BUSINESS | 01 SPORT | 12

Foreign investments Xavi at the to revitalise real double as Al estate sector: Sadd draw with Minister Pakhtakor

Wednesday 10 April 2019 | 5 Sha'baan 1440 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 24 | Number 7857 | 2 Riyals

The big Ooredoo Your home internet will now be Supernet boost up to 5x faster for FREE! Terms & conditions apply Amir, Bulgarian President to hold talks in Doha today

THE PENINSULA (MoU) between both the coun- opened its Embassy in Doha in DOHA tries. The two sides had signed 2009 while Qatar opened its an MoU on cooperating in the Embassy in Sofia 2012. The President of the Republic of field of youth and sports, an MoU In April 2009, an agreement Bulgaria, Rumen Radev, will arrive on cooperating in the energy field for economic and technical in Doha today on an official visit to and an MoU between Qatar Uni- cooperation between Bulgaria the country. Amir H H Sheikh versity and Sofia University. and Qatar was signed in Sofia, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and H H the Amir and Prime Min- during an official visit of Father the Bulgarian President will hold ister of the Republic of Bulgaria had Amir H H Sheikh Hamad bin discussions at the Amiri Diwan that also held talks session in which Khalifa Al Thani. will touch on the relations between several issues of mutual interest In March 2010, Prime Minister both countries and the ways to were discussed. They had dis- Boyko Borisov visited Qatar during boost and develop them. The cussed means to develop bilateral which both countries held bilateral meeting will also discuss a number relations and the prospects for meeting for discussion on the of regional and international issues enhancing the joint cooperation Qatari investment interest in agri- of common interest, QNA reported. between the two friendly countries culture, finance, tourism, real Qatar and Bulgaria have to cover different fields. estate and telecommunications. strong relations and both the Diplomatic relations The Minister of Agriculture countries have signed several between the Republic of Bulgaria and Foods, Miroslav Naidenov Sheikha Moza meets Ethiopian House of Federation Speaker pacts in the past. In March last and the State of Qatar were was in Doha in November 2010 H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, met with the Speaker of the Ethiopian year, H H the visited Bulgaria established on October 16, 1990, and held talks about the devel- House of Federation, Keria Ibrahim Ali, who is visiting Doha to take part in the 140th Assembly of the during which H H the Amir wit- according to information opment of the bilateral relations Inter-Parliamentary Union. They discussed the importance of education and youth empowerment nessed the signing of a number available on the website the Min- in the fields of agriculture and `P2 of memoranda of understanding istry of Foreign Affairs. Bulgaria food production. in achieving sustainable human development.

QFFD signs Qatar calls for end to Libya military action $5m pact with H E the Deputy Prime Minister and the countries that have unilateral GCERF to curb and Minister of Foreign Affairs actions have not found any support in the called on the international international community. extremism community to have a firm H E the Deputy Prime Minister and Min- ister of Foreign Affairs discussed with his THE PENINSULA stance in the face of these Turkish counterpart the developments on DOHA violations of international the Palestinian issue, especially statement law in Libya, pointing out of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Qatar Fund for Development annexing West Bank as part of Israeli ter- (QFFD) and Global Community that there are countries with ritory, stressing that it is unacceptable Engagement & Resilience Fund which Qatar agrees with a according to international norms and laws. (GCERF) signed a $5m agree- commitment to preserve the They also discussed on the latest ments to strengthen the international system and development on Palestine reconciliation prevention of violent extremism. and international efforts in this regard and The agreement was signed by international law. “Qatar with it was agreed to urge both parties for unity Khalifa bin Jassim Al Kuwari, the these countries demands and shun the differences as soon as pos- Director-General of the QFFD and the immediate cessation sible because this is the first line of defence Dr Khalid Koser Executive to secure the Palestinian cause. Director of supports from GCERF. of military action in Tripoli H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdul- QFFD will support GCERF and return to dialogue and rahman Al Thani discussed with Mevlut activities through increasing political solution.” Cavusoglu the latest developments in the knowledge of violent extremism efforts of the State of Qatar to achieve and responding to it, helping peace in Afghanistan and the talks communities build awareness THE PENINSULA Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman between the Taliban and the US. among leaders on the signs and DOHA Al Thani with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, in Ankara yesterday. H E the Deputy Prime Minister and negative consequences of violent Minister of Foreign Affairs said that Qatar extremism, promoting com- Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of what is happening in Libya. of these violations of international law in is looking at Afghan-to-Afghan talks to munity engagement, engaging Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohamed bin H E the Deputy Prime Minister also Libya and all regional issues, pointing out end the conflict from which the Islamic the community in events to Abdulrahman Al Thani has said that there condemned the dual approach of coun- that there are countries with which Qatar country has suffered for decades. promote peace, and providing are some countries who want to tries which support Haftar and at the same agrees with a commitment to preserve “We believe in a dialogue to resolve educational initiatives. undermine international will and violate time issuing joint statements of condem- the international system and international differences between countries, and Iran Khalifa bin Jassim Al Kuwari international laws to impose a new reality nation of what his forces are doing. law. “Qatar with these countries demands is a country with a regional and geo- said: “This agreement is a con- by force in Libya. “This is a duality that some countries the immediate cessation of military action graphic position which is required from tinuation of this important part- During a joint press conference yes- use which we do not understand and which in Tripoli and return to dialogue and us to look at it with different considera- nership for the good causes. We terday with Turkish Foreign Minister is surprising after the National Reconcili- political solution.” tions, whether we agree or disagree with are proud of this partnership and Mevlut Cavusoglu, H E the Deputy Prime ation Government, which is recognised by H E the Deputy Prime Minister said its policy,” the Deputy Prime Minister and are particularly interested in Minister condemned the recent attacks the international community in accordance that the State of Qatar is subject to uni- Minister of Foreign Affairs said. their goals to address the by illegal Khalifa Haftar forces to control with Security Council decisions.” lateral measures from three Gulf coun- The two ministers also discussed the problem of extremism around Tripoli the capital of Libya, stressing that He called on the international com- tries and the whole world sees today that latest developments in Syria especially the world. Today we need to join those who support Haftar are partners in munity to have a firm stance in the face Qatar is still on the path of development, those related to Idlib. together to combat the motives of violent extremism so that peace prevails and people enjoy Qatar’s crime rate declines below global average a dignified life.” `P3 THE PENINSULA percent of the total crimes com- percent from the global rate of reassuring citizens and residents. violations, non-criminal DOHA mitted in 2018 were minor eight cases of murder. Thanks to the efforts of the quarrels. crimes, such as check cases, vio- In the aggravated assault, it General Directorate for Drug Major crimes against public The fresh statistics released by lations, non-criminal quarrels. recorded 0.2, a decrease of 99.8 Enforcement, statistics showed security accounted for 0.1 the Ministry of Interior (MoI) The MoI has succeeded in percent from the global rate of significant decrease in the rate percent of all crimes com- yesterday indicates marked reducing the rate of committing up to 100 assaults. It recorded of drug abuse in the country. The mitted in 2018 showing a YESTERDAY'S RESULTS decline in crimes in Qatar in all major crimes in 2018 per 0.1 in burglary cases, 99.9 rate of drug abuse was 0.1 decline by 14.5 percent com- Liverpool 2-0 FC Porto categories (major, minor) making 100,000 inhabitants from the percent below the global average percent of the total population, pared to 2017. security indicators exceeding rate of global rate by 98.3 of 100 burglaries, 0.1 in delib- a decrease of 95 percent from the Forgery decreased by 31.8 Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 global proportions. percent, despite the increase in erate fire crimes, which is 99.6 global rate of abusers, which is percent, minor assaults and Manchester City Statistics of the MoI for 2018 population in the state last year percent lower than the global two percent. quarrels by 19.1 percent, breach suggest that Qatar’s crime rate by 3.6 percent. average of 25, and 0.6 cases of The statistics revealed that of trust by 18.8 percent, of non- TODAY'S FIXTURES has declined below global Statistics and indicators of forced theft, 99.4 percent lower the total number of crimes in payment by 16.3 percent, com- (KICKOFF 10:00PM QATAR TIME) average in 2018. the MoI for 2018 showed a sig- than the global average of up to 2018 decreased by 2.4 percent pared to 2017 while theft of cars The statistics further reveal nificant reduction in the rate of 100 crimes. compared with 2017. Some 88.3 declned by 13.9%. This shows a Ajax vs Juventus that the total number of crimes criminal offences committed per This is due to the efforts of percent of the total crimes com- marked improvement in the Manchester United vs in 2018 decreased by 2.4 percent 100,000 people, where murder the MoI in maintaining security mitted in 2018 were minor level of security situation in the Barcelona compared with 2017 and 88.3 recorded 0.4, a decrease of 95 and preventing crime and crimes, such as cheque cases, country compared to 2017. 02 HOME WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019

OFFICIAL NEWS Sheikha Moza meets Ethiopian House of Federation Speaker Qatar condemns Qatar elected as FAO Vice-Chairperson shelling on Tripoli’s ROME: The State of Qatar was unanimously elected as Vice Chairperson for the Food and Mitiga Airport Agriculture Organization (FAO) at the 161th session which QNA stop the military escalation in kicked off on Monday and will DOHA Libya, which threatens to run till April 12 at the FAO’s undermine the path of the headquarters in Rome. Qatar’s The State of Qatar has expressed, political solution sponsored by Ambassador to Italy and its in the strongest terms, its the United Nations. The statement Permanent Representative condemnation of the aerial also affirmed Qatar’s full support to the UN agencies in Rome, bombardment of ‘Mitiga’ airport for the internationally-recog- Abdulaziz bin Ahmed Al Malki, in the Libyan capital Tripoli, for nized legitimate Government of was elected to the post. Al Malki which Haftar forces had claimed National Accord and its support is participating in the session responsibility. for the efforts of the UN envoy to which will discuss a number In a statement yesterday, the reach a just political solution for of issues, most prominently Foreign Ministry said that the the Libyan people. the upcoming election for the State of Qatar considers the The statement also renewed director general position during bombing to be a flagrant violation Qatar’s call to all parties to the the conference held between of international humanitarian conflict in Libya to shoulder their June 22 and June 29. QNA law, that calls for an urgent inter- historical responsibility for the national investigation to bring the Libyan people, which pin their Qatar flays killing of perpetrators to justice. hopes on the path of peaceful H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, met with the Speaker of the Ethiopian three US soldiers in The State of Qatar, according solution, and to prioritise national House of Federation, Keria Ibrahim Ali, who is visiting Doha to take part in the 140th Inter-Parliamentary Afghan explosion to the statement, stressed the dialogue over military choices Union (IPU) Assembly. During the meeting, they discussed the importance of education and youth need for regional and interna- and the interest of the Libyan DOHA: The State of Qatar empowerment in achieving sustainable, human development. tional actors to move urgently to homeland over individual ones. has strongly condemned the attack by an improvised explo- sive device near the Bagram Air base in Afghanistan, killing Shura Council Speaker meets Heads of Parliaments three US soldiers and a con- tractor and wounding three other US soldiers. In a state- ment yesterday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the State of Qatar’s firm stance rejecting violence and ter- rorism, regardless of motives and reasons. The statement expressed the condolences of the State of Qatar to the vic- tims’ families, the government and the people of the United States, wishing the injured a speedy recovery. QNA Qatar condemns North Sinai bombing DOHA: Qatar has condemned the explosion that took place near a market in the city of Sheikh Zuweid in North Sinai, Egypt, killing four security per- sonnel and injuring a number of civilians. In a statement yes- terday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated the State of Qatar’s firm stance on reject- ing violence and terrorism, The Speaker of the Shura Council and the President of the 140th General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, regardless of motives and rea- met yesterday with the Speaker of House of Representatives of the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, Krishna Bahadur Mahara, on the sidelines of the meetings of sons. The statement expressed the 140th IPU General assembly currently in session in Doha. The meetings discussed the parliamentary relations between Qatar and Nepal and ways of enhancing them, the condolences of the State of in addition to the topics on the agenda of the General Assembly. Also, the Speaker of the Shura Council met with the President of National Assembly of the Republic of Qatar to the victims’ families, Djibouti, Mohamed Ali Houmed. H E Saqr bin Fahd Al Meraikhi, the member of the Shura Council and Chairman of the Qatari-Djiboutian Parliamentary Friendship Committee and the people of Egypt, wish- attended the meeting. Moreover, the Speaker of the Shura Council met with the Founder of Blue Planet Foundation, Henk Rogers, on the occasion of 140th IPU General ing a speedy recovery for the Assembly currently in session in Doha. During the meeting, they discussed the topics on the agenda of the General Assembly, especially with regard to the preservation wounded. QNA of the environment.

Transport Minister meets Eswatini, Ukrainian Ambassadors 713 building permits issued in March QNA DOHA

The Planning and Statistics Authority monthly report revealed 713 building permits have been issued in March, showing a general increase of 6 percent in comparison with February. The monthly data comes under the joint cooperation between the Planning and Sta- tistics Authority and the Min- Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti held separate meetings here yesterday with the Ambassador of Eswatini, Felizwe Dlamini, and istry of Municipality and Envi- the Ambassador of Ukraine, Yevhen Mykytenko. The two meetings discussed cooperation between Qatar and the two friendly countries in the fields of transport and ronment to make use of the communications and means of further enhancing them. existing electronic link between the two sides. In a quick review of the QU CPH wins Best data on building permits issued QFFD signs $5m pact with during the month of March Poster award 2019, according to their geo- GCERF to curb extremism graphical distribution, the THE PENINSULA FROM PAGE 1 municipality of Al Rayyan DOHA support for our mission to boost comes at the top of the munic- He said that this is in line with local communities to become ipalities where the number of Two College of Pharmacy (CPH) the role of the State of Qatar in more resilient to the threat of building permits issued were students from Qatar University fighting extremism as the state of violent extremism’. 212 permits, i.e. 30 percent of (QU) as well as CPH Associate Qatar has continuously renewed He said that Qatar has been a the total issued permits, while Professor Dr Ahmed Awaisu, its rejection of extremism. strong supporter of GCERF since Doha municipality came in recently attended the 7th GCERF Supports Local com- its inception, and has helped second place with 146 permits, Kuwait International Pharmacy munities through supporting nurture the only international i.e. 20 percent, followed by Conference (KIPC) 2019, which national governments and inter- organization dedicated to the pre- municipality of Al Wakrah with was organised by Kuwait national partners to align their vention of violent extremism. 130 permits (18 percent), then University Faculty of Pharmacy. activities with local contexts and “With Qatar’s support, GCERF’s Al Da’ayen municipality with During the poster presen- needs and building knowledge funded projects have reached 84 permits, i.e. 12 percent. The tation, Dr Ahmed Awaisu pre- that enriches global under- over two million people at risk of rest of the municipalities were sented on “Curriculum Mapping standing of how to strengthen radicalization to violent as follows: Umm Slal 54 permits and Perspectives of Pharmacy community resilience to violent extremism around the world. The (8 percent), Al Khor 40 permits Students on the Development and extremism. new contribution will build on (6 percent), Al Sheehaniya 35 Khalifa bin Jassim Al Kuwari, the Director-General of QFFD, and Dr Implementation of Pharmacist Dr Koser said: ‘GCERF is very these initial successes and lessons permits (5 percent), and finally Khalid Koser, Executive Director of supports from GCERF, shaking Prescribing in Qatar” on behalf of grateful to the State of Qatar for learned, to widen our impact,” Al Shamal 12 permits (2 hands after signing the documents. a research team from CPH. its continued and substantial said Dr Koser. percent). WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019 HOME 03 Shura Council Speaker meets Heads of Parliaments

