Monday April 12, 2021 Shaban 30, 1442 Vol.14 no. 5230 QR 2

Fajr: 3:57 am Dhuhr: 11:35 am P artly cloudy Asr: 3:04 pm Maghrib: 5:56 pm High : 35°C LOW : 23 °C Isha: 7:26 pm

World 5 Business 8 Sports 12 Myanmar death toll crosses QNB posts net profit of Al Sadd off to Riyadh for 700 as clashes intensify QR3.3 bn in Q1 AFC Champions League

Amir receives message from Uzbek president 29.8% adult population received at least one vaccine dose: MoPH Tribune New Network Doha

Almost 30 percent of the adult pop- ulation in Qatar has received at least Amir exchanges one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has Ramadan greetings said in its weekly virus update. His Highness the Amir of State of Qatar It said that 29.8 percent of the total Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani exchanged population (16 years and above) have greetings with a number of leaders of sisterly received at least one dose of the vac- Arab countries on the advent of the holy cine. month of Ramadan during telephone calls According to the report, 168,925 on Sunday. HH the Amir exchanged greet- vaccine doses have been administered ings on the occasion with President of the in the last seven days and a total of Republic of Tunisia Kais Saied, President of 1,079,776 doses administered since the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria His Highness the Amir of State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani has received a written the start of the programme. dose and 77.2 percent of people above Abdelmadjid Tebboune, and President of the message from President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The message pertains to Also, 79.8 percent of people over the age of 80 years have received at State of Palestine Mahmoud Abbas. (QNA) bilateral relations and the means of enhancing them. Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of 60 years of age have received at least least one dose of the vaccine. Uzbekistan Abdulaziz Kamilov handed over the message when HH the Amir met him and the accom- one dose of the vaccine. Qatar started its biggest vaccina- panying delegation at the Amiri Diwan on Sunday. (QNA) Among those over 70 years of age, tion programme against COVID-19 on 78.3 percent have received at least one December 23. Committee to re-examine sighting of Ramadan crescent today: Awqaf QNA New COVID-19 vaccination centre Doha

The Moon Sighting Committee of the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) held to open in Industrial Area today a meeting on Sunday. Since it has not been proven that the month of Shaban has entered the evening of the 29th of Rajab, no one has come Health minister forward to testify. Accordingly, the committee Children below 16 not allowed decided to continue its work, and to re-examine inspects new facility the sighting of the crescent moon of Ramadan on to enter QNCC, says MoPH Monday, the ministry said. Tribune News Network Doha Tribune News Network PCR tests. There are currently Doha 45 health facilities approved Qatar is ramping up its vacci- by the ministry for COVID-19 5 hours work a day for civil nation drive against coronavirus Children under 16 years are not testing. (COVID-19), with a new vaccina- allowed to enter Qatar National Last week, the ministry fixed servants during Ramadan tion center all set to open in the Convention Centre (QNCC) as it the cost for coronavirus tests QNA Doha Industrial Area on Monday is designated for the COVID -19 provided at private health facili- Doha (April 12). vaccination programme, the Min- ties at a flat rate of QR300. Minister of Public Health Dr istry of Public Health has said. This decision follows the Minister of Justice and Minister of State for the Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari vis- “This is for everyone’s announcement made by Primary Council of Ministers Affairs HE Dr Issa bin Saad ited the new vaccination center on safety,” the Ministry tweeted. Health Care Corporation (PHCC) Al Jafali Al Nuaimi issued a circular on Sunday Sunday. The MoPH has also added to temporarily stop Covid-19 specifying working hours during the Holy Month The vaccination centre in In- more hospitals to the list of PCR swabs for people travelling of Ramadan to ministries, government agencies, dustrial Area has been established Minister of Public Health HE Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari during her visit to facilities which can conduct abroad. bodies, and public institutions. at the previous Medical Commis- the new COVID-19 vaccination centre in Industrial Area on Sunday. The circular stated that on the occasion of sion facility. The facility is the re- the Holy Month of Ramadan for 1442 AH, it was sult of collaboration between the support from the Ministry of Inte- “The opening of this centre vaccination centres across Qatar, the Doha Industrial Area,” Al Ku- decided that the official working hours during the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), rior (MoI), Ministry of Commerce further strengthens the National and will significantly boost access wari said. holy month for civil servants will be five hours a Hamad Medical Corporation and Industry (MoCI), and Conoco- COVID-19 Vaccination Pro- to COVID-19 vaccines for people day, starting from 9 am until 2 pm. (HMC) and Qatar Charity, with Phillips-Qatar. gramme, adding to more than 35 living and working in and around Continued on page 2 

Rain likely in coming Ashghal starts infra project QMC launches Jassim Abdulaziz Studio days, says QMD work in south of Semaisma Qatar Media Corporation Cloud cover over Qatar is expected to gradu- (QMC) CEO HE Sheikh Abdul- ally increase from Tuesday evening to Thurs- The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has commenced the Roads rahman bin Hamad Al Thani day with chances of scattered rain in parts of and Infrastructure Project in south of Semaisma, Package 2. It on Sunday inaugurated new the country, according to Qatar Meteorology aims to develop internal streets in the area and enhance local studios bearing the name of Department (QMD). “The amount of clouds traffic safety, in addition to upgrading the infrastructure utilities the late “Jassim Abdulaziz” expected to gradually increase in the country’s to meet the requirements of the population and urban growth in in honour and appreciation of atmosphere from Tuesday evening until Thurs- the future. Works on the first package of the Roads and Infra- his great efforts and media day with chances for scattered rain in some structure project in South of Semaisma began in May 2020. The career. The step reflects the areas, which may sometimes be thundery project is located East of Al Khor Coastal Road in Semaisma keenness to commemorate offshore,” the QMD said in a tweet. (TNN) area and is bordered by Semaisma Corniche Street to the East one of the most important and by Semaisma Road to the North. The project construction names that served the works are scheduled to be fully completed in the third quarter of media. The launch of these 2023. (QNA) page 2 studios will be a qualitative MOPH intensifies food addition to the media in control measures Qatar. Built on an area of 400 The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has square metres, the studios intensified monitoring of food imported include latest technology in from abroad with the advent of the blessed television broadcasting, in month of Ramadan. It also intensified moni- order to ensure the provision toring of food safety in food establishments of an integrated media experi- that witness increasing demand from con- ence in terms of sound and sumers, such as consumption complexes image. These studios were and restaurants, to verify their compliance established under exceptional circumstances and in record time, to be opened and inaugurated with the blessed Rama- with health requirements. In a statement, dan programmes, to be a milestone, and a new addition to the institution’s advanced facilities in the world of media. the ministry affirmed its keenness to ensure Sheikh Abdulrahman said the name of the journalist Jassim Abdulaziz was launched on the studios in honour of his the safety of food in sales outlets in Qatar excellence, and in appreciation of his media career through which he served Qatar TV. (QNA) and to ensure that imported food conforms to health requirements. (QNA) page 2 02 Monday, April 12, 2021

Contact US: Qatar Tribune ı EDITORIAL ı Phone: 40002222 ı ADMINISTRATION & MARKETING ı Phone: 40002155, 40002122, Fax: 40002235 P.O. Box: 23493, Doha.

‘Industrial Area centre to administer FM MEETS UZBEKISTAN COUNTERPART Deputy Prime Min- first and second dose vaccinations’ ister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Continued from page 1  Dr Khalid Abdulnoor, senior and must show their green Ehteraz Sheikh Mohammed consultant of Emergency Medicine status. The vaccination process will bin Abdulrahman She said, “The centre will admin- at HMC and lead for the Vaccina- take approximately 30 minutes Al Thani met with ister the first and second dose vac- tion Center Industrial Area, said: from the time of arrival at the centre Minister of Foreign cinations in line with the national “I thank all the partners involved in and includes a period of observation Affairs of Uzbekistan priority groups and enable Qatar the preparations over the past few where medical teams will monitor Abdulaziz Kamilov to continue expanding the national weeks for their support. The open- vaccine recipients for any signs of in Doha on Sunday. programme, which has already ad- ing of the vaccination centre will en- side effects,” said Dr Abdulnoor. During the meet- ministered more than 1,079,000 hance access to the vaccines for peo- The vaccination centre in In- ing, they reviewed doses.” ple in Industrial Area. With more dustrial Area becomes the fourth bilateral cooperation The vaccination centre will open than 120 vaccination stations within specialist centre to be established to and prospects for six days a week from 7am to 7pm the centre, the facility has capacity support the delivery of the vaccina- strengthening trade and operate on a strict invite only to vaccinate many people each day.” tion programme at all 27 primary relations between basis for people 40 years of age and “Access to the vaccination cen- health centres, following the open- the two countries, above regardless of their health tre will be by invitation only and we ing of the centre at Qatar National especially in the conditions; people with moderate will not accept any walk-in people. Convention Center and the two fields of tourism and chronic medical conditions; and key Individuals should bring their QID, drive-through vaccination centres investment. (QNA) workers in different industries. health card or passport with them in Lusail and Al Wakra.

MoPH intensifies measures to Excessive eating during Ramadan can ensure food safety in Ramadan lead to sleep disorders: HMC’s expert QNA food that does not comply Doha with health specifications and Tribune News Network quality,” said Dr Adab. the body’s digestive system Sleep Clinic each week for requirements. Doha According to her, due to should be resting, not digest- various issues relating to sleep The Ministry of Public Health According to the statistics the unique nature of Rama- ing food while sleeping,” noted disorders. (MoPH) has intensified its from the ministry, during the Excessive eating at night dan, many people have irregu- Dr Adab. “The shifting of eating pat- control measures on food im- first quarter of 2021, about can adversely affect sleep lar sleeping times during the She recommended gradu- terns and the types of foods ported from abroad with the 508,482,000 kilograms of quality and lead to sleep dis- day because they stay awake ally adjusting waking and eaten can actually repro- advent of the blessed month food were imported through orders, Dr Aisha Hussain Al late at night to perform acts of sleeping times over several gramme the various clocks our of Ramadan, in addition to the various state outlets, Adab, consultant of Pulmo- worship and to socialise. days as this will help the body runs on, making it more intensifying control over while 506,122,000 kilograms nology and Sleep Disorders at She said establishing and body’s biological clock to re- difficult to sleep during certain food safety in food establish- of the imported food were Hamad Medical Corporation maintaining regular eating synchronise. times and increasing fatigue ments that witness increasing accepted after ensuring that (HMC), has said. and sleeping patterns through- According to Drl Adab, and tiredness during other demand from consumers to they comply with the require- “Meals eaten during Ram- out the month is an important Dr Aisha Hussain Al Adab Ramadan can be a challenging times,” Dr Adab added. verify their compliance with ments contained in the tech- adan are often large and con- part of successfully ‘readjust- time for many people due to She said that when people health requirements. nical regulations and the rel- tain fried and sugary foods. ing’ after Ramadan, stressing somnia and circadian rhythm altered sleep and eating pat- change their sleeping pattern, In a statement, the min- evant standard specifications. Gatherings often turn into cel- that this is particularly impor- sleep disorders after Rama- terns. She said each year after they can experience not only istry affirmedits keenness A total of 2,370,000 kilo- ebrations with meals becom- tant for those who have expe- dan. For these individuals, Ramadan, the Sleep Clinic at sleepiness but also headaches to ensure the safety of food grams of unfit or non-con- ing feasts. Eating sensibly and rienced sleep deprivation or establishing a regular sleeping Hamad General Hospital ex- and mood swings, especially circulating in sales outlets forming to the requirements avoiding large, excessive por- poor-quality sleep in the past. and eating pattern during the periences an increase in the if they fail to prepare for the in Qatar and to ensure that of the technical regulations tions, especially directly be- “Individuals who have a Holy Month is very impor- number of patients referred change by slowly adjusting imported food conforms to were rejected. In addition, fore bedtime, is an important history of poor sleeping pat- tant. Eating directly before to the service. Around 40 pa- sleeping and waking times and health requirements. 1,692,000 kilograms of the part of ensuring good sleep terns are most at risk of in- sleeping should be avoided as tients are referred to HMC’s decreasing caffeine intake. The ministry said it is set- rejected food were re-export- ting up rehabilitation and ed, while 677,000 kilograms monitoring mechanisms for were destroyed. food establishments, in co- On the other hand, locally Tribune News Network reminded that there is a QR30 operation with charitable manufactured or produced Doha HMC announces Ramadan service timings fee for delivery payable by societies and institutions in foods are examined to en- credit card. the country, through which sure that they are free from Hamad Medical Corporation number: 16000 virtual appointments between 9am to 2pm on Fridays HMC’s Drug Information meals are prepared for the if- various chemical or biological (HMC) has announced chang- Changes to services run via 9am and 2pm from Sunday to How to access the service: Service operates from 8am tar project and distributed to food contaminants or various es to the operating hours of a the national COVID-19 hel- Thursday. HMC Urgent Con- Call 16000, select language, se- to 3pm, Saturday to Thurs- workers’ housing and needy toxins. number of services during the pline number: 16000 sultation Service: Ramadan lect 3 for HMC and select 1 for day (closed on Fridays). Call families, to ensure that they Director of Food Safety Holy Month of Ramadan. COVID-19 helpline: Rama- service hours: seven days a HMC Urgent Consultation 40260759 to avail the service. comply with health require- and Environmental Health All emergency and inpa- dan service hours: 24 hours a week from 8am to 3pm HMC Pharmacy Medica- HMC Diabetes Hotline will ments throughout all stages at MoPH Wassan Abdulla tient services across HMC’s day, seven days a week How to access the service: tion Home Delivery Service op- operate seven days a week from of the food chain. Al Baker said the ministry network of hospitals will con- How to access the service: Call 16000, select language, se- erates from 8am to 3pm from 8am to 5:30pm and 7:30pm to Supervision and inspec- is keen to apply the highest tinue to operate as normal, Call 16000, select language and lect 3 for HMC and select 1 for Saturday to Thursday and re- 11pm. Call 16099/ 4. tion of consumption complex- standards to ensure food safe- 24-hours a day, seven days a select 1 for COVID-19 helpline. HMC Urgent Consultation mained closed on Fridays. The diabetes hotline is run es are also intensified during ty throughout the year and is week. The changes to operating HMC’s OPD virtual clin- Mental Health Helpline: How to access the service: by trained diabetes educators the month of Ramadan to working to intensify its pro- hours affect a number of ser- ics will run alongside HMC Ramadan service hours: 9am Call 16000, select language, with backup physician. ensure the safety of food for cedures, especially in seasons vices delivered remotely via the Urgent consultation clinics: to 2pm and 9pm to 2am from select 3 for HMC and select Changes to Hamad Medical human consumption and to such as the blessed month of national COVID-19 helpline Patients will be called for their Saturday to Thursday, and 2 for Medication Delivery, be Corporation hospitals prevent the circulation of any Ramadan. Ashghal achieves 23% saving on drainage Ashghal starts works on QR319 mn operation and maintenance works in 2020 Semaisma South roads, infra project Tribune News Network significantly contributed to en- The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) enhance the traffic flow and provide con- Doha hancing the speed of responding has announced the commencement of the nectivity to future public facilities which will to customers by 98 percent.” QR319 million Roads and Infrastructure be established in the area, such as schools, As part of its efforts to develop the For his part, Eng Khaled Al Project in South of Semaisma, Package 2. mosques, commercial complexes and youth strategy for operation and main- Obaidly, Drainage Networks Op- The project aims to develop internal centres. tenance of drainage networks eration and Maintenance manag- streets in the area and enhance local traf- He added that the project’s works in- across Qatar, the Public Works er at Ashghal, said: “Ashghal gives fic safety, in addition to upgrading the in- volves developing and constructing a road Authority (Ashghal) has achieved customer needs top priority in set- frastructure utilities in order to meet the network of 21 kilometres, providing traffic total savings of 23 percent on the ting up preventive maintenance population and urban growth in the future. safety elements such as street lighting sys- costs of operation and mainte- plans for drainage networks. Ash- Works on the first package of the Roads and tems and poles, as well as installing direc- nance of drainage networks, just ghal’s keenness on reducing costs Infrastructure project in South of Semaisma tional signage and road markings. In addi- one year after awarding the Catch- and raising the level of quality began in May 2020 in order to cope with the tion, 4.3-km-long pedestrian and cycle paths ment Zone Framework Contract. service provided to the people of urban expansion of Semaisma in the future. will be provided to promote a healthy life- The framework contracts are Qatar has necessitated in imple- The project is located East of Al Khor style. part of the comprehensive devel- menting the unifiedC atchment Coastal Road in Semaisma area and is bor- The project includes the construction of a opment programme called Catch- Eng Ahmed Sharif Al Ahmad, tutions in this field in preparation Zone Framework Contract that dered by Semaisma Corniche Street to the 26 km-long drainage network, a 28-km-long ment Zone Framework (CZF) director of Assets Affairs at Ash- for hosting FIFA World Cup Qatar grants each contractor with a con- East and by Semaisma Road to the North. surface and groundwater drainage network, Contract (Takamul) that divides ghal, highlighted the importance 2022 and beyond.” tract binding with all operational In order to reduce the construction work and a 3.5-km-long TSE network. the drainage works in Qatar into of implementing the new frame- He added, “Through CZF and maintenance works related to impacts as much as possible, the project In addition to the extension of new sew- three zones, north, south and work contract and the results contract, we use the latest tools drainage networks in the assigned works will be divided into three geographical age pipelines which will be connected to the west. achieved within a year of imple- and technologies, such as mod- area.” zones which will be carried out successively main sewage network, construction works Through this programme, mentation. ern asset management systems He added, “The scope of work and the duration of each phase will be one will also include an emergency flood lagoon Ashghal has contracted three He said, “Through this con- and many high-tech equipment for drainage operation and main- year. The project works are scheduled to be with a capacity of 41,000 m³ to protect the partners to implement opera- tract, Ashghal aims to achieve its and pioneering solutions that tenance includes all the pumping fully completed in the third quarter of 2023. entire area from flooding during the rainy tion and maintenance works of strategic vision, while shifting its contribute towards improving the stations, wastewater treatment About the project benefits, Eng Hamad season. the state’s drainage assets. The corporate capabilities from project operational efficiency of drainage plants, associated sewage net- Al Badr, project engineer Roads Projects The project is being implemented by Al three main partners are assigned implementation to assets man- networks and pumping stations, works, ground and surface water Department’s Project Engineer at Ashghal, Jaber and Partners. It is one of the projects with zone specific work orders agement. The contract also helps in addition to saving maintenance drainage networks and treated said that upon completion, the project will within the Residential Areas Infrastructure for implementing maintenance, Ashghal moving forward towards costs and enhancing health and water networks in every area, in- serve 531 residential plots in south of Sema- Programme implemented by Ashghal, which replacement and rehabilitation achieving excellence and reaching safety measures at work sites. cluding existing and new works isma by providing upgraded infrastructure includes a number of development projects works. the ranks of world’s leading insti- “These measures have also managed by Ashghal.” utilities, road network and local streets to spread all around Qatar. (TNN) Nation Monday, April 12, 2021 03 LABOUR MINISTER MEETS SRI LANKAN MINISTER QRCS, trading firms in pact Minister of Administra- tive Development, Labour and Social Affairs HE Yousef bin Mohammed to help needy in Ramadan Al Othman Fakhroo met with Sri Lankan State Tribune News Network noble traditions of giving, com- Minister of Money and Doha passion, and solidarity. Capital Market and State “All food companies in Qa- Enterprise Reforms Ajith The Qatar Red Crescent Soci- tar are welcome to join this Nivard Cabraal and his ety (QRCS) has signed coopera- humanitarian initiative at any accompanying delega- tion agreements with Lulu Hy- time. I would like to thank Oore- tion in Doha on Sunday. permarket, Family Food Center doo for sponsoring this festival, During the meeting, they and Al-Khalaf Trading and Mar- as a strategic communication reviewed bilateral rela- keting to launch a big virtual partner that makes it easier to tions between the two charitable festival designed to achieve our goals.” countries and the means bring happiness to the hearts of Khalaf said, “I thank QRCS of supporting them. needy families. Under the drive, for allowing us to take part in (QNA) the beneficiaries will collect this initiative. We look forward from shopping centres ready- to making a difference and help- to-pick food packs containing a ing those in need for the good of wide range of food staples do- Qatari society.” nated by benevolent people for Mohammed Altaf, CEO of DFC donates 1,000 boxes of Ramadan those in need. LuLu Hypermarket, said: “We The agreements were signed are proud of our partnership foodstuffs to workers, low-income families by CEO of QRCS Eng Ibrahim with a leading NGO like QRCS, Abdullah Al Malki, Chairman which has an influential hu- Tribune News Network of Al-Khalaf Trading and Mar- manitarian role, especially at Doha keting Ali Hassan Ahmed Al- the local level. Our company be- Khalaf, Regional Manager of lieves in such noble humanitar- Doha Festival City (DFC), ‘Qa- Lulu Hypermarket Shanavas ian initiatives that bring happi- tar’s one and only choice for Padiyath and Director of Family ness into the hearts of the poor. shopping, dining and entertain- Food Center Mohamed Shafee We will always be there for any ment’, has announced its part- Faisal. charitable endeavour, particu- nership with Qatar Charity in a Done individually and in larly during the Holy Month of joint initiative dedicated for the compliance with the instruc- Ramadan, the month of giving Holy Month of Ramadan. tions of the Ministry of Public to charity.” As part of the ongoing #Fes- Health (MoPH), the signing Faisal described the part- tival Cares intuitive, Doha Fes- ceremony was attended by Ex- nership as a “cornerstone of bi- tival City donated 1,000 boxes tival City’s mission and we will Qatar Charity, said, “Qatar Char- ecutive Director of Volunteer- lateral solid relations to bolster with essential Ramadan food continue to mobilise our efforts ity is committed to integrating ing and Local Development the humanitarian sector in Qa- supplies distributed to workers to support the people of Qatar private companies in charitable Division Muna Fadel Al-Sulaiti, tar, covering more beneficiaries throughout the Industrial Area from different backgrounds. We work and helping them to deploy Head of Ramadan 1442 A.H. in a united and compassionate and other locations, and to the take pride in considering our- their corporate social responsi- Campaign Steering Committee society.” families with limited income, selves as an engaged community bility activities to drive positive Mohamed Rashid Al Marri and The food packs can be do- with support of Qatar Charity, player that contributes to build- change in the country.” Director-General of Al-Khalaf nated online and collected from as part of Qatar Charity’s ‘Rama- ing a more inclusive and pros- Between April 12 and April Trading and Marketing Aaron S. the contributing shopping cen- dan of Hope’ drive. perous society where no one is 24, the mall’s trading hours will Billa. charity payers on our website. We contained in each pack are the tres. Each pack contains 14 basic Each box contained bottles left behind, especially during the be from 10am to 3pm, and from Eng Malki said, “As an inte- will count the donated packs and same. Then, we will calculate food items of different brands of oil and concentrated juice Holy Month of Ramadan. 7pm to 12am, while the hyper- gral part of the Qatari communi- make them available for those in the donated food packs and con- and weights, including rice, beverage, pack of rice, lentils and “We thank Qatar Charity for market will be open continuous- ty, it is our duty during the month need. We are glad to have several tact the beneficiaries to collect sugar, vegetable oil, flour, pasta, sugar; a bag with box of dates supporting us to fulfil our chari- ly from 9am to 12am, and F&B of mercy and charity to launch companies as partners in our vir- their respective packs from the oats, tomato paste, lentils, tea, and box of tea bags, all provided table mission and express our outlets will serve iftar until 12am. campaigns and projects that tual Khairkum Sabeq.” nearest branch of the contracted milk, dates, custard, jelly and by Doha Festival City. The distri- appreciation towards the great From April 25 to May 11, general match the globally exceptional Regarding the mechanism of companies.” juices. bution was held ahead of Rama- efforts they continue to make to mall trading hours will be from COVID-19 situation. The Khair- the project, Sulaiti said, “The do- Marri said, “We seek to When a food pack is pur- dan with the aim to support the the community and lives of the 10am to 12am, with an option to kum Sabeq Festival is driven by nors can visit QRCS’s website and cover as many poor people as chased by a donor on QRCS’s targeted workers and families to people in Qatar and beyond eve- trade until 1am. The hypermar- our corporate social responsi- select the type of food pack from we can. We can take the best out website, a poor family will re- get ready for the Holy Month. ryday.” ket will be open continuously bility (CSR) towards the poor the company they like. Weights of the pandemic, joining hands ceive a code to collect the pack DFC General Manager Rob- Ahmed Al Shirawi, head from 9am to 12am, and F&B out- families we take care of. They can and brands differ from one com- to make our community better. from the specified shopping ert Hall said, “Giving back to the of the External Relations and lets will serve suhour until 12am collect ready-to-pick food packs pany to another. However, the We trust the benevolent donors centre. The festival will last until community is at the heart of Fes- Social Responsibility section at or until 2am as an option. from our partners, donated by price and number of food items of Qatar, which is known for its the end of Eid Al-Fitr. 04 Monday, April 12, 2021 Nation QC wins social responsibility award for its efforts to combat COVID-19 Tribune News Network other award winners, received the need to take precautionary the coronavirus pandemic. Qa- ing approximately one million Doha the award, which aims to raise measures to limit the spread of tar Charity took part in a session people in collaboration with its awareness about social respon- the coronavirus, and providing in which Mohammed Al-Gham- partners and UN agencies. Qatar Charity (QC) has won sibility and its positive impact health and food aid to those af- di, Qatar Charity’s CEO’s Assis- He noted that, for the first the Social Responsibility Award on the development of coop- fected by the pandemic. tant for the Governance Sector, time in decades, poverty and 2021 for the Humanitarian erative societies, as well as to Several people praised Qa- spoke about Qatar Charity’s ef- hunger rates have increased in Work Sector at Dar Al Sharq’s encourage companies, govern- tar Charity’s efforts to combat forts to combat the coronavirus this magnitude as a result of 8th Social Responsibility Con- mental and private institutions, the COVID-19 pandemic. Based pandemic. the pandemic, noting that there ference and Awards, which and individuals to pay attention on phone interviews conducted He said that, since the are 235 million people in need was themed ‘Community Re- to this aspect for the benefit of by Ipsos, one of the world’s outbreak of COVID-19, Qatar of humanitarian aid, a 40% sponsibility Against COVID-19’. the nation. largest market research organi- Charity has taken an urgent increase over last year due to The award was given to Qatar Abdul Aziz Jassim Hajji, sations, it was named one of step to contribute to local and a decline in global funding for Charity in recognition of its Director of Marketing and Cus- Qatar’s top ten most supportive international efforts to halt the humanitarian aid, as well as an outstanding contribution to tomer Service at Qatar Char- brands that have assisted the pandemic’s spread and alleviate increase in the number of peo- the fight against the COVID-19 ity, thanked Dar Al Sharq and country during the current cor- the suffering of those affected ple suffering from the need for pandemic both inside and out- expressed his gratitude for the Hajji said that Qatar Char- mission for the second year in onavirus pandemic. Jordan’s by the pandemic, noting that acute food security. side Qatar. honour for the humanitarian ity has been eager to carry out a row, emphasising that it will Prime Minister, Dr. Omar al- these efforts come to support The discussion sessions At the ceremony, Abdul Aziz sector, which has played a sig- its humanitarian mission since continue to support local and Razzaz, has praised Qatar Char- the governments’ and compe- also covered fighting the coro- Jassim Hajji, Director of Mar- nificant role in containing the the outbreak of the pandemic international efforts to combat ity for its assistance in combat- tent authorities’ efforts against navirus from an academic and keting and Customer Service pandemic’s spread. “We give last year, in collaboration with the pandemic. ing the COVID-19 pandemic. the pandemic.. research standpoint, as well as at Qatar Charity, received the this award to everyone who do- the relevant authorities in Qa- He noted that Qatar Charity Three discussion sessions Al-Ghamdi mentioned that the Dar Al Sharq Social Respon- award. nated, contributed, and worked tar and around the world. He has focused on raising aware- were held during the conference Qatar Charity has provided $27 sibility Committee’s vision for During the ceremony, Qa- with us to make the world a bet- also added that Qatar Charity ness of the coronavirus among to discuss the role of businesses million in assistance to 60 coun- a post-coronavirus community tar Charity, along with the ter place,” Hajji said. is continuing its humanitarian individuals and communities, and institutions in combating tries around the world, benefit- road map. Qatar’s ambassador to Sweden holds Community organisations meet on role of women in political life QNA Stockholm go virtual to mark Ramadan

