FRIDAY JANUARY 10, 2020 JUMADA AL-AWWAL 15, 1441 VOL.13 NO. 4839 QR 2

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Amir, Rouhani discuss PM OPENS DAAM SPECIALIZED CARE CENTER ways to de-escalate and reduce tension New facility will provide best care for the elderly: Minister QNA for the elderly. Residents of the Daam DOHA Specialized Care Center will benefit from programmes and services that PRIME Minister and Minister of In- are tailored to the level of care they re- terior HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser quire. Like our Enaya Specialized Care bin Khalifa al Thani opened Hamad Centers, this facility has been designed THE Amir HH Sheikh Tamim between the two countries Medical Corporation’s Daam Special- to create a comfortable, home-like en- bin Hamad al Thani held a and the ways to support and ized Care Center at Hamad Bin Khalifa vironment in the community — a space telephone conversation with enhance them. Medical City on Thursday. that provides the best quality patient- Iranian President Dr Hassan Earlier, the Amir held a The Prime Minister then toured centered medical care while support- Rouhani. telephone conversation with the centre where he was briefed on the ing patients in regaining or maintain- During the phone call, UK Prime Minister Boris various specialised facilities of health- ing optimal levels of functioning,” said they discussed the latest Johnson. The call focused on care services, including physiotherapy, Kuwari. developments in the region reviewing developments in occupational therapy and other medi- She said the collaboration between and the ways to de-escalate the region, following events in cal and nursing services in a home-like Daam and HMC will enrich Qatar’s and reduce tension for the Iraq, and discussed ways to environment for patients. health system, citing it as an excellent security, peace and stability maintain peace and stability. The new centre will enhance the example of how community partner- in the region and the world. The call also focused on bilat- clinical capacity of the existing “Enaya” ships can help reduce waiting times The phone call also eral relations and the means centres which have been providing ex- and ensure care services are available touched on close relations to enhance them. (QNA) tended care services to patients since in the most appropriate setting. The 2010. minister thanked Daam for their sup- The PM also listened to a briefing Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al Thani port of health initiatives. about the health services provided inaugurates the Daam Specialized Care Center on Thursday. In late 2017, Kuwari and Gover- to patients of medical follow-up and nor of Qatar Central Bank HE Sheikh round the clock care by a specialised hammed al Kuwari said the Daam Spe- Daam has been an important part- Abdullah bin Saoud al Thani signed team of doctors and nursing cadres ac- cialised Care Center is an important ner for healthcare development in the a Memorandum of Understanding cording to a special treatment plan for medical facility that will enhance the country, having previously provided (MoU) to establish the Daam Special- each patient commensurate with his country’s healthcare services dedicated financial support for neonatal care ser- ized Care Center. The donation from individual needs, in addition to medi- to the elderly. vices at HMC. Daam covered one hundred percent cal evaluation services, treatment and The facility will provide a home- “This new facility will have a last- of the costs to retrofit and commission rehabilitation care. like environment for the patients that ing legacy for our population and will the new facility. Speaking on the occasion, Minister will allow them to get the support they improve our health system’s ability to of Public Health HE Dr Hanan Mo- need while enjoying their life better. provide long-term care in the country Continued on page 2 

Govt mulls doing away with Qatar signs MoU with ILO, Sweden on labour issues company registration fee THE government of Qatar, Labour Affairs Mohammed THE government is studying a proposal for doing away with the fees required to register companies represented by the Ministry Hassan al Obaidli, Ambas- as well as lowering tariffs and port fees to provide more incentives to the private sector and improve of Administrative Develop- sador of Sweden HE Anders Qatar’s global ranking in international indicators in that regard, Minister of Commerce and Industry ment, Labour and Social Bengtcen, and Head of ILO HE Ali bin Ahmed al Kuwari has said. Speaking during a ceremony to announce the digital transfor- Affairs (MADLSA), Sweden Project Of ce for Qatar Hou- mation of the process of registering new companies, the minister said the new and the International Labour tan Homayounpour. The MoU incentives come following the directives of the country’s wise leadership to Organisation (ILO) have aims to enhance cooperation improve the business environment in Qatar and enhance its reputation as an signed a Memorandum of Un- in the elds of occupational ideal investment destination in the region and the world. Two fans try to cover themselves from rain at the Khalifa Interna- derstanding (MoU) on labour- health and safety at work The digital transformation of the ministry’s services reaches the pro- tional Tennis and Squash Complex on Thursday. related areas. The agree- and corporate social respon- cess of establishing new companies, which will no longer involve paper- ment was signed in Doha by sibility through institutional work starting the middle of this month. The only exception will be made Assistant Undersecretary for collaboration. (QNA) for people with disabilities who might nd it easier to carry out Scattered rain lashes Qatar the process electronically. He said the launching of the phase SEVERAL parts of the country received scattered rainfall on 1 of the one-stop-shop in September last Thursday. “Scattered rain continues and according to latest year aimed at connecting all designated radar image may become thundery at times especially in institutions and authorities to facilitate the southern areas. For your safety, kindly avoid any marine activi- British lawmakers finally approve process for investors would ultimately at- ties due to unsettled weather conditions,” Qatar Meteorology historic Brexit deal (PG 7) tract more investments. (QNA) PAGE 8 Department said. (TNN)

Doha International Book Fair opens at DECC in style More than 335 publishing houses from 31 countries taking part in the book fair

AILYN AGONIA the opening ceremony along digital copies provides special said the book fair was an im- DOHA with several ministers and pleasure and enjoyment. portant pillar of culture in so- dignitaries, praised the design Speaking on the occa- ciety. MINISTER of Culture and and the organisation of the sion, the Minister of Culture He stressed the ministry’s Sports HE Salah bin Ghanem event this year, expressing ap- and Sports said the minis- commitment to participating al Ali inaugurated the 30th preciation for Qatari publish- try hoped the fair provides a in the book fair every year, as Doha International Book Fair ing houses for their efforts. place for people to think and part of its interest in support- under the slogan “Do you On the slogan, he said the find out more about the world ing extracurricular activities. then not ponder?” at the Doha fact it was inspired from Is- rather than just to buy books. He said Qatari youth are Exhibition Conference Center lam was wonderful, especially He said the event was the first playing a bigger role in the (DECC) on Thursday. that it encourages people to of its kind in the region and a cultural field, evident by the More than 335 publishing think. reflection of Qataris’ love for rise in the number of Qa- houses from 31 countries are He called on the pub- books and reading. tari publishing houses and taking part in the book fair. lic to visit the book fair and For his part, Minister of young Qatari authors and Shura Council Speaker HE buy books that are available, Education and Higher Educa- researchers. Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid stressing that buying physi- tion HE Dr Mohammed bin Ministers and dignitaries during the opening of the Doha International Book Fair at DECC on Thursday. al Mahmoud, who attended cal books rather than reading Abdul Wahed al Hammadi Continued on page 16  02 Friday, January 10, 2020

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FM holds telephone talks with Iranian ‘Daam Center connected to Enaya for transfer of patients’ counterpart Continued from page 1  The Daam Specialised those who require functional DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Care Center is connected to rehabilitative care”, he said. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al Thani held a telephone THE governor said his or- the Enaya Specialised Care He added that unlike a conversation with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Re- ganisation was pleased to Centers via a link bridge, al- traditional hospital environ- public of Iran Mohammad Javad Zarif. They discussed the latest collaborate with HMC in the lowing for efficiencies in staff- ment, the Daam Specialised developments in the region, especially in Iraq, as well as ways improvement of the country’s ing, equipment and space. Care Center has been tailored to reduce tension and spare the peoples of the region further healthcare infrastructure and Chief of Continuing Care at to meet the needs of longer- escalation. (QNA) the provision of care for Qa- HMC Mahmoud al Raisi said term care patients. He noted tar’s elderly. patients will be transitioned that all rooms are private, Qatar slams Mogadishu bombing “The opening of the Daam to the new facility in the com- have enough space to accom- Specialised Care Center ing weeks. modate family and include THE State of Qatar has expressed its strong condemnation and marks the culmination of the “The first and second an en suite bathroom. They denunciation of the bombing in the Somali capital Mogadishu, projects and initiatives that floors of the facility will pro- also feature a wide range of causing deaths and injuries. In a statement issued on Thursday, we have implemented in col- vide care for elderly patients artworks from a number of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated Qatar’s rm rejection of laboration with the Ministry who require long-term me- renowned Qatari artists. The violence and terrorism irrespective of motives and causes. The of Public Health and Hamad chanical ventilation, while centre has been designed to statement expressed the condolences of Qatar to the families Medical Corporation. The the third and fourth floors be warm and as home-like as of the victims and to the government and people of Somalia, health sector in Qatar has thanks to the combined healthcare, as best befits Qa- will care for older adults possible and is a step in the wishing the injured speedy recovery. (QNA) seen significant develop- national efforts to ensure tar and its citizens,” Sheikh with dementia, other forms right direction to alleviate ments over the past years, the delivery of high-quality Saoud said. of cognitive impairment and waiting times in hospitals. Hammadi leads Qatar’s delegation US is unlikely to withdraw its to education meet troops from ME, say experts in Morocco ‘The protest in the vicinity of the US embassy in Baghdad was one of the factors that led to the killing of Soleimani’

QNA TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK prevents the outbreak of an all- MARRAKESH DOHA out war between Iran and the US.” THE State of Qatar is taking THE US will not withdraw its Dr Muhammad al Cherka- part in the 33rd International forces from the Middle East oui, first researcher at the Al- Congress for School Effective- after the assassination of Gen- Jazeera Center for Studies and ness and Improvement (ICSEI eral Qassem Soleimani as Iran an expert of American affairs, 2020), currently in session in wants, said experts. said, “Trump started this seri- the Moroccan City of Mar- The experts made the con- ous crisis with Iran by assas- rakesh. clusion at a symposium organ- sinating Qassem Soleimani The Minister of Education ised by the Al-Jazeera Center to export his internal crisis and Higher Education HE Dr for Studies entitled ‘After the abroad, believing this would Mohammed bin Abdul Wahed killing of Qassem Soleimani: strengthen his position in the al Hammadi is leading Qatari Where is the Middle East head- presidential elections that will delegation at the meeting. empowerment and sustain- ing?’ be held this year.” The event, which is being able development, and the The symposium empha- On the possibility of Ameri- held for the first time in Africa importance of collaboration to sised that the Iranian loss of Panelists at a symposium organised by Al Jazeera CEnter for Studies in Doha on Thurdsday. can forces withdrawing their and Arab region, is one of the improve qualityof education. Soleimani is significant due to forces from the Middle East most important global confer- On the sidelines of the his accumulated experience in break of an all-out war between most notably the US withdraw- ing the Iraqi Hezbollah militia after the killing of Soleimani, ences that aim at enhanced conference, Dr Hammadi the Syrian, Iraqi, Lebanese and Iran and the US, created an op- al from the nuclear deal and and some other PMF factions Dr Cherkaoui said, “This is un- quality, equity and excellence met with the Minister of Na- Afghan issues, but his successor portunity for these countries to the re-imposition of economic before coming with its greatest likely and the goal of the matter of education. tional Education, Vocational -- who has extensive experience achieve more rapprochement sanctions on Iran and the em- blow by assassinating Qassem is to redistribute and redeploy The ICSEI brings together Training, Higher Education in the Afghan matters -- may and overcome differences. barrassment that it caused to Soleimani and Abu Mahdi Al- the forces.” more than 1200 participants and Scientific Research of the revitalise the Afghan arena as The symposium evoked the the Iranian leadership through Muhandis, deputy chief of the Cherkaoui pointed out that from over 70 countries, pro- Kingdom of Morocco Dr Said a battlefield against American historical contexts and back- the increased deterioration of PMF. the US-Iranian relations are viding an international forum Amzazi. forces. grounds through which the as- the currency value and the rise Commenting on the Ira- now governed by the hostile for researchers, policy makers They reviewed key issues The symposium also con- sassination of General Soleim- in the level of Inflation.” nian response of launching personal relationship between and practitioners to share ex- of common interest in the cluded that the stormy tensions ani could be understood. He said another issue was missiles at the US bases of Ein the leader of the two countries, perience and exchange knowl- fields of education and re- witnessed in the Gulf in the af- Dr Mahjoub Zweiri, di- the protest that was staged in Al-Assad and Erbil in Iraq, Dr Ali Khamenei and Donald edge on quality education and search, including exchange of termath of the assassination of rector of the Center for Gulf the vicinity of the US embassy Zweiri said, “This response was Trump. school improvement. expertise and the best prac- Soleimani and the feeling that Studies at Qatar University, in Baghdad. carefully calculated in order The other participants at The congress will focus on tices applied in both countries prevailed in the Gulf capitals said, “The assassination was Dr Zweiri added that the to achieve some of what Iran the symposium were Haoues the role of education in youth in this regard. about the possibility of the out- preceded by important events, US first responded by target- wants and at the same time Taguia and Liqaa Maki.

WCM-Q Grand Rounds explores integration Nominations for Qatar Sustainability of engineering and medical education Prize will continue until January 26 TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK of the spinal cord to allow a pa- QNA Shammari said the fourth DOHA tient to move his paralysed legs DOHA edition of the Qatar Sustain- and stand up. ability Week, which conclud- THE potential for engineer- Dr Javaid I Sheikh, dean of QATAR Green Building ed last November, witnessed ing and medical education to WCM-Q, said, “Dr Pettigrew’s Council (QGBC), a member the organisation of more be integrated to drive innova- vision for the future of health- of Qatar Foundation (QF), than 280 events in coop- tion and improve healthcare care through the convergence has announced that it will eration with more than 160 outcomes was discussed at the of engineering and medicine continue to accept nomina- partners from various fields, latest edition of Weill Cornell to produce problem-solving tions for the 4th annual Qatar which provided specific pro- Medicine-Qatar’s (WCM-Q) ‘physicians’ is a truly visionary Sustainability Awards until grammes for all groups of the Grand Rounds lecture series. leap of the imagination, but January 26. society. Visiting expert Dr Roderic also a tremendously practical The Qatar Sustainabil- He added that the activi- I Pettigrew, executive dean and logical solution for bridging ity Awards is one of the first ties had a significant impact EnMed at Texas A&M Univer- the gap between two scientific and largest awards in Qa- on society as the number of sity and Houston Methodist Dr Roderic I Pettigrew, executive dean EnMed at Texas A&M University spheres.” tar that honour the efforts, follow-ups on social media Hospital, is one of the world’s and Houston Methodist Hospital, speaks at WCM-Q Grand Rounds. Dr Pettigrew added, “I ap- commitment and excellence Director of QGBC Engineer reached more than five mil- foremost pioneers of ‘EnMed’, preciate having the opportu- of people, institutions and Meshal al Shammari lion and the messages of the a new discipline that combines health professionals, Dr Pet- technological innovation serves nity to share with you my vision organisations in supporting Council to the public reached the teaching of engineering and tigrew said, “EnMed is an in- as the engine for scientific pro- and my excitement about the sustainable development. tainability Week’ initiative almost a million, varying be- medicine to produce physicians novative engineering medical gress in healthcare, helping opportunity we have to really The announcement was aimed at building a healthy tween Friday sermons, elec- with the skills to design and school that simultaneously of- physicians and scientists dis- transform healthcare for the made during a ceremony to environment and contribut- tronic platforms, advertising build medical devices to solve fers an MD degree and an engi- cover new knowledge about dis- planet and to make a huge dif- honour partners and spon- ing to achieving the sustain- campaigns and advertise- the health problems they en- neering master’s in a four-year ease and to turn those discov- ference in the wellbeing of all of sors of the fourth annual edi- able development goals of ments to educate the largest counter at clinics. programme that purposefully eries into improved healthcare us through the convergence of tion of the ‘Qatar Sustainabil- Qatar. possible number of citizens Dr Pettigrew has been in- educates engineering-grounded through invention. engineering and medicine.” ity Week 2019’ organised by He pointed out that the and residents about the goals strumental in the establishment physicians – or ‘physicianeers’ Examples included the use The lecture, titled ‘Engi- QGBC on Thursday. partners, through their con- of the council. of a partnership between the – and purposefully trains them of electrical deep brain stimula- neering Healthcare to Trans- Director of QGBC Engi- tributions, highlighted in- Shammari called on all College of Engineering, the Col- to invent transformational tech- tion to successfully treat chronic form Medicine’, was ac- neer Meshal al Shammari novative solutions to the organisations, governmental lege of Medicine and Houston nology for healthcare that can depression, using augmented or credited locally by the Qatar appreciated the effective and environmental challenges and private, and individu- Methodist Hospital, that to- be utilised in the clinical arena. mixed reality computer tech- Council for Healthcare Practi- valuable participation of pub- facing Qatar and the region als to play an active role in gether provide the training for This could be anything from de- nology to allow a surgeon to tioners-Accreditation Depart- lic and private institutions as a whole, praising their achieving the goals of nation- the new EnMed programme. veloping robotics to engineering ‘see’ beneath the skin of a pa- ment (QCHP-AD) and inter- that contribute to achieving programmes and efforts to al sustainability in accord- Speaking at WCM-Q to an at the cell and molecular level.” tient and more accurately make nationally by the Accreditation the Council’s vision to build achieve the Qatar National ance with the Qatar National audience of physicians, phar- Dr Pettigrew then gave sev- an incision to remove a tumour, Council for Continuing Medical a sustainable future, valuing Vision 2030 in line with the Vision and the national de- macists, nurses and allied eral examples to illustrate how and using electrical stimulation Education (ACCME). their role in the ‘Qatar Sus- global sustainability agenda. velopment strategy. Friday, January 10, 2020 03 (http://www.islamweb.net) Under the guidance and supervision of Ministry of Awqaf (Religious Endowments) Islam and Islamic Affairs

Refraining from doing EXPLANATION OF evil is charity

Question: There is a hadith that says that charity is due on every Muslim and says that the least that you can do is leave sin and that that is a charity, and then there is a hadith that says that saving people - I think it SOORAH AL-MA’OON says ‘leaving’ - from your mischief is a charity to your- self. Now, it would seem that leaving people and saving them from your mischief would be a charity to them too because of the first hadith. Is this true, that leav- ing people (saving them from your harm) is a charity to yourself as well as them?

Answer: All perfect praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad, sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, is His slave and Messenger. The hadeeth in reference was cited by both Al- Bukhaari and Muslim. The version of Al-Bukhaari reads, “Let him refrain from doing evil, as that, for him, is an act of charity.” The version of Muslim reads, “I (Abu Tharr) said, ‘O Messenger of Allah, what if I cannot do some of these deeds?’ He replied, ‘Then desist from doing evil to peo- ple, for it is charity which you give to yourself.’” Refraining from carrying out evil deeds is charity to people if he refrains from doing evil to them and it is charity to oneself if the evil does not extend to oth- ers. Ibn Battaal, may Allah have mercy on him, wrote, “If someone asks: How is refraining from doing evil consid- ered charity? The answer is: If he desists from doing evil to others, it is as if he gave them charity by sparing them his harm, and if the scope of his evil is con ned to him- self only, he has given himself charity by stopping it from committing sin.” [Sharh Saheeh Al-Bukhaari] Allah knows best.

