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WEDNESDAY Vol. XXXXII No. 11883 April 14, 2021 Ramadan 2, 1442 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

Amir, Saudi crown State mosque decked up in Ramadan glory prince exchange Ramadan greetings in phone call Field hospital His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani exchanged greetings on the advent of the holy with 100 beds month of Ramadan with Saudi Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Prince Mohamed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz added to HMGH al-Saud, in a phone call held by the Amir yesterday evening. (QNA) Total capacity of Hazm Mebaireek General Amir exchanges Hospital to be raised to 374 beds in 2 weeks Ramadan greetings he second phase of the new to meet increased demand as a result of with Rouhani Field Hospital at Hazm Mebai- the Covid-19 second wave. Treek General Hospital (HMGH), “With the opening of 100 new beds His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim which provides an additional 100 acute in the second phase of the fi eld hospi- bin Hamad al-Thani exchanged beds to care for Covid-19 patients, tal, 252 beds are now operational to care greetings on the advent of the holy opened yesterday. for Covid-19 patients, with more than month of Ramadan with Iranian The new fi eld hospital is a perma- 500 patients having already received President Dr Hassan Rouhani, during nent structure made from entirely care in the fi rst phase of the fi eld hos- a telephone call the Amir held locally-sourced and engineered mate- pital. A third phase of the fi eld hospital yesterday. (QNA) rials and will provide additional surge is due to be completed in two weeks’ capacity for patients in the event of fu- time and will boost total capacity to 374 A view of the Qatar State Mosque on the first day of the holy month of Ramadan, yesterday. ture pandemics or emergencies, Qatar beds, the majority of which are single Amir, Deputy Amir News Agency reports. rooms with full oxygen support. This congratulate Djibouti The new fi eld hospital is much more increased capacity will ensure that an- president Guelleh than an essential part of the immedi- yone requiring hospital admission due Istanbul meet on ate response to Covid-19. While it will to Covid-19 will be admitted without His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim provide important additional acute delay to receive expert care from our bin Hamad al-Thani sent yesterday a Karwa drivers to be trained Afghanistan beds for HMC now, it will also play an dedicated clinical teams,” he said. cable of congratulations to President important role in any future health cri- HMC’s chief of Healthcare Facilities of the Republic of Djibouti Ismail complements sis by giving the fl exibility of opening and acting chief of Business Services Ha- Omar Guelleh on the occasion of his to provide excellent service Doha peace talks additional capacity whenever needed, mad al-Khalifa added: “As well as pro- re-election for a new presidential the report states. viding safe and eff ective clinical care, term. His Highness the Deputy Amir urkey, Qatar and the Unit- A team of engineers and designers every eff ort has been made to ensure that Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al-Thani QNTC, Mowasalat sign MoU ed Nations are co-con- has worked round the clock to con- the patients have everything they need in also sent a cable of congratulations Tvening a high-level and struct the new fi eld hospital in a very each room, including individual charging to Guelleh on the occasion of his inclusive meeting between rep- short span of time, and all the materials points, lighting control and temperature re-election. (QNA) atar National Tourism core part of QNTC’s tourism strat- resentatives from Afghanistan of the building have been sourced and control. The fi eld hospital is a wonder- Council (QNTC) has signed egy. and the Taliban, in Istanbul from engineered here in Qatar. ful example of HMC’s ability to fi nd in- Qa memorandum of under- QNTC is working with key stake- April 24 to May 4, 2021. HMC’s chief medical offi cer Dr Ab- novative solutions to enable us to meet Biden proposes Putin standing (MoU) with Mowasalat holders to elevate customer-facing A joint statement by the co- dulla al-Ansari explained how the fi eld the increased demands for hospital care summit over Ukraine (Karwa) to train the Karwa staff in experiences. Certifi cations and conveners said: “The co-conven- hospital will strengthen HMC’s ability throughout this pandemic.” service excellence, and enhance trainings such as this will enable ers are committed to supporting a US President Joe Biden called on their knowledge of the destination Qatar to off er best-in-class service sovereign, independent and uni- Russian President Vladimir Putin off erings. to visitors from arrival at Hamad fi ed Afghanistan. The overriding yesterday to reduce tensions stirred The MoU marks the fi rst phase of International Airport or Doha Port objective of the Istanbul Confer- by a Russian military build-up on the newly launched Service Excel- through every touchpoint in desti- ence on the Afghanistan Peace Ukraine’s border and proposed a lence programme, which forms a nation. To Page 4 Process is to accelerate and com- summit of the estranged leaders to plement the ongoing intra-Af- tackle a raft of disputes. In a sign of ghan negotiations in Doha on the concern about tensions spinning out achievement of a just and durable of control in the Ukraine crisis, Biden political settlement.” phoned Putin to propose they meet The statement said participa- in a third country while underlining tion in the Conference and its US commitment to Ukraine’s agenda have been the subject of sovereignty and territorial integrity. extensive consultations with the Afghan parties. “The conference will focus on All US troops to leave helping the negotiating parties Afghanistan by Sept 11 reach a set of shared, foundational principles that refl ect an agreed President Joe Biden plans to withdraw vision for a future Afghanistan, a the remaining 2,500 US troops from roadmap to a future political set- Afghanistan by Sept 11, 2021, 20 tlement and an end to the confl ict. years to the day after the Al Qaeda “It is our expectation that the attacks that triggered America’s conference will provide an impor- longest war, off icials said yesterday. tant opportunity for all partners The disclosure of the plan came on to reiterate support for the people the same day that the US intelligence of Afghanistan on their path to- community released a gloomy ward inclusive peace, stability, and outlook for Afghanistan, forecasting QNTC Secretary-General and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive HE Akbar al- prosperity,” the statement added. “low” chances of a peace deal this Baker and Mowasalat (Karwa) CEO Fahad Saad al-Qahtani at the MoU signing — QNA year and warning that its government ceremony. A section of the field hospital. would struggle to hold the Taliban insurgency at bay if the US-led coalition withdraws support. Page 11

Moderna vaccine still Indoor gathering strong six months on Qatar affi rms commitment Moderna Inc said its Covid-19 only for family vaccine still showed strong protection against the illness six months after people received members living in to Covax global initiative their second shot, with eff icacy of more than 90% against all cases of Covid-19 and more than 95% same house: MoPH QNA She said Qatar provided urgent medical against severe Covid-19. The vaccine Doha aid to around 78 countries all over the world maker said the six-month follow-up to help them respond to the pandemic, with of its original late-stage study of o indoor gatherings cial media yesterday. total governmental and nongovernmental the vaccine showed that vaccine are permitted other For outdoor gatherings, atar has stressed its commitment to aid exceeding $88mn. She noted that a total eff icacy remained consistent with its Nthan family members these are only permitted within the Covax global initiative for pro- of $20mn was allocated for the international previous updates. living in the same house, the the outdoor home environ- Qviding Covid-19 vaccine at an in- alliance for vaccination, in addition to Qa- Ministry of Public Health ment (gardens and outdoor ternational scale, stressing that the dispro- tar Fund for Development signing an agree- (MoPH) has reiterated. home areas) for the following: portionate negative impact of the pandemic ment worth $10mn with the World Health RAMADAN THOUGHT The MoPH confi rmed this, gatherings of family members requires paying special attention to the most Organisation (WHO) to support its 13th And fear a Day when you will be and other guidance, follow- living in the same household, vulnerable segments, in order to help them work programme and accelerate the process returned to Allah. Then every ing the announcement of and gatherings of up to fi ve stay resilient and recover. of providing access to tools that will combat soul will be compensated for additional restrictions last fully vaccinated individuals (14 This came in the statement of Qatar read the coronavirus in countries that are most in what it earned, and they will not Wednesday as part of the days after second dose). yesterday by HE the Assistant Foreign Min- need. be treated unjustly Covid-19 measures in Qatar. The MoPH stressed that it ister and Spokesperson for the Ministry of HE the Assistant Foreign Minister high- [Qur’an 2:281] “An individual, or family (in- is more important than ever Foreign Aff airs Lolwah bint Rashid AlKhater lighted the big role played by Qatar Airways Prayer times cluding children) from the same that people adhere to the at the United Nations Economic and Social in repatriating more than 3mn people home household, can go to parks, Covid-19 preventive meas- Council (Ecosoc) Forum, which focuses on HE Lolwah bint Rashid AlKhater safely, at a time when most airports around Fajr....3.53; Zuhr....11.34; Asr....3.04; beaches and public spaces and ures: always wear a mask development fi nancing in 2021, particularly the world were closed. She also said Qatar Maghrib.....5.59; Isha.....7.29 perform activities including when you go outside your fi nancing recovery from the coronavirus She said this was refl ected in providing tests was proud to join UN campaign ‘Only To- running, walking, swimming home, maintain at least 1.5m pandemic. and high-quality healthcare to everyone in gether,’ out of the country’s belief in the im- Fasting times and cycling, but they cannot sit distance from others, avoid HE AlKhater said Qatar believes its recov- Qatar, regardless of nationality or residency portance of partnership, co-operation and Iftar today ...... 5.59pm down together, have picnics or crowds and limit the time ery from the pandemic cannot be achieved status, in addition to the national vaccina- guaranteeing quick and equitable access to Imsak tomorrow...... 3.42am gather with others,” the minis- spent in enclosed spaces, and unless all segments of its society, particu- tion programme which will cover all target- vaccines all over the world, in addition to its try said in a clarifi cation on so- wash your hands regularly. larly the most vulnerable, recover as well. ed segments in the next few months. commitment to supporting Covax. Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, April 14, 2021 QATAR HIA signs MoU to enhance waste management systems Shura amad International Air- to environmental sustainability port (HIA), through MA- by pledging to improve carbon HTAR, the Qatar Company effi ciency per traffi c unit to 30% Council for Airports Management and by 2030. Operation, has signed a Memo- The airport has since ob- randum of Understanding (MoU) served a steady downward trend takes part with the Ministry of Municipal- in overall CO2 emissions and has ity and Environment (MME) to been certifi ed at Level 3 by the develop and modernise the air- Airport Council International’s in meeting port’s facilities by implementing Airport Carbon Accreditation eff ective methods of waste man- programme. HIA’s sustainabil- agement. ity measures also extend to waste on climate The MoU outlines the col- water management. Most water laboration between MATAR and used at the airport is directed MME for the management of to HIA’s dedicated waste water change diff erent types of waste from treatment plant, which returns HIA to the MME’s Domestic the treated water for irrigat- Solid Waste Management Centre This collaboration between HIA and MME is another step by the airport to advance environmental sustainability. ing HIA’s landscape features. In QNA (DSWMC). The objectives of the 2018, HIA’s treatment plant was Doha MoU include the development sustainability at HIA. performance. We are delighted nicipality and Environment to mental sustainability, which HIA successful in recovering 93% of of an integrated system for waste Badr Mohamed al-Meer, HIA to continue to contribute to Qa- further enhance our waste man- has continued to do so with vari- waste water for re-use. Qatar’s separation, safe transportation, chief operating offi cer said, “We, tar’s National Vision 2030 pillar agement systems.” ous measures to reduce waste, airport continually reviews its he Shura Council took part recycling and disposal of waste, at HIA, are committed to opti- of environmental development This collaboration between greenhouse gas emissions, and systems to identify areas of im- in a virtual parliamentary and the promotion of environ- mising our airport operations by by entering this strategic part- HIA and MME is another step by noise pollution. Since 2014, HIA provement for long-term effi - Tmeeting entitled — Parlia- mental awareness and culture of improving our environmental nership with the Ministry of Mu- the airport to advance environ- has showcased its commitment ciency and sustainability. mentary strategies to strengthen peace and security against threats and confl icts resulting from cli- mate-related disasters and their consequences — held by the Permanent Committee on Peace and International Security of the QU opens online applications for Fall 2021 semester 142nd General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). he Admissions Depart- Law, Shariah and Islamic Studies, The applicants must achieve transcript certifi ed and approved to Thursday between 10am-1pm, Discussions during the meet- ment at Qatar University Education, and Health Sciences, by the authorities in addition to in the Student Activities Build- ing focused on the impacts of T(QU) has announced the 90% for the colleges of Medi- minimum requirements and are copies of them before the appli- ing for Boys (B02) on the fi rst climate change at the global level, opening of online applications cine and Dentistry, and 80% for accepted according to the capacity cation deadline. Applicants from fl oor, and for female students intensifying the urgent discus- for the Fall 2021 semester. This is Pharmacy. The applicants must other universities must bring in the Admission and Registra- sion on migration due to climate eff ective until June 8 through its achieve minimum requirements of each college the original university transcript tion Building (C12) on the ground change, and fi nding common offi cial website. Acceptance de- and are accepted according to certifi ed and approved by the fl oor. solutions to deal with this global cisions will be announced on July the capacity of each college. The tari ID card (and a copy of the ondary school certifi cate, as their competent authorities in addi- Students can track the sta- crisis and trying to mitigate its 27, 2021. educational path at the second- passport for non-Qataris) must results will be received from the tion to copies of them. For stu- tus of the admission application eff ects, especially on developing Lulwa al-Rubaie, director of ary level will also be taken into be uploaded before the specifi ed Ministry of Education and High- dents of the Community College by visiting the online admis- and emerging countries. the Admissions Department at consideration when applying to deadline. er Education. Private schools and of Qatar applying to QU, an elec- sion application page, using the The Shura Council was rep- Qatar University said that the university. Al-Rubaie explained Students from Qatari govern- international schools, in addi- tronic link will be sent to down- student’s user name (ID) and resented at the meeting by HE seats of various colleges are that submitting the admission ment and independent second- tion to Qatari government and load a copy of their transcript. password (PIN). And in case of Mohamed bin Mahdi al-Ahbabi, available for admission according application is done by fi lling out ary schools starting from 2016 independent secondary school Al-Rubaie also clarifi ed that inquiries, students can contact member of the Shura Council and to the given percentages: 70% for the electronic application on the and after submitting the high students for the year 2015 and students applying for admis- the Admissions Department by member of the Permanent Com- Arts and Sciences, Engineering, offi cial university website, and school diploma are not required before will be required to bring sion to QU must submit the re- e-mail [email protected] mittee on Peace and International Management and Economics, copy of the photo and valid Qa- to submit a transcript of the sec- the original high school diploma quired certifi cates from Sunday or by phone 44034444. Security. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 14, 2021 3 QATAR QU participates in GCC meeting on challenges facing scientifi c research