Ambassador of Qatar to Ailyn Agonia the two-decade old Malaysian Association Sweden HE Sheikha Moza bint DOHA of Qatar (MAQ) is in the lead of organising Nasser Al Thani organised a activities during Ramadan in cooperation high-level meeting, through As Muslims mark the Holy Month of Ram- with the Malaysian Embassy. In the previ- visual communication tech- adan in the midst of a pandemic for the ous years, the group had organised food ba- nology, on the pivotal role of second successive year, community groups zaar showcasing authentic Malaysian deli- women in political life, the once again turn to online platforms for their cacies, religious talks and discussions and importance of Qatari women’s activities to celebrate the occasion. Qur’an reading classes. participation in the upcoming Normally, the holy month is a time “Ramadan is a once-a-year obligation elections of the Shura Council when community members gather to break for Muslims to fast from food and drinks to contribute to political deci- their fast together and offer prayers. Com- and to abstain from other enjoyments and sion-making, and the ways to by a number of Swedish par- Relations Department at the munity celebrations for Ramadan this year focus on reading the Qur’an from sunrise benefit from the Swedish ex- liamentarians including, Ce- Ministry of Administrative will feature online Qur’an classes, Islamic to sunset for about 29 to 30 days. Ramadan perience. cilia Widegren, Linda Lind- Development, Labour and So- lectures and competitions, among others. not only means time and space for personal The meeting was headed berg, Eva Linde and Anne cial Affairs Sheikha Al Khater, Khairur Rakiin, head of the Indonesian spiritual growth but also a time to strength- by First Deputy Speaker of the Beret. From the Qatari side, and consultant at the Embassy Muslim Society in Qatar (IMSQA) and an en community ties by food sharing and Riksdag (Swedish Parliament) Member of the Shura Council of Qatar in Sweden Tama- Imam in a masjid in New al Hitmi, said, food exchanges especially for iftar. Prior to sa Lindestam. HE Dr Hind Al Muftah, Direc- der Al Mulla took part in the “During Ramadan we usually invite schol- the pandemic, the activities could be done The meeting was attended tor of International Labour meeting. ars from Indonesia to conduct Islamic lec- in groups. However, with the COVID-19 tures in different locations across Qatar MAQ food bazaar showcasing authentic restrictions, there will be no gatherings for such as in Al Dukhan, Al Wakra and in Me- Malaysian delicacies this Ramadan similar to last year. Mean- saieed. Since last year, most of the activities while, activities like Qur’an classes and re- done by IMSQA have been converted into ported by the Indonesian Embassy. ligious talks will continue online as per the virtual events such as Islamic seminars, In previous religious holidays prior to new norm,” said Faridah Hanim Othman, Indonesian Embassy hosts webinars Musabaqoh Hifzil Qur’an event, among the pandemic, IMSQA had also hosted if- F&B Exco for MAQ. others. This year, we have invited about tar gatherings for the community featuring MAQ was officially formed onA pril 14, to enhance awareness about autism 11 Muslim scholars from Indonesia to de- traditional Indonesian dishes available only 2000 from an idea mooted by the Minister liver Islamic lectures and conduct Islamic during the season such as sweets called kle- of Tourism, Culture & Arts of Malaysia at ‘daawah’ online. Hosting competitions has pon and kolak. For Eid holidays they serve a the time. It is officially recognised by the also been part of IMSQA’s programmes delicacy made of rice and vegetables, called Embassy of Malaysia in Doha as the asso- for the past seven years. Recently, we have lontong sayur. ciation representing Malaysians residing in hosted virtual Qur’an recitation and Islamic “All Indonesian muslims in Qatar are Qatar. speech competitions.” members of IMSQA and they are welcome Addressing those who will observe IMSQA was founded on August 26, to follow or participate in all the activities Ramadan this year, Faridah added, “My 2008 in Qatar. The objectives of the organi- conducted by our organisation. Last year advice to everyone is to stay vigilant in com- sation include conducting Islamic ‘daawah’ we have also coordinated with Qatar Char- bating COVID-19 by staying home, follow- for the Indonesian nationals, performing ity and helped with the distribution of food ing strictly the guidelines and advice of the social activities, managing the occasions for packs. We hope to have the same activities government, MoPH and other authorities, the Holy Month of Ramadan and celebrat- this year and we look forward to marking and to go for the vaccination if not done ing several religious holidays such as Eid the holy month in an efficient and safe man- already. We should carry on with fasting Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha. All the activities ner,” Rakiin added. during Ramadan while staying safe and carried out by IMSQA have been fully sup- For the Malaysian muslims in Qatar, healthy.”

Tribune News Network pect when we have to raise kids Muhammed Widad who has Qata r disburses aid to Gazans Doha with autism,” said Lita. twin siblings with ASD. The other speakers also Speaking at the event, In conjunction with the Autism shared their experience on how Ambassador of Indonesia in Awareness Month which is ob- to deal with children with ASD. Qatar HE Ridwan Hassan served in April, the Embassy The webinar was attended by underlined the need of every of Indonesia in Qatar, in col- hundreds of participants both family who has children with laboration with the Indonesian from the Indonesian communi- autism to keep their kids op- Community Association in Qa- ty in Qatar and the Indonesian timistic about their future. “At tar (PERMIQA), SAHABATKU diaspora across the world. first, some may be sad or get and the Parents Support Group, The programme was fol- frustrated. That’s normal. But held series of webinars on Au- lowed by the webinar titled ‘Let then, we have to accept and tism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). us hear it from the siblings’, move on. Nothing or no one in The first webinar was held on held on April 10, 2021. The this world was created by God April 3. speakers of the event were the without purpose, so does our The spouse of the Indone- siblings who have direct inter- children.” sian Ambassador, Lita Hassan action with the kids with ASD. The embassy will organ- was one of the speakers at the At this event, they shared the ise more programmes to raise event. Mother of three children, experience of how to deal with awareness of autism for the Chairman of Qatar’s Gaza Reconstruction Committee Ambassador HE Mohammed Al Emadi has said the committee, in cooperation with two of whom have been diag- their siblings with ASD. “We Indonesian community in Qa- Qatar Fund For Development (QFFD), on Sunday started the process of disbursing cash assistance to needy families in Gaza Strip. Al nosed with mild autism, Lita have to take care of our siblings tar. Two of them will be held on Emadi said the cash aid of $100 per family will be disbursed to 100,000 needy families in the governorates of Gaza Strip. He said the shared her experience on how without being over-protected. April 17 and 24 which will focus distribution process is carried out through the branches of the Post Bank in the governorates of the Gaza Strip, under the full supervision to raise the children. “Accept- They need to develop their po- on how to assist kids with au- of the Qatari Committee staff. (QNA) ance is the most important as- tentials. Don’t limit them.” said tism during the pandemic time. ‘Carrefour committed to supporting the local communities’

Tribune News Network launched its first Qatari Fes- ing and the supply chain: He added: “The event butions to the Food Safety Doha tival in 2020 in collabora- “Through this campaign, was a success and we wit- Programme over the last four tion with the Ministries of Carrefour aims to celebrate nessed positive growth with years have been critical in the Consumer attitudes have Municipal Affairs and Agri- the successes of Qatar’s local the amount of local vegetable country’s progress toward shifted significantly, as evi- culture, and Economy and products, which continue to produce sales increasing to 50 self-sufficiency and food se- denced by shifting behaviours Commerce. The initiative grow in variety and quality, per cent in comparison to last curity. Choosing healthy food toward single-use plastic and was created with the goal of and enhance their presence year.” that is produced locally and one’s carbon footprint. The supporting local farmers by in the market. As one of the Carrefour continues to en- sustainably helps to reduce pandemic has accelerated featuring their products in a region’s largest retailers, it is courage customers to be more carbon emissions, combat this trend, demonstrating limited number of Carrefour important that we form close conscious of where their food global warming, and boost the that consumers will continue stores. The festival then went partnerships with all local is sourced from by emphasis- local economy. to base their purchasing de- on to highlight and feature economic operators. By sup- ing locally sourced produce, Carrefour intends to con- cisions on which brands and produce from well-known porting farmers in Qatar and while also providing them tinue giving back by support- businesses are ethical and local farms such as Safwa, featuring more of their prod- with the opportunity to buy ing the local market and thus sustainable. Khodra, Mazzrati, QT farm, ucts, we are not only giving fresh, high-quality, and sus- contributing to the nation’s In response, and as part Nabati, QADCO, and Agrico. our customers the chance to tainably produced food from economic and environmental of its mission to be a sus- Laurent Hausknecht, buy the freshest ingredients local farms at the best possible development, both of which tainable, responsible, self- Country Manager of Carre- Carrefour’s ongoing com- for its industry and economy but also encouraging them to price. are key pillars of the govern- sufficient business, Carrefour four Qatar commented on mitment to creating value by supporting local farm- support their local economy.” Carrefour Qatar’s contri- ment’s 2030 vision. World Monday, April 12, 2021 05

