www.thepeninsula.qa Saturday 21 March 2020 Volume 25 | Number 8203 26 Rajab - 1441 2 Riyals

SPORT | 13 BUSINESS | 16

IOC reviewing UN chief says global Tokyo recession due to Olympic Games COVID-19 ‘a near scenarios certainty’

FREE Wi-Fi device! Ooredoo FREE installation! Full fun! ONE *Terms & Conditions Apply Ministries ask people to use electronic services to curb COVID-19 spread

SANAULLAH ATAULLAH THE PENINSULA MoPH reports 10 new confirmed cases

A number of ministries have THE PENINSULA — DOHA asked people to use electronic services through their apps and The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) yesterday announced official websites in place of the registration of 10 new confirmed cases of COVID-2019 in visiting in person to avail the Qatar, yesterday. services in a bid to curb the Most of the new cases are related to travellers who recently spread of COVID-19 by reducing came to Qatar from the UK and the Swiss Confederation, and the chances of infection. were quarantined. Among them five are Qataris, said the The Ministry of Education Ministry. and Higher Education has A total of 9,916 people have been tested for COVID-19 and called people to avail the 470 positive cases have been reported. Also, some 10 people services of the ministry through have recovered from COVID-19 in Qatar. official website www.edu.qa The MoPH also continues to search and investigate those and e-gate for services in contact with new cases. The Ministry also conducts nec- ‘eduservices.edu.gov.qa’ and essary checks for all Qatari citizens who have recently trav- hotline 155. elled into the country and are subject to quarantine either in “Under the preventive a hotel or at their home. measures to protect citizens Meanwhile, Hamad Medical Corporation’s Ambulance Serv- and expatriates from corona- ice’s decontamination teams continued to sterilise the housing virus, the ministry asked the complexes that are used to quarantine people. people to avoid visiting in person to the ministry as much as they can,” the Ministry has or licensing process or those website, the Ministry has Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker; Iran’s Ambassador to Qatar, H E tweeted. related to ownership which tweeted. Mohammed Ali Subhani; Director-General of Qatar Fund for Development, Khalifa bin Jassim The ministry also asked were submitted previously such The e-services of ‘Amerni’ Al Kuwari, and other officials during the shipment of medical aid to Iran, yesterday. users to obtain equivalency cer- as the follow-ups of building application include housing tificates online as the service is permit, requests for land allo- application follow up, rent available and they can apply. cation among many more. allowance follow up, house Qatar sends second shipment of The Ministry of Municipality The application also pro- purchase-ownership request, and Environment offers 93 vides important information title deed request, installment services on its app. about the service centres such exception request, labour res- urgent medical assistance to Iran “Under the framework of as the number of visitors in the idency extension, establishment ongoing state efforts to reduce waiting queue and working transactions suspension follow QNA — DOHA the end of epidemic as Qatar will spare no effort the chances of the infection of hours. up, and establishment’s in helping friendly nations. coronavirus, we advise you to The Ministry of Adminis- inclusive statistics. The State of Qatar, represented by Qatar Fund The assistance of Qatar comes to combat use Aoun app, official website trative Development, Labour Other services are labour for Development and Qatar Airways, sent the the outbreak of the novel Coronavirus comes mme.gov.qa and telephone and Social Affairs offers a total complaint follow up (indi- second shipment of urgent medical aid to the as a matter of joint responsibility in fighting number of unified call center of 33 services including 21 vidual/corporate), job seeker’s Islamic Republic of Iran to fight the spread of the epidemic, which represents a common 184 to avail the services,” the services for individuals and 12 registration certificate, nursery the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic. threat facing the entire world. The second Ministry has tweeted. services for companies through location, report violation of Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Iran, shipment, which weighs seven tons, contains Aoun offers a total of 93 its ‘Amerni’ app which is nurseries, house loan request, H E Mohammed Bin Hamad Al Hajri said that medical equipment and supplies, including masks, services, many of them are new available on Apple Store and house request for people in this was not the first time the State of Qatar sterilizers, and medical disinfectants. The first from different sectors at the Android. need, senior staff loan variance provide assistance to the Islamic Republic of shipment, which was transported on March 13, Ministry. The application fea- The users of the services of disbursement, social security Iran, with previous assistance provided during included six tons of medical equipment and sup- tures a follow-up option which the ministry can make transac- follow up, social security the floods and the earthquakes before that. He plies. Iran has reported one of the highest Corona- allows tracing of applications tions through Amerni app and documents. added that the assistance will continue until virus deaths and infections in the Middle-East. GCO stresses Designated authorities capture people Driving classes, importance who violated home quarantine conditions tests suspended QNA — DOHA of home In implementation of the precautionary measures in force in the from tomorrow country and approved by health authorities represented in the quarantine SIDI MOHAMED Ministry of Public Health to fight the spread of the Corona virus THE PENINSULA (COVID-19), the designated authorities captured ten people who THE PENINSULA — DOHA broke the home quarantine rules they committed to following, The Ministry of Interior represented by which they are legally accountable for. the General Directorate of Traffic has The Government Commu- The Ministry of Public Health said in a statement yesterday that announced the suspension of the activ- nication Office (GCO) has the violators are currently being referred to prosecution, they are: ities of driving schools, whether driving said that home quarantine 1 - Ali Kamel Youssef Al Hashmi / Qatari citizen. classes or tests in schools, from tomorrow will help protect entire 2 - Fahd Hassan Ayedh Al Qahtani / Qatari citizen. (March 22) until further notice. community from 3 - Abdullah Taleb Ibrahim Al Ansari / Qatari citizen. The Traffic Department said that the COVID-19. 4 - Mohammed Ahmed Mohammed Assad Hashem / theoretical training will continue online. “When practiced cor- Qatari citizen. Trainees can follow the lessons through rectly, home quarantine 5 - Ali Saleh Ali Al Yafei / Qatari citizen. “Driving Guide” app.The Department can ensure you and your 6 - Ibrahim Salah Ibrahim Al Mansouri / Qatari citizen. further said that this came in order to community prevent the 7 - Joma’ Marzouq Daham Al Nasser / Qatari citizen. maintain public safety and in compliance spread of coronavirus,” 8 - Mohammed Johar Mudaihi Al Abdullah / Qatari citizen. with the precautionary and preventive GCO said in an info- 9 - Said Abdulaziz Saoud Tuwaim / Qatari citizen. measures taken by the country to limit graphic tweet yesterday. 10 - Hamad Ali Mohammed Assad Hashem/ Qatari citizen. the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). It says that even if you The state authorities called on citizens and residents under Lieutenant Abdul Mohsen Al do not feel any symptoms, home quarantine to fully commit to the Ministry of Public Health’s Ruwaili said that the theoretical classes reside in a separate, ven- condition, to ensure their safety and the safety of others. will continue and that the one who tilated room and avoid The statement stressed that everyone who violates the con- Creating awareness completes theoretical training will be sharing public spaces at dition is subject to the penalties stated in Article No. 253 of Criminal A COVID-19 awareness message is displayed on a mast able to go through the test immediately home. “Refrain from Law No. 11 of 2014, Law No. 17 of 1990 on protection from infec- on the D-Ring Road in Doha, yesterday. after the opening of the schools. receiving visitors. Do not tious diseases, and Law No. 17 of 2002 on protecting society. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA `P3 share household items. Do not leave the house. Put a plastic bag inside your trashcans, closing it tightly Digital payments to get boost as residents opt for cashless transactions before disposing of it.” It adds: Wash your SACHIN KUMAR penetration and increasing using my debit card for all my technology has made it very “It only takes a second or hand often and with soap THE PENINSULA awareness in Qatar, the use of payments, even if the amount simple to make digital two to pay through contact less and water for at least 20 digital payments— whether on is small. Actually, I have not payments. cards. There is no need to seconds. Cover your Digital payments in the country mobile phones, cards, or touched physical bank notes Banks in Qatar have rolled insert the card in the machine mouth and nose with a will get a boost as residents online— has remained compar- since the outbreak of Corona- out contact less cards that and, for low-value-purchases, tissue when you cough or have increased use of online atively high, but residents have virus,” Tamal Das, an engineer have removed the need of no PIN entry is necessary. In sneeze, throwing away transactions to limit the spread stepped up the use of cards and working for a construction pressing the Personal Identi- Qatar, for contactless pur- used tissues in lined trash of coronavirus. The spurt in online transactions to prevent company told The Peninsula. fication Number (PIN) at the chases below QR100, no PIN can. If you start to feel flu- digital transactions will further the spread of Coronavirus. Many banks and other retail outlets. Contact less entry is required. Above this like including fever, accelerate the pace of Qatar’s “I was already using my financial institutions have urged cards allow customers to pay amount, users will have to cough, or shortness of transformation into a cashless debit card for most of my their customers to opt for by simply tapping the card on enter the PIN,” a senior bank breath, call 16000.” economy. shopping. But, after the out- cashless payment. Bank officials the Point of Sale (PoS) official told The Peninsula. Because of high Internet break of Coronavirus, I am say that advancement in machines or ATMs. `P3 02 HOME SATURDAY 21 MARCH 2020

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER TODAY Partly cloudy to cloudy at times with a chance of scattered FAJR04.21 am SUNRISE 05.37 am o o rain maybe thundery at some places. ZUHR 11.41 am ASR 03.08 pm 22 C 27 C Minimum Maximum HIGH TIDE 03:24– 15:11 LOW TIDE 11:05 – 21:35 MAGHRIB 05.47 pm ISHA 07.17 pm W ALRUWAIS: 21o↗27o W ALKHOR: 21o↗26o W DUKHAN: 20o↗29o W WAKRAH: 21o↗27o W MESAIEED 21o↗27o W ABUSAMRA 22o↗31o

QC: 138 companies benefit from mechanisms to OFFICIAL NEWS Amir sends congratulations to transport goods to and from Industrial Area President of Tunisia QNA — DOHA the Chamber has set up an elec- to approve. Then, the Chamber The meeting reviewed the the spread of the Coronavirus, DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin tronic system through which will send this approved mechanism of implementing while the second represents the Hamad Al Thani and Deputy Amir The Qatar Chamber’s (QC) companies, which are willing statement to companies so that the private sector’s initiatives private sector’s support for the H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad emergency committee, recently to transport goods to and from they can transport their goods aiming to face the ongoing private sector. Al Thani sent yesterday cables of formed to follow up economic the closed area, can access and to and from the Industrial Area crisis of coronavirus. In the second category, congratulations to the President of developments related to fill in their data. according to the data recorded The meeting also discussed large-scale companies and the Republic of Tunisia, H E Kais Covid-19, said that 138 Since the launch of the elec- in that statement. the Chamber’s launch of an entrepreneurs will launch ini- Saied, on the occasion of his coun- companies benefited from the tronic system and over the past Furthermore, the meeting electronic system that allows tiatives to support small busi- try’s independence anniversary. The Chamber’s efforts to solve the 24 hours, about 138 companies sought mechanisms of the com- businessmen and companies nesses whose owners face Prime Minister and Minister of inte- problem of transporting goods have been able to take mittee’s work as a focal point to launch their initiatives, financial challenges such as rior, H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa to and from the Industrial Area advantage of it and transport between the private sector sand whether physical, in-kind or workers’ salaries, rental costs, bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, also sent after the partial closure of the their goods to and from the the Supreme Committee for service. Then, the Committee and other challenges. a cable of congratulations to the area. Industrial Area, contributing to Crisis Management. will address the Supreme The emergency committee Prime Minister of the Republic of The meeting outlined the uninterrupted flow of goods The QC emergency com- Committee for Crisis Man- continues to hold meets on an Tunisia, H E Elyes Fakhfakh. QNA efforts exerted by the Chamber and commodities to the locked- mittee aims to coordinate with agement concerning these ongoing basis and receives all to ensure the uninterrupted down area, the committee said the Ministry of Commerce and initiatives. businessmen’s proposals, and flow of food and other essential in a statement. Industry to streamline busi- The private sector’s initia- initiatives at emergencyqcci.org MoCI fixes supplies to people in the The Chamber will collect nesses during the current cir- tives will be in two categories. and for any inquiries, pro- locked-down area of the Indus- these data in statements and cumstances and solve chal- The first kind is about the posals, and complaints through maximum prices trial Area. To help ease the flow send electronically to the Min- lenges faced by the private private sector’s contribution to the committee’s hotline for selling fish, of goods to the Industrial Area, istry of Commerce and Industry sector. the government’s needs to face (44559187). fruits & vegetables

