BUSINESS | Page 1 SPORT | Page 1 Qatar-EU trade Sanchez calls for volume reaches discipline as $7bn in 2020, Qatar take on says al-Kuwari Bangladesh

published in QATAR since 1978

FRIDAY Vol. XXXXI No. 11752 December 4, 2020 Rabia II 19, 1442 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

Amir sends condolences to French president His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani sent yesterday a cable of condolences to French President Emmanuel Macron on the death of former Qatar will French president Valery Giscard d’Estaing. His Highness the Deputy Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al-Thani also sent a cable of condolences to Macron on the death of d’Estaing. HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior host most Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani, sent a cable of condolence to French Prime Minister Jean Castex, on the death of the former French president. Al-Attiyah, UK defence accessible minister review ties HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Aff airs Dr Khalid bin Mohamed al-Attiyah, received yesterday a phone call from British Defence Minister World Cup Ben Wallace. During the call, they reviewed bilateral relations in the The SC’s Accessibility Forum members during a visit to a World Cup stadium. atar aims to host the most accessi- and SC towards providing equal oppor- military fields between the two ble FIFA World Cup in tournament tunities towards an inclusive and acces- friendly countries and ways to Qhistory, the Supreme Committee sible environment. In addition, the com- enhance them. for Delivery & Legacy (SC) has stressed. munity platform enables people with More than one million visitors are disabilities to be active participants in Mada Centre wins expected to fl ock to Qatar when it hosts setting priorities and testing the acces- Unesco prize the FIFA World Cup in 2022. In prepa- sibility of various components of the fan US expert urges patience ration for the tournament, the organis- experience, including tournament ven- Qatar’s Mada Center is the winner ers are committed to ensuring that fans ues, the report explains. of the Unesco/Amir Jaber Al with disabilities enjoy an accessible The forum recently organised a visit Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah Prize for and barrier-free experience, a report to the Qatar 2022 stadium in Al Rayyan, Digital Empowerment of Persons on sc.qa said yesterday. which will be inaugurated when it hosts with Disabilities for 2020-2021, before approving vaccine Speaking on the International Day the Amir Cup fi nal between Al Sadd and according to the Ministry of of Persons with Disabilities on Decem- Al Arabi on December 18. During the Transport and Communications. ber 3, SC Secretary-General Hassan al- visit, forum members toured the sta- An international jury chose AFP Thawadi said providing an accessible dium’s accessibility features, includ- Mada Center in recognition of Washington experience for all fans is a core commit- ing the seating, bathrooms, changing its excellence as a model for ment for the tournament organisers. rooms, concession stands and emergen- the sustainable application of “Ever since we began working on cy exits. In addition to testing, forum technology for the inclusion of eading American infectious dis- hosting the fi rst edition of the World members met the venue team to discuss persons with disabilities, and in ease scientist Anthony Fauci Cup in the Middle East and Arab world, potential areas of improvement. appreciation of its role in providing Lcriticised Britain yesterday for we have made a commitment to ensure Additionally, the SC has installed senso- digital accessibility solutions in rushing through its approval process that all touchpoints of the fan experi- ry rooms in multiple stadiums to create ac- response to Covid-19, the MoTC said for the Pfi zer-BioNTech coronavirus ence meet FIFA’s Accessibility Re- cessible experiences for fans with autism. in a post on Twitter yesterday. vaccine, suggesting the move could quirements and are accessible to fans The rooms are equipped with noise can- undermine public faith. with disabilities,” he said. “This in- cellation, soft furnishings, mood lighting, Doha International His comments came a day after cludes accessible stadiums, transpor- relaxing music and brightly coloured sen- Britain became the fi rst Western coun- tation networks, accommodation, fan sory toys and equipment. These features Book Fair postponed try to approve a Covid-19 vaccine for zones and all other aspects of what will are designed to manage a person’s anxi- The Ministry of Culture and Sports general use, prompting some scepti- truly be an amazing experience for all.” ety and allow them, as well as their families has announced that the next cism among the country’s European The SC launched its Accessibility Fo- and friends, to watch football matches in edition of Doha International Book neighbours and suggestions that the rum in 2015 to consult local stakeholders a welcoming, calming and inclusive envi- Fair, due to be held from January process was politicised. and people with disabilities. The forum’s ronment. They are set to be available in the 7 to 16, 2021, has been postponed Widely-respected Fauci, who leads An employee works on the tanks which will be used for the manufacture of objective is to deliver a barrier-free fan upcoming FIFA Club World Cup Qatar. until further notice. This was the US National Institute of Allergy the adjuvant in the Covid-19 vaccines, at the factory of British multinational experience for all and support FIFA, Q22 To Page 12 decided after co-ordination with the and Infectious Diseases, told CBS pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in Saint-Amand-les-Eaux, northern Ministry of Public Health and the News yesterday: “In all fairness to so France, yesterday. competent authorities in view of many of my UK friends, you know, the continuing Covid-19 pandemic, they kind of ran around the corner of cal about taking a vaccine anyway,” it,’ and they went with it. Cold spell from next week the ministry said in a statement the marathon and joined it in the last he said. “In fact, they were even rather se- yesterday. mile. “If we had jumped over the hur- verely criticised by their European Un- cold spell is expected in the “Weather maps indicate that the “I think that would be a good meta- dle here quickly and inappropriately ion counterparts .” country from the beginning of country’s atmosphere will be affected Covid-19 death toll phor for it... because they really rushed to gain an extra week or a week and a Fauci later apologised after casting Anext week, coinciding with the by a cold spell from the beginning of through that approval.” half, I think that the credibility of our doubt over the rigour of the British regu- ‘AlMerbania’ season, according to the next week with a noticeable drop in crosses 1.5mn mark He contrasted Britain’s regulator regulatory process would have been lators who approved the Pfi zer vaccine, Qatar Met department. temperature, coinciding with the be- Over 1.5mn coronavirus deaths with the US Food and Drug Admin- damaged.” saying he had faith in their work. The temperature may drop to below ginning of the ‘AlMerbania’ season have been recorded worldwide istration (FDA), which he called “the Fauci added “I love the Brits” and “There really has been a misunder- 13C in some places during this period, a as a result of fresh to strong north- from nearly 65mn cases, according gold standard of regulation.” said he had respect for the country’s standing, and for that I’m sorry, and I report issued by the weather offi ce said westerly winds over most areas from to an AFP tally yesterday based “They’re doing it in a very care- scientists. apologise for that,” Fauci said in an in- yesterday. Sunday evening until the end of next on off icial statistics. There have ful way, appropriately, because if we “But they just took the data from terview with BBC television. The report states the cloud amount week. The minimum temperature is been 1,500,038 fatalities from did anything that was cutting cor- the Pfi zer company and instead of “I do have great faith in both the sci- is expected to gradually increase at the expected to drop to below 13C in the 64,774,705 cases since the outbreak ners and rushing, we have enough scrutinising it really, really carefully, entifi c community and the regulatory beginning of next week and there is a southern and external regions,” the of the novel coronavirus in China problem(s) with people being scepti- they said, ‘OK, let’s approve it. That’s community in the UK,” Fauci said. chance of scattered rain in some places. report added. in December. The worst aff ected region is Latin America and the Caribbean with 452,263 deaths, Dhow festival regales visitors followed by Europe (430,060) and the United States and Canada (286,946). Qatar pledges to Court rebuff s Trump election challenge stand by Lebanon The Wisconsin Supreme Court yesterday declined to take up a case by US President Donald Underlining this in a speech via Trump’s campaign challenging the videoconferencing, al-Muraikhi said Nov. 3 presidential election results Qatar had spared no eff ort at the of- in the state, the latest in a string of fi cial and people’s level, and it was one losses the campaign has suff ered. of the fi rst countries that rushed to Trump’s team filed the petition, respond to the fraternal and humani- which challenged Wisconsin’s tarian duty to stand by the brotherly election results and sought to Lebanese people by providing them invalidate 221,323 absentee ballots. with an urgent aid of $50 million as a President-elect Joe Biden won the contribution to relief operations and majority of votes in Wisconsin, HE the Minister of State for Foreign alleviate the suff ering of the Lebanese edging Trump out by about 20,000 Aff airs Sultan bin Saad al-Muraikhi people. Qatar also sent an equipped votes. speaking virtually at an international team from the Qatari International conference held in support of Lebanon. Search and Rescue Group to establish Chinese probe leaves fi eld hospitals, he added. Moon for Earth QNA He also pointed out that Qa- Doha tar Fund for Development recently A Chinese space probe blasted signed several agreements with the off from the surface of the Moon concerned authorities in Lebanon yesterday to return to Earth, an atar will not hesitate to stand for the reconstruction of the old ambitious eff ort to bring back the by the brotherly Republic of building of the Karantina Hospital world’s first lunar samples in four QLebanon, HE the Minister of in Beirut, and the rehabilitation of decades. The Chang’e-5 spacecraft, State for Foreign Aff airs Sultan bin Saad many educational buildings, includ- Qatar’s maritime history, particularly the pearl, remains in the spotlight at the 10th edition of Katara Traditional Dhow Festival, named after the mythical Chinese al-Muraikhi said at an international ing 55 schools, education and train- which concludes tomorrow. The festival continued to excite and charm dignitaries, ambassadors and other visitors alike Moon goddess, left the Moon at conference in support of the Lebanese ing centres, and three universities, yesterday, which was Day 3 of the event. Spread across the beachfront esplanade of Katara, the activities are being conducted in 11:10pm, said state broadcaster people held on Wednesday at the level in addition to financial aid from the strict accordance with the Ministry of Public Health’s safety guidelines and precautions for the prevention of Covid-19. CCTV. of heads of states and governments. Qatari people. To Page 3 PICTURE: Thajudheen Page 12 Gulf Times 2 Friday, December 4, 2020 QATAR

Offi cial

PM sends cable of congratulations Qatar calls for just means to Lithuanian counterpart

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz to solve Palestinian cause al-Thani sent yesterday a cable of congratulations to Ingrida QNA Golan, ensuring the rights of the of human rights and the mainte- that His Highness the Amir graphic composition of Jerusa- Simonyte on her appointment as New York Palestinian people and fi nding nance of international peace and Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al- lem, the siege of the Gaza Strip, the Prime Minister of Lithuania. fair solution for the refugees is- security. Thani directed, this year, to pro- the use of excessive violence sue. Ambassador Sheikha Alya vide $150mn to cover humanitar- against civilians, arbitrary deten- Afghan deal atar reaffi rmed the peace- This came in Qatar’s state- also reaffi rmed that Qatar will ian needs, including addressing tion, and obstruction of freedom ful settlement of the ment delivered by HE the Perma- continue to provide political the coronavirus pandemic and its of movement, the demolition of welcomed by QPalestine cause through nent Representative of Qatar to and humanitarian support for eff ects. Palestinian homes, the exploita- International negotiations between the two the United Nations Ambassador the benefi t of the Palestinians, She indicated that Qatar has tion of their natural resources, parties on the basis of the agreed Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif al- explaining that Qatar’s support recently raised its contribution to and other violations are all prac- community references, the resolutions of the Thani before the United Nations exceed $1bn through the Qatar the benefi t of UNRWA, stressing tices that constitute a fl agrant international legitimacy, the land General Assembly (UNGA) in its Fund for Development and the that the role played by the agency violation of international law Qatar together with Germany, for peace principle, the road map 75th session to discuss the Pales- Gaza Reconstruction Commit- is very important and indispen- and United Nations resolutions, Indonesia, Norway and and the Arab peace initiative, as tinian cause. tee, in addition to the contribu- sable in order to meet the basic HE Sheikha Alya explained. Uzbekistan welcomed yesterday well as the achievement of the Ambassador Sheikha Alya af- HE Ambassador Sheikha Alya tions provided by the institu- needs of millions of Palestinian Ambassador Sheikha Alya re- the announcements by the two two-state solution that guaran- fi rmed that Qatar supports all Ahmed bin Saif al-Thani tions of civil community, as aid refugees and ensure stability. newed Qatar’s commitment to Afghan negotiating sides that tees establishing a viable Pales- the eff orts aimed at solving the was provided in areas including Israel’s occupation of Arab provide all the political and de- they have adopted the rules tinian state on the basis of June 4, Palestinian issue and achieving estine and the Middle East as it education, electricity supply, lands, attempts to annex Pales- velopment support for the Pal- of procedures and moved to 1967 borders with East Jerusalem peace in the Middle East. She also is based on the principles of the infrastructure, housing main- tinian lands illegally, settlement estinian brothers, and its fi rm discuss the draft agenda. A joint as its capital. It calls for ending reaffi rmed that Qatar supports international laws, the purposes tenance and construction, and activity in the occupied territory, position in solidarity with the statement issued by the countries the Israeli occupation of the Arab all the annual General Assembly enshrined in the UN charter, the employment fi nancing. measures aimed at changing the Palestinian people to obtain their said that the achievement was territories, including the Syrian resolutions on the issue of Pal- international norms, the respect HE Sheikha Alya pointed out character, legal status and demo- just and legitimate rights. an important step in a process that must have at its end point a durable and inclusive peace settlement in Afghanistan. Germany, Indonesia, Norway and Uzbekistan furthermore Qatar reiterates support for UNHCR Tourism challenges post-Covid to praised Qatar’s key role in hosting and facilitating this phase of negotiations and this important QNA manent Mission of Qatar to the partnership signed between Qa- be discussed at Bethlehem Festival breakthrough. The countries Geneva United Nations Offi ce in Geneva tar Airways and UNHCR to use encouraged both sides to build Talal al-Naama during the an- the carrier’s network in provid- Challenges facing tourism in on the important milestone that nual pledging conference organ- ing aid to refugees all over the Bethlehem post-Covid’ will was achieved by continuing to atar reiterated yesterday ised by UNHCR. world. Al-Naama noted that ‘be a topic of discussion at engage with each other in good its commitment to sup- Al-Naama stressed that Qa- Qatar is close to formalising the the Bethlehem Cultural Festival, faith, constructively and ready to Qporting the eff orts of the tar believes in the importance fi nancing plan of 2021, which which is being held until Decem- find common ground. They also United Nations High Commis- of enhancing co-operation be- includes all the UN agencies and ber 7. The discussion will take urged both sides to give priority sioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in tween international parties to programmes and added that the place on December 7 from 5pm to ending violence. implementing its humanitarian face global crisis, and as a result plan will be announced soon. Doha time (6pm in Palestine and programmes all over the world. has worked on enhancing the It will include support for the 7pm in the UK), and will run for Shura Council Qatar expressed its appreciation partnership with the UNHCR UNHCR that would enhance approximately one hour. through pre-recorded perform- of the Palestinian Task force re- to the UN High Commissioner by providing diff erent kinds of Qatar’s position in the $20mn- The session features a discus- ances, short fi lms and live dis- covery for post-Covid-19 and a participates in and Filippo Grandi’s eff orts in support. plus club that includes the most sion and Q&A with Michel Awad cussions. Renowned Bethlehem member of the Palestinian tour- protecting the rights of refu- Al-Naama highlighted the prominent donor countries. (Alternative Tourism), Sami theatres, arts and cultural cen- ism ministry consultant council. IPU conference gees. Qatar also expressed its strategic partnership signed be- He highlighted that the Khoury (Visit Palestine), Hani tres and individuals along with Khoury has been working in appreciation to the eff orts of all tween Education Above All and Covid-19 pandemic has hit the Abu Dayyeh (NET Tours), Rula up and coming young artists and the Palestinian tourism scene for The Shura Council participated workers in that fi eld. the UNHCR to meet the needs of whole world and created chal- Rizik and Mark Khano (Guiding fi lm makers will have a platform over 20 years. yesterday in a parliamentary This came in the speech by children in the hardest to reach lenges that cannot be faced uni- Star Tours), according to infor- to showcase their work. He has held multiple positions conference entitled ‘The Second Secretary of the Per- areas. He also highlighted the laterally. mation available on the festival’s Abu Dayyeh, a participant of at various companies and or- global post-Covid-19 economy: website. the above-mentioned discus- ganisations where has served and Devising sustainable trade Bethlehem Cultural Festival is sion, is the president of NET worked with industry stakehold- policies to support the fight the fi rst of its kind – a celebra- Tours. He has represented Pal- ers from across the tourism value against poverty’, held by the tion of Bethlehem in Palestine. estine internationally and ne- chain. Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) It is being held digitally this year, gotiated on behalf of the Pales- Khano has worked in and and the European Parliament, featuring a virtual celebration of tinian Authority, including the owned tour companies in Jeru- through video-conference Bethlehem’s rich and diverse cul- Paris Agreement on Tourism and salem and Jordan for the last 35 technology. Discussions during tural scene through music, fi lm, Transport. years. Rizik has held diff erent the conference touched on how dance, cookery and panel discus- Awad is a co-founder of Siraj managerial positions in various to address the eff ects of the sions. The famous town in Pal- Centre where he works as execu- organisations, between Ramallah Covid-19 pandemic, find solutions estine will be presenting events tive director. He is also a member and Bethlehem. to maintain the financial stability of global trade, and meet the needs of developing countries to face the challenges associated CCQ declares students’ council election results with this pandemic. The Shura Council was represented in this he Community College of discuss the challenges they face Khamis Ghabesh. conference by HE Nasser bin Qatar (CCQ) announced in their academic journey. The Liberal Arts Division – Ali Sulaiman al-Hayder, member of Tthe results of the elections The new council members will Hussain Murad, Mohamed Ab- the Council. of the students’ council. have regular meetings with CCQ dulghani Alsaff ar, Amal Salem There were 25 male and female president, Dr Mohamed Ibrahim Raheel al-Ali, Wadha Abdullah Greece welcomes candidates, competing for 12 al-Naemi, and vice president Dr al-Ali. seats that represent CCQ’s aca- Khalid al-Abdulqader, to discuss Due to the Covid-19 precau- decision of Shura demic divisions, namely the Sci- students’ suggestions and con- tionary measures, the whole ences and Technology, the Man- cerns and to reach suitable so- election process – from the can- Council elections agement Science and the Liberal lutions. The winners represent- didacy period throughout the Arts. Each division had four seats ing all three academic divisions election campaign to the voting President of the Greek Parliament (divided equally between male are as follows: The Sciences and – was held electronically. CCQ Konstantinos Tasoulas welcomed and female students). Technology Division – Mohamed adopted the two-vote system, yesterday the announcement Commenting on this signifi - Hamad Alsuwadi, Salem Yousef where each student has two of His Highness the Amir Diego Camberos (right) opening Vodafone’s DHFC store. cant milestone, Dr Fatima al- Alkhater, Jawaher Abdulaziz Al- votes: one for a candidate from Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Naemi, dean of Student Aff airs, maadeed, Aisha Salem al-She- the same academic division and al-Thani on holding the Shura said: “The students’ council is raim. the other for a candidate from Council elections in Oct 2021. one of the most important com- The Management Science Di- another division. In addition, a His Highness the Amir had munication channels between vision – Taleb Rashed Almarri, committee was formed to look announced that the Shura Vodafone Qatar opens new students and CCQ’s manage- Rashid Mohamed Bastaki, Al- into any complaint and objection Council will hold elections, during ment, because it allows them to johrh Safar al-Shafi , Shaikha related to the process. the opening of the 49th regular session of the Council on Nov 3. retail store in Festival City El Salvador odafone Qatar has offi - remote. Inaugurating the store, and have fantastic 5G plans. Temporary closure of underpass minister lauds cially opened its new re- Vodafone Qatar’s chief operat- We’re excited to help customers Qatar’s labour Vtail store in Doha Festival ing offi cer, Diego Camberos said, make the 5G move!” City (DHFC), giving customers “On top of off ering customers The store also refl ects Voda- law reforms the opportunity to experience a premium customer service, fone’s world-class look and feel the power of 5G, according to a Vodafone’s Doha Festival City and off ers customers a vibrant Minister of Labour and statement yesterday. store was meticulously designed and delightful retail ambience Social Security of El Salvador The new retail store in DHFC to deliver an engaging experi- besides the ease and simplicity praised the Qatar’s reforms is the fi rst to feature an exclusive ence that truly brings to life the that is in line with any other store of the labour law, saying experience area which showcases 5G diff erence for your device, for Vodafone customers will visit, that its current legislation the latest 5G devices, gaming your home and for your business. the statement added. guarantees the welfare of console and Smart Home solu- Vodafone is 100% 5G Ready – we Vodafone’s DHFC store is lo- workers, including those from tions such as Smart Lock, Door have built a GigaFast 5G network, cated on Level 1 near the north El Salvador who wish to work sensor, Motion sensor and Smart off er a large range of 5G devices food court. in Qatar. This came in a press conference organised by the ministry yesterday in co- ordination with the embassy of Qatar in El Salvador to discuss Qatar’s labour market reforms. Qatar-based researchers For his part, Qatar’s Charges d’Affaires Tareq Othman al- Othman discussed the reforms which included cancelling in global list by Stanford exit permits for residents, and allowing employees to move freely between employers atar-based faculty mem- search Institute (Qeeri). QCRI’s among the achievers. Faculty without a required no-objection bers and scientists have founding executive director Dr members from HBKU’s College certificate (NOC), in addition Qbeen named among the Ahmed Elmagarmid, and princi- of Science and Engineering were to setting a minimum wage top 2% of the world’s most-cited pal scientists Dr Bernard Jansen, honoured in the same category. without discrimination among in the career achievement cat- Dr Issa Khalil, and Dr Preslav The Stanford University team other measures. egory, part of a global list com- Nakov were recognised for their analysed millions of scientists The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has announced a closure of the underpass from Industrial He stressed Qatar’s piled by Stanford University, US. contributions to their respective worldwide, combining several Area Road towards southern part of Doha Expressway on Mesaimeer Interchange every Thursday commitment to improving They are from Hamad Bin fi elds. QBRI’s Diabetes Research metrics to systematically rank and Friday for one month. The closure in co-ordination with the General Directorate of Traff ic is to workers’ conditions and create Khalifa University’s Qatar Center scientifi c director Dr Paul the most infl uential by scientifi c complete the junction works. Road users heading towards Al Wakrah from the Industrial Area can a dynamic job market that Computing Research Institute Thornalley and Qeeri’s Energy fi eld, as measured by citations. use the underpass towards E-Ring road to reach their destinations. Ashghal will install road signs enhances economic growth, (QCRI), Qatar Biomedical Re- Center senior scientist (Disrup- The prestigious database has advising motorists of the temporary closure and requested all to follow them and abide by the increases competitiveness search Institute (QBRI) and Qa- tive Technologies Program) Dr been published in the PLOS Biol- speed limit to ensure safety. in the market, and attracts tar Environment and Energy Re- Golibjon Berdiyorov were also ogy journal. investors. Gulf Times Friday, December 4, 2020 3 QATAR/REGION Qatar sends urgent Minister participates in IOFS session aid to Philippines

