Style and Outstand- cise and aerodynamic impression. SO-KAI or invigorating cockpit de- wards as well as rear AC ducts for  Eight-inch Touchscreen Dis- the City to match the sporty design ing interior space. To this the value sign in the all-new fifth generation extra comfort. play Audio (LX Onwards): The all and looks. The new City is equipped of ‘Strong’ was added based on the Honda City. The Dynamic View Some of the important conveni- new City now comes with a Full with a 1.5-litre DOHC engine pro- demand in the Middle East. The All Concept has structured the design ence features include: colour 8-inch Display Audio Touch- ducing 119 hp. This is the best in New 2021 City is an authentic sedan of the instrument panel in such a  Rear Seats with Cup Holders screen offers the latest in, device the Segment and a torque of 145 form, which is confident and secure way that it falls in the line of sight designed for ultimate luxury. connectivity. It even has the Ap- N/M with several technologies that and an intelligent sedan. for the driver.  Window Access Controls at ple CarPlayTM app, or WebLink provide a sporty driving feel. it is The City spares no effort in the Drivers Side for Comfort (All equipped in its interface which al- equipped with a CVT transmission New design and exterior styling continuing the ambition of spa- Grades) lows you to connect your smart that makes the drive smoother with The City 2021’s concept of ex- The all-new City is longer and ciousness and comfort within the  Satin silver look AC vent sur- phone. the G Shift design technology. This terior design is set as “STANDING wider giving it a large stance, which car. Inspired by putting people round finish for a premium look  USB Ports: The 2021 City has ensures the engine performs within on the EDGE” aiming for styling elevates its image of being a luxuri- first, the interiors are based on  Smart entry with push button two USB ports (LX grade onwards) a speed range that is best for fuel ef- that can stand on the cutting edge ous sedan. Length has increased by Honda’s “Man Maximum, Machine starts for easy access and quicker that can be used to connect the ficiency, Paddle shifters with 7 steps of this era. With its sharp body char- 90mm, Width by 60mm and large Minimum” philosophy. Wherein, a start/stop (LX Onwards) phones or simply charge your smart complete the set for the sporty drive. acter lines starting from the front trunk volume. thoughtfully created interior space  Remote Control Engine Start- phones. The All New City delivers a 21.1 Day Time Running Lights, which with ample legroom and an ergo- er (LX Onwards)  Rear Wide View Camera: It KM/L on fuel efficiency, based on flows along the side just above the All-new Sport Grade – LX Sport nomically designed cockpit come  Fully automatic climate con- provides three different angles — standard test conditions. Actual fuel door handles and blending into A First in 2021, the City intro- together beautifully to give you a su- trol with click-feel AC dials and normal, top-down and wide for a efficiency may vary based on road the three-dimensional rear lights. duces a whole new grade namely the premely sublime riding experience. white illumination (LX Onwards) better view of what is behind you conditions, driving style and driving This bold front is taken to the next City LX Sport. The LX Sport con- The seat upholstery provides a  Driver Information Interface whenever you shift into Reverse. environment) level with the integration of full cept adds sport black exterior trim sense of luxury provides useful information for the (LX grade onwards) The City comes in five exterior LED headlights with 9 LED Array accents to enhance the City brand driver, including odometer,  Paddle Shift: Steering Wheel colours — Platinum White Pearl, Inline shell in the EX Grade Only, and give it a sporty look. This grade trip A&B, ambient mounted Paddle shifters complete Lunar Silver Metallic, Modern Steek Integrated LED DRL in all grades has been primarily introduced to at- temperature and the sporty feeling and gear control Metallic, Radiant Red Metallic and and L-Shaped LED Turn signal in tract younger customers and add shift posi- for additional engine braking or Golden Brown Metallic. The interi- all grades which give it a sporty and to the young and sporty seg- overtaking or simply shifting gears. ors come in beige and black. advanced look and feel. The upper ment of Honda. The salient (LX Port Onwards) Honda cars are distributed in Chrome grille in the front presents features of the Sport Grade Qatar by Doha Marketing Services the signature Honda Solid Wing include: Advanced safety features Company (DOMASCO), a leading Face and elevates the car to a sleek • Piano Black Honda The City is equipped multi-brand company in Qatar and and sophisticated position. The EX Solid Wing with Honey- with a lot of safety technolo- a member of the Al Futtaim group. Grade also boasts of LED Front Fog comb Grille gies that help the driver to It has a diversified portfolio of pas- Lights and all Grades have the Rear • Body Colored Door be more confident on the senger cars, motor bikes, commer- LED Fog Lights. Handles roads with our ACE tech- cial vehicles, marine and power • Piano Black Mirror nology that prevent the products, watches and electronics ‘Katana blade in motion’ • Fog Lamps with Fin collision impact from representing some of the world’s Inspired by the Japanese Ka- Garnish reaching the most visible and award-winning tana Blade, a type of curved sword • Black Shark Fin Antenna passen- brands. used by the ancient samurai, the • LED Taillights gers, six COVID-19 travel insurance becoming a vacation staple Agencies The market for all types of clude coronavirus testing costs ed about 80% of total medical like COVID-19. COVID-19 travel coverage is and services like evacuation travel plan sales. Jordan’s Tourism Bureau COVID-19 insurance policies estimated to be between $30 or local burial or cremation. Seven Corners also saw a was not available for com- are increasingly joining pass- billion to $40 billion a year, These benefits, introduced by 20% rise in travelers buying ment. ports and sunscreen as vaca- according to travel insurance insurers in mid-2020, are sold highly priced “cancel for any It is not clear how coverage tion staples, creating oppor- consultant Robyn Ingle, with either as add-ons or as sepa- reason” policies in 2020. The demand will evolve as many tunities for insurers as more companies like AXA and AIG rate policies with coverage for policies cover cancellation more people become inocu- countries require mandatory underwriting protection. illness or quarantine. costs related to the virus. lated against the coronavirus coverage in case visitors fall ill But a surge in demand Jeremy Murchland, presi- Some countries have man- with vaccines. from the coronavirus. for COVID-19 coverage also dent of Indiana-based travel dated travel insurance for in- Frank Comito, a special Airline bookings are on the means insurers could be on the insurance company Seven coming visitors – either by in- advisor to the Caribbean Hotel rise in some regions, driving hook for big payouts should Corners, said travelers are now cluding it in their entry or visa and Tourism Association, said cautious hopes of a revival in another wave of infections lead “more likely to insure their fees or by requiring proof of some budget travelers have summer traffic, but also rais- to large numbers of cancella- trips,” as more countries re- coverage, said insurer World complained about mandatory ing fears among tourist desti- tions or tourists getting sick. quire COVID-19 coverage. Nomads. coverage. And some countries nations of getting hit with bills “Travel insurance and A travel insurance plan Jordan is evaluating could discontinue or relax should vacationers become protection services are tak- that includes trip protection, COVID-19 insurance policies are increasingly joining passports and whether to require a manda- the requirement as “we move stranded by the virus. ing off at pace with travel as it medical expense coverage for sunscreen as vacation staples. tory flat fee for visitors as part away from the pandemic.” More than a dozen coun- resumes, said Dan Richards, COVID-19 and protection for of a program from Global Res- Rifai, former secretary tries from Aruba to Thailand chief executive for travel risk baggage and personal effects coverage has created opportu- Seven Corners introduced an cue and the Global Travel and general of the UN’s World require COVID-19 coverage for and crisis management firm typically costs 4% to 8% of the nity for the hard-hit insurance optional medical travel plan Tourism Resilience Council, Tourism Organization, said visitors, with Jordan the latest Global Rescue. dollar value of the