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MONDAY Vol. XXXX No. 11391 December 9, 2019 Rabia II 12, 1441 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

Amir heads to Rwanda today His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim Secretary-General Amina J Mohamed, bin Hamad al-Thani will head to and Vice President of the Interna- Rwanda today to attend the cer- tional Association of Anti-Corruption emony of Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Authorities (IAACA) Dr Eduardo Al Thani International Anti-Corruption Vetere. Several international per- Excellence Award. The ceremony will sonalities will attend the ceremony. be held in Kigali in partnership with During the ceremony, His Highness the United Nations, in the presence the Amir and the Rwandan president of Rwandan President Paul Kagame, will honour the winners of the award’s Namibian President Hage Geingob, four categories: Lifetime or Outstand- President of the Democratic Republic ing Achievement; Academic Research of the Congo Felix Tshisekedi, FIFA and Education; Youth Creativity and president Gianni Infantino, UN Deputy Engagement; and Innovation.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and His Qatar, UN stress His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani presenting the 24th Arabian Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, at the Gulf Cup trophy to the members of the national football team of Bahrain, at Abdullah Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium on the occasion of the 24th Arabian Gulf bin Khalifa Stadium in Doha yesterday. Cup final match between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. need for more Bahrain claim maiden global action to fi ght corruption Arabian Gulf Cup title Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani International Anti-Corruption Excellence By Sahan Bidappa Kuwait’s Amir, Sheikh Sabah Doha Tweet by His Highness the Amir al-Ahmed al-Jaber al-Sabah, has Award ceremony to be held in Kigali today tweeted his congratulations to His Highness the Amir Sheikh ahrain sealed an historic Arabi- We are delighted with the participation of the brothers Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani on By Ayman Adly Qatar has always supported the glo- an Gulf Cup title – their fi rst in in the 24th Arabian Gulf Cup, during which we have the successful holding of the 24th Staff Reporter bal fi ght against corruption, for in- Btournament’s 49-year-old his- seen amazing days. Congratulations to Bahrain for Arabian Gulf Cup. stance the Rule of Law and Anti-Cor- tory – after a stunning 1-0 win over winning the title and better luck to the other teams. ruption Centre (ROLACC) was created Saudi Arabia in the fi nal at the Abdul- We are proud of the success of the championship and wanda today hosts the annual based on a proposal made by His High- lah bin Khalifa Stadium yesterday. all thanks and appreciation for all those who have box as he dodged three Bahraini de- Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al ness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Ha- Mohamed al-Rumaihi’s 69th participated in organising it. fenders, but slipped just before aiming RThani International Anti-Cor- mad al-Thani at the 3rd United Nations minute goal put an end to Bahrain’s his shot. Al-Humaidan also came close ruption Excellence Award in recogni- Convention Against Corruption, held in years of pain, in which they had fi n- to scoring but his header was tipped tion of President Paul Kagame’s eff orts Doha. Its main purpose is to provide the ished runner-up four times in 1970, Championship title, attained legen- Six minutes later, al-Dawsari was over by al-Qarni. to fi ght corruption in his country and due support to the stakeholders leading 1982, 1992 and 2003. As the fi nal whis- dary status as he brought an end to once again in the thick of action af- Al-Humaidan had his heart in his build a state based on justice and the the fi ght against corruption, in particu- tle was blown, Bahrain players sank to Pearl Divers’ Gulf Cup drought. ter he was brought down by Bahrain’s mouth when forward Abdullah al- rule of law. lar at the Arab World. their knees to thank the almighty even Sousa chose to go with an entirely Jasim al-Shaikh in the box, with Swiss Hamdan – Saudi’s hero in semis win Both Qatar and the United Nations “Qatar has established the Rule of as the support staff and substitutes diff erent XI to the one that played referee Lionel Tschudi pointing to the over Qatar – went down after a slight highly appreciate Kagame’s role in Law and Anti-Corruption Center to rushed onto the fi eld in celebration. against Iraq in the semi-fi nals, and spot. In what turned out to be a turn- contact at the end of fi rst half. Tschu- achieving reconciliation and going for- support all anti-corruption eff orts and His Highness the Amir Sheikh he was proved right. Bahrain despite ing point, captain Salman al-Faraj di had waved to play on and a VAR re- ward with development and progress training,” HE Dr Ali bin Fetais al-Mar- Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani was in lacking in quality to Saudi, stayed in stepped in to take the penalty but put view confi rmed the referee was right. eff orts in his country. The fourth edi- ri, Attorney-General of Qatar as Unit- attendance for the high-profi le match the match after early dominance from too much power behind his eff ort as In the second half too, Saudi con- tion of the award refl ects the keenness ed Nations Special Advocate against and later crowned the champions. the Green Falcons, who wasted a pen- the ball landed in the stands. Bahrain trolled the possession with Bahrain of Qatar’s leadership to promote trans- Corruption, ROLACC chairman of It was a fi tting triumph for Bahrain, alty in the 10th minute. players heaved a sigh of relief, so did waiting to attack on the break. Al- parency and good governance as cor- the Board of Trustees, had mentioned who came into the tournament as un- Saudi – the three time champions their travelling supporters. Dawsari continued to threaten but ruption is considered the most serious while addressing a related UN confer- derdogs, and put their heart and soul and a regional football powerhouse Bahrain forward Mahdi al-Humaid- was found wanting in his fi nal third impediment to development eff orts in ence. into every game. – should have taken a two-goal lead an, who had an outstanding game, as frustration crept into Saudi’s game. diff erent world countries which nega- “The active role played by the cen- They had lost 0-2 to Saudi in the group inside the fi rst ten minutes. Salem al- had a chance to put his team ahead In the 69th minute, Saudi were pe- tively impacts the lives of people. tre during the recent years was to pro- stages and were in the brink of elimina- Dawsari, who came into the starting in the 14th minute but hit straight to nalised for early misses. Al-Humaidan The award ceremony in Rwanda car- vide training courses, workshops and tion, but a thrilling 4-2 win over Kuwait XI after sitting out of the semi-fi nal goalkeeper Fawaz al-Qarni. Thereaf- ran into a wide position and crossed in ries a message to the world to stress the auspices of international conferences put them in semis, where they held their against Qatar due to injury, was inches ter, chances were few and far between a prefect ball to al-Rumaihi, who beat need for more global co-operation and aimed at those who uphold the law in nerve to edge past Iraq on penalties. away from giving Saudi the lead. The Al as both sides struggled in front of the defender Abdulellah al-Malki, to tap co-ordination to tackle such serious both public and private sectors in order Portuguese manager Helio Sousa, Hilal star’s ferocious right-footer in the goal. The energetic al-Dawsari did look into the net with his left foot as Saudi issues of administrative corruption to to increase awareness about the latest who had earlier this year led Bahrain fourth minute bounced off the top right like breaking the deadlock in the 36th stopper al-Qarni watched in frustra- achieve the desired development goals methods in the fi ght against corrup- to West Asian Football Federation bar as Saudi started on the front foot. minute. The winger danced around the tion. Pages 23, 24 for the benefi t of the people. tion. To Page 11 QCB set to launch Fintech strategy, says governor

By Pratap John vision of fi nancial services has become Sheikh Abdulla stressed the need sire of customers to use digital servic- ing, which allowed customers to deposit Business Editor mainly dependent on technology. This for regulatory and supervisory bodies es, have redefi ned the concept of retail funds, do money transfers and monitor, is because of its greater role in trans- around the world quickly cope with the banking. oversee and distribute their profi ts. forming the banking sector from its new challenges in order to reduce regu- Improving operational effi ciency Most of the mobile banking services atar Central Bank is now pre- conventional channels to digital alter- latory gaps and maintain fi nancial sta- in this regard can only be through the can now be executed at any time and paring to announce the fi - natives in banking. bility, in light of recent developments in adoption of new technologies, espe- any place, he noted. Qnancial technology (Fintech) Preparations are underway to launch the fi nancial and banking sector. cially for banking services, includ- Among other major developments is strategy in view of its importance in digital banks, or what is known as new The QCB Governor stated that due ing deposits, current accounts, credit the entry of large technology compa- the development of Qatar’s banking banks, which provide banking services to the technical knowledge and fl ex- cards, money transfers and others, with nies including Apple, Google and Am- and fi nancial sector, said HE the QCB through mobile applications and other ibility that Fintech companies enjoyed, the aim of making them competitive. azon in the fi nancial landscape. These Governor Sheikh Abdulla bin Saoud al- channels, he said. they have become a major competitor Sheikh Abdulla said banking tech- companies have a large customer base Thani. “The future banking industry is also to the banking sector. nologies that relied on artifi cial intelli- and can achieve signifi cant gains in This, he said, will be done in co-op- HE Sheikh Abdulla bin Saoud al-Thani heading towards a new historical turn- Banks, he noted “have also been gence, electronic cloud-based banking terms of effi ciency and enhance fi nan- eration with fi nancial institutions and delivering keynote address. ing point, where the extent of banks’ quick to join this development, and services and enhanced digital capabili- cial inclusion. fi nancial technology companies. ability to benefi t from advanced tech- begun to invest heavily in technology” ties have become an essential element He stated that this development Sheikh Abdulla was delivering key- that supports Innovation and market nology is studied in order to employ with the aim of improving their op- in banking processes, which called raised many concerns about privacy, note address at the opening session of stability, he said. them in fi nancial services, for example erations and providing superior serv- for the development and direction of competition and market monopoly, the ‘Euromoney Qatar 2019 Confer- Sheikh Abdulla explained that the artifi cial intelligence, and blockchain ices to clients, which made technology banking services in future. which might pose threats to the glo- ence’ at The St. Regis Doha yesterday. global fi nancial sector was rapidly de- technology. These developments will more focused on the banking industry. On developments in the fi nancial bal fi nancial system. The International QCB will contribute to the creation veloping, supported by electronic in- extend to a wide range of fi nancial The developments witnessed in the sector, he said most of these were in re- Monetary Fund noted this in the recent of a modern regulatory environment novations and systems, where the pro- services,” he noted. banking technology sector, and the de- lation to the emergence of mobile bank- G20 summit in Tokyo. Gulf Times 2 Monday, December 9, 2019 QATAR

Qatar-Jordan military ties reviewed

HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Aff airs Dr Khalid bin Mohamed al-Attiyah, met the HE the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Lieutenant General (Pilot) Ghanem bin Shaheen al-Ghanim, met the Chairman of the Jordanian Joint Staff Major General (Pilot), Yousef Ahmed al-Hunaiti and his accompanying delegation, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Jordanian Armed Forces Major General Yousef Ahmad al-Huneiti, and his during their off icial visit to Qatar. During the meeting, they discussed military relations between the two sides and ways to accompanying delegation, during their off icial visit to Qatar. During the meeting, they discussed military relations develop them. The meeting was attended by HE the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Lieutenant General (Pilot) Ghanem between the two sides and ways of enhancing them. bin Shaheen al-Ghanim, and senior off icers of the Qatar Armed Forces. Shura Council discusses draft budget of 2020

QNA of the draft budget, the Speaker members’ inquiries. Doha thanked His Highness the Amir After extensive in-depth dis- Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al- cussions, the Shura Council Thani for his wisdom, directives commended the State’s Draft he Shura Council yester- and good policies that enabled public budget of Fiscal Year day held the 6th meeting the country to occupy this pres- 2020, as well as the eff orts of the Tof its 48th regular ses- tigious position and to achieve esteemed government and the sion chaired by its Speaker HE the highest rates of economic plans and programmes that it is Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al- growth despite the unjust block- implementing within the frame- Mahmoud. ade imposed on it. work of the National Develop- The council, during the ses- HE al-Mahmoud said: “It is ment Strategy 2018 2022 and sion, discussed Qatar’s draft public a matter of our satisfaction to Qatar National Vision 2030. budget of fi scal year 2020, and the fi nd directives and visions of His Meanwhile, the Financial and draft budget approval law, in pres- Highness the Amir, refl ected in Economic Aff airs Committee of ence of HE the Minister of Finance the draft budget and embodied the Shura Council yesterday held Ali bin Sherif al-Emadi; HE the in its goals, foundations and phi- HE the Speaker Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud chairing the special session of the Shura Council yesterday. a meeting, presided over by its President of Public Works Author- losophy. He added that the draft rapporteur HE Ali bin Abdullatif ity (Ashghal) Dr Saad bin Ahmed budget is one of the fruits of various economic, social, human industrial and logistical zones; dium enterprises. the Amir’s speech at the opening al-Misnad. al-Muhannadi and senior offi cials this wise policy and sound eco- and environmental pillars as well developing the lands of citizens, The Speaker stressed that the of the 48th ordinary session of the During the meeting, the in the Ministry of Finance. nomic planning, with its goals as providing fi nancial alloca- supporting initiatives for de- foundations on which the draft Shura Council on October 5. Committee completed its study HE the Minister of Finance and bases, which include pro- tions for the completion of major veloping business environment budget were welcomed, praised The Speaker thanked HE of the Decree Law No 24 for 2019 explained the government’s viding the necessary allocations projects and those related to the to enhance the role of the pri- and supported by the Shura the Minister of Finance; HE on regulating and managing view on the draft budget and an- for the plans and projects of 2022 World Cup. vate sector and its participation Council, especially as it (the draft the President of Ashghal and the strategic stock of food and swered questions and inquiries Qatar National Vision 2030 and It also included allocating fi - in various economic activities, budget) came in harmony with the accompanying team for consumer goods, and decided from members of the council. the requirements of the second nancial credits to develop infra- and supporting food security the principles, directions and vi- attending the session of the to submit its recommendations At the outset of the discussion strategic plan 2018-2022 with its structure in the free, economic, projects as well as small and me- sions contained in His Highness Council and attending to its thereon to the Shura Council. Gulf Times Monday, December 9, 2019 3 QATAR

Off icial Sheikh Jassim attends ceremony honouring winners of Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation

Amir issues decrees

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, yesterday issued the following Decrees: 1. Decree No 46 of 2019 to ratify an MoU for co-operation in the field of health and medical science between the governments of Qatar and Turkey, signed in Trabzon, on 18/12/ 2016. 2. Decree No 47 of 2019 to ratify an MoU for co-operation in the field of standardisation between the Qatar General Organisation On behalf of His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, His Highness Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani, the Personal Representative of His Highness the Amir, attended a ceremony for Standardisation in Qatar, and honouring the winners of the 5th Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation and International Understanding at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel yesterday. During the ceremony, HE Sheikh Thani bin Hamad al-Thani honoured the the Turkish Standards Institution winners of the award’s categories and branches. The ceremony was attended by Sheikhs, ministers, members of diplomatic missions accredited to Qatar, and a number of intellectuals, writers and guests. TSE in Turkey, signed in Trabzon on 18/12/2016. 3. Decree No 48 of 2019 ratifying an air services agreement between the governments of Qatar and Paraguay signed in the city of Asuncion on 3/10/2018. 3. Decree No 49 of 2019 to ratify an agreement between the governments of Qatar and Qatar launches global declaration Paraguay regarding the abolition of visa requirements for holders of diplomatic, off icial and private passports, signed in the city of Asuncion on 3/10/2018. 4. Decree No 50 of 2019 ratifying to empower people with disabilities a supplementary protocol in the field of supervision and control atar Foundation for said, Amal Abdullatif al-Man- agents of change in the communi- sising UNCRPD commitment of financial institutions for the Social Work (QFSW) nai, CEO, QFSW. ty, country, and international lev- on providing persons with dis- Memorandum of Understanding Qlaunched the ‘Doha Dec- The Doha Declaration began el, thus reaffi rming the principle abilities and their family mem- between Qatar Central Bank and laration’ at the closing ceremony by saying, of ‘Nothing About Us Without Us’. bers the necessary protection Bank Al Maghrib, signed in the of the Doha International Con- “We, the conferees of the Doha Encourage governments, civil so- and support to enable families to city of Rabat on 12/03/2018. ference on Disability and Devel- International Conference on Dis- ciety and others to innovate with contribute towards the full and opment (DICDD) yesterday. ability and Development, Decem- new methods of co-production of equal enjoyment of the rights of Amir appoints The Doha Declaration is an ber 7-8, 2019, held under the pa- policies. persons with disabilities. action-oriented approach that tronage of Her Highness Sheikha 5-Ensure that persons with 8-Invest in monitoring and ambassadors Qatar hopes will be an interna- Moza bint Nasser, came together disabilities are not excluded evaluation of progress towards tional reference point for world in the spirit of the UN Charter to from the education system by SDGs for persons with disabili- His Highness the Amir Sheikh governments to integrate the advance peace, justice and human promoting an inclusive educa- ties. Reliable and comparable Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani rights of persons with disabili- rights for all and especially for the tion system, including disabil- and high-quality research is yesterday issued following Amiri ties into their national develop- 1.5 billion persons with disabilities ity-friendly environment and needed to better understand the Decisions yesterday: ment plans. in the world.” facilities as well as assistive lived experience of persons with 1. Amiri Decision No 58 of 2019 It underscores Qatar’s com- The participants concluded technologies. disabilities and the nature of the appointing Hussain Ahmed mitment to inclusive policies with the following recommen- 6-Emphasise a comprehensive challenges they face. Mohamed Ibrahim al-Hamid, as that provide greater opportuni- dations: Amal Abdullatif al-Mannai speaking at the closing ceremony. approach to disability in health 9-Strengthen the means of ambassador to Tanzania. ties for people with disabilities. 1- Combat structural barriers policymaking, going beyond the implementation and monitor- 2. Amiri Decision No 59 of 2019 “The aim of the conference causing the exclusion of persons disability rights, using the voice of including the development of medical approach and narrative ing of the SDGs for persons with appointing Fawzia Idris Salman and the Doha Declaration is to with disabilities, with a note- persons with disabilities as a key national strategies, policies and to the overall wellbeing of persons disabilities. al-Sulaiti, as ambassador to leave a long-lasting imprint on worthy emphasis on discrimi- driver to nudge the community, action plans are nationally ad- with disabilities. Promote repro- 10-Welcome and encourage Indonesia. international eff orts to improve natory laws and policies, frag- reducing discrimination, nega- dressed and aligned with the ductive rights and accessibility the active participation of the 3. Amiri Decision No 60 of 2019 the rights of persons with dis- mentation of services, lack of tive attitudes and stigma which UNCRPD commitments. to reproductive health services to private sector as a key partner appointing Tariq Ali Faraj Hashim abilities. The launch of the Doha accessibility to physical and vis- hinders the social participation 4-Promote full and active par- persons with disabilities ensur- in realising the UNCRPD and al-Ansari, ambassador to South Declaration underscores Qa- ual environments, lack of access of persons with disabilities and to ticipation and representation of ing that they have the same needs, SDGs. Africa. tar’s commitment to promoting to assistive technology and to re- ensure that SDGs strategies at the all persons with disabilities in securing their full potential and 11-Prioritise accessibility to policies that will ensure persons habilitation and lack of measures national levels consciously take societies and in all policies and recognising their rights. address and eliminate barriers PM receives with disabilities are provided to promote independent living of into account the need for cultural programmes. All duty-bearers 7-Acknowledge the role of in the physical, digital and so- with opportunities for involve- persons with disabilities. transformation. must prioritise the representation families in the wellbeing of per- cial environment of the cities, to condolences ment, engagement and contri- 2-Establish large scale aware- 3-Mainstream disability in of all persons with disabilities as sons with disabilities and em- match the requirements of per- bution in their communities,” ness raising campaigns promoting the implementation of all SDGs, leaders, active citizens and active power family members, empha- sons with disabilities. HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani, received condolences on the death of his mother from President of Mali Issaka Sidibe, Impounding of and Speaker of the Senate of Doha Declaration a reference Burundi Reverien Ndikuriyo. Speaker meets vehicles as penalty president of IPU point for world governments ‘should be reviewed’ HE the Speaker of the Shura Council Ahmed bin Abdullah bin he Doha International he impounding of vehi- Accordingly, they sug- Zaid al-Mahmoud, met President Conference on Dis- cles as penalty for cer- gested that the impounding of the Inter-Parliamentary Union Tability and Development Ttain traffi c violations of vehicles should happen (IPU) Gabriela Cuevas Barron, on (DICDD) concluded yester- should be reviewed as this only in case of repeated viola- the occasion of her participation day with the announcement of causes harm to households tions. Also, a study could be in the 7th Conference of Global ‘Doha Declaration.’ and families rather than pe- conducted to see whether it is Organisation of Parliamentarians Organised by Qatar Founda- nalising just the person who possible to impound a violat- Against Corruption, which begins tion for Social Work (QFSW), the has committed the violation, ing vehicle at the residence (of in Doha today. The meeting two-day conference highlighted local Arabic daily Arrayah has the person concerned) to avoid reviewed the relations in the the main issues and challenges reported, citing some Qataris any possible damage to it at parliamentary field. faced by persons with disabili- and experts in the fi eld. the impound yard, they added. ties. DICDD which has attracted They told the daily there is Mohamed Saleh al-Khay- Qatar-Peru ties more than 1,500 policymakers a pressing need to study the areen, member of the Cen- and practitioners, took place at outcome and eff ectiveness of tral Municipal Council, said reviewed the Qatar National Convention such a penalty as a means of the impounding of vehicles Centre under the theme: “Leav- A panel discussion on the concluding day. PICTURES: Shemeer Rasheed curbing the spread of traffi c should be enforced judi- Minister of Foreign Aff airs of ing No One Behind.” violations. This should also be ciously to avoid any negative Peru Gustavo Meza-Cuadra has At the closing ceremony, Amal measured against the potential impact on the family con- met Qatar’s ambassador Ali bin Abdullatif al-Mannai, CEO, negative outcome of enforcing cerned. For instance, it could Hamad al-Sulaiti in Lima. During QFSW, expressed the hope that such a punishment, they felt. be done in the case of proven the meeting, they reviewed the the outcomes of the confer- According to the report, the careless drivers, in addition relations between Qatar and ence will support the eff orts of Qataris and experts said the to the withdrawal of their Peru, as well as issues of common the United Nations and will be a law stipulates this penalty for driving licences because they concern. catalyst for change towards the some 20 kinds of violations. A pose a serious risk to other adoption of policies that pro- considerable number of fami- users of public roads. mote the rights of persons with lies have one or two vehicles Lawyer Abdulrahman al-Ju- Qatar-Serbia disabilities. and enforcement of the pen- fairi said it is better to replace ties discussed “We hope the Doha Decla- alty means hardship for the the impounding of vehicles as ration will serve as a roadmap entire household and not only a penalty with the withdrawal First Deputy Prime Minister for governments, showing that the person who has commit- of the violating person’s driv- and Minister of Foreign Aff airs change through a combination ted the violation while driving ing licence for a certain period of Serbia Ivica Dacic has met of human rights and sustain- the vehicle in question, they of time in proportion with the Qatar’s ambassador to Serbia able development goals is both argue. motorist’s violation record. Sheikh Mubarak bin Fahad desirable and achievable,” said, al-Thani. During the meeting, al-Mannai. they discussed the co-operation The Doha Declaration is an between the two countries, action-oriented approach that as well as issues of common Qatar hopes will be an interna- Lawyers’ panel holds meeting concern. tional reference point for world governments to integrate the The dignitaries at the concluding ceremony. he Lawyers Admission Committee met yesterday, under Mexican FM meets rights of persons with disabili- the chairmanship of HE the Minister of Justice and Acting ties into their national develop- tainable Development Agenda tor Santiago Pineda, founder and the UN’s Convention on the TMinister of State for Cabinet Aff airs, Dr Issa Saad al-Jafali Qatari ambassador ment plans. can be fully integrated with the president, World Enabled, USA Rights of Persons with Disabili- al-Nuaimi at its permanent headquarters in the Ministry of Justice It includes a set of recommen- UN Convention on the Rights of delivered the keynote speeches. ties, before signing it in 2008. building. Foreign Minister of Mexico dations to integrate the rights of Persons with Disabilities. Sheikha Hissa bint Khalifa bin Her Highness Sheikha Moza The committee considered topics on its agenda, including Marcelo Ebrard met Qatar’s persons with disabilities into their On the concluding day of the Ahmed al-Thani, special envoy bint Nasser, the Founder of the swearing-in of fi ve new lawyers, the admission of a number ambassador to Mexico Mohamed national development plans. conference, there were two pan- of the Arab League, Secretary QFSW, also initiated Al Noor of new lawyers under training and the consideration of applica- bin Jassim al-Kuwari. The conference highlighted el discussions that focused on General, Qatar also took part in Centre in 1998 and the Shafallah tions for the enrolment of a number of counterparts in the lists During the meeting, they the main issues and challenges children with disabilities as well one of the panel discussions. Centre in 1999, establishing the of lawyers involved. The committee also considered the transfer reviewed the co-operation facing persons with disabilities. as cities and human settlement. Qatar has a long-standing Qatar Social Work Foundation as of lawyers and took appropriate decisions, adopted the minutes between the two countries, in The Doha Declaration was the Prof Jacqueline Bhabha, direc- commitment towards protecting a civil society organisation under of the subcommittees, reviewed a number of organisational topics addition to issues of common culmination of two days of dis- tor of research Harvard School of the rights of people with disabil- which Al Noor and the Shafallah for the work of the legal profession. It also discussed various fi les concern. cussions on how the UN Sus- Public Health, USA and Dr Vic- ities. In 2006, Qatar supported operate. and took appropriate decisions on them. –QNA Gulf Times 4 Monday, December 9, 2019 QATAR MIA to showcase a curated Al-Muraikhi meets top UN official selection of contemporary Indian fashion and textiles

arking the Qatar- ion industry, sustainability Speakers include Tania Moideen Hizqeel for 11.11, ture programme. We look India 2019 Year activists, and cultural insti- al-Majid, associate curator Dinesh Vankar for Injiri, forward to welcoming the Mof Culture, Qa- tutions from India and Qa- at the National Museum of Taj Mohamed for Urvashi community at what is set tar Museums (QM) and tar will be held, along with Qatar; Pavitra Muddaya, Kaur, and Irshad Annad for to be an enriching three- HE the Minister of State for Foreign Aff airs Sultan bin Saad al-Muraikhi, yesterday Caravane Earth – an in- a fi lm screening powered by head of Vimor Foundation Khanijo. day programme.” met the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations Amina J Mohamed, who ternational movement for Doha Film Institute. and director of Education at Commenting on the Marielou Phillips from is currently visiting Qatar. During the meeting, relations between Qatar and the social, cultural and eco- The symposium, on De- Qatar Museums, Dr Jelena announcement, Aisha Caravane Earth, added: United Nations were reviewed, in addition to issues of common concern. logical transformation – is cember 12 at MIA from Trkulja. al-Attiya, head of Years “Caravane Earth is proud presenting a new initiative 10am-3pm, will be open Participating fashion and of Culture at QM, stated, to partner with Qatar Mu- celebrating sustainabil- to the public and free of textile brands will include: “The modern fashion in- seums to bring light to one ity, heritage, and traditional charge. Bandana Tewari, 11.11/eleven eleven, Injiri, dustry began in the 19th of our core beliefs -that craftsmanship. sustainability activist and Khanijo, James Ferreira, century and has contin- supporting true craft is Between December 11 and former Vogue India editor at Ode to Odd, Maku Textiles, ued to grow since then. one of the most empower- Written message from president 13, the Museum of Islamic large is the moderator. It will Three, Urvashi Kaur, Chola, Today, it is interlinked ing sustainability strategies Art (MIA) will showcase a focus on themes such as the Vimor Handloom Founda- with some of the key is- today.” of Venezuela received curated selection of con- history of Abaya and tradi- tion. Participating artisans sues that face our world Earlier this year, Qatar temporary Indian fashion tional Qatari wear, building will include: P L Bhanu- – particularly climate Museums presented ‘X- and textiles. Additionally, a a sustainable global brand, murthy for Vimor Founda- change and sustainability. Ray Fashion’, a virtual real- symposium featuring nota- and the textile heritage of tion, Renuka Jalan for Cho- The textiles industry, in ity fi lm that shone the light ble speakers from the fash- Qatar and India. la, Taslim for Ode to Odd, specifi c, has also played a on the inner workings of the key role in building bridg- fashion industry – known es between civilisations as the world’s second larg- across the ages. As such, est polluter. The initiative it was important for us to was meant to raise aware- include this theme in this ness about an unknown edition of the Year of Cul- side of the industry.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani received yesterday a written message from Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro pertaining to bilateral relations and means to support and develop them. The message was received by HE the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs, Dr Ahmed bin Hassan al-Hammadi, during his meeting yesterday with Venezuelan ambassa- dor to Qatar Giuseppe Angelo Yoff reda Yorio.

