www.thepeninsula.qa Monday 17 August 2020 Volume 25 | Number 8352 27 Dhul-Hijja - 1441 2 Riyals

BUSINESS | 13 PENMAG | 16 SPORT | 20

Aamal Cables Classifieds Departing wins Kahramaa and Services Dovizioso wins contract worth section eventful Austrian QR694m included MotoGP

Choose the network of heroes Enjoy the Internet

Amir sends cable Security preparations for Qatar 2022 of condolences to US President continue uninterrupted online QNA — DOHA Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin THE PENINSULA — DOHA based in Qatar, the UK, the Neth- Hamad Al Thani, Deputy Amir The subjects covered by security personnel erlands and Russia. H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Security preparations for the Major Fahad Saeed Al Hamad Al Thani, and Prime FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 during the pandemic are crowd management, Subaey, the Security Commit- Minister and Minister of have continued uninterrupted major incidents and behavioural detection tee’s Head of Training & Devel- Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin since the outbreak of COVID-19. opment, said it was important Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani Since March, the Security techniques. to maintain consistency with sent yesterday cables of con- Committee at the Supreme regard to training in the lead-up dolences to H E President Committee for Delivery & A range of interactive scenarios were also to Qatar 2022. Donald Trump of the friendly Legacy (SC) has delivered all “It is vital our preparations United States on the death of necessary training for police studied, while delegates also benefitted from continue in relation to security his brother Robert Trump. officers and security personnel professional development modules. training for all relevant stake- online. Video clips, 3D simula- holders in the build-up to the Qatar rejects tions and regular tests via its World Cup,” said Al Subaey. interactive online platform All the sessions were delivered via Microsoft “We are proud of our work allegations by mean training has continued to Teams and included input from experts based over the past few months, which Yemeni Minister be delivered despite social dis- is testament to our resilience and tancing requirements, the SC in Qatar, the UK, the Netherlands and Russia. innovation. We look forward to QNA — DOHA said in a report on its website. delivering a programme which Among the subjects covered meets the very highest interna- The State of Qatar has by security personnel during the behavioural detection scenarios were also studied, modules. All the sessions were tional standards and leaves a expressed its great surprise at pandemic are crowd man- techniques. while delegates also benefitted delivered via Microsoft Teams legacy for Qatar, the region and the Yemeni Information Min- agement, major incidents and A range of interactive from professional development and included input from experts the world in 2022.” `P2 ister Muammar Al Eryani’s repeated attacks against the State of Qatar in the context of the current conflict in Ashghal to hold brotherly Yemen, noting that “this repetition reflects the failure of Al Eryani, who left the tragedy of the brotherly ‘Supporting Local Yemeni people and instead devoted himself to attack the State of Qatar.” Manufacturers In a statement issued yes- terday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed its categorical Forum’ next month rejection of the allegations contained in his media state- THE PENINSULA — DOHA to increase reliance on national ments, stressing that they are factories. completely unfounded. As part of its efforts to support The forum will provide an the local product through its overview on Ashghal’s initia- 67 work sites projects, the Public Works tives in the field of supporting Authority (Ashghal) said that it local products and Qatari man- closed for will hold “Supporting Local ufacturers. It will provide a Manufacturers Forum” in comprehensive overview of the violations September. locally manufactured materials The forum will be held with that will be relied on to QNA — DOHA the participation of Ashghal’s implement a number of new international and local con- Ashghal projects, and the quan- Field visits carried out by the tractors implementing various tities required to be supplied Two Qatar aircraft with aid arrive in Beirut Ministry of Administrative projects, in addition to the qual- from these materials, including Development, Labor and In implementation of the directives of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, a shipment ified local factories. The forum road lighting poles, drainage Social Affairs, represented in of urgent assistance provided by Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS), arrived yesterday at Rafic will provide an important pipes, precast manholes, Labor Inspection Department, opportunity to the new and the bitumen, diesel, directional Hariri International Airport on board two Amiri Air Force aircraft, accompanied by a relief team during the period from July 16 qualified Qatari factories to signs, thermal isolating mate- comprised of members and volunteers of QRCS, in support of the efforts to aid those affected by to August 13 resulted in the learn about the new Ashghal rials, traffic safety materials and the Beirut Port explosion. The aid shipment was received by Ambassador of Qatar to Lebanon, H E closure of 67 work sites for a projects and the needed other materials. Mohammed Hassan Al Jaber, and Director of QRCS Office in Lebanon, Dr. Nihal Al Hanafi, in presence period of three days because materials. The Public Works Authority of a representative of the Commander of the Lebanese Army along with a diplomatic delegation they violated the Ministerial The forum aims to has signed 9 new contracts with from the Qatari Embassy in Beirut. Decision No. 16 of 2007. `P2 encourage Qatari manufac- Qatari companies in July 2020 turers and allow them to par- for implementation of citizens’ ticipate effectively in projects sub-divisions roads and infra- implemented by Ashghal in structure projects at a total QU’s Center for Young Scientists grabs roads and infrastructure value of around QR3.6bn. development projects & The projects will serve 5,111 building projects; drainage residential plots in various areas projects & treatment sewerage throughout the country. These two gold medals in iCan competition stations and expressway new projects will rely to a higher projects & beautification degree on local manufacturers THE PENINSULA — DOHA projects. to provide all materials that can The annual iCan compe- The forum also aims to be supplied locally. The value Despite the crises and difficult tition is the global encourage Qatari investors to of the materials required to circumstances the world is establish new local factories, implement these projects is going through, the intensity of gateway in Toronto to as part of the country’s efforts approximately QR1.35bn. the challenge enhances the inventors and innovators opportunities for innovation, around the world. One of generates creative ideas, the most important goals strengthens creativity, and QR3.6bn QR1.35bn thinking outside the box of the competition is to The Public Works Authority The value of the becomes inevitable. envision the minds of has signed 9 new contracts materials This is what prompted people that ‘Anyone Can with Qatari companies in July required to Qatar University Young Scien- Invent’ is becoming a tists Center to continue the 2020, for implementation of implement these reality through this citizens’ sub-divisions projects is march of progress and success, and to continue to face all chal- international event. infrastructure projects at a approximately lenges and changes. total value of around QR3.6bn. QR1.35bn. This was shown by the The annual iCan compe- The competition is also a the project, the potential and winning of two gold medals in tition is the global gateway in great opportunity for the future benefit. Emphasis the iCan 2020 Preliminaries Toronto to inventors and inno- inventors of all ages from all was placed on the creative organised by the Toronto Inter- vators around the world. over the world to commu- aspect and new additions that national Society of Innovation One of the most important nicate and network with make any project innovative & Advanced Skills (TISIAS), goals of the competition is to creativity. and valuable. Canada. envision the minds of people The announcement of this The first project in the cat- Thus, the Center will be that ‘Anyone Can Invent’ is winning in the preliminaries egory of building and con- qualified with two innovative becoming a reality through this out of 40 participating coun- structions is concerned with a projects in the final compe- international event. tries came after submitting a research that was carried out tition of the fifth International Realising the growth of detailed participation form with students from 'I am a Invention Innovation Compe- their passion and commitment gave details on several aspects researcher track' under the tition in Canada, which will be towards innovation is ulti- of the two participating supervision of the Center. It is held on August 29, 2020, mately evolving the culture of projects, such as the innovative entitled Ductile Fiber Rein- through online communi- iCAN alongside the universal features and characteristics, forced Ultra-high Per- cation platforms. innovation community. the impact and contribution of formance Concretes. `P2 02 HOME MONDAY 17 AUGUST 2020

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER TODAY

03.47 am 05.08 am o o Very hot daytime with scattered clouds and slight dust to FAJR SUNRISE 33 C 44 C blowing dust at some places at times. ZUHR 11.38 am ASR 03.07 pm Minimum Maximum HIGH TIDE 15:31 – 00:00 LOW TIDE 07:38–23:21 MAGHRIB 06.09 pm ISHA 07.39 pm W ALRUWAIS: 33o↗36o W ALKHOR: 29o↗43o W DUKHAN: 33o↗39o W WAKRAH: 29o↗45o W MESAIEED 29o↗45o W ABUSAMRA 30o↗39o Ministry of Justice organises training course Ministry of Commerce Qatar condemns explosion in for first batch of Qatari real estate brokers and Industry records Mogadishu QNA — DOHA The course aims to 2019. provide participants The organisation of the 154 violations in July QNA — DOHA The Ministry of Justice’s Legal course comes within the and Judicial Studies Centre has with the information framework of the procedures THE PENINSULA — DOHA The Ministry said it The State of Qatar voiced launched the specialised training and skills necessary initiated by the real estate bro- will refer those who strong condemnation and course for the first batch of Qatari kerage affairs department at the The Ministry of Commerce and denunciation of the explosion real estate brokers, within the to implement the Ministry of Justice to promote Industry carried out intensive violate laws and which took place in the Somali framework of licensing proce- provisions governing the real estate brokerage pro- inspection campaigns in July this ministerial decisions capital, Mogadishu, leaving dures under the provisions of real estate brokerage fession and to regulate the year to ensure the compliance dead and injuries. Law No. 22 of 2017 regulating granting of licenses in the local of suppliers (retail outlets) with governing the work In a statement issued yes- real estate brokerage. in Qatari law. market. laws and ministerial decisions of the department to terday, the Ministry of Foreign The course aims to provide The department welcomes related to consumer protection. Affairs reiterated the firm participants with the information all those with experience and The inspection campaigns competent authorities position of the State of Qatar and skills necessary to the broker’s obligations in the those wishing to register in the come within the framework of who will, in turn, on rejecting violence and ter- implement the provisions gov- field of combating money laun- mediation profession through the Ministry’s efforts to monitor take appropriate rorism regardless of motives erning real estate brokerage in dering and terrorist financing. the Ministry’s website, in order markets and commercial activ- and reasons. Qatari law, by explaining the In order to deepen the par- to take advantage of the facil- ities in Qatar in a bid to control action against the The statement expressed general provisions of real estate ticipants understanding of the ities that have been introduced prices and uncover violations in perpetrators in order condolences of the Qatar to the brokerage and the competent general objectives of the course, under the new real estate bro- order to protect consumers’ families of the victims and to authority to regulate and monitor the course was divided into six kerage law. rights. to protect consumer the government and people of them. axes, which were based in their The new law stipulates the The inspection campaigns rights. Somalia, wishing the injured a The course also aims to entirety on the provisions of Law need for the broker to adhere to resulted in cracking down on 154 speedy recovery. clarify the provisions for No. 22 of 2017 regulating real a set of procedures in transac- violations. Violations included licensing the practice of real estate brokerage, the Qatari tions such as honesty, trust, con- failing to display all descriptive Under failing to comply estate brokerage and licensing companies law promulgated by fidentiality, and professionalism, data relating to the product, with the mandatory price bul- Ministry gives procedures, define the rights and Law No. 11 of 2015, Law No. 6 of and to ensure the interest of two failing to issue invoices in Arabic, letin of vegetables and fruits obligations of the real estate 2014 regulating real estate parties and avoid any personal offering promotions without provision, eight violations were reopening broker and the rules for his dis- development, and civil code law interests, while completing all obtaining the necessary licence, recorded. Failing to display ciplinary and criminal account- issued by Law No. 22 of 2004, data related to the property and failing to comply with the man- prices records seven approval for 10 ability, explain the general staff and the anti-money laundering maintaining the integrity of doc- datory price bulletin of vege- violations. of brokerage or mediation con- and terrorism financing law uments submitted by both tables and fruits, displaying As many as five violations more nurseries tracts and their provisions, and promulgated by Law No. 20 of parties. expired products, and failing to were related to false or mis- input the stock of strategic goods leading product display, in the strategic inventory man- description and advertising. The lists of agement and control system, Authorities at the Ministry remaining nurseries among other violations. received a number of com- The penalties included plaints in July and took the nec- for reopening will administrative closures and fines essary measures to address be published as ranging between QR5,000 and them. QR30,000, in line with the laws The Ministry stressed that soon as they will and decisions governing the it will not tolerate any viola- meet conditions, work of the Consumer Pro- tions of the Consumer Pro- preventive and tection Department. tection Law and its regulations The highest 37 violations and will intensify its inspection precautionary registered in July were related to campaigns to crackdown on measures. offering promotions without violations. obtaining the necessary licence The Ministry said it will THE PENINSULA — DOHA from the concerned department refer those who violate laws followed by 27 violations failing and ministerial decisions gov- to note all descriptive data erning the work of the The Ministry of Administrative relating to the product. department to competent Development, Labour and As many as 19 violations authorities who will, in turn, Social Affairs has issued a fresh were related to failing to issue take appropriate action against list of 10 nurseries, in addition invoices in Arabic and 17 viola- the perpetrators in order to to the 19 announced earlier, tions were about expired protect consumer rights. which have been approved by products. The Ministry urged all con- the Ministry to reopen A total of 9 violations were sumers to report to it when they following the preventive and pertaining to failing to comply come across violations, precautionary measures to with public health and safety infringements and process curb the spread of COVID-19. requirements. complaints and suggestions. The 10 nurseries which were added in the fresh list for reopening include Koala Disinfection drive at Umm Salal Mohamad Nursery, Montezine Nursery, 67 work sites closed Encyclopaedic Child — Ezdan Commercial streets, all commercial outlets, surrounding internal streets and residential areas are being 23, Tiny Town, Little Mon- disinfected at Umm Salal Mohamad under a campaign launched by the Services Affairs Department tessori Nursery, Bambinos, Dar of Umm Salal Municipality as preventive and precautionary measures to curb the spread of COVID-19. for violations Al Hanan Nursery, Modern Caring World Nursery, Malak Al Abrar Nursery, Royal Kids FROM PAGE 1 period from June 15, to August Nursery. 31 every year. The Ministry had issued a QU’s Center for Young Scientists grabs Most of the violating com- The decision obliges com- list of 19 nurseries few days panies work in the contracting panies and institutions that have back which were approved to sector in different areas of the workplaces under direct sunlight reopen. The Ministry said on two gold medals in iCan competition country. to set a schedule specifying the its social media account that The Ministry inspectors has daily working hours in the said nurseries were FROM PAGE 1 with the innovative educa- Dr. Noora Al Thani, carried out a number of intensive accordance with the provisions approved after they met all The project aims to tional methods followed by the Director of the Qatar Univer- inspection campaigns during the of the decision, a visible place conditions, preventive and strengthen the properties of Qatar University Young Sci- sity’s Young Scientists Center, past days, with the aim of that is easy for all workers to see precautionary measures (to concrete, make it more effective entists Center in all its pro- said, “Difficulties push people ensuring compliance by com- and for the Ministry inspectors curb the spread of and sustainable, and reduce the grams and initiatives. to employ their maximum cre- panies operating in the country to observe during their COVID-19). rate of corrosion by adding The methodology that the ative potential, and that us with Ministerial Decision No. 16 inspection visits to the work- The lists of remaining fibers to it, which contributes center follows in attracting winning two gold awards indi- of 2007 determining working place, in addition to providing nurseries for reopening will positively to improving the young people to science, cates that we are on the right hours in exposed/outdoor work- air-conditioned spaces for the be published as soon as they infrastructure and reducing the encouraging them to research path. We bear the responsi- places during the summer. The workers’ comfort, providing will meet conditions, pre- economic cost of raw materials and innovation, and providing bility of developing and Ministerial Decision No. 16 of chilled drinking water and light ventive and precautionary and maintenance. an ideal environment was upgrading our young gener- 2007 bans work after 11:30 AM clothing, and giving them rest measures. As for the second project explained, which allowed stu- ation and enabling them to during the morning, while work periods at different times in in the category of Science and dents of all school levels to compete with their counter- should begin from 3:00 PM order to protect them from the Engineering, it is concerned think creatively. parts globally.” during the evening during the risk of thermal stress. Security preparations for Qatar 2022 Georgetown alumnus applies to COVID-19 Humanitarian Data Project continue online FROM PAGE 1 THE PENINSULA — DOHA Obadah is a member of the Data Partnerships pandemic page has allowed him Major Abdul Rahman to put what he learned as a Hamad Al Suwaidi, Deputy A graduate of QF partner Team at OCHA’s Centre for Humanitarian Data, student into practice. Head of Training & Devel- Georgetown University in which is committed to increasing the use and “My degree from GU-Q opment, said: “The pandemic Qatar, Obadah Khaled Diab, impact of data in the humanitarian sector. taught me three things: to be an has presented a lot of chal- is working to provide the informed global citizen, to have lenges but through the optimal critical data needed to a passion for service to others, use of distance learning plat- support humanitarian efforts infrastructure and mobility decisions. Before you can and most importantly, to take forms, we have seamlessly and help save lives in routes, and medical and edu- help, you have to understand action on my values, and not connected with our learners vulnerable communities cational facilities in countries the needs of the people who merely being a bystander to the and ensured the continuation impacted by the global where the UN has launched are affected. Data paints the events that are shaping our of our training and pandemic through the United Humanitarian Response clearest picture of that.” present, and our future.” development. Nations Office for the Coor- Plans, among others. The HDX is an open platform Obadah began his work at "The last few months have dination of Humanitarian team has compiled over for sharing data across crises the UN as an intern while still broadened our horizons and Affairs (UN OCHA). seventy datasets related to the and organisations. Most a student where he developed signal a bright future in the Obadah is a member of the pandemic. recently, HDX launched the a case study on education in fields of training and devel- Obadah Khaled Diab. Data Partnerships Team at Access to open and timely COVID-19 Map Explorer, emergencies with a focus on opment operations.” OCHA’s Centre for Humani- data about the COVID-19 pan- which brings together the Syria, which was subse- The Security Committee’s tarian Data, which is com- external datasets from demic is critical for under- datasets into a useful digital quently published in a report Training & Development mitted to increasing the use partner organisations for the standing the crisis and for tool to help decision-makers by the UN. “At a Qatar Foun- Department will continue to and impact of data in the COVID-19 pandemic page on developing any relief effort, prioritise resources in a time dation graduation, I heard the maintain precautionary humanitarian sector. the Humanitarian Data explained Obadah. of unprecedented need. phrase ‘live for a cause measures as advised by the As a data manager Exchange (HDX). His team “The people who are For Obadah, who graduated greater than yourself.’ That’s State of Qatar for as long as working with a remote team, finds critical data on food undertaking a humanitarian from GU-Q in 2018 with a what I have been trying to do, necessary. The usual training Obadah is tasked with insecurity and malnutrition response need data to make degree in International Eco- and what I hope to continue process will be implemented researching and obtaining rates, transportation informed and responsible nomics, working on the doing.” as soon as it is safe to do so. MONDAY 17 AUGUST 2020 HOME 03 QA announces partnership with Club Africain of Tunisia