Every Believer Can Attain Al-Firdaws

Question: I feel like it is difficult for me to enter Firdaws. The verses: pray” who are among those who pray, wise, the one who prays in order to be upon him, about it, and he said: I tell myself if some of the prophets have not entered it, In the name of Allah, the Most Be- but does not mean everyone who be seen by others, and not to gain the “Two rewards have been written for how will I enter it? I feel like this is stopping me for striv- neficent, the Most Merciful. prays. These people, at first, are stead- pleasure of Allah, is like the one who you - the reward of praying in secret ing for it and I know this is from the Shaytan. If someone Almighty Allah Says (what fast in their prayers, then they be- doesn’t pray at all. Allah Says (what and the reward of being seen.” does all the obligatory duties, will he/she be able to means): “Have you seen the one who come neglectful of them either entire- means): “Indeed, the hypocrites Imam Ibn Jareer, may Allah have attain it? Or is a lot more required. denies the Recompense? For that ly, as stated by Ibn `Abbas, may Allah [think to] deceive Allah, but He is de- mercy on him, said that the Messen- is the one who drives away the or- be pleased with him, or they become ceiving them. And when they stand ger of Allah, peace be upon him, said: Answer: All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of the phan. And does not encourage the careless about praying on time until for prayer, they stand lazily, show- “Those ‘Who are heedless of their Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except feeding of the poor. So woe to those they pray after the prescribed time. ing [themselves to] the people and prayer’ are those who delay their Allah, and that Muhammad, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, who pray. [But] are heedless of their `Ataa’, may Allah be pleased with not remembering Allah except a lit- prayers and do not pray them at the is His slave and Messenger. prayer – Those who make show [of him, said: “All praise is due to Allah tle.” [Qur’an 4:142] While Allah says right time.” Delaying the prayer may Your claim that some Prophets will not get the Al- their deeds]. And withhold [simple] who Says (what means): “…heedless here what means: “…Who are heed- simply mean praying it late or it may Firdaws is wrong. Al-Firdaws is the best part and the high- assistance.” [Qur’an 107: 1-7] of their prayer” rather than neglect- less of their prayer.” [Qur’an 107:5] mean not praying it at all, or it may est part of Paradise. Explanation: ful in their prayers.” However, this “Those who make show [of their mean delaying the prayer until the Al-Firdaws is a rank that the believers have been “Have you seen the one who de- verse is comprehensive and covers deeds].” [Qur’an 107:6] prescribed time has expired. commanded to ask for. The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi nies the Recompense?” [Qur’an107:1] both meanings. Whoever is neglect- Imam At-Tabarani, may Allah “And withhold [simple] assis- wa sallam, said: “If you ask Allah, ask Him to grant you Here, Allah the Most High asks His ful by delaying his prayers is careless have mercy on him, stated: “The tance.” [Qur’an 107:7] Al-Firdaws.” [Al-Bukhari] Messenger, peace be upon him, if he in implementing the prescribed Sun- Messenger of Allah, peace be upon These people do not behave well The highest status in Al-Firdaws is Al-Waseelah, which has seen the one who rejects the Deen nahs (recommended supererogatory him, said: “Indeed, in Hell there is a in worship, nor do they behave well will only be obtained by our Prophet, Muhammad, sallal- - that is, the Appointed Time, the Re- acts) in prayer, fulfilling its condi- valley (which is so terrible) that the towards their fellow men; they will laahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, quital and the Reward. tions or does not pray with a fitting Hellfire wishes, four hundred times not even lend to those in need, though Therefore, Al-Firdaws has many ranks and levels; the “For that is the one who drives sense of humility and does not reflect a day, that it were not a part of it. It it would be returned to them, nor do highest of which is for the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa away the orphan.” [Qur’an 107:2] on the meaning may be considered a has been prepared for those among they like to pay Zakah (obligatory sallam; then the believers after him, each according to That is, he coerces and oppresses the hypocrite in his actions as confirmed the community of Muhammad who alms) or other forms of charity. Ibn their deeds. orphan, denying him his rights and re- by the Hadeeth (Prophetic saying) perform deeds in order to be seen do- Abu Nujayh, may Allah have mercy Faydh Al-Qadeer reads: “Al-Bukhaari and Muslim re- fusing to feed him or give him any aid. that the Messenger of Allah, peace be ing them...” on him, said that `Ali, may Allah be ported that the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said: “And does not encourage the feed- upon him, said: “This is the prayer of Imam Ahmad, may Allah have pleased with him, said that the word “If you ask Allah, ask Him to grant you Al-Firdaws, for it is ing of the poor.” [Qur’an 107:3] As Al- the hypocrite, this is the prayer of the mercy on him, narrated that the Al-Ma’oon means Zakah, and this the best part and the highest part of Paradise.” The Throne lah Says (what means): “No! But you hypocrite: He sits and observes the Messenger of Allah, peace be upon was also related by Imam As-Suddi, of The Most Merciful is above Al-Firdaws.” [End of quote] do not honour the orphan, And you sun until it is between the horns of him, said: “Whoever performs a may Allah have mercy on him. This Therefore, reaching Al-Firdaws is possible for every do not encourage one another to feed Satan (about to set), then he quickly (good) deed in order to gain a good was also attributed by more than one believer. Allah would not make it permissible for us to ask the poor.” [Qur’an 89: 17-18] That is, prays four Rak’ahs (units of prayer) in reputation, Allah will make him de- person to Ibn `Umar, may Allah be for Al-Firdawsif it is a matter that is impossible for us to the one in need, who has nothing, he which he barely mentions Allah.” [Al- spised and degraded.” However, if pleased with him. obtain. However, this is only possible to obtain by endeav- does not support or maintain him or Bukhari and Muslim] a person sincerely performs a good Many narrations suggest that ouring in obeying Allah [performing acts of obedience] attend to his needs. The prayer referred to is the ‘Asr deed, solely for the sake of Allah, that the word is more general than this and doing one’s best in order to please Him, while always “So, woe to those who pray. [But] (afternoon) prayer and the delay is happens to be seen by others and it and even includes things common- persisting in repenting to Him. This should be while one is are heedless of their prayer.” [Qur’an until the end of the permitted time pleases them, there is no sin for him ly shared, such as buckets, spades relying on Allah and thinking good of Him, endeavouring in 107:4-5] According to Ibn `Abbas, which is a time at which it is despised in this, and the proof for this is the and axes, etc. It is narrated that the supplicating Him and asking Him for that high status. may Allah be pleased with him, and to offer prayers, when the hypocrite narration of Abu Hurayrah, May Al- Messenger of Allah, peace be upon We ask Allah to bless us with Al-Firdaws and make us others, this verse refers to the hypo- rapidly performs his prayer (so that lah be pleased with him, who said: “I him, was asked what Al-Ma`oon is, to reach it with His Bounty and Favour. crites who pray in public but not in his movements resemble the rapid was praying once when a man entered which he replied: “The stone (i.e. pots Allah knows best. private, and for this reason Allah pecking of a chicken), hastily, with- (the mosque) and this pleased me, so and pans, etc.), the iron (i.e. axes, Says (what means): “…to those who out a fitting sense of humility. Like- I told the Messenger of Allah, peace spades etc.) and all such things.”

“Be keen to do that which will bene t you, rely on Allah and do not be lazy ESSENTIAL PILLARS OF MARITAL LIFE (by not exerting effort) and do not say when a problem befalls you: ‘If only I ARITAL happiness spouses should begin their with one another in obeying cific to mental and cognitive his wealth and honour, in is a dream that marital life with a sincere in- Allah, The Almighty. aspects. addition to patience, chas- would have done such and such, then all husbands and tention to obtain the pleas- Thirdly: Establishing a Secondly: A woman tity, and so on. wives have had ure of Allah, The Almighty. Muslim home and family. must distinguish between Through satisfying ba- the result would have been such and since the beginning This would be displayed in Fourthly: Building the two things: This is specific to sic needs, sexual desires etc. such’; rather, one should say: ‘This was ofM time and many spouses the following matters: marital relationship on love, instincts and desires (the ab- He is looking for a loving are still trying to fulfil this 1 – Maintaining ones’ domen and sexual organs). wife and a friend. Add-ons: decreed by Allah and He does what He dream through all possible chastity, guarding the pri- 2 - Good association (af- A pious woman never means. Nevertheless, being vate parts against com- Satisfying the husband’s fection and mercy). This asks until she gives: wills.’ Saying ‘If’ opens the gate for Sa- away from the true teach- mitting illicit sexual inter- needs according to his also has its components. Such a woman gives first tan (to cause discontent).” ings of Islam and sound course, lowering the gaze age as well as his eco- Satisfying the husband’s and then asks. A Bedouin prophetic guidance has led and fulfilling each spouse’s nomic status are compo- needs according to his age woman offered her daughter – [Muslim] them to confusion between responsibility towards the nents of stability. The as well as his economic sta- the following advice on her the different means: West- other. woman should know the tus are components of sta- wedding day, “Be an earth ern and Eastern. 2 – Establishing the bility. The woman should for him and he will be your However, when one re- Muslim home in concord- man’s needs and the man- know the man’s needs and sky; be a bondmaid for him turns to the Sunnah of the ance with the methodology ner in which he thinks. the manner in which he and he will be your slave.” Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi- of Allah, The Almighty. thinks. This is an indispensable wasallam, he will inevitably 3 – Producing righteous mercy and kind association. A righteous woman can introduction that should be reach his goal. Allah, The Al- offspring who affirm that Before talking about meet her husband’s essen- known before discussing mighty, has granted success there is nothing or none marital happiness, there tial needs in terms of secu- marital happiness and its “O Muslims! There is greatness in the Taqwa of to one of the callers to Allah worthy of worship except is a set of rules that a wife rity and efficiency as stated components in detail. to compile the pillars of the Allah; they should worship should comprehend and be in Maslow’s hierarchy of Fifth: Forgiveness and Allah, contentment in belief in Him and honour in marital life, which are: Him as He should be wor- fully aware of: needs. This includes the ba- pardoning. Firstly: Good intention: shipped. Firstly: A human being sic needs: Sixth: Calmness at times humility.” – [Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq] This means that the Secondly: Cooperation has three levels: This is spe- Through maintaining of anger. 04 Friday, January 10, 2020

ESTABLISHED SEPTEMBER 3, 2006 HAMAD BIN SUHAIM AL THANI CHAIRMAN Opinion ADEL ALI BIN ALI MANAGING DIRECTOR DR HASSAN MOHAMMED AL ANSARI EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Anti-Discrimination Hair Laws Trump Put The Lives It’s preposterous that African Americans face discrimination based on texture and style of their hairs in schools and work places. e discrimination must be outlawed Of American Troops HE need to legislate black hair seems ri- The legislation to be introduced by diculous on its face. I mean, it’s hair. We Stephanie Smith, a Baltimore Democrat all have it. It comes in different textures, who sports dreadlocks, would ban discrimi- colours and lengths — all determined by nation across the state based on hairstyle ourT DNA. We can alter it with chemicals, and traits associated with race. Ahead Of His Ego blow dryers, flat irons and bottles of hair Maryland is part of a growing move- dye. But at some point it will bounce back to ment now paying attention to an issue its natural state. that has long haunted African Americans Unfortunately, the natural state of Afri- and made them feel bad about themselves. Trump’s decision to avert a retaliatory strike after Iranian missile attacks on can American hair isn’t deemed appropriate California, New Jersey and New York have by too many workplaces and other public passed anti-discrimination hair laws, and US bases in Iraq is perhaps one of the most signi cant events of his presidency institutions. African Americans lose their in Montgomery County, lawmakers passed jobs because of their hair. They are told it legislation late last year that prohibits dis- DAHLEEN GLANTON is unkempt and unclean when it is not. Or crimination against natural hairstyles, TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE that it doesn’t fit the image a company is including “braids, locks, Afros, curls and trying to present. Some schools have gone twists.” Violating the law comes with a fine DID not sleep on Tuesday night. Like as far as banning afrocentric hairstyles like of up to $5,000. Many other states are con- many Americans who have relatives braids, twists and dreadlocks, sending kids sidering similar hair discrimination bans. in the military, we went to bed know- home who dare to show up with such styles. Some companies have learned the hard ing that the fate of our loved ones was Only straightened hair based on European way through expensive lawsuits and bad in the hands of a president who is not standards of beauty are allowed. publicity. A former Baltimore ‘Hooters Girl’ Iknown for exercising patience or diplo- This discrimination of African Americans was awarded more than $250,000 in 2015 macy. But Wednesday morning, Donald based on biased and subjective views needs after a manager at the restaurant’s Inner Trump gave us a gift. And we are grateful. to stop, but sadly, we have learned that com- Harbor location chided her for the colour of Instead of retaliating with military panies can’t be trusted to do it on their own. her hair. Blond highlights weren’t permissi- force against Iran for bombing an Ameri- That’s why we are glad to see that the ble because “black people don’t have blond can military base in Iraq, Trump chose to Baltimore City Council will soon take up hair,” the boss told her with a straight face. implement harsher sanctions designed legislation to ban such discrimination, and Legislation will protect all African Americans to further weaken the country’s ability to that a state lawmaker also plans to intro- and not just the ones who can afford a pricey sustain itself economically. duce a similar bill during this year’s Gen- lawyer, or convince one to take on the case in Trump’s decision to stand down rath- eral Assembly session. In fact, these laws hopes of a nice payout in the end. Companies er than initiate a military strike is perhaps are long overdue. Discrimination based on will be forced to think twice about discrimi- one of the most significant events of his hair texture is no different than discrimi- nating if they know it is illegal. presidency. Regardless of whether it pro- nating based on race, particularly when it is Smith said she wishes such legislation vides only a short-term reprieve, Trump overwhelmingly African Americans whose wasn’t necessary. There are other more chose to put American lives over his ego. hair is usually in question. People should be pressing issues we should have to worry Of course, he could have done it more judged on the how they do their jobs and not about, like crime and improving education. gracefully without trying to place respon- whether their hair is in a structured bone- Maybe one day we’ll reach a place when peo- sibility for the debacle he created on for- thing else the next. He chose to stand straight bob or a fluffy, close-cropped afro. ple of all races and ethnicities are embraced. mer President Barack Obama. But that’s Regardless of how we feel about down against Iran today, but he might de- In Baltimore, Councilman Robert Stokes’ We are already starting to see some a petty side issue that we need not con- Trump as president or as a human cide to rise up tomorrow. legislation would prohibit discrimination change. Look around and you will see more cern ourselves with right now. Regardless being, for that matter, we should A significant number of Americans based on the texture and style of someone’s African Americans wearing natural styles. of how we feel about Trump as president have little or no confidence in Trump’s hair in schools, workplaces and housing. Hair products to maintain these styles occu- or as a human being, for that matter, we be thankful that on an issue this leadership ability, nor are we comfortable Seems like a no-brainer in a city that is 63 py much more space on store shelves than should be thankful that on an issue this important, he made a wise decision with most of the people he has chosen to percent black, but it is also something that the straightening relaxers. YouTube videos important, he made a wise decision. advise him. We do not trust that they al- should be banned in every county in the give tutorials on how to style curly heads When our nation teeters on the brink closely they monitor the news. ways have America’s best interests at heart state. Such issues might be more of a prob- of hair. African Americans want to be their of war, Americans go into self-preserva- When a loved one is at risk, there is or that they know how to keep us safe. lem in more conservative areas or places that natural selves and hopefully legislation will tion mode. Our husbands, wives, children, no time to worry about how the risk de- It scares us to death. But our brave have smaller African American populations. make it easier for them to do that. grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nieces veloped. It is unlikely that most military troops are not afraid. They are trained and and nephews are in imminent danger. We families have spent the last few tumul- equipped to handle any conflict that might need cool heads to prevail in Washington. tuous days wracking their brains over arise. And they are willing to step up to My 20-year-old nephew is stationed whether Trump did the right thing by kill- the challenge whenever the commander in at a military base that often is among the ing Iranian General Qassem Soleimani. chief calls upon them to do so. The rest of first to deploy. He recently married and is They prefer to leave such things to the us are not. Americans are war weary, and the father of a 5-week-old girl. I want him politicians and pundits to ponder. What’s we will stand against it at any cost. to see her grow up. And when she is old most important to these families at this We don’t know if Iran will keep its enough to understand the danger and un- moment is what it means for the person promise to stand down militarily, too. certainty of her father’s work, I want him they love. In deployment, the only ques- Trump chose to take the word of a nation there to hold her and reassure her that tion that matters is whether that person that historically could never be trusted. whatever happens, she is loved. will return home to them. For now, these Regardless, one thing is clear: Iran isn’t Military families are used to being on families can breathe a sigh of relief. But through with America yet. Regardless high alert. During the Iraq War, I spent a they know the reprieve may not last. of what the government decides, other year following the families of soldiers in the Trump’s decision to kill Soleimani dangerous factions are out there waiting 3rd Infantry Division, the unit from Fort has heightened tensions in what has long to step in and do what Iranian officials Stewart Army Base that invaded Baghdad. been the most unstable region of the are not. But tonight the families of those I got to know these wives, children and world. Things will likely get worse before in the armed forces will not worry about parents well, and I gained a greater under- they get better. With Trump at the helm, that. We will close our eyes and pray for standing of what it is like to wait at home there is even more uncertainty than we the best as we do every night that our helplessly while loved ones fight a war their are used to. He is a volatile president, who troops are away from home. And we will (Tribune News Service) families barely understand, no matter how says something one day and does some- hope that someone, somewhere hears us. Women Emerging As Leaders In Fixing India’s Slums Women can have a resounding impact on improving community living situations if they are given the chance – and a voice

BIJAL BRAHMBHATT reaching up to 50 degrees Celsius, flood- empowering low-income women in Com- mandu. In these roles, they are responsible TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE ing and inundation increasing water and The collective might of women munity Action Groups, Mahila Housing for spreading awareness of climate change vector-borne disease outbreaks, and the must be harnessed as a powerful, Trust trains grassroots leaders – known within their communities, conducting au- ESPITE an initial global decline in slum scarcity of safe drinking water worsening, as ‘Vikasini’ leaders – to actively engage dits to help residents use energy more ef- populations at the start of the millen- mitigating against climate impacts in these necessary force for change in and influence city-level governance and ficiently, and lobbying for the installation Dnium, 190 million people are estimated areas has never been more vital. development policy decisions. of innovative mitigating solutions, such as to live in informal settlements throughout Promisingly, improved financing and of Construction Workers in India demon- Since this advocacy work began, habi- sustainable, cool, eco-roofing. In excess of South Asia. And with India on track to sur- technology are playing an increasingly im- strate how providing fundamental training tat conditions and hygiene services have 27,000 women in more than 100 slums pass China as the world’s most populous portant role in the improvement of slum to low-income women does more than just notably improved across Ahmedabad have been reached by this work so far. nation by 2030, the number of people living habitats across India. From toilet loans equip them with practical skills. and further afield, with more than 17,000 Equipping women with the skills, in these circumstances is climbing. to sustainable eco-roofing and cool trans- It empowers them to bargain for bet- houses built, 48,000 households receiving knowledge and confidence to improve As a result of their “informal” citizen portation, effective and affordable solu- ter wages from their employers, command safe drinking water and 56,000 gaining their living conditions is undoubtedly hav- status, slum dwellers are continually de- tions now exist to improve sanitation and much-deserved respect from their peers access to toilet facilities in relation to Ma- ing a tangible impact on women through- prived of basic rights and sanitation, while protection against climate issues like heat and ultimately build a better future for hila Housing Trust’s empowerment work. out Indian slums. But there is more work a lack of land rights leaves them vulnerable stress. But for these innovations to reach themselves, their families and their com- Plus, given the intensifying impact of to be done. This successful model of moti- to displacement. Although such living con- the grassroots level of communities – and munities. More than 20,000 women have climate change, the trust has launched a vating and mobilising women to demand ditions are difficult for everyone, it is the create real, lasting change – involving been trained by the school – and counting. programme designed to help low-income better homes and facilities for themselves women responsible for supporting their women is essential. As ongoing initiatives like this show, communities build climate resilience. Op- and their families can – and must – be ex- families – through earning an income and Women are part of the fabric of India’s women can have a resounding impact on erating in seven cities across India, Bang- tended elsewhere. providing care – who are most affected by urban communities and play a key role in improving community living situations if ladesh and Nepal, this initiative is sup- As urban populations continue to rise this deprivation. infrastructural development. More than they are given the chance – and a voice. porting residents to deal with challenges and the need for climate change resilience By supporting women within these half of the country’s 30 million construction While organisations like the Karmika including heat stress, water scarcity, flood- becomes even more critical, the collective communities, it is possible for them to workers are women with little to no training, School of Construction Workers provide a ing and inundation, as well as water and might of women must be harnessed as a overcome this vulnerability and build re- yet they are often tasked with back-breaking foundation for the literal building of bet- vector borne diseases. powerful, necessary force for change. silience – not only to social exclusion and work like digging and mixing cement and ter homes, community action initiatives More than 1,500 women have been prejudice but also climate change, which is paid much less for their labour than their are similarly invaluable, by getting women trained as ‘climate-saathis’, or climate com- (Bijal Brahmbhatt is becoming an increasing threat. skilled male counterparts. However, pio- to advocate for improved infrastructure panions, in Ahmedabad, Bhopal, Ranchi, director of Indian non-profit With soaring temperatures in slums neering institutions like the Karmika School and facilities. Through organising and Jaipur, Bhubaneswar, Dhaka and Kath- Mahila Housing Trust)

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THE OPINION AND ANALYSIS PAGES ARE THE AUTHORS’ OWN. QATAR TRIBUNE BEARS NO RESPONSIBILITY. Asia Friday, January 10, 2020 05 Diplomats from 15 countries visit Indian Kashmir amid high security

“Adequate precautions ambassadors will join at a lat- gion and still remain deployed the situation ... see how things Ambassadors of the United States, were taken given the security Diplomatic er date.” Kumar said the del- in large numbers. have progressed since August threat,” India’s Ministry of egation was kept diverse but The erstwhile Jammu and 5,” Kumar said. Norway, South Korea, Bangladesh and External Affairs spokesman outreach small in view of “the security Kashmir state was also split As the situation improved Raveesh Kumar said at a brief- situation and threat posed by into two federally adminis- further, Kumar said: “We can Vietnam are among the diplomats ing in New Delhi. ● This is the rst delegation terrorism.” tered territories giving greater have freer interaction with a DPA Indian government is being Ambassadors of the Unit- of diplomats to visit The European Union del- control to the Modi govern- cross section of society.” Ku- SRINAGAR seen as a diplomatic outreach ed States, Norway, South Ko- Kashmir since the Modi egation in Delhi could not be ment. Many restrictions in- mar did not give details of amid international criticism rea, Bangladesh and Vietnam govt withdrew special status reached for a response. cluding roadblocks and tel- whom the delegation met but ENVOYS from 15 countries of the violation of the rights of are among the diplomats. from the region on August 5 This is the first delegation ephone service cuts have said it included security offi- began a two-day trip to In- Kashmiris. Kumar said reports in local of diplomats to visit Kashmir since been eased, but internet cials and members of civil so- dia-administered Kashmir The team of envoys trav- media that some envoys from ● The trip organised by the since the Modi government remains suspended and hun- ciety and media. on Thursday, five months af- elled in a convoy with tight the European Union had re- Indian govt is being seen as withdrew special status from dreds of politicians remain in Local journalists said they ter the government ended a security to the venue of their fused to join the trip as they felt a diplomatic outreach amid the Muslim-majority region detention. were not informed of the special status for the region meetings at the military head- it was restricted were wrong. criticism of the violation of on August 5 and imposed re- “The objective of this visit meetings. and placed it under a security quarters in Srinagar and to a “Some refused because it the rights of Kashmiris strictions on movement and is so that diplomats can see A group of European Par- clampdown. luxury hotel where they met was at short notice ... we will communications. Thousands first hand the efforts made by liament members visited the The trip organised by the members of civil society. organise similar visits and EU of troops were sent to the re- the government to normalise region in October.