QNA Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Doha al-Thani, noting that the aid was part of Qatar’s continued eff orts in aiding friends in the Philip- pon the directives of pines. His Highness the Amir Al-Kuwari stressed that Qatar USheikh Tamim bin Ha- moved with urgency to the aid mad al-Thani, medical aid was of the victims in the Philippines. sent yesterday to support vic- He added that the quick engage- tims of the Vamco Typhoon that ment of the wise leadership with hit the Philippines. Qatar Fund the disaster refl ected the com- HE the Minister of Municipality and Environment Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie, for Development (QFFD) in co- mitment of Qatar to alleviating participated yesterday in the meeting of the third session of the General Assembly of the Islamic operation with the Qatar Amiri suff ering and enhancing interna- Organisation for Food Security (IOFS), which was held under the title sustainable development of Air Force transported the aid tional eff orts in the fi eld of emer- food security in the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) region, and was hosted by Ankara through an air bridge to reach the gency aid. through technology visual communication. During the meeting, a number of topics on the agenda victims. The aid programme will be were discussed, including: the IOFS action plan for the development of strategic commodities The aid includes 40 tonnes of carried out with strategic part- (wheat, cassava, rice and palm oil), the establishment of a food security reserve for the IOFS, the food and non-food products, in ners Qatar Charity and Qatar Red establishment of an Islamic Food Processing Association, and the management of food security, addition to camping equipment Crescent Society (QRCS). science, technology and innovation programmes, agri-food trade promotion and investment, such as tents, water, sanitation, QRCS, in co-ordination with humanitarian food programmes, and improvement of the balanced food database for the IOFS. electricity generators, and rescue the Philippines Red Cross, will boats. Commenting on the occa- ensure the quick delivery of aid sion, director-general of QFFD needed by the victims of the ty- Khalifa bin Jassim al-Kuwari said phoon. Qatar Charity will focus Shura Council participates in MED-Dialogues that the aid was sent based on the on food security by providing directives of His Highness the food baskets. The Shura Council participated yesterday through video conference technology, in Rome International Forum for Mediterranean Dialogue (MED-Dialogues). The forum comes in the context of this year’s launch of MED-Dialogues, a high-level annual initiative launched by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Aff airs and the Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI) in 2015 in Rome with the aim of strengthening dialogue on priority issues and improving regional co-operation. Discussions during the forum focused on the role of parliaments in rebuilding development and security in the Mediterranean region after the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. The Shura Council was represented in this forum by HE Abdullah bin Fahd bin Ghorab al-Marri, and HE Reem bint Mohamed al-Mansoori, members of the Council. MoPH reports 136,741 total Covid recoveries The aid includes 40 tonnes of food and non-food products. Left: Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) in co-operation with the Qatar Amiri Air Force transported the aid. QNA Doha

he Ministry of Pub- Disbursal of Qatari grant to families in Gaza begins lic Health (MoPH) an- Tnounced yesterday 221 new confi rmed cases of corona- virus (Covid-19), of which 165 are from community cases and 56 from travellers returning from abroad who are subject to quar- antine. The MoPH also recorded 228 recoveries from the virus yester- day, bringing the total number of cases that recovered in Qatar to 136,741. All new cases have been intro- duced to isolation and are receiv- ing necessary healthcare accord- ing to their health status. Measures to tackle Covid-19 in Qatar have succeeded in fl at- tening the curve and limiting the spread of the virus and the number of new daily cases and HE the Chairman of Qatar’s Committee for the Reconstruction of Gaza Ambassador Mohamed al-Emadi said yesterday that the hospital admissions is continu- committee, in co-operation with Qatar Fund for Development, began disbursing cash aid to poor families in Gaza. HE al-Emadi said ing to decline each week. that the aid will be provided to 100,000 families in the strip, with each family receiving $100. He added that the process will take place Qatar’s proactive and exten- through branches of the post off ice and will be fully supervised by staff from the Qatari committee in co-operation with the designated sive testing of suspected cases authorities, led by the Ministry of Social Development and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology in Gaza. HE al- has enabled the authorities to Emadi said that there are strict precautionary and preventative measures followed while implementing the process, to ensure the safety identify a high number of posi- of the beneficiaries and the workers. The measures ensure both parties adhere to physical distancing and the use of disinfectants in light tive cases in the community. of the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19) in Gaza. Qatar has one of the lowest Cov- id-19 death rates in the world.

Qatar’s mission delivers assistance in Moldova Iran surpasses 1mn Covid-19 cases Five held for violating

AFP few days, however, after soaring to Iran’s economy. US President home isolation pledge Tehran to a daily average of more than Donald Trump has imposed wave 400 for much of November. But after wave of sanctions on the Is- some offi cials – including Health lamic republic since 2018, when QNA 2 - Mohamed Suleiman Mu- ran said its novel coronavi- Minister Saeed Namaki – admit he unilaterally withdrew from Doha barak al-Hosani rus caseload surpassed 1mn the government fi gures are much the Iran nuclear deal. 3 - Sultan Mahawash Hamid Iyesterday, as the authorities lower than the actual numbers. Despite not imposing lock- Nasser al-Nasser consider easing restrictions in Covid-19 fi rst surfaced in Iran downs, non-essential businesses he competent authorities ar- 4 - Nasser Jumaa Ghaith many parts of the Middle East’s on February 19, when authori- were closed for two weeks in areas rested yesterday fi ve people Ghaith al-Khwaiter hardest hit country. The Islamic ties said it claimed the lives of at the highest risk on November Twho violated the require- 5 - Aref Mahmoud republic had recorded 49,348 two elderly people in Qom, a 21, reinforcing restrictions Presi- ments of the home quarantine they The concerned authorities in Covid-19 deaths and 1,003,494 Shia holy city south of the capi- dent Hassan Rouhani said were committed to following, which they the State called on citizens and infections since announcing its tal. They were the fi rst confi rmed needed to curb a “third wave” of are legally accountable for, in ac- residents who are subject to fi rst cases in February, health deaths from the disease in the the outbreak. The measures ap- cordance with the procedures of the quarantine to fully adhere to the ministry spokeswoman Sima Sa- Middle East. Since then, the au- ply to the vast majority of cities health authorities in the country. requirements set by the Ministry dat Lari said. thorities have responded by tak- across Iran, including Tehran and It is in implementation of of Public Health to ensure their In the past 24 hours, the vi- ing a series of measures aimed at the country’s 30 other provin- the precautionary measures in safety and the safety of others. rus caused 358 new deaths in halting the spread of the virus. cial capitals. Like most coun- force in the country, approved by They warned that anyone who the country with a population Faced with the dual challenge tries affected by the pandemic, health authorities represented violates these conditions will be of more than 80mn, and 13,922 of US sanctions and the pan- Iran – which began developing in the Ministry of Public Health subject to the penalties stipu- cases of infection, Lari said. The demic, however, they have never its own vaccine in the spring – (MoPH), to ensure the achieve- lated in accordance with the number of fatalities appears to imposed full lockdowns, for fear is awaiting the availability of a ment of public safety and to curb provisions of Article 253 of the have eased slightly in the past they would cause further damage vaccine against the virus. the spread of the coronavirus. Penal Code No. 11 of 2004, and The arrested persons being re- the provisions of Law No. 17 of ferred to the competent prosecu- 1990 regarding the prevention tion are: of infectious diseases, and Law Qatar to stand by Lebanon in hour of need 1- Noah Suleiman Mubarak al- No. 17 of 2002 on the protection Hosani of society. From Page 1 continue providing the neces- President Emmanuel Macron sary assistance so that the Leba- and Secretary-General of the “Today, Lebanon is facing dif- nese could overcome this critical United Nations Antonio Guterres fi cult conditions, especially the stage. for their invitation to hold the The embassy of Qatar in Moldova has delivered charitable humanitarian, social, economic “Lebanon today, is in dire need conference, which comes in light 46 referred to prosecution aid to the General Authority of the Association of Disabled and fi nancial crises and the coro- of political and economic re- of the continuing economic and Persons in Moldova, on the occasion of International Day of navirus pandemic,” Al Muraikhi form to ensure the stability and political challenges facing Leba- People with Disability, which falls on December 3, and aims said whilst stressing on the need growth of its economy,” he said. non. for failing to wear masks to highlight the provision of various forms of support to this to reconstruct the areas aff ected He felt this required all Lebanese “There is no doubt that hold- group. The delivery of the aid was attended by Chairman of the by the Beirut explosion last Au- factions to join hands in solidar- ing this important conference he designated authorities and the precautionary measures Association of Disabled Persons Mihai Margineanu, and Acting gust. ity to achieve the supreme inter- indicates the sincerity of the in- referred 46 people to the in force in the country to con- Charge d’Aff aires at the embassy of Qatar in Moldova Hamad Al-Muraikhi hailed French est of the Lebanese people and ternational community in help- TPublic Prosecution for not tain the spread of the coronavi- bin Rashid al-Athba. Margineanu extended thanks and gratitude eff orts as well as all countries strengthen state institutions to ing Lebanon face these challeng- wearing masks in places where rus (Covid-19). The designated for the assistance, praising the role of the Qatari diplomatic and international and regional fulfi ll the aspirations of the Leb- es,” he noted, and expressed the they are mandatory. authorities called on the public mission in helping people with disabilities and its participation in organisations that provided as- anese people for reconstruction hope that the conference would The measure is in line with the to adhere to the precautionary celebrating their International Day. sistance to Lebanon, calling on and development. achieve its goals and meet the as- cabinet decision, decree law No. measures in place to ensure their the international community to The minister thanked French pirations of the Lebanese people. 17 of 1990 on infectious diseases, safety and the safety of others. Gulf Times 4 Friday, December 4, 2020 COMMUNITY Artist’s watermelon stories wow residents