The Speaker of the Shura Council and the President of the 140th General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, met separately yesterday with the Chairman of the Assembly of Representatives of Tajikistan, Shukurjon Zuhurov; the Speaker of the National Assembly of Gambia, Mariam Jack-Denton; the Chairperson of the National Council of Namibia, Peter Hitjitevi Katjavivi; the Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan, Asad Qaiser, on the sidelines of the meetings of the 140th General assembly of the IPU currently in session in Doha. The meetings discussed the parliamentary relations between the State of Qatar and each of these countries and ways of enhancing them, in addition to the topics on the agenda of the General Assembly. H E the Speaker of the Shura Council also met with the President of the House of Councillors in the Kingdom of Morocco, Hakim Benchamach, on the sidelines. During the meeting, they discussed the parliamentary relations between the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Morocco and means of developing them, as well as the topics on agenda of the General Assembly. The meeting was attended by H E Saqr bin Fahd Al Meraikhi, the member of the Shura Council, and Chairman of the Qatari-Moroccan Parliamentary Friendship Committee. Parliamentarians Sustainable Development, Emergency resolution to aid call for improving African nations hit by hurricane ties with UN Finance and Trade panel THE PENINSULA DOHA adopts draft resolution THE PENINSULA their governments to take a financing, and innovation at vul- DOHA leading role and take effective nerable countries, as well as to Parliamentarians have called for THE PENINSULA the committee, however, the action to combat global urge high-income economies to improving legislation and coop- DOHA organisation in Qatar is great. The 140th General Assembly of warming, raise awareness about provide more financial and tech- eration with the UN in the She highlighted the impor- the Inter-Parliamentary Union the impacts of climate change nical assistance and help build meeting of the Standing The Standing Committee on tance of the results of the session (IPU) under the chairmanship of and adopt more sustainable live- capacity for middle- and low- Committee on United Nations Sustainable Development, as it will direct all parliaments the Speaker of the Shura Council lihoods, and work with govern- income economies to help them Affairs to implement devel- Finance and Trade adopted the around the world. She added that and the President of the 140th ments in partnership with the deal with climate change. opment programs in poor and draft resolution on the role of fair many of the decisions made were IPU General Assembly, H E private sector to gradually The resolution called upon developing countries, including and free trade and investment in for the important topics on the Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al progress towards clean and the international community to building a legal system to achieving the Sustainable Devel- agenda that will lead to achieving Mahmoud, unanimously adopted renewable energy. support the affected countries improve monitoring and guar- opment Goals (SDGs), especially sustainable development in many yesterday the emergency reso- The resolution also called in developing comprehensive antee freedoms without discrim- regarding economic equality, countries as the IPU includes 178 lution on humanitarian upon the United Nations, the national mechanisms for disaster ination while monitoring govern- sustainable infrastructure, indus- members from around the world. assistance to cyclone-hit African relief organizations and the prevention and to enhance their ments. This came during the trialisation and innovation, during The draft resolution aimed to countries including Mozam- international community to con- readiness for effective responses, meeting which discussed the the session held yesterday at the encourage parliaments to take bique, Zimbabwe, and Malawi. tinue to focus on the most vul- reconstruction, and rehabili- parliamentary follow-up to the 140th IPU Assembly and Related procedures that ensure free and The Rapporteur of the nerable groups in flood-affected tation, as well as to invite the goals of Sustainable Devel- Meetings. fair trade and investment through Drafting Committee William, areas to support them in Governments of the concerned opment Goals (SDGs) in prepa- The participating members reviewing national and global read out the report of the Com- rebuilding their livelihoods and States to invest in community ration for the 2019 session of the agreed to present the draft reso- policies to guarantee equity. It mittee in this regard calling for enhancing their ability to care risk reduction measures. United Nations High-level lution to the 140th IPU General called for strong and increasing intensified international action for their families and to pay par- The General Assembly con- Political Forum (HLPF) on Assembly to adopt it. In addition, investments in the infrastructure to support the three countries ticular attention to the needs of tinued the general debate on the Sustainable Development. they agreed to adopt suggestion to encourage economic growth affected recently by Hurricane children, girls, women and other main theme of the discussion, The participants called for related to the provisions of digiti- to resolve the increasing numbers Idai, pointing out that heads of vulnerable groups at risk of “Parliaments as Platforms for economic measures to achieve zation and the revolving economy of unemployment, improve social parliaments meeting in Doha abduction, trafficking, exploi- Promoting Education for Peace, the wellbeing of the people, as in the field of enhancing produc- well-being and reduce poverty, expressed in their speeches the tation and sexual abuse. Security and the Rule of Law”. It well as to ensure good education tivity to achieve the objectives of in line with sustainable devel- need to support these countries The resolution also urged all also devoted part of the dis- and health care, to activate the sustainable development. opment goals for 2030. to rebuild what was destroyed by parties to invest in adaptation, cussion to refugee education. role of supervision and trans- Three rapporteurs were The draft resolution high- the hurricane and adapt to parency and to organise inter- elected to the Standing Committee lighted the importance of calling normal life. He explained that the national forums in order to on Sustainable Development, on parliaments to give main hurricane and its aftermath losses enhance cooperation between Finance, and Trade from interest to allocate foreign direct remind everyone of the harmful local, regional and international Romania, Belgium, and Kenya. investment in specific sectors to effects of climate change and parliaments. They also approved adopting the ensure an equitable distribution threats of global warming. Participants emphasised the Belgian and Romanian suggestion of resources in all economic areas. The General Assembly res- importance of focusing on tech- regarding the dissemination of It stressed that global parlia- olution calls on parliamentarians nology and knowledge-based digitalisation and the revolving ments should be actively involved to urge their governments to economy, expanding the active economy in the field of enhancing in the process of considering trade support urgent United Nations participation of women and productivity to achieve the objec- arrangements and reconciling appeals for Mozambique, youth and developing a network tives of sustainable development. those arrangements with their Malawi, and Zimbabwe in of parliamentarians to follow up They approved the nominations national obligations towards sus- accordance with the values of the achievement of development for the vacancies in the commit- tainable development goals, espe- the international organisation goals and to consider the state’s tee’s office. At the press con- cially in the field of infrastructure, and to contribute appropriately public policies, plans and devel- ference after the session, Pres- industry, and innovation. In by ensuring that adequate opment programs. The Com- ident of the committee V. addition, parliaments can play an human and financial resources mittee reviewed the objectives Muzenda Tsitsi, praised Qatar’s oversight role in considering sub- are allocated to the concerned The Speaker of the Shura Council and the President of the 140th of sustainable development hosting to the 140th IPU General sequent legislation and any budg- countries. General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), H E adopted by the UN in 2015 and Assembly and Related Meetings. etary implications, as well as the The resolution also called on Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, with the President of the role of parliamentary She said that she has visited many domestic impact of trade and national parliaments to urge the IPU, Gabriela Cuevas Barron, yesterday at the meeting. councils. countries as part of her work with investment. Resolution on non-admissibility of using mercenaries and foreign fighters MOHAMMED OSMAN fighters,” Khalid Bakkar (pictured), Rap- to make the world free and secure,” he training, financing of foreign fighters, THE PENINSULA porteur of the Committee told The added. including those working for military and Peninsula on the sidelines of the event. Earlier, after the voting on the reso- security institutions that intervene in The Standing Committee on Peace and “The resolution rejects and crimi- lution, a representative of Czech Republic armed conflicts in order to destabilize International Security of the Inter- nalises the use of mercenaries and foreign said: “We objected this resolution because constitutional systems. Parliamentary Union (IPU) yesterday fighters for undermining peace and abuse it does not match with the IPU agenda The Rapporteur of the Committee approved resolution on non-admissi- human rights,” Bakkar said, noting that although the resolution.” Khalid Bakkar of the Hashemite bility of using mercenaries and foreign national parliaments in their respective The resolution urged all national par- Kingdom of Jordan and B. Tarasyuk of fighters as a means of undermining countries need to pressure their govern- liaments to take legislative measures to Ukraine stressed during the discussion peace, and international security, the ments to implement this resolution. ensure that their nationals do not partic- that some of the biggest threats were territorial integrity of states and violating He added: “Some European and ipate in the recruitment, assembly, terrorism and conflicts as they human rights. Scandinavian countries proposed financing, training, protection or transfer undermine peace, security, sovereignty The draft of this resolution was dis- amendment in the draft resolution and of mercenaries or foreign fighters, and and territorial integrity of states. cussed by the Inter-Parliamentary they voted against because they believe requested parliaments to amend their From 2011 to 2014, the number of Union’s (IPU) Committee on Peace and that the mixture of mercenaries and We preferred to adopt a general res- existing laws to prevent and punish the deaths from armed conflict rose by 356 International Security and yesterday the foreign fighters create confusion and olution without mentioning certain recruitment of mercenaries or foreign percent, while the number of deaths resolution passed by 23 votes in favour differences therefore the concepts cases, because we are international fighters. from terrorism rose by 353 percent. They and 11 opposing the draft resolution. The should be cleared between the two, Rap- institution to fight against mercenaries The governments are required highlighted that children and young committee is to forward the resolution porteur of the committee said, adding and illegal activities undermining according to the this resolution to people have become the main recruiting the general assembly of the IPU for final that but finally the resolution passed security and stability of any country,” prevent use foreign fighters and mer- target for terrorists. adoption. with big majority.” said Bakkar while answering question cenaries by private military and security They noted that the United Nations “The resolution calls on the IPU’s “Amending the resolution again will on why there was no mention of certain institutions that participate in activities and its member states are fighting ter- General Assembly to cooperate with the mean making it more comprehensive cases like the situation in Yemen and designed to enhance security in any rorism and armed conflicts by UN General Assembly for setting up joint and coherent, Bakakr stressed, noting, Syria or ISIS.” country or violate human rights and addressing mercenaries’ issues, such as legal standards. The resolution is based “We need to be together to maintain “We are speaking about global phe- international humanitarian law. private military contractors and foreign on the definitions given by the UN to the peace and security, and thanks to the nomenon and global peace and security It also called on parliaments to terrorist fighters. concepts of mercenaries and foreign State of Qatar for hosting these meetings. and these activities should be eradicated impose a ban on the recruitment, 04 HOME WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019 Minister of Culture meets Ambassador of Italy Qatar’s healthcare system is comprehensive and integrated

The participants at the debate on the draft resolution to be adopted at the 141st Assembly on Achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030: The Role of Parliaments in Ensuring the Right to Health, on the fourth day of the 140th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly at the Salwa 2, Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Convention Hotel yesterday. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA

THE PENINSULA The Committee, through role of parliamentarians in DOHA its rapporteurs, introduced achieving universal health cov- Minister of Culture and Sports H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali met yesterday with the Ambassador of the erage through the adoption of Republic of Italy to the State of Qatar, Pasquale Salzano. During the meeting, they discussed aspects parliamentarians to some Yousuf Al Khater, the member of general indicators on legislation guaranteeing this right of cooperation between the two countries in cultural and sports fields and means of developing them. the Shura Council, has said that and approving budgets for health Qatar’s healthcare is compre- health services at the care. hensive and integrated in global level, noting that He affirmed that achieving Attorney-General meets Rwanda Vice-Speaker accordance with clear plans that about half of the world’s the goals of sustainable devel- have absorbed the various chal- population is deprived opment 2030, approved by world QNA lenges of this sector. of basic health services, leaders in 2015, depends on the DOHA Taking part in the discussion while the high costs of success of the third objective of a draft resolution to be adopted ‘good health and well being’. Attorney-General at the 141st General Assembly on health services have Mirza pointed out that the H E Dr Ali bin Fetais achieving universal health cov- pushed about 100 million economic indicators of the last Al Marri met erage by 2030 and the role of people into poverty. three decades of the twentieth yesterday with Vice- parliaments in ensuring the right century showed that 11 percent Speaker of Chamber to health in the Standing Com- of the world’s economic growth of Deputies of the mittee on Democracy and Human hoping to come up with specific is the result of investment in Republic of Rwanda, Rights of the Inter-Parliamentary parliamentary procedures to be health and decreasing the Jane Jacob, and her Union (IPU) session, Al Khater included in the resolution, noting number of deaths. He called on accompanying highlighted the experience of the that universal health coverage is parliaments around the world to delegation. State of Qatar in the health sector. essential, and is part of the goals begin discussing the possibility They exchanged “Health care in Qatar, since of sustainable development of reaching a decision on uni- views on a number its inception, is free of charge for 2030. versal health coverage in their of issues of mutual citizens and residents, except for She pointed to the role of par- countries. interest and means a very small amount paid by the liamentarians in achieving uni- The Committee, through its of enhancing resident to buy medicine only,” versal health coverage through rapporteurs, introduced parlia- cooperation he said. the enactment of legislation and mentarians to some general indi- between the two He pointed out that the State the allocation of budgets to cators on health services at the countries. of Qatar has built many hospitals ensure citizens access to health global level, noting that about half to meet health challenges at the care services as an inherent of the world’s population is local level such as Heart Hospital, human right and a fundamental deprived of basic health services, Al Amal Cancer Hospital, and pillar for achieving the goals of while the high costs of health Shura Council, Iraq’s Council of Representatives primary health care centers, sustainable development in 2030. services have pushed about 100 maternity and childhood centers, Dr Zafar Mirza of the World million people into poverty. discuss parliamentary relations and other centers for care and Health Organization (WHO), who The rapporteurs highlighted rehabilitation, in addition to attended the session within the the importance of providing QNA/DOHA reviewed topics mentioned on the agenda of the 140th building hospitals for workers partnership with the IPU, pointed mechanisms to ensure sustainable General Assembly of the IPU, currently held in Doha. who contribute to the con- to current global health chal- financing of comprehensive health The Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council, H E The Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council also met with struction 2022 FIFA World Cup lenges, saying that about 36 services, including capacity- Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Sulaiti, met yesterday Head of the Supreme Council Delegation of the Republic facilities, and in other projects. percent of the world’s population building for those working in this with the Head of Foreign Relations in Council of of Kyrgyzstan, participating in the 140th General Dutch parliamentarian Arda and 53 percent of the Middle East area, access to services and med- Representatives of the Republic of Iraq, Alla Tahseen Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). Gerkens, who chaired the session, population do not have access to icines, with a strong legislative Habib Talabani. During the meeting, they discussed parlia- stressed the importance of dis- health services because of framework guaranteeing this right They discussed parliamentary relations between mentary relations between the Shura Council and cussions on the proposal sub- poverty or poor quality of these and putting clear and transparent the Shura Council and Iraq’s Council of Representa- the Kyrgyz Supreme Council and ways to boost mitted by Bangladesh during the services. mechanisms of accountability and tives and ways to boost and develop them. They also and develop them. 139th Session of the Union, He stressed the important equity.

Qatar participates QF welcomes IPU leaders, in first conference delegates to Education City of Gulf Health Council in Kuwait

QNA/KUWAIT

Health officials of member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) met here yesterday kicking off the First Conference of the Gulf Health Council. The State of Qatar is partic- ipating in the two-day con- ference with a delegation from the Ministry of Public Health. Kuwaiti Minister of Health Sheikh Dr Bassel Al Sabah, in his statement, said full medical cov- erage, which the event theme, constitutes one of the objectives of the global sustainable devel- opment 2030 and tackles moth- erhood welfare, health of the newly born, children, commu- nicable and non-communicable diseases. The IPU delegates visiting Qatar Foundation. Topics to be tackled will be re-examined at the UN General THE PENINSULA were accompanied by Dr Richard Assembly on full health coverage, DOHA O’Kennedy, Qatar Foundation Vice Pres- due in New York on sidelines of ident for Research, Development, and the assembly’s 74th session in Leading figures in the Inter-Parliamentary Innovation, and Aysha Al Mudahka, September. Salman Al Dekheel, Union (IPU) and delegates attending the Director, Strategic Initiatives and Partner- the director general of the GCC global organisation’s 140th Assembly – ships Development, QF. health council, said the conferees which is currently taking place in Doha – During the 140th Assembly of the IPU, would address challenges facing have visited Qatar Foundation (QF). which concludes today, numerous dele- sustainable health care, role of Members of the IPU’s executive com- gates have visited QF, including Marta the private sector, updating tech- mittee were given an overview of QF’s Grande, President of the Foreign and nological means and full care. mission during their visit to Education City, European Affairs Committee of the For his part, Ahmed Al and learned about the organization’s edu- Chamber of Deputies of the Italian Par- Mandhari, WHO Regional cation, science and research, and com- liament; Pier Ferdinando Casini, Honorary Director for the Eastern Mediter- munity development initiatives and entities President of the IPU; and members of the ranean, affirmed that the con- from the open-air viewing platform at the Association of Secretaries General of Par- ference main topic is full health 2015 building (QF Headquarters). They liaments, a consultative body of the IPU. services. WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019 HOME 05

Qatar’s envoy to Iraq presents credentials Qatar Duty Free receives ‘Airport Retail Operation of the Year’ award THE PENINSULA/DOHA

Qatar Duty Free (QDF) has won the DFNI-Frontier ‘EMEA Airport Retail Operation of the Year’ award for its exceptional retail offering and customer service. The award was presented at a ceremony and charity ball that took place on April 5, 2019 at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, and was received by Qatar Duty Free Vice-President Operations, Thabet Musleh. Winners were selected by a panel of high-profile experts in retail from across the duty free industry. The ‘EMEA Airport Retail Operation of the Year’ The DFNI-Frontier EMEA award. award recognises QDF’s outstanding commercial performance and excellent customer service to more experience. We will continue to innovate to ensure than 30 million passengers annually. The travel that our passengers enjoy a five-star travel shopping retailer was also commended for its commitment to journey, both in flight and at Hamad International its employees through the QDF Learning Academy, Airport.” which offers all employees training through its career QDF collaborates with Qatar Airways, Hamad The President of the Republic of Iraq, Dr Barham Ahmed Salih, received the credentials of Khalid bin development program. International Airport and leading global brands to Hamad Al Sulaiti as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Qatar to the Republic Qatar Duty Free Senior Vice-President, Bruce deliver innovative retail concepts, such as the Qatar of Iraq. The Ambassador conveyed Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani’s greetings and wishes Bowman, said: “At Qatar Duty Free, we strive to Airways Travel Boutique and the world-exclusive of good health and happiness to Iraqi President and his wishes of more progress and prosperity to the provide new, exciting and memorable experiences Dior La Parfums Podium. In addition, QDF recently government and people of the Republic of Iraq. For his part, the President entrusted the Ambassador to for our customers, and we are delighted that this has opened two souqs in celebration of Qatar National convey his greetings to H H the Amir, and his wishes of more prosperity and progress to the people of been acknowledged by the duty free industry. Being Day selling traditional Arabian products made in Qatar. He wished the Ambassador success in his new duties and in promoting and strengthening relations named ‘EMEA Airport Retail Operation of the Year’ Qatar. Earlier this month, Al Jazeera Perfumes, the of friendship and cooperation between the State of Qatar and the Republic of Iraq. is a significant achievement, and is recognition of well-known Qatari fragrance brand, opened its first our efforts to enhance our customers’ shopping airport boutique at HIA. Mali National Assembly President visits Qatar Red Crescent Society THE PENINSULA Mona Fadhel Al Sulaiti, Head of to address its humanitarian DOHA Local Development, and Naglaa problems. We work in several Al Haj, Head of Rehabilitation African countries, based on real The President of the National and International Development needs and available resources.” Assembly of Mali, Issaka Sidibé, welcomed the delegation Al Haj revealed plans to has visited Qatar Red Crescent The guests appreciated the establish a regional represen- Society (QRCS). A delegation led humanitarian efforts by the State tation office for QRCS in by the President is in Doha to of Qatar and QRCS over the Bamako, to supervise operations attend the 140th General years. They gave an overview of in Mali, Mauritania, Chad, and Assembly of the Inter-Parlia- the humanitarian situation in Central African Republic. “We mentary Union (IPU). Mali, as well as the multiple are working closely with Mali The members of the dele- needs of the northern and Red Cross and Mali’s Ministry of gation are Modibo Sidibé, Sec- central parts of the country, par- Social Affairs,” she added. retary-General of the National ticularly during the coming holy Sidibé welcomed this initi- Assembly of Mali, and Cheick month of Ramadan. ative by QRCS and promised to Ahmed Tidiany Diakite, Extraor- “We at QRCS hold a great offer every possible support. “All dinary and Plenipotentiary responsibility for serving QRCS leaders are invited to Ambassador of Mali to Qatar. humanity everywhere. This is attend the opening ceremony. It Ibrahim Abdullah Al Maliki, our duty towards the needy in is a good opportunity to Chief Executive Director of Mali and worldwide,” said Al strengthen bilateral ties, inspired QRCS; Abdullah Hamed Al Mulla, Maliki. “Africa is a main focus for by the good relations between The President of the National Assembly of Mali, Issaka Sidibé, with his accompanying delegation at Director of Communication; us, as it needs huge interventions Qatar and Mali,” he added. QRCS headquarters.