THE PENINSULA — DOHA partnered with and sponsored by Qatar Airways.” Qatar Airways has announced “Club Africain is widely that it has signed a multi-year known as the club of the people sponsorship agreement with and the most popular club in Club Africain of Tunisia, further Tunisia, and was the first to growing its global sporting achieve an international trophy partnerships portfolio. sporting sponsorship portfolio, amongst its local competitors. This agreement will see the and this partnership, the first The partnership between Club airline’s logo proudly placed on with any African sporting team, Africain and Qatar Airways is the club’s football, handball and is just one more example of our beneficial to the club, adminis- basketball teams’ playing dedication to the sports sector tration, players, and most impor- jerseys from the 2020/21 season and our belief in the power of tantly the fans; as it motivates until the end of the 2023/24 sport to bring people together.” and generates an opportunity for season. Club Africain competes “We look forward to the club to compete at a higher in the Tunisian Ligue Profes- working and engaging with the level. This four-year partnership sionnelle 1 and has established club and its fans to help make is a key component in Club Afri- itself as one of the most popular a real difference through this cain’s progression.” football clubs in Tunisia. exciting new partnership. Sport Qatar Airways has strong ties Club Africain’s football is a key pillar of the long-term with Tunisia, having operated team has won 13 Tunisian vision of the State of Qatar, and flights to the capital Tunis since League titles, 13 Tunisian Cups as Qatar’s national carrier, we 2005. While COVID-19 forced and three Tunisian Super Cups welcome the opportunity to use the airline to temporarily and is famous for being the first sport as a means for youth suspend services, Tunis was one Tunisian Club to win an inter- development here in Qatar and of the airline’s first African des- national trophy, when they won around the world.” tinations to resume flights with the Maghreb Cup in 1971. Club African Chairman, the national carrier of the State Qatar Airways Senior Vice Abdulessalem Al Younsi said: of Qatar currently operating President, Marketing and Cor- “Upon celebrating the cen- three weekly flights. Qatar Embassy provides medical assistance to Kenya porate Communications, Salam tenary anniversary of Club Club Africain joins Paris St. Al Shawa, said: “We are excited Africain, we are delighted to Germain, AS Roma, Boca Juniors, to announce this new part- announce that the club has FC Bayern München, K.A.S. The Embassy of the State of Qatar to the Republic of Kenya has provided medical aid offered by Qatar nership, which will see Qatar reached a four-year part- Eupen and Al Sadd SC in Qatar Charity to help Kenya confront the coronavirus pandemic. The aid was received by Chief Administrative Airways become the main shirt nership with Qatar Airways. Airways’ global football spon- Secretary of the Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Babu Namwamba, from Ambassador of the State sponsor of Club Africain from the Club Africain is elated to be a sorship portfolio. In addition, of Qatar to the Republic of Kenya, H E Jabr bin Ali Al Dossari, during an official ceremony at the 2020/21season. We are contin- part of the major group of inter- Qatar Airways is also the Official Ministry of Foreign Affairs. ually striving to boost our global national teams that are Airline Partner of FIFA. HBKU opens new academic year as it marks 10th anniversary

FAZEENA SALEEM high quality education, and, as THE PENINSULA a master’s student, I needed to find the best academic insti- Hamad Bin Khalifa University tution to fulfill my ambitions (HBKU) marked the “We are proud and achieve my goals. HBKU commencement of Academic was the go-to destination for Year 2020-2021 yesterday, to welcome all my efforts,” said Reham coinciding with the university’s our students to Almaktari, a new Yemani 10th anniversary milestone. student at College of Human- A virtual event ‘Start to Aca- the start of a ities and Social Sciences. demic Year 2020-2021’ was new, exciting and She expressed hope that the held under the theme Hayakom Master of Arts in Digital Human- at HBKU for new and returning hopeful academic ities and Societies at the College students. More than 360 new year. Since its of Humanities and Social Sci- students were enrolled to founding 10 years ences will help her elevate my HBKU’s degree programmes, Dr. Ahmad Hasnah; Maryam Hamad Al Mannai and Reham Almaktari academic achievements and which are tailored to address ago, HBKU has career. the most in-demand current remained steady in Not so new to Qatar, Reham and future skills of local and world,” said Dr. Ahmad and integrated educational of Public Policy, told The first visited Qatar in 2019 to international employment its imagining of the MHasnah, HBKU President. environment is also possible Peninsula. participate in the MENA Youth markets. world and people of A virtual tour of HBKU’s col- online,” said Maryam Hamad At present he works as a Capacity building in Humani- The event set a tone for the leges, research institutes and Al Mannai, vice-president of researcher and he earned the tarian Action (MYCHA) returning and incoming student, tomorrow,” said Dr. facilities, as well as other student affairs at HBKU. bachelor’s degree in journalism internship and for the WISE faculty and staff members, who Ahmad Hasnah. important locations on the Edu- Among the new students from Northwestern University. conference. came together for a full day of cation City campus was also enrolled for the 2020-2021 Aca- “I am a fan of new challenges This year, several new informative sessions, which held for the new students. demic year, 22 percent are and I believe HBKU and College faculty members from diverse introduced them to HBKU’s remained steady in its imag- “For ten years, HBKU has Qatari nationals. of Public Policy will further my academic backgrounds will be framework as well as the insti- ining of the world and people provided its students with a “Studying within the field of ability to enhance my skills and joining different colleges across tution’s objectives for the of tomorrow. Our resolute wealth of resources and cutting- public policy will help enhance nurture my talent,” said Jassim. the University. More than 90 upcoming year. approach in turn reflects our edge facilities to complement my career as it will teach me the The newly enrolled students faculty members currently “We are proud to welcome commitment to innovation in their academic endeavors. Our mechanisms for developing at HBKU comprise 48 work across six colleges and all our students to the start of a education and research, as well virtual tour and webinars are national-level policies as well nationalities. three research institutes to new, exciting and hopeful aca- as our dedication to finding merely an extension of this as learning how to analyze “I choose HBKU because it advance HBKU’s remit of deliv- demic year. Since its founding novel solutions for the chal- commitment and demonstrate policy papers,” Ghadir Jassim, is a university of international ering a globally relevant edu- 10 years ago, HBKU has lenges facing Qatar and the that a multicultural a new Qatari student at College standards. HBKU offers very cational experience. MoPH: 289 more recover; 271 Women of fashion at Katara virtual exhibition new cases

THE PENINSULA — DOHA

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) yesterday announced the registration of 271 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country. Another 289 people have recovered from the virus, bringing the total number of recovered cases in Qatar to 111,794. All new cases have been introduced to isolation and are receiving necessary healthcare according to their health status. In addition, the Ministry has announced one new death of a Paintings by Indian artist Surabhi on show at “Femmes à la mode” virtual exhibition launched yesterday by Katara. person aged 74 who was receiving necessary medical care. RAYNALD C RIVERA beautiful it exudes her mood,” Painting and has been in Qatar including “The Unreachable the Gulf setting in which The Ministry further said THE PENINSULA she said. for the past six years. Mirage” displaying 20 paintings familiar objects in the region are that measures to tackle The concepts of fashion and Last year, Surabhi marked by Qatari artist Masoud Al depicted in the paintings, “The COVID-19 in Qatar have suc- Glamorous women dressed in style and women’s strength her first exhibition in Katara in Bulushi which depict portraits Result” by Fatima Al Nuaimi ceeded in flattening the curve flambouyant outfits exude inner and independence coalesce which her paintings were of women wearing traditional which displays 19 acrylic on and limiting the spread of the strength and power in “Femmes well as depicted by the con- showcased alongside works by face covering which is the canvas works which reflect both virus. The number of daily new à la mode” — the latest virtual temporary figurative painter prominent Qatari artist batoola, “Heritage” featuring unanticipated and foreseen cases and hospital admissions exhibition launched yesterday in her art. Ebtesam Al Saffar. The exhi- works by Hassan Bu Jassoum results combined in one has gradually declined over the by the Cultural Village Foun- “The women I portray are bition titled “Portraits” was reflecting important aspects of artwork and “Al Taybeen” by past few weeks. dation-Katara. women who are strong and organised in line with the cel- Qatari culture and heritage, and Ali Dasmal Al Kuwari which However, the Ministry has In creating her 12 paintings independent, who know what ebration of Qatar-India 2019 “Patches” by Syrian contem- focuses on 17 realist paintings emphasised on the importance on show, Indian artist Surabhi they want and desire to define Year of Culture. porary artist Hadi Qasous depicting traditional objects and of taking precautions against draws inspiration from her their own perspective and “Femmes à la mode” is the showcasing 16 paintings in Qatari architecture. COVID-19. “Unless we follow all innate love for fashion and the create their own narrative eighth virtual exhibition pre- which he integrates calligraphy With a number of exciting precautionary measures, we important role fashion plays in through their lifestyle, fashion sented by Katara. It follows into stunning colours and features, these exhibitions, may experience a second wave women’s life. forming an important com- “Trace” featuring abstract shapes. which can be accessed via of the virus and see numbers “Women have always been ponent of this narrative,” she paintings by Qatari artist Katara’s ongoing virtual Katara’s website until end of the increasing — there are already a focal point in my artwork. The explained. Jawaher Al Mannai inspired by exhibitions also include year, make it possible for people signs of this happening in other idea of painting them in fash- Surabhi began her artistic carvings found in archaelogical “Culture Collision” by Hassan to see artworks up close countries. Now more than ever, ionable outfits stems from my journey at a tender age of three. sites north of Qatar. Taleb Alsalat which displays 14 anytime as if they were per- we must be careful and protect own love for fashion. When a She has Bachelors and Masters Previously, Katara also interesting artworks that place sonally visiting Katara’s the most vulnerable.” woman feels attractive and degree in Fine Arts major in launched virtual exhibitions famous cartoon characters in a galleries. 04 HOME MONDAY 17 AUGUST 2020

Qatar Debate Center concludes second The forum provided various training workshops at Kuwaiti Training Debate Forum different levels for the debaters and — DOHA THE PENINSULA trainers, using training experi- local and international training arbitrators, as well ences at the local and interna- competencies, punctuated by as the qualification The second training forum for tional levels. These workshops practical applications, real debate 2020 has concluded were held on the Zoom elec- effective participation, and an of a group of with forming an organisational tronic platform due to the opportunity for dialogue with debate trainers, partnership between the Qatar current conditions of the trainers and workers in the field using training Debate Center and the Kuwaiti COVID-19 pandemic. of debate and benefit from their experiences at National Debating Team, The trainer and general experiences and knowledge the local and recently. supervisor of the forum, Saad treasures,” said Al Assad. international levels. The forum was held in the Al Assad at Qatar Debate Center He also said that the debates first week of August and saw said that the forum provided a took place using the British Par- Participants during the forum via zoom electronic platform. around 150 participants within distinctive professional training liament approach, and it is a and outside Kuwait. It was held environment that represents a very useful system for students, season full of debating cham- organisational partnership with importance of the forum, under the media sponsorship safe arena for dialogue and the allowing students to participate pionships and other events. the Qatar Debate Center, the Khashan said: “We as a human of the Youth News Network and exchange of ideas and opinions. in more than one situation. This The General Coordinator of largest supporter of efforts to society tend to debate almost logistical partnership with the “This was achieved through is in addition to the feedback, the Forum and a member of the spread the culture of debate everything and as a debating Schools Debating Club. providing training workshops, creative contests and daily National Debating Team in and the art of dialogue in the community. We face thought The forum provided various knowledge and skills, and prac- briefings provided by each pan- Kuwait, Dana Al Khashan said: world, in addition to the logis- with thought and argument training workshops at different tical debates at various levels elist after each workshop and “After the success of the first tical partner, which is the with argument and reason levels for the debaters and arbi- targeting civil society and those debate. Training Debating Forum, we Schools Debating Club in with reason as a principle, and trators, as well as the qualifi- interested in the field of debate. This forum is considered a were excited to hold the second Kuwait.” wherever there is an issue, cation of a group of debate The workshops were led by training start for a coming edition of it in an Referring to the debate exists.” Arab doctoral students in Western universities take part in distance online sessions