Pakistan launches country’s LARGEST RELIGIOUS PROCESSION IN PHILIPPINES More than 2 million barefoot devotees gather for an annual largest skills development religious procession in the pre- dominantly Catholic Philippines programme for youth to honour and pray to a centu- ries-old statue of Jesus Christ, in DAWN.COM can dream model? It ensures Manila, on Thursday. ISLAMABAD that anyone who works hard Devotees join the festival hop- will be able to lift themselves ing to touch a centuries-old icon PRIME Minister Imran Khan up and create a better future of Jesus Christ, called the Black on Thursday inaugurated Pa- for themselves.” Nazarene, which is believed to kistan’s largest skills develop- Describing the Hunarmand have miraculous powers. ment programme titled ‘Hu- Programme, the prime minis- At least 2.2 million devotees narmand Jawan’. ter said that his government is followed the more than 6-kilome- Speaking at the ceremony, actively working to revive dor- tre procession, which commemo- Prime Minister Imran said mant industries and to provide rates the transfer of the statute that this programme will put youth with modern skills. from Luneta Park to the Minor Pakistan on the road to suc- “Under this programme, Basilica of the Black Nazarene in cess. “I need you all to un- we initially aim to train Quiapo district, police and local derstand that there is no such 500,000 youth. One thing of cials said. Another 192,000 thing as ‘happily ever after’, that I am very proud of is that were waiting inside and near the that only exists in fairy tales. the first 70 skill centres we Quiapo church. The procession create will be in madarssahs, was expected to take at least 15 so that the children who have hours, organisers said. Last year, always been neglected are the statue reached the church able to acquire skills that will after 21 hours. help them step up in the real The statue is believed to have world. I am proud of my gov- been brought from Mexico to ernment for being the first to Manila in 1606 by Spanish mis- work for these youth, no one sionaries. The ship that carried has ever done that before.” it caught re, but the charred “In the next phase, 300 statue survived and was named smart training centres will be the Black Nazarene. created, where our students More than 80 per cent of will have access to interna- the Philippines’ estimated 100 tional teachers so that our million population is Roman country can achieve global Catholic. (AFP) standards. Thirdly, all of Pakistan PM Imran Khan these skill centres will have national accreditation, to In real life, there are ups ensure that there is healthy and downs and smart people competition between them make sure that they use the and they all strive to better time when they are in dif- themselves.” ficulty to propel themselves The prime minister also Hong Kong govt denounces US towards success later,” the said that more money will be prime minister said, while allocated for this programme explaining the basis on which in the future and it will be en- the programme was created. sured that Pakistan’s youth “I believe barkat has not has the skills required to work report citing erosion of freedoms come to this country because hard and secure their bet- a small number of people kept ter future. He also congratu- becoming richer while every- lated Federal Minister for passed after months of city- one else suffered. This is not Education and Professional Govt statement says wide protests against per- how enlightened societies Training Shafqat Mehmood the act ‘harms the ceived dwindling autonomy work. In such societies equal on coming up with an exten- from Mainland China. opportunities are given to sive skills programme for the relations and common The report issued by the everyone. What is the Ameri- country. interests between the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC) US and Hong Kong’ urged the US government to consider human rights DPA abuses in China and its terri- US strike kills Taliban HONG KONG tories in all instances includ- ing trade, adding “it is also IN response to a US report essential that the President splinter chief in Herat advising more stringent con- of the United States express siderations of the state of support for human rights and AFP main branch of the Taliban af- civil liberties in China and its democracy in China.” KABUL ter the 2013 death of founder territories, a spokesman for The CECC cited the ero- Mullah Omar and joined a the Hong Kong Government sion of democratic rights in A US airstrike killed a Taliban smaller breakaway faction led rebuffed US “intervenion in the semi-autonomous terri- splinter-group commander by a commander known as Hong Kong’s internal af- tory of Hong Kong and human and several other fighters in Mullah Rasool. fairs” in a statement issued on rights abuses against ethnic the western Afghan province A senior police source said Thursday morning. minorities in the far-flung of Herat, Afghan and military the airstrike had been carried The statement called the Xinjiang region as current sources said on Thursday. out by a US drone. Hong Kong Human Rights concerns. The commander, named as Resolute Support, NATO’s and Democracy Act recently Mourners pay their respects at the memorial service for Alex Chow, 22, dead two months ago from head Hong Kong was promised Mullah Nangyalay, was killed mission in Afghanistan, told passed by the United States injuries sustained during a fall inside a multi-storey carpark where police and protesters were clashing, at special rights and privileges in Shindand district, close AFP their forces had launched “unwarranted,” stating that Tseung Kwan O district of Hong Kong, on Wednesday. (AFP) under the “one country, two to the border with Iran, said “a defensive air strike in sup- the act “sends an erroneous systems” framework that was Herat provincial governor’s port of Afghan forces”, with signal to violent protesters, The government of the the genuine concerns raised The act, which contains put in place when the Brit- spokesman Jailani Farhad. a spokesman confirming US and harms the relations and special administrative region repeatedly by Hong Kong on punitive measures for those ish handed the region back to Nangyalay split from the participation in the operation. common interests between of Hong Kong deeply regretted the act and let it become US found to have threatened civil China in 1997 after 150 years Hong Kong and the US.” that the US “has disregarded law,” the statement continued. liberties in Hong Kong, was of colonial rule.

China believes new virus behind mystery pneumonia outbreak Chinese ships leave disputed waters after Indonesian show of force BEIJING: China believes a mysterious pneumonia outbreak that DPA “From our aerial observa- Indonesia summoned the struck 59 people is caused by a new strain of virus from the JAKARTA tion, no Chinese fishing vessels Chinese ambassador in Ja- same family as SARS, which killed hundreds of people more were visible in Natuna waters,” karta late last month after the than a decade ago. CHINESE fishing and coast- Indonesian Armed Forces country accused 65 Chinese Lead scientist Xu Jianguo told the of cial Xinhua news guard ships have vacated wa- spokesman Sisriadi said. fishing and coastguard vessels agency that experts had “preliminarily determined” a new type ters off Indonesia’s Natuna “Our ships will still be there, of encroaching on its exclusive of coronavirus was behind the outbreak, rst con rmed on islands after President Joko while we are assessing the situ- economic zone. December 31 in Wuhan, a central Chinese city with a popula- Widodo vowed to enforce his ation,” said Sisriadi, who goes According to the UN, a tion of over 11 million. country’s maritime rights dur- by one name. Joko inspected country’s exclusive economic It initially sparked fears of a resurgence of highly conta- ing a visit to the area, the mili- warships and a local air force zone extends up to 200 nau- gious Sudden Acute Respiratory Syndrome, and prompted tary said on Thursday. base during a visit to the Natu- tical miles from a nation’s authorities in Hong Kong -- badly hit by SARS in 2002-2003 Indonesia deployed four nas on Wednesday. coastal baseline. The Indo- -- to take precautions, including stepping up the disinfection of F-16 fighter jets and four war- He described Indone- nesian president said he was trains and aeroplanes, and checks of passengers. ships after dozens of Chinese sia’s sovereignty in waters off told by the military that the China has since ruled out a fresh outbreak of SARS, which vessels refused to leave the the Natunas as “non-negotia- Chinese ships were not sail- killed 349 people in mainland China and another 299 in Hong country’s exclusive economic ble” after China insisted that ing in Jakarta’s territorial Kong. (AFP) Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo visits a military base in the Natuna zone off the islets in the disput- its fishermen had legitimate sea, which extends 12 nautical islands, which border the South China Sea, on Wednesday. (AFP) ed south of the South China Sea. rights to operate in the area. miles from the baseline. 06 Friday, January 10, 2020 Gulf / Middle East / Africa

Canada demands role US of cials believe Iran accidentally in Iran crash probe AFP for the Syrian government OTTAWA of Bashar al-Assad. shot down Ukraine airliner: Reports The last time such a high- OTTAWA called on Thurs- level contact was undertaken day for its own experts be was in 2018, when Chrys- Ukrainian investigators too considering the passenger plane being hit by a missile allowed to join the investiga- tia Freeland was serving as AFP & DPA tion into the crash of an air- Canada’s foreign minister. WASHINGTON / TEHRAN liner near Tehran that killed She also met Zarif at the UN dozens of Canadian citizens General Assembly meeting US President Donald Trump of Iranian origin. in 2017, the Canadian for- said on Thursday he had “sus- In a rare phone call with eign ministry told AFP. picions” about the crash of his Iranian counterpart Ja- “According to eyewit- a Ukrainian airliner outside vad Zarif late Wednesday, nesses, a fire was seen on Tehran as US media reported Canada’s Foreign Minister board the plane which grew it had been mistakenly shot Francois-Philippe Cham- in intensity,” the organiza- down by Iran. pagne called for Iran to al- tion added in an initial state- Unnamed officials told low Canadian investigators ment Wednesday. American media that Iranian in to the country, the Cana- Iran has said it will not air defence systems likely acci- dian foreign ministry said in hand the black boxes over dentally shot down the airliner a statement. to the US aircraft manufac- on Wednesday, killing all of “Minister Champagne turer. the 176 people on board. stressed the need for Cana- Canadian Transport Newsweek, CBS and CNN dian officials to be quickly Minister Marc Garneau said said that satellite, radar and granted access to Iran to that Iran had accepted an electronic data indicated the provide consular services, offer of help from the Cana- tragic error, which followed help with identification of dian Transportation Safety a ballistic missile barrage by the deceased and take part Board. Iran on two military bases in in the investigation of the Canada has also offered Iraq where US troops work. crash,” the statement said. Iran help to analyze the Trump didn’t directly Champagne told Zarif black box data. confirm that conclusion, but that “Canada and Canadians Canadian Prime Minis- strongly hinted at it. have many questions which ter Justin Trudeau has called “I have my suspicions,” will need to be answered.” for a “thorough” investiga- Trump said. “It was flying in Such direct contact is tion of crash, the country’s a pretty rough neighbourhood rare since Canada broke off deadliest since an Air India and somebody could have diplomatic ties in 2012 in disaster in 1985 killed 268 made a mistake.” protest at Tehran’s support Canadians. “Some people say it was mechanical. I personally don’t Rescue teams work at the scene of a Ukrainian airliner that crashed shortly after take-off near Imam Khomeini airport in the Iranian capital think that’s even a question,” Tehran, on Wednesday. (AFP) Trump said, adding that “some- thing very terrible happened.” The other scenarios are a British PM Johnson urges full Analysts pointed to pic- Iran says rumours missile caused plane crash make ‘no sense’ collision with a flying object investigation into Iran air crash tures shared widely online of such as a drone, engine dam- the wrecked fuselage of the TEHRAN: Iran on Thursday ruled out a missile strike as the cause of a Ukrainian passenger plane age and a terrorist attack. LONDON: British Prime Minister Boris Johnson called on Thurs- aircraft showing multiple ap- crash near Tehran, saying such a scenario made “no sense”. An Iranian official has cited day for a “full, credible and transparent” investigation into how parent puncture holes consist- “Several internal and international ights were ying at the same time in Iranian airspace at the a “technical defect” in the crash. a Ukrainian passenger plane crashed in Iran, killing all 176 ent with a rocket that deto- same altitude of 8,000 feet (2,440 metres),” Iran’s transport ministry said. Transport Minister Mo- people on board. nated just outside the plane, “This story of a missile striking a plane cannot be correct at all,” it said in a statement. hammed Eslami rejected spec- Johnson spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky blasting shrapnel into it. “Such rumours make no sense,” Ali Abedzadeh, head of Iran’s civil aviation organisation and ulation about a “suspicious” in a phone call in which he offered his condolences for the “Similar marks were vis- deputy transport minister, said in the statement. Abedzadeh was reacting to rumours on social crash, the Iranian news agency loss of life and received an update on Ukraine’s efforts to ible on wreckage of MH17,” networks that the Boeing 737 was hit by a missile red by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards. ISNA reported on Thursday. establish the facts, the spokesman said. CNN reporter Jim Sciutto said, He said Iran and Ukraine were in the process of “downloading information” from black boxes “The plane caught fire due “The prime minister said that there needed to be a full, referring to the Malaysian retrieved from the crash site. “But if more specialised work is required to extract and analyse the to a technical defect, and this credible and transparent investigation into what happened,” Airlines flight which was shot data, we can do it in France or another country,” he added. resulted in a crash,” Eslami the spokesman said. down only July 17, 2014 over On Wednesday, Iran’s Mehr news agency -- close to ultraconservatives -- quoted Abedzadeh as said. Ukrainian state media He added: “The reports we have seen are very concerning Eastern Ukraine by a Russian- saying Iran “would not give the black boxes to the Americans”. (AFP) reported that the most likely and we are urgently looking into them.” designed surface-to-air missile. cause was an engine fire. Danilov told AFP that for the moment there was no reason Authorities investigating All 176 people on board to believe that the airliner had been hit by a missile. the crash of a Ukrainian air- Ukrainian investigators Thursday. These include the experts who helped determine the Ukrainian International In Kiev, the Ukrainian presidency said Zelensky invited liner near Iran’s capital Teh- are considering four possible possibility that the plane was that an anti-aircraft missile Airlines (UIA) Boeing 737 pas- Britain to join the probe, and also called for a “transparent, ran on Wednesday are not rul- scenarios, Alexey Danilov of hit by a Russian-made Tor shot down Malaysian flight senger jet died when it crashed thorough and objective investigation that can quickly establish ing out the possibility that the the Ukrainian Security Coun- missile, Danilov said. MH17 over eastern Ukraine in in a field near Tehran shortly the facts of this tragedy”. (AFP) plane was hit by a missile. cil wrote on Facebook on The investigators include 2014, he added. after take-off.

News Iran warns Trump of ‘dangerous response’ if US acts again in brief DPA “The Americans and the the general had “the blood of In December 2017, Iraq TEHRAN White House have no under- British troops on his hands.” declared the liberation of all US tells UN it stands standing of the region and rec- “Undoubtedly, without mar- territory previously under the ready for ‘serious Gunmen kill 12 in central Nigeria attack IRANIAN President Hassan ognized what a mistake they tyr Soleimani’s efforts, you control of Islamic State ex- negotiations’ with Iran Rouhani warned the United have made after their terror- wouldn’t have had calm in tremists after a US-supported JOS: Gunmen have killed 12 people in an attack on a village in States on Thursday that it ist measure and following the military campaign. NEW YORK: The United States a region of central Nigeria known for bloody clashes between risked a “dangerous response” if uprising of regional nations The radical group has since says it stands ready for “seri- cattle herders and farmers, police said on Thursday. the White House tried any fur- and the unity that was cre- claimed responsibility for a ous negotiations” with Iran Unknown armed assailants “suspected to be herdsmen” ther interventions in the region. ated.” In the wake of the spat number of attacks and fears following escalating tensions attacked the residents of Kulben village in Plateau state on The assassination of top between the US and Iran, the The Americans and the in the West and Middle East between the two countries. Wednesday night, the regional police said in a statement. Iranian general Qassem US-led international coalition White House have no have grown that the group “We stand ready to The raid left 12 dead and one person seriously wounded, Soleimani in a US drone strike fighting the Islamic State ter- understanding of the region may strengthen with Trump engage without preconditions the authorities said. Local people said 19 people had died. in Iraq last week led to Iran rorist group announced it had and recognized what a focused on Iran. in serious negotiations with Plateau state is part of Nigeria’s so-called middle-belt firing missiles at US forces in suspended its military activi- mistake they have made The alliance fighting Is- Iran, with the goal of prevent- that divides the mainly-Muslim north from the predominantly Iraq. The US had called him a ties in Iraq to focus on protect- lamic State, also known as ing further endangerment Christian south. Deadly clashes between nomadic Fulani herd- “terrorist.” US President Don- ing its personnel. after their terrorist measure Daesh, tweeted that military of international peace and ers and farmers over land, grazing and water have plagued the ald Trump said on Wednesday Greek newspaper Kathi- and following the uprising activities in Iraq would for security or escalation by the area for years. that Iran now “appears to be merini also reported the US of regional nations and the now concentrate on protecting Iranian regime,” US Ambassa- Aid group Mercy Corps said in May last year that violence standing down” but Rouhani has moved aircraft to Cyprus unity that was created Iraqi bases that host coalition dor to the UN Kelly Craft says between farmers and pastoralists in Nigeria had “contributed threatened more retaliatory for a possible evacuation of US personnel. in a letter, dated Wednes- to more than 7,000 deaths in the past ve years”. (AFP) moves if required. citizens from the Middle East. Iranian President “Activities that have been day, addressed to UN chief “If the US makes another Rouhani, told by Johnson Hassan Rouhani paused include training with Antonio Guterres and the UN 18 UN troops, 2 civilians injured in mistake, it will receive a very that Britain still backed an partners and supporting their Security Council. northern Mali mortar attack dangerous response,” Rouhani Iran nuclear deal the US has operations against Daesh,” it Washington “has under- was quoted as saying by Iran’s withdrawn from, denounced London today,” Rouhani said, added, saying that other work taken certain actions in the BAMAKO, Jan 9, 2020 (AFP) -Eighteen UN troops and two civil- Tasnim news agency during a British comments against appearing to allude to Soleim- against Islamic State propa- exercise of its inherent right of ians were wounded on Thursday in a mortar attack on a mili- call with British Prime Minis- Soleimani - with Johnson ani’s efforts combating the Is- ganda and financing would self-defence,” Craft says. (DPA) tary base in northern Mali, a UN ofcial said, in fresh violence ter Boris Johnson. saying on Wednesday that lamic State terrorist group. continue. in the war-torn West African country. Olivier Salgado, the spokesperson for the UN mission in Mali, said the toll was “preliminary.” Mali has been struggling to contain an Islamist insurgency that erupted in the north in 2012, and which has claimed thousands of military and civilian lives since. Iraq is not alone, says Turkish FM in visit to Baghdad An internal UN report seen by AFP said 15 mortar rounds ANNOUNCEMENT landed “inside and around” the military base in Tessalit, in DPA northern Mali close to the border with Algeria. The following BNP PARIBAS customers having ISTANBUL Anti-Islamic State coalition suspends Camp personnel took shelter in a bunker, the report said, account that became dormant are kindly military operations in Iraq adding that two Malian civilians were wounded in the section requested to visit BNBPARIBAS bank at west TURKISH Foreign Minister of camp harbouring French soldiers. bay area - AL Fardan office Tower carrying Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Thurs- CAIRO: A US-led international coalition ghting Islamic State said on Some 4,500 French troops are deployed in the Sahel region, their proper identification documents to claim day in Baghdad that Ankara will Thursday it had suspended its military activities in Iraq to focus on while the UN has 13,000 peacekeeping force in Mali. (AFP) amounts. use all diplomatic channels to protecting its personnel. Those accounts have become unclaimed as per avoid “brotherly” Iraq turning The move comes after Iran launched missile attacks on Iraqi S.African military plane catches re in Qatar Center Bank’s instructions stated in pages into a “foreign powers’ conflict military bases hosting US troops in retaliation for the killing of top Congo, no casualties from 365 till 371 from manual instructions booklet zone.” “Iraq is not alone. Iranian commander Qassem Soleimani in a US airstrike in Baghdad to all operating Bank’s in Qatar due to “more than WE will work together with Iraq last week. “The Global@Coalition against #Daesh has currently GOMA: A South African military transporter carrying 67 people 10 years elapsed since the last transaction done as to help overcome the difficult paused military activities in Iraq to focus on protecting the Iraqi caught re on landing on Thursday in the eastern DR Congo per the Bank’s records” days,” Cavusoglu told a press bases that host Coalition personnel,” the alliance said on its Twitter city of Goma but there were no casualties, the UN said. account, using an Arabic acronym for Islamic State. The plane was ying from Beni, a city about 350 kilometres Please note, if no claim was received within conference with his Iraqi coun- terpart Mohamed al-Hakim. “Activities that have been paused include training with partners (220 miles) north of Goma and also in the Democratic Repub- one month from the date of this announcement, Cavusoglu’s remarks come and supporting their operations against Daesh,” it added. (DFA) lic of Congo’s east. BNBPARIBAS shall be obliged to implement QCB a day after Turkish President “The left engine caught re upon landing,” said the UN mis- instructions and transfer the unclaimed amounts to Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned sion in the country, known by its French acronym MONUSCO, the General Authority for Minors Affaires. “proxy wars” risk throwing the Mahdi, state news agency An- will boost terrorists,” the Iraqi adding that its reghters “intervened.” “There were eight crew whole region, particularly Iraq, adolu said. official added. and 59 passengers. Everybody was evacuated safe and sound. SR.NO CUSTOMER NAME into “a new ring of fire.” Iraq rejects attacks on its ter- Iraq is committed to having Nobody suffered major injuries. 1 SH. AHMED BIN KHALIFA BIN ABDULAZIZ AL THANI The Turkish minister also ritory, al-Hakim said, adding: balanced relations with other The runway has reopened,” it said. The plane served South met on Thursday President Bar- “Iraq should be put away from countries, President Salih told a African peacekeepers deployed in Beni, in the volatile North ham Salih and Iraq’s caretaker the policy of axes.” meeting with Cavusoglu earlier Kivu province. (AFP) Prime Minister Adel Abdel- “Any escalation in the region on Thursday. World Friday, January 10, 2020 07 Spain court refuses to recognise Catalan separatist as MEP Thousands of feral camels shot dead in Australian outback