trip, Murch- industry and a niche to devel- with coverage for coronavirus said council co-chair Taleb Ri- he expects countries will con- to consider such protections, COVID-19 insurance ben- land said. op new products, companies expenses, Murchland said. By fai. The program, which costs tinue requiring coverage as organizers of an emergency efits typically cover treatment While the pandemic has said. year’s end, the product with up to $100 per person, covers the vaccines “will take years” services plan told Reuters. up to $100,000, and could in- battered travel, demand for For example in June, coronavirus coverage generat- certain disasters and illnesses to roll out globally. D&G seeks over $600 mn damages from bloggers Deliveroo to offer 50 million Agencies “This whole case is a way Scafidi told The Associated of trying to silence Diet Prada, The case dates back to Press on Saturday. pounds of stock to customers The Milan fashion house and to silence Tony (Liu) and November 2018, when Italian defense attorneys Dolce&Gabbana has filed a Lindsay (Schuyler) personal- Dolce&Gabbana faced a filed a brief this week in Milan Agencies firm’s growth and he wanted to from Monday. Each would be defamation suit in an Italian ly,” said Susan Scafidi, direc- boycott in Asia after outrage civil court, arguing that Italy give them the chance to share able to apply for up to 1,000 court seeking over $600 mil- tor of the Fashion Law Insti- over what were seen as cul- is not the correct venue for Deliveroo said shares worth in the next stage of its journey. pounds of shares, it said, add- lion in damages from two U.S. tute at Fordham Law School, the case, given that the blog is 50 million pounds ($69 mil- “Far too often, normal peo- ing that loyal customers would fashion bloggers who reposted which is coordinating the turally insensitive videos produced in the United States lion) would be earmarked for ple are locked out of IPOs, and be prioritised if the offer were anti-Asian comments attrib- bloggers’ defense. and the alleged damages oc- customers in its upcoming flo- the only participants are the oversubscribed. uted to one of the designers The case dates back Dolce&Gabbana merchandise curred in Asia. tation, with the offer branded institutional investors,” he said Russ Mould, investment that led to a boycott by Asian to November 2018, when and Asian VIPs disavowing The fashion house is seek- “Great food with a side of on Sunday. director at online platform AJ consumers. Dolce&Gabbana faced a boy- the brand. ing damages totaling more shares”. “I wanted to give as many Bell, said a year of lockdowns The suit was filed in Milan cott in Asia after outrage over Designers Domenico than half a billion euros, Scafi- The Amazon-backed food customers as possible the had fuelled demand for com- civil court in 2019 but only be- what were seen as culturally Dolce and Stefano Gabbana di said. delivery firm announced plans chance to become sharehold- panies like Deliveroo and there came public this week when insensitive videos promot- initially said that Gabbana’s She said the fashion house on Thursday to list in London, ers, which is why we’re making was an expectation that habits the bloggers posted about it on ing a major runway show in account had been hacked. The is seeking 450 million euros with a potential value of $7 bil- 50 million pounds of shares formed during the pandemic their Instagram account, Diet Shanghai and subsequent two later appeared in a video spent to restore brand image lion making it the biggest mar- available to them, alongside our would remain long into the re- Prada. Their feed is widely posts of insulting comments apologizing to the Chinese since 2018 and damages of 3 ket debut in Britain for three restaurant partners and riders.” covery. “All this suggests there followed in the fashion world in a private Instagram chat. people. million euros for the company years. Deliveroo said any cus- is likely to be a bun fight for for its cutting commentary on The show was canceled “A public apology and a and 1 million for Gabbana, to Founder and chief execu- tomer who had placed an order the 50 million pounds worth of unoriginality in designs and in the backlash, which in- quiet lawsuit really cancel whom the remarks were at- tive Will Shu said Deliveroo’s would be able to register their customer shares in Deliveroo at on social issues. cluded retailers pulling each other out in my mind,” tributed. customers had supported the interest via the company’s app the IPO offer,” he said. Economy & Business Monday, March 8, 2021 11 Chinese exports surge as global demand recovers from virus

Agencies months to compensate for fluc- and complex.” economic official, Premier Li months from the previous tuations due to the Lunar New Exports to the United Keqiang, announced plans to year. Exports to the United China’s exports surged 60.6% Year holiday, which falls at dif- States soared 87.3% over last accelerate technology develop- States plunged 27.7%. over a year earlier in the first ferent times each year in Janu- year to $80.5 billion in January ment and reduce reliance on Li announced an economic two months of 2021, after fac- ary or February. Factories shut and February despite former other countries. That threatens growth target of “over 6%” this tories reopened and global de- down for up to two weeks, then President Donald Trump’s tar- to worsen strains with Wash- year, which should help to pro- mand started to recover from restock after they reopen. iff hikes imposed in a fight over ington and Europe, which pel demand for foreign oil, iron the coronavirus pandemic. Exporters benefited from trade, technology and security. complain Beijing violates its ore, food, consumer goods and Exports rose to $468.9 the relatively early reopen- They have been left in place by market-opening pledges by other imports. billion, customs data showed ing of China’s economy after his successor, Joe Biden, who shielding its suppliers from Beijing promised to buy Sunday, accelerating from the ruling Communist Party took office in January. competition. more American soybeans, December’s 18.1% gain and declared victory over the dis- Economists and political The latest trade figures natural gas and other exports nearly double the growth ex- ease last March while foreign analysts expect few changes look especially dramatic com- in the “Phase 1” agreement pected by forecasters. Imports competitors still face anti-virus under Biden due to widespread pared with early 2020, when last January aimed at ending jumped 22.2% to $365.6 bil- controls. Chinese exports rose to $468.9 billion, accelerating from December’s frustration in Washington with the ruling party shut factories the tariff war. The two sides lion, up from December’s 6.5% Forecasters say the Chinese 18.1% gain and nearly double the growth expected by forecasters. China’s trade and human rights to fight the virus and trade agreed to postpone more tariff increase. export surge should deceler- records and complaints about plunged. hikes, but penalties on billions Chinese authorities com- ate as demand for masks and and overseas competitors re- officials have warned that the technology theft and spying. Then, global exports tum- of dollars of each other’s goods bine trade data for the first two other medical supplies eases turn to global markets. Trade global situation still is “grave On Friday, China’s top bled 17.2% in 2020′s first two remain. Drones vs hungry QBIC opens registration for 3rd wave moths: Dutch use tech to protect crops of its Lean Manufacturing Program