THE PENINSULA — DOHA In the Economy and Finance track, among Moroccan Youth,” in which she Mustafa Nourallah presented his paper showed the influence of Western media Arab doctoral students in Western entitled ‘Understanding Young Indi- and political discourse on the youth of universities participated in distance viduals’ Initial Trust in Non-Sovereign the Middle East and North Africa after online sessions in the Arab Graduate Digital Currency.’ 2011. Students Conference, via Zoom video The Economics and Finance track The Fourth Day of the conference links and live streaming on the social continued on the third day of the con- contained two tracks, on Palestine media platforms of the Arab Centre for ference with researcher Mohammad Studies and Historical Studies. In Pal- Research and Policy Studies, recently. Al Asadi presenting his paper entitled estine Studies, Khaled Anabtawi pre- On the second day of the con- ‘Financing Reconstruction in Conflict- sented his paper “Sectarian Space and ference proceeding were on two tracks Affected Countries’. the Controversy of Settler Colonialism as ‘Conflict and Post-Conflict Studies’ Amina Idrissi Chouahdi presented in 1948 Occupied Palestine”. and ‘Economics and Finance.’ her paper entitled ‘Conditions for In the History track, Said El Ghazi On the second day of the con- Applying International Accounting El Imlahi discussed his paper entitled ference, Nanar Hawach reviewed his Standards in the Public Sector: a Com- ‘Religious Policy of the Spanish Pro- paper entitled ‘Reexamining Strategies parative Study of Morocco and Belgium’. tectorate System in Northern Morocco’. of Resilience: A Study of Regime Resil- Researcher Anas Fassih concluded The Arab Centre will continue to ience and Non-State Militias in the work on the track with his paper present this online conference’s work A view of distance online sessions in the Arab Graduate Students Conference for Syrian Civil War’. With the help of a ‘Transboundary Influences on Framing In an interactive framework through the second day on August 10, 2020, via Zoom video. theoretical framework drawing upon Renewable Energy Policies in the social media and digital access plat- the contributions of Schleicht, Foucault, Middle East and North Africa: A Com- forms over the coming days, com- Weber, and Eisenstadt, Hawash inherent in the function and sover- Warfare,’ in which he addressed the parison between Morocco and the pleting presentations of the partici- examined the state’s function and eignty of the state, to dependent sup- contribution of the technology of drone United Arab Emirates’. pating students’ papers and including monopoly on violence as seen in the porting militias. warfare to transforming the war from In the Political Theory track, discussions of these presentations by case of the civil war in Syria, high- Within the same track, Salah conflict limited to specific times and researcher Nada Berrada tackled an elite academic group of professors lighting the sensitivity of handing over Sharief presented his paper entitled geographical locations to one extended “Young People Getting By: Contextu- from the Doha Institute for Graduate the force of violence, traditionally ‘The Dehumanisation of Drone over vast areas. alising Everyday Practices of Agency Studies and Arab Centre researchers. Ooredoo opens New Express Shop in Al Ruwais Dolphin Energy supports Qatar Society THE PENINSULA — DOHA Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, Director PR at Ooredoo, said: “While we have for Rehabilitation of Special Needs Qatar’s leading telecommunications worked hard to ensure our customers operator, Ooredoo has further have been able to access our products THE PENINSULA — DOHA continuous efforts, dedication and extended its already expansive retail and services digitally during the ongoing support,” said Al Emadi. network with the opening of a new pandemic situation, we recognise being In a move consistent with Dolphin Talib Abdullah Afifa — Member of Ooredoo Express shop in Al Ruwais. able to physically visit a shop is Energy’s Corporate Social Responsi- the Board of Directors of the Qatar The new shop is located at 270 Al important to some customers.” bility commitments, the company is Society for the Rehabilitation of People Areesh Road, Alshamal, within Tele- “As lockdown restrictions eased, supporting Qatar Society for Rehabil- with Special Needs — commended graph Telecom. Customers will be able and with complete customer satis- itation of Special Needs, the local Dolphin Energy and their keenness to to access all the retail services they faction as our focus, we looked at where humanitarian institution that aims to cooperate with the Association and expect to find across its network of we could improve the retail network support and develop the skills and contribute to the permanent care of shops — such as choosing and signing and offer our customers additional loca- capabilities of people with different children with disabilities. up for new pre and postpaid packs, tions at which they can visit us. We look disabilities. He expressed his thanks and grat- buying devices, subscribing to Ooredoo forward to helping them with all their Commenting on the company’s itude for the generous contribution, tv and much more. telecommunications needs at the new support, Dolphin Energy’s General pointing out that the value of the They will also find a new devices shop very soon,” Al Kuwari added. Manager - Qatar, Hassan Al Emadi support will be directed to purchasing section where they will be able to browse The new Express shop is open from (pictured), said: “We are very proud their horizons, develop their capabil- medical and prosthetic devices, the and experience the latest mobile and 9am to 1pm and 4pm to 10pm Saturday and pleased to support charitable pro- ities and maximize their integration most important project for the associ- broadband devices and enjoy great pro- to Thursday, and from 2pm to 10pm grammes that provide a better life for into society. ation. The medical and prosthetic motions and prices. on Fridays. children with special needs.” “Providing high levels of health, devices include electric wheelchairs, He said that partnerships such as social care and social rehabilitation electric medical beds, wheelchairs with the one we enjoy with the Qatar services is helping the children achieve special specifications for severe motor Society for Rehabilitation of Special their dreams and aspirations and it is disabilities, medical glasses, hearing Needs are so important because they very moving to see the positive changes aids, laptops for people with visual and provide opportunities to collaborate and happiness on their faces. I would motor disabilities and other auxiliary in a way that helps the children expand like to thank the Society for their devices. A new chapter for QF partner, Northwestern Qatar THE PENINSULA — DOHA

Northwestern University in Qatar will begin its new academic year with a colloquium for faculty and staff. It will include a panel on publishing academic research during a pandemic and a session where Dean Marwan M Kraidy will outline his strategic prior- ities for the school. This will be Kraidy’s first year as Dean and CEO at Northwestern Qatar. An authority on Arab media and a global communication scholar, he recently dis- cussed the changes in the media land- scape and his research agenda in an The Library at Northwestern University in Qatar interview for the school’s website. The popularity of media and com- munication studies, Kraidy noted, is for Northwestern Qatar, Kraidy Papacharissi will discuss with Kraidy taking place during an uncertain job emphasised three central components: the challenges facing academic pub- market. “If you look at any university, using Qatar-based research as a prism lishing in the midst of a global pan- what you’ll see is that the number of on global affairs, fostering a culture of demic. Another panel will highlight majors in media and communication interdisciplinarity, and ensuring that Northwestern Qatar faculty research is quite high, compared to a lot of other faculty grants and fellowships focus and creative activities. disciplines.” on original contributions to Kraidy, who grew up in Lebanon, This popularity, he noted, means knowledge, and are only the beginning is returning to the Middle East after that students today need to be profi- of “active and engaged scholarship.” several decades in the United States. cient in the skills necessary to succeed In the week leading up to the start “What excites me is that my two in a digital world, including writing of the 2020-21 academic year, the worlds are now coming together. For well, speaking persuasively, thinking school will host a colloquium that will years I have been a US based scholar critically, and navigating multiple include presentations by Mary C. who did research on and in the Arab media platforms. “You cannot be over- Francis, a national leader in the uni- world and had emotional and his- specialised,” he said. “You need to versity press community and the torical connections to it,” Kraidy said. learn to be nimble, you need to learn director of the University of Pennsyl- “Now I’m part of a world-class US uni- to be open to learning new things, vania Press, and Zizi Papacharissi, versity, but I work and live in the which we did not think about as much professor and head of the Communi- region, and I’m very excited about that before.” cation Department at the University because it gives me more On his research agenda of Illinois-Chicago. Francis and accountability.” MONDAY 17 AUGUST 2020 MIDDLE EAST 05 Lebanon President calls probe into Beirut blast ‘complex’

President Michel Aoun said the probe is divided involvement and so far no evi- elections before restoring into three parts. The first aims to determine dence has emerged to suggest calm,” he said. “They would be otherwise. emotional, and not a true rep- the circumstances surrounding the cargo, the Many Lebanese want the resentation of the people.” second where it came from and who shipped probe taken out of the hands Aoun was elected in 2016, of their government, fearing breaking more than two years it and the third to find who was responsible that bickering among the long- of deadlock in Lebanon, which for handling and securing it. “We had the entrenched political factions, remained without a determination to reach conclusions quickly, but notorious for corruption, won’t president. allow any results to come to In light of last week’s deal we found out that the issues are very complex light that are damaging to their establishing full diplomatic and require time,” said Aoun. leadership. relations between the Israel Popular anger has swelled and United Arab Emirates, over the ruling elite’s cor- Aoun didn’t rule out that AP — BEIRUT chemicals that had been ruption, mismanagement and Lebanon may one day make stored there for years. political uncertainty. Under peace with Israel as well, once Lebanese President Michel The blast killed 180 people pressure, Lebanon’s gov- its unresolved issues were Aoun said the probe into this and wounded more than ernment, also backed by Hez- solved. month’s devastating blast in 6,000. At least 30 people are bollah and allies, resigned Asked if Lebanon too Beirut is “very complex” and still missing. Lebanon President Michel Aoun speaks during a broadcast on August 10. For now, there are would reach a peace deal, he would not be finished quickly. Aoun said the probe is BFM TV channel, in Beirut, yesterday. no formal consultations replied: “It depends.” “We Responding to calls that he divided into three parts. The underway on who will replace have problems with Israel that step down, Aoun told French first aims to determine the late,” but his military adviser Aoun, who is backed by Hassan Diab as prime minister we need to solve first,” Aoun TV station BFMTV that it circumstances surrounding was reassured that those with the powerful Hezbollah and no likely candidate has said. would be “impossible” the cargo, the second where direct responsibility were militia, said he asked for sat- emerged. Lebanon and Israel are because it would create a it came from and who shipped handling the matter. ellite images to determine if Asked about the public technically still at war, and power vacuum. The interview, it and the third to find who “They all were informed,” there was an air raid, saying anger, Aoun said he shares the Hezbollah has engaged in his first with foreign media was responsible for handling Aoun said, adding that he he hasn’t ruled out the possi- rage. occasional clashes along the since the August 4 blast, aired and securing it. made sure those who could bility of a foreign missile “They call me the father of border. Hezbollah and Israel late on Saturday. “We had the determi- take measures to secure the attack. the people,” he said. “I am one last engaged in a full-fledged The cause of the fire that nation to reach conclusions area were in the loop. Hezbollah leader Hassan of them.” conflict in a 50-day war in the ignited nearly 3,000 tonnes quickly, but we found out that Aoun said the FBI and Nasrallah has denied his group But Aoun said “it is impos- summer of 2006. of ammonium nitrate stored the issues are very complex French investigators were has any role in the explosion sible” for him to step down The UAE and Israel opened at Beirut’s port remains and require time,” said Aoun. helping because “they, more and said any international because it would create a diplomatic ties as part of a deal unclear. Documents have When asked about what than us, have the capability probe would likely seek to power vacuum. He also said brokered by the US that emerged showing that the measures he took when he and ability to find out the clear Israel of responsibility in the moment is not right to hold required Israel to halt its con- country’s top leadership, learned of the explosives in details of what got the ship the port explosion, if it had a presidential elections. tentious plan to annex West including Aoun, and security July, Aoun said the infor- here, what is the source and hand. “The political and popular Bank land sought by the Pal- officials were aware of the mation came to him “very who owns it.” Israel has denied atmosphere can’t take new estinians for a future state. Yemeni Al Qaeda execute dentist for ‘spying’ AFP — DUBAI province, the official added. -- a “confession” by the dentist Al Qaeda in the Arabian to having worked with gov- Al Qaeda militants in war-torn Peninsula (AQAP), which is ernment security services, and Yemen executed a dentist active in Yemen, is considered to having placed microchips to accused of spying for the by the United States as the guide US missile strikes. government and guiding US radical group’s most dangerous AQAP operates in the Al drone strikes targeting branch. Baida province — which is extremists, a local official said The US has carried out a under nominal government yesterday. long-running drone campaign control -- after retreating from The militants shot Motthar in Yemen. positions in the south and east Al Youssoufi, then crucified his The extremist group has of the country, the local official corpse and left it outside his thrived in the chaos of years of added. health centre, the official told civil war between Yemen’s The group plans to execute said on condition of Saudi-backed government and another Yemeni accused of anonymity. Shia rebels who control the spying, and is holding five more The execution took place on capital. men and seven women also Saturday in Somaa, a district of An AQAP video contained accused of espionage, the Yemen’s central Al Baida -- according to the organisation official said.