QNA 2021, the challenges facing the community culture with the im- Doha quality of scientifi c research, in- portance of scientifi c research as novation and global publishing, well as scientifi c and technologi- and future prospects and visions cal investments at the local level. atar University (QU) par- for joint Gulf action in scientifi c She stressed the necessity ticipated in a forum or- research. of formulating a unifi ed strat- Qganised by the Secretariat Vice-President for Research egy for scientifi c research and General of the Gulf Co-operation and Graduate Studies at QU, innovation in the GCC countries, Council (GCC), via videoconfer- Professor Mariam al-Maadeed, updating strategies, setting pri- encing, regarding the reality and presented the reality of scientifi c orities, and strengthening the future of scientifi c research in research at QU in light of its vi- partnership between research in- GCC countries, in implementa- sion, which aims to be known stitutions and researchers in the tion of the decision of the 20th regionally for its qualitative GCC countries. meeting of GCC Committee of distinction in education and re- The Vice-President for Re- Ministers of Higher Education search, and as the preferred op- search and Graduate Studies and Scientifi c Research. tion for science students and noted the importance of includ- The forum, in which repre- researchers and a catalyst for ing the importance of scientifi c sentatives of higher education sustainable economic and social A screenshot of the participants. research in the educational cur- ministries, research institutes development in Qatar. ricula and major national strat- and centres, and scientifi c re- She pointed to the increase scientifi c journals. bitious plans to develop national ing in this context to build new a sustainable vision for funding egies of each country and rec- search deanships in public and in annual research production, Professor al-Maadeed point- cadres and strengthen and ad- partnerships with other GCC sources. In this context, she said, ommended the establishment private universities in the global ranking, and research ed out that QU has witnessed vance research policies. universities. She emphasised the it is imperative to improve the of a joint fund among the GCC GCC countries participated, grants for QU in recent years, an increase and diversity in the The Vice-President highlight- necessity of implementing and environment incubating scien- countries to support scientifi c discussed three main topics, as well as great leaps in gradu- number of scientifi c research ed the partnership with Sultan following up scientifi c research tifi c research, maintain com- research, the establishment of namely the research reality in ate studies programmes, the centres, units, and programmes, Qaboos University in more than and innovation strategies with petencies and exchange experi- joint research work teams and the institutions of higher edu- number of students enrolled, an increase in the number of six joint scientifi c projects within the national strategy for scien- ences between the GCC states the establishment of academic cation and scientifi c research in sources of funding, and scientif- patents, local and international the International Research Col- tifi c research, as well as monitor- and the world’s leading coun- programs targeting common re- the GCC countries from 2016 to ic publications in international partnerships, as well as its am- laboration Co-Fund (IRCC), call- ing the necessary budgets within tries, and the need to strengthen search priorities.

Education Ministry announces student Katara hosts Ramadan contest for short story writing attendance schedule during Ramadan The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) has announced that students’ attendance during the blessed month of QNA nually in the blessed month. The the story be written in standard story only, and it is attached to a the winning entries, as the writ- Ramadan will be from 9am until 12.35pm, with five lessons per day, Doha topic ‘Relatives’ was chosen to be Arabic, free from spelling errors, word fi le only, and writers wish- ers sending of the story is a fi nal provided each school organises the schedule for imparting 25 lessons the main focus around which the taking into account the positions ing to participate must send their approval to publish it in the event per week. The MoEHE specified the duration of the first three classes stories participating in the com- of punctuation. Among the con- story production in print and of winning. at 40 minutes for each session, and the fourth and fifth classes at 35 he Cultural Village Foun- petition revolve, due to the great ditions also is that the story has in form to the e-mail: storyka- The last date for submitting minutes each. dation – Katara an- importance that Islam places on not been previously published in taraquran.com, Katara explained. the entries has been set for 29 There should be five minutes between each session, and the duration Tnounced the launch of the compassion to relatives. Katara any of the media outlets, or won Participants are also required Ramadan, and the results of the of the break is set at 10 minutes. The circular also specifies students’ Katara Short Story Competi- emphasised the necessity of the any prize before, so that it is spe- to send a recent coloured per- competition will be announced attendance at kindergartens, starting from 9.30am until 11.30am at tion on the occasion of choosing participants’ commitment to the cifi c to the competition only. sonal photo of them, along with on July 29. The fi rst-place winner the rate of two hours per day, and the school administration has the Doha as the Capital of Culture topic of the story, with the ne- The participation is avail- other information that includes will receive a prize of QR15,000, freedom to co-ordinate the daily schedule. in the Islamic World for the year cessity that the number of words able to writers of both genders name, address, phone number, the second place will win a prize The English language course will be off ered at the rate of three lessons 2021, and as a continuation of the should not be less than 1,500 without being restricted by age, e-mail, place and date of birth, of QR12,000, while the third- per week for each class for a period of 45 minutes, from 10.45am to short story competitions that the words and not more than 5,000 provided that the contestant has provided that Katara Publishing place winner will receive a prize 11.30am, while skills activity is limited to one hour, from 9.30am to foundation used to launch an- words. It is also required that the right to participate with one House has the right to publish of QR10,000. — QNA 10.30am. Gulf Times 4 Wednesday, April 14, 2021 QATAR

Saudi undersecretary meets Qatar acting charge d’affaires Ooredoo, Silatech reach out to unemployed

Undersecretary of the oredoo Qatar will be working with non- come-generating enterprises. Silatech has already Ministry of Foreign profi t organisation Silatech this Ramadan helped thousands of unemployed young people Aff airs in Saudi Arabia Oto raise funds, which will go towards help- in such countries as Tunisia, Palestine, Yemen, for Protocol Aff airs ing those who have experienced negative fi nan- Morocco, Somalia, and Sudan. Its income-gener- Mashari bin Nahit met cial impact due to Covid-19. Ooredoo’s sponsor- ating enterprises draw upon three key priorities: yesterday with Acting ship forms part of its Ooredoo Al Khair campaign employment, enterprise development and policy Charge d’Aff aires at the launched during the holy month of Ramadan to and research. Public involvement and generosity embassy of Qatar in provide support to a number of charitable organi- towards this campaign will help those in fi nancial Saudi Arabia Hassan sations. need in Palestine, Sudan, Chad, Mali, Benin and bin Mansour al-Khater. Until May 15, 2021, Silatech will carry out a Niger. The meeting reviewed fund-raising campaign titled ‘Spare them from Sabah Rabiah al-Kuwari, director, PR at Oore- the bilateral co- Asking’ to support those who lost their jobs due doo, said: “We are proud to be supporting Silatech operation ties between to the negative economic impact of the Covid-19 in this worthwhile campaign. Our corporate so- the two countries. pandemic. cial responsibility strategy aligns with the UN Funds will be collected through a wide range of Sustainable Development Goals, one of which is channels, from digital such as websites, SMS and ensuring decent work and economic growth for Nojoom programme donations, to the more con- all, and supporting initiatives such as this one is ventional bank transfers, cheques and donation clear evidence of our commitment to these goals. boxes. Nojoom members can donate their No- We would urge everyone who is in a position to do joom points via the Ooredoo website or App. Es- so to take part in the campaign, and provide some tablished in 2008, Silatech is dedicated to helping much-needed assistance for those less fortunate ensure a brighter future for young people inter- this Ramadan.” Donations can be made at Donate. Second Assalam School marks nationally through enabling employment and in- silatech.org/project/244. academic year with 602 pupils Ooredoo to pitch in for vulnerable communities together with Qatar Red Crescent Ooredoo has announced that it is communities around the world. The to be part of such a worthwhile he Education Above All (EAA) Founda- Governance and Institutional Development to be the Strategic Communication campaign comes amidst a critical initiative. We are committed to tion’s Second Assalam School, estab- Sector at Qatar Charity, said: “Worldwide, pov- Sponsor of Qatar Red Crescent humanitarian situation, where supporting the communities in Tlished in partnership with the Ministry of erty remains a persistent barrier that impedes Society’s #IAmVaccinated_IDonated Covid-19 remains a considerable a public advocacy campaign to which we operate as part of our Education and Higher Education (MoEHE), has access to quality education. As NGOs, we have initiative. threat to many lives. According to achieve Covid-19 vaccine equity corporate social responsibility made successful transition from the academic a moral responsibility to leverage resources, This sponsorship is part of Ooredoo the UNHCR’s latest report, some and leave no-one behind in support strategy, in alignment with the year 2019-20 to 2020-21, with 602 children en- access and expertise to expand education sys- Al Khair campaign, launched during 79.5mn people have been forced of the World Health Organisation UN Sustainability Goals, and it’s rolled in the school. tems to support the most marginalised groups, the holy month of Ramadan to from their homes due to conflict Foundation. The #IAmVaccinated_ imperative we include the more Established under EAA’s To- including children from low-in- provide support to a number of and other causes. With concern IDonated initiative falls under a vulnerable members of our gether Project in partnership come families, girls, children with charitable organisations. QRCS’s rising that these vulnerable people large-scale campaign to mobilise communities. with MoEHE and funded by Qa- disabilities and displaced youth.” new initiative seeks to raise $100mn will be neglected in vaccination support at government, institutional We must stand together in the fight tar Charity (QC) and Afi f Char- “Qatar Charity’s support for to provide Covid-19 vaccinations roll-outs, and inspired by its sense and individual levels. against Covid-19, and include all ity, the Second Assalam School the Assalam Schools in Qatar for 3.65mn vulnerable people in of responsibility, QRCS is launching Sabah Rabiah al-Kuwari, director, PR sectors of our communities as we provides tuition-free schooling stems from the same unwaver- refugee, displaced and migrant this humanitarian drive involving at Ooredoo, said: “We’re honoured strive for widespread vaccination.” to Arabic-speaking children that ing commitment to provide were previously not enrolled in equal opportunities for all chil- school. Following the outbreak dren to access quality education of Covid-19, the school promptly and life skills that will help them adopted alternative measures to Second Assalam School develop their full capacities and ensure all students had contin- has made a successful live in dignity. Georgetown debate team wins top spots ued access to education, including transition. “We will continue to work with digital learning supported with global leaders in education like the provision of free internet connectivity and Education Above All Foundation, led by Her n a “clean sweep” of the coun- continuous teacher support. Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, and with try’s college-level debate circuit, Talal al-Hothal, director of EAA’s Al Fakhoora governments to provide eff ective support to IQatar Foundation (QF) partner programme, said: “With our partners and do- national eff orts in Qatar and all over the world, Georgetown University in Qatar’s nors, EAA proudly refl ects on the achievements aimed at ensuring inclusive quality education for (GU-Q) student debate team has of the Second Assalam School and its ability to all children by 2030,” he noted. been crowned the winner of both the uphold the fundamental right to education for During the past year, the Second Assalam Qatar Universities Debate League every child. Despite the unpredictable challeng- school, which currently supports 602 stu- (QUDL) and Qatar Universities Na- es to the education sector caused by Covid-19, dents across 13 nationalities, ensured chil- tionals Debate Tournament for the EAA was able to work together with the Second dren’s involvement in extra-curricular activi- 2020-2021 season, as well as clinch- Assalam School to ensure that students could ties such as Qatar National Library’s reading ing the Best Speaker Award at both continue their learning.” programme and other arts, sports and science events and several other awards. Mohamed al-Ghamdi, assistant CEO for the related competitions. QatarDebate, a member of QF, organises a series of league events and a national championship tour- nament for university students, who Karwa drivers to be trained to provide excellent service compete with each other through- out the year for the chance to win From Page 1 continue to focus on developing and providing the league title and the national unparalleled service. Qatar is known for its rich championship title. Service Excellence further emphasises tailored experiences and award-winning hospitality, At the Qatar Universities Debate experiences that celebrate Qatar’s cultural and through initiatives such as this, we will League spread across four tourna- heritage and vision. As the first part of a continue to off er best in class service across all ments, the GU-Q debate team was multi-stage programme, QNTC and Mowasalat visitor touchpoints.” cumulatively ranked the highest and (Karwa) have developed trainings which will Mowasalat (Karwa) CEO Fahad Saad al-Qahtani won the league as a whole. The team GU-Q debating union members. be given to over 6,000 Karwa drivers over added, “Our co-operation with the QNTC opens also clinched victory at the Nation- the coming months, enabling them to act as new perspectives on several levels. Together als tournament that followed, GU-Q of skills that are honed daily in the and overall categories. That is a very As the team captain, Pragyan ambassadors, providing information on Qatar’s we look into common matters of transport said in a statement. Out of the three classroom and make for great suc- promising sign for next year’s de- is tasked with organising weekly culture and tourism highlights while off ering infrastructure, innovative ways to connect and teams in the fi nals, three represent- cess in the global arena of dialogue bate season,” he said. training, where he also creates and excellent customer service. engage with our customers, out-of-the-box ed GU-Q. and debate.” In high school, Pragyam debated delivers workshops and practise de- QNTC Secretary-General and Qatar Airways ideas for new vehicles and features, and finally The dean of GU-Q, Dr Ahmad The GU-Q team of highly skilled for and now coaches the Nepali na- bates. Group Chief Executive HE Akbar al-Baker representing the country in a positive way to Dallal, said: “Congratulations to the debaters was led by this year’s new tional team, and applied to GU-Q to “While the season has ended, said: “We are very pleased to partner with our visitors. We are delighted that we will join GU-Q debate team for winning the captain, fi rst-year student Pragyan study political science. Pragyan hopes the team has the op- Mowasalat to launch our Service Excellence forces with this very experienced partner for QUDL Nationals and taking many Acharya, who won Best Speaker in “I had already heard about Qatar portunity to test their skills against initiative. Together with our stakeholders elevating our customer services to the next top spots. Student champions such both the Nationals Tournament and Debate and the general support for the world’s best debaters by taking across the public and private sectors, we will level of excellence.” as Al Alanoud al-Thani (GU-Q’24) the Debate League. competitive debating at GU-Q, plus part in more international events. and Adrian Lopes (GU-Q’24) and “Despite being a relatively young it’s a great university not far from “Next year, we hope to grow as a League and National debate best team, several fi rst year students home. I decided to apply because I team, and continue improving our speaker Pragyan Acharya (GU- were recognised in the top 10 Best would get that experience, that di- skills. At the end of the day, debate Q’24) are great examples of the kind Speakers awards, in both the novice versity and the fi nancial support.” isn’t one dimensional, it’s a sport.” QBG learning sessions focused on importance of environment