Sidra Medicine offers THE PENINSULA — DOHA

The Ministry of Commerce and advice for pregnant Industry (MoCI) has fixed the maximum prices for selling fruits and vegetables. The women about COVID-19 prices will be valid till March 31, 2020 and are renewable. THE PENINSULA — DOHA patient. It is still unknown at The Ministry of Commerce this time if COVID-19 would and Industry has also fixed the The Women’s Services team at cause problems during preg- maximum prices for selling Sidra Medicine, a member of nancy or affect the health of the local fish and seafood. It will Qatar Foundation, advice baby after birth. Early/ Pre- also remain valid till March 31, pregnant women and addresses mature births have been 2020 and is renewable. some common questions about reported among infants born The price bulletin listing COVID-19. to mothers that caught the many imported and local fruits “There is currently limited COVID-19 virus during preg- and vegetables is issued information about the effects nancy however, it is not clear attached with the new of COVID-19 on pregnant that these outcomes were decision. women. However, since related to pregnancy infection. The violators will be pun- pregnant women experience “If you have any of the ished as per the law, decisions changes in their bodies, this above concerns during your and regulations in place in this may increase their risk of some self-isolation period, call regards, the Ministry has infections and getting sicker, Qatar’s MOPH Hotline 16000 tweeted. It is mandatory for all compared to the general pop- and you may be advised to go outlets to abide by the prices ulation. Premature births have to a MOPH designated site for mentioned in the bulletin. In been reported among infants pregnancy related care,” said case of violations, legal actions born to mothers that caught the the Women’s Services team at will be taken. The Ministry COVID-19 virus during preg- Sidra Medicine. Smart Parking Project asked people to call on hotline nancy, however, it is not clear Pregnant women on self- 16001 if they come across any PIC: BAHER AMIN/THE PENINSULA that these outcomes were isolation or those who have The 'Smart Parking Project' is in progress at Al Dafna skyline area. violations. related to maternal infection. been exposed and have As with the current advice COVID-19 symptoms are related to COVID-19, we rec- advised not to visit Obstetrics ommend pregnant women triage or an Outpatient Clinic ‘Online learning leaves no one behind’ follow the guidelines from unless in need of urgent Qatar’s Ministry of Public medical care. Health (MoPH) and keep in If you are a Sidra Medicine THE PENINSULA — DOHA developing their instinct for competition was the highlight handle situations like these in regular contact with their patient and would like to speak approaching legal problems and of her academic year and Ms. the future, where contracts may healthcare provider,” said the to one of our obstetricians, When Sharifa Ahen, a first-year gaining different perspectives. Ahen, along with her team- be abruptly terminated or Women’s Services team at please call 40031419 for further Juris Doctor student, received All courses have gone ahead as mates, trained on a weekly public circulars need to be Sidra Medicine. advice. news of the discontinuation of planned now that instruction basis in anticipation of this drafted.” “Although I don’t To reduce the risk of “There is currently no evi- all in-class learning, her disap- has shifted online. event since October 2019. believe online learning can per- catching COVID-19, the experts dence to suggest that COVID-19 pointment was quite evident. “I’ve learned to navigate the “On the international front, manently replace in-class urge pregnant women to follow may affect how you may give But now, more than one week benefits and complexities of the there’s a form of resilience learning, I do think it is a nec- general instructions including birth. Your original birth plan into her distance learning expe- online learning experience. I made evident by global efforts essary alternative considering maintaining personal hand should be followed as closely rience, that perception has have had to shift my mindset to ensure continuity despite the the current situation. It also hygiene and keep social as possible and based on your changed. from one that is more accus- circumstances. We knew that allows for possible future flex- distance. wishes. However, if you have “Online learning tools are tomed to skills such as being too when we were offered an ibility once things go back to They also advice to call severe breathing difficulty not entirely new to me because perceptive and able to read opportunity to participate in the normal. As we are a graduate Qatar’s Ministry of Public indicating urgent delivery, then online submissions are a core body language cues, to placing competition via online confer- degree institution, many of our Health (MOPH) hotline 16000, a cesarean birth may be rec- requirement of our law courses. more emphasis on becoming an encing. And despite it all, I was students have full-time jobs and if a person is pregnant and have ommended,” said experts at But what was new to me is active listener. In the absence also able to partake in the Vis family obligations. Online exposed to COVID -19 virus. Sidra Medicine. “There is no having to consistently use these of physical interactions or Middle East Pre-Moot in learning allows for remote The Women’s Services evidence that women with sus- tools remotely and coordinate visible responses, we’ve had to Bahrain just because it had attendance in exceptional sit- team at Sidra Medicine says pected or confirmed COVID-19 with many users simultane- rely on and improve our antic- shifted entirely online. Before uations, which is especially rel- that in case if a pregnant cannot have an epidural or a ously,” said Ahen. ipatory reactions and clarity in then, the blockade would have evant to our student body. What women and currently in self- spinal block. However, the use Along with eight other our communication.” made our visas near impossible is happening today has clearly isolation for suspected or con- of gas and air (Entonox members of her Juris Doctor A huge source of frustration to acquire.” laid the foundation for contin- firmed COVID-19 are adviced =Nitrous Oxide) may increase class, Ahen regularly convenes for Ahen was the cancellation For Ahen, unusual circum- gency measures in the future. to call and delay the the spread of the virus via aer- to deliberate on legal cases. The of the Vis international com- stances can present a learning But I also feel especially blessed appointment antenatal clinic. osolization and is not recom- Constitutional Law, Legal mercial arbitration moot court curve for everyone involved. to have access to these technol- But if the appointment is urgent mended. Therefore other Writing II, International Law competition, which was “There is a silver lining in eve- ogies, so affordability is not a and the necessary arrange- options may be discussed,” and Property Law courses they scheduled for April 2020 in rything if you look for it. As privilege we should ments will be made to see the they said. attend are geared towards Vienna, Austria. The lawyers, we will be expected to undermine.” Hope Qatar starts virtual classes for differently-abled students THE PENINSULA — DOHA needs, is to ensure that they are for each child was rapidly COVID-19 virus. Worksheets, receiving continuous and con- developed and rolled out in video lessons, audio instruc- Hope Qatar Centre for Special sistent stimulation in a sys- coordination and with the tions, fixed schedules for each Needs (Hope Qatar) recently tematic and ongoing manner” support of the parents of the student, interaction with stu- commenced virtual continued said Dr. Rajeev Thomas founder children within couple of days. dents and parents through learning support for its students and Managing Director of Hope “My husband and I were phone and video conferencing, and their families during the Qatar. relieved when the notification and a clear procedure for suspension of classroom He said that if this stimu- came from Hope Qatar about Virtual Curriculum Implemen- learning to curb the spread of lation is lost for even a few days their virtual support on a daily tation Program. COVID-19. or few weeks, visible deterio- basis for all the students. This This virtual program is This programme has been ration could be noticed in the will help my daughter to stay in expected to continue till the developed completely in-house students who may forget what touch with her teachers and restrictions are withdrawn and by the team of Hope Qatar to has been happening in the also to continue learning her normal classes resume. ensure that the 47 differently classes. lessons on a daily basis so that This ensures that no child abled students currently “Therefore it was essential she is not losing out on any lose out on the daily dose of A student of Hope Qatar Centre for Special Needs learning lessons enrolled at the centre do not for us to proactively come up learning while sitting at home” stimulation without the need for through virtual classes after classes were suspended due to miss out on their academic with a plan of action to ensure said a parent. either the student or the staff classes or their therapeutic pro- that none of our students lose COVID-19 threat. Hope Qatar’s virtual support members leaving the safe com- grammes while they wait at out when they are forced to for its students was launched forts of their own homes. homes unable to go to school, remain at home and unable to direction from our Managing She said that each class within two days of the restric- Such innovative approaches said a release. attend classes for no fault of Director to quickly develop a teacher was assigned respon- tions being imposed by the gov- have brought the program at “One of the main pre-req- theirs” he added. program that will ensure that sibility of their students and in ernment authorities preventing Hope Qatar Centre recognition uisites for an impactful pro- Academic Programs Coor- each student continues to coordination with the respective students from attending classes as one of the most impactful gramme, especially for the dinator at Hope Qatar, Mamta receive daily classes while therapists, the tools, method- to minimize the risk of trans- Special Education Program in children who have special Yash, said: “We received the sitting at their homes.” ology, and implementation plan mission or contact with the Qatar earlier also. SATURDAY 21 MARCH 2020 HOME 03 2020 edition of Qumra goes online amid COVID-19 RAYNALD C RIVERA DFI said the statement, Fatma Hassan Alre- delegates contact list, as well (Lebanon, Germany, Qatar) by and influence, and we hope THE PENINSULA maihi, Chief Executive Officer as the match-made sugges- Lea Najjar, “Machtat” (Tunisia, this “Online Qumra” will be a alternative of DFI, said “Qumra is an tions and will be invited to France, Leabanon, Qatar) by successful extension of our Doha Film Institute (DFI) has mentorship extremely important event for connect online. Furthermore, Sonia Ben Slama, and ongoing passion and com- announced the 2020 edition our community and partici- festival programmers, sales “Searching for Kikhia” (Libya, mitment to supporting of Qumra, DFI’s annual talent programme will take pants, and the 46 selected agents and distributors will Lebanon, Qatar) by Jihan emerging voices in global film- incubator for emerging global place online from projects remain a priority for have exclusive access until the Kikhia. making,” said Alremaihi. talent which marks its sixth March 20 to 25 as DFI this year. To maintain the end of this month to the “The Institute is extremely Qumra 2020 programme year, will go online after it was current momentum towards 20-min excerpts of the work- grateful to our Qumra Masters, includes 46 projects from 20 cancelled due to the corona- originally planned, success for the projects, the in-progress projects in post- filmmakers and industry par- countries, of which 20 are by virus outbreak. during which all 46 Institute will proceed with an production, preceded by a ticipants for their ongoing Qatar-based talents, including “In light of COVID-19, our adapted online mentorship video introduction by the passion and contribution to 12 by Qatari nationals. Seven team came up with solutions projects will have and support format to gen- filmmakers. our commitment to reshape of the projects were in devel- that will ensure the 46 selected their scheduled one- erate opportunities for the Yesterday, DFI announced the global storytelling land- opment, with others in the Qumra projects receive the filmmakers through this via Twitter the four feature scape and empower emerging Qumra Series and Shorts pro- mentorship and value added on-one sessions. period of new challenges. This documentary projects cur- voices to create cinema, to grammes. Of the 46 projects, support. Announcing “Qumra abridged version of the Qumra rently in the development exercise creative expression, 33 are recipients of DFI’s 2020 - The Online Edition,” catalogue highlights the 46 phase which will receive and to transform inspired Grants programme, three are DFI has tweeted. 20 to 25 as originally planned, projects that will benefit from online consultations this week. stories into acclaimed master- supported through the Qatari DFI said the alternative during which all 46 projects this innovative solution.” These include “The Flower pieces. The evolution of sto- Film Fund and one through the mentorship programme will will have their scheduled one- All industry guests will Men” (Yemen, Qatar) by rytelling has expanded the Institute’s co-financing take place online from March on-one sessions. In a receive the project catalogue, Yousra Ishaq, “Kashkash” scope and expression of ideas programme. SriLankan Driving classes and tests Qatar’s Ambassador in Seoul Airlines closes Al Khor, Industrial suspended from tomorrow expresses aspiration to FROM PAGE 1 Area branches Speaking to The Peninsula, he said that strengthen bilateral relations THE PENINSULA — DOHA the decision was taken on time after QNA — SEOUL The Doha office of SriLankan providing necessary H E the Ambassador said that it is not easy Airlines has announced that its alternative for The Ambassador of the State for a small country to host a huge event branches in Al Khor and trainees and schools. of Qatar to the Republic of Industrial Area are tempo- For his part, Korea, H E Mohammed bin like the World Cup, and the State of Qatar rarily closed, while the office Hassan Nassar, (pic- Ahmed Al Haiki, expressed wants to prove to the world by accepting in Doha has reduced working tured), Manager of the aspiration to strengthen hours, in light of the evolving Dallah Driving bilateral relations between this challenge that even for small countries COVID-19. Academy said that the two countries in various it can organise huge events and accomplish “We have strengthened decision of the fields, noting that the ground our back office teams. We General Directorate of for that exists, as Doha and great achievements whenever there are will strongly discourage serving Traffic was meant to Seoul signed more than 30 and determination. over the office in Doha during protect the safety of bilateral agreements and the outbreak,” said SriLankan the community. memoranda of understanding Airlines on social media. “The Directorate directed twice a day. Nassar also said covering all areas of cooper- Passengers who have the temporary closure of that among the measures taken ation. the Supreme Committee for economy to depend on a booked tickets with SriLankan driving schools to limit the by the academy are providing In an interview with South Delivery & Legacy, on the single source of income, so Airlines to travel between spread of COVID-19”. sanitisers at the main entrances Korea’s Arirang TV, H E the progress of work in the World ambitious policies are now March 22 and March 29 are Hassan Nassar, said that to and toilets and sterilising cars Ambassador said that many Cup facilities where many being pursued to diversify requested to contact their limit the spread of the virus, before training starts. Korean companies are projects were completed by sources of income and create travel agents or online booking Dallah Driving Academy has Many people, on social involved in huge projects 90 percent. new sectors such as the pet- site. Meantime, passengers already taken some precau- media accounts of the Ministry related to the 2022 World Regarding what the State rochemicals and fertilizers also can contact SriLankan tionary measures based on the of Interior, hailed the decision Cup, pointing out that some of Qatar wants to achieve by sector. He added that the Airlines staff on 44441217, directives of the General Direc- saying that the decision is abso- Korean companies are cur- hosting the 2022 World Cup, State of Qatar has a sovereign 44360689, 44446345 and torate of Traffic, including lutely good and it will help rently implementing the H E the Ambassador said that fund, that manages significant 44322628. Email:doh.res@sri- measuring temperature of protect trainees and trainers roads leading to Al Thumama it is not easy for a small investments in Europe, Asia, lankan.com or contact the Sri- trainees before their entrance from the virus that spreads in and Al Wakrah stadiums in country to host a huge event and the United States. Lankan Airlines 24 hour global to the academy and measuring crowded places like driving the south of the country. like the World Cup, and the H E the Ambassador of the call centre on +94117771979. the temperature of the trainers schools. He added that the State of Qatar wants to prove State of Qatar to the Republic Republic of Korea is among to the world by accepting this of Korea pointed out that the developed countries and challenge that even for small diplomacy is an art used to it has rich culture and unique countries it can organize huge achieve specific goals in a Residents in Qatar opt for cashless transactions FROM PAGE 1 heritage, besides it is a model events and accomplish great good way, and it is a good our part in limiting the spread CRA in a tweet yesterday. especially in the field of tech- achievements whenever there method to improve negoti- The required amount for of Coronavirus by increasing Ooredoo has also issued nology and innovation, indi- are will and determination. ation methods to avoid con- PIN entry varies from country the use of different modes of similar advisory for its cus- cating that the State of Qatar The State of Qatar also frontation and conflict. to country. The ease of using digital payments,” Subhash tomers. “Dear Customers, for is characterised by a strong wants to leave a mark and He said that the world cards is prompting residents Ghosh, a professional working your health and safety, we economy that achieves con- legacy of history distinctly today is very complex and to go for cashless for an IT company told The highly advise that you use tinuous growth, and is one of and differently from others, tainted with uncertainty, so transactions. Peninsula. your credit/debit cards to the oil and LNG producing as each country that hosted it needs diplomacy as the “Going cashless is not only The Communications Reg- settle bills via our Self Service countries, but it focuses more the World Cup has left its dis- main means to solve issues safe but it also has health ben- ulatory Authority (CRA) yes- Machines, instead of paying on the gas sector. tinctive cultural feature on and bring stability to the efits. With physical currency, terday urged residents to use by cash. You can also use our H E the Ambassador the championship, which is world, as it can achieve con- the chance of spreading of bank cards. “Make sure to use digital channels, such as the explained that the prepara- what Qatar wants to achieve crete results that contribute germs is more. We all know your bank card to complete Ooredoo App and the Ooredoo tions of the State of Qatar to as well, he further explained. to global stability and that reducing the amount of all recharge and bill payments website, or call 111 for other host the 2022 FIFA World Cup H E Al Haiki stressed that security, not only for the use of paper currency lowers by using telecom service pro- transactions,” said Ooredoo in are proceeding well, pointing the Qatari government does present generation but also the transmission of germs. In viders’ Self-Service Machines, messages sent to its to the recent report issued by not want the country’s for future generations. current situation, we can play mobile apps, or website,” said customers. HBKU experts provide health tips while working from home