Brutal crackdown Iran looking News for clues after in brief ‘incident’ at Myanmar death toll crosses 21 trapped in Chinese coal mine nuclear site after flooding dpa Beijing: Twenty-one miners Tehran 700 as clashes intensify have been trapped in a mine shaft 1,200 metres under- Iran’s nuclear authorities re- ground after an accident, ported an overnight “incident” On Friday alone, at least 82 people were killed in the south-eastern city of Bago, AAPP said state news agency Xinhua at the country’s Natanz nucle- reported on Sunday. ar site on Sunday, with probes dpa The coal mine in Hutubi, under way to determine what Yangon part of Changji prefecture, precisely happened and who was reportedly flooded and might have caused the disrup- The number of people killed trapped the people in three tion. since the military coup in My- different locations. Eight Details remain vague. anmar has risen to 700 after Torture people were rescued, ac- Speaking on TV, Behrouz Ka- new violence over the weekend. cording to Xinhua. Ma Xin, malvandi, a spokesperson for According to the non-profit Military forces are using live director of Changji’s emer- the Iranian atomic commis- Assistance Association for Po- ammunition against gency management bureau, sion, said the disruption origi- litical Prisoners (AAPP), at least protesters and some 3,000 said the underground terrain nated at a workshop outside of 701 people have been killed in people have been detained, was complex and complicat- the main facility. the violent crackdown by secu- according to AAPP, with reports ing the rescue. (dpa) He said there were no rity forces on protesters. of torture deaths and operations never On Friday alone, at least ceased. 82 people were killed in the Iran is facing There has been talk of an south-eastern city of Bago, cal journalist and a report by ‘very critical’ outage, but authorities are AAPP said. Local media re- news portal DVB. coronavirus phase also investigating the possibil- ported the military used heavy There were also reports ity of sabotage. In Israel, there artillery against civilians. about further clashes on Sat- Tehran: The coronavirus was speculation in the Jerusa- “The UN in Myanmar is urday in the northern region of pandemic has reached a lem Post that there might have following events in Bago with Sagaing, after one student was “severely critical” phase been an explosion due to an reports of heavy artillery be- killed in the town of Tamu, lo- in Iran, says the country’s Israeli cyberattack. ing used against civilians and cal media including Mizzima health minister, which will Officials had already said medical treatment being de- news and Irrawaddy wrote. only grow worse if people there were no leaks of atomic nied to those injured,” the This reportedly led to stu- do not start adhering to material. United Nations Myanmar of- dents, members of the Civil lockdown guidelines. It would not be too sur- fice wrote on Twitter, calling Disobedience Movement Failure to follow rules prising had there been some for an end to the violence and Children play with toy guns next to a banner put up by activists in protest against the military coup in (CDM), which organized the about social-distancing kind of attack on the plant. Is- the wounded to receive treat- Yangon on Sunday. (AFP) protests, and the insurgent and other safety guidelines rael views the Iranian nuclear ment. Kuki National Army, an armed would mean that “there will programme as an existential Since the military on Feb- despite a brutal crackdown. ture. have emerged of an attack on group of the ethnic Kuki peo- be no more red zones on threat. ruary 1 toppled the civilian Military forces are using But the protesters were un- a police station by the Three ple, fighting back. the map of Iran, but only Iran’s rulers have routinely government and put de facto live ammunition against pro- deterred, with people taking to Brotherhood Alliance militia. As a result, 18 members of black ones,” Health Minister made clear they view Israel as leader Aung San Suu Kyi un- testers and some 3,000 people the streets again on Sunday The attack in the community the junta and one other person Said Namaki told the Isna an enemy. If they developed der house arrest, people have have been detained, according across the country. of Lashio on Saturday resulted were killed, according to the news agency. He said 257 the capability to launch nu- been protesting almost daily to AAPP, with reports of tor- Meanwhile, more reports in 15 deaths, according to a lo- reports. cities are now at level red clear weapons, they would be and that the number of able to hit any part of Israel. dead and infected will most There was already one un- likely rise in the coming explained blast at Natanz last days and weeks. (dpa) year, with suspicion falling on Israel. India begins ‘vaccine festival’ as country The US and Israel also Turkey tests launched the Stuxnet virus in rocket engine for 2010 in an attempt to sabotage logs record over 150,000 virus infections lunar mission Iran’s nuclear programme. Despite the threats, newly Istanbul: Turkey has test- produced Iranian centrifuges dpa cine festival, is being organ- forced many states, including ed a hybrid rocket engine were recently installed at Na- New Delhi ised in the country to inoculate national capital New Delhi, for a planned mission to the tanz, which allow uranium en- the maximum number of eligi- to impose tight restrictions moon, Technology Minister richment of up to 20 per cent. India on Sunday recorded ble people against the virus. including night-time curfews, Mustafa Varank said on Iran’s nuclear programme its biggest-ever daily spike school closures and limiting Sunday. is the subject of heated inter- of 152,879 coronavirus cases visits to restaurants, theatres The ignition of another national debate. Few believe even as authorities launched The spike in cases has led and other events. rocket was also tested in claims that it only seeks a ci- a four-day “vaccine festival” to to hospital bed shortages The spike in cases has also the process, the minister vilian nuclear programme. intensify the inoculation cam- including in the worst-hit led to hospital bed shortages said. According to state A deal was reached in 2015 paign in the country. including in the worst-hit state news agency Anadolu, the that would have theoretically Fresh infections were 5 state of Maharashtra, which of Maharashtra, which ac- test was completed near prevented a nuclear weapons percent higher than on Friday, accounts for over half of counts for over half of India’s the western Turkish city programme in Iran, but that when the country registered India’s active cases A man on a wheelchair gets food distributed by social workers during active cases. of Sile. Another test is has largely fallen apart after 145,384 cases, according to weekend lockdown restrictions in Mumbai on Sunday. (AFP) India, which at over 13.2 planned in the locality of previous US president Don- Health Ministry data. million has the third-largest Sinop in May. Turkey plans ald Trump withdrew America The number of deaths rose The mass vaccination pro- medical crisis. began early this year. coronavirus caseload after the to send its own mission to from the deal and resumed by 839 in the last 24 hours, gramme is to be conducted More than 100 million However, several states United States and Brazil, saw moon in 2023. President sanctions on Iran. Efforts are pushing the total death count until April 14, following an doses have already been ad- have claimed they are facing a downward trend in infections Recep Tayyip Erdogan under way to see if the deal to 169,275. appeal by Prime Minister ministered to front-line work- vaccine shortages despite as- from the end of 2020 but the presented the space plan in can be resuscitated, now that Meanwhile, a so-called Narendra Modi to chief state ers and people above 45 in In- surances from the government. numbers began rising again in February. (dpa) Trump is out of office. “Tika Utsav,” Hindi for vac- ministers at a meeting on the dia’s vaccination drive, which The surge in infections has mid-February. Jordan’s king, Hamzah make Afghan army could hold territory without joint appearance after split support, but ‘difficult’ dpa visited royal tombs on the occasion of the Amman centenary of Jordan’s foundation, the me- dpa dia said, carrying a picture showing the Kabul Jordanian King Abdullah II and his king, Hamzah and other members of the half-brother Prince Hamzah, an ex-heir royal family. Afghan security forces (ANDSF) would be capa- apparent, on Sunday made their first joint The dispute became public on April ble of holding their current territory against possible appearance since a rare royal split erupted 3 when Hamzah said the army told him Taliban offensives if international forces leave the in public earlier this month, Jordanian not to leave his house or communicate country, but with difficulty, a seniorA fghan official media reported. with anyone. said in an interview with dpa on Sunday. Last week, the Jordanian government Earlier this week, the king said he pre- “Yes, but it would be very difficult,” said Daoud said Hamzah and others were involved in ferred to deal with the issue within the Naji, senior political adviser to the Afghan Nation- efforts to destabilize the kingdom. family. The palace said Hamzah vowed al Security Council, in response to a question if the Authorities said several high-profile in- loyalty and support to the king after me- army could hold its ground. dividuals had been arrested due to “secu- diation by their uncle, Prince Hassan. According to the official, the country’s armed rity reasons” amid media reports they are Hamzah, 41, was the crown prince be- forces have prepared to be more efficient and sus- linked to Hamzah. tween 1999 and 2004, when Abdullah II tainable in preparation of a possible retreat of US On Sunday, the Jordanian monarch removed him and appointed his own son, and NATO forces by May 1. and other royals including Prince Hamzah al-Hussein. US forces have already decreased their support and have not accompanied Afghan forces in offen- sives since Washington inked an agreement on the withdrawal of international forces with the Taliban in February last year. According to Naji, in that past year the “Taliban had intensified their attacks to expand their terri- tories but failed.” The ANDSF proved that they are capable to continue fighting without foreign forces, he said. He added that in the past six months the Afghan forces have changed fighting methods by reposition- ing ground forces, shortening the chain of command, increasing coordination and appointing highly moti- vated and skilled army leaders. However, a US watchdog found that the Afghan security forces, despite having made progress, still face “long-term capability and sustainability chal- lenges” that would require various forms of contin- ued US military support. “Persistent [ANDSF] weaknesses in mission-crit- ical areas continue to hinder the force’s effectiveness, readiness, and sustainability,” according to a report Jordanian King Abdullah II (centre), Crown Prince Hussein (right) and Prince Hamzah (second by the US special inspector general for Afghanistan left) pray at the tomb of late King Hussein in Amman on Sunday. (afp) reconstruction. 06 Monday, April 12, 2021

Established September 3, 2006 hamad bin suhaim al thani chairman Opinion adel ali bin ali managing director dr hassan mohammed al ansari editor-in-chief

Financial Cooperation Can Help Fight Asian Americans Often The Pandemic he IMF’s new economic forecast offers encouragement to the world’s Treated As Lesser Citizens rich countries. They’re on track to recover strongly from the pandemic. TFor many poorer countries, the opposite is true: The end is not in sight, the pandemic is still getting worse, and their economic losses are mount- ing. Their debts, in many cases, will prove unsustainable. Rich countries should be doing more to help in all kinds of ways, above all with the production and distribution of vaccines. But designing a Because Of Appearance more resilient system of financial cooperation, through the International Monetary Fund and other institutions, remains an essential part of the task. Up to now, improvisation has played a bigger role than systemic in- ‘We Asian Americans wear our ancestral origin on our face. Our appearance makes us easy novation. With the agreement of President Joe Biden’s administration, for instance, governments have decided that the IMF should issue a big targets for other Americans who want to attack us, to diminish our Americanness’ new tranche of special drawing rights (SDRs) to its members. That will give valuable financial help to many countries struggling to cope with the SOCHING TSAI pandemic. But it isn’t ideal. SDRs are a reserve asset created by the IMF and allocated to its mem- bers broadly in proportion to their weight in the global economy. They n 2017, I saw a wonderful Canadian musical can be cheaply converted into dollars or other hard currency — acting, in in New York, directed by an American resident effect, as a low-cost line of credit that financially stressed governments in Canada. At a post-performance discussion can access quickly. Their original purpose was to ensure that a shortage between the audience and the Canadian cast, of dollar liquidity wouldn’t constrict international transactions. At the moderated by the American director, I asked moment, that concern is beside the point: There’s a glut of global dollar aI question. Before he would answer my question, liquidity, not a shortage. Even so, an injection of new SDRs will bolster the the director wanted to know where I was from. finances of many poor countries. After I told him I was from Maryland, he per- The new allocation of $650 billion is, to be sure, a scattershot device. sisted in questioning my geographic origin. He It’ll boost the reserves of all IMF members. In absolute terms the poorest said he was hoping I could expound on China’s will get least, though as a proportion theater policy. I left China when I was a child. of their diminished reserves, they’ll Some years ago, the political scientist Fran- feel a bigger benefit. The maneuver is cis Fukuyama wrote in an op-ed piece about a also technical and opaque. For many New Haven, Connecticut, taxi driver asking him governments, that’s a virtue, because where he was from. Mr Fukuyama mentioned a they hope what might otherwise be a place in the United States. The driver then asked controversial plan will fly below the where his parents were from. That line of ques- political radar. Relatedly, the U.S. has tioning finally stopped after Mr. Fukuyama told a veto on SDR allocations, and $650 the driver that his family had been in the United billion is (roughly speaking) the big- States for generations. gest injection that the Treasury Department can agree to without seeking Recently in Manhattan, Maura Moynihan, approval in Congress. daughter of the late Senator Daniel Patrick In addition to promoting the SDR plan, the IMF and some of its mem- Moynihan, told an Asian American woman to ber governments have cobbled together other relatively modest arrange- “go back to China.” I am sure Ms. Moynihan ments. One idea gaining support is worth adding to this list. The new SDR would be outraged if another American told allocation could be improved if the rich countries agreed to donate some of her to go back to Ireland. But Ms. Moynihan know the country of your ancestral origin to en- belong to a statistically significant minority? their new reserves to COVAX — the United Nations-led effort to accelerate is white, and unless you know her, you cannot able them to use it to denigrate you. We Asian So, Mr President, Madam Vice President, vaccine distribution in the developing world — and similar initiatives. tell from where in Europe her ancestors immi- Americans wear our ancestral origin on our face. please act on your Atlanta messages against anti- Yet off-the-cuff flexibility only goes so far. The IMF and its partner grated. So perhaps that is why Ms. Moynihan, Our appearance makes us easy targets for other Asian American bigotry in our country. I urge institutions should also create new facilities capable of delivering sub- and other Americans like her, have been spared Americans who want to attack us, to diminish our you, as well as Members of Congress, governors, stantial assistance under extreme circumstances — like today’s — where the casual racism that she so readily flung at her Americanness. To these Americans, we are never mayors, state and city legislators, to emphasize financialdistress isn’t the result of irresponsible economic policies. The Asian American victim. quite American enough, or American at all, be- to all Americans that Asian Americans are part fund’s standard operating procedure is to make loans conditional on I have lived in the United States for more cause of our appearance. of the cloth from which the vast American flag programs of economic reform. Negotiating those schemes is often a pro- than 50 years. I have been a citizen for more than The actor Daniel Dae Kim, in his recent ap- is cut. Please draft legislation to better define tracted and politically fraught process. The economic-policy response to a 40. I served the country as a foreign service of- pearance before the House Judiciary Sub-Com- hate crimes against Asian Americans. Explain to pandemic needs to be broader, faster and less concerned with prescribing ficer for more than 25, working in Washington, mittee, told of a political pollster describing our law enforcement that a crime against Asian new fiscal strategies. the Caribbean, Asia and Europe. I swore my oath Asian-Americans as “statistically insignificant.” Americans is as much a hate crime as that against Arrangements for sovereign debt relief also need work. They have for to support and defend the Constitution when I These “statistically insignificant” Asian-Ameri- any other American minority. Update school years, in fact, but the pandemic underlines the point. Covid-19 rightly led became a citizen. I swore another oath to do the cans helped to get out the vote in Georgia that textbooks to educate our children on how the di- the G-20 governments to devise the Debt Service Suspension Initiative same when I joined the Foreign Service. Howev- led to the historic election of two Georgia Demo- verse American people have built our great coun- — but this is temporary and partial. Efforts are underway to build on this er, many Americans, and some foreigners, judge crats to the U.S. Senate. Their contribution was try. We will not be able to remove the bull’s eye scheme, but for now the world still lacks a system that’s comprehensive, Americanness by what they think an American hardly acknowledged. President Biden has put on Asian Americans until our children learn that fair to creditors, transparent and capable of delivering sufficient relief should look like. When some foreigners I en- together the most racially diverse Cabinet in U.S. Asian Americans are as American as any other when necessary. It’s a complex job, but it should be a priority. countered in my career told me that they wanted history. Asian-Americans are barely there. In the American in this country. Starting with their discussions this week, the world’s finance min- to speak to a “real” American official, I attributed spike of violent and other attacks against Asian I am an Asian American woman. I am an isters should look into more deliberate changes to their arrangements it to their ignorance of this country. But when a Americans across the country, especially against American woman. for international financial cooperation. With a couple of bolder inno- fellow American impugns my Americanness, I Asian American women and the elderly, law en- vations, they could handle the consequences of Covid-19 a lot more want to know why. forcement authorities, including the FBI, are re- (Soching Tsai is a retired Foreign Ser- effectively — and they’d do well to remember that this pandemic is If you are a white or Black American, nobody luctant to prosecute some of these crimes as hate vice officer in Maryland. The article first unlikely to be the last. questions your Americanness. Few Americans crimes. Would they be as reluctant if the victims appeared in the Baltimore Sun)

Fights Over Free Speech And The Future Of Social Media

Daren Bakst and formed. But this is generally where the To account for the spread of misin- Dustin Carmack agreement ends. formation on their platforms, the CEOs At the heart of the Section 230 debate at the hearing explained how difficult it ould you say social media plat- is a disagreement regarding the impor- is to moderate the high volume of content forms offer “a forum for a true tance of allowing Americans to speak their uploaded on their sites each day. To help diversity of political discourse?” minds. Some want to reduce the chilling moderate content, the companies have Congress used this language of speech by social media companies. And built artificial intelligence algorithms to over 20 years ago to describe some want to use Section 230 reform as a seek and remove content they deem to be Wthe internet when it passed Section 230, way to chill speech still further. They want illegal or in violation of their terms of ser- a federal law that provides liability pro- to ensure that speech communicated on- vice or community guidelines. tection for online service providers when line is consistent with their worldviews. The CEOs blame the algorithms when they transmit or take down user-generated For many on the right, Section 230 the companies go overboard on limiting content. While the internet generally does needs to be reformed because social media speech. But algorithms are not self-created offer such a forum, on social media plat- companies have so clearly broadened the by computers. Rather, company employ- forms, it is disappearing. types of content that they moderate, dem- ees design and code the algorithms based Big Tech, including social media plat- onstrating bias and censorship of content on direction from their company superi- forms, are now under the microscope, and associated with conservatives. Many on ors. legislators have very different ideas on the left, however, believe Big Tech compa- And currently, be it through algorithms what, if anything, needs to be done. The nies are not moderating enough content, or other moderation tools, these social me- recent hearing before the House Energy particularly what they view as harmful or dia companies are chilling speech on their and Commerce Committee — billed as an extremist speech. platforms. This isn’t merely about them investigation of digital misinformation For example, they want these com- removing user content. It also includes the among Facebook, Twitter and Google — panies to go after First Amendment- views inconsistent with their own. In fact, vironment could help the left get reforms recent proliferation of labeling, delisting showed just how divided members of Con- protected “hate speech,” which is so if these companies were so concerned with that would be to the opposite of what many and context commentaries from these so- gress, both parties and the public are on vague that it can mean almost anything, the facts, they would allow the content to conservatives would want. cial media companies. the future of social media. including thoughtful and legitimate dis- be subject to public scrutiny. To be clear, Section 230 reform There’s a wide range of opinions across Committee members barraged Face- course on such sensitive topics as gender Conservatives and others concerned shouldn’t be an excuse for the government the ideological spectrum on whether and book’s Mark Zuckerberg, Twitter’s Jack identity. with bias and censorship should clearly to trample on the First Amendment, such how to reform Section 230, or to eliminate Dorsey and Google’s Sundar Pichai with They also desire to have social media recognize these differences if they hope to as by trying to dictate the type of legal it entirely. Legislators should reform it, questions. Some threatened to repeal Sec- companies go even further in taking down achieve their desired Section 230 reforms. speech that private companies must allow and in so doing, protect the forum for po- tion 230. Others called for government “misinformation,” as if one side has a mo- There should be wariness of getting on or prohibit on their platforms. But Section litical discourse envisioned when the law regulators, such as the Federal Trade nopoly on everything that is true, even board with “230 reform” without recogniz- 230 is a federal government intervention was passed 25 years ago. Commission, to review their content mod- in subjective debates. There would be no ing that many on the left have a completely that provides the benefit of liability protec- eration practices and algorithms. fact-checking the self-anointed fact check- different view of what reform looks like. tion for online service providers, provided (Daren Bakst and Dustin Car- Many on both the left and the right ers. And this so-called fact-checking is Details matter, and Section 230 reform is they are willing to abide by the parameters mack wrote this piece for The Herit- agree that Section 230 needs to be re- arguably a pretext to remove or discredit needed, but the pathway in the current en- set forth in that provision. age Foundation)

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THE OPINION AND ANALYSIS PAGES ARE THE AUTHORS’ OWN. QATAR TRIBUNE BEARS NO RESPONSIBILITY. World Monday, April 12, 2021 07

