NEW DELHI TIMES R.N.I. No 53449/91 DL-SW-1/4124/20-22 (Monday/Tuesday same week) (Published Every Monday) New Delhi Page 24 Rs. 7.00

30 March - 5 April 2020 Vol - 30 No. 9 Email : [email protected] Founder : Dr. Govind Narain Srivastava ISSN -2349-1221

Sinn Féin makes Is God on a leave substantial gains in of absence? As hundreds of our fellow human beings Irish elections die painful deaths every day because of The 2020 general election in Ireland took place COVID-19, and millions more suffer in self- in February, to elect the 33rd Dáil Éireann, the isolation, it is painful to hear so-called ‘men Lower House of Ireland’s Parliament. All but of God’ asking us to pray for forgiveness one of the 160 seats were contested, with the and beg for mercy from the ‘most beneficent Ceann Comhairle (speaker) being returned and most powerful’. None other than Pope automatically. The members, Teachtaí Dála Francis claims he has asked God to stop the (TDs), were elected by single... coronavirus epidemic while his... By Dr. Ankit Srivastava Page 3 By Tarek Fatah Page 2 Pakistan’s reverse thought process: Seeks opening up Kashmir to coronavirus!

By NDT Pakistan Bureau Page 2

Eating habits and spread of Trespassing the binary Writing a greener story in Asia deadly viruses and the Pacific

By now you must be fed up with reading or listening to It is imperative that in lives we hold the potential to Rising economic prosperity and poverty reduction may things about the Corona Virus. It has taken everyone’s differentiate between good and bad, but it is also important not tell the whole story of progress in Asia and the Pacific. attention away from what they do, to whether... to understand what actually comprise of being... Telling signs in the natural world recount... By Smt. Maneka Sanjay Gandhi Page 22 By Dr. Pramila Srivastava Page 21 By Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana Page 20

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Opinion NEW DELHI TIMES Pakistan’s reverse thought process: Seeks opening up Kashmir to coronavirus! own people except begging for money. Pakistan ◆ By NDT Pakistan Bureau is a sailor on a sinking ship, playing music to @NewDelhiTimes the passengers drowning instead of helping them into the lifeboats. Pakistan should not play [email protected] politics over the humanitarian crisis and focus instead on the exponentially spread of the virus P akistan called upon India to remove in best interests of the region. China reportedly communication bottlenecks in Jammu has provided vaccine to Pakistan. and Kashmir and ensure supplies of essential commodities and medical supplies to contain The WHO expressed fears on Corona spreading the spread of COVID-19. to populous countries like Bangladesh, Photo Credit : Getty Images Pakistan, India and neighbourhood. Spanish In the SAARC leaders’ video conference Kashmir (PoK) has no hospitals and doctors Corona poses existential problems for flu persisted for around a year. Testing time on COVID-19 called by Modi, Pakistan to treat Coronavirus. Existing doctors refuse Pakistan; all-weather friend China cannot for COVID-19 is just around the corner. Prime Minister’s Special Assistant Mirza to go inside the hospital while Indian Kashmir help much. Mobility of Pakistan students When own house is burning, no sane person showcased pseudo-concerns on the blockade gets medical attention at par with other parts stuck in the UK needs attention. Pakistan’s worries about neighbour’s house. But of communications, distribution of medical of India. Pakistan PM’s first response to knowledge about disinfection and hygiene Pakistan’s old habits die hard. supplies and relief. Remember, Pakistan left Corona was, “write off the debts”. Showcasing is rudimentary. The world needs to wake When the entire world is in lock-down its students in lockdown in Wuhan to die, Pakistan’s poverty Imran seeks loan waiver up before thousands of Pakistan occupied mode and isolation is the prescribed norm, ignoring parents’ repeated SOS, just because from the world community and shamelessly Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) even the US-Canada have closed borders, China told it to, contending that life and asked for money, not ‘medical’ assistance! patients start dying. Pakistan wants Kashmir residents exposed death are in the hands of Allah! Placed in Poverty has got into Pakistan genes! to the deadly virus. Can Pakistan reopen Iran similar situation, humanitarian India urgently In Sindh, Coronavirus is spreading like a forest border? Corona’s faster spread in Pakistan air-lifted Kashmiri workers from Corona- Sindh and Balochistan witnessed an exponential fire with thousands infected. Checking its than in India is worrisome. affected Iran. Difference in approach! spike in coronavirus due to the Taftan spread should be priority supreme. Pakistan disaster and should top the priority list. should take care of patients there. Tackling India is better prepared, better equipped and Blockades and isolations contain the spread Sadly, Pakistan is focused on optics, not the pandemic demands proper quarantine, doing better in combating the virus under of Coronavirus; that’s why the whole world is real work, linking solutions of all problems proper medicines, and equipment; lecturing Modi’s proactive leadership. Indian Kashmir following it. An ignorant Pakistan laughably to Kashmir. Pakistan leaders must smell others can wait. has far better medical facilities, hospitals and seeks the opposite. Which planet is Pakistan coffee and not use Kashmir, IMF, India, healthcare than Lahore, Karachi or Peshawar. living in? How illogical a government can Afghanistan, Nawaz and Zardari, to detract India has better medical services, infrastructure Pakistan is fixated on neighbours’ internal be? Kashmir blockade is over long back. from their incompetence. Forget Kashmir and leadership. Islamabad should think about matters and everything else except its own Given poor education infrastructure, such and count the toll. people, not everyone else in the world. It lack of comprehension is understandable but should ask for masks and Personal protective people. Pakistan should look inward and Pakistan must stay updated on international Pakistan has neither expert physicians nor equipment (PPE) to save doctors and medical worry less about India and Indians. India has news on the urgency of isolation. facility like testing kit to deal with Corona’s staff. An opportune time to beg for more! new Sheriffs-Modi and Shah-who know what severity. Ignoring the WHO norms will be to do. Playing politics at this critical hour of a Pakistan government fails to comprehend disastrous. India has expert physicians, PM Imran Khan has no knowledge, no medical emergency or going back again to its the impending crisis. The Pakistan occupied pharmacists and pharmaceutical companies. experience, and no intent to look after his original business Kashmir won’t help. Is God on a leave of absence? Elsewhere, in India videos have emerged of attacked a Sikh temple in the Afghanistan Kardashian and Justin Bieber have spoken, ◆ By Tarek Fatah Author & Columnist, Canada Hindus being asked by a community leader capital Kabul, killing 25 and injuring dozens do we need God? to drink cow urine to prevent COVID-19 more. On the other side of the world, a video @TarekFatah while Indian Muslim leaders boast that Allah ISIS and many other Islamic leaders consider emerged of an Iranian devout Muslim [email protected] has made them invulnerable to the disease. Sikhs and Hindus as ‘Kafirs’, a derogatory licking the pillars of a shrine as he boasted, s hundreds of our fellow human beings The insanity of believing that a supernatural word used by religious Muslims to identify “I am not afraid of coronavirus.” A die painful deaths every day because of being could trigger epidemics to punish his non-Muslims. COVID-19, and millions more suffer in self- own creation sent me back to 1843 when Karl Not to be outdone, a Pakistani Islamic cleric isolation, it is painful to hear so-called ‘men Marx wrote, “Man makes religion, religion Perhaps God was not listening to the Pope. claimed the coronavirus was Allah’s way of of God’ asking us to pray for forgiveness does not make man.” Yet he acknowledged Had he given his ear to the Pontiff, he could punishing China after he claims he heard and beg for mercy from the ‘most beneficent that “Religion is the sigh of the oppressed have immobilized his jihadi ranks and asked the cries of a Muslim woman being raped and most powerful’. None other than Pope creature, the sentiment of a heartless world, them to ‘cease and desist’. by two Chinese men. What he couldn’t and didn’t explain was why Allah had punished It wasn’t just the Pope or the Ayatollah that Iranians and Italians for a crime committed the Almighty was turning a deaf ear to. by two Chinese men. Superstars such as Justin Bieber prayed online to his followers where he begged God The prize for idiot of the year should go for forgiveness but failed to ask his fellow to a Catholic priest in South Africa. In a ‘Covidiots’ to keep six feet apart. And then report published in Kenya Today, a South there was Kourtney Kardashian who said, African pastor Rufus Phala allegedly made the “pandemic is a punishment from God for his parishioners drink the disinfectant the world’s evils.” Dettol, as a preventive measure against the coronavirus. Kardashian took to Twitter to share a passage from the Bible about epidemics, which was The article said that about 59 people were originally shared by rapper Young Thug, reported dead while four remained in critical with “pay attention children” scrawled condition. around it in red ink. My message to the Pope, Kardashian, The passage reads: “Whenever I hold back Bieber, the pastors and the Ayatollahs is this: the rain or send locusts to eat up the crops or It seems God is away on a long-term leave Photo Credit : Getty Images send an epidemic on my people, if they pray of absence taking care of some far-flung to me and repent and turn away from the evil galaxy while his pandemic takes care of his Francis claims he has asked God to stop the and the soul of soulless conditions.” they have been doing, then I will hear them warring tribes. coronavirus epidemic while his counterpart in heaven, forgive their sins, and make their in Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rejected If there was any need to demonstrate the Now go wash your hands, self-isolate and land prosperous again.” U.S. assistance, claiming “your medicine is dangers of bringing state policy and religion trust the scientists and rid yourself of Marx’s a way to spread the virus more.” together, Islamic State suicide bombers Bravo! Now that rapper Young Thug, Kourtney opium; weed is better. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

30 March - 5 April 2020 3

Editorial NEW DELHI TIMES Sinn Féin makes substantial gains in Irish elections seats (35) and in the first-preference votes. is believed that party’s left-wing proposals private renters a break and put a month’s ◆ By Dr. Ankit Srivastava The election results were seen by many for tackling Ireland’s housing crisis and rent back into their pockets through a Chief Editor rent reduction tax relief, legislating for @AnkitNDT tenancies of indefinite duration to provide [email protected] renters real security of tenure, end public- private partnership, joint venture capital he 2020 general election in Ireland took land initiatives and public land sell-offs T place in February, to elect the 33rd and holding a referendum to create a Dáil Éireann, the Lower House of Ireland’s constitutional right to housing for all. Parliament. All but one of the 160 seats were contested, with the Ceann Comhairle (speaker) being returned automatically. In its election manifesto, Sein Fein said it will end the recruitment ban in the health The members, Teachtaí Dála (TDs), were sector, hire 2,500 more nurses and midwives elected by single transferable vote from all and 1,000 more doctors and consultants, of the multi-member constituencies. The and deliver 12 million additional home help election was called following the dissolution hours over the term of the government to of the 32nd Dáil by the President, at the clear the waiting list. request of the Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, on January 14, 2020. Sinn Féin has also vowed to abolish the non- jury Special Criminal Court, which sits with The elections were supposed to be a three- only three judges to avoid jury intimidation. way race between the Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, the governing party led by Varadkar and Sinn Féin. Before the elections, the two The court jailed many PIRA members major centrist parties, Fianna Fáil (FF) and during the conflict, and in 2016 imposed Fine Gael (FG), both ruled out a coalition an 18-month sentence for tax evasion on an Photo Credit : Getty Images with Sinn Féin, the party that was for alleged prominent member of the Provisional decades the political wing of the Provisional analysts and renowned media houses as a creaking healthcare system struck a chord, movement, Thomas ‘Slab’ Murphy. The Irish Republican Army (PIRA). Apart from historical break from the traditional two- especially with young voters. court has also dealt with dissident republican policy differences, questions were raised party system. The Financial Times came up and organised crime cases. In the run-up to about decision-making in Sinn Féin. with a headline: “Irish election - Historic On its official website, Sein Fein mentions: the 2020 election, McDonald said that it was result for Sinn Féin”. The BBC termed it as a “Sinn Féin are determined to end Ireland’s party policy to review the court. However, the Irish results surprised many “seismic break from the two-party system”. shameful housing and homeless crises. political analysts. Sinn Féin made significant The Daily Telegraph termed the Irish result Shortage of council and affordable housing Three major conclusions can be drawn gains; it received the most first-preference a “political earthquake”. to buy or rent is one of the most pressing from the electoral gains of Sein Fein. votes, and won 37 seats, the party’s best issues facing our society.” First, nationalist and populist movements result since it took its current form in 1970. Sinn Féin, led by party President Mary Lou across Europe are on a rise. Second, there Fianna Fáil also won 37 seats, but fewer first- McDonald, is a centre-left to left-wing Irish Some of the measures proposed by Sein Fein is an erosion of the centrist two-party preference votes. Fine Gael, the governing republican political party active in both the to address the Irish housing crisis include political system. Third, Brexit is having a party led by Varadkar, came third both in Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. It reducing and freezing spiralling rents to give destabilising effect on the British Isles. China strengthens interconnectivity with ASEAN the ASEAN enterprises and investors could and entry points have restricted people-to- ◆ By NDT Special Bureau adjust dependence on China’s industrial people exchanges and imports from and @NewDelhiTimes chain but a deeply integrated China- exports to China. China seeks deepened ASEAN industrial chain could materialise. cooperation with the ASEAN in public [email protected] The region (ASEAN+China, Japan and health, mutual exchanges, and advanced South Korea) still remains the main driving public health technologies like infectious oreign Ministers of China and the ASEAN force of global economic growth and the disease surveillance networks. China seeks F met in Vientiane, Laos on February 20 manufacturing industry. to transform the ASEAN economy into an to discuss Coronavirus. The ASEAN became Internet and digital economy proficient in China’s largest trading partner in the first China and the ASEAN may strengthen digital commerce and mobile payment. two months of 2020, ahead of the EU and cooperation in major infrastructure projects Photo Credit : Getty Images the US. China-ASEAN total trade touched and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) could The China-ASEAN relationship has always the virus spreading to latter countries. $84.6 billion accounting for 14.4 percent of be extended to local people’s livelihood like developed in a “crisis-driven” mode-the Even Singapore, with highly commendable China’s total foreign trade value. healthcare systems, emergency preparedness, Southeast Asia financial crisis of 1998 and the crisis management capability, reported the and information sharing and communication SARS in 2003 are best examples. The ASEAN highest numbers of confirmed coronavirus The US-China trade has dipped since the in times of crisis. member states, Japan, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, cases outside China implying that faced US-China trade war; China-ASEAN trade the UAE, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, with severe public health emergencies, no expanded to offset the impact. China- The US and the European markets are the Israel, and the World Health Organization, country can fight the virus on its own. ASEAN industrial ties also strengthened main export destinations for China and the China claims, have supported its efforts. as many Chinese, Japanese, South Korean ASEAN products. China’s consumption and other foreign companies moved their needs will help the recovery of the ASEAN China-ASEAN need information sharing and By the end of 2019, the ASEAN became China’s factories in China to Vietnam, Malaysia industrial sector by purchasing their bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the second-largest trading partner accounting and Thailand. Such relocation didn’t move products as supplements to imports from production of medical supplies, detection, for more than $641 billion trade; the EU the entire Chinese industrial chain to the other parts of the world. China-ASEAN diagnosis and treatment, developing drugs stood as the largest trading partner. ASEAN countries but merely extended it. entered in-depth coordination and economic and vaccines. The ASEAN factories still need Chinese interconnection to foster new trade and A lot of Chinese and multinational companies’ factories for their raw materials, technology, economic collaboration mechanisms. Six countries in the ASEAN bloc had upstream businesses have shifted to the ASEAN spare parts and equipment; as well as also confirmed cases from Chinese who had economies, manufacturing products and then need Chinese consumers. Transformer toys The deadly Coronavirus poses challenges travelled to the Chinese mainland in recent exporting to China for further packaging. in Chinese stores are made in Vietnam from to the ASEAN members. The socially and days. China has a duty to exchange in-depth Samsung shifted many manufacturing bases the raw materials and processing machinery economically developed Singapore, Malaysia knowledge and collaborate with the ASEAN to Vietnam and India in the past years. China made in China. and Thailand have advanced systems with for joint prevention and control and shoulder imports medical supplies, medicine and better capability to deal with public health responsibility as a regional power. related materials from the ASEAN members China’s demand for agricultural products emergencies, while those in Cambodia, to boost China-ASEAN trade. The EU could from the ASEAN members has increased Laos, and Myanmar are relatively weak, A majority of the ten ASEAN countries still rise again as China’s largest trading significantly. China is also the main source of lacking the capability to effectively battle the especially Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar share partner after the coronavirus fades, since the tourists in the ASEAN states accounting for epidemic. The World Health Organization borders with China and have suspended EU’s economic aggregate is 2-3 times larger 40 percent of their tourists. Post- pandemic, (WHO) Director-General was worried about flights to and from China. The borders than that of the ASEAN economies.