he Qur’anic Botanic Garden Arabic about the plants in the Holy (QBG), the fi rst garden in the Qur’an and Hadith, also submitted as Tworld to exhibit all plant spe- a video and published on social me- cies mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, dia. As part of its Young Botanist Pro- Hadith, and Sunnah, concluded its gramme, QBG launched its 2021 En- 2020--2021 Fun and Learn, Young vironmental Research Competition. Botanist, and Food Security educa- The programme targets high school tional programmes. students and introduces participants In response to the Covid-19 pan- to botany, methods of plant conser- demic, QBG held its Fun and Learn vation and multiplication through programme for children between 6 scientifi c and laboratory trips, as well and 12 years virtually through social as hands-on experiments conducted media. Designed to teach the young- by the students themselves. er generation about plants and the This year witnessed the addition environment through a social media of the QBG Virtual Tours programme competition, the Fun and Learn pro- as part of the pre-existing Young gramme aims to spread awareness Botanist Program. The virtual tours about environmental action and the schedule included many sessions plants mentioned in Holy Qur’an, for diff erent school types to com- Hadith, and Sunnah. The pro- municate with students in Arabic gramme included a recycling com- and English. The tours targeted stu- petition, where children were asked dents in grade 5-7. QBG’s Food Se- to record a video of them recycling curity programme encourages mod- used agricultural tools, providing an ern agricultural practices that make explanation of the used tools and fol- investments in this sector feasible. low actioned steps. This year’s programme included vir- Fun and Learn also included the tual meetings and a series of online Plant conservation lessons at schools. Little Farmer and Little Narrator workshops and live interviews to in- competitions. The Little Farmer troduce students to the latest exper- Qatar’s rich culture. QBG encour- es, protecting the environment, as competition asks children to video tise in the fi eld. ages participation based on a sense well as cultivating and reforming record themselves sowing a plant QBG follows a binary cultural and of individual, societal, and spiritual lands. QBG has established educa- mentioned in the Holy Qur’an or Ha- practical approach to protect and responsibility. tional programmes that are suitable dith and provide an explanation of preserve the environment, and pro- Fatima al-Khulaifi , director, QBG, for diverse age groups and closely the steps taken and tools used. Chil- mote the concept of green culture said: “All our programmes aim to integrated into school curricula to dren taking part in the Little Narrator and development, using cultural and educate students about the impor- ensure a practical application of this competition told stories in Classical religious elements stemming from tance of preserving natural resourc- knowledge.” Gulf Times Wednesday, April 14, 2021 5 QATAR

QIB partners with new brands to enhance Absher Rewards options Qatar Airways

atar Islamic Bank (QIB) ers to enjoy their shopping, has announced further dining, entertainment, and introduces bespoke Qenhancements to its Ab- travel experiences while being sher Rewards Programme, add- able to pay using their rewards ing global and regional favour- points.” ite fashion and entertainment Customers can also choose brands to the programme’s ex- to redeem their Absher points Iftar meal bags tensive list of redemption part- against vouchers to shop at the ners. Mall of Qatar and all Al Meera atar Airways has said it With this new upgrade, QIB supermarkets in Qatar, or set- is delighted to extend its customers can also use their tle their Ooredoo, Vodafone, or Qtradition of celebrating Absher points to get e-vouchers Kahramaa utility bills. the customs of Ramadan with valid as payment methods at Absher points can also be ex- passengers on board by off ering all Go Sport, Virgin Megastore, changed against e-vouchers for bespoke Iftar meal bags, consist- Joyalukkas, Toys R Us, and VOX Uber, Careem, and Talabat, or ing of Middle Eastern delicacies Cinemas outlets in Qatar. redemption, customers will transfers from the mobile App. be used to book fl ights with over to break their fast during this The redemption process only receive their e-vouchers over Commenting on the latest 900 airlines, book a room from holy month. takes a few clicks, and can be registered e-mails to be used upgrade, D Anand, QIB gen- over 450,000 hotels or rent a The Iftar bag, designed in- done easily, 24/7 and from any- anytime as a payment method eral manager — Personal Bank- car from more than 150,000 car house, is a colourful modern ex- where via the QIB Mobile App or when purchasing goods or serv- ing Group, said: “We welcome rental offi ces in more than 150 ecution of an Arabic pattern that the dedicated Absher web por- ices from the selected brands in the opportunity to further en- cities worldwide. one may see within a Fanous. tal, absher.qib.com.qa. Qatar. hance our list of Absher points Customers also have ac- The Fanous has become a popu- After logging in, customers QIB customers can earn Ab- redemption partners, adding cess to the online shopping lar symbol to represent the holy can tap on ‘redeem partners’, sher points every time they en- leading sportswear, fashion, and store specialised in redeeming month as it adds to the magical and then select their favourite gage with the range of bank’s entertainment brands to the ex- points with thousands of prod- and serene atmosphere that one redemption partner to access products and services, such as tended list of partners in Qatar ucts across diff erent categories, experiences during this time. the dedicated redemption page transferring their salaries for and around the world. ranging from electronic items, Each bag contains a selection Each bag contains a selection of sweet and savoury delicacies that will for the brand of their choice, the fi rst time, opening fi xed de- “The Absher Rewards Pro- personal and household items of sweet and savoury delicacies be off ered on selected routes. before clicking on the ‘redeem posit accounts, using their QIB gramme is now one of the most from leading brands. that will be off ered on selected now’ button to complete the re- credit and debit cards, in addi- comprehensive rewards pro- For more information, visit routes across Algeria, Bangla- our customers, and we are ex- able to digitally access the Iftar demption. tion to registering for the QIB grammes in Qatar, and the one- www.qib.com.qa/en/personal/ desh, Djibouti, Egypt, India, Iran, cited to provide a service that and Suhoor menu through their After confi rming the points’ mobile App and International stop-shop that allows custom- absher-rewards-program/. Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, is tailored to the needs of those smartphones via QR codes. Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, who are fasting.” Qatar Airways recently be- Sudan, Tunisia and the UAE, the As travelling between time came the fi rst global airline in airline has said in a statement. zones can be challenging for the the world to achieve the pres- Partial closure on Dafna Street for six months On fl ights departing from fasting travellers, Qatar Airways tigious 5-Star Covid-19 Airline Doha, the Iftar bag will contain cabin crew will make an an- Safety Rating by international The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has announced a bottle of water, fresh Laban, nouncement before the com- air transport rating organisa- a partial closure in Dafna Street for six months from Medjool dates, Chicken Musa- mencement of this service and tion, Skytrax. This follows HIA’s April 16. The closure is in both directions between Dafna khan Wrap, Falafel Wrap and serve the Iftar meal bags at the recent success as the fi rst and Street’s intersections with Omar Al Mukhtar Street and Baklava. For inbound fl ights to appropriate time during the only airport in the Middle East Balhambar Street for a distance of 600m. Doha, passengers will be off ered fl ight, the statement noted. and Asia to be awarded a Skytrax Dafna Street will also be closed in one direction from the same selection with a Chick- Passengers at Hamad Inter- 5-Star Covid-19 Airport Safety its intersection with Balhambar Street to Al Dafna en Shawarma and a Muhammara national Airport (HIA) can also Rating. Intersection. Access to the embassies on both sides of Wrap. experience the spirit of Ram- These recognitions provide Dafna Street will be kept open. During the closure in Qatar Airways Group chief ex- adan with a traditional Iftar assurance to passengers across co-ordination with the General Traff ic Department, Omar ecutive HE Akbar al-Baker said: or Suhoor at Qatar Duty Free’s the world that airline health and Al Mukhtar Street, Al Tawaweesh Street, and Balhambar “With heartwarming greetings, Harrods Tea Room. Along with safety standards are subject to Street can be used as alternative roads, as shown in the we wish all our passengers Ra- the traditional menus, pas- the highest possible standards of map. The closure aims to allow the implementation of madan Kareem. We are delighted sengers will be offered dates professional, independent scru- Dafna Street Development works, as part of the Roads to invite all our passengers this and Laban, traditionally served tiny and assessment. For full de- and Parks Development Project in the West Bay area. holy month, to share an Iftar before Iftar and Suhoor during tails of all the measures that have Ashghal will install road signs advising motorists of the meal together on board. The holy Ramadan. been implemented on board and temporary closure and requested all to follow them and month of Ramadan is an impor- To ensure a contactless din- at HIA, visit qatarairways.com/ abide by the speed limit to ensure safety. tant time for a great number of ing experience, travellers will be safety. Awqaf to sponsor Qur’an recitation competition

he General Administration of Endowments at the Min- Tistry of Endowments and Is- lamic Affairs (Saqafi) will sponsor the ninth season of the Holy Qur’an recitation competition with sup- port of QR900,000 from the Waqf Bank. This was announced at a press conference attended by the Gen- eral Directorate of Awqaf direc- tor Dr Sheikh Khalid bin Mohamed bin Ghanem al-Thani, Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs’ Da’wa and Religious Guidance director Mohamed bin Yaqoub al-Ali and Content and Children’s Channels executive director general Saad bin Saleh al-Hudayfi. Dr al-Thani said the General Ad- ministration of Endowments adopts the global competition. The compe- for their knowledge and extensive ex- many competitions related to the tition will be attended by contestants perience in the fi eld of judging inter- Holy Qur’an and Hadith and this is from 25 countries. Al-Ali said the jury national competitions on the recita- through supporting and sponsoring includes a group of scholars renowned tion of the Holy Qur’an. Rise in sales of Qatari vegetables in March

he Premium Qatari Vegetables and Qatar Farms programmes Tachieved signifi cant sales during March, the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) announced yesterday. A total of 3,751 tonnes were sold dur- ing the month, comprising 456 tonnes through the Premium Qatari Vegeta- bles and 3,295 tonnes from the Qatar Farms Programme. This was an increase of 51 tonnes compared to February when a total of 3,700 tonnes of local vegetables were sold. This included 453 tonnes through the Premium Qatari Vegetable Programme and 3,247 from the Qatar Farms Programme. The MME launched these pro- grammes in co-operation with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to Premium Qatari vegetables on display at an outlet. improve local marketing operations and help the farmers market their produce. fordable prices for consumers. of the success of the programme, it The programmes provided the op- The Premium Qatari Vegetable pro- was launched in other consumer malls portunity for Qatari farmers to display gramme was launched in January 2017 (such as LuLu Hypermarket, Carrefour their locally produced high-quality in Al Meera complexes only with the and Family Food Centre) in December vegetables which were available at af- participation of 16 farms. As a result 2017. Gulf Times 6 Wednesday, April 14, 2021 QATAR/RAMADAN Qatar Charity’s relief What will you do aid for Rohingya in Ramadan? It should be the hallmark of the believers when asked, “What will you do in Ramadan?” They should respond with, “Allah will see what I am going to do (to please Him). I will strive against my own self, inclination, desires, lusts, food, refugees in Ramadan drink, property and health: {Indeed, Allah has purchased from the believers their lives and their properties [in exchange] for that they will have Paradise.} [Qur’an 9:111]” atar Charity (QC) has said The way of striving is the one by which a it is preparing to provide person shows his Lord how he fulfils the Qrelief aid to Rohingya ref- covenant, spends his property, time and ugees in Bangladesh during the eff ort in the way of Allah The Almighty. The holy month of Ramadan. striving believer expects forgiveness, exalts The food aid will come as part the Lord, approaches Him, loves Him, and of Qatar Charity’s ‘Ramadan of gives preference to what is with Allah The Hope’ drive to alleviate the suf- Almighty instead of what is perishable unlike fering of the refugees and help those described by Allah The Almighty Who them meet their needs during Says (what means): {But you prefer the worldly this blessed month, especially in life, while the Hereafter is better and more light of the continued coronavi- enduring.} [Qur’an 87:16-17] rus pandemic, QC said in a state- They indeed prefer the Hereafter and what is ment with Allah The Almighty. They prefer to please This assistance comes within Allah The Almighty, love Him, draw closer to the framework of the relief aid Him, approach Him and obey Him. At the same allocated by Qatar Charity for time, they know that if they prefer that which crisis-stricken areas. Refugees, is with Allah The Almighty, He, in turn, will help the displaced and the poor are them, give them preference over others in expected to benefi t from the re- the aff airs of their world for which they fear, lief aid in 25 countries, especially and give them thereof without account, in in Syria and neighbouring coun- confirmation of His Saying (what means): {“Our tries, in addition, to the Rohingya Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good they get nothing. refugees. Qatar Charity initiatives in Bangladesh. and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and Perhaps you have noticed how fast life passes This relief is expected to bene- protect us from the punishment of the Fire.”} by these days and similarly, Ramadan ends fi t the Rohingya refugees in Cox’s ence of local offi cials, the state- Rohingya refugees are facing lief aid to 4,000 fi re-aff ected Ro- [Qur’an 2:201] very quickly, too. You should wonder whether Bazar and Bhasan Char, a remote ment notes. various humanitarian crises in hingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar, He will give them the good of this world and you are still determined to realise the means island in Noakhali district of QC’s team in Bangladesh dis- the country, emphasising that which displaced nearly 50,000 the good of the Hereafter, and the light of of forgiveness, mercy and emancipation Bangladesh. tributed the aid, which included QC stands by the Rohingyas to refugees from their camps. The striving and guidance will be visible on them: from hell, or you have slackened, and not In response to the heartbreak- daily basic foodstuff s, while improve their living conditions aid included clothes, safe drink- {And those who strive for Us - We will surely experienced what one should feel when ing situation of Rohingya refu- taking precautionary measures by regularly delivering relief aid ing water and free medical serv- guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is knowing that Allah The Almighty is about to gees in Bangladesh, Qatar Chari- against the coronavirus. that includes food and daily es- ices. In recent months, hun- with the doers of good.} [Qur’an 29:69] grant him forgiveness, and accept him. If the ty has recently distributed urgent Mohamed Amin Hafi z Omar, sentials, in addition, to medical dreds of thousands of refugees The issue of striving is very lengthy, and we first week comes to an end, you should ask relief aid to 4,380 refugees in the country director of Qatar Char- and shelter assistance. Qatar were taken to Bhasan Char from have explained what one should learn to strive yourself whether you have got accustomed Bhasan Char island, in the pres- ity’s Bangladesh offi ce, said the Charity recently distributed re- Teknaf Upazila in Cox’s Bazar. against himself, proceed with it to Allah The to standing at night in prayer, about which the Almighty, be decisive with one’s self, have Messenger of Allah, sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, control over it, suppress it, curb it, and lead said: “Whoever stands (in prayer) Ramadan it to Allah The Almighty. It is by doing so that out of sincere faith and seeking the Reward of one learns that paradise, as mentioned by the Allah, his previous sins would be forgiven for Messenger of Allah, sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, him.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim] Have you then “is surrounded by all kinds of unfavourable got accustomed to it? Have you accustomed things, whereas Hell is surrounded by all kinds yourself to it? Did you like its length? Is it a of desires.”[Al-Bukhari and Muslim] Both cause of your love for your Lord, drawing desires and unfavourable things are curbed closer to Him, and long private talk with Him, only with striving against oneself to endure so much that you no longer liked to come out the unfavourable things to attain paradise, and of the presence of Allah The Almighty, or do to refrain from desires in order to save oneself you still come late? In this case, you do not from hell, as mentioned by the Prophet, seem to fear the statement of the Messenger sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam. of Allah, sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam, “Some If one is eager to seek forgiveness, he would people continue to come (to prayer) late until not let Ramadan pass away, week after Allah delays them.” [Muslim] another, without self-reckoning. The righteous We ask Allah The Almighty to enable us to believers addressed by the speech of Allah experience the sweetness of worship in The Almighty to observe fasting, stand (in Ramadan and thereafter. prayer), and do righteous deeds, should practice self-reckoning before their days slip Article source: http://www.islamweb.net/ away from them, and this month is over and emainpage/