THE PENINSULA — DOHA “Staying active during social distancing is easy! There are many forms of bodyweight exercises that can be In the wake of the current COVID-19 outbreak across the globe, experts done indoors and without expensive gym equipment. from Hamad Bin Khalifa Univer- For example, exercises like bodyweight squats, lunges, sity’s College of Health and Life Sciences provide tips on how to push-ups, and many core stability exercises (planks, improve mental well-being and get crunches, etc.) can all be done within your own home. sufficient exercise while working Yoga, especially, is a great exercise that is useful for both from home or self-isolating. Here, the experts also set about dispelling physical and mental health," said Dr. Nathan Townsend at some of the most common myths the College of Health and Life Sciences. surrounding the virus, how to safe- guard against. “Staying active during social dis- tancing is easy! There are many Dr. Edward Stuenkel (left) and Dr. Georges Nemer. mouth with a tissue when coughing virus. These drugs include Remde- forms of bodyweight exercises that or sneezing and make sure the sivir, Kaletra (a mixture of two anti- can be done indoors and without Qatar, and worldwide are particu- themselves and others from the tissue is immediately discarded,” HIV drugs), as well as the readily expensive gym equipment. For larly keen to accept as facts. virus by following good hand and he said. The latest news has available and inexpensive antima- example, exercises like bodyweight Dr. Georges Nemer at College of respiratory hygiene,” said Dr revealed that a research institute in larial drug Chloroquine. The results squats, lunges, push-ups, and many Health and Life Sciences said that Nemer. Seattle in the US is conducting a from using these drugs are expected core stability exercises (planks, such misconceptions include, drink While, according to Dr. Omar phase 1 clinical trial to assess the anytime soon. There are no crunches, etc.) can all be done water or hot fluids often to flush Albagha at College of Health and safety of a potential RNA-based immune-boosting medicines or within your own home. Yoga, espe- COVID-19 into your stomach where Life Sciences, current evidence vaccine against COVID-19. therapies that can reduce the risk cially, is a great exercise that is acid will destroy the virus, holding indicates that the COVID-19 virus “This entails examining whether of transmission,” he added. useful for both physical and mental your breath without coughing even is spread mainly from person to the tested dose would trigger the At times like this, it is vital to health. There are many yoga rou- if you have symptoms means no person through close contact with immune response, while at the same pause, breathe, and not panic. Best tines and indoor exercise workout COVID-19 infection, COVID 19 will an infected person or through time cause no adverse effects. In practice, to be on the safe side, is to ideas that can be found on YouTube go away by summertime and with droplets produced from coughing fact, there is a world-wide effort to follow the WHO guidance, which or elsewhere on the internet. Just the rise of temperatures, antibiotics and sneezing. find a vaccine but even so, there is advise people of all ages to take use search words like “indoor or the flu vaccine will destroy “The most effective measure to no assurance of an immediate one. steps to protect themselves from the workout” or “indoor bodyweight COVID-19, spraying alcohol or protect ourselves is to avoid Typically, it takes 12 to 18 months virus by practicing good hand exercises” or “home yoga routine,” chlorine all over your body kills exposure to the virus. This can be to fully validate the utility of a hygiene and good respiratory said Dr. Nathan Townsend at the COVID-19 and eating garlic or spe- achieved by avoiding crowded vaccine,” said Dr. Dindial Ramotar hygiene. College of Health and Life cific nutrients help prevent infection places and unnecessary travel, at College of Health and Life “It is important that you do not Sciences. with COVID-19. keeping a safe distance (at least six Sciences. dismiss children’s fears but speak With the globalisation of the “Best practice, to be on the safe feet) when talking to other people, “So far, there is no cure for to them at an age-appropriate level media, expert opinion tends to be side, is to follow the guidance of the not touching your face, and frequent COVID-19, except for the preventive after assessing their knowledge of diluted and can go unnoticed. This World Health Organization (WHO) cleaning of hands using soap and measures that are currently being the virus and processing your own is the case in the situation asso- and Center for Disease Control water for at least 20 seconds or taken. However, scientists are anxiety,” said Dr. Edward Stuenkel, ciated with COVID-19. The top (CDC), which advise people of all using hand sanitizer. Additionally, taking an alternative approach by College of Health and Life myths that people at HBKU, in ages to take steps to protect people should cover their nose and trying various drugs to eradicate the Sciences. 04 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA SATURDAY 21 MARCH 2020 11 new coronavirus cases in Kuwait; Jordan, Tunisia announce lockdown AGENCIES — KUWAIT/AMMAN A Kuwaiti health In Tunisia, the total number of cases rose to 54 as 15 new Eleven new cases of the novel official revealed cases were recorded. coronavirus (COVID-19) were that out of the 159 The global death toll from discovered in Kuwait within the in total coronavirus novel coronavirus has soared last 24 hours, bringing the total past 10,000 yesterday, of infections to 159, said the cases, 22 recovered according to the figures com- Kuwaiti Health Ministry and 137 are still piled by US-based Johns yesterday. Hopkins University. The Ministry’s Spokesman receiving treatment. Jordan will impose a coun- Dr. Abdullah Al Sanad revealed There are five cases trywide lockdown from today that out of the 159 in total, 22 to combat the coronavirus, cases recovered and 137 are still still in the ICU. Some barring people from moving receiving treatment. 574 individuals except for emergencies, the gov- He indicated that there are ernment said. five cases still in the ICU. Some had finished the The measures will apply 574 individuals had finished the quarantine period. from 0700 local time (0500 quarantine period, he affirmed. GMT) on Saturday until further A view of an empty mosque after Friday prayers were suspended to prevent the spread of COVID- Earlier yesterday Kuwait’s notice, said Amjad Al Adailah, 19, in Sidon, Lebanon. Minister of Health Sheikh Dr. extended the suspension of government spokesman. Basel Al Sabah announced that classes at all public and private King Abdullah has enacted four patients recovered from the schools and higher education an emergency decree giving the country on Thursday to put its coronavirus in the country, 6:00 pm to 6am (1700-0500 coronavirus, bringing the total institutions until Aug. 4 due to government sweeping powers 10 million people on lockdown. after an increase in confirmed GMT) in an effort to stave off number to 22. the novel coronavirus to enforce an army-imposed The country has 69 confirmed cases. the epidemic sweeping the Authorities in Palestine, outbreak. curfew and other measures that coronavirus cases but author- During the day, everyone globe. Lebanon and Tunisia also Government spokesman infringe on civil and political ities are afraid it could spread should stay home and only go Movement between regions reported yesterday new cases Tariq Al Mazram told a press liberties. fast. Jordan has closed land and out in cases of “extreme has also been banned except for of the coronavirus. A new case conference that the decision Prime Minister Omar Razzaz sea border crossings with Syria, necessity”, Saied said in a tele- cases with a “legitimate has been diagnosed in a Pales- was taken in light of the latest had suggested the government Iraq, Egypt and Israel, and sus- vised address. reason”, the president said. tinian citizen from Salfit developments. Earlier this would be forced to announce a pended all incoming and out- Tunisia has so far reported Supermarkets will be closed province (North) who came month, the government said the curfew after many people failed going flights since Tuesday. 54 confirmed cases of the but shops and convenience from Pakistan, bringing the suspension would last until to heed a call by the authorities Tunisian President Kais COVID-19 disease and one stores will be supplied, he number of cases to 48,” Pales- March 25. not to move about except in Saied yesterday declared a death. added. tine’s Health Minister Mai Al Lebanon’s Health Ministry cases of emergencies. nationwide, round-the-clock The North African country Saied also announced the Kaila said. reported 14 new cases, con- Jordan’s army sealed off the self-isolation of inhabitants to has already closed its borders closure of industrial areas with Kuwait on Thursday firming the total cases to 163. capital from the rest of the combat the spread of the novel and imposed a curfew from large numbers of employees. Iran FM urges Iran’s leaders strike upbeat tone as toll climbs to 1,433 Japan to double AP — TEHRAN only minor symptoms and Kazim despite a week-long recover within weeks. But the curfew in the capital. Thou- efforts for lifting Iran’s leaders vowed to virus is highly contagious and 23 prisoners escape from sands of Iraqis typically make US sanctions overcome the new coronavirus can be spread by people the journey on foot to the shrine outbreak in upbeat messages showing no symptoms. It can prison on eve of Nowruz of the imam in the Khazimiyah QNA — TEHRAN marking Nowruz yesterday, cause severe illness, including area of Baghdad. even as the Health Ministry pneumonia, particularly in sick AFP — TEHRAN Security forces have been Iranian Foreign Minister announced 149 more fatalities, or elderly patients. Twenty-three inmates escaped from an Iranian prison while stopping pilgrims in recent Mohammad Javad Zarif held bringing the country’s death toll More than 240,000 people guards were making preparations for a Persian New Year days, but more keep arriving. yesterday a phone conver- to 1,433. have been infected worldwide. amnesty, state news agency IRNA reported yesterday. Late on Thursday, the doors of sation with his Japanese coun- Iran is battling the worst More than 10,000 have died, It said the detainees escaped overnight from a facility in the the shrine were closed and the terpart Toshimitsu Motegi. outbreak in the Middle East, while more than 85,000 have western city of Khorramabad, the capital of Lorestan province, electricity was switched off. During the call, Zarif urged with nearly 20,000 confirmed recovered. Rouhani has just hours before the start of Nowruz, Iran’s New Year celebra- Officials called on the faithful Japan to redouble its efforts to cases, and has been widely crit- defended his government’s tions. IRNA denied guards had shot a prisoner during the escape, to perform the pilgrimage remove US sanctions against icized for its slow response. response to the coronavirus saying such reports came from “unreliable sources”, after oppo- “remotely” to ensure their Iran. They also discussed Supreme Leader Ayatollah outbreak in the face of wide- sition groups tweeted that several inmates were shot. safety and the safety of others. regional and international Ali Khamenei, who has final say spread criticism that officials The escapees had been serving a maximum of one-year sen- Iraq has been grappling developments. on all state matters, called the acted too slowly and may have tences, the agency said, denying dangerous individuals went free. with anti-government protests The Iranian Foreign Min- new year “the year of leaps in even covered up initial cases 10,000 prisoners” would be released in the New Year for months. The coronavirus ister briefed his Japanese production” in Iran’s economy, before infections rapidly spread amnesty. outbreak, which has infected counterpart on the details of which has been under heavy US across the country. around 200 people and killed what the Iranian authorities sanctions since President Rouhani assured Iranians more than a dozen, and the are doing to combat the Coro- Donald Trump withdrew from that his administration will accepting cash or debit cards Other countries in the fallout from cratered oil prices, navirus (Covid-19), thanking the 2015 nuclear accord. prioritize health in the coming from customers wearing face region have imposed far stricter threaten to plunge the country the Japanese government and President Hassan Rouhani year and said it had stockpiled masks. measures to contain the virus, into a major crisis. Saudi Arabia people for the assistance they also marked Nowruz by prom- basic supplies. Khamenei issued a religious including cancelling flights, announced early yesterday it provided to Iran to counter the ising a better economy. “We will Nowruz is a major holiday edict this week prohibiting all sealing borders and forcing all would shut down domestic air virus. He pointed out that the put the coronavirus behind us in Iran, when shoppers typically unnecessary travel and author- non-essential businesses to travel, buses, taxis and trains US sanctions are the main soon with unity, with hard work pack into local markets and ities have restricted travel close. In neighbouring Iraq, for the next two weeks, barrier for supplying pharma- and with cooperation,” he said. take extended vacations. This between cities. After weeks of authorities struggled to keep beginning this morning. The ceutical and medical Most people who come year most shops are closed, and heavy criticism, authorities pilgrims from marking the kingdom has reported 274 con- equipment needs. down with the COVID-19 illness those merchants who are still finally closed two major reli- annual Shia commemoration of firmed cases, eight of whom caused by the virus experience working can be seen warily gious shrines in recent days. the death of Imam Mousa Al recovered. 25 Haftar militia members killed Attack on army in Tripoli clashes camp in Mali ANATOLIA — TRIPOLI leaves 29 dead Forces of Libya’s UN-recog- nized Government of National ANATOLIA — KIGALI Accord (GNA) neutralsed 25 militia members loyal to At least 29 people including renegade General Khalifa two soldiers were killed on Haftar early yesterday during Thursday in a suspected clashes in the capital. terrorist attack on an army Tripoli-based Febrayer TV camp in northeastern Mali, the reported that troops taking military said. part in the GNA’s Volcano of “Mali military camp at Rage Operation and the Tarkint village in Gao city militias clashed in the Ain Zara area was the target of a ter- region south of Tripoli. rorist attack on Thursday The slain militia members morning. were said to be mercenaries The death toll from the Risky journey brought over from Sudan and attack was 29 people and five Passengers wait to board a disinfected public transport bus as they leave for the villages amid concerns about the spread of COVID- Chad. Photos of their corpses injured,” the military said on 19, in downtown Nairobi, Kenya, yesterday. were posted on social media. its Twitter page. It added that two Malian soldiers were among the dead. Africa’s busiest airport says foreigners cannot disembark In February, three Malian soldiers were killed and five AP — JOHANNESBURG Another new South Africa close borders and block flights. London, Frankfurt, Munich and Julius Maada Bio directed the injured in a terrorist attack on case was a health worker who The financially troubled Washington - all in what South military to the international an army camp in Bambara Anxiety rose in Africa’s richest had been in a number of private South African Airways said the Africa now considers high-risk airport and land borders to Maoude, about 100km south nation yesterday as South Africa hospitals. immediate suspension of all countries. increase security and “and of Timbuktu city. said coronavirus cases jumped Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo international flights through Also Friday, another African support compliance with all In March, militants with to 202, the most in the sub- International Airport said air- May 31 was because of corona- nation announced its first case, public health directives” while rocket launchers attacked a Saharan region, while the conti- craft with foreigners “will be virus-related travel restrictions Cape Verde. Thirty-seven coun- calling on people not to panic. checkpoint in central Mali, nent’s busiest airport said contained at an isolated bay and the “substantial decline in tries on the continent now have “If you cannot do so volun- killing six soldiers and injuring foreigners cannot disembark. with all officials ensuring the demand” for air travel. cases, with a total now well tarily then we will keep you in 10. State-owned South African utmost care is taken,” following “It is all our responsibility, above 800. isolation by force,” Kenya’s Last November, some 50 Airways suspended all interna- up on travel restrictions not just government, to curb So far most of the cases in health chief, Mutahi Kagwe, has Malian soldiers were killed in tional flights until June. announced days ago when further transmission of the Africa have been linked to warned. a terrorist attack on a military And in a serious risk of local South Africa declared a national virus,” CEO Zuks Ramasia said overseas travel. But overnight Deaths across Africa from post in northeast Mali. transmission, South Africa said disaster. “We are working with in a statement. “In addition, the Niger in announcing its first the virus reached 20 as Gabon Mali’s President Ibrahim five of its new cases had the airline to ensure that foreign increasing risks to our crew of case highlighted possible reported its first. No one has Boubacar Keita said in Feb- attended a church gathering of nationals return to the country contracting the virus, including regional spread inside the con- died in South Africa, where the ruary that his government was more than 200 people in central of origin.” the possibility of being trapped tinent. Its citizen had traveled health minister said no patient seeking talks with extremist Free State province. All had Foreigners across the con- in foreign destinations as a con- via the West African capitals of was in intensive care. groups in an effort to end an arrived from abroad. Author- tinent of more than 1.3 billion sequence of increasing travel Togo, Ghana, Ivory Coast and All but 23 of South Africa’s insurgency that has engulfed ities were rushing to find other people face the growing chance bans, cannot be ignored.” Burkina Faso. cases are in people under age the country. attendees. of being stranded as countries SAA flies to New York, Sierra Leone President 60. SATURDAY 21 MARCH 2020 ASIA 05 Jakarta declares state of emergency as virus cases rise in Indonesia