Smoke and flames rise after Israeli air strikes over Khan Yunis, Gaza Strip, yesterday. Israeli army launches new air strikes against Hamas positions in Gaza

AFP — GAZA CITY deal was announced, Israel had town most affected by the carried out repeated night-time balloon attacks, “isn’t quiet, then Israel’s army launched new air strikes on targets linked to the Gaza won’t be either,” Gantz strikes yesterday against Hamas Islamist group Hamas, which said. Sderot mayor Alon Davidi positions in Gaza and closed the controls Gaza. said that Israel needed to deal fishing zone around the Pales- The army said the strikes forcefully with “terrorists... who tinian enclave in response to were in response to makeshift try to murder us and our rockets and firebombs sent into firebombs attached to balloons children”. Israeli territory. and kites sent into southern But a durable solution also The Israeli measures came Israel, causing thousands of required providing better eco- after a week of heightened ten- fires. Israel said there were 19 nomic opportunities “to help sions, including clashes on Sat- such Palestinians attacks on Sat- civilians on both sides,” urday evening along the Gaza- urday alone, in addition to two including Palestinians in Gaza, Israeli border, the army said. rockets fired from Gaza, which Davidi said. Following attacks Dozens of Palestinian were intercepted by its Iron earlier this week, Israel on “rioters burned tyres, hurled Dome defence system. Wednesday slashed Gaza’s per- explosive devices and grenades Israel responded with strikes mitted coastal fishing zone from towards the security fence and on several Hamas targets 15 nautical miles to eight, a attempted to approach it,” an including “a military compound punitive move often used by the Israeli army statement said. used to store rocket ammu- Jewish state in response to Gaza Long simmering Palestinian nition,” the army said. unrest. After Saturday’s clashes anger has flared further since Defence minister and and rocket fire, Israel’s military Israel and the United Arab alternate prime minister Benny decided “to entirely shut down Emirates on Thursday agreed to Gantz charged that Hamas’s the fishing zone of the Gaza Strip, normalise relations, a move Pal- refusal to stop the attacks is pre- immediately and until further estinians saw as a betrayal of venting Gazans from living “in notice, starting morning their cause by the Gulf country. dignity and security”. (Sunday),” a military statement In the days before the UAE If Sderot, the southern Israel said. Trump says may not take part in Putin-backed Iran summit REUTERS — BEDMINSTER, NJ UN arms embargo on Iran. “snapback” threat. “You’ll be watching it next “Probably not,” Trump said US President Donald Trump on week.” when asked whether he would Saturday all but dismissed The United States has participate in the Putin-backed Russian President Vladimir threatened to trigger a return summit. Putin’s call for a summit of of all UN sanctions on Iran In the Security Council vote, world leaders to discuss Iran, using a provision in a 2015 Russia and China opposed saying he probably would not nuclear deal between Iran and extending the weapons ban, participate. world powers, known as which is due to expire in During a news conference snapback, even though Trump October. Eleven members at his Bedminster, New Jersey, abandoned the accord in 2018. abstained, including France, golf club, Trump also said he Diplomats have said the United Germany and Britain, while the intended to move next week to States would face a tough, United States and the trigger a “snapback” of sanc- messy battle in any such move. Dominican Republic were the tions on Iran at the United The United States lost its only yes votes. Nations. bid on Friday to extend the UN Iranian President Hassan “We’ll be doing a snapback,” arms embargo after Putin pro- Rouhani said on Saturday the Trump told reporters one day posed a summit of world United States suffered a humil- after the UN Security Council leaders to avoid “confron- iating defeat at the Security rejected a US bid to extend a tation” over the American Council. 06 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA MONDAY 17 AUGUST 2020 At least 10 dead in attack on Mogadishu hotel

AGENCIES — MOGADISHU Security forces were one government official: struggling to regain Abdirasak Abdi, who worked At least 10 people were killed at the information ministry, said in a gun and bomb attack by control of the Elite his colleague Hussein Ali. suspected Al Shabaab fighters Hotel in the Lido There was no immediate on an upscale beachfront hotel beach area more claim of responsibility for the in Somalia’s capital yesterday, attack, but it was similar to officials and witnesses said. than an hour after others carried out by the Al- Security forces were strug- the assault began, Shabaab jihadist group, which gling to regain control of the is affiliated to AlQaeda. Elite Hotel in the Lido beach and the assailants Somalia plunged into chaos area more than an hour after appeared to have after the 1991 overthrow of the assault began, and the then-President Siad Barre’s assailants appeared to have taken hostages. military regime, leading to taken hostages, government years of clan warfare followed security official Ahmed Omar Witnesses confirmed that by the rise of Al Shabaab which said. the attack began with a heavy once controlled large parts of “There is still sporadic explosion and reported that the country and Mogadishu. gunfire and the initial infor- people were running from the Al Shabaab was driven out mation we have received indi- area as gunfire could be heard of the capital in 2011, but its Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan greets citizens during his visit to inspect the projects cates five people died and more from the hotel, which is fre- militants continue to wage war carried out by Environment and Urbanisation Ministry on Ayder Plateau in Camlihemsin district of than 10 others were wounded,” quented by government against the government, car- Rize, Turkey, yesterday. he said. officials. rying out regular attacks. “The death toll can increase “The blast was very heavy Last week four Shabaab because the blast was massive and I could see smoke in the fighters held in Mogadishu’s Turkey slams Biden’s criticism of Erdogan and there is a hostage situation area. There is chaos and people central prison were killed in an involved.” Aamin Ambulance, are fleeing from nearby intense shootout with security AFP — ISTANBUL He said it was necessary to opposition CHP party quickly a Mogadishu-based private buildings,” said witness Ali forces after they somehow “embolden” Erdogan’s rivals to distanced themselves from service, reported that at least Sayid Adan. managed to get their hands on Turkey yesterday condemned allow them “to take on and Biden’s remarks, calling for 28 people were wounded. The dead included at least weapons within the facility. remarks made by US Democratic defeat Erdogan. Not by a coup, “respect for the sovereignty of presidential candidate Joe Biden not by a coup, but by the elec- Turkey”. criticising President Recep toral process.” The comments did Some Biden critics also Tayyip Erdogan and calling for not provoke much reaction when expect a possible deterioration support for the Turkish leader’s they were published in the New in already testy relations opponents. York Times in January, but the between Ankara and Wash- Biden made the comments video of the interview triggered ington if he manages to defeat in an interview filmed by the an angry response from Turkey. Donald Trump in the US presi- New York Times in December “The analysis of Turkey by @ dential election in November. but a video of the remarks only JoeBiden is based on pure igno- Erdogan, who in recent appeared on Saturday before rance, arrogance and hypocrisy,” years has worked to cultivate a going viral on social media. Erdogan’s spokesman Ibrahim personal relationship with Asked about Erdogan, Biden Kalin tweeted. Trump, often lashes out at his described the Turkish president “The days of ordering Turkey predecessor, Barack Obama. as an “autocrat”, criticised his around are over. But if you still Biden was Obama’s vice policy towards the Kurds and think you can try, be our guest. president. advocated supporting the You will pay the price.” Biden’s Relations between Ankara Turkish opposition. statements also embarrassed and Washington were strained “What I think we should be Erdogan’s opponents, who the during Obama’s second term, doing is taking a very different Turkish government regularly particularly to disagreements approach to him now, making it accuses of being in the pay of over Syria and growing inter- clear that we support opposition foreign powers. national criticism over freedoms An ambulance drives from the scene of a blast at a hotel in Mogadishu, Somalia, yesterday. leadership,” Biden said. Several officials of the main and rights in Turkey. UAE and Israel Egypt, Ethiopia, Sudan resume AU-led talks over disputed dam establish direct AP — CAIRO insisted Ethiopia must not start Foreign Ministry, with attached reached a tipping point in July, dam offers a critical opportunity phone service filling the reservoir without photos of the Egyptian dele- when Ethiopia announced it to pull millions of citizens out Three key Nile basin countries reaching a deal first. gation taking part. had completed the first stage of of poverty and become a major AFP — DUBAI yesterday resumed online Egypt and Sudan suspended Ethiopia’s Water Minister the filling of the dam’s 74 power exporter. negotiations led by the African their talks with Ethiopia earlier Sileshi Bekele tweeted that the billion-cubic-meter reservoir, Egypt, which depends on The Israeli and UAE foreign Union to resolve a years-long this month, after Addis Ababa talks included the foreign and sparking fear and confusion in the Nile River to supply its ministers inaugurated dispute over a giant hydroe- proposed linking a deal on the irrigation ministers of the three Sudan and Egypt. farmers and booming popu- yesterday direct phone services lectric dam that Ethiopia is filling and operations of its countries. Also taking part were A colonial-era deal between lation of 100 million with fresh between the two countries in building on the Blue Nile, Grand Ethiopian Renaissance AU Commission Chairman Ethiopia and Britain, which at water, the dam poses an exis- their first announced call after Egyptian and Ethiopian officials Dam to a broader agreement Moussa Faki Mahamat and the time controlled Sudan and tential threat. an agreement to normalise said. about the Blue Nile’s waters. South Africa’s Foreign Minister Egypt, effectively prevents Sudan, geographically relations, said an Emirati Years of talks between That tributary begins in Ethiopia Naledi Pandor, whose country upstream countries from taking located between the two official. Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan with and is the source of as much as is the current chair of the any action — such as building regional powerhouses, says the The UAE’s Sheikh Abdullah a variety of mediators, including 85% of the Nile River. regional block. dams and filling reservoirs - project could endanger its own bin Zayed Al-Nahyan and the Trump administration, have The start of the online con- Neither Egypt nor Ethiopia that would reduce the share of dams — although it stands to Israel’s Gabi Ashkenazi “inau- failed to produce a solution. The ferencing yesterday was announced a time frame for this Nile water to downstream benefit from it through having gurated a phone link between two downstream nations, Egypt announced in a tweet by Ahmed round of talks. countries Egypt and Sudan. access to cheap electricity and the United Arab Emirates and and Sudan, have repeatedly Hafez, a spokesman for Egypt’s The dispute over the dam To Ethiopia, the $4.6 billion reduced flooding. the state of Israel, and exchanged greetings following the agreement to normalise ties between the two countries,” Flooding and heavy tweeted Hend al-Otaiba, director of strategic communi- cations at the UAE’s foreign ministry. Shortly after, rainfall leave over Ashkenazi tweeted that the two “decided together on the estab- lishment of a direct communi- 60 dead in Sudan cation channel ahead of the signing of the normalisation AP — CAIRO 1,600 water sources have been agreement between the two contaminated or are now non- countries and... to meet soon”. Flash floods have ravaged swaths functional, the report said. Phone links for the public of Sudan for weeks, leaving at Footage circulated online were also functioning between least 60 people dead and showed floodwaters cutting off the two countries. destroying thousands of homes roads and sweeping away houses since late July, authorities and the and people’s belongings in dif- UN humanitarian agency said ferent parts of the northeastern Equatorial yesterday. African country. The flooding also injured two More than 1,200 livestock Guinea govt dozen people, and has destroyed were lost and several hectares of or damaged more than 30,000 crops were affected in the middle resigns houses nationwide, the Interior of the agricultural season, the UN Ministry said. More than 185,000 added. The Bout Dam had col- ANATOLIA — CAIRO people in all but one of Sudan’s lapsed in late July after heavy 18 provinces have been affected rains and flooding in the south- The government in Equatorial by the heavy rainfall and flooding, eastern Blue Nile province, Ethiopia lifts travel curbs Guinea has resigned, Prime according to the UN Office for the releasing 5 million cubic meters Wearing protective face mask, a response team employee takes the temperature of passengers to Minister Pascual Obama Asue Coordination of Humanitarian of water and flooding at least 13 disembark from an Ethiopian Airlines flight at the N’Djili International Airport, in Kinshasa , as travel said on Saturday. Affairs. The floods also damaged neighbourhoods in the town of Members submitted their at least 14 schools, and some Bout, the UN said. restrictions due to the novel coronavirus pandemic are being lifted. resignations to President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, according to a statement by the prime minis- Uganda’s unique hot water spring is slowly dying ter’s office. Mbasogo,78, who has held the post for 41 years, ANATOLIA — KAMPALA Unfortunately, the treasured “Shortly after the floods, the prevent rain water from flooding awaiting funding to procure earlier criticized the Asue gov- resource is slowly dying. The pools and seeps on hot springs the springs. They said the longer equipment. ernment for failing to fulfill Uganda is endowed with hot water used to warm above 98 reduced their temperatures. the springs remain blockaded, Chief Executive Officer of the duties and achieve planned springs called Kitagata, believed °C but is now lower. Former While we hoped this would be the less likely waters will return Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) goals. The new government is to have natural healing powers. crystal clear waters are clogged only temporary, the situation to hot temperatures. Lilly Ajarova said developing expected to be announced by The springs in the Sheema and they no longer flash to the remain the same,” said Kitagata The springs are managed by Kitagata hot springs is on the the country’s leader within district of western Uganda have nearby swamp because of a resident Mwijukye Sam. the government. A proposal to agenda, pending government days. Equatorial Guinea is two streams: Mulago named blockade by a nearby stream. Residents blame the gov- privatize the springs was funding. among the most severely after Uganda’s biggest referral According to residents, the ernment for neglecting the rejected. Deputy Mayor of Hot springs have been used affected countries by the eco- hospital due to its healing blockade happened following treasured resource, saying it Sheema Lukia Nakaliisa told for medicinal purposes because nomic crisis triggered by the powers, and Ekyomugabe which massive floods from the River failed to provide excavators to Anadolu Agency that the district of their biological characteristics novel coronavirus pandemic. was used by King of Ankore. Sebbanga. open blocked waterways to is aware of the blockade and and microorganisms. MONDAY 17 AUGUST 2020 ASIA 07 COVID-19 outbreak in New Zealand grows; cases in Australia fall REUTERS — MELBOURNE Health Minister Greg reported 279 new cases yes- Hunt said the federal terday, along with 16 more A new coronavirus outbreak in deaths. New Zealand is still growing, government is close The daily number of new health officials said yesterday, to striking a deal cases this week has been well with the country that had an below the peak of 725 on early triumph over the that would permit August 5. Melbourne remains pandemic recording 13 new the production of a under a strict lockdown. cases and putting the vaccine in Australia, Speaking before Victoria September general election in announced its daily tally, Aus- question. likely in 2021. tralia’s Health Minister Greg After stifling the virus Hunt said the state still has a earlier this year before it long way to go. became a public health crisis with a resurgence of the coro- “But the signs now are that and after 102 days without new navirus in two of its largest the trend is of progressive infections, an abrupt resur- states, New South Wales and reduction,” Hunt said, adding gence last week in Auckland Victoria, there were signs of a that the federal government is prompted an immediate further downward trend. close to striking a deal that lockdown of the country’s New South Wales reported would permit the production of largest city. just five new cases, while Vic- a vaccine in Australia, likely in Community health volunteers checking the temperature of a woman during a check up campaign Yesterday’s numbers bring toria, where masks became 2021. for the coronavirus disease, at a slum in Mumbai, yesterday. New Zealand’s total active cases compulsory in July after the “I am now, on the basis of to 69, providing more ammu- state became the centre of the our best advice, genuinely more nition to a conservative oppo- country’s largest outbreak, optimistic,” Hunt said. sition that wants to delay a Sep- India’s virus mortality rate falls below 2% tember 19 general election. NZ coalition partner calls for vote delay Health Minister John ANATOLIA — NEW DELHI dip below 2 percent in the mor- The Indian Council of Hipkins told a media briefing REUTERS — WELLINGTON hold a “free and fair election” tality rate, India has one of the Medical Research (ICMR) said yesterday that the government on September 19, Peters, the India surpassed 50,000 coro- lowest rates of coronavirus 29,309,703 samples have been was working to ensure ade- New Zealand Deputy Prime leader of the New Zealand First navirus deaths yesterday, mortality globally. tested through August 15 and quate supplies of masks, which Minister Winston Peters called party, wrote in a letter to according to health officials, “Mortality rates are low in 746,608 were tested on are currently recommended but yesterday for a delay to the Ardern. and number of infections rose India because of aggressive Saturday. not mandatory. planned September general Peters suggested October to 2,589,682, including 677,444 testing and early detection Meanwhile, the southern “We could make it com- election, given an abrupt reap- 17 and November 21 as alter- active cases with 1,862,258 coupled with quick isolation state of Karnataka reported its pulsory and spend a lot of time pearance of COVID-19 in the native dates. discharged. and effective treatment pro- highest single-day spike with on enforcement, what we need country, increasing pressure on The opposition National “USA crossed 50,000 tocol,” it said. 8,818 cases in the last 24 hours. here is a cultural acceptance Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern Party also wants a delay, deaths in 23 days, Brazil in 95 The recovery rate climbed The tally in the state has now amongst all New Zealanders,” to postpone the vote. hoping that Ardern would lose days and Mexico in 141 days. to 71.9 percent with 1,862,258 crossed the 219,000 mark. Hipkins said. Last week’s resurgence of some of her lustre once hard- India took 156 days,” the health people discharged from hos- The death toll stands at In neighbouring Australia, the infections in Auckland was ships caused by the Auckland ministry said in a tweet. pitals after recovering from the 3,831 as the state has witnessed which has also been struggling compromising the ability to lockdown begin to bite. It claimed with the sharp virus. almost 100 deaths daily. Dhaka seeks foreign help to extradite founder’s assassins Nepal landslide toll rises as hope ANATOLIA — DHAKA in a webinar with foreign dip- countries... we seek assistance in Zimbabwe in 2001. Five are Sheikh Rehana — who were fades for missing lomats yesterday, which was from friendly countries to know still on the run. abroad at the time. Bangladesh has sought diplo- organised as part of the leader’s their whereabouts and get them Mujib, known in Bangladesh Bangladesh is also observing AFP — KATHMANDU matic support from foreign 45th death anniversary events. punished” to ensure justice and as “Bangabandhu” or “Friend 2020-2021 as Mujib Year on the countries to bring back killers As many as 83 high com- rule of law. of Bengal,” was shot dead at his centennial birth anniversary of The death toll from a landslide of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the missioners and ambassadors in Mujib was murdered by a house in the capital Dhaka, the founding leader, who is also in Nepal has risen to 19 after nation’s founding father. Dhaka, and in India (designated group of army officers in a coup along with 18 family members, considered the father of the eight more bodies were pulled The South Asian nation for Bangladesh) participated in on August 15, 1975. including his wife, three nation. out from a mud-covered wants to punish five fugitive the virtual meeting, the Foreign At least 12 people were children, and brother. Speakers from the webinar village in north-central Nepal, assassins of the former pres- Ministry said. sentenced to death for the The only survivors were his also hoped that in celebration of police said yesterday. ident reportedly hiding abroad. Momen said “five killers of murder. Six have been exe- two daughters — current Bang- Mujib Year, brotherly relations Dozens of villagers in the Foreign Minister AK Abdul Bangabandhu are still cuted so far, with the latest in ladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh between Turks and Bangladeshis remote hillside region of Sind- Momen sought the cooperation absconding in different April this year, while one died Hasina and her younger sister will be strengthened. hupalchowk district were buried under mud and stone after heavy rains caused a landslide early Friday. Australian surfer repeatedly Rescuers dug out 11 bodies on Friday and have been punches shark to save wife searching for survivors. Heli- copters were being used to AFP — SYDNEY appeared to be a great white reach the isolated site after the shark up to three metres (10 landslide blocked roads. An Australian man has been feet) long. Nineteen people remain hailed a “hero” after repeatedly “He started laying into the missing but hopes that anyone punching a shark until it shark because it wouldn’t let had survived the landslip were released his wife’s leg. go,” Jed Toohey told the Daily fading, authorities said. Police said that the couple Telegraph. “Search efforts are under were surfing at a beach near “He saved her life... He was way but we are losing hope of Port Macquarie, four hours really incredible.” rescuing the missing people north of Sydney, on Saturday The woman’s husband, alive,” local police official morning when she was bitten Mark Rapley, played down his Madhav Kafle said. twice and injured on her right efforts, telling the newspaper The houses hit by the land- leg. that he “did what anyone slide were among those rebuilt “Her companion was would have done in that after a devastating 7.4-mag- forced to punch the fish until moment”. nitude earthquake struck it let go,” police said in the Australia has one of the Nepal in 2015. statement. world’s highest incidences of The Himalayan nation has Paramedics treated the shark attacks and there have been badly hit by landslides 35-year-old at the beach been five fatal ones in the and floods, with more than before she was later airlifted country so far this year. 200 people killed and 75 to a major hospital for Just last month, a shark missing since monsoon rains surgery. pulled a 10-year-old boy from began mid-June, according to One witness who was a fishing boat off Tasmania. He the home ministry. surfing nearby when the attack survived after his father The number of deadly Anti-government protesters holding up signs during a rally at Democracy Monument, in Bangkok, occurred called the man a jumped in the water to save landslides has increased this yesterday. “hero” for taking on what him. year. Tensions rise as Thais rally against govt India’s opposition calls for probe into AFP — BANGKOK “Down with the dicta- support across the country. torship,” they chanted, many “Give a deadline to dicta- Thousands of protesters rallied holding signs critical of Prayut’s torship” and “let it end at our Facebook’s treatment of Modi’s party against Thailand’s government pro-military government. generation” were the top in Bangkok yesterday with Others held pigeon-shaped Twitter hashtags in Thailand REUTERS — NEW DELHI instead, the Congress party said. launch a payment platform. tensions rising in the kingdom cutouts representing peace. yesterday. Facebook said it prohibited It has invested $5.7bn in as a pro-democracy movement Tensions have risen over The protesters are India’s main opposition hate speech and content that Reliance Industries’ digital unit, gathers steam. the last two weeks with author- demanding an overhaul of the Congress party called yesterday incited violence and enforced with the aim of serving tens of Thailand has seen near- ities arresting three activists. government and a rewrite of for a parliamentary panel to these policies globally without millions of small shops across daily demonstrations for the They were released on bail after the 2017 military-scripted con- investigate what it said was regard to anyone’s political India. past month by student-led being charged with sedition and stitution, which they believe favourable treatment by Face- position or party affiliation. “Congress party demands groups denouncing Premier violating coronavirus rules. skewed last year’s election in book’s India team towards the “While we know there is the setting up of a joint parlia- Prayut Chan-O-Cha — a former They were told not to repeat favour of Prayut’s military- country’s ruling party. more to do, we’re making mentary committee to probe military chief who led the 2014 the alleged offences, but one of aligned party. Citing a report published by progress on enforcement and the relations of Facebook and coup — and his pro-estab- them — prominent student A rally last week — attended the Wall Street Journal on conduct regular audits of our WhatsApp employees with the lishment administration. leader Parit Chiwarak — by some 4,000 demonstrators Friday, the party said process to ensure fairness and ruling party,” Ajay Maken, By yesterday afternoon, arrived at the protest venue — also called for the abolition employees of Facebook and accuracy,” it said. spokesman of the Congress protesters — who are yesterday flanked by cheering of a law protecting Thailand’s WhatsApp overseeing Indian India’s government did not party said at a news briefing. demanding major democratic supporters. unassailable monarchy, and for content had refused to bar a immediately respond to Maken also urged the reforms — had taken over the Partly inspired by the a frank discussion about its role lawmaker from Prime Minister Reuters’ requests for comment. company to launch an internal busy intersection around Bang- Hong Kong democracy in Thailand. Narendra Modi’s party who had Facebook Inc’s WhatsApp, enquiry into its Indian oversight kok’s Democracy Monument, movement, the protesters The draconian “112” law posted incendiary comments, which counts India as its team. which was built to mark the claim to be leaderless and can see those convicted sen- to protect the company’s “com- biggest market with 400 This is an issue of Face- 1932 revolution that ended have relied mostly on social tenced to up to 15 years in jail mercial interests”. million users, is waiting for book’s global credibility,” he absolutism. media campaigns to draw per charge. It deleted the comments regulatory clearances to said. 08 VIEWS MONDAY 17 AUGUST 2020