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 4 30 March - 5 April 2020

International NEW DELHI TIMES The great Afghan stalemate creating a dilemma for diplomats. How ◆ By NDT Bureau true, political leaders think only about their @NewDelhiTimes interests and re-election, forgetting the cost to their nation or people. Democracy can be [email protected] fragile though still best amongst available he Afghan peace deal aroused expectations choices. T of gigantic proportions. The agreement Of course, the Doha agreement has its was signed in Qatar on February 29. limitations. It was purposively kept vague Subsequently, on March 10, the UN Security in some respects. Taliban’s obstinacy Council unanimously adopted a resolution excluded Afghan government which could welcoming the US-Taliban agreement not be drafted into Doha agreement. The US as a significant step “towards ending the signed a separate agreement with the Afghan war and opening the door to intra-Afghan government sowing the seeds of disunity negotiations”. This UN resolution conferred and differential interpretations. Washington Photo Credit : Getty Images international legitimacy on Doha agreement. signed a separate declaration with the any meaningful long-term commitment. prolonged stay in Kabul, Khalilzad could not However, on the ground level, the peace Afghan government. Washington can continue to assert that overcome the impasse on both the prisoner’s process has grounded fixed to a standstill. troop pull-out is conditions-based until full issue and parallel governments. Currently, The Doha agreement in nutshell reflects implementation of the agreement. Trump both the US and Pakistan are preoccupied Reasons are many. The deadly global Washington’s commitment to a total but phased views Afghanistan as a quagmire from with tackling the coronavirus emergency. coronavirus contagion has overshadowed withdrawal. The Taliban agreed to intra-Afghan which exit is the best option. “Countries The Taliban continues attacking the government the international endorsement of the talks and to prevent terrorist organizations like Al have to take care of themselves. You can forces but demonstrates allegiance to their deal Doha agreement. The Taliban has taken to Qaeda from using Afghanistan soil. Politically, only hold someone’s hand for so long,” he with the Americans like the commitment to violence to show its mojo and carve out a the Afghan parties were made responsible to had said after Doha. eliminate the Islamic State (Daesh). Pakistan bigger space in negotiations during intra- negotiate a ceasefire and a political settlement to always thought of holding the key to Afghan Afghan talks. The Afghan political struggle end the war. The Taliban’s insistence on prisoners’ release has intensified with two Presidents fighting as a prerequisite for the commencement quagmire. From which the western world for their political existence. The agreement, apart from excluding Afghan of intra-Afghan dialogue constitutes an is washing hands-off. No one trusts the government, had a serious flaw. It provided Taliban and will never come forward to The intra-Afghan talks did not take off on immediate obstacle in the peace process. The for beginning intra-Afghan talks on March financially fund Afghanistan in any Taliban March 10. The Taliban continues pressing for political fight between Ghani and Abdullah 10 but did not indicate conclusion date held dispensation. Intransigent Taliban release of the prisoners. They should rethink over the disputed Presidential election poses nor the day of forming the new Islamic or failed Taliban will ultimately become on the release of imprisoned comrades who a still bigger challenge. government- within the 14-month period Pakistan’s liability. Now the entire field are safer in Afghanistan in detention than free for withdrawal of the US forces or after? Doha bouquet could get shredded if the lies sprawling before Islamabad but the in refugee camps in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa KP, Trump was too keen to bring troops home Ghani-Abdullah tussle snowballs into a promoter of terror has lacked vision and Pakistan where the coronavirus is destroying ahead of the American Presidential election bigger crisis or the Taliban resumes fighting lost credibility. An agreement bypassing lives. hence domestic political calculations rather against government forces and vice versa. an elected government can never succeed. On March 9, inauguration ceremonies of than strategic thinking played a bigger role. The start of the withdrawal of the US forces The writing is on the wall. America is the Afghan President created a laughable He had to deliver on his pledge to disengage could mount enough pressure on Ghani leaving Afghanistan to itself. The Afghans spectacle as rival Presidents-Ghani and America from an “endless war”. The US and Abdullah to reconcile their differences should learn to get on with life after Abdullah-kept oath-taking at the same time could even leave Afghanistan without towards intra-Afghan talks. Despite his America departs. India: A major partner in US-Indo Pacific Strategy Boris Johnson tests sharing; joint cooperation; exchange of military positive for COVID-19, ◆ By NDT Bureau liaison personnel; advanced training and self-isolating at his @NewDelhiTimes expanded exercises between all services and special forces; closer collaboration [email protected] residence on co-development and co-production of advanced defence components, equipment ◆ By NDT Bureau ccording to the Indo-Pacific Strategy and platforms; and partnership between their A Report, a document released by the US @NewDelhiTimes defence industries. Department of Defence, “the Indo-Pacific [email protected] is the single most consequential region for The Joint Statement contains a section titled America’s future. Spanning a vast stretch of Photo Credit : Getty Images ‘Strategic Convergence in the Indo-Pacific’ he Prime Minister of Britain Mr. Boris the globe from the west coast of the United T the Inaugural U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial which states that “a close partnership between Johnson has been tested positive for States to the western shores of India, the Dialogue stated that India and the United India and the United States is central to a free, the novel Coronavirus or COVID-19 but region is home to the world’s most populous States, as sovereign democracies founded open, inclusive, peaceful and prosperous remains in charge of the United Kingdom’s state, most populous democracy, and largest on the values of freedom, justice, and Indo-Pacific region. response to the deadly outbreak. Muslim-majority state, and includes over commitment to the rule of law, must half of the earth’s population”. This cooperation is underpinned by recognition The Prime Minister was tested on the continue to lead global efforts to promote of ASEAN centrality; adherence to international advice of the Chief Medical Officer after he In this regard, the US considers India as a key peace, prosperity and security. law and good governance; support for safety showed mild symptoms, said Mr. Johnson’s strategic partner. The document further states: and freedom of navigation, overflight and office. Self-isolating at his 10 Downing St. The 2+2 Dialogue was a reflection of the “The United States and India share a other lawful uses of the seas; and unimpeded residence, the Prime Minister is continuing shared commitment by Indian Prime Minister common outlook on the Indo-Pacific. Both lawful commerce; and advocacy for to lead the country’s response to the deadly Modi and the US President Trump to provide countries recognize the importance of the peaceful resolution of maritime disputes in Coronavirus outbreak, it said. Mr. Johnson, a positive, forward-looking vision for the Indo-Pacific to global trade and commerce accordance with international law. in a video message, said that he had a India-U.S. strategic partnership and to and acknowledge that developments in this temperature and a persistent cough, adding, promote synergy in their diplomatic and region will shape the larger trajectory of the The United States appreciates India’s role “Be in no doubt that I can continue, thanks security efforts. They resolved to continue rules-based international order”. as a net provider of security, as well as to the wizardry of modern technology, to meetings in this format on an annual basis. developmental and humanitarian assistance In June 2016, the United States designated communicate with all my top team, to lead in the Indian Ocean Region. India and the national fight back against Coronavirus.” India as “Major Defence Partner,” a status The recent Indian visit of the US President the United States remain committed to unique to India. The designation seeks to Donald Trump on 24-25 February, 2020, sustainable, transparent, quality infrastructure This comes after Britain’s Prince Charles, elevate the U.S. defence partnership with further reflects the strengthening ties between development in the region”. earlier this week, announced to have tested India to a level commensurate with that of the two nations. A Joint Statement “Vision positive for the new virus. the United States’ closest allies and partners. and Principles for India-U.S. Comprehensive India’s proximity to the US is also influenced The establishment of the U.S.-India 2+2 Global Strategic Partnership” after the by the Chinese factor. China has increased Health Minister Matt Hancock, another senior Ministerial Dialogue in September 2018 Indian visit of US President Trump stated its presence on Indian Eastern Maritime member of the British government’s response, also served as a tangible demonstration that both Trump and Modi pledged to borders. There is a common consensual said he had also tested positive and was self- of the commitment of both the nations to deepen defence and security cooperation, concern between the US and India regarding isolating at home with mild symptoms. The promote the shared principles of a free and especially through greater maritime and China’s increasing strategic presence in the government’s top medical adviser also said open Indo-Pacific. A Joint Statement on space domain awareness and information Indo-Pacific region. he had symptoms. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

30 March - 5 April 2020 5

International NEW DELHI TIMES Pakistan and the COVID-19 crisis on a day when the country’s confirmed cases ◆ By NDT Bureau of COVID-19 crossed the 1,000 mark, and @NewDelhiTimes most of the country is under a lockdown. [email protected] Pakistan is likely to leverage its relation with “all-weather friend” China to secure mong the South Asian countries, Pakistan financing, equipment, and technical expertise A has been worst affected by COVID-19. to counter the COVID-19 virus. On March Pakistan’s high rise in COVID-19 cases 25, 2020, Chinese government together with is attributed to the bulk of Shia pilgrims Alibaba Foundation sent a cargo plane to returning from Iran. Prime Minister Imran Pakistan carrying several tonnes of medical Khan has avoided a nationwide lockdown, supplies, including N95 and surgical masks. but has urged people to stay at home Pakistan’s “brother and friend” China has voluntarily. However, it remains to be seen aided by making immense contributions Photo Credit : Getty Images for how long does Imran continue on this to help combat the virus, said Chairman of stance. Acknowledging Pakistan’s support to China the coronavirus. “I, therefore, solicit your National Disaster Management Authority against the coronavirus, Deng Boqing, review of the circumstances, particularly On March 23, Pakistani authorities enforced (NDMA) Lt Gen Mohammad Afzal addressing Vice Chairman of China International in the light of (the) COVID-19 pandemic a two-week complete lockdown ordered in a press briefing earlier. He expressed gratitude Development Cooperation Agency said that and the ensuing humanitarian concerns, southern Pakistan. Southern Sindh Province to the government and people of China for as China was fighting the epidemic at home, to remove the name of Pakistan from the Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah imposed a planeload of needed supplies on behalf of Pakistan extended great support. Deng said FATF’s Grey List, enabling us to exercise our ban on the movement of people, saying the the Pakistani nationals. that so far, China had provided four batches full potential in collaborating in the global measure was aimed at saving lives. He said of international assistance. fight against the pandemic,’’ Rehman said in Zeng Yixin, Vice Minister of China’s National only businesses offering essential services a letter to the FATF President Xiangmin Liu. Health Commission has announced that Pakistan is also using COVID-19 as a pretext will be allowed to operate. Some restaurants China will send a team of medical experts to remove its name from the FATF’s grey Pakistan was included in the grey list for would be permitted to deliver food. to Pakistan to work closely with local list. Pakistani officials say the spread of the the first time in 2012 and remained in it However, the situation in Pakistan is likely health authorities and provide assistance global pandemic is beginning to take its toll till 2015. On June 29, 2018, the FATF grey to be critical on account of the attitude of and expertise in their fight against the on their resources. Sen. A. Rehman Malik, listed Pakistan for the second time. The the religious leaders too. When nearly novel coronavirus pandemic. “As required former Interior Minister of Pakistan and process began in February 2018 when the every nation in the world is restricting the by Pakistani side, China is preparing a Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee FATF approved the nomination of Pakistan movement of its citizens, several of Pakistan’s medical team to visit Pakistan and this team on Interior, wrote a plea to the FATF, asking for monitoring under its International senior religious leaders announced that they of experts will pay field trips to different for Pakistan’s removal from the list in order Cooperation Review Group (ICRG) commonly will keep mosques open for group prayers, localities in Pakistan,” Zeng said. to devote all its resources and attention to known as the ‘Grey list’. PLA releases image of China upgrades its BZK-005 MALE UAV It added that imagery and data captured by ◆ By NDT Bureau the air vehicle’s ISR payloads, comprising underwater glider a ventral electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) @NewDelhiTimes Sea totalling 1022.5 kilometers. In 2015 Sea turret and an undernose synthetic aperture [email protected] ◆ By NDT Bureau Wings were deployed in the East China Sea, radar (SAR) pod, enabled army planners to @NewDelhiTimes South China Sea and other waters of the pinpoint hotspots obscured by the blanket of n the past few years, China has western Pacific to complete observations of thick smoke in the afflicted area and direct [email protected] I looked for increasing acquisition of ocean phenomena including the Kuroshio troops to construct a 4 km long, 50 m wide unmanned aerial vehicles and unmanned Ocean Dynamic Processes spindle, eddies, firebreak to contain the blaze. n underwater glider is a type of autonomous combat aerial vehicles. As part of these and Nanhai Xi boundary flow. A underwater vehicle (AUV) that employs developments, China’s People’s Liberation An image of the PLAAF BZK-005 clearly variable-buoyancy propulsion instead of Army (PLA) Central Theatre Command showed the air vehicle in its wide-area ISR An Upgraded Haiyi (Sea Wing) underwater traditional propellers or thrusters. It employs has released images of an in-service configuration-a marked departure from past gliders deployed from a Chinese government variable buoyancy in a similar way to a BZK-005 medium-altitude long endurance imagery that only showed the type equipped with scientific research vessel on December profiling float, but unlike a float, which can (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that only an undernose EO/IR turret-which houses 11, 2019 have successfully conducted an only move up and down, an underwater has been specifically configured for wide-area an indigenous SAR system believed to be underwater survey expedition in the East glider is fitted with hydrofoils (underwater intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance developed by the Institute of Electronics of Indian Ocean, the company responsible for wings) that allow it to glide forward while (ISR) missions, offering what appears to be the Chinese Academy of Sciences (IECAS). manufacturing the gliders announced in late descending through the water. At a certain the first glimpse of this specific variant to the March. The BZK-005 is an indigenously developed depth, the glider switches to positive international public. MALE-class UAV-also known as the Changying buoyancy to climb back up, and the cycle is The Tianjin-based Deepfar Ocean Technology (Long Eagle)-manufactured by the Beijing- then repeated. Company (Deepfar) claimed that all 12 of its based Beihang Unmanned Aircraft System second-generation Haiyi long-range gliders (UAS) Technology and in widespread use across China has been looking to acquire and deployed as part of the Ministry of Natural the PLA’s air, land, and sea services for boost its underwater glider capacity and Resources’ (MNR’s) Joint Advanced Marine long-range ISR and electronic intelligence has developed an underwater glider named and Ecological Studies (JAMES) expedition (ELINT) missions. Haiyi, which means sea wings in Chinese. were recovered by the state-owned survey/ According to website globalsecutitty.org, In 2017, the Chinese Academy of Sciences research ship Xiang Yang Hong 06 on “BZK-005E UAV platform also uses (CAS) announced that a domestically January 30, representing a cumulative 550 standardized and modular design, which can developed underwater glider set a new world days of continuous operations at sea and a easily and quickly load different performance record by reaching a depth of 6,329 meters, completed navigational distance of more or different types of reconnaissance/surveillance breaking the previous record of 6,003 meters than 6,479 n miles. equipment according to different mission held by a US vessel. requirements, and conduct photoelectric As per a Forbes report dated March 22 2020, The Central Theatre Command announced Haiyi, developed by the Shenyang Institute reconnaissance, radar reconnaissance, electronic “Chinese gliders were reportedly gathering on March 23 that a BZK-005 UAV, operated of Automation under CAS, is used in reconnaissance and communication, Follow-up, oceanography data. Sensors measured seawater by an undisclosed PLA Air Force (PLAAF) monitoring vast areas of the deep-sea environmental monitoring, geodetic and other temperature, salinity, turbidity, chlorophyll reconnaissance UAV battalion, was dispatched environment, such as sea water temperature, tasks. and oxygen levels. at 1000 h local time to provide airborne salinity, turbidity, chlorophyll and oxygen real-time intelligence to support joint The application of redundancy design technology content. This information was transmitted back civil-military firefighting operations-led by the and system reconstruction technology makes to the mother ship via the aerial in the Command’s 83rd Army Group-in the landlocked the BZK-005E UAV have strong security As per information available on the website, tail. Although the aerial points directly northwestern province of Shaanxi on March performance and ensure the platform is safe navaldrones.com “In 2014, a Sea Wing backwards, it swings up above the surface 18. to use.” completed a 30 day test in the South China as the glider noses down for another dive.”

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International NEW DELHI TIMES Trump signs $2.2T stimulus after swift congressional votes resident Donald Trump signed an “I’m going to have to vote for something P unprecedented $2.2 trillion economic that has things in it that break my heart,” rescue package into law after swift and near- said conservative Rep. David Schweikert, unanimous action by Congress to support R-Ariz. businesses, rush resources to overburdened health care providers and help struggling The bipartisan amity went only so far. Top families during the deepening coronavirus congressional Democrats were not invited epidemic. to the White House signing ceremony, said Democratic aides speaking on condition of Acting with unity and resolve unseen anonymity to describe the situation. since the 9/11 attacks, Washington moved urgently to stem an economic free fall And in a statement released after the signing, caused by widespread restrictions meant Trump objected to efforts to establish to slow the spread of the virus that have congressional oversight of spending in shuttered schools, closed businesses and the bill and said his administration “will brought American life in many places to a Photo Credit : AP Photo continue the practice of treating provisions virtual standstill. historic proportions,” said House Speaker overcome this one.” Despite reservations, like these as advisory and non-binding.” Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif. She said Americans arch-conservatives joined with progressives “This will deliver urgently needed relief,” deserve a full-on government response “to like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., Many lawmakers summoned the bipartisan Trump said as he signed the bill \ in the address these threats to their lives and their to back the bill, which moved quickly spirit of 9/11 and efforts to fight terrorism. Oval Office, flanked only by Republican livelihood and they need it now.” through a Congress that’s been battered Others praised the roles low-income workers lawmakers. He thanked members of both by partisanship and is itself not immune to play in keeping the country going and the parties for putting Americans “first.” The $2.2 trillion legislation will speed the suffering the virus has caused. Reps. heroism of health care workers. government payments of $1,200 to most Joe Cunningham, D-S.C., and Mike Kelly, Earlier, the House gave near-unanimous Americans and increase jobless benefits R-Pa., announced that they’d tested positive, Some, like Iowa Democrat Abby Finkenauer, approval by voice vote after an impassioned for millions of people thrown out of bringing the number of infected lawmakers who had just learned of two additional session conducted along the social work. Businesses big and small will get to five. coronavirus-related deaths in her district, distancing guidelines imposed by the crisis. loans, grants and tax breaks. It will send came close to tears. Many lawmakers sped to Washington to unprecedented billions to states and local Tea party Republicans said government participate — their numbers swollen after governments, and the nation’s all but orders to shutter businesses merited actions Others couldn’t restrain their partisan impulses. a maverick Republican signaled he’d try overwhelmed health care system. that conflict with their small-government Republicans chided Democratic leaders for to force a roll call vote — though dozens ideology. delays and provisions they see as extraneous, of others remained safely in their home “This is not a time for cynicism or invective such as funding for public broadcasting and districts. or second-guessing,” said GOP Whip Liz Liberals accepted generous corporate rescues the arts; Democrats said too many elements Cheney of Wyoming. “This is a time to that accompany larger unemployment are a bailout for corporations that may not The Senate passed the bill unanimously late. remember that we are citizens of the greatest benefits, deferrals of student loans, and an need it. “Today we’ve all acknowledged our nation nation on Earth, that we have overcome enormous surge of funding for health care faces an economic and health emergency of every challenge we have faced, and we will and other agencies responding to the crisis. Credit : Associated Press (AP) In Iran, false belief a poison fights virus kills hundreds tanding over the still body of an which is the new coronavirus pandemic. deaths from the virus, the highest toll of any hyperventilation, blindness and even coma. S intubated 5-year-old boy wearing But we are fighting on two fronts here,” said country in the Middle East. International nothing but a plastic diaper, an Iranian Dr. Hossein Hassanian, an adviser to Iran’s experts also fear Iran may be under-reporting Hassanian said his figures included reports health care worker in a hazmat suit and mask Health Ministry who gave the higher figures its cases, as officials for days played down from coroner’s offices around Iran also begged the public for just one thing: Stop to the AP. “We have to both cure the people the virus ahead of a parliamentary election. counting those who died outside of hospitals drinking industrial alcohol over fears about with alcohol poisoning and also fight the from the poisonings. That fear of the virus, coupled with poor the new coronavirus. coronavirus.” education and internet rumors, saw dozens “Unfortunately, in some provinces, including The boy, now blind after his parents gave For most people, the new coronavirus causes sickened by drinking bootleg alcohol Khuzestan and Fars, deaths from drinking him toxic methanol in the mistaken belief mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever containing methanol in Iran’s southwestern methanol has exceeded the number of deaths it protects against the virus, is just one of and cough that clear up in two to three Khuzestan province and its southern city from the new coronavirus,” he said. hundreds of victims of an epidemic inside weeks. For some, especially older adults of Shiraz. Videos aired by Iranian media the pandemic now gripping Iran. and people with existing health problems, showed patients with IVs stuck in their Dr. Knut Erik Hovda, a clinical toxicologist it can cause more severe illness, including arms, laying on beds otherwise needed for in Oslo, said to expect more methanol pneumonia, or death. the fight against the coronavirus, including poisoning victims. the intubated 5-year-old boy. Iranian media The pandemic has swept across the world, “The virus is spreading and people are also reported cases in the cities of Karaj and overwhelming hospitals, crippling economies just dying off, and I think they are even Yazd. and forcing governments to restrict the less aware of the fact that there are other movements of billions of people. Particularly In Iran, the government mandates that dangers around,” Hovda said. “When they hard hit has been Iran, home to 80 million manufacturers of toxic methanol add an keep drinking this, there’s going to be more people. artificial color to their products so the public people poisoned.” can tell it apart from ethanol, the kind of As of now, there is no known cure for Photo Credit : AP Photo alcohol that can be used in cleaning wounds. Even before the outbreak, methanol poisoning COVID-19, the illness caused by the virus. Iranian media report nearly 300 people have Ethanol is also the kind of alcohol found in had taken a toll in Iran. One academic study Scientists and doctors continue to study the been killed and more than 1,000 sickened so alcoholic beverages, though its production is found methanol poisoning sickened 768 virus and search for effective medicines and far by ingesting methanol across the Islamic illegal in Iran. people in Iran between September and October a vaccine. Republic, where drinking alcohol is banned 2018 alone, killing 76. Some bootleggers in Iran use methanol, and where those who do rely on bootleggers. But in messages forwarded and forwarded adding a splash of bleach to mask the Other Muslim nations that ban their citizens An Iranian doctor helping the country’s again, Iranian social media accounts in Farsi added color before selling it as drinkable. from drinking also see such methanol Health Ministry told The Associated Press falsely suggested a British school teacher and Sometimes it is mixed with consumable poisoning, although Iran appears to be the the problem was even greater, giving a others cured themselves of the coronavirus alcohol to stretch supply, other times it only one in the pandemic so far to turn death toll of around 480 with 2,850 people with whiskey and honey, based on a tabloid comes as methanol, falsely advertised as toward it as a fake cure. sickened. story from early February. Mixed with drinkable. Methanol also can contaminate messages about the use of alcohol-based In Buddhist Cambodia, police said they The poisonings come as fake remedies traditionally fermented alcohol. hand sanitizers, some wrongly believed seized 4,200 liters (1,100 gallons) of spread across social media in Iran, where drinking high-proof alcohol would kill the Coping with the Outbreak: methanol from a man who unwittingly people remain deeply suspicious of the virus in their bodies. planned to make toxic hand sanitizer because government after it downplayed the crisis Methanol cannot be smelled or tasted in of the virus outbreak. for days before it overwhelmed the country. The Islamic Republic has reported over drinks. It causes delayed organ and brain “Other countries have only one problem, 29,000 confirmed cases and more than 2,200 damage. Symptoms include chest pain, nausea, Credit : Associated Press (AP) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