Ooredoo announces new promotion for Shahry customers

THE PENINSULA DOHA

Ooredoo announced yesterday QU CPH students compete at the 10th Annual International Health its amazing Shahry promotion – Sciences Skills Competition. whereby Shahry 200 and above customers automatically get a free subscription to the popular QU students excel at health Urban Point discounts and offers app – will now be extended to sciences skills competition include Shahry 100 and Shahry 150 customers. The promotion THE PENINSULA pharmaceutical care to various is giving them up to a six-month DOHA patients visiting the pharmacy. subscription to the Urban Point Scores were awarded for com- app. The app – normally priced Six pharmacy students from Qatar munication, collaboration and at QR15 per month – gives users University (QU) College of professional skills. access to a wide range of offers Pharmacy (CPH) successfully Final year CPH student Rawan and promotions around town, competed at the 10th Annual Abouelhassan, achieved first prize such as two-for-one deals and International Health Sciences as the highest scoring pharmacy much more at all kinds of places Skills Competition. student in the competition; her including dining options, retail The event featured healthcare team also finished second in the outlets, spas, salons and gyms. students from academic institutions team performance. Customers can use their across Qatar including College of the Final year CPH student vouchers more than once each North Atlantic – Qatar (CNA-Q), Uni- Shorouk Homs achieved first month, enabling them to access versity of Calgary Qatar and Weill place with her team in team per- their favourite outlets as often as Cornell Medicine. The competition formance, while Sara Thiab won they like. is a unique and exciting way for stu- third place alongside her team in All Shahry 100 and Shahry dents to demonstrate their ideas, the team performance category. 150 customers interested in the talent and motivation to succeed, Commenting on the winner’s offer should visit their Ooredoo whilst building character, confi- achievements, QU CPH Dean Dr app and redeem the free Urban dence, and self-esteem. Mohammad Diab said, “Aligning Point subscription in the Students in their inter-profes- with Qatar University’s Strategy “Offers” section. sional teams showcased excellent and Qatar National Vision for Speaking of the promotion, professional skills and collabo- human development, the College Manar Khalifa Al Muraikhi – rative competence in responding of Pharmacy exerts huge Director PR and Corporate Com- to expertly designed simulated amounts of efforts in the profes- munications at Ooredoo – said: scenarios. sional and mental development “We know our Shahry packs are More than 500 college stu- of its students.” already great value for money, dents competed against their Assistant Professor of Clinical offering superior services and peers. One scenario required the Pharmacy and Practice in CPH, flexibility for our customers at students to work collaboratively Dr Zachariah Nazar, who helped great prices as well as offering alongside their pharmacy tech- prepare and execute the compe- plenty of additional benefits nician colleagues in CNA-Q and tition said: “This is a wonderful including Starz Play and Urban a health aide from DeBakey High opportunity for students to apply Point app subscriptions. We’re School to manage various chal- their learning to real-world tasks delighted to be extending our lenges within a busy community and by supporting such initiatives Urban Point app promotion to pharmacy environment. This we believe that we are making a include Shahry 100 and Shahry included responding to clinical difference to Qatar’s future work- 150 customers, meaning even prescription queries, managing a force by nurturing talent and more can access the great deals first-aid situation and delivering expertise.” and offers the app provides.” 06 HOME WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019

Delegates hail Qatar Sri Lankan Parliament Gambian parliamentary A woman parlia Speaker lauds Amir’s speech delegation delighted to join FAZEENA SALEEM IPU Assembly after 15 years THE PENINSULA from Ukraine w SIDI MOHAMED peaker of the Sri Lankan THE PENINSULA RAYNALD C RIVERA region which has around 18 percent Parliament, Karu Jayas- THE PENINSULA share of women in parliaments. uriya, has lauded the Speaker of the National Though she admits it is some- Sspeech by Amir H H Sheikh Assembly of Gambia, Mar- Coming from a country with one of thing not easy to achieve, she is Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at the iam Jack Denton, said that the lowest women participation in hopeful with the emergence of opening of the 140th Assembly of she was very happy to be politics, Alona Shkrum (pictured), women role models. Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), here in Qatar to participate one of the youngest parliamentari- “I think a role model is some- saying that it highlighted the com- in the 140th Assembly of the ans in Ukraine, believes role models thing that counts because I entered mitment of the leadership towards Inter-Parliamentary Union’s can play a significant part to have parliament only because when I was solving pressing issues across the (IPU) and related meetings. more women as major players in this a little girl I was looking up to the world. “We were out of this male dominated field. leader of my party who was the only He said that the speech advo- activity for more than 15 “I am a member of women’s cau- woman in Ukrainian politics then, cated the need to promote Karu Jayasuriya years due to previous cus in Ukraine’s parliament, which, and now it is 11 percent so I think dialogue, peace and cooperation regime,” she said. Speaking unfortunately, has one of the lowest role models play a very big role in Speaker of the National among nations and importance of cussed during the meetings. to The Peninsula on the side- parliament participation in the this area,” she said. Assembly of Gambia, Mariam social justice and education, which The goals recognize that end- lines IPU meetings, she world. We have about 11 percent At the same time, the 31-year- Jack Denton are essential in today’s world. ing poverty must go hand-in-hand affirmed that Gambian par- women in the parliament and even old parliamentarian believes on men “Such commitment by lead- with strategies that build economic liament was delighted to be less in government,” said Shkrum in supporting women as they foray into ers and policy makers of nations growth and address a range of back to the IPU and partici- She said that the theme response to a question from local politics. “Dialogue with men mat- is important,” he told The Penin- social needs including education, pate effectively in its of 140th Assembly of the IPU media on the sidelines of the 40th ters. When men start to support sula, during an interview on the health, social protection, and job Assembly sessions. “We that discussed the role of Assembly of the Inter-Parliamen- more active women coming to the sidelines of the 140th Assembly of opportunities, while tackling cli- decided to come and meet education in promoting tary Union (IPU). parliament, to power, when they the IPU. The Assembly discussed mate change and environmental our colleagues and share peace was very important. Gender parity in politics is one support their children, their sisters; ‘Parliaments as platforms to protection. ideas with other parliamen- “In Africa and in all other of the main topics at the ongoing this really counts,” she said. enhance education for peace, Jayasuriya highlighted the tarians on diverse issues counties, education is the assembly which concludes today, On what would be the biggest security and the rule of law,’ in importance and relevance of dis- especially on the ones which key of development and we with particular focus on the MENA achievement of the 140th assembly, general debate. cussing about SDGs. “The are hitting people in Africa can’t develop our societies, “The 140th Assembly of the discussions about SDGs are really hard,” she noted our countries without pro- IPU is also discussing very impor- important. Every issue is being “Qatar has done a lot and moting education. Also IPU delegate lauds Qat tant issues like peace, human addressed during the discussions. we congratulate the Shura among the priority issues for rights and democracy. If democ- The goals are interconnected and Council of Qatar and Qatar us is gender equality,” Mar- RAYNALD C RIVERA non-admissibility of using mercenar- racy is threatened, this is a it is important that we discuss and government for their efforts iam Jack Denton said. THE PENINSULA ies as a means of undermining peace platform the countries can discuss address everything in order to to make this Assembly a suc- Commenting on the and violating human rights. their grievances,” said achieve the target by 2030,” said cess. The provided facilities speech of H H the Amir, the Gennaro Migliore (pictured), a mem- “Qatar’s (counter-terrorism) efforts Jayasuriya. Jayasuriya. When asked if any made our meetings and tasks Speaker said: “We are shar- ber of the Chamber of Deputies of Italy are also shown also in our committee “The Assembly and related issues discussed during the Assem- easy and thanks again for ing the same vision as who is taking part in the ongoing 140th where we approved a very important meetings cover almost all impor- bly and related meetings have everyone here.” mentioned in the speech of Assembly of Inter-Parliamentary Union resolution on mercenaries and foreign tant issues concerning to different direct impact on Sri Lanka, Jayas- She said that Gambia had H H the Amir in terms of (IPU), has lauded Qatar’s counter-ter- terrorist fighters, the main topic in our countries and regions,” he said. uriya said that global climate the will to strength ties with promoting education and rorism efforts while citing the country’s committee in which Qatar contributed The topics relevant to 2030 Sus- change is something of more rel- Qatar at the government and peace around the world. If crucial role in region. with its opinion and amendments to tainable Development Goals evant to his country. “Several parliamentary levels. “We a country has education and Migliore, who was recently elected this resolution,” he said while speak- (SDGs) to address the global chal- countries are already experienc- also want to form a parlia- peace it means it has inex- to the 21-member IPU High-Level ing to local media at Sheraton Doha lenges including those related to ing the effect of global climate mentary friendship group to haustible source for Advisory Group on Countering Terror- hotel yesterday. Among the IPU assem- poverty, inequality, climate, envi- change. Sri Lanka is also under the take ties to new heights,” she development for present and ism and Violent Extremism, has bly’s agenda, he referred to peace and ronmental degradation, prosperity, threat of negative impacts of the noted. coming generations.” particularly praised the country’s con- security as most significant. and peace and justice are also dis- climate change,” he added. tribution on the resolution on “Peace and security is the most ‘Strong Qatar-Nepal relations cover diverse sectors’

SANAULLAH ATAULLAH Nepal, Krishna Bahadur Mahara Speaker of the House of Rep- related meetings, Mahara said of the Assembly and related THE PENINSULA told The Peninsula on the side- resentatives of Nepal also lauded that education is necessary for meetings, Mahara said: “I believe lines of 140th Assembly of IPU the speech of Amir H H Sheikh security, peace, good governance that without giving power to mar- Speaker of the House of Repre- which is being held in Doha. Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at the and democratic exercise. ginalised groups like women and sentatives of the Federal He said that these two groups opening of the 140th Assembly of “The parliament is a legisla- ethnic groups, democracy can not Democratic Republic of Nepal, will exchange their views and the IPU in which H H the Amir tive body which can do legislation function properly.” Krishna Bahadur Mahara (pic- opinions on parliamentary diplo- had underlined the need of qual- to upgrade education system as He said that under the initia- tured) has said that Qatar-Nepal macy between the two countries. ity education. it is very essential for the devel- tive of promoting gender equality, strong relations cover numerous “I met with high level Qatari offi- “The speech of H H the Amir opment and good governance,” women and other marginalised sectors from diplomacy to trade. cials and invited them to visit was excellent in which he deliv- said Mahara. groups should be given full rights “To further enhance bilateral Nepal as the country to mark ered a message to the world to He said that the parliamen- which are necessary for a func- ties, Nepal has also formed a par- 2020 as the year of visits where focus on education for real devel- tarians from many counties tional democracy. “I argued in my liamentary friendship group for high level meetings will be held opment of the society,” said during the discussions on the speech on the security of the peo- Qatar and hope that Qatari side between the two countries to fur- Mahara. theme had focused on boosting ple and the ways of protecting the will do the same,” Speaker of the ther enhance existing relations,” Speaking about the theme of quality education to ensure the Speaking about gender equal- marginalized groups like women House of Representatives of said Mahara. the 140th Assembly of the IPU and security and peace. ity, an agenda of the discussion and ethnic groups,” said Mahara. Former Justice Minister of Korea impressed with Qatar’s progress SIDI MOHAMED between Qatar and the Republic of Korea it to host this important international par- future growth of Qatar-Korea relations. THE PENINSULA in terms of applying the rule of law, demo- liamentary event. About the general debate He pointed out in the same context the cratic orientation and economic on education and peace, he expressed his existing cooperation and trade exchange THE Head of the Parliamentary delegation development,” he added. satisfaction with the progress of discus- between Qatar-Korea in the sectors of food, of Korea participating in the 140th Assem- Speaking to The Peninsula on the side- sions as education is a vital role for nations gas, oil and other joint ventures, as well as bly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), lines of IPU Assembly and related meetings, progress. the presence of many Korean companies Chun Jung-bae (pictured), has said Qatar is he praised the strong friendship between “This is the first time I have visited in Qatar. progressing fast in areas like politics, econ- Qatar and Korea, stressing that it was con- Qatar. My participation in this important He also mentioned that the parliamen- omy, rule of law, security and peace. tinuously developing for the benefit of the parliamentary event has allowed me to take tary relations between the Shura Council “Therefore, it is not surprising for us that two countries in various fields of a closer look at the progress achieved by and the Korean National Assembly will also Qatar is hosting this global parliamentary interest. Qatar in various fields and sectors,” he said. be developed and strengthened, especially event that discusses many important issues,” Chun Jung-bae noted that Qatar’s eco- Chun Jung-bae (former Minister of Jus- through parliamentary friendship groups he added. “There are many commonalities nomic growth and its positive role enabled tice) expressed his confidence about the in both the countries. WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019 HOME 07

