QATAR | Page 2 SPORT | Page 1 Qatar, Spain share Gritty Tigres face historic and clinical Bayern friendly ties, for glory today promising future

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THURSDAY Vol. XXXXI No. 11821 February 11, 2021 Jumada II 29, 1442 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

No change in school Amir meets Spanish foreign minister Amir receives message from Amir of Kuwait system, says ministry There is no change in the existing blended learning system being followed in Qatar’s schools, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education has clarified, dismissing as incorrect some social media reports on distance learning. “Kindly be informed that schooling shall continue to be off ered under the current form, as false news are being circulated on social media platforms,” the ministry said in a tweet yesterday. “We hereby reiterate our keen interest to provide a healthy, safe learning environment in schools by ensuring all precautionary measures are strictly followed. We urge everyone to seek information from off icial sources.” The Cabinet last week said the blended learning system in schools will continue with the current capacity. His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani received yesterday a message from the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah dealing with the strong bilateral relations and means of boosting them, in addition to 18th edition of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani met yesterday at his the most prominent regional and international developments. The message was conveyed by the Speaker of the National Amiri Diwan off ice with Minister for Foreign Aff airs, European Union and Assembly of Kuwait Marzouq Ali al-Ghanim, during his meeting with the Amir at his off ice in the Amiri Diwan. At the outset of Co-operation of Spain Arancha Gonzalez Laya, and her accompanying the meeting, the Speaker of the Kuwaiti National Assembly conveyed the greetings of the Kuwaiti Amir to His Highness the DJWE to be held delegation. The meeting dealt with discussing bilateral relations and reviewed Amir, wishing him success and the Qatari people further progress and prosperity. For his part, the Amir entrusted al-Ghanim aspects of strengthening and developing them, in addition to discussing most to convey his greeting to the Amir of Kuwait, wishing him health and the Kuwaiti people further progress and development. from May 24-29 prominent regional and international developments. The meeting was attended by HE the Speaker of the Shura Council Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud. Sheikh Joaan meets Saudi sports minister Qatar-Saudi land O Qatar-Saudi sports co-operation set for new heights cargo movement HE Akbar al-Baker inister of Sports and Chair- man of the Olympic Com- Qatar National Tourism Council Mmittee of the Kingdom of (QNTC) has announced a new date Saudi Arabia Prince Abdulaziz bin to start on Feb 14 for the 18th edition of its leading Turki al-Faisal arrived in Doha yes- business event Doha Jewellery and terday at the invitation of HE the Watches Exhibition (DJWE) which will President of the Qatar Olympic Com- ommercial land cargo move- to prior co-ordination with the admin- now be held from 24-29 May. mittee Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al- ment between Qatar and Saudi istration. This decision follows the recent Thani. CArabia will resume on February Trucks and drivers have to return announcement by the Cabinet to HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al- 14, the General Authority of Customs to Salwa border immediately after the reimpose restrictions in the interest Thani met Prince Abdulaziz and his (GAC) has announced. completion of the unloading process of maintaining the health and safety delegation upon their arrival at Ha- A number of regulatory and pre- at Abu Samra border. All importers of of all residents. mad International Airport. cautionary controls pertaining to the goods through Abu Samra border are HE Akbar al-Baker, Secretary-General HE the President of the Qatar Foot- movement of imported and transiting obligated to prepare local trucks suit- of QNTC and GCEO of Qatar Airways, ball Association Sheikh Hamad bin goods through the land border between able for transporting the goods that are remarked: “To ensure the safety Khalifa bin Ahmed al-Thani, HE the Qatar and Saudi Arabia were announced received, and to notify the administra- and well-being of our guests and Secretary-General of QOC Jassim bin on the GAC website yesterday. tion of the dates and numbers of the people, we have decided to postpone Rashid al-Buainain, and several QOC Truck drivers coming from Saudi trucks in advance to facilitate the pro- DJWE for three months following the offi cials later attended a meeting. Arabia’s Salwa border must obtain a cedures for entering the port. announcement of new measures from Prince Abdulaziz will today wit- certifi cate authenticated by the Saudi The GAC explained that customs the State Committee. Having grown ness the fi nal of the FIFA Club World Ministry of Health, proving that they procedures on imported goods are car- and evolved over the year to become Cup between European champions HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani meeting Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Faisal have been tested for Covid-19, at least ried out at the port in accordance with a global leader in the luxury goods Bayern Munich and Mexico’s Tigres 72 hours prior to the date of entry into the provisions of the Customs Law industry and the highlight of the events UANL at the Education City Stadium. Football Association Sheikh Hamad two countries in the realm of sport. Qatar’s Abu Samra border crossing. and its implementing regulations and calendar in Qatar, the Doha Jewellery A couple of days ago, the Chair- bin Khalifa bin Ahmed al-Thani. The past three-and-a-half years Drivers and trucks transporting the customs procedures guide. The & Watches Exhibition is a must attend man of the Board of Directors of the Some hectic diplomacy involving saw sporting ties between the neigh- goods to Qatar via Abu Samra are not customs declaration for the restricted event for anyone with an appreciation Saudi Football Association, Yasser al- top sports offi cials from Qatar and bours run cold due to the blockade, permitted to enter the country, and the goods is presented to the competent au- for the finest craftsmanship and off ers Mashal accompanied by other Saudi Saudi Arabia over the past few days with tensions running high whenever goods will be unloaded and re-loaded thority through the electronic customs visitors the opportunity to enjoy a sports offi cials visited Qatar at the in- is expected to dramatically raise the teams from the two countries clashed onto local trucks by the importer or his clearance system (Alnadeeb), to take the journey of elegance, heritage and vitation of the President of the Qatar level of co-operation between the on the fi eld. To Page 12 representative at the border, according appropriate decision. To Page 8 luxury. Combined with more off erings during the summer months, an exciting line up of events and presence of international celebrities, the highlight of QNTC’s calendar of events DJWE will return to dazzle its audiences in May.” Qatar okays emergency QMC honours Gulf Times chief editor use for Moderna vaccine for Covid awareness campaign he Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has issued an emergency Covid vaccine age ulf Times Editor-in-Chief Fais- Tuse authorisation for Moderna’s al Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Covid-19 vaccine. threshold lowered Gwas honoured by Qatar Media This is the second Covid-19 vaccine, Corporation CEO HE Sheikh Abdul- after the Pfi zer-BioNTech vaccine, to be The age threshold for Covid-19 rahman bin Hamad al-Thani, for the approved for use in Qatar by the MoPH. vaccination has been lowered excellent contribution of the Gulf Exhibition set to showcase Moderna’s Covid-19 vaccine was to 50 for all Qatar residents, a Times team in the awareness cam- leading global brands approved after the ministry’s Depart- top off icial at the Ministry of paign to combat Covid-19 pandemic ment of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Public Health (MoPH) announced since its outbreak in the country. DJWE is QNTC’s flagship exhibition Control carried out an extensive review yesterday. “This will facilitate The awareness campaign across attended by top luxury watches and of the vaccine and assessed the results more people to be vaccinated in diff erent media platforms in print, jewellery brands as well as jewellery of clinical studies conducted on tens of the coming days,” said Dr Soha al- audio, digital and radio reached citi- connoisseurs from Qatar and all thousands of volunteers. Bayat, head of Vaccination, MoPH, zens and residents in diff erent lan- over the world. The 2020 edition The MoPH approval follows similar during an online live question- guages – English, Hindi, Filipino, of the Doha Jewellery & Watches authorisation of Moderna’s vaccine by answer session. Also, Qataris of Bengali and Urdu. Videos were pro- Exhibition featured almost 130 health agencies in the US, Canada, the all age categories are eligible for duced in various languages, in co-op- exhibitors from 14 countries and European Union, the UK and Switzer- vaccination from today. Page 12 eration with Radio Olive (Hindi) 106.3 HE Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad al-Thani honouring Faisal al-Mudahka. was enjoyed by more than 32,000 land. FM and Radio Suno (Malayalam) 91.7 visitors from 175 countries. The Dr Abdullatif al-Khal, chair of the FM, Kabayan Radio (Filipino) 94.3 regarding Covid-19 were eff ectively at Texas A&M University at Qatar. event showcased a range of exciting National Health Strategic Group on ing the Moderna vaccine along with FM, Malayalam Radio 98.6 FM, Urdu disseminated in the languages of As migrant workers faced high rates workshops including an Objectif Covid-19 and head of Infectious Dis- the Pfi zer and BioNTech vaccine as we 107 FM Radio, Golfo Radio 98.3 FM expatriates. The study was carried of infection during the early stages Horlogerie session in addition to eases at Hamad Medical Corporation, expand our national vaccination pro- and Dotspace company, ensuring out by Dr Rizwan Ahmad, associate of the pandemic, Qatar’s multilin- The Art of Rarity with diamonds said: “The comprehensive clinical trial gramme in Qatar.” that the message reached all targeted professor of Sociolinguistics in the gual campaign, alongside Covid-19 workshops run by De Beers; local process on Moderna’s Covid-19 vac- Dr al-Khal said with high demand for groups rapidly. Department of English Literature & preventive and precautionary meas- talent also took pride of place as cine has showed it is safe and highly ef- Covid-19 vaccines around the world, In this regard, a study conducted Linguistics at Qatar University and ures at workers’ accommodations the Young Qatari designers pavilion fective. The authorisation from MoPH Qatar will now benefi t from the avail- by two university professors in Qa- Dr Sara Hillman, assistant professor and project sites, helped contain the featured prominently. To Page 8 means we can soon begin administer- ability of two vaccines. To Page 12 tar showed how important messages of English in Liberal Arts Programme spread of the virus, they found. Gulf Times 2 Thursday, February 11, 2021 QATAR

Sheikha Moza meets Spanish FM

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development and Education Above All, met yesterday with Minister for Foreign Aff airs, European Union and Co-operation of Spain Arancha Gonzalez Laya, and her accompanying delegation. During the meeting, several topics of joint interest related to education and scientific research were discussed, in addition to ways of enhancing research co-operation with Qatar Foundation and Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU). Qatar, Spain share historic and friendly ties, promising future

QNA is looking to increase its invest- FM meets Spanish counterpart Doha ments in Qatar, expressing, in this context, his thanks to Spain HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh for its support and contribution Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani met yesterday with Minister E the Deputy Prime Min- to the World Cup 2022 projects for Foreign Aff airs, European Union and Co-operation of Spain ister and Minister of in Qatar. Arancha Gonzalez Laya. During the meeting, they reviewed bilateral HForeign Aff airs Sheikh HE Sheikh Mohamed ex- co-operation relations, especially in the field of economics, strategic Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al- pressed Qatar’s aspiration to issues and cultural partnerships, in addition to issues of common Thani affi rmed that bilateral re- strengthen its co-operation with interest. lations between Qatar and Spain Spain in the future, adding that are distinguished, adding that the two sides exchanged views on the two countries are looking various regional issues. build on it to overcome the Cov- ity between the two countries. forward to strengthen and devel- He hailed Spain’s role in vari- id-19 pandemic. She expressed She said that Spain wants to be a op these relations in the future in ous regional issues, especially her hope that this year will be main part of World Cup 2022 in various fi elds. the Palestinian issue, and Spain’s the end of the pandemic so that Qatar, adding that Spain has high Speaking at a joint press con- fi rm stance on the two-state so- life can go back to normal as soon expectations for its participation ference held yesterday with lution, adding that the two sides as possible, noting that this was in the global sporting event. She Minister for Foreign Aff airs, Eu- discussed various issues, related one of the topics she discussed in also noted that one of the stadi- ropean Union and Co-operation to developments in the GCC, the Doha. ums was designed by a Spanish of Spain Arancha Gonzalez Laya, Iranian nuclear agreement and She added that the end of the architect. HE Sheikh Mohamed pointed other areas such as Afghanistan, pandemic will see economic ties The Spanish minister dis- out that the current visit of the Libya, and Lebanon. between the two countries re- cussed the regional issues she Spanish minister to Doha comes The FM praised the agree- turn to normal, given the special discussed during her visit to Qa- in the framework of the excel- ments signed yesterday in the partnerships the two countries tar, stressing that Spain is ready lent relations between the two cultural and sports fi elds, add- have in those fi elds. She noted to play a part in helping regain countries, affi rming that they are ing that he looked forward to that there are a number of Span- stability in the region. On how strong and historic ties. continue consultations and co- HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani ish companies operating in Qatar the signed agreements can en- He added that the meet- operation between Qatar and and Minister for Foreign Aff airs, European Union and Co-operation of Spain Arancha Gonzalez Laya and contributing in infrastruc- hance ties between Qatar and ings and talks held between the Spain and that these visits will holding a joint press conference in Doha yesterday. ture projects, water treatment, Spain, she noted that the op- Spanish minister, His Highness lead to fruitful results for both digitalisation, and education. portunity for enhancing bilat- the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Ha- countries. He affi rmed Qatar’s Responding to a question on and anything that would hap- carried by all countries and not The visiting Spanish minister eral co-operation was promising, mad al-Thani and offi cials in the confi dence in the durability of the two phone calls HE Sheikh pen in the region would directly just Qatar. The FM stressed that expressed her appreciation of stressing that there will be areas country dealt with bilateral rela- the Spanish economy, pointing Mohamed received from US Spe- impact Qatar. He added that the Qatar was more than ready to Qatari investments in Spain, not- that will play a prominent role in tions in the economic side and in out that the economic partner- cial Representative US for its part is a strategic ally contribute to regaining stabil- ing the depth of economic ties, creating a bright future for both terms of co-operation in the de- ships between the two countries for Iran and the US National of Qatar, noting that it was im- ity in the region if any of the in- and adding that the two coun- countries. The Spanish minister velopmental fi elds as well as the which Qatar is seeking to develop Security Advisor and the role portant to avoid escalations in volved parties request so, noting tries look forward to seizing op- noted that the agreements signed diff erent regional issues of joint after the end of the coronavirus Qatar can play in the region given the region. The FM said that the that Qatar is continuing its eff ort portunities to enhance ties fur- will boost bilateral partnerships, interest. pandemic. its ties with Tehran and whether two calls were regarding consul- in that regard given its impor- ther in the future. She also added particularly after the coronavi- Regarding the Qatari-Spanish Stressing that the two sides lines of communication were tations on Iran and other issues, tance to the country. that the two sides look forward to rus pandemic. She said that the relations in the investment fi eld, are working to exploit the invest- open between the two sides, the stressing that Qatar is working For her part, the Spanish for- incentivising trade and economic two sides signed an agreement the FM pointed out that Qatar has ment opportunities available, the FM said that the communication, on de-escalation through a po- eign minister said that her visit to partnerships between them. to expand cultural partnerships investments in Spain, explaining FM praised the Spanish compa- whether with the American side litical and diplomatic process to Qatar was the fi rst since she as- She touched on an agreement and promote Qatari history and that Qatar seeks to increase its nies operating in Qatar, affi rming or the Iranian side were ongoing. return to the nuclear agreement. sumed her position, praising the signed between the two sides culture, stressing that Spain sup- contributions and investments that this partnership is welcomed He added that this was normal He added that these eff orts were distinguished bilateral ties, and in the culture and sports fi eld ports Qatar’s eff orts in hosting in Spain, and the latter, in turn, and appreciated by Qatar. given Iran is a neighbour of Qatar part of a wider international one noted that the two sides want to to enhance that type of activ- the World Cup 2022.