REUTERS — JAKARTA Less than three weeks million people, compared with after recording its more than 5,000 per million in Indonesia likely faces a large South Korea and more than surge in coronavirus cases after first case, Indonesia 2,000 per million in Italy, two a slow government response had 369 confirmed of the worst affected masked the scale of the countries. epidemic in the world’s fourth cases and 32 deaths. Cambodia, which has one most populous country, health Jakarta, a city of sixteenth as many people and experts say, as the capital, less than 2% of its GDP, has Jakarta, declared a state of 10 million people, carried out nearly as many tests emergency yesterday. had 215 confirmed as Indonesia. Less than three weeks after President Joko Widodo’s recording its first case, Indo- infections and 18 government has increased the Indonesian Muslims in protective masks are checked with thermal scanner before Friday prayers at nesia had 369 confirmed cases deaths. number of laboratories a mosque at Surabaya, East Java Province, in Indonesia. and 32 deaths. Jakarta, a city of authorised to conduct testing 10 million people, had 215 con- from only one in Jakarta to Reuters. Indonesia has reported Medics say it is a likely indicator has suspended religious activ- firmed infections and 18 deaths. Bioscience at the University of more than a dozen, including only 1.4 cases per million that cases have gone unde- ities, including Friday prayers While coronavirus cases Queensland. on Java island, and in the east people, compared to 4 per tected. Malaysia and the neigh- and Christian services, for two and deaths are rising in much “Without large-scale testing, of Papua. million in Thailand, 28 per bouring Philippines have intro- weeks. of Southeast Asia, Indonesia’s contact tracing and quarantine Widodo said he would use million in Malaysia, 219 per duced strict curbs on movement Jakarta Governor Anies Bas- population of 260 million measures, the opportunity for “all state power” to tackle the million in Iran and 679 per to try to contain the virus, but wedan, declaring the state of people, sprawling landmass and spread of this virus is great.” The outbreak and that rapid testing million in Italy, a Reuters Widodo has resisted such a emergency, said that beverage creaking healthcare system World Health Organisation has was being launched in areas analysis of publicly released move. outlets, spas and cinemas would make it especially vulnerable. said mass testing is the most where there were cases. figures shows. Indonesia, home to the be shut from Monday and public “Indonesia is likely to have effective way of tackling the More testing is likely to The ratio of the number of world’s biggest Muslim popu- transport limited. “Our response many more cases than currently coronavirus. expose far more cases and dead to the number of recorded lation, saw mass Islamic Friday capability has a limit because reported,” said Professor Ian Indonesia had tested only Indonesia should “prepare for cases in Indonesia at 8.7% is prayers in some areas, even as the numbers of hospitals and Henderson, Director of the 1,898 people as of yesterday, or the worst”, the head of the among the highest in the world countries around the world staff are not in line with the Institute for Molecular around seven tests per one country’s Red Cross told - even higher than 8.3% in Italy. cancel large gatherings. Jakarta growth of cases,” he said. Sri Lanka Privacy fears as India hand stamps suspected cases imposes curfew REUTERS — MUMBAI/CHENNAI and secondary contacts of coro- navirus patients. Officials also REUTERS — COLOMBO People suspected of having the published detailed time and coronavirus in India have date maps of the movement of Sri Lanka imposed a received handstamps and are people who tested positive. nationwide weekend curfew being tracked using their mobile “People have been jumping yesterday as South Asian phones and personal data to quarantine and it has been a countries escalated efforts to help enforce quarantines, challenge to track them,” said check the spread of corona- raising concerns about privacy Amar Fettle, who is heading the virus across the densely popu- and mass surveillance. coronavirus control team in lated region of 1.9 billion The outbreak, termed Kerala. people. COVID-19, has infected more Kerala yesterday recorded A police curfew took effect than 234,000 people worldwide 12 more positive cases of coro- nationwide in Sri Lanka at and killed nearly 10,000, navirus, taking the state's total 6pm yesterday and will run according to a Reuters tally. to 37, Chief Minister Pinarayi until 6am on Monday, as In India more than 200 Vijayan said. authorities on the island acted people have been infected and Of the fresh cases, six were to slow transmission of the four have died, with officials recorded at Kasargode, five in virus, which has infected 70 reporting multiple cases of Kochi and one at Palakkad. people there. people fleeing from The total people now under quarantine. observation in the state reached In response, the western 44,390 including 225 at various New cases take state of Maharashtra and hospitals. Vijayan said things southern Karnataka state this have turned bad in Kasargode Bangladesh week began using indelible ink as a person who arrived from Members from Disaster Response Force of Telangana State spraying disinfectant on a pedestrian to stamp people arriving at Dubai took part in numerous tally to 20 airports. footpath amid concerns over the spread of the COVID-19, in Hyderabad yesterday. functions before he was found The hand stamps include Covid-19 positive on Thursday. ANATOLIA — DHAKA the date that a person must legislation. “I understand the the situation eases. “We found stop the infection. Stamping is “But we have formed hun- remain under home quarantine, concern but where does one people who were stamped and essential and very useful to dreds of squads, including Three new coronavirus cases and states that those marked draw the line? Should funda- were travelling. They had reduce the spread,” she told the policemen to track and ensure were confirmed in Bangladesh are “proud to protect” their mental rights be suspended in signed a self-declaration that Thomson Reuters Foundation, people follow the norms.” As yesterday, raising the country’s fellow citizens. an emergency like this?” The they will not travel because they adding no one has raised objec- more COVID-19 cases are total to 20, according to “When I first heard of the coronavirus outbreak has could be carriers of corona- tions so far. In southern Kerala reported in India, Prime Min- government data. stamping in Mumbai, I thought enabled authorities from China virus,” said Archana Valzade, state, authorities have used tel- ister Narendra Modi on The figures were published it was fake news,” said Supreme to Russia to increase surveil- under secretary in Maharash- ephone call records, CCTV Thursday urged citizens to stay in the latest health bulletin of Court lawyer N S Nappinai, an lance, with the risk that these tra’s health department. footage, and mobile phone GPS home and follow government the government-run Institute expert in data privacy measures will persist even after “It is their duty as well to systems to track down primary instructions. of Epidemiology, Disease Control, and Research. Fiji reports first The country has reported Vietnam extends quarantine to one death due to COVID-19, a India hangs four over case of novel 70-year-old man who passed all foreign arrivals from today away on Wednesday. On coronavirus Thursday, the government 2012 'Nirbhaya' case REUTERS - HANOI repurposed military camps for declared a lockdown in ANATOLIA — ANKARA 14 days’ quarantine,” Vietnam’s Shibchar, an area about 80km ANATOLIA — NEW DELHI there is an emphasis on Vietnam will extend a quar- health ministry said in a south of the capital Dhaka. equality and opportunity.” The Fiji authorities confirmed the antine regime for incoming statement, without saying how “We are ready to shut down India yesterday hanged four assault on the young woman — country’s first case of the novel travellers, placing all interna- long the policy would remain more areas if needed to prevent people convicted for moles- given a pseudonym “Nirbhaya” coronavirus, local media tional arrivals in adapted in place. the spread of coronavirus,” said tation and murder of a meaning “fearless” as under reported. The southern Pacific military bases from today to Vietnam had already Health and Family Welfare 23-year-old medical student in Indian laws the molestation country’s Head of Health curb the spread of the corona- imposed a quarantine Minister Zahid Maleque, adding 2012, according to the Delhi victims cannot be named — had Protection Dr. Alisha virus, its health ministry said requirement for arrivals from that the army would be running Police. led to outcries all around the Sahukhan said a flight yesterday. the United States, Europe and two isolation centers in Dhaka. “Nirbhaya gang rape & world and India. attendant of flag carrier Fiji Weeks after announcing member states of the Associ- He said leaves of all doctors murder convicts hanged at Various women groups and Airways tested positive for the recovery of all 16 of its ation of Southeast Asian and other health workers had Central Prison Tihar yesterday. campaigners had demanded COVID-19, in an imported case coronavirus sufferers, the Nations (Aseasn). The gov- also been canceled until further Adequate arrangements were strict laws against the women’s of the disease rather than a Southeast Asian nation has ernment on Wednesday said it notice. As Bangladesh looks to put in place to facilitate exe- assaulters. local transmission. The confirmed it now has 87 infec- was expanding quarantine expand its coronavirus testing cution of the verdict of Hon’ble The case has been a turning patient, who had recently been tions, but no deaths, after facilities to house around capacity, one of the country’s Supreme Court,” tweeted the point in terms of stirring to the US and New Zealand, authorities announced a surge 60,000 people as thousands of oldest health facilities claims it Police Commissioner’s office national conscience and has led showed symptoms on Tuesday in infections from overseas. Vietnamese are set to flock will soon start local production of West Delhi. to changes in a host of laws evening after which he was “All incoming travellers will home from abroad to flee the of an inexpensive and effective Hours before the hanging, related to women safety, admitted into a hospital. be immediately transported to widening pandemic. testing kit. the Supreme Court, in a pre- including Code of Criminal Pro- dawn hearing, rejected the plea cedure, and the announcement filed by one of the convicts of “Nirbhaya Fund” of $1.33bn seeking a review of the death for empowerment, safety, and BJP MLAs to select leader today in Madhya Pradesh penalty. security of women and girls in The four men, Akshay the 2013 budget. IANS — BHOPAL held on the order of the leader to prove majority in the have given us a tough fight in Kumar Singh (31), Pawan Gupta On Thursday, a standing Supreme Court. Speaker state assembly and form gov- the floor test. But all their claims (25), Vinay Sharma (26) and committee on the Human The BJP will hold a meeting of Narmada Prasad Prajapati then ernment in the state. proved false,” he said. Mukesh Singh (32), were Resource Development Min- its party MLAs from Madhya adjourned the House sine die. The BJP leader further said The day began with the hanged at 5.30am local time at istry shared its report in the Pradesh today in the state A senior BJP leader related that Kamal Nath surrendered news of BJP MLA Sharad Kol of the Tihar jail, Asia’s largest Upper House of the Parliament, capital to select a leader and to the development said, “The before the BJP without giving a Beohari resigning his mem- prison. In the last few months, on issues related to women’s then approach the Governor to meeting of party legislators to fight. He said, “We expected bership of the House. With his the attackers had filed a series safety. On the evening of stake its claim to form select a leader will be held in Kamal Nath will face the floor resignation being accepted, the of petitions to delay the December 16, 2012, at around government, party leaders said Bhopal today.” test. But he surrendered and strength of the House came execution. 8pm local time, a group of men yesterday. He said the leader thus resigned without coming to the down further. Expectations in Prime Minister Narendra in a bus first attacked Nirb- Congress Chief Minister selected would then go to meet Assembly.” the Congress camp rose that the Modi tweeted: “Justice has pre- haya’s friend, following an Kamal Nath handed over his Governor to stake his claim to When asked about Kamal party would make more dents vailed. It is of utmost impor- argument, beat him up with an resignation to Governor Lalji form the government. Fol- Nath’s secretary claim of his into the opposition. tance to ensure the dignity and iron rod, after which he fell Tandon today at 1.30pm half- lowing the crucial development being in touch with half-a- The fall in number of legis- safety of women. Our ‘Nari unconscious. Then they vio- an-hour before the scheduled in the state, the BJP sent its dozen party MLAs ready to lators in the House was to the Shakti’ [power of women] has lated her, and the victim later special session for the floor test. national vice-president Vinay resign in the state, he said, “If advantage of the BJP. The Con- excelled in every field. died at a hospital in Singapore, Tandon accepted his resig- Sahasrabuddhe to look after the our party MLAs were in touch gress which came to power Together, we have to build a where she had been transferred nation. The resignation obviated developments. with the Congress, then the after 15 years of struggle squan- Nation where the focus is on by the Indian government for the floor test and therefore the The BJP leader said the Gov- Chief Minister would have faced dered the state in just 15 women empowerment, where treatment. special session that was to be ernor will give time to the party the floor test and they should months. 06 HOME SATURDAY 21 MARCH 2020 SATURDAY 21 MARCH 2020 ASIA 07 Mask diplomacy: China showers Europe with aid AFP — BEIJING medical supplies and experts. Beijing has showered struggling European EU helped China in January, by supported or supplied include It comes as Beijing and nations with aid as part of a diplomatic charm donating equipment, and a number of African nations. With millions of face masks, low Washington are engaged in tweeted: “Today, we’re grateful Meanwhile, Jack Ma, China’s interest loans and teams of public opinion war over China’s offensive. In recent weeks, it has also donated for China’s support.” richest man, donated two mil- medical experts, China is trying recent mass expulsion of US hundreds of thousands of surgical masks and Beijing also sent medical lions masks to be distributed to paint itself as a Good journalists and President equipment to Serbia this week across Europe, with shipments Samaritan while deflecting crit- Donald Trump’s continued use test kits to the Philippines and Pakistan, sent after an appeal for help. “It has having arrived in Belgium, icism over its initial missteps in of the phrase “Chinese virus” to teams of medics to Iran and Iraq, and extended turned out that without you Spain and Italy. Another million handling the coronavirus. describe the coronavirus. a $500m loan to help Sri Lanka combat the Europe can hardly defend itself,” masks bound for France left Beijing has showered strug- Trump slammed China for Serbian President Aleksandar China on Wednesday. gling European nations with aid its lack of transparency over the virus. Vucic told Beijing’s ambassador A front-page commentary as part of a diplomatic charm pandemic that has now infected as Chinese virus tests arrived. He by the state-run People’s Daily offensive. In recent weeks, it has more than 240,000 worldwide, step into the empty spot,” said Xinhua news agency reported. said the country had been waiting on Thursday emphasised also donated hundreds of thou- saying “the world is paying a big Marina Rudyak, an expert in Two Chinese medical teams for its “Chinese brothers”. China’s role as a “responsible sands of surgical masks and test price” in a news conference on Chinese foreign aid at the Uni- were sent to Italy in a high- The EU — of which Serbia is major country” that willingly kits to the Philippines and Thursday. China’s foreign min- versity of Heidelberg. profile show of solidarity with not a member — announced a cooperates with other nations. Pakistan, sent teams of medics istry hit back yesterday, saying By doing so, China was also the earliest European Union ban on the export of medical For some European coun- to Iran and Iraq, and extended the US was trying to “shift the trying to rewrite the COVID-19 partner in Xi’s massive “Belt and equipment on Sunday, a move tries, China’s strategy appears a $500m loan to help Sri Lanka blame” for the pandemic. narrative, deflecting criticism Road” infrastructure project. slammed by Vucic. Xinhua said to be working. “There are com- combat the virus. With the US also battling the of its initial attempts to cover Italy is now the second more aid and doctors from peting narratives evolving in While COVID-19 first virus on its home turf, analysts say up the outbreak and posing as hardest-hit country in the world China would arrive in Serbia in Europe. Most people see China emerged in Wuhan in China is rushing to reposition itself the saviour of “other countries with more than 35,000 cases. the next few days. being responsible for this global December, Beijing says it has as an alternative global leader. who either delayed their EU Commission President Beijing has in recent years crisis,” said Joerg Wuttke, pres- now curbed its spread, with “Now, with the US government response or were less prepared Ursula von der Leyen said on challenged Brussels for influence ident of the EU Chamber of new domestic cases dwindling under Trump failing to provide any than China,” added Rudyak. Twitter this week that China in the Balkans, in particular Commerce in China. “But the to zero on Thursday. But as meaningful international response President Xi Jinping pledged would ship two million masks through heavy loan-based infra- generous humanitarian help other governments now and the EU occupied with national assistance to hardest-hit Italy to Europe “immediately” and structure investment in cash- from China will possibly swing scramble to cope with the pan- responses, it offers China’s gov- and Spain in phone calls with expressed her gratitude to strapped countries. Other the public opinion in Europe demic, China is sending masks, ernment a unique opportunity to their prime ministers, the Premier Li Keqiang. She said the political allies which China has more in favour of China.” Pakistan PM COVID-19: Pakistan calls for lifting of clerics urge early Iran sanctions AFP — ISLAMABAD Zakat assistance Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan called yesterday for the lifting of “unjust” ANATOLIA — KARACHI of the country’s exports. US-led sanctions on neigh- Though authorities have bouring Iran, so Tehran can Pakistan’s top religious ordered the closure of major better deal with the novel authority yesterday called for markets, shopping malls and coronavirus crisis. the early distribution of Zakat other public areas, many who Khan’s comments came — an obligatory annual charity subsist on daily income have after Iranian President Hassan in Islam — to support those not complied. Rouhani wrote to him asking with low incomes who are most The number of coronavirus for help in dealing with the vulnerable to an imminent eco- cases in Pakistan rose to 454 novel coronavirus outbreak nomic slowdown due to the yesterday, with 245 in the that has now killed at least A man receives a coffee in a box pulled by a oper as a transportation system after a cafe adopted a global coronavirus pandemic. southern province of Sindh 1,433 people in Iran. “I would social distance policy for their customers amid fears of coronavirus outbreak, in Bangkok yesterday. The Council of Islamic Ide- alone. Health officials said new stress and insist to the inter- ology, a religious advisory body cases were also reported in national community to lift the for the country’s parliament, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the sanctions on Iran,” Khan said urged the rich to give their northeastern Punjab province. Thai cafe serves coffee on wheels at a press conference. Zakat, which accounts for 2.5% Most of the new patients “It is very unjust they are of the total yearly savings in the had recently returned from dealing with such a large out- form of cash, gold or silver, neighbouring Iran, which has to maintain social distance break on one side, and on the earlier than usual. reported the highest number other they are facing interna- Zakat is traditionally given of cases after China and Italy. REUTERS — BANGKOK one-metre distance to limit On the other end of the counter, tional sanctions.” in the Islamic lunar month of The novel coronavirus contact between staff and customer Nopparattorn Pakistan’s foreign office Ramadan which will begin this emerged in Wuhan, China last A cafe in Thailand has started customers. Promkaew waited as a cart car- did not provide any additional year in the last week of April. December, and has spread to using a pulley system to serve “I took this idea from social rying his iced coffee was pulled details on Rouhani’s letter to “In view of the present sit- at least 163 countries and ter- coffee on wheels as coronavirus distancing in China. We heard towards him. A bottle of hand Khan. Iranian Foreign Minister uation, it is better to distribute ritories. The World Health infections force businesses to that it works in curbing the out- sanitizer was placed nearby. Mohammad Javad Zarif took Zakat earlier than usual,” the Organization declared the out- practice social distancing. break of the disease and pre- He welcomed the initiative to Twitter on Tuesday to say statement said. break a pandemic. Thailand has reported more venting new infections,” said because the distance helped that US sanctions were The call coincided with two Out of more than 246,000 than 300 coronavirus cases Apirak Chamraksin, the cafe’s eliminate physical contact, even “impairing” Iran’s ability to more deaths from the novel confirmed cases, the death toll since January, but more than 39-year-old owner. The shop though the shop’s staff already fight the COVID-19 disease. coronavirus yesterday, raising now exceeds 10,000 and over half were found this week has also put up a sign saying it wear face masks and rubber Pakistan shares a 960km the total number in the country 86,000 have recovered, alone, heightening fears of con- prefers electronic payments gloves. “At first, I was a little border with Iran, with the to four. according to data compiled by tracting the disease through rather than cash, so staff do not worried about physical contact main crossing point located at Pakistan is at risk of facing the US-based Johns Hopkins physical contact. have to handle notes and coins. with others. But after seeing Taftan in Balochistan province. a major economic crunch due University. Despite the rising To beat the fear, Art of Many believe some of Thai- what the cafe did, I think they Pakistan sealed its border to the global outbreak, having number of cases, most who Coffee in Bangkok has installed land’s earlier cases contracted pay attention to customers’ with Iran last week, but not suspended travel with Europe become infected suffer only a rope and pulley system to the virus via banknotes concerns. I’m very happy about before hundreds of pilgrims and the US — the buyers of 70% mild symptoms and recover. serve coffee and tea at a received from infected tourists. it,” he said. returned home from Iran. Australia hunts China reports record number 2,700 cruise of imported coronavirus cases passengers REUTERS — BEIJING/SHANGHAI AFP — SYDNEY China’s imported coronavirus cases have risen to a record level, Australia issued an urgent call according to data released yesterday, with infected travellers yesterday for 2,700 cruise ship reaching ever more provinces adding to pressure on authorities passengers who disembarked to step up tough entry rules and health protocols. The focus is on in central Sydney to isolate guarding against cases arriving from abroad as the spread of the themselves and contact author- coronavirus in Europe and North America sparks a rush home by ities, after four travellers tested Chinese expatriates, many of them students, raising fears of a positive for COVID-19. second wave of infections just as China brings its epidemic under New South Wales author- control. Mainland China had 39 new confirmed cases on Thursday, ities said they had deemed the all of them imported. Of them, 14 were found in Guangdong, eight Enhanced community quarantine in Philippines New Zealand-bound Ruby in Shanghai and six in Beijing. Imported cases were also reported Princess “low risk” and let pas- in the cities of Tianjin, Liaoning, Heilongjiang, Shandong and A cyclist passes a nearly empty road in Manila yesterday, after the government imposed an enhanced sengers spill into the centre of Gansu in the north, as well as in Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangxi, Sichuan, community quarantine against the rising numbers of COVID-19 infections. Philippine President Rodrigo the country’s most populous bringing the total number of imported infections in China to 228. Duterte ordered about half the country’s population to stay home for the next month in a drastic bid city on Thursday. Wuhan saw no new cases for a second day. to curb the rising number of new coronavirus cases. They later discovered that three passengers and one of the 1,100 crew members had Malaysia army to enforce curbs tested positive. The ship was At least 24 Afghan security forces on a cruise from Sydney to as cases surge above 1,000 New Zealand when passengers fell sick and 13 were tested for AFP — KUALA LUMPUR enforcing the restrictions, martyred in insider attack flu mid-voyage. The swabs which will last until the end of were later tested for corona- Malaysia will deploy the army March, but Defence Minister AFP — KABUL and a political feud that has missing. “The attackers had virus and four came back pos- to support police in enforcing Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the seen two men claim the connections with the Taliban itive. “That obviously is a cause tough restrictions to halt the army would be brought in from At least two dozen Afghan presidency. insurgents,” Bayan said. for us to have some concern,” spread of the coronavirus, a Sunday. “We are confident that security forces were killed yes- The attack in Zabul saw They fled in two military said New South Wales state minister said yesterday, as with the army’s help, stricter terday in an insider attack on several “infiltrators” open fire Humvee vehicles, along with a health minister Brad Hazzard. cases in the country surged enforcement can be carried out,” their base in southern Afghan- on their comrades as they slept, pickup truck, weapons and The ship is currently far above 1,000. People have been he told a press conference. istan, officials said, as fighting according to provincial gov- ammunition. Yarmal confirmed off the coast of Sydney with told to stay at home and all Malaysia reported 130 new raged in the war-weary country ernor Rahmatullah Yarmal, in the toll. the 1,100 crew aboard, schools and most businesses virus cases yesterday to take while efforts to start talks with one of the deadliest attacks. The Hours after the incident the including the one member of have closed, while Malaysians its total to 1,030 — the highest the Taliban stalled. pre-dawn raid targeted a joint defence ministry vowed to staff who tested positive. are barred from travelling figure of any Southeast Asian The pre-dawn attack in police and army headquarters retaliate, while also giving a “The company that owns that overseas and foreigners from country. Two people have Zabul province comes as near Qalat, the provincial capital. lower death toll for the attack, Ruby Princess is managing entering the country. died. Prime Minister Muhy- Afghanistan is grappling with “In the attack, 14 Afghan saying just 17 were killed. the issue,” said Hazzard. “The But some have been iddin Yassin previously several crises including an army forces and 10 policemen The Afghan security forces very big concern, is that those ignoring the measures intro- appealed to Malaysians to increase in Taliban violence were killed,” Zabul provincial “will not leave this attack unan- people came off the cruise duced this week, with people abide by the restrictions, that has thrown a supposed council chief Ata Jan Haq Bayan swered and will avenge the with no knowledge of COVID still going for walks in parks saying they are not an excuse peace process into turmoil, said and added that four other blood of the martyrs” the min- actually being on their ship,” and eating out. Police had orig- to take a holiday or hang out mounting coronavirus cases, Afghan service members were istry added in a statement. added Hazzard. inally been tasked with with friends. 08 VIEWS SATURDAY 21 MARCH 2020

Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI [email protected]

Members of a volunteer group carry out disinfection works as a precaution against COVID-19 pandemic at a shopping area in Gaza EDITORIAL City, yesterday.

Collective responsibility Gaza: Uniquely shielded, yet

THE whole world is passing through a difficult time in the wake COVID-19 pandemic making it compulsory for each and every individual to act responsibly fol- ultra-vulnerable to COVID-19 lowing a systematic discipline to overcome the challenge. one comparing the risk of the world -- we have had a been facing de-development The State of Qatar through utilisation of all of its transmission to that on a quarantine-like situation over the last years because of resources and timely planning is doing the best to cruise ship. since 2007”. the chronic (Israeli) closure,” contain the spread of coronavirus infection in the In her small kitchenette in In Gaza, Palestinians are he said, pointing to shortages country. The country’s health authorities and all other Gaza City, 80-year-old closely tracking the pandemic of electricity, medicine and ministries/departments concerned are also performing Mariam al-Khatib stacked through incessant media cov- human resources. a tremendous job to give maximum medical care to away cleaning products and erage -- and preparing for the “More than 90 percent of all citizens and residents affected by the COVID-19 tinned goods. She said that worst. Despite having no the drinking water is basically ADEL ZAANOUN and to save the community from the viral infection. AFP despite living through six cases registered in the Strip so unfit for human consumption, By following all precautionary measures strictly, wars, she was terrified of far, schools are closed and and on top of that you have practicing social distancing, consulting heath care COVID-19. more than 2,700 people are in over-crowdedness,” he added. providers on appearance of symptoms of the disease, Gazans may be trying to make “Everyone is afraid. This is home isolation, mostly having Israel said it has been avoiding non-essential travels and panic buying, light of coronavirus on social more important than a war. returned from Egypt. working to ensure the supply refraining from spreading rumours and doing such media, comparing lockdowns Nothing like this has hap- Matthias Schmale, Gaza of medical supplies to the other things, the community can beat the threat. to the Israeli blockade, but pened since the day I was director of the United Nations Strip, including facilitating the Under guidance and directives of Amir H H Sheikh fears are growing of a disas- born,” she said. “If corona agency for Palestinian ref- delivery of 500 WHO-funded Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Minister of Public Health, trous outbreak in the Pales- arrives in Gaza, many people ugees UNRWA, said he was coronavirus testing kits. H E Dr. Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari, along with MoPH tinian territory. will die. There is no treatment already operating under out- It blames Hamas for officials, has been at the forefront of the efforts to contain With movement in and except to pray to God.” break conditions, putting in Gaza’s lack of development. the spread of the new coronavirus in Qatar. World Health out of the territory severely Israel has enforced its place social-distancing Hamas authorities are Organisation chief Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus restricted since long before blockade since 2007, when measures. UNRWA runs preparing to build 1,000 iso- has also praised Qatar’s efforts to implement a com- the pandemic emerged, the the Islamist group Hamas schools for over 250,000 lation rooms near the prehensive approach to control COVID-19. Gaza Strip is perhaps one of seized control of Gaza. children in the coastal Strip. southern border with Egypt. Under a prevailing environment of general fear the few places on earth with a It argues the measures are “The blockade may well With the Islamist move- spreading across the globe some irresponsible chance of staying virus-free. necessary to isolate Hamas, help to contain corona, but if ment’s Gaza leader Yahya members of the community either fall victim to rumours But experts warn that the considered a terrorist organi- it breaks out I would use the Sinwar watching over, bull- or become source of circulating such disinformation crippling blockade and high sation by most Western coun- comparison with the cruise dozers this week cleared through social media. The authorities concerned have poverty rates, along with a tries. Israel and Hamas have ship off Japan,” he said, ground where temporary time and again warned people of indulging in rumour densely-packed population fought three wars since 2008. referring to the Diamond cabins are to be erected. mongering. Spokesperson of the Supreme Committee and weak health system, Critics say the blockade Princess, where more than Palestinians suffering for Crisis Management, H E Lolwah bint Rashid bin create perfect conditions for a punishes and impoverishes all 700 of the ship’s 3,700 pas- from cancer and other serious Mohammed Al Khater, also clarified on Thursday that rapid outbreak, with of Gaza’s residents and feeds sengers and crew fell ill. diseases are currently allowed since the beginning of the crisis, the State of Qatar radicalism. Much of Gaza’s population to leave Gaza through Israel had pursued the principle of transparency in sharing With movement Gaza’s only other border, live in overcrowded refugee for treatment inside the of all information. She stressed the necessity not to in and out of the with Egypt to the south, has camps, with large families Jewish state or in the circulate false rumours and news, and to take news been closed for much of the common. occupied West Bank. from its official sources, including the accounts of the territory severely past decade. “It is an illusion to think you It is as yet unclear if Israel, Government Communication Office and the Ministry restricted since long It has been partly re- can manage it in a closed-off which has imposed tight of Public Health on social networking platforms. opened in the past two years, space like this,” Schmale said. restrictions on its own popu- The citizens and residents of Qatar should also before the pandemic but crossings into Egypt are Israeli restrictions and lation, will allow seriously ill be ready for volunteering. H E Lolwah Al Khater in a emerged, the Gaza limited as reaching Cairo and political tensions have caused coronavirus patients to be press briefing on Thursday also pointed out that the other cities requires an Gaza’s health facilities to transferred from the Strip. Ministry of Public Health in cooperation with several Strip is perhaps one arduous journey through the deteriorate over the past Schmale warned any outbreak institutions such as the Qatar Red Crescent Society of the few places on restive Sinai region. decade, said Gerald Rocken- could quickly overwhelm and Qatar Charity and others will open the door to earth with a chance Gaza has had no airport schaub, head of the World Gaza’s health capabilities. volunteering for individuals aged between 20 and 45 since it was bombed by Israel Health Organization’s (WHO) “Everything I am hearing years for medical or logistical support, each according of staying virus-free. in the early 2000s during a Palestinian office. is if the outbreak reaches the to his experience, according to the conditions deter- Palestinian intifada, or The Strip has only 60 magnitude where you need mined by the Ministry of Public Health. uprising. intensive care (ICU) beds for more than 60 ICU beds to Khatib’s son Mustafa, 51, its two million people and not treat, it will become increas- said he understood the all are operational due to staff ingly difficult and could well “feelings of people (in iso- shortages, he told AFP. turn into a disaster of gigantic lation or quarantine) all over “Gaza’s health system has proportions.” D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR EMAIL: [email protected]