for hosting successful IPU Assembly mentarian IPU Assembly an opportunity to learn SACHIN KUMAR here, which would not have a confirmation that the foot- THE PENINSULA been possible in usual circum- ball world cup in Qatar will be ith a cause stances. In these days of historic event. The ongoing 140th Inter-Par- parliamentary democracy and “After hosting 140th Inter- she said: “The main purpose of IPU, liamentary Union Assembly internationalism, this kind of Parliamentary Union as the oldest inter-parliamentary and related meeting in Doha exposure is very beneficial for Assembly and related meet- organization in the world, is dia- are excellent platform parlia- us,” he added ing successfully, I am quite logue between different regions and mentarians to learn each to He praised hospitality confident that Qatar will also parliamentary members. There are other. The enriching dialogues offered by Qatar and arrange- be able to organise football a lot of things that separate us but and conversations happening ments made for this high world cup in the best possible there are also a lot of things that in IPU meetings help in profile event. This global event manner. We are also very unite us. It is very interesting to see improving the governance in will help Qatar’s positive happy that Qatar is the first how different countries deal with countries. learn from each other and image across the world as par- Arab country to host the foot- the same issues and this way we are “We have benefited a lot improve their systems back in liamentarians from all over the ball world cup,” he said. much closer than we imagine. So form IPU meetings. We came their respective countries,” he globe has come to participate He said that Qatar has the outcome of these dialogues and here with open mind to learn added. here. “Qatar has made excel- huge potential to become a personal contacts cannot be under- from other countries. We have He said that participation lent arrangements for this IPU global hub for tourism. estimated, it’s very important.” learned very good experiences of record number of partici- assembly. Overall arrange- “Qatar has a huge poten- Shkrum said she was looking from other countries through pants in this edition of IPU ments regarding IPU are tial to become tourism hub forward to seeing how the resolu- dialogues and through meetings has proved the suc- excellent,” he said. “Its my first because Qatari government tions adopted in the Assembly would debates. After interactions, we cess of this high profile event. time to visit Qatar, now we has kept the country quite be implemented particularly the one began to realise that we still “Such kind of events help know the Qatari culture. This open. Because of its geograph- by the Standing Committee on Peace have a lot of room for the deepening of democracy. visit has showed us that Qatar ical location, it will be a tourist and International Security, of which knowledge about the region as improvement,” Wangchuk It will further strengthen the is a very beautiful country. I destination for global tourists. she is a member and of crucial many of the attendees are first tim- Namgyel (pictured), Speaker structure of democracy and think Qatar will really benefit Qatar has so many excellent importance in the region. ers in the region. She lauded Qatar’s of National Assembly of Bhu- enrich the system,” said by hosting this global event hotels. The country has rich Asked to comment on having the hosting of the event saying this was tan, told The Peninsula. Wangchuk Namgyel. “In such here,” he added. culture and has people who IPU Assembly for the first time in one of the best IPU Assemblies she “Delegates from across the kind of meetings, we get to The speaker said the suc- are smiling and ready to help,” the region, she said it was a good experienced in terms of world have come here. They interact with many delegates cessful hosting of this event is he added. sign and a push to dialogue and organization. tar’s counter-terrorism efforts war in Syria and Iraq. That’s why we possibility to develop a framework of think that only the international peace and collaboration among all the approach can change this situation,” parliaments all over the world.” he said. On whether he expects more When he went back to his coun- collaboration with Qatar and other try after the assembly, he said he Middle East countries, he said, “I hope would have two things to say; that so, because Qatar is a country that is Qatar is an extraordinary country crucial in this region and I hope that where transformation is visible and collaboration and peaceful approach that the 140th IPU Assembly was a would improve in the future.” golden opportunity to develop an He expressed gratitude to Qatar international framework with peace for a well organised 140th IPU Assem- and progress in its core. Among the important topic and everyone has to bly which, he said, only demonstrates places that Migliore visited in the collaborate to have peace among all Qatar’s total involvement in promot- country which impressed him the countries in particular in this area ing international cooperation through most were the Museum of Islamic Art where in few kilometers we have the the assembly which “witnessed the and National Museum of Qatar. ‘Hosting of IPU meetings an honour for Arab countries’ SIDI MOHAMED the Amir on importance of edu- THE PENINSULA cation and what he said in his speech on the subject. Today, edu- The Assistant to the Speaker of cation is a great motivation to Assembly of the Representatives fight terrorism and extremism, of the People of Tunisia, Mohamed which are the biggest challenges Saidane, said that the hosting of today,” he noted. Inter-Parliamentary Union’s (IPU) He said that Tunisia witnessed and related meetings is an hon- a successful revolution without our for the Arab countries and we going through bloody violence have no doubt about Qatar’s because the country had invested potential to make it successful. in education. “It is the first time that I am Regarding the cooperation visiting Qatar. I am impressed by between the Qatari Advisory the educational development in Council and Tunisian Assembly Qatar and the international edu- of the Representatives of the Peo- cational institutions here. Qatar’s ple, he said, “We look to strong focus on education is the correct relations in the diplomatic and step because education is the only Mohamed Saidane, the Assistant parliamentary spheres which are key to achieve development and to the Speaker of Assembly of the still incomplete but overall ties are prosperity. Thanks to the wise Representatives of the People of good between the two peoples policy of the Amir H H Sheikh Tunisia . and governments and between Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in PICS: SALIM MATRAMKOT / THE the parliaments as well.” focusing on education,” he said. PENINSULA “The Tunisian Parliamentary Speaking to The Peninsula on Delegation met with Speaker of the sidelines of the 140th Assem- the Shura Council H E Ahmed bin bly of the IPU, he emphasised that only on education. “We do not Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud parliaments are platforms for have natural resources and our and exchanged views, and soon education, and his speech was in investment is only on we will activate the Qatari-Tuni- this regard because in Tunisia education.” sian Friendship Association,” since 1956, the state depended “We support the ideas of H H Saidane said. 08 VIEWS WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019 Qatar’s achievements in sustainable ESTABLISHED IN 1996 development highlighted at forum QNA CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI he State of Qatar participated in the Arab Forum for Sus- tainable Development (AFSD) EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Tunder the theme “Empow- DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI ering People and Ensuring Inclu- [email protected] siveness and Equality in the Arab Region,” which began yesterday in Beirut. ACTING MANAGING EDITOR The forum will run until tomorrow MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED and is organized by United Nations [email protected] Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA). The State of Qatar’s delegation DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR was chaired by Secretary-General of MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E Dr. [email protected] Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi who made a speech during the first general session of the Forum. The delegation included Qatar’s Ambassador to Lebanon H E aware of the centrality of empowering exclusion of the poor are key factors in Mohammed Hassan Al Jaber, Director people and equality in the devel- the failure of the development process. of International Cooperation opment process, placing citizens at the He explained that without achieving EDITORIAL Department H E Tariq Al Ansari, heart of this process as real stake- social integration through the empow- Director of the Associations and holders in achieving its goals and erment of women and youth and Private Institutions Department at the objectives. equality for the poor, it will be impos- Ministry of Administrative Devel- H E Al Hammadi said the State of sible to reach safe and prosperous opment, Labor and Social Affairs, H E Qatar has made remarkable progress societies. Health for all Naji Abd Rabu Al Ajei and other in recent years, which is clear in the H E Foreign Ministry Secretary- members. last five international human devel- General said that the unrest witnessed atar marked the World Health Day this week on The forum’s opening was attended opment reports, where the State of by a number of countries in the region April 7. The World Health Organization’s World by H E Member of Parliament Inaya Qatar is still ranked first in the Arab was a direct result of the lack of QHealth Day theme of ‘Universal Health Coverage’ Ezz Al Deen representing H E Speaker countries and has made significant equality and empowerment, stressing highlights the importance of ensuring that eve- of the Parliament of Lebanon Nabih progress in its global ranking in the the State of Qatar’s keenness on ryone can obtain the care they need, where and when Berri, H E Member of Parliament Bahia Human Development Report. empowering women, youth and they need it, without financial hardship. Qatar is doing Al Hariri representing H E Prime Min- His Excellency said all indicators equality among the members of exactly this. ister Saad Al Hariri, Arab and foreign of the Human Development Report society to ensure the prosperity, The focus of the World Health Day is on equity and ministers, members of parliament and show that empowerment in the State development, and well-being of solidarity — on raising the bar for health for everyone, international organizations of Qatar is measured by public welfare society. everywhere by addressing gaps in services, and leaving representatives. rates and access to public works and is He expressed hope that the no one behind. The tagline for World Health Day is: Health In a session on achieving sus- amongst the highest in the Arab achievement of the tasks of compre- for all – everyone, everywhere. And Qatar is always fea- tainable development in the Arab region. His Excellency added that hensive development, achieving tured in the top league when it comes to health care. region, HE the Secretary-General of equality, measured by the equitable empowerment and equality in the The commitment to providing the best health care to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaf- distribution of wealth, is also among Arab region requires a collective effort every patient, regardless of their nationality, puts Qatar firmed the State of Qatar’s com- the highest on the Arab and interna- and close cooperation between all in the top quartile on the WHO–World Bank index for mitment tional levels. Arab countries without being ham- universal health coverage. Qatar was also ranked 5th in based on the H E Al Hammadi said that Qatar’s pered by political differences. He the world for health by the Legatum Institute, a London- directives of achievements in the areas of human stressed the importance of giving pri- based think tank, earlier this year. It is also worth men- H H the Amir development meet all the require- ority to the interests of citizens and tioning that Qatar is the only country in the region to Sheikh ments of social and human well-being, their rights and that the welfare and score in the top five on the Tamim bin stressing that Qatar takes into account progress of the Arab citizen is the basis annual prosperity index. H E Al Hammadi Hamad Al- that people are the makers of devel- of Arab-Arab relations. Health for all is possible said that Qatar’s Thani, to opment, its means, and its goal. H E Al Hammadi pointed out that and it starts with a strong achievements in support the H E Secretary-General of the Min- activating the joint Arab action institu- primary health care. Primary the areas of human development istry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ahmed bin tions and giving them the capacity and health care is a whole-of- operation in Hassan Al Hammadi said that the role to anticipate the prospects of The commitment society approach to health development meet the Arab Arab region faces major challenges in development, must be a top priority in to providing the and well-being centred on the all the requirements region and achieving comprehensive devel- joint Arab action, so as to ensure the best health care needs and preferences of of social and human the world, opment and boosting economic achievement of the Arab to every patient, individuals, families and well-being, stressing especially growth, not because of lack of advancement. communities. Qatar is always with pro- resources or lack of human capacity, H E Secretary-General of the Min- regardless of given primary healthcare its that Qatar takes into viding but because of the continuing istry of Foreign Affairs thanked the their nationality, due importance. The Primary account that people support to increase in inequality, particularly the ESCWA for its efforts to strengthen the puts Qatar in the Health Care Corporation in are the makers of countries that stagnation of poverty reduction development paths in the Arab region top quartile on the country is the excellent are least programs. and for its contribution to opening up example of the global development, its developed. He pointed out that the poverty new horizons for comprehensive the WHO–World standard of health-care means, and its goal. His rates in the Arab region are still development in the region. He Bank index for system. One of the main goals Excellency among the highest on the interna- affirmed the commitment of the State universal health of PHCC is mentioned as said that the State of Qatar fulfills its tional level, and in some Arab coun- of Qatar to provide all support and excellence in health services, pledge in allocating nearly one percent tries they are increasing and exacer- assistance to the regional programs coverage. facilities and infrastructure of its gross national income to support bated by armed conflicts, wars, insta- carried out by ESCWA. by being the first and con- development in the least developed bility, and insecurity, which requires The Arab Forum for Sustainable tinuous point of contact for high quality, accessible and countries. It also carries out direct careful consideration of the estab- Development is an annual high-level safe primary health care services. investment operation in labour- lishment of a deep and meaningful regional forum to discuss ways of Last year the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) intensive productive areas in these social dialogue to renew the Arab coordination and cooperation among launched a set of new guidelines aimed at helping people countries, in support of poverty social contract, leading to the opening the various stakeholders in the imple- understand how to access healthcare services in Qatar. reduction programs and empow- of paths towards stability and mentation, follow-up, and review of These will empower the public by clearly outlining what erment and equality policies. He con- development. the 2030 Sustainable Development services each provider offers, how to get an appointment, firmed that Qatar will continue on this H E Al Hammadi added that ine- plan. The forum brings with it the and how to choose the right service for their needs. The path which achieves stability, growth, quality is not limited to economic rates conclusions and recommendations of guides were developed by the MoPH in collaboration and prosperity in the Arab region. alone, but rather lies in social indi- the region’s voice and its contribution with HMC, PHCC, and Sidra Medicine. His Excellency said with directives cators, as policies of marginalisation of to the High-level Political Forum on Qatar is always expanding its healthcare system to from H H the Amir, Qatar is deeply women, exclusion of youth and Sustainable Development of 2019. meet growing patient needs. In 2018, it opened Hazm Mebaireek General Hospital and a dedicated Surgical Specialty Center. Last year also saw the official opening G7 must unite in efforts to deal with pending global problems of the Tobacco Control Center, a new Stroke Service Unit, and the launch of a number of new services that are JAPAN NEWS-YOMIURI State John Sullivan acting on his country. In reference to the area of improving patient care. behalf. This is causing widespread cybersecurity, the statement urged It’s clearly a laudable thing that the Qatari government f unity among the Group of Seven speculation that the Trump adminis- China not to be involved in intellectual had invested a lot to make health for all a reality. And it advanced nations is shaken, they tration is making light of the G7. property theft and other “malicious is committed to make progress in increasing capacity will not be able to appropriately US involvement is indispensable cyber activities.” and advancing the quality of care extended to patients deal with unresolved issues con- for the G7 to take effective action in There is a growing suspicion that a I group of hackers is operating under from all walks of life. fronting the international community promoting international stability and amid a conflict of interests among prosperity. the Chinese government to steal infor- nations. It is important for the seven Through a Japan-US summit mation possessed by US and European nations to act in concert. meeting and on other occasions, Prime corporations. A conference of G7 foreign min- Minister Shinzo Abe should urge There is a difference in the stances isters has been held in France, the Trump to resolve problems at multi- taken toward Chinese telecommuni- QUOTE OF THE DAY chair of this year’s summit meeting. lateral talks and act as an intermediary cations giant Huawei Technologies Co. The latest gathering is aimed at cre- between the United States and by the United States and European The US decision ating a shared awareness of pressing European countries. countries over business projects issues facing each G7 nation in prepa- The focus of a joint statement involving the next-generation com- against the official ration for the summit talks in August. adopted at the foreign ministers’ con- munications standard, 5G. The United army of Iran... was Last year’s summit meeting ference was China, a nation that is dis- States has urged its allies and others to incomprehensible. arrived at an unusual situation in rupting international order. exclude Huawei products, while which US President Donald Trump The statement expressed the G7’s European nations remain cautious These kinds of rejected a joint declaration by G7 “concerns” about China’s excessive about uniformly eliminating such decisions will pave leaders, despite the statement having investment drive overseas, but it products. the way for instability been endorsed among them earlier. avoided referring to the country’s Belt If each G7 member deals with in our region. The foreign ministers’ meeting was and Road Initiative, which seeks to China on an individual basis, there still expected to provide an opportunity for establish a huge economic bloc under are concerns about the drain of tech- the United States and European Beijing’s initiative. The influential nology. Japan, the United States and Mevlut Cavusoglu nations to mend their relations. But US factor behind this seems to be that European countries should take con- Turkish Foreign Minister Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, a Italy has accepted domestic infra- certed action in urging China to abide crucial figure, did not attend the con- structure development by China, by international standards and end its ference, with Deputy Secretary of building closer relations with that unlawful conduct. WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019 OPINION 09 South Korea’s Moon looks to Trump for way forward

hen summit talks col- confusion over the reasons for the understanding that Mr. John Bolton sanctions on North Korea. The lapsed between Pres- failure of the Hanoi summit, which [must] have played a very, very neg- Hanoi talks imploded after North ident Donald Trump and blindsided South Korean officials and ative role,” Moon Chung-in said. Korea demanded all of United North Korea’s Kim Jong forced Moon’s office to rewrite sec- Moon Chung-in and other South Nations Security Council sanctions W Korean figures inside and outside of Un in February, it was a political gut tions of a March 1 speech that antici- imposed since 2016 be lifted for a punch for South Korea’s president. pated an agreement. government spoke to a number of vis- partial closure of a key nuclear ADAM TAYLOR & Moon Jae-in has staked enormous One senior South Korean official, iting reporters, including journalists facility, the Yongbyon compound. MICHELLE YE HEE LEE political capital into the outreach with who requested anonymity to speak from The Washington Post, as part of Trump has demanded complete THE WASHINGTON POST the North and now needs Washing- about ongoing negotiations, said that the Korea Journalist Fellowship denuclearization in exchange for ton’s backing to keep it moving the United States had shifted the Program. The trip was sponsored by lifting of any sanctions. Last week, forward. terms of denuclearization. “The the Atlantic Council, a nonpartisan Secretary of State Mike Pompeo On Thursday, Moon will bring his United States essentially crushed think tank in Washington, in part- told CBS News that the US policy concerns directly to Trump in their North Korea with their maximalist nership with the Korea Foundation. was “incredibly clear” and that first face-to-face meeting since the position” by expanding its demands to A State Department spokes- sanctions would not be lifted until collapse of US-North Korea negotia- include biological and chemical woman, speaking on condition of complete denuclearization. tions in Hanoi in February. weapons in the proposal offered to anonymity due to department rules, But South Korea’s presidential For Moon, it is a chance to Kim in Hanoi, the official said. said that multiple U.N. Security Blue House has suggested an reaffirm the strength of the rela- North Korean military officials Council resolutions called on North alternate idea: a “good enough,” tionship between Washington and have not responded to South Korean Korea to destroy its weapons of mass phased-in deal for the US and Seoul after mixed messages after the requests in the weeks following the destruction. “The DPRK must fulfill North Korea, in which Pyongyang summit in Vietnam. Moon told South Hanoi summit to cooperate on joint these obligations,” the spokeswoman would freeze its nuclear weapons Korean officials last week that he was searches for military remains in the said in an emailed statement, using an production while receiving some on the “same page” as his American demilitarized zone. That suggested it acronym to refer to North Korea. form of sanctions relief, as apart of counterpart. may be difficult to coax the North A National Security Council a gradual process toward complete For Moon, it is a But if South Korea and the United back into engagement after the failed official, also speaking on condition of denuclearization. chance to reaffirm States are really united over the talks. anonymity, said that Bolton’s last- Lee Do-hoon, appointed by approach to Kim, they may be reading Moon Chung-in, a Yonsei Uni- minute decision to cancel his visit to Moon to help guide talks with the strength of the from different books. versity professor and an adviser to South Korea was due to events North Korea, told a conference on relationship between In Seoul, there are numerous signs Moon who said he was speaking in a unfolding in Venezuela at that time. April 4 that a total emphasis on Washington and Seoul of distance from Washington’s view of personal capacity, said that many in South Korea’s Moon has also sanctions was a mistake. “Sanctions the process, along with a dose of mis- Seoul blamed the summit impasse on pushed back on those who suggested themselves cannot fundamentally after mixed messages understanding and mistrust, Bolton, a staunch opponent of diplo- a rift with Washington. Speaking at a resolve our problem,” Lee said. after the summit in according to accounts from South matic talks before joining the meeting with senior members of his While South Korea’s presi- Vietnam. Moon told Korean officials and leading experts. administration. government on April 1, he had criti- dential Blue House views potential South Korean officials There appears general goodwill “We all thought there was some- cized those who attempted to “drive a sanctions relief as an incentive to toward Trump among South Korea thing wrong. Our suspicions arose wedge” between South Korea and the bring North Korea back to the last week that he officials, that does not always extend with John Bolton’s behavior,” Moon United States, calling such measures negotiation table, the White House was on the “same to the rest of the American negotiating Chung-in said, describing how Bolton “truly irresponsible.” views the sustenance of sanctions page” as his American team, including national security canceled a visit to South Korea ahead Indeed, despite the failure of the as a measure to pressure counterpart. adviser John Bolton. of the Hanoi summit. talks in Hanoi, the United States Pyongyang to denuclearize, said In particular, there was lingering “There is widespread appears to want South Korea to con- Chung Jae-Ho, Seoul National Uni- tinue acting as an intermediary with versity international relations North Korea. Shortly after leaving professor. Vietnam in February, Trump called In a sign of the sensitivities sur- Moon and asked him to help with rounding sanctions, the senior Kim. South Korean official joked when South Korean officials say that asked about sanctions: “We don’t there are several lines of communi- say the word ‘sanctions’ around cation currently open between the here.” pair, including messages passed indi- rectly through China and Russia. Kim himself has yet to comment publicly on the outcome of the Hanoi talks, though North Korean state media wrote in early March that the public “at home and abroad” were “blaming the US for the summit that D-RING ROAD ended without agreement.” POST BOX: 3488 Kim is expected to speak at the DOHA - QATAR first meeting of North Korea’s par- [email protected] liament, the Supreme People’s Assembly, on Thursday. But in Washington, the South EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE Korean president may need to not TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 only convey Kim’s thoughts, but also FAX: +974 4455 7758 communicate his own government’s position on negotiations to the United MANAGING EDITOR States. TEL: 4462 7505 A key point of disagreement between South Korea and US officials DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR A file picture of South Korean President Moon Jae-in with US President Trump at the White House on May 18, 2018. is over the role and effectiveness of TEL: 4455 7769

LOCAL NEWS SECTION TEL: 4455 7743 DIANA SIMEONOVA & he 960 inhabitants of the Bul- Over the past two decades more migrant workers have been crucial to JASTINDER KHERA garian village of Brashten, and more Bulgarians have come to the success of the business. BUSINESS NEWS SECTION AFP nestled in the hills and forests work for him, many recruited in “It’s going to be sad if we’re going TEL: 4462 7535 on the Greek border, don’t Brashten through word of mouth. to lose them but... we are powerless,” T he says. Perhaps surprisingly, normally pay much heed to interna- In the summer, the farm employs SPORT NEWS SECTION tional politics. But Britain’s Brexit 1,400 people, of whom Chambers Chambers himself voted Leave in Brit- TEL: 4455 7745 estimates just over 1,000 are Bul- ain’s Brexit referendum in 2016. garian. Despite an initial “emotional “I didn’t necessarily vote for my ONLINE SECTION feeling... that the UK was no longer a own personal circumstance. I thought TEL: 4462 7501 welcoming place” after the 2016 vote, that the EU as a geopolitical organi- [email protected] they have continued to come, sation was failing,” he explains. Brexit chaos stirs Chambers says. While he would not consider a PUBLIC RELATIONS The money earned in his fields has “no-deal” Brexit -- one without a TEL: 4455 7613 formal exit agreement -- “an continued to flow back to Brashten, [email protected] fears for Bulgaria with many newly renovated houses in unsolvable problem”, Chambers says the village boasting gleaming walls. the government would have to move ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Right-hand drive cars bought in urgently to expand a pilot scheme farm workers TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 England can be spotted in Brashten’s granting visas to seasonal workers, FAX: 4455 7870 lanes, as can another increasingly which currently has just 2,500 places. [email protected] unusual sight for the Bulgarian coun- UK farming representatives have tryside -- children. stressed the scheme does not even CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT turmoil has many here gripped, for Their Kent earnings have enabled satisfy the sector’s current need for TEL: 4455 7857 the largest employer in Brashten is a many couples to start families and has foreign labour, with many farms [email protected] single farm nearly 2,500km away in saved the local school from closure. already experiencing shortages. the English county of Kent. “In 2000 and 2001 there was just A further fall in the value of the SUBSCRIPTION & Every spring at least 350 people one baby born in Brashten, while we pound would also make workers DISTRIBUTION leave home to pick fruit on Oakdene had 15 in 2015 and 14 in 2016 -- the harder to find, Chambers says. TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 Farm, according to Brashten mayor figures speak for themselves,” mayor In contrast to the stereotype of In contrast to the FAX: 44557819 Kemil Kochakov. The village’s fortunes Kochakov says. anti-immigration Leave voters, [email protected] stereotype of anti- have been transformed by the money As the village empties out over the Chambers praises the work ethic that immigration Leave sent home. But this year the annual summer, children are often left with the Bulgarians have brought to the voters, Chambers exodus coincided with the date the UK grandparents and relatives while the farm and bemoans the UK Home was meant to be leaving the EU. parents are abroad. Brashten’s rela- Office’s apparent unwillingness to All thoughts and views praises the work “Everyone’s worried,” 29-year-old tively stable population stands in countenance a more liberal post- ethic that the Emine Karaylanska said in a cafe in sharp contrast to the hollowing out of Brexit immigration regime. expressed in these columns Bulgarians have the village’s main square. much of Bulgaria’s countryside, where As for the best way forward for the are those of the writers, brought to the A graduate in public adminis- many have left for good in search of a country now, he says: “I have no idea!” not of the newspaper. tration from Sofia University, Karay- better life elsewhere. While insisting he’s “not afraid of ‘no farm and bemoans lanska was preparing to make the trip Remittances from Bulgarians deal’,” he adds: “If we stay in, I’m not the UK Home this year despite the uncertainty. working abroad constitute the largest going to cry either. It is what it is.” All correspondence Office’s apparent “We’re watching TV and listening single chunk of investment flowing Back in Brashten, there is stoicism regarding Views and unwillingness to to the news all the time to see what into the country, at some 1.1 billion about what the latest instalment of Opinion pages should be will happen because this concerns us,” euros ($1.23 billion) annually. Britain’s political drama might bring. sent to editor-in-chief countenance a more she says. The first worker from Brashten to Many are weighing up the possi- liberal post-Brexit However the Brexit crisis ends, it come to Kent 19 years ago was Salih bility of working in other EU member office or mailed to the immigration regime. will also affect the owner of the Kent Hodzhov. He is now a full-time states if the UK becomes more [email protected] farm, Tim Chambers. manager on the farm and says difficult. 10 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019