HMC advises fasting QRCS to provide needs of Professors of QU individuals to 61,865 vulnerable people College of Sharia eat healthy meals share views

any individuals who fast during the holy Mmonth of Ramadan on Ramadan suff er from headaches as one of the primary symptoms they can experience while fasting, espe- oinciding with Ram- cially during the fi rst few days of adan, professors from the Ramadan. These headaches Cthe Qatar Univer- normally result from several sity (QU) College of Sharia changes that occur during Ram- and Islamic studies shared adan, including the rapid change their opinions about the holy in dietary habits, reduced fl uid month, more pertinently, on intake, and the changes in sleep- how to prepare for it and its ing patterns by staying up late importance in the Islamic and not getting enough sleep at community. night. Prof Noureddine Khadmi, Dr Yousef al-Tayeb, senior unit head, Research at College consultant of Emergency Medi- Dr Yousef al-Tayeb of Sharia and Islamic Stud- cine at Hamad Medical Corpo- Distribution of Ramadan Iftar meals. ies said: “Ramadan is month ration, said: “Some individuals gestion and stomach upset. of Qu’ran in which we recite, may have a headache before the Dr al-Tayeb provides follow- atar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) ini- fasting, at a total cost of QR280,000. teach and act upon it. In this Iftar meal, while others can get ing health tips for those who fast tiated a series of charitable projects Every year, QRCS will help those wish- month, we Muslims should a headache after having their during Ramadan to avoid having Qfor the benefi t of tens of thousands of ing to pay their Zakat-ul-Fitr, by deliver- understand Qu’ran and Ram- Iftar meal. There are two types headaches: vulnerable groups in Qatar, under its Ramadan ing purchase vouchers to 2,250 persons from adan.” Dr Sultan al-Hashmi of these headaches, namely pri- Delay the Suhoor meal and Campaign 1442 A H titled “Race to All That Is poor families, to secure their food needs, Dr Sultan al-Hashmi, assist- mary headaches and second- choose healthy, slow-digesting Good”. while observing the Sharia-specifi ed time for ant professor of Fiqh of Trans- month.” Saeed al-Marri, as- ary headaches. Headaches of- foods for Suhoor such as grains, The plan involves several Ramadan-bound paying Zakat-ul-Fitr. This project will cost actions at College of Sharia sistant professor, Sunna and ten occur before Iftar due to the legumes, vegetables and fruits projects, such as Ramadan Iftar, Zakat-ul- QR517,000 in total. and Islamic Studies said: “Pray Hadith Sciences at College of decreased blood glucose levels. to ensure the body has enough Fitr, and Eid Clothing. This food and seasonal Regarding Eid-ul-Fitr, QRCS will distrib- in this Ramadan considering it Sharia and Islamic Studies, Glucose is an important source energy during the fasting period. aid targets 61,865 vulnerable benefi ciaries ute QR 500,835 worth of purchase vouchers to as your last Ramadan and you said this month is known for of energy for the human body Avoid staying up late at night such as labourers, patients, and poor families poor families to secure new clothes for their will not waste the opportunity patience, generosity, determi- and food is its main source.” and try to have regular sleeping in Qatar. children and make them feel the joy of Eid. and pray with your best inten- nation, forgiveness and a night However, some individuals patterns and take a nap during First, there will be a Ramadan Iftar project, The overall number of benefi ciaries is 2,895. tions. Life is unpredictable, we which is better than thousand can have headaches after eat- daytime hours. which is limited to ready-made food meals, To donate to QRCS’s Ramadan campaign, should pray as much as we can nights. ing their Iftar meal, which often Make sure you drink plenty in light of the Covid-19 outbreak and strict visit the offi cial website (www.qrcs.org.qa), in Ramadan.” Ramadan is the most pre- occurs due to overeating and in- of water and fl uids (up to three preventive measures. Throughout the holy call Donor Service (66666364) or Donation Dr Mohamed al-Majali, as- cious month in the Islamic cal- digestion. Excessive eating and litres) during the hours between month of Ramadan, daily fresh meals will Collector (33998898), or transfer your dona- sociate dean for Research & endar (Hijri) and it is obliga- drinking during Iftar until the Iftar and Suhoor. be distributed to poor families and workers tion to any of the following bank accounts: Graduate Studies at College tory for the Muslim to fast in stomach is full can apply pres- Keep your blood glucose levels across the country. At a total cost of QR1.2mn, QIB (IBAN: QA- of Sharia and Islamic Studies, the month of Ramadan. Allah sure on the diaphragm and aff ect within the normal range by eat- this project will cover 48,000 benefi ciaries. 51QISB000000000110575190014) said: “The world is temporary, has made fasting Ramadan and the breathing mechanism, which ing in moderation during Iftar Likewise, there will be the Cordiality Iftar, QIIB (IBAN: QA66QI- we should pray and ask for for- spending its nights in prayer can lead the fasting individual to and Suhoor meals. a project to distribute fresh meals every day IB000000001111126666003) giveness from Allah. We should out of faith and in the hope of feel symptoms of shortness of Patients who take medication, to patients and medical staff at hospitals. It QNB (IBAN: QA21QN- communicate with our Crea- reward a means of forgiving breath, fatigue, and headache. especially those with chronic targets 7,500 benefi ciaries, at a total cost of BA000000000850020196062) tor in the month of Ramadan of sins. Fasting in Ramadan It is important to eat healthy, conditions and patients with hy- QR262,000. Masraf Al-Rayan (IBAN: QA18MA- to cleanse our souls; in this is equivalent to fasting ten balanced Iftar meals to ensure pertension are recommended to A third project to be implemented by QRCS FR000000000011199980003) way, we purify our souls in the months. Fasting in Ramadan the body is getting enough nu- consult with their doctor before is the Ramadan Provisions, which involves the To donate to the Ramadan Iftar projects, SMS holy month of Ramadan. Good is a means of expiation for the trients and vitamins. It’s also they fast Ramadan to arrange for distribution of purchase vouchers to 1,220 “Iftar” to 92216 (QR100), 92092 (QR500), or 92246 deeds are multiplied in this sins committed since the pre- recommended to eat in modera- timing and dosage modifi cations benefi ciaries from poor families, to secure (QR1,000). To donate to the Eid Clothing project, month, we should practice Is- vious Ramadan, so long as one tion during Iftar to avoid indi- if needed. their food needs throughout the month of SMS “Eid” to 92092 (QR500) or 92246 (QR1,000). lam as much as we can in this avoids major sins. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 14, 2021 7 QATAR Health workers in appeal to follow virus precautions

Healthcare workers in Qatar have urged the public to follow the Covid-19 precautionary measures. “We’re working 24/7 to fight Covid-19. Please help us by following the precautionary measures,” a post published on the social media pages of the Ministry of Public Health, Hamad Medical Corporation and Primary Health Care Corporation said. Healthcare workers could be seen standing with posters carrying this message in multiple languages.

HBKU and UC Berkeley MoPH reports 981 new cases

QNA 476 face prosecution to collaborate for research Doha for violation of Covid-19 measures he College of Public Policy (CPP) at Hamad he Ministry of Public Bin Khalifa University has signed a memo- Health (MoPH) reported The designated authorities Trandum of understanding (MoU) with the Tyesterday, 981 new con- referred 476 people to the University of California, Berkeley, USA, that estab- fi rmed cases of coronavirus Public Prosecution for violating lishes a framework for international collaboration (Covid-19) with 731 of these are the preventive and precaution- in research, education, and training programmes from community cases and 250 ary measures enforced by the between their faculty and students over the next from travellers returning from country to contain the spread fi ve years. abroad. of the coronavirus (Covid-19), The agreement, sponsored by the College of The MoPH recorded 593 re- QNA reported. Public Policy (CPP) at HBKU, represented by Dr coveries from the virus during Among them, 318 people were Leslie Pal, founding dean of CPP, and UC Berke- the past 24 hours, bringing the referred to the Public Prosecu- ley’s Centre for Middle Eastern Studies (CMES), total number of cases recovered tion for not wearing masks in represented by Dr Asad Q Ahmed, professor of in Qatar to 170,787. The minis- places where they are manda- Arabic and Islamic Studies, Department of Near Dr Anis Ben Brik Dr Asad Ahmed try reported fi ve new deaths of tory, while nine were found Eastern Studies and Department of Philosophy people aged 38, 51, 69, 75 and violating the maximum number and Director, CMES. strong synergy effect by co-operating on a broad 95, with three of them with a of four allowed in a vehicle in- The MoU encourages collaboration on top- range of common interests. The collaboration is history of chronic disease and cluding the driver (except when ics of mutual academic interest between their a major milestone for HBKU, at a time when the who were receiving the neces- they are members of one fam- faculties and research communities, with CPP’s demand for this kind of global approach to higher sary medical care.The national ily), 104 did not adhere to safe Programme for Social Policy Evaluation and education is growing due to the complex, inter- Covid-19 vaccination pro- distancing, 44 others for indoor Research (Prosper) and UC Berkeley expected connected challenges we face.” gramme data has shown that gathering, and one person for to develop programmes and activities that ad- Dr Ahmed added: “We are very positive about 1,131,631 Covid-19 vaccine dos- not installing the Ehteraz app vance scholarships through their co-operative exploring new opportunities to collaborate with es have been administered since on his mobile phone. relationship. Among the activities envisaged are a leading educational institution like HBKU the start of the programme. joint research projects, conferences, workshops, through its College of Public Policy. In the past 24 hours, 26,905 symposia, seminars, and training programmes. “The MoU will create mutual avenues for our Covid-19 vaccine doses have variants from South Africa. The collaboration will also extend to research ex- scholars and students to explore interdiscipli- been administered. This new variant is much more changes between faculty, graduate students, and nary collaboration. UC Berkeley is committed Every day, hundreds of peo- ary 1, the number of people with enabled to delay the introduction contagious and spreads more postdoctoral scholars. to boldly confronting the most pressing global ple are becoming sick due to Covid-19 admitted to hospital of new variants into this country easily between people than the Dr Anis Ben Brik, associate professor and challenges, and establishing such dynamic inter- Covid-19, with many requiring has doubled. for several months, but we are existing strain, and may be asso- founding director of CPP’s Prosper, said: national partnerships is fundamental to admission to hospital to manage Qatar’s strict quarantine pol- now seeing positive cases in the ciated with increased severity of “Through this MoU, we are expected to generate a this effort.” their symptoms. Since Febru- icy for returning travellers has region and in Qatar, with the new the disease.