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 A failure of leadership in Latin America FAX: +974 4455 7758 THE WASHINGTON POST had close contact with Brazil remains wide-open to they can get day to day." infected officials. At a news the pandemic. No wonder The concern for ordinary MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 If Latin America is hard hit conference Wednesday, he hundreds of thousands of workers is understandable, by the coronavirus epidemic, warned against "hysteria" and people in Rio de Janeiro and especially in a country with a DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 as it now appears it will be, said no one should be sur- Sao Paulo banged pots and large informal economy. But two of its political leaders will prised to see him ride a pans from their homes on López Obrador, like Bol- LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 bear outsize responsibility. crowded subway in Sao Paulo Tuesday and Wednesday in sonaro, has been cavalier in Presidents Jair Bolsonaro of or a ferry in Rio de Janeiro. protest. his personal response to the BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 Brazil and Andrés Manuel This weekend he is planning a López Obrador, a populist virus, rejecting his health López Obrador of Mexico two-day celebration of his like his Brazilian counterpart, minister's recommendation SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 govern the region's two most 65th birthday. has been almost as heedless that he abstain from hugs populous countries by far, Never mind that Brazil's of the mounting threat. and kisses. "You have to ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 with more than 325 million covid-19 case count had risen Mexico, as of Thursday, had hug," he said at a news con- email: [email protected] people between them. Yet to 534 confirmed cases on 118 reported covid-19 cases, ference this month. "Nothing both have minimized the risk Thursday, including the pres- but the president was still is going to happen." Last PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 of the novel coronavirus and ident of the Senate, national resisting restrictions on travel weekend, he acted on his email: [email protected] resisted - or even flouted - security adviser and other and commercial activity. words, plunging into a crowd measures to prevent its senior officials. Thanks to There are "pressures of all and repeatedly kissing a ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 spread. Bolsonaro, the federal gov- types," he said Wednesday. baby. His government is fol- FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] Bolsonaro mingled with ernment has taken few pre- "Close the airport, shut down lowing his lead, last weekend supporters at a rally as ventive measures, leaving everything, paralyze the limiting some sports events CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 recently as Sunday, even borders, schools and busi- economy. No." He said his pri- and public gatherings but still email: [email protected] though his own health min- nesses open. Though some ority was to protect "all the allowing a large music fes- istry recommended that he state governors have stepped people who work, who live by tival to go forward in Mexico SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 isolate himself because he has up and imposed closures, economic activity, by what City. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar We would like to record that today 3 billion people do not have handwashing facilities in /Peninsula_Qatar their homes and that two out of five health care /ThePeninsulaNewspaper facilities lack these facilities as well.

+974 6698 6188 Daniella Bostrom, Communications Manager for UN-Water SATURDAY 21 MARCH 2020 EUROPE 09 Europe’s mounting virus cases prompt tougher government response

BLOOMBERG - BRUSSELS Globally, the virus is spreading far more aggressively: It took three months for the first Europe solidified its status as the new epicenter of the coro- 100,000 cases to be reported, but the next navirus, with new cases and 100,000 were reached in 12 days, on March 18. fatalities rising particularly in Spain and France, prompting governments to seek more Chancellor Angela Merkel, the first 100,000 cases to be extensive lockdowns in their who said this week that the reported, but the next 100,000 battle to slow the pandemic. coronavirus represents her were reached in 12 days, on In Spain, the death toll rose country’s biggest challenge March 18. by 31 percent to 1,002, since World War II, will consult By yesterday — two days according to the health min- regional leaders on Sunday to later — the tally was halfway to istry, with the total number of discuss efforts to contain the the 300,000 mark. confirmed cases rising by outbreak. Schools in Germany In the UK, deaths from the 2,833, to 19,980. While number have been closed for the better outbreak more than doubled, of new cases slowed from the part of a week, retailers have to 144, between Tuesday and Residents pose behind the window of their home with objects significant to them during the coronavirus previous day, that may be due shut their doors, and many res- Thursday, and the government lockdown imposed by the Belgian government in an attempt to slow down the COVID-19 outbreak, in to limited testing. The picture taurants are open only during has stepped in to close schools was similarly bleak in France, the day. to most pupils and channel Brussels yesterday. which reported a 41 percent Austria, with about 2,300 financial aid to businesses. increase in fatalities, to 372, cases, is extending its lockdown UK government advisers and almost 11,000 confirmed measures until the Easter said yesterday that citizens may Nearly 300,000 EU citizens stranded abroad cases. holiday but isn’t tightening need to keep away from each BRUSSELS While China, where the them further, Chancellor other for most of the year to REUTERS — about 100,000 who are regis- He said the problem had virus originated late last year, Sebastian Kurz said. contain the spiraling tered (with embassies), but there now been overcome, although is reporting no new cases, Italy, Europe’s hardest hit outbreak. As many as 300,000 European are many more, maybe close to he warned of the dangers of such Europe remains firmly in the country, with 3,405 fatalities, In France, President Union citizens are seeking repa- 300,000,” EU foreign policy misleading reports during the grip of the pandemic even as has been under government- Emmanuel Macron said people triation due to the coronavirus chief Josep Borrell told reporters coronavirus crisis. governments shut borders and enforced lockdown for the past need to strike the right balance outbreak, with Latin America by telephone. “It shows that disinfor- expand measures to enforce week. between social distancing and and Southeast Asia two regions “Little by little, we are trying mation can be harmful, to say social distancing. Prime Minister Giuseppe keeping the country opera- from where it is proving tough to bring people home,” he said. that European flights are Bavaria became the first Conte’s government is set to tional. While “partying on the to get people home, the EU’s top With Spaniards stuck in bringing the disease,” he said. German state to ban public reinforce and extend the near- streets” and “going to the diplomat said yesterday. countries such as Peru, the EU An internal EU report seen gatherings, a move that is likely total quarantine after the beach” is plainly irresponsible, While efforts to return Euro- is relying on commercial airlines by Reuters this week said to be emulated by the other 15 number of fatalities surpassed people in crucial lines of work peans in North Africa have been — many of which are scaling Russian media have deployed a states. China’s. The extension may should continue doing their swift, the EU has been hampered back flights due to the virus — “significant disinformation cam- “We are almost completely include a ban on outdoor sports jobs, he said. in some other countries, in part to pick them up because Latin paign” against the West to winding down public life in and on “passeggiate,” or strolls, The growing number of because of a lack of information America is too far away for the worsen the impact of the coro- Bavaria,” Premier Markus with citizens allowed to leave border closings have disrupted on how many Europeans are bloc’s crisis recovery aircraft. navirus, generate panic and sow Soeder said at a news con- their homes only for work, free movement within the EU overseas and a reliance on com- Borrell said one airport in distrust. ference in Munich yesterday. health reasons, or — one of the pillars of European mercial airlines. Ecuador had been reluctant to However, Borrell did not Germany has more than 15,000 emergencies. integration — making it harder “We are coordinating the allow planes from Europe to blame any country in Ecuador’s confirmed cases, though its Globally, the virus is to transport key supplies. operations to repatriate thou- land to pick up Europeans, case and stressed that disinfor- death toll is a comparatively spreading far more aggres- “We need to find a middle sands of Europeans who are fearing they might be bringing mation came from many low 44. sively: It took three months for way,” Macron said. stranded abroad. We are talking the virus with them. sources.

Serbian police detain 160 people Cannes Film Festival postponed due to spread of virus

for violating restrictions REUTERS — PARIS of those who are fighting the Notre Dame” because of Ger- entertainment industry to be disease,” the statement said. many’s invasion of Poland the postponed or canceled. New ANATOLIA — BELGRADE areas and 70 in rural areas. The Cannes Film Festival, the France is in its third day of next day. The prizes were even- York’s Tribeca Film Festival was A night curfew was also world’s largest, was forced to a lockdown aimed at containing tually awarded in 2002. put back earlier this month as Serbian police over the past imposed on Wednesday to postpone its latest edition in the spread of the coronavirus. It was also interrupted in was the release of big budget two days have arrested some curb the pandemic, which May due to the spread of the Almost 11,000 cases have now May 1968 amid student and movies including “Mulan” and 160 people for violating emerged in China last coronavirus, organisers of the been officially diagnosed and labour protests sweeping across the latest James Bond movie isolation and curfew orders December and has since annual event on the French 372 people have died. France. “No Time to Die”. issued to stem the spread of spread to 168 countries or ter- Riviera said. The organisers, who had The announcement is Music festivals Glastonbury the coronavirus, an official ritories, according to the The postponement follows announced US director Spike another blow to the film and Coachella have been can- said yesterday. World Health Organisation. weeks of speculation over Lee as president of this year’s industry. Beyond the star- celled and theatres in London Police chief Nebojsa Ste- Violation of curfew is whether the festival, which jury, said that several new dates studded glitzy screenings, pro- and on Broadway have been fanovic said six people were treated as an act of failure to draws thousands of filmmakers, were under consideration, duction and distribution firms closed. detained for not remaining in comply with health regulations. celebrities and executives to the including the end of June- head to the Cote d’Azur to com- “As soon as the devel- isolation, while 154 others for Those who violate the order city, would be able to go ahead beginning of July. plete deals, while executives opment of the French and inter- violating the curfew. are fined nearly $1,400, and if between May 12-23. It is not the first time the from across the world gather to national health situation will The country on Sunday the act is repeated more than “At this time of global health festival has been postponed. Its represent their nations’ film allow us to assess the real pos- declared a state of emergency, once the person could be crisis, our thoughts go to the inaugural event in 1939 was cut industries. sibility, we will make our restricting movement for imprisoned for up to three victims of the COVID-19 and we short after the opening The Cannes festival is the decision known,” the Cannes anyone over age 65 in urban years. express our solidarity with all screening of the “Hunchback of latest event in the organisers said. Greek forces point Finland is again world’s green laser light at asylum seekers happiest country: UN

ANATOLIA — EDIRNE AFP - HELSINKI ranking are those afflicted by violent conflicts and extreme Greek security forces have begun Good cheer may feel in short poverty, with Zimbabwe, South pointing green laser light — which supply as the world reels under Sudan and Afghanistan classed can cause eye damage including a global pandemic, but experts as the world’s least happy temporary and permanent at the United Nations yesterday countries. blindness — at asylum seekers to declared Finland to be the Finland’s top spot in the push them back toward north- world’s happiest nation for the happiness list has previously western Turkey, according to a third year running. been met with raised eyebrows health official yesterday. Researchers for the World in the country whose popu- Asylum seekers have been Happiness Report asked people lation of 5.5 million is said to waiting on the Greek border for in 156 countries to evaluate shy away from spontaneous the last 22 days to cross through their own levels of happiness, demonstrations of joy, valuing Edirne to reach Europe. and took into account measures instead the quiet and solitude Greek security forces use dis- such as GDP, social support, of the country’s vast forests and FROM LEFT: Bavaria’s Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann; Bavaria’s Economy Minister and Vice- proportionate force such as tear personal freedom and levels of thousands of lakes. State Premier Hubert Aiwanger; Bavaria’s State Premier Markus Soeder and Bavaria’s Health Minister gas, water cannons and live corruption to give each nation The northern country’s long ammunition on asylum seekers. Melanie Huml during a press conference at the Bavarian State Parliament in Munich, yesterday. a happiness score. dark winters were reputed to From day one, asylum seekers As in each of the previous be behind high levels suicide, have been subjected to Greece’s Bavaria Premier popular than Merkel: Poll seven reports, Nordic states but a decade-long public health inhumane treatment, Ali Cengiz dominated the top ten, along drive has helped cut rates by BERLIN Kalkan, the provincial health REUTERS — 129 points, up 11 from a week closures and other social dis- with countries such as Swit- more than half. director of northwestern Edirne The premier of the southern ago and overtaking Merkel tancing steps and has called zerland, New Zealand and Finland’s residents enjoy a province, said. state of Bavaria, Markus who came second on 126 a state of emergency in Austria. high quality of life, security and Kalkan said green laser was Soeder, is Germany’s most points, making him Germany’s Bavaria. Luxembourg also edged public services, with rates of extremely dangerous to human popular politician, a poll most popular politician for the In part hamstrung by Ger- into the tenth spot for the first inequality and poverty among eyes. showed yesterday, boosting first time. many’s federal system, which time this year. the lowest of all OECD “On the one side we see his chances of standing as the After almost 15 years gives a lot of power to the 16 The happiest countries are countries. Turkey which extends a hand of conservative chancellor leading Europe’s biggest states, Merkel has at times those “where people feel a The data for this year’s compassion to children, women candidate in the next election economy, Merkel has said she appeared dry and more hes- sense of belonging, where World Happiness Report was and asylum seekers. On the con- and succeeding Angela Merkel. will not seek a fifth term and itant. Only on Wednesday they trust and enjoy each collected in 2018 and 2019, and trary, Greece mistreats them,” he During the coronavirus her conservative CDU party is evening did she address the other and their shared insti- is therefore not impacted by the said. crisis, which has hit Bavaria in the midst of a leadership public about the crisis in a rare tutions,” John Helliwell, one widespread restrictions Turkey currently hosts some particularly hard, Soeder has race after her protege said last television address. of the report’s authors, said in imposed by many countries to 3.7 million Syrian refugees, more impressed commentators by month she would stand down. A separate poll for Focus, a statement. stem the spread of the new than any other country in the introducing tough steps to The winner is in a strong conducted by Kantar, showed “There is also more resil- coronavirus. world. restrict social contact before position to run as German that among conservatives, ience, because shared trust However, the report’s Meanwhile, due to incessant the rest of Germany while dis- chancellor in a federal election Soeder was the most popular reduces the burden of hard- authors predict that the attacks on civilians in Idlib, Syria, playing a calm and reassuring due by October 2021. choice to run for chancellor, ships, and thereby lessens the lockdown conditions many of one million refugees moved air. Germany has recorded scoring 30 percent compared inequality of well-being,” he the world’s residents are now toward Turkey’s borders in the The INSA poll for Focus 10,999 cases of the corona- to 22 percent each for CDU added. living under could, paradoxi- recent past. Ankara says it cannot magazine put Soeder, head of virus and 20 deaths. Soeder candidates Friedrich Merz and Meanwhile, the countries at cally, boost happiness in absorb another refugee wave. Bavaria’s conservative CSU, on has led the way with school Armin Laschet. the bottom of this year’s future. 10 EUROPE / AMERICAS SATURDAY 21 MARCH 2020 LatAm forum sees showdown on Trump’s Venezuela policy