Participating fashion and textile brands will include: 11.11/eleven eleven, Injiri, Khanijo, James Ferreira, Ode to Odd, Maku Textiles, Three, Urvashi Kaur, Chola, Vimor Handloom Foundation.

HBKU-CHSS calls for papers ahead of April conference

he Middle Eastern dle East studies. Thematic Studies Department areas include but are not T(MESD) of the Col- limited to refugees, dis- lege of Humanities and placement and migration; Social Sciences (CHSS) at digital connectivity and Hamad Bin Khalifa Univer- the future of work; cultural sity (HBKU) has announced heritage; and the chang- the call for papers ahead ing role of traditional and of its fi rst Middle East social media. Submissions conference. are welcome from PhD stu- Taking place from April dents, early career academ- 20-21, 2020, Rethinking ics as well as established Middle East Studies – To- researchers. wards Setting New Agen- Expanding on the call das seeks to cast the Middle for papers, Prof Mohamed East beyond reductive daily Hassan Hakimian, director headlines that focus on of Middle Eastern Studies confl ict and civil war, radi- Department at CHSS, said, calism and sectarian strife, “All area studies focus on a ethnic and gender violence, region’s distinctive charac- and more. teristics. However, percep- The conference will de- tions that the Middle East velop a new and more con- is diff erent in an unfortu- structive agenda for Middle nate manner from the rest East studies which recog- of the world have distorted nise the region’s evolving public understanding - not characteristics and chal- to mention the research lenges, while framing them agenda - of the entire re- in the wider context of in- gion. We want content and ternational dynamics and discussions at next year’s interactions. In doing so, conference to challenge participants will be en- these perceptions. couraged to rethink and re- “As Rethinking Middle imagine research methods East Studies is an interdis- and other ‘tools’ currently ciplinary event, we wel- shaping relevant academic come submissions from a debates and studies. broad range of academic In the build up to the disciplines in humanities conference, the MESD is and social sciences. In re- accepting individual paper turn, we promise two days and thematic panel sub- of lively debate and dis- missions that contribute cussion that refl ect CHSS’ to the development of new determination to bridge research agendas for Mid- disciplinary boundaries.” Gulf Times Monday, December 9, 2019 5 QATAR Gender equality is hardest goal, says top UN offi cial lack of evidence that the equality – and that she hopes a evidence of plans and initiatives said. “With the right policies in United Nations’ Sustain- woman will become the next UN being drawn up. place, the work of local leaders Aable Development Goals secretary-general. “But what we are not seeing is can be elevated. (SDGs) are being achieved and Mohamed, who addressed the evidence that this engagement “However, with localisation making change happen has been topic of ‘Bridging the gap be- of the contribution is making to comes two critical bottlenecks Amina J Mohamed interacting with students at the event. highlighted by one of the organi- tween policy and impact during the real world. We are not seeing that local governments face. One sation’s leading fi gures during a the decade of action to deliver the change that we need.” is data, knowing who is where onate and connect with the chal- Asked by moderator Folly tion will be visiting Qatar during talk at Qatar Foundation. the SDGs’, was speaking at an In her talk, attended by Qa- and doing what in order to in- lenges people face daily. We need Bah Thibault, a presenter at Al the 2022 FIFA World Cup. If the UN Deputy Secretary-General event held on the sidelines of the tar’s Permanent Representative vest; and the second is fi nance. to fi nd the right messengers and Jazeera English, for her thoughts country can set standards for be- Amina J Mohamed told the audi- Doha International Conference to the UN, ambassador HE Alya Many local and regional govern- infl uencers to reach audiences.” on Qatar’s eff orts towards ad- ing green, it would be fantastic. ence at the latest edition of the on Disability and Development. bint Ahmed al-Thani, as well as ments are struggling to monitor On the topic of empowering dressing the SDGs, Mohamed Transitions are important, and Education City Speaker Series She said, “Since 2015, we have school students, academics, and the progress toward the SDGs.” youth, Mohamed advised young said, “For Qatar, it is imperative Qatar is on that path.” that “business as usual” will had unprecedented engagement members of the wider commu- Mohamed also emphasised audience members to “Get that that it addresses many of the Focused on bringing together not be enough to address the with the SDGs. nity, Mohamed suggested ways the importance of public mo- education – it’s the most power- issues around energy use. And experts from a range of fi elds to 17 SDGs, which are designed to “Across the globe, we have in which societies can eff ectively bilisation, saying most people ful tool. And use your voice with during my visit to the country, I discuss the biggest issues and lead to transformation in vital seen governments, scientifi c align their actions and eff orts across the world are still not that knowledge. have seen the eff orts being made topics shaping today’s world, the aspects of our society. communities, the service in- with the aims of the SDGs. aware of the SDGs. “We need to “We have seen young people to diversify. Education City Speaker Series Speaking at Qatar National dustry, media, and many other “The fi rst priority is localisa- engage people by rethinking how question leaders at the UN, mak- “Qatar has to become greener, provides a platform for Qatar’s Library (QNL) yesterday, she re- sections of society being eager tion, by supporting local govern- to communicate the goals,” she ing them very uncomfortable. and it also needs to look at mov- community to have conversations vealed her belief that the hard- to embrace the goals. At high- ments and local communities, said. So use your voice, but remember ing away from single-use plas- with thought-leaders and change- est SDG to meet will be gender level UN political events, we see and delivering on the SDGs,” she “We need to tell stories that res- your voice needs to have purpose.” tic, especially as a big popula- makers from all over the world.

UN deputy secretary-general visits Education City Stadium

United Nations (UN) Deputy Secretary- General Amina J Mohamed, who attended the Doha International Conference on Disability and Development, visited Education City Stadium accompanied by HE the Permanent Representative of Qatar to the UN, ambassador Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif al-Thani. Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) Secretary-General Hassan al-Thawadi welcomed the UN delegation at the 2022 FIFA World Cup venue. The delegation was impressed with Education City Stadium and expressed particular interest in workers’ welfare, sustainability and accessibility, the SC tweeted.

Artist engages visitors at QNL

n connection with Qa- tar National Day (QND) Icelebrations, Qatar Na- tional Library (QNL) host- ed renowned Qatari artist Ahmed al-Maadeed. He took the audience through his creative jour- ney as an artist and talked about the creation of his iconic painting “Tamim The Glorious.” The audience had the opportunity to hear from the artist, who shared the story behind his artworks, and have their photo tak- en with him and received autographs. Al-Maadeed said, “I would like to thank the engage with each other and Arwa al-Faori, who at- artistic journey of a young library for organising to- share their interpretations tended the event, com- Qatari artist. His style is day’s workshop. It was of Qatar National Day and mented, “The event was unique and represents the a great opportunity for their aspirations for the fu- very interesting and really artistic ambitions of a new young artists in Qatar to ture of our country.” helped me understand the generation in Qatar. ” Msheireb Properties hosts football Fanzone sheireb Properties, the na- tional real estate developer Mand a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation, hosted a football Fan- zone in Barahat Msheireb, the heart of their iconic development, Msheireb Downtown Doha. The Fanzone had one of the larg- est projected screens in Doha, allow- ing visitors to watch the 24th Arabian Gulf Cup matches under the beauti- fully lit canopy of the largest outdoor covered square in the Middle East, Barahat Msheireb. The Fanzone saw a huge number of supporters enthusiastically cheer on the Qatar National Team and follow the exciting events of the games. Children had fun with the activities in the Kids’ Zone, as everyone relaxed People watching a match at the football Fanzone in Barahat Msheireb. in the comfortable seating area laid out before the gigantic screen, enjoying to the east and the world-renowned the old commercial district with a new the weather, the excitement, and the Mandarin Oriental hotel to the west. architectural language that is modern, variety of delights off ered at the food The square provides its own central yet inspired by traditional Qatari her- and beverage stalls. lighting and sound system under a itage and architecture. Situated in the Barahat Msheireb is a meeting beautifully designed canopy, provid- heart of Doha, Msheireb Downtown point for visitors as well as resi- ing the perfect setting to watch the Doha is easily accessible with Doha dents and will be active with street football matches. Metro’s largest station, Msheireb Sta- entertainment as well as seasonal Msheireb Downtown Doha is the tion, and a connecting underground and community events. The square world’s fi rst sustainable downtown access to Souq Waqif, Qatar’s number is anchored by the Cultural Forum regeneration project, which revives one tourist destination. Gulf Times 6 Monday, December 9, 2019 QATAR

Recall order issued for Fiat 500X

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in co-operation with Alfardan Sports Motors, announced the recall of Fiat 500X model of 2019 due to faulty airbag control module. A defect in the air bag inflator on the passenger side may result in sharp metal fragments coming out of the passenger airbag if an accident occurs. The ministry has said that it would co-ordinate with the Singers al-Kubaisi, dealer to follow up on the maintenance and repair works and will communicate with customers to ensure that the necessary repairs are carried out. The ministry urges all customers to report any violations to its Consumer Protection and Anti-Commercial Fraud Department, which processes complaints, inquiries and suggestions through the following channels: Call Centre: 16001, e-mail: [email protected], Twitter: @ MOCIQATAR, al-Abdallat and Riad Instagram: MOCIQATAR, mobile app for Android and IOS: MOCIQATAR. enthral at Qatar Live hree of the Middle East’s class entertainment for football most popular singers – Rah- fans, visitors and local residents. Tma Riad, Fahad al-Kubaisi On December 13, Cheb Khaled and Omar al-Abdallat – continued and Hatim Ammor will perform at the Qatar Live series of concerts the DECC, followed by Katy Perry on Saturday night with a glitter- on December 15, Maluma on De- ing performance at the Doha Ex- cember 16 and Maroon 5 on De- hibition and Convention Centre cember 19. (DECC), enthralling hundreds of For fans of electronic music, residents and visitors. Qatar Airways and the QNTC are Qatar Live is a series of special bringing Daydream Festival to Qa- music concerts and festivals or- tar for the fi rst time, on Decem- ganised by Qatar Airways and the ber 12 and 20 at The Ritz-Carlton, Qatar National Tourism Council Doha. Omar al-Abdallat (QNTC), supported by Ooredoo as The world-renowned festival Platinum Sponsor. takes place each year at diff erent Matt Sochon, and Wankelmut. The events have been organised locations around the world, bring- On December 20, Afrojack, Lost to align with the 24th Arabian Gulf ing together the best DJs in dance Frequencies, Mark Knight, Steff Da Cup Qatar 2019, which concluded and electronic music. Campo, and Matt Sochon will per- yesterday, and the FIFA Club World On December 12, the line-up of form at the festival. Cup Qatar 2019, to be held from DJs includes Dimitri Vegas & Like Tickets for all events can be pur- December 11-21, to provide world- Mike, Robin Schulz, Sam Feldt, chased at qatarlive.qa. Fahad al-Kubaisi Qatar Airways Group chief exec- utive and QNTC secretary-general off ering “special packages” that in the Middle East”, “World’s Best HE Akbar al-Baker said: “The per- will cover fl ights, hotels and con- Business Class”, and “Best Busi- formances by Rahma Riad, Fahad cert tickets when travelling to Qa- ness Class Seat”, in recognition of al-Kubaisi and Omar al-Abdallat tar, a press statement notes. its “ground-breaking” Business continue a fantastic line-up of In addition, stopover packages Class experience, Qsuite. world-class music for Qatar Live. for passengers travelling from It is the only airline to have been “It is really exciting that we have the rest of the world are available awarded the coveted “Skytrax some of the Middle East’s most through Discover Qatar. Airline of the Year” title, which is popular singers as well as home- To learn more about the off ers recognised as the pinnacle of ex- grown talent performing here in and packages, one can visit qa- cellence in the airline industry, fi ve Doha, to an audience of music- tarairways.com/QatarLive. times. loving residents and visitors.” A multiple-award-winning air- Qatar Airways currently oper- For visitors travelling from Ku- line, Qatar Airways was named ates a modern fl eet of over 250 wait and Oman, Qatar Airways is “World’s Best Airline” at the 2019 aircraft via its hub, Hamad Inter- off ering “amazing fares” on Econ- World Airline Awards, managed by national Airport, to more than 160 omy and Business Class tickets, Skytrax. destinations worldwide. Rahma Riad while Qatar Airways Holidays is It was also named “Best Airline

Gulf Times 8 Monday, December 9, 2019 QATAR Ooredoo sponsors international conference on disability

oredoo sponsored the The two-day event was in- deaf person to feel music on their porting this incredibly worth- Doha International Con- tended to provide a platform via skin – and the Bonocle, a system while event. We wholeheartedly Oference on Disability and which those with disabilities can that allows those who depend on support the United Nations sus- Development (DICDD), which have a voice, and can interact voiceover, keyboard navigation tainability goals – in this case, concluded yesterday at Qatar with key stakeholders who will and Braille to use the Ooredoo reduced inequality and health National Convention Centre. work together to formulate so- website. and well-being for all – and, The conference, with an over- cial policy and draw a roadmap The landmark outcome of the as part of our corporate social all theme of ‘Harnessing the for ensuring inclusive equality conference was the Doha Dec- responsibility strategy, place Power of Sustainable Develop- for all. laration; a core reference point great emphasis on supporting ment to Advance the Rights of Ooredoo hosted a booth at for international policy devel- and promoting events that ben- Persons With Disabilities’, was the event, showcasing inno- opment on human rights and efi t our communities and our held under the guidance and pa- vative technologies that will sustainable development with citizens. We look forward to the tronage of Her Highness Sheikha change the lives of those with reference to disability. event shining a spotlight on dis- Moza bint Nasser, founder of disabilities. These technologies Speaking about the event, ability, and highlighting ways to the Qatar Foundation for Social are a 5G-connected wheelchair Fatima Sultan al-Kuwari, chief improve the lives of those with Work and its affi liated civil soci- equipped with Google Assistant, consumer offi cer at Ooredoo, disabilities as part of a sustain- ety centres. the SoundShirt – which allows a said: “We’re delighted to be sup- able environment.” Ooredoo off icials and guests at the company’s booth at the event. Richard Mille unveils Mowasalat conducts Roberto Mancini watch

ichard Mille has intro- duced the RM 11-04 Au- health, safety event Rtomatic Flyback Chron- ograph Roberto Mancini watch, s part of its eff orts to it has been announced. promote the culture of Roberto Mancini, manager Ahealth, safety and envi- of the Squadra Azzurra, Italy’s ronment among the employees national football team, is back and members of the community, on home turf after coaching Mowasalat (Karwa) held a two- FC Zenit Saint Petersburg for day event under the title, “Care two years, and taking up a new for your life” at its headquarters. challenge: making Italy the The event, aimed at spread- number one football nation ing the culture of keeping good in Europe and the world. “It behaviour and lifestyle, was or- is wearing the new RM 11-04 ganised in co-operation with Mancini that Roberto will be the Ministry of Administrative shouldering his task and at- Development, Labour and So- tempting to make the dream of cial Aff airs (MADLSA) and other so many ‘tifosis’ come true,” a stakeholders. According to a press statement noted. statement, issued by the com- Released in 2013, the RM 11- pany, its employees and drivers 01 Roberto Mancini was born participated in the event. of discussions between the Mowasalat believes in a com- Italian manager and Richard prehensive safety approach that Mille over how to address an The RM 11-04 Automatic Flyback Chronograph Roberto Mancini includes both mind and body issue coaches confront on the watch. safety as it cares about meeting fi eld, namely, how much play- all requirements, from health- ing time is left in a match? care to safety at work, the release “Time... it is a strategic re- said. source and a quantitative real- The activities of the fi rst day ity that can be a source of tre- began with many presentation Employees and off icials attending the health and safety event. mendous stress in this sport. and activities including basic Once time ceases to be dis- medical check-ups and pres- played on the scoreboard, dur- entations on health, safety and ing extra time, for instance, it proper nutrition as well as pro- keys up anxiety, causing play- viding fi rst aid training. ers to lose their bearings and Head of Occupational Safe- inevitably aff ecting tactics ty and Health Department at during play,” the statement ex- MADLSA made a detailed pres- plained. entation of updated rules and The idea of creating a me- regulations on occupational chanical watch with a dedicat- safety and health on the occa- ed dial for tracking half-time, sion. extra time and overtime might The activities included yoga seem an obvious one, however, exercises and various health the ingenious display, com- Roberto Mancini and well-being tips like ‘try to bined with the availability of get eight hours sleep per night, a fl yback chronograph, gives of the ingenuity that charac- background, incorporated all sleep-debt stresses your body Roberto complete mastery of terised the RM 11-01, the RM around the automatic calibre, and mind, healthy food and ex- time on the playing fi eld: “As 11-04 incorporates the brand’s which powers a fl yback chron- ercise are vital, fi nd positive coaches, it is up to us to guide latest style codes, as seen in ograph and annual calendar. ways to deal with stress at work our players perfectly. That’s the new lines of the crown, its They adorn the bezel, crown, and home, managing a stressful why time must be tracked and variable-geometry rotor and pusher-caps and the rubber situation well can make you feel A moment from a firefighting demonstration on the occasion. managed. It is one of the pa- its ultra-sporty case in Carbon bracelet, the last with a tita- good, early reporting of injury, as rameters that can mean victory TPT with raised crenulations. nium folding buckle. well as tips on safe and defensive methods of their use. Khaled tory obligations. “The compa- tural bonding and social con- or defeat. Every last minute, The colours of the Italian The new casing presents driving.’ Kafoud, Mowasalat media and ny places the highest value on nections among the employees, every second is precious and fl ag, Il Tricolore, as well as the the grade 5 titanium calibre Also, Mowasalat HSE pro- governmental relations man- health, safety and well-being create a healthy and interactive carries the potential to over- offi cial blue shade that gives RMAC3 in an “unprecedent- vided live presentations and ager, said that the company is of its employees. Through such work environment that copes turn the outcome of a match.” the Squadra Azzura its nick- ed new light”, the statement training to extinguish fires and committed to ensuring compli- events, we aim to enhance pro- with international standards,” While conceding nothing name are all nods to Roberto’s added. types of fire extinguishers and ance with legislative and statu- ductivity at work through cul- he added.

Top cricketers for Qatar Celebrity League match Qatar Charity observes

uminaries of the cricket- game so that we have a strong ing world will come to- base here. “Now, this Celebrity International Volunteer Day Lgether for a Qatar Celeb- Cricket League match is about rity Cricket League T20 match to take place. Players of major on December 20, it has been cricketing nations like India, atar Charity (QC) par- announced. Australia, Pakistan, Bangla- ticipated in an exhibition Brian Lara (West Indies), desh, West Indies, New Zealand Qorganised by the Qatar Harbhajan Singh (India), and Sri Lanka are coming to Scouts and Guides Association Tillakaratne Dilshan (Sri Lan- take part.” to mark International Volunteer ka), Daniel Vettori (New Zea- “It will be followed by an Day (IVD) 2019 under the theme land) and Mohamed Ashraful international women’s event ‘Volunteer for an inclusive fu- (Bangladesh) are some of the in which four international ture’. names who have been con- teams – China, Oman, Kuwait QC has previously organised, fi rmed to play the match, ac- and hosts Qatar - are going to in co-operation with the Men- cording to the organisers. compete from January 16,” al- tal Health Friends Association Qatar Cricket Association Sheikha Sara Nasser A al-Thani and Yousef Jeham al-Kuwari at the Kuwari added. (Weyak), a lecture, at its head- (QCA) and QMission have press conference yesterday. Sheikha Sara added, “Any- quarters, on the psychological joined hands to organise the body (above 21 years of age) aspects of giving, to provide vol- The lecture was delivered as part of a series of training workshops match. Besides the above- December 20, is most likely to who are very passionate about from Qatar can be part of the unteers with humanitarian work and lectures that Qatar Charity intends to provide with the aim of mentioned players, also con- be played at Al Gharafa Sports this sport.” match. They can join the team skills.Some 120 volunteers, both building a new generation of volunteers. fi rmed to play in the match is Club. The aim of the match is “The activities on the match through the selection process. male and female, attended the Nafees Iqbal (Bangladesh). part of our social responsibil- day will begin at 3.30pm and The match will be telecast in- lecture delivered by Prof Nasser tives through its various media to develop poor societies. Yesterday, QMission founder ity campaign to create more end around 10pm. Entry is ternationally and hopefully it Amanafi , a mental health expert programmes, projects, activities IVD, mandated by the UN and CEO Sheikha Sara Nasser awareness about diff erently- through tickets, which are be- will send out a good image of at Weyak. and campaigns. General Assembly, is observed A al-Thani and QCA president abled people in Qatar. ing sold at LuLu Hypermarket Qatar.” The lecture was delivered as The pavilion also included every year on December 5. It is Yousef Jeham al-Kuwari gave “We’ve chosen cricket as this outlets,” Sheikha Sara added. The fi rst round of the se- part of a series of training work- presentations on QC’s humani- viewed as a unique chance for the details of the upcoming sport is quite popular among On his part, al-Kuwari said: lection is over, while the fi nal shops and lectures that Qatar tarian, developmental and char- volunteers and organisations event at a press conference held blue-collar workers who are “We are proud to have launched screening will be done on De- Charity intends to provide with itable programmes, projects and to celebrate their eff orts, share at the Qatar Olympic Commit- engaged in the development of the T10 League at the Asian cember 13. The legends and Qa- the aim of building a new gen- activities implemented across their values and promote their tee headquarters. Qatar, especially the 2022 FIFA Town Stadium on Saturday. tar national team players will be eration of volunteers to engage the globe. work among their communities, The match is part of a cam- World Cup stadiums and relat- Lots of famous players are par- mixed with other local cricket- them in humanitarian action to The pavilion was visited by non-governmental organisa- paign to raise awareness about ed projects. So, this match is an ticipating in it and the matches ers and two teams – Team Hope benefi t the community, a press Yusuf Ali al-Kazim, president tions, United Nations agencies, persons with special needs and appreciation for what they are are being broadcast interna- and Team Challengers – will statement noted. of the Arab Federation for Vol- government authorities and the to recognise the eff orts of blue- doing here. tionally for the fi rst time from play the match. Legendary um- QC’s pavilion at the exhibition untary Activity, in addition to private sector. collar workers in the develop- “We spoke to Qatar Cricket Qatar in India, Bangladesh, Pa- pires Simon Taufel (Australia) included publications and books many of the exhibition’s attend- Qatar Charity works to raise ment of the country, the organ- Association about it and the as- kistan, South Africa and Aus- and Billy Bowden |(New Zea- documenting some Qatari youth ees, who praised Qatar Charity’s awareness about the importance isers have stressed. sociation agreed to help us for tralia. land) will offi ciate the match, volunteer experiences and high- role and eff orts to preserve hu- of volunteering work by provid- Speaking on the occa- the social and noble causes in- “We hope to build a great at- while Tom Moody and Char- lighting Qatar Charity’s experi- man dignity, provide assistance ing training and courses to those sion, Sheikha Sara said: “The volved in the match. Also, in my mosphere of cricket in Qatar. lotte Edwards will do the live ences in integrating volunteers to those in need, intervention in interested in humanitarian ac- match, which is scheduled on team, there are lots of people We are just trying to push the commentary. and supporting youth initia- times of crises and disasters, and tion, the statement added. Gulf Times Monday, December 9, 2019 9 QATAR NU-Q survey reveals falling trust in mass media outlets orthwestern University erences,” said Everette E Den- now describe themselves as cul- rection (94% in the UAE, 89% in in 10 nationals in most coun- from 51%), and lowest in Qatar (from 43 hours to 11 hours per in Qatar’s (NU-Q) sev- nis, dean and chief executive turally conservative, and more Saudi Arabia, and 76% in Qatar). tries—seven in 10 in Tunisia— (29%, up from 23%). week with family and 13 hours Nenth annual Media Use offi cer, NU-Q. identify as culturally progres- These attitudes contrast dramat- own a smartphone. Smartphone z Digital Privacy: Concerns to 6 hours with friends), and in the Middle East survey re- “We’ve uncovered signifi cant sive. Qatar saw a dramatic drop ically with Jordan (48%), Tunisia ownership in all countries except among Internet users about on- are less supportive of Internet veals that fewer Mena nationals – and in some cases surprising in those self-reporting as cultur- (24%), and Lebanon (6%). Egypt and Tunisia exceeds that in line surveillance by governments regulation (from 39% to 28%) . identify as culturally conserva- – shifts in attitudes about free ally conservative – 44%, down z Social Media Infl uencers: the US. Smartphone ownership and companies has increased z Streaming Services: tive; they are less likely to trust expression online, trust in news from 75% in 2015. Meanwhile, At least half of Arab nationals in Egypt increased by 23% points since 2013. Those who worry Streaming services are gaining their own country’s mass media sources, culture, and media habits. Saudi Arabia revealed a signifi - in each surveyed country look between 2017 and 2019, from 57% about governments checking popularity. Roughly two-thirds outlets; and are more likely to These fi ndings should be of great cant rise in cultural progressiv- at posts from social media infl u- to 80%. There has also been a what they do online has increased of Qataris, Saudis, and Emiratis get news from social media and interest to scholars, businesses, ism – 28% up from 15% in 2015, encers, with at least one in fi ve sharp increase in getting news on from 36% in 2013 to 43% in 2019; report using a streaming service social media infl uencers than governments and other thought with cultural conservativism doing so every day. In addition, a smartphone every day – 79% in those who worry about compa- (like Shahid, Anghami, and Net- newspapers. leaders focused on the region.” falling from 60% to 41% in the more nationals turn to social 2019, up from 62% in 2017. nies has risen from 34% to 44%. fl ix, or others), a fi gure similar to In addition, at least half of The seventh annual media same time period. media infl uencers for their prod- z Freedom of Expression: Thirty-two percent of nationals that in the US (Deloitte, 2019). Arab nationals in each country use survey was conducted face- z Trust in News Media: Trust uct and service recommenda- Compared to 2017, more nation- say WhatsApp is the platform af- z Podcasts: Podcasts are more surveyed read posts from social to-face (phone in Qatar) among in national news media – i.e., tions (36% in the UAE, and 24% als in several countries say peo- fording the most privacy, far more popular in the Arab region than in media infl uencers, but more do 7,303 respondents across seven newspapers, TV and radio – in both Saudi Arabia and Qatar) ple should be allowed to criticise than the percentages who named the US. Weekly podcast listener- so for their product and serv- countries – Egypt, Jordan, Leb- fell in several countries. Qatar rather than to adopt their politi- governments online. In Lebanon, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or ship is higher in fi ve of the Arab ice recommendations rather anon, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Tuni- showed a signifi cant drop (74% cal, religious, or cultural views 74% of respondents say online Snapchat as the most privacy- countries in this study than in the than for their views. And Qa- sia, and the UAE. The survey was in 2017, down to 62% in 2019), (e.g., 18% of Saudis, 17% of Emi- government criticism should be protective – and the margin is US (65% Saudi Arabia, 44% UAE, taris prove to be outliers on a conducted by The Harris Poll as did Tunisia (56% to 44%). In ratis, and just 9% of Qataris). In permitted, up from 70% in 2017. wide in most countries. 43% Qatar, 29% Lebanon, 26% greater number of behavioural from June 20 to October 6. contrast, trust levels in the UAE most cases, more Arab nationals The fi gure is 59% in Saudi Ara- • Qatar: Qataris are outliers on Tunisia vs. 22% US, Pew Research and attitudinal variables since The report off ers chapters remained very high (94% in 2017 say they get news every day from bia in 2019, up from 49%, and a greater number of behavioural Center, 2019). More non-nation- a blockade was imposed on the covering bias and credibility, and 92% in 2019). Overall, 61% social media infl uencers than in Jordan, 49%, up from 30%. In and attitudinal variables since als than nationals listen to pod- country in 2017 by several Arab digital privacy, free speech, In- of nationals say they trust me- from newspapers, with Qatar the UAE, only 24% said it should a blockade was imposed on the casts weekly, especially Western countries. ternet use, media use, news, dia in their own country, 48% and Saudi Arabia being the ex- be permitted (up from 12% in country in 2017 by several Arab expats (30% Nationals, 35% Arab “NU-Q’s survey reveals a social media, and social media in media from other Arab na- ceptions. Instagram (30%) is the 2017) and in Qatar, just 26% (up countries, including three coun- expats, 38% Asian expats, 60% dynamic Mena media environ- infl uencers. There is also one tions, and 49% in outlets from most popular platform for fol- from 19%). Also, more nation- tries in this study (Saudi Arabia, Western expats). ment, one refl ecting rapid de- section focusing just on Qatar. Western countries. lowing social media infl uencers, als in several countries say they Egypt, and the UAE). Compared The complete results of NU- velopment in technology, as Key fi ndings from the report z Right Direction versus followed by Facebook (24%) and feel comfortable talking about to 2017, Qataris now spend less Q’s seventh annual Media Use well as the considerable impact include: Wrong Track: Large majorities Snapchat (20%), among nation- politics. That fi gure is highest in time online (from 45 hours per in the Middle East survey are of geopolitics on information z Cultural Attitudes: Com- of Arab Gulf nationals say their als who use each platform. Lebanon (61%, up from 52% in week in 2017 to 24 hours in 2019), also available on the interactive consumption patterns and pref- pared to 2015, fewer nationals country is headed in the right di- z Smartphones: At least eight 2017) and Saudi Arabia (58%, up less time with family and friends website, mideastmedia.org. British Council presents second national Study UK Alumni Awards he British Council distrib- and for their important contri- ters and PhD from the UK had a uted the second national bution to strengthening collabo- major infl uence on her approach TStudy UK Alumni Awards rative ties between the United to the promotion of interprofes- 2019-20 in Qatar at a ceremony, Kingdom and Qatar. sionalism and has contributed to held at Marsa Malaz Kempinski A graduate of the University the development of IPE in Qa- on Saturday. of Strathclyde and Robert Gor- tar with many successful IPE Dr Alla El-Awaisi won the don University (RGU) and the initiatives since 2014. Award winners and finalists with British ambassador Ajay Sharma and other dignitaries. PICTURE: Noushad Thekkayil Professional Achievement assistant dean of student aff airs Al-Haroon, who is the founder Award while Khalifa al-Haroon at Qatar University College of and CEO of ILoveQatar.net and a number of television and on- IFRC Field Assessment and Co- through online nomination through our partnership in and Reema al-Merekhi received Pharmacy, Dr El-Awaisi was se- the I Love Qatar (ILQ) Network, line shows and often appears on ordination Team (FACT), which which ran over ten days. By se- the fi eld of education. the Entrepreneurial Award lected for the award for exempla- is a graduate of Anglia Ruskin international news channel to is a vital part of the International curing 1,728 votes (34% of to- Sam Ayton, country direc- and the Social Impact Award, ry leadership in the professional University. Known as Mr Q on provide commentary. Federation of Red Cross and Red tal votes), al-Merekhi received tor of the British Council in Qa- respectively. fi eld and providing guidance and his blog and vlog, he is engaged Exceptional contribution to Crescent Societies (IFRC). People’s Choice Award. tar; Abdul Hakeem Mostafawi, The awards have been insti- leadership to enhance students’ in law, investment banking and creating positive social change The winners, while receiv- British ambassador Ajay Shar- CEO, HSBC Bank Qatar; and tuted for UK alumni in Qatar for learning experience. Since 2014, social media management. helped al-Merekhi to win the ing the award, said studying in ma, who attended the event, Dr Sheikha Aisha bint Faleh al- their outstanding achievements she has also been the chair of the He was selected for the award recognition. She is a gradu- the UK helped them develop as said the winners’ stories are a Thani, founder and chairperson as business professionals, entre- Interprofessional Education (IPE) for playing a leading role in busi- ate of Newcastle University and leaders and changemakers. testament to what the UK and of Al-Faleh Education Holding preneurs and community leaders Committee. Dr El-Awaisi’s mas- ness innovation by launching the fi rst Arab female to join the The awardees were selected Qatar are continuing to achieve were also present. QP holds annual Mustaqbalna event atar Petroleum (QP) under development for senior organised its third an- staff positions (called associates) Qnual ‘Mustaqbalna’ to achieve their full potential event, which provided over and embrace their roles as the 300 Qatari nationals with the organisation’s future leaders. opportunity to directly engage HE the Minister of State for with the organisation’s execu- Energy Aff airs Saad bin Sherida tive leadership team and real- al-Kaabi, also the President and ise the valuable contributions CEO of QP, “welcomed the as- they can make towards or- sociates to a future that awaits The Mustaqbalna participants with HE the Minister of State for Energy Aff airs Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi and QP executive leadership team. ganisation’s continued growth them and urged them to stay fo- and success. cused on a mindset of personal, sation is one of QP’s top priori- most importance and attention cused on developing a highly ca- Mustaqbalna 2019 was held ates to creatively plan their pro- Held annually since 2017, successful achievements that ties, saying, “You are the future on the development of our Qa- pable and motivated workforce over two days at the Qatar Na- fessional development as well as Mustaqbalna, which means refl ects on the success of QP and we are working to see. You are tari human capital in all areas of across the whole of QP with spe- tional Convention Centre, and to learn the importance of tak- “our future” in Arabic, aims at the future of Qatar.” the next generation of leaders. specialty. cial emphasis on Qatari develop- featured various interactive ac- ing initiative and practising re- inspiring all Qatari employees Al-Kaabi stressed that Qatari- This is why we are placing the ut- “Our corporate strategy is fo- ment. This is your opportunity.” tivities that enabled the associ- sourcefulness in the workplace. Aster Medical Centre launches plastic surgery services