By Mudassir Raja phy to tell different stories. Rojo y Negro Staff Reporter “I started taking photos when I was only 11 and since then I have fascination with watermelons. dvanced technology has We in Mexico love this fruit,” he ushered in a kind of revo- added. Alution in photography over Icaro, who has been in Qatar the years. Today, everyone with a for 14 years now, has been car- smart phone is a photographer. rying forward his association The professional photogra- with watermelon photography phers, however, tend to be diff er- to be diff erent from other pho- ent and visible by means of creat- tographer-artists. “I like the fruit ing innovative images and using because in a way it is similar to creative techniques. humans – red and juicy from in- Doha-based Mexican artist and side and sometime sweet,” said photographer Juan Miguel Rami- the artist laughing. “I use them rez aka ‘Icaro’ has long been using as watermelons represent diff er- watermelons as muse for his pho- ent shapes for me such as dhows. tography and digital prints. I also bring them in my photos to He creates ideas and tells stories be distinct as an artist.” Juan Miguel Ramirez aka Icaro through pictures taken in digital The Mexican is stuck with prints which feature watermelons watermelons and has to explain melons as models for my photog- making and preparing photo- as models, and objects. their use in his digital prints to raphy. I have found a way to rep- graphs was very complicated. Me and Her Entre las olas An architect and interior de- the visitors. “People are amazed resent people in a diff erent way.” Digital revolution is like a magic. signer by profession, the Mexican and curious when they see my The novel photographs of Icaro Now, we can have immediate photography. “I have a passion artist has been creating dozens of photos. They keep asking me why have been gaining appreciation results of our hard work.” for architectural photography. I such stories spanning decades. only watermelons. I have to be in Qatar. “Many love watermelon Though the modern technol- have grown in experience. I can His works recently displayed there to explain it to them. photos and appreciate then. This ogy has made almost everyone a make a boring building look at- at Melody of Art exhibition in I tell them that I consider wa- is something new for the peo- photographer, Icaro banks on be- tractive through photography. It Katara denotes connections be- termelons very close to humans. ple here so I have to explain it to ing diff erent as a creative artist. really is tricky. tween the Arab world and Mexi- “I use diff erent refl ections. I them sometime. “As human beings we are similar You can focus on a beautiful can cultures. also use mirror paper to create “My photographs are close to yet every individual is diff erent. part of the boring building. He has once again used water- some double representations. surrealistic art. This is to attract People see the world around in “In my photos, there are al- melons to convey his ideas. People sometime ask me why people to see beauty of water- diff erent ways. ways some structures alongside “Isn’t it interesting to eat watermelons are alone in a frame. melons in a diff erent way.” Modern technology provides watermelons. Photography is a your models after you finishing “I tell them they are not alone The artist is savvy of the ad- an opportunity to the people to kind of therapy for me. taking their pictures,” said the as there is shadow also. We are vanced technology and has em- express their viewpoints and be “When I want to get discon- Mexican photographer laugh- never alone. Our shadows are al- braced it with open arms. “We diff erent from each other.” nected, I get involved in the ingly while talking about using ways with us. cannot deny technological ad- The professional architect process of expressing my point of watermelons in his photogra- “I will continue using water- vancement. Old technology of continues to enjoy his passion for view in the surrealistic way.” Brave sea

QSindhis hold blood donation drive BPS students learn about

istorical facts speak volumes about the invaluable Juvenile Police Department signifi cance of blood donation during every kind of Hhealth crisis – either natural or man-made. Patients have always been in need of blood or blood plasma as they are hospitalised with diff erent kinds of medical conditions. By taking part in a noble cause like blood donation, an indi- vidual not only saves someone else’s life but also improves his or her health as well. It is a life-saving gift from one person to another irrespective of religion, nationality, or any other so- cial factor. QSindhis is a community group of expatriates from Sindh province of Pakistan. They have actively been taking part in all national-level events of both Qatar and Pakistan celebrat- ing their own culture at the same time. Recently, QSindhis organised its second blood donation drive this year in col- laboration with Blood Donor Centre of the Hamad Medical Corporation. Syed Ahsan Raza Shah, Pakistan’s ambassador to Qatar, visited the blood donation centre on the occasion and appreciated the Pakistani community members for tak- ing this initiative to help humanity. “The humanitarian drive was held as part of support shown to Qatar in the current situation, where we must prove our- selves a strong nation and stand shoulder to shoulder with The Public Relations Department of parts. The first session was for students our Qatari brothers,” said Asif Qadir Memon, founder of the Ministry of Interior conducted a and the other was for teachers. These QSindhis. “The campaign’s aim was to raise awareness of virtual awareness seminar regarding were conducted through Zoom video the importance of blood donation as a humanitarian initia- the functions and services of Juvenile conferencing. The facilitators for the tive. Not only the Pakistani community but people from other Police Department for the students sessions were Captain Shaeen Rashid al- nationalities also responded remarkably to the campaign,” he added. and teachers of Birla Public School Dosari and Faisal Hudawi. Memon further said: “These are hard days for the medi- (BPS). The seminar also discussed the Around 50 students and teachers cal practitioners as they are the frontline fi ghters against the sections and work mechanism of the attended the seminar. The aim of the coronavirus outbreak. Such volunteering activities also pro- department in dealing with juvenile virtual seminar was to introduce the vide them with some moral support and a sense of solidar- cases and awareness on most vulnerable students between the age group of seven ity from society in general. We need to exhibit our support to cybercrimes by children. to 16 to the functions and services of the the doctors and paramedics – our heroes.” He thanked all the The seminar was divided into two Juvenile Police Department. volunteers, sponsors and organisers for making the drive suc- cessful and distributed appreciation certifi cates. QF school teaches Arabic language through creativity

rade 10 students at Qatar “We held brainstorming ses- the fear of speaking publicly. It major in Arabic language em- scope of the educational experi- Foundation school, Qa- sions and students were eager to improved my ability to memo- phasised the importance of let- ence. Gtar Academy for Science bring the language from text to rise, thanks to the constant ting students’ imagination run “The activities that we carried and Technology (QAST), have life. Every student was involved practice and the rehearsals, free, He involved students from out have received great encour- enhanced their learning through in a practical experience, which which trained me on memoris- all classes in a creative story- agement from parents, as they the power of creativity, by par- enabled them to practice and get ing the lines without the need telling activity, allowing them have noticed their children’s in- ticipating in a-fi rst-of-its-kind a better sense and feel of the lan- to read the script every time, it to choose an image from among creasing interest in Arabic lan- theatrical school play experience guage, including scriptwriting – also helped me to express the dozens of pictures selected by guage and the rapid progress in at QAST, led by their Arabic lan- which is pivotal in enriching the meanings and feelings of the the teacher, and write a short their performance, and they have guage teacher. imagination – practising correct words.” story from their imagination demonstrated their constant The drama, titled A Dream of pronunciation and articulation, The play was just the latest about that image. support in parents’ meetings a Lifetime, was designed to de- in addition to handling the tech- creative and innovative method “I was so impressed by the and communications with the velop students’ Arabic language nology and engineering for stage used by QAST to support the passion and the tremendous school. skills through a creative activity. preparation, controlling the learning of Arabic, with the response from the students in “Teaching methods that utilise The students took centre stage lights, and creating sound eff ects school’s students having also terms of writing stories, which creativity for learning are being in all aspects of creating the play, for the play.” participated in activities such as highlights the importance of pro- exchanged between teachers of from writing the script to stage For the students, the thea- a shadow puppets theatre, pro- viding opportunities and giving all subjects to activate such ide- preparation and management, tre experience added another ducing short awareness videos in students the freedom and space ology across QAST. This aligns acting, and directing, all under dimension as well as language Arabic with 2D graphic designing to imagine and express, which with our project-based learning the supervision and support of learning. programmes, in addition to mak- can reveal their true talents,” said approach, and with the teach- their teacher. “It was a special experience ing fi lms and utilising visual and Qasim. ers’ belief in the importance of “The early vision of this ac- for me,” said Nader Hamed, a sound eff ects to create backdrop “Now we have a book consist- developing innovative, resilient tivity had clear goals: to enable Grade 10 student at QAST, an au- scenes. They have also developed ing of about 35 short stories writ- methodologies and maximis- the students to create and enjoy thor and actor in the school play. news broadcasts that simulate ten by students from all stages. ing the opportunity provided by the experience of learning Ara- “I enjoyed all the stages of its im- the real-life news on TV, and that We have reviewed and compiled Covid-19 to push the concept of bic in a more dynamic and prag- plementation, from writing the help them practice and master all the stories into a reference education towards more dynamic matic way, instead of relying on script to recording, acting, and the language. book which students who attend models that can keep pace with traditional methods that might stage management.” In addition to these activities, QAST in the future, and those our current world.” quickly lead them to feel bored “Before this project, I did not Qasim, who holds a Master’s from other schools, can ben- The promotional video of the or static,” said Zayed Qasim, Ara- really have the confidence and degree in Islamic studies, Mas- efi t from. We also asked the older play produced by QAST students bic language and Islamic Studies courage when it came to acting ter of Computer Science, and a students to apply their own anal- can be viewed here: https:// teacher at QAST, part of Qatar and speaking in front of audi- Diploma in 21st Century learn- ysis and criticism to the stories drive.google.com/file/d/1QQxA Foundation’s Pre-University ence, and this activity helped ing skills from the State Univer- and share it with their colleagues 6QDFbKtxzH2oGDgdJqenNq9H- Education. me overcome stage anxiety and sity of New York, along with his in order to widen and expand the myjn/view?usp=sharing Gulf Times Friday, December 4, 2020 5 COMMUNITY Qatar-based activist champions cause of the diff erently-abled Nawaal Akram, Doha-based disability rights campaigner, continues to raise her voice for differently-abled people

By Mudassir Raja and policies that protect per- Staff Reporter sons with disabilities from discrimination. “I believe in promoting cross-cultural ties he world marked Inter- through stories of people with national Day for Persons disabilities. My initiative wants Twith Disabilities, (IDPD) to promote the laws that pro- yesterday with the commitment tect people from discrimination to work together to tackle the irrespective of the type of their obstacles, injustices and dis- disability, gender or national- crimination that persons with ity. Fortunately, I have been re- disabilities experience. ceiving support from different In Qatar, the Ministry of Pub- segments of society in Qatar. Ideal Indian School bids farewell lic Health (MoPH) and the health There are some embassies sup- sector partners observed the day porting my cause particularly with the theme of ‘Building Back the US embassy in Doha.” to Junior Section vice principal Better: Towards a More Disa- Speaking about what she bility-Inclusive, Accessible and has learnt during the Covid-19 Ideal Indian School (IIS) fraternity bid Sustainable Post-Covid World.’ pandemic and the lockdown, farewell to Shobhana Menon, vice princi- The day aims at promoting an Nawaal Akram Nawaal said: “We saw how pal of the Junior Section, in a ceremony understanding of disability is- quickly the world adapted to organised recently. Shobhana has served sues and mobilising support for of advice to students at all levels the new realities. Particu- the institution for more than 25 years in the dignity, rights and well-be- and people at workplaces about larly in education sector, the various capacities including housemis- ing of persons with disabilities. It how to make life better for peo- non-disabled people turned tress, activity co-ordinator, head of Social also seeks to increase awareness ple with disabilities. The stere- to online and distance learn- Science Department and controller of of benefi ts to be derived from the otypical image of the people with ing. This is what we have been examinations. integration of persons with dis- disabilities has created diff erent advocating for persons with In 2015, she was honoured with the abilities in every aspect of politi- barriers in the way how people disabilities for a long time. prestigious CBSE Best Teacher Award cal, social, economic and cultural look at diff erently-abled individ- Different disability right ad- instituted by India’s Central Board of life. uals. People can do better with a vocates have been raising their Secondary Education (CBSE) for her in- On the occasion of IDPD, Gulf little awareness. I write etiquette voice to have online educa- novative teaching and contribution in the Times spoke to Nawaal Akram, tips in parts making it normal to tion and recorded lecturers for field of education. a Doha-based disability rights deal with disability.” people with disabilities. We Speaking on the occasion Syed Shoukath campaigner of Pakistani ori- Sharing how the idea of the have been hearing that it is not Ali, IIS principal, appreciated Shobana’s gin, on what she has been doing etiquette guide came to her possible and then the corona- commitment to the school for 25 years to raise awareness on the issue. mind, Nawaal mentioned her virus pandemic broke out. We and termed her “a leader with perfection – Diagnosed with Duchenne mus- interaction with a visually-im- can see if there is strong will an asset to IIS.” cular dystrophy, the wheel-chair paired friend. “I have a friend and need, innovative ways of The principal described her as a wonder- bound girl is a comedian, model who is visually impaired and I learning can be introduced for ful human being, highly dedicated and and athlete besides being the have always found it diffi cult to persons with disabilities.” a committed professional with perfect content creator for persons with interact with her. I was always Sharing her message for the organisation and planning skills. disabilities. very formal with her. It was very day, the disability advocate said: He thanked her for her devoted service on The young campaigner has awkward for me. Then I decided “We know that the world is not a behalf of the chairman and the president started and been pushing for- to research about how to com- perfect place but we need to have of IIS. ward diff erent initiatives on rais- municate with diff erently-abled better laws to protect the rights Shobana in her farewell speech ing awareness and advocating people. I also talked to my friend of diff erently-abled people.” thanked all and said she regarded the rights of persons with dis- about it. Finally, I started writ- Nawaal, who was born and IIS as her home. She expressed her Principal Syed Shoukath Ali presents a bouquet of flowers to Shobhana Menon. abilities. “Recently, I have been ing the etiquette tips. We have a brought up in Qatar, is happy sincere gratitude to Dr Hassan Kunhi, spending most of my time on creator’s fund set up to support about living in the country. “I am ISS president, and the principal for be- a Hindi poem recitation by Madhu Rai and prayer by Mohamed Omar. Ronnie Eliza- my website creating content to the contenting creation and rais- happy to see the development of ing a source of stability and wished IIS a solo dance performance by Divya Dijesh. beth welcomed the gathering. Khatija T C, raise awareness about having an ing awareness about the disabil- Qatar. Things for persons for dis- grows by leaps and bounds under their Attendees for the meeting included the assistant headmistress, proposed the vote accessible world for the persons ity rights.” abilities are far better here than able guidance. HR manager, heads of sections, heads of of thanks. Dr Nazima Bi, headmistress, co- with disabilities. One of my re- Another initiative of Nawaal in many other countries. The A cultural programme was arranged which department and teachers. ordinated the programme. Tanu Madhvi cent initiatives is an etiquette is #EqualAccessQA that en- disability community is well re- included a group song by the KG teachers, The programme commenced with a compered the event. guide that off ers tips and pieces deavours to have better laws spected here.” DoM to hold IWA organises online music information event today session for

iaspora of Malappuram (DoM) and Doha members Waves are organising a music event ‘Meri D Avaz Suno’ at 6:30pm on Facebook live. he Indian Women’s Association (IWA) Qatar Mohamed Thoyyib, Doha Waves representative, recently organised its November event with is leading the musical event along with famous sing- Tthe theme of ‘Makeover Time’ for its mem- ers – Neha Prasad, Maithili Shenoy, and ShivaPriya bers. Dr Alpna Mittal, IWA patron, was present on Suresh. The programme will be available live on the the occasion. following Facebook pages – www.facebook.com/ Karishma Chhabra, consultant, shared tips on Dom Qatar www.facebook.com/muhamed thoyyib power dressing, makeup essentials, costume selec- kuttikkodan tion and accessories for diff erent occasions depend- During the event, the prize distribution cere- ing on how it suits a person. mony for the winners of the DoM Qatar drawing She interacted with members and answered their competition and the participants of the video questions. presentation will also be held. V C Mashood, Prizes were also given on the occasion to winners DoM Qatar president; Shanavas Tharayil, act- of Diwali Rangoli competition. Certifi cates were ing general secretary; Keshav Das Nilamboor, awarded to winners of the Navratri Quiz and Dan- treasurer; and Mohamed Thoyyib hoped for ac- diya Stick Decoration competition. The members tive participation and full support of all expa- expressed their happiness at being able to attend the triates. informative session. Bosnian community holds beach clean-up

s many as 50 members “Qatar has such a diverse and of the Bosnian expatriate unique ecosystem and we do this Acommunity cleaned up a to give back and help protect it beach close to the heritage site of for the future generations to en- Zubara in the north of the country. joy. The volunteering eff ort was “Plastic pollution is a serious organised in co-operation with problem and we hope to inspire Doha Environmental Actions others not to litter and to recy- Project – DEAP. cle”, said ambassador Haris. Spending over two hours, “We are very engaged in the the volunteers collected around community work and this is just 500kgs of waste and safely dis- one of the activities of Bosnians posed of it. in Qatar. Bosnia and Herzegovina am- “It is very educational and bassador to Qatar, Haris Luko- awareness-raising activity for vac, joined his compatriots in the our kids. We will come out and noble eff ort. do it again”, said Edin Focic. Gulf Times 6 Friday, December 4, 2020 COMMUNITY LEISURE/HOROSCOPE