BLOOMBERG - CARACAS Ecuadorean foreign minister, The Organisation of The 34 member countries States in recent years has stepping in to restore legal counts countries seeking a less American States, will hold a secret ballot, each taken on a key role in election order. The election for the head of a confrontational approach to the with one vote, and the winner monitoring in Latin America, The coronavirus outbreak Latin America democracy Venezuelan regime such as based in Washington, needs a simple majority. making it a lightning rod for has complicated the logistics of watchdog has effectively turned Mexico and Argentina as her top is scheduled to “Almagro’s attention to Ven- criticism, particularly by leftist the vote. The organisation into a test of the popularity of backers. ezuela reflects the gravity of the governments who see Almagro announced on Tuesday that the Donald Trump’s hard-line The Trump administration choose its Secretary- crisis, including democratic col- promoting a conservative US Department of Health and policy against Venezuelan Pres- and allies including Colombia General in a session lapse, a humanitarian agenda in the organisation. Human Services would inspect ident Nicolas Maduro. have called for Maduro’s nightmare and a refugee emer- In November, the OAS its headquarters in advance of The Organization of removal and for new elections today. gency,” Gedan said. denounced irregularities in the the meeting as a health American States, based in after he won a 2018 vote that “But his approach has re-election of Evo Morales in safeguard. Washington, is scheduled to opponents and many interna- OAS dialog to resolve the situ- alienated many governments. Bolivia. Almagro himself underwent choose its secretary general in tional observers consider ation in Venezuela, withdrew Almagro has been unusually The vote was followed by a test last week that came back a session today. fraught with irregularities. from the race this week. That outspoken for a secretary street protests, a police mutiny negative after he had contact Luis Almagro, the US- Mexico and Argentina say that probably boosts Almagro’s general, and willing to promote and an eventual army inter- with someone who was backed incumbent who has ousting him would be inter- chances, said Benjamin Gedan, action absent regional con- vention that forced Morales out. infected. repeatedly called Maduro a dic- fering with another nation’s deputy director of the Latin sensus, contrary to OAS Governments friendly to Caribbean nations and tator, is seeking another five- sovereignty. America program at the Wilson tradition.” Morales, including Mexico, Mexico have called for delaying year term. His opponent, Maria Peru’s Hugo de Zela, a third Center, a Washington-based The oldest regional forum, called it a coup, while Morales the vote, citing the dangers of Fernanda Espinosa, a former candidate who had promoted think tank. Organization of American opponents said the army was gathering amid the outbreak. COVID-19 deaths rocket Johnny Depp’s libel case against in Italy; alarmed regions UK tabloid stalled impose more restrictions by pandemic

REUTERS - ROME “Maybe the peak won’t AP — LONDON come next week, but the week Italy’s coronavirus death toll after,” Civil Protection chief Johnny Depp’s libel suit soared yesterday and regions Angelo Borrelli told Rai radio. against British tabloid The Sun imposed new restrictions in an Responding to the growing was put on hold yesterday as increasingly desperate effort to crisis, the northern region of a result of the coronavirus halt infections, with one Veneto shut parks and said res- pandemic. banning walks in parks and idents could no longer go for Depp is suing the newspa- another prohibiting jogging and walks, while adjacent Emilia- per’s parent company, News bike rides. Romagna banned jogging and Group Newspapers, and exec- “We already have many bicycle rides, saying people had utive editor Dan Wootton over hundreds of dead. What more to stay indoors to prevent a 2018 article claiming he was is needed before people under- infections. violent and abusive to his stand the tragedy we are Lombardy, at the epicentre former wife Amber Heard. facing?” said Sergio Venturi, of the epidemic, said about 100 A trial had been due to start head of the coronavirus soldiers would soon be on Monday at the High Court response team in the wealthy deployed to help local police in London, with Depp, Heard northern region of enforce the lockdown, and and other celebrities due to Emilia-Romagna. called on the government to give evidence. The national death toll from impose new measures to keep A vehicle of the Italian police sanitizes a street amid concerns about the spread of COVID-19 in Milan, But judge Andrew Nicol the outbreak over the past 24 Italians at home. yesterday. said Friday that he had hours leapt by 627 to 4,032 - by Officials are especially “reached the reluctant con- far the largest daily rise in worried by the situation in “The frontline is now in universities and told everyone followed by three iconic songs, clusion that the trial does have absolute terms since the con- Lombardy’s capital and Italy’s Milan,” Massimo Galli, head of to stay at home for all but abso- “Azzurro,” “La canzone del sole” to be adjourned.” tagion emerged a month ago. second city, Milan. the infectious diseases unit at lutely essential needs until April and “Nel blu dipinto di blu”. The judge said two of Italy overtook China on The country’s largest cities the city’s Sacco hospital, told La 3. However, the national Depp’s legal representatives Thursday as the country to reg- had so far been relatively lightly Repubblica newspaper. “I am Prime Minister Giuseppe mood has grown gloomier this had already had to self-isolate ister the most deaths from the hit by the outbreak, but there are extremely worried by what is Conte said on Thursday the week as the death toll has risen because of the virus, and virus. Before yesterday, it had now 3,804 people infected in the happening ... there are still too measures would have to be inexorably. added that “no-one can predict never recorded more than 475 financial hub and its hinterland. many people out and about.” extended, but gave no further “It feels like we are in whether others involved in the fatalities in a single day. The number of new cases in The government last week details. another world. I don’t know, it case, and I do not exclude The total number of cases and around Milan rose by 526, ordered restaurants, bars and Looking to boost morale, all is a really bad feeling. I hope it myself, will either become climbed to 47,021 from a pre- or 16 percent, the largest daily most shops to shut down Italian radio stations, for the will finish soon because really, infected or need to vious 41,035, the Civil Pro- increase for any province in nationwide until March 25. In first time, simultaneously this it is not good,” said Rome self-isolate.” tection Agency said. Lombardy. addition, it shut schools and broadcast the national anthem, resident Anna Marcotullio, 53. Depp’s lawyer, Jennifer Afia, told a preliminary hearing this week that the actor was at Putin’s relative a “remote location” in the Canada, US agree to turn back migrants at border south of France and could not launches political travel because of restrictions AP - TORONTO compared to just 27,000 for the entry, they would be returned crossing from Canada into the imposed to fight the party, says report same week last year. Those laid and told to apply in the US But US or the US into Canada will pandemic. Canadian Prime Minister Justin off are able to access if they request asylum on be treated the same. They will But the newspaper’s REUTERS - MOSCOW Trudeau said yesterady that employment insurance. The cri- Canadian soil at a location other be returned,” Public Safety Min- attorney, Adam Wolanski, Canada and the United States teria for those eligible was than an official crossing, the ister Bill Blair said. alleged Depp wanted to delay One of President Vladimir have reached a reciprocal expanded earlier this week. process is allowed to go Blair called the measure the trial “because he’s a Putin’s relatives has launched agreement under which they “Over the past week, forward. temporary. coward and because he knows a political party and said he will now be sending back Service Canada and many gov- In most cases, the refugees Blair said about 45 to 50 he’s going to lose.” wants to contest parlia- migrants who attempt to cross ernment agencies have received are released and allowed to live have been crossing illegally He said that despite the mentary elections next year, illegally anywhere at the a historic number of calls from in Canada, taking advantage of each day but on Thursday just pandemic, Heard was willing the Kommersant daily border. concerned Canadians,” Trudeau generous social welfare ben- 17 crossed. The government to travel from Los Angeles to reported yesterday. Trudeau called it an excep- said. efits. Now they will be turned earlier announced that anybody London to testify, or to give Roman Putin, son of Pres- tional measure that will protect Thousands of migrants have back to American authorities crossing would have to be quar- evidence by video. ident Putin’s cousin Igor, told Canadians amid the pandemic. fled north to Canada since 2017. under the new agreement. antined for 14 days. Depp, 56, and Heard, 33, Kommersant in an interview It addresses concerns about the There is a longstanding Many migrants were Trudeau also further con- met on the set of 2011 comedy that his People of Business difficulty of screening refugee agreement between the United crossing the border into Quebec firmed that all non-essential “The Rum Diary” and married party was a right-wing con- claimants for the new virus. States and Canada that requires from Champlain, NY at Roxham travel between Canada and the in Los Angeles in February servative project aimed at sup- Trudeau, meanwhile, said those seeking asylum to apply Road, about 50km south of United States will end at mid- 2015. They divorced in year porting small businesses and his government has received in the first country they arrive Montreal. night yesterday. The two coun- 2017. entrepreneurs. 500,000 applications for in. So, if they crossed from the “These measures will be tries announced the measure Depp is also suing Heard His party would support employment insurance US at a legal Canadian port of reciprocal so individuals earlier this week. for libel in the United States. the ruling pro-Putin United Russia party in parts of the country where it lacked seats, he said. Brazil declares state of emergency Like President Putin, Roman Putin, 42, is a former employee of Russia’s FSB as Bolsonaro's approval slips security service. The Spark database of REUTERS - BRASILIA cised Bolsonaro. Russian companies shows he “We’re doing what he’s not doing,” is the director of a firm called Brazil declared a state of emergency Doria said. “And when he does do it, he Putin Consulting Ltd. yesterday, freeing up funds for the does it wrong.” Roman Putin said in an federal government to fight a corona- Approval of Bolsonaro’s government interview that he had not dis- virus crisis that has hurt the popularity fell to a record low this week, according cussed his political plans with of far-right President Jair Bolsonaro’s to XP Investimentos poll released yes- the president, but did not government. terday. Just 30 percent of those surveyed anticipate problems. The Senate approved a measure rated his administration “good” or “I have my own position letting the government waive fiscal “great,” compared with 36 percent and I intend to promote it targets this year, with senators voting calling it “bad” or “awful.” through political processes,” remotely after two of them tested pos- A record-high 17 percentsaid his gov- he told Kommersant. itive for the virus causing the COVID-19 ernment is to blame for the current eco- “... Even in America under respiratory disease. nomic situation, as blame attached to Bush there were many Bushes Bolsonaro is facing criticism as he the previous three administrations — governors, senators. seeks to balance major public health slowly evaporates, the poll showed. Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro speaks to the press as he leaves from Alvorada Members of the same family concerns with protecting Brazil’s long- Many Brazilians have been Palace to Planalto Palace in Brasilia, yesterday. can even compete.” ailing economy. The pandemic poses drumming pots and pans in their homes He said that he had no serious political risks for the populist, nightly in a traditional protest against Union, but has held back from closing outside his official residence, “The med- intention of competing with who initially labeled it a “fantasy.” Bolsonaro, who ignored medical advice international airports as Latin American icine has to be proportional (to the President Putin however who In comments to journalists yesterday, to meet crowds of supporters on Sunday neighbors Colombia, Peru, Argentina and illness), or it kills.” is in the process of trying to he slammed state governors for taking despite having several aides diagnosed Venezuela have done. Rio Governor Wilson Witzel on change the constitution to “extreme measures” that hurt the with virus. The president blamed state gov- Thursday said he would cancel all inter- allow himself to run again in economy. Bolsonaro said he expected June, a ernors for the economic impact of the national flights in and out of the state, the year 2024. Sao Paulo state Governor João Doria winter month in the southern hemisphere virus. Brazil’s currency and stock market as well as domestic flights to Brazilian “Our country needs a said a statewide public emergency would nation, to be the most critical period for were among the world’s biggest losers states with coronavirus cases. strong leader, especially in the go into force today, aimed at allowing the coronavirus outbreak. At least seven over the past two weeks. But airlines and federal regulators situation of a global crisis,” the government to better fight the virus. people have died thus far, with over 600 “(Governors) are taking extreme said he does not have the power to do said Roman Putin. All parks and non-essential public cases confirmed — doubling in two days. measures that aren’t in their purview ... it. Infrastructure Minister Tarciso Freitas “There is no alternative to services will close until the end of April. Bolsonaro has banned entry for cit- commerce stops and people don’t have said the federal government will not Vladimir Putin.” Doria defended the move and criti- izens from China and the European anything to eat,” he told reporters close airports and bus stations. SATURDAY 21 MARCH 2020 AMERICAS / CLASSIFIEDS 11 New York shutters, but Trump says no national lockdown