30 March - 5 April 2020 7

International NEW DELHI TIMES Italy hopes virus is easing but fears new onslaught in south octors and nurses in Italy’s overwhelmed and deaths showed signs of slowing down, But the need is also growing in the south, “Don’t go outside! That is an order from D northern hospitals have welcomed and emergency rooms weren’t seeing the where hospitals are even less prepared and Mayor De Luca!” the drone blasts. a slight stabilizing in the number of tsunami of sick that characterized the first equipped than the prosperous north. In one coronavirus infections but fear the virus is weeks of the pandemic following Italy’s first week, Puglia in the “heel” of the Italian Italy’s high death toll and the virus’ still silently spreading in the country’s south positive test Feb. 20. peninsula went from 478 cases to 1,182, aggressive spread in the country has led 2 1/2 weeks into the West’s most extreme with a doubling of ICU patients. Campania Italian epidemiologists to estimate that the nationwide shutdown. “The numbers are still high, but for a few also doubled its caseload to 1,310 and tripled true number of infected people could be days now the numbers have stopped rising, the number of people in ICUs. as high as 450,000 and to say that under- As the dead in Italy keep piling up, virologists thank God,” said Dr. Luca Lorini, head testing is putting Italians at risk of infection. warn that the actual number of cases could of intensive care at the Pope John XXIII Currently, Italy only tests people showing be up to more than five times as high as the hospital in Bergamo, one of the hardest hit symptoms, because its labs cannot process official count, which reached just shy of of Italy’s public hospitals. any more, and to date nearly 395,000 tests 86,500 on 27 March. have been performed. Some 500 medical personnel at the hospital That means infections will still climb even are infected, and Lorini said he has found Virologist Dr. Andrea Crisanti, director with Italians ordered to stay home for all but himself treating colleagues, friends, children of molecular medicine at the University essential activity. of friends and parents of friends in his of Padua and a consultant for the Veneto overwhelmed 88-bed ICU that serves a city ’It is something devastating,” said the Rev. regional government, points to the only of 120,000. Mario Carminati, who has turned over a controlled epidemiological study done in church in the tiny Lombard town of Seriate the outbreak, in the tiny Veneto town of He marvels that he is still standing and to host coffins before they are taken by Vo’Euganeo, as evidence that Italy’s true wonders if maybe he was infected early military convoy to be cremated. This week, numbers of infection are much higher — on with slight symptoms and developed dozens were lined up in two neat rows down and that the risk of not testing more widely immunity. Nationwide, at least 50 doctors Photo Credit : AP Photo the central aisle, and were immediately is enormous. have died and 6,414 medical personnel have replaced by new ones when they were taken “It’s a matter of hours, not days,” the tested positive Italy recorded its first death in Vo, and the away. governor of the Campania region that includes Naples wrote to the central town was locked down Feb. 22 and the “At least the relatives and family know “We know it before we go into battle, and we government, complaining that his urgent entire population of 3,300 tested. According that someone is taking care of them, with accept it,” Lorini told The Associated Press. requests for ventilators had gone unheeded. to the study, 3% of Vo’s residents were a prayer and a benediction before they are “There is a real chance of adding a tragedy infected, but between 50%-75% of them taken away,” he said. Elsewhere in Bergamo, the Italian army’s of the south to the tragedy of the north.” were asymptomatic. Alpini mountaineering forces are building a Despite the toll, officials have also expressed field hospital to be staffed, in part, by some Cateno De Luca, mayor of the Sicilian city But because all positive cases were identified, cautious optimism that the exponential of the 150 medical personnel sent by Russia, of Messina, took the extraordinary step of isolated and quarantined, regardless of spread of the virus is starting to slow in one of only a handful of countries along with recording a warning to residents in his nasal, whether they were symptomatic, Vo has the hard-hit north, thanks to two weeks China and Cuba to respond to Italy’s urgent gravelly voice for drones to play as they fly seen its new infections crumble. of military-enforced stay-at-home orders. appeal for medical equipment, protective over the seaside city monitoring residents’ For several days this week, new infections masks and personnel. movements. Credit : Associated Press (AP) Tourists stranded in Asia by cancelled flights, shut borders rom the sun-soaked beaches of Thailand air traffic of more than 80% in the second is three days trek downhill. Officials were made after long lines formed at immigration F to the foothills of Mount Everest, week of March versus the same period last working on arrangements of special flights offices. tourists across Asia are finding their dream year. to at least get tourists back to the capital, vacations have turned into travel nightmares Kathmandu. “This is good news that helped us a lot,” said as airlines cancel flights and countries Ruben Evert Ernst, a German on vacation close their borders in the fight against the The German government arranged with his partner whose visa had been set to coronavirus pandemic. a rescue flight — a Qatar expire in a few days. Airways charter — that left Visitors to Thailand haven’t been so lucky. Thousands of tourists escaping cold weather the capital with 305 people on Hundreds of tourists seeking visa extensions in Europe were scrambling this week to find board, mostly German nationals. alternative ways to return home from the were crowded under a row of awnings next Thai island of Phuket in the Andaman Sea. to a makeshift immigration office that’s In Kathmandu’s tourist enclave, been set up on the outskirts of Bangkok after visitors could still be found Ksenia Vostriakova and her friends were throngs formed at the main building. wandering around empty streets. scheduled to fly back to Moscow on an April A handful of restaurants and 3 Singapore Airlines flight, but it was among There wasn’t enough room for the tourists hotels were still open, but most those canceled when the airline slashed its to keep their distance and stay in the shade shops were shuttered. Police operations. They have booked a flight on so most were pressed up almost against one were blocking locals from Qatar Airways for April 6 and are hoping another. moving around but not tourists. nothing else changes. “I woke up today at 5:30 to get here on time “Now we’re really worried that this flight “We were supposed to leave so it’s very stressful,” said Murdoch Baghaie, also might be canceled,” Vostriakova said, Photo Credit : AP Photo on March 21 but we are still in from Sacramento, California. “I’m supposed adding that their Thai visas run out in mid- Up to 10,000 tourists are believed to be Nepal and waiting for our embassy to help to be a tourist enjoying the scenery. Nothing April. “We might still stay here because stranded in Nepal after the government us arrange a flight,” said New Lee Kuan, like enjoying Thailand anymore.” everything changes.” ordered a complete lockdown that halted all from Malaysia. Shopping malls, bars, sit-down restaurants, flights and road travel to prevent the spread public swimming pools and many other Thailand went under a state of emergency of the virus, the country’s tourism board The Indian Ocean island nation of Sri Lanka places have all been ordered closed in this week as the government gives itself said. Most businesses and government said that it was ready to help an estimated Thailand. new powers to deal with the virus crisis. offices were also shut. 18,000 tourists return home either via scheduled flights that are still operating or The country, which last year welcomed 39 At least for now, Phuket’s beaches remain Spring is the tourist season for Nepal when special charters if required. The country is million tourists, announced it was closing its open. That’s good news for Russian tourist thousands of visitors come to hike the under a nationwide curfew until at least next borders to nearly all foreigners. Its national Vitaliy Kurikov, who has been spending his mountain trails. week. airline, Thai Airways, said it was suspending days playing with his son on the white sands almost all of its flights. of Bang Tao beach. At the Lukla Airport, the only gateway to In Indonesia, more than 2,500 foreign It’s a trend seen around the region and the the Mount Everest region, there were more tourists were stranded in Bali, the most “If they close the beaches, I really don’t world. The Airports Council International than 200 trekkers stranded, according to famous of the country’s more than 17,000 know what to do,” he said. Asia-Pacific said that 12 major hubs in Dhurba Shrestha, an airport official. Even islands. The government has granted all Asia-Pacific had seen an average decrease in if the highways were open, the closest road tourists automatic visa extensions, a move Credit : Associated Press (AP)

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International NEW DELHI TIMES Europol: Criminals exploit virus EU tempers fray as virus hits crisis as fresh opportunity lives, livelihoods, economies riminals are preying on a fearful public pharmaceuticals. The “corona spray,” s the coronavirus claims lives, ruins crisis. The EU’s executive commission gave C and disrupting the provision of medical “corona packages” and medicines are but A livelihoods and wreaks economic countries the green light to break long- care during the coronavirus pandemic by “the tip of the iceberg regarding this new havoc, tensions are rising between European cherished budget and debt rules, to pump selling counterfeit products, impersonating trend in counterfeiting,” Interpol said. Union countries over how best to respond state aid into collapsing businesses and health workers and hacking computers as as the pandemic overwhelms some member overwhelmed hospitals. It’s also earmarked COVID-19, the disease caused by the new many citizens do their jobs online at home, nations, once more raising troubling billions of euros in coronavirus aid. virus, causes mild or moderate symptoms European law enforcement agency Europol questions about the EU’s ability to stand for most people, such as fever or coughing said. united in times of crisis. Europe’s finance ministers agreed in principle for two to three weeks. But it can cause this week to let partners in distress borrow In one instance, a cyberattack on a major more serious illness and death for others, Almost 16,000 people infected with the up to 2% of their gross domestic product hospital in the Czech Republic where especially for older adults and people with virus have died in Europe. Over a quarter from the European Stability Mechanism, a COVID-19 tests are carried out forced the existing health problems. of a million had tested positive. Countries bailout fund set up during the debt crisis a cancellation of planned surgeries, Europol hit especially hard, like Italy and Spain, decade ago with lending assets of 410 billion Europol noted the transfer of 6.6 million said in a new report. are imploring their partners to do more, euros ($444 billion.) particularly on the economic front, and to do it now. But the nine rapid-economic action countries want the immediate rollout of “The consequences of COVID-19 should “coronabonds,” shared debt backed by be faced not in the coming months but all. This would let even those hardest- tomorrow morning,” Italian Prime Minister hit nations borrow at sustainably low Giuseppe Conte said after a summit of EU interest rates as their spending balloons on leaders, according to Italian media. hospitals, measures to pay wages and to stop bankruptcies. Germany and the Netherlands “We are facing the worst crisis of our do not agree. generation. The future of the European project is at stake. We have to choose Many early responses to the virus at the between a coordinated and supportive EU national level - uncoordinated actions like and individualism,” Spanish Prime Minister the partial closure of borders, some of which Pedro Sanchez tweeted. “We call for a have disrupted European medical and food common response to this emergency. Let’s supply chains, or the failure of nervous ensure a fair recovery.” governments to share masks with countries in need - also seem to have undermined Much as mass migration to Europe in mutual trust. recent years left Italy and Greece feeling abandoned by EU countries that weren’t inundated with new arrivals, the coronavirus rift has exposed an old north-south divide. Often, it’s about comparative wealth and the way European money is used.

Photo Credit : AP Photo In this case, an alliance of nine countries Organized crime groups, well-known euros by a European company to another - among them Italy, Spain and France for identifying new opportunities, have in Singapore to buy face masks and alcohol - want to throw all the EU’s economic found new pathways to scam people made gels, widely used now for cleaning hands to might into fighting the virus and damage vulnerable by fears of the virus, which, like protect from the coronavirus. from the disruption it’s caused as soon as criminals, know no borders, according to the possible. But nations like Germany and the report. “The goods were never received,” the report Netherlands want to keep a little powder dry, said. It did not identify either company. to have something in reserve should things “Criminals have quickly seized the get even worse. opportunities to exploit the crisis by adapting Criminals also lurk at the doorways of their modes of operation or developing new private homes as hundreds of millions of The Netherlands insists that the best way to criminal activities,” Europol Executive people across Europe are confined under proceed is through a careful analysis of the Director, Catherine de Bolle said in a government orders to slow the spread of the virus threat and when it might subside, as statement. She added that organized crime virus. well as recommendations on how to move groups’ “capacity to exploit this crisis forward in terms of lifting health restrictions means we need to be constantly vigilant and The fraud schemes used to get inside private and spurring economic recovery. residences to steal vary but often involve prepared.” Photo Credit : AP Photo someone impersonating medical officials, But after the summit, Portuguese Prime It’s a commodity that once lost could prove conducting a “corona test,” providing Europol’s report lists four main avenues for Minister Antonio Costa slammed remarks very hard to restore, particularly among hygiene products or informative material, illicit activity: cybercrime, fraud, counterfeit in news reports attributed to Dutch Finance expectant citizens. and substandard goods, and organized Europol said. Minister Wopke Hoekstra that Spain’s property crime. Criminals manufacture and government should be investigated for In one European country, an individual was “When Europe really needed to be there for sell high-demand products like masks or claiming it doesn’t have the funds to cope notified by phone of a relative hospitalized each other, too many initially looked out medicine, impersonate medical workers to with the coronavirus without help. for themselves. When Europe really needed get into homes or businesses, and break into with the virus and then received a middle-of- the-night visit from individuals in protective an ‘all for one’ spirit, too many initially a gold mine of information with so many “This kind of talk is repugnant in the context gave an ‘only for me’ response,” European European citizens now doing their jobs gear posing as doctors who actually swabbed of a European Union. That’s exactly the the victim’s mouth. Commission President Ursula von der online at home. right word: repugnant,” Costa said. He said Leyen said. Hoekstra’s idea was “small-minded” and European officials have warned the public to Coronavirus-related criminal activity is not “utterly undermines the spirit of the EU and be wary of potential scam artists during the “The people of Europe are watching what limited to Europe. A March 3-10 operation is a threat to the EU’s future.” unprecedented and vulnerable times. happens next,” she told EU lawmakers. “But in 90 countries, overseen by international they will also remember who was there for police agency Interpol, dug out suspects European Commission President Ursula “If we don’t show respect for each other, and them – and who was not. seeking fast cash, notably with the sale of von der Leyen noted recently that increased if we don’t understand that when faced with counterfeit face masks and medicines. time online, for work or to while away a common challenge, we have to be able to And they will remember those that acted days and weeks of confinement, means that respond as one, then nobody gets what the – and those who did not. And they will Interpol said that it disrupted the work of 37 criminals “exploit our concerns about the EU is all about,” Costa said. remember the decisions that we take today organized crime groups, and seized 34,000 coronavirus.” – or those we will not.” fake and substandard masks, and more A lot has been done at the European level than $14 million in potentially dangerous Credit : Associated Press (AP) already to deal with the health and economic Credit : Associated Press (AP) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

30 March - 5 April 2020 9

International NEW DELHI TIMES Venezuela’s only telecoms satellite is lost in space enezuela’s only telecommunications television will continue to be broadcast V satellite has veered off its orbit and through cable operators and old-fashioned stopped working, creating a logistical antennas. But Peña said that it will be headache for the cash-strapped South harder to access in some parts of the country American nation. where telecommunications infrastructure is crumbling. A report published in The Chinese-built satellite was launched 2018 by Venezuela’s official National among much fanfare in 2008 under the Telecommunicatrions Commission noted watch of former President Hugo Chavez, that only six of 10 homes in the country who said that the six-ton machine would have paid television services like cable or help to “construct 21st century socialism” DirectTV. and contribute to Venezuela’s “independence and sovereignty.” The satellite’s problems were first noticed on March 13, when ExoAnalytic Solutions, But as Chavez’s socialist revolution decays a California company that tracks global under U.S. sanctions and years of economic satellite traffic, reported that VeneSat-1 had mismanagement, the nation’s prized satellite veered away from its position at 78 degrees Photo Credit : AP Photo is tumbling in space and has become useless west longitude above Venezuela and was could be forced out of their planned orbits The Venezuelan satellite was placed on three years before its planned expiration tumbling westward. by factors that include overheating, a 78 degrees west longitude, an orbital slot date of 2023. component failure or impact from micro assigned to the nation of Uruguay. Peña The findings were also confirmed by AGI meteors. said that at a better slot, given Venezuela’s The satellite was helping to provide internet a Pennsylvania-based satellite tracking geographical position, would have been at services to rural areas that are not connected company. Both companies found that the Analysts in Venezuela believe that the 68 degrees west. to fiber optic cables, and was also being used satellite was significantly veering off its satellite could have been lost due to a to broadcast Venezuela’s heavily politicized programmed course, with its orbit at least 50 shortage of fuel. But that slot belonged to the Andean state-run television channels into poor or kilometers (30 miles) m above the arc used Community of Nations, a multi-national rural homes that have no access to cable TV. by most telecommunications satellites. The satellite was placed at an orbital slot bloc that Venezuela was in the process of that was not ideal for providing services to leaving because the group was pushing for a “Now the government will need to resort to Venezuela’s Ministry of Science confirmed Venezuela, meaning that more fuel had to be free-trade agreement with the United States. international satellite providers to distribute in a statement that the Simon Bolivar Satellite spent to keep it on track. its content” to the poorest Venezuelans, said – named after Venezuela’s independence “Venezuela struck a deal with Uruguay William Peña a Venezuelan journalist who hero – was no longer operational. But it “Many people in the industry thought it because it was an ideologically friendly specializes on telecommunications. did not provide details on why it had gone would not last the full 15 years” said Patrick nation,” Peña said. “But it was not the ideal haywire. Boza, a Venezuelan telecommunications position. The satellite fell to ideological But migrating to commercial satellites consultant. “When this satellite was put in arrogance.” will cost millions of dollars and could William Therien vice president of engineering orbit, more fuel than usual was spent trying be hindered by U.S. sanctions. State-run for ExoAnalytic Solutions, said that satellites to stabilize it.” Credit : Associated Press (AP) Tiptoe through Dutch tulips? Guinea voters back change that Not in coronavirus crisis’ could extend president’s rule he manicured lawns and pathways in grooming the garden, working in stores T winding the flower beds at the and restaurants and maintaining order in the Keukenhof spring garden, normally crowded busy parking lot. with thousands of visitors on any given sun- splashed spring day, were deserted. But this is not a normal year and now only about 40-50 staff are working to maintain the park to ensure it can reopen in 2021.

The Keukenhof’s annual eight-week opening, which usually attracts some 1.5 million visitors from more than 100 countries, was postponed last week, and cancelled altogether.

It’s not the only major Dutch tourist site that has fallen victim to the virus’ march across the world. The Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam are shuttered, and even the brothels in the city’s Red-Light district have closed down.