By Joseph Varghese ing, regulatory approvals and in- experience, he is one of the most Staff Reporter frastructural upgrades,” he added. reputable plastic surgeons in Dr Kumar noted that plas- South India. He has completed tic surgery is not just cosmetic MS in General Surgery from ster DM Healthcare, surgery. “Plastic surgery is a Kasturba Medical College and Qatar, a division of As- surgical specialty involving res- FRCS from Edinburgh, and Glas- Ater DM Healthcare, has toration, reconstruction or al- gow, MCh Plastic Surgery from launched a plastic surgery de- teration of human body. It can be Government Medical College partment, providing several lat- divided into two main categories Trivandrum, FRCS and CCT in est services in the fi eld. of reconstructive surgery and Plastic Surgery from British as- The new outpatient depart- cosmetic surgery.” sociation of Plastic Surgeons and ment (OPD) will be at Aster He also gave a presentation Fellowship in Microsurgery and Medical Centre in Hilal with the about the diff erent types of serv- Hand Surgery from the US. services of Dr Krishna Kumar K ices and noted that the side ef- “We are extremely happy to S, a visiting surgeon from India. fects of the surgery are as normal extend the OPD service of Dr “Dr Krishna Kumar, an au- Aster DM Healthcare, Qatar off icials at a press conference in Doha yesterday. as any other treatment. He also Krishna Kumar in Qatar. I ex- thority in plastic surgery, will pointed out that the cost depends pect the new OPD will benefi t visit Qatar once a month. He Hospital in Kerala,” Dr Sameer ter MIMS, Calicut and Kapil in the process and will be avail- when he is not available in Qatar,” mainly on the consumables for the residents of Qatar. We can will conduct the OPD at Aster Moopan, chief executive offi cer, Chib, chief operating offi cer, able for the patients to provide added Dr Moopan. the surgery than the procedure. also provide seamless connectiv- Hilal and the procedures will Aster DM Healthcare, Qatar, said Aster Hospital Qatar, were also consultations in the absence of “We are discussing how we can Dr Kumar is a senior consult- ity and transition for patients to be done at Aster Hospital. Any yesterday. present. Dr Kumar. There will also be op- off er more advanced treatments ant and head of the Department Aster MIMS Calicut where all the procedures that cannot be done Dr Krishna Kumar; Sameer “There are other doctors at portunities to consult with Dr to patients. Some other services of Plastic Surgery at Aster MIMS, procedures can be done,” added in Doha, will be referred to Aster PT, chief operating offi cer, As- Aster Hospital here to assist him Kumar over Internet and phone are feasible here subject to licens- Calicut. With about 25 years of Sameer P T. Gulf Times 10 Monday, December 9, 2019 QATAR National Day a time to renew pledge to homeland: al-Kaabi

QNA together to bolster the founda- ment of the state’s hydrocarbon in Ras Laff an Industrial City with Together with its partners, QP HE al-Kaabi pointed out that Doha tions laid by the Founder for a resources in order to achieve a production capacity of 1mn carried out prospecting and ex- QP has also implemented several better future and further splen- sustainable development and and 900,000 tonnes per year, in ploration projects in a number projects in Ras Laff an aimed at dour and glory, under the wise convert these natural resources order to maximise the benefi t of of South American and African preserving the environment and E the Minister of State for leadership of His Highness the into fi nancial wealth that sup- ethane produced from the vari- countries, as well as the Eastern reducing greenhouse gases. Energy Aff airs and Presi- Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad ports the development of human ous North Field projects. Mediterranean and the Arabian Hundreds of millions of dol- Hdent and CEO of Qatar al-Thani. resources and building the state’s He explained that the petro- Sea. lars have been invested in these Petroleum Saad bin Sherida al- He noted that the Ministry of economic capabilities. chemicals complex project will QP has also strengthened projects. He underlined that Kaabi said that the National Day Energy and Qatar Petroleum is HE al-Kaabi said that this vi- include two high-density poly- its global presence through a Qatar Petroleum has ambitions is not a normal day for the Qatari guided by Qatar National Vision sion has been put into considera- ethylene units with a production number of LNG export and re- to expand in various countries people and the state, or an occa- 2030 which is based on the ra- tion while implementing many capacity of 1mn tonnes each. The ception ports, such as the South around the world and to grow sion to recall or commemorate a tional management of abundant strategic projects in various sec- project is expected to start pro- Hook LNG terminal in the United signifi cantly in the markets memory, it is a day that consoli- hydrocarbon resources to ensure tors of the oil and gas industry, HE the Minister of State for duction in 2025. Kingdom, Zeebrugge LNG ter- where it exists, and will continue dates the feeling of belonging to that living standards are raised whether in the fi eld of produc- Energy Aff airs and President Meanwhile, the minister said minal in Belgium, Adriatic LNG to search for new opportunities this good land and loyalty to the for present and future genera- tion, prospecting and exploration and CEO of Qatar Petroleum that Qatar Petroleum has adopt- terminal in Italy, and Golden and markets to achieve its ob- wise leadership. tions. or in the petrochemical projects. Saad bin Sherida al-Kaabi. ed a global expansion strategy Pass LNG terminal in the United jectives in the medium and long In statements to Qatar News He added that the energy sec- At the forefront of these eff orts that embodies the vision of His States, he added, praising the term to become one of the best Agency (QNA), HE al-Kaabi said tor in the country, led by Qa- comes the expansion project of year. He added that Qatar Petro- Highness the Amir to expand and leading role of Qatargas, the glo- national oil companies in the that by celebrating this precious tar Petroleum and its group of the North Field, which will raise leum is currently working on a enhance Qatar’s leading role in bal liquefi ed natural gas giant, in world, with deep roots in Qatar day we renew the pledge of loy- companies and projects, worked the production capacity of LNG project to build and operate a new the fi eld of energy at the global providing clean energy to con- and a distinguished international alty to the homeland and to work on the management and invest- from 77mn to 126mn tonnes per global petrochemicals complex level. sumers across the globe. presence. Turkish envoy lauds Omani ambassador highlights historical ties QNA ment, thanks to the leaderships resources, the ambassador noted. Doha of the two countries. In his statement, ambassador The Omani envoy highlighted al-Balushi extended his con- tremendous progress Qatar’s achievements made dur- gratulations to His Highness the mani ambassador to ing the past period in various Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Qatar Najib bin Yahya fi elds thanks to the wise leader- al-Thani, His Highness the Fa- Oal-Balushi praised the ship of His Highness the Amir ther Amir Sheikh Hamad bin depth of Qatari-Omani relations Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al- Khalifa al-Thani and His High- in bilateral relations describing it as deep-rooted, Thani. Despite the challenges, ness the Deputy Amir Sheikh brotherly and historical, which Qatar has managed to turn them Abdullah bin Hamad al-Thani, have evolved over decades to into successful opportunities and to the people of Qatar on the QNA lenges it faces, no matter how cover all fi elds. that strengthened their develop- occasion of National Day. Doha strong these challenges are,” the In a statement to Qatar News ment achievements at the local He expressed his wishes that ambassador said. Agency (QNA), the ambassador level and their active presence Qatar will continue to celebrate “In my capacity as the Turk- affi rmed that the relations be- in the regional and international its achievements year after year urkish ambassador to Qa- ish ambassador to Qatar, I would tween Oman and Qatar are in forums, thanks to careful plan- amidst further development, Omani ambassador to Qatar tar Fikret Ozer underlined like to celebrate the National Day constant growth and develop- ning and optimal utilisation of progress and prosperity. Najib bin Yahya al-Balushi. Tthat the bilateral rela- of the friendly State of Qatar and tions between Turkey and Qatar extend my best wishes to our Qa- achieved tremendous progress in tari brothers and sisters. I believe recent years in all areas of co-op- that this important day will fur- eration, on the basis of the stra- ther strengthen the spirit of na- tegic partnership. tional pride and solidarity among QMC: Strategic goals realised in media sector In statements to Qatar News Qatari nation and thus will be Agency (QNA) on the occasion of instrumental in building even a Qatar National Day, the ambas- more united and prosperous Qa- QNA ing achievements during 2018- ying and analysing the trends sador said that the Turkey-Qatar Turkish ambassador Fikret tar,” the ambassador stated. Doha 2019, which met the wishes of its and coverage of the local press, Supreme Strategic Committee, Ozer during a press conference The ambassador praised the viewers and kept pace with the extracting and evaluating the which was established in 2015 as in Doha yesterday. PICTURE: remarkable achievements made achievements of the QMC in all internal public opinion trends, the highest institutional mecha- Jayaram by Qatar at the local and inter- atar Media Corporation its departments and sections. as well as co-ordinating and nism of co-operation, convened national levels, despite the chal- (QMC) made ambitious In this context, news monitor- co-operating with the relevant for the fi fth time last month un- est volume of projects. On the lenges caused by regional and Qachievements during ing has kept up with all the plans authorities in developing the der the leadership of His High- other hand, the total value of the global developments and espe- 2019 through the accomplish- to improve the work and news professional skills and abilities ness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Qatari investments in Turkey is cially the blockade since June ment of many of its strategic services provided to audiences of the national energies in the Hamad al-Thani and Turkish nearly $80.1bn, the Turkish am- 2017. objectives at the media, business in Qatar and around the world, as press sector, such as Al Jazeera President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. bassador added. In economic realm, he noted and support levels, within the it seeks to activate the vision of Media Institute. In the margin of the meeting, He said that the humanitarian that great progress has been framework of its strategic plans the QMC to develop news work, Meanwhile, Al Kass channels the two countries signed seven and cultural relations between made in increasing economic and the eff orts of its human re- which focused on the importance continued to cover all the events agreements, adding to the 46 the two countries by no means diversifi cation, self-suffi ciency sources, as well as planning and of qualifying cadres and support- in sports, which included local, agreements which were signed in fall behind the political and and industrial production. Mega preparing for a number of future ing the needs of news work with a Arab and international events the previous meetings. economic relations. “Our Qa- infrastructure projects have been projects. During its participation in the number of techniques to facili- with professionalism and effi - In this regard, the ambassador tari brothers have been showing implemented within the frame- This year witnessed a qualita- 20th session of the Arab Radio tate and develop news, transmit- ciency. noted that the leaders of both growing interest for the Turkish work of Qatar National Vision tive development regarding the and Television Festival held in ting cultural, social and sporting They also worked on develop- countries emphasised in the last culture and language. Last year, 2030 and the FIFA 2022 World quality of work and programmes Tunis in June, Qatar Radio won events, and covering the visits of ing sports awareness and dis- meeting of the Supreme Strate- almost 100,000 Qatari citizens Cup preparations. off ered by QMC’s affi liates, such the fi rst prize in the comedy His Highness the Amir Sheikh semination to the public, in ad- gic Committee the Turkish-Qa- visited Turkey. On the other In the political sphere, the as Qatar Radio, Qatar Television drama fi eld and the fi rst prize in Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and dition to conducting dialogues tari strategic partnership which hand, Qatar became the second ambassador said that Qatar has and the Quran Kareem Radio, in the radio documentary contest. his foreign participations. with specialists and following means a lot for both sides. home for nearly 10,000 Turkish immensely raised its regional addition to other developments Qatar also won two gold medals For its part, the development up on sports analysis through its He noted that one of the areas citizens residing in the country.” and international standing and in the media sectors in the coun- for two programmes produced by department of QMC attained a various programmes. where the two countries made The ambassador noted that become a leading political actor try. Qatar Radio. number of achievements through It also produced specialised the fastest progress is economy. National Days are important whose contribution to solution Qatar Radio presented dis- Oryx FM Radio, a 24-hour its tasks and the establishment sports programmes on various The trade volume, which was means of acknowledging the past of regional and global challenges tinguished works, programmes French-language service, is a and development of eff ective re- types of sports, as well as docu- nearly QR3bn in 2016, increased and connecting it to the present is highly sought and valued for. and radio series in various fi elds, qualitative leap in Qatar Radio lationships with local press in- mentary programmes on wom- to reach QR8.3bn by the end of day. They also serve as valuable He expressed confi dence that which won the appreciation and programmes. stitutions during the 2018-2019 en’s sport. 2018. As of October this year, it guides to the future. “They re- Qatar will continue to follow the satisfaction of its listeners in- The Oryx FM Radio website period. As for Sout Al Khaleej Radio’s reached QR5.8bn. mind us the sacrifi ces of our an- path of economic and social de- side and outside Qatar. The radio was also launched in French, The department co-ordinated achievements, it presented new With a total of over $18bn, Qa- cestors, unite us under one fl ag velopment as well as political station won many awards and doubling the level of communi- with the concerned authori- quality of song and melodies, in tar has become the 7th country and help us become a real nation. achievements, thanks to its suc- recognition in festivals and me- cation with listeners. Qatar TV ties in the fi eld of organising the addition to recording many ex- in which the Turkish contracting It is only when a nation is united cessful leadership and the strong dia competitions in the Gulf and has achieved numerous news, press situation, supporting and clusive sessions for Qatari and sector has undertaken the high- that it can overcome the chal- national will behind it. Arab regions. programming, artistic and sport- developing the local press, stud- Arab singers.

An occasion to enhance the national spirit, express loyalty to leadership

‘National Day has signifi cant QNA citizens, in addition to provid- particularly in the services and Doha ing high-quality health and ed- manufacturing sectors. ucation services, which refl ect- HE al-Nabit pointed to the ed positively on the country’s prestigious position occupied meanings in minds of people’ E the President of Plan- ranking in the Human Develop- by Qatar in the international ning and Statistics Au- ment Index (HDI) 2018, where it arena, thanks to its foreign pol- Hthority (PSA) Dr Saleh ranked 35th globally and second icy characterised by clarity, re- QNA tablished by the Founder Sheikh Mohamed Salem al-Nabit in the Arab world. alism, political balance, and so- Doha Jassim bin Mohamed bin Thani, stressed that Qatar National In the fi eld of strengthening briety, which enabled it to play and a sincere affi rmation to pro- Day represents an important the infrastructure, he point- an active and infl uential role at ceed on his approach, and the occasion to enhance the nation- ed out that Qatar is aware of the regional and international hairman and Managing principles he formulated. al spirit, a valuable opportunity the importance of this sector levels. Director of Qatar Postal Al-Nuaimi said that today, we to renew loyalty and covenant through the expansion of in- He further explained that one CServices Company Faleh are witnessing a true embodi- to the leadership, sharpen the HE the President of Planning vestments necessary to improve year after the blockade, the In- Mohamed al-Nuaimi said that ment of these values and prin- determination, and redouble ef- and Statistics Authority Dr Saleh its services and to anticipate ternational Competitiveness the celebration of the National ciples, namely the development forts to support the process of Mohamed Salem al-Nabit its future prospects through Report issued by the Interna- Day has signifi cant meanings in and prosperity of the homeland, development and comprehen- strengthening co-ordination tional Institute for Management the minds and hearts of all citi- social cohesion and unity around sive revival in the country. National Day. He noted the high between government agencies Development (IMD) in 2018 in- zens and residents of Qatar. our wise leadership. This, he said, is to continue national spirit and the partici- related to the implementation dicates that Qatar’s economy Al-Nuaimi said, in a statement On the progress of the coun- the path taken by the Founder pation of all citizens and resi- of the 2022 FIFA World Cup ranked fi fth globally among 63 to Qatar News Agency (QNA), try in various fi elds, and the Sheikh Jassim bin Mohamed bin dents in this precious occasion, projects and the projects of the countries, mostly developed that this cherished occasion cel- strengthening of Qatar’s global Thani, who in his reign led Qatar sensing their responsibility to- metro, Hamad International countries, in the axis of eco- ebrates the anniversary of the presence despite the challenges, to become a recognised entity wards the homeland and lead- Airport, Hamad Port, modern nomic performance, which re- founding of the beloved nation especially the unjust blockade, that has its status and presence ership, has embodied a great roads, and water, electricity and fl ects the strong performance that grew up and became a light- Qatar Post Chairman Faleh al-Nuaimi said that after two on the world map. cohesion. sanitation networks. and its ability to overcome the house of civilisation and a lead- Mohamed al-Nuaimi. years of blockade on Qatar, the In a statement to Qatar News HE al-Nabit pointed out that Moreover, he pointed to the crisis. ing model to be emulated in all state was able to achieve tangible Agency (QNA), HE al-Nabit Qatar has witnessed a steady signifi cant improvement in the Furthermore, HE al-Nabit fi elds of life. the main factor and the engine achievements in record time as congratulated His Highness the rise in living standards accom- pace of macroeconomic per- noted the state’s orientation Al-Nuaimi added that at- of development processes and a result of sound planning, and Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad panied by important social de- formance in Qatar through the towards the Shura Council elec- tention to the human being has renaissance. Al-Nuaimi pointed a tight strategy that integrated al-Thani, His Highness the Fa- velopments embodied in the growth rate of real GDP, with tions, considering it a qualita- always been the supreme goal out that the celebration of the all the infl uential sectors in the ther Amir Sheikh Hamad bin establishment of an advanced the continued role of the non- tive leap in the march of democ- and the focus of Qatar’s policies National Day is an expression of country with the full support of Khalifa al-Thani, and the Qa- system of social protection tak- hydrocarbon sector in achiev- racy that puts Qatar among the and development plans, being the fulfi lment of the values es- the wise leadership. tari people on the occasion of ing into account the interests of ing a major part in this growth, developed countries. Gulf Times Monday, December 9, 2019 11 QATAR Sculpture that represents Amir’s vision to combat corruption

By Azmat Haroon and Noor ruption Excellence Award will al-Rawi be held in Kigali, Rwanda, today Qatar, UN stress need for more global action to fi ght corruption Doha in partnership with the United Nations Offi ce on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and supported From Page 1 of public funds but also to which could otherwise be he newly-designed art- by the government of Rwanda. safeguard the interests of invested in improving the lives work for the Interna- It will celebrate the most eff ec- “Qatar operates a the private sector companies of people. Ttional Anti-Corruption tive and courageous members comprehensive strategy that whether large or small,” The latest Global Corruption Excellence Award in Rwanda of the anti-corruption commu- ensures its presence among according to HE Dr al-Marri. Perception Index by represents transparency and nity. the most advanced countries This is the fourth edition of Transparency International the vision of His Highness the Born in Babel, Albahrani ar- in the fight against corruption. Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad recognises “Rwanda as largely Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad rived in Qatar in 1999 and has In the public sector, refusing Al Thani International perceived as having achieved al-Thani to fi ght corruption, been involved in many landmark illegal or non-transparent Anti-Corruption Excellence remarkable progress in the according to Doha-based Iraqi projects in the country. Wheth- practices will help the fight Award, which has become fight against corruption over contemporary artist and sculp- er it is abstract, contemporary against corruption and would a global event to honour the last few years.” Besides, tor Ahmed Albahrani. or conceptual art, he has been result in more legitimate the leading persons and Qatar and Rwanda have The mastermind behind the able to transform his medium investment into the country. organisations in the fight signed various agreement to sculpture now on display in to address the modern-day life “This helps ensure the against corruption and spread enhance Qatari investments Rwanda said each part was en- and issues in an honest manner. continuation of economic of public awareness about in Rwanda in various fields gineered in a way to represent The popular artist stressed progress and not just to their efforts and the need to that are expected to speed up every country of the world. that Qatar has played a signifi - preserve the interests of the eradicate illegal practices that development efforts there in “The sculpture represents cant role in his life in terms of State and the maintenance eventually waste public funds, all key sectors. transparency via the triangles the experience and exposure he found in it with the engineering has received in the country. formations. Every part of this “I have come to be known Arabian Gulf Cup trophy, which body of work he has produced in and he is thankful for the con- hand is a nation of the world, through Qatar in the Arab world consolidated his popularity in the region. tinuous support he has received which means that the whole and now all the countries know the region. “I have been chosen in this from the government and vari- world must fi ght this disease Ahmed Albahrani as the Iraqi “For me, in terms of repu- project because the State’s ous other arts and cultural or- (corruption) that has destroyed artist residing in Qatar. My tation, popularity, and pres- trust in me. I have implement- ganisations. thousands of people and many name became popular because ence, the Arab Gulf Cup trophy ed many projects in Qatar and The annual Sheikh Tamim Bin big countries. In short, the work of my involvement in the Qatari is very important but working I was chosen as an Iraqi artist Hamad Al Thani International was a translation of the vision art and cultural scene, and this on this international award is living in Qatar for more than 21 Anti-Corruption Excellence of His Highness the Amir and is the thing that I am proud of something that any artist in the years. I am truly thankful for Award is being held for the fi rst the directions of HE Dr Ali bin the most. I have many creative world can be proud of. However, this trust given to me and it is time on the African continent Fetais al-Marri,” Albahrani ex- works on display in the coun- for me as an artist the most im- a great honour to be part of this this year. It will be presented plained while talking about the try, be it sport venues, Hamad portant work has not been done award because it is an important to nominees who have dem- sculpture and the inspiration The newly designed artwork for the Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al International Airport, hotels or yet.” experience in my life.” onstrated a willingness to fi ght behind it. Thani International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award has been the National Museum of Qatar,” Albahrani was chosen to be a The artist said that one of the systemic corruption and cham- The fourth edition of the installed in Kigali, Rwanda, where the fourth edition of the award is he added. part of the International Anti- things that distinguished Qa- pion the message of anti-cor- Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al being held today. Doha-based Iraqi contemporary artist and sculptor Albahrani’s most recent work Corruption Excellence Award tar from other countries is the ruption among the people of the Thani International Anti-Cor- Ahmed Albahrani is seen in front of his creation. includes the design of the 24th because of the outstanding focus on arts and education, regions in which they operate.