Mondrian Doha celebrates Ramadan with ‘exquisite’ Iftar and Suhoor menus

ondrian Doha, managed have at any Iftar table – majdool miso soup, buckweed noodles, played a crucial role in helping cal baby chickens prepared with by leading internation- dates, dried fi gs, nuts and lentil tempura shrimps, a selection of us make this Ramadan truly spe- the fi nest Japanese techniques, Mal lifestyle hospital- soup. maki and sushi and a souffl e-like cial despite all the current chal- sauces and add-ins. ity group, sbe, has announced a Further, Walima’s head chef, cheesecake with fresh blackber- lenges.” Mikel Ibrahim, V-P, Sales & host of culinary delights to mark Sezar Eliass and Morimoto’s ex- ry jam and fresh fruit, Mondrian Also in the framework of the Marketing, Mondrian Doha, the holy month of Ramadan, of- ecutive chef, Timur Fazilov, have Doha has said in a statement. fi rst-of-its-kind Chefs of Qa- added: “Thanks to Mondrian’s fering the Qatar community the collaborated to provide exclusive In addition, all a la carte op- tar Virtual Food Festival, chef innovative and bold approach, opportunity to revel in delicious set menus as part of the Chefs of tions from Mondrian outlets Timur has collaborated with our team has once again devised Iftar and Suhoor meals from the Qatar Virtual Food Festival. - including CUT, Morimoto, renowned Qatari chef, pilot creative ways to celebrate Ram- comfort of their homes. Through the initiative sup- Walima, etc - will be available and founder of ‘The Cooking adan with Qatar. The collabo- Walima, a Qatari-inspired ported by Qatar National Tour- for takeaway and delivery as part Academy’, Hassan al-Ibrahim. ration between chef Timur and restaurant boasting of a variety ism Council (QNTC) and Qatar of Mondrian’s ‘Taste-to-Go” of- The collaboration was the fruit chef Hassan, as part of the vir- of dishes from across the Mid- Airways, and available for de- fering. of several workshops and food tual food festival, will off er Qa- dle East and led by Arabian cui- livery on Talabat, Walima will Mondrian Doha general man- tastings the two chefs held at the tari residents a one-of-a-kind sine guru chef Sezar, will off er off er a traditional Iftar-style ager Vasileios Oikonomopoulos Morimoto kitchen, with a be- gastronomic experience, and an generous Ramadan Iftar boxes. meal with chef Sezar’s signature said, “Mondrian Doha is delight- spoke menu blending Qatari and inspiration for their own culi- Chef Sezar’s selection of dishes mixed grills and a variety of hot ed to share in the joy of Ramadan Japanese fl avours to be soon re- nary creations.” will include Walima’s star chick- and cold mezzeh, as well as an through an amazing ‘Taste-to- vealed and available for delivery Mondrian outlets will also of- en biryani, lamb machboos or Arabic dessert, fruit and dried Go’ dining off ering, and to give via Talabat. The menu curated fer catering services for corporate mixed grill as the main course, a fruit platters; while Morimo- back to the community around by the two famous chefs will fea- clients who would like to pamper diverse selection of hot and cold to’s menu will boast of the best us. We are grateful to our part- ture traditional Qatari products their employees with fi ne-dining mezzeh, beverage and a must of Japanese cuisine, including ners in QNTC, whose support – hamour, lamb chops and lo- Iftar options during Ramadan. Some of the meals on off er. Gulf Times 8 Wednesday, April 14, 2021 QATAR

Ramadan message from New slaughterhouse opens in Umm Salal Chinese ambassador On behalf of the Chinese government and people, I would like to extend our sincere Ramadan greetings and best wishes to His Highness the Amir, His Highness the Father Amir, His Highness the Deputy Chinese ambassador Amir, to the brotherly Qatari Zhou Jian. people and all Muslims in Qatar. Growing up in a Muslim community, I have a natural aff inity for Islamic culture. For Muslims, Ramadan is the holiest and most auspicious month of the year. It is an important time to purify the spirit, to promote good and stop evil, and to demonstrate the benevolence and solidarity of the Islamic civilisation. At this very moment, more than 23mn Chinese Muslims are looking forward to this holy month, just like Muslims in Qatar and around the world. This Ramadan is an unusual one. As Covid-19 is still spreading, it has become everyone’s responsibility to fight against the virus. Temporary restraint is for a better reunion in the future. We hope that everyone will follow the guid- ance of the government, wash hands frequently, do more exercise, and reduce unnecessary out- ing. This is also a great illustration of the spirit of Islamic devotion. Let us join hands to overcome the pandemic at an early date, so that we can enjoy a happy time together as usual. Umm Salal Municipality, in co-operation with Widam Food Company, inaugurated a new slaughterhouse in Umm Salal recently. The opening was held in the presence of AlNoubay Salem On this joyous occasion, let me once again wish al-Marri, CEO of Widam Food; Mohamed Mubarak al-Sultan, head of health control at Umm Salal Municipality; and Dr Nawal Mohamed, adviser in the off ice of the assistant undersecretary for the brotherly Qatar, prosperity and success. I wish Municipalities Aff airs, the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) said. the Qatari people a blessed and joyful holy month of Ramadan!

WCM-Q, HMC Heart Hospital team Largest ever survey up for ECG course to study diseases

eill Cornell Medicine – Qatar (WCM-Q) and Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) WHeart Hospital teamed up to deliver a of contemporary practical course on the eff ective use of the electro- cardiogram (ECG) to diagnose a variety of cardio- vascular diseases. The one-day course aimed at physicians, nurses, students and other healthcare professionals, ex- plained the basics of ECG use in clinical practice Dr Mohamed Elshalzly (left) and Dr Sajad Hayat. culture from Morocco through lectures, before the participants discussed clinical cases in small groups in order to understand Sayyed GulKarim, Dr Mohamed Mohsen, Dr Islam how to apply the theory to practical situations. The Elgendy and Samira Nasrallah. participants learned how to identify changes in Dr Elshazly said: “The ECG is a powerful diagnos- ECG readings and how to interpret the said changes tic tool that provides great benefi ts to healthcare pro- to identify dysfunctions such as atrial and ven- fessionals and patients in the identifi cation of many at Reina Sofi a, Madrid tricular arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, and forms of cardiovascular disease. I have no doubt that electrolyte abnormalities. the knock-on benefi ts to patients from this course will  The exhibition is being presented in collaboration with Mathaf-Qatar Museums The course, titled ‘ECG in Clinical Practice,’ was be very positive and very signifi cant.” The course was directed by Dr Mohamed Elshalzly, assistant pro- co-ordinated by the Division of Continuing Profes- useo Nacional Centro also includes works by artists fessor of Medicine at WCM-Q, and Dr Sajad Hayat, sional Development at WCM-Q and was accredited de Arte Reina Sofi a in who worked as outsiders and consultant cardiologist and electrophysiologist at locally by the Ministry of Public Health’s Department MMadrid presents Mo- developed unique and poetic HMC Heart Hospital. Other expert speakers at the of Healthcare Professions – Accreditation Section roccan Trilogy: 1950-2020, a vocabularies. Tangier was an event were Dr Nidal Ahmad Asaad, Dr Nora AlJe- and internationally by the Accreditation Council for sweeping survey of the culture international creative centre of fairi, Dr Shahul Hameed Ahammed Khan, Safi a Bibi Continuing Medical Education. of Morocco from the 1950s to the the Beat Generation and anti- present day, running until Sep- war movements, and has been tember 27, in a unique collabora- a base for artists such as Khalil tion with Mathaf: Arab Museum El Ghrib, Abbas Saladi. El Gh- of Modern Art – Qatar Museums rib (b. 1948) and Abbas Saladi and Qatar Foundation. (1950 – 1992). W Doha brings spirit of The show features more than Abdellah Karroum, curator 250 works by 60 artists, includ- of the exhibitions and director Ramadan home with ‘Your ing a series of important works of Mathaf, said: “This histori- from the collection of Mathaf, cal exhibition is part of a larger as well as archival material ongoing research programme Home. Your Tent’ offers drawn from private and pub- that is constantly expanding. lic collections. The exhibition This fi rst presentation in a mu- also premieres or re-activates a seum context seeks to amplify Doha Hotel & Resi- number of works, and includes the artists’ perspective of a tur- dences – W Doha is several new commissions. bulent period in the history of Wcelebrating the holy The exhibition is co-curated Morocco, and has been devel- month of Ramadan with the by Manuel Borja-Villel, director oped in close collaboration with W2GO Ramadan boxes de- of the Reina Sofi a Museum, and the Reina Sofi a Museum over signed to embrace the tradi- Abdellah Karroum, director of the last three years.” tions and rich fl avours of the Mathaf: Arab Museum of Mod- A new book will be published holy month of Ramadan. ern Art in Doha. to coincide with the exhibition In addition to the W2GO Moroccan Trilogy 1950-2020 with contributions by key fi g- menu, W Doha also introduces looks at modern and contem- ures associated with the period, sharing boxes, homemade Bak- porary art and culture in Mo- as well as an extensive public lava collection as well as exclu- rocco’s major urban centres programme. Among those tak- sive staycation rates, inviting including Tangier, Tetouan and ing part are: Tina Barouti, art guests to enjoy a “unique Ram- Casablanca, from the immedi- historian; Omar Berrada, writer, adan escape with their families ate post-independence period curator; Manual Borja-Villel, di- and loved ones,” the hotel has of the 1950s to the pre-revolu- rector, Reina Sofi a Museum; Ali said in a statement. tions era of the new millennia. Essafi , documentary fi lm-mak- Wassim Daaje, general Divided into three chapters, er; Driss Ksikes, journalist, liter- manager of W Doha, said, historical timeframes defi ned ary critic; Abdellatif Laabi, poet; “The holy month of Ramadan by major societal shifts, the ex- Abdellah Karroum, Curator; is upon us once again, and we hibition examines the interdis- Kenza Sefrioui, cultural journal- are looking forward to off er- ciplinary domains of art, litera- ist, literary critic and publisher; ing everyone the opportunity ture, fi lm, architecture, theatre, Abdellah Taia, writer and fi lm- to relive their most loved Ra- and music and their personal maker; Selma Zerhouni, archi- madan traditions and fl avours and professional networks. tect and journalist. while staying safe with W2GO The fi rst chapter covers the The exhibition Moroccan (Your Home. Your Tent). This period 1950-1969, during the Trilogy 1950-2020 has been year, we will be bringing back struggle for independence and 1970-1999, encompasses the the rise of populist political organised within the frame- the Ramadan sharing boxes following forty years of French so-called Years of Lead, and is parties, the Casablanca terror- work of the programme for to celebrate this month with and Spanish colonial rule, pre- among the most violent in Mo- ist attacks in 2003 and the Arab cultural co-operation between an expanded menu of rich fl a- senting historical works that rocco’s recent history, includ- Spring, defi ning an era of radi- Spain and Morocco in the fi eld vours and traditional tastes. defi ned new tendencies of an- ing the uprisings of 1981 and cal change, mass uprising and of Museums, an initiative fos- We wish everyone in Qatar a ti-colonial art practices in the 1984 as a consequence of the technological development. tered by the National Foun- blessed and safe Ramadan.” month, food lovers will be able with a wide selection of sweet 1960s, including a radical re- political and economic crisis. The featured artists are dation of Museums of the People at home can indulge to enjoy an expanded Sashimi and savoury choices ready for vision of the Fine Art Schools The featured artists are Mo- Mounir Fatmi (b. 1970), Yto Kingdom of Morocco and the in the spirit of the holy month & Sushi menu and indulge in pickup from 7am to 11pm. with a futurist perspective. hamed Kacimi (1942-2003), Barrada (b. 1971), Hicham Ministry of Culture and Sport and share a selection of sweet their favourite dishes from With all precautionary Among them are: Farid Belka- Latifa Toujani (b. 1948), Leila Benohoud (b. 1968), Younes of the Government of Spain, and savoury specials with the the hotel’s hotspots, includ- measures taken into consid- hia (1934-2014), Chaibia Talal Kilani (b. 1970). Rahmoun (b. 1975), Yass- in collaboration with Mathaf: W2GO Ramadan sharing box- ing Market by Jean-Georges, eration, W Doha continues (1929-2004), Mohamed Melehi The third period from 2000- ine Balbzioui (b. 1972), Sara Arab Museum of Modern Art es designed to satisfy all Ram- Spice Market, La Spiga, W to implement the highest (1936-2020). 2020, focuses on the work of O’Haddou (b. 1986) and Safaa – Qatar Museums and Qatar adan cravings. Sharing boxes Cafe and the new addition of standards and preventative The second period, from artists and activists, marking Erruas (b. 1976). The exhibition Foundation. include a Mezze Box at QR160, Coya Doha delivered to their practices through the Qatar the Sweet Box at QR185 and doorsteps. W Cafe will also Clean programme to deliver a the Majdoul date box at QR75. be open for takeaway so that safe Ramadan experience, the Throughout the holy guests can treat their taste buds statement added. Rain, strong winds expected today: Met dept Action against firm over unsuitable housing for workers he Qatar Met department has said The wind speed may go up to 25 knots in may be thundery in certain places occa- The Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Aff airs, represented by the Labour Inspection Depart- there are chances of rain in the coun- some inshore areas during thundery rain sionally. According to a tweet by the Met ment, caught a violation in a cleaning and hospitality company’s workers’ accommodation at Al Kheesa. Ttry today, which may turn thundery and 30 knots off shore, with the sea level department, there are chances of sporadic An off icial statement by the ministry said the company failed to comply with the requirements and specifications of in some places at times, and strong winds rising to 9ft. rain in intermittent periods from Tuesday suitable housing for workers and legal measures were taken by the labour inspection team. The ministry has urged are also likely. The detailed forecast for both inshore until the beginning of Thursday, which may companies to adhere to the requirements and specifications of suitable housing for workers in order to avoid being Thundery rain, along with strong winds and off shore areas says “partly cloudy to turn into thunderstorms at times in some subjected to penalties of imprisonment not exceeding six months and a fine of not less than QR2,000 and not and high seas at times, have also been fore- cloudy” conditions are expected today and areas. The temperature, meanwhile, is ex- exceeding QR100,000, or one of the two, in accordance with Decree-Law No 18 of 2020 amending some provisions cast in off shore areas today. there is a possibility of scattered rain, which pected to range from 24-34C in Doha today. of the Labour Law promulgated by Law No 14 of 2004. Gulf Times Wednesday, April 14, 2021 9 WORLD Japan to release contaminated Fukushima water into sea

Reuters ambassador in Seoul to protest. crippled by a 2011 earthquake and is an unavoidable task to decom- Former Japanese minister ter until tritium levels fall below the International Atomic Energy Tokyo The fi rst release of water will tsunami. It says similarly fi ltered mission the Fukushima Dai-ichi Shinzo Abe in 2013 assured the regulatory limits, before pumping Agency in its handling of the site. take place in about two years, giv- water is routinely released from Nuclear Power Plant and recon- International Olympics Commit- it into the ocean. “In this unique and challeng- ing plant operator Tokyo Electric nuclear plants around the world. struct the Fukushima area,” Prime tee in pitching for the games that Tritium is considered to be rel- ing situation, Japan has weighed apan will release more than Power time to begin fi ltering the Nearly 1.3mn tonnes of con- Minister Yoshihide Suga said of Fukushima “will never do any atively harmless because it does the options and eff ects, has been 1mn tonnes of contaminated water to remove harmful isotopes, taminated water, or enough to fi ll the process that will take decades damage to Tokyo.” not emit enough energy to pen- transparent about its decision, Jwater from the destroyed build infrastructure and acquire about 500 Olympic-sized swim- to complete. Tepco plans to fi lter the con- etrate human skin. and appears to have adopted an Fukushima nuclear plant into regulatory approval. ming pools, is stored in huge tanks The decision comes about three taminated water to remove iso- Other nuclear plants around approach in accordance with the sea, the government said Japan has argued the water re- at the plant at an annual cost of months ahead of the postponed topes, leaving only tritium, a radi- the world routinely pump wa- globally accepted nuclear safety yesterday, a move China called lease is necessary to press ahead about 100bn yen ($912.66mn) - Tokyo Olympic Games, with some oactive isotope of hydrogen hard ter with low levels of the isotope standards,” the US department “extremely irresponsible”, while with the complex decommis- and space is running out. events to be held as close as 60km to separate from water. into the ocean. The US noted that of state said in a statement on its South Korea summoned Tokyo’s sioning of the plant after it was “Releasing the... treated water (35 miles) from the wrecked plant. Tepco will then dilute the wa- Japan has worked closely with website.