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CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

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Face masks are distributed to Yemeni students upon their arrival to sit for their final secondary school exams in the capital Sana’a on EDITORIAL Saturday, amid the pandemic crisis.

QSL’s sensational season School reopenings depend

THE QNB Stars League (QSL) 2019-2020 edition will go down in history as one of the most exciting seasons of the premier football competition despite being inter- on numbers, not guesswork rupted by a long coronavirus break. As the 12-team event heading for this weekend’s final round, the cham- enough to provide them. But and we’re highly unlikely to would depend on a lot of pions who will lift the Falcon Shield are yet to be officials have well-established lose any lives as a result of speculation. For example: decided, making it the most thrilling top-flight league techniques for dealing with opening.” In such a district, How many schoolchildren event in Asia this year. that problem. For example, opening the schools is a will end up respecting the It was a three-way battle for title among Al Duhail, agencies might be asked to no-brainer. protocols? If a large number Al Rayyan and defending champions Al Sadd when disclose the ranges, including By contrast, imagine a dis- of them don’t, what’s the the league was resumed on July 24 after more than the best and worst cases, and trict in which the number of incremental risk? four months of suspension due to COVID-19 pandemic. CASS R SUNSTEIN their respective likelihoods. community infections is not In the world of regulation, However, Al Sadd went out of contention in the penul- BLOOMBERG It’s true that politics might low, and in which the experts hard or unanswerable ques- timate stage with Al Duhail and Al Rayyan ensuring a intervene, and you might not say: “Even with appropriate tions are not unfamiliar. The new champions this season with victories in their be able to trust the numbers. precautions, the risk of a real experts typically develop sce- respective matches last week. The intense debates over But when the system is outbreak is significant, and narios, based on optimistic Al Duhail – one point ahead of Al Rayyan – are school openings are missing working well, they are over the course of the school and pessimistic assumptions. leading the table with 49 points, and all they have something crucial: numbers. checked and rechecked by year, we’re likely to lose at Armed with that information, to do to clinch the title is to beat Al Ahli in Friday’s Without them, it’s essentially people who know what they least 50 lives as a result of policymakers are often in a game at Al Janoub Stadium – a FIFA World Cup impossible to know what to are doing, and aren’t affected opening.” Opening the schools good position to know Qatar 2022 venue. Al Rayyan, who will play Al do, or to evaluate what is by political considerations. would seem to be a mistake. whether to proceed. Wakrah the same time at Al Sadd Stadium, will have being proposed. The decision whether and In Massachusetts, officials Of course, school districts to rely on result of Al Duhail match apart from winning Here’s an analogy. how to reopen schools is have reportedly moved in the can maintain flexibility. Some their last game. Suppose that the Food and being made by states and direction of using numbers, of them might allow full-time Nevertheless, football as they say is a ‘funny’ game Drug Administration is con- localities, not by Washington, with guidance that relies on in-person classes in the hope and can bring stunning results on any day as veteran templating a new food safety and numbers need to inform how much the coronavirus is that the optimistic assumptions coach Arsene Wenger once said, “football’s beauty is regulation, or that the those choices. The problem is spreading in relevant districts. are right. But if those assump- its unpredictability”. This uncertainty in the sport will Department of Transportation that for school openings (and Color-coded maps specify tions turn out to be wrong, and keep all stakeholders including the die hard fans of is considering new restric- much more), we’re mostly whether the risk of spreading if infections spike, districts both the title-contenders on their toes till the final tions on railroads. The White hearing abstractions and gen- is “low,” “moderate” or “high,” need a plan to shift to online moment. With fans allowed at the stadiums to attend House Office of Information eralities - expressions of agi- based on recent infection learning, perhaps in a hurry. the games, the final round will set up a fitting end to and Regulatory Affairs is sup- tation and fear. rates. If a district is low risk, As the school year begins, the league, which saw competitive matches throughout posed to require it to identify On the one hand, rea- officials will apparently rec- some of the trade-offs might the season. the gains and the losses - the sonable people are pointing to ommend full-time in-person call for a political judgment, In another milestone towards restoring the nor- benefits and the costs.(1) the immense strain on instruction. If the risk is mod- informed but not determined malcy, the Qatar Stars League (QSL) last week, in Those numbers might not parents of having young kids erate or high, a district might by the numbers. Suppose that co-operation with the authorities concerned allowed be decisive, but they’re at home and the many consider remote-only or the experts say this: “If you a limited number of fans to the stadiums during needed. In their absence, the problems with online some hybrid model. open, you’re unlikely to have penultimate round. The fans attended the matches decision whether to proceed, learning. On the other hand, That’s progress. It’s a lot anything like an outbreak. But by following a host of precautionary measures. or not to proceed, is essen- reasonable people (including better than pure guesswork. there will be more infections Among the protocols for spectators are wearing tially a stab in the dark. teachers’ unions) are pointing But is it right? than there would be if masks and maintaining social distancing during To be sure, some numbers to the risk of an outbreak and To know, we would need learning were online; and matches as authorities are doing their best to control might be hard to specify. The a spike in deaths. to do at least three things. over the course of the year, the spread of virus. agencies might not know In the abstract, these are First, be very clear on the some number of people will Nobody could have imagined that QSL will cul- Those numbers might legitimate concerns. For meaning of low, moderate die. That number will be small minate in such a fashion when lockdown brought life many school systems, there and high. Second, understand - but above zero.” to a standstill some months ago. Ending the season not be decisive, but are going to be trade-offs the incremental public-health If that’s what they say, the unfinished or without determining the winners would they’re needed. In here. But numbers could risk if a school district opens, choice might turn out to be have been a great disappointment for followers of the make apparently hard ques- given the specific category very difficult. But here, too, game. A sheer hardwork by authorities including the their absence, the tions much easier to answer into which it falls. Third, turn it’s not unfamiliar. When we QSL, Ministry of Public Health and front-line workers decision whether and could help depoliticise that incremental risk into the regulate or don’t regulate made it happen. the process. relevant numbers, which automobiles, and when we to proceed, or Imagine, for example, a include infections and deaths. regulate or don’t regulate air not to proceed, is school district in which the It’s possible, of course, pollution, we are making sim- essentially a stab in number of community infec- that public-health specialists, ilarly difficult choices. tions is very low, and in which in Massachusetts and else- To make those choices sen- the dark. real experts (epidemiologists where, have done or are sibly, and to promote account- D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR and others, not politicians or trying to do all of that. It is ability, we need numbers. Let’s also possible that it’s tough to get more of them. EMAIL: [email protected] those influenced by them) say: “With appropriate precau- produce the relevant Cass R. Sunstein is a tions, the risk of a real out- numbers; epidemiologists and Bloomberg Opinion EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 break is vanishingly small, others might insist that they columnist. FAX: +974 4455 7758 MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 Work to keep elderly care facilities functioning safely DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 JAPAN NEWS-YOMIURI easily turn serious. It is nec- Each facility should dispatch doctors and others, LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 essary to keep a close watch prepare disinfectants and but also promptly conduct Facilities for elderly people are on the infection situation at protective clothing, and take polymerase chain reaction BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 at high risk for the spread of these facilities. thorough preventive (PCR) tests on employees and novel coronavirus infections. It Staff members and the measures, such as frequently elderly clients, among others. SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 is important for the central elderly people they serve have checking the temperature of It is important to maintain and local governments to to be in close contact when staff members and others. It the facilities’ functions as ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 establish a system to prepare staffers help them with meals, would be effective to provide much as possible and con- email: [email protected] thoroughly to prevent the bathing, using the toilet and employees with preventive tinue to provide services to collapse of nursing care other needs. In some cases, education, and to consult clients, even if infected people PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 services. people with dementia have experts on infectious diseases are found there. email: [email protected] According to the Health, difficulty in correctly putting to decide on how to deal with More than a few facilities Labor and Welfare Ministry, on and taking off masks or possible infections. were unable to provide suffi- ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 mass infections are believed informing staffers of problems In the event of a mass out- cient nursing care services as FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] to have taken place at 66 with their physical condition. break of infections, local gov- staff members who had close facilities for the elderly. 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+974 6698 6188 MONDAY 17 AUGUST 2020 ASIA 09 HK leader returns Cambridge fellowship over rights row