AFP — NEW YORK The escalation came as the total number of testing, Cuomo said, as he cause much unhappiness. I non-essential travel across announced he would pass an understand that,” Cuomo their border beginning on New York followed California COVID-19-linked deaths in the US rose to 210 executive order mandating added. He dismissed references Saturday. yesterday in locking down to — more than double in three days — with more that only essential businesses to the measures as “shelter-in- He said the move, similar stem the coronavirus pandemic than 14,600 confirmed infections, according to can remain open from late place,” which they have been to one already announced with as President Donald Trump Sunday. called in California, but the northern neighbor Canada, was declared the United States was a tally by Johns Hopkins University. He stressed that essential rules effectively mount to the necessary to prevent the already “winning” the war services included grocery same thing. “spread the infection to our despite a rapid rise in stores, pharmacies and food California’s statewide border agents, migrants, and to confirmed cases and deaths. total number of COVID-19- probably the two hottest of delivery. directive, which went into force the public at large.” On Capitol Governor Andrew Cuomo linked deaths in the US rose to them all in terms of hotspots,” Cuomo said that under Thursday evening, also Hill, US senators began critical ordered non-essential busi- 210 — more than double in Trump told the now-daily “Matilda’s Law,” named after instructs residents to remain at negotiations over a $1 trillion nesses to close and banned all three days — with more than briefing by the White House his mother, “non-essential home unless necessary. emergency stimulus package gatherings in New York state, 14,600 confirmed infections, virus task force, adding that gatherings of individuals of any It allows gas stations, phar- to help Americans ravaged by a day after his counterpart according to a tally by Johns states in the American Midwest size” were cancelled. macies, banks and laundry the coronavirus. Gavin Newsom told California’s Hopkins University. were not registering as many He ordered residents to services to remain open while The version unveiled late 40 million residents to stay at Despite the surge, Trump confirmed cases. only exercise alone and not restaurants can still provide on Thursday includes onetime home. said the world’s number one “So no, we’re working with hold any group activities take-out and delivery. “recovery rebates” of up to “We’re all in quarantine power was “winning” and the governors and I don’t think outside, such as basketball. “They are taking strong $1,200 for adults earning now,” Cuomo told reporters, “going to win this war,” and we’ll ever find that necessary,” He said citizens should steps. I applaud them,” Trump under $99,000 annually, and warning of civil fines and man- there was no need for a he added. avoid public transport “unless said, referring to Cuomo and hundreds of billions of dollars datory closures for anyone vio- national lockdown mirroring The number of confirmed urgent and absolutely nec- Newsom. in loan guarantees to indus- lating the order, which takes the action taken in California infections in New York jumped essary.” “New York state (is) on Trump also announced tries hard hit by the crises effect tomorrow evening. and New York. “Those are to 7,000 yesterday, largely pause,” he said. “These actions Friday that the US and Mexico including airlines and small The escalation came as the really two hotbeds. Those are because of an increase in will cause disruption. They will have agreed to restrict businesses. US restricting California Governor non-essential travel with orders entire state Mexico, Canada to stay at home AFP — WASHINGTON The United States announced AFP — LOS ANGELES would be exempt, he said. “We yesterday that it has agreed want people to go to essential with Mexico and Canada to All 40 million residents of Cali- jobs -- we want people to deal restrict non-essential travel fornia were ordered to stay at with their essentials in a because of the coronavirus home indefinitely in a bid to thoughtful and judicious way.” outbreak and is planning to battle the coronavirus Gas stations, pharmacies, banks repatriate undocumented pandemic in the nation’s most and laundry services all count immigrants arriving from populous state. as “critical infrastructure” and those countries. The statewide directive, will remain open. President Donald Trump which Governor Gavin Restaurants can still said the moves, reached in Newsom said goes into effect provide take-out and delivery, agreement with the Mexican “this evening,” is the most dra- and food banks will still Firefighters wearing protection suites participate in an instruction as a form of contingency and and Canadian authorities, matic containment measure yet operate. In a letter to US Pres- security against the spread of the new coronavirus COVID-19, in Belo Horizonte, state of Minas Gerais, were necessary to prevent by a US state. ident Donald Trump Brazil, yesterday. spreading the virus “to our “There is a recognition of Wednesday requesting federal border agents, migrants, and our interdependence that help, Newsom had warned that to the public at large.” “Those requires of this moment that we cases were doubling every four Senators launch talks on $1 trillion measures we are putting in direct a statewide order for days in some parts of the state. place will protect the health of people to stay at home,” he “We project that roughly 56 all three nations and reduce said. No end date was set for percent of our population -- stimulus, vote likely on Monday the incentive of mass global the measure because the pan- 25.5 million people -- will be migration,” Trump said at a demic is a “dynamic situation,” infected with the virus over an AFP — WASHINGTON Thursday includes onetime with Schumer. White House briefing. said Newsom. eight week period,” he wrote. “recovery rebates” of up to “There’s tremendous spirit He said they were nec- California has been among The new stay-at-home US senators began critical $1,200 for adults earning under to get something done,” Trump essary to deal with the “public the worst hit by the virus, with order is intended to reduce that negotiations yesterday over a $99,000 annually, and hun- said. health consequences of mass at least 18 confirmed deaths so figure, Newsom said Thursday. $1 trillion emergency stimulus dreds of billions of dollars in McConnell has said the top uncontrolled cross border far, according to a Johns “The point of the stay at package to help Americans loan guarantees to industries priorities are “direct financial movement” by “thousands of Hopkins University tally. home order is to make those ravaged by the coronavirus, hard hit by the crises including help” for Americans, relief for unscreened and unvetted” Around 1,000 Californians numbers move -- to bend that with Republicans seeking rapid airlines and small businesses. businesses, stabilization of the people. Trump and other top have tested positive. curve,” he said. passage while Democrats push “I have tasked bipartisan economy and job protection. officials who took part in the Although a mandatory “That means that projection for stronger worker protections. teams to reach agreement by But Democrats, warning of briefing stressed that trade executive order, the measure no longer becomes a reality Senate Majority Leader the end of today, tonight,” a tough negotiation ahead, said with Mexico and Canada will likely not be enforced by because we changed our Mitch McConnell and his Dem- McConnell told reporters, McConnell’s measure leaves out would continue. police, Newsom said. behavior.” Under the projec- ocratic counterpart Chuck adding that he wants a vote on critical provisions such as “Let me be clear that “People I think recognize tions, California would have a Schumer sat down for talks final passage on Monday before expanded unemployment neither of these agreements the need to do more, and to shortfall of around 10,000 hos- with Treasury Secretary Steven it goes to the House of insurance beyond one-time with Canada or Mexico applies meet this moment, and people pital beds, Newsom said. Mnuchin and other adminis- Representatives. payments, additional paid to lawful trade or commerce will self-regulate their In addition to the isolation tration officials to thrash out President Donald Trump family leave and paid sick – essential commercial activ- behavior,” he said. order, university dormitories, compromise over the massive said he spoke by phone with the leave, and prioritization of ities will not be impacted,” Essential jobs and tasks hotels and motels were being federal intervention. Senate leaders including a “very financial aid to American acting Homeland Security Sec- such as grocery shopping leased to provide more space. The version unveiled late good telephone conversation” workers over corporations. retary Chad Wolf said. With threat of pandemic growing, acts of kindness abound in US AFP - LOS ANGELES — said it has seen a huge uptick crowds. The supermarket chain consults if necessary... we’ve got “Their schools are closed for “I know that so far every in the number of people offering Raley’s, based in northern Cal- three weeks of lockdowns!” he now, as we are, and we have a speaking engagement I had for From grocery shopping for the to help, going from 50 members ifornia, said that as of March 21, said. Further north, in the neigh- lot of parents now at home the next month has been can- elderly to delivering meals or to 400 in a matter of days. it was starting a special program bouring state of Oregon, a taking care of them,” he added. celled or postponed, and I’m in offering free classes online, acts Elsewhere, the popular res- offering a pre-selected bag of company is turning its byproduct “This was something we thought the very rare and privileged of kindness during the corona- taurant chain Puesto, which groceries at a reduced price for into a hand cleaning solution. we might be able to do well for position to be able to weather virus pandemic are providing was forced to shut down seniors and people in need. In the small town of Coos them.” In Washington state, the this financially,” she wrote on uplifting moments of joy in a because of the virus, gave away In Walnut Creek, near San Bay, also in Oregon, coffee shop city of Seattle — the country’s the GoFundMe page. United States beset by anxiety. some 500 free care packages Francisco, where residents have owner John Beane is hosting coronavirus Ground Zero — “This fund is aimed at In California, the most pop- this week. “We will come back been ordered to stay home, a virtual story times for kids after music venues are trying to helping those in the greater ulous state in the nation and one strong with tacos for everyone,” dentist is offering free emer- shutting down his cafe. soothe fears over the pandemic Seattle arts community who of the hardest hit by the virus, the restaurant said in an gency dental services to ease the “We come from the theatre by broadcasting live virtual have been financially impacted thousands are using internet Instagram post after congestion at hospital emer- and stories which are always a concerts. by cancellations due to apps to offer their services to announcing it was shutting gency rooms. part of the shop,” Beane, the Celebrated Seattle-based COVID-19, with priority given to neighbours in need. down. Supermarkets across the David Nisenboyn said he first owner of So It Goes Coffeehouse, author Ijeoma Oluo for her part BIPOC artists, nonbinary artists, In San Diego, for example, a country have also reached out consults by phone and video said. “Some of the very best parts has launched a relief fund to and disabled artists - but we will Facebook group created to coor- to help seniors, putting in place before determining whether to of our work are the brilliant and help artists who have been try to help as many artists with dinate volunteer efforts — San special hours for people 65 and receive a patient. curious children that we see severely affected by the need in Seattle as we can,” she Diego Community Volunteers over to ensure they avoid “I’ve got plenty of time to do mostly every day. outbreak. added. Brazil warns of healthcare collapse over outbreak

REUTERS — BRASILIA/SAO PAULO Additionally, Health Minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta said Brazil’s Brazil began to process the daunting healthcare system will collapse by impact of the coronavirus outbreak the end of April. At least seven yesterday, slashing growth outlooks, people have died thus far, with over warning of a healthcare collapse and 600 cases confirmed — doubling in announcing new measures to two days. Many Brazilians have been combat a crisis that is hurting Pres- drumming pots and pans in their ident Jair Bolsonaro’s popularity. homes nightly in a traditional protest The senate yesterday signed off against Bolsonaro, who ignored on a state of emergency that will medical advice to meet crowds of permit the government to waive supporters on Sunday. Bolsonaro fiscal targets this year. said that the Brazilian economy The Economy Ministry lowered cannot stop or the country will face its growth forecast from 2.1% to zero a catastrophe. Speaking to business — a number many economists leaders, Bolsonaro said measures believe remains highly ambitious - needed to be taken, but the closure with a “significant” contraction of airports and roads was not coming in the second quarter. advisable and would cause panic. 12 CLASSIFIEDS SATURDAY 21 MARCH 2020

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ASIA TRANSLATION & SERVICES CENTRE BUDGET RENT A CAR Leading Legal Translators & Document Legalization Since 1987. Indian Certificate Competitive Rates for Car Rental & Leasing, 24/7 Airport Rental Section, Attestation. Head Office: 44364555/50233133 - Al Hilal Branch: 44621334 - Salwa Free Road Side Assistance, Easy & Fast Booking Process Road Branch: 66038181 Mobile Contacts: Sufiyan - 66192881/Yoonus - 77813190 Head Office: Barwa Village T: 44325500 M: 66971703 Toll Free: 800-4627 Email: [email protected] Website: www.budgetqatar.com ALWASEEM TRANSLATION & SERVICES CENTER Authorized Translators - Company Formation and PRO Services AL MUFTAH RENT A CAR Main Office: D’ Ring Rd, T: 44634444/44010700 Branches: (Opp-Karwa Bus Stat. Doha, Al-Saeed Buil.2nd Floor.) Airport: 44634433 Al Khor: 44113344 E Mail: M : 50822292 / 31586616 T : 44116727 [email protected] Website: www.rentacardoha.com E-mail : [email protected] Web : www.alwaseemtranslation.com OASIS RENT A CAR YOU RENT MORE THAN A CAR WITH OASIS HELPLINE GROUP Allen: 6641 7354 Tel: 4413 0011 - OasisCars.com Certificate attestation from INDIA| UK | USA | CANADA | PHILIPPINE and Gulf Countries [email protected] - - Great deals on long term rentals 20 Years of experience and ISO Registered Company HELPLINE GROUP, C Ring Road Tel:(+974)-44271100 NATIONAL - ALAMO RENT A CAR Mob: 31550149 Email: [email protected] Cars - 4WDs - Pickups - Buses - Chauffeur Drive Call: 5547 8150, 5040 0624 Web: www.national-qatar.com A/C MAINTENANCE & E-mail: [email protected] SERVICES REGENCY FLEETS (A Regency Group Co.) Special Corporate leasing and Rental rates. Price includes Comprehensive ARMSTRONG Insurance, Maintenance, Replacement Vehicle etc. Driven by Values. E-mail: Window/Split/Package/Central Units. Sales, Services, Spare Parts/Window/ [email protected] Tel: 44433822/44554046/44554048 Fax: 44554047 Split & Central A/C. Annual Contracts. Mobile: 555 54 274 (Kumar) Airport Branch (24hrs): Tel.: 70482655 E-mail: [email protected] www.armstrongmachinery.com REAL ESTATE BUSINESS SET-UP AL MUFTAH SERVICES HELPLINE GROUP Tel: 44634444/44010700 Mob: 55542067/55823100 Company Registration, Local Sponsorship, Trademark, Feasibility Study, E Mail: [email protected] Tax systems and PRO Services. Our branches QATAR| KUWAIT | UAE | Website: www.rentacardoha.com INDIA | UK | CANADA. (formed more than 3000 companies) HELPLINE GROUP, C Ring Road Tel: (+974)-44271100 AL SALEH REAL ESTATE MOB: 77711129 Email: [email protected] Tel: 44423838. Mob: 33721133 E-mail: [email protected]

CALIBRATION SERVICES SCAFFOLDING

APOLLO ENTERPRISES SCAFFOLDING DIVISION Contract/Hire/Sale - Salwa Road. Tel: 44693334 Fax: 44416274 GSM: 55521089/55560246/55536285 www.apollo-qatar.net - E-mail: [email protected]

SEWAGE & WASTE REMOVAL

ARMSTRONG 1000-4000 Gallon Tankers - Daily/Monthly/Yearly Contracts. Mobile: 660 41 449 (Neil) E-mail: [email protected].

TRANSLATION

HELPLINE GROUP Authorized Translation Centre. We speak more than 100 Languages. C Ring Road, Near by Toyota Signal Tel: (974)-44271100 Mob: 70114857 Email: [email protected]

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

CAPITAL CLEANING COMPANY W.L.L. Complete General Cleaning Services for Old and New Villas Tel: 44582257 Mobile: 33189899/ 55565328 E-mail: [email protected]

AL MUTWASSIT CLEANING & PEST CONTROL Complete General Cleaning For Residential & Commercial. Supply of Cleaning Staff on Contract Basis. Pest Control Services. Office: 44367555 Mob: 30029977/55875920 E-mail: [email protected] MASSAGE

AL SALEH CLEANING & HOSPITALITY KOTTAKKAL AYURVEDIC MASSAGE CENTRE Complete General Cleaning Services for Old & New Villas. Ayurvedic Massage, Philippine & Thai Massage. Tel: 44423838 GSM: 55508393 - 55526943 - 50190005 Near Badriya Signal, Bin Mehmood. Tel.: 44360061 GSM: 33453697 EVENT RENTALS/ ABLUTION MEDIHERB MASSAGE TOILETS Kerala Ayurvedic, Thai, Philippine Massage (Gents & Ladies) for back pain, body pain, arthritis etc shirodhara, steam, ARMSTRONG Moroccan Bathe, Body Scrub etc. E-Ring Road, Ablution & Event Toilets Rental, Porta Cabins, Near ICC Signal, Nuaija. Tel: 66167700 - 50736611 Chemical Toilets & Other Equipment Rental. Mobile : 66041449 (Chris) E-mail: [email protected] AUTHENTIC THAI MASSAGE CENTERS www.iescoqatar.com FB: Royal Thai Men Spa, New Slata (Men Only) www.thaimassagedoha.com, Tel: 44666145 FB: Royal Thai Lady Spa, Al Waab (Ladies Only) www.royalthailadyspa.com, Tel: 44142400