Deputy Amir to Promoting attend opening of Doha conference Qatar can help other countries green growth His Highness the Deputy Amir GGGI is a Seoul-based Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad intergovernmental organisation al-Thani will attend today the with 36 member countries opening of the 7th Global improve farm output: expert dedicated to promoting green Conference of Parliamentarians growth and climate resilience. Against Corruption, which will Qatar is a founding member who be held at the Sheraton Doha By Joey Aguilar set up the institution, along with Hotel. Staff Reporter at the event titled “Green growth to – at least some form of agreement will 16 other countries. achieve Paris Agreement and Sustain- come, saying they are working with a Some 33 member countries able Development Goals.” few developing countries to start pre- have active programmes aimed Qatar takes part in lose collaborations with coun- Citing an example, he said that with paring governance and MRVs (moni- at supporting their green Riyadh meeting tries that need Qatar’s tech- Qatar’s help, countries such as Senegal toring, reporting and verifi cation) sys- transition to economic models, Cnology or fi nance to come up and Ethiopia can improve their pro- tem to allow them to trade and prepare which is more environmentally with smart solutions can signifi cantly ductivity in agriculture and become a pipeline of projects. sustainable, more socially The committee for drafting contribute in the fi ght against climate “fi rst self-suffi cient.” “The second key element that is not inclusive, working particularly decisions and recommendations change, according to Dr Frank Rijsber- “Qatar can then make long-term totally in the agenda, is that next year, on climate change, energy, and for the 145th session of the man, the director-general of Global commodity deals with them around COP26, countries have to submit their green cities. Ministerial Preparatory Council Green Growth Institute (GGGI). rice and wheat just like it is making new NDCs (Nationally Determined “We helped quite a few for the 40th Session of the “The smart thing to do economically long-term commodity deals to export Dr Frank Rijsberman at the ‘Sustain- Contributions), but everybody hopes governments come up with GCC Supreme Council held a is to invest in renewable energy, to invest natural gas,” Dr Rijsberman noted. able Energy-Water-Environment Nexus will be more ambitious to stay with less green growth plans with better meeting in Riyadh yesterday in energy effi ciency, to use water more He also underscored the importance in Desert Climate 2019’ conference in than 2 degrees, or preferably less than NDCs, but probably our signature with the participation of Qatar. wisely and to collaborate internationally of increasing energy effi ciency, partic- Doha recently. PICTURE: Joey Aguilar 1.5 degrees and we are not on track so achievement is that we’ve now The meeting, which was to avert this crisis,” he told Gulf Times. ularly countries that use a huge amount we need to see much more ambitious also helped mobilise money,” Dr attended by off icials of the GCC Dr Rijsberman was speaking on the of energy. energy use in buildings by 50%,” said NDCs,” Dr Rijsberman said. Rijsberman said. foreign ministries, discussed sidelines of an international confer- “I was in Mongolia, and they are Dr Rijsberman, adding that reducing He noted that one of the most ag- “So in the last two years, we’ve topics related to preparing ence on ‘Sustainable Energy-Water- looking for renewable energy but prob- water use also contribute to reducing gressive countries like Denmark have mobilised about $1bn in green the Ministerial Meeting of Environment Nexus in Desert Climate ably the number one challenge they climate change. now committed to 70% reduction of climate finance to move this the 40th Session of the GCC 2019,’ organised by Qatar Environment have is to have increased energy ef- About the ongoing 2019 United Na- their emissions by 2030. Mongolia im- agenda forward and that is what Supreme Council. The summit is and Energy Research Institute at the fi ciency. According to a study we did tions Climate Change Conference proved its ambition from 14% to 22%, our member countries appreciate scheduled to be held tomorrow, Qatar National Convention Centre. there, they should increase the insula- (COP25) in Madrid, he hopes that a key which is quite more diff erent from most.” while the ministerial meeting will He also delivered a keynote address tion on buildings. You can reduce the area – Article 6 of the Paris rule book 70%. Other countries are in between. be held today.

Unstable weather to continue for next two days Second Flowers Festival at Souq Waqif The state of atmospheric instability is expected to continue affecting the country in the coming two days due to draws big crowds with fl oral wonders the extension of a low-pressure system over the region, reaching its peak tomorrow, the By Shafeeq Alingal Qatar Met department has said. Staff Reporter Partly cloudy to cloudy skies are expected along with a chance of rain of variable intensity, he Second Flowers Festival at extending gradually over most Souq Waqif is highlighting vari- areas in the country, according Tous innovations and develop- to the forecast. ments taking place in Qatar’s horticul- Heavy rainfall is expected ture sector. in some areas, especially Organised by the Souq Waqif man- tomorrow, which may turn agement and Ministry of Municipality thundery at times and is to and Environment (MME), the festival be accompanied by strong has drawn a considerable number of winds. This, in turn, will cause visitors since its launch on December 1. blowing dust and low visibility The festival features various types of in some areas as well as high fl owers, fruits, plants, seeds and ferti- waves exceeding 8ft during lisers along with techniques and equip- thunderstorms. ment for gardening, household farming Customers at the festival. The chances of rain are and landscaping. expected to continue until The event is being held as part of Qa- The Second Flowers Festival at Souq Waqif. PICTURES: Jayan Orma Wednesday morning (December tar’s eff orts to support tourism in the 11), followed by fresh to strong country and encourage those interested Twenty-one farms and nurseries tival. The varieties on off er left visitors northwesterly winds in some to buy and plant fl owers and plants in are participating in this year’s edition highly impressed. areas that will result in a drop their homes and gardens. It also pro- of the festival, which, according to the “The festival is rich in terms of the in temperatures, the weather vides producers with an ideal venue to exhibitors, has so far witnessed a bigger varieties of fl owers available,” said report adds. The minimum is market their products. turnout than the previous edition. Sameer Aboobacker, a visitor. expected to drop below 15C Farmers said the festival has evoked Apart from fl owers that range from Rajesh V Nair, another visitor, in some areas at dawn on a good response and received a large the rose to the ixora, the festival has praised the festival saying it off ers an Thursday (December 12). number of visitors and buyers. “Our more than 50 types of fl owers on dis- opportunity to understand the trends The Met department has urged stall sees at least 1,000 potential cus- play. Also, various kinds of fruits, in- in farming and the technology used in people to take extra care, avoid tomers a day. Most of them are keen cluding orange, as well as lemon and gardening along with the relevant in- going to sea during this period to make a purchase and have queries seeds can be found there in addition to novations. and follow latest updates about the products here,” said Shah the bonsai plant. The festival, taking place in the West through its official social media Alam, representing Arab Qatari Agri- Alam said roses of various types are Square of Souq Waqif, concludes to- accounts. cultural Production Company. among the crowd favourites at the fes- morrow. The festival features a wide range of flowers. Gulf Times 12 Monday, December 9, 2019 ARAB WORLD

Arab League Top Iraqi security offi cer affi rms support to women sacked after deadly attack DPA/AFP Baghdad QNA Cairo n offi cer in charge of se- curity in the Iraqi capital he Arab League has con- ABaghdad was replaced fi rmed that it is working yesterday, two days after an at- Ton an Arab convention tack on anti-government pro- against violence against women, testers that witnesses said killed which will be presented to the at least 16 people. Arab Women’s Committee in General Abdul Hussein al- February, supporting eff orts to Tamimi has replaced General combat violence against women. Qais al-Mohammedwai as chief Assistant Secretary-General of the government’s security and Head of Social Aff airs Sec- service Baghdad Operations, tor at Arab League Dr Haifa Abu the offi cial news agency INA Ghazaleh made the announce- reported, citing an unnamed of- ment at the opening of a cer- fi cial. emony held by the Arab League The replacement was due to yesterday, on the occasion of al-Mohamedwai’s health, the the 16th campaign launched by agency added without elaborat- the United Nations starting on ing. November 25 against violence On Friday, unknown gunmen against women. fi red from cars at anti-govern- Abu Ghazaleh expressed Arab ment protesters staging a sit-in League’s support for eff orts to at Al-Khilani Square in central combat violence against women, Baghdad, as it seeks to adopt strategies according to witnesses. that promote gender equality The attack was one of the and women’s rights. deadliest since anti-govern- She pointed out that 37% of ment rallies began in the coun- Arab women have experienced try. some form of violence and 14% Hundreds of people, mainly of them have married as minors, demonstrators, have been killed noting that these violations are the demonstrations that have not only the product of a wide- roiled Baghdad and other parts spread social culture but also of Iraq since early October. due to lack of legislation. Protesters are calling for the Assistant secretary-general resignation of the government, University of Basra students carry balloons as they take part in an anti-government protest, yesterday. and head of Social Aff airs sector the dissolution of parliament at Arab League further explained and an overhaul of the country’s tary leader and a politician have Khazali heads Asaib Ahl al- The measures block fi nancial and said the accusations were There was no immediate that the member states of the political system that has been in laughed off fi nancial sanctions Haq, an armed faction that transactions with and travel to “extremely funny and illogi- comment from two other par- United Nations committed place since the 2003 US-led in- Washington recently placed on makes up part of the broader the US for people who commit cal.” amilitary figures sanctioned themselves to combating vio- vasion of Iraq. them for alleged corruption and Hashed al-Shaabi security force human rights abuses or corrup- “He was never an official, on Friday: Laith al-Khazali, lence against women, address- The demonstrations have human rights abuses. tied to the Iraqi state. tion. nor was his party part of the Qais’ brother and also a mem- ing all practices and achieving turned violent amid accusa- “They should have given us The US Treasury on Friday The US also sanctioned Ira- government,” invalidating the ber of Asaib Ahl al-Haq, and great progress in this regard tions from rights groups that this honour a long time ago,” accused his group of “wide- qi businessman and political corruption allegation, it said. Abu Zeinab al-Lami, who by 2030, pointing out that the members of the Iraqi secu- said Qais al-Khazali, one of the spread forced disappearances, figure Khamees al-Khanjar, Khanjar is an influential heads the Hashed’s security number of victims of violence rity forces used excessive force newly-sanctioned fi gures, in abductions, killings, and tor- whom it accused of bribery. powerbroker with close ties apparatus. This is the second against women in the world is against protesters. sardonic remarks to an audience ture” under the Global Magnit- In a statement, Khanjar’s across Iraq’s leading political batch of Iraqi nationals the US about 2.5bn. Meanwhile, an Iraqi paramili- of supporters yesterday. sky act. party condemned the decision parties. has sanctioned. Two Palestinians injured Strikes kill fi ve fi ghters after air strike in Gaza in Syria: war monitor AFP In a statement to AFP yester- Syria’s Kurds, after years of QNA/AFP three rockets were shot down Beirut day it said the coalition “did not fi ghting the Islamic State group, Gaza over southern Israel. Med- conduct any strikes in Syria (on) are holding tens of thousands ics had treated three people December 7, 2019”. Saturday’s of civilians and IS relatives in in the southern Israeli town ir strikes by unidentifi ed raids were the latest in a string of camps for the displaced. wo Palestinians were of Sderot who suffered minor warplanes have killed fi ve similar bombardments. In June, they started sending injured by a shrapnel of injuries while seeking shelter Afi ghters in Syria’s eastern Ten Iraqi fi ghters were killed home Syrian families that had Tmissiles fi red by Israeli as air raid sirens went off, the province of Deir Ezzor near the in September in air strikes of un- fl ed their homes during battles warplanes on sites in Gaza City Magen David Adom emergen- Iraqi border, a Britain-based war known origin in the same area, against the militants from the and in the town of Jabalia in the cy medical service said. monitor said yesterday. according to the Observatory. overpopulated camp of Al-Hol. northern Gaza Strip, yesterday. There were no immediate The strikes late Saturday tar- At the start of that month, A Kurdish offi cial said around According to the Palestinian reports of material damage. geted militias on the edge of the air raids killed 18 fi ghters, it re- 200 people were leaving the news agency, two Palestinians On November 29, Israeli war- town of Albukamal, the Syrian ported. camp yesterday, to head back were injured by shrapnel from planes struck Hamas posi- Observatory for Human Rights In June 2018, strikes near the to their villages in the eastern a missile fi red by an Israeli war- tions in Gaza in response to said. Iraqi border killed 55 pro-regime province of Deir Ezzor. plane targeting a site west of rocket fire at the Jewish state “Five non-Syrian fi ghters forces, mostly Syrians and Ira- “Most are women and chil- Gaza City. the previous day. Hamas has were killed,” Observatory chief qis, the monitor said. dren, with just some men,” said The Israeli warplanes also controlled Gaza since 2007, Rami Abdel Rahman said, with- An American offi cial said at Sheikhmous Ahmad, a Kurd- bombed a site southeast of Gaza and Israel holds the move- out being able to provide their the time that Israel was respon- ish offi cial in charge of the dis- City with two missiles, causing ment responsible for all rocket nationalities. sible, but the Jewish state de- placed. damage and devastation in the A Palestinian man stands with a child at the door of their home fire coming from the territory, Regime troops, Iranian forces clined to comment. The majority were civilians place but nor injuries were re- near the site of troops’ overnight attacks in Gaza City, yesterday. although it has targeted other and allied Iran-backed fi ghters, Israel has carried out hun- with no ties to IS, he said, while ported. fighter groups there. including from Iraq, are present dreds of strikes in Syria on what a few might have aligned with Meanwhile, the occupation state. The strikes targeted two in Gaza, as well as “a military Last month, Israeli forces in the area on the western banks it says are positions of Lebanese the militants but today regretted warplanes fi red at least three sites belonging to Al-Qassam post belonging to the Hamas assassinated a senior Islamic of the Euphrates River, he said. movement Hezbollah and Ira- their decision. missiles at a site east of Jabalia, Brigades, the Hamas military naval force in the northern Gaza Jihad leader in the Gaza Strip, A US-led coalition has been nian forces, which it has vowed The group was headed back to destroying the site and causing wing, in northern Gaza, with Strip.” sparking a two-day flare-up backing Kurdish-led forces to prevent gaining a foothold in the villages of Hajin, Shaafa or damage to nearby properties. another series of sorties at a Late Saturday night, Pales- which killed 36 Palestinians. fi ghting Islamic State group Syrian territory. Baghouz, which were the last to Earlier, Israeli aircraft car- Qassam site west of Gaza City, tinian fi ghters in Gaza launched Islamic Jihad fired around fi ghters on the eastern shores of Meanwhile, around 200 Syr- be held by IS before US-backed ried out attacks in the Hamas- Hamas offi cials said. three rockets at southern Israel. 450 rockets at Israel, many of the river. ian displaced people, mostly fi ghters expelled them from the controlled Gaza Strip early There were no immedi- All three projectiles were which were intercepted by the The coalition has in the past women and children, were head- entire area in March. yesterday, Palestinian security ate reports of injuries. The intercepted by the Iron Dome Iron Dome defence system. admitted to carrying out air ing home from an overcrowded Ahmad said around 300 peo- offi cials said, hours after fi ght- Israeli army said “fi ghter jets defence system, the army said, Israel has fought three wars strikes against pro-regime fi ght- desert camp in the northeast of ple from Al-Hol had already ers in the enclave launched and attack helicopters struck amending an earlier statement with Hamas and allied armed ers, but it denied any involve- the war-torn country yesterday, been taken back to the same area three rockets at the Jewish a number of Hamas targets” according to which two of the groups in Gaza since 2008. ment in Saturday’s air raids. a Kurdish offi cial said. last week.

Hariri re-emerges as PM candidate

Reuters presidency said. Hariri quit Last month Hariri offi cially statement from Hariri. Beirut as prime minister on Oct 29, withdrew his candidacy to be In recent days, in his role as prompted by mass protests prime minister. A consensus on caretaker prime minister, Har- against an entire political class Khatib appeared to form last iri appealed to friendly foreign ebanon’s leading politi- blamed for state corruption and week among the main parties, states to help Lebanon secure cian, Saad al-Hariri, re- steering Lebanon into the worst including Hariri. credit lines for essential imports Lemerged as a candidate economic crisis since the 1975- But Khatib failed to win as the country grapples with a for prime minister yesterday 90 civil war. enough backing from the estab- hard currency shortage. when businessman Samir Khatib Under the country’s power lishment for the position. He has said he would return as withdrew his candidacy to lead a sharing system, the prime min- Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul prime minister only if he could government that must tackle an ister must be a Sunni. Latif Derian, Lebanon’s most lead a government of special- acute economic crisis. Hariri has continued to gov- senior cleric, told Khatib dur- ist ministers which he believes President Michel Aoun re- ern in a caretaker capacity until ing a meeting yesterday that he would satisfy protesters and be sponded by postponing until a new prime minister is named. backed Hariri, Khatib said after best placed to deal with the eco- Dec 16 consultations with law- After Hariri quit, talks to agree the meeting. nomic crisis and attract foreign makers that had been expected a new cabinet became mired in Khatib later went to see Hariri aid. But this demand has been to result in Khatib being named divisions between Hariri, who is at his Beirut residence where he rejected by groups including prime minister today. aligned with Western and Arab announced the withdrawal of his Hezbollah and its ally Aoun. A handout picture provided by the Lebanese photo agency Dalati and Nohra yesterday shows The delay was requested by states, and adversaries including candidacy. Both say the government must outgoing Prime Minister Saad Hariri shaking the hand of Samir Khatib (left), a Lebanese businessman, in most parties in parliament, the the Hezbollah. There was no immediate include politicians. the capital Beirut. Gulf Times Monday, December 9, 2019 13 AMERICAS Rapper Juice WRLD dies at 21 after seizure at airport

Guardian News and Media zure and began bleeding from chart – the fi rst of 25 hits featur- K-pop band BTS and emo band and Trippie Redd who countered vember 2017 and June 2018, Juice minder that life can be over any Chicago the mouth, TMZ reports. He was ing the rapper to make the chart Panic! at the Disco, Juice WRLD rap’s trademark machismo. WRLD released a two-track moment... be kind to one another. conscious when taken to hospital, in the space of two years. was known for his prolifi c out- “That’s what makes you a real tribute EP, Too Soon. Higgins was born in Chicago but died a short time later. The He signed to Interscope after put. He was expected to release man, though,” he told NME this Fellow rappers paid tribute on on December 2, 1998. His reli- he Chicago rapper Juice cause of death is not yet known. a remix of his song All Girls Are a new mixtape with rapper Ski year. “You not running from how Twitter, including Not3s who gious mother forbade him from WRLD has died age 21, Distinguished by a sound that the Same became popular. His Mask the Slump God this year. “I you feel? That’s what makes you wrote: “R.I.P Juice Wrld, real tal- listening to rap music. He dis- Tthe Illinois Cook County combined emo and trap, Juice second solo album, this year’s probably have over a thousand one of the realest people to walk ent”, and Rich Brian, who tweeted: covered the pop-punk and emo medical examiner’s offi ce has WRLD broke out in 2018 with Death Race for Love, topped the songs,” he said last month. this Earth. People usually look “This is insane. Rest in peace Juice bands who would infl uence his confi rmed. the single Lucid Dreams. The US albums chart. He was candid about his ex- down upon that – they say you Wrld. Way too young mannn.” sound via video games. He start- After landing at Chicago’s song sampled Shape of My Heart A frequent and ambitious col- periences of depression on so- soft.” The late rappers Lil Peep Record producer Zedd wrote: ed posting tracks to SoundCloud Midway airport yesterday morn- by Sting, who called it a “beau- laborator with artistes includ- cial media and in his vulnerable and XXXTentacion were also Zedd (@Zedd) really shocked and during high school, and decided ing, the musician, real name Jarad tiful interpretation”. It peaked at ing rappers Travis Scott and lyrics, joining a wave of young notable for this style: following sad to fi nd out juice wrld passed not to go to college in favour of Anthony Higgins, suff ered a sei- No 2 on the US Billboard singles Future, pop star Ellie Goulding, rappers including Lil Uzi Vert their respective deaths in No- away, ... and so young too... a re- pursuing a career in music. Lake Huron Kennedy Center Honorees site likely to store Canada nuclear waste

Tribune News Service was proposed. That plan, still un- Toronto der consideration, generated loud opposition throughout the Great Lakes Basin beginning about fi ve anada has narrowed to two years ago, especially in Michigan. communities its list of po- Michigan’s Democratic US Ctential hosts for a perma- senators, who were among those nent national repository for its urging a halt to the lower-radia- most radioactive waste – spent tion waste storage on the Great Kennedy Center Honorees 2019 gather for a group photo (seated, left-right) Susan Pompeo, conductor Michael Tilson Thomas, singer Linda Ronstadt, actress Sally fuel from nuclear power genera- Lakes, expressed alarm that Can- Field, Sesame Street co-founders Joan Ganz Cooney and Dr. Lloyd Morrisette and Kennedy Center president Deborah F. Rutter.Also seen are (standing, left to right) tion. And one of those two fi nal- ada is now considering putting its Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Earth, Wind & Fire band members Philip Bailey, Verdine White and Ralph Johnson and Sesame Street characters Abby, Big Bird and ists is on the shores of Lake Huron. most dangerous nuclear wastes Elmo, and Kennedy Center producers Ricky Kirschner and Glenn Weiss, after a gala dinner at the US state department, in Washington. If chosen, Huron-Kinloss/ along the Great Lakes as well. South Bruce, in Bruce County, “This makes no sense,” US Ontario, could host a large re- senator Debbie Stabenow said. pository, 1,650 feet or more un- “Canada has as much at stake derground, to which the entire as we do in protecting our Great nation’s spent nuclear fuel sup- Lakes. There is no justifi cation ply would be transported and for a nuclear waste site so close stored, essentially forever. to Lake Huron to even be under “This is the worst of the consideration.” Stabenow said she worst” waste, said Kevin Kamps, would reach out to the Canadian radioactive waste specialist with government regarding the issue. Trump impeachment the nonprofi t Beyond Nuclear, US senator Gary Peters noted based in Tacoma Park, Md. that the Great Lakes provide “It’s highly radioactive irradi- drinking water to 40mn people ated nuclear fuel. It is dangerous on the US and Canadian sides. forever.” “That’s why we need to do For perspective, as the US everything we can to protect the considered a similar under- Great Lakes for future genera- gains momentum ground repository for its spent tions,” he said. “I am extremely nuclear fuel at Yucca Moun- concerned about the possibility Reuters vice president Joe Biden, a obstruction of Congress for re- from basing a separate article to derail the Mueller investiga- tain, Nevada – a proposal that of hazardous nuclear waste being Washington leading contender for the fusing to cooperate with Con- of impeachment on the Russia tion. has since stalled amid backlash stored near the Great Lakes. Any Democratic nomination to face gress. investigation. Nadler told NBC’s “Meet the from Nevadans – a federal Court accident could have catastrophic Trump in the November 2020 Democrats need to settle the House Democratic incum- Press” articles of impeachment of Appeals in 2004 ordered the and long-term consequences emocrats in the House election. question of whether to draft a bents from swing districts, who would be brought to the com- US Environmental Protection to the health and well-being of of Representatives are “There are possible drafts third article alleging obstruc- must appeal to skeptical inde- mittee later in the week. Agency to develop standards to Michigan and the country. I urge Ddrafting articles of im- that various people are writ- tion of justice based on former pendent voters for re-election, Asked on CNN if a vote were protect people and the environ- the Nuclear Waste Management peachment against President ing,” Nadler said. “But the fact special counsel Robert Muel- have expressed misgivings possible this week, he said, “It’s ment from the site’s radiation for Organisation in Canada to re- Donald Trump and the Judiciary is we’re not going to make any ler’s report on Russian interfer- about supporting a charge of possible.” up to 1mn years. consider naming a fi nalist loca- Committee may hold a vote this decision as to how broad the ence in the 2016 presidential obstruction of justice based on Republicans are demanding Canada has an inventory of tion so close to the Great Lakes.” week, the panel’s chairman said articles should be — as to what election. Mueller. that Nadler postpone today’s almost 2.9mn used nuclear fuel The fi nalist decision was made yesterday. they contain, what the word- Asked about Mueller being As an alternative to an arti- hearing to give them time to re- bundles currently stored above- by the Nuclear Waste Manage- Representative Jerrold Na- ing is — until after the hearing included in the charges, Nadler cle based on the Mueller report, view additional material from ground in wet pools and dry con- ment Organization, which con- dler told CNN’s “State of the today.” cautioned not to draw conclu- House Judiciary Democrats the impeachment investigation tainers at the nuclear plant sites sists of the nation’s generators Union” his committee will not Judiciary Committee Dem- sions. have said they could instead use led by the House Intelligence where the waste is generated. of nuclear power and its wastes: decide on the charges against ocrats worked through the “It is part of the pattern those fi ndings to demonstrate a Committee that was turned over That’s about 128mn pounds Ontario Power Generation, New the Republican president until weekend poring over infor- which is why I bring it up,” he repeated pattern of alleged mis- to the judiciary panel on Friday. of highly radioactive material, a Brunswick Power Corporation after a hearing today to consider mation from the Intelligence said on CNN. “It’s part of a conduct by Trump to support “It is impossible for judiciary number that is growing. and Hydro-Quebec. Under an evidence gathered by the House Committee and constitutional pattern of misconduct which formal charges of abuse of pow- members to sift through thou- The site along Lake Huron is in act of Canada’s parliament in Intelligence Committee that led law scholars who testifi ed on stresses the urgency of making er and obstruction of Congress. sands and thousands of pages the same county where another 2002, the organisation is tasked the investigation. Wednesday. sure that we deal with this so The Mueller report depicts in any meaningful way in a mat- underground storage facility – with designing and implement- The impeachment inquiry The panel is considering arti- that the 2020 election is carried episodes in which Trump ap- ter of hours,” the committee’s this one for low-to-intermedi- ing Canada’s plan for the safe, that threatens Trump’s presi- cles of impeachment that would on honestly with integrity.” pealed to Russia to seek the e- top Republican, Representative ate-level radioactive waste from long-term management of used dency focuses on his request accuse Trump of abuse of power That could indicate that mails of his Democratic rival Doug Collins, told Nadler in a Ontario’s 19 nuclear reactors – nuclear fuel. that Ukraine investigate former in his dealings with Ukraine and Democrats are leaning away Hillary Clinton and later sought weekend letter.