Suicide bombers Erdogan’s AKP attack Syrian army post, several dead to seek rerun REUTERS BEIRUT

Suicide bombers disguised as of Istanbul polls farmers struck an army position in western Syria yesterday in AGENCIES The party would an attack that killed three ANKARA people and all the militants, submit an Syrian state-run media said. Turkey’s ruling Justice and “extraordinary The Ansar Al Tawheed Development (AK) Party will objection” to the group said three of its fighters seek a do-over for recent local result of the mayoral had carried out the attack on elections in Istanbul, a senior the checkpoint in Taybat Al party official said yesterday. poll, which may Imam, north of Hama city. In a The party would submit an culminate in voters statement, it said 30 members “extraordinary objection” to the going back to the of government forces had been result of the mayoral poll, which polls in the country’s killed and wounded. may culminate in voters going Violence has escalated of back to the polls in the country’s most populous city, late in the area, the last major most populous city, Deputy Deputy Chairman Ali part of Syria held by insurgents Chairman Ali Ihsan Yavuz said Ihsan Yavuz said in opposed to President Bashar Al in Istanbul. Istanbul. Assad, straining a Russian- Yavuz added that AK Party Turkish agreement that has Abdelkader Bensalah (centre), Speaker of the Upper House of Parliament, arrives to attend a meeting would also make an extraor- staved off a major government at the Palais des Nations in the Algerian capital Algiers yesterday. dinary objection to the mayoral 48.79% of the vote, ahead of the offensive. poll results in Istanbul’s district AK Party’s Binali Yildirim with The Syrian Observatory for of Buyukcekmece. 48.51%. Human Rights, which monitors An AK Party appeal to Contesting the results, the Bouteflika ally named Algeria’s the eight-year-long war, says cancel the election results in AK Party has asked for a about 200 civilians have been Istanbul’s Buyukcekmece dis- recount, saying the recount killed by shelling and bom- trict over alleged irregularities might change the results. first new president in 20 years bardment in the region since will be decided by the council, The Turkish leader on mid-February, the bulk of them he had previously said. Monday had questioned the AFP the people,” Bensalah, a trusted On Friday—in the first by government attacks on The residential addresses of Istanbul election results and ALGIERS ally of Bouteflika, told parliament weekly mass protest since rebel-held areas. over 11,000 people were hinted at a rerun because he said on taking up the 90-day interim Bouteflika announced his allegedly unlawfully moved to the vote was marred by ballot Algerian lawmakers appointed presidency. “It’s a great respon- departure after losing the mili- Buyukcekmece, in order to box theft. a regime stalwart as the coun- sibility that the constitution tary’s support — Algerians Dozens dead unfairly sway the elections. Yavuz on Twitter denied try’s first new president in two demands of me,” the 77-year-old demanded regime insiders be in Nigerian Millions of Turkish voters local media reports that the AKP decades yesterday, dismaying added. Opposition parties refused excluded from the political tran- cast their votes nationwide on had already filed a demand for protesters seeking sweeping to back the appointment of the sition. Ahead of the parlia- violence March 31 in local elections to the re-run as “untrue”, saying change following the resignation seasoned establishment insider mentary session, an editorial in choose Turkey’s mayors, city the party was considering the of veteran leader Abdelaziz and boycotted the session, as pro-government daily El Moud- AFP council members, mukhtars extraordinary appeal in the days Bouteflika. thousands of students protested jahid yesterday suggested Ben- WARRI, NIGERIA (neighborhood officials), and ahead. The election of Upper House against him in Algiers. salah should step aside from the members of elder councils for The AKP won most votes Speaker Abdelkader Bensalah “Resign Bensalah!” they presidential post. Dozens of people have been the next five years. nationwide in the March 31 vote. as Interim President follows chanted, clutching hand-written He is “not tolerated by the killed in a flareup of violence According to unofficial Both opposition Republican constitutional rules but goes placards and Algerian flags. citizen movement, which in three Nigerian regions, results in the Istanbul mayoral People’s Party (CHP) candidate against the demands of demon- For the first time in seven demands his immediate security officials and local race, before any recounts, Ekrem Imamoglu and the AKP’s strators, who have pushed for weeks police in the capital fired departure,” or by the opposition sources said yesterday. Ekrem Imamoglu, the candidate Binali Yildirim claimed victory him and other top politicians to tear gas to try to disperse the and various political groups in In the southeastern state of of main opposition Republican soon after preliminary tallies stand down. “I want to work protest by students, who were both houses of parliament, the Rivers, eight people were killed People’s Party (CHP), leads with showed them in a dead heat. towards fulfilling the interests of also hit with water cannon. newspaper said. early on Monday when armed men attacked the village of Emohua in the Ogoni region, said local chief Sunny Odum. Iran names new UN envoy as tensions rise with US State police spokesman Nnamdi Omoni said the attack REUTERS for European and American President Donald Trump last runs out. On Monday, Trump US President Donald Trump des- was a “cult-related incident,” a LONDON affairs. He has also served as year pulled the United States out designated Iran’s Islamic Revo- ignated Iran’s Guards a foreign term typically denoting gangs ambassador to Switzerland. of the deal, which was concluded lutionary Guards Corps a foreign terrorist organisation on Monday or criminals who are hired for Iran has appointed career His move to the United before he took office, saying it terrorist organisation. Iran called - a step that will raise tensions political gain and often blend diplomat and former nuclear Nations is significant since he favoured Iran. the move “vicious” and vowed in the Middle East. “They wish to belief or black-magic rituals in negotiator Majid Takht Ravanchi was one of the negotiators who Other co-signatories are still to retaliate. plot against our Sepah (the Guard their acts. In the northern state as its envoy to the United helped Tehran reach a nuclear trying to salvage the deal and Iran’s Supreme Leader Aya- corps)... it is in the frontline of of Katsina, 14 people were Nations, state media said, as it agreement in 2015 with the shield Iran from US sanctions. tollah Ali Khamenei said the confronting enemies of our (1979 killed on Sunday in clashes tries to salvage a nuclear deal United States, Britain, France, President Hassan Rouhani, who United States had made “a Islamic) revolution and has between cattle thiefs and a with world powers despite Russia, China and Germany. could be weakened by damage vicious move” in designating the always defended the country... civilian militia armed by the Washington’s unilateral with- The pact curbed Iran’s to Iran’s economy if the deal falls Revolutionary Guards as a America has failed to block our government to support the drawal. nuclear programme in exchange apart, warned other signatories foreign terrorist organisation, advances,” Khamenei, who con- security forces, police said. Last Takht Ravanchi, 61, was for relief from international yesterday to honour their and Tehran vowed to take action trols the Guards, was quoted as week, 50 people were killed in Iranian deputy foreign minister sanctions. However, US pledges before Tehran’s patience against US forces in the region. saying by the state media. Zamfara, the worst-hit state. Libyan strongman under global pressure to end Tripoli assault