News Germany’s Merkel in favour of in brief Ukraine reports one soldier killed in eastern conflict region short, nation-wide lockdown Moscow: A Ukrainian soldier has been shot dead by pro-Rus- sian separatists in eastern Ukraine, the military said on Sun- day, as tensions in the region draw higher despite a ceasefire. dpa Another member of the military was injured during an “en- Berlin emy attack,” the military said in Kiev. According to the statement, the Ukrainian positions were German Chancellor Angela attacked nine times since Saturday. The separatists in the Merkel is in favour of a short Donetsk region also accused the Ukrainian military of staging and country-wide lockdown to More young attacks. break an exponential increase Russia and Ukraine have recently traded blame for the in infections, sources from the people infected heightened tensions in eastern Ukraine, which has been roiled Christian Democrats (CDU) by conflict for the past seven years.(dpa) said on Sunday. According to data from 70 “This is about a bridge to hospitals around the country, more normality. The bridge more and more young people Vaccinated Pope Francis shakes hands should be short,” Merkel said were being hospitalised with after Mass in Italy according to the sources at respiratory infections and talks of the CDU leadership. intensive care units were R ome: Pope Francis celebrated Mass on Sunday in Rome and Armin Laschet, premier rapidly filling up shook the hands of many people and let them kiss his hands, of the state of North Rhine- despite the coronavirus pandemic still raging in Italy. Westphalia and a contender The 84-year-old, who has already been vaccinated against to become Merkel’s successor, fairground people’s guild, told the virus, was not wearing a mask and smiling as believers had proposed what he termed dpa. came to him after the Mass on what is known as Mercy Sun- a “bridge lockdown” until the Meanwhile, Labour Minis- day. According to news agency ANSA, around 80 people took time when more people are ter Hubertus Heil announced place in the Mass at the Santo Spirito in Sassia church just vaccinated and to curb the ris- plans to introduce free rapid outside the Vatican City. Among them were inmates, migrants, ing infections. coronavirus tests in all work- charity workers, doctors and nuns. The Robert Koch Institute places. During the service, people were still wearing masks and (RKI) for disease control re- “Everyone has to do their keeping distance, but afterwards many came to the pope, who ported 17,855 new infections part, also the world of work. is known to enjoy closeness with people, in the first row to and 104 deaths in the last 24 To protect those who cannot touch him. Strict contact restrictions are generally still in place hours. On Sundays figures work from home, we need in Italy due to the coronavirus pandemic. (dpa) tend to be slightly lower due German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin on Sunday. (AFP) comprehensive tests in busi- to less testing on the weekend. nesses,” Heil told newspaper But one week ago, the RKI the RKI said. infections and intensive care large-scale events will not be Bild am Sonntag. US breaks vaccination record with 4.6 reported 12,196 cases and 68 RKI head Lothar Wieler units were rapidly filling up. able to take place until herd At present, only 61 per cent million shots in one day deaths, showing cases are ris- had earlier called the situation With infection numbers immunity is achieved. of businesses offer free corona- ing. “very, very serious.” Accord- high and the vaccine rollout “Working with rapid tests, virus tests to their employees. Washington: The US continues to make rapid strides with The so-called incidence ing to data from 70 hospitals in Germany achieving only when you have large crowds The proposal, to be discussed its vaccination programme, announcing on Sunday that health rate of infections per 100,000 around the country, more and limited coverage so far, the such as the Kranger fair, we by cabinet on Tuesday, would care workers carried out more than 4.6 million vaccinations the people in seven days rose to more young people were being organizers of popular fairs and won’t have that,” Albert Rit- make it mandatory for employ- previous day. 129.2 from 127 one week ago, hospitalized with respiratory festivals have said that such ter, president of the German ers to test their workers. “A new record,” Cyrus Shahpar, the person responsible for vaccination data at the White House, said in a tweet announc- ing Saturday’s figures. White House coronavirus coordinator Jeff Zients had said on Friday that an average of 3 million vaccine doses were being administered every day in the US. According to the US Centers for Disease Control, more than 183 million Austin assures Israel of US support after talks doses have been given out nationwide so far, and 45 percent of adults in the country have received at least one vaccine dose, dpa Israel had been vehe- Israel,” Gantz said. while 27 percent of adults are fully vaccinated. (dpa) Tel Aviv mently opposed to the original Austin is also due to meet 2015 deal and Prime Minister Netanyahu during his two-day US Defence Secretary Lloyd Benjamin Netanyahu consid- visit. New York Covid-19 hospitalisations dip Austin reassured Israel of its ers Iran to be Israel’s most Netanyahu is in an uncer- continued military support dangerous enemy. Talks on tain political position as he New YORK: Coronavirus infection rates and hospitalizations on Sunday, in the first visit to reviving the deal, which was tries to pull together enough eased to recent lows Saturday as the feared spring surge of the the country by a member of seats to form a coalition gov- pandemic apparently started to run out of steam in New York, new US President Joe Biden’s ernment after recent elections. at least for now. Cabinet. Austin said after the talks Austin is not expected to The state’s seven-day coronavirus positivity rate fell to 3.31 Austin was received with that Washington would visit the Palestinian Territo- per cent and just 4,241 New Yorkers were hospitalized with military honours before meet- continue to guarantee the ries, although Biden has sig- Covid-19, both more than four-month lows, Governor Andrew ing his counterpart Benny ‘qualitative military edge’ nalled that he wants to rebuild Cuomo said. Gantz. of the Israel military ties with the Palestinians. “We’re making great progress getting shots in arms across Austin said after the talks The previous administra- the state, but we need everyone to continue practicing safe that Washington would con- tion under Donald Trump behaviors,” Cuomo said. tinue to guarantee the “quali- US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin (left) speaks with Franciscan rejected by the previous US made several major diplomatic The 7,283 new cases of coronavirus was not a new low, tative military edge” of the Is- monks outside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, in Jerusalem on administration, took place in moves which were welcomed but it came from an extremely high number of tests, making the rael military. Sunday. (AFP) Vienna earlier in the week. by Israel but denigrated by the single-day positivity rate of 2.79 percent the lowest in a month. “Our commitment to Israel “The Tehran of today poses Palestinians, including mov- The encouraging numbers suggest New York is beating is enduring and iron clad,” he ing that Israel hoped for a bet- nuclear programme, and it a strategic threat to interna- ing the US embassy to Jeru- back the worldwide so-called fourth wave of the pandemic, at said. ter deal to be agreed in the fu- would “work closely” with the tional security, to the entire salem, and weakening support least for now. (dpa) Gantz said after the meet- ture with Iran over its disputed United States to achieve this. Middle East and to the state of for a two-state solution. Andrew describes Prince Philip as ‘grandfather of the nation’ Exiled Tibetans dpa London Johnson won’t attend Philip’s funeral vote for new Andrew, the duke of York has said the death of his “remark- due to coronavirus guest limits leader, parliament able” father is also the loss of the “grandfather of the nation.” London: Boris Johnson will take place in Windsor Castle for the royal household, and dpa reported on their websites. Andrew described the duke of not attend the duke of Edin- on April 17, but it will be so to allow for as many fam- New Delhi “We are sending a clear Edinburgh as someone who burgh’s funeral to allow for unlike typical royal send-offs, ily members as possible will message to Beijing that was “so calm” and would listen the attendance of as many with the public being told to not be attending the funeral Tibetan exiles around the there is no democracy in if his children had a problem. family members as possible stay away because of the on Saturday.” The duke’s world were voting on Sun- China and Tibetans don’t The duke of York, who during coronavirus restric- pandemic. children, grandchildren and day to elect a new leader enjoy freedom but under stepped down from royal du- tions, No 10 has said. A No 10 spokesman said: other close family are ex- and a government-in-exile the great leadership of His ties over his friendship with The prime minister was “As a result of the Corona- pected to be among the 30 based in the northern Indi- Holiness the Dalai Lama,” convicted sex offender Jeffrey understood to have been virus regulations, only 30 attending. an hill town of Dharamsala. the outgoing Sikyong Lob- Epstein in 2019, spoke after Britain’s Prince Andrew, Duke of expected to attend the cer- people can attend the funeral The proceedings will take The government-in- a church service in Windsor York in Windsor on Sunday. (AFP) emony for Philip by the royals, of HRH The Prince Philip, place entirely in the grounds exile is not recognised by Some 83,000 registered where members of the royal but offered to step aside with Duke of Edinburgh. of Windsor Castle and a any nation but wields in- family said prayers for Philip. the number of guests allowed “The Prime Minister has national minute’s silence will fluence among the more voters scattered across Andrew told reporters: “He limited to 30. throughout wanted to act in be held at 3 pm (1400 GMT). than 130,000 Tibetans 26 countries were voting was a remarkable man. The duke’s funeral will accordance with what is best (dpa) living across the world, to elect a new Sikyong, “I loved him as a father. He mainly in India, Nepal and the President of the was so calm. If you had a prob- Bhutan. Central Tibetan lem, he would think about it. Huge void his lawyers say he has offered stand up and show compassion “And so, we are all in the The Dalai Lama and Administration, and a “That’s the great thing that I to help with investigations. and leadership.’ same boat - slightly differ- thousands of Tibetans parliament, Wangdu always think about, that he was Speaking about the effect of Speaking further about the “And unfortunately, with ent circumstances because he have lived in exile since the Tsering Pesur, the Tibetan always somebody you could go his father’s passing, Andrew effect of his father’s passing, An- my father’s death, it has didn’t die from Covid, but we’re Tibetan spiritual leader fled election commission to and he would always listen so described his mother the drew described his mother the brought it home to me, not just all feeling a great sense of loss. to India in 1959 following a chief, told reporters it’s a great loss. Queen as ‘an incredibly stoic Queen as “an incredibly stoic our loss, but actually the loss “I know there is a huge failed uprising against Chi- “We’ve lost almost the person’ but said her person” but said her husband’s that everybody else has felt, for amount of support not just for nese rule. grandfather of the nation. And husband’s death had left ‘a death had left “a huge void.” so many people who have died her [the Queen] but for eve- Some 83,000 registered sang Sangay told reporters. I feel very sorry and supportive huge void’ He said: “She described his and lost loved ones during the rybody as we go through this voters scattered across 26 Two candidates, Penpa of my mother who’s feeling it passing as a miracle and she’s pandemic. enormous change.” countries were voting to Tsering, former Tibetan probably more than everybody contemplating, I think is the elect a new Sikyong, the parliament speaker and else.” after his friend Ghislaine Max- way that I would put it. President of the Central Kelsang Dorjee Aukat- Andrew was appearing on well was charged with recruit- “She described it as having Tibetan Administration, sang, a close aide of San- camera for what is thought to ing girls for Epstein to sexually left a huge void in her life but and a parliament, Wangdu gay, are in the fray for the be the first time since he was abuse. we, the family, the ones that The Embassy of Uruguay Is looking for an Tsering Pesur, the Tibetan post of the Sikyong. The forced to step back from pub- Virginia Giuffre, who claims are close, are rallying round to election commission chief, results will be declared in lic duties after his disastrous she was trafficked by Epstein as make sure that we’re there to Administrative Personnel. told reporters. mid-May. Newsnight interview in 2019. a teenager, said in an interview support her.” Andrew also re- University degree in Accounting, fluent Spanish, Voters lined up at poll- Harvard-educated San- He was accused of lacking with BBC Panorama that she called a conversation with his ing stations in Tibetan gay, 52, was elected the empathy for Epstein’s victims was “horrified and ashamed” father some months ago. English and Arabic, settlements across India first Sikyong of the CTA in and for not showing enough re- after an alleged sexual encoun- He said: “My father said 3 years relevant experience required, advanced amid strict safety meas- 2011 after the Dalai Lama morse over his friendship with ter with Andrew in London in to me on the telephone a few Excel skills, will be tested. ures against Covid-19, the announced he would retire the convicted sex offender. 2001. months ago, ‘We are all in the Voice of Tibet broadcaster as the leader of the govern- He has faced continued He categorically denies any same boat and we must always Preference to Uruguayan nationals. and the exile government ment-in-exile. calls to speak to US prosecutors form of sexual contact or rela- remember that, but occasion- and the FBI, which intensified tionship with Ms Giuffre, and ally we, the family, are asked to Apply by 15/04/2021 to [email protected] Huawei helps Qatar stimulate economic growth: Yang page 9

Monday, April 12, 2021

33,800.60 10,563.54 49591.32 1,744.80 +297.03 pts +22.01 pts -154.89 pts Gold -0.76 % QIB Q1 net profit grows by 9% to Dow QE sensex QR750 million page 10 Price percentage Price percentage 25.33 Brent 62.95 -0.40 % WTI 59.32 -0.47% Silver -1.02 % QNB posts net profit Kuwari holds trade talks with Uzbek minister QNA Doha

Minister of Commerce and of QR3.3 bn in Q1 Industry HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari on Sunday met with Tribune News Network Uzbekistan Minister of Foreign Doha Affairs Abdulaziz Kamilov, who is currently visiting Doha. Qatar National Bank (QNB) During the meeting, they Group, the largest financial in- touched on the bilateral rela- stitution in the Middle East and tions between the two coun- Africa (MEA) region, on Sun- tries, and on joint cooperation day, announced that the bank’s in trade, investment, and in- net profit for the first quarter of dustrial fields, as well as means 2021 reached QR3.3 billion, a to develop this cooperation. decrease of 7 percent compared Talks focused on bilateral to the same period last year. trade policies and the efforts The bank achieved a stable made by both sides to confront operating income of QR6.7 bil- the COVID-19 pandemic. lion for the first quarter of 2021 They discussed coordina- Minister of Commerce and Industry HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari with Uzbekistan Minister of Foreign Affairs in line with last year, despite tion mechanisms to bolster Abdulaziz Kamilov in Doha on Sunday. the impact of COVID-19. This The QNB headquarters in Doha. bilateral trade and enhance reflects NQ B Group’s success cooperation in priority sectors During the meeting, Ku- ed and the measures it has create investment opportuni- in maintaining growth across increase our customer deposit lowest amongst financial in- to serve the developmental as- wari highlighted the economic taken to abolish restrictions ties for companies looking to the range of revenue sources. base to QR750 billion, resulting stitutions in the MEA region, pirations of both countries. policies that Qatar has adopt- on foreign investment and invest in Qatar. In addition, QNB Group in a healthy loan to deposit ratio reflecting the high quality of decided to set aside a loan loss of 96.1 percent complemented the Group’s loan book and provision of QR1.4 billion as a by conservative credit under- the effective management of precautionary measure taking writing during the first quarter credit risk. The Group’s con- into account the long-term and more focus on sustainable servative policy in regard to view of the financial impacts deposit generation,” the bank provisioning for potential loan Pvt sector exports return to of the COVID-19 pandemic. said in a statement. losses resulted in the coverage Following the success- In addition, QNB Group ratio increasing to 111 percent ful milestone achievement of continued its drive for cost as of March 31, 2021. first banking institution in the rationalisation in addition The bank’s total equity in- pre-pandemic levels: QC region to achieve total assets to sustainable revenue-gen- creased by 5 percent to reach of QR1 trillion in December erating sources. This helped QR94 billion as at March 31, Tribune News Network sential oils and industrial gases 2020, QNB Group succeeded QNB Group to improve the ef- 2021. Earnings per share for the Doha showed a decrease of 28.1 per- in increasing its total assets to ficiency (cost to income) ratio three months ended March 31, cent, 8.6 percent, 3.5 percent, QR1.042 trillion, representing to 23.4 percent, which is con- 2021 reached QR0.33 compared The private sector’s exports in and 1.9 percent respectively. an increase of 8 percent from sidered one of the best ratios to QR0.36 in March 2020. January showed a significant India was at the top of the March 2020. The increase among the large financial in- QNB Group reported ro- month-on-month (m-o-m) countries of destination of in total assets was mainly stitutions in the MEA region. bust levels of capital meas- increase of 12.5 percent from private sector’s exports with driven by an increase in loans Despite the ongoing im- ured in terms of the capital QR1.333 billion in December close to QR309 million with a and advances by 2 percent to pact of the COVID-19 pan- adequacy ratio at 19 percent, 2020 to QR1.499 billion in 20.6 percent share in the total reach QR721 billion. demic, the ratio of non-per- higher than the regulatory January 2021, according to Qa- exports. “On the funding side, QNB forming loans to gross loans minimum requirements of tar Chamber’s latest monthly It is followed by Oman with diversified its customer de- stood at 2.2 percent as of the Qatar Central Bank and economic report published in its almost QR207mn, or a share of posits generation that helped March 31, 2021, one of the Basel Committee. newsletter. 13.8 percent, and Netherlands The increase in the private with about QR135mn, or a 9 sector’s exports is attributed to percent share. a considerable increase of 20.1 Singapore came in fourth percent in exports through the place with almost QR129mn, a General model certificatewhich share of 8.6 percent and Hong Barwa to sell land plots in Saudi increased by QR 160 million. Kong with about QR112mn, a Exports through Unified share of 7.5 percent. QNA terms and conditions of the SAR659.277 million. Barwa GCC to Singapore model also national economy in general to by 23 percent compared to Feb- The private sector exports Doha agreement and paying the rest Real Estate spent on the land recorded a sharp increase of overcome the repercussions of ruary 2020, which was the high- to these countries represented of the sale price within a period for different purposes includ- 966 percent (from QR12mn to the COVID-19 pandemic and est value. 59.5 percent of the total value of Barwa Real Estate Compa- not exceeding 90 days from the ing land development costs QR129mn), followed by exports rebound to its levels before the Steel exports increased by exports during the same month. ny on Sunday announced the date of signing the agreement. and financing costs. through the Unified Arab model pandemic, the report said. 5,000 percent from QR3mn in As for economic blocs and signing of an agreement to The total sale price is Barwa Real Estate will an- which increased by 15 percent, In January, the private sec- December to QR132 million in groupings, Asian countries were sell the plot of land owned by SAR742.380 million, exclud- nounce estimated amounts and exports through GSP Model tor’s exports recorded the high- January, followed by chemi- at the top of economic blocs Wahat Al-Riyadh Real Estate ing real estate disposal tax. All of profits generated from the certificate which increased by est value during the past nine cal substances by 62.2 percent, that received exports of private Company, wholly owned by financial terms of the agree- sale transaction, after the sale 7.1 percent. Exports through months with an increase of chemical substances by 23.9 sector amounted to QR891mil- Barwa Group. ment and its financial impact is completed and the land is GCC model certificate decreased 162 percent compared to April percent and aluminium by lion with a share of 59.4 per- As per the agreement, the will be announced upon com- emptied for the buyer, in or- by 32.9 percent 2020, which was the lowest 11.2 percent. cent of the total value, followed sale process should be com- pletion of the sale. der to be able to calculate all The surge in private sec- value due to the precautionary On the other hand, exports by GCC states with a share of pleted and registered with a Barwa purchased this costs and expenses related to tor’s exports emphasised the measures to curb the pandemic of other commodities such as 28.8 percent with exports of notary upon fulfilling all the land in 2016 for a value of the land. ability of private sector and the of COVID-19, while it decreased petrochemical, paraffin, es- QR258million. Qatari stocks set for earnings recovery in Q1: QNBFS