AFP — HONG KONG due to consider Lam’s fel- Others have been disqual- In November, three lowship next month but would ified from standing in local elec- members of Britain’s House of Hong Kong’s leader said she has no longer do so now that Lam tions while libraries and schools Lords called for the move over “returned” her honourary had returned the honour. have begun pulling any books Lam’s response to months of fellowship to a Cambridge Chief Executive Carrie Lam, a pro-Beijing deemed to breach the law. huge and often violent pro- college after a row over whether Lam said she was appointee, was one of a number Three well-known aca- democracy protests. the finance hub’s academic of Chinese and Hong Kong offi- demics also lost their jobs Beijing introduced its freedoms are being suppressed “deeply disappointed cials sanctioned by the United because they had been previ- security law to end that as authorities crack down on by the college States after Beijing imposed a ously jailed for leading pro- movement and restore stability, pro-democracy opponents. smearing a person on sweeping security law on the democracy protests. describing it as a “sword” Chief Executive Carrie Lam semi-autonomous city in late Hong Kong has some of hanging over the heads of its (pictured) said she was cutting the basis of hearsay June. Asia’s best universities, but critics in the city. ties with Cambridge’s Wolfson instead of facts.” The law ramps up the declining political freedoms In her Facebook statement, College after it began looking Chinese Communist Party’s have rattled many as China Lam — who previously studied into the state of academic Wolfson College said it had control over the finance hub vows to rein in campuses and at Cambridge University — said liberty in Hong Kong. convince myself to maintain recently raised concerns with and in the weeks that followed instil more patriotic she had written to Wolfson Lam said she was “deeply any relation with Wolfson Hong Kong’s leader about “her some two dozen pro- education. College last year and last week disappointed by the college College,” she wrote on commitment to the protection democracy supporters have Wolfson College had been to explain her administration’s smearing a person on the basis Facebook late Saturday of human rights and the been arrested under the new under pressure to rescind Lam’s stance on the protests. of hearsay instead of facts”. alongside a photo of herself in freedom of expression”. powers, including the owner of honorary fellowship since last She denied suppressing “Therefore I can hardly leafy Cambridge. Its governing body had been a Beijing-critical newspaper. year. freedoms. US, S Korea to begin scaled-down military drills amid virus spike AP — SEOUL against North Korean threats. springtime drills following a The allies have so far failed to COVID-19 outbreak in the The United States and South sign a new cost-sharing southern city of Daegu and Korea will begin their annual agreement after the last one nearby towns that was stabi- joint military exercises this expired at the end of 2019. lised by April. week, Seoul’s Joint Chiefs of The drills involve so-called But South Korea is now Staff said yesterday. But a combined command post dealing with a virus resurgence spreading coronavirus outbreak training, which is focused on in the densely populated Seoul has apparently forced the allies computerised simulations metropolitan region, home to to scale back an already aimed at preparing the two mil- half of the country’s 51 million low-key training programme itaries for various battle sce- people. It forced US Forces mainly involving computer- narios, such as a surprise North Korea to designate the capital simulated war scenarios. Korean attack. and surrounding areas off- The drills from tomorrow The Joint Chiefs of Staff did limits to personnel who don’t until August 28 could still irk not specify how many troops live there. The 279 new cases North Korea, which portrays will participate. But it’s clear the South Korea reported on the allies’ training as invasion size would be smaller than the Sunday are the highest daily rehearsals and has threatened summer drills of previous years, jump since early March. to abandon stalled nuclear talks which often involved tens of There have been around if Washington persists with thousands of troops on both 150 COVID-19 infections among what it perceives as “hostile sides, and combined computer US troops stationed in South policies” toward Pyongyang. simulations with field training. Korea since February, which The exercises also come at This time, the coronavirus pan- prompted Gyeonggi Province a delicate time after President demic has limited the number near Seoul last month to openly Indonesia Independence Day today Donald Trump openly com- of US troops who could be call for the cancellation of the plained about the costs of main- brought in from abroad. August drills. Gyeonggi includes The youth of state defence salute Indonesian flags to commemorate the Indonesia’s 75th Independence taining 28,500 US troops sta- The US and South Korean the city of Pyeongtaek, the site Day which falls today (August 17), in Banda Aceh, yesterday. tioned in South Korea to protect militaries had canceled their of US military headquarters. Japan shouldn’t ignore TikTok’s Pakistanis march to protest UAE-Israel agreement possible data ANATOLIA — KARACHI political alliance. others, the protesters gathered The party chief urged outside the Lahore Press Club, In the garrison city of at the historic Liaquat park to Islamabad to try convening an which was addressed by the risks: Official Tens of thousands of Pakistanis Rawalpindi, thousands marched begin the rally. urgent meeting of the Organi- party’s secretary-general, marched yesterday against a through the city’s thoroughfares Addressing the participants, zation of Islamic Cooperation Ameerul Azim, and other BLOOMBERG — TOKYO recent, controversial deal led by Senator Sirajul Haq, chief Haq said Palestine was not the to discuss the latest situation. leaders. between the United Arab of the country’s mainstream, issue of Arabs only but the In Karachi, hundreds In Peshawar, the capital of Japan shouldn’t ignore the Emirates (UAE) and Israel meant Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) party. entire Muslim world. gathered outside the Karachi northwestern Khyber possible data security risks to normalise bilateral relations, The JI observed the day as “Palestine is the land of Pal- Press Club to denounce the deal. Pakhtunkhwa province, a large posed by Chinese music video including opening embassies in “Palestine Day” to express sol- estinians. No deal or back- JI Karachi chief Hafiz number of people gathered at the app TikTok, which various each other’s territory. idarity, and support the Pales- tracking can deprive them of Naeemur Rehman termed the historic Mahabat Khan Mosque, other countries have pointed Rallies and demonstrations tinians’ resistance against their fundamental right,” he deal a big blow to Muslim unity, and marched towards Yadgar out, a senior ruling party were held in the capital Zionist occupation (since at said. “Palestinians have been and “backstabbing of Chowk, to register their protest. official said. Islamabad, port city of Karachi, least 1967). fighting for their land for over Palestinians.” The agreement is the third “Not only President Trump northeastern city of Lahore, Carrying banners, and 70 years. But, until August 13, He said neither the UAE nor Israeli-Arab peace treaty in the but also other countries such Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Quetta, placards with slogans such as 2020 no country has disgraced any other country had the right Middle East, and the first as the UK and India, are grad- Faisalabad, Multan, Hyderabad, “Down with Israel,” “UAE-Israel itself as UAE has done... the to accept Israeli occupation of involving a Gulf state. While ually becoming aware of the and dozens of other cities and deal on US pressure unac- entire Muslim world rejects this Palestinian land in the name of some have welcomed the deal, risks,” Akira Amari, the ruling towns on the call of Milli ceptable,” and “Pakistanis stand so-called deal, even if some “peace.” Palestinians, Iran and Turkey Liberal Democratic Party’s tax Yakjehti Council, a religio- with Palestinians,” among Muslim governments accept it.” The JI held another protest have denounced it. panel chief, said on Fuji Tele- vision Network yesterday. “Since there’re so many coun- tries pointing out the risks, Local COVID-19 cases in China Japan cannot just stand by and watch.” fall as Xinjiang cluster recedes US President Donald Trump last week ordered REUTERS — BEIJING ByteDance Ltd, the Chinese Philippines reports owner of TikTok, to sell its US China’s new locally transmitted 3,420 new virus assets. Trump cited national cases of the novel coronavirus security grounds, delivering (COVID-19) fell to a one-month cases, 65 deaths the latest salvo in his standoff low as a cluster in the western with Beijing. India in June took region of Xinjiang receded, data REUTERS — MANILA sweeping action to ban TikTok released by the country’s health and dozens of other Chinese authority showed yesterday. The Philippines has recorded apps. The number of locally 3,420 new cases of the coro- Japanese companies transmitted cases in China navirus and 65 additional should assume that partner- dropped to four on Aug. 15, all deaths, the health ministry ships with Chinese firms could of which were in Xinjiang, the said yesterday. lead to data being leaked, National Health Commission The country has so far Amari said. said in a statement. That com- registered a total of 161,253 “If sensitive technologies pares with eight cases infections and the death toll are compromised, that poses nationwide a day earlier and is from COVID-19 has risen to a risk because Japan will be the lowest since July 16. 2,665 according to ministry removed from the global No new locally transmitted data. supply chain that shares the cases were recorded on August common values of freedom, Scenic skyride 15 in the city of Shenzhen in clinical symptoms of infection, democracy and the rule of southern Guangdong province such as a fever or a cough. Tourists sit on chairlifts at the Patriata Resort near Murree, some 65km from Islamabad yesterday, law,” he said, adding that after provincial authorities The Guangdong gov- after the government announced that most of the country’s remaining restrictions would be lifted “Japan is the country with the there reported fresh infections ernment has begun testing at least sense of crisis.” following the drop in new coronavirus cases for several weeks. a day earlier. 36 Freshippo stores across A woman who worked for Guangdong and 12 related Alibaba-owned supermarket warehouses and processing chain Freshippo in Shenzhen firms, state-run news agency Azerbaijan downs Armenian drone amid rising tensions had returned to her hometown Xinhua reported yesterday. of Lufeng and tested positive In mainland China, the total ANATOLIA — BAKU The drone was not the first Armenia martyred 12 killed in the attacks by Armenia, for the virus on August 14. Both number of new confirmed destroyed by Azerbaijani forces Azerbaijani soldiers, including which Baku has accused of cities are in Guangdong. infections stood at 19 on Sat- Azerbaijan said it downed an since tensions escalated between high-ranking officers, and hiding losses. On the same day, Lufeng urday, including so-called Armenian unmanned aerial the two nations last month. wounded four troops in the Azerbaijan has blamed also reported three asympto- imported cases involving trav- vehicle (UAV) amid heightened The Armenian Army vio- attack. Armenia for the “provocative” matic cases while Shenzhen ellers arriving from abroad. tensions along the border. lated a ceasefire on July 12 and Despite international calls actions, with Turkey throwing reported two asymptomatic That compares with 22 a day The drone was conducting attacked Azerbaijani positions for restraint, Armenian troops its weight behind Baku and carriers. earlier. reconnaissance on Azerbaijani with artillery fire, withdrawing opened fire on civilian settle- saying it is warning Yerevan Asymptomatic cases test As of August 15, mainland positions near the Tovuz dis- after suffering losses following ments in the villages of Agdam that it would not hesitate to positive for the virus, but China China had 84,827 confirmed trict, according to the Defense retaliation from the Azerbaijani and Dondar Kuscu. A 76-year- stand against any kind of attack does not classify them as con- coronavirus cases, with the Ministry. army. old Azerbaijani citizen was on its eastern neighbour. firmed cases until they show death toll unchanged at 4,634. 10 EUROPE MONDAY 17 AUGUST 2020 Lukashenko vows to stay on as thousands rally AFP — MINSK Chanting “Leave!”, and its independence.” the protesters Standing at a podium in a Tens of thousands of Belaru- short-sleeved shirt, Lukashenko sians rallied in Minsk yesterday converged on a World insisted on the legitimacy of the in the biggest demonstration yet War II memorial presidential poll. “The elections against a disputed election, as outside the city were valid. There could not be President Alexander more than 80 percent of votes Lukashenko rejected calls to centre in Minsk, with falsified,” he said. step down in a defiant speech. witnesses estimating He warned that neigh- Chanting “Leave!”, the pro- the turnout at up to bouring EU countries and testers converged on a World Ukraine were making calls for War II memorial outside the city 100,000 people, the fresh elections. “We won’t give centre, with witnesses esti- largest yet in a week away the country!” he said, mating the turnout at up to while his teenage son Nikolai 100,000 people, the largest yet of demonstrations stood watching nearby. in a week of demonstrations since the vote. With pressure growing from since the vote. the street and abroad after the Other major Belarusian European Union said it would towns and cities also saw large these authorities, of living like impose new sanctions, rallies, local media reported. serfs in a collective farm.” Lukashenko has reached out to Columns of demonstrators Popular opposition candidate Russia. Moscow said yesterday raised victory signs and held Svetlana Tikhanovskaya had that it was ready to provide mil- flowers and balloons as they called for a weekend of protests itary help if needed. prepared to march to the central after leaving for neighbouring The Kremlin said that in a Independence Square, the focus Lithuania following the disputed call with Lukashenko, President People take part in a protest in Minsk, Belarus, yesterday. of peaceful demonstrations in election, which gave Lukashenko Vladimir Putin had expressed recent days. 80 percent of the vote. Russia’s “readiness to provide Those taking part in the More and more Belarusians the needed assistance” Tikhanovskaya called for a The opposition has called for stories of torture and beatings” “March of Freedom” included have taken to the streets over including “if necessary” through weekend of peaceful rallies a general strike from today after and expressing his solidarity a group of veteran paratroopers the last week to condemn the CSTO military alliance including yesterday's march in hundreds of workers at state-run with the protesters. in uniform berets and a Catholic Lukashenko’s disputed victory between six ex-Soviet states. Minsk on the one-week anni- factories walked off the job on Tikhanovskaya has priest. Demonstrators held and a subsequent violent Tens of thousands have taken versary of the vote. Friday, in a first sign that Lukash- announced the creation of a placards with slogans such as crackdown by riot police and to the streets over the last week Thousands of opposition enko’s traditional support base Coordination Council to ensure “We are against violence” and abuse of detainees. to denounce the election result supporters had demonstrated was turning against him. a transfer of power, asking “Lukashenko must answer for Lukashenko, who has ruled and support Tikhanovskaya, a in Minsk on Saturday, with European governments have foreign governments to “help the torture and dead”. the ex-Soviet country for 26 37-year-old political novice who many gathering at the spot condemned the election and us in organising a dialogue with “This has never happened years, is facing an unprecedented ran after other potential candi- where a 34-year-old protester police crackdown, and EU min- Belarusian authorities”. She before, that Minsk has united, challenge to his leadership. In a dates including her husband died during unrest on Monday. isters on Friday agreed to draw demanded the authorities Belarusians have united. This is rare campaign-style rally in front were jailed. Many held up photographs up a list of targets in Belarus for release all detainees, remove a festival of freedom,” said of flag-waving supporters in A violent police crackdown of bruised protesters beaten a new round of sanctions. security forces from the streets Catholic priest Yury Sanko, central Minsk, the 65-year-old on protesters saw more 6,700 during the crackdown, after Opposition newspaper and open criminal cases against wearing his dark habit. “It’s the strongman said: “I called you people arrested, hundreds Amnesty International accused Nasha Niva posted a video of those who ordered the first time I’ve seen the people so here not to defend me... but for wounded and two people dead. authorities of carrying out “a the Belarusian ambassador to crackdown. She has said she glad,” said one 70-year-old the first time in a quarter- From exile in Lithuania, where campaign of widespread torture” Slovakia, Igor Leshchenya, will organise new elections if woman protester. “We’re tired of century, to defend your country she fled on Tuesday, to crush the opposition. saying he was “shocked by Lukashenko steps down. Police foil reprisal operation by Chechens in French town UK deploys extra navy, air assets AFP — SAINT-DIZIER, FRANCE organising an armed act of after successive nights of vio- search of revenge after a He said he would ask the revenge and are due to appear lence rocked the eastern city of 30-year-old Chechen man was authorities to “look with a dif- to stop Channel France’s interior minister yes- before an investigating magis- Dijon in June. lightly injured in a fight in the ferent eye” on asylum requests terday vowed that no com- trate who will decide whether An assault on a 16-year-old town on Thursday. from individuals implicated in migrants munity would be allowed to to press charges. Chechen there prompted other Police controlled several such cases. take the law into its own hands “No community on the soil members of the community to vehicles heading into the town There are no precise figures AFP — LONDON after police thwarted a bid by of the republic can take the law stage reprisal raids in a restive with 16 initially arrested. on the number of Chechens Chechens to violently avenge into its own hands,” Interior neighbourhood in Dijon with a “Most of the Chechen com- living in France as they are British Defence Secretary Ben an alleged assault on a member Minister Gerald Darmanin said large community of north munity are asylum seekers or included with other Russian Wallace said yesterday addi- of their community. on a visit to Saint-Dizier, hailing African origin. have asylum” in France, said passport holders. tional navy personnel and air- Three men originating from the police for “avoiding the The prosecutor for the Darminin, who headed to Saint- The government was craft were being sent to help the Russian region in the worst” with their intervention. wider Chaumont region Fre- Dizier to thank the police for heavily criticised by the far- tackle a sharp rise in migrant northern Caucasus were The Chechen community in deric Nahon said a criminal heading off potentially violent right National Rally party for crossings of the Channel. detained after being found in France, many of whom are probe would be opened for clashes. being slow to respond to the The deployment of “spe- the northeastern French town exiles who have sought refuge illegal transport of arms and “However, having asylum Dijon violence, whose scale cialist personnel from the Royal of Saint-Dizier with a vast stock from the rule of Chechnya’s organisation of a criminal group does not give someone the right horrified France. Navy” and a third air force plane of cold weapons including pro-Kremlin strongman over the Saint-Dizier seizure. to stir things up, settle scores or Security in Saint-Dizier to conduct surveillance fol- knifes, clubs and a sabre. Ramzan Kadyrov, have been The men are suspected of to attack the lives of each has already been reinforced, lowed a request for support They have been accused of under intense scrutiny in France heading to Saint-Dizier in other,” he added. local authorities said. from the interior ministry. “These dangerous crossings ultimately put people’s lives in Germany tracks danger and it is right that we More than 200 protest in support the Border Force by down most providing specialist capabilities Brussels after mask order of defence, and our expert per- travellers with sonnel to stop this criminal AFP — BRUSSELS The group has demanded behaviour,” Wallace said. More COVID-19 after the resignation of Flemish virol- than 1,000 migrants have More than 200 people demon- ogist Marc Van Ranst, one of the arrived on Britain’s shores in the test blunder strated in Brussels yesterday most prominent members of last 10 days after crossing the against coronavirus restrictions the panel of experts consulted Channel in small boats. REUTERS — BERLIN after the regional government by the Belgian government on Prime Minister Boris mandated facemasks in public. the pandemic, and who is also Johnson this week called the The German state of Bavaria Wearing a mask became in the sights of the Flemish crossings “very bad and stupid said yesterday that it has compulsory on Wednesday for extreme right for his left-wing and dangerous”. He has vowed tracked down most of the 1.2 million people living in the stance on social issues. to change legislation that he people returning from abroad Brussels region, as Belgium Yesterday's demonstration said made it “very, very dif- who tested positive for the coro- battles one of the most serious drew conspiracy theorists ficult” to deport migrants navirus but were not told about coronavirus outbreaks in Europe. and anti-vaccination “even though blatantly they’ve it in a debacle that embarrassed Many of the protesters did activists. One protester wore come here illegally.” a possible successor to Chan- not wear masks, but carried an orange life jacket with the Meanwhile. his immigration cellor Angela Merkel. placards saying “Corona circus” words “Ready for the second minister held talks with coun- Bavaria said in a statement or “It’s my body, it’s my choice”. wave”, while another had terparts in Paris on Tuesday that it had found 903 of the 949 “It is not the virologists and written on his shirt “No to amid calls for the government people who tested positive out doctors who are going to dictate this masquerade”. to increase pressure on France of a total of 44,000 travellers the rules in our country,” a pro- Belgium has the highest per to prevent migrants arriving returning to the country, while tester who gave his name only capita death rate from in UK waters. it could not locate personal data as Michel said. “We are being COVID-19 in the world and French maritime author- for 46 of the positive tests. treated as children.” infections are again rising after ities said they had rescued 31 The tests had been carried The call to demonstrate was earlier success in bringing the migrants, including three out up to two weeks ago at launched on social media by a disease under control. children and an infant, who special centres that were group of citizens under the The number of cases in the were trying to cross the opened with great fanfare in the slogan “Viruswaanzin”, or “viral country of around 11.5 million Channel in small boats. It fol- Demonstrators holding a sign protest against the measures of the southern state, but problems madness” in Dutch, a people neared 78,000 on lowed 38 migrants being government to avoid the spread of COVID-19, amid its outbreak, with data entry meant that the movement that first appeared Sunday. Nearly 10,000 deaths picked up by French officials travellers had been waiting for near to the Finance Tower in Brussels, Belgium, yesterday. in the Netherlands. have been registered. in the waterway on Friday. their test results for days. Bavarian state premier Markus Soeder apologised for the problems on Thursday, Italy garbage dips with virus lockdowns, but plastics rise promising to fix the mistakes by adding extra staff. He also AP — ROME — to absorb the 300,000 tonnes organization and other such After years of reducing and cardboard as a result of the said he supported his health of extra waste from protective groups are warning that con- reliance on products like plastic so-called Amazon effect — minister who had offered to Italy produced 10% less garbage masks and gloves estimated to tinued reliance on single-use bags and cutlery, in line with referring to a surge in reliance on resign. during its coronavirus lockdown, be used this year, according to plastics will pose longer-term European Union directives, Italy the Internet retailer as people Some conservatives see but environmentalists warn that the Italian Institute for Environ- risks to the environment. saw a huge spike in plastic use holed up to abide by stay-at- Soeder as the best candidate increased reliance on dis- mental Protection and Research. That’s particularly true for during the coronavirus emer- home orders. But he concurred to run for the chancellorship posable masks and packaging “Substantially, the figures a country with a long coastline gency. The Italian National Con- that within Europe, Italy was in in next year’s election, suc- is imperiling efforts to curb will balance each other by the along the Mediterranean Sea, sortium for the Collection and a particularly vulnerable spot. ceeding Merkel who has said single-use plastics that end up end of this year,” Valeria Frit- which is plagued by the tiny bits Recycling of Plastic Packages said “Because you are sur- she will not stand for a fifth in oceans and seas. telloni, the institute’s head of of broken-down plastic known the increase in online shopping rounded by coastline, you just term. Soeder has so far said he Italian researchers estimate waste management and circular as microplastics. “We don’t have and its related packaging led to need to have some rain events will stay in Bavaria. that during the peak months of economy, said. an estimate yet of how much of an 8% increase in plastic waste, that will wash these masks into Germany has managed to Italy’s lockdown in March and But the pandemic dealt a those objects were dumped in the even within an overall decrease the sewage system or into the keep the number of COVID-19 April, urban waste production blow to efforts to move away environment, but what is sure is in garbage production. rivers and the waterways and cases and deaths relatively low fell by 500,000 tonnes. That from single-use plastics in that all those that have been Keiron Roberts, an environ- they will eventually make their compared to other European decrease is enabling dumps in many places where they were abandoned sooner or later will mental research fellow at the ways into the ocean,” he said. countries but there are con- Italy — where trash collection just beginning to become main- reach the sea,” said Giuseppe University of Portsmouth in “There’s no area of the Med- cerns about a possible second in major cities has often become stream. UN, Greenpeace, Italy’s Ungherese, head of anti-pollution England, said other countries iterranean now where plastic wave of the pandemic. a hot-button political issue Marevivo environmental campaigns at Greenpeace Italy. saw similar demand for plastics hasn’t impacted,” he added. MONDAY 17 AUGUST 2020 EUROPE / AMERICAS 11 ‘Get a grip’: UK govt urged to fix England exam chaos AP — LONDON Hundreds of in June as originally planned. thousands of students One leading lawmaker from the The British government was governing Conservative Party urged yesterday to “get a grip” had their exams, said the confusion is over how grades are being including GCSEs “unacceptable”. awarded to school students in traditionally taken two Hundreds of thousands of England, who were unable to students had their exams, take exams earlier this summer years before A-levels, including GCSEs traditionally because of the coronavirus cancelled earlier taken two years before A-levels, pandemic. this year because of cancelled earlier this year The latest confusion because of the pandemic. The emerged late on Saturday when the pandemic. The grades are vital for many college English exam regulator Ofqual grades are vital for and job applications. GCSE results A-level students hold placards as they protest outside the Department for Education, amid the launched a review on its own are due on Thursday. outbreak of the coronavirus disease, in London, Britain, yesterday. just-published guidance on how many college and job Because students couldn’t students can appeal grades applications. GCSE take exams, the regulator is thousands of bright students trial result was higher than the main opposition Labour Party, awarded under a complicated results are due on issuing grades based on a com- were effectively discriminated teacher’s prediction, then the said Prime Minister Boris Johnson system. plicated “moderation” algo- against because they were at a latter would take precedence. needs to “get a grip” and provide In a brief statement hours Thursday. rithm that saw almost 40% of historically underperforming Robert Halfon, chairman of clarity to students. after issuing the guidance, A-level students receive lower school. the education committee of “A credible appeals system Ofqual said the policy setting grades than those predicted by Last week, Williamson said lawmakers, said the situation is should have been the govern- out the criteria for students to among teenagers, primarily their teachers. The government students could take whatever a “huge mess” and “unac- ment’s first priority, but three make appeals was “being those who are 18, who received has said the process was nec- grade was higher between the ceptable”. “Students and days later there is absolutely no reviewed” by its board and that results for their final-year essary to prevent “grade teacher’s predicted grade or any teachers are incredibly anxious clarity on how young people further information would be A-level exams last week. inflation” that would render the trial exam they took before the — particularly the students who can challenge their unfair released “in due course”. The change has piled more results worthless. pandemic. He also said students are worried about their future,” grades,” she said. No reason was provided for pressure on Education Sec- Critics have said there are could take an exam in the he told the BBC. “This has got to Some students are looking the sudden change, a devel- retary Gavin Williamson, who flaws in the method, not least autumn instead. be sorted out.” to take legal action against the opment that is likely to cause has also faced acute criticism because a link with a school’s However, in its document on And Kate Green, the edu- regulator to get the downgrades further upset and anxiety for failing to get all schools back past performance has meant Saturday, Ofqual said that if the cation spokeswoman for the overturned by the courts. Italy closes clubs as virus cases rise among young Amid COVID-19 crisis,