Siemerink said he doesn’t intend to let all the Keukenhof preparations — 7 million Photo Credit : AP Photo bulbs were planted by hand for this year’s uinea has voted to change its constitution, meaning the 82-year-old could remain in season - go to waste. G according to provisional results from a office for another 12 years. referendum that could see the West African Instead of welcoming real guests, the park A coalition of opposition and civil society country’s president remain in power for two Photo Credit : AP Photo intends to showcase itself online — a sort of groups, the National Front for the Defense more terms. A lonely worker pushed his wheelbarrow virtual tiptoe through the tulips. of the Constitution, demonstrated against through the garden, carrying out maintenance Nearly 92% of voters on March 22 supported the proposal and boycotted the referendum. even though nobody will be allowed to Siemerink is now working on a project the change, according to the head of Guinea’s Opposition parties said at least 10 people visit the Dutch park this season because of aimed at broadcasting live films online and electoral commission, Amadou Salifou Kebe, were killed in violence surrounding the vote, restrictions aimed at slowing the spread of in partnership with television stations in the who gave the results. while the government said 4 died. the coronavirus. Netherlands, Germany and Britain. The proposal would keep a two-term limit Despite the boycott, violence and fears surrounding the worldwide coronavirus “It feels very bad, you can imagine,” said “If people cannot come to Keukenhof, on presidencies, but increase the length of pandemic, the turnout was 61%, according Keukenhof Director Bart Siemerink. “It we will bring Keukenhof to the people at each term from five years to six. President to Kebe. Guineans also voted for National really hurts. For all the gardeners, for all the home,” he said. Alpha Conde, whose second and final term people involved.” In a normal year, there are ends in December, has implied that his Assembly seats. plenty of people — some 1,300 — involved Credit : Associated Press (AP) previous terms served would not count, Credit : Associated Press (AP)

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 10 30 March - 5 April 2020

International NEW DELHI TIMES Garment workers going unpaid as fashion labels cancel orders survey of factory owners in Bangladesh The survey, conducted March 21-25, A found that major fashion retailers that included nearly 200 large suppliers with are closing shops and laying off workers in more than 750 workers that mainly make Europe and the U.S. are also canceling their garments for European markets. sometimes already completed orders, as workers often go unpaid. It found nearly all buyers refused to contribute to wages for those workers, and A report released by Mark Anner, director more than 70% of those furloughed were of Pennsylvania State University’s Center sent home without pay. Of the workers for Global Workers’ Rights, says the who were fired, less than 20% were given coronavirus crisis has resulted in millions of severance pay, the survey found. factory workers, mostly women from rural areas, being sent home without the wages or Anner and other labor experts say the big severance pay they are owed. fashion retailers are resorting to “force majeure” clauses in their contracts — About 4.1 million people work in apparel usually used in case of natural disasters or Photo Credit : AP Photo factories in Bangladesh, the world’s No. 2 war — to justify not paying manufacturers which provides 80% of the country’s export production. garment exporter after China. The South that have already paid for fabric and other earnings, those factories have been deemed Asian country is just beginning to feel the materials and labor to make the orders. an essential industry. “We will have 4.1 million workers literally direct impact of the pandemic. But the Earlier, suppliers were being penalized for going hungry if we don’t all step up to a shocks to its export markets have been late deliveries resulting from difficulties Kalpona Akter, executive director of the commitment to the welfare of the workers,” cascading into its economy for weeks. obtaining fabric or other materials due to Bangladesh Center for Workers Solidarity Huq said. factory shutdowns and other disruptions group, blasted buyers for canceling orders. The disruptions from the virus outbreak are caused by the virus outbreak that originated “The workers are panicked,” she told The “One thing is very clear, our foremost straining a fragile supply chain in which big in the central Chinese city of Wuhan. Associated Press. responsibility was towards our workers. We buyers have been squeezing their suppliers are a manufacturing country, our reality and for years. The government, having offered Factory owners are unlikely to fight back out “We have a cruel reality here. Simply, they your reality is totally different, but it is not huge tax incentives to entice manufacturers of fear they might lose future business once will go hungry, their families will suffer, a time to point out differences, it’s a time and buyers to move to Bangladesh, has scant the crisis passes. their children, their parents will suffer for through which we need to work together,” resources to help protect workers. lack of food, medicine. The global brands she said. The virus outbreak “is showing us just how will lose a fraction of their profit, the owners More than 1 million garment workers in extreme that power imbalance is,” Anner will also lose their share, but the workers Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Bangladesh already have lost their jobs said. “It’s just an absolute disaster.” will be left without food and medicine,” announced a 50 billion taka (over $600 or have been furloughed because of order Akter said. million) support package for export-oriented cancellations and the failure of buyers to The damage is not limited to the garments manufacturers, mainly apparel makers, to pay for canceled shipments. Nearly 60% sector. The International Labor Organization The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers help pay workers. But factory owners say it of the 316 factories that responded to the has estimated that 25 million jobs may be and Exporters Association said that orders will only provide about one month’s salary. survey by the Center for Global Workers’ lost due to the virus outbreak. worth about $2.7 billion had been canceled Rights and the Worker Rights Consortium, or suspended, directly affecting nearly 2 We appreciate the announcement of the a Washington, D.C.-based labor rights Bangladesh, a nation of 160 million, is million workers. prime minister. This is a very good gesture, organization, said they had already closed deploying soldiers and police to enforce a but I want to say very humbly that it’s down most of their production. About 6% nationwide 10-day shutdown to slow the In a video message, its president, Rubana very tiny, very small,” said S.M. Khaled, of factories have had all orders canceled due spread of the coronavirus in the densely Huq, urged global buyers including H&M managing director of Snowtex Group. to the outbreak, while nearly 46% said they populated country. But in an indication and Wal-Mart to not cancel orders and have lost a big share of their orders. of the importance of the garment sector, to accept those already finished or under Credit : Associated Press (AP) China bars most foreigners Syria, UAE leaders discuss coronavirus, a thaw in relations to curb imported virus cases yria’s president and one of the United a major test for the government. The UAE S Arab Emirates’ most powerful leaders had been a supporter of the Syrian opposition spoke on the phone - signalling a major during the early years of the war, now in its thaw in Damascus’ troubled relations with tenth year. But as the war wound down and Arab countries, which had mostly boycotted with the Syrian army capturing most of the President Bashar Assad and backed his territory that was once lost to the opposition, opposition. the UAE and a few Arab countries made limited and usually indirect openings toward The official Emirati news agency said Assad Assad’s government. and Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan discussed In late 2018, the UAE reopened its embassy Photo Credit : AP Photo efforts to contain the coronavirus outbreak in Damascus, for the first time since an hina says it is temporarily barring most The ministry said in a statement that: “The and reviewed preventive measures to fight it. C foreigners from entering the country suspension is a temporary measure that organized Arab diplomatic boycott soon after as it seeks to curb the number of imported China is compelled to take in light of the Sheikh Mohammed, believed to be the the Syrian war erupted in 2011. The embassy coronavirus cases. outbreak situation and the practices of other Emirates’ day-to-day ruler, said Syria and representation is at a charge d’affairs level countries.” the UAE need to “place the humanitarian but its very reopening was a sign that more The foreign ministry announced that even solidarity over political issues during this rapprochement is likely to follow. foreign citizens with residence permits will The coronavirus outbreak originated in common challenge ‘we are all facing’,” The phone call, however, is the first publicized be prevented from entering. All visa-free China. But as its number of domestic virus according to the report. The crown prince contact between an Arab leader and Assad. transit policies will also be temporarily cases has dwindled, the country has had to of the oil-rich Abu Dhabi affirmed that The Syrian opposition, which controls suspended. contend with infections brought by people Syria “will not be left alone during these one overpopulated stretch of territory in who have recently arrived from overseas. delicate and critical circumstances.” Syria’s northwestern Syria, is now mainly supported It said diplomatic workers will be exempt, Such infections have accounted for the health system and infrastructure have been by Turkey, which the UAE and other Arab and foreign citizens coming to China for majority of China’s new cases for more than decimated by years of conflict. Although countries view with suspicion because of its “necessary economic, trade, scientific or a week. Damascus has recorded only five cases embrace of regional Islamists. technological activities or out of emergency of infection with coronavirus, there are humanitarian needs” can still apply for visas. Credit : Associated Press (AP) concerns the fast-spreading virus may prove Credit : Associated Press (AP) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

30 March - 5 April 2020 11

International NEW DELHI TIMES New Zealand mosque Philippine rebels gunman pleads guilty to declare cease-fire to murder, terrorism he man who committed the worst nine times during the attack at Al Noor, heed UN chief’s call T atrocity in New Zealand’s modern said he was surprised by the turn of events ommunist guerrillas in the Philippines history when he slaughtered 51 worshippers and hoped the judge would set an example C said they would observe a cease-fire at two Christchurch mosques unexpectedly at the sentencing by imposing the harshest in compliance with the U.N. chief’s call for pleaded guilty to all charges. punishment in the country’s history and a global halt in armed clashes during the helping ensure nothing like it would happen coronavirus pandemic. The attacks targeting people praying at the again. mosques a year ago shocked the nation and New People’s Army guerrillas have been prompted new laws banning the deadliest “I’m happy that he has accepted that he is ordered to stop assaults and shift to a defensive types of semi-automatic weapons. It also guilty,” Atacocugu said. position till April 15, the Communist Party of Photo Credit : AP Photo prompted global changes to social media the Philippines said in a statement. Sidney Jones, a Jakarta-based analyst with Judge Cameron Mander has not yet the Institute for Policy Analysis of Conflict, protocols after the gunman livestreamed his The rebels said the cease-fire is a “direct set a sentencing date. Tarrant faces life said the fight against the global pandemic attack on Facebook, where it was viewed by response to the call of U.N. Secretary- imprisonment, with the judge having some offers a rare common cause for governments hundreds of thousands of people. General Antonio Guterres for a global cease- discretion in deciding the minimum number and insurgents. fire between warring parties for the common of years Tarrant must serve before becoming purpose of fighting the Covid-19 pandemic.” eligible for parole. Jones cited how the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami helped bring about a 2005 peace Guterres issued the call saying, “It is time to deal between rebels and the government in The change in plea came at a hastily arranged put armed conflict on lockdown and focus Indonesia’s Aceh province “when both sides court hearing at a time that New Zealand was together on the true fight of our lives.” beginning a four-week lockdown to try and realized it was more important to rebuild combat the new coronavirus. The lockdown The communist insurgency has raged mostly than to keep fighting.” meant Tarrant appeared in the court via in the Philippine countryside for more than If governments and insurgents heed the U.N. video link from his jail cell in Auckland and half a century in one of Asia’s longest- chief’s call, that would bring “some relief to only a handful of people were allowed inside running rebellions. The military estimates vulnerable communities and maybe a brief the courtroom, including the imams from the about 3,500 armed guerrillas remain after moment, even in the midst of a pandemic, two mosques that were attacked. battle setbacks, infighting and surrenders to consider what life without violence would have reduced their forces in decades of be like,” she told The Associated Press. Mander said it was unfortunate the lockdown fighting although the rebels claim they have prevented victims and family members from more fighters. Duterte launched peace talks with the rebels being able to attend the hearing but the when he took office in mid-2016. But the imams were helping to represent them. He The rebels said their cease-fire is unrelated negotiations, brokered by the Netherlands, said he wanted to quickly move ahead with to a similar move by the military and police eventually bogged down with both sides the hearing, especially with the COVID-19 but that it could possibly foster preliminary accusing the other of continuing to carry out response threatening delays to the court talks to resume long-stalled negotiations. attacks. Photo Credit : AP Photo schedule. The sudden turn in the case took survivors President Rodrigo Duterte declared a Although he has often lashed out at the and relatives by surprise, and brought relief Tarrant, who was wearing a gray prison unilateral cease-fire with communist rebels, Duterte has repeatedly signaled he to people across New Zealand. Many had sweater, showed little emotion as he pleaded guerrillas last week to focus on fighting the is open to resuming negotiations with them. feared Australian white supremacist Brenton guilty. He didn’t indicate why he had coronavirus outbreak that prompted him to In December, he sent an envoy to meet self- Harrison Tarrant would try to use his trial changed his pleas, and his lawyer could not place the northern third of the country under exiled communist rebel leaders in Europe to as a platform to promote his views. He’d immediately be reached for comment. a strict quarantine. The rebels are active in discuss the prospects of resuming talks. outlined those views in a 74-page manifesto the northern region, home to more than 50 New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda he published online shortly before the million people. Credit : Associated Press (AP) Ardern, who was praised around the world attacks. for her empathetic response to the Muslim community after the attacks, said it was Tarrant, 29, pleaded guilty to 51 counts of Canada imposes mandatory self- “deeply disappointing” the victims didn’t murder, 40 counts of attempted murder and get to attend the hearing. one count of terrorism at the Christchurch isolation for those returning High Court. He had previously pleaded not But she said there was “a certain sense of anada imposed mandatory self-isolation according to Canada Border Services. guilty to all charges and his trial had been relief that the whole nation, but particularly C for those returning to Canada under the scheduled to start in June. Truck drivers and health care workers our Muslim community, are being spared Quarantine Act. crossing the border are exempted from the from a trial that could have otherwise acted Tarrant is the first person to be found guilty quarantine act and Canada and the United as a platform.” of terrorism in New Zealand under laws States already closed their common border passed after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist Tarrant moved to New Zealand in 2017 and for all non-essential travel. Canada relies on attacks in the U.S. kept a low profile in the university city of cross border trade for essential goods like Dunedin. He frequented a gym, practiced food and medicine. The change in plea came less than two weeks shooting at a rifle club range and built up after New Zealanders commemorated those Freeland said people who have already an arsenal of weapons. He didn’t appear to Photo Credit : AP Photo returned should be self-isolating at home who died on the anniversary of the March be employed, and said in some online posts 15, 2019, attacks. Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland already, noting it is critical to protect the that he’d inherited a significant amount of initially said the system would and require health of Canadians and ultimately to ensure money when his father died. “Honestly, I’m still trying to process what 14 days of isolation. But several hours later, that the country’s economic rebound comes government officials said the quarantine more quickly. just happened,” said Aya Al-Umari, whose Tarrant appeared to have a fascination with brother Hussein was killed in the attack on order had been in effect for more than 12 religious conflicts in Europe and the Balkans, “If we can flatten the curve then we can go the Al Noor mosque. “I feel conflicted.” hours already. and visited a number of sites in Eastern back to normal life more quickly,” she said. Europe in the years before he committed She said that on the one hand, she had the massacre. After his attack at the second “It will be a legal obligation for people Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also announced wanted to find out more details about what mosque, Tarrant was driving, possibly to entering Canada from outside Canada,” his government will offer $2,000 Canadian happened at the trial but on the other hand carry out a shooting at a third mosque, when Freeland said. “Essential workers are (US$1,395) a month, for the next four was feeling relieved about not having to face two police officers rammed his car off the excluded.” Freeland said penalties would months, for workers who lose their income the trauma of sitting through it. road, dragged him out and arrested him. be announced later. More than a million as a result of the pandemic. Canadians and permanent residents returned Temel Atacocugu, who survived being shot Credit : Associated Press (AP) to Canada between March 14 to March 20, Credit : Associated Press (AP)

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 12 30 March - 5 April 2020

International NEW DELHI TIMES With virus, cherished Mideast traditions come to abrupt halt nder the sign “Take out only” and a Aden have banned qat markets to prevent U tall bottle of antiseptic by his side, the spread of the virus. Mazin Hashim, 54, rearranged the coals heating a water pipe outside his famed cafe However, vendors have found ways to in Baghdad. keep selling it, either with help from armed factions controlling the city, or in the He put up the placard to satisfy recent outskirts. government restrictions on movement and gatherings that are aimed at slowing the In the north, which is controlled by Houthi outbreak of the new coronavirus. Once rebels, authorities said they plan to move inside, however, thick white plumes of crowded qat markets to open areas and ban fragrant smoke choked the air as over a gatherings of more than eight people. dozen young men whiled away the hours in defiance of the directives. The measures might be hard to implement as the country has busy markets in almost As the pandemic continues to spread, every city and town. At around noon every Photo Credit : AP Photo day some 90% of Yemeni men converge governments across the Middle East are shisha at Hashim’s instead. Down the street from Hashim, Tony Paulis, clamping down on the region’s cherished on local markets to buy qat, according to 60, said he tried to promote social distancing Houthi health ministry spokesman Youssef traditions: No more massive weddings and “It’s normal for us to come here during times with a poster outside his barbershop door. It al-Hadhri. He said markets will remain open celebrations. Restrictions on sales of qat, of crisis,” said Ahmed. “The only difference has an “X” over an image of two men leaning since they become crowded only a couple of a mild plant narcotic chewed in groups in this time is we are hiding from the police.” in for a greeting, and a warning message: hours a day. Yemen. No more evenings spent mostly “Please limit yourselves to handshakes by men in traditional coffee shops across Safety tips being traded by many in Iraq and do not kiss given the current difficult The Lebanese port city of Sidon, south of the region. And most importantly, no more often fly in the face of global appeals by situation.” the capital Beirut, is mostly deserted. It smoking of the beloved shisha, or water experts to avoid physical contact and keep a once bustled with people flocking to its pipe, in public places. safe distance from others. The attempt was futile. “Iraqis aren’t scared traditional coffee shops where elderly men of coronavirus, but they should be,” he said. gathered to smoke cigarettes and play cards In a region where life is often organized Iraq’s revered Grand Ayatollah Ali al- and backgammon. Those closed after the around large families, communal meals and Sistani, whose opinion is sought by many, At least 40 people have died in Iraq from the Lebanese government ordered a lockdown tribal rules, social distancing can be difficult. said it was necessary to avoid shaking coronavirus, which causes mild or moderate last week. hands, hugging and kissing except when symptoms in the majority of people but In Iraq, clarion calls sound twice a day the “necessary precautions” were taken, can cause more severe illness, including In Beirut, Bassam Makki, the 42-year-old to remind people to adhere to the ban on including sterilization, masks and gloves. pneumonia, or death for some, especially owner of a jewellery shop had been in the public gatherings. But that has little impact older adults and people with existing health final stages of planning his wedding when at Hashim’s shisha parlor, second home to But Hashim said his acquaintances routinely problems. the pandemic started. 29-year-old Mustafa Ahmed who comes ignore even such warnings. In Iraq, the every day to meet friends and seek solace custom is to plant one kiss on each cheek. In Yemen, which has already endured five He and his fiancé took out a loan and planned from the monotony of domestic life. That is why he keeps the bottle of antiseptic years of civil war, the chewing of qat is a a celebration for 130 people at a four-star nearby. daily activity that brings groups together to hotel in Beirut. The party, which had been Not even at the height of Iraq’s sectarian exchange gossip and debate. scheduled for April 10, has been cancelled. wars was he made to spend seven straight “Whenever someone greets me, I quickly days at home. He and his friends smoked wipe my hands and face with it,” he said. Authorities in Yemen’s southern city of Credit : Associated Press (AP) Mexico President to continue travel; asks fans to stay away resident Andrés Manuel López Obrador He was criticized last weekend on a similar But López Obrador said that his P said he will maintain his busy travel swing in the southern state of Oaxaca for infrastructure projects — like a tourist train schedule dedicating infrastructure projects stopping to eat in a local restaurant and for that will circle the Yucatan Peninsula and around Mexico in spite of growing urging Mexicans to continue to eat out in community building projects like drainage restrictions prompted by the coronavirus, spite of the virus. He said he would continue and new roads that he planned to visit over including a shutdown of most federal to evaluate the situation, but for now planned the weekend — must continue because they government operations. to continue travelling. provide jobs.