India seeks Covid vaccine imports as cases surge

Reuters and fi ll-and-fi nish,” Vinod Ku- New Delhi mar Paul, a senior government health offi cial, told a news con- ference. ndia is to fast-track emer- “We hope and we invite the gency approvals for Covid-19 vaccine makers such as Pfi zer, Ivaccines that have been au- Moderna, Johnson & Johnson thorised by Western countries and others...to be ready to come and Japan, paving the way for to India as early as possible.” possible imports of Pfi zer, John- Pfi zer said it would work to- son & Johnson, and Moderna wards bringing its vaccine to shots. India after withdrawing its ap- The move, which will drop the plication in February. need for companies to do small, India has administered more local safety trials for their vac- than 108mn doses, sold more cines before seeking emergency than 54.6mn vaccine doses approval, follows the world’s abroad and gifted more than biggest surge in cases in the 10mn to partner countries. country this month. It is currently using the Astra- India has the biggest vaccine Zeneca shot and a homegrown manufacturing capacity in the vaccine for its own immunisa- world and had exported tens of tion drive, and this week ap- millions of doses before its own proved Russia’s Sputnik V shot demand skyrocketed and led to a for emergency use. shortage in some states. Since April 2, India has re- ported the world’s highest daily Protesters take part in a demonstration against the military coup in Yangon’s Thuwana township. Maharashtra govt tallies of infections, exceeding tightens restrictions 100,000 for the fi rst time last week. It reported 161,736 cases India’s richest state Mahar- on Tuesday, taking the total to ashtra tightened coronavirus 13.7mn. restrictions late yesterday, Deaths rose by 879 to 171,058. imposing tougher lockdown The jump in infections, for measures including in regional which Health Minister Harsh Var- capital Mumbai as infections dhan acknowledged widespread Myanmar ‘could be heading surge and oxygen supplies failure to heed curbs on move- run short. Having let its guard ment and social interaction, has down with mass religious prompted calls for the govern- festivals, political rallies and ment to cancel huge public events. spectators at cricket matches, Concerns of a spike in cases were India is experiencing a fero- sparked by mass election rallies by towards full-blown confl ict’ cious new wave with around a Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s million new cases in the past party and opposition groups dur- AFP slaughter of its people.” Daily with air strikes, which the Free neighbouring Thailand in recent were tried in absentia. The junta week. The new restrictions will ing polls in four states and one Yangon rallies across Myanmar have Burma Rangers — a Christian weeks, but most have returned yesterday also announced that force all “non-essential” shops, federally run region. been met with live rounds. aid group working in the area — to the Myanmar side of the bor- dozens more people had been malls and e-commerce deliver- At one rally in the eastern state At least 710 civilians have said have displaced more than der. added to an arrest warrant list of ies to pause operations from of West Bengal, a key political he UN rights chief warned been killed as of late Monday, 24,000 civilians in Karen state In Yangon, authorities are 260 celebrities, doctors and or- today until May 1. prize, Home Minister Amit Shah yesterday Myanmar could including 50 children, according by Saturday. hunting those responsible for an dinary citizens. posted Twitter pictures of meet- Tbe spiralling towards a to a local monitoring group. The Rangers, which runs a underground newsletter titled Many are accused of spread- ings with crowds of supporters “full-blown” Syrian-style con- “I fear the situation in Myan- health clinic in the state, said “Molotov”. The publication was ing dissent against the military, Its need for imports would be a while unmasked. fl ict, after a two-month crack- mar is heading towards a full- air strikes had killed at least 20 started by a group of young ac- while medical professionals are blow to dozens of poor countries The second wave of infections, down that a local monitoring blown confl ict,” Bachelet said in people and wounded more than tivists to fi ght ongoing internet wanted over their work at pri- that had relied on the country to which began in India’s major cit- group says has already claimed a statement. 40. outages and information sup- vate clinics, which have taken in run their inoculation drives. ies, is increasingly spreading into more than 700 lives. “There are clear echoes of The area is remote and com- pression. injured protesters, according to India’s health ministry said the hinterland, where healthcare Myanmar is in chaos and its Syria in 2011,” she warned, re- munications are diffi cult, and “The Molotov journal is ille- state media. vaccines authorised by the World facilities are often rudimentary. economy has been paralysed ferring to the start of a civil war AFP has not been able to inde- gally published,” the state-run Meanwhile, in northwestern Health Organisation or authori- In Raipur, the capital of since the military seized power that over the past decade has pendently verify the deaths. Global New Light of Myanmar Sagaing region, a couple were ties in the US, Europe, the United Chhattisgarh state known for its from civilian leader Aung San killed nearly 400,000 people Villagers in some areas were said, adding that legal action shot dead while delivering milk Kingdom and Japan “may be large tribal population, the main Suu Kyi on February 1. and forced more than 6mn to unable to prepare their rice would be taken against those in- after junta troops stormed the granted emergency use approval government hospital’s morgue Warning of possible crimes fl ee the country. crops because of fears the mili- volved. town of Tamu, according to the in India, mandating the require- was struggling to keep up, said against humanity, the United In recent weeks, several of tary would shell them in their At a military tribunal in the Assistance Association for Po- ment of post-approval parallel joint director Dr Vineet Jain. Nations High Commissioner for Myanmar’s ethnic rebel groups fi elds, the aid group said. city, seven protesters accused litical Prisoners (AAPP), a local bridging clinical trial”. “All oxygenated and ICU Human Rights Michelle Bache- in some lawless border territo- “They are afraid they will have over the murder of a suspected monitoring organisation. “If any of these regulators have beds are full in our set-up,” he let yesterday urged countries to ries have stepped up attacks on no rice harvest next fall,” it said informer were sentenced to Young people in cities nation- approved a vaccine, the vaccine said. “Around 50 dead bodies take immediate action to push the military and police, raising in a statement. death, state media said yester- wide continued to take to streets is now ready to be brought into are laying, we have a shortage Myanmar’s military to stop its fears of a broader civil confl ict. Military attacks sent a few day. yesterday, some marching with the country for use, manufacture of space.” “campaign of repression and The military has retaliated thousand people fl eeing into Three of the demonstrators fl owerpots. Will ‘waive’ Covid-19 Virus shutdown sparks exodus from Dhaka vaccine, says Duterte AFP them back to their homes,” said Dhaka bus fi rm manager Rakib Rahman, adding: “But the microbus, car AFP elderly and those with co-mor- gested he would be willing to and motorbike drivers are making Manila bidities. be inoculated in public — after ens of thousands of people a fortune thanks to this mad rush”. While many world leaders re- saying he would get it in pri- scrambled to get the last Police also stopped people ceived their jab in public to en- vate. Ttrains, buses and ferries boarding trucks that were taking hilippine President Rod- courage others to get inoculat- In August, Duterte offered out of Dhaka yesterday before a some out of the city, fearing the rigo Duterte said he will ed, Duterte said he would forgo himself up as a trial case for the nationwide transport shutdown cramped vehicles would easily al- P“waive” his chance to get the opportunity. very first jab of the Russian- to halt the spread of coronavirus low the virus to spread. a Covid-19 vaccine, arguing “I will waive. Whoever wants made vaccine after the Philip- took hold. Hamidur Rahman, a 25-year- elderly people like him should to get my slot, I will give (it to pines emerged as a frontrunner With new cases and deaths hit- old shopping mall worker, was un- not be prioritised. them),” he said in a pre-record- for overseas clinical trials. ting record numbers, Bangladesh’s able to get a minibus from Gabtoli Just over 1mn people in the ed speech. Roque said later Duterte government has ordered all offi ces bus station to his home in western Philippines have received their “Let’s prioritise those who, would not receive the inocula- and shops to close for eight days Jeysore district. fi rst shot since the beginning of once they get a vaccine, there’s tion until regulators had guar- from 6am today. “A regular bus ticket to Jessore March - a fraction of the number a chance that he would live anteed its safety. The country will become virtu- costs a maximum of 500 taka ($6). needed to reach herd immunity and live productively,” said the Roque yesterday said he ally cut off with all international We have to pay 1,000 for a seat,” he in the country of 110mn. 76-year-old, after a two-week hoped the president would fl ights halted, and domestic trans- said, after banding together with The slow rollout and limited absence from the public eye change his mind about not get- port curtailed. 12 others to rent an entire bus. supply have fuelled criticism of that fuelled speculation he had ting the vaccine. Many in the capital of 20mn Most of the exodus was made the government’s handling of Covid-19. “Supply is limited. Once sup- desperately sought any vehicle up of informal workers in Dhaka the pandemic as a record surge “Most of the senior citizens plies come in, maybe that’s the to get them back to home villages stores, offi ces and markets. in infections threatens to over- are no longer that productive.” time he will get vaccinated,” and towns, with taxi and bus fares Didarul Alam, a 22-year-old whelm hospitals in the locked- Vaccines have been a fre- Roque told reporters. quickly rising. student and part-time primary down capital and surrounding quent topic in Duterte’s often Vaccine hesitancy is a signif- Crowds besieged the main bus school tutor, said he could not af- provinces. rambling speeches. icant issue in the Philippines, stations of the city, despite most ford to stay in Dhaka. The vaccination campaign His spokesman Harry Roque with a recent survey showing inter-city routes having stopped “The students tell me they initially targeted healthcare has previously walked back on around 60% of people unwill- Migrant people and workers leave from Mawa ferry port in on April 5 after offi cials imposed don’t need my services. The maid workers and soldiers, but it has his comments. ing to get vaccinated against Munshiganj, Bangladesh, as the lockdown imposed due to rising fresh restrictions. who cooks in our dormitory has since widened to include the In the past, Duterte has sug- Covid-19. Covid cases. “So there is no way we can take left so I am going too,” he said. Gulf Times 10 Wednesday, April 14, 2021 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), 44466636 (Home delivery) 44350474 facebook.com/gulftimes twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar GULF TIMES Asia and the great re-convergence