Satyendra Pathak Moreover, lifting of the blockade is erage, ex-QNB Group, to experi- agement has been delivering on its Doha a positive for Qatar and the region. ence strong earnings YoY, growing five-year strategyobjectives, which Infrastructure projects related to by 10.9 percent largely attributed to we think is positive. The stock re- Progressive lifting of corona- the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the CBQ as the bank is expected to re- mains inexpensive and we main- virus countermeasures from July 2030 Qatar National Vision invest- port a large YoY growth in earnings. tain our Outperform rating and this year coupled with a further re- ments have continued to be major Excluding CBQ, aggregate bank target price of QR5.143. Regarding covery in commodity prices are ex- growth drivers for local companies earnings could increase by 6 per- QIB, we expect the bank to post pected to lift normalised earnings of during the 2017-2020 period,” the cent YoY. The increase in the aggre- strong growth in net profit YoY of Qatari stocks in the first quarter of report said. gate bottom-line is driven by stable 10.3 percent in-line with historical 2021, QNB Financial Services (QN- On top of Qatar’s macro margins, cost containment and trends,” it said. BFS) has said in its latest report. strengths, the report said, Qatari lower provisions and impairments. “We rate QIBK as a Market “Qatari stocks under coverage companies enjoy robust balance Moreover, we expect a sequential Perform with a target price of are expected to exhibit a sequen- sheets backed with low leverage and surge in profits of 50.6 percent as QR15.70,” it said. tial recovery in earnings on a nor- a decent return on equity, whereas banks typically book lower provi- “We estimate a YoY rise of 12 malised (excluding outliers such Qatari banks stand out with their sions and impairments in the first percent in the normalised bottom- as Doha Bank, Gulf International exceptional capital adequacy ratios, quarter of 2021,” the report said. line of diversified non-financials Services, Baladna and Industries healthy NPLs, strong provision cov- “CBQ is expected to contribute under coverage. On a sequential Qatar) basis in the first quarter of erage, and high profitability. positively to the YoY profitability basis, aggregate normalised earn- 2021. Normalised earnings should In case of any unforeseen vola- performance based on our figures. ings of diversified non-financials increase by 28 percent quarter-on- tility, the report said, the govern- Strong revenue, specifically non- could increase 27.6 percent. Based quarter (QoQ), in aggregate, mainly ment’s QR10 billion stock purchase Qatar’s stock market is expected to continue to outperform on a relative basis funded income, should drive earn- on our assumptions, IQ should be due to a recovery in non-financial programme creates an important bolstered by the country’s effective handling of vaccination programme. ings on a YoY basis. We estimate a standout performer in the first stocks helped by the progressive safety net for Qatari stocks. a 37.3 percent YoY jump in CBQ’s quarter of 2021 benefiting from its lifting of coronavirus counter- “We believe this market should tributions to the sequential net earnings should record a growth of bottom-line driven by healthy rev- 25 percent acquisition of QAFCO, measures from July, coupled with continue to outperform on a rela- income performance of stocks un- 11.8 percent. enue. On the other hand, we fore- a significant uptick in commodity a further recovery in commodity tive basis, despite being a laggard der our coverage. Doha Bank also “IQ should post a substantial see further impairments related to prices and a lack of major planned prices,” QNBFS said in the report. thus far this year, bolstered by its has a notable contribution to QoQ jump in YoY earnings, while CBQ United Arab Bank in the coming shutdowns across the company’s “We continue to remain bull- effectively handled vaccination pro- aggregate earnings growth as the and Qatar Aluminum Manufac- quarters, albeit at a lower amount operations. We maintain our Ac- ish longer-term on Qatari stocks gramme,” the report said. company posted a loss in the fourth turing Company (Qamco) are also against 2020,” it said. cumulate rating on IQCD and will given their defensive characteris- “Industries Qatar (IQ) and quarter of 2020,” the report said. expected to make handy contribu- “The sequential surge in CBQ’s be increasing our 2021/2022 esti- tics backed by their strong funda- Commercial Bank of Qatar (CBQ) On a year-on-year (YoY) basis, tions,” it said. earnings is due to significantly low- mates and target price of QR11.50 mentals and reasonable valuation. should make notable positive con- QNBFS said, normalised aggregate “We estimate banks under cov- er credit provisions. CBQ’s man- shortly,” the report said. Economy & Business Monday, April 12, 2021 09 Huawei helps Qatar stimulate economic growth through 5G capabilities: Yang Huawei’s president for Middle East says the tech major aims to contribute to the digitisation efforts outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030

Satyendra Pathak 100 Joint Innovation Centers Doha for the Middle East by 2025,” he said. Huawei is extending all sup- “In today’s digital econo- port in Qatar’s journey to a my, we judge cooperation as digital economy and helping fundamentally more impor- the country stimulate econom- tant than competition. We ic growth through the expan- need to enable others,” Yang sion of 5G capabilities, Huawei said. Middle East President Charles “At Huawei, we don’t com- Yang has said. pete for profit with others or Addressing media persons with our partners. It is not a during a virtual media round- zero-sum game. We are a busi- table on the sidelines of the ness that thrives on openness, SAMENA Leaders’ Summit, collaboration, and shared suc- Yang said, “Huawei is com- cess, where we can address real mitted to supporting major needs and create real value. As events like the upcoming 2022 such, we will continue to advo- FIFA World Cup in Qatar, ena- cate for broader collaboration bling brand new experiences between the industry, govern- through 5G. By empowering ment, and academia to help local partners, bolstering tal- light up the future through in- ent development, and commit- novation,” he said. ting support to megaprojects, Huawei believes that un- Huawei aims to contribute to derpinning that cooperation is the digitisation efforts outlined a shared responsibility towards in the Qatar National Vision cybersecurity. The company 2030.” has thus been working closely “Digitisation in the Middle with governments, security ex- East has accelerated remark- perts, and enterprises across ably over the last year, with the Middle East to help evolve global network traffic having cybersecurity assurance and increased by around 50 per- privacy protection systems. cent during the pandemic,” “Cybersecurity and privacy Yang said. protection have been and will “The ICT industry thus has always be our top priorities. an important responsibility Yet cybersecurity is not an is- to create new social and busi- Huawei Middle East President Charles Yang addresses media persons in a virtual media roundtable on the sidelines of the SAMENA Leaders’ Summit held recently. sue for any single company or ness value for governments, country alone,” Yang said. organizations, and individu- an exciting region for us given mote 5G development, Yang projects, he said, Huawei ac- “Huawei has not had any als. We are fully committed the enormous scale of develop- said that more industry policies knowledges there is still a need major cybersecurity incidents to this value creation. We are ments that are underway that are still needed to unleash 5G’s to develop a stronger local tal- while working with more aligning with governments to can be empowered by technol- full potential in the region. Digitisation in the Middle East has accelerated remarkably ent ecosystem. than 500 telecom providers, support mega-events like Expo ogy. This is epitomised by the “Today, Huawei is a major over the last year, with global network traffic having “Huawei’s own ‘LearnOn’ including most of the top 50 2020 in the UAE and the FIFA rapid development of 5G that 5G solutions partner to telecom increased by around 50 percent during the pandemic. online learning platform was telecom operators worldwide. World Cup 2022 in Qatar. We has exceeded many expecta- carriers and enterprises across launched in the Middle East To ensure transparency and will keep innovating to create tions. Computing power also the Middle East. It is a position Huawei Middle East President Charles Yang last year, and to date, more joint collaboration, Huawei value for our customers and to plays an integral role in ena- earned as a result of investing than 35,000 people have used is always ready to sign cyber- support economic recovery and bling businesses when it works early and heavily in technology the platform for training. Hua- security cooperation agree- social progress,” he said. in parallel with 5G. The region R&D. The company began 5G er business group ensured the overall ICT spending in the wei will continue investing in ments with governments and To that end, he said, Hua- today is more connected than research as early as 2009, and stable operations of more than Middle East, Turkey, and Af- programmes such as its Seeds customers in the Middle East. wei has used the last year to at any point in history,” Yang has invested $4 billion in 5G so 1,500 networks across over 170 rica is expected to make a for the Future initiative and Together, we will keep pushing further enhance its operations said. far. Moreover, Huawei’s R&D countries and regions through- comeback in 2021, returning to ICT Competition, as well as in the boundaries of technology despite a challenging global en- While regulators in the investments over the past dec- out COVID-19 lockdowns,” he positive growth of over $209.5 Huawei ICT Academies and and driving digital transforma- vironment. Middle East have released ade have exceeded $110 billion. said. billion, he said. laboratory funding, to develop tion forward with our custom- “The Middle East has been many policies that greatly pro- In 2020 alone, Huawei’s carri- After contracting in 2020, To serve these ambitious 70,000 ICT talents and build ers and partners,” he said.

QC chairman, MUSIAD president discuss investment prospects Toshiba sets up

Tribune News Network Sheikh Khalifa praised the that Turkey was an attractive team to review Doha distinct and close relations investment destination for between Qatar and Turkey, Qatari businessmen as well. Qatar Chamber Chairman noting that these relations He also attested to Qa- buyout plan Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim were historic and based on tari businessmen’s keenness Al Thani received on Sunday understanding and mutual to invest in Turkey and forge Agencies Friday at 4,265 yen, down President of Turkey’s Inde- respect. economic alliances with their 5.4 percent, from the previ- pendent Industrialists’ and He said the bilateral ties Turkish counterparts, as well Toshiba Corp. has set up a ous day at the Tokyo Stock Businessmen’s Association have significantly developed as benefit from the Turkish team to review a buyout of- Exchange, extending losses (MUSIAD) Abdurrahman within the past five years, cit- experience in establishing fer by British private equity following the release of the Kaan. ing the trade exchange, which joint investments, especially firm CVC Capital Partners statement by the company’s The meeting touched on grew by more than 100 per- in Africa, which is full of feasi- to make the Japanese elec- board chairman. reviewing ways of boosting cent from $900 million to ble investment opportunities. tronics and infrastructure CVC’S plan needs ap- commercial and investment $1.91 billion in 2020. On his part, Kaan em- giant private, sources close proval from antitrust au- cooperation relations, invest- He said more than 100 phasised the interest of the to the matter said. thorities, while the Japa- ment opportunities as well as Turkish companies in vari- association to establish close Toshiba President and nese government would the possibility of establishing ous sectors such as trading, ties with Qatar Chamber to CEO Nobuaki Kurumatani scrutinize the proposal as joint investments between contracting, services and hos- develop mutual investments told reporters the company Toshiba has sensitive busi- private sector inside and out- Qatar Chamber Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim Al Thani with pitality have set up joint ven- between businessmen from will discuss the matter “at a nesses including nuclear side in the two countries. Turkey’s MUSIAD President Abdurrahman Kaan tures in Qatar, pointing out the two countries. rigid framework with a lim- power and defense opera- ited number of members” in tions in terms of national a bid to prevent information security. leakage. “This initial proposal The review team is led by CVC was completely un- by Senior Executive Vice solicited and not initiated President Masayasu Toyo- by Toshiba by all means. QICRDC co-hosts webinar on alternative dispute hara. The proposal does not go Kurumatani said the through a detailed review of organization excludes inter- Toshiba’s business,” Nagay- resolution in Islamic and Middle Eastern Law ested parties on Toshiba’s ama said. Tribune News Network gion. The session included a Qatar and beyond. Through board, including himself Doha lively Q&A and general dis- dialogue and practical in- who served as chairman Long road ahead cussion from attendees, who sights, legal practitioners can of CVC’s Japan unit be- CVC Capital Partners The Qatar International joined virtually from across grow their understanding of a fore joining Toshiba, and is reportedly considering a Court and Dispute Resolution the world. specialised aspect of alterna- Yoshiaki Fujimori, who is 30 percent premium over Centre (QICDRC), in coopera- Distinguished speakers tive dispute resolution that is an outside board member Toshiba’s current share tion with SOAS University of included Dr Zain Al Abdin highly relevant to our region.” and an adviser for the Brit- price, valuing the deal at London, delivered an inter- Sharar, Senior Legal Counsel Speaking on the benefits ish investment firm’s arm in more than $20 billion. active webinar on alternative at QICDRC’s CEO Office, who of the collaboration between Japan. But Toshiba’s Osamu dispute resolution (ADR) in discussed the challenges and SOAS and the Qatar Interna- Osamu Nagayama, Nagayama said significant Islamic and Middle Eastern opportunities of arbitration tional Court, Dr Ercanbrack chairman of Toshiba’s clarifications were needed law on Thursday. in Qatar. Dr Amel Makhlouf, said, “We are pleased to coop- board, said Friday that before the proposal could Moderated by Dr Jona- MCIArb, Lecturer in Law and erate with a leading interna- CVC would seek financing be fully reviewed. than Ercanbrack, Chair of the Research Associate at SOAS, tional Court such as QICDRC assistance from certain co- He noted that CVC pro- Centre of Islamic and Middle spoke about the use of alter- to deliver unique perspectives investors and financial in- poses seeking financing as- Eastern Law and Senior Lec- native dispute resolution in and questions on dispute reso- stitutions. sistance from co-investors turer in Transnational Finan- Islamic law; while Att Turgut lution in the region through a “We expect that such a and banks, which Toshiba cial Law at SOAS, the webinar Aycan Özcan, Head of Inter- panel of international experts. financing process would re- expects will “require a sub- introduced legal professionals national Arbitration Practice We look forward to further quire a substantial amount stantial amount of time and in Qatar and beyond to practi- at LEXIST Law Firm, Istanbul, cooperate with QICDRC in of time and involve com- considerable complexity”. cal insights on the arbitration tackled arbitration practice in SOAS - QICDRC Webinar the future to benefit our legal plexity for consideration,” The proposal “is also practice in Qatar and Turkey, Turkey as a bridge between community and spread the Nagayama said in a state- conditional on a variety of offering an in-depth look into Asia and Europe. awareness about arbitration ment. matters such as clearances”, the latest arbitration trends Dr. Sharar commented on bring together arbitration and ers, arbitrators, counsel, aca- practices in the Islamic and Toshiba’s shares closed he added in a statement. and controversies in the re- the event, “We are pleased to dispute resolution practition- demics and professionals in Middle Eastern countries.” 10 Monday, April 12, 2021 Economy & Business Kahramaa in QR63 million switch contract with Al Bidda Factory

QNA a result of a comprehensive cially considering the prefer- Doha urban and development re- ence of national products go naissance in the country, and according to legislation. Qatar General Electric- the accompanying increased Kahramaa provides tech- ity and Water Corpora- demand for electricity, pro- nical support to local fac- tion (Kahramaa) signed a vided that these switches are tories to rehabilitate them new contract with Al Bidda kept in the stores of the sup- and adopt them in the list of Switchgear Company for plier, and then supplied di- suppliers, in line with strate- the supply of internal feed- rectly to contractors, within gies to encourage the private er switches, with a value two days following the issu- sector in accordance with of QR63 million, for three ance of the order. the principle of economic in- years, and by ordering when The contract is an ex- novation and has previously needed. tension of a previous con- signed contracts with a num- The contract was signed tract signed by Kahramaa ber of those factories, to di- by Kahramaa President Issa with the same company, versify their sources locally bin Hilal Al Kuwari and with a value of QR3.3 mil- and internationally. Chairman of the Board of Di- lion for the supply of feed- Through this, the cor- rectors of Al Bidda Switch- ing panels, and within the poration contributes to en- gear Company Sheikh Su- framework of the plans to couraging local investment haim Abdulaziz Al Thani. raise the stock of materi- The contract was signed by Kahramaa President Issa bin Hilal Al Kuwari and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Al Bidda Switchgear and diversifying its base, According to the con- als needed to develop the Company Sheikh Suhaim Abdulaziz Al Thani. after these manufacturing tract, the company will meet electricity network, and companies have proven their the needs of Kahramaa for in support of the national Corporation is keen to give their competitiveness. contract demonstrates the which stimulates investment ability to compete with their switches, after the recent in- product and the march of local companies priority ob- The winning of Al Bidda continuous support of Kah- in this field, and encourages counterparts in providing crease of demand for them as the Qatari economy, as the taining tenders, to enhance Switchgear Company of the ramaa for Qatari factories, entering into tenders, espe- materials.

China’s antitrust regulator bulking QIB Q1 net profit grows up as crackdown on firms continues by 9% to QR750 million Agencies tions, daily operations and lications. Bassel Gamal, QIB research projects will also Group’s CEO has also entered China’s competition be increased, said three Assets increase by Forbes’ prestigious Top CEOs watchdog is adding staff and of the people cited above 8.5% to QR180 bil- in the Middle East ranking. other resources as it ramps and one more person with QIB has been awarded up efforts to crack down on knowledge of the matter. lion from Q1 2020 four prestigious accolades anti-competitive behaviour, The people declined to at the Global Finance Maga- especially among the coun- be named as they were not Tribune News Network zine’s World’s Best Islamic try’s powerful companies, authorised to speak to the Doha Banks Awards for 2021, in- people with knowledge of media. cluding ‘Best Islamic Corpo- the matter told Reuters. The SAMR did not im- Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB) rate Bank – Global’ in addi- Beijing’s plan to bulk up mediately respond to Reu- has posted QR750 million tion to ‘Best Islamic Bank in the State Administration for ters request for comment. net profit for the first three the Middle East’ and ‘Best Market Regulation (SAMR) “An increase in staffing months of the year, represent- Islamic Bank in Qatar’ for comes as China revamps its as well as in the quality of ing a growth of 9.1 percent the second consecutive year, competition law with pro- the bureau’s law enforce- over the same period in 2020. and ‘Best Islamic Bank in posed amendments includ- ment capabilities is a must Continued growth in fi- Sudan’. ing a sharp increase in fines for an antitrust push,” said nancing activities drove the QIB was also recognised and expanded criteria for Liu Xu, a researcher at the bank’s total assets up by 8.5 with two prestigious titles judging a company’s control National Strategy Institute percent from Q1 2020 and at The Digital Banker Maga- of a market. of Tsinghua University. 3.4% from Q4 2020 to QR180 zine’s Middle East & Africa On Saturday, the watch- “Otherwise regulators billion. Innovation Awards 2021, as dog slapped a record $2.75 won’t be able to handle mul- Financing activities have ‘Best Mobile Initiative in Qa- billion fine onA libaba af- tiple cases at one time, and now reached QR125 billion, tar’ and ‘Best Bank for Cash ter an antimonopoly probe the public will question how having grown by 9.8 percent Management in Qatar.’ The found the e-commerce giant transparent the investiga- compared to Q1 2020 and up Bank received ‘Digital Bank had abused its dominant tion process would be,” said by 5.1 percent compared to Q4, of the Year in Qatar’ and market position for several Liu, a long-time advocate 2020. Customer Deposits of ‘Best Retail Mobile Banking years. for antitrust enforcement. the Bank now stand at QR126 Experience in Qatar’ at The The fine underscores The SAMR’s antitrust billion registering a growth of Asset Triple A Digital Awards the challenges ahead for bureau was established in 14.3 percent compared to Q1 2021. The Bank was also rec- companies, including global early 2018 after two other 2020 and up by 6.6 percnet ognized as ‘Best Islamic Bank firms with operations in government departments compared to Q4 2020. in the Middle East’, ‘Best Dig- China, mainly in a tech sec- were merged into it to form The bank’s total income ital Bank of the Year in Qatar’ tor that thrived during years a single authority to police for Q1 2021 was QR2.1 billion, and ‘Best Mobile Banking in of relatively laissez-faire monopolistic activities. registering 8 percent growth Qatar International Bank announced its first quarter financial results on Sunday. Qatar’ at the International market regulation. The bureau has also compared to QR1.9 billion Business Magazine Award It also mirrors the in- been armed with new and for the same period in 2020. sector. sary actions and precautions also affirmed the Long-term 2021. creasing activism of U.S. more stringent laws in the Income from financing and QIB was able to maintain for safety and well-being of its deposit ratings at “A1”. In QIB was awarded the ‘Best and European antitrust au- past few months. investing activities has regis- the ratio of non-performing employees, customers and to April 2021, Capital Intel- Islamic Bank in Qatar’ by Is- thorities in recent years. SAMR’s enhanced pow- tered a growth of 1.8 percent financing assets to total -fi the community at large. ligence Ratings (CI) has af- lamic Finance News (IFN), The Beijing-headquar- ers come as Chinese Presi- to reach QR1.758 billion nancing assets at 1.5 percent Total shareholders’ eq- firmed the Bank’s Long-term the world’s leading Islamic tered agency plans to ex- dent Xi Jinping weighed in The bank was also able to reflecting the quality of the uity of the bank has reached Currency Rating (LTCR) of finance publication and news pand its antitrust workforce last month on the need to achieve significant reduction bank’s financing assets port- QR18.1 billion. Total capital ‘A+’. In the backdrop of chal- provider, for the second con- by around 20 to 30 staff, “strengthen antitrust pow- in cost of funding (profit paid folio. Given the ongoing un- adequacy of the bank under lenging economic conditions secutive year. The Bank was up from about 40 now, two ers” to rein in behemoths to Sukuk and Unrestricted certainties related to impact Basel III guidelines is 19 per- due to the ongoing pandemic, named the ‘Best Islamic Bank people with direct knowl- that play a dominant role Investment Account holders) of pandemic, the bank created cent as of March 2021, higher affirmation of the rating by all in Qatar’ at the 13th edition edge of the matter said. in the country’s consumer enabling robust growth in the additional precautionary im- than the minimum regulatory the rating agencies with a sta- of the Middle East Banking The watchdog also plans sector. net operating income. pairment charge on financing requirements prescribed by ble outlook is a reflection of Awards, presented by EMEA to delegate case reviewing “They didn’t feel they Total operating expenses assets for QR558 million for Qatar Central Bank and Basel Bank’s adequate capital buff- Finance. QIB has also been power to its local bureaux had the mandate to do it but for Q1 2021 was QR269 mil- Q1 2021 as against QR219 mil- Committee. ers, good profitability, rela- awarded four prestigious ac- and source additional man- now they do. And they are lion as against QR271 million lion set aside during the same In March 2021, Standard tively conservative manage- colades at the 2021 Global power from other govern- happy about that,” said a for the same period in 2020. period last year. & Poor’s (S&P) affirmed the ment, limited market-funding Banking & Finance Review ment bodies and agencies legal source close to SAMR, Strong operating income gen- QIB continues to pursue Bank’s credit rating at ‘A-’ reliance, supported by its es- Awards, including ‘Best Bank to handle cases that require referring to the need to eration and cost containment the conservative impairment while upgrading the Bank’s tablished and growing Islamic Transformation Qatar 2021’, extensive investigation, regulate the internet com- enabled the bank to achieve policy maintaining a healthy Stand-Alone Credit Profile.I n banking franchise ‘Best Islamic Digital Bank Qa- four other people said. panies, which, he said, were further efficiencies bringing 92.3 percent coverage ratio November 2020, Fitch Rat- In the first quarter of 2021, tar 2021’, ‘Best Islamic Retail Budgets allocated for seen as “a bit above the down the cost to income ra- for non-performing financing ings affirmed the Bank’s credit QIB has received a number of Bank Qatar 2021’ and ‘Best antimonopoly investiga- law.” tio to 17 percent, which is the assets as of March 2021. The rating at ‘A’ and Moody’s In- prestigious awards from well- Islamic Corporate Bank Qatar lowest in the Qatari banking bank continues to take neces- vestors Service, (Moody’s) respected international pub- 2021’. 285 new buildings come up in Qatar in March as permits for 573 more issued