López Obrador took a commercial flight to Mexico reported 717 cases of the coronavirus “The intention is the balance between the the western state of Nayarit and then was and 12 deaths as of 27 March. The virus medical, the health and the protection of the heading to the northern border state of Baja causes mild or moderate symptoms for popular economy,” he said. Photo Credit : AP Photo California before finishing the weekend in most people, but older adults and those being applied.” Sinaloa. with existing health problems are especially Some countries that have strong formal López Obrador also announced that 17 vulnerable to more severe problems and economies can more easily say to shut hospitals that are nearing completion will However, the president said he doesn’t want even death. everything down, the president said, but half be operated by the military, to increase the people gathering in airports to see him like of Mexicans work in the informal economy. number of intensive care beds available. they usually do to shake hands and request López Obrador has been criticized for not “If the people don’t work, they don’t eat,” selfies with him. taking the epidemic seriously enough, but in he said. U.S. Ambassador Christopher Landau recent days has made more of an effort to taped an appeal to U.S. tourists to get out “Whoever comes to see me in the airport is “These projects are needed ... they’re jobs,” urge Mexicans to stay at home and be aware of Mexico. there because my adversaries sent them,” of the symptoms. López Obrador added. “We stop and there López Obrador said. are masons, construction workers who are “If you are a U.S. tourist in Mexico, or The federal government shut down for all left without work. anywhere, we encourage you to go home,” “So that the media outlets that don’t love us but essential services, and health officials Landau said. can send the story, ‘There’s the president, have urged businesses to keep employees at So we have to continue with the care that’s giving a bad example.’” home for all but essential activities. necessary, that’s required and is already Credit : Associated Press (AP) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

30 March - 5 April 2020 13

International NEW DELHI TIMES UN health agency settles in The G20 video call: In for long fight with virus virus era, even summits he World Health Organization’s emergencies allow us, at the very least, to live with this T chief said that widespread testing for virus until we can develop a vaccine to get the new coronavirus is crucial and countries rid of it.” A vaccine against the virus isn’t should not be faulted for reporting higher expected for at least 12 to 18 months. are virtual numbers of cases. He also appealed for a he face-to-face tension among foes was Instead of unshaven or dressed down shift toward public health strategies that The new coronavirus causes mild or T gone. So was the in-person camaraderie colleagues, there were U.S. President allow us “to live with this virus” until a moderate symptoms for most people, but among allies. Donald Trump, Japan’s Prime Minister vaccine emerges. for some, especially older adults and people Shinzo Abe, India’s Narendra Modi, French with existing health problems, it can cause Gone were the impromptu and urgent President Emmanuel Macron and Canada’s more severe illness or death. “bilats” — bilateral meetings between Justin Trudeau, among others, interacting in leaders to iron out a sticking point. Gone pixels with the Saudi monarch. WHO officials continue to caution that much was the image of one leader leaning over remains unknown about the virus including another seated counterpart, whispering into Instead of wall-to-wall live video coverage why people who aren’t elderly or have an ear in a conspiratorial fashion before, and photographers’ cameras snapping, preexisting conditions become seriously ill perhaps, they shared a laugh. Gone, for now, the only indication the virtual summit had with COVID-19. were the lavish dinners and toasts honed to started was a lone ticker on Saudi TV. the host nation’s cultural traditions. Ryan said 10% to 15% percent of people What else does the virtual summitry cause? under age 50 will have a “moderate to severe Like much else in the time of coronavirus, It makes transparency even more of an infection.” governing as a global leader attending high- issue. There were no media briefings where level summitry has been unceremoniously journalists could ask probing questions of At the same time, WHO officials emphasized upended. leaders or their deputies. There were no the importance of testing widely for the Photo Credit : AP Photo virus, saying it would enable health officials The comments from Dr. Michael Ryan to get a better grasp on outbreaks even suggested a change in mindset at WHO if increasing numbers of people testing and the U.N. health agency’s increased positive may stir unease. resignation that the virus first identified “We should not punish countries for getting in China late last year will be around for larger numbers,” Ryan said. “If we create a while. The number of people infected a situation where we overreact to the daily worldwide exceeded 585,000. number, then there’s a disincentive to actually test.” “At this point, no one can predict how long this epidemic is going to last,” Ryan said “Having a larger number means I know during a WHO news conference. “We are where the virus is better,” he said. entering and moving to an uncertain future. ... Many countries around the world are just With the governments in many countries beginning the cycle of this epidemic.” imposing nationwide lockdowns, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom For weeks, WHO officials spoke during Ghebreyesus acknowledged that limits daily briefings in Geneva of a “window of on travel or leaving the house “influences opportunity” to try to contain the spread individual human rights.” of the virus. But lately there have been Photo Credit : AP Photo indications that the containment window has “But this is a choice that we should make,” The virtual meeting of the Group of 20 closed. he said. “Meaning, in order to have collective aides walking the sidelines, available to nations, with more than a dozen heads of security, to be a better society and to fight the news media to clarify, add context and state participating, was less a global summit Ryan called for moving from measures the virus, we give our freedom, you know, answer probing questions. and more of a high-powered conference designed to “take the heat” out of the for a while.” call. It lasted about 90 minutes — the same For Saudi Arabia, this was not what it pandemic to ones aimed at “much more as a standard soccer match — instead of the expected or wished. When its crown prince, precise targets, directed targets, that will Credit : Associated Press (AP) usual, more languid two days. Mohammed bin Salman, attended the G20 summit in Argentina at the end of 2018, it Hangzhou, Hamburg, Buenos Aires and was largely as a pariah. Curfews extended as USAID Osaka had been the hosts for the previous years’ gatherings. For 2020, it was to be Video showed him standing alone, apart, declares aid suspension in Yemen Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. after global revulsion at the slaying of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the kingdom’s s countries across the Middle East In Iraq and Lebanon, authorities extended Chaired by Saudi King Salman, who consulate in Istanbul. The blame from many A tighten restrictions on movement to curb far-reaching curfews for two weeks, while is presiding over the G20 this year, the quarters was resting firmly at his door. the spread of the coronavirus, a spokesman in hard-hit Iran, the death toll jumped by meeting’s purpose was to tackle the for the U.S. Agency for International 157, prompting new steps to limit public pandemic and its economic implications as Then came some salvation: Russia’s Development said that it would suspend gatherings and domestic travel. people lose their incomes amid closures, President Vladimir Putin steadfastly made humanitarian aid to parts of Yemen over curfews and lockdowns. his way to bin Salman, and they exchanged a restrictions by the Houthi rebels that predate robust high-five with a wide smile. For better the pandemic. In opening remarks, the Saudi king said, or for worse, these are the type of personal A spokesman for USAID, one of the largest “This human crisis requires a global moments that define high-level summits. donors to U.N. operations in Yemen, told response. The world counts on us to come The Associated Press that it will “partially together and cooperate in order to face this There was no such moment. There were suspend” its operations the following day challenge.” only pixels and screens, digitized audio in Houthi rebel-held areas, where 70% of and leaders in rooms scattered across a Yemenis live. Photo Credit : AP Photo But coming together never seemed more beleaguered planet. of a metaphor than it did at this particular In Saudi Arabia, authorities announced a total The decision came after the Houthis have “gathering.” When the world’s leaders came together, lockdown on the capital, Riyadh, and Islam’s spent months preventing U.N. agencies from they did it separately. And then - with no two holiest cities, Mecca and Medina, using biometric testing and taking other Extraordinary images emerged on social ceremony, no meal, no shared group photo - in addition to a nationwide curfew. The measures to ensure aid flows to beneficiaries. media of conference call gallery shots — the they hung up and went about their ever more United Arab Emirates entered an overnight The timing of the decision raised concerns kind that legions around the world, pushed uncertain days. weekend lockdown. that it could worsen Yemen’s humanitarian into working from home, have become crisis, among the worst in the world. Credit : Associated Press (AP) accustomed to seeing in recent days. Credit : Associated Press (AP)

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 14 30 March - 5 April 2020

Delhi/NCR NEW DELHI TIMES Centre announces Rs. 170,000 crore financial package for weaker sections amid Coronavirus pandemic will “address the concerns of poor, migrant ◆ By NDT Bureau workers and those who need help”. @NewDelhiTimes [email protected] She also announced a medical insurance cover of Rs. 50 lakh per person for those fighting against the deadly Coronavirus, n a move to protect the weaker sections including, doctors, nurses and sanitation I of the society from the economic workers. Along with Rs. 2,000 to farmers fallout of the deadly Coronavirus pandemic, under the Kisan Samman Nidhi, the Finance the government at the Centre on March 26, Minister announced direct cash transfers for announced a Rs. 170,000 crore financial eight categories of beneficiaries including package. pensioners, women and the specially-abled. women self-help groups under the Deen and the employer for next three months for The Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman Dayal Upadhyaya National Rural Mission small companies with 100 employees and while announcing the relief package, said, Along with an increase in the wages under scheme along with the supply of 5 kg of where the 90 per cent staff is paid less than “A package is ready for the poor who need the MNREGA scheme from the existing Rs. 182 either rice or wheat and 1 kg of lentil of Rs. 15,000 per month. immediate help like migrant workers and to Rs. 202, she also announced an ex-gratia choice free of cost to poor households every urban and rural poor. No one will go hungry. amount of Rs. 500 per month for next three month for next three months, in addition to Also, it said to permit withdrawals of up to The package is worth Rs 1.7 lakh crore.” months to the women holding bank accounts the existing 5 kg of wheat/rice announced 75 per cent of non-refundable advance or under Jan Dhan scheme. earlier. three months of wages from the EPF account, Adding further, the Union Minister said that whichever is lower. The government said the the Rs. 1,70,000-crore scheme dubbed the The government has also announced The government also said to pay the EPF move is likely to be beneficial for 4.8 crore Prime Minister Gareeb Kalyan scheme and collateral-free loans up to Rs. 10 lakh for contribution on behalf of both the employee subscribers. Gear up preparedness Need to look at collective RBI slashes Repo for assistance to civilians: Defence Minister to interest of all humankind: PM Rate to 4.4%, Armed Forces Modi at virtual G20 Summit Reverse Repo ◆ By NDT Bureau ◆ By NDT Bureau Rate to 4 % @NewDelhiTimes @NewDelhiTimes ◆ By NDT Bureau [email protected] [email protected] @NewDelhiTimes he Armed Forces, other departments, [email protected] T organizations, Defence PSUs have he world has taken time to respond to the Coronavirus crisis, said Prime been directed by the Union Defence Minister T he Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in Minister Mr. Narendra Modi at the virtual Rajnath Singh to gear up their preparedness T a major move, cut the Repo Rate by G20 Summit on March 26, 2020, as he and provide all required assistance to the 75 basis points to 4.4 per cent while the called on a new concept of globalisation civilian administration at various levels Reverse Repo Rate has been slashed by 90 that remains focussed on the collective well- in the time when the country is under basis points to 4 per cent. complete lockdown due to the Coronavirus being of humankind. or COVID-19 outbreak. The Prime Minister of India said that even a challenge and noting the “alarming social after three months of the deadly pandemic, and economic costs of the pandemic”, PM the world is trying to find coordinated Mr. Modi emphasised on the need to “look response. Adding further, he said, “G20 at the collective interest of all humankind”. meeting shows international community has come together but it has taken some time to He also called for empowerment of the respond to the crisis with this magnitude and World Health Organisation and also dimension.” stressed on the need to “freely and openly share” the benefits of medical research and Calling Coronavirus pandemic or COVID-19 development.

AAP government in Delhi asks The RBI called the COVID-19 pandemic an “unprecedented threat and invisible assassin” essential shops to be functional 24×7 and took the move as part of measures to ease the pain on banks and industries that are he Aam Aadmi Party government in facing problems due to the 21-day nationwide ◆ By NDT Bureau T the National Capital has asked the lockdown till April 15. @NewDelhiTimes shops dealing in essential services to be functional 24×7 in order to ensure that [email protected] The move was announced by the Governor there is no crowding of the people and of RBI who said that the RBI Monetary they do not face difficulty in procuring policy committee voted in 4:2 majority to essential supplies. The move came at a review meeting held cut 75 basis points to 4.4 per cent during its with the senior officials of the Ministry of On the other hand, the police officers and meeting between March 25-27. Defence (MoD) in the National Capital, to the SDMs have been asked to ensure that discuss the action plan of the Ministry to deal the shops providing essential goods and Adding further the RBI Governor said that with the prevailing COVID-19 situation. commodities have enough stocks. the Cash Reserve Ratio of all the banks has been reduced for a period of 1 year, by 100 During the meeting, the Union Minister The government has also announced that no basis point to 3% from March 28, 2020. This also appreciated the efforts of the Armed restrictions will be imposed on e-commerce move is likely to release 1.37 lakh crore. Forces and various departments of MoD in platforms engaged in providing essential evacuating Indian nationals along with the services, a move to discourage people to The RBI Chief further added that all these foreigners from the COVID-19 affected step out of their homes and stay indoors measures will ease pressure on the banks countries and providing proper quarantine which is quite important to curb the spread as this will release 3.74 lakh crore in the facilities. of the deadly virus. market. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

30 March - 5 April 2020 15

Delhi/NCR NEW DELHI TIMES DTC mandates ID Cards for passenger Delhi Government announces movement financial aid to construction workers ◆ By NDT Bureau @NewDelhiTimes hit by Coronavirus lockdown [email protected] with the financial assistance from the CWWB arring unnecessary movement of people ◆ By NDT Bureau Fund. The government in the National Capital B in the National Capital in efforts to @NewDelhiTimes is also considering to develop a mechanism fight against the deadly Coronavirus or to identify and disburse funds to even those [email protected] COVID-19, the Delhi Transport Corporation construction workers and daily wagers who (DTC) now has mandated for all the are not registered with the CWWB and have elhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, passengers to show identity cards. The move lost their livelihood due to the lockdown. D in a major relief to lakhs of people, has comes to ensure that only those involved in announced financial aid of Rs. 5,000 to each essential services are allowed to travel. Apart from this, the number of night shelters construction worker whose work has been is also being increased to help those having hampered and halted due to lockdown in no source of earning to get food. the region because of the novel Coronavirus outbreak. The Chief Minister further urged people to not to discriminate against those working Around 4 lakh construction workers registered in airlines, hospitals and other Coronavirus Photo Credit : Getty Images with Delhi Government’s Construction Workers sensitive jobs as they are working relentlessly DTC Managing Director, on March 24, Welfare Board (CWWB), will be provided to provide proper medical help and support. Photo Credit : Getty Images issued an order in this regard. It is to be noted that the Chief Minister of the National Delhi Government to Capital, Arvind Kejriwal has restricted all There will be no shortage of issue electronic passes types of public transport from operating and had allowed only 25 per cent buses of the essential supplies, assures to the providers of DTC fleet to operate from March 23. essential services An official from DTC said, “This was necessary as even those who were not involved in Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal ◆ By NDT Bureau essential services were roaming around in when entire nation is making efforts to deal @NewDelhiTimes buses, putting other passengers and our staff ◆ By NDT Bureau with the deadly pandemic. [email protected] in danger.” Adding further, he said, “Our @NewDelhiTimes buses are being thoroughly sanitised, but with unnecessary crowding, maintaining [email protected] ith the entire nation put under complete social distancing becomes difficult.” W lockdown for 21 days till April 15, ssuring the people of the National the Aam Aadmi Party government in A Capital that there will be no shortage the National Capital, in order to ensure Delhi’s Deputy of essential supplies in the city due to uninterrupted services, has said to issue nationwide lockdown for 21-days in India’s electronic passes to those offering essential CM presents Delhi fight against deadly Coronavirus, Chief services and belong to unorganised Minister of the Capital City, Arvind Kejriwal sector, including, grocery shop owners, Photo Credit : Getty Images Budget 2020-21 said, “The 21 days lockdown announced by vegetable vendors, mask and hand sanitizer PM is very important to check the spread of Meanwhile, Aam Aadmi Party MLA Sanjay manufacturing etc. ◆ By NDT Bureau corona. I assure every resident of Delhi that Singh has said to contribute Rs. 1 crore to there will be no dearth of essential items in CM Relief Fund from the MPLAD Fund. @NewDelhiTimes next three weeks. In this tough time, all your The contributions have been made to help [email protected] needs will be taken care of.” acquire medical equipment and essential items at Delhi government hospitals, said hile presenting a Rs. 65,000 crore The Chief Minister has urged to the citizens Singh. Another AAP MP ND Gupta has also W budget for financial year 2020-21, to come forward to make contributions to announced to make contribution of Rs. 2 crores Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund in a time from the same fund. said that the government of the National Capital will be implementing the Centre-run Delhi Police clears doubts over Ayushman Bharat health scheme, will set up its own board, open more mohalla clinics and polyclinics, acquire more buses and movement of people during Curfew reduce air pollution by 66 per cent. #lockdownquery. In response to a netizen’s ◆ By NDT Bureau concern about whether there was a fixed time The education sector got almost 25 per cent @NewDelhiTimes for people to go out to markets after rumours of the budgetary allocation while healthcare, went viral on social media that shops being [email protected] transport and social security and welfare forced to shut post 2 pm, the Police clarified have been prioritised by the Aam Aadmi that no such directive had been issued. Photo Credit : Getty Images Party government led by Chief Minister People engaged in delivery of these essential Arvind Kejriwal. The Deputy Minister A senior police official said that after they services and working in unorganised medical further added that various government received a lot of queries regarding the stores, grocery shop owners going to buy subsidies like free water, power and travel movement of people, question and answer necessary articles are finding it difficult to for women in public buses will continue in session was planned. travel because of the lockdown in the city, the next financial year. that in, turn may hamper the supplies of “We also took suggestions from Twitter essential goods and commodities in different The government seeks to increase the city’s Photo Credit : Getty Images users, who told us the ground reality at some parts of the city. Thus, issuance of e-passes total bus fleet to 11,000 in next two years aking it to the micro-blogging site, places. Corrective actions will be taken,” he may make travel easier and ensure enough from the current 6,000. It has also proposed T Twitter, Delhi Police cleared doubts stated. availability of essential supplies. to spend Rs. 4,466 crore for social welfare of people about their movement during the and social security against last year’s curfew in the National Capital. The police further put up copies of their After holding a joint review meeting with Rs. 3,432 crore. In a bid to reduce air pollution orders sharing details of the locations from Lieutenant Governor (LG), Delhi CM level in the National Capital by two-thirds, The Police made appeal to the people where people could collect curfew passes. Arvind Kejriwal assured people that the dedicated funds of Rs. 52 crore have been of the Capital city to log on to the Delhi Also, a list of services under essential government will not let any crisis of essential allotted to the environment department. Police page and report their queries with services category was posted by them. commodities hit Delhiites.