Agencies The drones themselves LMP is designed to Dutch cress grower Rob are basic, but they are take emerging local Baan has enlisted high-tech helpers to tackle a pest in steered by smart tech- manufacturing his greenhouses: palm- nology aided by special sized drones seek and de- cameras that scan the capabilities to the stroy moths that produce airspace in greenhouses next level caterpillars that can chew up his crops. that also includes other “I have unique products bugs, pheromone traps and Tribune News Network where you don’t get certifi- bumblebees. Doha cation to spray chemicals The drone system is and I don’t want it,” Baan the brainchild of former Qatar Business Incubation said in an interview in a students from the Techni- Centre (QBIC), MENA region’s greenhouse bathed in the cal University in Delft who leading mixed-use business pink glow of LED lights that thought up the idea after incubator, has announced that help his seedlings grow. His wondering if they might be registration for the third wave company, Koppert Cress, able to use drones to kill of its Lean Manufacturing Pro- exports aromatic seedlings, mosquitos buzzing around gram (LMP) is now open, and plants and flowers to top- their rooms at night. will run until May 20, 2021. end restaurants around the Baan says the drone Registration via QBIC’s official world. control system is smart website is available at www. A keen adopter of in- enough to distinguish be- qbic.qa/lean-manufacturing- novative technology in his tween good and bad crit- program/. greenhouses, Baan turned ters. The first programme of its to PATS Indoor Drone So- “You don’t want to kill kind in Qatar, LMP is designed QBIC invites ambitious Qatari entrepreneurs and those looking to learn best practices in manufacturing, production, and development, to regis- lutions, a startup that is de- a ladybug, because a lady- to take emerging local manu- ter for the LMP via its official website at www.qbic.qa veloping autonomous drone bug is very helpful against facturing capabilities to the systems as greenhouse sen- aphids,” he said. “So they next level as participants are project, participants will be nai, Executive Director of Ad- All participants in the ing and sales, fundamentals tinels, to add another layer should kill the bad ones, trained and coached on devel- able to present their achieve- visory and Incubation at QDB, LMP embark on a six-week of lean manufacturing and of protection for his plants. not the good ones. And the oping their ideas by leverag- ments to a specialised commit- said, “Following the success developmental journey, dur- business model effectiveness, The drones themselves good ones are sometimes ing the expertise of local and tee and potentially gain access of the first and second waves ing which they learn the most facility mapping and machin- are basic, but they are very expensive — I pay at international specialists and to dedicated workshop space, of the Lean Manufacturing important aspects of operat- ery distribution, and inte- steered by smart technology least 50 cents for one bum- partners. on-going coaching, and of- Program, we return this year ing factories and developing grated supply chain manage- aided by special cameras blebee, so I don’t want them As part of the programme, fice space. Project owners will for the third wave to honour products. The journey starts ment, before concluding with that scan the airspace in to kill my bumblebees.” entrepreneurs also gain a thor- then be able to harness QBIC’s our continued commitment with an introduction to the a Demo Day. greenhouses. The young company is ough, hands-on understanding support and utilize the “Jahiz” to supporting entrepreneurs legal requirements for manu- QBIC invites ambitious Qa- The drones instantly still working to perfect the of the holistic manufactur- factory platform to grow their first, and Qatar at large, to- facturing projects in the State tari entrepreneurs and those kill the moths by flying into technology. ing process through a series business ventures and trans- wards developing emerging of Qatar and continues with a looking to learn best practices them, destroying them in “It’s still a development of practical sessions that are form their projects from a win- manufacturing projects and number of modules and work- in manufacturing, production, midair. product, but we ... have very based on the lean methodol- ning idea to a fully operational empowering ambitious busi- shops covering product design and development, to register “So it sees the moth fly- good results. We are target- ogy. stand-alone factory. ness owners who aspire to and prototype development, for the LMP via its official web- ing by, it knows where the ing moths and we are taking Towards concluding the Ibrahim Abdulaziz Al Man- grow and expand.” customer validation, market- site at www.qbic.qa drone is ... and then it just out moths every night in an directs the drone towards autonomous way without the moth,” said PATS chief human intervention,” said technical officer Kevin van PATS CEO Bram Tijmons. Hecke. “I think that’s a good step German lawmaker to resign after his firm profited from masks There weren’t any forward.” moths around on a recent Baan also acknowledges Agencies Nikolas Loebel, a back- “more sensitive,” Loebel ad- liament, and determine who for my actions,” he said. greenhouse visit by The that the system still needs bench lawmaker with Mer- mitted that he had made a succeeds Merkel, follows on Loebel’s case wasn’t the Associated Press, but the refining. A lawmaker with German kel’s center-right Christian mistake and gave up his seat Sept. 26. first to rattle the center-right company has released vid- “I think they still need Chancellor Angela Merkel’s Democratic Union, was blast- on parliament’s foreign affairs On Sunday, Loebel said bloc. Georg Nuesslein — a eo shot in a controlled en- too many drones ... but it party said Sunday he will give ed by members of his own committee. he will leave the Union bloc’s prominent lawmaker with the vironment that shows how will be manageable, it will up his seat in parliament and party and opponents after it That wasn’t enough for group in parliament immedi- Christian Social Union, the one bug is instantly pulver- be less,” he said. “I think leave politics after it emerged emerged Friday that a com- critics — particularly as his ately and give up his seat at the CDU’s Bavaria-only sister par- ized by a drone rotor. they can do this greenhouse that his company profited pany he runs earned commis- home state of Baden-Wuert- end of August. He apologized ty — faces a corruption inves- The drones form part of in the future maybe with 50 from deals to procure masks sions of 250,000 euros (nearly temberg elects a new regional and said he won’t run in the tigation by Munich prosecu- an array of pest control sys- small drones, and then it’s early in the pandemic — draw- $300,000) from brokering legislature on March 14. A na- September election, the dpa tors in connection with mask tems in Baan’s greenhouses very beneficial.” ing sharp criticism in an elec- contracts to buy masks. Say- tional election in which Ger- news agency reported. procurement deals. He denies tion year. ing that he should have been mans will choose a new par- “I am taking responsibility wrongdoing. GOP pushes bills to allow social media ‘censorship’ lawsuits

Agencies ley stifling conservative view- damages of $75,000 for each was meant to promote growth plaining they have given too points were amplified when blocked post. They would ap- of the internet, exempts web- much latitude to conservatives Republican state lawmak- the companies cracked down ply to companies with millions sites from being sued for re- and hate groups. ers are pushing for social me- on misleading posts about the of users and carve out exemp- moving content deemed to Trump railed against Sec- dia giants to face costly law- 2020 election. tions for posts that call for vio- be “obscene, lewd, lascivious, tion 230 throughout his term suits for policing content on Twitter and Facebook, lence, entice criminal acts or filthy, excessively violent, har- in office, well before Twitter their websites, taking aim at which are often criticized for other similar conduct. assing, or otherwise objection- and Facebook blocked his ac- a federal law that prevents in- opaque policing policies, took The sponsor of Oklahoma’s able” as long as the companies cess to their platforms after ternet companies from being the additional step of silenc- version, Republican state Sen. are acting in “good faith.” the assault on the Capitol. Last sued for removing posts. ing Trump on their platforms Rob Standridge, said social As the power of social me- May, he signed a largely sym- GOP politicians in roughly after the Jan. 6 insurrection at media posts are being unjust- dia has grown, so has the pros- bolic executive order that di- two dozen states have intro- the U.S. Capitol. Twitter has ly censored and that people pect of government regulation. rected the executive branch to duced bills that would allow banned him, while a semi-in- should have a way to challenge Several congressional hear- ask independent rule-making for civil lawsuits against plat- dependent panel is reviewing the platforms’ actions given ings have been held on content agencies whether new regula- forms for what they call the Facebook’s indefinite suspen- their powerful place in Ameri- moderation, sometimes with tions could be placed on the “censorship” of posts. Many sion of his account and con- can discourse. His bill passed Silicon Valley CEOs called to companies. protest the deletion of politi- sidering whether to reinstate committee in late February on testify. Republicans, and some “All of these tech monopo- cal and religious statements, access. Twitter and Facebook are often criticised for opaque policing policies. a 5-3 vote, with Democrats op- Democrats, have argued that lies are going to abuse their according to the National Con- Experts argue the legisla- posed. the