MADRID: Spain’s Supreme Court on Thursday refused to recognise jailed Catalan separatist CANBERRA: Thousands of feral camels that have wreaked havoc in local communities in the News Oriol Junqueras as a European MP because of his October conviction over a failed 2017 Australian outback are being shot dead from helicopters after drought and extreme heat exacer- independence bid. In a long-awaited ruling, the court said it would not authorise his temporary bated the problem. Aboriginal leaders of the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands, a local in brief release from prison to collect his parliamentary credentials -- in effect rejecting a December rul- government area in South Australia’s remote far north-west, ordered the operation to control large ing by the European Court of Justice. Junqueras won a seat in the European Parliament in May feral herds of camels desperate for water which were damaging towns and settlements. “This is elections despite being in pre-trial detention in Spain on charges linked to his role in a banned the rst major culling in this region,” Richard King, the general manager for APY Lands, said on Catalan referendum and a short-lived declaration of independence. (AFP) Thursday. Some 1,500 camels were killed on the rst day on Thursday, he told said. (DPA)

First country to leave the EU by the end of this month Trump welcomes court decision on US-Mexico British lawmakers nally border wall funds AFP approve historic Brexit deal WASHINGTON PRESIDENT Donald Trump on Thursday welcomed a court decision that allows $3.6 bil- lion in military funds to be used to build his signature wall on the US-Mexico border. “Entire Wall is under con- struction or getting ready to start!” the president tweeted following the ruling by the Fifth US President Donald Trump US Circuit Court of Appeals. A lower court had tempo- rarily blocked the use of the Department of Defense funds for construction of the wall The ruling has allowed vital that Trump pledged to build border wall construction to during his campaign for the move forward using military White House. construction funds. We are Trump’s efforts to build a wall along the southwest US committed to keeping our border with Mexico to stem borders secure, and we will illegal immigration have been nish the wall met with numerous court challenges. White House statement The president declared a national emergency last year has lifted an illegitimate na- and turned to the Pentagon for tionwide injunction entered by funding after the House of Rep- a lower court, and in doing so resentatives refused to allocate has allowed vital border wall all of the money he sought for construction to move forward construction of the wall. using military construction In a statement, the White funds,” it said. A video grab from footage broadcast by the UK Parliament’s Parliamentary Recording Unit shows tellers announcing the result of a vote on the third reading of the European Union House described the ruling by “We are committed to (Withdrawal Agreement) Bill, in the House of Commons in London on Thursday. (AFP) the New Orleans-based Fifth keeping our borders secure, Circuit as a “victory for the and we will finish the wall, the says about the wider issues, rule of law.” “The Fifth Circuit statement added.” MPs ratify PM Boris Johnson’s withrawal Next Steps in Britain’s EU exit he must know the govern- ment have got this wrong.” agreement by 330 votes to 231 The Brexit bill must still be The House of Lords will begin debating passed by the unelected House AFP could still somehow be un- the Brexit deal next Monday, with the bill of Lords and the European LONDON done. But Johnson’s compre- likely to pass into law by Jan 22 or 23 Parliament, which is seen as a hensive victory in last month’s formality. BRITAIN’S parliament finally general election brought an ▪ January 29: The Brexit deal must also be rati ed by the All eyes are now on an- approved Brexit on Thurs- abrupt end to the turmoil, giv- European Parliament. MEPs have been waiting to see what other major challenge: the ne- day, allowing it to become ing his Conservatives a parlia- London does after years of political wrangling but are now gotiation of a new relationship the first country to leave the mentary majority with which expected to approve the deal on January 29. between Britain and the re- European Union by the end to push it through. maining 27 EU nations, which of this month, ending years of MPs gave their initial ▪ January 31: With the divorce terms con rmed, Britain will form the world’s largest single arguments that toppled two blessing to the EU Withdrawal leave the European Union on the next deadline set with market. governments and divided a Agreement Bill before Christ- Brussels, 2300 GMT January 31. This comes 43 months The Brexit deal covers nation. mas, and the government set after Britons voted in the June 2016 referendum to end their separation issues such as EU The House of Commons aside just three days this week nearly half a century of integration with the European Union citizens’ rights and Britain’s erupted in cheers after MPs for detailed scrutiny of the financial settlement, and sets A protester kicks back a police tear gas canister during a demonstration ratified Prime Minister Boris complex text. out an 11-month transition pe- in Paris on Thursday. (AFP) Johnson’s divorce deal with But few MPs even both- ▪ February/March: Trade talks begin - Britain says it is ready riod in which to agree a wider Brussels 330 votes to 231, ered to turn up on Tuesday to start trade talks on February 1 but the EU must work out partnership. drawing a line under an ex- and Wednesday, with both its position. Negotiators in Brussels began discussing this Brussels warns the current New mass protests in France traordinary era of political sessions ending early, while week what member states want from the negotiations deadline of December 31 this drama and chaos. the government easily saw off year is extremely tight, and as pension dispute grinds on For much of the time since opposition attempts to amend ▪ July 1: Extension deadline - The EU-UK Brexit deal has given London the option the 2016 Brexit referendum, the text. includes a transition phase in which relations remain the to ask for more time. AFP school closures that forced par- lawmakers have been at each The momentous day on same in practice until December 31, 2020, while they But Johnson insists there PARIS ents to scramble for daycare. others’ throats over how, when which Johnson effectively gets agree a new trade and security partnership. Britain can ask will be no extension of the Commuters were again hard or even if Britain should leave permission to abandon the to extend the period for one or two years, but must inform transition period, saying that PROTESTORS poured into hit by the metro strike, and na- its closest trading partners af- European integration project the EU of its request by July 1 Britain must be free of EU streets across France on tional train services remained ter nearly 50 years. was all but ignored in Thurs- rules as soon as possible. Thursday in the latest mass severely disrupted. Some viewed Brexit with day’s media. Ahead of talks with John- demonstrations against a pen- Aviation authorities horror, fearing that it stripped Instead, it became a foot- ▪ December 31: Transition ends - Without an extension, son on Wednesday, European sions overhaul that critics say warned of potential cancel- them of their European identi- note to Prince Harry and his existing relations between Britain and the EU will be Commission President Ursula would require millions of peo- lations as traffic controllers ties and turned Britain into an wife Meghan’s decision to quit severed on December 31, 2020. Without a new deal, von der Leyen said it would be ple to push back retirement. walked off the job, though Air insular, less important nation. royal front-line duties -- chris- cross-Channel trade, transportation and a multitude of “basically impossible” to agree Unions are demanding the France said at least 90 percent Others embraced it with fer- tened “Megxit” and shaping other ties risk being severely disrupted. everything within London’s government drop its reform in of domestic flights would go vour, viewing it as a chance to up to be equally complicated timeframe. their biggest show of strength ahead as planned. “take back control” from offi- and divisive. “We will have to priori- in decades, with a record- Officials have said they are cials in Brussels and see Britain “We will be leaving the EU Britain’s main opposition votes in parliament just now, tise,” she said in a speech to breaking public transport ready to negotiate, in particu- regain some of its past might. on January 31. We will have Labour party, bruised by its but we can win the moral ar- the London School of Eco- strike now in its 36th day. lar on the hotly contested “piv- Businesses and govern- delivered on the PM’s com- worst beating at the polls since gument”, said Labour’s Brexit nomics university, warning of Teachers and other public- ot age” of 64 the government ments in Europe, puzzled by mitment to get Brexit done,” a 1935, voted against Brexit on spokesman Keir Starmer, a “tough talks ahead”. sector workers joined a fourth has suggested people will have Britain’s struggles over what government spokesman said, Thursday knowing the battle potential successor to Jeremy In response, Johnson’s of- day of nationwide rallies against to work until for a full pension they viewed as a self-inflicted echoing Johnson’s election had been lost. Corbyn as party leader. fice indicated that it could ac- the project since the strike be- -- beyond the official retire- wound, hoped that Brexit mantra. We “may not win many “Whatever (Johnson) cept a partial trade deal. gan on December 5, leading to ment age of 62.

Pope slams leaders on ‘weak’ UK royals rocked after Harry, Meghan ‘defied Queen’ in quitting roles response to climate change AFP stand their desire to take a dif- according to the BBC, while in which they admitted to VATICAN City: Pope Francis accused world leaders on Thursday LONDON ferent approach, but these are Thursday’s newspapers were struggling in the spotlight and of failing to listen to the concerns of youngsters pushing for complicated issues that will full of reports of a family “split” growing apart from Harry’s global action against climate change. PRINCE Harry and his wife take time to work through,” and the queen’s “dismay”. brother Prince William. In his annual speech to Vatican diplomats, the pontiff said Meghan’s bombshell resigna- the palace said. Meanwhile Madame Tus- They have also complained climate change was a “concern of everyone,” despite a tepid tion from front-line royal du- Media reports said the sauds London said it was mov- of negative news coverage and response from the international community. ties rocked the British monar- couple made their shock state- ing its waxworks of the pair taken several papers to court “Many young people have become active in calling the atten- chy on Thursday, with reports ment -- released on their own away from other top family fig- -- another unusual move. tion of political leaders to the issue of climate change. Care for they defied Queen Elizabeth II website, Instagram account ures “to reflect the upcoming “We intend to step back as our common home ought to be a concern of everyone,” he said. by going public. and through Buckingham Pal- change in the royal line up”. ‘senior’ members of the royal “Sadly, the urgency of this ecological conversion seems not The couple said they would ace’s email communications ‘MEGXIT’ Royal expert Richard family and work to become fi- to have been grasped by international politics, where the re- now “balance” their time system -- without notifying ei- Fitzwilliams said Harry and nancially independent, while sponse to the problems raised by global issues such as climate between Britain and North ther Harry’s grandmother, the Britain’s Prince Harry and Meghan announcing this step continuing to fully support Her change remains very weak and a source of grave concern.” America and rip up long-es- monarch, or father, the heir to his wife Meghan stunned without the queen’s blessing Majesty The Queen,” they said. Since his papacy began in 2013, the Argentine pontiff has often tablished relations with the the throne Prince Charles. the British monarchy by was “extraordinary”. “We have chosen to make a argued for better protection of the environment. In April, he press, in a surprise announce- London’s Evening Standard quitting as front-line “This is symptomatic, transition this year in starting met teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg, who launched the ment on Wednesday that ap- newspaper said they had “de- members -- reportedly clearly, of the fact that they are to carve out a progressive new Fridays for Future youth moment against climate change. peared to blindside Bucking- fied clear instructions from the unhappy with royal roles and role within this institution.” On That movement has seen millions of people go on strike or ham Palace. queen” not to go public about without rst consulting feel deeply pressurised,” he a new website, they said they spill into the streets demanding climate action. In a short, terse response any future plans at this time. Queen Elizabeth II said. “They’ve chosen to... go would no longer work with the Around the world, governments faced with a crescendo of a little while later, a palace It added senior courtiers rogue. The result, therefore, royal rota -- a well-established deadly weather and dire alarms from science have failed to statement said discussions had warned the couple “will be could have very serious con- system allowing the press to signal a real determination to act. (AFP) with Harry and Meghan were punished for this”. understood to be one of disap- sequences.” The couple’s deci- take turns covering events and “at an early stage”. “We under- The mood in the palace was pointment and even “hurt”, sion follows a turbulent year, then share the coverage. Global economy faces tenuous recovery: WB PAGE 11

FRIDAY, JANUARY 10, 2020

28,921.52 10,444.36 41,452.35 1,555.50 +176.43 PTS +107.04 PTS +634.61 PTS GOLD -0.30% Lebanon bans ex-Nissan boss DOW QE SENSEX Ghosn from foreign travel PAGE 10 PRICE PERCENTAGE PRICE PERCENTAGE 17.93 BRENT 65.61 +0.26% WTI 59.63 +0.03% SILVER -1.28% Qatar may waive fees to set up businesses MoCI says the single-window system for registering companies to go online on Jan 15, eliminating the need for paperwork TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK vestors and businessmen who DOHA want to start new companies in Qatar. QATAR is studying the feasi- He said the “one-stop- bility of waiving the costs to shop” would boost Qatar’s set up businesses and lowering Phase one efforts to attract local and tariffs and port fees, Minister foreign investments as the of Commerce and Industry HE The rst phase of the first phase of the project Ali bin Ahmed al Kuwari said single-window initiative was helps investors apply for, pay in Doha on Thursday. launched in September last fees and obtain licenses elec- The study is part of the ef- year to connect all entities tronically. forts to improve the ease of concerned to streamline the Nasser Omair al Nuaimi, doing business in the country, process of setting up a the deputy head of the com- the minister said while ad- business in Qatar. The rst mittee for the management of dressing an event marking the phase would see the the single window system, said digital transformation of min- implementation of a smart the first phase of the initiative istry’s services. system for managing requests would see the implementation On Twitter, the ministry and electronic signatures of a smart system for manag- said an e-portal for the Qatar’s ing requests and electronic much-touted single-window among other things. signatures among other things initiative, which seeks to pro- that would enable the investor vide a one-stop solution to fa- to complete the registration cilitate all processes to register cooperation with the private process anywhere inside or a company in Qatar, will be- sector. outside Qatar. come operational from Janu- The event was attended He pointed out that the ary 15. by several prominent busi- new system allows the inves- In a QNA report, the min- Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Ali bin Ahmed al Kuwari and Qatar Chamber Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed al nessmen and investors in tor to know the time required istry said the portal will obvi- Thani at an event to announce the digitization of ministry’s services, in Doha on Thursday Qatar, including senior office- to complete the transaction, ate the need for paperwork for bearers of the Qatar Chamber the true cost of establishing company formation. ness in Qatar. especially with the launch of ment, including the extending vestors and businessmen and (QC). the company and let him or The first phase of the Kuwari said Qatar has im- the single-window portal, he of the commercial register for highlighted the directives of QC Chairman Sheikh her sign the contracts required single-window initiative was proved its position in several added. a maximum of five years, the Prime Minister and Minister Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mo- to form the company electron- launched in September last international business indica- The Ministry of Commerce minister said. of Interior HE Sheikh Abdul- hammed al Thani praised the ically. It also allows investors year to connect all entities tors over the past few years. and Industry has undertaken He stressed the govern- lah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al digital transformation initia- to see the requirements of the concerned to streamline the The country looks forward to several initiatives to improve ment’s commitment to mak- Thani to work in resolving the tive and said it would save a various authorities involved in process of setting up a busi- improving its ranking further, the local business environ- ing processes easier for in- challenges facing investors in lot of time and effort for in- licenses, he added.

Real estate transactions cross QR466 mn DOHA: Real estate transactions worth QR466.941 million took place between December 29 and January 2 in Qatar, according to gures from the Real Estate Registration Department of the Ministry of Justice. The monthly real estate analysis data showed that the list of transac- tions included vacant plots, housing units, residential buildings and multi-use properties and a mutli-use building as well as commercial buildings. The sales were concentrated in the municipalities of Doha, Al Rayyan, Al Daayen, Al Wakrah, Umm Salal, Al Khor and Al Dhakhira, as well as in the Municipality of Al Shamal. The volume of real estate trading from December 22 to 26 was QR152.999 million. (QNA)

QSE rebounds 107 points on signs of no further US-Iran escalation SATYENDRA PATHAK DOHA