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 16 30 March - 5 April 2020

Neighbourhood NEW DELHI TIMES Bangladesh Global community condemns Pakistan confirms releases jailed terror attack on Sikh first prisoner with COVID-19 in ex-PM Zia for Gurdwara in Afghanistan crowded jail Recalling the UN Plan of Action to Safeguard fficials in Pakistan confirmed the ◆ By NDT Bureau six months Religious Sites, the High Representative O country’s first coronavirus case among angladesh’s government released @NewDelhiTimes stressed that “attacks targeting sacred sites thousands of inmates in an overcrowded and worshippers are intolerable and have to prison facility, saying the person had been B imprisoned opposition leader and [email protected] former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia for six stop”. arrested on drug charges in Italy before his recent deportation. months on condition that she stays at home he international community has condemned and does not attempt to leave the country. T the terror attack on a Sikh Shrine Italy has suffered by far the deadliest consequences in Kabul. A lone Islamic State gunman of the pandemic, reporting more than 6,000 Zia had spent more than two years in the rampaged through a Sikh house of worship deaths and has the second highest overall prison cell of the Bangabandhu Sheikh in the heart of the Afghan capital, killing number of infections. The prisoner with Mujib Medical University in the capital, 25 worshippers and wounding eight, coronavirus was being held at the central Dhaka. Afghanistan’s Interior Ministry said. The jail in Lahore, the capital of Pakistan’s most gunman held many worshippers hostage for populous Punjab province, which houses Her family and senior party leaders received several hours while Afghan special forces, around 3,500 inmates. her as hundreds of supporters ignored calls Photo Credit : Getty Images helped by international troops, tried to clear to avoid gathering to stop the spread of An official at the Lahore General Hospital the building. At least one of the dead was Mr. Moratinos called on all governments, as coronavirus. told VOA by phone the patient had been a child. Within hours, the Islamic State well as others, to support the implementation swiftly shifted to an isolation ward for group claimed responsibility for the attack. of the plan to guarantee “the sanctity of Wearing a mask, Zia came out in a treatment and prison authorities had been The SITE Intelligence Group, which tracks worship places and the safety of worshipers”. wheelchair and rode a car to her home in ordered not to move inmates to the detention militant postings and groups, said IS claimed Dhaka’s Gulshan area. Against the backdrop of previous terrorist center before undergoing tests for the virus. responsibility for the attack on the group’s assaults on Sikhs and other religious Law Minister Anisul Huq said Zia, 74, was Aamaq media arm. minorities in Afghanistan, he said that raid It was not immediately clear how many other being released on humanitarian grounds inmates and prison staff were inadvertently The United Nations has condemned the “adds to an expanding number of attacks considering her age. She will receive her exposed to the disease. terrorist attack on a Gurudwara in Kabul targeting various faith communities around remaining treatment at home, he said. that killed at least 25 people, with the UN the world”. Prisons could become ‘epicenters’ chief calling for the perpetrators of such Zia was sentenced to 17 years in prison “The United Nations stands in solidarity crimes to be held accountable and the world in two corruption cases. Her Bangladesh with the people and the Government of body emphasising that there can be no Nationalist Party says the cases were Afghanistan and will continue supporting justification for the killing of civilians at a politically motivated. The government efforts to bring peace to their country”, religious house. of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Zia’s concluded the statement. archrival, denies the allegation. “Attacks against civilians are unacceptable Indian PM Modi said that he was saddened and those who carry out such crimes must to hear about the terror attack and expressed be held accountable”, the Secretary-General his condolences to the family of the victims. Photo Credit : Getty Images reiterated in a statement. “We convey our sincerest condolences to the Local and international rights groups have He expressed his “deepest sympathies” to the immediate family members of the deceased been urging Pakistani authorities to take victims’ families and wished the injured “a and wish speedy recovery to the injured. preventive steps, including social distancing, speedy recovery”. Meanwhile, Miguel Ángel India stands ready to extend all possible in the country’s jails, which house more Moratinos, High Representative for the UN assistance to the affected families of the than 77,000 prisoners. “Prisons in Pakistan Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), expressed Hindu and Sikh community of Afghanistan,” face massive overcrowding, overruling the his dismay at the “despicable” attack. said a press release from the Ministry of possibility of social distancing, with the External Affairs (MEA). potential for a large outbreak. Hygiene In a statement on his behalf, his Spokesperson supplies remain limited as does healthcare,” said that that the attack came “at a time India’s Ambassador to Afghanistan Vinay said Amnesty International in a statement. when the world is facing a pandemic” that Kumar visited the Sikh Gurudwara and adversely impacts everyone and requires all offered condolences to families of the Amnesty noted that pre-trial detainees are Photo Credit : AP Photo “to stand together as ‘One Humanity’”. victims of the horrific attack. taken to courts, where they may be exposed Zia’s party says she is seriously ill with to the virus. The rights group has demanded ailments including respiratory problems and that Pakistani authorities seriously consider arthritis. Two Sri Lanka inmates killed reducing the prison population. “Should the government fail to act now, Pakistani prisons In February, the High Court rejected an in riot over virus restrictions and detention centers will become epicenters appeal by Zia seeking her release for medical for the transmission of COVID-19,” said treatment in the United Kingdom for chronic nmates in a Sri Lankan prison scuffled Sarah Belal, executive director of Justice arthritis. I with guards and some tried to escape Project Pakistan, a non-governmental group during a protest against new strict measures working for prisoners’ rights. Pakistan called Zia was convicted in February 2018 on charges to control the spread of the coronavirus, in troops to help civilian authorities in dealing of misusing her power by embezzling leaving two dead and six wounded, police with the coronavirus pandemic as the country some $250,000 in donations meant for an said. remains under a partial lockdown, with orphanage trust. She was later convicted in educational institutions, public gatherings and Tensions erupted at the Anuradhapura prison another corruption case. wedding parties banned. when guards tried to control the riot. In the Zia and Hasina are both part of political commotion, guards opened fire to prevent All international incoming and outgoing inmates from fleeing, police said. Photo Credit : AP Photo dynasties. Zia is the widow of Ziaur for Protecting Rights of Prisoners, said passenger flights also have been halted Rahman, a General-turned-President who Anuradhapura is about 200 kilometers (120 the inmates were protesting congested until April 5, with Pakistan’s borders with was assassinated in 1981. miles) north of Colombo. conditions and the poor quality of meals Afghanistan, Iran, India and China temporarily sealed. Hasina is the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur after the government banned visitors for two Prisoners were complaining about the weeks to prevent the spread of the virus. Rahman, the country’s first President and Only hospitals, grocery stores, food and decision by the authorities not to allow Visitors often bring home-cooked food. independence leader, who was assassinated visitors as a move to contain the virus. pharmaceutical producing factories and in 1975. Sri Lanka’s prisons are overcrowded, sometimes pharmacies are working. Inter-city transport Police said no inmates escaped and security at housing 5,000 inmates in a facility capable is allowed only to move food and medical Bangladesh gained independence through a the prison has been strengthened with additional of holding 800, according to the pressure supplies while public transport inside the nine-month war against Pakistan in 1971. police teams, including commandos. group. cities is prohibited.

Credit : Associated Press (AP) Senaka Perera, President of the Committee Credit : Associated Press (AP) Credit : Voice of America (VOA) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

30 March - 5 April 2020 17

North America NEW DELHI TIMES Puerto Rico Mexico President joins 1st governor international summit - from home ore than a year into his term, Mexican “You must give special attention to the tightens, extends M President Andrés Manuel López family micro-businesses and to all those Obrador attended his first international working in the so-called informal economy, coronavirus curfew summit, though the topic-the coronavirus those who make their way in life any way he U.S. territory of Puerto Rico announced pandemic-meant he didn’t have to leave they can,” he said later at his daily news T that it would extend a two-week home to get there. conference. curfew to April 12 and warned of new López Obrador, who has not left Mexico He also specifically noted the ability of the restrictions to help curb coronavirus cases since taking office Dec. 1, 2018, urged neighbouring United States to spend billions that are the strictest of any U.S. jurisdiction. the online gathering of the world’s top 20 of dollars on in-demand items like ventilators Gov. Wanda Vázquez said non-essential industrialized economies to help those with for those in most critical need, making such Photo Credit : AP Photo workers will have to be home by 7 p.m. fewer resources. He proposed that the United things harder for other countries to find and at a manageable level works, the epidemic starting March 31, two hours earlier than the Nations take control of “everything related driving up the cost. to medicine and equipment” to combat the may not peak in Mexico until August. current curfew. In addition, vehicles with López Obrador has long maintained that he virus so that there is an even playing field. Eduardo González Pier, a former undersecretary license plates ending in even numbers can has too much to do in Mexico to spend time in Mexico’s health ministry and a fellow at only transit Monday, Wednesday and Friday. “When these things occur, he with the greatest travelling abroad like other heads of state. the Wilson Center’s Mexico Institute, said Those ending in uneven numbers can only economic possibilities hoards,” López Obrador He has delegated that work to his foreign Mexico heads into this crisis with an under- transit Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. said at his daily news conference, which secretary while at the same time sharply resourced public health system suffering followed the G20 session. curtailing international travel by other from consecutive years of budget cuts and government officials as part of his austerity The President’s concern about Mexico’s an economy already in recession. already stalled economy and the huge swath measures. Add in the plunging price of oil, an important of the population that would not have the López Obrador has been criticized for not source of income for the government, means to weather a shutdown have informed taking more aggressive measures against and Mexico is facing what could be its the government’s hesitancy to take more the pandemic and downplaying it as he most severe crisis in decades from a very restrictive steps to slow the virus’ spread. encouraged Mexicans to go about their weakened position. But Mexico’s federal government shut business. down all but its essential activities, while “The health system will be overloaded much His government continues to send mixed López Obrador took time in his daily news faster than other countries have experienced Photo Credit : AP Photo messages. He said his health advisers told conference to review the illness’ symptoms and this is going to increase probably the him Mexico should be in better shape by Vázquez said the new restrictions are in and urge people stay at home. number of deaths or the mortality rate of the response to the nearly 400 people who have April 19. But earlier this week, Health confirmed cases,” González said during a been cited for violating a curfew imposed on López Obrador told the other world leaders Undersecretary Hugo López-Gatell said discussion organized by the institute. March 15. She stressed that non-essential that the poor must be a focus of plans for if the government’s plan to flatten the workers have to stay home. economic recovery after the pandemic. epidemiological curve and keep infections Credit : Associated Press (AP)

“That the best antidote to COVID-19,” she said. FBI: Soldiers set up deadly Canada’s second All non-essential businesses will remain largest airline cuts shuttered until mid-April, and people will robbery to fund foreign fighting only be allowed to leave their homes or hotels his undated booking photo from battlefield. “The man was just searching for almost half its staff to go to the bank or buy food or medicine. T the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office a spot on the world map to catch a bullet and anada’s second biggest airline, WestJet, The curfew extension is expected to further shows Alex Zwiefelhofer. Zwiefelhofer is a die,” Lang’s attorney, Dmytro Morhun, told C said almost half its employees are deepen the island’s 13-year recession, even co-defendant in the April 2018 killings of a The Associated Press. “But he has found leaving the company amid the pandemic as though the governor announced a $787 Florida couple. Federal authorities believe a new life, a new love, a new family” in it seeks to survive until things stabilize. million financial package as Puerto Rico Zwiefelhofer and fellow Army veteran Craig Ukraine, Morhun said. struggles to recover from Hurricane Maria Lang robbed and gunned down the couple, WestJet said 6,900 employees are leaving, and a recent string of strong earthquakes Serafin and Deana Lorenzo, to finance a with 90 percent leaving voluntarily. The that together caused billions of dollars in Venezuela trip. (Pinellas County Sheriff’s company had 14,000 employees before the damage. Office via AP) announcement. The two former U.S. Army soldiers met Chief executive Ed Sims said in a statement Dr. Segundo Rodríguez, who leads a government in Ukraine, where they joined the same that those leaving include early retirements, task force to fight the coronavirus in Puerto far-right paramilitary group. After getting resignations and both voluntary and Rico, said he estimates there are more than deported, they planned to take a boat from involuntary layoffs. 600 people infected on the island of 3.2 Miami to South America. They wanted to million people given that more than 60 have The Calgary, Alberta-based company has fight the socialist Venezuelan government tested positive so far. The government also canceled all international flights for 30 days and kill “communists.” has reported two COVID-19 deaths: a tourist and, like Air Canada, severely scaled back Photo Credit : AP Photo from New York and another from Italy. That’s what Alex Zwiefelhofer told the FBI domestic capacity. agent and police detectives who questioned Lang, a North Carolina native, was discharged Also, the governor announced Puerto Rico’s him about the fatal shooting of a Florida from the Army in 2014. Zwiefelhofer, Sims said the company sent out a communication third health secretary in less than two weeks: couple in April 2018. Federal authorities a Wisconsin native, was discharged in last week asking employees to support the Lorenzo González, a psychiatrist who believe Zwiefelhofer and fellow Army 2018 after going absent without leave in survival of the airline by selecting one of a served as the island’s health secretary during veteran Craig Lang arranged the deadly September 2016. number of options including unpaid leave of absence, early retirement, voluntary the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. The appointment robbery of Serafin and Deana Lorenzo to The two met in Ukraine in 2016. Zwiefelhofer comes hours after former health secretary finance the Venezuela trip.Nearly two years resignation, reduced work week or reduced told authorities that he and Lang joined pay. Concepción Quiñones resigned for unknown after the killings, Zwiefelhofer, 22, is awaiting Right Sector, an ultranationalist group reasons. She had been appointed after Rafael trial in Fort Myers, Florida, on federal fighting Russia-backed separatists. Right- “It is through these WestJetters’ sacrifices Rodríguez resigned earlier this month over charges punishable by a death sentence, wing volunteer battalions played a key role that we can preserve a core of people who complaints over how Puerto Rico’s health while Lang, 29, faces the same charges as he in the separatist conflict that erupted in 2014 will remain employed to prepare for the department was handling COVID-19 cases. fights his extradition from Ukraine, where in eastern Ukraine after Russia’s annexation moment when the situation stabilizes, and he married a woman last year and is now of Crimea. we can look to rise again,” he said. Puerto Rico remains without an epidemiologist. under house arrest. One of his attorneys has Vázquez abruptly announced during the said it could take years for the extradition The fighting attracted thousands of volunteers He said the airline’s executive team took a press conference that the previous one, case to be resolved. from the U.S. and Europe. Some foreign 50 percent pay cut, while vice presidents Carmen Deseda, whom health officials combatants were driven by white supremacist and directors have taken a 25 percent pay criticized for her role during the coronavirus In the U.S., authorities portray Lang and ideology, but soldiers who served with Lang cut. He said they are also in contact with the pandemic, was no longer with the health Zwiefelhofer as cold-blooded killers. In in Ukraine said they never heard him express provincial and federal governments about department. She did not offer further details. Ukraine, a defence lawyer blames the U.S. any racist or extremist views. the depth of the problem. government for not doing more to help Credit : Associated Press (AP) Lang and other veterans adapt to life off the Credit : Associated Press (AP) Credit : Associated Press (AP)

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 18 30 March - 5 April 2020

Africa NEW DELHI TIMES ‘Go home!’ South Africa has 1st death as lockdown begins outh Africa announced its first death Johannesburg, the country’s commercial Amid the new restrictions, some feared the in Johannesburg’s Hillbrow neighborhood. S from the coronavirus as the country’s hub. Homeless people scattered, looking for abuse of power. In Rwanda, which imposed “I share a room with two other people. The cases rose well above 1,000 and a three-week shelter, to the astonishment of residents on a lockdown over the weekend, police have next room has four people, another room lockdown began, with military patrolling balconies who filmed the patrols with their denied that two people shot dead were killed has a family. We all share one bathroom and and police screaming at the homeless on mobile phones. One baton-wielding officer for defying the new measures. In Kenya a kitchen. We all try our best to maintain quiet streets. took chase. police fired tear gas at people crowding to distance and cleanliness but it is difficult, as board a ferry ahead of a curfew in Mombasa. you can imagine.” But some people cooly strolled through Some motorists were pursued, stopped townships, alcohol in hand, or jostled in and searched. “Go home,” security forces South Africans should go out only for line at shops as fellow citizens looked on, shouted. “You cannot be outside ... You are essentials such as groceries or medical worried. “Children are playing in the streets. so selfish.” Around 3 a.m., sustained gunfire care or to provide essential services. Public It looks like it is the holiday season,” said echoed through the streets. Some 24,000 transport operates only during rush hour. Phiwe Manata, who lives in Gugulethu police officers were deployed countrywide. “We are putting our lives at risk,” said one township outside Cape Town. commuting worker, Simphiwe Radebe, South Africa’s military helped to enforce “People are just doing as they please,” saying they had little choice. “Please pray measures that include bans on sales of Soweto resident Mothibedi Mohoje said. for us.” Minibus taxis were sprayed with cigarettes and alcohol, even dog-walking. The police minister later said 55 people had disinfectant before passengers boarded, been arrested for violating the lockdown. President Cyril Ramaphosa, in full military leaving spaces between them, some wiping Photo Credit : AP Photo uniform, had told troops to be a “force of their hands. The death occurred in Western Cape She watched from her window as people in kindness” and reminded police that “our province, home of Cape Town. The health Anxiety is especially high among low- long lines at local shops ran away as police people are terrified right now and we should ministry originally announced a second income South Africans squeezed into sirens began to wail. “It’s quiet now,” she said. death but test results showed negative for not do anything to make their situation crowded townships with limited water the virus. South Africa’s 1,170 cases are worse.” supplies. Fears of an increase in domestic Like many informal workers, she didn’t the most in Africa, with the total across the violence and rape have been expressed by know how she will get by. Economic pain is Neighboring Zimbabwe announced a three- continent now above 3,500. civil society groups. widespread, with South Africa in recession week “total lockdown” of its own. The and unemployment at 29%. Security forces with megaphones screamed county has a handful of cases but a shattered “Social distancing is very impossible here,” at people shortly after midnight in downtown health system. said Sipho Moyo, a manicurist who lives Credit : Associated Press (AP) Boko Haram kills 92 soldiers 50 Nigerian soldiers killed in in Chad in country’s worst toll deadly Boko Haram ambush oko Haram extremists have killed oko Haram extremists killed at least 50 The Boko Haram fighters inflicted heavy at least 92 Chadian soldiers in the B B soldiers during an ambush in northern casualties by firing on troop vehicles with deadliest attack on the nation’s forces, Yobe state, one of the deadliest recent rocket-propelled grenades and guns, he said. Chad’s President said. attacks on troops in Nigeria, according to Survivors were being treated at hospitals in The attack took place in the village of Boma military sources. Damaturu and Maiduguri. in the Lac province near the border with A senior army officer confirmed the attack, Nigeria and Niger. The ambush happened as the military tried calling it a huge setback for Nigeria’s army to launch an offensive against the Boko and saying he lost a friend. President Idriss Deby gave the toll on state Haram militants, according to a military television after visiting the site. official with knowledge of the operation that The government also confirmed the attack, started over the weekend. “Never in our history have we lost so many but did not give a death toll. men at one time,” he said. The official spoke on condition of anonymity “The Nigerian military suffered some Boko Haram extremists have killed tens of because he was not authorized to speak to casualties in the unfortunate attack,” a thousands and forced millions from their the media about the matter. Nigerian army spokesman, Maj. Gen. John homes during their more than decade-long Enenche. insurgency. They have carried out numerous The soldiers initially were able to fight back attacks in the Lake Chad region where Boko Haram has killed tens of thousands and escape, the official said. They launched Cameroon, Chad, Nigeria and Niger come during its 10-year insurgency in northern another offensive a day or so later and were together. Nigeria. then attacked from the rear at a place near the Credit : Associated Press (AP) village of Goneri called the Gorge, he said. Credit : Associated Press (AP) Hundreds of tourists stranded in Moroccan lockdown undreds of tourists who were traveling outbreak that they were no longer allowed communal showers and toilets but she fears the travelers were elderly, and there were H in Morocco in motorhomes have to wait at the Moroccan side of the Spanish contamination from using them. Morocco also many children. found themselves stranded in a parking lot enclave of Ceuta in the hope of being has identified 225 cases of COVID-19. near a Tangier highway that authorities have allowed entry into Spain. Ceuta is just over “As soon as we arrived at the queue after turned into a makeshift quarantine center. 20 kilometers across the sea from Gibraltar, Like hundreds of tourists, Dransfield and driving 16 hours, the ambassador told us to which is British. her family drove more than 16 hours from a go back where we came from,” he said. camping site in southern Morocco to Spain’s Moroccan authorities are in the process of Ceuta border when they were told by the Some tourists tried to leave the line to go equipping the parking lot with electricity British embassy that the border would open south but were turned back by roadblocks as and essential accommodation. for them to pass. Morocco banned between-city travel in a bid to control the spread of the virus. They are also building temporary food shops She arrived to find hundreds of vans queuing as the tourists settle in and prepare to stay, in line. “We were waiting with more than The press service of the U.K. Embassy in potentially in quarantine throughout the 650 other motor homes for three days Morocco told the AP they “don’t have any coronavirus lockdown of unknown length. without access to bathrooms and without details to share on the border issue,” when news of what will happen to us.” asked if plans are in place to open the Ceuta “We were told we’ll have to stay here border soon. indefinitely,” said British traveller Lynda “It became clear that the borders will not Dransfield. “It’s just a daunting prospect not open,” she said. Morocco’s Foreign Ministry did not reply to Photo Credit : AP Photo knowing when we’ll be able to leave.” comment requests. The mostly British tourists were told by Another British tourist, Andrew McKettrick, Moroccan authorities reacting to the coronavirus Dransfield said the park has running water, said people were panicking. He said most of Credit : Associated Press (AP) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