REUTERS — ROME The new rules will start they infect their parents and were confirmed, down from today — two days after an their grandparents, they risk 629 on Saturday, with the flu shot makers see Italy is to shut discos and clubs Italian holiday when many creating real damage”. return of holidaymakers and and make it compulsory to wear young Italians go out dancing - The government had kept younger generations flouting a mask outdoors in some areas and will run until early Sep- clubs open despite mounting social distancing rules being record US production during the night-time in the first tember. Masks will be required criticism that they attracted blamed by medical experts for reimposition of restrictions as between 6pm and 6am in areas large crowds, that social dis- the recent hike. AFP — WASHINGTON including those 65 and older. cases of coronavirus pick up close clubs and where gath- tancing was not being respected Since its outbreak came to As a result, 63 percent of across the country, especially erings are more likely. and masks were not being light on February 21, Italy has Global influenza vaccine children and 45 percent of among younger people. “We cannot nullify the sac- worn. The industry has yearly recorded more than 35,000 makers have produced a record adults were vaccinated in New cases in the past week rifices made in past months. revenues of €4bn, the sector’s deaths. Testing on holiday- number of doses for the coming 2018-2019. In the over-65 age in Italy, the first European Our priority must be that of lobby group Silb said, calling on makers landing in Rome’s air- flu season, as authorities try to bracket, the figure was 68 country to be hit hard by the opening schools in September, the government for support. ports began yesterday after ease the burden on hospitals percent. virus, were more than double in full safety,” Health Minister Industry Minister Stefano the government said on ahead of an expected COVID-19 But this year, Americans those registered three weeks ago Roberto Speranza said on Patuanelli conceded there would Wednesday that people trav- resurgence. might have to look at new and the median age of people Facebook. Speranza on Sat- be economic damage, but said elling from Croatia, Greece, In the US, pharmaceutical places to receive their shots. contracting the virus has dropped urday urged young people to be he saw no alternative. Malta and Spain must be companies plan to make around “It’s going to be hard for people below 40, data showed. as cautious as possible as “if Yesterday, 479 new cases screened for the virus. 196 million doses to serve the to get their flu vaccinations population of 330 million, because they usually get it at according to the Centers for work or at school, but many Puerto Rico holds Thousands of Disease Control and Prevention workplaces and many schools (CDC). That is up from 175 million are closed,” said Gostin. second voting Canadian govt last year, an 11 percent increase. Every year the World Major pharmacy chain CVS, Health Organization and round after accounts hacked which administers flu vaccines national health authorities chaotic primaries without prescription, is select in February and March AFP — TORONTO ordering 18 million doses, the four strains of influenza AP — SAN JUAN double the amount in 2019. virus most likely to be in circu- Thousands of user accounts for Vaccine maker Seqirus plans lation the following winter in Thousands of Puerto Ricans online government services in to increase production by the northern hemisphere. yesterday got a second chance Canada were recently hacked roughly 15 percent in the US — Hundreds of millions of to vote for the first time, a during cyber attacks, author- from 52 million to 60 million eggs — the traditional medium week after delayed and ities said. The attacks targeted doses, as does Sanofi — from for incubating viruses before missing ballots marred the the GCKey service, used by 70 to 80 million. inactivating them and making original primaries in a blow to some 30 federal departments Sanofi, Seqirus and GSK are them into vaccines — are the US territory’s democracy. and Canada Revenue Agency the three biggest companies in delivered to laboratories, with More than 60 of the accounts, the Treasury Board the market. Sanofi shipped its production continuing through island’s 110 precincts opened of Canada Secretariat first batches on July 22, three the Spring, until syringes are following a recent US Supreme explained in a press release. weeks earlier than in 2019. The filled in summer. Court decision that stated a The passwords and user- CDC estimates flu killed between In the United States, Sanofi second round of voting would names of 9,041 GCKey account 24,000 and 62,000 last year. carries out these processes in take place at centers that holders “were acquired fraud- Widespread flu vaccination two factories in the states of never opened on August 9 or ulently and used to try and could thus help free up hospital Pennsylvania and New York. did not remain open the access government services,” beds, a vital public health The same factories could required eight hours. the authorities said. All affected measure to cushion the impact produce a future vaccine The ruling permanently accounts have been cancelled. of the COVID-19 pandemic. against the coronavirus. At any left out voters like Eldy Correa, About 5,500 Canada “I’m really worried about rate, Washington has also given a 67-year-old retiree who Revenue Agency accounts the autumn,” Lawrence Gostin, the company $2bn to expand went to her voting center in were targeted in this and a professor at Georgetown Uni- its production capacity. the southwest town of Cabo another attack, the authorities versity, said. Americans are “There are no concerns for Rojo three times last Sunday said, adding that access to already among the most vac- supply now,” said Dave Ross, and desisted only to find out these accounts has been sus- cinated peoples against the flu Vice- President of commercial later that it opened late. pended to protect taxpayer in the world: vaccination is rec- operations in North America for The primaries for the pro- information. An investigation ommended from the age of six Seqirus, adding that the firm statehood New Progressive Fire in Amazon reserve was launched by the gov- months. was working with partners to Party pit Gov. Wanda Vázquez ernment and the federal police Other countries, such as ensure adequate vial and Smoke rises from an illegally lit fire in Amazon rainforest reserve, against Pedro Pierluisi, who to determine whether there France, recommend it to people syringe production for future south of Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil, on Saturday. was Puerto Rico’s represent- were any breaches of privacy. at risk of complications, COVID-19 vaccines. ative to Congress from 2009 to 2017. He also briefly served as governor after former Gov. Ricardo Rosselló resigned last Slow motion recovery: Cautious Hollywood edges back to work year following huge protests sparked by a profanity-laced AFP — LOS ANGELES testing, on-set “COVID officers,” deaths. “At one point we were guild SAG-AFTRA, which has said Crabtree-Ireland, pointing chat that was leaked. sanitation stations and enforced like... ‘Do we hold off for the joined forces with Hollywood’s to similar measures in Cali- However, the island’s When veteran Hollywood actor social distancing between takes, safety of people?’” said Rod- directors, technicians and fornia to incentivize earthquake Supreme Court ruled that Gregg Daniel was offered an “everything went smoothly” riguez. “But it ended up where Teamsters unions. coverage. Vázquez, former justice sec- audition for a new movie in Los and safely, said executive pro- we were able to pull it off.” Among discussions are daily For now, the trickle of film retary at the time, was next-in- Angeles, he nearly didn’t show ducer Jolene Rodriguez. Permits to film in Los testing for actors performing productions going ahead need line to become governor since up — the pandemic was well Yet it is one of just a handful Angeles remain stalled at one- “the more dangerous work from to be approved by unions on a there was no secretary of state. under way, and “no one was of film productions to resume third of usual numbers, a COVID perspective,” such as case-by-case basis — leading Meanwhile, three candi- shooting”. “I almost hesitated in Hollywood since Governor according to nonprofit FilmLA intimate sex or fight scenes. to wrangling over issues such dates are running for the main even going to the audition,” said Gavin Newsom gave the green — and the vast majority of those Once negotiations are com- as the frequency and type of opposition Popular Demo- Daniel. “I’m African-American, light back in June. Health fears, are for making advertisements pleted — a deal is expected by COVID testing, especially on cratic Party, which sent a letter I’m over 50 and disproportion- uncertainty and a second wave and reality television. The main next month — the major low-budget shoots. to U.S. Attorney General ately black people were dying of coronavirus cases have hold-up for movie studios is problem of coronavirus Meanwhile producers have William Barr asking that his of COVID-19... but the script was meant few movie producers talks between employers and insurance persists. The cost of learned to be creative about department investigate the so good, and I’m an actor at braving a return so far — with unions to agree on a new set of restarting a production only to filming locations, with busy debacle. Puerto Rico Sen. heart.” some heading elsewhere or standard, industry-wide safety shut down again due to an out- public areas not feasible, said Eduardo Bhatia is running Fast-forward to today, and even overseas. protocols. break is so high that insurers FilmLA president Paul Audley. against Isabela Mayor Carlos Daniel has completed boxing No US state has suffered “We’ve been working on it are excluding COVID-related “Writers are really clever — Delgado and San Juan Mayor drama “7th & Union", filmed in more than California, which has for many, many weeks... there claims from new policies. so we know some of the shows Carmen Yulín Cruz, known for the streets of the eerily quiet so far recorded more than are a lot of complicated issues,” “What we’re hearing... is may be writing for areas that her public spats with US Pres- California entertainment 610,000 coronavirus cases, said Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, that there’s going to need to be are more isolated, like an indus- ident Donald Trump. capital. Thanks to relentless including more than 11,000 chief operating officer of actors governmental involvement,” trial area,” he said. 12 AMERICAS MONDAY 17 AUGUST 2020 Trump grabs spotlight but reclusive Biden leads polls