Sleep Out event Man eats $120,000 Deliveryman’s dance at food treat goes viral banana artwork IANS on to look at a basket placed Wilmington nearby. “Oh, this is nice,” he’s heard AFP heard giggling before a fl us- tension and attention to the exclaiming, as he leans over to Miami tered gallery offi cial whisked booth and we’re not into spec- n Amazon delivery staff see the goodies - soda, water, him to an adjoining space for tacles,” Terras said. “But the re- member’s amazement crackers, and cookies “meant questioning. sponse has been great. It brings Aand celebratory jig af- for those delivering holiday he move was bananas... But the kerfuffl e was resolved a smile to a lot of people’s fac- ter fi nding food and drinks packages. “Wow! Oh, this is or maybe the work was without a food fi ght. es.” outside a house in Wilming- sweet.” Tjust too appealing. Gallery director Peggy Leb- ton in Delaware has gone viral, As he walks away after help- A performance artiste shook “This has brought a lot of oeuf said that no legal action viewed over 12mn times on Fa- ing himself with the eatables, up the crowd at the Art Basel tension and attention to was planned against Datuna. cebook. the man does an impromptu show in Miami Beach when he the booth and we’re not “He was not arrested, but The woman at whose house celebratory jig. grabbed a banana that had been into spectacles. But the we asked him to leave the the man was set to deliver “This was the fi rst delivery duct-taped to a gallery wall and response has been great. booth and to leave the fair,” the package had left the treat I’ve seen with snacks at the ate it. It brings a smile to a lot of she said. for them, in an expression of door for drivers,” he told Yahoo The banana was, in fact, a people’s faces” “We have his contact and thanks for what all they had Lifestyle. “I forgot my lunch work of art by Italian artist everything, so we can go to endure to do their jobs. The that day and was hungry and a Maurizio Cattelan titled “Co- “He did not destroy the art further, but I don’t think we netizens praised both – the little dehydrated.” median” and sold to a French work. The banana is the idea,” will.” woman for her good deed and Ouma posted a picture of collector for $120,000. Lucien Terras, director of Cattelan is perhaps best the Amazon staff er for his re- the basket and wrote to UPS, In a video posted on his In- museum relations for Galerie known for his 18-carat, fully sponse to a stranger’s large- USPS, Amazon, and FedEx: stagram account, David Da- Perrotin, told the Miami Her- functioning gold toilet called heartedness. “Please take some goodies to tuna, who describes himself as ald. “America” that he had once of- Karim Ahmad-Reed’s dance enjoy on your route. Thank you a Georgian-born American ar- As it turns out, the value of fered on loan to US President outside the main door at Kathy for making holiday shopping tiste living in New York, walks the work is in the certifi cate of Donald Trump. Ouma’s home last week was easy.” up to the banana and pulls it off authenticity, the newspaper re- The toilet, valued at around captured on the ring doorbell Ahmad-Reed said he was in the wall with the duct tape at- ported. $5mn to $6mn, was in the camera, Yahoo Lifestyle re- touch with Ouma. tached. The banana is meant to be news again in September ported. “She’s a jewel and a great “Art performance...hungry replaced. when it was stolen from Brit- In the video posted by human being. I am grateful to artist,” he said, as he peeled the A replacement banana was ain’s Blenheim Palace, the Ouma, Ahmad-Reed can be have brought her some hap- fruit and took a bite. “Thank taped to the wall about 15 min- birthplace of wartime leader People get ready to sleep outside while taking part in The seen putting the Amazon piness, as she has to me,” he you, very good.” utes after Datuna’s stunt. Winston Churchill, where it World’s Big Sleep Out event in Time Square in New York. package outside her home’s said. “The world needs more A few bystanders could be “This has brought a lot of had been on display. front door before moving love.” Gulf Times 14 Monday, December 9, 2019 ASIA

Lanka to Myanmar leader prepares to accelerate Port City project face genocide case in Hague ri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa said that AFP “unprecedented and also very ing to The Hague in order to Shis government will fi rmly The Hague unwise”, Cecily Rose, an assist- “defend the national interests support and accelerate the devel- ant professor in international of Myanmar”. opment of the Colombo Port City law at Leiden University, said. Myanmar is expected to argue project constructed by China to ormer democracy icon “States never ever send poli- that the court has no jurisdic- ensure that it will emerge as a new Aung San Suu Kyi is set ticians to lead legal teams at the tion, that its military operation business hub in the island country. Fto make legal history ICJ,” she said. was targeting Rohingya mili- Prime Minister Rajapaksa vis- when she defends Myanmar in Although Oxford-educated tants and that its own investi- ited the Colombo Port City along The Hague this week against Suu Kyi’s background was “im- gations into alleged abuse are with Chinese ambassador to Sri charges of genocide targeting pressive, she has no legal quali- adequate. Lanka and other government the Buddhist state’s minority fi cations and would be com- However, Suu Kyi’s interna- ministers to offi cially declare the Rohingya Muslims. pletely at sea before the court,” tional reputation has been tar- 269 hectares of land reclaimed The tiny west African state Rose added. nished by her response to the from the sea for the project as of Gambia, acting on behalf Around 740,000 Rohingya crisis, with critics saying she part of the Colombo district, of the 57-nation Organisation were forced to fl ee into camps in is acting as an apologist for the Xinhua news agency reported. of Islamic Co-operation, will Bangladesh after Myanmar’s mil- same military that kept her un- A commemorative stamp and a ask the International Court itary launched a violent crack- der house arrest for many years. fi rst day cover were also issued at of Justice (ICJ) to take emer- down on the group in 2017, which Experts say Suu Kyi now risks the grand ceremony followed by gency measures to halt My- UN investigators concluded being in the legal fi ring line a mega fi reworks display. anmar’s “ongoing genocidal amounted to genocide. herself. The prime minister pledged to actions”. The case will be the fi rst in- “It’s highly unusual for accelerate the implementation of But in a highly unusual move, ternational legal attempt to top leaders to go to the ICJ the preferential policies of the Co- the offi ce of Nobel Peace laure- bring Myanmar to justice over themselves to defend their lombo Port City from the govern- ate and Myanmar civilian leader the crisis, and is a rare exam- countries,” said Willem van ment level as early as January 2020 Suu Kyi has said she will lead a ple of a country suing another Genugten, professor of interna- Aung San Suu Kyi departs from Naypyidaw International Airport ahead of her appearance at the and strive to build the project into a team to the UN’s highest court, over an issue to which it is not tional law at the Netherlands’ International Court of Justice to defend Myanmar against charges of genocide of its Rohingya new business card for Sri Lanka at based in the turreted Peace directly a party. Tilburg University. Muslim minority, in Naypyidaw yesterday. the earliest, the Colombo Port City Palace in the Netherlands. Muslim-majority Gambia’s “What you often see is that said in a statement following dis- Legal experts said Suu Kyi case alleges that Myanmar has they come to The Hague when a tional Criminal Court - another cratic Republic of Congo and tion is the fact that she is viewed cussions with the prime minister. would be one of the fi rst na- breached the 1948 UN Geno- case is launched to attract extra Hague-based tribunal set up in Rwanda in 2002. as personally responsible at The Colombo Port City is Sri tional leaders to personally ad- cide Convention. It is seeking publicity,” he added, for exam- 2002 to probe war crimes - and ICJ judges have only once some level for Myanmar’s al- Lanka’s largest Foreign Direct In- dress the tribunal since it was the special measures pend- ple when then-Bolivian presi- a lawsuit in Argentina. ruled that genocide was com- leged wrongdoing,” Mike Beck- vestment project and is expected set up in 1946 after World War ing a future decision by the dent Evo Morales came to The This week’s case will be only mitted: the 1995 Srebrenica er, assistant international law to attract billions of US dollars of II to rule in disputes between court on whether to take on the Hague for a ruling on a border the fourth in the ICJ’s history massacre of 8,000 Muslim men professor at Trinity College in investments in the coming years. countries. wider case. dispute with Chile. invoking the genocide conven- and boys in Bosnia. Dublin, said. It will also create over 80,000 Her plan to appear before the Any fi nal judgment could Myanmar faces other le- tion, after two involving the “What might be seen as unu- “Suu Kyi is not personally jobs and will transform Sri Lan- court’s judges for the three-day take years. gal challenges, including an 1990s Balkans wars and an- sual about Aung San Suu Kyi on trial at the ICJ... but her ka into a regional business and hearing starting tomorrow was Suu Kyi has said she is head- investigation by the Interna- other one between the Demo- leading the Myanmar delega- presence will be remarkable.” fi nancial hub. (IANS) Thailand delays deporting kin of Myanmar rebel leader Reuters The arrests prompted a bar- 11 months, had been sent to an the Thai government to pre- Bangkok rage of pressure on Thailand immigration detention centre in vent a forced return of Hnin Zar from rights groups concerned Bangkok, he said. Phyu and her children to My- that the family could be forced Tun Myat Naing is the top anmar, and raised the option of hailand will delay the de- back to Myanmar in what has commander of the Arakan Army resettlement in another country. portation of the wife and been an increasing pattern by that is fi ghting for greater au- “International pressure can Tchildren of the top com- Southeast Asian states to send tonomy for Rakhine state, which mean the diff erence between mander of the Arakan Army in- home each other’s dissidents. caught global attention after freedom and persecution in a surgent group that is fi ghting “Right now we are in the in- more than 730,000 Rohingya Myanmar jail cell. It’s crucial Myanmar’s army while authori- vestigation phase,” Thai po- Muslims fl ed a crackdown by that a government step forward ties carry out a full investigation, lice deputy spokesman Krisana Myanmar’s military in 2017. and welcome all three for reset- Thai offi cials said yesterday. Pattanacharoen said. Tens of thousands of people tlement,” Matthew Smith, exec- Three men, wearing masks, being paraded with a seized Sumatran tiger skin and four tiger foetuses in a jar, Hnin Zar Phyu, 38, the wife “Whether that will lead to de- have fl ed clashes this year be- utive director of Fortify Rights, after they were caught by the wildlife team as they tried to sell these items in Pekanbaru, Riau, yesterday. of Tun Myat Naing, 41, their portation or not, there are proc- tween Myanmar’s army and the told Reuters. 11-year-old daughter and esses in determining if they are Arakan Army, an ethnic armed In July, Singapore authorities 11-month-old son were ar- wanted by another country and group that recruits mostly from arrested and deported a group rested in northern Thailand last why, but we are not at that stage Rakhine’s Buddhist majority and of Myanmar nationals with Wednesday and charged with yet,” he said. is branded a terrorist group by links to the Arakan Army, saying Indonesia traffi cking raid illegal entry after Myanmar Hnin Zar Phyu and Saw Pyae the government. their activities caused “security revoked their passports. Shun, 11, and Myat Lin Zan, aged Rights groups have called on concerns”. yields tiger skin, foetuses Bangladesh mulls setting up virtual courts DPA a plastic jar. Based on the infor- forestry ministry, there are Jakarta mation from the suspects, the roughly 600 Sumatran tigers authorities were able to arrest now living in the species’ nat- The government is considering she said that these courts have job and constitution does not around the administrative hub two more suspects and seized ural habitat, but human en- to set up virtual courts in the become popular as they provide allow raising questions on the were declared no-horn zone ndonesian authorities de- a skin of an adult tiger,” Iriono croachment on the protected country, the Bangladesh prime quick justice to people. It has activities of the president. yesterday. tained fi ve people in Pela- said. forest that the tigers inhabit minister has said. also helped in reducing pressure She regretted that courts The “no-horn” initiative is Ilawan district of Riau prov- The suspects could face up has caused frequent human- Speaking at the National Judicial on the judiciary. issue directives regarding the being implemented to create ince for allegedly poaching and to fi ve years in prison and a fi ne tiger confl ict. Conference-2019 in Dhaka The prime minister also called jurisdiction of the president. awareness among public about trading body parts of rare Su- of 100mn rupiah according to A farmer was found dismem- yesterday, Prime Minister Sheikh upon the judiciary to provide She said that such interference the noise pollution in the capital. matran tigers, an offi cial said articles in the 1990 natural re- bered earlier this week after a Hasina said that virtual courts their judgement in Bangladesh makes the job of ensuring Bangladeshi Environment, Forest yesterday. sources conservation law. suspected attack by a rare Su- will reduce the risk and hassle to simultaneously with the justice, peace or development of and Climate Change Minister The Environment and For- The Sumatran tiger is the matran tiger in his coff ee fi eld bring and take back notorious English text so that it is easily the country diff icult. Shahab Uddin said earlier that a estry Ministry’s law enforce- last of Indonesia’s three sub- in South Sumatra province. criminals from jail. understood by the people. First silent zone: The pilot project to make Dhaka free ment and forest protection species of tigers that still ex- Another farmer was injured. Speaking about the need for Prime Minister Hasina stressed surrounding areas of the from sound-pollution will begin director, Sustyo Iriono, said ists and is listed as a critically It was the second fatal tiger timely delivery of justice, Prime upon the importance of better government’s secretariat, on December 17. offi cials from the ministry and endangered species. attack in the province in less Minister Hasina said that nobody co-ordination among parliament, administrative hub of Bangladesh, He said the pilot project is an the police seized four tiger fe- The big cat has been pushed than a month. should be made to wait for years judiciary and executive. She are set to become the first silent outcome of an inter-ministerial tuses from three suspects, in- to the brink of extinction due A camper from Musi Bany- for justice while bearing the pain said that only the president zone of the capital Dhaka. meeting to take appropriate cluding a husband and wife, to its natural habitat rapidly uasin was injured in a tiger at- of losing their kith and kin. is empowered to promulgate The Ministry of Environment, measures in a bid to prevent during a raid on Saturday perishing as a result of massive tack while he was camping in Justifying the mobile courts rules and regulations for Forest and Climate said in a air and sound pollution in morning. deforestation. Pagaralam’s Gunung Dempo run by executive magistrates, distributing government’s statement that all the roads Dhaka. (Agencies) “The foetuses were stored in According to data from the last month. 30,000 monks attend mass alms-giving in Myanmar AFP the central city of Mandalay. The event was the third and on the temple’s sprawling 1,000 Mandalay As the sun rose over the an- largest of its kind since 2015 and acre grounds, an area twice cient town, a sea of saff ron and comes as one of the organis- the size of Monaco. maroon-robed monks assem- ers, the Thailand-based Dham- Critics said the abbot distort- hirty-thousand monks bled in an area the size of a foot- makaya foundation, attempts ed traditional Buddhist morality assembled in the early ball fi eld. to bounce back from an embez- by encouraging materialism and Tmorning chill in My- They meditated, prayed and zlement scandal more than two spiritual rewards for donations. anmar yesterday for a spec- collected alms in an event meant years ago. But devotees point to the tacular alms-giving event, to tighten the relationship of The Dhammakaya temple’s temple’s accessible medita- partly organised by a contro- “monks and Buddhists be- massive compound in northern tion methods to explain its versial mega-temple under tween (the) two countries” and Bangkok was under siege for two popularity. Monks line up for alms during the alms-giving ceremony organised by the region government of scrutiny across the border in to “strengthen the monkhood” weeks in early 2017 as thousands Experts also speculated it Mandalay yesterday. Thailand. in the region, according to a of offi cers try to arrest the sect’s was under fi re because of pur- With many barefoot, Bud- statement. spiritual leader. ported ties to the then-junta’s its monks have been busy. to solicit donations for fl ood show support as co-religionists. dhist monks from Myanmar and “I hope we can continue to Phra Dhammachayo was ac- political foes. This year they also organised victims. “Donating things to many Thailand and senior offi cials hold bigger events in the com- cused of colluding in a $33mn The abbot was never two large alms-giving events in But the controversy was not a monks in one place makes me from a dozen countries col- ing years,” said U Thu Nanda, a embezzlement scheme and was found but the temple is still Thailand in September and Oc- topic of discussion at the event in feel the delight,” said Khant Zaw lected alms next to an airport in 24-year-old Burmese monk. believed to be hiding somewhere operational. Meanwhile, tober attended by 10,000 monks Mandalay, where many came to Aung, a Burmese businessman. Gulf Times Monday, December 9, 2019 15 ASIA/AUSTRALASIA

Trump says Kim Jong-un risks losing ‘everything’ after N Korea claims major test

Reuters President of the United States or promised,” Trump said on Twit- United States to change its pol- war of words, with Trump call- horse ride on the country’s sacred path’ that they talked about,” he Washington interfere with the US Presidential ter. The KCNA report called it a icy of insisting on Pyongyang’s ing Kim “Rocket Man” and North Mt Paektu. Such meetings and said. Election in November,” he said. “successful test of great signifi - unilateral denuclearization and Korea calling Trump, now 73, a propaganda blitzes often come Trump told reporters in June North Korea’s state media cance” but did not specify what demanded relief from punishing “dotard.” ahead of major announcements 2018 after his fi rst summit S President Donald KCNA reported earlier yesterday was tested. Missile experts said sanctions. On Saturday North On Tuesday, Trump once again from North Korean authorities. with Kim that North Korea had Trump said yesterday that it had carried out a “very it appeared likely the North Ko- Korea’s ambassador to the United called Kim “Rocket Man” and While North Korea has not pledged to dismantle one of its Uthat North Korean leader important” test at its Sohae sat- reans had conducted a static test Nations said denuclearisation said the United States reserved specifi ed what its “new path” missile installations, which U.S. Kim Jong-un risks losing “every- ellite launch site, a rocket-test- of a rocket engine, rather than a was now off the negotiating ta- the right to use military force could be, observers have suggest- offi cials later identifi ed as So- thing” if he resumes hostility and ing ground that US offi cials once missile launch. ble with the United States and against North Korea. Pyongyang, ed the launch of a space satellite is hae. Shortly after that summit, his country must denuclearise, said North Korea had promised to “If it is indeed a static engine lengthy talks with Washington in response, said any repeat of a possibility, allowing Pyongyang analysts said satellite imagery after the North said it had carried close. test for a new solid or liquid fuel are not needed. such language would represent to demonstrate and test its rocket showed some key facilities at So- out a “successful test of great The reported test comes missile, it is yet another loud sig- “The results of the recent im- “the relapse of the dotage of a capabilities without resorting to hae being dismantled. signifi cance.” ahead of a year-end deadline nal that the door for diplomacy portant test will have an impor- dotard.” overt military provocation such However, in the wake of the “Kim Jong-un is too smart and North Korea has imposed for the is quickly slamming, if it isn’t tant eff ect on changing the stra- The test is the latest in a string as an intercontinental ballistic second summit between Trump has far too much to lose, every- United States to drop its insist- already,” said Vipin Narang, a nu- tegic position of the DPRK once of statements and actions from missile (ICBM) launch. and Kim earlier this year, which thing actually, if he acts in a hos- ence on unilateral denuclearisa- clear aff airs expert at the Massa- again in the near future,” KCNA North Korea designed to under- Kim Dong-yub, a former South ended with no agreement, new tile way. He signed a strong De- tion. Pyongyang has warned it chusetts Institute of Technology reported, using the initials of score the seriousness of its year- Korean Navy offi cer who teaches imagery indicated the North Ko- nuclearisation Agreement with could take a “new path” amid in the United States. “This could North Korea’s offi cial name, the end deadline. at Kyungnam University in Seoul, reans were rebuilding the site. me in Singapore,” Trump said the stalled talks with the United be a very credible signal of what Democratic People’s Republic of North Korea has announced it said North Korea may have tested “Remember this is at the site on Twitter, referring to his fi rst States. might await the world after the Korea. Recent days have also seen would convene a rare gathering a solid fuel rocket engine, which that was supposedly disman- summit with Kim in Singapore “North Korea, under the New Year.” a return to the highly charged of top ruling-party offi cials later could allow North Korea to fi eld tled as a ‘denuclearisation step,’” in 2018. leadership of Kim Jong-un, has Tensions have risen ahead of a rhetoric that raised fears of war this month, and on Wednesday ICBMs that are easier to hide Narang said. “So this is a fi rst “He does not want to void his tremendous economic poten- year-end deadline set by North two years ago. In 2017, Trump state media showed photos of and faster to deploy. “North Ko- step at ‘renuclearising.’ Revers- special relationship with the tial, but it must denuclearize as Korea, which has called on the and Kim famously engaged in a Kim taking a second symbolic rea has already entered the ‘new ible steps are being...reversed.” Hong Kongers mark half a year of protest with mammoth rally

AFP Hong Kong

emocracy protesters took part in the largest mass Drally through Hong Kong’s streets in months yesterday in a forceful display of support for the movement, with a leading activ- ist warning the city’s pro-Beijing leaders they had a “last chance” to end the political crisis. Organisers estimated some 800,000 people snaked for hours through the fi nancial hub’s main island as the protests marked six months, a vivid illustration of the hostility that still seethes to- wards the government after half a year of unrest. The city’s police force, which historically gives lower crowd turnout fi gures, told local media 183,000 people attended at the peak, still one of their highest estimates in months. The rally A protester wears a mask during a Human Rights Day march, organised by the Civil Human Right Front, in received rare police permission Hong Kong. and came two weeks after pro- establishment parties got a drub- “It only follows orders from the night has seen a marked drop in people. The protests were initial- bing in local elections, shattering Chinese Communist Party.” violence and vandalism after the ly sparked by a now-abandoned government claims that a “silent “I don’t know how long the landslide win by pro-democracy attempt to allow extraditions majority” opposed the protests. fi ght will be,” added another pro- candidates. to the mainland but have since As night fell the crowds tester, who gave his fi rst name as Police took the unusual step of morphed into a popular revolt switched on their mobile phone Kelvin. “So far I can’t see the end allowing the Civil Human Rights against Beijing’s rule. The CHRF, torches, creating a glittering car- but we won’t back down.” Can- Front (CHRF) to hold Sunday’s which advocates non-violence, pet of lights that stretched far tonese popstar Denise Ho, whose march - the fi rst time the group has been the main umbrella A protester wearing a Guy Fawkes mask attends a Human Rights Day march, organised by the Civil into the distance, their chants music is blacklisted on the Chi- has been granted permission group behind record-breaking Human Right Front, in Hong Kong, yesterday. bouncing off the towering sky- nese mainland, tweeted a video since mid-August - but they rallies earlier in the summer that scrapers above. Many of the of the huge crowds with the cap- warned they would have zero saw huge crowds regularly march clashes that have upended Hong dreds injured, including police. of the march, Hong Kong’s gov- black-clad attendees voiced an- tion: “Here’s your majority Car- tolerance for violence by radi- in searing heat. Kong’s reputation for stability Online forums used to organise ernment said it had “learned its ger and frustration that chief rie Lam”. cals. The movement’s demands One march in June drew what and helped tip the city into re- the movement’s more radical lesson and will humbly listen to executive Carrie Lam and Beijing Semi-autonomous Hong Kong include an independent inquiry organisers said was a million cession. Hours before the march wing have vowed to target Mon- and accept criticism.” But it an- have ruled out any further con- has been battered by increasingly into the police’s handling of the people, another soon after drew was due to start, police displayed day’s morning commute if there nounced no concrete measures or cessions despite the landslide violent demonstrations in the protests, an amnesty for those double that. Authorities have re- weapons, including a pistol and is no response from Lam. Years concessions. election defeat. starkest challenge the city has arrested, and fully free elections. peatedly banned major rallies in knives, they said had been found of huge, peaceful democracy Since the local elections the “No matter how we express presented to Beijing since its 1997 “Carrie Lam should listen to the recent months citing the risk of during overnight raids where marches have made little head- city’s chief executive has re- our views, through peacefully handover from Britain. Millions demands of Hong Kongers as violence from hardcore protest- eleven people were arrested. way, leading to increased radical- mained steadfast in her opposi- marching, through civilised elec- have marched in protests fuelled soon as possible,” CHRF’s leader ers. Today marks the six-month isation among some Hong Kong tion to further concessions and tions, the government won’t lis- by years of growing fears that au- Jimmy Sham told reporters after Large crowds have simply ig- anniversary of the protests dur- protesters and a greater willing- Beijing has stuck by her even as ten,” said a 50-year-old protest- thoritarian China is stamping out earlier billing the march as Lam’s nored the bans, sparking near- ing which some 6,000 people ness to embrace violent tactics. she languishes with record low er, who gave his surname Wong. the city’s liberties. The last fort- “last chance” to listen to the weekly tear gas and petrol bomb have been arrested and hun- In a statement released ahead approval ratings.

NZ weather service issues Polio returns to haunt thunderstorm Australia PM thanks fi refi ghters warning Malaysia after 25 years New Zealand’s meteorological as bushfi res rage in parts of NSW service issued severe thunder- AFP system and spinal cord and can be storm warnings for parts of Kuala Lumpur fatal in rare cases. New Zealand yesterday after DPA falls in January. Some 1,600 Over the past three decades the wild weather over the weekend Canberra fi refi ghters are battling about world has made great strides in caused flooding, road closures 100 bushfi res across the state. alaysia has reported the battle against polio. The World and landslides. The Timaru Yesterday, they were able to its fi rst polio case in 27 Health Organisation said only 33 district in South Island has been ustralian Prime Minis- take advantage of “benign” Myears, health authori- cases were reported worldwide in a state of emergency since ter Scott Morrison has weather conditions and con- ties said yesterday, announcing a last year. Malaysia was declared Saturday after heavy downpours Apaid tribute to hundreds ducted backburning, as well three-month-old baby had been polio free in 2000. The last case in caused widespread flooding. The of fi refi ghters as they continue as establish containment lines diagnosed on Borneo island. the country occurred in 1992. weather has also caused havoc to battle massive bushfi res with dozers. The Malaysian health min- The diagnosis comes after the around Wellington, New Zealand’s wreaking havoc in the coun- The worst bushfi re condi- istry’s director-general, Noor Philippines, which shares a close capital, with roads closed and try’s east. tions have been predicted for Hisham Abdullah, said the baby sea border with Sabah, was hit in public urged to avoid flood waters Morrison yesterday visited Tuesday, with heat reaching from Tuaran in eastern Sabah September by its fi rst polio case in and the sea until further notice, the control room of New South more than 40C amid strong state had been admitted into in- nearly two decades. Noor Hisham according to information posted Wales Rural Fire Service (RFS) winds. Fitzsimmons told tensive care after experiencing fe- said test results showed that the on some city councils’ social in the Hawkesbury region, Channel Seven television the ver and muscle weakness. Malaysian child was infected with media sites. “Thunderstorms are where several bushfi res merged fi refi ghters were trying to “gain “The patient is currently un- a strain that shared genetic links expected to bring strong winds last week to form a “mega A firefighter conducting back burning measures to secure the upper hand before we see dergoing treatment in an isolation to the virus detected in the Philip- and squally conditions,” MetServ- blaze” in Sydney’s north-west. residential areas from encroaching bushfires at the Mangrove those conditions deteriorate ward and is in a stable condition pines. ice, New Zealand’s meteorological Morrison attended a brief- area, some 110km north of Sydney. into Tuesday.” but needs respiratory support,” Public health expert T Jaya- service, said on Twitter. Radio ing from local fi refi ghters, RFS Sydney’s beachgoers found Noor Hisham said, adding that balan told AFP that he was not New Zealand reported that there Commissioner Shane Fitzsim- work,” Fitzsimmons said. The 75km north-west of Sydney’s black ash and other debris in the infant was diagnosed on Fri- surprised by the polio outbreak were several tourists stranded at a mons said on his Twitter yes- Gospers Mountain mega blaze, city centre. the city’s eastern shores yes- day. Polio is a highly infectious because immunisation was not campground in Whataroa, a small terday. which has merged with neigh- Authorities have said it has terday due to smog from bush- viral disease which has no cure mandatory in Malaysia. “This fi rst township on the West Coast of “The PM also delivered a bouring fi res and formed a become “too big to be put fi res burning across the state, and can only be prevented with case probably is the tip of the ice- New Zealand’s South Island, cut message of thanks to crews 60-km fi re front, continued out” and will likely burn for with many sharing the photos several doses of oral and injectable berg. There is a very high possibil- off by slips and washouts. in the fi eld, via the radio net- to burn yesterday. It is about weeks until substantial rain on social media. vaccines. It aff ects the nervous ity of a rising trend,” he warned. Gulf Times 16 Monday, December 9, 2019 BRITAIN PM criticised as man held for racism at Manchester derby

Guardian News and Media by an incident during the second country and people having to has a greater responsibility af- investigate the incident and plan Euro 2020 qualifi er away to Bul- Rival City manager Pep Guardi- London half of the game that appeared to have certain levels. It fuels it all ter Gareth Southgate’s England to talk to the clubs, referee An- garia in October. ola said afterwards: “I support the show a City fan making a monkey the time. It has got worse over the team players were racially abused thony Taylor, the police and oth- After the game, United manag- statement the club has done. Of gesture towards a United player. last few years in this country and in Bulgaria earlier this year. “We er relevant parties. er Ole Gunnar Solskjær spoke out course, it is a battle to fi ght every ootball commentator and The police yesterday arrested not just in football,” said Neville, always judge other countries on The issue of racism in English strongly about the incident. “I’ve day, so unfortunately it happens in pundit Gary Neville blamed a 41-year-old man after a video a former Manchester United and how they deal with racism but we football has hit the headlines again seen the video, heard from the many places and hopefully it can- FBoris Johnson’s election posted on social media showed England international. are poor with dealing with it our- virtually a year to the day since players. We keep talking about it not happen again.” rhetoric on immigrants and im- the man making the gestures. He added: “(This fan) thinks he selves,” he said. City’s Raheem Sterling was sub- every week. But he’s been caught The Professional Football- migration for fuelling the number Speaking on television after- can come to a game and racially Manchester City said they op- jected to alleged racially abusive on camera. He should, in my ers’ Association condemned the of racist incidents in British soci- wards, Neville linked the incident abuse someone playing football. erate a “zero-tolerance policy” language and threatening and ag- opinion, never be allowed into a alleged abuse: “We are disap- ety and sport. with the political leaders debate It is disgusting. It is terrible and regarding discrimination of any gressive behaviour at Stamford football ground again. It is un- pointed by what appears to be Neville was speaking after the on the BBC on Friday evening. something has to be done. It is not kind, adding that anyone found Bridge that led to a Chelsea sup- acceptable.” Manchester United racist abuse from fans at the Manchester derby, which saw “You are watching the prime just about banning him from foot- guilty of racial abuse will be porter being permanently banned. made a formal complaint to the Manchester derby. Racist abuse United defeat City 2-1. The re- minister’s debate where he is ball. Everyone has a responsibility.” banned for life. England’s players faced mon- referee and their opponents after is a criminal off ence and must be sult, however, was overshadowed talking about migration to this He suggested English football The Football Association will key chants and Nazi salutes in a the game, it was revealed. dealt with accordingly.” Labour ridicules Premier vows Johnson pledges transformative