AFP TRIPOLI Libya national conference

Libya’s warring parties yesterday postponed due to fighting faced mounting international pressure to halt fighting near the TRIPOLI: A Libyan national conference aimed at drawing up a capital that has caused thou- roadmap towards elections has been postponed because of fighting sands to flee and left several raging near the capital, the United Nations said yesterday. “We dozen people dead. cannot ask people to take part in the conference during gunfire UN chief Antonio Guterres and air strikes,” UN envoy Ghassan Salame said, expressing hope called late on Monday for a the meeting which had been scheduled for next week would take ceasefire in the hostilities, after place “as soon as possible”. Tripoli’s only functional airport was hit in an air strike. a metre-deep crater on a 35. Haftar’s forces have said 14 Guterres “urges the imme- runway. Flights were suspended of their fighters have died. diate halt of all military opera- on Monday, but the airport was The UN said the clashes have tions in order to de-escalate the due to be reopened to night-time displaced some 3,400 people, up situation and prevent an all-out flights only late yesterday. from an earlier estimate of conflict,” a statement from the The civil aviation authority 2,800. “Clashes with heavy Israeli Arab politician Ayman Odeh (centre) of the Hadash party and Aida Touma (left) of the Joint List United Nations said. has decided “only night flights weapons are affecting residential react to exit poll announcements at the Hadash party’s headquarters in Nazareth in Israel yesterday. The oil-rich northern African can resume until further notice,” areas, and an unknown number country has been rocked by the spokesman for Libyan Air- of civilians are unable to flee violent power struggles between lines Mohamad Gniwa said, these locations,” UN spokesman an array of armed groups since adding the first flights would be Stephane Dujarric told reporters Israel votes with Netanyahu’s future at stake the Nato-backed overthrow of to bring home travellers stuck in New York on Monday. AFP best placed to do so. Polls were his ballot in his hometown of dictator Moamer Kadhafi in 2011. abroad following the air strike. French President Emmanuel JERUSALEM to close at 1900 GMT in most Rosh Haayin. The UN-backed Government Another airport source con- Macron spoke with GNA leader areas and exit surveys will be Netanyahu voted later in of National Accord (GNA) con- firmed the resumption of night- Fayez al-Sarraj to voice his “total Israelis voted yesterday in a released afterward. Final results Jerusalem and urged Israelis to trols the capital, but its authority time flights from the former mil- opposition to the offensive high-stakes election that will are expected early today. “choose well.” “This is a sacred is not recognised by a parallel itary airbase, without giving against the capital and the decide whether to extend Prime Ex-military chief Benny act, the essence of democracy, administration in the east of the further details. endangering of civilian lives”, Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Gantz has mounted a strong and we should be thankful for country, allied with military Since his lightning offensive the unity government said. long right-wing tenure despite challenge to the veteran prime that,” he said. commander and strongman on Tripoli last Thursday, Hafter The French presidency said corruption allegations or to minister by brandishing his The election was in many Khalifa Haftar. has defied international calls to in a statement that Macron had replace him with an ex-military security credentials while ways a referendum on the Haftar’s forces, who halt his advance, including from also been in contact with Haftar chief new to politics. pledging to undo damage he says 69-year-old who has built a rep- launched a surprise offensive on the UN Security Council and the and in his calls expressed his The vote was expected to be Netanyahu has inflicted on the utation as guarantor of the coun- the Libyan capital last week, United States. “deep concern about the latest close and likely lead to frantic country with divisive politics. try’s security and economic claimed responsibility for Mon- The unity government’s developments”, adding it was negotiations to form a coalition “I’m happy to stand for the growth, but whose populism and day’s air raid on Mitiga airport. health ministry on Monday put “imperative” that the fighting once results are in, with opinion good of the citizens on a new alleged corruption have left It caused no casualties, but left the death toll in the fighting at ends immediately. polls having shown Netanyahu path,” Gantz said after casting many ready for change. WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019 ASIA 11 BJP’s MLA among 5 SC order on review of dead in Maoist blast Rafale verdict in Chhattisgarh today IANS IANS Dantewada is part NEW DELHI DANTEWADA of Bastar Lok Sabha seat that goes to The Supreme Court is likely to BJP’s lone legislator from Chhat- pronounce today its verdict on tisgarh’s Maoist-affected Bastar the polls in the first the government’s plea claiming region, Bhima Mandavi, was phase tomorrow. The privilege over the documents killed along with four policemen Election Commission filed by petitioners seeking yesterday evening as Maoists said that voting in the review of its December 14 carried out a deadly attack on Rafale judgment. his convoy in a forested patch state would go on as Petitioners in the case are in Dantewada district. per schedule. former Finance Minister The brutal killing of India’s Yashwant Sinha, journalist- ruling party’s MLA created Central Reserve Police Force turned-politician Arun Shourie outrage in Chhattisgarh as Chief (CRPF) trooper was killed on and activist-lawyer Prashant Minister Bhupesh Baghel can- April 5 and another injured in a Bhushan. celled his poll campaign and gun battle with the Maoists in the Two judgments are likely chaired a high-level meeting in state’s Dhamtari district - was today - one by the Chief Justice Raipur to assess the law and “meticulously-planned”. Ranjan Gogoi and the other by order situation. “It was a meticulously- Justice KM Joseph. A polling officer stands next to election materials after arriving on a ferryboat in Nimatighat, Jorhat Baghel, who is facing flak for planned attack, Maoists specif- The top court bench com- district, Assam, yesterday. allegedly adopting a soft ically targeted BJP MLA’s vehicle prising CJI Gogoi, Justice Sanjay approach towards Maoists, said when he was rushing to Kishan Kaul and Justice Joseph he was “deeply disturbed” by the Nakulnar to address a public No political motive in raids, EC told had on March 14 reserved the killings, but also defended his meeting in favour of the BJP order on the “preliminary issue government’s measures. candidate from Bastar seat IANS Earlier, the EC told them to share On Sunday, the EC had and the claim of privilege by the Dantewada is part of Bastar Baidu Ram Kashyap in closing NEW DELHI information relating to the raids. written to the Revenue Sec- government”. Lok Sabha seat that goes to the minutes of poll campaigning,” On Monday, the Income Tax retary, instructing him to tell his The government, aborting polls in the first phase on Dantewada police chief Senior Revenue Department department in a statement said officials to be neutral and earlier deal to acquire 126 Thursday. Bastar is considered Abhishek Pallav told reporters officials yesterday met the during searches in Madhya unbiased on raids. fighter jets, opted for 36 Rafale the Bharatiya Janata Party’s at the blast site. Election Commission officials Pradesh organised rackets of Meanwhile, Madhya jets in ready-to-fly condition. bastion as the party has been Prime Minister Narendra and briefed the EC on the unaccounted cash of Rs281 Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Of the 126 jets in the earlier winning the seat since 1999 with Modi condemned the killing and process of search, surveys and crore through various persons, Nath’s Officer on Special Duty deal, most were to be manufac- massive margins. termed Mandavi a dedicated raids. including people associated (OSD) Praveen Kakkar yes- tured at the Hindustan Aero- The Election Commission party worker. “Shri Bhima Sources said the department with politics, were seized. terday termed the income-tax nautics Ltd (HAL). said that voting in the state Mandavi was a dedicated Kar- officials told the EC officials the It claimed part of the cash raids at his residence and other The government seeking would go on as per schedule yakarta of the BJP. Diligent and raids do not violate the model was moved to a Delhi-based places a “political operation”. privilege over the documents during the first, second and third courageous, he assiduously code of conduct in any manner. political party, including Rs 20 He accused the officials of annexed by Sinha, Shourie and phase of the seven-phase Lok served the people of Chhat- They also informed the EC they crore through hawala. There breaking into his house at Bhushan had sought removal Sabha elections. tisgarh. Condolences to his cannot share or discuss or dis- were also I-T searches in the 3.30am on Sunday. However, of three “privileged” documents Police said that the attack - family and supporters. Om close the timing of raids until National Capital Region (NCR) he denied any torture by from the case records which the second one in April after a Shanti,” Modi tweeted. substantial evidence is found. and Goa. officials. has put in public domain the information relating to the deal and the fighter jet. The government had ini- Note ban biggest scam, officials involved: Congress tially claimed that the docu- ments were stolen but later IANS “A RAW official can be seen government employees, people should probe the contents of the of a BJP worker in Ahmedabad. backtracked and changed its NEW DELHI in the video. His ID of cabinet of the treasury, earn an exchange video, saying it amounts to “He (the man) said ‘we can stance saying that they were secretariat can be seen. A bank of 15 to 40 percent, how much “treason”. give you that exchange even in “unauthorisedly photocopied”. The Congress yesterday said that manager was involved. All the they would have earned,” he “Since the ED searches Bombay’. He says there are 26 The Centre had contended that demonetisation was the “biggest things being shown took place said. people with such alacrity, then such operations throughout the the disclosure of these docu- scam” in the country and alleged in the godown of Maharashtra Sibal alleged that Prime Min- with equal alacrity, they should country - 22+4 (22 men and four ments, on which it had claimed involvement of government offi- Industrial Development Corpo- ister Narendra Modi had “trau- tell the people what the truth is, women).” privilege, have a bearing on the cials in currency exchange to ration,” he said. matised” the people of this but, they will not do it,” he said. “Will the government arrest national security and the earn money and looting the He said the video has been country. Referring to a video clip he these people, will the ED arrest combat capacity of the fighter country. taken from a website which has “He is traumatising and he showed at a press conference last these people? They will not jets. Seeking removal of the Congress leader Kapil Sibal tapes of several hours. has traumatised journalists, his month, Sibal alleged that it was because ED protects those who documents which were “unau- played a video at a media “You have seen in the past political opponents and he has of a man who exchanged loot the country,” he said. thorisedly photocopied”, briefing here and alleged that an five years how money has flowed used agencies to target people demonetised currency worth Rs5 Asked about Modi’s allega- Attorney General KK Venugopal employee of RAW, India’s like water. You have seen a who are opposed to him,” Sibal crore at 40 percent commission tions of scams during the UPA, had told the court that “the external intelligence agency, was glimpse of how it is flowing, why alleged. against legal tender of Rs3 crore he said: “All the scams have security of the state supersedes involved in the money exchange. it is flowing. If a banker, He said the government in Rs2,000 notes with the help come to nothing.” everything else”. Hundreds of Veteran Kerala politician Bangladeshi ‘extremists’ to KM Mani dead at 86 IANS lay down arms KOCHI AFP DHAKA Veteran politician and Kerala Congress-Mani Chairman KM Hundreds of Bangladeshi left- Mani (pictured), who never lost wing “extremists” will lay down an Assembly election since 1967, their arms in what police say is passed away at a private hospital the largest surrender of its kind here yesterday. He was 86. in decades in the South Asian Mani was suffering from a nation. lung ailment and was in the hos- More than 600 insurgents pital for the past one week. He were expected to turn in had been unwell since January. homemade weapons and A doctor told the media that firearms to Bangladesh’s Home Mani’s condition turned worse state record of having presented Minister and Police Chief at a after 11.30am yesterday and he 13 budgets. He is survived by his formal ceremony at a sports died at 4.57pm. wife, son Jose K Mani, a Rajya stadium, officials said. Mani joined the undivided Sabha member, and five “The government will Kerala Congress in 1965 and daughters. work to help rehabilitate went on to become its undis- CM Pinarayi Vijayan said them so they can return to puted leader. Over the years, his Mani’s death had left Kerala society,” Sheikh Rafiqul Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah addresses an election rally in Hyderabad, yesterday. party underwent several splits. grieving. “He was certainly a Islam, police chief in the Mani’s record of being the very tall politician and is going restive northwestern district longest-serving legislator in the to be missed in Kerala politics. of Pabna, said. Nation seeks answers for Congress ‘anyay’ Kerala Assembly began in 1967 He had proved his mettle in his Bangladesh’s western when he represented his home job as a very effective minister,” regions have been wracked IANS country. J&K was the same as sending sol- constituency Pala in Kottayam he said. In 2015 he had to resign with conflict since the 1970s NEW DELHI “This means they agree that diers to the gallows. I will never district - from where he won a as the finance minister as he was until quite recently, with left- in 60 years of their rule, they let that happen to soldiers,” he record 13 elections. He often accused of taking bribes in wing movements including Tearing into the Congress mani- have done ‘anyay’. What about said. used to say that he has two exchange for providing bar Maoist outfits and tribal groups festo and its campaign slogan justice to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots On BSP supremo Mayawati’s wives: one is Kuttiyama and the licence. fighting the state from jungle “Ab Hoga Nyay” for the Lok victims, the triple talaq sufferers, call to Muslims to vote for the other is Pala. The court originally charged redoubts. Sabha polls, Prime Minister the farmers of Chhattisgarh, Bahujan Samaj Party-Samajwadi Although he won his first Mani as the only accused in the Bangladesh describes them Narendra Modi has said the Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh party-Rashtriya Lok Dal alliance election in 1965, the Assembly bribery case following a probe as “extremists” and blames nation was seeking answers for who were promised loan in UP, the Prime Minister said if was not convened and so he was conducted by the vigilance. Mani them for the assassinations of the “anyay” (injustice) done by waivers? You promised them such an appeal had been made not sworn-in. Two years later was acquitted after two inves- political figures and journalists, it during 60 years of its rule. justice in just 10 days. It has been for Hindus, the “secular brigade” he became a legislator for the tigation reports submitted by as well as deadly attacks on the In an interview to CNN- 100 days now. and the “award wapsi gang” first time - and remained so for Kerala Vigilance and Anti-Cor- armed forces and police. News18 yesterday, Modi criti- Asserting that nationalism is would have expressed outrage. 52 long years. Mani first became ruption Bureau (VACB) during Their resistance waned cised the Opposition for ques- not just about sloganeering, but “It was not surprising that a state Minister in 1975 in the C the UDF tenure. with the formation of Bangla- tioning the Balakot air strikes about improving the lives of 1.3 Mayawati is making such state- Achutha Menon cabinet and The court had refuted these desh’s elite police unit in the and promising to amend the billion people, Modi reiterated ments, as she is facing defeat. since then he sat in the cabinets reports following demands from mid-2000s, which forced the Armed Forces (Special Powers) the protective layer of the AFSPA She is appealing to Muslims to of EK Nayanar, PK Vasudevan several leaders including VS various insurrection move- Act (AFSPA). He said those hiding would continue to shield security specifically vote for her. This is Nair, CH Mohammed Koya, K Achuthanandan. The VACB later ments into retreat through a behind the “mask” of secularism forces, fighting terrorism in J&K. a matter for the Election Com- Karunakaran, AK Antony and acquitted Mani in the third brutal crackdown. were the “biggest threat” to the “Removing the AFSPA from mission to look into,” he said. Oommen Chandy. He holds the report as well. 12 ASIA WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019 Better chance of peace talks if BJP wins: Imran Shehbaz, son indicted in REUTERS group of foreign journalists in an PM Imran Khan says the government had full support turn against Modi in the next few ISLAMABAD interview. it is vital for Pakistan from Pakistan’s powerful army weeks that India could take some graft case This was despite the massive to have peace with for the programme. Those to be further military action against Pakistani Prime Minister Imran alienation that Muslims in all neighbours for the dismantled include groups Pakistan. ANATOLIA Khan has said he thinks there Kashmir and Muslims in general involved in Kashmir. The rolling election is held in KARACHI may be a better chance of peace were facing in Modi’s India, said country’s economic Pakistan and India both phases and does not finish until talks with India if Prime Minister Khan, who took office last development. claim Kashmir in full but rule in May 19. The result is not due until A Pakistani court yesterday Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya August. part. May 23. indicted Opposition Leader Janata Party (BJP) wins the “I never thought I would see Khan said Kashmir was a Pakistani Foreign Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son in general election. what is happening in India right The BJP’s pledge this week political struggle and there was Shah Mahmood Qureshi warned another corruption case, local Khan said that if the next now,” said the former interna- to propose stripping decades-old no military solution, adding that on Sunday that Islamabad had media reported. Indian government were led by tional cricket star. Khan said special rights from the people of Kashmiris suffered if armed mil- “reliable intelligence” that India The two pleaded not guilty the opposition Congress party, it Indian Muslims he knew who Jammu and Kashmir, which itants from Pakistan came across would attack again this month. to the charges framed by an might be too scared to seek a set- many years ago had been happy prevent outsiders from buying the border, leading to Indian India described the claim as accountability court in Lahore, tlement with Pakistan over dis- about their situation in India property in the state, was a major army crackdowns. irresponsible. according to local broadcaster puted Indian-controlled were now very worried by concern, though it could also be Pollsters say Modi and the Khan said that it was vital for Dawn News. Kashmir, fearing a backlash from extreme Hindu nationalism. electioneering, Khan said. BJP’s re-election bid got a boost Pakistan to have peace with its Sharif and his son Hamza the right. He said Modi, like Israeli Khan did appear to offer from a wave of patriotism after neighbours, Afghanistan, India Shehbaz, who is the Opposition “Perhaps if the BJP - a right- Prime Minister Benjamin India an olive branch, saying that the Pulwama attack and the and Iran, if it was to have the Leader in Punjab Provincial wing party - wins, some kind of Netanyahu, was electioneering Islamabad was determined to Indian government’s fast kind of economy needed to pull Assembly, have been charged settlement in Kashmir could be based on “fear and nationalist dismantle all Pakistan-based response. Khan said there was 100 million people out of for “misuse of authority and reached,” Khan told a small feeling”. militias in the country, and that still the possibility if the polls poverty. public funds” for their family sugar mill, the broadcaster said. The two are already facing multiple corruption cases. 3 US soldiers dead Sharif, the three-time Chief Minister of Punjab, is on bail in a housing scam. in Taliban attack Sharif, head of main oppo- sition Pakistan Muslim League- AP treated along with other injured Nawaz party, is accused of can- KABUL civilians, later identified as a celling a housing contract and contractor and treated at Bagram transferring it to his favourite US forces in Afghanistan Airfield.” Three other US service company for the construction yesterday revised the death toll members were also wounded in of low-cost houses for the poor from a Taliban attack the the attack. The base in Bagram in Punjab. previous day near the main district is located in northern He denies the allegations American base in the country, Parwan province and serves as saying he cancelled the contract saying three US soldiers were the main US air facility in the because it was granted to a killed but not a contractor who country. blacklisted company. was initially reported among the The wounded were evac- fatalities. uated and are receiving medical The US and NATO Resolute care, the statement said. It added Imran calls for Support mission issued a that in accordance with US intra-Afghan statement “to clarify initial Department of Defence policy, reporting” about Monday’s the names of service members An Afghan military convoy drives past the site of a car bomb attack where US soldiers were killed dialogue roadside bombing of an killed in action were being near Bagram air base, Afghanistan, yesterday. American convoy near the main withheld until after the notifi- QNA US base. The Taliban claimed cation of next of kin. ISLAMABAD responsibility for the attack. In their claim of responsi- officials said at least five Afghan Qudosi, the District Adminis- difficulties in bringing peace to The mission said a roadside bility, the Taliban said they civilians were wounded in the trative Chief in Bagram, said the war-wrecked country even Pakistani Prime Minister Imran bomb hit the convoy near the launched the attack and that one commotion after the attack on American soldiers opened fire as Washington has stepped up Khan has urged the Afghan Bagram Airfield, killing three of their suicide bombers deto- the American convoy. immediately after their convoy efforts to find a way to end the parties to sit together to discuss American service members, and nated his explosives-laden Four were passers-by and was bombed. 17-year war, America’s longest. the contours of their future that “the contractor who was vehicle near the NATO base. The the fifth was a driver of a car Monday’s US fatalities bring There are about 14,000 US polity in the wake of the with- reported as killed, is alive.” The conflicting accounts could not be going down the road, said Abdul to seven the number of US sol- forces in Afghanistan. Last year, drawal of foreign troops. statement said “the contractor, immediately reconciled. Raqib Kohistani, the Bagram Dis- diers killed so far this year in 13 US service members died in Underscoring the need for an Afghan citizen, was initially On Tuesday, local Afghan trict Police Chief. Abdul Shakor Afghanistan, underscoring the Afghanistan. an intra-Afghan dialogue, the Prime Minister stated that direct engagement between Thai govt says Afghanistan stakeholders Kazakhstan to hold presidential election on June 9 would end the prolonged con- flict in Afghanistan and bring diplomats AFP Nazarbayeva, who has been durable peace to the war-torn NUR-SULTAN broke protocol widely tipped as a possible suc- country. cessor to her father, yesterday The Pakistani Prime Min- in sedition case Kazakhstan’s interim President reportedly ruled out running. ister was talking during a Kassym-Jomart Tokayev “No, (Nazarbayeva) is not going meeting with a US military del- REUTERS BANGKOK yesterday called a snap election to run,” her spokeswoman Saule egation chaired by Commander for June as the Central Asian Mustafayeva told the private of the US Central Command nation seeks a new leader Tengrinews outlet. (CENTCOM) Gen Kenneth Thailand’s Foreign Ministry following the shock resignation When contacted directly by McKenzie Jr, who was on his yesterday said it would talk to of its longtime ruler. another news website however, first trip to Pakistan after more than a dozen foreign Nursultan Nazarbayev, the Nazarbayeva did not confirm or assuming responsibilities last diplomats after the military only leader an independent Kaza- deny a potential run. “Any citizen month. government accused them of khstan had ever known, of the country may run for (the During his talks, Khan reit- “breaching protocol” by announced suddenly last month Presidency) in accordance with erated Pakistan’s desire to have witnessing a politician being that he was stepping down after the Constitution and the laws. good relations with all neigh- charged with sedition. nearly three decades in office. Kazakhstan’s interim President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev speaking Political parties determine nom- bouring countries, including The diplomats mainly from Nazarbayev, who retained during a televised address to the nation in Nur-Sultan, yesterday. inations,” she was quoted as Afghanistan and India. Western nations and two inter- significant powers following his saying by Zakon.kz. The speaker The Pakistani Prime min- national organisations accom- resignation, named Tokayev to Nation” in Kazakh - and other top elections will be held honestly, position, which Tokayev previ- ister informed the US dele- panied Future Forward Party replace him for the remainder of officials before making the openly and fairly.” Tokayev did ously held, is second in line to the gation about his government’s leader Thanathorn Juangroon- his term due to finish next year. decision. not immediately say whether he Presidency according to the anti-terrorism measures gruangkit on Saturday when Tokayev said the Presidential “We must continue to work would run though most analysts constitution. including the National Action he reported to a Bangkok election would be held on June 9 on the implementation of the have tipped him to succeed Nazarbayev, 78, now has the Plan to counter terrorism, police station to face criminal instead. strategy of Elbasy,” Tokayev said. Nazarbayev, at least in the constitutional status of “Leader stressing the need for continued charges. In a televised address to the “This can be done only by the short-term. of the Nation” as well as Chair- military cooperation between The former auto parts nation, Tokayev said he had con- direct expression of the will of the Nazarbayev’s daughter and manship of the ruling Nur Otan Pakistan and the United States tycoon was charged with sulted with Nazarbayev - known people... As the acting head of Speaker of Kazakh Senate, party and a lifetime position as to deal with the emerging sedition and other violations for as “Elbasy” or “Leader of the state I guarantee that the 55-year-old Dariga Chief of the Security Council. threats especially the ISIS. allegedly providing assistance to anti-junta protesters in 2015. He said the charges are politi- cally motivated, which the gov- Singapore and Malaysia seek to ease tensions ernment denies. “This is a matter concerning AFP Tensions begin rising again Lee added: “As close neigh- the Thai justice system and if PUTRAJAYA a few months ago after Sin- bours, Singapore and Malaysia we don’t have confidence in it gapore accused Malaysia of must expect issues to arise and don’t follow our processes, Singapore and Malaysia’s leaders sending government boats into between us from time to time then it could provide the oppor- yesterday vowed to cooperate its waters, and the city-state but provided we can address tunity for others to interfere,” to solve disputes after tensions then proposed new landing them in a constructive spirit, we Prime Minister Prayuth Chan- between the neighbours over procedures at an airport that can manage... the side effects.” ocha told reporters. airspace and maritime bound- Kuala Lumpur claimed would The leaders also announced Referring to the observers, aries, which followed a change violate its airspace. talks on their maritime bound- Prayuth said, “I am not sure if of government in Malaysia. But in recent days the aries would begin in a month. they were real diplomats.” They have had fractious neighbours suspended over- Ties were warm between Foreign diplomats have relations since Malaysia evicted lapping maritime claims to the neighbours under the last observed police and court pro- Singapore from the Malaysian allow for talks and the city- Malaysian leader Najib Razak ceedings against political Federation in 1965, ending a state halted the contentious - who lost power after being activists since the 2014 coup, brief and stormy union of the landing procedures, ahead of a accused of plundering state but Foreign Minister Don Pra- former British colonies. visit yesterday to Malaysia by coffers - but have quickly mudwinai said it broke diplo- Ties have gone up and Singapore Prime Minister Lee started to fray since the return matic protocol and could been down over the years but have Hsien Loong. Malaysia’s Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad (right) and Singapore’s of Mahathir. seen as interfering in the justice been shaky since Malaysia’s After holding talks in the Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong react during a Joint Statement Some observers trace system. Mahathir Mohamad - who has administrative capital press conference in Putrajaya, Malaysia, yesterday. Mahathir’s long-running ani- “We have told ambassadors long had a prickly relationship Putrajaya, Lee and Mahathir - mosity towards Singapore back of each country before that this with Singapore - returned to 93 and in his second stint as “We agreed that the funda- and constructive manner,” to his fractious relationship sort of action is inappropriate,” the Premiership with a shock Premier - hailed the moves to mental principle is to resolve Mahathir told a press con- with the city-state’s founding Don told reporters. election victory last year. ease tensions. issues of concern in a friendly ference in the city. leader Lee Kuan Yew. WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019 EUROPE 13 May seeks Brexit delay from Merkel, Macron