QATAR’S stock market re- Steady increase in population backs bounded on Thursday as inves- tors repositioned themselves on signs of no further escalation demand for housing in Qatar: Report between Tehran and Washing- ton. SATYENDRA PATHAK nies for residential units to land transactions in the villa and 70 percent of keys are The Qatar Stock Exchange DOHA accommodate their employ- segment recorded in Al Thu- confined in West Bay alone. (QSE) main index gained ees are resulting in higher mama, Doha municipality Citing government statis- 107.04 points, or 1.04 percent, THE residential market occupancy. were in the range of QR300 tics, the report said the aver- when the bourse closed trading across Qatar stabilised in As per the report, the to QR350 per square feet. age hotel occupancy in 5-star at 10,444.36 points on Thurs- the fourth quarter of 2019 average villa and apartment In Al Gharafa and hotels in the fourth quar- day. as compared to the previous occupancy in the country is Muaither, it was in the range ter was around 62 percent, The volume of shares trad- quarters, Al Asmakh Valua- 70 percent and 60 percent of QR350 to QR450 per while average daily rates ed increased to 87.18 million tions and Research has said respectively. square feet. In Al Wukair, the (ADRs) and revenue per from 67.9 million on Wednes- in its latest report. “Residential market land transaction witnessed available room (RevPAR’s) day and the value of shares also According to the Qatar expands beyond familiar were in the range QR200 to were QR540 and QR332 re- increased substantially. Real Estate Q4, 2019 report, neighborhood due to sup- QR250 per square feet. spectively. The total wealth of investors gains. While six stocks de- of QR12.8 million against net steady increase in popula- plies in new localities. These Various locations in oth- Most malls in the coun- increased almost QR6 billion to clined, there was no change in selling of QR8.6 million in the tion partially supports the new localities are well con- er neighboring municipali- try are performing well in QR581.4 billion on the day that the share prices of the remain- week before. demand for housing in the nected and have modern in- ties of Doha, the land banks terms of occupancy, the re- saw all the seven sector indices ing two stocks. As per the record of QN- country. frastructure. Home seekers were transacted in the range port said. close in the positive territory. Both institutional and in- BFS, foreign institutions have The number of overall with budget constraints can QR140 to QR300 per square The occupancies in the The insurance sector, which dividual foreign investors re- bought Qatari equities worth residential units in the coun- explore these locations such feet. prime malls are expected to gained 2.06 percent, was the mained bullish throughout the $30.7 million on net basis since try reached 360,000 by the as Umm Slal, Semaismah, Commenting on the hos- be around 80 percent with best performing sector index day and accounted for 57.41 the start of 2022. end of 2019 with an addi- Rawdat Al Hamam where pitality sector, the report anchor brands holding the for the day. percent of total buy on the day. Heavy trading on Thursday tional supply of 90,000 units 3BR and 4BR villas are avail- said the total number of ho- maximum share. The sec- The real estate sector and According to QNB Financial led weekly trading volume in- in the pipeline expected to be able in the range of QR7,000 tels in Qatar reached 132 by ondary malls command the banking sector, which Services (QNBFS), foreign in- crease by 41.4 percent to reach delivered in 2020, the report to QR10,000,” the report the end of 2019 with close to monthly rentals of around gained more than 1.2 percent, stitutions also ended the week 403.4 million shares against said. said. around 26,700 keys across QR200 to QR260 per square played a crucial role in lifting with net buying of QR151.6 285.3 million shares in the Despite the new supplies, Overall land rates are all star categories. meter while the average oc- the main index higher. million against net buying of previous week. The number of the report said, increasing also stabilising across Qa- More than 75 percent cupancy in secondary malls The remaining four sector QR21.2 million in the previous transactions also increased by demand from government tar, the report said. In the of room keys are still with are also around 80 percent, indices also made good gains week. 79.1 percent to reach 30,104 entities and private compa- fourth quarter of 2019, the 4-star and 5-star categories the report said. on the day that witnessed 35 of Qatari institutions also against 16,812 transactions in the 43 companies traded made turned positive with net buying the previous week. Economy & Business Friday, January 10, 2020 09 Lebanon bans QC chairman hails MoCI’s ex-Nissan boss single window e-portal Ghosn from The single window consolidates Qatar’s foreign travel position as an ideal place for investment AFP Masako Mori earlier Thurs- in the region and BEIRUT day urged Carlos Ghosn to return and make his case in the world LEBANON banned former court in Japan. auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn “If defendant Ghosn has TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK from travel Thursday and anything to say on his crimi- DOHA asked Japan to hand over nal case, he should make his file on financial mis- his argument in a Japanese QATAR Chamber Chairman conduct charges, as Tokyo court and present concrete Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al urged the fugitive business- evidence,” she said. Thani has lauded the the sin- man to return. “If he claims innocence, gle window e-portal, noting The 65-year-old busi- he should face a trial under that it helps save time and ef- nessman -- for years vener- the justice system in Japan, fort for businesses and inves- ated in Japan for turning where he was doing busi- tors willing to establish new around once-ailing Nissan ness,” Mori said. companies in Qatar. -- fled while awaiting trial on Lebanon’s judiciary re- This came in a press state- charges including allegedly ceived a “red notice” from ment during the announce- under-reporting his com- Interpol last week urging ment of the digital transfor- pensation to the tune of $85 Ghosn’s arrest. mation of the service to set up million. A “red notice” is a re- new companies through the His shock arrival in his quest to police across the e-portal of the single window native Lebanon last month world to provisionally detain at the venue of the Ministry was the latest twist in a story of Commerce and Industry worthy of a Hollywood plot (MoCI) on Thursday. and prompted outrage from the Japanese government as The single window pro- Qatar Chamber Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al Thani and other delegates at the launch of the single window e-portal in Doha well as from Nissan. vides a comprehensive on Thursday. A day after Ghosn made an impassioned defence in service to establish busi- Sheikh Khalifa noted the to the ‘Ease of Doing Business global levels and enhances its The single window pro- front world media of his de- nesses and factories that intelligent system confirmed 2020’ score by the World Bank efforts made to attract more lo- vides a comprehensive service cision to jump bail and flee allows investors and busi- Qatar’s advancement in ease was due to the state’s efforts and cal and foreign investments. to establish businesses and fac- Japan, Ghosn on Thursday nessmen to submit and of doing business globally, af- achievements in this area. The first phase of single tories that allow investors and morning gave testimony to sign applications and pay firming that choosing Qatar as He also said the single win- window services that were businessmen to submit and Lebanese prosecutors over their fees electronically in one of the top 20 countries out dow consolidates Qatar’s posi- launched in the first phase sign applications and pay their an Interpol “red notice” urg- order to obtain a licence of 190 counties in the world in tion as an ideal destination for helped in boosting the ease of fees electronically in order to ing his arrest. terms of their improvement investment in the region and at investment procedures. obtain a licence. “The state prosecu- tion issued a travel ban for Ghosn, and asked for his file from the Japanese authori- ties,” a judicial source told China opens oil, gas exploration to foreign rms AFP. A second judicial source Former Renault-Nissan boss AFP sources said foreign firms regis- major reform measure,” said looks to open to private firms On Thursday, the ministry said Ghosn had been asked Carlos Ghosn in Beirut on BEIJING tered in China with net assets of Deputy Minister of Natural Re- more sectors of the economy also said permits for mineral to hand over his French Wednesday. (AFP) not less than 300 million yuan sources Ling Yueming at a news that have been dominated by resources mining will be valid passport and had been CHINA will allow foreign com- ($43 million) will be eligible to conference. state-owned companies. for five years. Each extension banned from travelling a person pending extradi- panies to take part in oil and obtain oil and gas mining rights. In the past, international The country’s oil and gas period is five years as well. abroad until his judicial file tion, surrender or similar le- gas exploration and production The change takes place from companies could only enter market has been dominated by When firms apply for arrived from Japan. gal action. It is not an arrest in the country, in what officials May 1 and also applies to do- the industry by working with state players such as the China a renewal of exploration “According to what is in- warrant. hailed Thursday as a “major re- mestic companies. Chinese firms, such as state- National Petroleum Company rights, their area of explora- side the file, if it appears that But Japan and Lebanon form” opening up the industry. “Opening to both domes- owned enterprises. and China Petrochemical Corp tion will be cut by 25 percent, the crimes he is accused of in don’t have an extradition The Ministry of Natural Re- tic and foreign enterprises is a The move comes as China (Sinopec). said the ministry. Japan require being pursued agreement. in Lebanon, he will be tried,” Also on Thursday, the source added. Ghosn made a statement “But if it doesn’t require to prosecutors on a report being pursued under Leba- submitted by Lebanese law- nese law, then he will be yers that he had travelled to Equities rally, oil steadies as US-Iran tensions ease free.” neighbouring Israel as head AFP - ‘Ridiculous’ -On Thurs- of Renault-Nissan. LONDON Madden added. On Wall Street, the Nas- The lowering of tensions percent at 13,495.06 (close) day afternoon, Ghosn told Lebanon is technically US President Donald daq added 0.9 percent after will allow traders to turn their Paris - CAC 40: Up 0.2 Lebanese media the travel still at war with Israel, and STOCKS rallied, the dollar Trump on Wednesday pulled hitting another record high attention to the release on Fri- percent at 6,042.55 (close) ban was just a “routine” forbids Lebanese from visit- jumped and oil prices steadied back from the brink of war Wednesday and the Dow was day of US jobs data, which will EURO STOXX 50: Up 0.6 measure and he had not ing or having contacts with Thursday as traders saw an with Iran, saying Tehran ap- 0.8 percent ahead two hours provide the latest snapshot of percent at 3,795.88 planned to travel anyway. the Jewish state. easing of tensions between the peared to be “standing down” into trading. the world’s number one econ- Tokyo - Nikkei 225: Up 2.3 He slammed as “ridicu- At a press conference United States and Iran that after firing missiles -- without Frankfurt led European omy, with recent figures indi- percent at 23,739.87 (close) lous” a call by Japan’s justice in Beirut on Wednesday, weighed on haven investments causing casualties -- at US gains as the DAX closed up cating it remains robust. Hong Kong - Hang Seng: minister for him to return Ghosn apologised to the such as gold and the yen. troops based in Iraq. 1.3 percent -- Lufthansa flying Also in focus is the upcom- Up 1.7 percent at 28,561.00 to Japan to defend himself Lebanese people for having “Stock markets are The comments cooled high with a four percent gain ing earnings season, which (close) against charges of financial visited the country in 2008 strong... as US-Iran tensions what threatened to become -- as London and Paris, which kicks off this month. Shanghai - Composite: Up misconduct. to sign a deal to produce have faded,” noted David an uncontrolled boiling over at one time brushed a 13-year In London meanwhile, 0.9 percent at 3,094.88 (close) The Japanese “judicial electric vehicles. Madden, analyst at CMC Mar- of tensions after Trump or- high, limited gains to around a the pound slid around half-a- Pound/dollar: Down at system is completely back- “I went as a Frenchman kets UK. dered the killing last Friday of quarter of one percent. percent versus the dollar and $1.3065 from $1.3126 at 2200 wards,” he said in an inter- because of a contract be- “The strong finish in New a top Iranian general, Qasem Tokyo and Hong Kong euro after Bank of England GMT view with Lebanon’s LBCI tween Renault and an Israeli York last night prompted buy- Soleimani. had earlier added around two governor Mark Carney said Euro/dollar: Down at television channel. company,” said Ghosn, who ing in Asia overnight, so now Oil prices, which spiked percent and Shanghai 0.9 per- Britain’s economic recovery $1.1104 from $1.1153 “I will fully cooperate holds French, Lebanese and the bullish sentiment has briefly to four-month highs cent. was “not assured” despite a Dollar/yen: Up at 109.52 with the Lebanese judiciary, Brazilian nationalities. reached Europe. on Wednesday soon after the The rush to riskier invest- drop in Brexit uncertainties. from 108.44 yen and I’m much more com- “I always come back to “The US and Iran are still Iranian attack, dropped back ments saw gold, seen as a ha- Key figures at 1700 GMT Brent Crude: Down 0.2 fortable with it than with the Lebanon and nothing has at odds with each other, but as below their start point com- ven in times of unrest, sink -London - FTSE 100: Up 0.3 percent at $65.28 per barrel Japanese judiciary.” ever happened before,” he long as a conflict doesn’t seem pared with overnight in New more than one percent, having percent at 7,598.12 points West Texas Intermediate: Japan’s Justice Minister said. to be on the horizon, the feel York on the softer tone from broken $1,600 per ounce for (close) Down 0.2 percent at $59.41 good factor is likely to last,” both sides. the first time in seven years. Frankfurt - DAX 30: Up 1.3 per barrel

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IS US ENERGY INDEPENDENT? US’ foreign oil dependence wanes but independence proves elusive AFP independent? The answer: It ural gas in 2017 for the first New hydraulic fracturing quantities of crude oil from NEW YORK depends on what you mean by time in 60 years. techniques -- known as frack- abroad because many of its how “energy independence,” “But the US is still import- ing -- and horizontal drilling refineries are configured to US President Donald Trump said Matt Smith, an oil market ing 7 million barrels per day of have allowed producers to ex- process heavy oil, mainly from on Wednesday touted Amer- specialist for ClipperData. crude and more than a million ploit new deposits and have Canada and Mexico, while ica’s newfound “energy inde- barrels of refined products,” allowed progress towards this shale oil is considered light. pendence” which means the The US now extracts an Smith said. goal. Wells have multiplied in And while production of country is no longer at the average of 12 to 13 million It is still “hugely relying Texas, New Mexico, North Da- refined products such as gaso- mercy of geopolitical upheaval on Canada and other coun- kota and Pennsylvania. line, heating oil and kerosene in the region. barrels per day, producing tries, including countries in The country now extracts have drastically increased, “We are independent and more than Russia or Saudi the Middle East such as Saudi an average of 12 to 13 million Americans’ total energy con- we do not need Middle East Arabia, compared to 5.3 Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait.” barrels per day, producing sumption also is increasing. oil,” Trump said as he reacted mbd in 2009 for example Even if the United States is more than Russia or Saudi According to the US En- to Iran’s retaliation against US not yet strictly speaking ener- Arabia, compared to 5.3 mbd ergy Information Agency, con- troops following Washington’s gy independent, the situation in 2009 for example. sumption in 2018 increased by killing of an Iranian general. It is true that in the final has changed considerably. That delights Trump, who 4 percent to a new record. But while the United months of 2019, “the US grad- Since the oil shock of in 2017 promised not only to In petroleum alone, “total States has seen a production ually moved into being a net 1973, Washington has aimed achieve energy independence product demand in the US is boom with exploitation of exporter of crude and prod- File photo of oil pump jack in California. (AFP) to reduce its dependence on but to lead a drive toward Amer- around 20 million barrels per shale deposits, it still relies on ucts,” he said, meaning the imported oil and in 1975 pro- ican domination of energy. day, while oil production is 13 imported oil. country exports more than it That has been thanks to shale gas. The United States hibited exports of American But the United States million barrels per day,” Smith Is the United States energy imports. the massive exploitation of became a net exporter of nat- crude. continues to import massive said. China con rms Global economy faces tenuous negotiator to sign trade deal recovery beset by risks: WB in US next week In its latest Global Economic Prospects report, the World Bank projects the global economy will grow by AFP US and Chinese offi- 2.4 percent this year, just one tenth more than 2019 but slower than the 2020 forecast released in June BEIJING cials have said the agree- ment includes protections AFP percent and 1.2 percent, respec- China said on Thurs- for intellectual property, WASHINGTON tively, far faster than last year. day that Vice Premier Liu food and farm goods, fi- India too is expected to gain He will travel to Wash- nancial services and for- RECOVERY in a handful of traction, with growth of 5.8 per- ington next week to sign eign exchange, and a provi- countries will boost global cent, while Turkey’s 3.0 percent the “phase one” deal with sion for dispute resolution. growth slightly this year but expansion will come after no the United States that has Trump also cancelled the outlook is riddled with growth in 2019, the report said. lowered trade tensions be- plans to impose tariffs on potential pitfalls that could In sub-Saharan Africa, the tween the world’s two big- $160 billion in Chinese derail this tepid upswing, the news is looking up, with a solid gest economies. merchandise in mid-De- World Bank cautioned on increase in GDP growth ex- The signing will cap a cember -- including hot Wednesday. pected this year. nearly two-year spat that consumer items such as A renewal of trade tensions, But the World Bank cau- threatened to throttle the mobile phones -- but pun- which eased recently with tions that, even with the im- global economy as the two ishing tariffs remain on announcement of an initial provement, “per capita growth countries exchanged tariffs about $250 billion-worth agreement between the United will remain well below long- on hundreds of billions of of goods, including ma- States and China, would erode term averages and far from dollars worth of two-way chinery and many elec- the modest progress and could sufficient to meet poverty al- trade. tronic items. spread quickly beyond the two leviation goals.” Liu, China’s top nego- US Trade Representa- economic powers. The Middle East is expect- tiator in the trade conflict, tive Robert Lighthizer has In its latest Global Econom- ed to see growth jump to 2.4 will be in the US capital said China committed to ic Prospects report, the World percent this year after virtually from Monday to Wednes- a minimum of $200 bil- Bank projects the global econo- no growth in 2019. day to sign the deal, the lion in increased purchases my will grow by 2.4 percent this A now hiring sign is posted at a juice shop in San Francisco, California. (File photo) (AFP) The World Bank warns that commerce ministry said. over the next two years year, just one tenth more than “downside risks predominate” Donald Trump an- from US manufacturers, 2019 but slower than the 2020 na together account for nearly slowdown in Germany and the As a result the global uptick but since the cutoff for the nounced last week that the farmers, energy producers forecast released in June. 40 percent of global GDP threat of Brexit, “has deterio- is not broad-based and “is large- forecasts was December 20, two countries would sign and service providers. Despite the positive spin, and nearly a quarter of global rated significantly,” with sev- ly predicated on a rebound in a prior to the recent outbreak the mini agreement -- the But Gao refused to con- the report -- titled “Fragile, trade. But with an improve- eral economies “on the verge small group of large EMDEs, of hostilities between Iran and first part of a wider pact be- firm the figure at Thurs- Handle With Care” -- cuts the ment in their nearly two-year of recession at some point last most of which are emerging the United States. So it is too tween the two -- on Janu- day’s news conference. forecasts for nearly every coun- old trade dispute, they will be year.” from deep recessions or sharp soon to tell what influence that ary 15, but Beijing had yet Trump said last week try except the United States less of a drag on growth even The expansion is set to slow slowdowns,” the report said. might have. to confirm the trip. that he would travel to Bei- compared to the last edition in as both economies slow. further to just 1.0 percent this “Indeed, about 90 percent The major concern is the “At the invitation of the jing for negotiations on the June. The US economy is project- year before picking up in 2021. of the pickup in EMDE growth potential for a resurgence of US, Liu He will be leading next part of the wider deal And growth is still not fast ed to grow just 1.8 percent af- Japan also is “suffering in 2020 is accounted for by just trade tensions between the a delegation to Washington “at a later date”, but Gao enough to meet targets for pull- ter 2.3 percent growth in 2019, from acute weakness in manu- eight countries -- Argentina, United States and China. from January 13 to Janu- said he had “no further in- ing more people out of poverty. the World Bank said. facturing and exports” and the Brazil, India, Iran, Mexico, A “renewed disruption to ary 15 to sign the phase one formation on phase two” of Most major economies are China’s GDP will expand economy will continue to slow Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Tur- US-China economic ties could deal,” commerce ministry the negotiations. poised to see sluggish growth by less than six percent for the with growth of just 0.7 percent key,” it said. result in damage not only to spokesman Gao Feng said Observers say the trade in 2020. first time since 1990, with an expected. “Excluding these eight these two economies but to the at a weekly news briefing. war, which has also had The tenuous global re- expected 5.9 percent growth Emerging market and de- countries, aggregate EMDE rest of the world,” the report “Both parties are in ramifications for other bound relies almost entirely on rate. veloping economies (EMDEs) growth would experience al- warned. close communication re- economies globally, may a few large emerging market “Growth has decelerated have been the boost to the most no acceleration.” In addition, “record-high garding the detailed ar- have ushered in a long- economies that are expected to more than previously expect- global economy through the Argentina, which con- debt levels and fragile public rangement of the signing,” term de-coupling of trade accelerate after a disappointing ed amid cooling domestic de- sluggish times but most face tracted 3.1 percent in 2019, is finance positions” leave many Gao said, without provid- relations between the two 2019, or in the case of Argen- mand and heightened trade their own rocky road with a projected to slow by 1.9 per- countries vulnerable to shocks ing more details. economic powerhouses. tina, contract at a slower rate. tensions,” the report said. third are projected to deceler- cent this year while Brazil and or a sudden increase in inter- The United States and Chi- The Euro Area, hit by a ate this year. Mexico should expand by 2.0 est rates. Big fat Indian wedding goes on a diet as slowdown bites

AFP that cost 73,000 rupees Modi’s move. slowed down and reduced MUMBAI ($1,000),” Panchamiya told “No exhibitions were hap- spending on weddings is a AFP as she picked through pening and there were no ave- by-product of that. Everyone INDIA’S weddings are fa- outfits at a recent marriage nues for us to sell either,” said except the super-rich are af- mously lavish -- lasting days trade fair. Vishal Hariyani, owner of the fected,” Pradip Shah from and with hundreds if not thou- “But my partner felt it was clothing studio. IndAsia Fund Advisors told sands of guests -- but this sea- too expensive, and so now I Hopes for a recovery AFP. son many families are cutting am here reworking my options proved short-lived when the “It is reflective of how costs even if it risks their social cash ban was followed by a sombre the mood is,” he said. standing. botched rollout of a nation- In a country where fami- It is symptomatic of a Growth has hit a six-year wide goods and services tax lies traditionally spend heav- sharp slowdown in the world’s low and unemployment a (GST) in 2017 that saw many ily on weddings -- including fifth-largest economy, with four-decade high under small-scale businesses close. taking on debt in some cases Indians spending less on eve- Prime Minister Narendra Since then, keeping his -- the downturn is also a rything from daily essentials Modi. Prices are rising too, studio afloat has been a chal- source of sadness and shame, to once-in-a-lifetime celebra- squeezing spending on eve- lenge, with consumers in- with elaborate celebrations of- tions. rything from shampoo to creasingly reluctant to spend ten seen as a measure of social Growth has hit a six-year too much, says Hariyani. status. low and unemployment a mobile data “We customise our clothes “We haven’t even invited four-decade high under Prime as per their budgets, and now our neighbours. It is embar- Minister Narendra Modi. Pric- and looking for something week-long weddings have rassing but the current situa- es are rising too, squeezing cheaper.” Relatives wait for the bride and groom at a marriage hall outside a family court in Mumbai recently. (AFP) been converted to just a 36- tion doesn’t offer us much res- spending on everything from India’s massive wedding hour ceremony,” he told AFP. pite,” 52-year-old Tara Shetty shampoo to mobile data. industry is worth an estimated tickets to some events. now things have changed,” hit by the government’s shock “We have to pay GST, told AFP ahead of her son’s Chartered accountant $40-50 billion a year, accord- But these days, except for said Maninder Sethi, founder withdrawal of vast amounts of pay workers and even offer wedding. Palak Panchamiya, for ex- ing to research firm KPMG. the super-rich -- a recent Am- of Wedding Asia, which organ- banknotes from circulation in discounts to customers,” he “In my era, we always ample, has already slashed The celebrations can last a bani family wedding reported- ises marriage fairs around the a bid to crack down on unde- added. spent a lot and had thousands the budget on her upcoming week and involve several func- ly cost $100 million -- extrava- country. clared earnings. Analysts say gloomy eco- of people attending the wed- Mumbai nuptials by a third, tions, a dazzling variety of cui- gance is out and frugality is in Cracks emerged in 2016 Mumbai-based trousseau nomic conditions have pushed dings,” she explained. trimming spending on cloth- sines, music and dance perfor- as families prioritise saving. when the Indian wedding maker Sapna Designs Studio India’s middle class to pile “My wedding was su- ing and the guest list. mances, and lots of gifts. “Earlier Indian weddings season, which runs from Sep- shut for months as the econo- their cash into savings. premely grand, and now my “Initially I chose a dress Foreigners can even buy were like huge concerts, but tember to mid-January, was my was turned on its head by “The whole economy has son’s is the polar opposite.” Thomas rides Aahil to victory at QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune HH Sheikh Abdullah Bin Khalifa QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune Al Thani Trophy PAGE 13

FRIDAY, JANUARY 10, 2020

QATAR EXXONMOBIL OPEN 2020 Serbian Kecmanovic beats rain, Fucsovics to storm into semis