Tribune News Network for new buildings, including as workshops and factories saw an 8 percent decline from Doha both residential and non-res- with 23 percent (17). Other that in February. idential structures. Almost 47 non-residential building per- The last month also saw Even as Qatar’s construc- percent (567) of them are for mits accounted for 8 percent the completion of 285 new tion industry in March 2021 extensions or additions and (six) of the total. buildings — 231 residential lost some of the pace it picked the remaining 5 percent (54) Al Rayyan on top In March, Al Rayyan mu- and 54 non-residential build- up in February, activity in for fencing purposes. nicipality issued the highest ings. A review of the building the key villa construction re- Of the residential permits, In March, Al Rayyan number of building permits completion certificates is- mained strong. those for “dwellings of hous- municipality issued the — 445 permits or 37 percent sued in March shows that Al Almost 71 percent of the ing loans permits” account- highest number of building of the total. It is followed by Rayyan municipality issued permits issued in March for ed for 21 percent (107) and permits — 445 permits. It is Doha with 215 permits or 106 certificates. It is followed new residential buildings are apartments accounted for 5 followed by Doha with 215, Al 18 percent, Al Da’ayen with by Al Wakrah with 100, Al for villa construction, sug- percent (23). As many as 355 Da’ayen with 179, Al Wakra 179 permits or 15 percent, Al Da’ayen with 61, Doha with gesting a solid construction permits (71 percent) were is- with 171, Umm Slal with 89, Wakra with 171 permits or 14 58, Umm Slal with 36, Al growth outlook in the resi- sued for villa construction. percent, Umm Slal with 89 Khor with 14, Al Shammal dential building sector. The PSA report also Al Khor with 41, Al Shehaniya permits or 7 percent, Al Khor with 13 and Al Shahaniya According to the Plan- shows pronounced activity in with 38 and Al Shammal with with 41 permits or 3 percent, with six. ning and Statistics Author- the construction of commer- 16 permits. Al Shehaniya with 38 permits When compared with the ity (PSA), municipalities in cial buildings. Of the permits or 3 percent and Al Shammal building completion certifi- Qatar issued 1,194 building issued for building non-resi- commercial buildings. It is with 16 permits or 2 percent. cates issued in February, PSA Almost 71 percent of the permits issued in March for new residential permits in March. Nearly 48 dential structures in March, followed by permits for state The total number of build- has reported a 17 percent in- buildings are for villa construction, suggesting a solid construction percent (573) of them are 44 percent (32) were for and industrial buildings such ing permits issued in March crease in March. growth outlook in the residential building sector. Monday, April 12, 2021 11 Economy & Business Business faces tricky path navigating post-Trump politics For decades the GOP and business have shared common ground, especially with their mutual belief in low taxes and the need to repeal regulations. But the relationship has come under increasing pressure as companies take cultural stands and other interests diverge

Agencies new restrictive law, which voting rights groups have excoriated as an For more than a half-century, the attack on democracy. The intended voice emerging from the U.S. Cham- punishment was rendered moot af- ber of Commerce’s monolithic, ter the GOP Senate failed to take it Beaux Arts-styled building near the up before the legislative session ad- White House was predictable: It was journed. the embodiment of American busi- Campaign finance disclosures ness and, more specifically, a shared suggest corporate America’s money set of interests with the Republican doesn’t buy as much influence as it Party. once did. The party’s bond with corporate Roughly a decade ago, donations America, however, is fraying. from company-sponsored political Fissures have burst open over action committees accounted for an the GOP’s embrace of conspiracy important share of the fundraising theories and rejection of main- pie. But it’s stagnated as a source of stream climate science, as well as campaign cash, as court rulings ena- its dismissal of the 2020 election bled wealthy GOP activists to pour outcome. The most recent flash- money into the political system. point was in Georgia, where a new Just 10 GOP megadonors ac- Republican-backed law restricting count for half of the giving to major voting rights drew harsh criticism super political action committees from Delta Air Lines and Coca Cola, controlled by Republican congres- whose headquarters are in the state, sional leaders since 2012, collec- and resulted in Major League Base- tively pouring $541 million into ball pulling the 2021 All-Star Game the committees, according to an from Atlanta. analysis by The Associated Press of Republicans were furious. Sen- donors who gave over $1,000. The ate Minority Leader Mitch McCo- megadonors also contributed twice nnell of Kentucky warned that their as much as conventional PACs and actions were “quite stupid,” alien- other groups that represent a broad ating “a lot of Republican fans.” swath of corporate interests. GOP strategists argued that they no Political spending by the Cham- longer needed corporate America’s ber has also dropped precipitously. money to win elections as they try After spending $29 million in 2016, to rebrand as a party of blue-collar mostly supporting Republicans and workers. attacking Democrats, the group’s That extends an opportunity to contributions dropped to $10.9 mil- President Joe Biden and congres- lion in 2018, according to data from sional Democrats to find an ally in nonpartisan Center for Responsive an unlikely place when the party has This file photo shows One Times Square in New York’s Times Square. Politics. In 2020, the group en- unified control of the federal gov- dorsed 23 Democrats, which Re- ernment for the first time in a dec- publicans saw as a betrayal. ade. Biden is pushing an ambitious That’s diminished the group’s $2.3 trillion infrastructure package once unassailable standing with that includes corporate tax increas- GOP congressional leaders. es — which the White House is char- “There is absolutely no love lost acterizing to CEOs as upfront in- for corporations, especially when vestments that will ultimately make they consistently weigh in on things companies more profitable. they don’t understand,” said Josh “It’s important for making the Holmes, a political adviser to McCo- country more competitive,” said Ce- nnell. “There’s no sympathy.” Com- dric Richmond, the White House’s mon ground still exists between Re- director of public engagement. “We publicans and business on the value think the plan is so important to of tax cuts. The Chamber and the the country that we are advocating Business Roundtable oppose rais- and singing its praises to all busi- ing the corporate rate to 28% from nesses.” Commerce Secretary Gina the 21% level set in 2017, as well as Raimondo estimates she has talked an enhanced global minimum tax. to more than 50 business leaders Yet both groups want government about the plan, including a round of spending on infrastructure. Easter weekend phone calls. She is Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo speaks during a press briefing at the White Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell listens to a reporter’s question during a Neil Bradley, the Chamber’s encouraging companies to focus on House in Washington. news conference in Lexington. chief policy officer, said the broad- the entire package instead of the tax er business community isn’t fully increases. ency group at war within themselves, the Bureau of Labor Statistics show for 71% of all U.S. economic activity, consumers through liberal social aligned with either party. But the “You can’t look at one piece of which has become the hallmark that workers are more racially di- according to the Brookings Institu- politics. hyperpartisan nature of today’s pol- it and say that one number makes of the GOP.” Corporate America’s verse and younger than the Repub- tion. “They are never going to sat- itics is creating pressure to choose you walk away,” she said. “They marriage with Republicans has long lican base. Democrats say business are isfy the demands of the left,” said one side. say, ‘That’s fair. Let me think about been one of convenience, united by James Bailey, a management comfortable partnering with them Steven Law, a former attorney for “It really causes people to want it.’ That’s how they run their busi- a belief in low taxes and the need to professor at George Washington to address longstanding issues such the Chamber who now runs Senate to sort everything into a red camp or nesses.” Whether the corporate split repeal regulations. But the relation- University, published an analysis as infrastructure after a decade of Leadership Fund, a big-spending a blue camp,” he said. “Businesses with the GOP widens could help an- ship, already strained during Don- last year that suggested people who congressional gridlock, even though outside group aligned with McCo- aren’t partisan. They aren’t Repub- swer questions about the political ald Trump’s presidency, has come identified as Democrats cared more companies dislike the possibility of nnell. Meantime “they risk alienat- licans or Democrats. They have to direction of the country and the ex- under increasing pressure as com- about a company’s political activity footing the bill. ing their natural allies in the Repub- operate and function in divided tent to which business can continue panies take cultural stands. than Republicans do. Of business ”Responsible corporate leaders lican Party.” Still, Republicans have governments, operate in states that to influence Washington. That Republicans and business- people, he said the uproar over the want economic growth and predict- been a major driver of the rift, look- are solid blue and solid red.” Repub- “Nobody in the business com- es report to increasingly distinct Georgia voting law “is a great op- able, competent policy— that’s what ing to capitalize on the culture clash licans caution, however, that busi- munity wants hostile communities, constituencies helps explain the portunity for them to get on board Democrats are offering.” said Rep. to turn out the party base in the next ness faces considerable risk weigh- angry finger-pointing workforces tension. with the young socially active con- Sean Patrick Maloney of New York, election. Early indicators suggest ing in on hot-button disputes. and turbulent shareholder bases,” A solid majority of Republi- sumer and to do so without much who is running the House Demo- business could face blowback. “They ought to tread carefully said Jeffrey A. Sonnenfeld, a senior can voters are white (86%) and cost.” Just as important, Democrat- crats’ campaign arm for the 2022 Georgia’s Republican-controlled because they risk getting into the associate dean at the Yale School of older than 50 (62%), according to ic counties have become the primary midterm elections. House voted to strip Delta of a tax middle of a culture war that will earn Management. “It makes your job so APVoteCast, a national survey of the engines for growth. The counties Many Republicans are exasper- break worth tens of millions of dol- them no friends and a lot of ene- much harder to have every constitu- 2020 electorate. Yet figures from that backed Biden last year account ated by business’s efforts to woo lars annually for its criticism of the mies,” said Law, the McConnell ally.

IMF warns on rising debt in COVID-hit Middle East, Central Asia

Agencies highly uncertain and recovery The IMF said “early inocu- eroded state finances last year. need about $1.1 trillion dur- paths will diverge depending lators”, which include the oil- In the Middle East and ing 2021-22 from $784bn in The International Monetary on the speed of vaccinations, rich Gulf countries, Kazakh- North Africa, fiscal deficits 2018-19. Fund (IMF) has said countries reliance on heavily affected stan, and Morocco, will reach widened to 10.1 percent of the This presents financial sta- in the Middle East and Central sectors, such as tourism, and 2019 gross domestic product GDP in 2020 from 3.8 percent bility risks and could slow eco- Asia need to curb their financ- countries’ fiscal policy. (GDP) levels next year, while in 2019. nomic recovery. Many coun- ing requirements, as a surge in “Recovery has started, but recovery to those levels is ex- The crisis led many coun- tries rely on domestic banks to government debt, exacerbated recovery has started in an un- pected to take one year more tries to raise debt, partly tak- fund sovereign needs, which by the coronavirus pandemic, even, uncertain way,” Jihad for other countries. ing advantage of abundant li- could make credit less easily threatens recovery prospects. Azour, director of the Middle “High financingneeds quidity in the global markets, available for corporates and The region, which includes East and Central Asia Depart- could constrain the policy to afford extra spending need- small enterprises. almost 30 countries from ment at the IMF, told Reuters space required to support the ed to mitigate the effect of the Countries with high ex- Mauritania to Kazakhstan, news agency. recovery,” the Washington- pandemic. ternal debt have also become saw an economic rebound in “The outlook is uncertain based global lender said in its The IMF warned that fi- more vulnerable to a tighten- the third quarter as countries because the legacies of the Regional and Economic Out- nancing needs are projected ing of global financial condi- relaxed measures to contain pre-COVID-19 are still there, look Update. to increase over the com- tions, which would increase the new coronavirus. especially for countries who Lower demand and a ing two years, with emerging their borrowing costs and curb A view shows a local food market in Almaty But the outlook remains have high levels of debt.” slump in commodity prices markets in the region likely to access to markets. High jump QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune world champion QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune Mutaz Barshim unveils hidden sides of his training MONday, APRIL 12, 2021 page 15 Al Sadd team flies off to Riyadh forA FC Champions League group stage matches Tribune News Network Doha

The Al Sadd first team squad departed for Riyadh on Sun- day ahead of their participa- tion in the group stage of the AFC Champions League 2021. The QNB Stars League champions will play in the Group D of the AFC Champions League, which includes Al Nassr (Saudi Arabia), Al Wehdat (Jor- dan), and Foolad (Iran). The Al Sadd delegation in- cludes members of the techni- cal and administrative staff as well as 24 players, and is head- ed by Turki Al Ali, the club’s general manager. Squad: Saad Al Dossari, Me- shaal Barsham, Jehad Muham- mad, Yousuf Al Balushi, Ahmed Sayyar, Pedro Miguel, Hassan Al Haydos, Nam Tae hee, Muham- mad Waad, Khoukhi Boualem, Guilherme Torres, Rodrigo Tabata, Baghdad Bounedjah, Al Sadd team members at the Hamad International Airport in Doha prior to their departure to Riyadh on Sunday for AFC Champions League group stage matches. Salem Al Hajri, Tarek Salman, Yousuf Abdurisag, Hussam Ka- Nasser Al Ali, (General Man- Abdulaziz Al Jaidi (U-23 Team Coach), Evan Torres (Fitness Akram Obaid and Carlos Musa Puthan and Muhammad 22nd and last round of the mal, Musab Khidir, Ahmed Su- ager), Muhammad Ghulam Manager). Coach), Xavi Fernando (Goal- Nogueira (Physiotherapists), Imran (Support Staff). QNB Stars League. hail, Bahaa Al Laithi, Hashem Al Balushi (Sports Direc- Technical staff: Xavi Her- keeper Coach), David Prats, Admir (Massage Specialist), The team held their last Meanwhile, Akram Afif Ali, Abdelkarim Hassan, Santi tor), Abdullah Al Breik (First nandez (Head Coach), Ser- Sergio Garcia and Tony Lobo Yousuf Shaheen, Samir Shaw- training session in Doha at was ruled out of the squad as Cazorla, Ali Asad. Team Manager), Muhammad gio Alegre (Assistant Coach), (Analysts), Flavio Cruz (Team qi and Kiran Nanu (Club Me- 6pm on Saturday, after their he is still recovering from a Administrative staff: Turki Saeed (First Team Officer), Oscar Hernandez (Assistant Doctor), Raouf Bougamra, dia Staff), Abdul Malik Wahid, 3-0 win over Qatar SC, in the muscle injury. Al Rayyan depart to India for AFC CL match up vs FC Goa Man United pile pressure on Mourinho with comback win at Spurs DPA In winning in north Lon- Greenwood killed the London don they poured more misery game at the death with an im- on Mourinho, who now has to pressive finish, beating Lloris Manchester United piled be fighting for his job at Tot- at his near post. the pressure on their former tenham after this defeat leaves “We dominated the whole manager Jose Mourinho with their hopes of Champions second half to be fair, so it’s a 3-1 win at Tottenham that League qualification in tatters. a brilliant win,” United mid- continues their own hopes of “My opinion, it was a good fielderS cott McTominay said. posting an invincible Premier game, my opinion, we didn’t Jesse Lingard continued League season on the road. deserve this result at all, but his one-man crusade to get United, who controversial- we lost against a very good West Ham into the Champi- ly had an opening goal ruled team,” Mourinho said. ons League with two goals in a out, fell behind to Son Heung- Victor Lindelof inexplica- 3-2 win over Leicester. min’s effort before half-time bly missed a clearance, allow- The England midfielder but they roared back after the ing Lucas Moura in on goal took his goal tally to eight in The Al Rayyan sports club team left Doha on Sunday for break and deservedly won it and the Brazilian squared for nine appearances since join- India for their AFC Champions League match up against FC thanks to goals from Fred, Son to tap home his first Pre- ing on loan from Manchester Goa. FC Goa entered the AFC Champions League 2020-21 Edinson Cavani and Mason mier League goal since Febru- United in January to help lift group stage by virtue of winning the league shield at the Greenwood. ary. the Hammers back into the 2019-20 Indian Super League. The Gaurs are grouped with It extends their unbeaten United levelled in the 57th top four. Persepolis FC (2019-20 Persian Gulf Pro League champi- away record to 23 Premier minute. Paul Pogba played in David Moyes’ side held off ons) and Al-Rayyan FC (2019-20 Qatar Stars League third League games, matching Ar- Cavani, whose shot was saved a late Leicester fightback and place) in Group E. The winners of the play-off tie between senal’s run between August by Hugo Lloris, but Fred was are now just a point behind Al Wahda (2018-19 UAE Pro League third place) and Al- 2001 and September 2002, on hand to slam home the the third-placed Foxes, and Zawraa (2018-19 Iraq FA Cup winners) will join Group E and if they can avoid de- equaliser. still on course to gatecrash Eu- as the fourth team. All group E matches will be played at feat in their final three away The visitors deservedly rope’s elite next season. the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Fatorda, Goa. The AFC games at Leeds, Aston Villa took the lead 11 minutes from Scoreline: Manchester United Champions League 2021 West Zone group stage will kick and Wolves then they will be- time when Cavani finally got 3 (Fred 57’, Edinson Cavani off on April 14 and conclude on April 30. Each side will come just the third club to go on the scoresheet as he nod- 79’, Mason Greenwood 90+6’) play six games in the group stages in centralized venues. through a top-flight season ded Mason Greenwood’s cross bt Tottenham 1 (Son Heung- The group leaders will then qualify for the knock-outs. The without a loss. into the bottom corner. min 40’). top three runners-up will also join the group leaders in the knock-outs. The East Zone group stage matches will be played in June-July. Sheffield 0-3 Arsenal: Saka limps off as Gunners cruise to win DPA Arsenal ahead and, shortly into the side-netting at the end fort over the bar before Saka London after Saka had departed the of an excellent counter-attack. came off in some discomfort to stage with an injury, Gabriel Martinelli was then de- give Gunners manager Mikel Arsenal cruised to a 3-0 Martinelli made sure of the nied by Aaron Ramsdale Arteta cause for concern. win over SheffieldUnited in points prior to a late second and Calum Chambers saw a He had reason to smile the Premier League but saw for Lacazette. goal-bound effort blocked by again in the 71st minute when Bukayo Saka limp off ahead Arsenal are ninth, 10 Enda Stevens before Arsenal Martinelli tapped in on the of their crucial Europa League points adrift of fourth-placed deservedly broke the dead- rebound after Ramsdale par- clash with Slavia Prague. West Ham, but their hopes of lock in style. ried Nicolas Pepe’s low shot, The Gunners were always Champions League qualifica- Lacazette started and fin- with the impressive Lacazette in control of Sunday’s contest tion rest on Thursday’s quar- ished the move, laying off for applying gloss to the score- at Bramall Lane, which will ter-final second leg in Prague, Saka, whose return pass was line in the 85th minute as he surely soon no longer be a Pre- where they must score after a exquisitely flicked by Dani latched on to Thomas Partey’s mier League venue given the 1-1 draw in the first game. Ceballos to allow the former throughball and rifled home. Blades are near certainties for Saka and David McGol- Lyon striker to roll into the the drop. drick wasted presentable op- bottom-right corner. Scoreline: Arsenal 3 (Alexandre Manchester United’s Brazilian midfielder Fred greets Tottenham Hotspur players as he stands next to Alexandre Lacazette’s su- portunities in the opening 10 A largely low-key second Lacazette 33’, 85’; Gabriel Mar- Tottenham Hotspur’s Portuguese head coach Jose Mourinho following Manchester United’s 3-1 win in the perb 33rd-minute opener put minutes before Martinelli fired half saw Lacazette bend an ef- tinelli 71’) bt Sheffield United 0. English Premier League match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London on Sunday. (AFP) Sports Monday, April 12, 2021 13 Qatar 2022: Generation Amazing reaches 725,000 beneficiaries The legacy programme is aiming to positively benefit 1 million youth by FIFA World Cup 2022 kick-off