QU signs agreement Strict precautionary measures against with Al Salam Petroleum Services Company Covid-19 to be put in place at BYH 2021

he organisers of the Build Under the terms of agreement, Boecker Your House (BYH 2021) will implement the precautionary Texhibition have stressed that strict Covid-19 precau- measures that will ensure the health tionary measures will be fol- lowed during the event. and safety of all participants, exhibitors The exhibition is scheduled and visitors during the exhibition to be held at Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) id-19 to provide complete safe- including daily disinfection of from March 22 to 24 under the ty for visitors and participating the venue as well as ensuring patronage of HE the Prime companies. That’s why we have thorough disinfection of areas Minister and Minister of Inte- partnered with Boecker, which that entail meeting and com- rior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa is committed to providing glo- municating with visitors, espe- bin Abdulaziz al-Thani. bal best practices in applying cially reception halls and other NeXTfairs for exhibitions preventive measures against common places. & conferences and Boecker, Covid-19. These will be in addition to a global leader in health and “We at NeXTfairs developed maintaining a safe distance be- safety, have signed a partner- a risk assessment plan of more tween individuals of at least 2m, ship agreement to implement File picture of a previous edition of the BYH expo. than 40 pages, covering all the conducting temperature checks the preventive measures against risks response plans from miti- on all employees daily, immedi- Qatar University’s College of Engineering and Al-Salam Petroleum Covid-19 and ensure public bringing them into the exhibi- This is in addition to applying gation to avoidance to trans- ately isolating employees when Services Company signed yesterday a Memorandum of health and safety during the tion halls. In addition, Boecker the precautionary measures ferring and acceptance for the noticing any of the symptoms, Understanding (MoU) regarding co-operation in the field of drilling exhibition, the organisers have will also provide the general of QNCC, in line with the best pre- during and post-event. and keeping in contact with the fluids and oilfield chemicals. On this occasion, Vice-President of said in a statement. supervision of other preventive global and local practices in the We aligned the measures with MoPH, while applying the same Qatar University for Academic Aff airs Dr Omar al-Ansari said that this Under the terms of agree- measures such as thermal scan- field of business events, to pro- the Ministry of Public Health rules to the participating com- partnership supports the collaboration between Qatar University ment, Boecker will implement ning of the participants, wear- vide the safest experience for (MoPH) guidelines and the local panies. and Al-Salam Petroleum Services Company and helps with the the precautionary measures ing of masks, and checking the both exhibitors and visitors, the health officials, and continue Carla Ghaleb, general man- transition to a knowledge-based economy and opens the doors that will ensure the health and Eheteraz app, among others. statement notes. adjusting our approach as nec- ager of Boecker in Qatar, added: for companies to benefit from the university’s facilities. In addition, safety of all participants, exhib- Moreover, Boecker will pro- Rawad Sleem, general man- essary to follow the best prac- “We look forward, through this the collaboration enriches partnerships with faculty members who itors and visitors during the ex- vide internal audits on practices ager of NeXTFairs for exhibi- tices in the event industry.” partnership, to optimise all specialise in scientific research, and encourages organising various hibition. The measures include and measures taken – based on tions & conferences, said, “At Sleem indicated that the our experiences to ensure the joint events and deepening the relationship with the industrial regular and consistent disin- the Qatar Clean programme – the BYH 2021 exhibition, we guidelines of the Qatar Clean health and safety of all visitors sector towards more co-operation and joint interaction in a way that fection of the halls, exhibition to ensure the safety of organis- will apply the strictest precau- programme will be imple- and participants of the exhibi- supports the educational and research process. stands and all exhibits before ers, participants and visitors. tionary measures against Cov- mented during the exhibition, tion.” Gulf Times Thursday, February 11, 2021 3 QATAR

Al-Mahmoud meets Kuwaiti speaker PM meets FIFA president

HE the Speaker of the Shura Council Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud met yesterday with the Speaker of the National Assembly of Kuwait Marzouq bin Ali al-Ghanim, and his accompanying delegation. During the meeting, they discussed developing co-operation between the Shura Council and the Kuwaiti National Assembly, enhancing joint Gulf parliamentary work, co-ordinating positions between the two councils in regional and international parliamentary activities, as well as reviewing a number of issues related to parliamentary work. The meeting was attended by HE the Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council Mohamed bin Abdulla al-Sulaiti, HE the Chairman of Qatar-Arab Parliamentary Friendship Group HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani met Saqr bin Fahad al-Muraikhi and yesterday with FIFA President Gianni Infantino on the occasion of his visit to the country to attend ambassador of Kuwait to Qatar the FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2020. During the meeting, they reviewed the co-operation relations Hafeez Mohamed al-Ajmi. between Qatar and FIFA and ways to enhance them, in addition to the latest developments related to hosting the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Al-Muraikhi meets Acting Charge D’affaires Al-Muraikhi meets Djibouti envoy of Saudi embassy in Qatar

HE the Minister of State for Foreign Aff airs Sultan bin Saad al-Muraikhi met yesterday with Acting Charge D’aff aires of the Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Qatar, Ali Saad Ali al-Qahtani. During the meeting, they reviewed bilateral co-operation relations between the two brotherly countries, in addition to issues of common interest.

HE the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad al-Muraikhi met yesterday with ambassador of Djibouti to Qatar Tayeb Dbd Robleh. During the meeting, they reviewed bilateral co-operation relations between the two countries, in addition to issues of common concern.

Cabinet nod for continuation Cuban envoy presents copy of credentials of current Covid restrictions

QNA with regard to the precautionary in the real estate sector in the Gopac to intensify Doha measures that have been taken in country. order to combat the pandemic. Second — Approval of a draft activities: Speaker After that, the Cabinet consid- memorandum of understanding E the Prime Minister ered the topics on the agenda as (MoU) between the Ministry of HE the Speaker of the and Minister of Inte- follows: Culture and Sports in Qatar and the Shura Council and Chair of Hrior Sheikh Khalid bin First — Approval of extending Ministry of Culture in Portugal, to the Global Organisation of Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani the work period of the committee co-operate in the fi eld of culture. Parliamentarians Against chaired yesterday the Cabinet’s on real estate sector development Third — The Cabinet reviewed Corruption (Gopac) Ahmed bin regular meeting held at its seat at strategy to six more months. the following issues and took ap- Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud the Amiri Diwan. Following the Among the specialties of this propriate decisions in their re- stressed that the organisation meeting, HE the Minister of Jus- committee is proposing a strat- gard: will intensify activities in the tice and Acting Minister of State egy for developing the real estate 1- A draft decision of the Cabi- coming period within its future for Cabinet Aff airs Dr Issa Saad sector in the country, as well as net to exclude checks from the plans and programmes to al-Jafali al-Nuaimi said follow- the policies and the plans that negotiable commercial paper achieve its goals. ing: must be implemented, in addi- that is not subject to the Law In this context, it will build At the beginning of the meet- tion to proposing means of sup- of Electronic Transactions and partnerships with the UN ing, the Cabinet listened to the porting and developing the real Commerce issued within Decree organisation, develop its explanation provided by HE the estate sector, proposing neces- Law no. 16 of 2010. co-operation with the Inter- Minister of Public Health on sary controls for investment in 2- The results of the Global Fo- Parliamentary Union (IPU), and HE the Minister of State for Foreign Aff airs Sultan bin Saad al-Muraikhi received yesterday a copy the latest developments to limit this sector, and proposing the rum of Food and Agriculture and will have eff ective participation of the credentials of ambassador of Cuba to Qatar Oscar Leon Gonzalez. HE al-Muraikhi wished the the spread of the coronavirus necessary incentives, mecha- the 13th Agriculture Ministers’ in the United Nations session on ambassador success in his duties, assuring him to provide all support to upgrade bilateral relations (Covid-19), and the council af- nisms and programmes to en- Conference (January 2021 via combating corruption, which will between the two friendly countries to closer co-operation in various fields. fi rmed the continuation of work courage and attract investment videoconferencing). be held in New York in June. QF woman scientist on a mission to improve drug development

By Joseph Varghese There is a serious need tion with them over time.” results obtained from animal Staff Reporter for more-predictive 3D Dr Marei also holds the posi- models cannot be fully adapt- human-based models tion of Honorary Research Fel- ed to humans. According to Dr to accelerate the low, Vascular Biology Section Marei, the use of 3D culture post-doctoral Arab development of potential at Imperial College London, systems will bridge the gap in woman associate in new drugs. One way to do working closely in collabora- the current drug testing meth- A pharmacology at Weill this, the path Dr Marei has tion with Prof Jane Mitchell, ods. Cornell Medicine-Qatar taken, is by making more head of Cardiovascular Divi- These systems are anticipat- (WCM-Q), a Qatar Foundation complex models to mimic sion, National Heart and Lung ed to mimic the physiological partner, is working toward en- the human physiological Institute. She explained that conditions in the body much gineering 3D vascular grafts for conditions using human potential drugs are tested on more closely than currently cardiovascular drug screening. stem cells animals or using 2D cultures used 2D systems, therefore al- International Day of Women before moving to clinical trials. lowing for a better understand- and Girls in Science is marked awarded by L’Oréal-Unesco For The problem is neither of these ing of diseases and drugs. today (February11). Women in Science Middle East pre-clinical models adequately “Because stem cells can be “My research aims to employ Regional Young Talents Pro- mimic the physiological envi- isolated from the patient, they human stem cells to ‘engineer’ gramme 2020 – an initiative to ronment of human blood ves- can also be used to develop per- a 3D vascular graft through tis- empower women participation sels. sonalised drug-testing models sue engineering, which is an in scientific research by pro- Blood vessels are naturally making them a potential re- exciting emerging field that moting and encouraging ex- formed of multiple layers of source for personalised medi- combines the use of biomateri- ceptional women scientists at cells, embedded within a gelat- cine.” als and cells to restore or repair different stages of their careers. inous material. The blood that Dr Marei’s first exposure to damaged tissues,” said Dr Isra “This massive discrepancy flows through these vessels re- scientific research was dur- Marei. between drugs that pass pre- sults in mechanical forces act- ing her undergraduate years, “The way we are attempting clinical testing and those that ing on the vessel wall. None of wherein she participated in a to do this is by inducing cell actually make it to the market Dr Isra Marei which is reflected in a 2D cul- project funded by the Qatar Na- self-assembly to form a 3D vas- can be largely attributed to the ture system that studies the ef- tional Research Fund (QNRF). cular graft. Once that is done, lack of effective and predictive more-predictive 3D human- logical conditions using human tificial tissue made of a poly- fect of drugs on a single type of Supported by QNRF’s Qatar Re- the graft will be used to test the preclinical models. The avail- based models to accelerate the stem cells. meric material to be used as a cell under isolated conditions. search Leadership Programme, effects of known cardiovascular able screening systems do not development of potential new Speaking about how she got replacement for damaged heart While animal testing does she pursued her postgraduate drugs to validate the system,” adequately reflect the human drugs. One way to do this, the into this field, Dr Marei said, valves. Their sheer potential provide a certain level of com- education at Imperial College continued Dr Marei, one of cardiovascular physiology,” path Dr Marei has taken, is by “My interest in blood stem cells coupled with the need for bet- plexity, there are species dif- London. Her current position is the three winners in the Post- noted Dr Marei. making more complex models started during my PhD when I ter cardiovascular treatments ferences, particularly genetic supported by QNRF’s Postdoc- Doctorate Researchers category There is a serious need for to mimic the human physio- used them to populate an ar- has only increased my fascina- and metabolic which means the toral Research Award. Gulf Times 4 Thursday, February 11, 2021 QATAR

Doha Declaration Global Programme panel chief meets Japanese envoy

Maj. Gen. Dr Abdullah Yusuf Qmic and Loop Mobility al-Mal, adviser to HE the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Follow-up Committee for the Imple- mentation of the Global Programme of the Doha sign pact to collaborate Declaration issued by the 13th UN Crime Congress, yesterday met Japanese ambassador Kazuo Sunaga. The meeting, according to a statement by the Ministry for innovative solutions of Interior (MoI), was part of preparations for the 14th atar Mobility In- laboration comes in line with UN Crime Congress, which Maj. Gen. Dr Abdullah Yusuf al-Mal during his meeting with novations Centre Qmic’s strategy to support Japan will host this year. Japanese ambassador Kazuo Sunaga. Q(Qmic) and Loop local innovations and entre- “Qatar welcomes Japan’s Mobility signed a Memo- preneurs through strategic hosting of the 14th UN Con- establish its rule of law and the outstanding successes randum of Understanding market-oriented partner- gress on Crime Prevention justice, which benefited accomplished by the 13th (MoU) yesterday to explore ships. By off ering its locally and Criminal Justice which 166 countries worldwide. Congress hosted by Doha various areas of collabora- built technologies, solutions, will complete the achieve- The Japanese ambassador five years ago at all levels, tion between the two en- and enablers, Qmic is com- ments made within the explained his country’s especially the implemen- tities regarding diff erent mitted to support promising framework of the outcomes preparations for a success- tation of the Congress’ aspects under intelligent Qatari start-ups and new of the Doha Congress held ful organisation of the 14th outcomes and the notable mobility. business owners. in 2015”, al-Mal said. UN Crime Congress, which initiatives that contributed These two Qatari entities Omar Mohamed al-Jaber, He stressed that the Global will discuss many important to a significant role in con- will be working together Qmic’s director, Strategic Programme of the Doha issues related to the UN fronting crime. towards providing valuable Partnerships & Outreach, Declaration had accom- Sustainable Development He added that the 14th services to serve the needs said, “We are excited to be plished many successful Goals and their achieve- Crime Congress will con- of the local market. partnering with Loop Mo- initiatives and projects ment across society with tinue to build on the Doha Omar Mohamed al-Jaber Mohamed al-Mohannadi Loop Mobility is an aspir- bility to assist in providing to confront crime and all its members. He praised Congress’ positive results. ing Qatari start-up which their innovative micro-mo- aims to bring the mobility bility solutions in Qatar and revolution to Qatar by sup- looking forward to off ering porting national eff orts. our services as a technology Loop Mobility is off ering provider. This partnership scooter-sharing service supports our commitment for the residents in Doha to to enabling smart living and provide an alternative and contribute to the growth more eco-friendly way of and development of Qatar moving around destinations startup ecosystems” in Qatar. This agreement Loop’s chief execu- includes, among several tive officer, Mohamed al- other items, a framework Mohannadi, noted, “We for collaboration between want to bring the mobility Loop and Qmic by utilising, revolution to Qatar’s mar- for example, the Super Wain ket and witness our green platform which was recent- method of transport mov- ly launched by Qmic. This ing people all across the will make it easier for Loop city. Loop will be collabo- Mobility to off er its services rating with Qmic to build to users seamlessly while strong and reliable tech- also capitalising on Wain’s nology solutions enabled core components and wide by the extensive expertise user reach. of Qmic in the field of in- Wain’s signifi cantly en- telligent mobility. Both of hanced version, released to our entities are using lo- the public in late January cal technologies to deliver 2021, enables approved 3rd value to Qatar and its peo- party services to be includ- ple. We hope our e-mo- ed under “Micro-apps” as bility solution will attract a way of providing value- people to use this service added features to its users. to help cut down emissions Loop Mobility will be the and protect our environ- latest addition to this sec- ment.” tion as a micro app. De- There will be a joint ef- tails such as closest Loop fort between the two enti- stations, availability, and ties to bring the outcome of additional details will be this partnership to the local shown within Wain to make market. Over the next few it easier for users to browse months, such topics will be through the information. further explored to account As a national institu- for any potential value that tion focusing on using R&D can be created to serve the to create local tech-based needs of Qatar’s residents industry in Qatar, this col- and visitors alike.