Guardian News and Media London

oris Johnson has been Brexit as nerves accused of lying to voters Bover his election pledge to reduce immigration levels as Labour say they would not mind if numbers went up if the economy and the NHS needed rattled by polls workers. The shadow health secretary, Reuters narrowed in recent weeks and US President Donald Trump. Jonathan Ashworth, said the London such polls largely failed to pre- Johnson has repeatedly denied EU’s free movement of people dict the 2016 referendum result that claim and Trump last week has been good for the UK, and or May’s loss of her majority in said he wouldn’t want the NHS criticised the prime minister’s rime Minister Boris John- the 2017 snap election. if it was off ered on a silver plat- proposal to allow the migration son said he was nervous Asked if he was nervous about ter, but Corbyn has used leaked advisory committee the power Pabout his narrowing lead narrowing polls, Johnson said: “Of British-US trade documents to to set quotas and hand out vi- in opinion polls ahead of Thurs- course, we are fi ghting for every argue that Johnson is a threat to sas. day’s election but pledged to de- vote. I think that this is a critical the NHS. Ashworth told Sky’s Sophy liver a “transformative” Brexit moment for this country.” The leak of the classifi ed docu- Ridge show: “He is misleading that will allow lower immigra- Four opinion polls published ments online is tied to a previous the British people, because he’s tion. on Saturday put the lead of John- Russian disinformation cam- tried to give the impression The December 12 election will son’s Conservative Party over the paign, social media site Reddit he’s going to bring immigra- decide the fate of Brexit and the Labour Party at between eight said on Friday, fuelling fears that tion down but when you look at world’s fi fth-largest economy and 15 points. Moscow is seeking to interfere in the details of what he has an- with a stark choice between The Conservatives are certain- the British election. nounced he is saying you’ve got Johnson’s pro-market Conserv- ly in pole position, but not nec- The Kremlin, which says the to hand over decisions on who atives and the socialist-led op- essarily so far ahead that they’re West is gripped by anti-Russian will get a visa to an independ- position Labour Party. guaranteed to win, polling expert hysteria, has denied it meddles in ent committee. “Brexit is the most radical and John Curtice told the BBC. Western democracies. “There will be no democratic profound change to the manage- With the United Kingdom still The UK government said it is control. There will be no ac- ment of this country,” Johnson split over Brexit, the election has looking into the matter with sup- countability over any decision told Sky, adding that he would largely been dominated by rheto- port from the National Cyber Se- that any immigration minis- lead the United Kingdom out of ric over the EU exit and an array curity Centre, part of the GCHQ ter makes because they will the European Union on January of expensive spending promises signals intelligence agency. be handed over to a statutory 31 if he wins a majority in the on public services by both major No major poll predicts victory independent committee. So 650-seat parliament. parties. for Corbyn, a socialist who wants again, Boris Johnson is lying to “Brexit is indispensable — Beyond Brexit, the main foreign to bring swathes of the economy the British people.” you can’t move forward without policy issue has been Corbyn’s into state ownership, but Labour Just days before voters go to Brexit,” said Johnson, the face of claim that Johnson would sell off could yet lead a minority govern- the polls, the Tories have given the Leave campaign in the 2016 the much-cherished National ment given that few other parties more detail on their migration referendum before winning the Health Service (NHS) to US corpo- are willing to prop up a Johnson policy. As well as an enhanced top job in July after prime minis- rations in a post-Brexit deal with government. role for the migration advisory ter Theresa May failed to deliver committee, they will also pub- Brexit on time. lish an annual report on how to Johnson called the snap elec- PM mum on stepping down in case of poll defeat reduce the level of immigration. tion after more than three years Prime Minister Boris Johnson Union that he renegotiated with Within their Australian of political crisis over the United yesterday dodged the question Brussels. Johnson told his sup- style-points system, Johnson Kingdom’s most signifi cant geo- on whether he would resign in porters not to be complacent said there will be three tiers of political move since World War case his Conservatives fail to before the election that he is eligibility to come to the UK. II. get a majority in the upcoming forecast to win, saying the race Those with talent and excep- Voting takes place from parliamentary election. was not over yet. “We are now tional skills, those who are spe- 0700GMT to 2200GMT on He was nervous and fighting for in the final furlong of this race cialists like NHS or care work- Thursday, with Johnson likely to every vote, he told Sky News. and that is when of course the ers, and unskilled workers who need more than 320 seats to en- Asked three times whether he horses can still change place,” come and work in the country sure he can remain prime min- would be willing to resign in the he said in a campaign speech. on a short-term basis. ister and ratify the Brexit deal he event of a defeat, he failed to “We are still not quite there yet He has insisted that the Con- struck with the EU in October. provide a clear answer. Johnson and do not forget what hap- servatives will bring down the Opinion polls put Johnson wants to get more support for pened in 2017. This is a close numbers. Net migration was Prime Minister Boris Johnson speaks to activists and supporters as he poses for a photograph at the ahead of Labour Party leader Jer- his deal to leave the European fought election.” 258,000 in 2018. Conservative campaign headquarters call centre in central London yesterday. emy Corbyn, though his lead has Killer’s lawyers challenge Corbyn campaigns Support for Scottish CPS on withheld evidence independence ‘falls’ Daily Mail week’s general election. London It put the SNP on 44%, up one Guardian News and Media along with their adoptive court the following year with the point on polling in August, while London daughter, Sheila Caffell, and prosecution contending it was the Tories were on 28% (plus 8), Sheila’s six-year-old twin attached to the rifl e during the upport for independence in the Liberal Democrats were on sons, Daniel and Nicholas killings. If true, that would have Scotland has fallen, a new 12% (no change) and the Greens awyers representing Jer- Caffell. Bamber, then 24, had made the rifl e too long for Caf- Spoll suggests. on 1% (minus 3). emy Bamber, who is serv- phoned the police to say Nev- fell to have shot herself. The trial A total of 56% of respondents The survey also found that the Ling a whole life sentence ill had phoned him, saying his judge, in his summing up, told to a YouGov survey said they number of people who believe for killing his adoptive parents, sister, Sheila, had “gone crazy the jury: “On the evidence of the would vote No in a future inde- there should be a Scottish inde- sister and her six-year-old twin and has the gun”. silencer alone you may fi nd Bam- pendence referendum, with 44% pendence referendum within the boys in 1985, have launched Initially, police believed that ber guilty.” voting Yes. next fi ve years has fallen. a high court challenge to the Sheila, diagnosed with schizo- After the jury were sent out The fi gures, which remove A total of 42% of respondents Crown Prosecution Service for phrenia, had fired the shots to reach a verdict, they re- people who responded ‘don’t were in favour, down from 45% its failure to disclose evidence then turned the gun on herself. turned and asked the judge for know’, that they would not vote, in August, with 48% against – up they say would undermine the But, on August 10, after the po- clarification on the silencer or skipped the question, show from 44% in August. When the safety of his conviction. lice ended their examination of and blood evidence. The judge a marginal move to the No side YouGov poll was last carried out The statement of facts and the crime scene, a relative of said it contained only the from the 2014 referendum result for the Times in September, 49 grounds, lodged at the high court Nevill and June Bamber, David blood of Sheila Caffell. Sev- of 55% No and 45% Yes. per cent of respondents said they on Friday, maintains that the CPS Boutflour, found a silencer in enteen minutes later, they re- A total of 56% of respondents to would vote in favour of independ- has refused to follow directions the gun cupboard of the farm- turned and convicted Bamber a YouGov survey said they would ence while 51% would vote against. made by the court of appeal in house. It was later said to con- by a 10 to two majority. vote No in a future independence More people thought Boris 2002 to disclose the sought-after tain blood belonging to Sheila But a week before the trial, referendum, with 44% voting Yes. Johnson remaining prime minis- material. It also accuses the CPS Caffell. the head of biology at Hunting- When the YouGov poll was ter next week, rather than Jeremy of rejecting a report by an emi- On September 7, 1985, Jeremy don Forensic Science Labora- last carried out for the Times in Corbyn taking the role, would nent ballistics expert appointed Bamber’s ex-girlfriend told po- tories wrote to Essex police in a September, 49% of respondents make independence more likely by Bamber, without instructing lice Bamber had discussed killing letter seen by the Guardian last said they would vote in favour of within the next decade. its own expert to challenge the his family with her and that he year, saying the blood on the si- independence while 51% would More than a third (37%) of claims. was involved. On September 29, lencer “could have come from vote against. respondents said Johnson stay- During the night of August 1985, Bamber was charged with Sheila Caffell or Robert Bout- Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn poses for a selfie with Despite the dip in support for ing in post would make Indyref2 6-7, 1985, Nevill and June the murders. flour”, another relative. That a supporter at a general election rally in Colwyn Bay, north Scotland leaving the UK, the more likely in this timeframe, Bamber were shot and killed The silencer featured heavily letter was not disclosed to the Wales, yesterday. same poll indicated that the SNP with a quarter (25 per cent) say- inside their Essex farmhouse, at the trial at Chelmsford crown defence. is on course to add 11 MPs at next ing it would be less likely. Gulf Times Monday, December 9, 2019 17 EUROPE

Bosnia to close makeshift Transport disruption in migrant camp France enters fi fth day AFP France willing to delay larger Paris area rely daily to get Ahead of a meeting of minis- converges with the new system Sarajevo pension reform timing as to work. ters yesterday afternoon, several under diff erent deadlines and strikes continue Ten out of the RATP’s 16 met- cabinet members off ered to sof- terms,” she said. ro lines will be offl ine, four will ten the reforms. She said people’s pension osnian authorities have Reuters/AFP/DPA off er limited service, and the “I want the state budget to be rights would be calculated pro- said that they would shut Paris only two driverless metros will balanced, but let’s not be dog- portionally based on how much Bdown a makeshift migrant run as usual but with a “risk of matic ... the calendar is open to time they had worked under the camp this week after months of congestion” during peak hours. discussion,” Finance Minister new and old systems. intense international criticism he French government Inter-city rail operator SNCF Bruno Le Maire said on France 3 The new system “will be rath- for its deplorable conditions. said it would see through cautioned of potentially “dan- TV. “We do not want the slope to er positive for a signifi cant part The ramshackle Vucjak camp Tplanned pension reforms gerous” overcrowding. be too steep for those concerned of French citizens”, she said. was set up near Bosnia’s north- but tried to assuage union an- “I am determined to take this by the reforms.” Hardline CGT union leader west border with Croatia in June ger with promises of a gradual pension reform to its comple- Discussion is focusing on Philippe Martinez said it would on the site of a former land- introduction of the new system tion,” Prime Minister Edouard which age groups will be im- fi ght until the government com- fi ll and in an area littered with that has sparked nationwide Philippe told Journal du Diman- pacted by the reform. pletely dropped the plan. mines from the 1990s war. strikes. che newspaper. “If we do not im- In July, a report by pensions He told the Journal du Diman- Around 600 migrants have Transport systems were para- plement a thorough, serious and tsar Jean-Paul Delevoye said it che: “We will keep up until the been living in the tent camp lysed for a fourth day yesterday progressive reform today, some- would aff ect people born in 1963 withdrawal” of the reform plan, without running water or proper as unions at state railway SNCF one else will do one tomorrow, or later. which he said contained “noth- heating, even as snow fell on the and Paris public transport sys- but really brutally.” In recent days, French media ing good”. A man looks yesterday at the OUI.SNCF app, showing that the trains site this week. tem RATP extended their strike On Wednesday, Philippe will have reported that this could be France has one of the most from Cambrai to Paris will be cancelled today, which would be the “It was agreed that migrants against the changes. present a detailed outline of the pushed back a several years. generous pension systems fifth day of the national strike against the French government’s would be moved early next “In the coming days, we rec- reform, which aims to end spe- Deputy Environment Minister among Organisation for Eco- pensions reform plans, at the railway station in Cambrai, France. week from this locality to other ommend avoiding public trans- cial regimes under which some Emmanuelle Wargon told France nomic Co-operation and De- reception centres ... and that port,” said the website of the workers can retire in their early Info radio that the government velopment (OECD) industr- included a pledge for thorough Thursday’s fi rst protest attract- this makeshift camp would be RATP public train, tram, bus fi fties and replace them with a would be fl exible. ialised nations, but the system reform. ed 65,000 people in Paris and closed,” the security ministry and metro company on which unifi ed system with equal rights “We may diff erentiate how has major budget shortfalls and Unions plan a second dem- 806,000 nationwide, according said in a statement on Friday. some 10mn passengers in the for everyone. each special pension system Macron’s 2017 election platform onstration tomorrow, after to police fi gures. The announcement comes af- ter a European Council of Rights offi cial visited Vucjak this week and warned that deaths would be imminent if the camp was not shuttered immediately. “If we don’t close the camp New Ukraine leader facing off with Putin today, tomorrow people will start dying here,” Council of Eu- rope Commissioner for Human Zelenskiy to meet Russian Rights Dunja Mijatovic told re- counterpart at summit on porters while visiting the camp Kyiv’s five-year war with blanketed in snow. Russian separatists At a press conference in Sara- jevo on Friday, she stressed the By Andrew Roth and “shameful” and “inhumane” Patrick Wintour conditions. Guardian News & Media She also expressed concern about reports of violent push- backs by Croatian police – alle- krainian President Vo- gations that many migrants have lodymyr Zelenskiy faces Putin and Zelenskiy: The Russian and Ukrainian presidents will be made but that Zagreb repeatedly Ua major test at a high- holding their first face-to-face talks in Paris today at a summit with denies. stakes summit with Vladimir French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela “I was particularly alarmed by Putin in Paris as he pursues a Merkel on the conflict in eastern Ukraine. stories of migrants being beaten campaign promise to negotiate and stripped of their belongings, an end to the war in southeast “People say what kind of a Russia to Ukrainian control, the including their shoes, and forced Ukraine despite vocal opposition dialogue can there be between holding of elections in separa- to walk across rough terrain to at home. Zelenskiy and Putin?” Zelenskiy tist-held regions and the disar- return back to Bosnia and Herze- Zelenskiy and his Russian said in a public address fi lmed as mament and evacuation of Rus- govina,” Mijatovic said. counterpart will meet at the he walked briskly on a treadmill sian forces in southeast Ukraine. The migrants from Vujcak will lysée Palace today alongside last week. “You know, it’s pos- But the sequencing of those initially be moved to camps run European leaders for their fi rst sible without this dialogue, but steps has remained contentious, by the UN’s International Or- face-to-face talks since the co- it’s like running on a treadmill … and a recent agreement to hold ganisation for Migration (IOM), median-turned-president took you’re losing calories, but you’re elections in southeast Ukraine according to Security Minister offi ce in May. stuck in the same place.” that would then be verifi ed by Dragan Mektic, who was speak- The meeting, mediated by Activists who protested in the Organisation for Security ing on national radio. the leaders of France and Ger- Ukraine’s 2014 EuroMaidan rev- and Co-operation in Europe People take part in mass rally called ‘Red lines for ZE’ (the nickname for the Ukrainian president) to After two or three weeks, they many, aims to revive eff orts to olution have urged Zelenskiy not (OSCE) sparked an opposition demand ‘no capitulation’ to Russia, at Kyiv’s Independence Square yesterday, ahead of a summit in Paris will be put in a new reception resolve Kyiv’s fi ve-year confl ict to sacrifi ce the country’s inter- backlash under the slogan: “No aimed at ending the hostilities between Ukraine and Russia. centre under construction in a with Russian-backed separatists ests “at gunpoint”. capitulation!” former military barracks near who have held a broad swath of Several thousand people ral- In remarks at the Chatham through in the confl ict, saying “Minsk cannot be imple- telligence offi cer, and Zelenskiy, Sarajevo, he said. south-eastern Ukraine since lied yesterday in Kyiv to demand House thinktank in London last the most that can be hoped for is mented,” Dmitri Trenin, the di- a successful television mogul Previous attempts to move 2014. that the president defend the week, Andriy Yermak, a key a de-escalation of tensions. rector of the Carnegie Moscow and comedian, to size one an- migrants back towards the capi- The confl ict has left more country’s interests. adviser to Zelenskiy, sought Russia believes time is on its Centre, wrote recently, noting other up. tal have been hampered by the than 13,000 people dead and At the rally in Independence to reduce concerns about the side and can withstand any in- opposition inside Ukraine. “The Putin may welcome Zelen- fact that many eventually return displaced millions. Square, demonstrators held talks, saying that Ukraine would ternational pressure on Putin to most that can be achieved – not skiy’s interest in reaching a set- to Bihac to be close to the border. The two countries’ heads of banners reading “No compro- present a new framework for make concessions. in Paris, but eventually – is a tlement, said Stanovaya, but Bosnia’s northwest Bihac re- state have not met since 2016. mises!” and “No surrender!” representing the Donbass region “After the exchange of pris- more durable ceasefi re, a full ex- regards Ukraine’s president as a gion, which also hosts several Meanwhile, there are con- “Among some Ukrainians, and consider additional powers oners in September, the Kremlin change of prisoners, and some political novice and “not as a real thousand migrants in IOM-run cerns about wavering resolve there is suspicion and concern to local councils but would not was not interested in a Norman- easing of humanitarian/eco- leader comparable to himself”. camps, has become a key base for among Ukraine’s allies to check about the negotiations,” said agree to a federalised Ukraine. dy format summit, and tried to nomic contacts across the front- Zelenskiy has proven an able migrants from the Middle East Russian aggression, including Volodymyr Fesenko, a Ukrainian Their plan B, he said, could break off the talks,” said Tatiana line in Donbass.” and optimistic politician, man- and Asia who cross the Balkans remarks by Emmanuel Macron political analyst. require walling off Ukraine from Stanovaya, a Russian politi- For Putin, Trenin noted, the ufacturing a landslide election to reach Western Europe. that Russia is not a common en- They are hoping that “Zel- Russia in the manner of Israel. cal analyst and the head of the optics of the summit may be victory and a parliamentary ma- The route through mountain- emy of the North Atlantic Treaty enskiy doesn’t make excessive “If we don’t see readiness R.Politik analysis fi rm. their most important aspect. jority, and navigating a gauntlet ous Bosnia emerged after the Organisation (Nato). concessions to Putin. That Putin from Russia to implement the Russia wants to avoid renego- “It appears that what Putin of domestic and international northern Balkan path towards Zelenskiy, who won a land- doesn’t trick him. Fears that are Minsk agreement or to move to- tiating the peace plan, which it can get out of Paris is Europeans’ pressure since his inauguration Hungary was largely stamped slide election victory in April, linked to the inexperience of the wards a peaceful solution with a views as favourable, Stanovaya conclusion that he is willing to in May. out in 2016. has promised Ukrainians that he new president”. clear-cut timeframe, well in this added. deal with Zelenskiy on the prac- “Zelenskiy has very compli- Poor and hobbled by a com- would not appease Putin when Central to the talks are the case we’ll be building a wall, and Although both sides have tical issues,” he said, including cated motivations for the meet- plex and divided government, the two men meet, but reiterated intricacies of the Minsk agree- life will continue,” he said. publicly voiced support for the a new deal for transit of natural ing,” said Fesenko. “But I would Bosnia has struggled to accom- that the only way to end the war ment, a 13-point peace plan ne- Analysts and politicians have Minsk agreements, there are gas. say he is counting on his good modate the infl ux despite fi nan- was through direct negotiations gotiated in 2015 that stipulates played down expectations that questions of whether the frame- The talks will be the fi rst op- fortune. He believes that he will cial aid from the EU. with Moscow. the return of the border with the talks could provide a break- work is politically viable. portunity for Putin, a former in- be able to infl uence Putin.”

Merkel party raps SPD before coalition talks

Reuters ing out all their demands. (AfD) is getting stronger. the money that there is fl ows too Berlin “Just like you can’t be a little Merkel, who has led Europe’s slowly.” bit pregnant, you can’t rule a biggest economy for the past 14 Kramp-Karrenbauer also re- little bit,” she told Bild am Son- years, has said she will not stand jected the SPD’s calls to increase he leader of Chancellor ntag, adding that the CDU re- at the next election. the minimum wage, arguing Angela Merkel’s conserv- mains true to the coalition deal Investment is a potential area that the matter had to be decid- Tatives sharply criticised and she expects the same of the of confl ict. ed by an independent commis- attempts by the Social Demo- SPD. The SPD’s new leaders want to sion, not politicians. crats (SPD) to push their rul- “It’s bad for Germany if every spend about €450bn ($496bn) On climate, she said she did ing coalition to the left, accus- important decision depends on over 10 years on infrastructure, not want to start all over again ing her partners of thinking of the SPD’s inner feelings,” she schools and in embracing the after the parties had agreed in themselves more than Germany. told the weekly. “This coalition digital revolution – from wider September on a complex climate The two parties will decide is for the country, not trauma broadband access to robots. package that aims to ensure in the next few weeks whether therapy for ruling parties.” Though the party held back Germany will meet targets to re- the centrist alliance has a fu- Her comments, which ech- from insisting the government duce greenhouse gas emissions. A demonstrator sits in a vehicle with the lettering ‘A race we must win’ as people form a human chain ture after the SPD chose a more oed warnings from other senior drop a commitment to achiev- However, there may be some during the ‘United for Climate’ event around the Royal Palace and federal parliament in Brussels. leftist leadership duo, who have conservatives, set the stage for a ing a balanced budget with- room for manoeuvre, not least demanded new policies on cli- tense start to talks on the coali- out incurring new debt, it has because the Greens are blocking Thousands form human chain over climate change mate, investment and the mini- tion. demanded a more fl exible ap- legislation in the upper house. mum wage. A collapse of the 18-month- proach, which Kramp-Karren- Markus Blume, general secre- Thousands of people holding hands formed a human makers from around the world gather in Madrid for Annegret Kramp-Karrenbau- old alliance could result in a mi- bauer appeared to rule out. tary of Bavaria’s conservatives, chain in Brussels yesterday to draw attention to the the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. er, a Merkel protégé and head nority government or snap elec- “There is no point in making rejected any notion of the gov- need for urgent, joint action against climate change. “The main purpose is to ask for more climate of her conservative Christian tion, threatening instability in new debt,” Kramp-Karrenbauer ernment embracing SPD ideas. Some 2,400 people took part in the peaceful ambition and for the federal government to Democrats (CDU), attacked the Europe’s biggest economy at a told the Frankfurter Allgemeine “An SPD on a leftist path will demonstration, police said, which encircled the tackle the climate crisis,” said Julie Van Houtryve, SPD for failing to make clear its time when the ecologist Greens Sonntagszeitung. “If there is too not lead to the German govern- Belgian federal parliament and the Royal Palace. spokeswoman for one of the organisers, Climate commitment to the coalition, are gaining support and the far- little investment, it is not due ment following a leftist path,” The two-hour demonstration took place as policy- Coalition in Belgium. though she stopped short of rul- right Alternative for Germany to a lack of money, it is because he told Welt am Sonntag. Gulf Times 18 Monday, December 9, 2019 INDIA

LAW AND ORDER CONTROVERSY POLITICS ELECTION DECISION Police register case Minister seeks ban on film Kerala BJP panel fails to Karnataka by-polls Kamal Haasan’s MNM to against Congress leaders for portraying ‘wrong facts’ pick new president vote count today skip local body polls