AFP — WASHINGTON If the polls are has pushed many independent any indication, voters “from undecided to, ‘I’m Despite being gaffe-prone, not going to vote for him,’” getting up in years and barely the Democratic Arterton said. heading out on the campaign candidate’s low-key Despite Biden’s lead in the trail, Democrat Joe Biden is style is paying off. polls, neither professor is ready leading in the polls as the coro- to say he has the election locked navirus epidemic and economic The election website up, not in these uncertain times crisis make the November pres- Real Clear Politics and with a candidate as unpre- idential election a referendum has Biden with a dictable as Trump. on Donald Trump. There are three debates The COVID-19 outbreak has 7.7-point lead over scheduled between the two men stripped Trump of his beloved Trump nationally. in September and October campaign rallies but he has which could be the occasion for made the most of his White fireworks. With Trump largely House pulpit to remain in the victory. His 2020 forecast? Biden, unable to expand his voter base, public eye. The 77-year-old president Barack Obama’s two- the real estate tycoon has been Biden, on the other hand, has term vice-president, will win the accused of trying to suppress held few campaign events, November 3 vote. the Democratic vote. spending most of his time since “This has nothing to do with Lichtman said this could mid-March at home in Wilm- Joe Biden,” Lichtman said. “It’s pose dangers for Democratic ington, Delaware. not dependent on Donald hopes of regaining the White Biden’s sparse public Trump’s personality either. It’s House. “My big worries about schedule has minimized the risks based on the record.” this election are two things that of his catching the virus while at The professor bases his pre- have nothing to do with the the same time reducing his dictions on what he calls the 13 US President Donald Trump speaks during a news conference at Trump National Golf Club in keys,” he said. chances of making any faux pas. “Keys to the White House.” Bedminster, New Jersey, US, on Saturday. “One is voter suppression. And if the polls are any indication, Among them: How strong is the Trump and his enablers are going the Democratic candidate’s US economy? Is there social since is he made the colossal States is the worst-hit country him of “hiding” in his Wilm- to make it difficult for people to low-key style is paying off. The unrest? Is the president an mistake of thinking he can talk in the world with an economy ington basement. vote, particularly to vote by mail election website Real Clear Pol- incumbent? Is the president char- his way out of the crises that hit on its knees. “By his almost reclusive in a pandemic,” Lichtman said. itics has Biden with a 7.7-point ismatic? Is his opponent? Of this the country, the pandemic, the While Trump’s handling of campaign he has maintained “And number two, Russian inter- lead over Trump nationally. last “key,” Lichtman says “Biden cries for social justice, the eco- the virus outbreak and the pro- the spotlight on President vention. How effective is their Allan Lichtman, a history doesn’t fit that bill.” “He’s a very nomic downturn,” Lichtman said. tests has been widely criticized, Trump,” said Christopher intervention going to be? Because professor at American Uni- empathetic, sincere man but he’s “That doesn’t work. And the Biden has been climbing in the Arterton, professor emeritus of we know Donald Trump not only versity, has correctly predicted not inspirational,” he said. result is a failed presidency.” polls. The former vice-president political management at George won’t do anything to stop it, he’ll the results of every US presi- In late 2019, Lichtman had With more than 169,000 has been able to largely sit back Washington University. welcome it again. “Those are two dential election since 1984, Trump in good shape to win re- deaths and over 5.3 million and watch events unfold, with And Trump’s management wild cards. No system can take including Trump’s upset 2016 election. “What has happened COVID-19 cases, the United the Trump campaign accusing of the crises facing the country that into account.” Top Democrats in US Congress Trump’s younger call for hearings on mail delays brother dies AFP — WASHINGTON REUTERS — WASHINGTON Donald Trump’s younger Top Democrats in the US Con- brother Robert (pictured) died gress yesterday called on Pres- on Saturday after being hospi- ident Donald Trump’s talized for an undisclosed appointed postmaster general illness, the US President said in to testify this month on changes a statement mourning his loss. that have stoked fears they are “It is with heavy heart I share aimed at holding up mail-in that my wonderful brother, ballots ahead of the November Robert, peacefully passed away election. tonight,” Trump said in a White The Postal Service’s internal House statement. “He was not watchdog has begun investi- just my brother, he was my best gating a wave of cost-cutting friend. He will be greatly kicked off by Postmaster General missed, but we will meet again. Louis DeJoy that has slowed mail His memory will live on in my family real estate business. delivery around the country, heart forever. Robert, I love Quieter and less famous than alarming lawmakers ahead of the you. Rest in peace.” Donald, Robert nevertheless November 3 election when up to The 74-year-old President became an integral part of the half of US voters could cast had visited his brother on Trump Organization and was ballots by mail. Friday at a hospital in New fiercely loyal to his older Congressional Democrats York, staying for about 45 brother. “I support Donald one called on DeJoy, a donor to minutes. US media reports had thousand percent,” Robert told Republican President Donald said Robert Trump was seri- the New York Post in January Trump, and U.S. Postal Service ously ill, although there were 2016 as Donald was making his Chairman Robert Duncan to Postal workers sort mail at a Los Angeles, California, facility, In this April 30, 2020 file picture. no details. bid for the White House. testify in an August 24 com- Donald Trump, who was “I think he’s doing a great mittee hearing. Trump, who is trailing pre- lawmakers from a summer we need to make sure that we stopping in New York on the job. I think he’s got a great “The President has explicitly sumptive Democratic nominee recess to address changes at the do it right.” way to his golf club in nearby message.” The New York Times stated his intention to manip- Joe Biden in polls, of trying to Postal Service, a Democratic Trump has repeatedly and Bedminster, New Jersey for the however said the two had been ulate the Postal Service to deny hamstring the cash-strapped congressional aide said. without evidence said that a weekend, told reporters on estranged for years before eligible voters access to the Postal Service to suppress Separately, Meadows told surge in mail-in voting would Friday only that “he’s having a Donald’s run for president. ballot in pursuit of his own re- mail-in voting. CNN’s State of the Union that lead to fraud. Voting by mail is hard time”. He has previously The brothers were very dif- election,” Democrats including Trump himself on Thursday the White House fears a surge nothing new in the United called his brother Robert “won- ferent, and the brash Donald House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, said he had held up talks with in mail-in voting could delay States, as one in four voters cast derful” and said they have “had once described Robert as “soft- Senate Minority Leader Chuck Congress over a fresh round of election results and leave the ballots that way in 2016. a great relationship for a long spoken and easygoing”. Schumer and House Oversight coronavirus stimulus funding to naming of the new president to The House could vote on a time, from day one.” Media While usually avoiding the Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney block Democrats from providing the speaker of the House. measure to prohibit the Postal reports said Robert was 71. limelight, earlier this year said in a joint statement. more funds for mail-in voting “A number of states are now Service from implementing any Democratic presidential Robert unsuccessfully tried to “The Postmaster General and election infrastructure. trying to figure out how they are changes to the operations or hopeful Joe Biden also sent the block publication of a book by and top Postal Service lead- Trump later walked back going to go to universal mail-in level of service it had in place president his condolences. “I his niece Mary Trump, arguing ership must answer to the Con- those comments, saying he ballots,” Meadows said. in January 2020, until the know the tremendous pain of that she was violating a non- gress and the American people would not veto a bill that “That’s a disaster where COVID-19 pandemic has ended. losing a loved one -- and I disclosure agreement signed in as to why they are pushing included funds for the Postal we won’t know the election US Senator Bernie Sanders know how important family is 2001 after the settlement of her these dangerous new policies Service. White House Chief of results on November 3 and we told ABC’s “This Week” he would in moments like these. I hope grandfather’s estate. that threaten to silence the Staff Mark Meadows told CNN might not know it for months back that move. “The House you know that our prayers are The book, “Too Much and voices of millions, just months yesterday that said he would and for me that’s problematic should come back and make sure with you all,” Biden tweeted. Never Enough: How My Family before the election.” DeJoy did agree to $10bn to $25bn in fresh because the Constitution says that the US Postal Service is fully Born in 1948 and the Created the World’s Most Dan- not immediately respond to a Postal funding. Democrats had that then a Nancy Pelosi in the funded,” Sanders said. “This goes youngest of the five Trump sib- gerous Man,” paints Donald request for comment. sought $25bn. House would actually pick the to the fact of whether or not we lings, Robert Trump worked on Trump as the product of a Democrats have accused Pelosi may recall president on January 20. So are a democracy.” Wall Street before joining the “toxic” family. Democrats to highlight 17 ‘rising Trump says he is considering pardon for Snowden stars’ in convention keynote REUTERS — WASHINGTON Russia after he leaked a trove REUTERS — WASHINGTON 2004 speech about overcoming of secret files in 2013 to news partisan division introduced US President Donald Trump organizations that revealed vast The Democratic Party will high- Americans to the then-Illinois said on Saturday he is consid- domestic and international sur- light 17 young politicians it con- state senator. He became the ering a pardon for Edward veillance operations carried out siders “rising stars,” including party’s presidential nominee, Snowden, the former US by the NSA. one-time vice presidential with Biden as his running mate, National Security Agency con- Snowden’s Russian lawyer, hopeful Stacey Abrams, on four years later. tractor — now living in Russia Anatoly Kucherena, told RIA Tuesday, the second night of the “This year’s Keynote — whose spectacular leaks news agency the United States party’s nominating convention. Address will feature not one, shook the US intelligence com- should not simply pardon him, The coronavirus pandemic but seventeen of the Demo- munity in 2013. but should drop all possible has forced the party to reinvent cratic Party’s rising stars from The Republican President’s prosecutions against Snowden the convention format, all across the country,” Demo- comments followed an as he had not commited any scrapping crowds and balloons cratic organizers said in a interview https://nypost. crimes. in Milwaukee in favor of virtual statement yesterday. com/2020/08/13/trump-a-lot- “He was acting not only in events televised from around “These young electeds will of-people-think-edward- the interest of the American the country. offer a diversity of different snowden-not-being-treated- citizens, but in the interest of The 17-person keynote ideas and perspectives on how fairly Trump gave to the New Edward Snowden speaks via video link during a news conference all the humankind,” spreads the spotlight often used to move America forward, but York Post this week in which he in New York City, US, in this September 14, 2016, file picture. Kucherena said. Trump’s sof- to highlight one person as mil- they will all speak to the future said of Snowden that “there are tening stance toward Snowden lions are expected to tune in to we’re building together.” a lot of people that think that possible pardon, speaking at a the United States to face a represents a sharp reversal. the expected formal nomi- The choices are aimed at he is not being treated fairly” news conference at his Bed- criminal trial on espionage Shortly after the leaks, Trump nation of former Vice-Pres- highlighting the racial, ethnic by US law enforcement. minster, New Jersey golf club. US charges brought in 2013. expressed hostility toward ident Joe Biden. and gender diversity of the “I’m going to start looking at authorities for years have Snowden fled the United Snowden, calling him “a spy President Barack Obama’s party. it,” Trump told reporters about a wanted Snowden returned to States and was given asylum in who should be executed”.