Al Daayen Municipality’s food safety inspection campaign launched

Al Daayen Municipality’s Health Control Section has started to carry out a number of broad inspection campaigns on food outlets under its jurisdiction as part of a strategic plan for the year. The campaigns are set to cover eateries, restaurants and cafeterias in two stages. The first stage, being implemented during February, targets raising awareness about the necessary standards and conditions of food health as well as that of the workers concerned regarding the necessary preventive and precautionary measures against Covid-19. The second phase, to be carried out in March, will include surprise inspection campaigns and taking food samples to ensure the compliance of the food outlets with the necessary conditions and that the workers follow the proper rules of hygiene. Gulf Times Thursday, February 11, 2021 5 QATAR

Ooredoo auctions smartphone masterpieces from ‘The Art and the Mobile’ initiative

oredoo has begun auc- “We’ve been so excited to see the unique masterpieces being tioned off to raise funds for a tioning the smartphone created by our gifted local artists as part of this initiative, and we’re good cause. Omasterpieces created by “We’re committed to sup- local Qatari artists as part of delighted to see them being auctioned off to raise funds for a good cause” porting arts and culture as part ‘The Art and the Mobile’ ini- of our corporate social respon- tiative. and they were given a number until February 14, 2021, with 9pm gets the device. Sabah sibility strategy, and commit- A select group of artists were of smartphone devices as their new devices being auctioned Rabiah al-Kuwari, director, PR ted to supporting the com- chosen to take part in ‘The Art canvases. each day. at Ooredoo, said: “We’ve been munities in which we operate, and the Mobile’ challenge, a These devices are now be- Bidding for each device be- so excited to see the unique and this initiative is the perfect unique project intended to en- ing auctioned to raise funds gins at QR5,200, with mini- masterpieces being created by way in which we can fulfil both rich Qatar’s cultural and artis- for good causes. The auction mum bid increments of QR100, our gifted local artists as part commitments and showcase tic scene and to showcase its began on Ooredoo’s Instagram and the highest bidder at the of this initiative, and we’re de- the incredible artistic talent we young and upcoming artists, page at 9am yesterday and runs close of each day’s auction at lighted to see them being auc- have here in Qatar.” CNA-Q launches ‘virtual’ challenge to celebrate NSD

ollege of the North Atlantic – Qatar (CNA-Q) cel- ebrated National Sport Day (NSD) in a creative way Cthis year, amid the new restrictions announced by the government to prevent the surge in Covid-19 cases. The College launched ‘National Sport Day Virtual Taha- di’, consisting of the completion of 5,000 steps during the day or the equivalent of one hour of any physical activity, according to a statement yesterday. CNA-Q’s students, faculty, staff and families participat- ed in this ‘virtual challenge’ and posted their achievements on social media channels. The challenge saw the partici- pation of the College’s president Dr Salem al-Naimi along with the schools’ deans. Commenting on the event, Dr al-Naimi, said: “National Sport Day has traditionally proven a very special day for CNA-Q; the College has long been a sport advocate and promoted various sports activities among its students, fac- The College launched ‘National Sport Day Virtual Tahadi’, ulty, staff and the wider community. Today we faced a chal- consisting of the completion of 5,000 steps. lenge with an opportunity, we adapted to the restrictions and demands brought by the pandemic, and we confi rmed programme is the biggest club on campus off ering one-on- once again that sport is a great enabler, and should become one consultations, nutrition advice and exercise program- a lifestyle to each and every member within the commu- ming. nity.” CNA-Q Sport and Wellness also off er students valuable CNA-Q boasts state-of-the-art sports facilities that work experience where the department supports accredi- are also open to the public such as swimming pools, gym- tations in fi tness, coaching and lifeguarding, providing nasiums, tennis courts, football fi eld, multi-purpose grass student employees work skills that they can use for future pitch, cricket pitch and new padel courts. The men and employment. All activities taking place at the College are women’s varsity teams perform in both intercollegiate and mindful of the Covid-19 restrictions and prevention meas- community leagues and competitions, and the FITClub ures, the statement added. Ashghal begins works on QR544mn ‘Roads and Infrastructure Project’ in South Al Meshaf

he Public Works Authority 682 citizens’ subdivisions in South (Ashghal) has started works on Al Meshaf Area providing upgraded Tthe QR544mn ‘Roads and Infra- infrastructure services including a structure Project’ in South Al Meshaf 23.5km foul sewer network, 56km of – Package 9. surface and groundwater drainage net- The project, according to an offi - work, 9.5km of Treated Sewage Effl u- cial statement, is implemented as part ent (TSE) network and a 9km potable of the plan to develop infrastructure water network. New sewage pipelines projects for citizens’ subdivisions in will be provided and connected with the southern regions of the country. Engineer Hamad al-Maejeba Qatar’s main sewage network. Ashghal announced the start of the Construction works will also include implementation of the seventh pack- south, Al Wukair Road to the north and an emergency fl ood area with a total ca- age in August last year and that of the by the Southern Part of Doha Express pacity of 40,000 cu m to provide proper eighth package in January this year. Highway to the east. protection for the entire area against Upon completion, the project will The upgrading works will be imple- fl ooding and excess rainfall. have a 23km network of internal streets mented into three geographical zones, Package 9 of the Roads and Infra- in the area along with 9.5km pedes- to be carried out successively. structure in South Al Meshaf Project trian and cycle tracks with all modern The duration of each phase will be is being implemented by the joint facilities and safety features. This is in one year. Full completion of the project venture of Development Company for addition to upgrading infrastructure is scheduled for the fourth quarter of Road Works and Qatar Building Engi- facilities to respond to residents’ needs 2023. neering Company, at a cost of approxi- and urban growth in the future. Hamad al-Maejeba, project en- mately QR544.540mn as a part of the Located at South of Doha and South gineer at the Southern Area Section New Subdivisions Programme carried West Al Wakra, the project location of the Roads Projects Department in out by Ashghal and includes a number is bordered by Rekayya Street to the Ashghal, stated that the project serves of development projects across Qatar.

GU-Q’s Indian Ocean Research Initiative to gather experts at webinar today

Qatar Foundation (QF) partner Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) will host a public webinar titled ‘South East Asia and East Asia in Studies of the Indian Ocean World: Past, Present and Future’ today. It will feature a multidisciplinary panel of local and international scholars involved in the Indian Ocean Working Group (IOWG) at GU-Q. The panel dis- cussion will seek to identify areas of future research collabo- ration in order to deepen understanding of one of the world’s most culturally diverse regions, GU-Q has said in a statement. Panellists will include professor R Michael Feener from Kyoto University, Dr Weihsin Gui from the University of California, Dr Tansen Sen from NYU Shanghai, and Dr Hideaki Suzuki from Japan’s National Museum of Ethnology. Highlighting the IOWG’s role in creating intellectual links between QF partner universities, the event will be moderated by IOWG member Dr Anto Mohsin from Northwestern University in Qatar. The Indian Ocean rim has been a zone of complex human interaction across land and water throughout world history, explained GU-Q associate professor Dr Phoebe Musandu, a scholar of African history and a founding member of the IOWG. This webinar represents the first time the IOWG has a panel that will be focusing specifically on the farthest reaches of the Indian Ocean rim, she added. Registration for the public webinar is available at https:// www.qatar.georgetown.edu/event/south-east-asia-and-east- asia-in-studies-of-the-indian-ocean-world-past-present-and- future/. Gulf Times 6 Thursday, February 11, 2021 QATAR

Katara Hospitality and Accor announce launch of Maison Delano brand’s first property in Paris

atara Hospitality, a lead- portfolio and will set the stand- ing global hotel owner, z Maison Delano Paris will be located in the heart of the prestigious ard for future expansion. Lo- Kdeveloper and operator 8th Arrondissement in an 18th century mansion at 4 Rue d’Anjou cated in the heart of the prestig- based in Qatar, announced yes- ious 8th Arrondissement in an terday a new partnership with believe this collaboration will Delano Paris marks the evolu- guest experiences will now be 18th century mansion at 4 Rue Accor, a world-leading hospi- add operational strength and tion of the Delano brand, bring- replicated in major global ur- d’Anjou, just steps away from tality group for an exciting new build on the foundations of our ing a luxurious experience to ban city centres. Maison Delano the famous Rue du Faubourg evolution of the iconic Delano successful portfolio; Katara the centre of the world’s most will boast a new F&B concept by Saint-Honore, the hotel will brand, Maison Delano, planned Hospitality’s vision is to build a exciting cities. We couldn’t be world renowned chef Dani Garcia boast 56 extraordinary rooms to open in 2022. hand-picked selection of lead- prouder to launch this concept which will provide guests with an and suites, a vibrant restaurant In a press statement, Katara ing hotels in key destinations with our partners at Katara oasis in the centre of bustling cit- and bar nestled in the mansion’s Maison Delano facade. Hospitality acting CEO An- around the world. Maison De- Hospitality.” ies and feature unparalleled ac- historical courtyard. drew Humphries said: “We are lano is the ideal opportunity to Delano’s well-earned repu- commodations, cuisine. Over the course of the next lush entrance, a glorious court- perior service in a lifestyle set- delighted to have come to this grow our footprint in this vi- tation as the ultimate luxury As the fi rst addition to the year, the hotel will be reno- yard, and light and relaxing ting, providing guests excep- strategic partnership with Ac- brant and exciting market.” lifestyle destination which was Delano brand, Maison Delano vated and updated to provide guestrooms. tional dining options, expert cor by adding Maison Delano Accor’s Lifestyle Brands CEO launched in Miami with fi rst- Paris is destined to be a jewel guests with a luxurious and Consistent with the Delano mixology and an immersive spa to our collection of hotels. We Gaurav Bhushan said: “Maison class service and customised in the crown of Accor’s lifestyle chic aesthetic encompassing a legacy, the focus will be on su- experience.