The struggles of policymakers in North America and Europe to comprehend the transformation of the world economy and its shift to Asia in recent decades have led to a distorted picture of global change. Most of the analysis published in Europe and North America treats Asia as a relatively small, albeit fast-growing, component of a global system dominated by the countries around the North Atlantic. But if that characterisation were true in 1990, it is no longer an accurate description of the distribution of world economic activity in 2021, and will be wholly out of date by the middle of the next decade. The large and rapidly growing economies of Asia are increasingly technology innovators, dynamic markets and consumers — not just passive imitators, manufacturers, processors and exporters to North America and Europe. In 1990, east, south and southeast Asia accounted for 25% of global economic output, compared with 55% for North America, Europe and the Soviet Union. The key to beating Covid-19 But by 2019, Asia’s share had increased to 41% and was rapidly approaching parity with the 43% share for North America, Western and Eastern Europe (“World development indicators”, World Bank, 2021). By Karina Gould all possible options for delivering By the middle of the 2020s, Asia’s combined economy will have Ottawa doses to those who need them. It overtaken North America and Europe. By the middle of the 2030s, Asia will take time to vaccinate the entire will likely account for more than half of global activity. global population. COVAX has already The distribution of economic activity is reverting to a pattern last t has been a year since the secured more than two billion doses seen in the 1700s, before the industrial revolution and what historian coronavirus pandemic started for 2021, but we now need to muster Kenneth Pomeranz described as the “great divergence” between dominating headlines and our lives. the same spirit of global cooperation Europe and Asia. As recently as 1820, China, India and the rest of Asia IFor so many here in Canada and to ensure that this supply continues accounted for more than half of global economic output (Chinese around the world, it has been a period to increase, so that no vulnerable economic performance in the long run, OECD, 2007). of unprecedented stress and grief. We populations are left behind. But the subsequent growth surge in Europe and North America left have all been waiting to heave a sigh of We can take heart in knowing that Asia and the rest of the world progressively further behind between the relief once our families, friends, and we are not starting from square one. 1830s and the 1950s (The Great Divergence, Pomeranz, 2000). communities receive their vaccines. Canada has been funding global health The immediate aftermath of World War Two probably marked the It is only natural that we would projects in developing countries for highpoint of the Atlantic-centred global economic and political system. focus on the health of our loved ones. decades, and we will continue to do Four of the fi ve But we must not forget that the virus so. These investments are aiding the permanent members observes no borders. Focusing solely on fi ght against polio, HIV, tuberculosis, Energy and raw of the United Nations our domestic responses is not enough. malaria, and Ebola, and they have Security Council were At the same time that we focus on Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addresses a news conference in Ottawa proved critical in helping countries materials prices drawn from countries vaccinations for high-risk Canadians, yesterday as eff orts continue to help slow the spread of coronavirus. (Reuters) respond to the Covid-19 crisis with around the North Atlantic, we must also ensure that the rest of the proven, adaptable public-health will increasingly refl ecting the balance of world is on track to being vaccinated, global response at work, and we should Canada called upon COVAX to procure responses, such as mass testing and economic, political and too, and that everyone has access to recognise it for the important milestone some of its own doses. Our agreement contact tracing. be determined military power in 1945. safe and eff ective tests and treatments. that it is. with COVAX complemented our other If this crisis has taught us anything, But Asia has been Beating this virus anywhere requires Canada joined COVAX last September contracts, and increased our chances it is that we must maintain the capacity predominantly catching up since the beating it everywhere. because we believed wholeheartedly of carrying out a successful domestic to adapt to fast-changing conditions. 1950s, led fi rst by the Fighting a virus on a global scale is a in its mission to accelerate the vaccination campaign, while doing our Less than a year after the World Health by the business “Asian tigers”, then the daunting task, but there is much cause development and manufacture of part globally. Organisation declared Covid-19 a acceleration of China’s for hope. We cheered in December, Covid-19 vaccines and ensure equitable Complementing our own pandemic, we had developed and cycle in Asia growth following reform when a personal support worker delivery. The facility was created to procurement eff orts, Canada has approved safe and eff ective vaccines, and opening up in 1978, in Toronto received Canada’s fi rst guarantee access to a wide variety of launched investments that will also help which are now reaching the people who and more recently with India and southeast Asia. Covid-19 vaccine. But now that the vaccines, and to put smaller and poorer to make vaccines, therapeutics, and need them most. As a result, the Euro-Atlantic dominated economy of the nineteenth global rollout of vaccines through countries on a more equal footing diagnostics aff ordable and accessible The importance of the COVAX facility and twentieth centuries is on course to be succeeded by an Asia-centred the Covid-19 Vaccines Global Access vis-à-vis larger and wealthier ones. By globally. Owing to our various advance cannot be understated. It is one of the economy in the twenty-fi rst century. (COVAX) facility is well underway, we purchasing in bulk, COVAX can spread purchase agreements, we could signal achievements of the current The shift will have profound consequences for the direction of trade, have even more reason to celebrate. doses around the world in the fairest eventually end up with a surplus of era. For the fi rst time ever, the world the location of commodity pricing, and the trajectory of carbon dioxide Since February 24, tens of millions and most cost-eff ective way possible. vaccine doses. Precisely when that has come together to ensure equitable, emissions, as well as diplomacy, governance and the balance of power. of doses have been delivered to over 70 COVAX was designed as a truly might happen will be determined in the universal vaccine access. The principal fl ow of energy and raw materials is already towards countries around the world, making co-operative partnership. With 190 coming weeks and months, as Health Our global and domestic responses to the consuming centres of Asia, reversing the mid-twentieth century this the largest and most rapid global participating countries, it represents Canada completes its review of vaccine the coronavirus are inextricably linked, fl ow from the Middle East, Africa and Latin America towards the vaccination campaign in history. In more than 90% of the global candidates, and as we confi rm the which is why COVAX is our best bet North Atlantic. Ghana and Ivory Coast, healthcare population, and can command far more deployment of vaccines in Canada. for overcoming the pandemic. When In consequence, energy and raw materials prices will increasingly workers and high-risk populations were purchasing power than most countries Regardless of when we reach a international cooperation succeeds, we be determined predominantly by the business cycle in Asia, something among the fi rst to be vaccinated with could on their own. Moreover, when surplus, we will work closely with our all succeed. — Project Syndicate which is also already increasingly apparent. COVAX doses, and similar campaigns COVAX was created, no-one knew international partners – including For the same reason, the future trajectory of global CO2 emissions are now proceeding in Nigeria, Jamaica, which vaccines would work, or which other countries, Gavi, COVAX, and • Karina Gould is Canada’s Minister of will be primarily determined by what happens in Asia, especially and Albania. We are witnessing the would be approved fi rst. That is why vaccine manufacturers – to explore International Development. the speed with which coal, oil and gas are replaced by gas and zero emission energy sources. Inevitably, as the balance of economic activity shifts towards Asia, so too eventually will political, diplomatic and military power, reversing the westward shift in the correlates of power in previous centuries. After two centuries of Atlantic-centrism, the consequences of shifting relative power are likely to prove unfamiliar and uncomfortable Public-private partnerships can fuel for policymakers, businesses, workers, consumers and the public in North America and Europe. Many policymakers and commentators in Washington, London and Brussels are still struggling to comprehend the implications or develop strategies to smooth the adjustment. Qatar’s ICT talent ecosystem Many seem to still assume the major economic and political decisions will be taken in North America and Europe, then passively transposed to Asia, in an extension of the Cold War and post-Cold War system. its National Vision 2030, it is prioritising and skills development, and leveraging help our graduates become technically But if that was the case in 1945, 1989 and even 2001, it is very unlikely investments in the ICT infrastructure public-private partnerships can be qualifi ed, provide them with vocational to refl ect the way the global economic and political system works in 2021 to fuel its next phase of growth and benefi cial for the nation. skills, and improve their employability. let alone in 2035 and 2050. development. A critical factor that will underpin the Private entities like Huawei are world- Policymakers need a much better awareness of the long- Qatar’s government had the foresight success of Qatar’s ICT sector, driving class leaders in the ICT fi eld, and term economic forces reshaping the global system, so they can to make the development of its ICT digital transformation in the country, through our collaboration, our students attempt to adapt and shape them — or resist and risk rupture and sector a strategic priority through its is talent. When combined appropriate have an opportunity to gain advanced breakdown. — Reuters ICT-strategy 2015, and this enabled the industry collaborations, education can industry knowledge, learn best practices, country to become one of the leading unleash the full potential of our ICT and most importantly, study the economies in the region. talent ecosystem. Leading educational practical applications of cutting-edge As it gears up for the 2022 FIFA World institutions, such as Hamad Bin technologies. It enables them to make a To Advertise Cup, Qatar is utilising technologies Khalifa University (HBKU), leverage smooth and seamless transition from the [email protected] to ensure a smooth experience for its collaborations with private entities to classroom to the workplace. By Dr Mounir Hamdi visitors. Furthermore, we now know develop the next generation of confi dent Ultimately, education and public- that technologies like 5G, artifi cial and employable ICT professionals who private partnerships can promote the Display intelligence (AI), big data, Internet of can contribute towards the government’s development of Qatar’s ICT talent, 44466621 44418811 atar is poised to spend US$9 Things (IoT), and cloud computing can vision and empower Qatar’s future leading to the future growth of our billion in the Information and empower digital transformation across digital economy. Partnerships between digital economy and ensuring that Qatar Classified QCommunications Technology all industries. Digital transformation governmental organisations, academia, remains a leading hub for technological 44466609 44418811 (ICT) sector by 2024, according to can enable Qatar’s businesses to training agencies, and private sector innovation. GlobalData*. This spending will be reconstruct their service model and enterprises promote the ICT talent Subscription spurred by the development of large- allow their operations methodologies ecosystem’s innovation and growth, • The writer is Founding Dean of the College scale projects in the transportation, to become more agile and effi cient. ICT enabling us to put the building blocks of Science and Engineering at Hamad Bin [email protected] energy and construction sectors led by implementations can ultimately bring of ICT to good use in realising Qatar’s Khalifa University, Fellow of IEEE. the government. convenience, opportunities, and benefi ts ambitions. As Qatar looks to transform itself into for Qatar’s society. However, the key to At HBKU, we partner with global (*ICT spending in Qatar will reach © 2021 Gulf Times. All rights reserved a knowledge-based economy in line with Qatar’s ICT sector’s success lies in talent technology pioneers like Huawei to US$9bn in 2024 – GlobalData) Gulf Times Wednesday, April 14, 2021 11 WORLD

US pauses use of J&J vaccine, rollout delayed in Europe All US troops to

Reuters claimed more than 3mn lives. However, offi cials said there Washington However, in the United States, had been no similar blood clot vaccines from Moderna Inc and cases reported among recipients Pfi zer Inc/BioNTech SE have ac- of the Moderna or Pfi zer/BioN- S federal health agencies counted the vast majority of vac- Tech vaccines, which use a dif- quit Afghanistan recommended yesterday cinations so far. ferent technology. Upausing the use of John- Immunology experts echoed The White House said the J&J son & Johnson (J&J)’s coronavi- US offi cials in underscoring that vaccine pause would not have a rus (Covid-19) vaccine for at least the risk posed by the J&J vaccine “signifi cant” impact on its plan a few days after six women under appeared extremely low, and it to administer about three mil- age 50 developed rare blood clots remained a valuable tool against lion shots per day and a total of after receiving the shot, dealing a the risks of Covid-19. 200mn before President Joe Bi- by September 11 fresh setback to eff orts to tackle “Even if causally linked to the den’s 100th day in offi ce. the pandemic. vaccine: six cases with about Marks said part of the reason AFP proach of the past two decades, for women’s rights and would J&J said that it would delay 7mn doses ... is not something to for the pause was to warn doctors Washington is a recipe for staying in Afghan- bolster civilian assistance. rollout of the vaccine to Europe, panic about,” Dr Amesh Adalja, that administering the standard istan forever,” the offi cial said. Noting that 40% of Afghan a week after regulators there said an infectious disease expert at treatments for clots can cause Biden “has been consistent in schoolchildren are now girls, they were reviewing rare blood the Johns Hopkins Centre for tremendous harm, or be fatal. resident Joe Biden will his view that there’s not a mili- the offi cial said: “We will do all clots in four recipients of the shot Health Security in Baltimore, An advisory committee to the remove all US troops tary solution to Afghanistan, we can working with the inter- in the United States. said in an e-mail, noting that the US Centres for Disease Control Pfrom Afghanistan before that we have been there for far national community to protect Acting US Food and Drug Ad- risk appears lower than the risk and Prevention (CDC) will meet this year’s 20th anniversary of too long”, Press Secretary Jen those gains, but not with the ministration (FDA) Commis- of clots from oral contraceptives. today to review the cases, and the the September 11 attacks, fi - Psaki said yesterday, without continuation of military force sioner Janet Woodcock said the “People are asking me if they FDA will review the analysis, the nally ending America’s longest confi rming the withdrawal date. on the ground.” agency expected the pause to be a should cancel their J&J vaccine agencies said in a statement. war despite mounting fears of For Afghans, the fi ghting will However, Afghan women matter of days, and was aimed at appointments and I have told All six cases involved women a Taliban victory, offi cials said likely grind on. have been largely shut out of providing information to health- them not to but I know many between the ages of 18 and 48, yesterday. The offi cial spoke shortly af- talks between the Taliban and care providers on how to diag- will and this will stall progress with symptoms occurring six to The drawdown delays by ter US intelligence released a Psaki: Biden ‘has been Kabul on a lasting peace deal in nose and treat the clots. in controlling the pandemic,” he 13 days after vaccination. around fi ve months an agree- threat assessment report warn- consistent in his view that the country, with activists argu- The moves come after Euro- added. The FDA said symptoms can ment with the Taliban by former ing that the embattled Afghan there’s not a military solution to ing that could compromise their pean regulators said earlier this The FDA said there had been arise three weeks after the shot president Donald Trump to government “will struggle” to Afghanistan, that we have been fragile, hard-won rights going month they had found a possi- one reported death from the rare and include severe headache, ab- withdraw all troops, amid a hold off the “confi dent” Taliban there for far too long’. forward. ble link between AstraZeneca’s blood clotting condition among dominal pain, leg pain or short- growing consensus in Wash- if the US-led coalition with- Biden’s decision came just as Covid-19 vaccine and a similar recipients of the J&J vaccine, ness of breath. ington that little more can be draws. published yesterday by the di- Turkey announced the dates of rare blood clotting problem that while another person was in a In the cases, a type of blood achieved. The Trump administration rector of national intelligence a peace conference on Afghani- led to a small number of deaths. critical condition. clot called cerebral venous sinus Biden, who will make an reached a deal with the Taliban said that the Taliban “is confi - stan that would bring together J&J’s single-dose shot and FDA offi cial Peter Marks said thrombosis (CVST) was seen in announcement today, has in February 2020 under which dent it can achieve military vic- the government, the Taliban AstraZeneca’s low-cost vaccine it was “plainly obvious” the J&J combination with low levels of “reached the conclusion that all US troops would leave by tory”. and international partners – are seen as vital weapons in the cases were “very similar” to the blood platelets, or thrombocy- the United States will complete May 2021 in return for the in- “Afghan forces continue to though, again, would include fi ght against a pandemic that has AstraZeneca ones. topenia. its drawdown – will remove its surgents’ promise not to back secure major cities and other few women. forces from Afghanistan – be- Al Qaeda and other extremists – government strongholds, but The April 24-May 4 confer- Austrian minister Uruguay facing world-record daily fore September 11”, the offi cial the original reason for the 2001 they remain tied down in defen- ence “will focus on helping the told reporters on condition of invasion. sive missions and have strug- negotiating parties reach a set of quits over Covid coronavirus per capita infection rate anonymity. The Biden offi cial said that gled to hold recaptured territory shared, foundational principles crisis ‘overwork’ Biden had earlier mused the withdrawal would begin or reestablish a presence in areas that refl ect an agreed vision for Uruguay has reported a 24-hour record coronavirus (Covid-19) death about keeping a residual force in in May and that the delay was abandoned in 2020,” it said. a future Afghanistan, a roadmap Austria’s health minister toll, as it has gone from one of the least-aff ected countries to registering Afghanistan to strike Al Qaeda largely logistic, with troops pos- Afghan civilians, wary of the to a future political settlement announced his resignation the most new daily cases per capita in the world. or an emergent Islamic State ex- sibly out of Afghanistan well be- Taliban’s return to power, have and an end to the confl ict”, the yesterday, saying that he was Government data released late on Monday showed a record 71 deaths tremist threat or, like previous fore September 11. long paid a disproportionate Turkish foreign ministry said in overworked and exhausted in the previous 24 hours, bringing the toll to 1,533 in the country of presidents, making a withdraw- The offi cial warned that the price in the decades of bloody a statement. managing the coronavirus 3.4mn inhabitants. al contingent on progress on the Taliban – who are observing a fi ghting. The conference aims to speed (Covid-19) crisis. Some 1,300 of the deaths – nearly 90% – have been registered since ground or in slow-moving peace truce with US but not Afghan A rise of the Taliban has also up and give an international di- “I’ve decided to resign from my January this year, a third so far in April alone. talks. forces – not to strike coalition raised fears among many Afghan mension to talks between the job,” Rudolf Anschober, who Long held up as an example in the fight against Covid-19, Uruguay has In the end, he decided to do forces as they leave. women. Taliban and Afghan government has faced death threats over never had a curfew or lockdown, despite calls from health experts. neither and will order a com- “We have communicated The Taliban banned women in Qatar. the government’s anti-virus President Luis Lacalle Pou, in a briefing last month, rejected any notion plete withdrawal other than to the Taliban in no uncertain from school, offi ces, music Many observers believe that measures, told reporters. of lockdown or quarantine and stressed the importance of personal limited US personnel to guard terms that if they do conduct at- and most of daily life during its the Taliban eff ectively believes “I’m overworked and powered responsibility taken by individual citizens. the US installations, including tacks against US or allied forces 1996-2001 rule over much of that it has won and can wait out,” the 60-year-old said, adding On AFP’s count, Uruguay recorded an infection rate equivalent to the imposing embassy in Kabul. as we carry out this drawdown,” Afghanistan. out the US withdrawal, but the that 15 months on the job had felt nearly 1,370 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in the last 14 days, by far the “The president has judged the offi cial said, “that we will hit The Biden offi cial said the United States is eager to try to like 15 years. highest, with no other country surpassing 1,000 infections per 100,000 that a conditions-based ap- back hard.” United States would use “tools fi nd a lasting peace solution that He warned the pandemic should people in this period. – AFP proach, which has been the ap- The threat assessment report at our disposal” to keep fi ghting could bring stability. not be “underestimated”. “We are not out of the woods yet,” he said, becoming emotional Scrabble words that as he thanked friends and reflect the mood of the colleagues. “I believe all in all we nation as the have done good work. No one is coronavirus disease Word up! Scrabble without mistakes.” lockdown eases are Anschober had been absent from displayed at London work since last week and also Bridge by The Shard marks UK lockdown took a week off early last month (left), at Brick Lane when he checked into hospital. (right), and at The Green party member Knightsbridge near Har- easing with light show became health minister early last rods (below), in London. year, just before the coronavirus started spreading rapidly in Reuters said company spokeswoman Europe. London Amarilis Whitty. Anschober will be replaced by Scrabble commissioned a sur- Wolfgang Mueckstein, a doctor vey to fi nd the words that best and Green party member ome of Britain’s favourite summed up people’s feelings as who warned that he favoured words were projected onto months of lockdown began to be lockdowns and would make Sbuildings around London eased on Monday. “unpopular decisions” to save to mark the easing of lockdown The game that would eventu- people’s health. restrictions and National Scrab- ally be called Scrabble was in- Anschober said yesterday that ble Day yesterday. vented in New York by Alfred while the government had Words like “freedom”, “hope”, Mosher Butts, an unemployed fought the first wave with “unity”, and “family” to represent the architect, during the Depression. tension from outside and within mood of the nation were beamed National Scrabble Day is cel- the government had increased, in the style of the game’s letter ebrated on his birthday. leaving him often feeling “very tiles onto a nightspot, shops and A redesigned version of the alone”. locations near landmarks such game, played in more than 120 The former teacher was given as the Harrods department store countries in 33 languages, is be- police protection last November and the Shard skyscraper. ing put on sale with the board re- after death threats against him “Scrabble is projecting the na- branded from green to blue. amid protests by lockdown tion’s favourite words to coincide Scrabble said lockdown had opponents and coronavirus with the lockdown lifting in the boosted sales of the game in Brit- deniers. – AFP UK and National Scrabble Day,” ain by 51.2% in 2020.