The Uttar Pradesh police have registered a case Amid the protest over alleged ‘wrong facts’ in the The core committee of the Kerala Bharatiya Janata Votes polled in Karnataka’s by-elections on Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan yesterday against Congress leaders who were protesting movie Panipat: The Great Betrayal, Rajasthan’s Party that met in Kochi yesterday failed to reach December 5 in 15 Assembly constituencies will announced in Chennai that his party Makkal against the state government on Saturday on the tourism minister, who is also the direct descendant consensus on the new state party chief. Since be counted today and results will be declared Needhi Maiam would not contest local body polls. issue of Unnao incident where a rape survivor was of Raja Surajmal, yesterday demanded a ban on the resignation of P S Sreedharan Pillai, named by evening, an EC off icial said yesterday. Kamal Haasan said polls would not secure any burnt to death. Sources say the case was registered the movie in the state. State Tourism Minister the Mizoram Governor in October, the state BJP “Arrangements have been made for counting of advantage for the party. The party’s goal was against former minister Jitin Prasada, Member of Vishvendra Singh, who is a direct descendant of has failed to identify his successor. According to votes in the 15 Assembly segments today from to capture power in the state, winning the 2021 Parliament P L Punia and MLC Deepak Singh, and Surajmal, said: “It is unfortunate that the legendary sources, three names – K Surendran, M T Ramesh 8am at 11 centres, including three in Bengaluru for Assembly polls, he added. Meanwhile, the Rajini spokesperson Rajiv Tyagi along with 100 other Jat ruler, Maharaja Surajmal has been depicted in and Sobha Surendran – came up for discussion four urban seats. Postal ballots will be counted first, Makkal Mandram said actor Rajinikanth would workers who took to the streets in the state capital an unseemly light and historical facts have been at yesterday’s meet. They all are below 50 years followed by counting of votes in EVMs,” Election not be supporting any political party in the local on Saturday. Prasada said the charges should be distorted in the film. “In light of the protest by the of age. The meeting was chaired by national Commission off icial G Jadiyappa said. The results body elections. It warned people not to seek votes against the culprit and the government machinery Jat community in Haryana, Rajasthan and other organisation secretary B L Santhosh. The party’s of the by-elections are crucial for the four-month- using the actor’s name or his image. Rajinikanth for their failings which led to the death of the regions of north India, I believe that the film should national leadership wants to end the stalemate and old BJP government in the state, as the party needs plans to float a party and contest the 2021 victim but the case has been registered against the be banned to avoid a law and order situation,” he is expected to name the new president by the end at least seven seats in the 223-member Assembly Assembly polls. The local body polls will be held in Congress workers who were protesting peacefully. said after watching the film. of this month or early January. for a simple majority, with 112 as the halfway mark. Tamil Nadu on December 27 and December 30. 43 killed in Delhi factory fi re AFP tims’ families and to survivors. New Delhi Locals said the factory also made purses and jackets, and had just one entrance and 20 rooms t least 43 people were on each fl oor that were connected killed in a devastating by one internal stairway. Afi re that ripped through a “Most of the casualties hap- bag factory in the congested old pened because of suff ocation,” quarter of New Delhi yesterday, witness Mohamed Khalil said. with survivors describing the “After the fi re, people didn’t screams of scores of trapped have any way to get out and I ‘People were workers who were sleeping in- believe many were asleep and pleading for help’ side. because of the smoke, they got The blaze was the worst in suff ocated.” Delhi since 59 movie-goers died Others said they believed the Instead of waking up to the in a cinema in 1997, with the fi re started on the fi rst fl oor, rising red sun on a cold Sunday city’s poor planning and en- sparked by exposed wires, before morning, residents of the na- forcement of building and safety spreading to an area used to store tional capital’s Anaj Mandi woke regulations often responsible for foam and plastic chairs. up to thick smoke and trapped such deadly incidents. Outside a nearby hospital voices calling out for desperate Tearful relatives spoke of re- morgue, anxious relatives and help from inside the factory ceiving desperate calls from fac- friends gathered to identify the which was ablaze. tory workers begging to be freed bodies. “I woke up around 5.20 in the from the inferno in the dark, Naushad Ahmad was look- morning when I heard cries poorly lit premises in the com- ing desperately for his missing from the factory, people were mercial hub of Sadar Bazar from friend, who he was unable to shouting ‘please save us’. I along around 5am (23.30GMT). reach on his mobile phone. A Delhi Fire Service truck is seen along a street near the site where a fire broke out in Anaj Mandi area of New Delhi yesterday. with some men of our local- One father who was trapped “I have been to the factory ity tried our best to save two inside the four-storey structure and this tragedy was waiting to people. However, I am not aware made a desperate phone call to happen,” he said. “There was Safety norms ‘fl outed’ about the cause of the fire,” said ask that his children be looked only one exit and entrance to the Mohamed Abid whose house is after. building... People didn’t get a The huge loss of lives could have located behind the factory. “Monu, brother, I am going chance to escape.” been averted if the fire safety and The narrow lanes coupled with Sajjamuddin Ahmad spent President, Modi to die today,” the man, named other mandatory norms to run single entry and exit points Musharaff said in the recording two hours searching for his fa- factories were not flouted by the posed a big hurdle for the Delhi of a call played by the ABP Hindi ther-in-law and brother-in-law bag manufacturing factory being Fire Services as the tiny pas- language news channel. “Please before discovering they were run at ‘Anaj Mandi’ in Delhi’s Rani sages which can barely accom- take care of my kids. I can’t dead, he said. Jhansi Road area where the tragic condole loss of life modate a single person could breathe. There are so many oth- Families of the victims said fire occurred, a Delhi Fire Service not provide smooth passage for ers here. Just can’t breathe,” he they were mostly migrant work- (DFS) off icial said. the big fire truck which came kept repeating in Hindi, eventu- ers from Bihar, one of most im- He raised questions against the IANS who lost their loved ones. Wish- BJP’s national working presi- to rescue the people and douse ally breaking down towards the poverished states. concerned authorities for giving New Delhi ing the injured a quick recovery. dent J P Nadda also tweeted: the flames. end of the call. Some of them were paid just permission to run such factories Authorities are providing all “Extremely anguished by the “After 4am, we heard screams Authorities do not yet know if Rs1,000 a month, they said. in residential areas and letting possible assistance at the site of loss of lives in fi re tragedy at Anaj and cries from men, seek- Musharaff survived the blaze. Police and fi re offi cials said at these units function despite resident Ram Nath Ko- the tragedy,” the prime minister Mandi, Rani Jhansi Road, Delhi. ing help. That’s when the fire One survivor, Sabi Abbas, said least 58 others were rescued. lapses on many fronts. vind and Prime Minister tweeted. My thoughts are with the be- brigade was called. It was a he had just fi nished work and was The fl ames had been extin- Calling it the biggest ever fire PNarendra Modi yesterday Meanwhile, Union Home reaved families. May the injured horrific sight to see so many of about to go to sleep when he heard guished and they did not expect tragedy in the history of Delhi expressed their condolences Minister Amit Shah called the recover quickly. Have asked BJP them standing at the windows, screams from the third fl oor. to fi nd more bodies, they added. after Uphaar Cinema tragedy over the tragic fi re in a factory in incident a tragic loss of precious Delhi activists to provide all screaming for help,” said Kafeel, “I rushed to the fl oor and saw The cause of the blaze is not which occurred in south Delhi’s Delhi’s Rani Jhansi area in which lives and instructed concerned possible assistance to those af- another resident who witnessed the wires were dangling and on yet known but Delhi’s fi re serv- Green Park on June 13, 1997, 43 people lost their lives. authorities to provide all help. fected.” the incident in the morning. The fi re as acrid smoke fi lled up the ices director told the Press Trust leading to deaths of 59 people Both the heads of the country “Tragic loss of precious lives Congress leader Rahul Gan- scale of death and devastation corridor,” he said, adding that he of India news agency that the site and over 100 non-fatal injuries, took Twitter to send their mes- in the fi re accident in New Delhi. dhi also expressed his condo- dumbfounded rescuers and ran out of the building with his had been operating without the the off icial, requesting anonym- sages and prayers for the recov- My deepest condolences with lences over the fi re incident, hospital staff . wife and daughters. required fi re safety clearances. ity said the factory had “flouted” ery of those who were injured. the families of those who have saying “I am hurt by the deaths The constant stream of dead The building was home to The building’s owner and the fire safety norms and there “Extremely sad to hear the lost their loved ones. I pray for of several people and injuries to bodies and injured being a number of manufactur- manager were arrested later was “no proper exit”. tragic news about fi re in Delhi’s the early recovery of the injured. many in a major fi re in Delhi’s rushed to the hospital was ing units producing items yesterday, police told “Many factories are being run Anaj Mandi. My thoughts and Have instructed concerned au- Anaj Mandi. overwhelming for the hospital including schoolbags and PTI. in residential colonies and most prayers are with aff ected fami- thorities to provide all possible “I express my condolences to staff who confessed they never packing materials which Factories and small of them are functioning without lies. Wishing for an early recov- assistance on an urgent basis,” the bereaved families and pray came across a tragedy of such a only aided the spread of manufacturing units licences. Such factories do not ery to those injured. The local Shah tweeted. for the speedy recovery of those magnitude. the blaze, offi cials said. in big Indian cit- even have fire extinguishers authorities are doing their best Delhi Chief Minister Arvind injured.” The policemen stoically took Prime Minister ies are often lo- and avoid mandatory fire safety to rescue people and provide Kejriwal described the incident The fi re is said to be one of their positions as they control- Narendra Modi tweeted cated in old, norms,” said the off icial. help,” the president tweeted. as “tragic” and said fi remen the biggest fi re incidents in led the stream of kin of victims, that the fi re was “ex- cramped ar- “The factory is being run in the The prime minister called the were doing their best. “Very very Delhi after the Uphaar Cinema well-wishers and VIPs making tremely horrifi c”, as eas, where area for long but there was a fi re in Delhi’s Anaj Mandi on tragic news. Rescue operations fi re which took place on June 13, their way to find out details of authorities said they the cost lack of fire exit and other fire Rani Jhansi Road in west Delhi going on. Firemen doing their 1997, in south Delhi’s Green Park the victims and help in follow would off er fi nancial of land is safety norms,” the off icial said. “extremely horrifi c”. best. Injured are being taken to area leading to deaths of 59 and up operations. assistance to the vic- cheaper. “My thoughts are with those hospitals,” Kejriwal tweeted. over 100 non-fatal injuries. Congress to oppose Anger at assaults Adopted daughter held for killing father

CAB in parliament IANS bello on November 27. Mumbai After killing him, the duo chopped his body into pieces IANS yesterday that “it will move two 10 from 5am-4pm in protest over the next three days and New Delhi amendments seeking deletion of against the bill. he Mumbai Police have stuff ed them in a suitcase and certain references “, as it wants The Cabinet approval for the arrested two persons, a couple of bags which they refugees from all neighbouring bill came after Shah held con- Tincluding a minor boy, disposed of in the Mithi River he Congress has decided countries under the ambit of the sultative meetings with the chief for allegedly killing a 59-year- fl owing nearby. to oppose the Citizenship Bill. ministers of northeastern states, old man, chopping his body, After the suitcase was re- TAmendment Bill (CAB) The CAB is opposed by the leaders of diff erent political par- stuffi ng the pieces in bags and covered, the crime branch got which is to be introduced today Congress-led opposition but ties and civil society groups and throwing them into the Mithi cracking and got clues from a by Union Home Minister Amit the government has ignored it other stakeholders in New Delhi. River. maroon sweater in which the Shah in the Lok Sabha, after its and decided to go ahead with Meanwhile, the Shiromani Last week, the police had re- body parts were covered. parliamentary strategy group the Bill. The North East Stu- Akali Dal (SAD) appreciated the covered a suitcase containing The sweater was from a shop meet at Sonia Gandhi’s resi- dents Organisation (NESO) has central government’s decision some of the body parts from in Kurla from where the police dence here yesterday. also opposed the bill and had to introduce the Citizen Amend- the Arabian Sea near Mahim found a receipt with Rebello’s After the meeting, Congress asked Prime Minister Narendra ment Bill (CAB) in Parliament, seafront. The two arrested in- details, which led the police to leader in the Lok Sabha, Adhir Modi and Home Minister Shah saying a long-pending demand clude Aradhya J Patil, 19, and crack the case. Ranjan Chowdhury said “The whether the government is for of the party had been accepted her 16-year old boyfriend who A divorcee, Rebello was a bill is a violation of our Consti- its own citizens or for the illegal and urged that it must cover all killed Bennett Rebello on No- guitarist playing at local func- tution’s secular ethos, culture, migrants. persecuted people, irrespective vember 27 at his house. tions. But he was not seen for tradition and civilisation, and we “From the attitude and ap- of religion. The crime was committed at over a week, according to the will oppose it.” proach of the government of The decision was taken at a Rebello’s Dwarka Kunj home in locals, who informed the po- The Congress has already India, it clearly shows that the meeting of the SAD core com- suburban Santacruz East using lice about his adopted daugh- decided to talk to likeminded government is for the illegal mittee, presided over by Sukhbir a knife, a stick and a mosquito ter Aradhya. parties to oppose the bill but migrants,”the apex student body Badal, at Badal village in Mukt- repellent, said police. “We are still investigat- in the lower house the opposi- of the indigenous communities sar. Police investigation revealed ing this gruesome murder, tion could not do anything as in the northeastern states noted Meanwhile, the Hynniewtrep that Rebello, who had report- whether it was a pre-planned BJP has a majority but in Rajya in the letter to Modi and Shah. Youth Council (HYC), in Shil- edly adopted Aradhya alias Riya conspiracy and what were the Sabha the Congress may try to NESO, which is spearheading long yesterday demanded res- Activists and supporters hold placards and shout slogans a few years ago, was against her real motives. We are also trying stall the bill. the protest against the amend- ignation of Meghalaya Gover- to protest against the alleged rape and murder of a relationship with the boy and to recover the remaining body The Left parties have also de- ment of the Citizenship Act, nor Tathagata Roy for backing 27-year-old veterinary doctor in Hyderabad and other also sexually assaulted her. parts,” Shahaji Umap, deputy cided to oppose the bill and press 1955, has also called for a north- the proposed amendment to the recent sexual assaults, in Mumbai yesterday. Aradhya and her boyfriend commissioner of police, de- for amendments. The party said east shutdown on December Citizenship Act, 1955. allegedly killed Bennett Re- tection, told mediapersons. Gulf Times Monday, December 9, 2019 19 LATIN AMERICA

Domestic violence rates fall in parts of Latin America: UN

Thomson Reuters Foundation Domestic violence, including in Colombia, Guatemala, Haiti, declined significantly in several About one in seven women Caribbean taking place in the exposed to domestic violence are Bogota physical and sexual abuse against Peru and Mexico. countries. However some did in Brazil, Panama and Uruguay home, children often witness the more likely to drop out of school women, carried out by former The preliminary results are not, some changes were small aged 15-49 said they had suff ered abuse, a problem that is gaining and suff er from bed wetting or current boyfriends or hus- based on reviews of national sur- and others rose over time,” said domestic violence, according to greater attention, PAHO said. and poor behaviour. Children of omestic violence bands, is the most common form veys on gender-based violence Alessandra Guedes, PAHO’s PAHO. “We know that children ex- abused women experience anxi- against women may of violence against women in from 24 countries, mostly in Lat- regional adviser on family vio- “Partner violence continues posed to violence are more likely ety and behaviour problems that D have declined over the the Americas, aff ecting on aver- in America and the Caribbean, lence. to remain a widespread public to be perpetrators of violence as impact their health and develop- past 20 years in seven coun- age one in three women at some since 1998. The Dominican Republic and health, human rights and devel- adults, and or are more likely to ment,” Danel said. tries in the Americas, though point in their lives, according to Rates of domestic violence in Bolivia were among those expe- opment problem in the Ameri- suff er violence themselves,” said “Families may suff er from loss the problem remains rife and PAHO. Nicaragua decreased by almost riencing rises. In Bolivia more cas,” said Guedes, who presented Isabella Danel, PAHO’s deputy of income, and entire communi- undermines development in The health agency found that half from 1998-2012, said PAHO, than half of women have suf- the fi ndings at a PAHO event in director. ties suff er when survivors’ pro- the region, the Pan-American rates of domestic violence fell the regional arm of the World fered physical or sexual violence Washington. “This cycle of violence must be ductivity is aff ected and women Health Organisation (PAHO) signifi cantly in Canada and Health Organisation. by their partners at some point in With most violence against stopped,” she said. are not able to participate fully in said. Nicaragua, and to a lesser extent “Reported prevalence rates their lives. women in Latin America and the Research shows that children public life.” Venezuelans The old and the new in Colombia face backlash after protests

Reuters medicine shortages and hyper- Bogota infl ation. Nearly 1.5mn have settled in neighbouring Colombia, many aniels Herrera kept quiet arriving with scant resources. on his long walk home “There has been an increase in Dfrom work following vio- xenophobia in recent days,” said lent protests in the Colombian Ronald Rodriguez, director of the capital Bogota last week, fearful Observatory on Venezuela at Ro- his Venezuelan accent would give sario University in Bogota. him away. “These (rumours) happened in The 26-year-old had arrived my apartment building too. I was in the sprawling city high in the able to speak to at least 50 neigh- Andes almost two years ago, one bours that evening and every one of more than a million Venezue- of them, without exception, ac- lans who have fl ed crime and an cused those with Venezuelan na- economic meltdown at home to tionality,” said Rodriguez. seek refuge in Colombia. A mass deportation of 59 Ven- Herrera never expected to feel ezuelans who Colombia’s migra- Argentina’s outgoing President Mauricio Macri, his wife Juliana Awada, president-elect Alberto Fernandez and his partner Fabiola Yanez, attend an event at Lujan, in Buenos more unsafe here than in Vene- tion agency said were involved in Aires, Argentina, yesterday. zuela, which has one of the highest vandalism during the marches rates of violent crime in the world, only helped fuel prejudice, Rod- but that changed when violence riguez said. erupted in Bogota during a nation- “This action led people to be- wide strike and authorities im- lieve it was Venezuelans who posed a citywide curfew. caused all the problems,” he said. Transport came to a standstill, Neither the rumours nor the forcing Herrera and two Ven- deportations are unique to Co- ezuelan colleagues to walk al- lombia as the exodus of Venezue- Pemex ‘fi ghts in court to most 20km to reach their homes lans stirs tensions in neighbouring in southern Bogota. As they countries from Brazil to Chile. walked, they heard the mutter- In June, Peru fl ew home hun- ing among other frustrated com- dreds of Venezuelans with crimi- muters about Venezuelans ruin- nal records amid allegations that ing the country. migrants were responsible for a suspend clean diesel rule’ “It was really frightening. We rise in crime. decided not to speak,” said the Peru’s interior minister Reuters Pemex legal protection in Janu- the perception that President rule, which is backed by the try’s fuel reliance by building a young cook, who works at a fast warned against xenophobia in Mexico City ary by suspending enforcement Andres Manuel Lopez Obra- ministry, aims to limit more ex- new refi nery. food restaurant in a Bogota shop- September after false rumours of the rule across most of the dor’s government is backslid- pensive diesel imports and obvi- The rule also aimed to support ping mall. spread on social media alleging country. ing on environmental commit- ate the need for expensive new separate regulations requiring Non-governmental organi- Venezuelans were trying to kid- exico’s state-run oil The suspension limited man- ments. storage and transportation fa- trucks and buses produced in sations and researchers say ru- nap children. company Pemex has datory sale of ULSD to about 9% Pemex argued in the docu- cilities at a time when the state- Mexico to include equipment to mours blaming Venezuelan mi- Unlike its neighbours, Colom- Mbeen fi ghting for al- of Mexico, including the major ments that a lack of infrastruc- run oil company is struggling run on clean diesel from 2021. grants for isolated looting and bia has not imposed stringent most a year in court to suspend a population centres of Mexico ture to handle ULSD — which with a heavy debt and onerous Truck manufacturers want vandalism connected to the pro- immigration requirements, in- rule issued by the previous gov- City, Guadalajara and Monterrey must have a maximum of just 15 capital expenditures. the rule modifi ed so that exist- tests have caused a sharp rise in stead encouraging migrants to ernment, requiring the nation- as well as the northern border parts per mn of sulphur — could But partial distribution of ing engines can still be produced xenophobia. register with authorities so they wide sale of clean diesel to start region. force Pemex to halt some opera- ULSD is unlikely to help tackle while new ones using ULSD are Posts on social media and can access social services. this year, court documents seen The court documents, re- tions at its domestic refi neries. pollution, which is a serious gradually phased in, said Miguel messages forwarded on mes- For decades, Venezuela provid- by Reuters show. viewed by Reuters, show for the “(Pemex) does not have problem in several Mexican cit- Elizalde, president of Mexico’s saging application WhatsApp — ed shelter to Colombians fl eeing Mexico does not produce fi rst time that Pemex is fi ghting (enough) pipeline transporta- ies, including the capital. heavy truck makers association. many mentioning Venezuelans their country’s civil confl ict. enough ultra-low sulphur diesel in Mexican courts to indefi nitely tion capacity, storage nor port The United Nations last The industry is meant to make — stoked panic among Bogota In response to questions about (ULSD) to satisfy the demand suspend the rule. services to simultaneously im- month criticised the Mexican all its vehicles with ULSD- com- residents, as the city’s emergen- the deportations, Colombia’s the new rule — which was issued Sticking with high-sulphur port ULSD and send diesel with government for stalling “years patible engines, which has cre- cy line was inundated with calls migration agency shared a press by the nation’s energy regulator fuel would save Mexico money 500 parts per million through of progress” towards lower ated “uncertainty” for transport reporting residential break-ins release saying the “bad behav- in 2016 — would create, so US by limiting fuel imports and ex- exporting ports,” the energy emissions. fi rms and has put truck sales un- that police say never happened. iour of a few is creating an out- refi ners started gearing up last tending a time-frame for truck ministry was quoted as saying in Mexico has been importing an der pressure, he said. More than 4mn Venezuelans break of xenophobia, damaging year to supply the neighbouring makers to install ULSD-com- one of the documents submitted increasing amount of US fuel in Monthly wholesale truck have left their country in recent the image of their fellow coun- country with more clean fuel. patible engines. in court. recent years and Lopez Obrador sales have fallen up to 61% since years, fl eeing severe food and trymen.” But a district court granted However, it risks adding to Pemex’s fi ght to suspend the has pledged to curb the coun- July, he said.

Venezuela aid politicisation Young migrant Four dead in unacceptable: Red Cross Mexico shooting Reuters gunman dead, along with Mexico City two other people, the police AFP try were “starving and dying”, Even drawn-out confl icts said. Geneva Rocca said. where humanitarians have long One of three people who He warned that there were warned of donor fatigue are our people were killed sustained injuries died en some who wanted “to use the ci- proving easier to raise funds for and two injured in a route to the hospital. top Red Cross official vilian population, their despera- than Venezuela, according to the Fshooting near Mex- More than 100 police of- has decried a dire lack tion, as a tool to destabilise the IFRC. ico’s National Palace, the fi cers rapidly arrived and A of international fund- country”. “The paradox is that for us it is presidential residence in the cordoned off the street, ac- ing for humanitarian aid in More than 4.5mn people easier to receive funds for Syria capital’s historic downtown, cording to television images. Venezuela, warning that as- have meanwhile left the coun- and even for Yemen,” Rocca said. offi cials said. The building sits in a nar- sistance was being politicised try, which is in the midst of its “I cannot think of anything President Andres Manuel row, pedestrian-only street and desperate civilians were worst economic and social crisis else than political will to cre- Lopez Obrador was trav- that opens onto an entrance paying the price. in recent history, suff ering from ate this kind of situation on the elling outside of Mexico of the National Palace used Francesco Rocca, president of severe shortages of power and ground,” he said. City when the incident oc- daily by government staff the International Federation of resources, as well as crippling US “As a humanitarian this is curred. and reporters. the Red Cross, said the organisa- sanctions. unacceptable.” “Helping people Preliminary reports indi- Lopez Obrador took offi ce tion’s emergency appeal in Sep- Many of those remaining in in Venezuela is not...a political cated an armed man entered a year ago on pledges to run tember for some 50mn Swiss the country are “in desperate act. It is the only way to alleviate a building on a small street an austere government. francs ($50.1mn) for aid to Ven- need,” Rocca said, denouncing their suff ering,” Rocca said. near the palace looking to In addition to cutting his ezuela was less than 10% funded. international donors’ unwilling- He dismissed the “legend” relieve himself, Mexico City salary by half, he shed various “This is not about resources, ness to help. that the humanitarian crisis was police said. trappings of power, including this is about political will,” he He pointed out that funding still being exacerbated by the After two people in the a large force of secret-service said, warning that the severe un- appeals for humanitarian aid in government blocking access to building reproached him, style bodyguards. derfunding meant vital medical other crisis situations were not aid, insisting that the Red Cross the man withdrew a pistol The leftist also turned treatments, medicines and food facing the same problems. was able to “deliver everything in and opened fi re. the luxurious Los Pinos could not be provided. After a hurricane hit the Baha- a very free” way. When police arrived, they presidential residence United Nations agencies and mas in September for instance, “But unfortunately now we are found four people with gun- into a cultural centre and other humanitarian actors were the organisation’s appeal for stuck”, he said, lamenting that Honduran asylum-seeking child, Elias, 2, plays near the tent where shot wounds lying in the moved into the centuries- facing the same lack of funds for 12mn Swiss francs was met and there was little left to deliver. he lives after being relocated from the plaza near the Gateway building’s courtyard, and old National Palace amid Venezuela operations, and as a surpassed by 8mn francs within “The needs are not met at all,” he International Bridge in Matamoros, Mexico. shot at the gunman. the bustle of Mexico City’s result, many people in the coun- 10 days, he said. warned. Paramedics found the historic centre. Gulf Times 20 Monday, December 9, 2019 PAKISTAN

PM says Pakistan In-house change before is a fi rm believer of fresh polls, says PML-N working Internews election commissioner and two Government spokesperson mocks London huddle tion on the extension of the army PML-N Punjab spokesperson together Islamabad members of the Election Com- chief’s tenure, the PML-N lead- Azma Bukhari said that the party mission of Pakistan (ECP). Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Information Firdous Ashiq has er said he could not comment would start consultations with The party leaders present at criticised the Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N) of former prime about it until the court issued its other parties from next week for Internews he Pakistan Muslim the meeting included Khawaja minister Nawaz Sharif after the latter’s criticism of the government. detailed judgment on the matter. an in-house change. Islamabad League – Nawaz (PML-N) Asif, Ahsan Iqbal, Khurram Awan tweeted that it is “ironic” that people who are “wanted by the law” On the PML-N leaders’ meet- “The party’s prime goal is that Tof former prime minister Dastagir, Pervaiz Rasheed, Rana are involved in the consultation process on legislation and other matters. ing with former prime minister fresh elections are held at the Nawaz Sharif has stressed on the Tanveer, Amir Muqam, Ayaz She said: “The whole of PML-N has gathered around fugitives”, adding Sharif, Asif said that the party earliest and an in-house change rime Minister Imran Khan, need for an “in-house” change Sadiq, Marriyum Aurangzeb, that just like it is right of every prisoner to get medical treatment, it is supremo’s personal physi- is the only way to achieve it,” she while reiterating com- of government before holding and former fi nance minister also the right and obligation of the law to hold violators accountable. cian had briefed them about his added. Pmitment to the Charter of fresh elections as party bigwigs Ishaq Dar. Ashiq was commenting on the meeting of PML-N leaders held over the health. Shehbaz Sharif had recently South Asian Association for Re- met in London. After the meeting, the PML-N weekend in London that focused on the extension of the army chief, the Iqbal told reporters after backed the idea of an in-house gional Co-operation (SAARC), A group of PML-N leaders, leaders visited the party’s ailing government’s accountability drive against opposition leaders, and other the meeting that the Pakistan change, saying that it is the con- said yesterday that Pakistan is a who arrived in London a couple supreme leader, former prime political issues. Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) govern- stitutional and legal way for- fi rm believer in the strength and of days ago, held a consulta- minister Sharif, at the Avenfi eld ment’s “blunders” in the mat- ward. potential of regional co-opera- tive session presided over by apartments to inquire after his ter of the army chief’s extension He said that Prime Minister tion for individual, national, and party president Shehbaz Sharif health. of dissolving the assemblies. velopments taking place both were an embarrassment for the Khan had become a “burden” for regional development. to weigh their options over the Speaking to the media, Kha- “[This is] not for the sake of inside and outside parliament, entire nation. the country, and that the nation “Pakistan further believes legislation to extend the army waja Asif said that if fresh elec- perpetuating the change but for and sought his guidance on He also maintained that the needed to be rid of him as soon that eff ective and result-orient- chief’s tenure and discuss the tions were to take place, it is the sake of holding new elec- these matters. “We will chalk opposition had nothing to do as possible. ed regional co-operation can be political situation in the coun- necessary to fi rst have an in- tions,” he added. out the party’s policy on these with the talk of a minus-one Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) achieved only by adhering to the try. house change – removing Prime Asif further said the PML-N issues when we return to Paki- agenda – replacing Prime Min- chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari cardinal principles of sovereign They also discussed the delay Minister Imran Khan through a leaders had informed the party stan.” ister Khan – and that it origi- has also backed the call for an in- equality and mutual respect as in the appointment of the chief no-confi dence move – instead president about the recent de- To a query about the legisla- nated within the PTI. house change. enshrined in the SAARC Char- ter,” the prime minister said in a message on 35th SAARC Charter Day commemorated yesterday. The prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the Train SAARC process and expressed hope that the hiatus created in its continuous progression service to would be removed. On the Charter Day, he also fe- licitated the other SAARC mem- be restored ber states. The prime minister wished the people of South Asia, peace, after two progress and prosperity. He said that December 8 marked the day when lead- decades ers with vision and foresight adopted the SAARC charter and pledged to work together for the Internews progress and prosperity of South Lahore Asia. During the fi rst summit in Dhaka, on December 8, 1985, the he shuttle train serv- heads of state and government ice between Lahore and from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri TWagah Railway Station Lanka, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and will be restored on December 14, Maldives, adopted the Charter of after a gap of 22 years. SAARC. Railways chief operating su- perintendent Aamir Baloch said Centre-stage the train, which has been named 140 baby green “Rail Car”, has the capacity for Models present creations by 181 passengers. designers Aisha Farid (above), turtles released “The shuttle train will pro- Kausar Sajid (left), and Zeeshan at Hawkes Bay vide commute for the passengers Danish (below) on Saturday, desiring to witness the fl ag cer- during the second day of Pantene At least 140 baby green turtles emony in the evening, while Pa- Hum Bridal Couture Week in were released into the sea at kistan Rangers on Wagah border Lahore. On the right is celebrity Hawkes Bay Beach in Pakistan’s and Indian Border Force on the Ali Zafar, presenting a creation by southern port city of Karachi in other side will manage the secu- designer Emaan Rajput. the second release of the season. rity aff airs,” he said. Off icials in the Sindh Wildlife Baloch maintained that all ar- Department (SWD) said that 70 rangements for running the train turtles of the same species had have been completed. been released last month, adding The train will make four de- that they would continue with the tours and its fare is fi xed at Rs30. activity until February. Two passenger coaches and According to the off icials, the engine of the train have been hundreds of turtles have been overhauled and renovated using released into the sea every year resources of the railways depart- since 1980. ment. From nesting to their release to “In addition to two passen- the waters, the turtles have a ger cars, the shuttle train is also fascinating story of survival, said equipped with a brake van,” he Javed Ahmed Mahar, the SWD’s said. provincial conservator. The shuttle train had operated “Turtles are orphaned at birth,” between Wagah’s Jallo railway said Mahar, adding that the station to Lahore railway station. mother does not return to the The service lasted for many eggs after laying them. “There years from the partition of India is no one to look after or protect until 1997. the eggs. The travel facility was used by “A baby turtle has to find its the people of the border area as way out from the sand itself,” he well as other residents, as per the added, saying that it is exposed details. to danger. Businessmen and students The staff of the SWD’s Marine from Lahore used to come by Turtle Conservation Unit at shuttle train and return in the Hawkes Bay Beach, however, aids evening, but due to operational their struggle, looking after the and security reasons, the service eggs and then remaining with was shut down in 1997. the baby turtles until they safely Baloch said: “The train will make their way to the sea. start from Lahore railway sta- tion and will take two up-down rounds each in the morning and the evening.” “If there is an increase in the demand, more passenger boog- Pakistan urges ‘realistic’ mandates for UN peacekeeping operations ies could be added,” he added.