AFP Britain is requesting risking huge economic BERLIN only a short delay to disruption. avoid having to take “No deal will never be the British Prime Minister Theresa EU’s decision, it will always be May held talks with German part in European the responsibility of the United Chancellor Angela Merkel Parliament elections Kingdom to tell us what it yesterday in a last-gasp bid to next month, but EU wants,” he said. keep her country from crashing leaders are expected EU Ministers have expressed out of the European Union at the frustration at the turmoil in end of the week. to offer a longer London, where MPs still cannot May will also meet French postponement. decide how to leave the EU President Emmanuel Macron in almost three years after the ref- Paris, seeking support from the erendum vote for Brexit. bloc’s powerbrokers for her must explain in Brussels what “We are in a very, very frus- request to delay Brexit for a another postponement would trating situation here,” said Ger- second time. achieve. many’s Europe Minister Michael She is hoping EU leaders will “The length of the extension Roth as he arrived in agree at an emergency summit must be linked to the purpose - Luxembourg. German Chancellor Angela Merkel (left) greets British Prime Minister Theresa May as she arrives at today to postpone Brexit from what it’s for - and that depends His French counterpart the Chancellery in Berlin, yesterday. April 12 to June 30, to give her on what Mrs May will say to Amelie de Montchalin told more time to get her divorce deal European leaders tomorrow,” he reporters that “we want to through parliament. told reporters after a meeting of understand what the UK needs take part in European Parliament through, but there is no constructively through this British MPs have rejected the EU Ministers in Luxembourg. this extension for”. elections next month, but EU agreement on this. process and you can expect the text, and May’s government is He added: “It is for her to “And then comes the leaders are expected to offer a Some in the EU are worried UK to continue to do so”. now in talks with the opposition bring the roadmap.” The EU has question of the conditions of longer postponement. that during a long delay, British Neither May nor Merkel Labour party to try to find a way already granted one delay - the what role we’d want the UK to EU Council President Donald representatives could disrupt EU spoke to the media during their through the deadlock. original Brexit deadline was play during this extension time,” Tusk’s office has floated the idea budget planning and reforms talks in Berlin, but the German But these discussions are March 29 - and Barnier said it she added. of a “flexible” extension of up to during indefinite Brexit talks. leader has previously said she moving slowly, and EU nego- would not be the bloc’s fault if Britain is requesting only a a year, with an option for London A spokesman for May said would work “until the last hour” tiator Michel Barnier said May Britain crashed out this week, short delay to avoid having to to leave earlier if it finds a way Britain had “engaged to avoid a “no deal” Brexit. Russia violated Navalny’s rights: European rights court UK plans to introduce AFP sought to expose top-level graft he had faced,” the ECHR said, Instagram account. The latest ruling relates to STRASBOURG in Russia, but was denounced by ruling that Russia had violated “I am sure that the decision almost a year that Navalny spent ‘no-fault’ the Kremlin. the European Convention on will have important conse- under house arrest starting in Russia violated the human rights It is the second time the Human Rights. quences for those in Russia who February 2014 after he was divorces of anti-corruption campaigner European Court of Human Rights “It was also apparent that he are subject to such lawlessness charged with fraud and money Alexei Navalny, a leading (ECHR) has condemned Russia had been treated in that way in all the time,” Navalny wrote. laundering along with his AP opponent of President Vladimir over Navalny, and comes as order to curtail his public activ- In Moscow, Kremlin brother Oleg. LONDON Putin, by holding him under questions grow over whether ities,” it added. Russia was spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: The pair were convicted in house arrest for a lengthy spell Moscow will remain subject to ordered to pay Navalny 20,000 “It’s quite unexpected.” “We December 2014, with Alexei Britain wants to end the in 2014, Europe’s top rights court the decisions of the institution. euros ($22,550) in damages and cannot really agree with it (the Navalny given a suspended sen- divorce blame game. said yesterday. “The restrictions on him, 2,665 euros ($3,000) in costs and ruling). But we have a Justice tence and his brother sent to The government has The ruling by the Strasbourg- including tight limits on his com- expenses. Ministry, it is their prerogative prison. Both have denounced the announced plans to introduce based court was welcomed as a municating, had been out of pro- Navalny hailed the decision to deal with these issues,” he charges as politically “no-fault” divorces so sepa- victory by Navalny, who has portion to the criminal charges as a “victory” in a message on his added. motivated. rating couples no longer have to blame one another for the breakdown of a marriage. Macron aide says Justice Secretary David Putin presents ambitious Arctic expansion programme Gauke said yesterday that the France open to government will introduce leg- Brexit extension AP cargo carried across the shipping The Russian leader said that ration and new shipping lanes. islation after a public consul- ST PETERSBURG lane is set to increase from 20 Russia plans to expand the ports Speaking at the forum, Nor- tation revealed broad support ‘within limits’ million metric tons last year to on both sides of the Arctic wegian Prime Minister Erna for change. AFP Russian President Vladimir Putin 80 million tons in 2025. shipping route - Murmansk on Solberg emphasised the need to Until now, couples have PARIS yesterday put forward an ambi- “This is a realistic, well-cal- the Kola Peninsula and respect international law and had to prove misconduct such tious programme to secure culated and concrete task,” Putin Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky on noted that the Arctic Council as adultery by one partner or France is open to the idea of an Russia’s foothold in the Arctic, said. the Kamchatka Peninsula - and provides a key arena for live apart for a fixed period extension to the Brexit deadline, including efforts to build new He noted that Russia, the invited foreign companies to dialogue. before they could divorce. but would push for strict condi- ports and other infrastructure only nation with a nuclear ice- invest in the reconstruction “Now and then I hear the The proposed changes tions to be attached, an aide to facilities and expand an breaker fleet, is moving to project. Other ports and infra- Arctic described as a geopolitical would only require the couple French President Emmanuel icebreaker fleet. expand it. structure facilities along the hotspot,” she said. “This is not to declare that their marriage Macron said yesterday. Speaking at the Arctic forum Russia currently has four route will also be upgraded and how we see it. We know the had irretrievably broken down. “We’ve never been closed in St. Petersburg attended by nuclear icebreakers, and Putin expanded, he said. Arctic as a region of peace and Jo Edwards, a family law to the idea of finding an alter- leaders of Finland, Iceland, said that three new such ships Russia, the US, Canada, stability.” She noted that “this specialist based at law firm native solution to ‘no deal’ Norway and Sweden, Putin said are currently under construction. Denmark and Norway have all should not be taken for granted,” Forsters, says lawyers will within certain limits and not at that Russia plans to dramatically By 2035, Russia stands to have been trying to assert jurisdiction adding that “it is the result of welcome steps to end “the any price,” the aide said on con- increase cargo shipments across a fleet of 13 heavy icebreakers, over parts of the Arctic as political decisions and practical unnecessary acrimony caused dition of anonymity. the Arctic sea route. including nine nuclear-powered shrinking polar ice creates new cooperation between the Arctic day in, day out by the current Macron had previously He said that the amount of ones, he said. opportunities for resource explo- states.” fault-based system”. sought to raise pressure on British Prime Minister Theresa May by saying an extension at a summit of European leaders Paris orders 800 new starting today to the current exit date of April 12 was not electric buses to fight smog “automatic”. The comments raised AFP public transport sector,” said speculation that Macron PARIS RATP Chief Executive Cath- might take a tough line at the erine Guillouard. Brussels meeting, which Paris’ public transport “To put them into service, would led to Britain crashing operator yesterday said it had the company is mobilised to out of the bloc without a deal. ordered up to 800 electric meet an industrial challenge Such a scenario exit was buses to take to the streets of within a very short tight “still a risk,” the aide said, the French capital to replace deadline,” she added. but was not “the favoured diesel versions and fight smog Paris already has one line option of France”. The con- in the build up to the 2024 - number 341 - fully opera- ditions for the extension Olympics. tional with electric buses, but would be in terms of length Three French engineering it will be a major task to - the aide said a year “seems firms - Heuliez Bus, Bollore transform its full fleet of just too long” - and arrangements and Alstom - won the tender under 4,700 buses. RATP cur- to limit Britain’s influence to supply the buses in deals rently has some 950 hybrid- within the EU during the worth up to 400m euros powered buses, 140 bio-fuel extension period. ($450m), the RATP transport buses and 83 electric buses in These would limit the operator said. its fleet. power of Britain’s Commis- RATP will buy an equal The use of electric buses is sioner in the European Com- EU-China Summit in Brussels number of buses from each growing all over the world, mission, the EU’s executive Chinese Premier Li Keqiang (centre), European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker (second supplier, it added, describing with China the leader in arm, and the role of the right) and other officials stand for a group photo during the EU-China Summit in Brussels, yesterday. the tender as the biggest such employing the technology as British Prime Minister at bus purchase in Europe. it seeks to relieve pollution in meetings of EU leaders, the It will begin by buying 150 clogged cities. aide said. Spain vows to boost cybersecurity, fight disinformation buses, with the first deliveries But they are becoming an “There would need to be expected between the end of increasingly familiar sight in clear commitments and then AP system. The country’s April 28 Sánchez said yesterday during a 2020 and 2022, it added. European cities, in particular a mechanism for monitoring MADRID general election is seen as a visit to the national institute for Local authorities in Paris in Dutch cities Amsterdam and them,” the aide said. testing ground for new measures cybersecurity, or INCIBE, in the want the French capital to Rotterdam. Paris’ Socialist “There would be a tran- Spain’s Prime Minister says that the European Union is northern province of León. have 100-percent clean buses Mayor Anne Hidalgo has made sition period for the United whoever wins the upcoming adopting to shield elections to the Last month, Spain established by 2025 by using both elec- tackling smog a priority and Kingdom as an intermediary general election in the country European Parliament a month a special high-level unit to coor- tricity and biofuels. is planning stricter rules aimed member, which is present and should launch a national cyber- later. dinate the fight against cyberat- “This is a major step for the at phasing out diesel cars by applying the rules but not security plan to combat attempts “We need to protect Europe tacks and misinformation, which RATP and a symbol of its 2024, and is also weighing the taking part in decision to undermine democracy and in order for Europe to be able to Sánchez says equates to attacks ambition to be a key player in idea of making public making,” the aide said. citizens’ trust in the political protect its citizens,” Pedro on “the quality of democracy.” the energy transition in the transport free. 14 AMERICAS WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019 Redacted Mueller report to be released in a week AP The nearly 400- report as they waited to see it. WASHINGTON page report is Barr’s opening remarks focused on funding requests for immi- Attorney-General William Barr being scoured now gration enforcement and the said yesterday that he expects to to remove grand fights against violent crime and release a redacted version of the jury information opioid addiction, not mentioning special counsel’s Trump-Russia and details the special counsel’s report at all. investigation report “within a Barr would not discuss the week” as he defended his relating to pending substance of Mueller’s findings handling of the document. investigations. but did explain his process for Barr told members of Con- receiving and reviewing the gress at his first public report. He said he had offered appearance since receiving she was taken aback that Barr Mueller the chance to review his special counsel Robert Mueller’s had reduced Mueller’s report to four-page letter, but that Mueller report that his earlier projection a four-page letter in just two declined. Asked about reports of releasing a version by mid- days. That letter said that Mueller that members of Mueller’s team April still stood. did not find a criminal con- were unhappy with his handling The nearly 400-page report spiracy between Russia and of the report, Barr said he sus- is being scoured now to remove Trump associates, and that Barr pected any discontent may have US Attorney-General William Barr arrives to testify about the Justice Department’s FY2020 budget grand jury information and did not believe the evidence in reflected their desire to put out request before the House Appropriations Committee’s Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies details relating to pending the report was sufficient to prove more information. Subcommittee in the Rayburn House Office Building on Capitol Hill yesterday in Washington, DC. investigations. the president had obstructed “I felt I should state bottom- The redactions will be justice. line conclusions, and I tried to Trump’s 2016 presidential cam- framed a narrative about Trump about when we can expect to see colour-coded and accompanied “Even for someone who has use special counsel Mueller’s paign and Russia. Barr released before they were able to see the the full report.” Barr said in the by notes explaining the decision done this job before, I would own language in doing that,” he a four-page letter summarising full version. The Democrats are summary released last month to withhold information, he said. argue it’s more suspicious than said. Barr also said that he could the report two days later and said demanding that they see the full that Mueller didn’t find a criminal Democrats scolded Barr over impressive,” Lowey said. be open to releasing some he would release a redacted report and all its underlying evi- conspiracy between the cam- his handling of the report, telling Explaining the rapid turna- redacted details after consulting version of the full report by mid- dence, though Trump and his paign and the Kremlin. He also him they were concerned that a round for his letter, Barr said, with congressional leaders, April, “if not sooner.” The new Republican allies are pushing said that Mueller did not reach a summary of its main conclusions “The thinking of the special though he said he did not have attorney general’s budget tes- back. conclusion on whether the pres- he released last month portrayed counsel was not a mystery to the plans to ask a court for per- timony — traditionally a dry The Chairman of the Ways ident obstructed justice, instead the investigation’s findings in an Department of Justice prior to the mission to disclose secret grand affair, and often addressing the and Means subcommittee, Dem- presenting evidence on both overly favorable way for Pres- submission of the report.” Barr jury testimony. parochial concerns of lawmakers ocratic Rep. Jose Serrano of New sides of the question. Barr said ident Donald Trump. was summoned to Congress to Mueller sent his final report — came as Democrats were York, told Barr there were he and Deputy Attorney General Rep. Nita Lowey, the Demo- talk about his department’s to Barr on March 22, ending his enraged that he was redacting “serious concerns about the Rod Rosenstein decided that the cratic chairwoman of the House budget request, but lawmakers almost two-year investigation material from the report and process by which you formulated evidence was insufficient to Appropriations Committee, said still asked about the Mueller into possible ties between frustrated that his summary your letter; and uncertainty establish obstruction.

Mexican, suspect US bars entry to 16 Saudis over Khashoggi murder in 5 deaths, AFP unprecedented international an important regional ally against family members are ineligible for case remains shrouded, including dies in custody WASHINGTON scrutiny of the kingdom’s human Iran. A statement by the State entry into the United States. the precise role of Prince rights record. Department listed the 16 indi- “The law requires the Sec- Mohammed. AP The US State Department But despite the fact that Saudi viduals and said that they had retary of State to publicly or pri- Republicans and Democrats ST LOUIS yesterday barred entry to 16 Saudi Arabia’s powerful crown prince been designated under the vately designate such officials and alike have bristled over the White nationals over what it described Mohammed bin Salman was Department of State, Foreign their immediate family members.” House’s apparent embrace of the A Mexican national accused of as their role in the murder of jour- named as “responsible” for the Operations, and Related Programs The State Department previously kingdom and its leadership, and killing four people in Kansas nalist Jamal Khashoggi as the murder by the US Senate, who Appropriations Act. revoked the visas of nearly two have escalated their opposition to and one in Missouri in 2016 administration of Donald Trump adopted their resolution after The section in question “pro- dozen Saudi officials and froze the Saudi Arabia. The House of Rep- died yesterday after being continues to face harsh criticism being briefed by the CIA, the US vides that, in cases where the Sec- assets of 17 others. resentatives last week voted to end found unresponsive in his St. over its handling of the affair. president has refused to publicly retary of State has credible infor- After initially denying the military support for the bloody Louis jail cell. Dissident writer Khashoggi take a stand against the country’s mation that officials of foreign murder, Riyadh said the operation Saudi-led war in Yemen, dealing Pablo Serrano-Vitorino was was killed and dismembered de facto ruler. governments have been involved was carried out by agents who a harsh bipartisan rebuke to the found alone in his cell at October 2 in the Saudi consulate Trump has instead empha- in significant corruption or gross were out of control. A trial of 11 president and taking the historic 2:02am. He was pronounced in Istanbul by a team of 15 agents sised that Riyadh is a major arms violations of human rights, those suspects opened earlier this year step of curtailing a president’s dead at a hospital about an sent from Riyadh, sparking importer for the United States and individuals and their immediate in Saudi Arabia. But much of the war-making powers. hour later, said Koran Addo, spokesman for St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson. No further details were released. Lapin confirmed as Haiti’s Serrano-Vitorino, 43, who was in the US illegally, was new Prime Minister accused of fatally shooting four men at a home in Kansas City, AFP ernment of former prime min- Kansas, on the night of March PORT-AU-PRINCE ister Jean-Henry Ceant. 7, 2016. He was arrested a day Lawmakers overwhelmingly later and 170 miles away in Haiti’s President Jovenel Moise voted for Ceant’s resignation, Montgomery County, Missouri, yesterday confirmed Jean- saying he had failed to improve where he was accused of killing Michel Lapin as the country’s conditions in the six months Randy Nordman of New new prime minister, just weeks since he took over at the head Florence. He was charged with after the Chamber of Deputies of government. Lapin is the third first-degree murder in all five censured his predecessor’s six- head of government under pres- deaths. month-old government. ident Moise, who has led the He was being held in St. The new administration that Caribbean island nation since Louis awaiting an October trial Lapin — currently the acting February 2017. in the Missouri case on a prime minister — must assemble The announcement was change of venue. Missouri pros- with Moise will face pressing made by Moise via Twitter, and ecutors were seeking the death problems such as the high cost will be formalized by presi- penalty. Authorities say the Migrants wait outside of the Mexican Comission for Refugee Assistance to get humanitarian visas to of living and the insecurity that dential decree later in the day. shooting spree began when cross the country on their way to the United States, in Tapachula, Mexico, yesterday. plagues the capital. The installation of a new Serrano-Vitorino gunned down Haiti is still recovering from government is an International his Kansas City, Kansas, widespread riots in February, Monetary Fund pre-requisite for Trump not to bring back family separation policy neighbour, 41-year-old Michael when thousands of people took the disbursement of the first Capps, and three other men at to the streets across the country tranche of a $229m loan to Haiti. REUTERS don’t do it, it brings a lot more Sunday following a disa- Capps’ home - brothers Austin — one of the world’s poorest — In 2018, Haiti racked up a WASHINGTON people to the border,” Trump greement between them on the Harter, 29, and Clint Harter, 27, to demand better living condi- record $290m deficit, while its told reporters before a meeting best way to handle border and 36-year-old Jeremy tions and the departure of the national budget, the lowest in US President Donald Trump with Egyptian President Abdel security. The White House plans Waters. Before dying, one of the head of state. the Caribbean region, amounts yesterday said he was not Fattah al-Sisi, adding a raft of to remove more top leaders in victims managed to call police. For about 11 days, all activ- to $1.8bn. Haiti is the poorest returning to a policy of sepa- criticisms of US immigration the Department of Homeland Serrano-Vitorino then ities ground to a halt in Port-au- country in the Americas, with 60 rating children from family policy and Congress. Security, an official familiar with allegedly fled in his pickup Prince and across most of the percent of the population living members who had illegally Outgoing Homeland Security the matter said. truck into Missouri. Authorities Caribbean country’s cities. below the poverty line. crossed the US-Mexico border, Kirstjen Nielsen oversaw the Another Trump policy say he killed Nordman, 49, at Lapin, the former culture Since the summer of 2018, one day after media reports that “zero tolerance” prosecution carried out to discourage immi- Nordman’s rural home near and communications minister, a civic movement has mobilized his administration was consid- policy that led to the separations, gration across the southern Interstate 70 about 70 miles was named acting prime min- to demand an accounting of the ering reviving it. which led to legal challenges and border, sending some asylum east of St. Louis. He was cap- ister on March 21, three days use of funds from Petrocaribe, “We’re not looking to do a public outcry that eventually seekers to wait out their cases in tured hiding face-down in a after the Chamber of Deputies a Venezuelan-financed aid that... But it brings a lot more forced the policy’s reversal. Mexico, was blocked by a judge ditch a few miles from Nord- voted to censure the gov- program established in 2008. people to the border. When you Trump ousted Nielsen on on Monday. man’s home. NYC orders mandatory vaccines for some amid measles outbreak AP amid what he said was a measles to the virus to get the vaccine, quickly, nobody will have to pay majority of religious leaders in dangerous misinformation based NEW YORK crisis in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg including children over 6 months a fine,” de Blasio said. Brooklyn’s large Orthodox com- on fake science,” Barbot said. “We section, where more than 250 old. The city can’t legally physi- Officials say 285 measles munities support vaccination stand with the majority of people New York City declared a public people have gotten measles since cally force someone to get a vac- cases have been confirmed in efforts, but that rates have in this community who have health emergency yesterday over September. Officials blamed the cination, but officials said people New York City since the beginning remained low in some areas worked hard to protect their a measles outbreak centred in an outbreak on “anti-vaxxers” who ignore the order could be of the outbreak, the largest in the because of resistance from some children and those at risk. We’ve ultra-Orthodox Jewish spreading false information. fined $1,000. The city said it city since 1991. groups that believe the inocula- seen a large increase in the community and ordered The order applies to anyone would help everyone covered by New York City accounted for tions are dangerous. number of people vaccinated in mandatory vaccinations in the living, working or going to school the order get the vaccine if they about two-thirds of all US measles “This outbreak is being these neighbourhoods, but as neighbourhood. in four ZIP codes in the neigh- can’t get it quickly through their cases reported last week. The fuelled by a small group of anti- Passover approaches, we need to Mayor Bill de Blasio bourhood and requires all unvac- regular medical provider. “If city’s health commissioner, Dr. vaxxers in these neighbourhoods. do all we can to ensure more announced the unusual order cinated people at risk of exposure people will simply cooperate Oxiris Barbot, said that the They have been spreading people get the vaccine.” WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019 HOME 15 DFI to support 7 projects through Qatari Film Fund