NSD ‘should motivate all Nearly 9,000 received services from health centres on Sport Day for physical activity he Primary Health Care vided a number of specialised munity call centre provided 138 Corporation (PHCC) has clinic services, including ENT virtual medical consultations Tstressed the importance and dermatology clinics, in ad- to clients that contacted with- of exerting utmost eff orts to dition to pharmaceutical, radi- out prior appointment with the provide the best medical serv- ology and laboratory services service line 16000, indicating year-round: Karwa chief ices and healthcare to citizens during National Sport Day to that this type of counselling and residents, which refl ects meet the needs of patients. achieves speed for patients, the eff orts it is making in the Regarding the services pro- whose cases are classifi ed as uring the National Sport fi eld, QNA reported from Doha. vided by PHCC at its centres urgent, to obtain the neces- Day (NSD), Mowasalat During the National Sport within the framework of the sary healthcare and any pre- D(Karwa) encouraged all Day on Tuesday, 8,977 Qa- eff orts to combat the Cov- scription for drugs they need its employees to practice various taris and non-Qataris visited id-19 pandemic in the coun- through a specialised doctor, sporting events while adher- 18 out of the 27 health centres, try, PHCC said that through while ensuring social distanc- ing to Covid-19 precautionary PHCC stated, which includes its health centres, it received ing. measures. the 3,293 patients who were re- and examined suspected cases PHCC confi rmed that all the The company set an example ceived in general medicine and round-the-clock, and that the health centres on duty during in terms of providing face masks, family medicine clinics, while Rawdat Al Khail and Umm Salal National Sport Day were keen maintaining social distancing, dental clinics received 212 pa- Health Centres have been fully to receive visitors without de- preventing gatherings, allow- tients, in addition to all urgent allocated to deal with these lay in fulfi lling their needs or ing only individual games, and case units that were received cases, in addition to providing a increasing their waiting time, following all other instructions in the centres of Abu Baker Al Covid-19 examination through pointing out that meeting the issued by the committee organ- Fahad al-Qahtani Mowasalat staff take part in the National Sport Day celebration. Siddiq, Al Ruwais, Al Shee- vehicle service to all visitors needs of the visitors is one of ising NSD and the Ministry of haniya, Al Kaaban, Gharrafat who attended with their own the main priorities it is keen Public Health. asalat (Karwa) CEO Fahad Saad carrom and chess. We see this as mass and individual transport, Al Rayyan, Rawdat Al Khail, vehicles, and conducting an to achieve, as this is one of the “This year, National Sport al-Qahtani said in a statement. a contribution to a balanced life- and mobility services for ma- Muaither and Umm Salal, examination for them inside most important pillars of the Day comes under exceptional “We understand that healthy style for our staff , the bedrock of jor events. The Karwa Driving where each case was dealt, ac- their vehicles without the need National Strategy for Health, circumstances, but we encour- drivers are the basis of a safe and the company’s sustainable de- School ensures the best train- cording to necessity. to enter the health centre. and in line with Qatar National aged our staff not to be deterred effi cient transport system for velopment towards serving our ing for the public, as well as for PHCC said that it also pro- PHCC noted that the com- Vision 2030. by the needed preventive meas- all. Regular exercising is an im- community in the best way pos- professionals. Lately, Mowasalat ures. This day is an opportunity portant pillar to maintain this. sible,” he added. (Karwa) added limousine and to see the value of physical activ- So far, we have built the infra- Mowasalat (Karwa), founded wheelchair accessible vehicles ity, and it should serve as a mo- structure for a variety of diff er- in 2004, has ever since played to the fl eet to cover the broadest MoPH reports 451 new Covid-19 cases tivation for everyone to continue ent games, an in- and outdoor an important role as the na- possible range of transportation practising all year round,” Mow- gym, and even board games like tional company for solutions in needs in the country. The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) reported yesterday, 451 new confirmed cases of corona- virus (Covid-19) during the last 24 hours, of which 412 were from community cases and 39 from QRCS hands over medical donations to HMC travellers returning from abroad who are subject to quarantine, QNA reported Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) yesterday constant co-operation,” said Dr al-Hamad. “They The MoPH also recorded 260 delivered in-kind donations to Hamad Medical spare no eff ort in assisting the patients, both recoveries from the virus during Corporation (HMC) as a support for vulnerable individually and collectively.” the past 24 hours, bringing the patients. She added, “We are here to receive some in- total number of cases recovered The donations consisted of wheelchairs, beds kind donations that include beds and diverse in Qatar to 147,451. and medical equipment, QRCS said in a state- equipment. These will help meet some of the All new cases have been ment. needs of sick children and older persons. It is a introduced to isolation and are An off icial delegation from HMC visited the kind support that deserves appreciation.” receiving necessary healthcare, QRCS headquarters, including Dr Soad Saidan Dr al-Obaidli said, “Social solidarity among according to their health status. al-Hamad, executive manager of the Social institutions and society members is a top prior- Due to the measures put in Service Department at HMC; Abeer al-Hajri, ity for the continuity and elevation of work. We place by Qatar’s government off icer at HMC’s Social Service Department; and work with HMC as partners in social activities, and the support of the public in Mohamed Othman, head of the Social Service in the best interest of society. We seek bilateral following preventive steps, Qatar Section at Hamad General Hospital. integration, which will ultimately translate into a succeeded in suppressing the They were received by Ibrahim Abdullah al- high quality of supplies for service seekers.” spread of the virus since its peak Malki, CEO of QRCS; Dr Lolwa Hassan al-Obaidli, According to her, this is not the first or last time in July. head of Community Care at the Volunteering The donations consist of wheelchairs, beds that QRCS has worked with HMC. She prom- However, over the past month and Local Development Division; and Khalida and medical equipment. ised that such contributions would continue in Qatar we have seen a gradual Ali Mostafa, an empowerment specialist at the to benefit both the nationals and residents of and consistent increase in same division. like to thank the board of directors, secretary- Qatar, with plans to expand co-operation to the number of new “We at HMC’s Social Service Department would general, CEO and staff of QRCS for their involve more institutions in the future. daily infections. 388 face prosecution for Covid-19 violations Temporary halt in operations of Safari Mall, Abu Hamour The designated authorities referred 358 people to the Public Prosecution for not wearing masks in places where they are mandatory, the Ministry of Interior (MoI) said in a tweet yesterday. They also referred 30 Operations were temporarily halted at Safari Mall, Abu Hamour, on in mind the health and safety of the public until further notice,” accord- people to the Public Prosecution for violating the rule limiting the number of people allowed in a vehicle, advice from the authorities, retail chain Safari said yesterday. ing to a post on the Facebook page of Safari. Customers can continue the MoI added. According to the rule, a maximum of four persons – including the driver – are allowed in “It has been advised by ministry off icials to temporarily halt the service shopping at other Safari outlets “without any worries as all the safety a vehicle except when the occupants are members of the same family. The measure is in line with the of Safari Mall, Abu Hamour branch, due to overcrowding and keeping and hygiene precautions are duly maintained and followed”, it added. Cabinet decision based on Decree Law No. 17 of 1990 on infectious diseases, and the precautionary and preventive measures in force in the country to contain the spread of the coronavirus, the MoI said.

Eight arrested for violating home QF inspires fans to be ‘Students of Change’ at FIFA Club World Cup Qatar quarantine rules The designated authorities ar- he FIFA Club World Cup with the aim of empowering “Ever since I knew I would commitment to sustainability rested yesterday eight persons Qatar 2020 is drawing to people from all walks of life to be coming to Doha, I was en- and environmentally-friendly who violated the requirements of Ta close – and throughout recognise that each of them can thralled by the charm of the practices, being awarded Level the home quarantine, for which the cross-continental tourna- be a driver of positive change. biggest sporting events,” said 1 Eco-Event status as part of a they are legally accountable, in ment, Qatar Foundation (QF) A graffi ti wall off ered passing volunteer Nikhil Sangroula, 21, recent programme launched by accordance with the procedures has been educating and inspir- fans the chance to share their from Nepal, a student at QF Qatar Green Building Council. of the health authorities in the ing fans about how the power thoughts on the change they partner university Georgetown This award provides a frame- country, QNA reported. to make change happen lies in would like to see in the world, University in Qatar. work for hosting events that The arrest of the violators came in their hands. for others to read as they head to “I have a unique opportunity have a low carbon footprint and implementation of the precaution- As supporters arrive for and from games at the Educa- to create a sense of welcome for can be a tool for educating and ary measures in force in the coun- games at the Education City tion City Stadium. visitors and explain the Educa- informing people, and enhanc- try, approved by health authorities Stadium – which will host to- Meanwhile, fans have also tion City community to them. ing social well-being and eco- represented by the Ministry of night’s fi nal between German been given a musical accom- It is a great learning experience nomic growth. Public Health, to curb the spread giants Bayern Munich and Mex- paniment to their match day to see the management of such a Ahead of the tournament, of the Covid-19. ican challengers Tigres – they experience with groups of mu- huge event in an unprecedented QF’s Oxygen Park was the venue The violators, who are currently have been given a QF welcome sicians from QF member Qatar time, and, as a fan of football, for fashion experts from Qa- being referred to the designated through activities that refl ect Philharmonic Orchestra per- it is an experience of a lifetime tar, Egypt, and Mexico – all of prosecution, are: Ali Mohamed sport’s capacity to energise forming on the approach to the to share the same spirit as fans whom are home to teams par- Sultan Mohamed al-Khawar; Ali people, and also allow them to stadium, alongside community QF FIFA Club World Cup activations. from around the world.” ticipating in the competition Abdul Razzaq Noman Ali al-Jaabri; discover more about Education dance groups representing the QF’s activations at the FIFA – identifi ed by a SC-held work- Radwan Ahmed; Vishnodas City. home countries of the compet- helping them to fi nd their way, while also sharing useful words Club World Cup Qatar 2020, shop for fashion students from Calabur Akal; Samer Jabr al-Sayyid On the way to the stadium, ing teams. have given supporters an insight and phrases in Arabic to help organised through working QF partner university Virginia Abu Libdeh; Farid Mohamed fans have been invited to engage And specially-trained “edu- into QF’s focus on sustainabil- fans learn the language, refl ect- with the Supreme Commit- Commonwealth University in Hamed; Mohamed Hassan Eid; with QF’s Students of Change cational” volunteers from QF, ity and the inclusive activities ing QF’s role in preserving and tee for Delivery & Legacy also Qatar, to enhance cross-cultur- Abdul Mohsen Ali Mohamed campaign, launched this year as well as welcoming fans and available at Education City, promoting the Arabic language. epitomised the organisation’s al understanding. Fetais al-Marri. Gulf Times Thursday, February 11, 2021 7 QATAR Vodafone and Commercial Bank tie up for ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ off er odafone Qatar has part- stalments over three, six, or our joint customers the flexibil- vices by spreading their repay- Pearl, Furrousiya, Industrial nered with Commercial 12 months at 0% interest rate. ity to purchase the best devices ments over a number of months Area, Wakra, LuLu D Ring, LuLu VBank (CB) to offer its Their purchase should amount and accessories from Vodafone in easy instalments with ‘Buy Gharaffa and Kharatiyat. ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ instalment to a minimum of QR500 per on the spot, and pay later in af- Now Pay Later’ by Commercial If a CB customer does not plan that lets customers pur- product. fordable instalments.” Bank. We, at Commercial Bank, avail of the instalment plan at chase the latest devices, such as Diego Camberos, chief op- Commenting on the new are devoted to proactively serv- the time of making a purchase smartphones, mobile Wi-Fi de- erating officer, Vodafone Qa- partnership, Roya Khajeh, AGM ing customers and offer tailored from Vodafone but later wishes vices, and accessories and pay tar, said: “Vodafone is always and head of Cards and Pay- products and services that to convert his or her transaction later with easy monthly instal- looking for ways to make our ments at Commercial Bank, can simplify their day-to-day into monthly instalments, he or ments. products and services more ac- said: “As we strive to meet our banking transactions.” she can easily do so under the Customers who hold a CB cessible to people as part of our customers’ needs and expecta- Customers can avail the in- ‘CB Easy Pay’ option accessed credit card will be able to pur- commitment to offer a leading tions, we are delighted to join stalment plan at the Vodafone via the award-winning CB mo- chase the device of their choice customer experience. 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Tree planting initiative WCM-Q team probes diets’ role in weight loss

esearchers at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM- RQ) have conducted a sys- tematic review of diets to at- tempt to ascertain which is the most eff ective at reducing obes- ity in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region. The Mena region has one of the highest prevalence of obesity and associated diseases – including type 2 diabetes – in the world. Very little is known, however, about the eff ectiveness of dietary regimes in the region and how their effi cacy may diff er from the same diets in the West. Led by Dr Shahrad Taheri, pro- fessor of medicine at WCM-Q, The team of researchers. the team – Drs Hadeel Zaghloul, Hadya Elshakh, Abdullah Elza- ed to an Arab cohort in Middle noting that high-quality studies the low-carbohydrate, energy farany, Odette Chagoury, and Eastern countries. are needed in the Mena region unrestricted. Barbara McGowan — reviewed “With obesity, diabetes, to support clinical practice with There were also positive eff ects 29 randomised clinical trials of a heart disease and stroke hav- evidence-based interventions on blood lipids with the low- variety of diets, which included ing such a devastating impact for obesity. carbohydrate diet, and on blood 2,792 adults from fi ve countries upon the countries of the Mena But there were also some posi- glucose levels with the Mediter- in the Mena region. region, it would be very use- tive fi ndings. ranean diet. The study participants were ful for healthcare profession- One two-year trial involved “There is an obvious need for generally middle-aged women als to know which diet is most 322 people who were randomly more large randomised clinical who achieved average weight likely to result in weight loss, assigned to one of three diets: trials of dietary interventions to changes ranging between -0.7kg or which diet would be the best low-fat (energy intake limited be held in the Mena region, and (weight gain) and 16kg (weight choice for controlling blood to 1,500kcal per day for women for those trials to involve a wider loss), with the average weight sugar levels in diabetes.” and 1,800kcal per day for men); range of participants, particular- loss being 4.8kg. However, Dr Taheri said that of Mediterranean, energy restrict- ly men and young people. Dr Taheri said, the vast ma- the 29 randomised clinical trials ed; or low-carbohydrate, energy In Qatar, we recently con- The Public Gardens Department in co-operation with Eid Charity participated in an event as part jority of randomised clinical available, there was a general lack unrestricted. ducted the fi rst such clinical trial of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment’s (MME) one-million tree initiative launched trials of diets have included of information about the weight Among the 272 participants in the region with participants in 2019. The event was sponsored by Qatar Center for Voluntary Work and Hamad Medical mainly Western cohorts but loss interventions, and variations who stuck to the diet, the mean achieving about 12kg weight loss Corporation. A total of 100 trees were planted, in addition to 500 seedlings of seasonal flowers in there may be social, cultural or between the studies meant they weight loss was 3.3kg for the low- and 60% of them reversing their the presence from representatives from the participating entities. physiological reasons which af- could not be accurately compared fat; 4.6kg for the Mediterranean, type 2 diabetes,” added, Dr Taheri fect diet efficacy when translat- for effi cacy, with the researchers energy-restricted; and 5.5kg for added.

Disinfection and sanitisation drive QC distributes hygiene kits to orphans in Pakistan

atar Charity (QC) dis- tributed 100 personal Qhygiene kits to orphans in the Rawalpindi district, Paki- stan, aiming to raise awareness about Covid-19 at schools. The hygiene kits, which were distributed in an event attended by the local offi cials in Pakistan, Contents of personal hygiene come within the eff orts made by kits distributed by QC to school QC to limit the outbreak of the students in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. coronavirus pandemic across the globe. QC attended a co-ordination meeting organised by the Pakistan of PDMA, Ghafoor Agha. Each kit had masks, sanitis- Humanitarian Forum in co-operation with Provincial Disaster He also requested INGOs, in- ers, and other hygiene items Management Authority in Baluchistan. cluding Qatar Charity, to work needed for daily usage. Dur- in co-ordination with each oth- ing the distribution event, QC’s prevent Covid-19 infection. Besides, QC attended a co- er and with the government for staff made the children and their Raja Imran, deputy district ordination meeting organised a huge impact. QC is an active mothers aware of the impor- offi cer at the government social by the Pakistan Humanitarian member of PHF at the federal tance of personal hygiene, hand welfare department highly ap- Forum (PHF) in co-operation level as well as at the provincial washing methods, and social preciated the eff orts of QC in with Provincial Disaster Man- level. distancing. the Rawalpindi district. “The agement Authority (PDMA) In Pakistan, QC had previ- Al Shamal Municipality’s Cleanliness Section continued its disinfection and sanitisation campaigns Also, information, educa- personal hygiene items distrib- in Baluchistan. At the meet- ously, in co-ordination with as part of the eff orts to fight the spread of Covid-19, in addition to its campaigns to fight rodents tion and communication ma- uted by Qatar Charity are very ing focusing on the INGOs the provincial governments, and insects across its jurisdiction. The targeted places included public parks and gardens, terials were distributed to comprehensive and cover maxi- working in the provinces, Qa- distributed 4,000 food baskets, restaurants, cafeterias, and the commercial shops at Al Shamal City, Abu Zalouf, Al Ruwais, the raise awareness about the im- mum needed items,” said Imran, tar Charity presented its in- benefi ting nearly 24,000 people fish market, and the port in addition to the Al Ruwais Health Center, Industrial Area, workers’ portance of handwashing and applauding the role of Qatar terventions, which received in Sindh, Punjab, Khyber Pa- accommodations, shops, Al Shamal slaughterhouse, public parking lots and garbage containers. maintaining social distance to Charity in orphan care. praise from the deputy director khtunkhwa, and Baluchistan. Joint campaign to rescue stray dogs

he Ministry of Mu- ments for dealing with stray along with the permanent nicipality and En- animals. shelter in Rawdat Al Faras for Tvironment (MME), Healthcare will then be stray cats and dogs, in con- represented by the stray cats provided to stray cats and formity with the sanitary and dogs control unit at the dogs, which will consequent- requirements for animal wel- Livestock Department, has ly be placed at the animal fare, with a view to limit the launched a joint campaign shelter, where they will be spread of such animals in the under the motto ‘Rifq’ (Pity) checked for diseases before State. Moreover, a specialised in co-operation with the rehabilitation. company has been commis- Criminal Evidence and Infor- The site is currently under sioned to collect these stray mation Department (Police refurbishment to be ready to animals and transport them Canine Section) at the Minis- The shelter provides all at the permanent animal receive a large number of re- to the special animal shelter. try of Interior. sorts of medical care, nutri- shelter in Rawdat Al Faras, ported street stray cats and Besides, the MME studies The campaign aims to res- tion, water, vaccinations and the ‘Rifq’ campaign will re- dogs countrywide, where the and monitors animals’ envi- cue stray dogs and put them rehabilitation to the said dogs ceive and address all stray animals will be provided nu- ronmental balance to make in an animal shelter affi liated in line with animal welfare dogs and cats-related com- trition and healthcare and sure no environmental dis- to the MME, established spe- laws, the MME has said in a plaints around the country then rehabilitation, the state- ruption will occur as a result The campaign aims to rescue stray dogs and put them in an animal shelter aff iliated to cifi cally to fulfi l all the con- statement. according to the established ment notes. of an increase or decrease in the MME, established specifically to fulfil all the conditions and requirements of animal ditions and requirements of In the next phase, after mechanism and in line with A temporary shelter has any animal species on ac- welfare laws and rules. animal welfare laws and rules. the completion of works the animal health require- been set up in Al Mazrouah count of other species. Gulf Times 8 Thursday, February 11, 2021 QATAR