A view of the center court on a rain-interrupted day four of the Qatar ExxonMobil Open at the Khalifa Inter- national Tennis & Squash Complex in Doha on Thursday. ORDER OF PLAY Center Court (play starts 1pm) Corentin Moutet (FRA) vs Fernando Verdasco (ESP) Followed by Stan Wawrinka (SUI x1) vs Aljaz Bedene (SLO) Serbia’s Miomir Kecmanovic in action against Maron Fucsovics during their Qatar ExxonMobil Open quarter- nal match at the Khalifa Followed by International Tennis & Squash Complex in Doha on Thursday. Miomir Kecmanovic (SRB) vs Pierre-Hugues Herbert (FRA) or Andrey Rublev (RUS x2) Followed by isers, players, fans and all to first game and never looked Stan Wawrinka (SUI x1) or Aljaz Bedene (SLO) vs Action on wait in vain. But just before back, blanking his opponent Corentin Moutet (FRA) or Fernando Verdasco (ESP) the showers came, Serbian even as rain arrived. But Ke- Court 1 (Play starts 12.30pm) It was pretty good timing. Pierre-Hugues Herbert (FRA vs Andrey Rublev (RUS Friday to start Miomir Kecmanovic had cmanovic managed to wrap it You know, good thing was x2) stormed into the semi-final in up just in the nick of time. Note: Doubles also start at 12.30pm at 12.30pm his maiden appearance zoom- that I was able to nish The Serbian awaits the ing past Hungarian qualifier before the rain happened. I winner of second seed Andrey VINAY NAYUDU Marton Fucsovics 6-2, 6-0 in trained with Roger and Rublev and Pierre-Hugues like, speed up my game a lit- DOHA 55 minutes. Herbert clash in the semi- tle bit because they take time The clash provided Qa- Novak and Karen, too in the final. away for you. So it’s now a lit- Court attendants clear water from the playing surface after rain A rainy Thursday saw Qa- tar fans another glimpse of off-season. I de nitely think “It was pretty good tim- tle bit easier to play against stopped play on Thursday. tar ExxonMobil Open 2020 20-year-old Kecmanovic’s I’ve, maybe, speed up my ing. You know, good thing some of the other guys. being deprived of exciting talent. A former world junior game a little bit. was that I was able to finish “But it is definitely some- ago in juniors, but I haven’t the rains came. “I actually quarter-finals action at the number one, who broke into before this (the rain) hap- thing I still have to work on played him since then. But, thought it was perfect today. Khalifa International Ten- the ATP top-50 rankings last – Miomir Kecmanovic pened,” said a smiling Kec- and definitely. Something yeah, it would definitely be Like, it wasn’t hot. It wasn’t nis & Squash Complex. Only September, is being seen as manovic of his win. that will, if I can, let’s say per- an exciting match. But he still windy for me. I thought it one of the scheduled four last one for the future. He is cur- baseline and overall play in He credited his improved fect or make my normal game has to win today, or probably was perfect, up until the rain eight matches could be held as rently ranked 62, and if the their first meeting as the Ser- show to his sweat work with that I could take far if that tomorrow. But, yeah, I’m defi- started, I felt good.” intermittent showers forced two matches that he’s played bian broke him in the 5th and Roger Federer, Novak Djoko- happens.” nitely looking forward to com- The remaining singles early closure even as fans in Doha are any indication, he 7th games for a 37-minute 6-2 vic and Karen Khachanov dur- On his possible meeting ing out again and to playing quarter-finals have now been waited with umbrellas still en- does seem to be mean busi- win in the opening set. ing the off-season. with Rublev in the semis, the my best game,” he said. scheduled to start at 12.30pm joying their evenings out. ness. Kecmanovic needed much “I was practicing with Rog- Serbian said it would be an ex- A luckier Kecmanovic also on Friday with Pierre-Hugues Soon after 6 pm, the heav- The 27-year-old Fucsovics less time in the second set. He er and Novak and Karen, too. citing match if it happens. had something to say about Herbert taking on Andrey ens opened up forcing organ- realised Kecmanovic’s strong broke Fucsovics in the very I definitely think I’ve, maybe, “I played him a long time how it was to play before Rublev. Al Shaqab Showjumping Competition aimed Qatar’s Nawaf relishes at setting healthy equestrian foundation his ATP Tour debut ers and individual horse owners Inaugural event at has been growing at a healthy TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK wavered since. Al Shaqab Indoor pace over the last few years. The DOHA “I was always at this overall direction charted by the tournament growing up and Arena from today Qatar Equestrian Federation IN a tournament filled with it played a big role in my (QEF) and Al Shaqab, is to push established ATP Tour veter- love for tennis,” Nawaf said. TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK the new generation to the next ans, the youthful presence of “I went with my father to DOHA level, wherein they can begin 14-year-old Rashed Nawaf watch this tournament and supporting themselves.” offered a unique change to really liked it, so I told him THE first of the scheduled two Al Suwaidi also stressed the the draws at the Qatar Exx- that I wanted to play.” legs of the inaugural Al Shaqab importnace of strenghtening onMobil Open in Doha. At age 12, the Qatar Ten- Showjumping Competition the local market for the horses The Qatari teenager was nis Federation sent him to will be conducted by Al Shaqab, and their hygiene. rewarded for his junior suc- train at the world-renowned member of Qatar Foundation, “It is also important to con- cess by making his tour-level Mouratoglou Tennis Acad- on Friday (January 10) and tinue conducting outstanding debut on home soil. Nawaf emy in France, where he Saturday (January 11), at the Al horse shows and to provide a competed in the singles still resides. Nawaf’s game Shaqab Indoor Arena. healthy local market to buy and qualifying draw and faced quickly blossomed there and The vision behind the sell horses as well as equestrian- Al Shaqab Showjumping vet check. a Top 100 player in Brazil- he’s been serving up notice event is to create a self-sus- related products. It is equally ian Thiago Monteiro, then Qatar’s teen tennis player Rashed in top junior events, finish- taining equestrian environ- essential to offer riders and ing them to reach international tions this year, and the objec- paired with Tunisian Malek Nawaf. ing runner-up last year at ment that supports riders, individual owners greater chal- levels of equestrian sports. Once tive is to make it an annual Jaziri in doubles and bat- the prestigious Les Petits individual horse owners, and lenges by organizing more com- they reach this level, they need feature. A total prize money of tled a pair of elite doubles pressure is hard in singles, As tournament and in the the local horse community, petitions held at international to compete against the top rid- QR270,000 will be given away players in Henri Kontinen/ but it’s a bit less in doubles. 14-and-under draw at the and, eventually making Qatar standards with significant prize ers from QEF, the Gulf, and for each event. Franko Skugor. Although You have the support of a Orange Bowl. a global equestrian hub, the money. other countries. The upcoming competition Nawaf lost both matches, partner and it helps, espe- But while Nawaf is organisers said. “The prize-money will en- “By conducting events like will follow along the lines of he’s confident that the expe- cially with someone like pleased with his progress, Explaining the initia- courage interested individuals the Al Shaqab Show Jumping the Longines Hathab – Qatar riences will only help him in Malek.” his ambitions are much loft- tive, Mohammed Sultan al to further invest in their love for Competition, we inspire our rid- Equestrian Tour in terms of the future. Nawaf’s debut in Doha ier. He hopes that someday Suwaidi, Manager, Equine equestrian sport. This approach ers, offering them opportunities classes, class-titles, etc. “It’s a turning point in was particularly fitting be- lifting the title in Doha will Education Department at Al will promote the community to improve their skills while ex- The ensuing competition in my career,” Nawaf told atp- cause he’s been a regular be just one accomplishment Shaqab, said, “The Al Shaqab even more, as horse riding is an panding their knowledge. Our March, will be different in terms tour.com. visitor to the Khalifa Inter- in a fruitful ATP Tour career. Showjumping Competition is expensive sport and horses re- aim is to make Qatar an eques- of criteria, categories, class-ti- “It’s a big step playing national Tennis and Squash “I believe it’s the dream very significant as it is being quire high maintenance.” trian hub at a global level – one tles, and challenge levels. these huge names and be- Complex as a spectator. He of every tennis player to be organized with a long-term He also stated that Al which attracts the participation Community involvement ing surrounded by big stars. immediately took to tennis one of the best singles play- objective to further promote Shahqab will continue to give of top riders. With the facilities being high on its agenda, Al I was impressed with their when he first attended this ers in the world and win a the equestrian ecosystem in the best training and learning that are currently in Qatar, this Shaqab seeks to find gaps in level of tennis and so many event as a young boy and his Grand Slam,” Nawaf said. Qatar and foster the equestri- tools to riders. is an achievable goal.” the equestrian scene within the aspects of their game. The passion for the sport hasn’t “It’s the same for me.” an heritage of the nation. “At Al Shaqab, we work re- Al Shaqab will conduct community and works towards “The number of Qatari rid- ally hard with our riders train- two showjumping competi- closing them. 12 Friday, January 10, 2020 Sports Al Duhail wary of ‘technically stable’ Al Sailiya in semis clash e Red Knights take on Sami Trabelsi’s side in the Qatar Cup today Nick Kyrgios and Alex de Minaur AYENI OLUSEGUN bump chests in their ATP Cup DOHA men’s doubles match against Jamie Murray and Joe Salisbury AL Duhail coach Rui Faria says in Sydney on Thursday. (AFP) only winning will validate the club’s lofty ambitions as the Australia, Russia Red Knights prepare for the Qatar Cup semi-final against Al Al Duhail players (left) and Al Sailiya players during a training session ahead of their Friday’s Qatar Cup semi- nal match to be held at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al Sadd). storm into ATP Sailiya at the Al Sadd Stadium on Friday. However, against an with all the facilities, our target “We know the value of contrast in stars, Al Sailiya to sixth with 17 points -- 13 be- Cup semi-finals The Portuguese was also Al Sailiya side whom they is to compete for all titles. Some Mandzukic, but we focus on will not be distracted from the hind their league-leading op- quick to praise in his words thrashed on the way to lifting coaches believe good work with the team as a whole. Our new task at hand. ponents. ‘technical stability’ being en- the Amir Cup last year, Faria the team is success, but in Al player Han Kwang-Song is “We are focusing complete- “We are much better than AFP joyed by their modest oppo- said Sami Trabelsi’s side will Duhail, the philosophy is to training with the team, which ly on the Qatar Cup. This is a last season. Our results may SYDNEY nent. pose a strong challenge for win trophies,” the Portuguese is an additional option for us,” tournament we are honoured have been better last season The Qatar Cup features the them. added. Faria said. to compete in. Al Duhail are but we could not start the sea- A dynamic Nick Kyrgios and top four teams from the previ- “We’re facing a team that The current league leaders For Al Sailiya, a leap into looking to reach the final, they son in a good way because there dogged Alex de Minaur pow- ous QNB Stars League season. we know well. They have tech- recently added North Korea’s the elite four has seen them have a team full of stars, with are players who joined us late,” ered Australia into the ATP The second semi-final will see nical stability as their coach has Han Kwang-Song in addition qualify for the AFC Champi- great experience in European the Tunisian said, adding that Cup semi-finals Thursday with Al Sadd take on rivals Al Rayy- been with them for long. We to the marquee striker Mario ons League playoffs and now and Arab leagues. all games will prepare them for an epic 2-1 win against the Tim an in the ‘Qatar Clasico’. know their philosophy and we Mandzukic. the Qatar Cup. All down to the “In the last game against their debut AFC Champions Henman-led Britain, and they Al Duhail, defending cham- will be ready for them,” Faria With a host of attacking club’s stability, the Peregrines them, we made some mistakes League campaign. were joined by Russia who pions from the treble-winning said. options including Almoez Ali, have been a model to follow for which hopefully won’t be re- “All matches we currently overpowered Argentina. run under then coach Djamel “When I came here (to Al Yousef Msekni and Moham- other teams. peated as we target the final,” play are part of our prepara- The home team clinched the Belmadi, head into the match Duhail), I knew the history of med Muntari, the former Jose Tunisian coach Sami Tra- Trabelsi said. tions for the AFC Champions tie after an 18-16 third-set tie- on the back of a stalemate at the our club and its ambitions. The mourinho assistant insists Al belsi – already seven years An inconsistent start to the League. We will focus on get- breaker in the doubles to set up hands of Qatar SC in the QSL. administration has provided us Duhail remains a collective. at the helm, said despite the season has seen Al Sailiya drop ting a positive result.” a potential blockbuster last-four clash against Rafael Nadal’s Da- vis Cup-winning Spain who face Belgium on Friday. Russia, spearheaded by Serena drops set before world number five Daniil Med- Qatar held to 2-2 draw by Syria in AFC vedev won both their singles to sweep past Argentina. Their reaching last 8 in Auckland reward is a semi-final against U23 opener, to play Saudi Arabia next either Novak Djokovic’s Serbia, AFP mined to equal the record of 24 or Canada. AFC Kamel Koaeh’s pinpoint set- AUCKLAND held by Australian great Mar- Kyrgios crushed Cameron BANGKOK piece courtesy of a powering garet Court. Norrie in the opening singles header that gave Qatar goal- SERENA Williams rallied from “Tournament time is su- 6-2, 6-2 before Dan Evans came SUBSTITUTE Alaa Aldin Dali keeper Mohammed al Bakri a set down to beat journey- per-important, match time through a memorable show- struck late on to salvage a little or no chance. woman Christina McHale at is good. After losing that first down against De Minaur 7-6 point for Syria as they came Clearly buoyed by their the WTA Auckland Classic on set I’m just glad to be still in (7/4), 4-6, 7-6 (7/2) to set up from two goals down to draw goal, Syria started the second Thursday, but said it was just the event.” the decisive, winner-takes-all 2-2 with Qatar in Group B of half brightly, with first sub- the workout she needed. It was the reverse from doubles. the AFC U23 Championship stitute Abdul Kader Adi fizz- With her focus on winning Gauff, seen as one of the ris- Australian captain Lleyton Thailand 2020 campaign on ing a drive narrowly wide on a 24th Grand Slam at the Aus- ing stars of tennis, who started Hewitt took a huge gamble by Thursday. 56 minutes and then Barakat tralian Open, Williams said she strongly against Siegemund but dropping regular doubles pair Dali converted Mohammad thumping an effort into the needs all the court time she can faded as the match wore on. John Peers and Chris Guc- Alhallak’s cross at the far post side netting shortly after. get after a long off-season since The 31-year-old Siege- cione in favour of Kyrgios and to earn a share of the spoils for As the game wore on and losing September’s US Open mund, who played her first de Minaur, and it looked a poor Syria on a night when Yusuf with defences dominating, final. WTA qualifier in 2003 before decision when they lost the first Abdurisag’s early effort and an Qatar forward Khalid Mazeed It took the top seed two Gauff was born, was up 5-4 set 6-3. own goal from defender Yosief forced Ghannam into a smart hours to put away the 27-year- and serving when the Ameri- But, spurred by Kyrgios’ Mohammad had threatened to stop, before the Al Wathba old McHale and advance to a can teen broke twice to take the booming serve, they took the be their undoing. custodian produced a fine dou- quarter-final with Germany’s first set. next 6-3 before a nailbiting tie- In what ultimately proved ble save to deny Hashim Ali Laura Siegemund, who ousted But from there, she used breaker that lasted more than to be a sign of the drama to and Abdurisag. teen prodigy Coco Gauff in the her considerable experience to half-an-hour. come, Qatar were ahead within Qatar U23 players celebrate scoring against Syria during their AFC However, in a dramatic second round. ruffle the 15-year-old, forcing “That was incredible ten- 60 seconds. Syria goalkeeper U-23 Thailand 2020 Group B match on Thursday. late twist, Dali was on hand to Williams was broken three her behind the baseline and nis. All three matches today William Ghannam fumbled draw Syria level and crown a times before losing the first set then drawing her forward with everyone gave 100 percent and Amro Surag’s deep cross leav- away Hashim Ali’s fierce drive his own net when trying to sensational fight back. 3-6 but recovered to take the deft drop shots. left it all out on the court,” said ing Yusuf Abdurisag the sim- following a neatly worked free- deal with Homam Ahmed’s Qatar will next be in action next two sets 6-2, 6-3 in the all- “In the first set I had my Hewitt. plest of finishes from close kick. whipped cross. when they face Saudi Arabia, American affair. chances but let it go. So I just “Really proud of the boys, range. After weathering a brief Syria were, though, to with Syria scheduled to meet “I really need to play tried to keep my level and she the way they were able to turn To his credit, Ghannam Syrian flurry, Qatar stretched throw themselves a lifeline as Japan. Both games will take matches like that to get to my started to miss a little bit more, it around... it could have gone made amends for his error mo- their advantage in the 22nd half-time approached, Abdul place at the Thammasat Sta- goals,” said the 23-times Grand and I guess I just got better and either way.” ments later, this time palming minute as Yosief put through Rahman Barakat converting dium on Sunday. Slam winner, who is deter- better,” Siegemund said.

SC.QA Football stars look DOHA N December, Qatar played host to the FIFA Club World Cup 2019. The Itournament, used as a key preparation event for the FIFA World Cup 2022 was considered a great success, as Liverpool FC of England were ahead to Qatar 2022 crowned world champions for the first time in their illustrious history. The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy invited many of the game’s most well-known names to attend the event as guests, and during an action-packed three-day itinerary, took the opportunity to showcase with excitement the country and its offering to its guests. From John BArnes, TIm Cahill and Mauricio Pochettino, the stars had a lot to say about the 2022 FIFA Wolrd Cup.

Football legends during a recent visit to the Supreme Committee’s MAURICIO POCHETTINO TIM CAHILL HONEY THALJIEH RONALD DE BOER Legacy Pavilion. “First of all I was very pleas- “It’s been amazing. I’m very fortunate “There’s an opportunity now to use “I rst came in 2004, they were already at antly surprised with the in that I’ve been travelling to Qatar the World Cup to boost the region that time very ambitious. They already had the CHRISTIAN KAREMBEU weather. We heard lots of since 2008 and I have a really strong at all levels with empowerment, 2030 National Vision, but we know now that JOHN BARNES things about how it will be too relationship with the country’s football legacy and sustainability, bringing was just the beginning. I remember coming “It’s not my rst time here, but “One aspect of this World hot, but the weather is amaz- entities throughout these years; from people together, changing mindsets here with very few buildings, there was no my most recent experience Cup that particularly excites ing – around 24 or 25 degrees the FA to the academies and grass- and perceptions, and showing a West Bay. So I was here in the very early days in Qatar has been wonderful. me is that I genuinely feel during the day, and 17 or 18 roots – and also being an AFC player different image to the Arab world. of what we see now. It’s impressive what they Many things change every time it will open the world’s eyes in the night; this is perfect playing in this region. There’s a lot of prejudice and ste- have achieved in that period of time. Whenev- I come back here and there is to an area that is often weather to play football. You “We’ve done so much in our time reotypes in general and football will er I come back I see incredible progress – the so much progress everywhere misunderstood. It will open can feel it is the right time to here, but it’s not just about coming help change that. It’s important as roads, the infrastructure, the entertainment you look. This trip has been people’s eyes to see how host a World Cup here. here, having a good time and then human beings to be open minded. and cultural offerings; everything is changing even more special as we had similar we all are, and how “We’re having an unbeliev- sharing it with the world. It’s also We grew up with stereotypes and it for the good of Qatar. the opportunity to really see the we all share one common able experience here in Qatar, about making sure we learn and takes open minds to change that. “The compact World Cup will also be an country and to travel outside passion. alongside great names like Iker understand what it takes to host this “Football can make a differ- incredible thing. It will feel like a village at- of the city, to the desert, the “Regardless of back- Casillas, Ronald Karembeu, World Cup and what this region is ence that and the world should mosphere – everyone here will have a foot- beaches, the boats. It’s been grounds – once you get Ronald de Boer – it’s been doing. I’ve been really impressed, but understand that you need to experi- ball heart, a shared interest and I am 100% a tremendous and beautiful here you’ll nd that football wonderful to share this time also been very keen to take notes ence things and then share your sure this festival feeling will be special. You experience. is the common ground with them and I hope I can be and understand everything so I can experiences rather than just make will feel that there is a tournament going on, “I’m certain people com- and a universal language. back many times over the next form my view holistically on what I feel judgements and assumptions which with no disrespect to previous tourna- ing here in 2022 will be very That’s the beauty of the few years. I have absolutely no about a World Cup coming to Qatar. without knowing what it’s all about. ments hasn’t always been the case because pleasantly surprised with what World Cup, and I’ll always doubt that Qatar’s World Cup I leave here certain that it will be a Of course FIFA must do more but the venues are so spread out. But here, in the country has to offer – for support it being taken to will be a successful one.” resounding success.” everyone must do more.” 2022, it will be everywhere you look.” players and fans.” new parts of the world.” Sports Friday, January 10, 2020 13 Qatar to clash with China in semis

the last slot in the semi-finals. For a place in the final on Abunabot gains Qatar head coach Soto Results Saturday, Iran, the Pool A said, “This intensive tourna- toppers, will clash with South 18 points in loss ment was not easy for the Thursday’s results Korea and Qatar face China. Australia v India 3-1 (25-27, 25-21, 25-21, Chul-Woo Park was the to South Korea players. They were somehow 25-22) unconscious about the situa- Korea v Qatar 3-2 (25-18, 28-26, 22-25, best scorer for Korea with tion that we not only need go 20-25, 15-13) 20 points to his name. His TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK to the semi-final, but also get Chinese Taipei v Kazakhstan 3-1 (19-25, teammate Min-Ho Choi im- DOHA the first place in the group. We 25-11, 25-18, 25-21) pressed with six kill blocks, had no idea who is going to top Iran v China 3-0 (25-22, 25-20, 25-11) while Belal Nabel Abunabot QATAR went down 2-3 to Pool A yet. was Qatar’s leading scorer South Korea but still topped “But considering it is a Saturday’s fixtures (semi-finals) with 18 points, including a Iran vs Korea massive eight blocks. Pool B in the AVC Continen- tough group, all we could do China vs Qatar tal Tokyo Olympics Volleyball is to continue pushing. Korea Qatar skipper Mohammed Qualification Championship in are a very strong team, they Ibrahim contributed eight Jiangmen, China on Thursday. are higher in the world ranking because we had to take the kills and five blocks and Renan At the Jiangmen Gymnasi- than us so we did as well as we first place of the group. Then Rebeiro’s 13 had 10 spikes. um, Al Annabi, with two wins could to reverse the situation, we tried our best to get at least Geraldo Graciano Da Silva in as many matches, trailed getting enough points to put two sets. We tried to win the Filho was not in his usual self 0-2. Tutored by Argentine us in the first place. It was a game, but Korea were better and got 12 points and Nadir Camilo Sato, Qatar reorgan- good fight for us anyway,” Soto today.” Abubacar netted 10, including ised themselves and reeled off added. Qatar collected seven eight smashes. two sets in a row to force the Saeed said after the match, points from two wins in Iran mastered a 3-0 tie-breaker. “It was a very good game - full three matches, while Korea (25-22, 25-20, 25-21) shut- In the closing stages, South of energy. In order to enter the had six, also from two wins. out of China in the direct Korea managed to gain crucial semi-finals team Korea had Australia secured only five duel for the first place in points and script a 25-18, 28- nothing to lose. So they had to from two victories and India Pool A, as both teams had al - 26, 22-25, 20-25, 15-13) vic- do their best. My team woke got not point after losing all ready secured their spots in Belal Nabel Abunabot spikes the ball for Qatar against South Korea during a pool match in the AVC tory, which denied Volleyroos up in the middle of the match the three games. the semis. Continental Tokyo Olympics Volleyball Quali cation Championship in Jiangmen, China on Thursday. Thomas rides Aahil to big win De Mieulle’s trainees sweep feature races on HH Sheikh Abdullah Bin Khalifa Al ani Trophy Day