he FIFA World Cup Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Committee for Qatar 2022 legacy Delivery & Legacy. Tprogramme Genera- tion Amazing has surpassed 725,000 beneficiaries. The mark was reached during the week of the United Nations (UN) International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, which was established to highlight the importance of sport in achieving the UN Sus- tainable Development Goals. In a special message on the day, Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary-General of the Su- preme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), said: “Every day, somewhere on this plan- Programmes Director, Nasser we try to inspire them as much et, sport is changing our world Al Khori, spoke about impact- as we can.” for the better. It’s a universal ful ways to prevent violent ex- Al Khori was joined on language, transcending cul- tremism and rebuild societies the panel by Sean Arbuthnot, tures and borders, and it pos- using sport. from St Philip’s Centre, Lihini Having conducted active sesses a unique power to unify “Sport has that transform- Weerasinghe, from the Na- programming in more and inspire.” ative power to break down tional Youth Services Council than 10 countries, Speaking about Genera- barriers, to bring people to- in Sri Lanka, modern pentath- Generation Amazing tion Amazing’s progress to- gether and to create a cohe- lete Aya Medany and Agnes continues to work date, Al Thawadi added: “On sive environment and society. Atwijukire from the Integrated this United Nations Interna- Sport is an enabler.” Community Development Ini- towards its objective of tional Day of Sport for De- Discussing the ways in tiative. positively impacting 1 velopment and Peace, we cel- which Generation Amazing Generation Amazing has million lives through ebrate the success of our social has put youth at the forefront also launched its new brand football for development and human legacy programme of its programme, Al Khori identity, inspired by its vi- outreach and education Generation Amazing. Driven added: “We have a youth ad- sion to pass on core life skills by 2022. by that unifying and inspiring vocacy programme, where we through sport and deliver so- mission, Generation Amaz- engage with youth in our com- cial change globally. ing has reached over 725,000 munity clubs and enroll them Influenced by the blue pacting 1 million lives through beneficiaries around the world in capacity building opportu- colour and shapes of the SC, football for development out- through football for develop- nities and training sessions. it shows the way forward for reach and education by 2022. ment programmes and com- “We try to empower youth, Generation Amazing. Follow @GA4Good on munity pitches.” we help them develop their Having conducted active Twitter, Instagram and Fa- Meanwhile, at a UN panel life skills and communication programming in more than 10 cebook for more about Gen- held during the Economic and skills. These skills show them countries, Generation Amaz- eration Amazing’s latest ac- Social Council Youth Forum that there is a different path; ing continues to work towards tivities. 2021, Generation Amazing there’s a future, there’s hope, its objective of positively im- (SC.qa) Schalke celebrate their first win since Juve stay on course for CL spot, Inter January; Mainz secure late triumph continue winning run DPA win with the team. Berlin Mainz opened the scoring DPA moved a point behind third- at Cologne after Jean-Paul Berlin placed Milan with eight games An early goal by Suat Serd- Boetius scored his first goal of to play. ar on Sunday put an end to the season, but Ondrej Duda Dejan Kulusevski scored his Antonio Conte’s table- Schalke’s 12-game run of win- equalized for the hosts from first goal since January as Ju- topping side turned in a slug- less Bundesliga matches and the spot shortly before the ventus took another step to- gish performance in the early secured the team their first break. wards securing a Champions kick-off on Sunday, though win since January. It was then Cologne who League spot with a 3-1 win eventually scored the only In the direct relegation took the lead thanks to Ellyes over Genoa. goal of the game with 13 min- clash, Mainz have secured Skhiri effort in the 61st min- Earlier, Matteo Darmian utes remaining. a late 3-2 win at Cologne to ute, but celebrations didn’t was the unlikely hero as Inter Darmian arrived at the move two points above the last long as Karim Onisiwo made it 11 league wins on the back post to convert Achraf drop zone. levelled things up again four spin with a 1-0 triumph over Hakimi’s low cross from In- Birthday boy Serdar’s goal minutes later. Cagliari, in the process restor- ter’s right flank, the former in the fourth minute, Schalke’s But just when it seemed ing their 11-point lead at the Manchester United defender’s first at home in six games, was like the teams would take one top of Serie A. finishfinally breaking Cagli- enough to secure a 1-0 tri- point each, Mainz came back Kulusevski opened the ari’s stubborn resistance. umph over Augsburg. on injury time to clinch the scoring early on and Alvaro Milan had closed the gap to Schalke, however, remain three points. Leandro Barreiro Morata doubled Juve’s lead the leaders on Saturday thanks bottom of the table and with slotted it home in the 92nd midway through the first half to a 3-1 triumph at Parma, de- a very complicated mission minute to secure the win. of Sunday’s Serie A clash at Al- spite a red card for Zlatan Ibra- to avoid relegation, sitting 13 Mainz moved up to 14th lianz Stadium. himovic after 60 minutes. points away from safety. place and sit two points above Genoa posed much more of Cagliari tried to find a re- “We deserved the win, the relegation zone. a threat after the break and Gi- sponse and Joao Pedro went I deserved the goal. We all Schalke’s German midfielder Suat Serdar (L) celebrates scoring the opening goal during the Bundesliga Cologne dropped to 17th, anluca Scamacca’s goal early in close with a header from a Ga- fought and supported each match against FC Augsburg in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, on Sunday. (AFP) in the direct relegation places, the second half gave them hope. briele Zappa cross in a frenetic other, that’s the only way to and left the play-off spot, now Weston McKennie gave finish - but Inter held firm, succeed,” Serdar summed up. “of course under more pres- record of 31 thanks to a 4-0 that we can enjoy the feeling occupied by Bielefeld with a Andrea Pirlo’s side breathing moving them a step closer to a Augsburg are 11th, six sure.” Earlier this season, victory over Hoffenheim and of victory. It’s probably a feel- three-point advantage. space with a third goal as they first league title in 11 years. points above the drop zone Schalke went on a winless run a Matthew Hoppe hat-trick in ing like being in love for the On Monday, Hoffenheim and coach Heiko Herrlich of 30 games, narrowly avoid- January. firsttime,” coach Dimitrios and Bayer Leverkusen close recognized the team are now ing Tasmania Berlin’s league “We’re brutally happy Grammozis said after his first matchday 28.

Real Madrid’s thrilling Clasico win over Barcelona puts them on top DPA before the half hour mark when currently level with Real on half we were not good in at- (the players), we made a lot Barcelona Toni Kroos’ free kick deflected 66. Barcelona are third on 65. tack or defence, in the second of subs today, we suffered but against Sergino Dest’s back and Barcelona complained of we improved. It’s a very clear nothing changed,” said Zi- Real Madrid held on to earn flew past Jordi Alba on the line. two penalty decisions they penalty, once more we have to dane. a narrow 2-1 El Clasico win Barcelona fought back in the were not given, with Ferland shut up and accept it.” “They are all committed over rivals Barcelona and go second half in torrential rain, Mendy clashing with Ous- Barcelona captain Lionel and they want to play and top of La Liga on Saturday. with Oscar Mingueza pulling a mane Dembele and later Mar- Messi hit the post near the end that’s the good thing. Karim Benzema broke the goal back from close range. tin Braithwaite in the area. of the first half direct from a “We have to enjoy today deadlock in the 13th minute Substitute Ilaix Moriba “I think everyone saw the corner, before Mingueza put his and the other day,” he said, with his ninth goal in his last almost equalized in stoppage game, if you’re a Barcelona fan team back in the game after 60 referring to the team’s defeat seven league games, finishing time, but hit the crossbar. you’re furious, very unhappy minutes. However Madrid held of Liverpool in the Champions Lucas Vazquez’s cross with an Atletico Madrid travel to about the two refereeing deci- on to win an entertaining Cla- League. Juventus’ players celebrate with Spanish forward Alvaro Morata (2ndR) impudent backheel. face Real Betis on Sunday and sions,” said Barcelona coach sico despite a nervy finale. “We got two good results after he scored the second goal during the Italian Serie A match Madrid doubled their lead could go back top with a point, Ronald Koeman. “In the first “Above all I’m happy for and we have to rest well.” against Genoa at the Juventus stadium in Turin on Sunday. (AFP) 14 Monday, April 12, 2021 Sports The Masters and new experience of leading major for Matsuyama

Hideki Matsuyama of Japan looks over his shot on the first green dur- ing the final round of the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club on in Augusta, Georgia, on Sunday. (Getty Images/AFP)

DPA man to win a major event. Augusta “This will be a new expe- rience for me, being a leader Hideki Matsuyama is em- going into the final round in bracing the new experience of a major,” said Matsuyama, leading a major as the Japa- who was one under before the nese golfer stands on the brink weather delay. of history following a red-hot “All I can do is just relax as performance at The Masters. I can tonight, prepare well and Matsuyama seized control just do my best tomorrow.” of the tournament at Augusta, Matsuyama - making his where the five-time PGAT our 87th start since his last vic- champion earned a four-stroke tory at the 2017 WGC-FedEx lead thanks to his flawless St Jude Invitational - posted third-round 65 on Saturday. the first bogey-free round this After inclement weather week and his best score in 37 halted proceedings, Matsuy- rounds at The Masters. ama – chasing his maiden The 29-year-old, who major title – jumped out of the birdied the seventh hole on a blocks and gained six shots in bogey-free front nine, was red seven holes to blitz the field in hot following the turn, birdie- A general view of the first tee as Hideki Matsuyama of Japan and Xander Schauffele of the United States prepare to start their final round of the Masters at Augusta National Golf Georgia. ing the 11th and 12th. Club in Augusta, Georgia, US, on Sunday. (Getty Images/AFP) Matsuyama heads into Unstoppable, Matsuyama Sunday’s final round as the eagled the 15th before follow- probably hit the worst shot the horn blew, I didn’t hit a pace at the start of the day but “Maybe I wouldn’t have be- paired with 2019 Masters run- player to beat at 11 under ing that up with back-to-back I’ve hit this week,” he said. very good drive, but after the turned the tables to soar to the lieved it, but I did play well ner-up and former PGA Tour through 54 holes, ahead of birdies at the 16th and 17th as “And during the rain delay, horn blew for the restart, I hit summit. today. Rookie of the Year Schauffele Xander Schauffele, March he soared to 11 under through I just figured, practically every shot exactly Asked what he would have “And my game plan was in the final round. Leishman, Justin rose and 54 holes. “I can’t hit anything worse how I wanted to,” continued thought had he been told he carried out, and hopefully to- Of the last 30 Masters Will Zalatoris, while looking “During the rain delay, or than that. And so maybe it re- Matsuyama. would end the day four strokes morrow I can continue good champions, 25 have come to become the first Japanese right before the rain delay, I lieved some pressure.” “Before Matsuyama was off the lead, Matsuyama added: form.” Matsuyama has been from the last pairing. Spirited all-round performance helps KKR defeat SRH by 10 runs ANI Rana in the middle and the duo Chennai kept on ticking the scoreboard along. In the 10th over, Rana Nitish Rana and Rahul Tri- dispatched a short ball bowled pathi’s knocks of 80 and 53 by Vijay Shankar and as a re- were backed by a spirited sult, he brought up his fifty. bowling performance as Kol- Rana and Tripathi con- kata Knight Riders triumphed tinued with their carnage Veronika Kudermetova of Russia with the Volvo Car Open trophy in over SunRisers Hyderabad by and they started the on- Charleston on Sunday. 10 runs on Sunday at the MA slaught from the 11th over of Chidambaram Stadium. the innings. KKR first posted a total of Tripathi went on to register Kudermetova wins first 187/6 in the allotted twenty his half-century in the 15th over overs and then the bowlers of the innings and KKR looked managed to restrict SRH to set for a big total after being career title in Charleston 177/5. For Eoin Morgan’s side, 145/1 at the end of the 15th Prasidh Krishna managed to over. However, in trying to fur- WTA errors by the Russian. By con- take two wickets. ther accelerate the innings, Tri- Daniel Island (US) trast, World No.91 Kovinic had For SRH, Jonny Bairstow pathi (53) ended up losing his those totals flipped almost ex- and Manish Pandey played wicket to Natarajan in the 16th Veronika Kudermetova actly, with the Montenegrin’s knocks of 55 and 61 respectively. over, ending the 93-run stand swept to her first career WTA 18 winners being outweighed Chasing 188, SRH got off for the second wicket. singles title on Sunday, cap- by 22 unforced errors. to a bad start as the side lost its Andre Russell (5) failed to ping her milestone tourna- Kudermetova started with skipper David Warner (3) in leave a mark with the bat as he ment in Charleston by defeat- a break of Kovinic in the open- the second over of the innings. was dismissed by Rashid Khan ing Danka Kovinic, 6-4, 6-2 in ing game of the match before Prasidh Krishna provided the and in the very next over, the Volvo Car Open final. Kovinic’s tremendous footspeed first breakthrough to KKR. In Rana (80) and Eoin Morgan No.15 seed Kudermetova allowed her to extend rallies and the very next over, Shakib Al (2) were sent back to the pa- did not drop a set all week as force errors from the Russian, Hasan clean bowled Wriddhi- vilion by Mohammed Nabi as she won a 96-minute battle pulling her back level at 2-2. man Saha (7), reducing SRH Kolkata Knight Riders players greet Sunrisers Hyderabad players after their win in the Vivo Indian Premier SRH maintained a strangle- between two players seeking a A lengthy hold for 3-3, to 10/2. League 2021 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday. (BCCI/IPL) hold over the KKR batters in first-ever title. The Russian is though, served Kudermetova Pandey and Bairstow then the death overs. the first Charleston champion well, and she gritted out the got together at the crease and In trying to hit big shots, However, in the end, KKR six overs. Rana took on the In the final two overs, to have a flawless set record next long game as well, which the duo revived SRH’s innings Mohammad Nabi (14) also managed to hang on to gain a aggressive role and he dis- Dinesh Karthik (22*) and Shak- since Serena Williams pulled ended with Kovinic misfiring as both batters put on 92 runs ended up losing his wicket 10-run victory. patched all the SRH bowlers ib (3) managed to add a few off the feat in 2012. on two straight dropshots to for the third wicket. The part- to Prasidh in the 16th over Earlier, Rana and Tripathi for regular boundaries, while crucial runs and KKR’s total got World No.38 Kudermeto- cede the service break. nership between these two and hopes of an SRH win re- played knocks of 80 and 53 Gill played the second fiddle. beyond the 185-run mark. va became the fifth first-time More outstanding defence batters saw Bairstow register- lied heavily on Pandey. Vijay respectively as Kolkata Knight The introduction of Rashid Scores: Kolkata Knight Riders winner this season, just min- by Kovinic helped her fend off ing a half-century. However, Shankar (11) also did not man- Riders (KKR) posted a total of Khan paid off instantly as he 187/6 (Nitish Rana 80, Rahul utes after Maria Camila Oso- two set points at 5-3, but aggres- the introduction of Pat Cum- age to stay at the crease for a 187/6 in the allotted twenty clean bowled Gill (15) in the Tripathi 53, Rashid Khan rio Serrano also picked up her sive play by Kudermetova got mins in the 13th over, paid off long haul, but Abdul Samad overs. Asked to bat first, KKR seventh over of the innings, 2-24); SunRisers Hyderabad first title in Bogota. her the one-set lead in the next as he got the prized scalp of hit Pat Cummins for two six- got off to a solid start as open- ending the 53-run opening 177/5 (Manish Pandey 61*, The victory continues game, as she ended the frame Bairstow (55), with SRH still es in the penultimate over to ers Nitish Rana and Shubman stand between Gill and Rana. Jonny Bairstow 55, Prasidh a breakthrough 2021 for with an error-forcing overhead. needing 86 runs for the win. revive SRH’s hopes of a win. Gill put on 50 runs in the first Rahul Tripathi next joined Krishna 2-35). 23-year-old Kudermetova, The powerful play by Ku- who reached her first WTA dermetova continued una- singles final at the season- bated in the second set, as she opening event in Abu Dhabi fired an ace to hold for 2-2, (losing to Aryna Sabalenka). then used a stunning return Goffin off to a strong start at Monte Carlo Masters Kudermetova’s six aces in to set up an overhead winner the final makes her the cur- and break for 3-2, on her third DPA harder against Benoit Paire. pion Goffin did not start well, tory is good,” said 2017 Monte turns. In the third set, I was rent ace leader on tour for the break point of the game. Berlin World number 14 Goffin and had to come from 3-0 Carlo semi-finalist Goffin, more consistent. It was a good season. She has slammed 130 At the end of one more pro- had lost his previous three down in the first set, but Cilic quoted on the ATP website. match.” aces thus far this year, which tracted game, another superb David Goffin made an en- matches heading to Monaco, made 52 unforced errors to “I did what I needed to do Goffin will face Marco Cec- puts her ahead of second-place crosscourt forehand gave the couraging start to the Monte but the Belgian delivered a help his opponent progress. to win that match. I was play- chinato or Dominik Koepfer Ashleigh Barty (127). Russian a second break and a Carlo Masters as he beat sharp performance on Sun- “It’s a good win. (This is ing better and better. in the second round, where he Those aces were six of 5-2 lead. Kudermetova then Marin Cilic, though Jordan day, winning 6-4, 3-6, 6-0. my) first tournament on clay In the first and second set, has been joined by Australian Kudermetova’s 22 winners, served out the match to clinch Thompson found things much Open Sud de France cham- (in 2021). Starting with a vic- I had problems with the re- Jordan Thompson. compared to just 19 unforced her first WTA singles trophy. Monday, April 12, 2021 15