companies should lose power and interfere in our elec- ference of State Legislatures. tive proposals are doomed to Law School, described the idea that you would create a “This just gives citizens re- their liability shield or that tions, and it has to be stopped,” Democrats, who also have fail while the federal law, Sec- idea as a “constitutional non- cause of action that would al- course,” he said, adding that Section 230 should be up- he told supporters at the Capi- called for greater scrutiny of tion 230 of the Communica- starter.” low people to sue when that the companies “can’t abuse dated to make the companies tol hours before the riot. big tech, are sponsoring the tions Decency Act, is in place. “If an online platform happens is deeply problematic that immunity” given to them meet certain criteria before Antigone Davis, global same measures in at least two They said state lawmakers are wants to have a policy that under the First Amendment.” through federal law. receiving the legal protection. head of safety for Facebook, states. wading into unconstitutional it will delete certain kinds of The bills vary slightly but Part of a broad, 1996 fed- Twitter and Facebook said these kinds of proposals The federal liability shield territory by trying to interfere tweets, delete certain kinds of many allow for civil lawsuits eral law on telecoms, Section also have been hounded over would make it harder for the has long been a target of for- with the editorial policies of users, forbid certain kinds of if a social media user is cen- 230 generally exempts inter- what critics have described site to remove posts involving mer President Donald Trump private companies. content, that is in the exercise sored over posts having to do net companies from being as sluggish, after-the-fact ac- hate speech, sexualized photos and other Republicans, whose Len Niehoff, a professor of their right as a information with politics or religion, with sued over what users post on count suspensions or post of minors and other harmful complaints about Silicon Val- at the University of Michigan distributer,” he said. “And the some proposals allowing for their sites. The statute, which takedowns, with liberals com- content. QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour 4-Star Katara from today MONday, MARCH 8, 2021 page 14

Nasser Al Khelaifi welcomes Federer to Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2021

Tribune News Network Khalifa International Tennis & Doha Swiss maestro’s presence Squash Complex. In addition to Federer’s Nasser Al Khelaifi, Chair- It’s an honour to welcome Roger (Federer) back to highly anticipated comeback, man of beIN Media Group, Doha where his presence alone will light up the the ATP 250 Qatar ExxonMo- President of Paris Saint-Ger- MENA region. With the Australian Open qualifiers and bil Open will also see the re- main, President of Qatar Ten- the FIFA Club World Cup seamlessly taking place turn of three-time Grand Slam nis Federation, and a former here in Doha these past few months, I am pleased winner Stanislas Wawrinka; Davis Cup player himself, has that Qatar has become one of the world’s COVID-safe defending champion Andrey personally welcomed tennis sports hubs, bringing hope and a small sense of Rublev; 2019 Qatar ExxonMo- great Roger Federer to Doha bil Open winner Roberto Bau- ahead of the start of the Qa- normalcy during these challenging times tista Agut; as well as 2020 US tar ExxonMobil Open 2021 Nasser Al Khelaifi Open winner Dominic Thiem. which begins Monday and beIN SPORTS’ coverage of will be exclusively broadcast the Qatar ExxonMobil Open across the 24 countries of and had two knee surgeries the greatest athletes of all time, will see the global sports chan- the Middle East & North Af- in 2020. Federer has won the while also being the epitome nel exclusively cover the tour- rica (MENA) and also France, Qatar Open three times. of good grace and sportsman- naments on its Arabic and Singapore and Australia by beIN SPORTS will exclu- ship on and off the court. For English sports channels across beIN SPORTS. sively broadcast the tourna- me it is his values as much as all 24 countries of MENA, from The return of 20-time ment across the Middle East & his achievements that are most Morocco to Oman and every Grand Slam champion Roger North Africa (MENA), France, inspiring, together with his re- country of MENA in between. Federer to playing tourna- Singapore and Australia – and lentless pursuit of excellence. The Arabic channels will ment tennis this week at the beIN Media Group’s Chairman “It’s an honour to welcome Nasser Al Khelaifi, Chairman of beIN Media Group, President of Paris Saint-Germain, and the President of also include studio coverage Qatar Exxon Open 2021 is Al Khelaifi – himself a former Roger (Federer) back to Doha Qatar Tennis, Badminton and Squash Federation. for all the best analysis and one of the most anticipated ATP ranked tennis player who where his presence alone will latest news updates from both comeback stories in sport. played on the international cir- light up the MENA region. place here in Doha these past hubs, bringing hope and a The tournament begins on tournaments. beIN SPORTS is The Swiss tennis super-star cuit between 1992 and 2002 With the Australian Open few months, I am pleased that small sense of normalcy dur- Monday and will conclude on also the exclusive broadcaster hasn’t played since the 2020 – warmly welcomed Federer qualifiers and the FIFA Club Qatar has become one of the ing these challenging times,” Saturday (March 13), with all of the tournament in France, Australian Open last January, back to Doha. “Roger is one of World Cup seamlessly taking world’s COVID-safe sports said Al Khelaifi. the action taking place at the Singapore and Australia. Back to his ‘second family’, Swiss great resets expectations in Doha

head of his return to the ATP Tour at this week’s Qatar ExxonMobil Open Ain Doha, Roger Federer re- flected on his 13-month ab- sence from the sport and shared his excitement to re- turn to the court. A lot has changed for the 20-time Grand Slam cham- pion since his most recent match at the 2020 Australi- an Open, including two right knee surgeries and global Exciting to be pandemic, but the Swiss never wavered in his ambi- back in Qatar tion to return to the court. “I just feel like the story I am very happy to be is not over yet… I would back playing a tourna- like to get that high of play- ment again. It has been ing against the best players, a long time. I never playing at the biggest tour- thought it was going to naments, winning them, hopefully, and being in the take this long. I came conversation,” said Federer. here to Qatar in 2003… The former World No. 1 for the very first time will make his return at an and I always enjoyed event where he has achieved playing here… It is consistent success. Federer is a three-time champion in exciting to be back, Doha with a 26-3 tourna- seeing all the players ment record. Eighteen years again… I am looking after his tournament debut, forward to the start. the Basel native is excited to be back playing at the Khal- Roger Federer ifa International Tennis & Squash Complex. “I am very happy to be my time at home. After 20 back playing a tournament Roger Federer will compete in Doha for the first time since 2012. The Swiss has travelled to Qatar with his coaches Severin Luthi and Ivan Ljubicic, as well as his physio, Daniel Troxler. years on Tour, to be home for again. It has been a long The three-time Doha champion could meet in his comeback match: Daniel Evans. The Brit will face Frenchman Jeremy Chardy in a first-round clash for the right to play Federer. an extended period of time, to time,” said Federer. have used that period in a dif- “I never thought it was closer I was getting to Pete going to be, how the results ferent way, has been actually going to take this long. I came Samparas’ record… Once you will be, how long I can still quite nice. I have missed the here to Qatar in 2003… for have it, you try to do your keep doing this,” said Federer. Tour. I have missed the sec- the very first time and I al- best and that is what I tried to “I know it is on the rare side ond family, (which is) how I ways enjoyed playing here… It Expectations are really low, but do. But for them, maybe I am for an almost 40-year-old to call the Tour.” is exciting to be back, seeing I hope I can surprise myself and the measuring stick like Pete come back after a year being Now in the company of his all the players again… I am was for me. out and I was surprised how second family in Doha, Feder- looking forward to the start.” maybe others. I know that people “I am in a different situa- long it took, but I took a deci- er is philosophical about the Federer is keen to manage will think that