Qatar embassies, consulates celebrate National Sport Day

atar’s diplomatic, consular ing events were held by Qatar’s em- and representative missions bassy with the participation of am- Qabroad held numerous sport- bassador Abdulla Hussain al-Jaber, ing activities to mark the National and embassy staff . Sport Day, amid Covid precautionary In Ottawa, Canada, Qatar’s embassy measures and procedures. organised sports events with the par- Qatar’s embassy in Brussels, Bel- ticipation of the embassy staff . gium, held sporting events with the In Beijing, China, Qatar’s embassy participation of ambassador Abdul- held sports events with the participa- rahman bin Mohamed al-Khulaifi , the tion of the embassy staff . Events in- embassy and military attache staff . cluded a number of sports activities. In Athens, Greece, Qatar’s embassy In New Delhi, India, Qatar’s em- organised sporting events with the bassy organised sports events with participation of ambassador Abdulaziz the participation of ambassador Mo- Ali al-Naama and the embassy staff . hamed bin Khater al-Khater, as well The activities included competitions in as members of the embassy and local walking, jogging and warm-ups. employees. In Amman, Jordan, sporting events In Tokyo, Japan, event were held by were held by Qatar’s embassy with the Qatar’s embassy with the participa- participation of ambassador Sheikh tion of ambassador Hassan bin Mo- Saud bin Nasser bin Jassim al-Thani, hamed Rafi al-Emadi, members of the military attache Brigadier General diplomatic mission and all embassy Mubarak bin Ahmed al-Nasr, cul- employees. tural attache Hamad bin Abdullah In Tirana, Albania, Qatar’s embassy al-Sharif, members of the diplomatic organised sports events with the par- mission, a number of offi cials and em- ticipation of acting charge d’aff airs bassy staff . Abdullah Ibrahim Mohamed al-Ema- Qatar’s embassy in Rome, Italy, di, the diplomatic staff and embassy held various sporting events with the employees. participation of the diplomatic staff , In Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, Qatar’s Qatar’s defence attache and a number embassy organised events with the of local employees at the embassy. participation of ambassador Jaber bin Programmes included power walking, Jarallah al-Marri and members of the jogging and various physical exercises. embassy. In Belgrade, Serbia, sporting events In Chisinau, Moldova, Qatar’s em- were held by Qatar’s embassy with the bassy organised events with the par- participation of ambassador Sheikh ticipation of embassy employees. Ac- Mubarak bin Fahd al-Thani and em- tivities included walking and running. bassy staff . The programmes included In London, United Kingdom, Qa- bowling competitions. tar’s embassy organised a virtual dis- In Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, cussion session on sports as health sporting events were organised by Qa- and diplomatic means. Acting charge tar’s embassy with the participation of d’aff aires Mohamed bin Abdullah al- ambassador Sultan bin Ali al-Khater Jaber, a number of sports, academic and embassy staff . The programmes in- and government fi gures in Qatar and cluded climbing the slopes of Mount Ig- the UK participated. man, skiing, soccer and walking. In Ankara, Turkey, Qatar’s embas- Qatar’s embassy in Bamako, Mali, sy organised sports events with the organised sporting events with the participation of ambassador Salem participation of ambassador Ahmed Mubarak Shafi al-Shafi , a number of Abudlrahman al-Senedy and embas- parliamentarians, embassy staff and sy staff . A number of ministers in the a group of Turkish athletes. The pro- Mali government also attended. gramme included a friendly football In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, sport- match. ing events were held by Qatar’s In Istanbul, Qatar’s consulate gen- embassy with the participation of eral hosted sports event with the par- ambassador Hussein bin Ahmed al- organised by Qatar’s embassy. Event In Tehran, Iran, Qatar’s embassy ticipation of diplomatic staff and the Hamid and embassy staff . The ambas- held included football matches and a held sporting events with the par- consulate personnel. sador said the National Sport Day was number of sports and entertainment ticipation of the diplomatic staff , em- In Baku, Azerbaijan, Qatar’s em- a great occasion to raise awareness on activities. ployees and workers of the embassy. bassy held sports events with the par- the importance of being physically ac- In Dushanbe, Tajikistan, Qatar’s The programme, which was held at a ticipation of acting charge d’Aff airs tive on a daily basis. Events included a embassy organised sporting events as sports complex, included competi- Khalid bin Mohamed al-Malki and football match between embassy staff charge d’aff airs Khalid bin Abdulaziz tions in team sports. embassy staff . and employees of Qatar Airways’ Tan- al-Kuwari, in a speech on the occa- In Asuncion, Paraguay, Qatar’s em- In Mbabane, Eswatini, Qatar’s em- zania offi ce. sion, called on everyone to pay at- bassy organised events with the par- bassy organised sports events with the In Rabat, Morocco, Qatar’s embassy tention to sports and make it a way of ticipation of charge d’aff airs Saeed participation of acting charge d’aff airs organised sporting events with the life. The day’s programme included bin Hamad al-Marri and the embassy Ahmed bin Tajer Mohamed al-Sada participation of ambassador Fahd bin various sports competitions between staff . The activities included football and embassy staff . The under-secre- Ibrahim al-Hamad al-Mana, members employees. and walking competitions. tary of Eswatini’s ministry of foreign of the mission, and embassy staff . In Monrovia, Liberia, sporting In Tbilisi, Georgia, sporting events aff airs and international co-operation, In Accra, Ghana, Qatar’s embassy events were held by Qatar’s embas- were organised by Qatar’s embassy Kennedy Groening, also participated. held sporting events with the partici- sy with the participation of charge with the participation of embassy staff The programme included various pation of ambassador Mohamed bin d’aff airs Mohamed Abdullah al-Sada, and employees. The events included a sports activities, including walking, Ahmed al-Hamid, and embassy staff . and members of the embassy. The number of sports activities. running, football and volleyball. The day’s events included walking and programmes included competitions in In Hong Kong, the consulate general In Minsk, Belarus, Qatar’s embassy running. In Skopje, North Macedonia, sport- bassy organised events with the par- running and swimming. of Qatar in the Hong Kong region, or- organised sports events with the par- In Lisbon, Portugal, Qatar’s embas- ing events were organised by Qatar’s ticipation of acting charge d’aff airs In Budapest, Hungary, sporting ganised sporting events with the par- ticipation of the embassy staff . sy held sporting events with the par- embassy with the participation of Khalid bin Abdullah al-Ibrahim, and events were held by Qatar’s embas- ticipation of the consulate staff . In Valletta, Malta, Qatar’s embassy ticipation of the diplomatic staff . The embassy charge d’aff airs Sheikh Jas- third secretary Khalifa bin Ahmed sy with the participation of charge In Karachi, Pakistan, Qatar’s em- hosted sports events with the partici- programme included cycling. sim bin Hamad al-Thani, members of al-Maadeed, in addition to local em- d’aff airs Youssef Shaban, diplomat bassy held sporting events with the pation of acting charge d’aff airs Kha- In Kuwait, Qatar’s embassy held the mission and employees. The pro- ployees. The events included various Nawaf Abdul Hamid al-Kubaisi and participation of the consulate staff lid Ali Abdullah Abel and the embassy sporting events with the participation gramme included walking. sports activities. embassy employees. Activities in- and employees. staff . The programme included vari- of embassy staff . In Kathmandu, Nepal, Qatar’s em- In Zagreb, Croatia activities were cluded walking in the city park. In Amsterdam, Netherlands, sport- ous sports activities. – QNA