Wordsearch Super Cryptic Clues Adam

Pooch Cafe

HIATUS HISTORY HILTON HIGHWAY HICCUP HIVE HIPPO HILARITY HIGHBALL HIAWATHA HITCH HINDLEG HIJACK HIDALGO HIGHBROW HIRELING HILLBILLY HINDU Across HIBERNIA HITMAN 1 Given tool inside that’s Down HIKE HIDEAWAY specially selected (4-6) 1 Scottish exclamation or owl 7 Joint that may be violated noises (5) (8) 2 Sewing implements not Codeword 8 Go round and call (4) quite unnecessary (7) Garfield Every letter of the alphabet is used at least once. 9 Single fish (4) 3 Fruit and vegetable, right? Squares with the same number in have the same letter 10 Speak about odd love for a (4) .in. Work out which number represents which letter sausage (7) 4 Apple brandy and soda 12 Cried so loud, being upset, served up after Calvin or changed hue (11) dropped in (8) 14 Make a big fuss - and 5 Weird eastern lake (5) continue to do so (5,2) 6 Reveal new fun - not new (6) 16 Utter contempt in this style 11 Huge deficit in fuel (4) production (8) 19 Staunch supporter? (4) 12 A shortage of twisted 20 Dead ends making you thread (6) depressed? (8) 13 Object when put into torn 21 Favourite heavyweight of a clothing (7) town in the north of England 15 A dance that comes from (10) Burma? (5) 17 Unrelenting back (5) 18 Garden taken from the dentist (4) Bound And Gagged Puzzles courtesy: Puzzlechoice.com courtesy: Puzzles

Solution Sudoku

Answers Codeword Wordsearch

Sudoku is a puzzle based on a ٩x٩ grid. The grid is also divided into nine (٣x٣) boxes. You are given a selection of values and to complete the puzzle, you must fill the grid so that every column, every .anone is repeated

Colouring Horoscope ARIES TAURUS GEMINI March 21 — April 19 April 20 — May 20 May 21 — June 20

Maintain a positive attitude, Aries, and things will naturally flow You may be reluctant to commit to anything major today, Taurus. This may be one of those days when you feel completely alone your way. Tell a few jokes and keep things light and energetic. You Your natural tendency is to look askance at those who promise even if there are hundreds of people around, Gemini. No one seems will find that you can multitask very well, and you have the ability grand and wonderful things. You’re smart to question such talk. to understand your perspective. Your incredible sensitivity and to make everyone smile. Don’t shy away from things – move toward Don’t be surprised if someone’s new idea garners all the acclaim. emotionalism are putting you in a category all your own. Try not to them. Put away your self-doubt and be more proactive in your Don’t buy into it without first hearing the facts. It isn’t a good day for ostracise yourself from the group. Reach out instead of pulling away. approach to everything you encounter. you to gamble, either. You have more in common with other people than you think. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

Balance your boisterous, adventurous nature with a bit of discipline There may be a thousand things for you to do today, Leo, but you No matter what you’re doing today, have fun, Virgo. Whistle a tune. today, Cancer. It’s important to laugh, but it’s also important to stay can only get them done if you concentrate on one at a time. Take Turn the stereo up to full volume and dance around the kitchen as on task with your duties. The good news is that both of these things a lighthearted approach. You will never finish by focusing on the you make dinner. You can find amusement in just about anything, can work in tandem. They aren’t mutually exclusive. In fact, one will sheer amount of work you have to do. Break it up into smaller so keep this in mind as you tackle even the menial tasks. You’re help you achieve the other. Be serious but have a good time and pieces and delegate tasks if you can. Try to see the fun side of responsible for your own attitude, so don’t blame anyone else for a keep things in perspective. things. Schedule in breaks and snacks. sour mood. Turn yourself around and have fun. LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

You might need to spend time alone in order to reset your You will find that discipline, organisation, and a bit of a dramatic flair You might find it diff icult to deal with people on an emotional programming, Libra. Other people’s influence may be seeping into are exactly the things needed to be successful today, Scorpio. Just level today, Sagittarius. Others could seem too demanding of your your psyche. There’s no reason to always do or say what other people because you have to be practical doesn’t mean that you have to be attention and want to keep the focus on themselves. At the same dictate. Your sensitivity helps you understand things about others, stern and grumpy. Remember that taking care of serious matters time, you will probably need a bit more attention than usual. Try not but it can also bring you down if you start to take on their burdens. can actually be fun as long as you maintain a positive attitude about to be so stubborn! Give people the love they need, and you will find Try to counterbalance this tendency with more of your own energy. the situation. A smile goes a long way. that the love you require will come to you as well. CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

You might find your emotions a bit dampened today, Capricorn, but Make sure you get your daily dose of laughter and try to come out This is an important day for you to give thanks for all that you have, this may not be a bad thing. Try not to blow things out of proportion of your shell a bit more, Aquarius. This is an important time for you Pisces. Give your loved ones extra hugs and let them know how so much. Don’t feel that you need to turn every small story into a to let go of your inhibitions and open up to the world. You may find much they mean to you. If things start to get a bit too serious and major headline. There’s no need to exaggerate the truth just to get that there’s a sober tone to your emotions, but you can overcome sombre, you’re the one who can pull others out of the rut. There is more attention. Take a more reserved approach to your actions and this easily as long as you keep your chin up. There’s no reason for no need to be sad when you have so much to be happy about. reactions to all situations. you to be gloomy. Gulf Times Friday, December 4, 2020 7 AMERICAS/EUROPE

Hackers targeting groups involved in Covid vaccine distribution: IBM

Reuters company said in a blog post pub- Understanding how to build a cine transport and biological messages seeking comment. that it had been targeted by a Reuters has previously docu- Washington lished yesterday that it had un- secure cold chain is fundamental sample storage. Messages sent to the e-mail hacking campaign. mented how hackers linked to covered “a global phishing cam- to distributing vaccines devel- The hackers went through “an addresses used by the hackers “We have taken the necessary Iran, Vietnam, North Korea, paign” focused on organisations oped by the likes of Pfi zer and exceptional amount of eff ort”, were not returned. steps to mitigate the attack and South Korea, China, and Russia BM is sounding the alarm associated with the Covid-19 BioNTech because the shots need said IBM analyst Claire Zaboeva, IBM said that the bogus Haier are closely following and analys- have on separate occasions been over hackers targeting com- vaccine “cold chain” – the proc- to be stored at -70° Celsius or be- who helped draft the report. e-mails were sent to around ing the situation,” the statement accused by cyber-security ex- Ipanies critical to the distribu- ess needed to keep vaccine doses low to avoid spoiling. Hackers researched the cor- 10 diff erent organisations but said. perts or government offi cials of tion of Covid-19 vaccines, a sign at extremely cold temperatures IBM’s cyber-security unit rect make, model, and pricing of only identifi ed one target by IBM said other targets in- trying to steal information about that digital spies are turning their as they travel from manufactur- said it had detected an advanced various Haier refrigeration units, name: the European Commis- cluded companies involved in the virus and its potential treat- attention to the complex logisti- ers to people’s arms. group of hackers working to Zaboeva said. sion’s Directorate-General for the manufacture of solar panels, ments. cal work involved in inoculating The US Cybersecurity and In- gather information about dif- “Whoever put together this Taxation and Customs Union, which are used to power vaccine IBM’s Zaboeva said there was the world’s population against frastructure Security Agency re- ferent aspects of the cold chain, campaign was intimately aware which handles tax and customs refrigerators in warm countries, no shortage of potential suspects. the novel coronavirus. posted the report, warning mem- using meticulously crafted boo- of whatever products were in- issues across the EU and has and petrochemical products that Figuring out how to swiftly The Covid-19 respiratory dis- bers of Operation Warp Speed by-trapped e-mails sent in the volved in the supply chain to helped set rules on the import of could be used to derive dry ice. distribute an economy-saving ease is caused by the highly-con- – the US government’s national name of an executive with Haier deliver a vaccine for a global pan- vaccines. Who is behind the vaccine vaccine “should be topping the tagious coronavirus. vaccine mission – to be on the Biomedical, a Chinese cold chain demic,” she said. In a statement, the European supply chain espionage cam- lists of nation states across the The information technology lookout. provider that specialises in vac- Haier Medical did not return Commission said it was aware paign is not clear. world”, she said.

US says only dogs can fl y as UN chief pans countries ‘service animals’ ignoring Covid-19 facts AFP „ Worldwide coronavirus provided factual information between the United States and China linked to the pandemic, Washington cases cross 64.43mn, death and scientifi c guidance that China hit boiling point over is seeking the power to impose toll at 1,496,238 should have been the basis for a the pandemic at the UN, where fi nancial penalties on foreign „ EU intensifies fight against co-ordinated global response,” months of bickering between agents. lying with your emotional disinformation Guterres said. “Unfortunately, the superpowers has spotlighted It also wants to have a role in support peacock or ham- many of these recommendations Beijing’s bid for greater multi- helping member states coordi- Fster? No. Reuters/AFP were not followed.” lateral infl uence in a challenge to nate their response to disinfor- But with your service dog, or United Nations “And in some situations, there Washington’s traditional global mation attacks by foreign actors. even two – that’s okay on US air- was a rejection of facts and an infl uence. The EU executive also wants lines, regulators have decided. ignoring of the guidance,” he “This is not a time to point more transparency from the The US Department of Trans- nited Nations Secretary- said. “And when countries go fi ngers. We have convened here platforms on the sources of dis- portation issued a fi nal rule on General Antonio Gu- in their own direction, the virus to forge a path forward and to information, their algorithms Wednesday on what kind of Uterres has decried coun- goes in every direction.” end the suff ering of the peo- and more access to data for re- “service animals” that airlines tries – without naming names US President Donald Trump ple we serve,” UNGA President searchers. are required to accommodate – that have rejected the facts cut funding to the WHO earlier Volkan Bozkir said. “The United Campaign group Avaaz said on board fl ights in the United about the coronavirus pandem- this year, and announced plans Nations must lead on this.” the plan could be ground-break- States. ic and ignored guidance from to quit the Geneva-based body The EU meanwhile an- ing if the platforms are held ac- The practice of fl ying with a the World Health Organisation over accusations that it was nounced yesterday plans to step countable with clear objectives pet for emotional support has (WHO). a puppet of China, which the up the fi ght against disinforma- and oversight. exploded over recent years, with The coronavirus causes the WHO denied. tion in Europe at a time when “Or it could remain an inef- travellers seeking to board with Covid-19 respiratory disease. The US withdrawal would anti-vaccine content is spread- fective declaration of intent,” all sorts of non-human mental Guterres addressed a special have taken eff ect in July next ing, fuelled by the coronavirus warned Avaaz campaign man- health aides: parrots, monkeys, session of the 193-member UN year, but US President-elect Joe pandemic. ager Luca Nicotra, if the plat- ducks, a peacock, and even, in General Assembly (UNGA) on Biden said that he will rescind The European Commission forms continue to report based one genuine attempt, a mini- the coronavirus, which emerged the move. also plans to regulate political on indicators they choose them- ature horse. in the Chinese city of Wuhan late “In a global crisis, we must advertising and to better protect Guterres: When countries go in their own direction, the virus goes in selves. That has challenged airlines last year and spread globally. meet the expectations of those journalists as part of its Democ- every direction. The commission also said it pressured by mental health ad- More than 64.43mn people we serve with unity, solidarity racy Action Plan. would propose new legislation vocates to accommodate such have been reported to be infect- and co-ordinated multilateral “Disinformation is not a formation, which was launched the new measures will coincide to regulate political advertising travellers. ed by the novel coronavirus glo- global action,” said Guterres, trivial thing ... we are speaking in 2018. with the much-anticipated Dig- next year. But, the department said, bally and 1,496,238 have died, who is pushing for a Covid-19 about really dangerous attacks,” It was signed by Google, Face- ital Services Act, to be proposed “We want the political ad- there has been a rise in disrup- according to a Reuters tally. vaccine to be made available to EU Commission Vice-President book, Twitter, Microsoft and in by the commission on December vertising to be as transparent tions on board by “unusual spe- Infections have been reported all and for rich countries to help Vera Jourova told AFP. June 2020 by TikTok, as well as 15. as possible, so that I, as a voter, cies” and misbehaving animals, in more than 210 countries and developing countries combat The plan by the EU executive players in the advertising sector. The commission, which has know who is sending me this “which has eroded the public territories December 2019. and recover from the pandemic. intends to strengthen its existing But the EU believes self-regu- already denounced campaigns message, who pays for it, what’s trust in legitimate service ani- “From the start, the WHO Long-simmering tensions code of conduct against disin- lation is no longer adequate and allegedly launched by Russia and the purpose,” Jourova said. mals”. The Transportation Depart- ment’s conclusion? Only man’s best friend, canines, qualify as “service animals” for special boarding permissions to accom- Former French president d’Estaing dies at 94 US ex-presidents pany people with physical, psy- chiatric or mental disabilities. The rest are just “pets”. Reuters/AFP lish, British Prime Minister The ruling defi nes a service Paris Boris Johnson called Giscard say they will take animal as “a dog that is indi- a “hugely important fi gure in vidually trained to do work or modernising France”. perform tasks for the benefi t of a ormer French president “Complete love-hate re- person with a disability”. Valery Giscard d’Estaing, lationship with our country,” vaccine on camera Never fear: travellers can still Fa key architect of Europe- Britain’s former Europe min- bring their small pets aboard, in an integration in the early 1970s, ister in the early 2000s, Denis cages to tuck under their seats, has died at the age of 94 after McShane, said on a statement Reuters US health offi cials predict at the airline’s discretion, often contracting Covid-19. on Twitter, calling him a “big Washington the fi rst inoculations could paying an extra fee. The Covid-19 respiratory dis- politician” who changed Eu- start days or weeks later. ease is caused by the coronavi- rope. Moderna Inc’s vaccine, rus. Michel Barnier, who is the ormer US presidents which employs similar tech- Chemical tank Giscard, who was France’s lead European Union nego- Barack Obama, George nology as Pfi zer’s and was leader from 1974 to 1981, had tiator in talks with Britain over FW Bush, and Bill Clinton nearly 95% eff ective in its piv- blast kills four recently been hospitalised in Brexit, said: “For Valery Giscard have said that they are willing otal trial, is expected to be re- Tours, in western France. d’Estaing, Europe needed to be to be vaccinated against the viewed a week later. Four people died yesterday when He died at his family home This picture taken on October 4, 2018 shows President Macron with a French ambition and France a novel coronavirus on televi- A signifi cant minority of a chemical tank exploded at a nearby after suff ering from former presidents d’Estaing (right) and Sarkozy. modern nation. Respect.” sion in order to ease any public Americans are sceptical of the waste water treatment plant near complications linked to the vi- German Chancellor Angela scepticism over the safety of science behind vaccinations Bristol in England, police said. rus, a foundation that he had set with launching major projects Jean Castex hailed a “man of Merkel mourned the loss of a new vaccines. and wary of the record speed at A fifth person was wounded up and chaired said in a state- including France’s high-speed progress” whose social reforms “great European” and said Ger- The coronavirus causes the which Covid-19 vaccines have in the explosion at the plant in ment. TGV train network. remained “deeply relevant” for many had lost “a friend”. Covid-19 respiratory disease. been developed, although 58% Avonmouth, but the injuries were He had been admitted to hos- He lost his re-election bid, young people and women. After his defeat in 1981 – “I may end up taking it on of Americans told Gallup poll- said to not be life-threatening. pital in September with respi- however, to Socialist Francois Former president Nico- which he said left him with TV or having it fi lmed, just so sters last month they would get Police said they would not be ratory complications, and was Mitterrand, in the aftermath of las Sarkozy said Giscard had “frustration at a job unfi nished” that people know that I trust a coronavirus vaccine, up from speculating on the cause of the hospitalised again in mid-No- the global economic downturn “worked his whole life to rein- – Giscard remained active in this science,” Obama, a Demo- 50% in September. blast but added it was not being vember. of the 1970s. force relations between Euro- centrist politics, fi rst regaining crat who left the White House US President Donald Trump, treated as terror-related. Giscard was known for steer- Tributes poured in across the pean nations”. a seat in the French parliament in 2017, said in an interview a Republican who recovered Avon and Somerset Police Chief ing a modernisation of French political spectrum in France. In Europe, he forged a close and then serving in the Euro- with Sirius XM radio that aired from a bout with Covid-19 Inspector Mark Runacres said society during his presidency, “His seven-year mandate relationship with former West pean Parliament. on Wednesday. earlier this year, has touted his that the explosion at the plant including allowing divorce by transformed France,” President German chancellor Helmut In 2001, he was selected by Bush, a Republican and administration’s involvement operated by Wessex Water mutual consent and legalising Emmanuel Macron said in a Schmidt, and together they laid European leaders to lead work Obama’s predecessor, is will- in funding some vaccine devel- occurred in a silo that holds abortion, and was one of the statement. the foundations for the euro on the bloc’s constitutional ing to get a vaccine on camera opment, but the White House treated bio-solids before they architects of European integra- “The direction he set for single currency, setting up the treaty – which French voters once the US Food and Drug did not immediately respond are recycled as organic soil tion. France still guides our way ... his European Monetary System. then rejected. Administration (FDA) grants to questions about his pred- conditioners. Elected president at 48, he death has plunged the French He was also an ardent Anglo- He made one of his last public emergency approval, according ecessor’s comments yesterday. Police said three of the victims came to power after Charles nation into mourning,” Macron, phile, and took offi ce a year af- appearances on September 30 to Freddy Ford, Bush’s chief of The offi ce of Vice-President were employees of Wessex de Gaulle’s long rule, seeking who has sometimes been com- ter Britain joined the European last year for the funeral of an- staff . Mike Pence referred reporters Water, while the fourth was a to liberalise the economy and pared to Giscard, said. Economic Community. other former president, Jacques Clinton, a Democrat, will to earlier interviews in which contractor. social attitudes and credited French Prime Minister Tweeting in French and Eng- Chirac. “defi nitely take a vaccine as Pence said he would be “proud soon as available to him, based to take a vaccine the moment on the priorities determined that it’s available”. by public health offi cials”, United Nations Secretary- his spokesman, Angel Urena, General Antonio Guterres wrote in an e-mail. “And he would likely take a vaccine as Azerbaijan says 2,783 soldiers killed in Karabakh fi ghting will do it in a public setting if it soon as one is available, though will help urge all Americans to after those who need it fi rst do the same.” have access to it, like front- AFP leased of military losses in weeks One hundred more Azerbaijani Fresh clashes erupted between to broker ceasefi res, before Ar- An FDA panel of outside line workers, UN spokesman Baku of clashes with Armenian forces. soldiers are missing, the ministry Armenia and Azerbaijan in late menia and Azerbaijan signed a advisers is due to meet on De- Stephane Dujarric said on The defence ministry in Baku statement said. September, rekindling the Cau- Moscow-brokered peace deal on cember 10 to discuss whether Wednesday. said that “2,783 servicemen of Yerevan had earlier announced casus neighbours’ decades-long November 9. to recommend emergency use Asked if Guterres might take zerbaijan said yesterday the Azerbaijani armed forces that 2,317 Armenian troops died confl ict over the ethnic Arme- It has sparked celebrations in authorisation of a vaccine de- the vaccine publicly, Dujar- that nearly 2,800 of its were killed in the patriotic war”, during the confl ict, which also nian enclave of Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan and fury in Armenia, veloped by Pfi zer with German ric said: “We’ll see if he does Asoldiers were killed in re- adding that the identity of 103 claimed the lives of at least 93 Fierce fi ghting persisted for six where Prime Minister Nikol Pa- partner BioNTech shown to be it publicly. I don’t know if you cent fi ghting over Nagorno-Ka- troops is yet to be established Azerbaijani and 50 Armenian ci- weeks despite eff orts by France, shinyan is facing mounting criti- 95% eff ective at preventing ill- want to see him take off his rabakh, the fi rst details it has re- though DNA analysis. vilians. Russia and the United States cism for agreeing on the deal. ness. shirt publicly.” Gulf Times 8 Friday, December 4, 2020 INDIA