the measuring stick tion but sure, you like to keep sion quite early with my team week ahead. Simply by step- his expectations this week. will only be titles, trophies, finals every record. But all the re- that I wanted to take the time ping on the court for his first The 103-time tour-level titlist and semi-finals and I am happy that cords are there to be broken. [with] no rush to get back onto match against Jeremy Chardy has been surprised by the people think of me that way but, The guys are unreal, we all the Tour. It is important that I or Daniel Evans, he will have level he has already shown know that. I hope they keep am injury-free, pain-free and I reached the first milestone of in practice, but he is keen to honestly, the expectations are in a on going. I hope they can do can actually enjoy myself out his comeback plan. avoid putting any results- completely different place for me. everything they possibly want there on Tour.” “However this tournament driven pressure on himself and that they look back with After more than two dec- will play out, I will be happy over the coming months. no regrets… We want to leave ades of competing on the ATP leaving the court because I “At this moment, let’s see the game with no regrets and Tour, the 6’1” right-hander will have played a tournament how matches go,” said Feder- practice the past three weeks. Slam titles leaderboard last are able to back it up. Novak I think, from that standpoint, spent his time away from again,” said Federer. er. “Let’s see how training goes I was surprised with how year at Roland Garros and did it again in Australia and we all sleep very well at night.” the Tour enjoying family “Expectations are really with all the top guys… It is still well it actually did go. But we Djokovic has added two fur- Rafa again did it at Roland Perhaps the biggest life. Federer also believes the low, but I hope I can surprise (a matter of) building up to know matches are a different ther Australian Open titles to Garros. They seem [to be] at question mark surrounding break could have helped to myself and maybe others. I being stronger, better, fitter, animal, so right now I just his resume. On Monday, the their peak which is great for Federer’s return will be how prolong his career. know that people will think faster and all that stuff. I hope take it day by day. I am happy Serbian will also break Feder- tennis and it is great for the de- he responds to the two right “I do believe what you that the measuring stick will by Wimbledon I am going to I am back on the Tour again.” er’s record for the most weeks bate. My concern is more (on) knee surgeries he underwent miss through injuries, you can only be titles, trophies, fi- be 100 per cent and, from then Since his last appearance, spent at the top of the FedEx my own game, my own health last year. The 39-year-old has add to the back end of your ca- nals and semi-finals and I am on, the season really starts for Federer’s Big Three rivalry ATP Rankings. over the record, to be honest. declared himself ‘pain-free’ reer,” said Federer. “I do feel happy that people think of me me. Everything until then, lets with Rafael Nadal and No- “What Novak and Rafa “I think for them, maybe ahead of his first appearance like somebody like myself, that way but, honestly, the ex- just see how it goes. vak Djokovic has significantly have done, as of late, is ex- this is bigger than for me at in Doha since 2012. who has played almost 1,500 pectations are in a completely “I might surprise myself. I evolved. Nadal tied Federer’s traordinary,” said Federer. this moment because for me, “I do think the knee will matches, that breaks are al- different place for me.” actually already have done in record at the top of the Grand “They are not 25 either. They it was very important the dictate how the comeback is ways welcome… I did enjoy (atptour.com) Sports Monday, March 8, 2021 13 Defending champion Rublev warms up for Doha with title win in Rotterdam Thiem, Agut, Shapovalov, Goffin, Wawrinka other stars as Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2021 begins

Tribune News Network 50 minutes. Prior to his title Doha run in Rotterdam, the fourth seed also claimed titles in his With Roger Federer making final three TA P 500 events of QEO ROLL OF HONOUR a welcome return to the ATP 2020 in Hamburg, St. Peters- Most Titles, Singles: Roger Federer (3) Tour after a 13-month absence burg and Vienna. at the 2021 US$ 787,930 Qatar “I feel happy. It has been Most Titles, Doubles: Rafael Nadal (4) ExxonMobil Open, where the a really great week,” said Oldest Champion: David Ferrer, 32, in 2015 Swiss superstar is a three-time Rublev. “It has been a great former winner, the challenge past year and a half. We will Youngest Champion: Andy Murray, 20, in 2008 gets tougher for World No. 4 see if I can keep going, if I can Highest-Ranked Champion: No. 1s Roger Federer in Dominic Thiem, defending keep this level of competing champion Andrey Rublev, and (and) being a Top 10 (player).” 2005-’06, Rafael Nadal in 2014, Novak Djokovic in 2019 winner Roberto Bautista Since 2009, only Roger 2017 Agut among the frontrunners. Federer (28) and Andy Mur- Denis Shapovalov, David ray (21) have compiled longer Lowest-Ranked Champion: No. 124 Rainer Schuettler Goffin, who captured his fifth winning streaks at the level. in 1999 ATP Tour title at the recent “I was not even thinking Open Sud de France in Mont- (about the streak) until (the me- Most Match Wins: Roger Federer (26) pellier defeating Agut, and dia) were starting to put on the Russia’s Andrey Rublev celebrates after winning the final against Hungary’s Marton Fucsovics during the former World No. 3 Stanislas internet 16 matches, 17 match- ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, on Sunday. The ATP tournament in 2020 Finals Wawrinka, a 2008 Doha run- es, 18 matches,” said Rublev. Ahoy took place without the audience due to the coronavirus pandemic. (AFP) ner-up, will also feature at the “Of course, it is a great number, Singles: (2) Andrey Rublev (RUS) d. (Q) Corentin Khalifa International Tennis & but I was not even thinking zoom into action in the even- jinovic while Rublev with a Dusan Lajovic, and Italian Moutet (FRA) 6-2, 7-6(3) Squash Complex. about it… It is a great feeling to ing will be Frenchman Rich- first round bye will await the Lorenzo Sonego against Amer- Meanwhile, serving a know that I did something that ard Gasquet against Slovakian winner of Richard Gasquet and ican Taylor Fritz. Doubles: Rohan Bopanna/Wesley Koolhof d. Luke reminder of his good form not many players did.” Blaz Rola. qualifer Blaz Rola of Slovakia. Then there’s another Croa- Bambridge/Santiago Gonzalez 3-6, 6-2, 10-6 Rublev extended his phe- Rublev will now be on his Later, the fifth-seeded Adding power and more tian Borna Coric who plays nomenal winning run at ATP way to Doha where the main Bautista Agut will meet Amer- contest to the line-up is Cana- wilcard Tunisian Malek Jaziri. 500 events to 20 matches draw action gets under way ican Reilly Opelka. dian Denis Shapovalov, ranked Given the strong 32-player on Sunday when he defeated on Monday with Qatar’s wild Second-placed Federer has 11. The exciting 21-year-old draw field exciting battles can Marton Fucsovics 7-6(4), 6-4 card entrant Mubarak Shan- a first round bye and will play awaits the winner of Austral- be envisaged enroute to the to win the ABN AMRO tour- nan Zayid taking on Russiand the winner of Frenchman Jer- ian Christopher O’Connell and round of 16 where the top stars nament in Rotterdam. The wild card Aslan Karatsev at the emy Chardy and Brit Daniel Canadian Vasek Pospisil clash. will swing into action. World No. 8 also stretched centre court at 2.30pm. Evans’ match in the Round of Georgian Nikoloz Basilas- While the young would his winning streak in ATP The winner meeting top seed- 16 on Tuesday. hvili, known for his giant-kill- be eager to prove their class, Tour championship matches ed Thiem. Wawrinka will be playing ing skills, has a tough opening the experienced will aim to seven victories. The match will be followed South African qualifier Lloyd round match against Austral- to excel with their sublime Rublev saved all four break by India’s qualifier Ramkumar Harris in his opening match. ian John Millman. strokeplay. All in all a thrill- points he faced to capture his Ramanathan and Kazakh Al- The sixth-seeded Belgian The other opening round ing six-day of top class tennis fourth straight title at ATP exander Bublik. David Goffin, world ranked match-ups feature Hungarian is guaranteed at the Khalifa 500-level after one hour and Among the big guns to 14, meets Croatian Filip Kra- Marton Fucsovics vs Croatian International Complex. Andrey Rublev with the Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2020 trophy.