Barshim unveils the hidden sides of his training camps in Doha

Releasing chapter two of his docu-series “Jump for Gold”, Barshim Qatari two-time high jump world champion takes us on a journey as he leaps towards an unforgettable legacy in the world of track and field.

eing an elite high jumper, a two time world champion, and an olympic medalist, Barshim has set the bar very high in this track andB field sportive discipline. To be all of the above requires commitment and dedi- cation on several fronts, two traits that Barshim never failed to show throughout his sportive career. More recently in early 2020, Barshim embarked on his journey towards one of his biggest milestones, at- taining the world title at the big games. He continues with his quest for the gold medal, one training camp after the other. After the mountain training he took us through in the first chapter of his docu-se- ries “Jump for Gold” in Zakopane, Poland, we now fly back withBarshim to his home toll on Mutaz not only emotionally but also and this is very important,” says Mutaz as town Doha for the pre-2020 season train- elevates the level of his physical training. he stresses on the impotance of discipline ing camp. As the 2nd training camp in his journey and commitment to drive his way forward As Barshim narrates his own story in towards Tokyo, the sessions in Doha ad- in his sportive career. chapter two of the docu-series, we discover vanced to more intense and dynamic ones Focusing on the end goal and bigger what Qatar means to him and how being in to start catching up with some high jumps picture of success drives Mutaz forward his hometown impacts him positively on a later in spring 2020. and makes him adapt to all what the train- physical, mental, and emotional level. “My training schedule consists of two ing requires. “The whole process is like a Dating back to early March 2020, prior sessions a day, speed workout in the morn- puzzle that needs to come together. to the COVID-19 outbreak, what makes ing at the outdoor field in Al Sadd Sports From diverse training sessions to re- this training camp extra special? To Bar- Club to strength and gym sessions in the covery sessions and Physiotherpay in be- shim, it’s bieng at “Home”. “We are in evening at the indoor Gym and Outdoor tween, adding to it good mental health and Doha, Qatar, and that’s home...” Warm Up track at Aspire Academy,” Mu- nutrition,” he explains. Barshim marks Qatar as his all-time taz explains. What matters most to Mutaz Bar- favourite place to train and compete. “It’s He highlights the high level of techni- shim is to be ready for the big challenge where I have all my memories, all my cality and detailed elements that go into he was set to take on in 2020. With every childhood, it has a deep place in my heart.” these sessions and how each execrcise training camp comes a set of learnings The nature of Barshim’s athletic career paves the way towards a better perfor- for Mutaz and his coach and techniques stipulates that he’s constantly on the go, but mance by the day. that need improvement. to him its always good to be back home. Being an athlete of an individual spor- “Our discipline is extremely techni- Showcasing his national pride, Barshim tive discipline like track & field doesn’t cal, and no matter how hard we are work- takes the viewer through a virtual journey necessarily mean training alone. Under ing, we cant say we are at the best place. between the old and new Doha. “Its very the supervision and guidance of his pol- There’s always room of improvement,” nice to travel all around and discover so ish coach Stanislaw Szczyrba, Barshim is wraps up Mutaz at the end of this chapter many different clutures, yet nothing beats joined by his training partner aspiring Qa- of his docu-series “Jump for Gold”. coming back to your hometown,” he adds. tari high jumper Hamdi Al Amine. Commenting on the series release, Bar- From his training sessions and daily To Hamdi Al Amine, Mutaz is a role shim says: ’’It’s great to hear all the opos- routine to a walk down memory lane at the model he looks up to and is inspired by his tive feedback from the people who watched Khalifa Stadium, being in Doha with his journey. “The pressure on my shoulders the 1st chapter and enjoyed the story.” crowd and people fuels Barshim. when training with a world-class athlete As he deep-dives further into his world “I would take it way back to the Khalifa like Mutaz is immense,” says Hamdi. in chapter 2, Barshim is set to unveil new Stadium at the start of my athletic career. “I still have a long way ahead and Mu- sides he shares for the first time about his I spent a lot of time at this stadium and I taz is always very supportive and gives me life in his hometown Doha. had always promised myself that one day I on- point feedback,” he adds. Competing Composed of 5 chapters, “Jump for will compete here on a world stage,” Bar- in the same discipline and training with Gold” will take the viewer on a virtual shim adds as he reminices about the day the same coach created a synergy between journey with Barshim to each training he won the world title for the 2nd time in a Mutaz and Hamdi. “ It’s a humbling expe- camp held in a different country and how row in 2019 in Doha. rience to learn from someone as inspiring, each has its own impact on him physically, “The home support, my people are the dedicated, and down to earth like Mutaz,” mentally and emotionally. real champions who lift me up that day he mentions. The docu-series has launched in part- and made me come back stronger and To Mutaz its very important to give nership with Red Bull and full episodes achieve the best title here in my home- back to his teammate and work together are available to watch on https://www. town” he expresses. towards the better of the sport. “We have a redbull.com/mea-en/projects/mutaz-bar- Qatar provides Barshim the perfect good chemistry Hamdi and I. He’s a good shim-jump-for-gold setting to prepare for any competitive guy, an athlete with a lot of potential and season. “Just the idea that here in Doha we get along really well,” he mentions. What’s coming up next? is where it all began, where I took my first They both highlight the importance of The upcoming chapters will unveil steps, it means a lot. Every street, building, supporting each other to give out their best more stories from Mutaz on how the COV- and corner has a sentimental value to me.” performance. ID-19 Outbreak started having a toll on the With each training camp, the athlete is Discpline is key to Mutaz when at world and impacting him personally and taking one step forward towards the one a training camp, even when he’s in his on a professional level, moving on to his gold medal that is still missing from his hometown Doha. “Im home but im not re- return back to the new normal late 2020/ collection. Being in Doha takes a positive ally home. I stay at the hotel with the team early 2021. 16 Monday, April 12, 2021 The Last Word QU fetes more than 50 ‘Pandemic underscores urgency to distinguished scientists rectify global healthcare inequities’

Tribune News Network QF Doha Debates Doha event examines Qatar University (QU) hosted a healthcare imbalances honouring ceremony for the distin- guished scientists at the university Tribune News Network who have made remarkable efforts Doha and achieved outstanding recognition in their fields of study. The COVID-19 pandemic remains The event was held virtually on a stark reminder that the interna- Sunday in presence of President of tional community must do more to Qatar University Dr Hassan Al Der- overcome glaring global disparities ham, Vice-President of Research and in healthcare availability and treat- Graduate Studies Prof Mariam Ali Al ment, doctors told Qatar Founda- Maadeed and 56 scientists from QU. tion’s Doha Debates’ #DearWorld- The QU’s scientists are listed Live programme. among the top two percent of scien- On a special World Health Day Holder and Patel agreed that are eliminated. Is UHC the only so- tists in the world, according to the new edition of #DearWorldLive, two re- the ideal solution would be high- lution available to better healthcare comprehensive list published by Stan- nowned doctors highlighted the dif- quality global universal health cov- access for vulnerable populations, ford University, the USA. ferences in health care between rich erage (UHC). and is it realistically achievable on a Speaking during the event, Dr and poor countries, and even within Holder said, “We need to reim- global scale?” AlShanableh said. Derham said, “These distinguished wealthier nations. agine health care, who is delivering it When asked by #DearWorld- scientists have served the community American physician Dr Cheryl and where we put our dollars.” Live host Nelufar Hedayat what else all these years and today we celebrate L. Holder, who serves underprivi- Patel argued that universal health should be done to narrow the health- them for their endless efforts of pro- leged populations in Florida, said: care is a realistic goal despite the care divide, Holder said, “All the data viding the best to this community. We “I’m in the United States, a rich challenges involved. clearly shows that educating women praise their outstanding performance Dr Hassan Al Derham Prof Mariam Ali Al Maadeed country, but the same disparities He said, “It’s about political will and girls will benefit our society and of all these years they have served QU that we talk about (in the global and money. The amount of money improve our health outcomes.” and its community members.” QU honoured 56 scientists in- Dad Hussain, Lazhar Ben Brahim, south) happen here, too. that we are spending on the military Answering the same ques- “The new comprehensive list pub- cluded Bassim Hamid Hameed Ham- Mazen Omar O. A. Hasna, Adel “I see it on a day-to-day basis here in every country of the world would tion, Patel said, “The pandemic has lished by Stanford University, the USA madi, Mohsen Mokhtar Guizani, Mad- Gastli, Murat Kucukvar, Mustafa in America, just with the coronavirus. completely take care of universal taught us that no person is safe un- includes our scientists which shows havi Indraganti, Shabi Abbas Zaidi, Saleh Nasser,Susu Zughaier, Hasan Black and brown people have paid a health coverage for all our people. til everyone in every country is safe. that their work has been recognised Lanouar Charfeddine, Zumin Shi, Mehrjerdi, Ahmad Ibrahim Ayesh, huge price.” And it’s a decision that we as people We must look beyond our own bor- globally. We strive hard to provide you Mokter Hossain, Mohd Nishat Faisal, Abdul Shakoor, Ahmed Mohammed Dr Vikram Patel, co-founder of and our political masters have to take. ders to create a healthier and safer all with best possible resources to con- Said Mohamed Mokhtar Mohamed Massoud Abdou, Saddam Akber the Movement for Global Mental What’s more important, arming our- world for everyone.” tinue your hard work and we wish you Elbanna, Abdelmagid S. Hammuda, Khan Akber Abbasi, Nader Moslem Health, said money is often at the selves or promoting our health? It’s Filipina American student nurse all the best in your field,” he added. Mustafa Serkan Kiranyaz, MD An- Meskin, Deepalekshmi Ponnamma, root of healthcare disparities. fundamentally a political decision. and TikTok personality Dane Marie Prof Maadeed said, “I congratu- warul Hasan, Suhail Doi, Mariam Ali Robin Augustine, Atif Iqbal, Elsadig “Some people enjoy better health It’s not a question about money.” Balbiran joined the conversation from late all the scientist who are being S A Al-Maadeed, Shaligram Pokharel, Mahdi Ahmed Saad, Rahul Ramb- solely because of their wealth or priv- Viewer feedback during the in- the Philippines, saying: “The more honoured today. These scientists have Sami Sayadi, Apostolos Zaravinos, hau Bhosale, Derek Charles Stewart, ilege. Addressing this injustice is at teractive programme included com- we learn and the more we study, the contributed a lot in the field of re- Riyadh Ibrahim Al-Raoush, Majeda Fares Abedalwally Ogleh AlMomani, the heart of global health,” Patel said. ments from Yasemin AlShanableh, a more creative our solutions to global search. We extend our well wishes to Khraisheh, Emad Ahmed Mohammed Mohammed Farouk Mohammed Patel called for urgent action to student at Qatar University’s College healthcare disparities will be.” you and your families. The contribu- Abushanab, Muftah El-Naas, Ahmed Hussein, Mohammad Haris, Ab- right healthcare wrongs. “As a result of Medicine. The programme and all #Dear- tion you have made will always be a Elzatahry, Mohammad Ahmad Salim delbary Mohammed Abdelbary El- of the pandemic, the global economy “The COVID-19 crisis has made WorldLive episodes can be seen great asset to our community. We wish Alghouti, Kishor Kumar Sadasivuni, hissi, Usama Ali Ali Ebead, Saghir has been shattered. This has to be the disparities in healthcare ac- on Doha Debates’ Twitter, Face- that may you all overcome up-coming Shaheen Abdulhafez Sh. AlMuhtaseb Akhtar, Farid Touati, Anand Kumar, seen as a unique historical moment cess even more apparent. Universal book, YouTube and Twitch chan- challenges and keep up the hard work and Ibnelwaleed Ali Hussein Mubarak Ariyo Bidmos and John- for every country to commit itself to health coverage is one proposed so- nels, and at DohaDebates.com/ in the field of research.” Others are Iqtadar Khan Khuda John Cabibihan. invest in its health sector.” lution to ensure that these inequities DearWorldLive. QF’s technology hub partners with Qatari QFFD-funded cancer treatment start-up Innovation Café centre opens in Burkina Faso MoU between QSTP and Innovation Café Tribune News Network aims to aid aspiring firms and businesses Doha Tribune News Network it succeed in its principal intentions. President of Burkina Faso Rock Doha Among them, the QSTP and Innovation Marc Christian Kaboré and Qatar’s Café brands will be leveraged in incu- Minister HE Sheikh Hamad bin Exciting new tech start-ups and en- bator events, workshops, bootcamps, Nasser bin Jassim Al Thani, ac- trepreneurial ventures in Qatar are set hackathons and pitching sessions. Ef- companied by a high-level delega- to be given fresh impetus after Qatar forts will also be made to extend exper- tion, inaugurated a radiotherapy Science & Technology Park (QSTP), tise in terms of technology, knowledge centre in the city of Ouagadougou. part of Qatar Foundation Research, and management aspects to strengthen The project is funded by Qatar Development the ecosystem. Fund for Development (QFFD) in and Innovation Additionally, cooperation with the government (QF RDI), re- both parties of Burkina Faso. cently signed a have agreed to The centre’s mission is to en- Memorandum support appli- hance capabilities and improve the Every year, about 1,600 to by our firm belief that fulfilling of advanced therapeutic medical of Understand- cants by pro- quality of cancer care in Burkina 1,800 people in Burkina Faso are humanitarian and development services not only for our friendly ing (MoU) with viding access Faso, as well as to minimise seek- diagnosed with cancer, 60 percent needs, especially health, forms the state, Burkina Faso, but also in Doha-based In- to workspace, ing adequate treatment abroad and of whonm are men and 40 percent main gate to political, social and West Africa as well. novation Café. machinery and to reduce cancer-related deaths. women. Therefore, the centre is economic stability in each coun- “The centre is expected to play The Café infrastructure The centre is built on 3,000 intended to accommodate all these try,” HE Sheikh Hamad said in his a pivotal role in building tech- is an innova- alongside fund- squaremetres of land with a patients and provide them with the opening speech. nical capacities and developing tion and design ing and invest- 1,200-squaremetre building fully necessary treatment and medical Director-General of QFFD healthcare services for screening thinking studio ment opportuni- equipped with all necessary medi- care. Khalifa bin Jassim Al Kuwari said, and treating cancer diseases, pro- set up with an ties per relevant cal equipment. It also provides “Qatar would not hesitate to “We take pride in such outstand- moting health, the third sustain- aim to provide the right opportunities, program criteria, as well as mentoring training to medical personnel to exert all needed efforts in help- ing accomplishment for Qatar. able development goal (SDG), sav- guidance and support to help busi- and other necessary professional sup- guarantee the best cancer treat- ing our brothers in achieving their This pioneering medical edifice is ing lives and inspiring hope and nesses start up and thrive in Qatar. It is port. ment services. development goals. We are driven a testament to the quantum leap healthier life.” a unique concept that focuses on trans- There will also be mutual participa- forming organisations through compet- tion in events, as well as workshops and itive research, implementing business pitching sessions as knowledge-sharing innovation tools and designing service partners. Innovation Café will also of- maps. fer a 25 percent discount on marketing The pact has three main objectives services such as branding, digital media HBKU-CIS books on FinTech and – to collectively boost entrepreneurial and social media management for start- activity in Qatar; to jointly identify the ups incubated at QSTP. needs for creating an enabling envi- Founder and Chief Executive Offic- migration among top titles globally ronment for start-ups to thrive; and to er of Innovation Café Ramzan Rashid Al support and promote start-ups by pro- Naimi added: “This cooperation aims to Tribune News Network sources. The recognition affirms our efforts at viding mentorship and comprehensive serve and empower the entrepreneurs Doha CIS, through our distinguished research divi- information on innovation and tech- in Qatar by leveraging the national sion including our centres at CIEF and CILE, development programs. entrepreneurial ecosystem which sup- Solidifying its reputation as a thought lead- to enrich the current body of scholarly work Commenting on the two-year col- ports innovation in various aspects. It is er in contemporary and applied Islamic Studies, and put Islam in a global context. These books laboration, QSTP Executive Director also in line with the efforts to enhance Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU)’s Col- are the kind of thought leadership that will fa- Yousef Al Salehi, said: “Being part of the importance of the knowledge-based lege of Islamic Studies (CIS) has had two of its cilitate a more informed intellectual discourse a nationwide ecosystem of research, economy in Qatar and to achieve Qatar books recognised as being among the top titles and provide an Islamic perspective to scholars, development, innovation and entre- National Vision 2030. globally in the areas of banking and migration Dr Syed Nazim Ali Dr Ray Jureidini industry practitioners, and regulators across preneurship, it is important that we “The MoU stipulates that the two that offer an Islamic law and ethics perspective. the region and in geographies further afield, identify synergies and leverage them to institutions will have regular consulta- A new book on financial technology (Fin- by Dr Ray Jureidini, professor of Migration, who need to better understand contemporary effectively support our tech innovators tions, exchange of information, experi- Tech), co-edited by Dr Syed Nazim Ali, professor Human Rights, and Ethics at the Research challenges.” and entrepreneurs to address local mar- ences and cooperation in various fields and director of the Centre for Islamic Economics Centre for Islamic Legislation and Ethics On the critical need for such novel research ket needs while also making a global im- to support start-ups and small and me- and Finance (CIEF) at CIS, ranks number one (CILE), is one of the top five accessed e-books outputs, Dr. Ray said, “It is a great privilege to pact. dium-sized companies. Also, we agreed on the list of new banking books to read in 2021 on Brill, the renowned global publisher. The be a part of an innovative academic enterprise “As Qatar’s premier hub for technol- to implement innovative programmes by BookAuthority, based on recommendations book addresses how Islamic ethical and legal that is constantly improving our knowledge of ogy development and innovation, QSTP and initiatives that have a tremendous by thought leaders and experts. ‘Fintech, Digi- traditions can contribute to current global de- the history of Islamic ethical precepts in ways provides the ideal environment encom- impact on the entrepreneurial commu- tal Currency and the Future of Islamic Finance: bates on migration and displacement. Over- that enable us to identify and apply them to passing infrastructure, programmes, nity in the country.” Strategic, Regulatory and Adoption Issues in all, it argues that Islamic ethics may provide contemporary issues. Applied Islamic ethics in funding, networks and pathways to The Research, Development and the Gulf Cooperation Council’ takes an in-depth common ethical grounds for a new paradigm finance, forced and voluntary migration, bio- make this happen. We are delighted to Innovation (RDI) ecosystem of QF was look at FinTech, cryptocurrencies, and current of social and political virtues applicable to all medicine, gender, business, politics, education, link-up with our partners at the Innova- created to place Qatar at the forefront of Islamic legal perspectives and regulations. It humanity, not only Muslims. and many other fields of inquiry are open for tion Café to accomplish the important scientific research and technological ad- also looks ahead to future regulations surround- Commenting on the achievements, Dr Ali, new and candid debates that are not only for a objectives of our MoU.” vancement, addressing national needs ing technology and financial institutions within who is also director of the Research Division specialised community of scholars but for the Several activities have been planned while generating global impact. A cen- the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). at CIS, said: “We are delighted at the acknowl- public good in the progressive improvement under the terms of the contract to see trepiece of this ecosystem is QSTP. ‘Migration and Islamic Ethic’s, co-edited edgment of these two books as authoritative and radical reform.”