ACHIEVEMENT CRIME LAW AND ORDER WEATHER OFFBEAT Indian educator wins Fight over mutton curry at Congress leader held Shah assures Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh cows to $1mn global teaching prize wedding claims man’s life for instigating mob Kerala help as storm nears get coats to stay warm

An Indian teacher was yesterday named the A fight over mutton curry claimed the life of a The Bengaluru Central Crime Branch arrested Union Home Minister Amit Shah yesterday spoke Cows in Uttar Pradesh will now get special winner of a $1mn prize for his work transforming man in Telangana’s Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district. Congress party leader and former corporator, with the chief ministers of Tamil Nadu and Kerala coats to save them from the winter chill. The the lives of young girls in a rural village. Ranjitsinh Suraram Parusharamulu (35) died and his brother Abdul Rakeeb Zakir in connection with a Bengaluru in the wake of cyclone Burevi and assured them animal husbandry department of the state has Disale was announced the winner of the Global Nagaraju was injured when they were attacked riot case. This is the second high-profile arrest of all the possible support from the centre. “Have asked veterinary off icers in various districts to Teacher Prize 2020 at a virtual ceremony by Praveen and Kishtaiah. Tatipamulu Mahesh of by the CCB in the last fortnight after the police spoken to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K ensure proper protection for cows in state-run broadcast from the Natural History Museum in Dacharam village married a woman from Pakala arrested former Bengaluru mayor and Congress Palaniswami and Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan in the cow shelters during the winter months. Off icials London and opted to split half his winnings with village. The bridegroom’s relatives went to Pakala. leader R Sampath Raj. Joint police commissioner wake of Cyclone Burevi. The Modi government is are now making arrangements for the cow his fellow finalists. He was selected from 12,000 Suraram Venkataiah, who was part of the marriage (crime) Bengaluru, Sandeep Patil, said the police committed to all possible support for the people of coats that will be made of jute bags and will nominations from over 140 countries around the party, complained that mutton pieces were not will seek Zakir’s custody as they need to question Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Several teams of National keep the cows warm. The cow shelters are also world. His decision means $55,000 will go to each served with the curry during the wedding. He had him at length. The CCB is probing the violence that Disaster Response Force are already deployed in being covered with thick polythene curtains of the other nine finalists from nations including an argument over the issue with Chandraiah. Later erupted in Bengaluru after an alleged insidious both the states,” Shah said. Cyclonic storm Burevi or ‘tarpaulin’ so that cold winds do not enter. Italy, Nigeria and South Korea. Disale is the sixth Venkataiah’s sons Praveen and Kishtaiah attacked social media post by Naveen Kumar, the nephew is expected to cross the south Tamil Nadu coast Jute bags are being sewed together to make winner of the award, which is sponsored by the Chandraiah’s sons Parshuramulu and Nagaraju of Pulikeshinagar Congress legislator Akhanda between Pamban and Kanyakumari with a wind thick curtains and covers. The jute bags will be UN’s educational and cultural agency Unesco. with axes. Parshuramulu later died of his injuries. Srinivasa Murthy, went viral on August 11. speed of 70-80 kmph, gusting at 90 kmph’. provided by the district supply department.

Congress sponsoring Govt talks agitation, claims BJP with farmers IANS Patna

he Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s Bihar president TSanjay Jaiswal yesterday end with no claimed that the ongoing farm- ers agitation in Delhi has been sponsored by the Congress par- ty. “While Congress leaders are trying to present themselves dif- ferent from others in the ongoing farmers agitation, the Germany breakthrough unit of the Indian Overseas Con- gress has announced an assist- IANS tinue but the procurement would would lead to new challenges for ance of Rs10mn for the agitators. New Delhi stop. The MSP will have no the government whose focus is to “It is now clear that the Con- meaning then”. end the farmers’ agitation going gress party is behind the agita- The farmer union representa- on since November 26. tion,” Jaiswal said. he over seven-hour long tives said that the government Thousands of protesters have “It is an extremely unfortu- talks between the repre- claims the three farm laws were blocked fi ve Delhi borders con- nate part of this agitation where Tsentatives of the farm- brought in with the the interests necting Chandigarh, Haryana supporters are shouting slogans ers’ bodies and the government of farmers in mind. However, the and Uttar Pradesh crippling the in favour of Khalistan and wav- ended without any breakthrough laws have been passed to benefi t chain of supply to the national ing posters of Bhindranwale,” yesterday and the next round big business and corporate hous- capital. Jaiswal said. of talks has been scheduled for es, they said. The meeting is also being at- “In a bid to obtain power, December 5. As per sources, the Giving an example of sugar- tended by Union Minister of Congress party has fallen so low farmers have given their sugges- cane procurement, the farmers’ State for Commerce Som Prakash that it has no hesitation to seek tions to the government in writ- organisations objected to con- and agriculture secretary Sanjay favours from Khalistani sup- ing. tract farming and pointed out its Agarwal. porters,” he said. Earlier in the day, a group of drawbacks. The Singhu and Tikri borders, “You have to remember that more than 34 farmer leaders put The fi ve-point set of demands as well as Chilla and Ghazipur they are same Khalistani and out a fi ve-point set of demands came yesterday after the meeting borders have now been hosting Bhindranwale supporters whom that seeks to frame a specifi c at Vigyan Bhawan in presence these multitudes for over a week. Indira Gandhi instigated and she law on minimum support price of the Centre’s representatives: Hundreds of farmers have al- along with entire country paid the (MSP) and end the punishment Agriculture Minister Narendra most blocked entry and exit out price. “In a bid to hide the failure provision for stubble burning, Singh Tomar and Consumer Af- of the national capital. of Rahul Gandhi, the Congress during the fourth round of talks fairs, Food and Public Distribu- The fourth round of meetings party is running this agitation. with the Central government tion Minister Piyush Goyal. with the farmer leaders started at “This indicates a bigger con- yesterday. The Bharatiya Kisan Union, Vigyan Bhawan after the earlier spiracy behind the agitation,” In the written fi ve-point set the Bharatiya Kisan Sanyukta talks remained inconclusive on Jaiswal said. of demands, one of the key de- Morcha and the Krantikari Kisan December 1. Earlier, the Congress stepped mands is repealing the three Union are among the more than In the last meeting, the farm- up the demand of immediately contentious farm laws passed in 34 farm union representatives ers’ representatives had unani- scrapping the farm laws in the September during the monsoon who put the demand before the mously turned down the centre’s wake of the farmers’ protest in session of the parliament. It also Centre to call a special session proposal of a special committee the national capital. raised objections about the up- of parliament and frame a law on to thrash out the diff erences and In a tweet Rahul said, “ac- coming Electricity (Amendment) MSP. resolve concerns over the farm cepting less than scrapping of Act, 2020. The farm unions were also re- laws. three black farm laws will be de- The farmers emphasised that portedly adamant on demand- A breakthrough was not ex- ceit to farmers and the country.” the provision to register a case for ing the government repeal its pected in a single meeting, Although the Congress has de- stubble burning should be ended, three farm laws enacted in Sep- sources had said, in view of the manded scrapping of all the three and asked why the government tember. government fi rmly standing by legislations, in its party manifes- wasn’t ready to give them “writ- They have also put some other the laws it has called “historic to for the 2019 general elections ten assurance” on MSP despite demands on behalf of thousands reforms” in the farm sector. which the party had lost, it had its earlier statements that MSP of farmers owing allegiance to The farmers though have hard- promised to repeal the Agricul- will continue. these organisations, huddled un- ened their stance, warning that tural Produce Market Commit- The farmer union representa- der the open sky in the cold win- if this “the last chance” for the tee (APMC) Act and the Essential tives emphasised that a new law ter, refusing to budge until their government to take a decision on Commodities Act (ECA). on MSP be framed in a special demands are met. the laws, was not accepted, the “The Congress will repeal the session of Parliament, demand- The meeting, which is expect- stir could intensify further. APMC Act and make trade in ag- ing that it must guarantee them ed to play a major role in farm- In place of a committee, they ricultural produce, including ex- MSP not only now but in the fu- ers’ future course of action on have demanded a special session ports and inter-state trade, free ture as well. whether they would continue the of parliament to repeal what they from all restrictions,” read the Delhi police and security personnel stand guard as farmers continue to protest against the central The farmer leaders said: “Let protest or withdraw it, is crucial have called “black laws” made to 2019 manifesto. government’s recent agricultural reforms at the Delhi-Haryana state border in Singhu yesterday. us assume that MSP will con- as many of the farmers’ demands favour corporate houses. Anti-drugs offi cers probing Rajinikanth to launch celebrities’ case suspended party in January AFP Nadu into a frenzy, with fans get- Chennai ting haircuts like his most recent IANS got bail, Karishma Prakash had though the court directed her to character or having his face tat- Mumbai ignored the NCB summons to appear before the NCB, which tooed on their bodies. join the probe and later secured she complied with. uperstar Rajinikanth yes- Rajnikanth, who worked on an interim bail – and in both the The NCB had sought her cus- terday became the latest buses in Bengaluru before mov- he Narcotics Control Bu- developments, the alleged role of todial interrogation as she was Sin a long line of big-name ing into acting in 1973, proved reau (NCB) has suspended the two offi cers is now under the not co-operating in the probe actors to enter politics, vowing to his political muscle in 1996 when Ttwo offi cials of its Mumbai scanner. The NCB move follows a and during the fi nal hearing of bring in “corruption-free” gov- he called on fans to oppose the Zonal Unit for their alleged sus- preliminary report of an internal her anticipatory bail plea, the ernment to his home state. Tamil Nadu government, which picious role which enabled two probe ordered by zonal director offi cial and lawyer did not ap- The action hero, one of Asia’s was then voted out of power. persons in the ongoing Bolly- Sameer Wankhede, and the sus- pear in the court, after which the best-paid actors, said that with Rajinikanth said in 2017 that wood-drugs mafi a investigation pensions precede a full depart- court granted her bail plea. “huge support from people” he he wanted to enter politics to get relief, offi cial sources said. mental inquiry in which the pos- Bharti Singh and Limbachiya would be launching a political bring “change in Tamil Nadu”. The role of the two investigat- sible involvement of some others, were arrested after raids at their party in January that is expected His fans set off fi reworks in cel- ing offi cials – whose identities including lawyers, could also homes and offi ce on November to contest elections scheduled in ebration but have been waiting were not disclosed – came under come up, indicated the offi cial. 22 and sent to judicial custody for Tamil Nadu state next year. since for the formal moves. a cloud after accused Harsh Lim- In a serious transgression, the 13 days each. The 69-year-old former bus He launched his own move- bachiya and suspect Karishma two offi cials, along with a lawyer, They moved a bail plea in the conductor said the public want- ment, Rajini Makkal Mandram Prakash got bail and interim bail. did not appear during scheduled court on November 23 which was ed “honest, transparent, corrup- (RMM), which has since been Limbachiya is the husband of court hearings in the two cases granted ex-parte as the investi- tion-free, caste-less, secular and putting in place the political television comedian Bharti Singh which enabled them get bail. gating offi cer and the NCB law- spiritual politics” in the state. launchpad for the fi lm hero. while Prakash is the manager of Following a tip-off from an ar- yer remained absent, leaving the “Wonderful and amazing Rajinikanth is following a actress Deepika Padukone. rested drug peddler, the NCB had NCB teams aghast. things will happen!” he added well-worn path from the cinema Both – Limbachiya and Ka- raided Karishma Prakash when While the reasons in both without stating explicitly that he into Indian politics. rishma Prakash – had been raid- she was away from her home, these instances of absentia is not would stand himself. Hindi star Sunny Deol is a ed by the NCB teams last month and later a case was lodged along revealed, the NCB higher-ups The actor enjoys a cult-like member of parliament and an- and certain quantities of drugs with summons issued to her. smelt something amiss and or- following across the country other Tamil star, Kamal Haasan, recovered in the actions. While she ignored the sum- dered a preliminary probe after where he is called “The Super- formed his own party in 2018 but While Bharti Singh and Lim- mons, she also applied for an which the two offi cers have been Rajinikanth addresses the media representatives in front of his star” or “Thalaivar” (leader). failed to win a seat in a national bachiya were arrested and later anticipatory bail which she got suspended. residence in Chennai yesterday. Every new fi lm sends Tamil election last year. Gulf Times Friday, December 4, 2020 9 THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH ‘You have better knowledge of your worldly aff airs’