Qatar ExxonMobil Open 2021 Monday Order of Play CENTRE COURT Followed by Followed by Results (Qualifying Singles) Start At: 2:30pm Reilly OPELKA (USA) Doubles Second Round [WC] Mubarak Shannan ZAYID (QAT) vs 5-Roberto BAUTISTA AGUT (ESP) 1-Juan Sebastian CABAL (COL) & Robert Qualifying - [1] L. Harris (RSA) beat [6] L. vs [WC] Aslan KARATSEV (RUS) COURT A FARAH (COL) Lacko (SVK) 6-4, 6-3 Followed by Start At: 2:30pm vs [WC] Malek JAZIRI (TUN) Qualifying - [7] R. Ramanathan (IND) beat [Q] Ramkumar RAMANATHAN (IND) Nikoloz BASILASHVILI (GEO) Mubarak Shannan ZAYID (QAT) [2] N. Gombos (SVK) 6-3, 6-1 vs Alexander BUBLIK (KAZ) vs John MILLMAN (AUS) Followed by Qualifying - [3] C. O’Connell (AUS) beat [5] Not Before 6pm Followed by 3-Ivan DODIG (CRO) & Filip POLASEK (SVK) T. Fabbiano (ITA) 6-3, 7-6(7) Richard GASQUET (FRA) Lorenzo SONEGO (ITA) vs Marcus DANIELL (NZL) & Philipp OSWALD Qualifying - [4] B. Rola (SLO) beat [Alt] T. vs [Q] Blaz ROLA (SLO) vs Taylor FRITZ (USA) (AUT) Puetz (GER) 7-6(5), 6-2. Qatar Total Open has grown exponentially: Total MD Bouyer

Vinay Nayudu during the show is already outstanding by Doha itself. And we’re very lucky. And that’s why Czech Petra Kvitova won the Qatar Total Open 2021 final defeating Spaniard Garbine Muguruza on Saturday. we would like to thank as well by the Qatar The association of Total E&P Qatar with Tennis Federation and its president Nasser the Qatar Total Open – a WTA 500 event Al Khelaifi for making this possible. in Doha – has now been of almost two Qatar Airways and Qatar Duty decades with the conclusion of the 19th On plans for this year’s tournament being edition of the tournament since its launch affected.. in 2001. Both the Qatar Open tournament Well, of course, when you when you have Free congratulate Kvitova and Total E&P Qatar have had a strong less less spectators being able to come bonding throughout. With Qatar hosting that’s a big constraint. We were not able to Tribune News Network Qatar Airways Senior Vice Boca Juniors, FC Bayern yet another exciting edition despite the to invite as many guests as we wanted of Doha President Marketing and Cor- München, K.A.S. Eupen and pandemic challenges, Total E&P Qatar course on our side and and the fans in Qa- porate Communications, Ms. Al Sadd SC in the carrier’s Managing Director Matthieu Bouyer spoke tar had lesser seats. But again, we should Qatar Airways and Qatar Salam Al Shawa, said: “Qatar global football sponsorship to Qatar Tribune about what this partner- be grateful to the way it has happened Duty Free (QDF), the Official Airways is delighted to con- portfolio, further representing ship has been all out. because it’s kind of unique given the global Airline and Retail Sponsor of gratulate Petra Kvitova after its alignment with the national circumstances. the Qatar Total Open 2021, her victorious performance in vision of Qatar. Excerpts: have congratulated Petra Kvi- this year’s annual Qatar To- Qatar Airways recently On other significant initiatives like this tova on being crowned the tal Open. With every passing became the first global airline On the 2021 edition of Qatar Total Open does Total take up when it comes human winner of the Women’s Tennis season, we are privileged to in the world to achieve the It’s been a big chance that we have to be development Association (WTA) event in witness world-class athletes prestigious 5-Star COVID-19 able to see that because many other tennis Matthieu Bouyer: Managing Director, Total In Qatar, QTO is the only sports event of this Doha after her 6-2, 6-1, victory as they entertain us, and bring Airline Safety Rating by inter- tournaments have not been welcoming E&P Golfe, and Country Chair. magnitude on which we have a sponsorship. in Saturday’s final. people of all ages and back- national air transport rating public. The Australian open was not allow- We also have some large action in culture This is Kvitova’s second grounds together through organisation, Skytrax. This ing any public into the stadium initially. So cess of the event like we are we are sponsoring what we call win of the prestigious annual sport.” follows HIA’s recent success somehow here players had some fans push- The key for the success of this, I guess, a playground for kids for the Qatar National tournament which was held at Qatar Duty Free Vice Pres- as the first airport in the Mid- ing at every point. So that’s for them a big there is in Qatar, a wish to somehow expand Museum in order to educate children, the state-of-the-art Khalifa In- ident Operations, Thabet Mu- dle East and Asia to be award- change and for us a big pleasure. internationally, it’s a matter of management sometimes parents, to the energy field and ternational Tennis and Squash sleh, said: “Qatar Duty Free ed a Skytrax 5-Star COVID-19 and I think Qatar Tennis Federation has re- to the energy domain to show what oil, gas, Complex in from March 1-6 extends heartfelt congratula- Airport Safety Rating. These On association with the tournament ally managed well in that standpoint to push LNG or renewables are actually and how do and featured the presence of re- tions to Petra Kvitova on her recognitions provides assur- as the lead sponsor the limits beyond the boundaries; to make we use it? nowned international players. well-deserved win at the Qatar ance to passengers across the We’ve been in Qatar for the last 85 years. a tournament, which is well respected, and We also have some interactions linked Qatar Airways Group Total Open 2021. We thank world that airline health and So, time is of essence in our business, in I think it’s in that all the players’ agenda to kids, to schools, a program called Via, Chief Executive, Akbar Al all the players for an exciting safety standards are subject to any business. Of course for us contributing every year to come. where we go to schools with the help of the Baker, said, “I would like to tournament. Thank you also the highest possible standards to sport and social events in Qatar is really One element which I think is important is I education departments, and the govern- extend my congratulations to to the WTA 500 and the Qatar of professional, independent important and clearly Qatar Total Open for think discussing with people here and even ment, to educate children about road safety. Petra Kvitova in securing the Tennis Federation for bring- scrutiny and assessment. last 20 years is, we can say decades now listening to what the players are saying, And then internally, we promote diversity. this year’s Qatar Total Open ing this global sporting event The national carrier of as well (with the ‘s’). We saw the tourna- after the match, I think they are very well Our sponsorship with a women tennis 2021 title. Over the years, Qa- to Doha each year for specta- the State of Qatar continues ment evolving from the very beginning from taken care of - the players. tournament also indicated that we promote tar Airways has been a proud tors to enjoy both here in Qa- to rebuild its network, which 2001 to this year, we are there from some We can’t imagine but maybe and that’s a diversity. Women tournament’s today have sponsor of this prestigious tar and across the world.” currently stands at over 130 of the origin of the tournaments until what big difference as well compared to some the same type of level of importance as tournament, and once again With its recent announce- destinations. it is today, which is one of the top tourna- other tournaments. Here, every player is men’s tournaments, and that for us, is very, the State of Qatar continues ment as the Official Airline With more frequencies be- ments in the area and one of the most unique, every player is considered, and very important. At Total we also promote to demonstrate its dedication for the UEFA EURO 2020™, ing added to key hubs, Qatar seen tournaments as well in the world, I when you have a long season coming here diversity in gender as well for all women toward hosting world-class Qatar Airways’ continues to Airways offers unrivalled con- would say in terms of WTA. So we are happy and knowing that yes, you will be you will to have the same potential career path as sporting events. We look for- strengthen its presence in the nectivity to passengers, mak- with that. be looked at is something which is I think men. And this is something for which we ward to taking part in future world of sport; with the likes ing it easy for them to change important for them. have a program. It’s a worldwide program tennis championships for of FIFA, CONMEBOL, Paris their travel dates or destina- On the key core area that contributes to And the fact that QTF has managed to keep in which all Qatari women within Qatar can years to come.” Saint-Germain, AS Roma, tion if they need to. the success of the partnership and suc- quota for spectators to be able to come also participate. 14 Monday, March 8, 2021 Sports Entries open for Qatar’s new round of FIM Bajas World Cup