THE PENINSULA Designed to foster through his strange and mysterious DOHA home-grown talent, QFF dreams as he discovers the reason offers two funding cycles behind a breakdown in his family. The Doha Film Institute (DFI) has per year to Qatari nationals Al Rumaihi’s feature film Our Legend announced seven new projects by local is about a scorned young jockey and his filmmakers as the recipients of the Fall and to date has supported older Arabian horse who overcome 2018 Qatari Film Fund (QFF), which 26 national projects mockery, jealousy, and bad luck as they aims to nurture Qatari filmmakers and including eight features strive for success. support them in their script-to-screen and 18 shorts. Each Al Nasr’s feature film The Pearl journey. imagines the life of a tech-obsessed Feature film recipients include Mahdi selected short project will Qatari teenager who travels back in time Ali Ali Al Sharshani (Lavandula), Jassim receive up to QR182,500 to when Qatar was dependent on pearl Al Rumaihi (Our Legend), and Noor Al in production funding, diving as its main source of income. Nasr (The Pearl). Short film recipients Al Maadeed and Al Ansari’s Al Khataba include animation projects by Amal Al in addition to in-kind is the first series recipient of the QFF and Shamari (Freha) and Hassan Al Jahni support in development, follows a determined, well-known match- (Ms7ar)and a short documentary by Sara maker through a Qatari wedding season. mentorship and the use A still from Nora Al Subai’s Al-Johara which was one of the completed projects Al Obaidly (Hitch 60). The final project of DFI’s equipment and Al Obaidly’s short documentary to receive support is the first Qatari series supported by Qatari Film Fund. Hitch 60 is set in 1960s London and tells to be awarded by the fund, Reem Al production facilities. the true story of 16-year-old Maureen Maadeed and Sana Al Ansari’s Al Khataba. Fund celebrates the skills and accom- for this cycle stand out for their originality, who flees London for the Middle East Designed to foster home-grown talent, to reach a final draft of their script. The Fund plishments of Qatari filmmakers, and creativity and narrative power, and are when her hopes for higher education QFF offers two funding cycles per year to is committed to the development of up to highlights the importance of providing diverse in their genre and approach. are dashed by her working-class father. Qatari nationals and to date has supported four feature films, in addition to up to eight multi-faceted support to develop a “At DFI, we believe in the power of This cycle of QFF will support two short 26 national projects including eight features short films annually. home-grown culture of filmmaking. Our compelling filmmaking that questions animations, Freha and Ms7ar, by Al Shamari and 18 shorts. Each selected short project Some of the completed projects from goal is to inspire, nurture and empower perceptions and presents new perspec- and Al-Jahni respectively. Freha is about a will receive up to QR182,500 in production the fund include festival favourites A J the next generation of storytellers, who tives. We are proud of our filmmakers successful businesswoman and her rela- funding, in addition to in-kind support in Al Thani’s Kashta, Nora Al Subai’s Al- present our stories to global audiences, for their innovative approach to cinema tionship with her inspirational mother. development, mentorship and the use of Johara and 1001 Days by Aisha Al- and serve as a window into our world and for tackling challenging subjects Ms7ar is about a young girl who battles DFI’s equipment and production facilities. Jaidah, among others. and the creative aspirations of Qatar’s with confidence,” she added. through her fear of the dark to enlist the Selected feature projects will receive the Fatma Al Remaihi, Chief Executive emerging filmmaking talents.” Al Sharshani’s feature film help of a local mystic to wake up her dying same contribution in development support Officer of DFI, said: “The Qatari Film Al Remaihi said the selected projects Lavandula follows an orphan, Sultan, grandmother. HBKU’s TII to host workshop THE PENINSULA communication officers; as well challenges facing our media pro- DOHA as translation students seeking fessionals,” she added. to enhance their media trans- Combining a theoretical and The Translation and Interpreting editing skills. practical approach, the Institute (TII), part of the College “HBKU inspires a mindset workshop will focus on of Humanities and Social of continuous growth and an exploring the various types, Sciences (CHSS) at Hamad Bin environment of self-devel- genres, and modes of media Khalifa University (HBKU), will opment. In hosting this texts, including audiovisual and be hosting the Translating News workshop, TII’s Translation and social media. and Views workshop from April Training Center offers partici- Participants will be given 14 to 17. pants exposure to the latest hands-on experiences in ana- Offered by the Translation innovative methodologies in the lysing selected news stories, and and Training Center (TTC), Dr field of translation, which can applying the theoretical concepts Ashraf Abdel Fattah, Assistant enhance and expand their skills and trans-editing techniques and Professor at TII, will be leading for professional growth,” said skills. the workshop, which aims to Nada Al Mahmeed, Director of The workshop will also be explore the principles, tech- the Translation and Training an opportunity to reflect on niques and constraints of media Center at TII. the role of the translator-jour- translation, while also under- “This becomes increasingly nalist as a mediator, nego- Officials at the first Annual Book Fair organised by CCQ. standing the functions and role important in light of media now tiator, or ‘re-narrator’ of news of translation in various types of being a primary industry around stories. media texts. the world, where the advent of TII’s Translating News and CCQ organises annual book fair The workshop is designed technology has made it much Views workshop will be held to benefit a range of media pro- easier to share user-generated at the Penrose House building fessionals: translator-jour- information. (formerly LAS building) at to enrich students’ knowledge nalists; multilingual journalists; “As an advocate of inno- HBKU from 4 to 7pm. Appli- producers working in news vation in Qatar and beyond, TII cants are encouraged to reg- THE PENINSULA University, Children’s Literature essential to our students’ holistic agencies and other media is building bridges for the pursuit ister ahead of time to secure DOHA Center, Bait Al-Maarifa, Dar learning experience and with the outlets; press and of new solutions to the global their place. Lusail, Dar Al-Thaqafa, right books, becomes a tool that The Community College of Qatar’s Samarkand, Joud, Crescent encourages analytical thinking (CCQ) Library recently held its first Bookshop, Chapter One Book- and creative problem-solving. Mercure Hotel Annual Book Fair under the theme store, Dar Roza Publishing Both are indispensable assets of ‘Reading is a Way of Life’, as House, Al Resala Bookshop, and that help fulfil our mission of to celebrate part of its year-round efforts to Ibn Al Qayyim Bookstore. providing students with a rich enrich students’ knowledge CCQ President Dr Mohamed experience throughout their Sinhala and through co-curricular activities Al Naemi, Vice-President D journey at the College, and that promote creative thinking, Khalid Al Abdulqader, and the beyond.” Tamil new year expression, and innovation. College Dean Dr Abdallah Haz- The first day of the Fair fea- The three-day event, which aimeh toured the Fair, exploring tured a panel discussion on the THE PENINSULA witnessed the participation of 32 the variety of titles on offer, and book, ‘Qatar: Establishment DOHA aspiring Qatari publishing engaging in discussions with Journey’ with Dr Omar El Ajli, Dr houses, aimed to augment stu- guest publishers and visiting Ali Afifi, and Dr Mohammed Mercure Hotel will have a pre- dents’ on-campus experience, students. Hammam, followed by a book celebration of Sinhala & Tamil while activating the role of local Pointing out the vital role of signing ceremony by CCQ new year with a wide spread publishers in extending and dis- books in learners’ intellectual, Instructor Dr Ahmed Abdul buffet of Sri Lankan dishes at seminating knowledge to personal and social devel- Malik, before his lecture, ‘How La Brasserie Restaurant for stakeholders. opment, Dr Mohamed Al Naemi to be a Writer’. lunch as well as dinner on Friday Covering a multitude of said: “While digital technology The Fair’s second day (April 12). fields and disciplines, publishing plays an increasingly important focused on broadening the Chef Madhushan with the La Brasserie Restaurant, the venue of the pre-celebration event. houses participating in the first role in our lives today, books awareness of students through guidance of Executive Chef Lahcen edition of the Book Fair included continue to stand as wells of two seminars titled ‘Your will have the assorted salads String Hoppers Biryani, Mirissa Price is just QR50 per the Arab Center for Research and information that reveal the Student, His Movement Before including Pol Sambola, Gotukola Fish Curry, Polos Maluma as well person, children 4 to 12 years at Policy Studies, Hamad Bin wisdoms of life, and stimulate Talking’ by Dr Oraieb Eid and Sambola, Malay Pickle, main as desserts including Watalappan, QR25 per child and free for Khalifa University Press, Jarir our thinking.” ‘Introduction to Multimedia’ by courses including Jaffna Pittu, Biscuit Pudding and much more. children below 4 years. Bookstore, Qatar Charity, Qatar He added: “Reading is Dr Rami Rajab. Award-winning student pays tribute to QNL THE PENINSULA response has been resounding. academic performance grow, ideas and views with youth from DOHA One of its most active along with my self-development so many different cultures,” she members is Moza Alhajri, a and self-awareness. I believe my said. “The Library taught me to Qatar National Library is about 15-year-old student who recently experiences at the Library laid reconsider some of my long-held to mark one year since its official won the Education Excellence the groundwork for me to win opinions and helped me learn the inauguration, on April 16, 2018 Award 2019 over hundreds of the award.” value of understanding other and since its opening, the Library nominated students, an honour One of the criteria for the perspectives.” has become a vibrant hub of that came with a medal pre- award, given annually by the Moza also found valuable social engagement and sented by the Amir H H Sheikh Ministry of Education and Higher support among the librarians education, and has welcomed Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Education to the nation’s top stu- who took the time to help her. hundreds of thousands of Moza attributes this remarkable dents, researchers and teachers, “Through the Library, I have met community members through its achievement to her valuable is public speaking. people who have influenced me doors. learning experiences at the Moza said that the Library’s and left a deep impression,” she With more than one million Library, which helped her aca- activities gave her opportunities said. “I took several workshops books borrowed by members, a demic performance and her per- to improve her presentation with Ahmed Al Malki, Senior significant element of the sonal development. skills while exposing her to new Information Services Librarian, Library’s service to the com- “Since the Library opened, ideas and people at the same who is always around to help me munity has been through a wide- I’ve been a regular visitor. I come time. “I loved the Library’s “Read. navigate the Library’s many Moza Alhajri, a 15-year-old student who recently won the Education ranging, inclusive program of to study and read on my own, Think.Debate” workshop. At my resources. We keep in touch on Excellence Award 2019, at the library. events — from scientific lectures and I also attend many of the age and as a student, I am sur- social media, exchanging ideas and technology training to cul- workshops and events,” Moza rounded by people who share my and opinions.” understand people from different and its history. Moza is especially tural performances and creative said. culture and beliefs, and this was She said her time at the backgrounds, as well as offering interested in the older historical writing workshops — and the “Over time, I’ve seen my my first experience exchanging Library helped her better new perspectives on the region texts in the Heritage Library. 16 MORNING BREAK WEDNESDAY 10 APRIL 2019

PRAYER TIMINGS Qatar 2022 stadiums get prominent display at Paris expo FAJR 03. 59 AM SHOROOK 05. 17 AM The Supreme Committee ZUHR 11. 35 AM MAGHRIB 05. 56 PM for Delivery & Legacy ASR 03. 05 PM ISHA 07. 26 PM (SC), the body tasked with overseeing the WEATHER TODAY infrastructure and legacy for Qatar 2022, has donated stadium models for the exhibition, which is titled ‘Football and the Arab World: The Revolution of the Round Ball’.

THE PENINSULA DOHA

The features of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 displayed prominently in a new exhibition launched this week at the Institute of the Arab World in Paris. The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), the body tasked with overseeing the infrastructure and Officials take a look at the miniature versions of the stadiums for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 at the Paris exhibition. legacy for Qatar 2022, has donated stadium models for the exhibition, Institute of the Arab World. along for the first World Cup in the this year. which is titled ‘Football and the Arab Al Thawadi said the SC was proud Arab world and proud to contribute Other highlights of the exhibition o o World: The Revolution of the Round to showcase its plans for Qatar 2022 towards this showcase of our region’s include a segment devoted to Larbi 24 C 29 C Ball’. at the institute, which is located near football history.” Benbarek, who was one of the first Jean-Yves Le Drian, France’s Min- Notre Dame Cathedral. The exhibition features 11 seg- players of Arab origin to be successful Minimum Maximum ister of Foreign Affairs, was the guest “We’re pleased to be part of this ments, including one devoted to in Europe. The story of France-based Partly cloudy to cloudy with chances of of honour at the exhibition, which was enthralling exhibition which highlights Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup. players who joined the Algerian inde- scattered rain maybe thundery at times. also attended by Prince Ali bin Ali Al the Arab world’s passion for the beau- The Qatari segment features all eight pendence movement is also docu- Hussein, Sheikh Ali bin Jassem Al tiful game,” said Al Thawadi. “Events stadium models, along with two videos mented, while there are specific fea-

HIGH TIDE 06:29 –20:31 LOW TIDE 02:44 – 14:22 Thani, Qatar’s Ambassador to France such as this help to illustrate the power which highlight the recent infra- tures on football in Palestine, the Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department and SC Secretary-General Hassan Al of football and how sport can bring structure progress. In addition, the women’s game in Jordan and the Thawadi. Hassan Al Thawadi signed a people, countries and regions together. Qatar Football Association has donated passion for football in Cairo. There are partnership in support of the exhibition We’re thrilled to have the chance to various memorabilia following Qatar’s also segments on Paris Saint-Germain with Jack Lang, President of the show how preparations are coming victory in the AFC Asian Cup earlier and the best XI in Arab football history. Over 11,700 Qataris visited Turkey in January, February

THE PENINSULA GCC to Turkey continues to rise, due DOHA to a number of factors that include increased number of attractions and The number of Qatari nationals relaxation in the visa formalities. visiting Turkey recorded 11,748 in Tourism revenues increased 12.3 the first two months of 2019, percent reaching US$29.5 billion in according to the latest data released 2018, in comparison with US$26.2 by the Turkish Consulate General billion the revenues collected in Cultural and Tourism Office in 2017. Official data revealed that 81.8 Dubai. percent of the income came from However, this is a fraction of the foreign visitors and 18.2 percent total number of visitors from Qatar, from Turkish citizens living abroad. when expatriate residents are Salih Ozer, Attaché of Culture included. and Information, Turkey said, Turkey is one of the largest out- “Tourist flow from the GCC coun- bound tourism markets for people tries to Turkey continues to grow world. million Turkish citizens from living in the Gulf countries. In Feb- and I am happy to see the growth “Turkey and the Gulf countries abroad. ruary 2019, around 1,670 million trend continues this year, despite share centuries old social, cultural Nearly six million foreigners international tourists visited Turkey, headwinds in the global economy. and economic ties. The repeated coming to Turkey in 2018 were from which is 9.38 percent more com- “Turkey remains an oasis of visits of the friendly visitors from Russia — an increase of 26.49 pared to the same period in 2018. peace and tranquility and offers a the GCC countries help fuel the percent compared with 2017 — and In 2018, the number of Qatari large number of tourism attractions. growth of our economy.” 4.5 million visitors were from national visitors to Turkey nearly It offers a greater value for money Turkey welcomed just over 46 Germany, up by 25.88 percent from doubled to 96,327 in 2018, up from when compared to other popular million visitors in 2018, including the previous year, according to the 48,764 in 2017. Tourist flow from tourism destinations across the 39.49 million foreigners and 6.62 ministry’s statement. Nigeria twin town ponders cause of multiple births Nasa turns its focus to

REUTERS earth with aid partnership ORA, NIGERIA REUTERS changes in grazing land to the In a dusty school playground in LONDON likely path of flooding, meaning southwest Nigeria, the rows of Mercy Corps can plan ahead to children lined up to return to Nasa is using its satellites to protect communities at risk. their classrooms are dotted with solve humanitarian challenges “In order to build resilience the faces of identical twins. in some of the most fragile you have to understand the Sights like this can be seen places on earth under a higher-level stresses on a everywhere in Igbo Ora, where landmark partnership with aid system,” said David Nicholson, a banner welcomes visitors to agency Mercy Corps. senior director of environment, the “twins capital of the world”. The US National Aeronautics energy and climate at Mercy Twins are common in the and Space Administration will Corps. Yoruba ethnic group that dom- use its wealth of data to help “We so often work in infor- inates this part of Nigeria. A communities at risk from mation-scarce environments, 1970s study by a British gynae- climate change and natural dis- trying to make decisions on how cologist found that around 50 aster predict the dangers and best to deploy resources without sets of twins were born out of build their resilience. the benefit of information.” every 1,000 births in the “There is nothing a Nasa Much of the data that Nasa holds southwest — one of the highest person likes better than is already publicly available, but rates of twin births in the world. answering a really good may not be used because In Yoruba culture twins are question,” Nasa’s Disasters Pro- decision-makers are not aware so common that they are tradi- gramme Director, David Green, of its existence or because it is tionally given specific names. said. “That is the excitement of not in a format that addresses They are called either Taiwo or working with Mercy Corps, their questions. Nine sets of twins gather after a midday break at the Methodist school in Igbo Ora, Oyo State, Nigeria. Kehinde depending on whether because they are trying to bring In a pilot project, the teams they were born first or second. solutions to bear anywhere in looked at groundwater levels in But even for Yoruba people, Igbo Ora. Others have pointed to the same kind of yam is eaten leaves at a town market are the world there is stress, and Niger, where most people live Igbo Ora is considered to be the popularity of Amala — a local elsewhere in the world without quick to disagree. They said local arguably we are looking at the off subsistence farming and exceptional. Among the nearly dish made from yams and the same result. traditions over how the leaves entire world at any given time.” droughts can destroy 100 secondary school children cassava flour. One theory is that “Thus far scientifically, no are consumed were crucial. For Nasa and Mercy Corps livelihoods. assembled at the end of their yams prompt the production of one can say this is the reason,” example, a stew made from the signed a three-year agreement Nasa was able to provide break there were nine sets of gonadotropins, a chemical agent said Olarenwaju. “One of the leaves should be eaten immedi- on March 29 that will see them data on changes to underground twins. “There are so many twins that stimulates the production plausible reasons is the hered- ately and never stored. work closely to see how Nasa’s water levels and find reserves because of the okra leaf that we of eggs. itary aspect of it because maybe Oyenike Bamimore, who vast data and analysis resources using a satellite that senses them eat,” said 15-year-old Kehinde Ekujumi Olarenwaju, an over the years they inter-marry, sells the bread, said she was could be applied to help vul- through tiny changes in gravity. Oyedepo, one of the twins, obstetrician gynaecologist based they now have that gene being living proof that the diet was the nerable people around the The information helped to repeating a view commonly held in Lagos, around 100 miles away, pooled and concentrated in that cause. “Because I eat okra leaves world. show where could support more in the town. The leaves are used believes the causes of the phe- environment,” he said. But the a lot, I gave birth to eight sets of They say the data can help farming and where was at high to make a stew that is popular in nomenon lie elsewhere because women who sell piles of okra twins,” she said. them predict future events, from drought risk.