he Prophets of Allah are the worldly matters, and the incidents aff airs,’ saying: “Scholars said that it Al-Baghawi, may Allah have mercy elite of humankind and the where they proved to be erroneous (or means you are more aware of the worldly upon him, said: “It means that he never most honourable of all people not optimum), it does not contradict his matters rather than those pertaining to spoke falsehood.” As-Sa‘di, may Allah Tin the sight of Allah, The prophethood and infallibility in any way. legislation (and Shari‘ah). As for what he have mercy upon him, said: “It means Exalted. He chose them and entrusted This is because it is conceivable that the said based on his Ijtihaad and declared it that his speech does not emanate from them with conveying His Religion to Prophets and Messengers of Allah might to be part of the Shari‘ah, it is obligatory his personal inclination but rather His Creation. He Says (what means): err with regard to worldly matters, to act upon it. The pollination of palm followed the guidance and Taqwa that {Those are the ones to whom We and this does not undermine their trees does not fall under this category Allah has revealed to him with regard gave the Scripture and authority and prophethood, nor does it contradict but rather the one mentioned before it ... to his own aff airs and those of others. prophethood.} [Qur’an 6:89] He also their infallibility. Scholars said: His saying was not a This indicates that the Sunnah is part Says (what means): {Those are the ones Some sceptics who promote doubts statement but rather an assumption, of the divine revelation from Allah whom Allah has guided, so from their about the Sunnah of the Prophet, as he clarifi ed in the other versions of to His Messenger, sallallaahu ‘alaihi guidance take an example.} [Qur’an sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, and his the Hadith. They said that his personal wa salla. He Says (what means): {And 6:90] The Muslim Ummah unanimously infallibility brought forth as evidence opinion and assumption on worldly Allah has revealed to you the Book and agreed that the Messengers of Allah, the incident when he, sallallaahu ‘alaihi matters are like those of any other wisdom…} [Qur’an 4:113] (Wisdom may Allah exalt their mention, are wa sallam, gave his personal opinion on person, and therefore it is conceivable here is a reference to the Sunnah). It infallible with regard to conveying the the artifi cial pollination of palm trees in that something like this should happen, also indicates that he was infallible divine revelation, and this essentially Madinah and that it later proved to be and it does not imply any defi ciency.” with regard to what he conveyed from means that they never lie, forget, or wrong. It was narrated on the authority Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy Allah, The Exalted, and His Shari‘ah make mistakes in this regard. of Raafi ‘ ibn Khadeej, may Allah be upon him, said: “He did not forbid them because he did not speak from personal Al-Qaadhi ‘Iyaadh, may Allah have pleased with him, that he said: “When from pollination, but they made the inclination but rather from a revelation mercy upon him, said: “The Prophets the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu mistake of assuming that he forbade revealed. Allah, The Exalted, Says (what of Allah are free of all physical and ‘alaihi wa sallam, came to Madinah, the them from it.” means): {And whatever the Messenger moral defi ciencies.” Ibn Taymiyyah, people had been artifi cially pollinating Shaykh Ahmad Shaakir, may Allah has given you – take; and what he has may Allah have mercy upon him, said: the palm trees. He said: ‘What are you have mercy upon him, said: “The forbidden you – refrain from.} [Qur’an “The Qur’anic verses that establish the doing?’ They said: ‘We are used to doing Hadith is clear and explicit and does not 59:7] prophethood of the Prophets of Allah this,’ whereupon he said: ‘Perhaps if confl ict with any other text, nor does it Ibn Katheer, may Allah have mercy indicate that they were infallible with you do not do that it would be good.’ So contradict his infallibility with regard upon him, said: “It means that whatever regard to communicating the divine they abandoned this practice, and then to his Ijtihaad. It does not indicate that he commanded you to do, do it, and revelation. This means that whatever there was a decline in the produce. They the Sunnah cannot be brought forth as whatever he forbade you from doing, divine revelation they conveyed was mentioned that to him, so he said: ‘I adducible evidence on all matters, nor avoid it; for he only commands you to unquestionably the truth, and this am only human; whenever I command does it support their claims that the do what is good, and he only forbids is the very essence of prophethood.” you to do something pertaining to your Prophetic Sunnah in its totality is not you from what is evil.” The Prophet, Ibn Hajar, may Allah have mercy upon religion, adhere to it, and whenever part of the divine revelation ... Rather, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “I him, said: “The infallibility of the I command you to do something out them, then let them do it. It was only an a man like yourselves, (but) I receive in the Hadith about the pollination of have left you with that which, if you Prophets of Allah, may Allah exalt their of my personal opinion, then (keep in assumption on my part, so do not blame revelation...} [Qur’an 18:110] He, palm trees, he said to them that he did hold on to it, you will never go astray; mention, means guarding them against mind) that I am only human.’” [Muslim] me for an assumption...” sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, was equal not believe there was a need for that. the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of all imperfections, distinguishing them Anas ibn Maalik, may Allah be pleased The Companions mistakenly to humans in his humanity, but he was So he neither commanded nor forbade His Prophet.” [Al-Haakim, Al-Albaani: with aspects of spiritual perfection, with him, narrated that the Prophet, assumed that he, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa distinguished from them with the duty anything, and he was not conveying authentic] The Prophetic Sunnah is the and blessing them with support and sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, passed sallam, forbade them from this practice of conveying the Divine Message. divine revelation or establishing an rescue ship and the key to deliverance; steadfastness in all matters, as well as by some people who were artifi cially based on divine revelation. Then he His statement: ‘whenever I command act of Sunnah. Therefore, there are no whoever boards it will be saved, and sending down serenity upon them.” pollinating palm trees and said: “If you explained to them that whenever he you to do something pertaining to grounds for expanding the scope of this whoever fails to do so will drown. Az- The Ijtihaad (personal reasoning) of do not do so, it will still come out right.” communicated divine revelation to your religion, adhere to it,’ means: If meaning to the extent of using it as a Zuhri may Allah have mercy upon him the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam The dates came out of poor quality. them, he would never err with regard I command you to do what benefi ts means to demolish the fundamentals of said: “Our early scholars used to say, (may Allah exalt his mention), that Afterward, he happened to pass by to it. This is why he said to them: “… you with regard to your religion, then legislation!” ‘Adherence to the Sunnah is salvation.’” proved to be erroneous or not optimum them, and said: “What has gone wrong whenever I convey to you anything from comply with it because it is always Our Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa Maalik, may Allah have mercy does not violate his infallibility in the with your palm trees?” They said, “You Allah, adhere to it; I would never tell a lie the truth and it is always correct.’ His sallam, was infallible from erring in upon him, said: “The Sunnah is (like) slightest, because he was supported said such-and-such (and we acted upon about Allah.” Lying here means making statement: ‘and whenever I command what he conveyed to us from Allah, Noah’s Ark; whoever boards it survives, with the divine revelation. Whenever your advice).” He said: “You are more a mistake; meaning: I would never you to do something out of my personal The Exalted, and not with regard to his and whoever fails to do so drowns.” his Ijtihaad was correct, he did not knowledgeable of your own worldly make mistakes with regard to the divine opinion, (keep in mind that) I am only personal opinions on worldly matters Obviously, his saying, “You are more receive any remark or correction from aff airs.” [Muslim] revelation I convey. It is not conceivable human,’ means: If I command you to do that might have been right or wrong. knowledgeable of your own worldly Allah, The Exalted, and this serves as an In the version narrated by Talhah ibn that the Hadith should mean lying in something pertinent to worldly matters, A Muslim believes with certainty in aff airs,” does not apply to the religious approval from Allah of his Ijtihaad and ‘Ubaydillah, may Allah be pleased with its literal sense because he, sallallaahu then I am a human being; my personal the infallibility of the Prophets and matters, Shari‘ah, obligations, and indicates that it is obligatory to follow him, the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi ‘alaihi wa sallam, was infallible against opinion on worldly matters may be right Messengers of Allah, on top of whom prohibitions. It rather means: ‘You, who his Ijtihaad in this regard. However, if wa sallam, said: “If that benefi ts them, it even if he were conveying from other or wrong. This is because a human being comes our Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi artifi cially pollinate palm trees, and his Ijtihaad proved to be not optimum, then let them do it (artifi cially pollinate than Allah. Therefore, he said in the is prone to forgetfulness and error. By wa sallam. Therefore, we should be others like you who practice diff erent the divine revelation came to correct the palm trees). It was an assumption Hadith narrated by Raafi ‘ ibn Khadeej: “I ‘opinion’ here, he, sallallaahu ‘alaihi extremely mindful and beware of those professions in industry, agriculture, it, clarifying what was optimum in that on my part, so do not blame me for an am only human; whenever I command wa sallam, meant personal opinion on who seek to challenge and raise doubts and the various crafts, are more regard (like the incident regarding the assumption, but whenever I convey you to do something pertaining to your worldly matters.” about the Sunnah by saying that the knowledgeable of your (respective) areas prisoners of war in the Battle of Badr). to you anything from Allah (divine religion, adhere to it, and whenever I opinions of the Prophet, sallallaahu of specialisation than me.’ Al-Munaawi, In fact, such divine remark and revelation), adhere to it; I would never command you to do something out of An-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy ‘alaihi wa sallam, on worldly matters may Allah have mercy upon him, said correction render the Ijtihaad of tell a lie about Allah.” [Muslim] my personal opinion, (keep in mind that) upon him, compiled the Ahaadith might have been wrong and that some in Fath Al-Qadeer: “It means that you the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa I am only human.” about the artifi cial pollination of palm of the Shari‘ah rulings that he conveyed know about your worldly aff airs more sallam, part of the divine revelation sallam, did not intend to change their In his commentary on these Ahaadith, trees cited in Saheeh Muslim under to us were actually based on his personal than I do, and I know about the aff airs of and a binding ruling that must be practice of pollinating palm trees, but it Al-Munaawi, may Allah have mercy the title: “Chapter on the Obligation Ijtihaad that might have been right your afterlife more than you do; because obeyed and entails that its violation is was rather Ijtihaad on his part regarding upon him, said: “His saying (I am only of Compliance to His Commands or wrong as well! This is a false claim the Prophets and Messengers were sent forbidden. This is the key diff erence a worldly matter that could be right or human) means that he is equal to them Regarding Religious Matters rather and groundless misconception, and to save people from wretchedness in between the Ijtihaad of the Prophet, wrong. This is evidenced by what he said in humanity and not with regard to (his than His Personal Opinions on Worldly this is why Allah, The Exalted, Says the Hereafter and help them win eternal sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, and that in the version of the Hadith narrated authority in) religious matters. This is Matters”. In this chapter, he commented (what means): {Nor does he speak from bliss.” of the scholars of his nation. As for by Talhah ibn ‘Ubaydillah, may Allah a reference to the Saying of Allah, The on the Hadith reading, ‘You are more [his own] inclination.* It is not but a Article source: http://www.islamweb. his Ijtihaad and personal opinions on be pleased with him: “If that benefi ts Exalted (which means): {Say, I am but knowledgeable of your own worldly revelation revealed.} [Qur’an 53:3-4] net/emainpage/ Are you a good Fever: A blessing in disguise neighbour? ever wipes out one’s sins and rids his body this, it releases to the body fl uids a substance called reason for the rise in temperature continues, the from dead substances and germs. It is a leukocyte pyrogens or endogenous. Therefore the body temperature remains at this new level until blessing in disguise. fever remains while the body is cleansing itself from Allah permits recovery. f you are not giving your neighbours their due rights, then you are missing F The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa the by-products. an important part of your duties as a Muslim. sallam (may Allah exalt his mention), said: “When Didn’t the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, say, What is the cure for fever? A neighbour is someone who lives in the same neighbourhood as you; he a believer gets sick or feverish, it is like metal when when a man cursed the fever: “Don’t curse it because it The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, tells Icould be a friend, but does not necessarily have to be one. The defi nition of put on fi re, the bad is gone and the good remains.” abolishes sins like fi re abolishes dirt from iron.” us to reduce the fever with water. The same is still a neighbour can have various meanings; for example, it can refer to someone who [Al-Bayhaqi] It is a cleansing of our sins, a cleansing of dead applied today. Putting cold pads on a patient’s lives directly beside you, as the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, (may Allah He, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, also describes substances such as dead tissue and the by-products forehead is still used in a lot of hospitals and by exalt his mention) said: “One must not prevent his neighbour from placing his the intensity of fever by saying: “Fever is coal from of the germs, like fi re cleans the dirt from iron. doctors even though fever reducing medicines wood against his wall.” [Al-Bukhari]. hell, get rid of it by using cold water.” [Ibn Majah] The famous book on physiology by Guyton, 1992 are abundant, like aspirin, paracetamol (or However, it can also refer to someone living further away, since the Prophet, The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, edition, stated that an amount equal to one over 10 acetaminophen, which is the active ingredient in sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “No obligatory Salaah (prayer) is accepted forbade the cursing of fever by saying: “Do not curse billionth of a gram of endogenous is enough for a Tylenol) and others. from a neighbour of the Masjid (mosque) except if it is off ered in the Masjid.” a fever because it abolishes sins like fi re abolishes fever to occur. Using water to reduce fevers is not limited to using Present-day examples would include machines and equipment that emit dirt from iron.” [Ibn Majah] Such a small amount of a substance secreted in the cold pads. Drinking a lot of fl uids is also helpful. This disturbing noises. If people do anything on their property that is disturbing body due to a very small germ or a virus is enough to is also understood from the wordings of the Prophetic or harmful to their neighbours, then they must remove the cause of the What is fever? transfer a person form being healthy, to becoming sick, narration: “cool it with water.” Water is either what the disturbance. The increase of body temperature caused by feverish and bed ridden. patient drinks, what is given intravenously or what the It is permissible for people to build a house on their own property, even up bacterial or viral infection is called fever. A bacterial Recent scientifi c studies have shown that patient puts on his face or body to cool the fever. against their neighbour’s wall – but only if they have no other choice and only if or viral infection usually raises the temperature of a this leukocyte pyrogens cause fever by making a We have seen a lot of patients where fever their neighbour is not harmed by it in any way. Even in such cases, they should person, antibiotics are useless with viral infections, substance called prostaglandin in the local glands reducing medicines (antipyretics) were not eff ective still ask their neighbour’s permission beforehand. such as the infl uenza and the common cold, although in the area of the hypothalamus. When the growth with their rising fever. At the same time, cold water If they are denied permission, their neighbour may be legally compelled to grant the patient might sweat and have a very high fever. of this kind of prostaglandin is inhibited, by using had an immediate eff ect. That’s why pediatricians them permission by the proper authorities. The proof for this is in a Hadith related Fever occurs when the body temperature level medicines, the fever is reduced. This explains how advise parents to take a child’s clothes off and give by Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, who said that the Prophet, rises above the normal level of 37C (98F). There aspirin reduces fever. It inhibits the growth of a lot of fl uids if a fever occurs. An antipyretic might sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “You must not prevent your neighbour from is an area in the brain (an area that lies over the prostaglandin and prevents its making. also be give like paracetamol. Aspirin has been putting his wood on your wall.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]. pituitary gland in the front of the head) which is a The Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, said: “For banned for children under 12 years of age. If the fl ow of water becomes blocked on a farm, perhaps due to wastefulness and temperature regulator. every ailment, there is a cure. If the cure reaches the [Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim may Allah have mercy subsequently bursts out, causing damage to neighbouring farms, the neighbours When a germ enters the body, it starts secreting ailment, it is cured by the will of Allah.” [Muslim] upon him said: “I remember once, when I was may come up with proposals to channel or dam the water and irrigate the farm. If toxins. Toxins aff ect the temperature regulator causing That explains the known phenomena that aspirin feverish, a poet cursing the fever, saying: the wasteful farmer refuses to comply with them, the ruling is the same as in the its temperature to rise. The substances that cause this does not reduce the temperature of a normal person The sin purifi er has visited and left. following case of a damaged wall. rise in temperature are called pyrogens. Pyrogens are who is not feverish. That is because he does not How evil it is when visiting and when leaving If a wall between two properties is damaged, the owners of one property can caused not only by germs but also by the ruined tissues have these endogenous in his body to work on the She asked while getting ready to leave What do you want? ask the owners of the other to participate in rebuilding it. If they refuse, they in the body after being aff ected with germs. hypothalamus. I replied, to never come again. can be compelled to do so. Likewise, they can be compelled to help demolish the When the temperature rises in the temperature I said, shame on him, he cursed what the Prophet, wall if it is expected to collapse. regulator, the rest of the body has to comply. It increases How do chills occur and why? sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, forbade to be cursed. If The owners of the highest buildings in an area must construct screens to its temperature in response. Soon, the whole body feels The temperature level in the temperature he had said: prevent themselves from overlooking their neighbour’s properties. Likewise, feverish and the patient’s temperature rises. This explains regulator rises suddenly form its normal level to a The severe-sin cleanser has visited. whoever wishes to utilise their roof should make sure that they cannot see into the saying of the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, higher level, due to damage in the tissues, due to Greetings to it while visiting and while leaving their neighbour’s properties and erect a screen for this purpose if necessary. when he described the believers in their kindness and the release of temperature generating substances or She asked while getting ready to leave What do Whoever owns some property, but cannot reach it without causing damage aff ections like the body. If a part of it suff ers from a germ due to dehydration. When this happens, the body you want? to a neighbour’s property is forbidden to cause the damage. Instead, the or a virus, like infl ammation in the respiratory pathways temperature rises within a few hours to attain the I replied, to not leave. authorities should endeavour to arrange matters in a way that prevents harm to or infl ammation of the urinary tracts and others, all of the new temperature. It would have been better for him and it still either party. body suff ers from fever and restlessness. During this period, the patient shivers and feels would have left.”] Thus, even though our neighbours may be Muslim or non-Muslims – each Yes the whole body suff ers. The whole body has a cold, even though the body temperature is high, are equally entitled to their rights according to our religion. Sometimes we may rise in temperature and not only where it is aff ected. because blood vessels in the skin contract. The chills Article source: http://www.islamweb.net/ fi nd it hard to reach out to our non-Muslim neighbours, but it is an obligation When the infl ammation worsens, the germs remain until the body temperature reaches the new emainpage/ upon us, and it can also be one of the best forms of Da’wah (call to Islam) we can increase and consequently ruin the tissues. The level set by the temperature regulator. give. germs and the pyrogens will fi nd the body’s defense When the body temperature reaches that level, Article source: http://www.islamweb.net/emainpage/ system ready to attack and eat the by-products of the chills stop and the patient feels neither warm the germs and rid the body of them. While doing nor cold. As long as the infection continues and the Gulf Times 10 Friday, December 4, 2020 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), 44466636 (Home delivery) 44350474 facebook.com/gulftimes twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar GULF TIMES Democrats’ new agenda is to aid the affl uent