Internews in line with the 2018 Security “Rather than focusing just on a hospital evaluation system,” he ton’s strong support for peace- them. For their sake, we must Bilawal to address Islamabad Council resolution 2436 aimed cutting costs and troop num- said. keeping, US ambassador Kelly hold peacekeeping missions, at enhancing performance at all bers, operations must dictate “As a result, we are engaging Craft stressed the need for ac- leadership, and uniformed and PPP convention in levels, both at Headquarters in logistics, and not the other way with Member States in a more countability. civilian staff accountable,” she provincial capitals akistan has underscored New York and in the fi eld. around,” he added. focused way. In some cases, we Poor performance harms the said. the need for realistic man- Pakistan is one of the largest On his part, UN Secretary- have repatriated underperform- reputation of both the United UN chief Guterres said that Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Pdates for UN peacekeep- contributors to UN peacekeep- General Antonio Guterres said ing troops; in others, we have Nations and the countries which the world body is “doing eve- chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari ing operations, with adequate ing, with over fi ve thousand that he welcomes opportunities deployed mentors or training contribute to peacekeeping, rything possible” to improve will address party workers resources, to face the diffi cult troops serving in missions in to review eff ectiveness of world teams.” Craft said. accountability and end sex- conventions in all the provincial challenges in the world’s trou- hotspots around the world. body’s peacekeeping. There has also been progress She listed some of the con- ual abuse and exploitation by capitals in a bid to mobilise them bled regions. “We all agree that perform- The UN chief recalled that his in intelligence sharing, reduc- sequences such as troops being peacekeepers. for the public rally at Liaquat “With the operating envi- ance cannot be evaluated solely Action for Peacekeeping initia- ing gaps in vital equipment, im- left vulnerable to armed group Strong prevention and re- Bagh in Rawalpindi on the 12th ronments becoming ever more in terms of what peacekeepers tive renews collective commit- proving safety and security of attacks in the Democratic Re- sponse measures, as well as anniversary of Benazir Bhutto’s complex, there are increasing on ground did or did not accom- ment to excellence amid an in- peacekeepers, and in increasing public of the Congo (DRC), or the appointment of a Victims’ death on December 27. calls to update our tools to face plish,” Mohsin, a First Secretary creasingly dangerous landscape the numbers of women serving peacekeepers sexually abusing Rights Advocate, were among According to a PPP source, the contemporary challenges, at Pakistan’s Mission to the UN, for the blue helmets and their under the UN fl ag, among other children in the Central African the steps he mentioned. Bilawal will address the party respond to current threats and said, pointing out that it also civilian colleagues. areas. Republic. The UN chief called for in- workers convention in Karachi also to do our job better,” Pa- depends on realistic mandates, “Across all missions, we have The United States, which “But a far greater concern is creased momentum and part- on December 13, in Quetta on kistani delegate Rajeel Mohsin adequate resources and many introduced new systems and contributes $1.7bn to the peace- that it puts human lives at risk: nerships in building what he December 15, in Lahore on told in a meeting held to review other factors that are not in con- tools to evaluate performance. keeping budget, co-organised those of the people the UN is sees as “a culture of continual December 18, and in Peshawar on action to improve peacekeep- trol of troop contributing coun- These include regular military the meeting. mandated to protect, and the improvement and accountabil- December 21. ing, the UN’s fl agship activity, tries (TCCs). and police unit evaluations and While underlining Washing- peacekeepers sent to protect ity”. Gulf Times Monday, December 9, 2019 21 PHILIPPINES Pope appoints cardinal Tagle to global Vatican post Illegal scheme

Reuters Vatican City

ope Francis named Car- allowing banned dinal Luis Antonio Ta- Pgle yesterday to a major global Vatican post in a move likely to increase the Filipino’s chances of one day being elect- ed Pope himself. The Vatican said the contractors win 62-year-old archbishop of Manila will move to Rome to become head of the Congre- gation for the Evangelisation of Peoples, which oversees the Roman Catholic Church’s work in many developing countries. deals uncovered Tagle, who is popular at home and around the Catholic By William B Depasupil scheme.“This may not be happening only in celerated analysis and problem resolution at world, has been mentioned in Manila Times district engineering offi ces of the DPWH but the project/contract level, and full analytics the past as a potential candi- Luis Antonio Tagle also in other line agencies implementing in- at the construction programme level. date for the papacy, including frastructure projects,” he said. Villar explained that the shift to the new in the conclave that elected would round out his qualifi ca- had decades of pastoral expe- he Presidential Anti-Corruption “I suggest that district engineers do fur- system has allowed DPWH better access to Francis in 2013. tions as a future candidate for rience as a priest, as bishop of Commission (PACC) has uncovered ther due diligence before awarding any con- information to aggressively investigate and By moving him to the Vati- the papacy. the Philippine city of Imus and Ta scheme that enables suspended or tracts for civil works to protect public inter- blacklist erring contractors. can, Francis gives Tagle the Tagle, a progressive who later as archbishop of Manila. blacklisted contractors to join public bid- est. Infrastructure projects resulting from The DPWH chief earlier implemented a chance to gain experience at sees eye-to-eye with Francis About 80% of Filipinos are dings at the Department of Public Works and the scheme are usually substandard or of low three-strike policy under which erring con- the heart of the Church’s cen- on social issues from poverty Catholic, the highest propor- Highways (DPWH). quality, and not disaster resilient,” the PACC tractors are warned for the fi rst off ence, sus- tral administration, which to immigration, has already tion in Asia. PACC Commissioner Manuelito Luna yes- offi cial added. pended for the second off ence and blacklist- terday said under the illegal scheme, banned Luna said he would recommend that PACC ed for the third off ence. contractors bag deals by using the license of offi cials meet with Public Works Secretary Villar vowed to implement measures to contractors of good standing for a fee or a Mark Villar to discuss the matter. The two stop incompetent and unqualifi ed contrac- percentage cut in the work contract. agencies, he said, could conduct joint op- tors from participating in public biddings. “As of late, my offi ce, not the en banc of erations to nail the scheming contractors and He admitted that some fl y-by-night con- the PACC, has received reports backed up their co-conspirators. tractors were using the licenses of big con- De Lima seeks support by documents and expert opinion about “I know that the good secretary will never tractor fi rms through the help of some infl u- a scheme wherein some fl agged and even tolerate such practice; in fact, he has been ential personalities to bag big contracts that blacklisted contractors borrow or use the li- implementing various reforms in his de- they were not capable of doing. censes of good performing contractors for a partment to curb corruption, and is even “We will be strict on accreditation. We for people with disabilities fee or royalty to be able to participate in the blacklisting non-performing or scheming won’t allow those using the license of other biddings for civil work projects,” Luna said. contractors, and fi ring corrupt and under- contractors. We will be strict on equipment He claimed that the scheme was preva- performing district engineers and other and we will also check their fi nancial capa- By Javier J Ismael proclaimed in 1992 by United Nations General lent in district engineering offi ces across the DPWH offi cials,” he added. bility,” Villar said. “So right from the start, all Manila Times Assembly Resolution 47/3. country and involves projects at the munici- The PACC last year named the DPWH as those that have no capability cannot partici- As part of her eff ort to ensure that the plight pal or city level. the most corrupt department. pate.” of PWDs are improved, de Lima reintroduced “The project amount may not be that Villar vowed to act on all the complaints “We will also evaluate the performance of etained Senator Leila de Lima has urged Senate Bill 188, or the “National Commission for much but still it is in the millions of pesos, and called on the public to report to him di- accredited contractors. We will suspend and the government to exhaust all eff orts in Disability Aff airs (NCDA) Bill,” in the 18th Con- and becomes bigger if the contracts are cor- rectly through his hotline (165-02). ban those who repetitively violate the rules, Dproviding equal protection under the law gress, transforming the NCDA into a full-blown nered by a favoured contractor,” Luna told He said the DPWH has started using the but we will also encourage and support the for persons with disabilities (PWDs), to ensure a commission to address the gaps in promoting the Manila Times. Project and Contract Management Applica- performers,” he added. more dignifi ed life for them free from abuse and rights of PWDs. Luna expressed belief that some DPWH tion, an enterprise-wide application, with Under his watch, Villar said work on all discrimination. “We envision the Commission to be the lead insiders such as engineers and members of a centralised data base, that allows not only public works projects should be on a 24/7 De Lima, who is at the Philippine National Po- policy-making, planning, monitoring and co- the bids and awards committee know of the “real-time” updating in the fi eld but also ac- basis. lice custodial facility in Camp Crame, Quezon ordinating body that will develop, formulate and City on drug-related charges, said national agen- implement programmes for the prevention and cies and local offi cials should work together to rehabilitation of disabilities,” she said. increase public awareness in every aspect of the SB 188 underscores the role of the NCDA as the PWDs’ political, social, economic and cultural primary agency responsible for the implementa- life. tion of policies aimed at fulfi lling the rights of the Water deals should be fair to public: Go “There will never be an acceptable excuse PWD sector. or reason for PWDs to be neglected, abused or The senator also fi led in the 18th Congress SB sidelined. As a mother and grandmother of chil- 855, referred to as “Integrating Persons with Au- By Bernadette Tamayo dren with autism, advocating for the well-being tism and other Development Disabilities Act,” Manila Times of PWDs holds a special place in my heart,” she establishing institutional and social mechanisms added. to support persons with development disabilities “They do not need pity, but understanding and their families. enator Christopher Law- for their situation, handicaps and the challenges The measure seeks, among others, to conduct rence “Bong” Go over the they’re going through. They need assistance from a comprehensive training programme for health Sweekend said that water all of us, equal understanding and guidance in providers all over the country to help PWDs and concession agreements between order to have a normal and dignifi ed living,” the their families cope with their condition and turn the government and concerned senator said. them into productive members of society fi rms should be fair to Filipinos. De Lima made the remark during this year’s With shared commitment and unwavering The senator made the remark observance of the International Day of Persons solidarity, de Lima said she believed that the gov- after a Singapore-based Per- with Disabilities, which aims to promote the ernment and the Filipino public could “break the manent Court of Arbitration rights and well-being of persons with disabilities barriers that restrict our countrymen, especially recently ordered the Philippine in all spheres of society and development. the marginalised, in making meaningful contri- government to pay P7.3bn in The annual observance of the occasion was butions to society.” compensation to Manila Water Co Inc, after the government re- jected water rate increases since 2015. Go said that water conces- sionaires Maynilad Water Serv- Christopher Go: seeking fair deals for public ices Inc. and Manila Water should fulfi l their obligations to ice sucks. They must fulfi l what salon or store, if your sales are The Department of Justice provide regular and safe water to they had promised in the con- high, you will pay income tax. (DoJ) said it had discovered “on- their customers. tract and not pass the burden to That is your obligation as a busi- erous” provisions in the water “Every Filipino owns the wa- the people,” he added. nessman,” Gatchalian said. concession contracts, which are ter they (water concessionaires) Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian “It (contract) must be rene- deemed disadvantageous to the distribute,” he said when he vis- agreed with Go, saying in a radio gotiated and legal actions must public because they prohibit the ited typhoon victims in Gubat, interview yesterday that “four or be done to make the concession government from adjusting wa- Sorsogon. “It so happened that fi ve years ago, these concession- agreement fair to all,” Gatchal- ter rates. they won the water concession aires passed the (burden of their) ian said. “We gave these two conces- contract. The contract must be corporate income tax to their President Rodrigo Duterte had sionaires the privilege to sup- fair to every Filipino,” he said. consumers.” threatened to fi le charges of eco- ply water but they also have the “And then we were made to “For me, this is unfair because nomic sabotage against Manila obligation to pay corporate tax,” De Lima: call for protection of disabled pay the taxes even if the serv- even small businesses like small Water and Maynilad. Gatchalian said. Communist party chief declines peace talks in Manila

By Darwin Pesco NDFP members, Sison add- suming the peace negotiations Meanwhile, the AFP also tion 374, the CPP and the NPA Manila Times ed, could be under the control in a “foreign neutral venue” welcomed the possible re- were both tagged as “terrorist and surveillance of the “blood- before the mutual approval of sumption of the peace talks, its groups.” Meanwhile, a total of thirsty” military and police the Comprehensive Agreement spokesman said. P171.6mn in financial assist- eace negotiations in the “who engage in mass murders on Social and Economic Re- “The AFP respects and sup- ance through the Enhanced Philippines are unac- and other heinous crimes with forms. ports the wisdom of the com- Comprehensive Local Integra- Pceptable and should not impunity. Esperon was included in an mander-in-chief in issuing tion Programme take place, Communist Party of On December 5, Duterte said alleged kill plot of the CPP- such pronouncements,” AFP (E-CLIP) was received by the Philippines (CPP) founding in his speech that he would send NPA, as bared by Armed Forces spokesman Brig Gen Edgard 2,882 rebels, who surrendered Chairman Jose Maria “Joma” Si- Secretary Silvestre Bello 3rd to of the Philippines (AFP) official Arevalo said in a statement. from July 2018 to November son said. The Netherlands and meet with Maj Gen Antonio Parlade Jr. Arevalo, however, said the 2019. Sison pointed out that this Sison for the resumption of the The CPP-NPA’s special op- military would continue suc- The DILG said of the total precondition set by President peace talks. erations group called “Spar- cessful focus military opera- surrenderers, 2,635 received Rodrigo Duterte for the resump- Sison welcomed the idea and row” was supposedly targeting tions in support of the NTF immediate assistance. tion of the peace talks would put said he had never closed the door Esperon, Department of the Elcac in neutralising the NPA. “E-CLIP will be here to assist the National Democratic Front to peace negotiations with the Interior and Local Government “We unequivocally com- rebels who want to change the of the Philippines (NDFP) in government “under Duterte or (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Ano mit to all-out peace that shall story of their lives, those who jeopardy. any other president.” and National Commission on embody the aspirations of our want to abandon the hostility “This precondition is totally The CPP founder said he had Indigenous Peoples chairman people who have long been of armed conflicts. The gov- unacceptable to the NDFP be- observed that Duterte himself Allen Capuyan. yearning for it,” he added. ernment won’t neglect you,” cause it aims to put the NDFP did not set any precondition un- Parlade said Oplan Hades, a Duterte announced the per- DILG spokesman and Under- and the entire peace negotia- til the president and his “side- plan to target government offi- manent termination of peace secretary Jonathan Malaya said tions in the pocket of the Duterte kick” National Security Adviser Jose Maria Sison: spurning off er cials, was renewed to add Ano, talks with the NDFP in March in a news briefing. regime,” he said in a statement. Hermogenes Esperon made one Esperon and Capuyan because this year. Malaya added that the ap- The CPP and its armed wing, that Manila be the venue for by declaring that it has no choice He added that Esperon of the creation of the National In 2017, he terminated the proach of the government to the New People’s Army (NPA), talks. but to accept the resumption of should not try to gain from Task Force to End Local Com- peace talks through Proclama- peace talks with the commu- are members of the NDFP, an “Esperon is extremely arro- peace negotiations in the Philip- “cheap ephemeral psywar” and munist Armed Conflict (NTF tion 360. nist group is now a localised umbrella group. gant and insulting to the NDFP pines,” Sison said. sabotage the possibility of re- Elcac). Then, through Proclama- one. Gulf Times 22 Monday, December 9, 2019 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), 44466636 (Home delivery) 44350474 facebook.com/gulftimes twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar GULF TIMES Have Metro’s Red, Gold and Green lines will travel! Travelling across Qatar will never be the same again from tomorrow (December 10) when Qatar Rail is set to start the preview service of the Doha Metro Green Line for the public. Reaching destinations including Souq Waqif, Qatar National Library, Education City Stadium, Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah, Hamad Hospital, City Center Doha, Villaggio, and Mall of Qatar is going to be a breeze. Bhopal tragedy: the disaster is Forget traffic jams, searching for parking or paying for parking. The occasion also coincides with the opening of four more stations on the Red Line - Hamad International Airport, Katara, Qatar University still claiming lives 35 years on and Lusail, according to Qatar Rail. With this, “test operations on all three Doha Metro lines will By Hannah Ellis-Petersen by the Indian government. However, S R severe learning diffi culties. “This is the diseases or disabilities are gas-related. “It Bhopal Mohanty, chief secretary of the energy terrible legacy of Bhopal: all of these has become obvious to me this is never have been conducted”, according to the Ministry of department for the state government, children were born to parents, or even about medicine and people, it is about Transport and Communications (MoTC). Earlier, told the Guardian that plans have grandparents, who were in contact with politics and power,” Sarangi says. Qatar Rail had started services on the Gold Line on he residents of JP Nagar have no fi nally been made to carry out a toxicity the gas that night,” said Rashida Bee, Omwati Yadav’s two grandsons, born way to escape their ghosts. This assessment in the coming months. the centre’s founder. “The situation to a mother and father who were both November 21, while the Red Line was opened on May ramshackle neighbourhood, on The Guardian can also reveal the role is getting worse, not better. We are exposed to the gas, are among the second 8 this year. Tthe outskirts of the Indian city the US government has played – and seeing more and more second and third generation victims of Bhopal. Walking The Green Line runs from Al Mansoura to Al of Bhopal, stands just metres away from continues to play – in obstructing generation children being born with such into the hut where where Yikas, 21, and the chemical factory which exploded just justice for the Bhopal victims, in order disabilities and coming here. Bhopal’s Aman, 19, lie side-by-side on the fl oor Riff a and comprises a total of 11 stations. The other after midnight on 2 December 1984 and to protect American corporate giants tragedy has not stopped.” on a pink woven mat, she breaks down. stations are Msheireb (interchange), Al Bidda seeped poison into their lives forever. Union Carbide and its now owner Dow Activists allege that there has been Both born severely disabled by cerebral (interchange), The White Palace, Hamad Hospital, The blackened ruins of the Union Chemicals. a deliberate suppression by the Indian palsy and muscular dystrophy, the Carbide plant still loom untouched Those who did not initially perish government of any research which severity of the boys’ condition is on stark Al Messila, Al Rayyan Al Qadeem, Al Shaqab, Qatar behind the factory walls. in the blast live with a toxic sword of proves the long term systemic or genetic display. Justice has indeed remained National Library and It remains the world’s worst industrial Damocles over their heads. New data damage caused by the gas explosion, to elusive for the victims of Bhopal. A 1989 Education City. Like the disaster, which saw 40 tonnes of toxic collected over the past nine years by the protect the corporations involved. Proof compensation deal, now widely panned What makes methyl isocyanate gas released into Sambhavna Trust suggests that even of the lasting damage of the gas exposure as shamefully inadequate, saw most Red and Gold lines, the the air, killing over 3,000 instantly and after three decades, the mortality rate for could have major legal implications for victims given just Rs25,000 (£275), while travel by Doha Green Line will operate condemning hundreds of thousands gas-exposed victims is still 28% higher Union Carbide and its current owner some received nothing at all. None of the Metro most from 6am-11pm from to a future of prolonged pain, cancer, than average. They are twice as likely Dow Chemicals, who took ownership of nine Indian offi cials who were convicted Saturday-Thursday, and stillbirths, miscarriages, lung and heart to die of cancers, diseases of the lungs the company and its legal responsibilities in 2010 for their role in the disaster disease and the drawn out deaths of and tuberculosis, three times as likely to in 2001, in terms of compensation served any time behind bars, while Union attractive is from 2pm-11pm on Fridays. everyone around them. die from kidney diseases and 63% more liability. A civil court case, begun in 2010, Carbide has never appeared in court. the perfectly Metrolink feeder bus “It would be better if there was likely to have illnesses. The Trust’s data is ongoing in the supreme court, which Lingering behind the scenes has been services will be available another gas leak which could kill us all also highlights the fact that over the is arguing to re-open the compensation the shadowy hand of the US government, and put us all out of this misery,” said past three years, almost a quarter of gas case for victims of Bhopal. who, throughout three decades of aff ordable fare during these timings to Omwati Yadav, 67, who can see the exposed victims were diagnosed with an Indeed, one recent rare study administrations, have repeatedly transport passengers Union Carbide factory from the roof of under-active thyroid, which can have authorised by government medical body intervened to shade Union Carbide and between the metro stations and areas near them, her tiny one-room stone house, painted devastating long term health impacts. the Indian Council for Medical Research more recently its owner Dow Chemicals, peppermint green with orange doors. Hundreds of thousands of people were (ICMR), found that between 2016-2017, from legal liability, according to according to the MoTC. The routes can be found on Her body shaking with sobs, she cries exposed to toxic chemicals as a result of 9% of the babies born to gas-exposed documents seen by the Guardian. the Qatar Rail application and the company’s website. out: “Thirty fi ve years we have suff ered the disaster, leading to cases of cancer, mothers had birth defects compared to In 2003, when an extradition request Passengers using the Green Line can use any of the through this, please just let it end. This stillbirths, miscarriages, lung and heart 1.3% born to mothers with no exposure. was sent to the US for Union Carbide two interchange stations, Msheireb and Al Bidda, to is not life, this is not death, we are in the disease. However, the study was subsequently CEO Warren Anderson to be extradited terrible place in between.” The data also suggests that the discredited by the ICMR, who ordered it to India to face trial, emails released switch over to another line. While Msheireb serves as The explosion killed over 3,000 people explosion has had a particularly adverse not to be published or disclosed. through freedom of information reveal that an interchange station for all three lines (Red, Gold instantly, but the subsequent death toll eff ect on women exposed to the gas, “From the beginning the government secretary of state Colin Powell and fi gures and Green), Al Bidda is an interchange station for the has been far higher. even as babies just days old, causing high has protected the corporations at the at the state department emphasised “the Her husband Panna Lal Yadav, 70, who rates of infertility, stillbirths, abortions, cost of human lives,” says Satinash importance of this issue to the US business Red and Green lines. worked as a packer in the Union Carbide early menopause and wreaking havoc Sarangi, founder of the Sambhanva Trust community” and various offi cials at Union People in Qatar can already access two other 2022 factory, points to the black marks and on menstrual cycles. As a result, many which runs an medical clinic that has Carbide met with offi cials at the US state World Cup venues, Khalifa International Stadium in lumps all over his body. “The poison is women in Bhopal continue to be treated over 300,000 Bhopal victims. department. The extradition request was still inside my body,” he says. “Here you abandoned by their husbands, believed This year marks the 25th anniversary later declined. Doha and Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah, by using can see it coming out.” not to be capable of fulfi lling the familial of the trust, which was established Classifi ed e-mails released as part of Doha Metro’s Gold and Red lines, respectively. This week marks the 35th anniversary duties expected of them. entirely on the basis of donations given WikiLeaks show that in 2010, when the What makes travel by Doha Metro most attractive of the disaster yet the injustice suff ered Yet it is the lasting impact on the by thousands of Guardian readers who Indian government pushed to reopen by the people of Bhopal remains stark second and third generation, and on responded to a newspaper advert by the the compensation settlement for Bhopal is the perfectly aff ordable fare. A Day Pass for all and unrelenting. The offi cial death toll is those yet unborn that haunts those Bhopal Medical Appeal. victims, Robert Hormats, who served as lines costs QR6, while a single trip costs QR2 in the still disputed but an estimated 574,000 in Bhopal the most. The Chingari Sarangi set up the clinic after several President Obama’s under secretary of standard and family class, and QR10 in the gold class. were poisoned that night and upwards children’s centre, established for those incidents convinced him the government state for economic growth, energy, and This is a big saving for travellers who hitherto used to of 20,000 people have died since from born with disabilities as a consequence were not giving Bhopal victims the correct the environment, met with then Indian related conditions. No one from Union of the disaster, has registered over treatment or information in a bid to cabinet minister Montek Ahluwalia to depend on taxis or limousines. Another attraction is Carbide was ever tried for the gross 1,000 children, with most aff ected by disguise the lasting scale of the tragedy. communicate that it would “look really that Metro passengers will not be required to tap in negligence that led to the gas explosion, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, Even today, in government-run hospitals, bad to reopen a settlement”. Hormats and out when interchanging between lines as long as despite multiple criminal charges being autism, intellectual disabilities and doctors will not acknowledge if victim’s is now vice-president of Kissinger brought against them in India. No Associates, the geopolitical consulting they remain within the paid area. Ever since the fi rst cleanup operation of the chemical waste fi rm set up by former US secretary of stretch was opened on May 8 this year, Doha Metro – which was already being dumped state Henry Kissinger, who took on has been a hot favourite, with passenger numbers into the local community before the Union Carbide as a client following the explosion – has ever been conducted. disaster and lobbied on their behalf for exceeding 1mn by the end of August. Clearly, Doha The eff ects of the disaster will be felt years after. Metro is one of the many good things ever happened on the health of generations to come, not State department documents also in Qatar. least through the severe contamination reveal that in his 2010 visit to India, of the area around the factory. President Barack Obama specifi cally did Surveys done by the Bhopal campaign not meet with NGOs dealing with Bhopal groups have shown this toxic waste, out of fear of stoking the issue and that To Advertise which according to their tests contains a key objective of the visit was instead to six of the persistent organic pollutants stress his “support for Dow’s business [email protected] banned by the UN for their highly in India.” Display poisonous impacts on the environment The Indian government has also been and human health, has now reached 42 accused of working against the victims 44466621 44418811 areas in Bhopal and continues to spread. by kowtowing to corporate interests. In The pond where Union Carbide used to 2015, while on a visit to the US, Indian Classified dump the chemicals sits festering and Prime Minister Narendra Modi met 44466609 44418811 untouched, with children and wild pigs with offi cials from Dow Chemicals. running on about on its banks. Contacted by the Guardian for this Subscription State offi cials have long disputed story, Dharmendra Kumar Madan, joint that this waste has any harmful impact, secretary at the ministry of chemicals, [email protected] accusing activists of inventing it to get which is responsible for Bhopal, refused charity funding; off ers by the UN and to comment, stating simply: “I am not the German government to carry out Survivors and relatives of victims of the Bhopal gas accident hold photos of the concerned with this issue.” — Guardian © 2019 Gulf Times. All rights reserved tests and clear it up have been refused victims during a candlelight vigil. PICTURE: Sanjeev Gupta/EPA News and Media Gulf Times Monday, December 9, 2019 23

PICTURES: Noushad Thekkayil and Anas Sights from 24th Arabian Gulf Cup fi nal al-Samaraee Gulf Times Monday, December 9, 2019 24

Amir honours players, officials of 24th Arabian Gulf Cup

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani crowned the national football team of Bahrain, the winner of the 24th Arabian Gulf Cup, following their 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia at Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium yesterday. The ceremony was attended by His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, the Personal Representative of the Amir His Highness Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalifa al-Thani and HE Sheikh Jassim bin Khalifa al-Thani, among other dignitaries.