Qatar-Saudi land cargo Jewellery & Watches Exhibition movement to start on Feb 14 to be held from May 24-29 From Page 1 ed goods will not be disposed proceeding to export or re- above apply to transporting until approval was given by export the goods, in order to animals through Abu Samra From Page 1 international brands. such as DJWE, prioritis- soon as possible, to en- The statement added that the competent authority. But avoid any delay or rejection border. QNTC and its subsidi- ing a safe experience for sure their continued op- due to a prolonged shutdown goods of a dangerous nature, of the goods upon arrival at It is expected that the Already recognised as ary Qatar Business Events exhibitors and visitors. eration, and for the safety at Abu Samra border, and the will be kept at the port until the Salwa border. scheduled maintenance work one of the most impor- Corporation (QBEC), The Qatar Clean pro- of guests. transfer of specialised labo- the results of the examina- It also stated that goods at the Abu Samra border tant and unique jewellery which also oversees Doha gramme, a joint initiative QNTC has reiterated ratories to other locations tion and laboratory analysis exported or re-exported will start during the second and watch events in the Exhibition & Convention by QNTC and the Minis- the requirements for within Qatar, samples of the are available. from Qatar are transported quarter of 2021 for a period world, the 18th edition Centre, continue to work try of Public Health, con- event organisers, where- goods will be taken for exam- The GAC has obligated by local trucks through Abu of approximately 14 months, of the Doha Jewellery & closely with MoPH to im- tinues to be implemented by approvals must be ination and analysis by the all exporters of goods from Samra border to the Salwa while continuing passenger Watches Exhibition will plement health and safety across all hotels and res- obtained from the MoPH competent registration au- the Abu Samra border to border, as determined by and commercial movement feature a stunning array measures. These are car- taurants. Businesses in prior to holding exhibi- thorities in the country, and the Salwa border to comply the Saudi authorities at in accordance with the re- of exhibitors showcasing ried out along with inter- the sector are encouraged tions, conferences and released after the importer with the instructions issued Salwa border. The controls quirements of the scheduled the latest and most ex- national best practices, in to apply for their Qatar events, and licences from undertakes that the restrict- by Saudi Customs before and procedures described maintenance work. clusive pieces from many the organising of events Clean certification as the Council. Gulf Times Thursday, February 11, 2021 9 HOL STIC The Pfizer Covid-19 The truth about coff ee Wellbeing vaccine and veganism Also keep in mind that some green and black teas contain up used in testing — this breaks down to 30-50mg so decaf might even into 64 mice and 42 macaque be a better option than tea some- monkeys. times. He believes refusing to take the To decaff einate coff ee, the vaccine on animal testing grounds beans must be washed in sol- is not proactive and shouldn’t be a vents to remove the caff eine. stance a vegan should opt to take. The beans are then roasted and He explains why: continue the same process as “Number one, you’re not creating regular coff ee. The only issue is more demand, so it’s not like when that there are three usual meth- you look at cosmetic products,” he ods used and one uses a solvent said. “If you purchase a cosmetic By Reem Abdulrahman Jassim called methylene chloride that product that’s been tested a compa- al-Muftah leaves a minimal amount of By Ghanim al-Sulaiti ny that tests on animals, they have residue in the decaf coff ee. Ac- a tendency to say ‘okay we’re going cording to research and the FDA to have our sales, and then we’re off ee is one of the most it is well below the strict limit The first Covid-19 vaccine here in going to have another product that popular drinks out there imposed and poses no risk to its Qatar is currently being rolled out we’re going to put in the line once Cright now and we can consumers. by Pfizer. The vaccinations are the sales peter out…and then we’re clearly see that with all the new Another important compo- underway, and I am sure many of going to test on more animals. coff ee shops popping up around nent to note about drinking cof- you know people who have already “This is not how it works in pre- Qatar. It is warming knowing fee or in general having caff eine received their first dosage. clinical testing for approved phar- that there are so many options is that people who have trouble The vaccine and veganism is a maceuticals. The testing is already now to enjoy a great cup of Joe sleeping, have digestive prob- debate continuing to dominate done. You taking the vaccine is not and simply relax, socialise with lems and women who are preg- conversation, and so I thought going to encourage anyone else to family or friends or sip on as you nant, trying to get pregnant or I’ll explore more questions in this test this vaccine on further animals. type away on your laptop. But are breastfeeding should watch their week’s column, specifically around “I’m not going to defend animal you watching your intake? I am consumption of caff eine as it the Pfizer vaccine, and veganism. testing. I think it is unfortunate what guessing most of us love coff ee may have negative eff ects. The According to Pfizer, this vaccine happened to those animals. In many or at least have a cup or two dur- recommended limit for preg- does not contain animal products. cases, if not all, the animals are eu- ing the day, but some of you out nant and breastfeeding women is Unlike some other vaccines, this thanised…however, if you contrast there enjoy coff ee way above the 200mg per day. vaccine is produced without having that to the number of people saved, recommended limit. So let’s talk as heart disease, cancer, type 2 your body and its tolerance/ re- 80-100mg compared to a cup In conclusion, if you are a to grow the virus in eggs or biologi- and the expected number of people about the general health benefi ts, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease action to caff eine. That’s why it is of decaf coff ee totaling up to an coff ee lover, continue loving, cal samples (such as cells originat- saved, it’s astronomical.” if any, of coff ee and the diff erence and even Parkinson’s disease. a good option for those who want average of 2-15mg. To put it into but love within moderation. ing from dogs). The vaccines are safe, proving eff ec- between regular and decaf. Not only does it make you alert to enjoy the smell and fl avour to perspective for you, the US FDA Please limit yourself to a max The definition of veganism recog- tive, and should bring an end to the You might be shocked, but and put you in a possibly better opt for decaf. recommends that adults limit of 4-5 cups per day and if you nises that it is not always possible pandemic that’s brought turmoil to coff ee has so many health ben- mood, it can even help keep your Both types of coff ee are simi- their caff eine intake to a maxi- can’t, then seriously think about or practicable to avoid animal use, the world for one year now. efi ts and if you don’t already, bowel movements regular. On lar but only diff er in their caf- mum of 400mg per day, working changing to decaf once you hit which is particularly relevant to In addition, we must not forget the maybe you should give it a try. the other hand, people who have feine levels, the health benefi ts out to be around 4-5 cups of cof- that limit. So now you tell me, medical situations. In the case of link between eating animals and Coff ee is the biggest source of more sensitive stomachs, diges- are the same. Decaf coff ee usu- fee. Now doesn’t that sound rea- what’s your favorite café here in Covid-19, scientists (and world lead- outbreaks of diseases like Covid-19. antioxidants in the general diet tive issues, problems with anxi- ally contains a little bit of caf- sonable? Increased consumption Qatar? ers) recognise that vaccination will Humans’ unhealthy demand for nowadays. These antioxidants ety or lack of sleep could be more feine, but when measured, the can lead to lack of sleep, higher play a fundamental role in tackling meat, eggs, and dairy means that reduce oxidative damage and sensitive to coff ee and other caf- average amount of caff eine in a blood pressure and an increased „ The author is a wellness advo- the pandemic and saving lives. huge numbers of animals are may help prevent diseases such feinated drinks, it all depends on regular cup of coff ee is a total of risk of heart disease and stroke. cate and infl uencer @keys2balance. At the end of the day, as there is slaughtered in intensive confine- no plan for compulsory vaccina- ment inside giant, filthy sheds, tion, it is the responsibility of each crammed into crowded lorries, individual to make an informed soaked with blood, urine, and other decision about vaccines, bearing bodily fluids. These conditions are The narcissistic personality in mind the definition of veganism, breeding grounds for new strains of and your own beliefs, while respect- dangerous bacteria and viruses. ing the science. For us humans, to keep yourself some drugs that are used to treat Speaking about the vaccine, vegan and others as fit and healthy as anxiety, depression, and tension. Dr Bitterman said that there was, of possible – and allow you to continue 2.Relaxation and rest: by following course, animal testing — as with any advocating for animals, veganism, some methods to relieve tension other medical product. But it’s im- boosting the health for all through and psychological pressures such portant to note that all medications plant based choices, the vegan as meditation, yoga. currently go through animal testing. world recognises it is important to 3. Family: Family must participate As all vaccines currently are tested follow the advice of your health- in the treatment by providing a on animals, at this stage it is impos- care provider on taking a medicine comfortable family atmosphere sible to have a vaccine that has and vaccines. for the narcissist, and maintaining been created without animal use. family ties. Speaking specifically about the „ The author is an expert in vegan 4. Psychotherapy: One of the most Pfizer vaccine, vegan Dr Bitterman wellbeing and health. Instagram diff icult treatment methods used said that 106 animals in total were handle: @Ghanim92  By Hala Bader al-Humaidhi in the treatment of narcissistic per- sonality is psychotherapy, because they do not admit that they are Narcissism, is a term given to complaining about any wrongdo- people who are great fans of ing, and one of the advantages themselves, the origin of the of psychotherapy is that it fixes word narcissism is from the Greek the patient’s relations with those origins, we see this personality a around him, strengthens family lot amongst us, and in all societies. bonds, and encourages them to The owners of this personality communicate with others, and cause many problems, whether at the relationships become more work, in school, in relationships, or intimate and sincere, and psycho- when socialising with people, and therapy helps the narcissist to this disorder is one of the many understand his emotions, increase Can exercise release trauma disorders that narcissists suff er his confidence in others, reduces from. The owners of this personal- his contempt for them, increases stored in your body? ity can be observed from some of his ability to regulate his feelings, the traits and methods that they understands issues that aff ect his deal with others, and we will men- self-esteem, and persuades him to tion in this article the characteris- give up dreams that are diff icult to By Zoe Williams so why should I be sceptical of tics of the narcissist personality. achieve. The Guardian new agery? The cornerstone of So you kind of got an idea about bioenergetic practice is the bow The personality traits of a narcis- ism, and apostasy as he seeks to 6. Diff iculty maintaining social 9. Presumed sensitivity to criticism the disorder. Do you or a loved one and arch, which is good for anxi- sist, include: reach higher positions to achieve relationships with others, and the and insults. has it? If yes, then go through the gnore your inner cynic and ety, but worthwhile even if you’re 1. Showmanship and admiration his goals. inability to deal with people. 10. Claiming to know a lot of list of suggested treatments and try bioenergetics, which fo- not anxious. To get into the arch, for oneself at the expense of 4. Picky even from himself and 7. Stubbornness, the inability to things. get started! Icuses on repairing damage stand with your feet parallel, others. others. admit a mistake, and turn things caused by repressed emotion 30cm apart; drop your head to 2. Selfishness, and a sense of gran- 5. The inability to show feelings around in his favour. Treating narcissism: from the past. your chest, or as close as it will deur, as the narcissist believes that of sympathy, and therefore he is 8-Exploiting the positives of others 1. Medical drugs: There are no „ The author is a consultant in Pub- If you want to understand go, and roll down, rag-doll style, he is better than others. unable to understand the feelings for his benefit, and reaching his medical drugs used to treat narcis- lic Relations and Personality Types. bioenergetics, you fi rst have to until your tailbone points to the 3. Constant jealousy, opportun- and needs of others. aspirations. sistic disorders, but there are Instagram: @Tipsbyhalahill put aside your judgmental in- sky and you get a stretch in the ner voice. It is the theory that back of your thighs – don’t lock trauma is stored in the body, that your knees; hang your hands every repressed emotion from on or near the fl oor. Stay there early childhood onwards alters for as long as you feel comfort- your musculature and fascia (the able, note how long that is, then fi brous tissue covering the body, repeat for this amount of time Viva Mexico like a spider-web); and that by twice more. exerting pressure on muscles For the bow, from a stand- with specifi c exercises, you can ing start straighten your arms, surroundings and use caution as release the holding patterns and hands together, above your head you would in any big city or country. dead zones that they’ve sickened and lean back, pushing your Mexicans love Frida Kahlo. Frida into. chest and pelvis forward, with is...everywhere, every wall, every My inner cynic raised the fol- your knees slightly bent. You gift shop, literally. She seems to be lowing objections: pah, trauma can do both of these with ex- more important and loved than any is for war zones, I’ve never been pression – the gargoyle (eyes President, past or present. She is traumatised; the set text, Bioen- wide, mouth wide, sticking an icon for women empowerment ergetics, by Devaraj Sandberg, your tongue out and making a and had a huge impact and influ- feels very new agey and some hissing sound) or laughing (a ence on Mexican art. Wherever we of the responses Sandberg de- classic Santa ho-ho-ho is rec- stayed, Frida and her art was there. scribes – uncontrollable shak- ommended). This sounds wild By Shefa Ali Walking around you will find murals ing, after an exercise – sound but it encourages you to release. of Frida. very improbable. Your aim with both exercises is Mexico is a massive country with so But there were a few nagging to put your muscles under con- Tomorrow is my sixth day of quar- much to do and experience.. There counterpoints. trolled stress, so they let go of antine after my return from Mexico; is so much beauty to its landscape. First, trauma doesn’t have to the holding patterns they have I am looking forward to having my From Mayan ruins, to the beautiful be a war, it can be anything from stored up from the past. drive through Covid test tomorrow beaches, desserts and cenotes a car accident (tick) to a moment For a beginner, it’s enough morning, and hopefully 24 hours spread all throughout the Yucatan. of intense insecurity when you to start every day with 15 min- after that, quarantine will come to It’s a beautiful country to experi- were a baby. Second, it is quite utes of bow and arch. I did an end. Been making my quaran- ence, I definitely recommend it. a well-established belief even something bizarre to my back tine time as productive as I can with Although, I thoroughly enjoyed in conventional medicine that on day six; it didn’t hurt, but work, household organisation, yoga my visit to Mexico, I was a bit wary when you have an intense nega- every time I moved in a certain and reading. of travel in general because of tive experience, your body stores way, it felt momentarily like an Before travelling to a new destina- Covid, if you are planning any sort it in its neurological pathways elephant was standing on me. tion, I usually like to do a lot of of International travel, please do and hormonal responses. Why A week before, I would have research, since this trip was so last everything you need to be safe shouldn’t muscles also have a booked a Covid test. Instead, I minute, there was no time for that, Mayan civilisation and culture. medicine, they focused on the root I was in Mexico was, ‘Is it safe?’ and keep reading updates as they memory, especially given that decided that I was letting go of so this time the research is taking I find it fascinating that Mayans cause of the illness, not just alleviat- The media portrays Mexico as a change from hour to hour. the phrase “muscle memory” grief. So maybe there’s some- place upon my return. After visiting used a complex complimentary ing symptoms, which is something I place to fear and stay away from. already exists? Third, I have thing in this; maybe anxiety is Chichen Itza, a ruined ancient Maya system of healing, they believed really believe in. Yes, Mexico has some turmoil, but „ The author is a consultant and done a huge number of experi- like a constant, ambient alarm city and one of the 7 wonders of the in healing the body and mind in The number one question people it’s like any other place. No matter coach. Instagram handle: @miss_ mental exercises in the aerobic – you only notice it when it world, I have been reading about treating illnesses. Unlike Western were asking when people saw that where you go, be mindful of your shefa, Website: missshefa.com space (piloxing, Zumba Strong), stops. Gulf Times 10 Thursday, February 11, 2021 COMMENT

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

Human economic activity makes extensive use of the eco- system services nature provides. Classical economists such as Adam Smith and David Ricardo, who wrote at a time when agriculture accounted for a much greater share of the econ- omy than it does today, were well aware that human activ- ity occurred within the natural world and relied on nature’s bounty. They always included land in their analyses. But modern economics has largely excluded nature from defini- tions and measurements of the economy. Today, of course, the risks posed by climate change are at- tracting more attention, including from investors. But many other aspects of nature’s role in economic activity have been overlooked until now. For example, the money farmers earn from selling their Why try Donald Trump? crops counts towards GDP, but there is no accounting for the services of the bees that pollinate the crops, or for the qual- ity of the soil – that is, until the bees die or the soil loses its The real reason for convicting the require a further vote on the fate of the impeachment). That threshold is so legal terms, an insurrection is an fertility, causing yields to fall. Nor do conventional economic former president and disqualifying now-former offi ceholder. A person high that it would be reached only uprising against the government. him from holding offi ce again is that statistics incorporate the services provided by clean air, or who is impeached and removed no in a case of egregious presidential The House managers argue that he is reckless, irresponsible, and a the negative impact of pollution. But the link between Cov- longer holds offi ce, and yet the Senate misconduct. Trump incited a mob to overthrow menace to the public would be entitled to vote that he be Is “incitement to insurrection” the government. In a technical id-19 mortality and respiratory disease has made the latter disqualifi ed. egregious enough? Unfortunately, sense, we might call the mob action cost clear, even seen through the very narrow lens of reduced By Eric Posner Because the House voted to under current political conditions, it an insurrection, even though at the human capital and future earnings. Chicago impeach Trump while he was probably isn’t. Impeachment is best time Trump was the head of the A recent landmark independent review of the economics president, there can be no credible understood as a political sanction government that he supposedly of biodiversity, commissioned by the UK Treasury and car- doubt about the legitimacy of a that will be imposed only when there sought to overthrow. ried out by my Cambridge colleague Partha Dasgupta, makes ormer president Donald Senate trial. Imagine a law that says is suffi cient political support for At least some members of the mob a powerful case for restoring nature to economic analysis. Trump’s trial in the United that a police offi cer found to have removing a president or, as in this hoped to kill, abduct, or intimidate States Senate has begun, abused her authority may be fi red case, disqualifying a former president members of Congress and (somehow) Dasgupta argues that we should regard a country’s natural but already a great deal and prohibited from being rehired. It from holding offi ce in the future. And, prevent Congress from certifying the assets as no less a part of its productive capital than assets F of confusion has arisen about would be odd if she could evade the despite the January 6 attack on the US election. The argument is that Trump like broadband, bridges, or the skills base. fundamental questions. Trump’s sanction of disqualifi cation simply by Capitol, Americans remain divided not only sparked the mob’s march on The job of economic poli- lawyers argue that the Senate is not resigning – and thus no longer being about Trump. the Capitol, but also anticipated such cymakers should thus be to permitted to hold a trial at all. The a police offi cer – after termination Republican senators must weigh the a result and deliberately brought it It is vital to manage a country’s entire Constitution says that, “The president proceedings were launched but risk of losing votes to challengers in about. Then, once the violence began, portfolio of assets in order … shall be removed from Offi ce on before they were completed. The only party primaries if they vote to convict he did too little to stop it. restore nature Impeachment for, and Conviction diff erence with Trump is that his term Trump against the risk of losing the Maybe. But the better reading to deliver a positive return of, Treason, Bribery, or other high expired. support of moderates in the general of events is that Trump was being to economic for society. This means tak- Crimes and Misdemeanors.” Trump, So much for the language of the election if they vote to acquit him. Trump. By the standards of previous ing into account the depre- according to his lawyers, cannot be Constitution. As is nearly always Because most conservative states will American presidents and virtually analysis and ciation of individual assets, removed from an offi ce that he no the case, founding-era debates send Republicans to the Senate, most all American politicians, he was including important species longer occupies. and historical practice provide Republican senators will be warier of extraordinarily reckless in insisting policy before and ecosystems, and the But the Constitution also little additional guidance. While primary challenges and vote against for two months that the election was complementarities between states that, “Judgment in cases of genufl ection to the founding text is de conviction. stolen and then in using infl ammatory the damage impeachment shall not extend further rigueur nowadays, the real question In fact, those senators would rather language with the crowd that had them. than to removal from Offi ce, and is whether a Senate trial leading to not vote at all – and not be tarnished gathered to protest the election to the natural Under such a framework, disqualifi cation to hold and enjoy disqualifi cation of a former president in the general election – which is why results. a government taking a long- any Offi ce of honour, Trust or Profi t who had been impeached by the all but six Republicans preferred to But he did not directly ask the world becomes term portfolio approach under the United States.” The House House while still in offi ce would do vote that the Senate lacks jurisdiction crowd to engage in violence, and there might decide not to build impeachment managers (who act as harm to the US constitutional system. to try Trump. But Democrats is no evidence that he anticipated that irreparable flood defences from costly, prosecutors in the Senate trial) note It is hard to see how it could. may have done them a favor by they would. Trump, like everyone else, energy-intensive, and that disqualifi cation can apply only to Whether the subject of the trial is overreaching in another respect: must have expected that the police a former offi ceholder. a president or former president, by alleging in the single article of would keep the crowd under control, unsightly concrete, and instead make a lower-cost invest- The reason is that removal is conviction requires two-thirds of impeachment that Trump incited an and would not have expected them to ment in tree planting upstream and wetland preservation automatic upon conviction by the the senators present (after a majority insurrection. invade the Capitol (something that downstream. Likewise, farmers are well aware of the loss of Senate, while disqualifi cation would in the House approve articles of In both ordinary language and has not happened since the War of biodiversity and the depletion of bee populations, but per- 1812, when British troops occupied haps less aware of the negative consequences such as poorer Washington). soil quality and less productive crops, which result in greater Moreover, if Trump had been a dependence on chemical fertilisers and more dead bees, in an private citizen, his speech at the rally would have been protected by the First accelerating downward spiral. The encroachment of human Amendment. Even if he had called activity on wilder natural areas is also contributing to the for revolution, he would have done spread of zoonotic diseases like Ebola and Covid-19, at huge nothing illegal, as long as he did not cost to societies, economies, and governments. direct a mob to engage in “imminent” There is some hope that economic analysis and policy will violence. rediscover nature before the damage to the services we get Trump’s lawyers argue that the First from it – and thus to everybody’s standard of living – be- Amendment protects the president in his offi cial capacity as well. But no- comes irreparable. Now that investors have understood the one has ever considered the possibility risks that climate change poses to their returns, they will find that a president would stir up it easier to see the importance of biodiversity or clean oceans American citizens to attack Congress. and air as well. Significantly, it was the UK’s hardheaded A president with immense infl uence treasury, and not the cuddly Department for Environment, and reach poses a far greater danger to Food & Rural Affairs, that commissioned the Dasgupta Re- public order if he tells lies and stirs up view. But compiling the statistics needed to capture nature’s anger than an ordinary rabble-rouser who stands on a stump and preaches services to the economy will be crucial. revolution. The pandemic is driving home many lessons, including the But the claim that Trump incited old but important one that money is a poor measure of value. an insurrection is a stretch, and Humanity’s relationship with nature will inevitably change in Republican senators seeking to the coming years, and economic policymakers must infl uence justify acquitting him will argue how it changes. Ignorance is no defence. – Project Syndicate that whatever he did, it was not insurrection. The real reason to disqualify Trump is that he is a menace to American institutions whose reckless, power-mad antics To Advertise almost undermined an election and will sow mischief for years to come. [email protected] This should be plainly said. Then it’s up to the House managers to persuade Display Senate Republicans – and, more 44466621 44418811 important, the citizens who may vote for them – that this man should not be Classified allowed to run for offi ce ever again. – 44466609 44418811 Project Syndicate Subscription z Eric Posner, a professor at the University of Chicago Law School, [email protected] is the author, most recently, of The RECKLESS: By the standards of previous American presidents, he was extraordinarily reckless in insisting for two months Demagogue’s Playbook: The Battle that the election was stolen and then in using inflammatory language with the crowd that had gathered to protest the election for American Democracy from the © 2021 Gulf Times. All rights reserved results. (Reuters) Founders to Trump. Gulf Times Thursday, February 11, 2021 11 WORLD