As Joe Biden prepares to take offi ce as president, the Democratic Party is pushing for an economic agenda that refl ects the priorities of its new coalition: one that has more college degrees, and higher incomes, than past ones. Based on the latest estimates, Biden got almost exactly the same percentage of votes for president that Barack Obama got in 2012. But the composition of the Democratic coalition changed. While a majority of college graduates voted against Obama’s re-election, Biden seems to have won a majority. Biden also expanded Obama’s majority among holders of postgraduate degrees. The Democrats have moved higher on the income scale, People weakest link for too. They had a big majority among voters making less than $50,000 a year in 2012, but a smaller one this year. They made up for those losses among higher-earners. If Democrats were trying to cater to their new supporters, they would seek to relieve student-loan debt and expand tax breaks for the upper middle class while shielding all but the very apps tracking Covid highest-earning households from tax increases. That’s exactly what they’re talking about right now. By Rae Ellen Bichell According to the Virginia Health offi cials who provide the code need contact-tracing app, it could lead to a While there is debate Department, from August to November, more training on how to provide clear drop in Covid-19 infections and deaths. about just how regressive about 613 app users tested positive and instructions to users. Abeler-Dorner, a study co-author, They will rarely it would be for the federal he app builders had planned received a code to alert their contacts Elissa Redmiles, a faculty member at said the fi ndings could be applicable government to forgive for pranksters, ensuring that that they may have exposed them to the Max Planck Institute for Software elsewhere, in broad strokes. defend these hundreds of billions only people with verifi ed the virus. About 60% of them actually Systems who is studying what drives “It will avert infections,” she said. of dollars in student- TCovid-19 cases could trig- activated it. people to install contact-tracing apps, “If it’s 200 or 1,000 and it prevents 10 policies on the ger an alert. They’d planned for heavy In North Dakota, where the outbreak worries that people may have diffi culty deaths, it’s probably worth it.” loan debts, it would criticism about privacy, in many cases is so big that human contact tracers inputting their test results. That may be true even at low ground they unquestionably benefi t making the features as bare-bones as can’t keep up, the data is even more But Tim Brookins, a Microsoft adoption rates if the app users are many Americans with high possible. But, as more states roll out dire. In October, about 90 people tested engineer who developed North Dakota’s clustered in certain communities, as are trying to lifetime incomes while smartphone contact-tracing technol- positive and received the codes required contact-tracing app as a volunteer, has opposed to being scattered evenly excluding a lot of people ogy, other challenges are emerging. to alert their contacts. Only about 30% a bleaker outlook. across the state. But prioritising make upper- who cannot look forward Namely, human nature. did so. “There’s a general belief that some privacy has required health Researchers in Dublin tracking app people want to load the app so that they departments to forgo the very data to earning as much. The problem starts with downloads. middle-class Stefano Tessaro calls it the “chicken- usage in 33 regions around the world can be notifi ed if someone else was that would let them know if users are In the tax law they and-egg” issue: The system works only have encountered echoes of the same positive, in a self-serving way,” he said. near one another. While an app in the professionals enacted at the end of 2017, if a lot of people buy into it, but people issue. In October, they wrote that in “But if they’re positive, they don’t want United Kingdom asks users for the Republicans capped the will buy into it only if they know it parts of Europe fewer people were to take the time.” first few digits of their postal code, happy deduction for state and works. alerting their contacts than expected, Abeler-Dorner called the voluntary very few US states can tell if users are local taxes at $10,000 — a “Accuracy of the system ends given the scale of the outbreaks and notifi cation a design fl aw and said the in the same community. change they knew would mostly hurt affl uent residents of high- up increasing trust, but it is trust the number of active app users. Italy alerts should instead be automatically Some exceptions include North that increases adoptions, which in and Poland ranked lowest. There, they triggered. Dakota, Wyoming and Arizona, which tax jurisdictions politically dominated by Democrats. Ever since, turn increases accuracy,” Tessaro, a estimated, just 10% of the app users Even with the limitations of the allow app users to select an affi liation Democrats have wanted to get rid of the cap. The Tax Policy Center computer scientist at the University they’d expect were submitting the codes apps, the technology can help identify with a college or university. At the has estimated that following that course would, on average, raise of Washington who was involved in necessary to warn others. new Covid-19 cases. In Switzerland, University of Arizona, enough people after-tax income for the top fi fth of US households by nearly 1% creating that state’s forthcoming “I’m not sure that anybody working researchers looked at data from two are using the app that about 27% of while having no detectable eff ect on the bottom three-fi fths. contact-tracing app, said in a lecture in this field had foreseen that that studies of contact-tracing app users. people contacted by campus contact Biden would claw back some of these gains by raising taxes. last month. could be a problem,” said Lucie They wrote in a not-yet-peer-reviewed tracers said they’d already been notifi ed In other parts of the world, people Abeler-Dorner, part of a team at the paper that while only 13% of people of a possible exposure. Brookins of But he has repeatedly vowed that tax increases would aff ect only are taking that necessary leap of faith. Big Data Institute at Oxford studying with confi rmed cases in Switzerland Microsoft, who created Care19 Alert, those households making more than $400,000 a year, which Ireland and Switzerland, touting some Covid-19 interventions, including used the app to alert their contacts from the app used in Wyoming and North is to say the top 1.8% of all households. Obama, by contrast, of the highest uptake rates, report more digital contact tracing. “Everybody July to September, that prompted about Dakota, said that off ering an affi liation used $250,000 as his dividing line. Even after accounting for than 20% of their populations use a just assumed that if you sign up for a 1,700 people who had potentially been option also allows people who’ve infl ation, Biden would exempt more affl uent households. If contact tracing app. voluntary app ... why would you then exposed to call a dedicated hotline for been exposed to get campus-specifi c Democrats stuck with a static defi nition of “the rich,” it would Americans seem not so hot on not push that button?” help. And of those, at least 41 people instructions on where to get tested and expose more and more of their own voters to tax increases. So the idea. As with much of the US So far, people in the fi eld only have discovered they were, indeed, positive what to do next. response to the pandemic, this country guesses. Abeler-Dorner wonders how for Covid-19. “In theory, we can add businesses,” he they are defi ning it upward. hasn’t had a national strategy. So much of it has to do with people going In the US, another non-peer- said. “It’s so polarising, no businesses Democratic politicians will rarely defend these policies on it’s up to states. And only about a into panic mode when they fi nd out reviewed modelling study from Google have wanted to sign up, honestly.” the ground that they are trying to make upper-middle-class dozen, including the recent addition they’re positive. and Oxford University looking at three The privacy-focused design also professionals happy. But these priorities are hard to justify of Colorado, have launched the Tessaro, the University of Washington Washington state counties found that means researchers don’t have what they on any other basis. Senators Chuck Schumer and Elizabeth smartphone feature, which sends users computer scientist, asks if the health even if only 15% of the population uses a need to prove the apps’ usefulness and Warren say that student-debt relief should be part of the federal a notifi cation if they’ve crossed paths therefore encourage higher adoption. “Here there is actually some irony government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic, and House with another app user who later tests positive for Covid-19. because the fact that we are designing Democrats have sometimes tied the issues together. But owing Within those few states, enthusiasm this solution with privacy in mind money on student loans isn’t a good proxy for economic need, or appears dim. In Wyoming, Alabama somehow prevents us from accurately for economic harm related to the pandemic. Many hospitality- and North Dakota, some of the few assessing whether the system works as industry workers who never attended college have been hit states with usage data beyond initial it should,” Tessaro said. harder than doctors and lawyers with educational debts. In downloads, under 3% of the population In states including Colorado, September, the Pew Research Center found, unsurprisingly, is using the app. Virginia and Nevada, the embedded The service, built by Google and privacy protections mean no one that people with the most years of schooling are having the least Apple and adapted by individual knows who has enabled the contact- trouble paying their bills. countries, states or territories, either tracing technology. Are they people Relief from student debts isn’t a good means of economic appears as a downloadable app or who barely interact with anyone, or stimulus, either. Take $10,000 off the debt someone owes over as a setting, depending on the state are they essential workers, interacting the next 10 years, and he or she might well spend more money and the device. It uses Bluetooth to regularly with many people that now. Surely, though, their current spending wouldn’t rise as identify other phones using the app human contact tracers would never much as if they simply received a check for $10,000. Even if within about 6 feet for more than 15 be able to reach? Are they crossing minutes. If a user tests positive for paths and trading signals with other you grant that we need fi scal stimulus, the debt relief is too Covid-19, they’re given a verification app users or, if they test positive, will backloaded to work well. — Tribune News Service code to input so that each contact their warning fall silently like a tree in can be notified they were potentially an empty forest? Will they choose to exposed. The person’s identity is notify people at all? To Advertise shielded, as are those of the people Colorado’s health department said notified. it’s issuing thousands of Covid-19 [email protected] “The more people who add their codes a day. As of Wednesday, 3,400 Display phone to the fi ght against Covid, the people have used the codes to notify more protection we all get. Everyone their contacts, it said. An automated 44466621 44418811 should do it,” Sarah Tuneberg, who system issues codes for positive leads Colorado’s test and containment Covid-19 tests even if the infected Classified eff ort, told reporters on October 29. people don’t have the app, making it 44466609 44418811 “The sky’s the limit. Or the population impossible to know how many users is the limit, really.” are acting on the codes. Subscription But the population could prove to be “I have hope that the vast majority of quite a limit. Data from early-adopter Coloradans will take this opportunity to [email protected] governments suggests even those who give this gift of exposure notifi cation to download the app and use it might not other people,” said Tuneberg. “I believe follow directions at the most critical TRACKING: A man checking an Australian government coronavirus (Covid-19) Coloradans will do it.” — Kaiser Health © 2020 Gulf Times. All rights reserved juncture. tracking app ‘COVIDSafe’ in Melbourne, Australia. News Gulf Times Friday, December 4, 2020 11 PAKISTAN

Project wins award for shielding villages from natural disasters PM to address special