Student gunman shot dead at US high school Moscow takes steps in response

the latest in a rash of shootings the school. He said he’d rath- David Rausch, director of the to ‘threatening’ Nato actions Reuters/AFP in the United States since mid- er be hurt than anybody else,” Tennessee Bureau of Investi- Washington March. Mayor Indya Kincannon told gation, told an evening news The wounded police offi cer CBS News. conference. AFP of the Russian Federation in areas Ukraine’s eastern border and was struck by a round in the up- Knoxville police said they re- Knoxville Police Chief Eve Moscow for performing combat training 42,000 soldiers on the Crimean olice shot and killed a per leg and was in serious con- sponded to Austin-East after Thomas, speaking at the same exercises.” peninsula. Knoxville, Tennessee, dition following surgery at the getting reports of a gunman at news conference, has described He added that the “troops have Russian military experts told Phigh school student on University of Tennessee Medi- the school and found the sus- the incident as “chilling”. oscow has sent troops shown full readiness and ability AFP that Shoigu’s reference to Monday after they said he cal Centre, Knoxville police of- pect in a bathroom. Police had initially reported to its Western borders to carry out tasks to ensure the two armies and three airborne opened fire on them in a cam- fi cials said. “As officers entered the multiple gunshot victims in the Mfor “training exercises” country’s military security” and units amounts to about 100,000 pus bathroom, wounding an He was expected to survive. space, the suspect report- attack. in response to “threatening” that the exercises would be com- total troops. officer. “He is conscious and in edly fired shots, striking an The United States has been Nato actions, Russia’s Defence pleted “within two weeks”. Russia’s military leadership The gunfi re, which erupted good spirits ... he’s going officer. The suspect was pro- plagued by school shootings Minister Sergei Shoigu said. Ukraine has been fi ghting pro- “wants to increase the scale of about 3.15pm at Austin-East to be OK. I thanked him for nounced dead at the scene since the massacre at Colum- The statement comes as Kyiv Russia separatists in its east since military preparations, to scare Magnet High School on the putting his life on the line to and has since been identified bine, in the state of Colorado, in and its Western allies have ac- 2014 when Moscow annexed Cri- (the West) as much as possible”, east side of Knoxville, marked protect students and staff at as a student at Austin-East,” April 1999. cused Russia in recent weeks mea. said one of the experts, Alexan- of massing tens of thousands Kyiv and its Western allies ac- der Golts. of troops on its border with cuse Russia of sending troops Analyst Vasily Kashin de- Pakistan anti-France protesters clash with police off icers for a second day Ukraine, while the North Atlan- and arms to support the separa- scribed the escalating tensions as tic Treaty Organisation (Nato) tists, claims Moscow denies. “the worst moment since the end Thousands of supporters of a Pakistan Video showed protesters beating off icers and Protesters spilled into the streets in anger told Moscow to end its “unjusti- The long-simmering con- of the Cold War”. religious party clashed with police for a pedestrians, which government adviser Hafiz at Monday’s arrest of TLP leader Saad Rizvi, fi ed” build-up. fl ict that has claimed more than Earlier, Nato Secretary-Gener- second day yesterday, demanding the release Tahir Ashrafi condemned. with major intersections also blocked in the “In response to the alliance’s 13,000 lives has escalated in re- al Jens Stoltenberg told Russia to of their leader who was arrested after calling He told Reuters that the law would take its capital, Islamabad. military activities that threat- cent weeks, with clashes regular- end its “unjustifi ed, unexplained for the French ambassador to be expelled. course against those responsible. Rizvi was taken into custody hours after en Russia, we took appropri- ly breaking out and undermining and deeply concerning” military Police said that an off icer was killed after The group blocked one of the main roads into calling for a march next week on the ate measures,” Shoigu said in a ceasefi re brokered last year. build-up around Ukraine. being wounded in clashes in Lahore, the the capital late last year and called off their capital to again demand the expulsion of televised remarks. “Over three Ukrainian President Volody- In his comments, Shoigu also country’s second-biggest city, while the protest only after the government signed the ambassador over France’s support weeks, two armies and three myr Zelenskyy’s spokeswoman accused Washington and Nato of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) said three a deal with them, agreeing to endorse a for a magazine’s right to republish certain airborne units were successfully told AFP on Monday that Rus- massing troops on Russia’s bor- of its supporters were killed. boycott of French products. cartoons. – AFP/Reuters deployed to the western borders sia now has 41,000 troops on ders. Gulf Times 12 Wednesday, April 14, 2021 QATAR

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Commercial Bank celebrates the second anniversary of its Metal Card with an eople need to join forces had been imposed earlier.” portunity to express gratitude exclusive campaign and demonstrate soli- “We realise that these re- and appreciation to all health- Pdarity against the coro- strictions would perhaps cause care workers for their pivotal elebrating the second anniversary Black MasterCard Credit Card has been tai- navirus (Covid-19) pandemic, some change to the traditions role, hard work and relentless since the launch of its exclusive Lim- lored for our ultra-high net worth custom- and can gradually bring things that we usually follow dur- eff orts in standing up against Cited Edition Metal Black World Elite ers to refl ect their status and reconfi rm our back to normal with a little ing the holy month, including the Covid-19 pandemic. MasterCard Credit Card, Commercial Bank commitment to them as top-valued Com- sacrifi ce, HE the Minister of social get-togethers, family “Our healthcare teams are is launching a campaign for its Limited Edi- mercial Bank customers,” said Roya Khajeh, Public Health Dr Hanan Mo- gatherings and other practices our soldiers in white, stand- tion members holding the Black MasterCard assistant general manager and head (Cards hamed al-Kuwari has stressed. specifi c to the holy month, ing on the frontlines to protect World Elite Credit Card, whereby fi ve lucky and Payments) at Commercial Bank. In her message on the occa- but we ought to persevere and the community,” HE Dr al-Ku- customers are entitled to win a holiday “At Commercial Bank, we cherish our sion of the holy month of Ram- abide by the applicable pre- wari said. “Despite the rising voucher worth QR50,000. customers’ loyalty and believe in delight- adan, published on the Minis- cautionary measures until number of infected patients, During the ongoing campaign, which was ing them by customising the most reward- try of Public Health (MoPH)’s this pandemic is over,” HE the which place additional bur- launched on February 21 and runs until May ing experiences for them,” the offi cial said. website, HE Dr al-Kuwari said: Minister said. “We need to join dens on these workers, they are 21, members are invited to use their Lim- “We are confi dent that the premium re- “I would like to extend my forces and demonstrate soli- steadfast in carrying out their ited Edition Black MasterCard World Elite wards bundled with this campaign will ap- sincere congratulations wish- darity against this pandemic, noble mission and national Credit Card to spend a total of QR300,000 peal to this segment and we look forward to ing you and all Muslims many and with a little sacrifi ce, we duty with great dedication.” during the three-month campaign period, creating precious moments with our valued happy and prosperous returns can gradually get back to nor- “The least we can present to and get the chance to win a holiday voucher members.” of the holy month. mal.” these heroes is our commit- worth QR50,000 to their favourite destina- The Limited Edition Black MasterCard “The holy month of Ram- She continued: “I am sure ment to protect the individual tion or staycation. World Elite Credit Card provides a diff eren- adan this year will, undoubt- that, together, we will get over and the society against Cov- By the end of the campaign, fi ve winners tiated off ering with global privileges across edly, be diff erent, particularly this pandemic and our com- id-19 by following the precau- will be announced. lifestyle, dining, travel, and hospitality. with the unabated prevailing munity will enjoy health and tionary measures and physical Tailored for the Limited Edition mem- The card is thoughtfully curated to of- Covid-19 pandemic and the well-being. distancing,” she added. bers, Commercial Bank launched the fi rst- fer priceless moments along with a host of rise in the number of people “With the high pace of the HE the Minister concluded: ever contactless transactions-supported experiences to high-net-worth individuals infected with the virus,” she Covid-19 vaccination process, “May God save our beloved Metal Credit Card in the Qatar market two and to meet their diverse preferences. said, adding: “The current we began to see the light at the country from evil. We wish years ago. To learn more about Commercial Bank’s situation compelled the com- end of the tunnel, and tomor- you all a happy Ramadan. Stay What makes it stand out is its unique Limited Edition Credit Card privileges and petent authorities to take the row will be, Insha’Allah, bet- committed and take your vac- black and gold engraved design and the benefi ts, visit https://www.cbq.qa/EN/ hard decision of reinstating ter.” cine, let us all be healthy and world-class privileges it unlocks. Personal/Rewards/LimitedEdition/Pages/ some of the restrictions which HE the Minister took the op- safe.” “The by-invitation-only Limited Edition Welcome.aspx.

Time for First day of Ramadan Qatayef Traditional Ramadan delicacy Qatayef is among the most popular food items during the holy month. Scenes from a bakery in Doha yesterday show Qatayef being prepared and packed. PICTURES: Shaji Kayamkulam

Doha’s Souq Waqif mosque on the first day of the holy month of Ramadan. PICTURE: Jayan Orma

Mall of Qatar welcomes Ramadan with decorations, promotions, competitions

A variety of cooking specialities from international cuisines presented by a hand pick of local and international chefs

all of Qatar (MoQ) has welcomed the holy month of Ramadan with a fascinating theme to let cus- Mtomers and visitors experience traditions and enjoy their shopping in a safe and comfortable atmos- phere. The mall has been decorated with illuminated crystal chandeliers which can be seen in the main Oasis Square, various corridors, and its inner courtyards. “We are pleased to celebrate this month with everyone in a unique atmosphere and innovative one-of-a-kind Ramadan decoration with various programmes that meet An innovative one-of-a-kind Ramadan decoration at the the aspiration of the mall visitors,” MoQ general manager Emile Sarkis said in a press statement. “This comes within MoQ. our social responsibility programmes to participate with Traditional decorations at the MoQ (left). The mall has Qatar citizens on diff erent occasions and to off er them a media pages, including the new “Cook with Us” series of also been decorated with a unique illuminated crystal safe and comfortable shopping experience, while contin- recipes from a wide selection of international, local, east- decoration (below), which reflects the essence of the holy ue implementing a high level of precautionary measures.” ern, and western cuisines, presented by local and interna- month. The mall is also off ering many programmes on its social tional chefs. The recipes are presented in an easy way to help home- makers to set up a special table fi lled with diverse dishes. In addition, the mall off ers a range of health guidelines to be followed during fasting and after breaking the fast to help people maintain their health. There will be regular posts and educational information on the holy month of Ramadan, the principles of fasting, and its spiritual goals, which improve the culture of fast- ing among young and adults. The MoQ is also off ering its social media followers a chance to win a special Iftar from one of its leading res- taurants, with special home delivery, in a weekly compe- tition. Upon answering the weekly question, candidates will enter the draw and have the chance to win and enjoy a de- licious Iftar for themselves and their family. Everyone can participate in the competition by follow- ing MoQ’s social media pages and answering the weekly question.