Tribune News Network and southern deserts to finish LOSAIL at Sealine, south of Doha. Competitors will then re- Entries are now open turn to the Losail Sports Are- and beginning to come in na for the post-event press for the new Qatar Interna- conference (17.30hrs) and the tional Baja, the Qatar Motor ceremonial finish (18.00hrs). and Motorcycle Federation’s The QMMF has also intro- (QMMF) exciting addition to duced an exciting new team the expanded 2021 FIM Bajas concept for riders competing World Cup, taking place on in the National category. A April 8th-10th. team of two eligible riders will Motorcycle and quad riders be able to enter and poten- and drivers of SSV vehicles tially run separately or share a can expect to face 504.24 motorcycle or a quad, provid- competitive kilometres ed that both entrants possess through the Qatar deserts in the minimum of a ‘National’ a compact route of 872.44km. status licence. For teams us- Officials at the QMMF, ing two machines, each must working under the chair- be fitted with a road book manship of QMMF President Abdulrahman Al Mannai, Executive Director Amro Al Exciting team format Hamad and committee mem- introduced for National ber Abdulrazaq Al-Kuwari, category riders have laid on a varied and Qatar Volleyball Association, in cooperation with the Katara, and under the supervision of the ” FIVB ” is hosting the fourth edition of the 4-star Katara Beach Volleyball Cup 2021. challenging Baja that features Qatar will participate with four teams – Qatar (1) Cherif Younousse and Ahmed Tejan, Qatar (2) Saif and Ziyad, Qatar (3) Issam and Abdullah, and Qatar (4) Al Musalmani and Gusson. sand dunes, fast sandy sec- reader and a mounting brack- tions, testing navigation and et to accept a Stella GPS unit. the unique terrain associated One of the team riders will with Qatar’s arid desert. tackle the super special stage Baja Director Pedro and then the concept follows Almeida and his assistant a relay-type format. Each day, FIVB Beach Volleyball Rashid Al-Sulaiti have con- one rider will tackle roughly firmed that the competitive half of the desert selective action will get underway with section to the refuelling point, a 6.7km super special stage at with the other taking over Simasmina – 16km from rally for the second part to the headquarters at the Losail finish. Where a two-rider World Tour from today Sports Arena - from 15.25hrs team is entered, each compet- on Thursday, April 8th. itor will tackle around 125km Tribune News Network on the World Tour. After a liaison section of per day. Doha The remaining 21 pairs di- 74.47km from Losail, the first Equipment can be trans- rectly seeded into the men’s of the desert selective sections ported to and from the start The FIVB Beach Volleyball main draw include three on Friday (April 9th) starts and finish of thestages, but World Tour 4-Star Katara is teams from Qatar, two each at Al-Jumaliya and incorpo- bikes and quads must be back with the first 4-star stop from Austria, Latvia, the rates four passage controls placed in parc fermé at the in 12 months. Netherlands and USA, and in a competitive distance of conclusion of the Baja. Tro- The best players in the one each from Brazil, Canada, 248.80km through the cen- phies will be awarded to the world have gathered in Doha Chile, Czechia, Italy, Norway, tral and northern regions of teams that finish in the top to resume their race to qualify Poland, Russia, Spain and Qatar. three in this new and innova- for Tokyo 2020. Coincidental- Switzerland. A second liaison of tive category. ly, the Katara Beach Volleyball The top three in the FIVB 87.71km returns riders and Entries close at reduced Cup in the Qatari capital was World Ranking also lead the drivers to the Losail Sports rates on Thursday, March the last big Tour stop before women’s preliminary seeding Arena. 18th with the final cut-off set the 357-day “freeze” and is all for of the Katara Beach Volley- The final stage offor Monday, March 29th. Full set to be the first to re-open ball Cup. The 34-year-old Rio 248.74km on Saturday, April details on entry concessions proceedings. Olympian Sarah Pavan and 10th starts at Al-Kharsaah, for each category are available Having hosted eight men- 28-year-old Melissa Humana- 80.53km from rally head- in the supplementary regula- only Tour stops since 2014, Paredes, who joined forces quarters, and also utilises four tions (subject to final FIM ap- including the 1-star event that right after the Games in 2016, passage controls. It winds its proval) now posted on www. took place last month, Doha is became world champions in dusty trail through the central qmmf.com ready for its ninth overall and 2019. As the number one team first ever double-gender tour- in the world, they are chasing nament. In addition, in Oc- their 11th World Tour podium, tober 2019, the Qatari capital More than 100 men’s and women’s teams are participating in the tournament from 28 countries viz: Brazil, after five golds, four silvers welcomed an FIVB-sanctioned France, Austria, America, Switzerland, Norway, Belgium, Russia, Italy, Spain, Estonia, Poland, Gambia, Germany, and a bronze. beach volleyball 4x4 event in Netherlands, Turkey, Sweden, Denmark. Lativa, Czech, India, Canada, Greece, Germany, Japan, Lituania, Qatar. Alexandra Klineman and both genders as part of the April Ross are in number two. ANOC World Beach Games. team pool advancing to the 2018-2019 World Tour sea- They challenged the Russians The US pair topped the po- The US$ 300,000 prize- single elimination phase. The son, snatched the titles at both in the gold medal matches at dium at their very first World money competition is set pool winners will advance di- the 2019 FIVB Beach Volley- both the World Championship Tour event together in Janu- to start on Monday, March rectly to the eighthfinals, while ball World Championship in and the World Tour Finals, ary 2018 and will be chasing 8, and last through Friday, the pool runners-up and the Hamburg and the 2019 World but had to settle for the silver their fifth Tour gold as they March 12, at the Al Gharrafa third-placed pairs will play in Tour Finals in Rome. Having medals. They have one more compete in the Qatari capi- Sports Complex. the round of 24. already qualified for Tokyo, silver and two bronze medals tal. The 34-year-old two-time 101 teams (56 men’s and With 24 duos seeded di- the Russian pair will aim for on the World Tour and are yet Olympic medallist Ross and 45 women’s duos) from 30 rectly into the main draw, the their fourth gold medal on to win their first gold. her 31-year-old partner also different countries, represent- remaining eight spots will be the Tour and hope to narrow Reigning Olympic cham- have a World Championship ing all five continental confed- contested in qualifications to the gap between them and the pion and two-time Olympic silver from Hamburg 2019, erations, have signed up for be played on Monday. number one team in the world medallist Alison Cerutti and where they lost to the Canadi- the Katara Beach Volleyball Russia’s Viacheslav Kra- ranking, Norway’s Anders Mol his current partner Alvaro ans in the final. Cup, with both the men’s and silnikov and Oleg Stoyanovs- and Christian Sorum. Stoy- Morais Filho are the number Rio Olympic silver medal- the women’s reigning world kiy lead the preliminary seed- anovskiy has already been on three team in the FIVB World list and 2015 world champion champions leading the prelim- ing for the men’s tournament. the Katara Cup podium. In Ranking and the number three Agatha Bednarczuk and 2014 inary seeding on entry points. 29-year-old Rio Olympian 2018, he won silver in partner- team on the list for Doha. The Youth Olympic champion and In each gender a 32-team Krasilnikov and 24-year-old ship with Igor Velichko. Brazilian partnership began in five-time age-category world main draw will feature a modi- Nanjing Youth Olympic Germany’s top pair Julius April 2019, and by the end of champion Eduarda Santos fied pool play system with the champion Stoyanovskiy, who Thole and Clemens Wickler the year had already claimed Lisboa (Duda) of Brazil are top three teams in each four- teamed up for the start of the come next down the men’s list. two gold and two silver medals next down the list. Dune bike action from a recent Qatar Cross-Country Rally.