Reuters ness of the northern moun- Islamabad tainous areas makes response eff orts diffi cult. Launched in 2006, the project that combines AKAH project includes map- UN session on Covid satellite images, map- ping and monitoring hazards Aping technologies and using satellite images and Internews date, and forge a united, co-ordi- navirus cases in Pakistan has The NCOC data showed postponed except for admission the local knowledge of villag- drones, and creating disaster Karachi/Islamabad nated, and people-centred path crossed the 50,000 mark, reach- 346,951 people have recovered and recruitment tests. ers to help build climate-proof risk management plans with forward. ing yet another grim milestone, from the virus up until now – Furthermore, Islamabad ad- settlements in disaster-prone the involvement of local resi- As per the schedule, the fi rst according to the National Com- 1,586 in the past 24 hours. ministration has directed the areas of Pakistan won an inter- dents. rime Minister Imran Khan day will include an opening seg- mand and Operations Centre With the coronavirus pandem- hostels to accommodate one- national award yesterday. It enables communities to will address a special ses- ment and “will focus on the ex- (NCOC) tally. ic progressively getting worse in third of the usual number of stu- More than 1mn people have build in safer areas, and better Psion of the United Nations periences of member states”. The country reported 3,499 Pakistan, the government has dents. benefi ted from the Aga Khan prepare for and respond to dis- General Assembly (UNGA) on the On the second day, an “inter- new infections in the past 24 placed fresh restrictions across The Punjab and Khyber Pa- Agency for Habitat (AKAH) asters, the AKAH said. coronavirus today. active dialogue” will be held that hours, raising the total tally to the country to prevent the spread khtunkhwa (KP) governments Pakistan project, which was a By combining local knowl- He will be the 51st speaker of will include a series of moderated 406,810 as active cases climb to of the virus during its second have meanwhile imposed a ban gold prize winner at the World edge, community involvement the session, and will speak after panels covering key aspects of 51,654. wave, which began last month. on indoor dining in restaurants Habitat Awards that are organ- and technology, the project de- the prime minister of Thailand. the impact of, and response to, The NCOC data shows that the Following recommendations and hotels, in view of the increas- ised with the United Nations velops “resilient, sustainable According to the UN, the spe- the coronavirus pandemic. pandemic’s pace in Pakistan has by the NCOC, the federal govern- ing positivity rate of Covid-19. housing agency (UN-Habitat). communities capable of living cial session will provide an op- The second wave of the pan- quickened as the tally crossed ment has made face masks man- According to a notifi cation is- The AKAH has trained about in dignity” amidst the threat of portunity for the international demic in Pakistan is meanwhile 400,000 on December 1, with at datory in public spaces, limited sued by the Punjab government, 50,000 residents to better pro- climate-induced disasters, said community to “assess and hone taking a high toll on medical pro- least 29,881 new cases reported large public gatherings to 300, indoor dining at restaurants, ca- tect their villages from disas- Leilani Farha, a former UN ex- its collective response to corona- fessionals, leading to the deaths in the last 10 days. banned indoor weddings, closed fes, etc is banned, and only out- ters in the mountainous north- pert on housing, and one of the virus pandemic”. of 10 doctors within fi ve days and The highest number of coro- shrines, cinemas, and theatres, door dining, with adequate spac- ern areas, which are vulnerable judges for the award. “World leaders, United Na- forcing some 3,000 health work- navirus cases in the past 24 hours and instructed public and pri- ing between tables, is allowed. to earthquakes, fl oods and en- The AKAH plans to extend tions principals and other rel- ers into isolation across Pakistan, was reported in Sindh, with 1,983 vate offi ces to adopt work-from- The government has also al- vironmental degradation, and the model to other rural parts evant stakeholders will be able to it emerged. infections. home policy and 50% occupancy. lowed takeaway services. are home to some of the poor- of Pakistan, while its projects engage in dialogue on the impacts A list prepared by the Pakistan Punjab came second with 727 The federal government also Similarly, KP has also allowed est communities. in Tajikistan, Afghanistan, of the pandemic on people, soci- Medical Association shows that new cases, Islamabad recorded announced that educational in- takeaway services and outdoor “It’s not just responding to Syria and India are also us- eties and economies and discuss six of the 10 doctors died on a 417, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 218, stitutes will remain closed from dining. the eff ects of the climate emer- ing this approach, and have the multifaceted, co-ordinated single day (November 29) in Ka- Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) November 26 to January 10. It has also banned the entry gency, but being proactive in completed risk assessments in response required to address this rachi, Lahore, and Multan. 85, Balochistan 53, and Gilgit- The students will study at of all kinds of visitors to prisons protecting people from its ef- nearly 2,500 villages covering crisis,” said the UN. The latest victim was Dr Mo- Baltistan (GB) 16. home or get weekly homework across the province, DAWN re- fects, using technology and 3mn people. The coronavirus causes the hamed Farooq, an additional di- With the virus claiming 39 till December 24, and winter va- ported. the knowledge of communi- A key focus for the AKAH Covid-19 respiratory disease. rector of the Khalifa Gul Nawaz lives, the country’s death toll cations will start on December Both provincial governments ties,” said David Ireland, chief Pakistan is the involvement of The global body is holding the Hospital in Bannu, Peshawar. climbed to 8,205 – 3,091 of which 25. have warned of strict action executive of World Habitat, a women, who make up about two-day special session to allow The pandemic’s second wave were recorded in Punjab, 2,968 The schools will reopen on against those violating the ban. charity. half the volunteers trained for stakeholders to share their expe- has so far claimed the lives of 18 in Sindh, KP has reported 1,378 January 11 – which is subject to Islamabad and Karachi have “It provides communities disaster response, and who also riences in fi ghting the pandemic, doctors in the country. deaths, AJK 173, Balochistan 169, coronavirus situation then. already imposed a ban on indoor with the knowledge of where participate in weather moni- refl ect on the global response to The number of active coro- and GB 97. All examinations have been dining. and how to live in safety in a toring and mapping of high risk changing world. The potential areas. for this approach to be adapted “This has given voice to and used in similar areas in Pa- women who had been consid- kistan and elsewhere is abso- ered mostly at the margins of lutely huge,” he said in a state- society, and ensures their par- Ex-PM Jamali dies ment. ticipation in developing the Since 1980, more than 2mn village disaster risk manage- people have been killed in nat- ment plans,” said Samra Siraj, a PM, president express grief ing the way for one of his cabinet ural disasters, according to the programme co-ordinator at the over death of former premier ministers, Shaukat Aziz, to fi ll World Bank. AKAH. the post until the parliamentary Worsening climate change “Women who had been con- AFP/Internews election in 2008. impacts threaten to push an ventionally viewed as vulner- Islamabad Hailing from an infl uential po- additional 100mn people into able victims of disasters and litical family, Jamali was the fi rst extreme poverty within the emergencies, are now em- and only prime minister to come next decade. powered individuals who can ormer prime minister Mir from the oil-and-gas-rich prov- Pakistan is among the most actively respond to disasters Zafarullah Khan Jamali, ince of Balochistan. disaster-prone countries in and serve the communities,” Fwho served under military He was buried yesterday in his South Asia, according to the she told the Thomson Reuters leader Pervez Musharraf, has ancestral town of Rojhan Jamali. World Bank, and the remote- Foundation. died, his family announced. President Dr Arif Alvi, Prime The 76-year-old died in Minister Imran Khan and Army Rawalpindi on Wednesday after Chief General Qamar Javed Ba- having recently suff ered a heart jwa have expressed their deep attack, his son Mir Mohamed grief and sorrow over the Jamali’s Khan Jamali said. death. Nobel laureate Malala Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali “Saddened to hear of the was elected prime minister but passing of Mir Zafarullah Khan with limited powers in Novem- Jamali. My condolences and is now on TikTok ber 2002, when then-president prayers go to his family,” Prime Musharraf allowed parliamen- Minister Khan wrote on Twitter. tary elections to take place after Jamali was a cool-headed Internews taking power in a bloodless 1999 politician who, even in the face Islamabad coup. of hostility, preached peace and Off icials and residents carry the Musharraf went on to rule the avoided confrontation. coff in of former prime minister country until 2008, when he was Born in Rojhan Jamali on Janu- Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali he youngest Nobel lau- forced to resign after pro-mili- ary 1, 1944, his early schooling during his funeral at his reate, Malala Yousuf- tary parties lost parliamentary was in Balochistan, followed by ancestral town of Rojhan Jamali Tzai, joined TikTok on elections and the country transi- Lawrence College in Murree, and in Balochistan. Wednesday, and has said that tioned back to a democracy. Aitchison College and Govern- she is open to taking all the Jamali stepped down in the ment College in Lahore. Right: Jamali waves to questions one has for her. summer of 2004 after developing He received a master’s in his- supporters at the Rawalpindi In a recent video uploaded Yousafzai: encourages people diff erences with the party lead- tory from the Government Col- railway station, in this picture on her Instagram account, the to donate to her cause and ership and with Musharraf, pav- lege in Lahore. from 2004. Oxford graduate introduced support her fundraising herself as a 23-year-old girls’ campaign for sending girls to education activist, and asked school. Pakistani army cadet wins award at people to donate to her fund. “Some of you might already for education and safe quality Australia’s Royal Military College know me, you might have of education for all girls around Pakistan all set to start nuclear heard my UN speech, or might the world,” she added, encour- The Australian Royal Military College Duntroon has declared a have read my book I am Malala, aging people to donate to her Pakistan Army cadet the overall best foreign national military cadet. while some of you might not cause and support her fund- In a Twitter message, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) director- reactor to overcome power crisis know me, so I’ll briefl y intro- raising campaign for sending general Major-General Babar Iftikhar announced that Mohamed duce myself,” she said, adding girls to school. Haris Mairaj was declared overall best foreign national military that she is fond of shoes, com- “In return, I will be answer- cadet during a passing out parade held at the Royal Military College. Internews nessed by the director-general of The design life of the reactors edy, and reading books. ing some of the questions you “This is a testament to the highest training standards of dedicated Karachi the Strategic Plan Division, Lieu- is approximately 60 years. “I’ve also done campaign- send today,” she told fellow and committed junior leadership of the Pakistan army,” the ISPR tenant-General Nadeem Zaki K-2 is a pressurised water re- ing and advocacy for 12 years TikTokers. director-general added. Manj, Pakistan Atomic Energy actor based on the Chinese HPR- n a major milestone, Pakistan Commission (PAEC) chairman 1000 technology and a third is all set to fi re up a Chinese- Mohamed Naeem, and senior generation plant equipped with Ibuilt nuclear reactor and con- Chinese and Pakistani offi cials. advanced safety features. nect it to the national grid as part The government of Pakistan The construction of K-2 plant Enabling the disabled of broader plans to overcome assigned the contract of K-2 and started on August 31, 2015 and its long-running power shortages. K-3 units to the CNNC for safe commercial operation will begin The K-2 unit is the fi rst over- and effi cient power generation in April 2021, after undergoing seas unit using China’s homeg- through nuclear reactors. several operational and safety rown Hualong One technology Each unit will generate nearly tests. and successfully completed Hot 10bn kilowatt-hours of electric- A 177-reactor core design has Functional Tests (HFT). ity annually, which will bring safe been used while the CF series As per details, the China Na- and clean energy to the people. of nuclear fuel assemblies were tional Nuclear Corporation The construction of the project developed independently by the (CNNC) has started fuel-loading also promoted development of CNNC. at the Karachi 2 reactor as part of related industries in Pakistan, It implements 18-month refu- the process to connect it to the and resulted in creating more elling. grid. than 10,000 jobs in the country. It also innovatively adopts The CNNC built the K-2 and Hualong No.1 is a third-gen- a safety system that combines K-3 reactors, each with a capac- eration pressurised water reactor “active and passive” to meet ity of 1.1mn kilowatts. nuclear power with innovative the highest international safety The fuel loading was wit- technology. standards in terms of safety. Cross-border optic fibre project under CPEC is approved

The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) Optic Fibre Cable (OFC) Project along the China- of Pakistan has cleared five development projects Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) route (Khunjrab- at a cumulative cost of about Rs54bn, including the Gwadar-Karachi). Rs38bn second phase of a project for laying cross- The objective of the project is to provide an alternate border optic fibre cable with China. path for international connectivity through the At a meeting presided over by Planning Commission northern border of Pakistan with China. deputy chairman Mohamed Jehanzeb Khan, the Under the financial rules in vogue, the CDWP is CDWP itself approved four development projects empowered to itself approve projects costing Technicians work on artificial limbs at a workshop in a hospital in Lahore yesterday, on the occasion of International Day of Persons with with cumulative estimated cost of Rs16bn, and no more than Rs10bn, while projects of higher Disabilities. referred for approval to the Executive Committee of estimated costs are approved by the Ecnec once the the National Economic Council (Ecnec) the Rs37.91bn CDWP clears them on technical grounds. Gulf Times 12 Friday, December 4, 2020 QATAR

HE the Shura Council Speaker Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud with Katara general manager Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti and other off icials at the Katara Traditional Dhow Festival. Snapshots from the Katara Traditional Dhow Festival. PICTURES: Thajudheen and supplied History of pearl, craftsmanship mesmerises visitors at dhow fest QVisitors wowed on Day 3 amid social distancing atar’s maritime history, particularly the pearl, re- Qmains in the spotlight at the 10th edition of Katara Tradi- tional Dhow Festival. “Qatar, like many countries of the world, always had a great historic connect with the sea. Qatar’s maritime history is full of legendary tales of how the nation has become renowned for pearls globally,” Katara – the Cultural Village Foundation said in a press statement yesterday. HE Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud taking a dhow ride. The festival “brings this facet fi shing in addition to hand made cases utensils used for cooking, to light for the present-day gen- fascinating. ties are being conducted in strict folk band and the delicious tra- traditional heritage and shaped woollen carpets. Our craftsmen food storage methods, in addi- eration to learn from history and Deep-sea diving was once a accordance with the Ministry of ditional food on off er, there is by modern designs”. While diving are also making baskets and table tion to natural oil utensils that to see for themselves the valuable source of livelihood in the past, Public Health’s safety guidelines a lot to learn and gain from the and pearl is one facet, the boats mats (woven rugs), which people are used for treatment purposes. marine resources of Qatar and and ‘tawash’ and carpentry and precautions for the preven- historic and traditional value on used for fi shing are an equally can see for themselves and real- Medication, in addition to the heritage, besides many other were among the prominent oc- tion of Covid-19. show for people of all ages and challenging and key dimension ise the originality of the tradition many exhibits representing mod- sea-related products of other cupations in the labour market. Katara, in co-operation with walks of life. of maritime culture. and culture.” els of famous ships of the Omani participating countries,” the The Qatari ‘Al Hayrat’ oyster is Al Meera, one of the sponsors of Another highlight at the 10th The marine heritage of Iraq, The pavilion of Oman is show- maritime heritage, pearl extrac- statement notes. Pearl has been considered one of the best in the festival, is ensuring the use of dhow festival is the presence while being distinct, can at the casing antiques and rare collecti- tion tools, oysters and scales used one of the most valuable and the Arabian world, as the fi nest sanitisers, masks and gloves for of Al Majid jewellery pavilion, same time be commonly associ- bles of the sea. Hammoud bin by the ‘tawash’ and boxes (‘pa- ancient natural resources of Qa- pearls are extracted from them. the safety of all. “Feeling safe and which showcases some of the ated with the Arabian maritime Abdullah al-Amrani, managing shtata’) used to collect the pearl tar, and the deep-sea diving his- Meanwhile, Katara said the maintaining social distance, visi- fi nest, ancient and modern jew- tradition and history. Speaking the Omani pavilion, said they crop, as well as many ancient tory of the nation has been well- festival continued to excite and tors are having a great experience els, including pearls. about their presence at the fes- have antiques and rare collecti- antique collectibles such as Ru- known for ages. For the younger charm dignitaries, ambassadors at the festival, which is much The pavilion has a section that tival this year, Mahdi Mutashar, bles of the sea, as well as personal maila clocks and compass dating generation, the presence of some and other visitors alike yesterday, more than just a marketplace,” shows how pearls are measured supervising the Iraqi pavilion supplies of sailors from their long back 150 years, are also on show. of these professionals and how which was Day 3 of the event. the statement continued. and grouped into formations as Al-Janaj, said: “We are this time voyages that could last up to six The festival will receive visitors oysters are brought to land and Spread across the beachfront Besides many treasures of the jewellery. It also has an assort- displaying Iraqi folk craft such as months and more. from 1pm to 11pm today and from how a pearl is actually found is esplanade of Katara, the activi- sea, music provided by an Omani ment of necklaces – “mixed with making ‘mushaf’ boats used for The Omani pavilion also show- 10am to 10pm tomorrow. Katara Traditional Dhow Festival spurs artistic expressions, talent

By Joey Aguilar rich history and culture. “Apart in them – a deep-rooted con- row (December 5), is featuring Al-Adwan lauded Qatari in- Staff Reporter from having a gallery, people can nection between the Qatari peo- an array of marine activities and stitutions such as Katara for also see our paintings and how ple and their past – and that I competitions, workshops, at- “giving a lot of attention to art- we paint, the diff erent tech- think is very important,” said al- tractions, and exhibitions of a ists and the arts”, which makes he Katara Traditional niques that artists apply, some Adwan, who is also showcasing wide range of maritime collec- the art scene in Doha even vi- Dhow Festival has be- use pencil, oil, charcoal and pas- her works on Instagram. tions, among others. brant despite the many chal- Tcome a melting pot of tel, while some prefer acrylic,” Dhows, she stressed, re- In a press statement, Katara lenges. The festival will be open artistic talent and skills, bring- she said. mained her emblematic subject – the Cultural Village stressed to visitors today (Friday) from ing together a number of visual The artist, who has been par- for the past fi ve years and hopes that the festival adheres to the 1pm to 11pm and from 10am to artists in Doha and showcasing ticipating in many events and to produce similar paintings health and safety protocols set 10pm tomorrow (Saturday), ac- their works in an atmosphere exhibitions in Qatar, highlighted in the coming years. About the by the Ministry of Public Health cording to Katara. that refl ect Qatar’s rich history the vital role of the annual fes- festival, she described it as “a to prevent the spread of corona- Besides heritage pavilions and culture. tival not only to showcase their very interesting event – a jour- virus (Covid-19). from Qatar, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Speaking to Gulf Times yes- works but also to further en- ney from the past to present be- These include mandatory Tanzania and India, Katara terday, Russian artist and Qatar hance their skills. cause we can see rich traditions wearing of masks, checking of noted that the festival is also Fine Arts Society member Kris- “I’m trying to improve my and many details on how it was Ehteraz mobile app, and social highlighting “some of the fi n- Russian artist Kristina al-Adwan paints her emblematic subject — tina al-Adwan said the festival level in this direction. I love the in the old times.” The 10th edi- distancing, in addition to dis- est, ancient and modern jewels, the dhow — at the 10th edition of Katara Traditional Dhow Festival provides a suitable location for sea, I love dhows because I feel tion of the festival, taking place tributing sanitisers to visitors including pearls” at the Al Majid yesterday. PICTURE: Joey Aguilar painting as it refl ects Qatar’s that there is something unique at the Katara beach until tomor- and participants. jewellery pavilion. Qatar will host most accessible World Cup

From Page 1 some of the most important touchpoints of the user journey when fans with disabilities come to Mark Dyer, the SC’s Access & Inclusivity Qatar for the FIFA World Cup,” he added. strategist, said: “We are proud of our collabora- Some of the key accessibility features that fans tive eff orts with FIFA and Q22 towards including will enjoy during Qatar 2022 include barrier-free people with disabilities at every step of the proc- stops of the Doha Metro network, inclusive ac- ess to prepare for the tournament, which is key commodation options and barrier-free entry to to ensuring that stadiums and other key facilities key tourist destinations. are tried and tested by those who will use them. Looking to the future, al-Thawadi concluded We believe in the principle of ‘nothing about us, his message by saying: “People with disabilities without us’ and that is central to all of our work.” will be some of the most important benefi ciar- Dyer also spoke of the importance of building ies of the legacy left behind by Qatar 2022. The an accessible ecosystem that goes beyond the ac- transformation that Qatar’s infrastructure has cessibility of stadiums. “Through the Accessibil- witnessed to host this tournament will, without ity Forum, we are able to engage those key stake- a doubt, mean a more accessible country for eve- File picture of Accessibility Forum members at a Qatar Rail mock station holders in the country that are responsible for ryone to thrive in and enjoy.” on October 31, 2017. File picture of spectators at the Al Janoub Stadium launch.