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK PA) 1,600m. Ridden by Faleh DOHA Bughanaim, the six-year-old grey mare outran Ebraz and UMM Qarn’s Aahil displayed a Tayf by one and a half lengths strong turn of foot to claim the and half a length respectively prestigious HH Sheikh Abdul- for her second biggest victory lah Bin Khalifa Al Thani Tro- at the racecourse. phy Race during the 22nd Race With this result, the Qatar Meeting at the rain-soaked Qa- International Cup (Gr1 PA) tar Racing & Equestrian Race- winner Al Naama raised her course turf on Thursday. victories to four in 22 races. Third last year in the same HH Sheikh Mohammed Faleh Bughaniam guides Al Naama to HH Sheikh Abdullah Bin Khalifa race behind Sharesa and Mol- bin Khalifa al Thani-owned Al Thani Cup triumph in New Al Rayyan on Thursday. heb Al Naif, the six-year-old Ebraz had won the race last grey horse from Umm Qarn year, beating Tayf by a half teamed up brilliantly with rider body before going on to se- Ronan Thomas rides Aahil to victory in the HH Sheikh Abdullah Bin Khalifa Al Thani Trophy race at the 22ND RACE MEETING RESULTS (TURF) Ronan Thomas and won the cure the premier race HH the QREC Racecourse in New Al Rayyan on Thursday. HH Shekh Abdullah Bin Khalifa Al Thani Trophy Day PA) 1,100m 1,600m race by three lengths, Amir’s Sword. He was eyeing VERY NICE NAME CUP 1,600m One FREE breeding to the stallion MAJD AL ARAB will be giving trainer Alban de Mieulle a fourth success in a row. He One FREE breeding to the stallion ATLANTIC AIR by UMM offered by UMM QARN for winning owner Third last year in the same QARN for winning owner a memorable treble. might have not been able to get Prize Money: QR50,000 (1st 28,500 2nd 11,000 3rd Prize Money: QR200,000 (1st 114,000 2nd 44,000 This was the second race the better of Al Naama but rid- race behind Sharesa and 5,500) 3rd 22,000) of the season for Aahil. After er Tomas Lukasek could help Molheb Al Naif, the six- 1.Seeyoubyme (Ryan Curatolo), 2. Veranda (Luca 1.R B Kindle (Harry Bentley), 2.Daloob (Faleh having been beaten by Al Naif him edge Umm Qarn’s Tayf, year-old grey horse from Maniezzi), 3.Al Adaid (Ronan Thomas) Bughanaim), 3.Caid De L’Ardus (Eduardo Pedroza) Won by neck, 2.75. Time 1:35.62 Won by 2.75, short head. Time 1:10.82 Racing’s Naif Al Molheb, Aahil another de Mieulle’s ward, by a Umm Qarn teamed up bril- Owner: Eng Hassan Alabdulmalik. Trainer: Deborah Owner: Al Shahania Stud. Trainer: Jassim Ghazali hardly showed any signs of quarter length to finish second. liantly with rider Ronan Mountain rest or rustiness as he looked Rajeh, owned by Al Shaha- Thomas and won the H.H SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN KHALIFA AL THANI unchallenged on the home nia Stud, was fourth by two and CHARM SPIRIT CUP 1,400m SILVER CUP 2,200m 1,600m race by three One FREE breeding to the stallion ATLANTIC AIR will be One FREE breeding to the stallion AL TAIR will be stretch. The triumph helped a half lengths and Mohammed offered by UMM QARN for winning owner offered by UMM QARN for winning owner the Qatar Silver Trophy cham- al Naimi’s Akmar rounded out lengths, giving trainer Group picture of Umm Qarn and Al Shaqab Racing connections. Prize Money: QR60,000 (1st 34,200 2nd 13,200 3rd Prize Money: QR250,000 (1st 142,500 2nd 55,000 pion Aahil take his winners to the top five. Alban de Mieulle a memo- 6,600) 3rd 27,500 4th 15,000 5th 10,000) rable treble. 1.Mr Diamond (JP Guillambert), 2.On The Front Line 1.Jabalah (Soufiane Saadi), 2.Mon’nia (Tomas six in 10 starts. De Mieulle-trained Ja- (Ronan Thomas), 3. Shaheen Eduardo Pedroza) Lukasek), 3.Jabir (Ronan Thomas), 4. Minstrel (Ryan The Jassim Ghazali’s ward, balah, owned by Umm Qarn, Won by short head, head. Time 1:22.68 Curatolo), 5. Alghaf (Faleh Bughanaim) Molheb Al Naif, under rider impressed again as the four- owned RB Kindle was ridden to Owner: Khalifa bin Sheail al Kuwari. Trainer: Mohammed Won by 2.25, 0.75, 2.25, 0.25. Time 2:29.12 Harry Bentley, was looking for year-old bay colt produced a victory by Bentley in the Majd Jassim Ghazali. Owner: Umm Qarn. Trainer: Alban de Mieulle his fourth successive success power-packed sprint to win Al Arab Purebred Arabian YASMEEN CUP 1,850m H.H SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN KHALIFA AL THANI CUP but had to be content with the the HH Sheikh Abdullah Bin Sprinter Championship (Gr3 One FREE breeding to the stallion ATLANTIC AIR will be (Gr2 PA) 1,600m runner-up spot again. Khalifa Al Thani Silver Cup PA) 1,100m, Khalifa Bin Sheail offered by UMM QARN for winning owner One FREE breeding to the stallion KALINO will be Al Jeryan Stud’s AJS Moad- 2,200m. Ridden by Soufiane al Kuwari-saddled The Blue Prize Money: QR60,000 (1st 34,200 2nd 13,200 3rd offered by UMM QARN for winning owner 6,600) Prize Money: QR300,000 (1st 171,000 2nd 66,000 die, ridden by Tomas Lukasek, Saadi, Jabalah started the lead- Eye pulled off a head victory 1.Zamharer (Alexander Reznikov), 2.Ernest Aldrich 3rd 33,000 4th 18,000 5th 12,000) was another strong contender up de Mieulle’s triple as he de- against defending champion (Eduardo Pedroza), 3. What A Surprise (Soufiane Saadi) 1.Al Naama (Faleh Bughanaim), 2.Ebraz (Tomas for the title. The HH Amir’s Sil- feated Mon’nia by two and a Pazeer, winning the race for a Won by 0.25, 1.5. Time 1:53.06 Lukasek), 3.Tayf (Ronan Thomas), 4. Rajeh (Harry ver Sword 2019 runner-up was quarter lengths. third time. Both were trained Owner: Khalifa bin Sheail al Kuwari. Trainer: Mohammed Bentley), 5. Akmar (Anas Al Seyabi) Jassim Ghazali Won by 1.5, 0.25, 2.5, 2.25. Time 1:44.26 third by a quarter length. He This was the third triumph by Jassim Ghazali. Owner: Trainer: Alban de Mieulle was third in last year’s Silver in a row in four races for the Zamhare, with Alexander UMM QARN TROPHY 2,000m Cup race at the same meeting. Qatar Derby (Gr1 PA) cham- Reznikov astride, won the Conditions: THOROUGHBREDS (Class 2) Colts & One H.H SHEIKH ABDULLAH BIN KHALIFA AL THANI Al Sabiq winners pose for a group picture at the QREC Racecourse on FREE breeding to the stallion ATLANTIC AIR by UMM TROPHY 1,600m Mehdi, another de Mieulle’s pion. Jabir and Alghaf, also Yasmeen Cup beating Ernest QARN for winning owner One FREE breeding to the stallion GENERAL will be trainee, was fourth by a short trained by de Mieulle, secured Aldrich (Eduardo Pedroza) Thursday. Prize Money: QR200,000 (1st 114,000 2nd 44,000 offered by UMM QARN to for winning owner head and Al Junood picked a the third and fifth spots, re- by a quarter length for his 3rd 22,000) Prize Money: QR500,000 (1st 285,000 2nd distant fifth spot. spectively. Mistrel, ridden by first win in four races this Khalifa bin Sheail al Kuwari. ing neck victory over Veranda. 1.The Blue Eye (JP Guillambert), 2.Pazeer (Pedroza), 110,000 3rd 55,000 4th 30,000 5th 20,000) 3.Extremis (Pierantonio Convertino) 1.Aahil (Ronan Thomas), 2.Molheb Al Naif (Harry Al Shaqab Racing’s Al Ryan Curatolo, was fourth. season. Mr Diamond clinched Seeyoubymee, owned by The four-year-old grey geld- Won by head, 1.25. Time 2:04.95 Bentley), 3.AJS Moaddie (Tomas Lukasek), 4. Mehdi Naama, another de Mieulle’s Earlier, Jassim Ghazali the Charm Spirit Cup, beat- Engineer Hasan Alabdulma- ing won a second time in three Owner: Khalifa bin Sheail al Kuwari. Trainer: Jassim Ghazali (Soufiane Saadi), 5.Al Junood (JP Guillambert) trainee, upstaged a strong field and his son Mohammed Jas- ing On The Front Line by a lik and trained by Deborah runs this season. Third place Won by 3, 0.75, short head, 5. Time 1:44.16 to win the HH Sheikh Abdullah sim Ghazali were behind four short head – which was one Mountain, won the opening went to Al Adaid by less than MAJD AL ARAB P/A SPRINTER CHAMPIONSHIP (Gr3 Owner: Umm Qarn. Trainer: Alban de Mieulle Bin Khalifa Al Thani Cup (Gr2 champions. Al Shahania Stud- of three winners for owner race of the card with a pulsat- three lengths.

DAKAR RALLY 2020 Mirza sparks Firox Unit to Attiyah continues to chase leader Sainz close win over Royal Stars TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK and Imal overshadowed’ Za- DOHA heer’s fiery 86 not out with a AGENCIES pushed really hard at the end,” “One at the beginning on a six and seven fours as War- HAIL (SAUDI ARABIA) said Sainz. rock, but also one slow puncture MUHAMMAD Mirza’s all- riors Club beat Commercial “I’m very happy because the on the dunes. I don’t know why, round performance enabled Bank Qatar by five wickets. SPANISH veteran Carlos Sainz, car is working well. I had a flat maybe just a small piece of bush. Firox Unit to defeat Royal Chasing a challenging the 2010 and 2018 champion, tyre at the start of the special, but “So we had to stop two times Stars by nine runs in a Premier 163-run target, Warriors Club consolidated his overall lead of I managed to make up the time.” and the second time Carlos over- Division match in the QCA completed the win in 18.3 the Dakar Rally after winning Sainz added: “I’m doing the took me and I tried to follow him T20 Cricket Tournament. overs. Andre blasted one six Thursday’s fifth stage, his 34th best I can, but tomorrow when we on the dunes and the camel grass, Batting first, Firox Unit and eight fours in 66 to be ad- stage victory in the race being open the route, maybe it will be but he was really fast.” made a challenging 177 for judged the man of the match. held this year in Saudi Arabia. completely different.” Peterhansel’s multiple victo- seven. Qalandar hit two sixes He was supported by Imal, The 57-year-old Mini driver Frenchman Stephane Peter- ries in the Dakar have come seven and five boundaries in his 23- whose 41 included seven fours. clocked 3hr 52min 01sec around hansel, nicknamed ‘Mr Dakar’ for times in a car and six times on a ball 43 and Mirza struck five Brief scores Firox Unit beat Royal Stars by nine runs the 563km (353km special) route his 13 victories in the marathon motorbike, and he likened the fi- fours in 33. Firox Unit: 177 for seven in 19 overs (Qalandar 43 in 23 from Al Ula to Hail through boul- rally, followed up on his victory in nal run-in to this stage as being on Royal Stars, despite a su- balls, Muhammad Mirza 33 in 20 balls; Khalid 3/30) der-strewn, sandy surroundings Wednesday’s fourth stage with a two wheels. perb 64 with six sixes from Ra- Royal Stars: 168 for six in 20 overs (Rabee 64 in 38 balls, Toyota’s driver Nasser al Attiyah including hills occasionally scat- third-placed finish, 6:11 off Sainz’s “Carlos pushed a lot and I was bee, could respond with 168 for Inam 30 in 24 balls; Muhammad Mirza 2/26) of Qatar on the way to nishing tered with desert grass. pace. really at my limit to stay within six and lost the match. Inam Man of the match: Muhammad Mirza (Firox Unit) second in the Stage 5 of the Sainz finished 2min 56sec “It was a completely different reach of him. After that, we over- chipped in with 30, which had Warriors Club beat CBQ by five wickets Dakar 2020 between Al Ula and ahead of his main rival, defending kind of stage today. For us it was took Nasser and took three min- a six and three fours. Mirza CBQ: 163 for two (Zaheer 86 not out in 64 balls, Ha’il, Saudi Arabia, on Thursday. champion Nasser al Attiyah of Qa- not really perfect because we had utes from him before finishing all picked two wickets to earn the Dharmang 30 not out in 16 balls) Warriors Club: 165 for five in 18.3 overs (Andre 66 in 47 (AFP) tar in his Toyota. two punctures,” bemoaned Peter- three cars together, like a final in man of the match award. balls, Imal 41 in 35 balls; Zaheer 2/16) “We gained three minutes and hansel. motocross,” the Frenchman said. In another match, Andre Man of the match: Andre (Warriors Club) 14 Friday, January 10, 2020 FEATURES

TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE are happier and more satisfied with their life than those who eat alone,” she says. One solu- BREATHING tion is to dine with strangers. We tend to go IT MAY be the most natural thing in the for smaller portions then, perhaps to make a world, but breathing is surprisingly easy to positive impression. get wrong – and that matters more than you Alternatively, exploit the power of social might think. contagion. “Our dietary habits converge with Most of the time, the right way to breathe Easy ways the habits of other people in our close social is through your nose. The pointy thing stuck to network,” says Ruddock. So maybe find a your face is exquisitely designed to trap dust friend who eats well and likes to take their and other foreign bodies in its hairs and snot. time over it. Anyone want to join me for a lei- Beyond your visible nose lies the nasal cavity, surely brunch? a cavernous space the size of a gaping mouth. (by Julia Brown) This is lined with folded membranes designed to warm or cool the air to body temperature, WALKING add moisture and trap pathogens in yet more to a better you Bipedalism is such a precarious way to get mucus. Your sinuses – air-filled spaces that about that few species have settled on it. Yet, connect to the nasal cavity – swirl the air despite the absurdity of moving while trying around more and add nitric oxide, which kills to balance on two tiny platforms, we rarely bacteria and viruses and relaxes the blood give our steps a second thought. Perhaps we vessels in the respiratory tract, allowing more More than half of us should. oxygen to pass into the blood. Although we all walk more or less the The upshot of all this is that nose breath- breathe the wrong same way, there is enough variation between ing adds 50 per cent more air resistance than individuals to easily tell people apart. Such breathing through the mouth. That gives your differences could even be used as a biometric heart and lungs a workout and increases the way, missing out on password. vacuum in your lungs, which allows you to Some quirks of gait can be problematic draw in up to 20 per cent more oxygen than many bene ts from though. Small variations in leg swing can breathing by mouth. mean your heel hits the floor with enough As if that wasn’t enough, nasal breath- better health to altered force to damage the knee cartilage. Cases of ing boosts brain function too. Young mouth- knee osteoarthritis have doubled in the past breathing rats were slower to complete a maze 50 years, which some people say is too fast to than nose breathers and, when they reached consciousness. Here’s how be explained by longer lifespan or even rising adulthood, they had fewer neurons in the hip- obesity. In that period, though, shoes have be- pocampus, a part of the brain important for to do it right come more supportive, which may encourage learning and memory. Studies in people re- a more forceful stride. Walking barefoot, or in veal that we also do better on memory tests flat and flexible, minimalist shoes, reduces the when we breathe through our noses. stress on your knees. High heels, unsurpris- The explanation is that the nasal cavity that I am indeed “moderately mindful”. Here ingly, do the opposite. has a direct line to the emotional and memory is a skill I can consciously cultivate to relax at The way you walk can also affect your processing centres of the brain, via sensory any time of day. I try waiting for the bus mind- outlook. In experiments, people manipu- neurons that connect to the brain’s olfactory fully, focusing on the details of what I see, lated into walking with an “upbeat” gait re- bulb. As well as carrying messages about hear, smell and feel. I find it calming – and membered more positive words from a list, scent, these neurons sense air moving in and frustrating. If I really want to crack relaxation, whereas those who walked with a “sad” gait out of the nasal cavity and lock brainwaves to I’ll have to work a bit harder. remembered more negative words. Nearly the same rhythm. Synchronised brainwaves Running obviously isn’t restful for my anyone holding a smartphone is likely to walk then spread beyond the scent-processing body so does it count as relaxation? with their gaze towards the floor. This not only brain areas into regions responsible for mem- (by Joshua Howgego) slows you down, but risks neck strain and pos- ory, emotion and cognition. sible injury. EATING If you want to improve your walking NIL BY MOUTH We are constantly bombarded by advice technique, the internet is awash with guides. Many of us are missing out on these ben- on what to eat. But what about how to eat? It However, biomechanics researcher Richard efits. According to some estimates, more than turns out that this, too, can have a big impact Jones at the University of Salford, UK, says 50 per cent of children and 61 per cent of on your waistline and your well-being. there is little evidence that changing your adults breathe through their mouths too of- Take mealtimes. Many of us eat our larg- gait reduces your future risk of injury. “Gait ten. As a result, we also risk bad breath, poor est meal in the evening. It is worth rethink- is variable and that is fine unless there are sleep, learning difficulties, tooth decay and ing this habit. Our bodies are more sensitive symptoms,” he says. even malformation of the jaw. to insulin in the morning, meaning the post- “What matters more about walking is how If you suspect you are an accidental prandial spike in glucose falls faster after an much we do it, not how,” says evolutionary mouth breather, you could set an alarm to re- early meal than after one late in the day. As anthropologist Daniel Lieberman at Harvard mind yourself to check how you are breathing a consequence, front-loading your daily food University. Studies of modern hunter-gather- throughout the day. You can buy strips to tape legged, kneeling and the deep squat, with feet and stretch your legs. consumption is likely to reduce your risk of ers and super-healthy postal workers indicate your mouth shut at night. However, the evi- flat on the ground and buttocks resting on or We might take inspiration on how to sit developing diabetes. It is good for gut health that we should aim for 2 hours of brisk walk- dence that this works is confined to one small just above it. Even in Western cultures, these from traditional cultures like the Hadza. and digestion too. “Gastric emptying and ing a day. Most of us manage only a fraction study, which found that it reduced snoring are preferred sitting positions among young (by Alison George) overall gut motility are faster and many en- of that. So never mind your idiosyncratic gait and sleepiness in people with mild obstructive children. But Westerners tend to enforce chair RELAXING zymes, peptides and bile acids are higher in – just do it. sleep apnoea. use from an early age, strapping toddlers into After a long day at work, I commute the morning,” says Leonie Ruddick-Collins at Is squatting really better than sitting on As for how fast to breathe, if it is calm buggies and insisting children sit on seats in home, put the kids to bed, eat dinner and do the University of Aberdeen, UK. the toilet, or is this marketing hype? you seek, slow it down to about six breaths school. the washing up. Finally, at about 9 pm, I sit You will also benefit from regular meal- (by Caroline Williams) per minute. This triggers a reflex that widens One big problem with this passion for down with my wife and switch on that most times. Eating helps regulate the genes that blood vessels and reduces heart rate. Concen- chairs is that they make sitting so, well, sed- glorious of domestic appliances, the televi- control your body clock, and the processes DEFECATING trating on a long, slow exhalation also stimu- entary. Consider the Hadza, a hunter-gatherer sion. It pains me to admit it, but I have been coordinated by it become disrupted if you For the past few weeks, I have been defe- lates the vagus nerve, which is in charge of the people in Tanzania. They spend looking forward to this for hours. change the times at which you eat. If weight cating differently. All my life, when I needed rest-and-digest response, the opposite of fight around 9 hours a day sitting. All of us deserve some time to loss is your aim, you can benefit even more to relieve myself I sat upright on the toilet, or flight. Breathing more slowly still might However, they squat and sit on Healthy relax. It makes us feel happy and from this by confining your meals to a shorter feet flat on the floor. Now, I rest my feet on even lull you into an altered state of conscious- the ground in various positions, is the natural antidote to fatigue. window. Simply by delaying breakfast for 90 a plastic stool, elevating my knees. The stool ness. At three breaths per minute, theta brain- and activity monitors reveal There is also mounting evidence minutes and having dinner 90 minutes ear- is called a Squatty Potty and it is becom- waves increase, together with a zoned-out that this entails significant lev- that continuously high levels of lier, people lost twice as much body fat ing increasingly popular, partly thanks to state that looks like slow-wave sleep, a deep els of muscle activity. The sup- Living stress lead to chronic inflamma- over 10 weeks as those who kept to a about viral video featuring a unicorn that state of slumber. portive nature of chairs, with tion, which is terrible for our physi- their usual mealtimes. poops rainbow-coloured ice cream. But is Whatever the rate, nose breathing is the their high backs and armrests, cal and mental health. But is watching How fast you eat matters squatting really better or is this all just way to go. And you might want to hum a lit- remove this effort – perhaps the reason that the box the best I can do? too. Chewing each mouthful marketing hype? tle tune too. Humming sets up swirls of air in people love them. At least I can console myself that I am 100 times may be overdoing Certainly, sitting upright to void the sinuses, which boost production of nitric Another problem with chairs is the toll not alone. When journalist Claudia Ham- it, but you do eat less if you isn’t natural. For most of our species’ oxide 15-fold, with all its immune and car- they take on the spine. When standing, our mond and Gemma Lewis at University Col- eat slowly, probably because history, people squatted, bending diovascular benefits. The only time that nose backs naturally have an S-shaped curve. How- lege London asked 18,000 people from 134 it takes about 20 minutes for their knees and sticking out their bot- breathing falls short is when you need to fill ever, when sitting, many people curve their countries what they do to relax, watching hormones released in response toms. About two-thirds of people your lungs quickly. In an emergency, a gasp spine into a C shape, compressing the disks television was among the top 10 activities. to eating to kick in and make you still do this. Of course, “natural” of air through the mouth works wonders. Just between their vertebrae and putting them at And, as Hammond says in her book The Art feel full. Fast eaters also tend to doesn’t necessarily mean “better”. try not to make a habit of it. risk of back injuries. of Rest, while some see it as “mindless”, it is have higher levels of triglycerides However, medical professionals (by Caroline Williams) “Normal chairs tend to flatten the lower often a shared activity and so arguably less in their blood, a key marker of are starting to implicate con- part of the back, which puts more pressure on mindless than solitary forms of relaxation. metabolic syndrome. ventional toilet use in many SITTING it,” says Josette Bettany-Saltikov at Teesside The survey also found that 68 per cent of It isn’t clear why. abdominal disorders including When it comes to sitting properly, we all University, UK. people wanted more rest. I feel likewise and Nevertheless, In- constipation, bloating and pos- know the drill – even if we don’t follow it to So what’s the best way to sit? Bettany-Sal- wonder whether that is partly because my dira Paz-Graniel sibly haemorrhoids. And a recent the letter. No slouching or crossed legs, but- tikov has found that kneeling or using a stool second favourite relaxation activity might at Rovira i Virgili review of sitting upright to defecate tocks touching the back of the chair and feet with a saddle seat can help keep the spine in a not actually be helping. University in Spain, who led even concluded that it was time to on the ground. But even if you are doing it better position – as does squatting. We might Running might not be restful for my body, the research, has some tips “put this unfortunate experiment to right, sitting for long periods is shockingly also take inspiration from traditional cultures but it clears my mind like nothing else. I ask for guzzlers. She sug- an end”. bad for you. It has been described as the new like the Hadza. “Use a variety of postures and clinical psychiatrist Patricia Gerbarg at New gests that you focus on The argument for squatting is all smoking, linked to heart disease, diabetes and preferably not just still postures but some York Medical College whether that counts. your food: sit down about angles. Most of the time, a mus- even cancer. There is no doubt we should all which allow movement,” says physiotherapist She suggests that I think about relaxation in and avoid distrac- cle called the puborectalis pulls your try to do less of it. But perhaps we could also Leon Straker at Curtin University, Australia. terms of the sympathetic and parasympa- tions such as televi- rectum into a sharp angle, trapping do it better. More radically, Straker believes that we thetic nervous systems. Both are involved sion, computer and mobile faeces inside. When you defecate, Chances are you view sitting as synony- should be rethinking what it means to do a in unconscious actions, but the sympathetic phones. Eat foods high in fibre the muscle relaxes and the rectum mous with chairs. This is a peculiarly West- desk job. “We will need to design workplaces nervous system ramps up the fight-or-flight that require more chewing. And straightens out, allowing the con- ern perspective. A classic survey, published in that enable people to be productive while be- response, generating damaging particles serve meals that need cutting tents to flow. However, if you sit 1953, described 100 different sitting postures ing lightly active, like with under-desk cycling called free radicals. The parasympathetic sys- up, putting your knife and upright the rectum can’t properly adopted by 480 cultures around the world. or walking desks,” he says. For now, if your job tem kicks in when you relax, giving your body fork down after each mouth- straighten. Squatting eliminates Among the most common were sitting cross- is sedentary, don’t forget to stand up regularly a chance to recover. ful. this kink, so should make things “When you’re jogging you don’t feel in Finally, there is the easier. danger,” says Gerbarg. This means you tap tricky question of whether A handful of studies have ad- out of the sympathetic system. “Also, people it is best to eat alone or in dressed the sit-or-squat dilem- often jog out in nature and there’s something company. Busy lives and ma. One found that squatting about being in the natural world that is rest- single-occupant house- allowed people to empty their ful,” she says. On top of that, exercise produc- holds mean that solo eat- bowels faster and with less es feel-good chemicals called endorphins. ing is more common than straining. Another showed Nevertheless, there are times when I feel in the past. This might be that the rectum really was in need of stress relief but don’t have time a good thing. Helen Rud- straighter when people to jog or watch TV. What I need is a sort of dock at the University of squatted. And a third micro-relaxation. Would mindfulness fit the Liverpool, UK, has found employed stopwatches to bill? There is evidence that it reduces activity that we eat more when time bowel movements in the amygdala, part of the brain involved in dining with friends. But with and without a foot- the fight-or-flight response. At its simplest it there is more to life stool. On average, they involves merely stopping what you are doing than cutting calo- took just 56 seconds and paying attention to your thoughts and ries. “There is while squatting – half environment. also evidence the sitting rate. A quiz developed by 18187399 researchers that people (by Michael at La Salle University in Philadelphia reveals who eat socially Marshall) Friday, January 10, 2020 15 KIDS CORNER Bound & Gagged By Dana Summers

Half Full By Maria Scrivan

Do you have a poem, short story, painting or a kid’s birthday that you want to share? If YES, we would like to hear from you. And don’t forget to mention your name, your school and class and include a passport size photograph of yours, along with your contact number. Email to us at [email protected]

THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME Los Angeles Times Crossword Puzzle By David L. Hoyt and Jeff Knurek Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Lewis Unscramble these Jumbles, one letter to each square, to form four ordinary words. Level: 1 2 3 4 FT @PlayJumble

VARSO

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PLIUHL Get the free JUST JUMBLE Get app • Follow us on Twitter

Now arrange the circled letters ©2018 Tribune Content Agency, LLC to form the surprise answer, as All Rights Reserved. suggested by the above cartoon. Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, “ ” visit www.sudoku.org.uk (Answers tomorrow) Jumbles: GULCH NEEDY THROAT WILLOW Saturday’s

Level: 1 2 3 4 Answer: They wanted it to be the best pig roast ever, so

By Christopher Adams they — WENT WHOLE-HOG“HORSE” LITTLE — a

©2019 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

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13 No-nonsense marker 45 PC space bar neighbor 15 Fuel

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14 Runs off, in a way 46 Homer, in baseball lingo 17 Like film in a camera Reserved. Rights All

to form the surprise answer, as answer, surprise the form to 16 Leader of New Netherland 47 Pieces for one 22 Composer Debussy LLC Agency, Content Tribune ©2018

before it was renamed New 48 Historical role played by 23 Put on notice letters circled the arrange Now York Sally Field in 2012 25 Blank state

18 Caltech, e.g.: Abbr. 51 Coral relative 27 Ted of “The Good Place”

app • Follow us on Twitteron us Follow • app Get the free JUST JUMBLE 19 The __ Man: Major Arcana 52 Dr. Scholl’s products 29 Eponymous 2001 pop album LOBBBE card 53 Promo 30 Barnyard sound 20 “Nixon in China” tenor role 54 More adroit 31 Coconut source 21 Multiple of LXVII 32 Early transatlantic flier 22 Mobile maker DOWN 33 Nuclear reactor need 23 Flirtatious bat 1 Word of origin 35 Golden Globes genre

24 1983 Streisand film 2 Dirties the dishes 36 Potential stock buyer 26 Spy novelist Deighton 3 Poison 38 1962 Lawrence portrayer Complete the grid so each row, column and DIDFEE 27 “Clerks” clerk frontman Michaels 39 Painting supply 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 28 Gandhi family notable 4 Bit of EMT expertise 40 Pleasant rides 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, 30 Exposes 5 “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” 42 2007 #1 hit for Alicia Keys visit www.sudoku.org.uk

31 “The Card Players” artist host Tyler 43 Put in one’s two cents

33 Positive 6 Like gong sounds 46 Classic muscle cars © 2018 The Mepham Group. Distributed by

OILGO 34 Contract with a flat fee? 7 Space shuttle gas 47 Andy Murray, by birth Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved. ANSWERS 35 Sweetly, in suites 8 Contagious enthusiasm 49 Soprano Sumac

36 Dizzy genre 9 Couples of golf 50 “The Puzzle Palace” org.

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By David L. Hoyt and Jeff Knurek Jeff and Hoyt L. David By THAT SCRAMBLED WORD GAME WORD SCRAMBLED THAT 16 Friday, January 10, 2020 The Last Word

DOHA INTERNATIONAL BOOK FAIR French stall takes book fair visitors on a virtual tour to the rst palace Eight areas, including Marie-Antoinette’s cell, Revolutionary Tribunal and Great Hall, have been reconstructed with painstaking historical accuracy AILYN AGONIA DOHA HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al Thani, vice-chairman and CEO of Qatar Foundation, A DIGITAL technology that takes visited the Doha International Book Fair on Thursday. visitors on a virtual tour to La Con- ciergerie, first palace of kings of France, as they might have looked during the Middle Ages and the First printed record of Qatar French Revolution, highlights the French Pavilion at the 30th edition major highlight of book fair of the Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) which opened at the Doha Continued from page 1  and Antiquariat Inlibris, among the Exhibition and Convention Centre eye-catching spaces at the event, show- (DECC) on Thursday. The first printed record of Qatar in the cases books and manuscripts dating France is the guest of honour at West published in 1590 is among the from 14th to 20th century. the event coinciding with the cel- rare exhibits at the book fair. Other interesting finds in the col- ebration of the Qatar-France 2020 The visitors to the Conciergerie immerse themselves in augmented reality with 360 degree reconstructions of the The important travelogue titled lection are the first eyewitness descrip- Year of Culture. monument’s rooms with the help of Histopad. ‘Viaggio dell’Indie Orientali Balbi’ by tion of Mecca by European national The visitors to the Conciergerie Venetian state jeweller and gem mer- Ludovico di Varthema, which was first immerse themselves in augmented sites that we equipped. It has gained from the 18th century and features features elements of French archi- chant Gasparo Balbi details his nine- published in 1510. A presentation copy reality with 360 degree reconstruc- success in France and this is some- workshops for children and evening tecture and the atmosphere of the year voyage from Venice to the Far of the greatest shell book of all time tions of the monument’s rooms with thing that we are very much keen lectures organized in partnership with Paris Square. East between 1579 and 1588. was presented to the Empress Jose- the help of Histopad. The technol- to introduce in Qatar,” Mathilde FNAC and Qatar National Library. The DIBF is organised by the It is part of the collection of rare phine, consort of Napoleon Bonapar- ogy is being showcased in Qatar for Michaut of Histovery told the local Commenting on the occasion, Center for Cultural and Heritage books and manuscripts featured in te, by King Frederik VI of Denmark. the first time. media. Ambassador of France to Qatar HE Events of the Ministry of Culture the stall of Antiquariaat Forum and For this year’s edition of the book “With Histopad, we are pre- Eight areas have been recon- Franck Gellet said the book collec- and Sports with the participation of Antiquariat Inlibris, internationally fair in Doha, they have brought many senting the way France uses digital structed with painstaking historical tion featured at the French Pavilion 335 publishing houses representing recognised experts in the world of books based on Arab science and media to attract new visitors to mu- accuracy which includes Marie-An- presents the age of enlightenment in 31 Arab and foreign countries, in- rare and antiquarian books, manu- translated into the West. The collec- seums and monuments. The con- toinette’s cell, the Revolutionary Tri- France and the country’s intellectual cluding countries participating for scripts and prints. tion includes the second and enlarged cept was developed by Histovery, a bunal and the medieval Great Hall. history. This is in line with the gen- the first time such as Belgium and “This travelogue is very important edition of the largest set of astronomi- private company, and co-produced The technology provides a unique eral theme of the book fair. Australia, in addition to many of- in our collection especially for the his- cal tables produced in West before with the Center for National Monu- experience for Doha book lovers vis- He also lauded the organisers of ficial and private state institutions tory of Qatar. This shows that Qatar modern times and based on the work ments in France in 2013. We pro- iting the fair. the book fair for hosting its 30th edi- that are all keen to promote culture was already known in the West at the of Ptolemy, Al Battani and Al Zarqali duced Histopad in 15 monuments The French pavilion also show- tion and described it as “a remark- in society. end of the 16th century,” Laurens R as well as an Arabic source for Coper- in Paris and we have recorded an in- cases coffee table books on French able achievement”. He also praised The event is open to the public Hesselink of Antiquariaat Forum said. nicus, the first use of decimal fraction crease in audience in a lot of heritage historical monuments and classics the vibes recreated for the event that until January 18. The stall of Antiquariaat Forum in Europe. QA to exhibit ultra-modern A350-1000, QA backs 4th edition & G500 at Kuwait Aviation Show 2020 of Shop Qatar festival TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK fers will include special airfares from The exhibition, which will take place from January 15 to 18, is expected to draw thousands of visitors DOHA select destinations, stopover and travel packages by Discover Qatar and Qatar TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK away privacy panels that enable pas- QATAR Airways is the official airline Airways Holidays, all of which will help DOHA sengers in adjoining seats to create partner and sponsor of the fourth edi- further boost visitor numbers. We are their own private room – a first of its tion of Shop Qatar festival, currently also thankful to the Ministry of Interior QATAR Airways has announced its kind in the industry. underway at various shopping malls who have agreed to fast track visa ap- participation in the Kuwait Aviation Also on display will be the Gulf- across the country. plications within 24 hours for anyone Show 2020, where it will display its stream G500, the airline’s ultra- The festival, which is scheduled identifying Shop Qatar as the reason for state-of-the-art Airbus A350-1000 modern executive jet that sets an to take place until January 31, 2020, their visit to Doha. This is in addition fitted with its multi award-winning industry benchmark by offering one was officially inaugurated on January to the 80 countries, who already enjoy business class seat ‘Qsuite’ and the of the quietest cabins as well as opti- 7 with dazzling fashion and entertain- visa-free access to Qatar, ensuring that ultra-modern private jet Gulfstream mum cabin altitude pressure. Oper- ment events held at Barahat Msheireb. we are able to welcome as many visi- G500 from its Qatar Executive fleet. ated by Qatar Executive, the private The launch event treated guests to tors to our nation as possible.” Taking place over four days jet charter division of Qatar Airways a fashion show by Qatar’s Hind al Ru- Shop Qatar will showcase the work from January 15 to 18 2020, the Group, the aircraft is perfectly suited maihi, followed by French fashion col- of local, regional and international de- Kuwait Aviation Show 2020 is held for passengers who wish to maximise lective Faith Connexion. A traditional signers, with a series of fashion shows under the patronage of the Amir of Aviation Show, which is set to draw Kuwait the opportunity to visit more their travel time while experiencing Chinese lion show ended the evening, and makeup masterclasses with celeb- Kuwait HH Sheikh Sabah al Ahmad thousands of visitors from the avia- than 160 destinations worldwide on the ultimate in comfort and privacy. as a prelude to the week-long Chinese rity artists and influencers. The cel- al Jaber al Sabah. tion industry. In this year’s edition, board young aircraft via Doha.” A multiple award-winning air- New Year celebrations happening in ebrations will end with Chinese New The Kuwait Aviation Show 2020 our Airbus A350-1000 and Gulf- On display the Kuwait Aviation line, Qatar Airways was named Qatar for the first time. Year festivities. There will also be an is an important platform for regional stream G500 will be on display as a Show 2020 will be Qatar Airways’ ‘World’s Best Airline’ by the 2019 Speaking on the occasion, Qatar array of mall activations, children’s and international airlines and avia- demonstration of our commitment Airbus A350-1000. The world’s most World Airline Awards, managed Airways Group Chief Executive and entertainment shows and a host of live tion companies to showcase their to ensuring the best service for our technologically advanced aircraft by Skytrax. It was also named ‘Best Secretary-General of QNTC Akbar al music concerts. latest products and services. The passengers. features an unparalleled ambient Airline in the Middle East’, ‘World’s Baker said: “As the national carrier of Following Shop Qatar is an excit- event will kick-start the New Year for “Qatar and Kuwait enjoy strong design and superior levels of comfort Best Business Class’, and ‘Best Busi- Qatar, we are proud and committed ing programme of events in 2020, in- the industry, with over 300 exhibi- relationship and bilateral coopera- and well-being, setting a new stand- ness Class Seat’, in recognition of to continuing to promote Doha as a cluding Doha Jewellery and Watches tors, 60 aircraft on display, 15,000 tion at all levels. Demand for our ard of passenger experience. its ground-breaking Business Class stopover destination and Shop Qatar Exhibition (February 24 to 29), Qatar trade visitors and 60,000 expected flights between Doha and Kuwait Qatar Airways’ Airbus A350- experience, Qsuite. It is the only is the first in a line-up of great events International Food Festival (March public visitors. City continues to grow as we now 1000 aircraft features the airline’s airline to have been awarded the that will be happening in 2020. 24 to April 2) and Doha Design Week Qatar Airways Group Chief Ex- operate 84 flights weekly between patented, award-winning business coveted ‘Skytrax Airline of the Year’ “As the official airline sponsor, Qa- (March 18 to 28). This is in addition ecutive Akbar al Baker said: “Qatar Hamad International Airport and class experience Qsuite, which of- title, which is recognised as the pin- tar Airways is offering international to the year-round activities on offer in Airways is delighted to participate Kuwait International Airport. We are fers the industry’s first-ever double nacle of excellence in the airline in- guests special offers to Doha as a part Doha such as outdoor adventures, cul- in the second edition of the Kuwait proud to offer our passengers from bed in business class, as well as stow dustry, five times. of the Shop Qatar festival. These of- tural attractions and fine dining.

‘Kahraman’ expo to see opening of Katara Center for Amber tomorrow

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA

THE second edition of the Katara International Amber Exhibition, which saw a large turnout of visitors on Thurs- day, will be open from 4pm to 10pm on Friday at Build- ing No 12 of Katara Cultural Village. Katara Center for Amber (Kahraman) will be opened on Saturday, on the sidelines of the exhibition. The centre will The exhibition has evoked great interest among amber enthusiasts and customers for the wide variety of displays available at reasonable prices. serve as a meeting place for amber experts, amateurs and nies in the amber industry from Kuwait, Sweden, Lebanon, commercial relations with traders. Qatar and across the world. the United Kingdom, Germa- merchants from all over the The centre will organise The exhibition has evoked ny, Russia, Poland, Ukraine, world. various activities, includ- great interest among amber Lithuania, Latvia, as well as Mohamed Larry from Top ing training and educational enthusiasts and customers for representatives of associa- Kahram Pavilion said: “We workshops and provide a the wide variety of displays tions and international bodies offer amber stones. We have review of specifications and available at reasonable prices. specialising in amber. noticed that the exhibition is standards for quality amber. It There are more than 90 The exhibitors have also getting increasingly popular will also coordinate with inter- stalls at the exhibition with praised the valuable oppor- among people. In fact, the pos- national institutions. exhibitors from 13 Arab and tunity given to them by the itive response of people since The second edition of the foreign countries participat- organisers to exchange ex- its first edition encouraged us exhibition is marked by the ing. The participating coun- periences and ideas and to to take part in the event for the participation of leading compa- tries include Turkey, Iraq, enhance cooperation and first time this year.”