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South America NEW DELHI TIMES A defiant Maduro threatens ‘cowboy’ Trump after drug charge enezuelan President Nicolás Maduro being,” Maduro railed during his televised start of Hugo Chavez’s revolution in 1999 laundering in the U.S. at least $3 million V stood defiant in the face of a $15 address. “You manage international relations occurred as far afield as Syria, Mexico, in illegal proceeds from case fixing in million bounty by the U.S. to face drug like a New York mafia extortion artist you Honduras and Iran, the indictment alleges. Venezuela, including one involving a trafficking charges, calling Donald Trump a once were as a real estate boss.” Attorney General William Barr estimated General Motors factory. Much of the money “racist cowboy” and warning that he is ready the conspiracy helped smuggle as much as he spent on private aircraft, luxury watches What was some of Maduro’s most venomous to fight by whatever means necessary should 250 metric tons of cocaine a year out of and shopping at Prada, prosecutors allege. rhetoric ever against Trump also came with the U.S. and neighboring Colombia dare to South America. a threat of military force: “If one day the invade. Maduro’s defense minister, Gen. Vladimir imperialists and Colombian oligarchy dare Padrino, was charged with conspiracy to Maduro’s bellicose remarks came hours after to touch even a single hair, they will face the smuggle narcotics in a May 2019 indictment the U.S. announced sweeping indictments Bolivarian fury of an entire nation that will unsealed in Washington. against the socialist leader and several wipe them all out.” members of his inner circle for allegedly “This announcement is a major blow for Earlier, Venezuela’s chief prosecutor opened converting Venezuela into a criminal Maduro who has been running Venezuela an investigation against opposition leader enterprise at the service of drug traffickers like a mafia state, with rampant corruption and Juan Guaidó for allegedly plotting a coup and terrorist groups. widespread atrocities, and absolute impunity,” with retired army Gen. Cliver Alcalá, who Photo Credit : AP Photo said Jose Miguel Vivanco, the Americas One indictment by prosecutors in New after being named in the U.S. indictments “The Maduro regime is awash in corruption director of Human Rights Watch. “With York accused Maduro and socialist party said he had stockpiled assault weapons and criminality,” Barr said in an online news this indictment he may now lose his aura of boss Diosdado Cabello, head of the rubber- in Colombia for a cross-border incursion. conference from Washington. “While the invincibility, of being completely above the stamp constitutional assembly, of conspiring Without offering evidence, Maduro said Venezuelan people suffer, this cabal lines law, which is very welcome news.” with Colombian rebels and members of the the Drug Enforcement Administration was their pockets with drug money, and the military “to flood the United States with behind a plan by Alcalá to assassinate him But its unclear how it brings Venezuela proceeds of their corruption. And this has to cocaine” and use the drug trade as a “weapon and other political leaders. any closer to ending a 15-month standoff come to an end.” against America.” between Maduro, who has the support of The indictment of a functioning head of state Russia and China, and the U.S.-backed The coordinated unsealing of indictments Maduro, a former bus driver who fashions is highly unusual and is bound to ratchet Guaidó. himself an everyman icon of the Latin up tensions with Washington as the spread against 14 officials and government-connected American left, said the charges were of the coronavirus threatens to collapse individuals, along with the announcement of It also could fragment the U.S.-led coalition politically motivated. He said they ignore Venezuela’s shortage-plagued health rewards of $55 million against Maduro and against Maduro if European and Latin U.S. ally Colombia’s role as the main source system. Maduro has ordered Venezuelans four others, attacked all the key planks of American allies think the Trump administration of the world’s cocaine and his own role in to stay home in an effort to curb the spread what Barr called the “corrupt Venezuelan is overreaching. An estimated 5 million facilitating peace talks between Colombia’s of the virus, which officials say has infected regime,” including the Maduro-dominated Venezuelans have left the country in recent government and that country″s rebels over 107 people and claimed its first death. judiciary and the powerful armed forces. years, fleeing hyperinflation and widespread the past decade. food and medicine shortages. Criminal acts to advance a drug and In Miami, prosecutors charged Supreme “Donald Trump, you are a miserable human weapons conspiracy that dates back to the Court Chief Justice Maikel Moreno with Credit : Associated Press (AP) Bolivian tribunal Out of medication, US woman Brazil’s governors rise recommends vote delay up against Bolsonaro’s due to coronavirus finally boards flight from Peru virus stance olivia’s Supreme Electoral Tribunal razil’s governors are defying President 33-year-old American woman running the culmination of more than a week of B recommended that elections scheduled B Jair Bolsonaro over his call to reopen A out of her life-saving medication desperately trying to get out of South for May 3 be delayed as the government schools and businesses, dismissing his to treat her auto-immune disease finally American nation. The couple had tried to imposes nationwide restrictions in an attempt argument that the “cure” of widespread boarded a flight home after being stuck in charter a plane to leave Cusco, nestled high to curb the spread of the new coronavirus. shutdowns to contain the spread of the new Peru for about 10 days, but hundreds of in the Andes near the ancient ruins of Machu coronavirus is worse than the disease. The tribunal announced a 14-day suspension other U.S. citizens remained stranded after Picchu, but the Peruvian government refused of preparations for the elections, coinciding the South American nation closed its borders to give it permission to land. And when they Bolsonaro contends that the clampdown with a lockdown ordered by interim President due to the coronavirus pandemic. asked the State Department for help, they already ordered by many governors will Jeanine Áñez that includes a stay-at-home said they were told the agency was working deeply wound the already beleaguered order, a clampdown on domestic travel and on the situation. “There are other foreign economy and spark social unrest. In a a halt to international flights. Bolivia has governments that are able to take out their nationally televised address, he urged confirmed 19 cases of the virus that causes citizens, but it seems that with the U.S. there governors to limit isolation only to high-risk the disease known as COVID-19. is some gridlock in the Peruvian government people and lift the strict anti-virus measures granting those airplanes permission to land,” Bolivia’s congress would have to enact they have imposed in their regions. Anna said. “But there are many citizens here legislation in order to select a new date for that are just desperate to go home.” “What needs to be done? Put the people to the elections, according to Salvador Romero, work. Preserve the elderly, preserve those Thousands of U.S. citizens have found president of the tribunal. who have health problems. But nothing themselves trapped abroad because of the Last month, the tribunal rejected the candidacy more than that,” said Bolsonaro, who in the pandemic. Anna and her husband, like many of former President Evo Morales for a past has sparked anger by calling the virus a Photo Credit : AP Photo others, said they had a hard time getting help Senate seat in elections because he does “little flu.” “I could not be happier,” Anna, who or information. not reside in the South American country, a requested that her last name not be made decision the ousted leader called a “blow to Ian Brownlee, head of the U.S. State The country’s governors protested that his public due to privacy concerns related to her democracy.” Department’s task force on repatriations, instructions run counter to health experts’ medical condition, said after getting on the said that State and the U.S. Embassy in recommendations and endanger Latin plane in Cusco. Peru had secured the needed permissions America’s largest population. They said they At the same time, it was bittersweet. On the from the Foreign Ministry for the flight to would continue with their strict measures way to the airport, Anna and her husband saw land, but that agreement apparently did not and, in a joint letter, nearly all of them a long line of Americans hoping to get on “trickle down to the appropriate people” begged the federal government join forces the flight. Her husband told The Associated who run the airport. with states. The rebellion even included Press that some people have been “sitting traditional allies of Brazil’s President. outside the airport for a week.” Brownlee said the situation was chaotic but it appeared to have been resolved and that two Gov. Carlos Moisés of Santa Catarina state, “So obviously not everyone on line was flights-one from Lima and one from Cusco-left. which gave almost 80% of its votes to Photo Credit : AP Photo getting on this flight,” he said, adding that Bolsonaro in the 2018 presidential runoff, Morales, who resigned in November and fled there were 167 passengers on the LATAM More flights are expected to depart this complained he was “blown away” by the the country after a disputed Oct. 20 election plane, which was organized by the U.S. week, he told reporters in a conference president’s instructions. Moisés said he sparked widespread protests, is barred by State Department and allowed to land by call. Brownlee said there were about 4,000 would insist that all residents stay home law from seeking the presidency but had Peruvian authorities, unlike previous planes. Americans still in Peru and another large during the pandemic despite the president’s number in nearby Ecuador. stand. wanted to run for a seat in the Senate. The flight from Cusco to Miami with a Credit : Associated Press (AP) stop in the Peruvian capital of Lima was Credit : Associated Press (AP) Credit : Associated Press (AP)

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 20 30 March - 5 April 2020

Opinion NEW DELHI TIMES Writing a greener story in Asia and the Pacific the Pacific SDG Progress Report published Thankfully, countries in Asia and the Pacific subregions convey that cooperation is more ◆ By Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana by the United Nations Economic and Social have made resolute commitments to sprint important than ever. We must rally the region UN Under-Secretary-General Commission for Asia and the Pacific show toward the 2030 finish line. Momentum for to collectively move toward an enduring and Executive Secretary of the UN ESCAP that we are neither sustainably managing the the future has been established by substantial vision of development that protects natural rich, precious natural resources in our region groundwork. Existing efforts have laid resources, particularly the ocean, and fights ising economic prosperity and poverty nor taking adequate action to combat climate policy foundations for a more favorable climate change. Listening to the data and R reduction may not tell the whole story change. Myopic consumption practices have outlook in areas like access to clean energy supporting its availability will help create of progress in Asia and the Pacific. Telling led to marine pollution and irreversible and education. Progress towards the SDGs is integrated policies fundamental to reversing signs in the natural world recount a narrative damage to ecosystems. Air pollution has not a linear process, but there is an emerging negative trends. Revitalizing partnerships that is far from complete. This year has clouded the skies, with the Asia-Pacific basis for acceleration in the coming years. at all levels and across all stakeholders will been particularly affected by the COVID-19 region emitting half the world’s greenhouse enable us to implement them. gas. Disasters are occurring with increasing By speeding up efforts, the region can global health pandemic, with devastating balance its fast-growing economy with impacts on our health and the economy. Yet, frequency and intensity, hitting the most vulnerable the hardest. prosperity for people and planet. The total building on its achievements, the region capacity of the region to produce renewable must continue its drive towards a sustainable The earth continues to warn us that human electricity has increased almost fivefold conclusion. progress cannot come at the expense of since 2000, faster than any other region in the world. Many countries have adopted clean There have been promising developments as environmental degradation. As we make and environmentally sound technologies we turn the page to a critical Decade of Action gains, it is our responsibility to advocate for to reduce the intensity of carbon dioxide for the Sustainable Development Goals measures that protect the planet. To urgently emissions from the manufacturing sector. (SDG). The region is on track to achieve improve waste management, increase resilience against natural disasters and adapt targets on eradicating income poverty. Recent trends also given hope for an to the adverse impacts of climate change. The prevalence of undernourishment has acceleration of progress on several goals dropped from 17 per cent in 2000 to 11 in the coming decade. Increases in labour In addition to environmental considerations, With decisive action, the region has the capacity per cent in 2017. The proportion of the productivity, access to quality education and advancements in the region’s GDP growth to achieve a strong finish by 2030. During an population using basic sanitation services resource flow for development all provide are also challenging us to expand normative unprecedented global health emergency and has increased from 48 per cent to almost 75 examples that the Asia-Pacific region has thinking on poverty. Although the region increasing economic uncertainty, let us not per cent since 2000. built a basis for acceleration in many targets. is making good progress on SDG targets lose sight of the future. The determination Nonetheless, we will miss the mark on all related to economic growth, one-dimensional While we have harmed the planet along and rich resources of the region can help us 17 SDGs by 2030 unless we quicken the assessments are no longer enough. the way, I believe we also have the power overcome COVID-19 and beyond. Together, uneven pace across each subregion. The next to reverse negative trends and fight for the we can write a story of Asia and the Pacific chapters of progress we write must not only Mounting evidence reveals that the region environment, as it has provided for us. If which is one of success for every aspect of be faster, but also fight for higher quality of is likely to miss all measurable SDG targets the region doubles its concerted efforts, the nature and society. life and a healthy environment. related to other forms of poverty, hunger, future may be brighter for target areas where Ms. Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana is United gender equality and reduced inequalities. progress has been slow. Nations Under-Secretary-General and Most strikingly, there is a lack of progress on This means that our ambitions must be Executive Secretary of the United Nations environmental goals across all subregions. far-reaching and informed by the complex The extensive efforts required means we Economic and Social Commission for Asia Data from the 2020 edition of the Asia and realities of multi-dimensional poverty. cannot do it alone. Uneven gains across and the Pacific (ESCAP). Russia looks to induct new armour as part of military modernisation simultaneous ignition of a projectile charge. ◆ By NDT Bureau It is understood to function through the @NewDelhiTimes placement of metal initiators within the propellant charge of the artillery system. [email protected]

he Russian military has embarked on Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2020, T a modernization drive and security during an interview with TASS, said there is analysts contend that this is in response a principle of ‘reasonable adequacy’, which to the advancement in arms technologies he claimed is the main factor behind all of around the globe, especially in the West. Russia’s defence spending. “We are not Russian defence manufacturing companies going to fight against anyone. have filed a series of patents for advanced weapons production. We are going to create conditions so that nobody wants to fight against us, so that One of the prominent weapons is the Photo Credit : Getty Images such idea hits nobody. And we are not going acquisition of brand-new T-14 Armata main in an armoured capsule in the front part of to test results, the grills covering one- to fight against anybody, but we are creating battle tank. In November 2017, Russian the tank which is to replace T-72B3 and third of the hull in the rear are capable of such a situation in the defence sector so that Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin T-90. The main armament of T-14 Armata is protecting the tank from six out of ten shots nobody even dares to think about fighting announced that the Russian armaments a 125-mm gun 2A82. fired with a man-portable grenade launcher. us. And now there is a unique situation, I program for 2018-2027 envisages serial The others will be neutralized by combined have recently spoken about it at the Defence supplies of T-14 tanks based on the heavy Another development to note is the Fourth protection, active protection systems and Ministry. This is the first time in modern tracked Armata platform. generation Malachit dual-explosive reactive reactive armour. Russia. armour (ERA). As per information on the “The task is to fulfil the state defence order. website armata-tank.tass.com, this provides Besides, acquisition of new armour, patens We always had to catch up with our, We shall annually buy an average of some protection from current and future 100 mm have also been filed by Russian companies figuratively speaking, competitors”. Putin 200 tanks of various modifications in the – 150 mm anti-tank weapons. It is resistant for patent upgradation. A patent was filed for further stated in the interview that the coming years”, he had remarked. According to armour-piercing fin-stabilized discarding- the upgradation of T-72 tank. It states that Russian actions aimed at strategic stability to the information provided on the website sabot (APFSDS), and far more effective than by altering the guides of the ammunition and the balance of power and stated that armyrecognition.com, the T-14 Armata previous generation systems. carrier “the clamp lower rollers are shifted “after having developed these modern MBT is the first Russia-designed armoured relative to the upper rollers in the clamp systems, including those which easily combat vehicle after T-72 and T-80 created It is also resistant to the NATO tank shells, width”. Another patent details a microwave evade any anti-missile ballistic system, we yet in Soviet times in the 1970-1980s. The including the Rheinmetall DM63 (boasting ignition system for field artillery. The maintain this strategic stability and strategic unmanned turret is the main distinguishing high armour penetration capability), and patent was submitted in 2007 and states balance. It is essential not only for us, but feature of the new tank. The crew is seated future antitank missile systems. According that the device can be used to ensure near- also for global security”. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

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Think - Tanks NEW DELHI TIMES Trespassing the binary Many a times, in the past, the world has purpose behind it. While entering into the randomly and without much efforts, in most ◆ By Dr. Pramila Srivastava dealt with severe crisis, and there is no domain of good and bad, it is imperative for of the cases, one is unable to enjoy it fully @PramilaBK certainty to the fact that in the future similar us all to classify as well as align our actions because of the feeling of dissatisfaction situation won’t arise. Future is unpredictable per it. One should never mould our ways in building up in our minds. [email protected] One can’t even define success just in terms t is imperative that in lives we hold of materialistic earnings because despite the I the potential to differentiate between world running a materialistic race, success and good and bad, but it is also important to attainments have other angles to it as well. understand what actually comprise of being categorised as good and bad in our lives. At One should also keep in mind that materialistic the first place, one must be sure and clear attainments often doesn’t translate into about one’s vision in life and there should happiness or satisfaction. It is quite interesting be no space for any doubt to enter our mind to note that a poor person with comparatively irrespective of the hurdles paving our way. less affluency is also able to live happily with Success if not hard earned deems to be futile, its loved ones despite difficulties pulling Photo Credit : Getty Images how so ever glittery the appearance is on the him back, while there are several examples outer surface. If our sweat and time are not and nothing is in our hands so as to control the direction of negativity and try as much as surfacing about affluent people living a invested in ample amount, it is quite difficult the outcome in times to come. But definitely we can to drive our actions so as not just to dissatisfied life despite all materialistic to enjoy our success. it is fully in our hands to take decisive steps benefit ourselves but also to have the vision attainments being at the tip of their fingers. that could belittle the negative impact of our to do greater good for the society along way. So, it could be well-stated that materialistic Overnight success is just a myth and people wrong decisions of the present. success doesn’t translate to happiness. believing in it fall flat in the long-run of Every action of ours have some repercussions life. It is good to think about success, but it If we adopt corrective measures in our as well as some benefits. It totally depends on Happiness lies in togetherness, in satisfaction is equally bad to think it in terms of being day to day life, we would be able to limit us how we want to balance both. No action with what we do for ourselves as well as easily available. the ill-impact of the mistakes we have could be completely derogative, nor could others, in smaller details about life and in What is good for one person might not committed be it in our ignorance or in our be completely affirmative. The percentage the satiation of the soul. equally be good for the others. It is essential deceitful decisions. One should hold oneself or the ratio may vary but every action will that in life we understand the consequences accountable for our actions and then only have both pros and cons. So, drifting apart from the conceptualisation of our action and stand accountable for we could contribute towards a better future. of the human order and the world in terms the same. It is also important that in times Success in future depends on the toils of the One can only enjoy one’s success to the of binary opposition, one must enhance and of crisis one stand with each other and not present and if we think of success and failure utmost when we know it for a fact that expand our understandings to recognise think of it as an opportunity to address our in black and white terms then we have we have toiled enough or have sweated the grey areas between the black and white materialistic zeal. totally missed out the point as well as the enough to earn it. If success comes our way terms. Africa commits to curb maternal mortality rate through CARMMA witnesses a remarkable progress in resolving curbing the maternal mortality rate, there ◆ By International Institute for Non - Aligned Studies the issue, it was launched for. has been an expansion in the availability of universally accessible health services, @iinsNAM Initiated as a derivation from the AU Policy particularly those relating to sexual and Framework for the promotion of Sexual and [email protected] reproductive health. Reproductive Health and Rights in Africa or an unbiased growth of the economy, (2005) and the Maputo Plan of Action (2006), After the official launch of the CARMMA, F an equal contribution of men and the CARMMA is an initiative to trigger the the use of policy dialogue, community women is what is required. Reiterating concerted and increased action towards mobilisation to secure political commitment its commitment towards the same, the improvising the maternal and newborn and societal and behavioural changes have Non-Aligned Movement has translated health survival across the continent. observed an upsurge in Africa, transitioning Women are the spine of an economy like in its efforts the importance of an equal from the Millennium Development Goals Africa. From care givers, to farmers to Under the guidance and leadership of the contribution from both men and women of (MDGs) to Sustainable Development Goals business people, women are the powerful three successive Commissioners of Social the society. (SDGs). spirits that need to be saved and protected, Affairs, namely- H.E Bience Gawanas (2002– not only in Africa but all across the globe, While women contribute equally to the 2012), H.E. Dr. Mustapha Sidiki Kaloko As per the new child and maternal mortality says the Non-Aligned Movement, stressing growth and development prospects of an (2012-2016) and H.E. Amira Elfadil (2017 estimates revealed by the United Nations on the need to augment efforts to make their economy, the issue of maternal deaths to present), the CARMMA campaign has groups led by the UNICEF and the World lives count. With political will and a boost continue to remain a major crisis among mastered the maternal health and sexual Health Organisation (WHO), the survival to the campaign and ongoing efforts, the several nations and Africa is one of them. and reproductive rights of the women of the rates have enhanced, more women and children initiatives aim to be the game changer in The areas reflecting inequities to health African community. are surviving today than ever before. Due to battling the issue. What is required is a more services and lack of awareness among the improved and expanded access to affordable of such efforts, necessary independent will, population are more prone to the crisis. With the themes for the yearly reports – and quality health services, there is an coordination and harmonising interventions Often caused due to haemorrhage, high 2014 “Status report on Maternal Newborn astounding decrease in the maternal deaths. around nation-led roadmaps to bring the blood pressure, unsafe abortion, infection and Child Health: Challenges for Inclusive Marking 10 years of the launch of the crisis to an end. and obstructed labour, the rates of maternal and Universal Access”, 2017 “Status CARMMA campaign, the Union dictated morbidity and mortality are found highest report On Maternal Newborn Child and its focus that remains intact on effective (in arrangement with among adolescent girls below 15 years of Adolescent Health: Focusing On Unfinished implementation and coordination among the News from Non-Aligned World) age. Girls under this age bar face a higher Business In Africa” and 2019 “Status report existing plans and strategies. www.iins.org risk of complications and death as compared on the State of Health of the Mother, the to other women. Newborn, the Child and the Adolescent: Women and Children living in Humanitarian In its response to deal with the unacceptably Crisis/Conflicts Contexts and Internally high maternal mortality rate, the African Displaced Persons (IDPs)”, the programme Union (AU) in 2009 launched the Campaign acknowledges the progress made and for the Accelerated Reduction of Maternal recommits to reinforce action towards the Mortality in Africa (CARMMA). Placing the desired goal. issue of maternal deaths firmly on its agenda, the African Union committed itself to With a vision to put health on the top priority achieve universal access to quality Maternal, of the continent’s agenda, African Union Newborn and Child Health services through has witnessed a steady rise in the number strengthening the implementation of the of nations implementing the campaign. So campaign. Having commenced with the far, 46 nations across the continent have slogan ‘Africa Cares: No Woman should implemented the campaign while 6 others Die while Giving Birth’, the campaign today are preparing for its launch. Critical to