Serge Ferrari completes architectural membranes installation at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium Tribune News Network opportunity to prove its ability weather resistance, with their durability, translucency — or Doha to meet the architectural chal- durability consistently tested, even transparency for some lenges associated with these while also being watertight products — the UV resistance, Serge Ferrari Group, which high-profile sports venues. and offering natural light” ex- and barrier against heat. specializes in the design, man- The innovative compos- plained Mohammad Bahsh, Additionally, the mem- ufacturing and distribution of ite membranes developed by Manager of Pre-sales Activi- branes are customizable, such high-technology and innova- the group were chosen by the ties in Middle East & Qatar of as the locally printed display tive eco-friendly composite venue’s architects from the Serge Ferrari Group. signage with traditional Qatari materials has just completed early design phase due to their “It’s the ideal use of ma- patterns. the installation of more than architectural and technical terial for the design of these As a trusted partner, the 30,000 square meters of ar- qualities. stadiums and we are so hon- Serge Ferrari Group was also chitectural membranes on the Used in the building of oured to mark our footprints tasked to apply their premium Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Al several stadiums that will in this extraordinary project,” construction methods and Rayyan, Qatar. host the FIFA World Cup Qa- he continued. materials across several other A world-leading partner tar 2022™, the Serge Ferrari The high-grade quali- Qatari stadiums including Al for the construction of perma- Group has worked diligently ties that make Serge Ferrari Bayt Stadium, Education City nent and temporary venues to offer the most innovative Group’s building materials Stadium, Thumama Stadium, hosting major international building solutions. superior include: - The capac- and Lusail Stadium. sporting events such as the “We are so proud to have ity to follow the contours and The Serge Ferrari Group London and Rio Olympics, been chosen by the Supreme curves of the roof, which was takes much pride in being part the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Committee for Delivery & Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium -- one of the venues for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. designed to evoke sand dunes. of this mega project and looks Brazil, the UEFA European Legacy (SC), the organisation The high technical perfor- forward to this spectacular Championship, the Serge Fer- responsible for delivering the the FIFA World Cup Qatar construction of several sta- the tournament. Our flexible mance that is demonstrated event which will forever be en- rari Group, once again had the infrastructure required for 2022™, to take part in the diums that will be used for building materials promise to in the dimensional stability, trenched in Qatar’s history. Sports Monday, March 8, 2021 15

From left: Action from the Al Sadd-Umm Salal match at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium on Sunday; Al Sadd players rejoice with the QNB Stars League trophy; and Al Sadd skipper Hassan Al Haydos celebrates with teammates after their 15th league triumph. Awesome Al Sadd emerge QNB Stars League champs unbeaten

flection. Akram then dribbled his The Wolves clinch way down the left wing and sent in a cross, only for Bounedjah’s shot to title after 3-0 win miss the target. In the 30th minute, Nam’s over Umm Salal cross was headed towards goal by Bounedjah but Umm Salal keeper Baba Malick expertly tipped it over Tribune News Network the bar for a corner. Doha Four minutes later, Bounedjah broke the deadlock. Yousuf Ab- Al Sadd clinched the QNB Stars durisag provided the assist, sending League title after a 3-0 win over a low cross into the six-yard box for Umm Salal in the Round 18 game the Algerian international to tap in which was played at the Jassim bin past the keeper. Hamad Stadium on Sunday. That was how the first half would The coronation ceremony took end, with Al Sadd taking a one-goal place after the match, strictly ad- lead into the tunnel. hering to the precautionary meas- After the break, Al Sadd picked ures and approved general health from where they had left off. In the protocol implemented in the 49th minute, Bounedjah’s blistering wake of Coronavirus (COVID-19) shot cannoned back off the wood- pandemic. work. Al Sadd thus remained as the Two minutes later, the Wolves only unbeaten team in the league managed to score again. Hassan Al so far and secured their 15th league Haydos set Yousuf up in the box title. with a nicely timed pass, and the lat- They became champions with 50 ter made no mistake with his dinked points (16 victories and two draws) finish over the keeper to double Al after taking an unassailable lead. Sadd’s lead. Baghdad Bounedjah (34th min- Following the second goal, Al ute), Yousef Abdulrazaq (51st min- Sadd were able to play more com- ute) and Rodrigo Tabata (90+2 fortably. minute) scored the goals. Xavi went on to make a slew of Umm Salal remained on 15 substitutions as the half progressed, points after their ninth defeat. and it was one such change that had Baghdad Bounedjah scored a marked impact late on. the opening goal for Al-Sadd in Tabata, who had come on for the 34th minute, and Yousuf Ab- Akram Afif, scored the third goal durisag doubled the advantage in with a sumptuous finish in the sec- the 51st minute. Rodrigo Tabata ond minute of stoppage time. then came off the bench to net the Then, the referee blew his whis- third and final goal in stoppage tle to signal for full-time, and the time. celebrations began. Al Sadd began the game on the Meanwhile, in the other QNB front foot, and carved out some Stars League matches of the day, Al chances early on. Nam Tae-hee Arabi beat Qatar SC 1-0, Al Wakrah struck a powerful shot in the 12th edged Al Sailiya 1-0, and Al Rayyan minute, but it went out with a de- Al Sadd’s Pedro Miguel waves the club flag after the team’s 3-0 win at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium on Sunday. defeated Al Ahli 3-1. Battling Bayern can’t Coach Pochettino wary of Barca as he afford slip-ups in title continues seeking perfection at PSG duel with RB Leipzig DPA to three stops for opposite number Se- DPA tung paper said on Sunday, Berlin bastien Cibois. Berlin while Kicker sports magazine But Pochettino was happy with noted that “Bayern deliver Coach Mauricio Pochettino is his side’s display, and in particular the Bayern Munich faced los- when the pressure is biggest.” pleased with the progress made manner of their pressing in midfield - ing the league lead when they Bayern ran away with seven of by Paris Saint-Germain since tak- Leandro Paredes leading the way in went two goals down inside their eight straight titles since ing over but has warned his play- that area with 12 turnovers in total. 10 minutes, and Saturday’s 2013 but have not looked as ers they cannot take anything for “The pressing shows my style, yes. results confirm that they sharp this term. granted against Barcelona next week. After two months of work, and some 15 need to be on their guard if They recently lost a seven- The French giants eased to a 3-0 games since I joined, it’s starting to take they want to secure a ninth point league lead and have victory over Brest in the last 32 of the shape,” he said. straight Bundesliga title. lost more games in the first Coupe de France on Saturday to make “The players are listening to my Robert Lewandowski’s weeks of 2021 (two) than it 12 wins, one draw and two defeats in ideas and the way I want us to play. hat-trick helped Bayern come in the entire treble-winning Pochettino’s first two months in place “Physically, I am also happy with back to beat long-time rivals 2020 (one). at the Parc des Princes. the way the players work every day and Borussia Dortmund 4-2 with Bayern boast the league’s That includes a run of three wins in we are approaching our best condition. which they remained two best attack with 71 goals, a row in all competitions heading into We are always looking for perfection, points ahead of RB Leipzig including 31 from Lewan- Wednesday’s Champions League last- Paris Saint-Germain’s Spanish midfielder Pablo Sarabia (2ndR) celebrates with but I am already happy on that side. who had briefly gone on top dowski who with 31 goals is 16 second leg with Barca, which PSG (fromL) German midfielder Julian Draxler, French forward Kylian Mbappe and Spanish “The goal today was to win and by winning 3-0 in Freiburg a approaching Gerd Mueller’s lead 4-1 following an impressive dis- midfielder Ander Herrera after scoring their second goal during the French Cup round- qualify, so I’m happy with the perfor- few hours earlier. all-time record 40, which has play in the reverse fixture at Camp Nou. of-16 match against Brest FC (Stade Brestois 29) at The Francis Le Ble Stadium in mance. We gave away a few chances The two contenders face helped them overcome ship- No team in the history of the Eu- Brest, north-western France on Saturday. (AFP) but Sergio was fantastic. We had to each other after the interna- ping 34. ropean Cup has ever progressed from think a lot about this match and not the tional break on April 4 and Leipzig are the opposite, a knockout tie over two legs after los- us, this is an extraordinary challenge. Sarabia’s strike, to keep the holders on one on Wednesday.” Mbappe’s second neither side will want to slip scoring just 46 goals in the ing the first leg at home by a margin of “Next is the match with Barcelona. course for a record-extending 14th tri- brace in as many matches took his tally up before - or after in a title post Timo Werner era but three goals, but Pochettino is not look- You have to be careful because they are umph in the competition. for the season to 25 goals in 32 match- duel that could go all the way conceding only 20. ing ahead to the quarter-finals just yet. a good team and we will have to remain PSG had some nervy moments be- es, the forward following up a sublime until the May 22 finale. “The most important is “We take it match after match and focused.” Kylian Mbappe scored twice fore Mbappe killed things off 17 min- solo strike that saw him carry the ball “RB Leipzig leave no the clean sheet,” midfielder look to win them all in each competi- for PSG in their cup victory at Stade utes from time, with keeper Sergio Rico half the length of the field with a some- doubt in Freiburg that they Kevin Kampl said after the tion,” Pochettino told Eurosport. “For Francis-Le Ble, either side of Pablo making seven saves in total, compared what fortunate goal with his chest. are the most serious Bayern Freiburg game which marked rivals,” the Sueddeutsche Zei- their sixth straight victory.