PEOPLE OFFBEAT CONTROVERSY RULING VIOLENCE Bruce Springsteen held Lawyer appears as Row between Twitter Mentally ill inmates’ death 28 peacekeepers injured on drink driving charge cat on Zoom call and India escalates sentence halted in Pakistan in Mali attack, says UN

Rocker Bruce Springsteen was arrested in New A Texas lawyer appeared as a talking cat during Twitter yesterday said it had blocked some accounts Two mentally disabled prisoners on death row Twenty-eight United Nations peacekeepers were Jersey in November on a charge of driving while a Zoom call with a judge, sparking worldwide in India over comments on mass farmers’ protests had their sentences commuted by Pakistan’s wounded in an attack on their base in central Mali intoxicated, authorities said yesterday. The Born delight at the latest video conferencing mishap of in New Delhi, but the social media giant refused Supreme Court yesterday in what activists called yesterday, a UN spokesperson said, in the latest To Run singer was also cited on November 14, the pandemic work-from-home era. The cat filter to shut down others despite the threat of criminal a landmark judgement on mental illness. The violence to hit the Sahel state. Unidentified militants 2020, for reckless driving and consuming alcohol left lawyer Rod Ponton struggling to explain his action by the government. Indian off icials last week court ordered Kanizan Bibi and Imdad Ali to be attacked a temporary base near Kerena, a village in in a closed area, in New Jersey’s Gateway Nation- situation to judge, Roy Ferguson. “I believe you demanded that Twitter block hundreds of users that transferred to a mental health facility. It also called the war-torn centre of country, at around 7am. Olivi- al Recreation Area. “Springsteen was co-operative have a filter turned on in the video settings,” the have tweeted on demonstrations against proposed for the establishment of a medical board to vet er Salgado, the spokesman for the UN’s MINUSMA throughout the process,” a National Park Service judge said. Ponton – his voice appearing to be new agriculture laws, saying they were a “grave threat inmates for mental illness in capital cases. “We mission in Mali, said the position was “targeted by spokesperson said. The 71-year-old rock icon will spoken by an increasingly anxious white kitten — to public order”. Twitter initially complied by blocking hold that if a condemned prisoner, due to mental direct and indirect fire.” First established in 2013, the make a court appearance in the coming weeks, asked “Can you hear me, judge?” The judge said “I a number of accounts but unblocked them several illness, is found to be unable to comprehend the 13,000-strong MINUSMA has suff ered one of the according to entertainment outlet TMZ, which can hear you. I think it’s a filter...” “It is,” the nodding hours later, prompting threats of “penal action” from rationale and reason behind his/her punishment, highest death tolls of any mission in UN peacekeep- broke the news. Springsteen’s representative did cat said. “I don’t know how to remove i, but I’m the government. In a blog post, Twitter said it did “not then carrying out the death sentence will not ing history. Over 230 of its personnel have died not immediately respond to request for com- prepared to go forward with it. I’m here live. I’m believe that the actions we have been directed to meet the ends of justice,” said Pakistan’s Supreme since the mission began, and improvised explosive ment. not a cat.” The judge replied “I can see that.” take are consistent with Indian law”. Court in its ruling. devices killed five peacekeepers last month alone. US pandemic intelligence fl ayed as curbs in Europe tightened

AFP there was no indication it was Wuhan, China circulating in Wuhan before De- cember 2019, when the fi rst of- fi cial cases were recorded. WHO expert sent to China WHO expert Peter Ben Em- to probe the coronavirus barek also scotched the contro- Ahit out at US intelligence versial theory that the virus may on Covid-19 as his team headed have leaked from a lab in Wuhan. home with few answers about European Commission Presi- the origin of a pandemic that dent Ursula von der Leyen said was forcing more clampdowns in the continent’s race to manufac- some of the hardest-hit parts of ture vaccines must accelerate to the world. catch up with scientifi c break- German Chancellor Angela throughs and outpace emerging Merkel was set to seek an exten- variants, but defended the bloc’s sion of strict virus curbs, as the overall strategy. European Commission chief ad- “We underestimated the dif- dressed the stumbling vaccina- fi culty related to mass produc- tion rollout on the continent — tion,” she told the European Par- which accounts for a third of the liament in Brussels. “Normally, A protester holds a sign as a woman walks across the street before the second day of former president Donald Trump’s impeachment trial before the senate on Capitol Hill in 2.3mn Covid-19 deaths world- it takes fi ve to 10 years to produce Washington, DC, yesterday. wide. a new vaccine. We did it in 10 The coronavirus has infected months. This is a huge scientifi c close to 107mn people, devas- success, and we should be rightly tating the global economy, and proud – but in a way, science has questions over the handling of outstripped industry.” the initial outbreak in central Vaccine supply issues have China have sparked an intense already caused a diplomatic row diplomatic row between Wash- after AstraZeneca said it would Trump was inciter-in-chief ington and Beijing. not be able to immediately ship The WHO mission to the the doses it promised to Britain ground zero city of Wuhan and the EU. wrapped up on Tuesday with- At the same time, the volume out any concrete answers, with of infections across the conti- Washington again expressing nent is adding to the pressure on its leadership. of Capitol riot, trial hears scepticism about China’s trans- parency and co-operation. A stricter lockdown will be But WHO team member Peter imposed in Greece from today AFP/Reuters manager, who performs the role 50-50, and two thirds of the ‘I told you this would happen,’” “This matter is of high prior- Daszak tweeted: “Please don’t — in particular in the Athens re- Washington of the prosecutor in a court trial. senate needed for a guilty ver- Raskin said. ity, and I am confi dent that as rely too much on US intel: in- gion — as Prime Minister Kyri- “The evidence will show you dict, 17 Republicans would need “And then he adds ‘Remem- fellow law enforcement offi c- creasingly disengaged under akos Mitsotakis warned that his that ex-president Trump was no to defect and join all Democrats ber this day forever’ — but not as ers sworn to uphold the Con- Trump & frankly wrong on many country was facing a third Cov- onald Trump spent innocent bystander,” Raskin said in order to secure a conviction. a day of disgrace, a day of horror stitutions of the United States aspects.” id-19 wave. weeks infl aming sup- before the 100 senators sitting On Tuesday, just six Repub- and trauma as the rest of us re- and Georgia, our acquisition He said they worked “fl at Wary of infection numbers Dporters by telling them as jurors in the former presi- licans joined the Democrats in member it, but a day of celebra- of information and evidence out under the most politically exploding again, Merkel will the November election was sto- dent’s unprecedented second voting that the trial was consti- tion.” of potential crimes via inter- charged environment possible”. seek to extend strict curbs until len, then became “inciter-in- impeachment trial. tutional and could proceed. Meanwhile, prosecutors in views, documents, videos and China had repeatedly delayed at least March 14, according to a chief” of the deadly US Capitol “Trump surrendered his role Democrats have two days to Fulton County, Georgia, are in- electronic records will be co- the WHO trip, and bristled at draft text seen by AFP, as fatigue riot, Democratic prosecutors as commander-in-chief and lay out their case, and they have vestigating Trump’s attempts to operative,” said the letter dated accusations of a lack of transpar- grows with the partial lockdown told senators yesterday at the became the inciter-in-chief of already made use of extensive overturn the state’s 2020 presi- February 10. ency. in Europe’s top economy. former president’s impeach- a dangerous insurrection,” he video footage of the chaotic as- dential election results, accord- “This letter is notifi cation Beijing warned Washington Immunisation eff orts are be- ment trial. added. “And when the violence sault, but also of Trump’s Janu- ing to a letter seen by Reuters that all records potentially re- not to “politicise” the mission ing ramped in other parts of the In blunt, direct language to inexorably and inevitably came, ary 6 speech near the White yesterday, in the second criminal lated to the administration of after the White House demanded world with a number of vaccines. begin formal arguments, lead as predicted, and overran this House. probe faced by the former presi- the 2020 general election must a “robust” probe. Peru on Tuesday began ad- House impeachment manager body and the House of Repre- The impeachment managers dent. be preserved, with particular State department spokesman ministering shots developed by Jamie Raskin said the then- sentatives with chaos, we will swiftly made the case that the Fulton county district attor- care being given to set aside and Ned Price said Tuesday that the China’s Sinopharm, while Ar- president had the power to stop show you that he completely ab- president used his remarks as “a ney Fani Willis has sent a letter preserve those that may be evi- US supports the investigation. gentina approved the Indian- the mob and prevent the deadly dicated his duty as commander call to arms,” the fi nal piece in a asking state government of- dence of attempts to infl uence But when asked if China had made version of the AstraZeneca unrest on January 6. in chief to stop the violence and carefully planned eff ort to incite fi cials to preserve documents, the actions of persons who were fully co-operated with the WHO, vaccine. Instead he did the opposite, protect the government,” Raskin his supporters to fi ght to over- including those related to then- administering that election.” he said: “The jury’s still out.” South Korea yesterday also fuelling the narrative to never added. turn the election results. president Trump’s call to Re- Representatives for the coun- The WHO team did not iden- authorised the AstraZeneca shot concede the election and to Convicting Trump will be a “At the beginning of the day publican secretary of state Brad ty prosecutor’s offi ce and for tify which animal transferred the for people aged 18 and above, in- “fi ght like hell” to prevent the heavy lift. he told you it was coming, at the Raff ensperger pressuring him to Trump did not immediately re- coronavirus to humans, but said cluding over-65s. election’s certifi cation, said the With the senate evenly split end of the day he basically said “fi nd” more votes. spond to requests for comment. Chinese spacecraft Heavy snowfall UK vows billions to enters Mars orbit tackle unsafe cladding AFP in west London killed 72 people, London with an offi cial report blam- Reuters plore the Martian surface for 90 not make a landing but will or- ing highly combustible cladding Beijing days, studying its soil and seek- bit Mars gathering data on its fi xed to the 24-storey block as ing signs of ancient life, includ- weather and atmosphere. he UK government yes- the “principal reason” the fi re ing any sub-surface water and Tianwen-1 will also have an terday said it will provide spread. n uncrewed Chinese ice using a ground-penetrating orbiter component surveying the Tbillions of pounds more The disaster, Britain’s dead- spacecraft yesterday suc- radar. Martian atmosphere with a range to remove combustible clad- liest domestic fi re since World Acessfully entered orbit of instruments including a high- ding from high-rise buildings, War II, has left thousands of around Mars after a six-and-a- In May or June, the resolution image camera. following criticism of inaction leaseholder owners of fl ats in half month journey from Earth, Tianwen-1 will attempt to The two probes join six other nearly four years after the deadly other buildings stuck in perilous China’s space agency said, in the land a capsule carrying orbiting spacecraft above Mars Grenfell Tower fi re. situations, unable to aff ord the country’s fi rst independent mis- a 240kg rover in a rapid launched by the National Aero- Housing Minister Robert Jen- removal of the cladding. sion to the red planet. seven-minute descent nautics and Space Administra- rick said the government would They have also faced other ris- The robotic probe carried out a onto a massive plain in tion (Nasa), the European Space make an additional £3.5bn ing costs, from increased insur- 15-minute burn of its thrusters at the northern hemisphere Agency (ESA) and India. ($4.8bn) available to strip the ance premiums to, in some cases, 7.52pm Beijing time (1152GMT), of Mars In the US’ most ambitious dangerous cladding on residen- having to pay for around-the- the China National Space Ad- Mars mission, the 1-tonne Perse- tial buildings of at least 18 metres clock fi re marshal patrols. ministration said in a statement, Tianwen-1, or “Questions to verance probe is expected to ar- or six storeys in England. Meanwhile most have been slowing the spacecraft to a speed Heaven”, the name of a Chinese rive on February 18. Meanwhile owners of fl ats in unable to sell or rent their fl ats at which it could be captured by poem written two millennia ago, It will immediately attempt lower-rise blocks with unsafe because mortgage providers are the pull of Mars’ gravity. is China’s fi rst independent mis- a landing in a rocky depression material on them will be able unwilling to lend on the proper- In May or June, the Tianwen-1 sion to the planet after a probe with precipitous cliff s called Jez- to access a low-interest loan ties or because of other resulting will attempt to land a capsule co-launched with Russia failed ero Crater. scheme to pay for its removal restrictions. carrying a 240-kg rover in a rapid to leave the Earth’s orbit in 2011. On the surface, Perseverance while lowering their costs.| The government had previ- seven-minute descent onto a The probe is one of three will gather rock samples for re- A lone wanderer crosses a closed ski run in the village Jenrick called the move “an un- ously pledged £1.6bn to remove massive plain in the northern reaching Mars this month. trieval by a future mission. of Altenberg, eastern Germany, yesterday. Snowfall, precedented intervention”, which the most dangerous types of hemisphere of Mars known as The Hope spacecraft launched Two other Nasa rovers — Cu- heavy gusts of wind and sub-zero temperatures in follows growing pressure on min- cladding, but has been pushed Utopia Planitia. by the United Arab Emirates suc- riosity and InSight — are cur- north and western Germany have caused interruptions isters to act, more than three years to go further by the fl at owners, If the landing is successful, cessfully entered the planet’s rently operating on the planet’s of travel. on from the Grenfell tragedy. their advocates and opposition the solar-powered rover will ex- orbit on Tuesday. Hope will surface. The June 2017 high-rise blaze politicians. Gulf Times 12 Thursday, February 11, 2021 QATAR Sheikh Joaan meets Saudi sports minister

From Page 1 sports fans from both countries in sport, especially football, with the bid to host the 2030 Asian enough signs of a thaw with the sports history, not just ours,” peace, respect and tolerance, would be able to drive across the national and club teams regularly Games in 2030 in a direct com- Saudis whole-heartedly congrat- Sheikh Joaan had said then. achieving an active and healthy But with that dark chapter border once again without any clashing in competitions such as petition with Saudi Arabia. ulating the Doha bid team lead by Qatar is one of the sponsors of community. The coming months of the region now a thing of the restrictions and enjoy some high the AFC Champions League, the Although the vote conducted Sheikh Joaan for winning the bid. the UN resolution on sports for could see new developments as past and ties being fast-tracked class sporting action. Gulf Cup, Arab Cup and even in by the Olympic Council of Asia “We want more Asian athletes development and peace, high- Qatar and Saudi Arabia take the towards near-normal levels, Qatar and Saudi Arabia have a the FIFA World Cup qualifi ers. was held a few weeks before the on Olympic podiums. We want lighting the importance of sports road of sport towards lasting the day won’t be far away when great history of sporting rivalry In December last, Qatar won blockade was lifted, there were that to be part of your national in enhancing development, peace and harmony. Age threshold Commercial Bank enables payment lowered to 50 for through ‘wearables’

ommercial Bank has an- nounced the launch of a Cnew digital feature that enables payment through wear- Covid-19 vaccine ables, a new innovative pay- ment method provided through By Joseph Varghese er and Moderna and if needed, a gap of 21 days while Moderna smartwatches and trackers. Staff Reporter agreements will be made with has a gap of 28 days between the Through this new off ering, Com- other companies for more vac- two doses,” she pointed out. mercial Bank is adding one more cine. She encouraged everyone As for a question regarding the contactless payment solution he age threshold for Cov- to register online for vaccination possibility of getting aff ected by that allows users to make secure id-19 vaccination has so that more people, especially Covid-19, after taking the fi rst payments from the smartwatch Tbeen lowered to 50 for all those in the priority groups can dose of vaccine, she answered or fi tness trackers, without the Qatar residents, a top offi cial at be reached out at the earliest. in the affi rmative. “It is possible need of a phone or cards. the Ministry of Public Health “The online registration will that people may get aff ected by Commercial Bank cardholders (MoPH) announced yesterday. allow people who meet the re- the virus even after taking the will very soon enjoy this innova- “This will facilitate more peo- quirements of priority groups to fi rst dose of the vaccine. How- tive payment tech by simply reg- ple to be vaccinated in the com- request an appointment for vac- ever, it could be very mild. That istering their CB credit or debit ing days,” said Dr Soha al-Bayat, Dr Soha al-Bayat cination,” noted Dr al-Bayat. She is the reason why we have to fol- card details into their wearable head of Vaccination, MoPH, dur- hoped that suffi cient number of low all the protective measures smartwatch or tracker using the ing an online live question and be available in Qatar soon. Mean- people will be vaccinated against even if you take the vaccine,” she devices’ applications and then Commercial Bank has announced the launch of a new digital feature answer session. while, MoPH yesterday issued an Covid-19 in the country by sum- highlighted. make contactless payments by that enables payment through wearables, a new innovative payment “In addition, people with emergency use authorisation for mer so that herd immunity can The offi cial also urged the simply tapping their smartwatch method provided through smartwatches and trackers. chronic illnesses as well as front- Moderna’s Covid-19 vaccine to be achieved. Dr al-Bayat also public to continue the protective at any contactless supported line workers are eligible for vac- be approved for use in the coun- said that children — below the methods and strictly follow all payment terminals. bigger marketing announce- work closely with our partners cination, irrespective of the age try. The vaccine was approved age of 16 for Pfi zer vaccine and the Covid-19 protocols even after Commercial Bank’s newly ment. “We are a big supporter in Qatar to introduce new solu- limit. Qataris of all age categories after the Pharmaceutical Control those aged under 18 for Moderna taking two doses of vaccine. “It is launched service fulfi ls the of the government’s vision of a tions that are aligned with their are eligible for vaccination from Department at MoPH carried out — cannot be provided the vaccine essential that you follow all the bank’s promise of bringing pay- cashless society, therefore always changing needs.” today. Hopefully soon, the next an extensive review of the vac- as no clinical trials for this group measures such as wearing mask, ment solutions to match the trying to provide innovative, “We are excited to provide phase will be announced and cine and assessed the results of has been completed. “When the hand sanitisation as well as so- evolving lifestyle of its custom- convenient, and secure payment our Qatari customers and Com- non-Qataris also will have a low- clinical studies. approval for this category is giv- cial distancing until suffi cient ers; thus, becoming one of the solutions to both our customers mercial Bank cardholders with er age group,” continued Dr al- Dr al-Bayat said that at present en by the drug companies, they number of people are vaccinated fi rst local banks to off er athletes and merchants alike. another way to pay while they Bayat. The offi cial also told that Qatar has made agreements for will also be provided the vaccine. so that the spread of virus does and sports enthusiasts in Qatar “Amidst the Covid-19 pan- are on the go,” said Tim Spurling, Moderna vaccine is expected to Covid-19 vaccine only with Pfi z- Pfi zer vaccine has two doses with not happen,” she added. a new way to pay for their pur- demic, more people across the general manager (Middle East, chases with their watches and region and the world are turning North Africa and Central Asia) keep moving. to contactless payments for safe, at Garmin. “Having the ability to Qatar okays emergency use for Moderna vaccine Roya Khajeh, AGM and head hygienic, and fast purchases, and easily pay for purchases, without (Cards and Payments) at CB said, we are delighted to off er them the need for a phone or wallet, From Page 1 are off ered. Meanwhile, Dr Ai- proved highly eff ective.“We were a limited quantity initially, this is “Commercial Bank has always additional touchless solutions is a feature that we are happy to sha Ibrahim al-Ansari, director clear from the outset that we only an encouraging development and been a market leader in introduc- and a seamless banking experi- bring to users who live an active He said both vaccines have of Pharmacy and Drug Control wanted internationally approved, we can expect regular, larger de- ing new payment technologies ence.” lifestyle.” shown similarly high levels of and chair of the Vaccine Pro- safe and eff ective vaccines for the liveries of both the Moderna and and a key infl uencer in setting Nadia Ghissassi, country This off ering is backed by an safety and effi cacy in trials and curement Taskforce, Qatar, said: people of Qatar. We will soon re- Pfi zer-BioNTech vaccines to ar- new market trends in Qatar. In manager (Qatar, Kuwait, Iraq and advanced ‘Tokenizatio’ platform, that people should not be con- “Qatar’s proactive approach to ceive the fi rst delivery of Moder- rive in Qatar in the next days and recent years, we have seen a con- Oman) at MasterCard said, “We off ering users higher transaction cerned about which vaccine they securing vaccine agreements has na vaccines and while this will be weeks,” she added. siderable growth of smartwatch- are excited to extend our part- security and greater transparen- es and wearables in the country. nership with Commercial Bank cy while making purchases. The “The adoption of these weara- for the launch of this new pay- technology replaces sensitive bles made it essential for us to ment solution. cardholder information with an bring contactless payments to “Contactless payment tech- alternate card number or token more payment devices. We are nologies were already gaining that is used by the payment de- QNL steps up fi ght against traffi cking of proud to partner with Garmin traction, we have witnessed how vice and merchant, reducing the and MasterCard to bring a secure the pandemic acted as a cata- possibility of fraud. and convenient payment option lyst and dramatically increased Introduced recently, Mas- for our customers. “Commercial consumer adoption in this mar- terCard’s MDES for Merchants cultural artefacts, documentary heritage Bank customers can stay tuned ket. Shoppers have realised that (M4M) off ering also protects the and expect to know more about touchless provides a much faster, interests of merchants, as shop- this exciting product launch fol- safer, convenient and hygienic ping goes increasingly digital and atar National Library ey,” he explained. “Traffi cking lowing the ongoing closed group way to pay. more businesses tap into e-com- (QNL), held a special of such items is a robbery of the pilot testing phase, through a “Hence we will continue to merce potential. Qevent this week bring- rights of peoples, a falsifi cation ing organisations together to of the history of nations, and counter the traffi cking of cul- a removal of their heritage and Ehsan streams live broadcast to mark National Sport Day tural artefacts in the region. The identity. While criminals make two-day webinar, titled ‘What signifi cant profi ts from this il- is Antiquities Traffi cking?’ held licit traffi cking, humankind is he Elderly Empowerment recently discussed the struc- denied access to archaeological and Care Centre (Ehsan) tures of supply chains for the information and artefacts of its Tparticipated in the activi- illicit trade of cultural items, shared heritage,” continued Dr ties of the National Sport Day identifi ed key stakeholders in- al-Kawari. through a live broadcast on In- volved in the criminal practice, Costarelli said: “This herit- stagram. This was done with the and explored the sources, transit age of the Arab region and the aim of emphasising the impor- routes and market countries of number of impoverished and tance of exercise for the elderly the illegal activity. confl ict-aff ected nations has due to its impact on improving The webinar was part of the led to increased traffi cking and their health as well as psycho- Himaya Project Lecture Series, smuggling of antiquities and ar- logical and social relations, in an initiative QNL launched to HE Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz al-Kawari along with other panellists. tefacts in the region, threatening co-ordination with special- counter the traffi cking and ille- its cultural heritage. ists in this fi eld, Ehsan said in a gal circulation of documentary cultural heritage and confl icts, pride and respect of their own- Professionals must act to statement. heritage in the Mena region and Norwegian Institute in Rome, ers and custodians.” spread awareness about antiqui- The centre hosted cyclist and neighbouring countries. Himaya University of Oslo. “The traffi cking and smug- ties traffi cking and help law en- traveller Abdullah al-Hammadi. engages international agencies The speakers analysed case gling of antiquities is certainly forcement to counter this illegal Journalist Abdul Rahman al- and regional organisations to studies from Iraq and Syria to not a new phenomenon, and ac- activity.” Ashqar interviewed al-Hamma- protect heritage artefacts and illustrate the diff erent aspects tivity has been rising in recent “The international organisa- di in an interesting conversation thwart the traffi cking of such and key features of antiquities years. In the Mena and West and tions in charge of countering that included important steps in The centre hosted cyclist and traveller Abdullah al-Hammadi, who items. traffi cking and its transnational Central Africa regions, traffi ck- the traffi cking of artefacts have the life of al-Hammadi related was interviewed by Abdul Rahman al-Ashqar. The discussions were led by nature. HE the Minister of State ing of such items is greater due tended to focus on the illegal cir- to sports and its importance. Veronica Costarelli, project and QNL President Dr Hamad to confl ict and insecurity — no- culation of archaeological and During the broadcast, al- of fi nding time during the day onship, which is considered a manager, Cross-Border Syrian bin Abdulaziz al-Kawari, said: tably in countries such as Chad, artistic items. However, more Hammadi provided important between practising sports and challenging competition that Emergency Response with the “For centuries, the Arab and Iraq, Libya, Mali, Niger, Syria, also needs to be done with re- advice to the elderly about the performing other social tasks, requires fi tness and endurance UN’s International Organisation Middle East region has been a Sudan and Yemen. It may of- spect to documentary heritage, importance of practising sports considering that sport is part as it is held in diffi cult and re- for Migration and a post-crisis melting pot of civilisations that ten be linked to the activities of which is even more at risk be- to encourage the elderly to im- of a healthy lifestyle that must mote desert locations. He also antiquity traffi cking researcher produced many artefacts with criminal and terrorist groups, cause it is less protected by na- prove their health and psycho- be practised on a daily basis. talked about the diffi culties he and Dr Samuel Andrew Hardy, historical, spiritual and aes- who use it as a means to increase tional legislation and is easier to logical and social relations. He talked about his participa- encountered during the cham- post-doctoral research fellow in thetic values, not to mention the their income and launder mon- move illegally,” Dr Hardy added. He explained the importance tion in the ‘Samla’ champi- pionship.