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 22 30 March - 5 April 2020

Technology & Health NEW DELHI TIMES Eating habits and spread of deadly viruses coming to shop any more. Luxury goods are coming, because everyone wants to stay at want to put these diseases into your body ◆ By Smt. Maneka hit the worst. At the lower end – street food home and we have had to buy much more right now? Sanjay Gandhi vendors, whole markets of cloth and shoe food for the first time – and that frightens I am bringing out a book in two months sellers, small shops in malls … all of them me. The donations have stopped coming as @ManekaGandhiBJP called “Poison on Your Plate”. It lists all the are out of business. Prices of food are up. well. The shopkeepers are uncertain about antibiotics and chemicals that meat, eggs how long this spell of bad luck will last and and milk, carry and its effect so far has been y now you must be fed up with reading For me, and the animal world, it is a terrible the normal salaried person and consumer that my editors and publishers have turned B or listening to things about the Corona time. A large number of government and is uncertain about what the future will vegetarian. If you want to be fit enough to Virus. It has taken everyone’s attention away private agencies, who have nothing to do bring in terms of food shortages and supply tackle the virus when it hits you – which it from what they do, to whether they want to with the virus, have become experts at systems. So, the first thing down the drain is will – then stop eating meat. live or not. Economy, foreign affairs, shops spreading fake news. The Western Railways charity. Every NGO looking after animals is closed, a potential food rationing coming in Mumbai tell you to avoid touching your frightened. Companies giving their CSRs to up, unseasonal rains, global warming, a rise pets, the Thane Municipal Corporation has Regarding the eating of wild animals, that animals (very, very few to begin with) are China and many countries in South East Asia in cancer cases-every worry has become spread flyers saying the same. The Star not doing so any more, because their profits irrelevant in the face of a threat from Insurance company sent out mailers, the eat - snakes, bats bears, tigers, pangolins, to have crashed, or they have been asked by the name a few - most of these animals carry a someone who sneezes or coughs. NTPC electricity company… each one government to put it into the Corona Virus withdrew their nonsensical information very high viral load and this mutates in the basket (for what, I have no idea so far). So human body. when they received a rocket from the Health we are broken. It seems that God only exists Ministry but, by then, people who were in good times, and the human being forgets Now the Chinese have been officially asked looking for an excuse to do harm have taken his duty towards the world in bad ones and not to eat every species on the planet, but their dogs and dumped hundreds of them on turns completely selfish. what about India? In just Manipur alone highways where many have been run over, there is a terrible market in a district called or are in shelters like mine. All these animals Many people have asked me whether they Tamenglong, where dogs, pangolins, snakes, will suffer and die – for no fault of their own. are more likely to get the virus if they eat meat. This is what you need to know: Animal bats, monkeys, and everything you can The Corona virus cannot be spread to animals meat is bad for the human body. The virus imagine, are sold daily. Smugglers come and no human can get it from animals. The will attack everyone – whether you wear from Myanmar daily to buy this meat. These Corona virus is a more severe form of the those foolish masks or gloves is irrelevant. markets should be stopped immediately. Photo Credit : Getty Images seasonal flu – which mutates every season. But whether the virus can affect your body, Lastly: there is a belief that the virus will Some good things have happened in this time Every creature on the planet wants to live, to the point that it kills you, depends on disappear when the weather warms, that of Corona. The weather is better, the large and viruses have a life as well. In order to your immunity system. Meat attacks the there is a bandwidth of temperature within weddings and parties have disappeared so live and multiply they have to constantly immunity system. Most meat and chicken which the virus operates. But the weather there is less noise and certainly no polluting change, as the human body’s defences will carry a huge overload of viruses, bacteria has always been hot in Kerala – and the most fire crackers, there is much less traffic and not succumb to the same virus again. Every and antibiotics. If you eat it – especially cases are there. It has spread all over Africa. I can hear the birds again. Families spend time you get flu, it is a different virus. But chicken and eggs – you will get all the germs more time with each other and, suddenly, we never have you ever given a cough and cold and all the antibiotics and hormones that The virus will never disappear. Yes, this discover that we can find happiness within to your dog or cat or cow and goat, or got it these animals have been given to keep them virus will go away after a few months, a much smaller circle doing gentler things. from them. And this time is no different. If alive. 70% of India’s antibiotics are fed to maybe, when it runs out of weakened bodies you are mean to your animals now, think of The government too has a breather as animals and once these enter your body, and and you develop an immunity to it. But it what it does to your karma and beware of everyone’s attention is diverted. The social you get the Corona virus , the antibiotics the will return in another form a few months the virus !! media is less political and less vicious. doctors give you will have little or no effect later and we will name it differently, as in curing you. Then you need to go back to Politicians become irrelevant and their The second tragedy has been the complete we have the previous ones – chikengunya, charity and god. coming and going out of parties is seen as drying up of donations, both in the form swine flu, bird flu, corona. Will you be ready something that has no bearing on your life. of money and in food. Hundreds of people Buffaloes and cows have leukaemia and for it then? Keep your body healthy. There is much to cry as well. Everyone come to my shelters every day and they tuberculosis, chickens have diabetes and To join the animal welfare movement already struggling, in a failing economy, is bring food for the cows, monkeys and dogs. many, many other diseases, pigs have every contact [email protected], faced with the almost fatal blow of no one Now, because of the virus they have stopped kind of rapacious worm. Are you sure you www.peopleforanimalsindia.org We were not ready for this Space Exploration won’t be possible with this anomaly shook us. It has shaken us and yes shaken virus. We have come a long way in terms ◆ By Sujay Dhawan us hard. of evolution but still a mutated virus has @SujayDhawan brought our lives to a standstill. We are stuck, I have been living in one of the most we are in a fix that we are helpless. Prime [email protected] populous cities on this planet, New Delhi, Minister of Italy was seen crying on national India. I have not seen stars in the night sky television as he could not do anything to urrently the world is facing total over Delhi since several years due to high save lives of his people. Europe is in its fight C annihilation. We are on the verge amount of pollution. But now after complete for its life & Italy is on ventilator. of doom. No, there is no third World War lock down and no release of pollution in the but something even more massive and air we are again able to see a clear sky at We have invested such a huge sum for space hazardous. We never thought that this day night. exploration. We are in process of sending will ever come or at least not so soon. I am manned mission to planet Mars. We are writing this to you with a very heavy heart Due to no noise pollution we are again able planning to establish colonies on Moon and that humanity faces mass extinction, if the to hear the birds like house sparrow, cuckoo Mars. We are eyeing at space odysseys and situation continues the way it is any further. and nightingale chirping on the trees. Even quests to chart unseen galaxies, star systems the pigeons are confused that where have and exploring new planets just like Star Trek COVID-19, a virus, so small that has made the humans gone. All in all, it so peaceful or some other TV series. us remember that we are not so big as we that no one ever thought that everything will But if and when we reach out into space, we were thinking we were. As humans, we have come to such a standstill overnight. This But we have not understood simple fact have no clue what illness or disease will be chartered every land mass on this planet, is deafening silence and soon it will start that this planet Earth has accepted after waiting for us there. We have no clue that dived into any water body we have found, killing people from within. Social life due to several millenniums of evolution. There if any human who comes in contact with mined till the very depth of the Earth and social distancing is hugely affected. was once human race dying from viral Martian soil, what will he/she face. And have reached out of the planet into space. fever. In medieval period people use to die most dangerous is if we carry any virus or We have made our size bigger than ever But coming back to the major question of tuberculosis, dysentery etc. Slowly and bacteria from any other world to ours then and have convinced ourselves that we are that were we ready for this? There are over gradually we were able to find cure and with we pose threat to the entire civilization. Are invincible until the power of the nature 200 countries getting affected due to this evolution humans became immune to it. we ready for this? www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

30 March - 5 April 2020 23

Entertainment & Lifestyle NEW DELHI TIMES Phone call between Pop superstar Rihanna donates $5 Kanye West, Taylor Swift again roils net million to relief efforts aylor Swift may have ended her feud rom finding ways to helping others “Never has it been more important or urgent masks, asking his sewing team to pump T with Katy Perry but the one with F cope to sheltering in place to cancelling to protect and prepare marginalized and them out to help medical responders. The Kanye West seems simply not to want to die. events, here’s a look at some of the ways underserved communities-those who will tweet got Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s attention, the entertainment industry is reacting to be hit hardest by this pandemic,” CLF’s who thanked the “Project Runway” star and New leaked video clip of the entire four- the spread of the coronavirus, which most Executive Director Justine Lucas said in the got in touch with his team. year-old phone call between the rapper and people recover from but can cause severe statement. pop superstar about his controversial song illness in the elderly and those with pre- Siriano later posted a photo of a mask in a “Famous” have been posted online and The money will go to food banks, testing, existing medical conditions. plastic bag and captioned it: “Prototypes are have further complicated the picture of what healthcare worker training, virus prevention happening - more updates by next week”. happened. Rihanna Opens Her Wallet and distribution of critical respiratory supplies. In “Famous,” West raps: “I feel like me and Rihanna‘s Clara Lionel Foundation is giving Second Broadway Casualty Taylor might still have sex, Why? I made $5 million to the response efforts against the Bespoke Face Masks Coming that bitch famous”. Upon its release in 2016, A revival of Edward Albee’s “Who’s Afraid coronavirus. West was condemned by many for the line. of Virginia Woolf?” will not reopen He insisted Swift had given her blessing to when Broadway resumes performances, The money will support “on-the-ground the lyric. But she denied ever hearing the a second play to call it quits as the theater partners working on the frontlines of lyric “I made that bitch famous”. disaster response especially those focused world grapples with the fallout over the on protecting and serving marginalized coronavirus. The new clips seem to corroborate Swift’s communities - helping the most vulnerable claims that West didn’t tell her the full in the United States, the Caribbean and in “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” starred lyrics of the song. But they also show West Photo Credit : AP Photo Africa prepare for what is to come,” the Laurie Metcalf as Martha and Rupert repeatedly asking Taylor for her approval of foundation said in a statement. Hospitals and health care workers in New Everett as George. It managed just nine the sex lyric and she does tell him she thinks York without enough face masks to deal previews before Broadway was shuttered it’s funny, just as the rapper said when it the The funding will be channelled through with the coronovirus are being promised on March 12. Producers blamed “cast song first was released. Direct Relief, Partners In Health, Feeding help from someone more famous for his red scheduling conflicts amid the shutdown” for America, the International Rescue Committee, carpet looks. abandoning the show. the World Health Organization’s COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund and others. Christian Siriano in a tweet vowed to make Credit : Associated Press (AP) Broadway actress Video platform Likee Ruthie Ann Miles collaborates with T-Series Photo Credit : AP Photo is pregnant and star power. A pool of popular singers and “I never would have expected you to tell ◆ By NDT Bureau actors are coming together for the project and me about a line in one of your songs,” Swift roadway actress Ruthie Ann Miles, Likee is excited to help them promote their tells him. “That’s really nice that you did.” B who tragically lost her daughter and @NewDelhiTimes content, taking it to millions of our users. This This new footage was posted online from an unborn child two years ago, is pregnant. [email protected] is also a unique opportunity for our influencers, unknown source and rapidly spread across as T-Series will feature them.” social media. Unlike other videos previously The Tony-winner shared on Twitter that she ikee, the popular global original video posted of the call, it shows all 25 minutes, is due this spring. L creation and sharing platform has albeit chopped up. announced a collaboration with music industry giant T-Series to promote an Representative for either artists did not upcoming series of 12 songs. The songs, immediately reply to a request for comment. to be promoted as part of the collaboration, The release of the new footage has added a new will be sung by popular vocalists, including twist to the drama: While West was heavily Tulsi Kumar, Guru Randhawa, Dhvani criticized when it was initially released and Bhanushali, among others. The songs will Talking about the collaboration, T-Series Swift made it clear she was unhappy with be filmed on acclaimed actors/performers president Neeraj Kalyan said, “Being one of it, West’s wife, Kim Kardashian, seemed such as Divya Khosla Kumar, Khushali the biggest production houses in the country, to vindicate her husband months later by Kumar and Himansh Kohli. this project is in sync with the stature of releasing snippets of the call where Swift Abhishek Dutta, Head of Likee India, said, T-Series. A key player here is Likee as it will appeared to approve the lyrics. “This collaboration with T-Series is one of take the songs/content to millions of users That led to a major backlash for Swift, who the biggest for Likee in terms of magnitude across the country.” has described that time as low point in her life and career. Release of Ranveer Singh’s In the newly released video clips, West tells Swift he’s working on a song and wants to use the lyric: “I feel like me and Taylor Photo Credit : AP Photo might still have sex”. But he hasn’t ever In 2018, Miles and her 4-year-old daughter “83” delayed been captured telling her the line, “I made Abigail were struck by a vehicle on a New the odds and we hope we all will bounce back that bitch famous”. York street that killed Abigail and a friend’s ◆ By NDT Bureau from this soon,” the statement from the team 1-year-old son. Miles was pregnant at @NewDelhiTimes the movie read. In response, Swift is heard saying: “I’m glad the time of the crash and lost her unborn it’s not mean though. It doesn’t feel mean, daughter, who she planned to name Sophia, [email protected] “83” is an upcoming Indian sports drama film but like, oh my God, the build-up you gave two months later. directed by Kabir Khan and jointly produced by it. I thought it was gonna be like that stupid he release of Ranveer Singh starrer Khan, Vishnu Vardhan Induri, Phantom Films, dumb bitch, like, but it’s not.” In her Twitter message announcing the T “83” originally scheduled for release on Deepika Padukone and Sajid Nadiadwala. Co- The two have had a contentious past. West pregnancy, Miles thanked those who April 10, 2020 has been indefinitely postponed.“In distributed by Reliance Entertainment, the film famously interrupted Swift’s speech during the supported her and her husband Jonathan the wake of the risks posed by the recent stars Ranveer Singh as cricketer Kapil Dev, along 2009 MTV Video Music Awards when she won Blumenstein after the crash and let them outbreak of Covid-19 and the growing health with Deepika Padukone, Tahir Raj Bhasin, Saqib for best female video. But the two apparently grieve for the past two years. concerns, the release of ’83 has been put on Saleem, Harrdy Sandhu, Ammy Virk, Jiiva, put differences aside and she introduced him hold. We will take a decision regarding the Pankaj Tripathi, Boman Irani, Nishant Dahiya, “We know Abigail Joy and Sophia would when he won the video vanguard award at the next course of action once the conditions and Sahil Khattar. The story narrates Dev’s have loved being big sisters and are loving 2015 VMAs. Then came the infamous phone return to normal. We urge our fans to take journey of life as well as how he became the watching their family grow,” Miles wrote. call about “Famous”. all the necessary precautions and take care of captain of the India National Cricket team and Credit : Associated Press (AP) their loved ones. ’83 is a film about fighting won the 1983 Cricket World Cup. Credit : Associated Press (AP)

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 24 30 March - 5 April 2020

Sports NEW DELHI TIMES FIFA supports WHO in fight against COVID- 19 Stoney lends her voice to the campaign. ◆ By NDT Bureau “With your elbows bent, please cover your @NewDelhiTimes nose and mouth if you sneeze or cough. If using tissues, dispose of them immediately.” [email protected] Jill Ellis, coach of the 2015 and 2019 FIFA IFA, the governing body of world football, Women’s World Cup winning USA teams F has announced supporting the World has requested people to remain at home Health Organisation (WHO) in fighting the if feeling poorly: “If you feel unwell, coronavirus (COVID-19). stay home,” she says. “In some countries The two organisations will collaborate in isolation might be advisable for healthy launching an awareness campaign led by persons too. Please follow all instructions six world-renowned coaches, who request from your local health authority.” everyone across the world to follow five key tactics to tackle the spread of the disease. FIFA has also announced to donate USD 10 million to the World Health Organisation With tactics playing such a key role in COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund and football success, the coaches are united working together with the WHO to ensure behind the five-step game plan to defeat these funds are used to support the fight the virus – hands, elbow, face, distance and against the virus in all regions of the world. feel-in line with the WHO’s basic protective measures against the COVID-19. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reiterated FIFA’s cooperation in this regard: “This “We all know the situation with the coronavirus exceptional situation requires exceptional is a serious one, and we need to put health measures and decisions. first,” said FIFA Chief of Global Football Development Arsène Wenger. “These are This crisis impacts the entire world and that the five key tactics to tackle the coronavirus, is why solutions need to take into account Photo Credit : Getty Images and I urge you to follow with discipline at all the interests of all stakeholders around the I would like to thank all the Confederations necessary steps to deal with the variety of times, these five key tactics.” world. We have shown again today a spirit Presidents for their positive contributions issues we are facing. I count on the support of cooperation, solidarity and unity. These and efforts. FIFA will keep in close contact of the whole football community moving Manchester United Women coach Casey must be our key drivers moving forward and with all stakeholders to assess and take the forward.” A virus rages, a flame goes out: Tokyo Games reset for 2021 ot even the Summer Olympics could N withstand the force of the coronavirus. After weeks of hedging, the IOC took the unprecedented step of postponing the world’s biggest sporting event, a global extravaganza that’s been cemented into the calendar for more than a century. The Tokyo Games, slated for 11,000 athletes from more than 200 countries and at a reported cost of $28 billion, had been scheduled to start July 24. They will now be pushed into 2021 on Photo Credit : AP Photo considerations beyond the top-line price tag. dates to be determined. Among them: The $1 billion-plus the IOC They will still be called the 2020 Olympics- was to receive from broadcast partner NBC; a symbolic gesture that the International the millions in smaller athlete endorsement Olympic Committee hopes will allow the contracts that are now in limbo; the games to “stand as a beacon of hope,” as it budgets of the individual national Olympic stated in delivering the news committees; the availability of the 80,000 “A bittersweet victory for athletes,” one volunteers who signed up to help. group, Global Athlete, called the decision. “People are having a problem calling off “On one hand, their Olympic dreams have weddings, and calling off little tournaments, been put on hold. On the other hand, athletes so imagine with all the billions of dollars that’s have shown their power when they work gone into this,” five-time Olympian Kerri Walsh together as a collective.” Jennings told The Associated Press. “They have With IOC President Thomas Bach guiding a grieving process to go through. They have so the process, the committee had said that many moving parts to think about.” it might take up to four weeks for an Credit : Associated Press (AP) announcement to come. It took two days. But make Contact New Delhi Times no mistake, there are For Complaints & Suggestions still weeks of difficult +91-9999331600 planning ahead. & Many of Tokyo’s arenas, For Advertisements stadiums and hotels are +91-9999337800 under contract for a games held from July 24 A-2/59, Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi-110029 to August 9. Remaking those arrangements is Visit us at : twitter@NewDelhiTimes doable, but will come at a cost. There are also facebook.com/newdelhitimes Printer and Publisher: Dr. (Mrs.) Pramila Srivastava, on behalf of Dr. Ankur Srivastava, Printed at Sudhir Printers, 151, Desh Bandhu Gupta Market, Karol Bagh, Delhi - 110005, Published at A-2/59 Safdarjung Enclave New Delhi-110029. Ph.: 26102520, 26105846 Fax: 26196294 Email: [email protected], Vol. 30, No. 9 Editor : Dr. Ankit Srivastava www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper