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Sunday 15 December 2019 | 18 Rabia II 1441 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 24 | Number 8106 | 2 Riyals

Qatar’s policies affirm international legitimacy, law SACHIN KUMAR efforts should also be intensified THE PENINSULA in propounding new visualisa- tions for the next stage, espe- Amir H H Tamim bin cially after the consequences of Hamad Al Thani opened abandoning the international yesterday the high- profile ‘Doha The sources of defects legitimacy and law emerged in Forum 2019’ at Doha Sheraton that prompted many more than one place, including Hotel that witnessed attendance people to lose faith in the our region. This matter was the of world’s top decision makers efficacy of the existing focus of this year’s Doha Forum and policy leaders. ‘Reimagining report, under the theme: “Reim- Governance in a Multipolar global systems and agining Governance in a World’ is theme of the 19th mechanisms, including Multipolar World”. edition of the two-day forum, double standards, must The opening ceremony was which is the region’s largest open attended by President of the platform for global discussion. be addressed. Republic of Rwanda, H E Paul Delivering the opening Kagame; President of the speech, H H the Amir said that It is not yet clear whether Republic of Armenia, H E “the Doha Forum, is a platform Armen Sarkissian; President of which we had launched 19 years what has happened since the Republic of El Salvador, H ago for dialogue and exchange of that stage is a transition E Nayib Bukele; Prime Minister ideas.” from unipolarism to of Malaysia, H E Dr. Mahathir At that stage discourse about Mohamad; Vice-President of a better future for humanity multipolarism, or is it a the Republic of Ecuador, H E started when the two camps state of fragmentation Otto Sonnenholzner; Chairman system and the cold war had and an attempt by major of the Presidential Council of come to an end, and then talk powers to disavow their Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani delivering , about the Millennium Goals, fol- the opening speech during the ‘Doha Forum 2019’ at H E Fayez Mustafa Al Sarraj; lowed by the sustainable devel- duties and responsibilities. Doha Sheraton Hotel, yesterday. Prime Minister of the Federal opment goals has become pos- Republic of H E Hassan sible, and hence the world and Ali Khaire; Prime Minister of our forward-looking to its future responsibility and multilateral of the importance of the joint international scene rather than many people to lose faith in the Antigua and Barbuda, H E Gaston seemed more optimistic. action were on the rise. Yet, responsibility and international working to strengthen the power efficacy of the existing global Browne, and President of the H H the Amir said the con- where are we today from all this? law as a universal reference, of law. systems and mechanisms, General Assembly of the United cepts of international community, The balance has been tipped which in turn gave way to H H the Amir added that the including double standards, Nations, H E Tijjani Muhammad- international legitimacy, joint in favour of the visions sceptical invoking the law of force in the sources of defects that prompted must be addressed. Sincere Bande. `P2 02 HOME SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019 ’s policies affirm international legitimacy, law FROM PAGE 1 The opening was also attended by Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, a number of Their Excellencies and Ministers of sis- terly and friendly countries and members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the State, an elite of decision makers, intel- lectuals in the fields of politics, eco- nomics, energy, media, culture and rep- resentatives of international institutions and civil society organisations. Addressing the audience, H H the Amir said that it is not yet clear whether what has happened since that stage is a transition from unipolarism to multipo- larism, or is it a state of fragmentation and an attempt by major powers to disavow their duties and responsibilities. H H the Amir said if the situation was just a multipolarism, there would not have been a problem, as multipolarism Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani along with other dignitaries attending the opening session of Doha Forum 2019. does not prevent integration of roles and may enrich international relations with the year 2021, in addition to the efforts challenges that humankind is going different perspectives; but if it is trans- of non-profit Qatari organisations, such through, but there are also an abun- lated into a mere rivalry for influence as the Education Above All Foundation dance of goodness, beneficence, sin- between axes without agreed universal which works to provide education to 10 cerity, determination and innovation responsibilities and visions for the Under the auspices of HH the Amir, the 19th #DohaForum “Reimagining million children in conflict areas around that can be relied upon. So, we must all interest of the world, then this would Governance in a Multipolar World” started today. This forum is a vital platform the world. This is a modest effort in a commemorate goodness and human tantamount to a retrogression even from for dialogue on global policymaking, & for #Qatar to renew its adoption of world where around 262 million achievements wherever they are found. the bipolar stage when two perceptions the values of diplomacy & dialogue for a peaceful world. children worldwide are outside educa- It is precisely for this purpose that for a better world had competed in the tional institutions, in addition to con- I am pleased today to initiate a new shadow of mutual deterrence. flict zones where 27 million children are tradition of honouring a global per- H H the Amir added that the of holding war criminals accountable space for dialogue, we have also estab- deprived of their basic right to edu- sonage in this forum. H H the Amir common international vision that became complex, said H H the Amir. lished platforms such as the Doha Forum cation. But we are doing our part. said that this year’s personality is a appeared to be clear at the beginning of H H the Amir added that these and the Doha Conference on Interfaith H H the Amir said that Qatar Devel- role model of good governance. He the new millennium has blurred, problems cannot be solved without Dialogue, which we launched 16 years opment Fund contributes around has managed to achieve a quantum whether from the perspective of the coordinated international efforts and ago for building dialogue bridges. $600m annually to relief, educational leap in economy, education and pro- international legitimacy, issues of shared visions, likewise the issues of Doha has witnessed this year alone and health projects in about 59 coun- duction in his country. He also fought poverty, environment and climate or violent extremism which is not restricted important international conferences tries across all continents. Also, Qatar against class discrimination to make from not holding war criminals to a religion or a race, and which is such as World Inter-parliamentary Charity contributed about $400m to education and health a right for all of accountable. However, the problems indiscriminate in targeting the innocent, Union and the International Conference development projects for the benefit of his countrymen while promoting reli- and challenges have remained in place and making no distinction based on on Disability and Development which about 10 million people in 50 States. gious coexistence and communal as they are and the environment and gender, racial or religious grounds. took place last week in co-operation As regards Silatech organisation, peace, as well as fighting corruption, climate problems are exacerbating, and H H the Amir said: “We, in Qatar, with the . which is concerned with the economic aligning with the just causes around the issue of chronic poverty in vast areas have committed ourselves not to just H H the Amir said that at the relief empowerment of women and children, the world, in addition to his determi- across the world has not been solved, criticising this situation but rather trying and development level, we announced especially in the Middle East and Africa, nation that neither recognise time nor likewise the issue of occupation and to contribute to answering these ques- on the sidelines of the United Nations it has empowered about 1.6 million age. annexation of others’ land by force. tions, even if only partially. In addition General Assembly session last Sep- children and women to date. The H H the Amir concluded by saying As you know there is close co- to our policies which are based on tember the allocation of $100m to small organization has also set a target to that this year we honour my dear relation between poverty, wars and the respecting the international law and island states to cope with climate empower 5.8 million children and brother, H E Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, aggravation of asylum and immigration international legitimacy and contrib- change. The State of Qatar has also women by 2022. Prime Minister of Malaysia, for his entire issues. Armed militias have taken uting to solving conflicts peacefully pledged to provide education to one H H the Amir said that there is no accomplishments, and I invite everyone advantage of conflicts and the process through mediation and providing a million young girls in conflict areas by doubt that there are many difficult to join me in greeting him. SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019 HOME 03 04 HOME SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019

Amir meets delegates participating in Doha Forum OFFICIAL NEWS Amir holds telephone conversation with President of

DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani held via telephone, yesterday, a conversation with H E President of the Lebanese Republic . During the phone call, they discussed the situation in Lebanon, where HE President Aoun briefed HH the Amir on the latest developments. Fur- thermore, HH the Amir and HE president of Lebanon reviewed the two countries’ close bilateral relations and means to bolster them. HE President Aoun also invited HH the Amir to visit Lebanon, and His welcomed Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met a number of Their Excellencies heads of sisterly and friendly States and governments taking part in the Doha Forum the invitation. 2019 at Doha Sheraton Hotel yesterday morning. H H the Amir met with President of the Republic of Rwanda, H E Paul Kagame; President of the Republic of Armenia, H E Armen Sarkissian; President of the Republic of El Salvador, H E Nayib Bukele; Prime Minister of Malaysia, H E Dr. Mahathir Mohamad; Vice-President of the Republic of Ecuador, H E Otto Sonnenholzner; Chairman of the Presidential Council of Libya, H E Fayez Mustafa Al Sarraj; Prime Minister of het Federal Republic of Somalia, H E Hassan SJC President meets Ali Khaire; Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, H E Gaston Browne; and President of the General Assembly of the United Nations, H E Tijjani Muhammad-Bande. The President of Supreme meeting was attended by Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani and a number of Their Excellencies the Ministers. Court of Paraguay

DOHA: President of the Amir meets US Senator Court of Cassation and Presi- Amir honours Prime dent of the Supreme Judiciary Council H E Dr. Hassan bin Lahdan Al Hassan Al Mohan- Minister of Malaysia nadi met yesterday with H E the President of the Supreme Court of Paraguay Eugenio Jimenez , on the sidelines of his participation in the Doha Forum 2019. During the meeting, they reviewed cooperation rela- tions between the two countries in the legal and judi- cial fields. Attorney-General signs anti-corruption agreement with Presidency of Ecuador

DOHA: Attorney-Gen- eral H E Dr. Ali bin Fetais Al Marri signed yesterday an agreement, on coopera- tion in the field of combating Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met with Senator H E Lindsey Graham, corruption, with the Anti- member of the Senate of the US Congress, on the sidelines of the Doha Forum 2019 Corruption Secretariat, in the at Doha Sheraton Hotel yesterday morning. The meeting reviewed the relations of Republic of Ecuador’s Presi- friendship and strategic cooperation between the State of Qatar and the United dency, in the presence of Vice States and ways of enhancing them. President of the Republic of Ecuador Otto Ramon Son- nenholzner, who is currently on a visit to Qatar. Malaysian PM: Amir’s opening of Ambassador of Ecuador to Qatar Evonne A-Baki signed Doha Forum promotes enthusiasm the agreement for the Ecua- dorean Presidency. for more in-depth discussions The agreement aims to enhance cooperation in QNA address them. He referred to the expe- several axes, including QNA/DOHA DOAH rience of the Association of Southeast combating corruption; devel- Asian Nations (ASEAN) in cooperation and oping best practices related Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani honoured the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Prime Minister of Malaysia H E Dr. partnership to achieve peace, stability and to prevention; international H E Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, for his entire accomplishments, during the opening of the Mahathir Mohamad said that Amir H H prosperity in the region for 52 years cooperation; investigation Doha Forum 2019. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani’s despite the social, economic and political activities; monitoring corrup- In his speech at the opening of the Doha Forum 2019 this morning, HH the Amir opening of the Doha Forum 2019 multiplicity, saying that his country, a tion cases, providing training said: “This years personality is a role model of good governance. He has managed to promotes enthusiasm for more in-depth member of this association, continues to and consulting on combat- achieve a quantum leap in economy, education and production in his country. He also discussions in the presence of a number consolidate regional integration as a pri- ing corruption; promoting fought against class discrimination to make education and health a right for all of his of world leaders, officials, experts, ority in its foreign policy. joint research activities; and countrymen while promoting religious coexistence and communal peace, as well as researchers and academics, to reach H E the PM of Malaysia expressed exchanging visits of academ- fighting corruption, aligning with the just causes around the world, in addition to his visions on the current global challenges rejection for imposing sanctions in order ics and specialists in this field determination that neither recognize time nor age.” and improve the standard of living for the to compel states and force them to accept of Anti-corruption. world’s population, expressing his grat- some ideologies and changes, saying that itude to the State of Qatar for the warm the countries targeted by the sanctions Qatar elected V-P welcome during his current visit. do not suffer alone, but also their com- of ALECSO International Police Addressing the opening session of the mercial and economic partners, and that Doha Forum 2019, H E the Prime Minister no international law allows for the impo- Executive Council said that the topics addressed by the Doha sition of unilateral sanctions which are Coordination Center in Forum affirm that the State of Qatar is on unfair and a form of dictatorship. TUNIS: The Executive the right track in identifying the current he underlined that his country does Council of the Arab League developments in the world, adding that the not support the re-imposition of unilateral Educational, Cultural and Sci- Doha to secure FIFA 2022 Forum presents a great opportunity for sanctions against Iran, saying that these entific Organization (ALECSO) experts from around the world to exchange measures violate the Charter of the United elected during its 112th Ses- sion in , the State of QNA/DOHA experiences and information about the best Nations and international laws. He called includes a group of qualified young cadres solutions to the current challenges. on the UN General Assembly to work Qatar represented by Dr. representing the concerned departments He noted that the world today is towards defining a law to control such Hamda Hassan Al-Sulaiti, The Ministry of Interior said that the estab- that operate under the umbrella of the largely intertwined and no country can sanctions. H E the PM warned against Secretary-General of the lishment of the International Police Coordi- security committee. During the Club World live in isolation from the other, noting that trade wars, saying that these wars support Qatar National Commission nation Center (IPCC) in Doha aims to ensure Cup Championship, the center was acti- the Forum’s slogan this year “Reimag- the strong side and do not respect human for Education, Culture and the highest levels of security and tranquility vated to enhance capabilities and identi- ining Governance in a Multipolar World” values and rights, and their implications Science, and the State Rep- for all spectators during the 2022 World Cup. fying mechanisms for joint action as the indicates the need for world countries to are greater for the poor and destitute resentative in the Executive The IPCC is an operating room liaison officers from the external police work jointly away from unilateralism and around the world. He called for resolving Council of the Organization as managed and supervised by the Security agencies were brought in from the par- isolationism. He stressed that this multi- trade conflicts through negotiations and Vice-President. Committee of the Supreme Committee for ticipating countries of the tournament, plicity stimulates innovation and coop- dialogue, or through resorting to the In the closing session, the Delivery and Legacy. It has been provided such as Brazil, , Mexico, and Britain, eration in various fields. courts agreed upon by the countries con- Organization’s draft budget with the latest advanced technological to provide expertise and assistance in He said that countries that believe in cerned, and for trade negotiations to for the 2021-2022 financial means and the necessary infrastructure dealing with fans coming from these coun- control create nothing but sensitivity and restore balance to the world. session was approved, and to perform its role and achieve its goals. tries to attend the Club World Cup. The tension, and today’s multipolar world H E the Malaysian PM also touched the main features of its stra- The Center has prominent cooperation Center focuses on managing the situation needs partnership and cooperation, on the challenges of climate change, and tegic plan 2023-2028. The with the International Criminal Police if the encouragement deviates from the noting that the world is facing increasing his experience as the prime minister and Council also approved activ- Organization (Interpol). On the tasks of sporting spirit, and adopts inappropriate concern about the sustainability of eco- the changes he has led in Malaysia and ities programmed by the the center and how it works, First Lieu- or anti-racist slogans, whether political, nomic growth in light of the current eco- the plans of his government to achieve departments and external tenant Hamad Al Nasr, assistant com- social or religious that would incite nomic, social and political challenges, more economic recovery and meet bodies of the organization. mander of the IPCC, said that the center fanaticism. which require a global partnership to related challenges. SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019 HOME 05 Prime Minister meets participants of Doha Forum 2019

Prime Minister and Interior Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, with President of the 74th session of the UN General Assembly, H E Tijjani Muhammad-Bande (left), and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland, H E Jacek Czaputowicz.

QNA Interior Minister met with Pres- the State of Qatar and each of Minister of Foreign Affairs of the lency on the occasion of their and means of developing and DOHA ident of the Republic of Rwanda, those countries and ways of Republic of Serbia, H E Ivica participation in the Doha Forum enhancing them, in addition to H E Paul Kagame; President of enhancing them, as well as the Dacic; Minister of Foreign Affairs 2019, currently in session Doha. a number of topics on the agenda Prime Minister and Interior the Republic of El Salvador, H E topics listed on the agenda of the of the Republic of Poland, H E Meanwhile, H E the Prime of the forum. Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nayib Bukele; Prime Minister of Forum. Jacek Czaputowicz; the Minister and Interior Minister H E Prime Minister and Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani met the Federal Republic of Somalia, H E the Prime Minister and Secretary General of the Ministry met with Minister of Peace of the Interior Minister also hosted a yesterday with a number of H E Hassan Ali Khaire, and Interior Minister also met with of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Democratic Republic of luncheon banquet in honor of Their Excellencies heads of dele- Prime Minister of Antigua and President of the 74th session of Sultanate of , H E Badr bin Ethiopia, H E Muferihat Kamil. Their Excellencies heads of the gations participating in the Doha Barbuda, H E Gaston Browne. the UN General Assembly, H E Hamoud Al Busaidi; and CEO of During the meeting, they delegations taking part in the Forum 2019 which is being held The meetings reviewed the Tijjani Muhammad-Bande; First Societe Generale, Frederic reviewed the cooperation rela- Doha Forum 2019, currently in in Doha. H E Prime Minister and cooperation relations between Deputy Prime Minister and Oudea who called on His Excel- tions between the two countries session in Doha. President of Asian Parliamentary Assembly Speaker of Shura Council meets Iranian counterpart QNA the Executive Council and 12th of the second meeting of the meets Speaker of Shura Council ANTALYA Plenary of the Asian Parlia- Executive Council and the 12th mentary Assembly. Plenary of the Asian Parlia- Speaker of the Shura Council, H During the meeting, they mentary Assembly. E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid reviewed the parliamentary H E Chairman of the Qatar- Al Mahmoud, met with H E cooperation relations between Asian Parliamentary Friendship Speaker of Islamic Consultative the State of Qatar and the Islamic Group, Rashid bin Hamad Al Assembly of the Islamic Republic Republic of Iran, and ways to Meadadi, and several members of Iran, Ali Larijani, on the side- enhance them. They also dis- of the Shura Council attended lines of the second meeting of cussed the topics on the agenda the meeting. Qatar to capture and sequester over 7 mtpa of CO2 by 2027 SACHIN KUMAR Total and Claudio Descalzi, CEO, there is high demand of LNG from THE PENINSULA Eni also shared their view on the emerging markets such as East future of LNG. Asia and developing countries and Qatar is aiming to capture and H E the Minister in October Qatar Petroleum has future plans sequester more than 7 million this year had announced that to meet these needs. tonnes per annum (mtpa) of CO2 Qatar had successfully commis- With regard to the risks of (Carbon Dioxide) by 2027, said sioned a facility at Ras Laffan exploration in light of the low President of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly and Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, H E Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, the making it the largest CO2 recovery prices, H E the Minister said that, H E Mustafa Sentop, met yesterday with Speaker of the Shura Council, H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Minister of State for Energy Affairs and sequestration facility in the despite the percentage of risks that Al Mahmoud, and Their Excellencies heads of parliaments and delegations participating in the work of and the President and CEO of MENA region with a capacity of exploration operations involve, the second meeting of the Executive Council and 12th Plenary of the Asian Parliamentary Assembly. Qatar Petroleum, speaking during 2.1 million tons per annum of CO2. exploration contains opportunities During the meeting, they discussed parliamentary cooperation relations and the most important topics a session at The Doha Forum 2019. Addressing the gathering at and allows Qatar Petroleum to on the agenda. “We have started this year two and The Doha Forum, H E the Minister expand globally. a half million tones of CO2 seques- said that natural gas is the desti- H E the Minister said that tration in addition to that with nation fuel in that energy tran- exploration is expensive and expansion mentioned earlier, by sition. There are many countries includes a risk in light of success MoTC at advanced stages on 2024 we will reach 5 million that are currently moving away rates of 10 to 15 percent, but Qatar tonnes and we are going to reach from the use of coal and are Petroleum is working with many about 7 million tonnes by 2027,” instead using natural gas. active partners in the field of ‘Park and Ride’ project said H E Saad Sherida Al Kaabi. The current production of exploration in many countries. H E the Minister discussed Qatar is 77 million tonnes per H E the Minister stated that dynamics of the global LNG annum and the production will Qatar Petroleum is participating THE PENINSULA Park and Ride provides Wakra and the free parking market during a session titled ‘The increase to 110 million tonnes by in a natural gas project in the DOHA free parking spaces spaces have been used already Future of LNG in Meeting the 2024 to 126 million tonnes by United States, which gives it flex- adjacent to Doha Metro during the 24th Arabian Gulf World’s Energy Demand’. Patrick 2027. ibility that does not exist in many The Ministry of Transport and stations at four new Cup Championship. Works at Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO, H E the Minister said that similar companies. Communications (MoTC) is at an locations in Al Wakra, the three other locations are advanced stage on its ‘Park and , and scheduled to complete in Q1 of Ride’ project — Ministry’s Public 2020. Bus Infrastructure Program. Education City, to The “Park and Ride” Project Park and Ride provides free encourage vehicle owners is another example of the con- parking spaces adjacent to Doha to use the modern siderable attention MoTC pays Metro stations at four new loca- public transportation to the modern, sustainable and tions in Al Wakra, Al Qassar, systems to and from their eco-friendly public transpor- Lusail and Education City, to destinations in less time tation systems. MoTC is contin- encourage vehicle owners to use uously working to improve the modern public transpor- and at a lower cost. public transit services and tation systems to and from their increase ridership over the destinations in less time and at significant enhancement to coming years. For this to a lower cost. Qatar’s public transportation happen, MoTC provides high- This will help further network and Doha Metro quality transportation services, improve the services on public services for citizens, residents, modern parking facilities that roads and at major intersections visitors and FIFA World Cup are strategically distributed H E Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, Minister of State for Energy Affairs and the President and CEO of Qatar by achieving smoother traffic Qatar 2022 fans. across the country and acces- Petroleum; Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO Total; and Claudio Descalzi, CEO, Eni, during a session flow, less congestion and less MoTC has already com- sible by everyone easily and PIC: ABDUL BASIT/THE PENINSULA carbon emissions. It also adds a pleted project works in Al affordably. at The Doha Forum 2019. Somali Foreign Minister lauds Qatar’s support for his country

QNA Somali people and government participating in the Forum, espe- impact and external interference terrorist and extremist acts DOHA thank Qatar for its distinguished, cially as it reflects the Qatari role in his country, noting that the that spread during the last pivotal and fundamental role in in support of world issues and Somali people are behind their period and was able to Minister of Foreign Affairs of the enhancing security in Somalia. being one of the most important leadership, rejecting the strengthen the States institu- Federal Republic of Somalia, H E the Somali Foreign Min- global forums for its political and influence of any external forces tions and succeeded in con- H E Ahmed Awad Issa (pictured), ister, in a press statement on the economic participation which on their unity and security. vincing the world through has lauded the strong and sidelines of his participation in brings together experts and spe- The Minister said that the international forums to drop continuous Qatari support for the Doha Forum, which started cialists in the related fields. Somali government had debts from them to start again Somalia, stressing that the today, expressed his gratitude for He denounced the negative managed to defeat the in building modern Somalia. 06 HOME SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, H E Dr. Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah with US Secretary of Treasury, H E Steven Mnuchin (left); H E President Armen Sarkissian of the Republic of Armenia; and Minister of Defence of Japan, H E Taro Kono (below, right). Deputy PM meets leaders attending Doha Forum QNA Armenia met with H E Deputy Defence Affairs met with DOHA Prime Minister and Minister of Malaysia’s Defence Minister State for Defence Affairs. Mohammed Sabo. Deputy Prime Minister and H E Dr. Khalid bin H E Dr. Khalid bin Minister of State for Defence Mohammad Al Attiyah met sep- Mohammed Al Attiyah met here Affairs, H E Dr. Khalid bin arately with US Secretary of with Canada’s Assistant Deputy Mohammed Al Attiyah met Treasury H E Steven Mnuchin foreign Minister for Global yesterday with a number of and Deputy Assistant Secretary Affairs H E Peter McDougall. Their Excellencies the dele- for Arabian Gulf Affairs H E During the meetings, they gates participating in the Doha Timothy Lenderking. H E also reviewed cooperation Forum 2019 which is being held met with Minister of Defence relations. in Doha. of Japan H E Taro Kono. The meetings reviewed the President H E Armen Sark- H E Deputy Prime Minister military relations and ways of issian of the Republic of and Minister of State for promoting them. Qatari-Turkish Joint Command headquarters opens HIA voted Best Airport in Middle East at Global Traveler Reader Survey Awards

THE PENINSULA DOHA

Hamad International Airport (HIA) has been voted as the “Best Commenting on the Airport in the Middle East” for award, Engr. Badr the third consecutive year at the Mohammed Al Meer, 16th Annual Global Traveler’s GT Chief Operating Tested Reader Survey Awards in Los Angeles. The award Officer at HIA, stated: recognises airports across the “We are privileged to world for outstanding win the “Best Airport performance in providing an in the Middle East” exceptional experience to trav- ellers. award by Global The Global Traveler’s Traveler for the third awards are highly sought after The Award consecutive year. HIA and respected as an unbiased Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, H E Dr. Khalid bin Mohammad Al Attiyah and reflection of the best in travel hospitality across all operations, is a diverse lifestyle Turkish National Defence Minister, H E Hulusi Akar, yesterday inaugurated the headquarters of the Qatari- through an open-ended reader bringing a new dimension to destination putting Turkish Joint Command at Khalid Bin Al Walid Military Camp. On the sidelines of the inaugural ceremony, H survey. travel through world-class the passengers at the E Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs held a meting with H E the Turkish National Commenting on the award, shopping, dining and leisure heart of the airport Defence Minister. During the meeting, they reviewed the existing military relations between the two countries. Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer, experiences across 40,000 Chief Operating Officer at HIA, square meters. Travellers can strategy. stated: “We are privileged to win shop many sought-after brands the “Best Airport in the Middle at more than 90 boutiques and with and create memorable Al Sulaiti meets MSC Chairman East” award by Global Traveler enjoy a variety of culinary expe- experiences. for the third consecutive year. riences in more than 30 cafes HIA has also recently QNA HIA is a diverse lifestyle desti- and restaurants. Having the revealed its plans for its airport DOHA nation putting the passengers at opportunity to relax at the con- expansion with a spectacular the heart of the airport strategy. veniently located Oryx Airport 10,000 sqm indoor tropical Minister of Transport From our world-class art col- Hotel, travellers can recharge at garden, a 268 sqm water feature and Communications lection to contemporary the five-star Vitality Wellbeing as well as 11,720 sqm of land- H E Jassim Saif Ahmed shopping and dining options to and Fitness Center where they scaped retail and dining con- Al Sulaiti met yesterday endless entertainment and can take a dip in the 25-metre cepts among other leisure with H E Wolfgang relaxation facilities, every swimming pool, play squash or attractions and facilities under Ischinger, Chairman of corner of our expansive terminal get a reviving spa treatment tai- one expansive terminal. the Munich Security offers pleasant surprises and an lored to their needs. Housing Since 2004, Global Traveler Conference (MSC), on the eclectic experience to our pas- over 20 international art pieces is a well-known luxury publi- sidelines of Doha Forum sengers. We thank Global for travellers to enjoy and be cation in the United States, rec- 2019 activities. They Traveler for this outstanding intrigued by, HIA also regularly ognised globally with a high discussed aspects of recognition and our passengers transforms into an innovative readership of frequent luxury cooperation and means for their continued support and stage for different forms of art business and leisure travelers of further enhancing confidence in HIA.” and hosts activities at the ter- informing passengers about five- them. HIA fosters a culture of minal for travellers to interact star airports, airlines and hotels. Doha Forum 2019 reviews history of booming energy industry in Qatar

QNA Musafer, H E Abdullah bin of the nineties, adding that in model of development. of natural gas, which places of the world, stressing its DOHA Hamad Al Attiyah emphasised front of the growing interna- He noted that about half of Qatar in third place globally after respect for international agree- the interest of the State of Qatar tional and local challenges in the State of Qatar’s production the Russian Federation and Iran. ments and agreements in the The Doha Forum 2019, on the in exploring for oil and making its relations with fluctuations in of crude oil comes from the He stressed that the coun- field of exporting petroleum sidelines of its activities sure to extract it for dependence world oil prices and a desire to Dukhan and Al Shaheen fields, try’s wise leadership seeks to products and natural gas ship- yesterday hosted H E Abdullah in the country’s economy, espe- achieve sustainable devel- pointing out that the Al Shamal increase the production ments to various countries of bin Hamad Al Attiyah, Chairman cially after the collapse of the opment that does not stand on Gas field is one of the largest capacity of LNG, as the State of the world, noting the diversity of the Board of Trustees of the pearl industry, due to what one source, the State of Qatar non-associated natural gas fields Qatar will remain prominent in of the country’s income sources Abdullah Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Japan has done to introduce has been keen in years The in the world, which was dis- the global energy market for through its sovereign fund for International Foundation for artificial pearls into the market latter is to invest in vital sectors covered in 1971 in submerged several years to come as the investment, which it guarantees Energy and Sustainable Devel- is to drop the whole industry, that guarantee the development waters in the northeast of the largest supplier of LNG in the a decent life for future genera- opment, to review the history so the Qatari government has of society and achieve real, country and reaches a water world, including up to a quarter tions, as well as ensuring devel- of the boom of the energy turned its attention to oil and comprehensive and invested depth ranging from Between of global LNG supplies. opment assistance to devel- industry in the State of Qatar natural gas. development, including the (15-70) metres, and the field At the end of the discussion oping countries through the since the beginning of the 20th H E pointed out that oil possibilities offered by oil, as extends over an area of 6000 session, HE Abdullah bin Hamad Qatar Fund for Development century. played an important role in the one of the fruits of the efforts square kilometres and contains Al-Attiyah praised the efforts of (QFFD) and through interna- At the beginning of the dis- promotion and development led by the State and society in about (900) trillion cubic feet of the State of Qatar in the field of tional charitable societies and cussion session moderated by process in the Arab Gulf region this regard is that the State of natural gas, which represents 20 energy exploration and institutions supported by the the Iraqi journalist Salam in general since the beginning Qatar has become an ambitious percent of the world’s reserves extraction in various countries State of Qatar. SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019 HOME 07 Prime Minister: celebration is inspiration to instill values of sacrifice and loyalty to homeland and wise leadership QNA The signs of the celebration of the National Day approved in 2018. well as according to the Global DOHA are great and have vast meanings in the minds Regarding the Ministry of Finance Index 2019 and in the and hearts of all citizens and expatriate residents, Interior, H E said that the Min- World Peace Index Report. The Prime Minister and Interior H E the Prime Minister said, adding that the istry has worked to translate the Ministry of Interior also received Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin objectives of the Qatar National international recognition in the Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani celebration of the National Day embodies the Vision 2030 and the National Arab and the international affirmed that the National Day of meaning of unity and truthful fraternity among Development Strategy, which awards, and has won more than the State of Qatar (December 18) the citizens of the one homeland. devoted a special sector to 30 Arab and international awards is a glorious occasion to security and safety, indicating since 2011 in various fields, H E commemorate the founder that the Ministry’s strategy (2018- said. Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed the desired goals in the renais- toward the development of our 2022) defines the mechanisms of In terms of achieving public bin Thani (May Allah bless him), sance and development,” HE the dear homeland and the building action, plans, programs and safety and civil defense, HE said an inspiration to instill the values Prime Minister added. of its promising future.” projects to achieve the sectoral that there are many services and of loyalty to the homeland and The celebration of the Regarding the progress of the results of the security and safety great efforts to achieve public the wise leadership and a motive National Day, H E affirmed, con- achievements of the country in sector. safety, and that the latest mech- for deepening the pride and tributes to strengthen the loyalty various fields, H E said: “Thanks “The strategic objectives anisms and regulations are pro- H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser development of the State. to the homeland through the to God, the progress of the coun- listed in the Ministry of Interior vided in the field of civil pro- bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister In exclusive statements to images of solidarity and the try’s achievements is clear in all Strategy (2018-2022) were highly tection, pointing out that the and Interior Minister (QNA), H E interrelationship between lead- the fields of economic, political, focused on securing the hosting average time of arrival for Civil the Prime Minister and Minister citizens of the one homeland. ership, citizens and residents of social, security, cultural, sports of the FIFA World Cup2022, fol- Defense vehicles in 2018 was of Interior congratulated Amir H E underlined that among this good land, and adherence and youth. Qatar has made great lowed by many other objectives. eight minutes. H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad the most important lessons that to the values of the State of strides towards its renaissance. The most important objectives Within the framework of Al Thani, Father Amir H H Sheikh can be drawn from this occasion Qatar, which has become a key Doha is now hosting various include security stability and the human resources development, Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, and comes the embodiment of the feature of everyone’s standing political, economic and sports reduction of crime rates as well as one of the objectives of the all citizens and expatriates living values of loyalty to the homeland with one hand under the wise activities with many countries as protecting lives and property Ministry of Interior strategy (2018- on this good land, on the and the attachment of the citizens and conscious leadership of our and organizations, which shows and responding quickly to emer- 2022), the Ministry of Interior has occasion of the celebration of the to the wise leadership, Amir H H country. that Qatar enjoys security and gencies and achieving security achieved in recent years signif- National Day of the State, asking Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al H E Sheikh Abdullah bin safety and has a clear vision in and safety on roads and so on,” icant leaps in the development of Allah, to repeat the memory of Thani as His Highness puts the Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani dealing with various regional and HE said. its various departments, and mod- this day and the nation with full interest of the nation and citizens urged every citizen and resident international issues.” H E the Prime Minister and ernization of the mechanisms of of pride, delight and determi- above all; so the barriers are dis- to uphold the values established About the most prominent Minister of Interior continued to work, and upgrade the methods nation, and that everyone enjoys solved and citizens’ interaction by the founder, stressing “soli- efforts in implementing Qatar say that in this context, the Min- of the training system, as the Min- security, stability and with the leadership keeps darity, the commitment to fulfil National Vision 2030 and its istry of Interior continued to istry continued to open the door tranquillity. increasing. our ambitions and duties, the current development strategy perform its security and service of grant to its personnel for spe- The signs of the celebration of “We believe that this is a moving towards the future of 2018-2022, HE said that this mission successfully and effi- cialized studies in the best mil- the National Day are great and great occasion, and the cele- our State and instituting its year is the second year in the ciently, noting that on the inter- itary and civilian universities; in have vast meanings in the minds bration of it deepens and rein- values and proud ethics are our execution of the second national national indicators, the State of addition to that, training and and hearts of all citizens and expa- forces pure national feelings after greatest challenge. Our State has development strategy to Qatar has occupied advanced development efforts are carried triate residents, H E the Prime the footsteps of the founder known for its values, ideals, its implement Qatar National international positions in the on at the Police Training Institute, Minister said, adding that the cel- where he valued justice, dignity, handling and dealing with Vision 2030, noting that various level of security and safety, in the HE said, noting that graduation of ebration of the National Day hard work without boredom, and various events and crises with ministries, bodies and institu- global annual crime index report the first batch of officers’ candi- embodies the meaning of unity support for the oppressed, and all wisdom and sanity; the tions continued their projects issued by the Encyclopedia of the dates was celebrated in January and truthful fraternity among the upholding it all times to achieve values by which we are moving and programs, which were World Database (Numbeo), as 2019. National Day celebration reminds of Founder’s and ancestors’ sacrifices to achieve unity, says Governor of QCB

QNA from this occasion is that the cel- H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Saoud Al Thani stressed sectors. DOHA ebrations allow our youth to that the progress in the State of Qatar is great H E the Governor of QCB learn about the hardship faced in all aspects. The State of Qatar has made great continued by saying that our Governor of Qatar Central Bank by our ancestors and the sacri- progress in various fields since its independence. economy is even stronger today (QCB) H E Sheikh Abdullah bin fices they made in order to pave than it was before the blockade. Saoud Al Thani (pictured) has the way for us and future In the economic field, the State has achieved one The state budget is currently said that the celebration of Qatar generations. of the fastest economic booms in modern history. experiencing a surplus after it National Day (QND), which falls The celebrations also instill had a deficit. on December 18, indicates that in the them the ideals and great Furthermore, the current we did not and will not forget the hopes that built our beloved in the world, in addition to Additionally, it has a large col- account balance of payments great sacrifices made by the country to enable them to follow having one of the strongest lection of modern hospitals, is also witnessing a large Founder and ancestors to the same approach, and sovereign funds in the world. research centers, health centers surplus, which reflected posi- achieve unity. emphasize the importance of H E pointed out that the and universities, in addition to tively on the international In statements to QNA on the choosing a wise, courageous and march of achievements was not the best seaport in the region and reserves and liquidity in foreign occasion of Qatar National Day, honest leader who maintains the modern history. limited to this major economic the best airport and airlines. currency at Qatar Central Bank H E the QCB Governor said that interest of his people. Its GDP jumped from about boom; it extended to urban He added that despite the that declined by more than 20 the celebration of this glorious H E Sheikh Abdullah bin QR10bn in 1975 to over developments throughout the unjust blockade imposed on percent during the first months day of our history is a confir- Saoud Al Thani stressed that the QR600bn now. It is currently country as a result of the the State of Qatar for more of the blockade. International mation of our recognition of this progress in the State of Qatar is the largest producer of liq- insightful vision of the than two years, we became reserves and liquidity recorded day’s distinctive nature, when great in all aspects. The State of uefied gas in the world. It also leadership. stronger than before due to the at the end of October of this our ancestors united to choose a Qatar has made great progress has an advanced industrial During the past decade, the wise leadership of Amir H H year was about $54.2bn, seasoned leader to lead their tri- in various fields since its inde- sector, especially in the field State of Qatar has been able to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al exceeding what it recorded umphant march. pendence. In the economic field, of petrochemicals, iron, steel modernize its infrastructure and Thani and the combined efforts before the unjust blockade He pointed out that the most the State has achieved one of the and aluminium, thus enjoying establish extensive and modern of all the authorities and the when it was $45.7bn at the end important lessons to be learned fastest economic booms in the highest income per capita networks of roads and bridges. support of the State to all of May 2017. QND celebrations attract thousands at Darb Al Saai

SIDI MOHAMED The Minister of Justice and THE PENINSULA Acting Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, H E Dr. Issa bin The National Festivities at Darb Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi and Al Saai yesterday attracted thou- President of Planning and Sta- sands of visitors who enjoyed the tistics Authority, H E Dr. Saleh various activities like Al Maseer bin Mohammad Salem Al Nabit, Parade with the participation of visited Darb Al Saai yesterday Children enjoying different activities at Darb Al Saai. Many visitors expressed their happiness over the diversity of these activities which horses, camels and Mawater. and took a tour of pavilions. The meet all people’s desires and also come as a prelude to the National Day. They also enjoyed a lot such tour included various cultural as Metro rail and ‘Al Maqtar’ and heritage activities. they develop their cognitive abil- Qatari environment and The celebrations of the been classified according to the activity which is similar to the “Darb Al Saai activities ities through drawing, painting animals.” National Day will continue until professions of sailors on diving old desert lifestyle. The festiv- educate children about the and sports competition among Many government entities December 20. The National Day ships during the summer, ities varied from heritage and history of Qatar and cultivates others,” she added. are participating in the event celebrations 2019, are being held because it was one of the most cultural events to educating the patriotism in them, as it is Khaled Abduallah, another such as Ministry of Interior; Min- under the slogan ‘Al Maali important professions at that new generation about the Qatari important for the new gener- Qatari citizen, said: “This is a istry of Defence; Ministry of Edu- Kaydah’ that means the path of time, pearl trade age which customs and traditions and cul- ation to know more about the precious occasion for every cation and Higher Education; excellence is difficult, which is gathered people and united tivate the values of loyalty and history of their dear homeland,” citizen, and today, even resi- and Qatar inspired by a poem by Qatar’s them at that time. unity among them. said Rawdah, a Qatari citizen. dents are sharing joy with us. University among others. founder Sheikh Jassim describing The sponsors are the Social Many visitors expressed their She also said that the most Children carry flags and watch The participation of these his son Sheikh Ali bin Jassim & Sport Contribution Fund, Doha happiness over the diversity of important aspect of the event the old Qatari customs such as entities aims to achieve the (Joaan), “Ten years embraced Bank, Qatar National Bank, these activities which meet all was its activities for children. Al Shaar tents. Visitors get a greatest benefit to the visitors of glory and arts Obtained all excel- Qatar Airways, Qatar Devel- people desires and also come as “Today there is much crowd chance to get knowledge about Darb Al Saai through different lence and manliness” a verse opment Bank, UDC, Nissan, Al a prelude to the National Day, in especially at educational activ- the lives of our ancestors. The activities, in addition to know from a poem by the Founder. Rayyan for Media and Marketing which every citizen recalls the ities that raise children’s visitors know more about folk more about the duties carried The names of the sponsors Co, Commercial Bank among Founder’s accomplishments. awareness on many subjects and games, wild plants, birds and out by these entities. of Darb Al Saai activities have many others. 08 VIEWS SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019 Qatar’s tourism sector records ESTABLISHED IN 1996 remarkable growth in 2019 CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI [email protected]

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI [email protected]

QNA The co-operation between the Qatar is a high-growth industry that DOHA QNTC and the World Tourism Organi- succeeded in a short period of time in EDITORIAL sation has been developed to include growing its share and role in the atar’s tourism sector has support for several global initiatives, countrys economic diversification seen several remarkable while the Council has worked to sought by the state. The sector also Providing space for dialogue achievements over the past develop and regulate the way the created tremendous investment oppor- few years. These milestones tourism sector operates with a focus on tunities in all aspects of tourism such as Q developing the skills and competencies business events services, culture and s a global platform for dialogue, Doha Forum since its helped grow the sector, establishment in 2000 is bringing together leaders, policy whether in terms of the infrastructure of workers in the sector, in addition to heritage, desert safari services, food, Amakers, and representatives of sectors of civil society, or in terms of new projects that will developing the form and content of health and welfare, free activities and think tanks, academic and media from over the world to discuss boost the sector. The sector saw tourism events and festivals. entertainment, sports, recreation, tour critical issues facing the world. marked growth in terms of the QNTC has worked to strengthen organization, tourist accommodation, This platform is suitable environment to promote the number of visitors to the country and Qatar’s position as a global business transportation services. exchange of ideas, come out with action-oriented recommen- the development of the infrastructure destination and to collaborate with The council carries out another role dations and create foundation for mutual understanding on itself. The tourism sector is crucial for Qatar Tourism Authority’s partners to as a provider of services to potential critical global challenges. The world today under globalization the country due to the role it can play attract more conferences and exhibi- investors. It familiarizes those investors and advancement of technology has become more connected in achieving economic diversification, tions. It has also been supporting com- with the countrys efforts to grow the than ever and interdependence on economies, cultures, and one of the main goals of Qatar panies to organise local exhibitions sector, and potential projects they can mobility of populations has increased. These facts, however, National Vision 2030. and events and give them the oppor- take part in. are associated with adversities and inequality resulting from The total number of visitors to tunity to lead the sector. A big boost to these efforts is that conflicts, poverty, and displeasure of peoples for failure of many Qatar in the first seven months of 2019 The council also launched several fact that economy generally countries to realize their aspirations for development and grew 10.7 percent year-over-year to ad and promotional campaigns, in encourages investment. This was prosperity. 1.19 million. cooperation with leading media plat- reflected in the Global Competi- These are just small part of many challenges that no one Numbers show that visitors from forms around the world. It also pro- tiveness Report 2019 which ranked state or group of states can manage alone depending on their Asia repre- vided support to local companies in Qatar as 51st globally and second in own people, wealth, and efforts that urges organizing of such sented 39 the sector with the goal of helping the Middle-East. Qatar was praised by global forums which can play key role in bringing stakeholders percent of the them develop their service. the report in terms particularly for its together to develop common understanding of issues and will total, with The growth of the Qatari tourism low taxes. for cooperation. This year forum is being hold under the theme 469.1 thousand sector relies on the infrastructure as Qatar did attract a lot of interna- “Reimagining Governance in a visitors. well as the legislations that regulate tional investments in the hospitality Multipolar World”. Addressing the QNTC has worked Europe fol- the hospitality sector. field. The council along with Qatar opening session yesterday, the to strengthen lowed with 31 QNTC said that the main reason for Airways and Rixos Hotels signed 17 Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Qatar’s position as percent and a the increase in the number of tourists MoUs with organizations that supply a Hamad Al Thani underlined the a global business total of 375.5 was the recent moves to facilitate the total of four million tourists all over Qatar is committed “concepts of international com- thousand vis- visa procedures for visiting Qatar, the world. to contribute in munity, international legitimacy, destination and to itors. GCC vis- making the country one of the most The World Cup 2022 also is an solving these joint responsibility and multilateral collaborate with itors grew 11 open and accessible in the Middle-East important milestone in Qatars tourism action were on the rise” since the Qatar Tourism percent year- and eighth worldwide. development efforts. The council problems and along with its partners are focused on end of cold war. Authority’s over-year to The visa-free entry policy allows challenges Following this era common 131.6 thousand. entry to citizens of 80 countries initiatives they could undertake to adhering to international vision that appeared partners to attract HH the around the world. Qatars strategic improve the tourist experience. policies based on to be clear at the beginning of the more conferences Amir Sheikh location and its national carriers Qatar has also become an important sports destination, organ- respecting the new millennium has blurred, and exhibitions. Tamim bin expansive network of 170 destinations whether from the perspective of the Hamad Al- around the world boosts Qatars value izing a number of events thanks not international law international legitimacy, issues of It has also been Thani issued as a tourist destination. The council only to its state-of-the-art stadiums, and international poverty, environment and climate supporting an Amiri also sought to organize a number of but also to its advancement in the legitimacy and or from not holding war criminals companies to decision on promotional events, the biggest of sports science and medicine fields. accountable, said H H the Amir organise local November 4 of which was the summer in Qatar. The Qatar National Tourism contributing to during his opening speech. 2018 estab- The 11-week event saw QNTC Council is working side by side with solving conflicts H H the Amir stressed that such exhibitions lishing the cooperate with 68 partners, in the Supreme Council for Delivery and peacefully through problems and challenges facing the and events and National addition to facilitating the process for Legacy as well as other organizations mediation and world today “cannot be solved give them the Tourism relatives of current residents as well as from all over world to ensure the without coordinated international opportunity to Council under past residents to visit. success of Qatar 2022 is sustained providing a space efforts and shared visions, likewise the chair- Hotel offers also boosted occu- until after the world cup concludes. for dialogue, H the issues of violent extremism lead the sector. manship of H pancy rates. The occupancy reached Another plan the council has H the Amir was which is not restricted to a religion E the Prime 40 percent, a 10 percent in June on involves opening its own offices in the quoted as saying. or a race, and which is indiscrim- Minister and Minister of Interior annual basis, and 4 percent in July country it targets to attract tourists inate in targeting the innocent, and Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin year over year. The number rose to 60 from. Some of those countries include making no distinction based on Khalifa Al Thani, marking a new phase percent during Eid, with bookings the United States, the , gender, racial or religious grounds.” in the development of the tourism worth QR44.5 million. France, , Germany, Turkey, China, Qatar is committed to contribute in solving these problems sector in Qatar. Another big event was the Qatar , as well as other countries in and challenges adhering to policies based on respecting the H E Akbar Al Baker was Secretary- International Food Festival (QIFF)that South-East Asia. The coming period international law and international legitimacy and contrib- General of the Council since its estab- took place at Oxygen Park. The 11-day will also see the council establish uting to solving conflicts peacefully through mediation and pro- lishment. The role of Qatar National event saw 157 pavilions and 12 food offices in new markets such as Aus- viding a space for dialogue, H H the Amir was quoted as saying. Tourism Council (QNTC) is to cooperate trucks take part. That is in addition to tralia and Scandinavian countries. The Qatari role was also lauded by the Prime Minister of with the public and private sectors in 37 international and local celebrity It also signed partnership agree- Malaysia, H E Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, during his speech at the implementing the national tourism chefs from 17 countries and over 90 ments with companies such as Costa opening of Doha Forum saying the “State of Qatar is on the right strategy of diversifying the products restaurants across Qatar are serving a Cruises and Aida Cruises. It also signed track in identifying the current developments in the world, available to tourists and enhance the curated “QIFF Menu” . an agreement with online Chinese adding that the Forum presents a great opportunity for experts tourism promotion campaigns. The Shop Qatar festival was travel services provider Ctrip. from around the world to exchange experiences and infor- The issuance of Law No. 20 of 2018 another initiative that saw 14 malls The council also carried out cam- mation about the best solutions to the current challenges”. on Tourism Regulation and Law No. 21 and 54 hotels all over the country offer paigns on a number of influential of 2018 on organising business events big discounts travel sites such as TripAdvisor.com, was one of the most important stages Thanks to the wise leadership of Booking.com, and Chinas Qunar.com, of the development of the tourism the State of Qatar, the tourism sector with the goal of promoting Qatar as a sector. These laws helped the sector to overcame the blockade imposed on tourist destination. At the end of 2018, QUOTE OF THE DAY cope with the demands of the great the State of Qatar since 2017, Qatar National Tourism Council developments in the tourism sector in achieving high growth rates and launched “Qurated for You” campaign. We welcome the terms of structure and management as attracting toursits from India, China, Qurated for You was launched in eight well as the technical developments , US, and Germany. languages. It targeted 225 million decision to renew including diversifying export markets The first half of this year saw the tourists in 15 countries. the international for visitors and diversifying tourism number of tourists by 11.5 percent, The hospitality sector for its part mandate to UNRWA products and experiences. reaching 1.05 million visitors. Qatars supports Qatars tourism plans, thanks The tourism sector has recently hospitality sector also continued its to its quality service and infrastructure. and we see it as undergone rapid development after the dominance, retaining the top rank in The total number of hotel rooms in another failure to opening of QNTC representative offices the Middle-East for a second year in Qatar reached 25,917, which belonged hostile US policies to in the major exporting markets of the the Guest Experience in the Middle to 124 hotels. The number of rooms is the Palestinian rights. United States, Britain, France, Italy, East Report released by hospitality and forecast to rise to 27,378 in 2019. The Turkey, Russia, India, China and travel data providers Olery. The firm occupancy rate in the first eight months Southeast Asia. This coincides with the analyzed more than 12 million guest of 2019 reached 64 percent, a 7 percent Sami Abu Zuhri announcement of the World Tourism comments from April 1 of 2018 to year-over-year jump. That growth rate Hamas Spokesman Organisation that Qatar has become the March 31 of 2019. was stable throughout the year, except most open country in the Middle East The private sector contributed to for the first quarter which saw a and the 8th most open in the world. tourism investments, as tourism in 10-percent jump. SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019 HOME 09 Mexican diplomat QCRI signs MoU with UNDP lauds dialogue The UNDP Accelerator Labs initiative will at Doha Forum be the main focus of cooperation between FAZEENA SALEEM THE PENINSULA both organisations.

The Undersecretary for Multi- THE PENINSULA lateral Affairs and Human DOHA Rights at the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Martha Qatar Computing Research Delgadois has lauded the eye- Institute (QCRI) at Hamad Bin opening conversations with Khalifa University (HBKU) has world leaders being held during signed a Memorandum of the Doha Forum 2019. Understanding (MoU) with the The annual policy gathering United Nations Development held under the theme ‘Reimag- Programme (UNDP). Signed ining Governance in a Multipolar during Doha Forum 2019, the World’, is very much allied with agreement provides a Mexico’s strong multilateral framework for cooperation and The Undersecretary for Multilateral QCRI and UNDP officials pose for a group photo during the MoU signing ceremony. foreign policy, said Delgadois collaboration in areas of Affairs and Human Rights at speaking to The Peninsula, common interest. yesterday. the Mexican Ministry of Foreign The UNDP Accelerator Labs sustainable development data Dr Ahmed K Elmagarmid, UNDP Administrator, PIC: “This is the very first time the Affairs, Martha Delgadois. initiative will be the main focus will also tap into QCRI’s know- executive director, QCRI, said: Achim Steiner, said: “We are ABDUL BASIT/THE PENINSULA Mexican government has sent a of cooperation between both how in these areas. “This partnership provides an operating in a complex, unpre- representative to Doha Forum. organizations. QCRI is particu- Over the next two years, unprecedented opportunity to dictable world – but with the Mexico has a very strong mul- and migration issues said that larly interested in increasing the QCRI and UNDP will also keep demonstrate that we conduct right intelligence, design and tilateral policy. Also multilater- she is interested in learning institutional capability of this each other informed of and multidisciplinary computing experimentation, we can alism is seen as a way in solving more from discussions on mul- project in order to generate consult on matters of research relevant to the needs accelerate positive change. the most challenging issues in tilateralism, environmental actionable collective intelligence common interest which of the whole world. Social This partnership between the world,” said Delgadois, who issues, social welfare and devel- that harnesses new and alter- could lead mutual Computing is a key component policy and sciences is of par- promotes Mexico’s multilateral opment during the Doha Forum. native sources and types of data. collaboration. of our research activities and amount importance to enhance foreign policy agenda. Commenting on Qatar- To assist, QCRI and the UNDP Regular meetings will we’re determined to fully UNDP Accelerator Lab Net- “Right now Mexico is Mexico relations, Delgadois said will build capabilities among determine the progress of activ- employ our capabilities to work’s capabilities, maxi- attending all the relevant forums that Mexico is keen to enhance Accelerator Labs on data science ities and set the parameters for enhance the work of the UNDP mizing the use of data science to raise awareness about the ties in political, trade and cul- and artificial intelligence for future activities. Both parties will Accelerator Labs. We’re con- and artificial intelligence to importance of multilateralism. tural areas with Qatar. social/developmental applica- also invite observers to relevant fident that this will result in explore and analyse today’s This year I have attended around “Mexico is now diversifying tions through remote webinars conferences and meetings of rel- better and more informed global patterns, as well as 35 forums. So it is a great oppor- its relations with countries in all and in person design sessions. evance to the terms and condi- decision-making regarding anticipate responses for tunity for us to come to the Doha regions. We look to increase our Joint research and analysis of tions of the MoU. shared development problems.” emerging challenges.” Forum. The event is perfectly economic participation in inter- organised with good planning, national markets and Qatar is one diversified speakers and the of the them that we are looking theme is delivered very well,” to strengthen trade ties. I held dis- and QIB to offer co-branded corporate credit card she added. cussions with the Minister of State The Doha Forum has for Foreign Affairs of Qatar and THE PENINSULA every QR spent on the card will business customers can enjoy quick, reliable and efficient and, attracted around 3,000 partic- will be meeting representatives DOHA earn Nojoom points which can greater control over expenses, what’s more, gives rewards for ipants from different countries of the Qatar Investment Authority. then be used for a wide range of an improvement in policy com- every transaction. Corporates of the world and more than 250 We see so much of potential for Ooredoo, the region’s leading retail, leisure, dining and lifestyle pliance and greater visibility and and SMEs will be able to enhance speakers, includes a set of trade and cultural exchange with enabler of digital business inno- rewards with our partner efficiency. their expense management and plenary and discussion sessions Qatar,” said Delgadois. vation, announced the launch of network members. Speaking about the new earn rewards at the same time, and keywords centred on global “We also want to drive our a new co-branded credit card in There are three card options; cards, Manar Khalifa Al Muraikhi via our amazing Nojoom partner topics and issues such as relationship in political view, partnership with Qatar Islamic the Purchasing card is aimed at – Director PR and Corporate network which offers a host of migration, refugees, extremism, and Qatar is a strategic ally due Bank (QIB). businesses needing to settle sup- Communications at Ooredoo – dining, retail, leisure and lifestyle global governance challenges, to the geopolitical relationship. The new QIB and Nojoom plier bills, while the World and said: “We know managing options.” agency wars, as well as regional Qatar is experiencing blockade, corporate credit card is an inno- World Elite cards are designed expenses and business-related Business customers can get cooperation mechanisms and Mexico is also experiencing vative payment solution for cor- for travel and entertainment payments is a time-consuming in touch with their account new global balances. threats of blocking the tariff, and porates and SMEs to manage purposes. When used in con- chore for many of our business managers for more information Delgadois with a wide expe- we have migrant problems,” she their purchasing, travel and junction with reporting and customers. This new co-branded and to sign up for their new rience in environmental issues added. entertainment expenses. And, expense management solutions, credit card is the ideal solution; cards. Diabetes medicine free of NDMA, clarifies HMC

THE PENINSULA The healthcare provider is Europe, does not contain the DOHA assuring all patients that met- impure substance NDMA. formin medications provided by The official source has also Officials from Hamad Medical HMC have been imported from confirmed that HMC supports Corporation (HMC) have advised their original manufacturer, the Ministry of Public Health’s patients who are currently based in France, and noted that (MoPH) statement published on taking metformin medicines the US Food and Drug Admin- December 10, 2019 and the (known under the commercial istration (FDA) and the related measures taken by the name Glucophage) prescribed European Medicines Agency Ministry to verify that the med- and dispensed by HMC phar- (EMA) have both announced icine is free of NDMA, but rein- macies to continue taking these that the pharmaceutical forced that all metformin med- medicines and not to cease use product, which is also dis- ications provided by HMC are of the medication. tributed across the US and safe.

Ashghal officials during the opening of the various projects. Souq Al Wakra Ashghal opens North Bridge on Hotel gears up to Interchange, Wadi Al Banat Interchange celebrate Qatar National Day THE PENINSULA/DOHA Department, Ashghal; Brigadier direction and four lanes in Mohammed Marafih, Director of southbound direction instead of THE PENINSULA Along with the celebration of Engineering Traffic Safety three lanes in both directions, DOHA Qatar National Day, the Public Department. providing a free-flow traffic and Works Authority (Ashghal) has Dr. Eng. Saad bin Ahmed Al upgrading the vehicles capacity Souq Al Wakra Hotel, the best announced opening of vital Muhannadi, President of Ashghal from 12,000 to 18,000 vehicles escapade from Doha City’s hustle parts of highway networks said that Al Shamal Bridge hit a per hour in both directions. and bustle, is gearing up to cele- works in various projects. The record by being opened within Ashghal will open Wadi Al brate Qatar National Day with North Bridge on Duhail Inter- only nine months by a Qatari Banat interchange part of Al exquisite buffet offers at its two change and Wadi Al Banat Contractor and with local mate- Khor Road on December 13. By renowned restaurants - ‘Jarnen’ Interchange on Al Khor Road rials of around 60 percent. this addition, Al Khor road will and ‘Emshoot from December Souq Al Wakra Hotel Emshoot Restaurant. were opened to traffic on Al Muhannadi added that have 7 operational interchanges 18 to 20, 2019 to share the joy December 13, 2019. Ashghal is keen to complete all from a total of ten interchanges. with all the members of society New parts of Sabah Al projects assigned based on The new two-level interchange on this happy occasion. sushi corner, live BBQ and celebrations more memorable, Ahmad Corridor will be opened carefully studied priorities and is consisting of 4 Bridges with On Wednesday, December cooking stations plus a huge the hotel is inviting guests to on the National Day, December not limited to a specific region, 150 m length each. 18, 2019, starting from 6pm selection of sweets and pastries ‘Jarnen’ on December 20 from 18, 2019 including the inter- noting that today Ashghal could Ashghal has completed the until 10.30pm, in-house and for the grand finale. 12.30pm until 4pm, as it will be change connecting Rasheeda announce opening of projects second flyover bridge at Umm walk-in guests can enjoy the On Thursday, December 19, offering a special Friday Street with Sabah Al Ahmad Cor- in four different regions at the Lekhba Interchange with a most delicious Qatari dishes the specialised Asian cuisine Brunch allowing them to ridor (formerly known as same time and this will follow length of 537 meters providing during the dinner buffet at restaurant ‘Emshoot’ at Souq indulge in the finest Mediter- Lekhwiya Roundabout). Addi- other openings in near future. a free flow traffic from Al ‘Jarnen’ restaurant. The buffet Al Wakra Hotel will be wel- ranean tastes like Lamb Ouzi tionally, the second bridge at Ashghal inaugurated Al Shamal Markhiya towards 22 February will include traditional dishes coming guests from 6pm until and Chicken Tagine. Interchange will Bridge, the first section of Al Street to the south of Doha. like Lamb Machbouse, Chicken 10.30pm in a dinner buffet as During the evening, guests be opened by the end of Duhail Interchange, on The new flyover bridge, Thareed and Harees. well. Guests will have the can enjoy an extensive December 2019. December 13. The new 200 m which is scheduled to open at the Moreover, a wide variety of opportunity to feast on rich cuisine prepared from the best The dignitaries who attended bridge was delivered nine end of December 2019, connects soups, a corner of cheese Asian flavours and a tantalising spices and fresh ingredients, the opening ceremony include months only from the traffic from to Doha assortments, cold and hot fusion of the spices with vibrant starting from 6pm until Eng. Youssef Al Emadi, Director beginning of works on March in the direction Al Gharrafa mezzeh will also be available. colours, and delight in a perfect 10.30pm, with mouth-watering of Projects Affairs, Ashghal; Eng. 2019. Interchange (Passport Inter- In addition, the main course culinary experience ranging desserts like Umm Ali and Bader Darwish, Manager of The new bridge will deliver change) and 22 February Street section will include interna- from sushi to tandoori kebabs. assorted pastries completing Expressway Projects five lanes in northbound that will reduce travel time. tional dishes together with a To make the National Day the meal. 10 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019 ’s former president Bashir gets 2-year detention for graft AFP The court said marginalising the region. Human KHARTOUM rights groups say Khartoum tar- 75-year-old former geted suspected pro-rebel ethnic Sudan’s former president Omar president will serve groups with a scorched earth Al Bashir was sentenced two years in a policy, raping, killing, looting and yesterday to two years’ detention correctional centre for burning villages. in a correctional centre for The Darfur conflict left corruption in the first of several the elderly. around 300,000 people dead cases against the ousted autocrat. killing of demonstrators during and 2.5 million displaced, The charges stemmed from the protests that led to his ouster, according to the United Nations. millions of dollars received by the judge said. After Bashir was toppled, ICC the toppled strongman from The court also ordered the prosecutors requested he stand another country. confiscation of ¤6.9m, $351,770 trial for the killings in Darfur. Bashir, who was deposed by and 5.7 million Sudanese pounds Army generals who initially the army in April after months ($128,000) found at Bashir’s seized power after the presi- of mass protests against his home. dent’s fall refused to hand him three-decade rule, appeared in The Sudanese Professionals over. court in a metal cage wearing a Association — the group that ini- But Sudan’s umbrella protest traditional white jalabiya and tially led protests against Bashir movement, which now has sig- turban for the verdict. — welcomed the verdict on nificant representation on a sov- He was convicted of “cor- Twitter. ereign council that in August ruption” and “possession of “This is not over for Bashir — became the country’s highest foreign currency”, judge Al Sadiq there are other cases” to answer, executive authority — recently Abdelrahman said, charges it added. The ex-president will said it has no objection to his which can carry a prison sen- appeal the verdict, said one of extradition. tence of up to 10 years. his lawyers, Ahmed Ibrahim. Separately, on November 12, Instead, the court, taking into Outside the court, several Sudanese authorities filed Supporters of deposed Sudanese president Omar Al Bashir rally after his conviction of graft near the account his age, ordered the dozen Bashir supporters charges against Bashir and some presidential palace in the capital Khartoum, yesterday. 75-year-old to serve two years gathered chanting: “There is no of his aides for “plotting” the in a correctional centre for the god but God.” Hundreds more 1989 coup that brought him to elderly. holding banners reading “Down, overseeing a transition to civilian al-Hassan had said before the against humanity. power. “Under the law, those who down the government” marched rule. The authorities announced verdict that the ex-president’s Bashir has been wanted by In May, Sudan’s attorney reached the age of 70 shall not in central Khartoum where there yesterday the dissolution of pro- defence did not see the trial as a the ICC for years for his role in general said Bashir had been serve jail terms,” the judge said. was a heavy security presence, fessional organisations put in legal case, but as a “political” one. the Darfur war that broke out in charged with the deaths of those Bashir will serve his sentence before dispersing. place under Bashir — one of the The trial does not relate to 2003, when ethnic minority killed during the anti-regime after the verdict has been Sudan is now ruled by a joint demands of the protest charges Bashir faces at the Inter- rebels took up arms against his demonstrations that led to his reached in another case in which civilian and military sovereign movement that unseated him. national Criminal Court (ICC) for Arab-dominated government ouster, without specifying when he is accused of ordering the council, which is tasked with Bashir’s lawyer Mohamed genocide, war crimes and crimes which they accused of he would face trial. NGO: Militants execute UNGA votes to renew UNRWA 4 hostages in Nigeria mandate for

AFP health ministry personnel — 3 more years PARIS were kidnapped while deliv- ering humanitarian aid to vul- QNA Militants have executed four nerable people in Borno State. NEW YORK Nigerian hostages held since Their driver was killed in the July, French aid group Action ambush carried out by militants The United Nations General Against Hunger said, adding that believed to be members of the Assembly voted on Friday to one of its staff and two drivers Islamic State West Africa renew the mandate for the were among those killed. Province (ISWAP) group. United Nations Relief and The four were among six ISWAP is a splinter group of Works Agency for Palestine hostages abducted and held by Boko Haram that swore alle- Refugees (UNRWA) for another the militants in northeastern giance in 2016 to Abu Bakr al- three additional years. Nigeria, the Paris-based NGO Baghdadi, the leader of the The measure passed with said. Islamic State group who died in 169 votes in favour and nine “The armed group respon- October during a US raid on his abstentions. Only The United sible for the kidnapping of hideout in . States and Israel voted against humanitarian workers on July It has repeatedly attacked the renewal. Supporters of Qais Al Khazali, leader of the Asaib Ahl Al Haq militia group, gather during a demonstration 18 have murdered four hos- military bases and previously against US sanctions targeting Al Khazali, in Baghdad, , yesterday. tages,” Action Against Hunger targeted aid workers in said in a statement on Friday northeast Nigeria. Iraq’s Sadr that did not identify the victims. “Action Against Hunger con- Iraqi supporters of pro-Iran group Another of the hostages was demns these latest killings in the closes Facebook killed in September. strongest terms and deeply The aid group said it was regrets that its calls for the account with protest against US sanctions “extremely concerned and calls release of the hostages have not for the immediate release of its been acted upon,” the group said ‘goodbye’ post AFP people have been killed and the US for people who commit staff member, Grace, who in its statement. BAGHDAD 25,000 wounded. human rights abuses or cor- remains in captivity”. Shortly after the kidnapping, ANATOLIA Last week Washington ruption. Khazali has laughed off A decade-long insurgency ISWAP released a video pur- BAGHDAD Several thousand supporters of imposed sanctions on three the sanctions as an “honour”. has killed 35,000 people and porting to show the one female one of the most powerful pro- Iraqis including Qais al-Khazali His supporters blocked displaced around two million aid worker and five male col- Iraqi Shia cleric Muqtada Al Iranian armed groups in Iraq — who heads Asaib Ahl Al Haq, major roads in the capital yes- from their homes in northeast leagues who had been seized in Sadr closed his Facebook marched through Baghdad part of the Hashed Al Shaabi terday, staging mock hangings Nigeria. an attack in the region. account on Friday, writing yesterday, trampling on giant US security force tied to the Iraqi using effigies of US President The violence has now spread The SITE intelligence group, “goodbye” on a black back- flags after Washington slapped state — and his brother. and Israeli Prime to neighbouring Niger, Chad and which monitors extremist online ground on the social media sanctions on their leader. The US Treasury accused his Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Cameroon, prompting a regional activity, quoted Nigerian jour- site. The international com- group of “widespread forced dis- “We denounce the unjust military coalition to fight the nalist Ahmad Saldika as saying The move led to specula- munity has condemned the role appearances, abductions, decision” to punish Khazali, said insurgents. the latest killings were the tions that Al Sadr “withdrew of pro-Iranian factions in a killings, and torture”. Mahmoud al-Rubaye, a member The six hostages — an Action “result of a breakdown of talks from politics” in response to crackdown on two months of The measures block financial of Asaib Ahl al-Haq’s political Against Hunger employee, two with the Nigerian an agreement between protests in which nearly 460 transactions with and travel to wing. drivers and three government.” political parties regarding the prime minister candidacy of Mohammed Shia Al Sudani, EU should boost funding of supported by groups close to Iran. Syrian refugees: Turkish official Al Sadr also replaced his profile picture on Facebook, an REUTERS “As long as the crisis is there image of his father Mohammad ISTANBUL we have to work together. The Sadeq Al Sadr, also known as ¤6bn will not solve the problem a Shia religious authority, with The European Union should when it is finally all spent,” a picture of a black back- spend more than the ¤6bn Kaymakci told reporters in ground with the world “closed” ($6.6bn) already allotted to fund Istanbul. written on it. Syrian refugees in Turkey, and The EU, which set up the Earlier, Al Sadr said in two speed up the flow of that funding in 2015, says more than statements on the social media money, the Turkish foreign ¤5.6bn have been allocated, site that he is against the can- ministry’s EU point person said more than ¤3.5bn contracted didacy of Al Sudani, who is a yesterday. and more than ¤2.4bn dis- former Minister of Labour and EU funds support the bursed. Kaymakci said hosting Social Affairs. roughly 3.5 million Syrian ref- the refugees costs Turkey some Al Sadr’s Twitter account ugees in Turkey, after Syria’s $40bn in total. remains open. more than eight year war killed Europe’s relations with Iraq has been rocked by hundreds of thousands and Turkey are strained on several mass protests since early pushed millions from their fronts including disagreement October over poor living con- homes. In turn, Turkey has over a Turkish military ditions and corruption, forcing agreed to halt further immi- incursion in October against a Prime Minister Adel Abdul- gration to Europe. Kurdish militia in northeast Mahdi to resign. “The flow of funds should Syria. Turkey in late October According to Iraq’s High be sped up and the amount of threatened to “open the gates” Clashes in Lebanon Commission for Human Rights, funding should be increased,” to allow refugees into Europe at least 460 Iraqis have been Lebanese riot police react to fireworks thrown by supporters of Lebanon’s Hezbollah and Amal said Faruk Kaymakci, a deputy unless Europeans back its plan killed and 17,000 have been groups during clashes in central Beirut, yesterday. Turkish minister of foreign to resettle them in northeast injured since the protests affairs. Syria. began October 1. SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019 ASIA 11 Protests rage as US and Britain warn on travel to northeast India AFP Modi and Japanese were shot dead and 26 hospi- GUWAHATI talised late on Thursday after counterpart Shinzo security forces fired live rounds. Protests against a divisive new Abe postponed a Friday’s funeral procession citizenship law raged yesterday summit that was to of 18-year-old Sam Stafford, who as Washington and be held in Guwahati was killed in the firing, was issued travel warnings for attended by hundreds of angry northeast India following days today, and the United and distraught mourners who of violent clashes that have killed States and Britain shouted, “long live Assam”. two people so far. warned their nationals “We were watching news all Many in the far-flung, to “exercise caution” day on TV about the protests resource-rich northeast fear the when my nephew left home in new legislation will grant citi- if travelling to the the evening. We asked him not Protesters demonstrate against the Citizenship Amendment Bill, that seeks to give citizenship to zenship to large numbers of northeast region. to go but he went with his religious minority refugees from neighbouring countries, in New Delhi, yesterday. immigrants from neighbouring friends,” the student’s aunt Julie Bangladesh, who they accuse of Stafford said. stealing jobs and diluting the enshrined in our constitution,” Anticipating further unrest, the All Assam Students Union, the opposition and rights organ- identity, language and political region’s cultural identity. said protestor Amit Baruah, 55, authorities extended an Internet which has been at the forefront isations say the law is a part of rights”. Several thousand protesters a journalist. ban across Assam till tomorrow. of the protests, told AFP the Modi’s Hindu nationalist agenda Assam has long been a rallied in New Delhi last evening, Protests turned violent in Most shops were shut and group would continue its fight to marginalise India’s 200 hotbed of ethnic tensions. In 1983 urging Prime Minister Narendra West Bengal state, a hotbed of anxious residents stocked up against the new law “in the million Muslims. some 2,000 people, mainly Modi’s government to revoke the political unrest, with at least 20 supplies Saturday when the streets and in the court”. He denies this and says that Bengali Muslims, were butchered law, some holding signs reading: buses and parts of two railway curfew was relaxed during the Modi and Japanese coun- Muslims from the three countries in what became known as the “Stop Dividing India”. stations set on fire as demon- day. terpart Shinzo Abe postponed a are not covered by the legislation Nellie massacre. “People are not gathered strators blocked roads and set The Citizenship Amendment summit that was reportedly due because they have no need of This year a citizenship reg- here as Hindus, or Muslims, fire to tyres. No injuries were Act allows for the fast-tracking to be held in Guwahati from India’s protection. istry left off 1.9 million people — people are gathered here as cit- reported. of applications from religious today, and the United States and Modi’s right-hand man Amit many of them Muslims — unable izens of India. We reject this bill Tensions also simmered in minorities including Hindus and Britain warned their nationals to Shah yesterday sought to to prove that they or their fore- that has been brought by the Guwahati in Assam state, the epi- Sikhs from , Afghanistan “exercise caution” if travelling to reassure the northeastern states, bears were in Assam before 1971, Modi government and we want centre of the unrest, where and Bangladesh, but not Muslims. the wider northeast region. saying the government would leaving them to face possible that equal treatment as is medical staff said two people Samujjal Bhattacharya from Muslim groups, protect their “culture, social statelessness. CAA will lead to communal I am not Rahul Savarkar, I won’t apologise: Rahul IANS Bachao’ rally here at Ramlila Lamenting at the gov- unable to recover since then.” He Kashmir, Assam, Nagaland, politics, says NEW DELHI ground here, Rahul Gandhi said, ernment over the economic also alleged that the government Tripura. They are burning. The “Yesterday in Parliament, the BJP crisis, Rahul said: “The strength has waived loans to the tune of government works to divide and JIH official Former Congress President people asked me to apologise. of this country was its economy, Rs1.45 lakh crore of the weaken the country.” “For power, Rahul Gandhi yesterday refused But I want to tell them that I am many countries looked at us and industrialists. Modi can do anything,” he to apologise over his “Rape in not Rahul Savarkar, I won’t apol- they wondered how we reached Accusing the BJP of working alleged, adding that Modi is con- IANS India” remark and mocked ogise. I won’t apologise for at 9 per cent GDP. And now like the enemy of the country, cerned with his own image only. NEW DELHI, Sangh ideologue VD Savarkar speaking the truth.” today even onion is being sold at the Congress leader said, “All the Rahul Gandhi also attacked and said, “I am not Rahul The Congress MP from Ker- Rs 200 a kg. enemies of the country wanted the BJP and said that you people Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) and Savarkar and I will not apologise ala’s Wayanad instead “The economy of India has to destroy Indian economy and elected Modi to make the some civil society groups for speaking the truth”. demanded apology from Prime been destroyed single handedly that work has been done by economy stronger five months yesterday opposed the Citi- Rahul Gandhi also accused Minister and by Modi,” he said. Modi.” “Our enemies cannot do ago. “You elected him to make zenship (Amendment) Act the Prime Minister of burning the Union Home Minister Amit Shah Slamming the Prime Minister the damage to our economy but the country stronger, but he (CAA), terming it as unconsti- northeastern states and West to the country. for demonetisation and faulty out Prime Minister can do it,” he didn’t work on that. Now our tutional. Bengal over the controversial The Lok Sabha on Friday implementation of the GST, alleged. GDP is at four percent, farmers Earlier this week, the Par- Citizenship Amendment Act, that burst into fierce attack by Rahul thundered, “You must Referring to violence in the are committing suicides. I asked liament passed the Citizenship was signed by President Ram treasury benches on Rahul over remember he came on TV at 8pm northeast and in West Bengal in Parliament how many farmers (Amendment) Bill which seeks Nath Kovind on Thursday night, his “Rape in India” remark, with in 2016 and made Rs500 and after the passage of CAA and the committed suicide and they said to provide Indian citizenship to a day after it was passed in Rajya all BJP members condemning the Rs1,000 currency notes illegal condition of Jammu and Kashmir they don’t know. They know only six non-Muslim communities — Sabha. statement and seeking his tender. He hit the Indian after the revocation of Article 370, one thing and that is to divide the Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Parsis, Addressing the ‘Bharat apology. economy so hard that it has been he said, “Go to Jammu and country,” he added. Jains and Buddhists — from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bang- ladesh who have entered India on or before December 31, 2014. Winter chill to intensify Jamaat’s Vice-President Salim Engineer said in a media interaction: “Through the CAA, in north Indian states the government wants to give cit- izenship to six religious minor- IANS winds are blowing over the ities from Pakistan, Bangladesh NEW DELHI northern plains. But the rem- and Afghanistan except Muslims. nants of Western Disturbance We think it is against the spirit of Isolated rains and moderate to will continue to give light rain the Constitution. It will take the dense fog is forecast for north and snow with one or two mod- country towards communal pol- India yesterday as the winter erate spells over Western itics.” The representatives of the chills intensify with the Himalayas. Muslim body and several civil minimum temperature likely to The pollution level in the society groups said in a statement fall by two to three degrees over national capital will however, that they all oppose the Citi- the northern plains. remain in the unhealthy cat- zenship Amendment Act. According to Skymet egory and isolated pockets “We are not opposing weather, isolated rains might might even witness pollution in granting citizenship to the six occur over the northern districts very poor level, according to communities through this law. We of Punjab, Haryana and West Skymet Weather forecast. are against exclusion of Muslims Uttar Pradesh. In east and northeast India, based on religion. It is against the Moderate to dense fog was a north-south trough is idea of India. CAB should be seen also likely over Delhi, parts of extending from Bihar to North along with NRC (National Register Punjab, Haryana, North Rajasthan Karnataka. of Citizens). Only then the gravity and West Uttar Pradesh. Scattered rain and thunder- of the picture will emerge,” said The Western Disturbance showers may continue over the statement. A view of Naddi village covered in snow is pictured in Dharamshala, yesterday. has moved away and northerly parts of Bihar and Jharkhand. The civil society groups sought clarification on the statement given by Home Min- ister Amit Shah that crores of NCB busts international Nirbhaya case: Hangman asked people who do not have docu- ments need not worry, they will drug cartel worth Rs13bn get protection from CAA. to maintain secrecy, be alert “Does it mean that only IANS In pan India level opera- Muslims should worry? It is NEW DELHI tions, five Indians, one US IANS carry out the hanging of the four carrying out the hanging of the dangerous that just for winning national, two Nigerian nationals NEW DELHI convicts. Since the matter is quite convicts in the Nirbhaya case) elections, they are indulging in The Narcotics Control Bureau and one Indonesian national sensitive and involves legalities and from the state jail administration divisive politics,” said members busted an international drug have been arrested. The hangman who is expected to the Tihar jail administration has can come anytime.” of the civil society groups. cartel worth Rs13bn and seized Consignments of psycho- carry out the execution of the secretly contacted the Uttar When asked whether the Mohammad Jafar, one of cocaine worth Rs1bn. tropic drugs in India were found Nirbhaya gang rape and murder Pradesh jail administration Meerut jail authorities informed the Vice-Presidents of Jamaat- The cumulative seizure of to be sourced from Canada, Aus- convicts has been asked by the regarding the hangman, several him about the hanging of the e-Islami Hind, said: “We are cocaine done by the NCB in tralia and USA. The shipments jail authorities to maintain restrictions have been imposed on convicts, the hangman said: “No, concerned that both Houses of India is around 20kgs, having of cocaine and methamphet- secrecy and be on alert. me,” said Kumar. they have not referred to the Nir- the Parliament have passed this international value of Rs1bn. The amine were sent from India to Pawan Kumar, the fourth-gen When asked who imposed bhaya case but as per the spec- Bill and got support not only agency also seized 55kg cocaine Australia. hangman from Meerut, yesterday these restrictions, Pawan said: ulation doing the rounds in the from the ruling BJP, but also and 200kgs of methamphet- The seizures made by the SAID: “Now I won’t be talking “The officials of Meerut jail sug- media it seems that they want from those parties who we amine with help of Australian NCB have reflected national and much on mobile or to the media gested to me not to talk to a lot of me to be on alert regarding the thought will not support the Bill. counterparts. international ramifications till the final orders on execution of people. They have also asked me same matter.” “I don’t need any It seems they did not realise The total international worth which warrants deeper probes the Nirbhaya case convicts come.” not to leave the city and take care preparation time. I only need 45 that CAB is divisive and desta- of the seized drugs from the drug to understand the various “Till now, I was talking to the of my health. They have asked me minutes after reaching Tihar bilising for the country.” cartel is about Rs13bn. linkages of these cartels. media about it. I always wished to to be alert as orders (regarding jail,” said Pawan. 12 ASIA SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019

Insider attack Record number of kills 9 Afghan British-Pakistanis militiamen AP win in UK election KABUL, AFGHANISTAN INTERNEWS Ten British-Pakistanis At least one member of an ISLAMABAD won from the Labour Afghan militia opened fire on his fellow militiamen early A record number of British- platform while five yesterday, killing nine, in what Pakistanis are set to become won on the platform the country’s interior ministry Members of Parliament (MPs) of the Conservative called an insider attack. after achieving success in their party. The Taliban however respective constituencies during claimed the attack was actually the United Kingdom’s general a coordinated insurgent assault election which witnessed a on the checkpoint where the dramatic victory for the Boris This election witnessed a shooting took place, killing over Johnson-led Conservative party. significant surge in British-Paki- two dozen militiamen, Although the Labour party stani candidates as compared to according to Taliban performed poorly overall, with the polls in 2017. While the pre- spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. only 203 seats as compared to vious election saw 40 Pakistani- There was no immediate the Tory tally of 365, 10 of the origin candidates, the latest vote explanation for the discrepancy, seats were won by British-Paki- saw 70 such candidates who but the Taliban often exag- A customs official stands guard beside burning drugs which were seized while being smuggled into stanis for Labour and just five were given tickets by the Con- gerate their claims. the country, on the outskirts of Karachi, on December 13, 2019. for the Conservative party. servative, Labour and Liberal Details were sketchy and Successful candidates from Democrat parties. investigators were still looking Labour party were Naz Shah Some British-Pakistanis also into the attack in central Ghazni from Bradford, Khalid Mehmood ran as independent candidates. Pakistan to chair session of UN province’s Karabagh district, from Birmingham, Yasmin The breakdown of the candi- said Interior Ministry Qureshi from South Bolton, Afzal dates is as follows: 20 for Con- spokesman Fawad Aman. The Khan from Manchester Gorton, servative, 19 for Labour, 12 for Commission on Narcotic Drugs number of attackers was also Tahir Ali from Birmingham Hall Lib Dems (they have never had not immediately clear. Green, Muhammad Yaseen from a Pakistani-origin MP), five for INTERNEWS Pakistan’s Permanent Rep- body of the United Nations Afghan militias operate in Bedford, Imran Hussain from Brexit Party, four for Green Party NEW YORK resentative to the United Office on Drugs and Crime and remote regions and are under Bradford East, Zarah Sultana and 10 independents. Nations Office in Vienna, the main policy making entity the command of the country’s from Coventry South, Shabana There are more than one Pakistan has been elected to Ambassador Mansoor Ahmad within the UN system on world National Security Forces, which Mahmood from Birmingham million people in the UK of Paki- preside over the 63rd session of Khan will preside over the 63rd drug problem for implementing suffers near daily Taliban Ladywood and Rozina Ali from stani ancestry, making it the the United Nations Commission session of the Commission. the UN drug control attacks. Tooting. second largest overseas Paki- on Narcotic Drugs in 2020. Pakistan’s unanimous conventions. The Taliban now control or From the Conservative stani population after Saudi Earlier in May 2019, election reflects another vote of Following its election as the hold sway over half the country. party, the five successful candi- Arabia. The West Midlands is Pakistan was elected as Member confidence by the international Chair, Pakistan would steer the Insider attacks have been dates were Nusrat Ghani from home to 172,000 people of Paki- of the Commission for a four- community in Pakistan’s lead- Commission through dialogue steady throughout the 18-year Wealden, Imran Ahmed from stani ancestry, more than any year term starting from 1 ership and its important role in and cooperation with all the conflict, with US and NATO Bedfordshire, Sajid Javid from other British region. January 2020. the global policy discourse on stakeholders to address chal- troops most often targeted. But Bromsgrove, Rehman Chishti It is estimated that by 2031 there Pakistan has served on the the world drug problem. lenges related to narcotic drugs when Afghan security forces are from Gillingham and Saqib will be at least 2.63 million people Commission for four decades The Commission on Nar- with a balanced, comprehensive targeted, the casualty rate is Bhatti from Meriden. of Pakistani ancestry in the UK. since its establishment. cotic Drugs is the governing and evidence-based approach. often much higher. In July, two US service members were killed by an Afghan soldier in the southern MQM-P moves bill seeking eight provinces in Pakistan Kandahar province. The shooter was wounded and INTERNEWS each in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa seats in the NA to be increased the Pakistan Muslim League - Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) arrested. In September, three ISLAMABAD (K-P) and Sindh. from 332 to 335. Nawaz (PML-N) submitted a con- lawmakers Bahramand Tangi, US military personnel were The bill recommends that the It provides a breakdown of stitutional amendment bill in the Rubina Khalid, Imamuddin wounded when an member of The Muttahida Qaumi existing K-P be divided into a NA seats if the changes are National Assembly seeking the Shouqeen, Sikandar Mandhro, the Afghan Civil Order Police Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) is Hazara province and K-P, while implemented: three for formation of two more provinces Islamuddin Shaikh, Gianchand, fired on a military convoy, also set to introduce a bill in the Sindh should be split into Islamabad, nine for Hazara, 20 — Bahawalpur and South Punjab Keshoo Bai, Sherry Rehman, and in Kandahar. National Assembly for increasing Northern Sindh and Southern for Balochistan, 32 for Southern — by dividing up the largest Jamaat-e-Islami’s Mushtaq Last Saturday, US peace the number of provinces in Sindh. Sindh, 38 for Southern Punjab, province of Punjab. Ahmed. envoy Zalmay Khalilzad began Pakistan to eight. The eight provinces pro- 43 for Northern Sindh, 55 for In September, a constitu- The Constitution several days of meetings with According to Express News, posed by the MQM-P would be K-P, and 117 for Punjab. tional amendment bill was intro- (Amendment) Bill, 2019, sought Taliban representatives. MQM-P legislator Kishwer Zehra Punjab, South Punjab, Baha- MQM-P has also demanded duced in the Senate seeking the amendments of Articles 1, 51, 59, It was his first such direct submitted a bill to the NA walpur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, an increase in Senate seats from creation of a new province under 106, 175A, 198 and 218. The bill contact between the envoy and Secretariat. Hazara, Northern Sindh, 104 to 188, proposing eight seats the name of Bahawalpur-Janoobi mainly determines the allocation the militant group since Pres- It calls for the creation of Southern Sindh, and for FATA, four for Islamabad, and Punjab. of seats for the assembly of the ident Donald Trump halted South Punjab and Bahawalpur Balochistan. 22 each for the eight provinces. The bill to create a new proposed Bahawalpur-Janoobi negotiations three months ago provinces within the existing The bill calls for the total In January this year, the province by bifurcating Punjab Punjab province and setting up after a particularly deadly wave Punjab, as well as two provinces number of general and women’s country’s main opposition party, was jointly sponsored by of High Court there. of Taliban attacks. Nepal: Man, Supporters welcome Suu son among 3 Kyi back from The Hague dead in blast REUTERS has accused Myanmar of violating NAYPYITAW the 1948 Genocide Convention AFP over a military campaign that KATHMANDU Thousands of supporters of drove more than 730,000 Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Rohingya Muslims from Three people, including a police Kyi thronged the streets of the Myanmar. official, were killed when a capital Naypyitaw yesterday to It has asked the International bomb exploded in southern celebrate her arrival back from Court of Justice to order “provi- Nepal early yesterday, officials The Hague, where she defended sional measures” to prevent more said. the country against genocide harm. The device detonated charges. Suu Kyi led a team to the outside a local residence after The Nobel laureate waved as Netherlands for three days of the owner called the police to her black car drove slowly past hearings, during which she denied report a suspicious object on his crowds who waved flags, held up genocide and argued the UN court premises in Dhanusha pictures of her face and shouted should not have jurisdiction. district. jubilant greetings. “Myanmar requests the court “The blast occurred just as “Mother Suu went to the court to remove the case from its list,” our team reached there to on behalf of the country,” local Suu Kyi said on the final day of investigate. The owner, his son farmer Khin Maung Shwe told hearings on Thursday. “In the and a member of our force Reuters. “Actually the accusation alternative (the court should) were killed,” senior police was against the army. But she reject the request for provisional official Pradhumna Karki told Supporters of Myanmar’s State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi line up a street to welcome her near took the first step of responsibility measures submitted by the the media . the Naypyitaw International Airport in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, yesterday. as a leader of the nation.” Gambia Gambia.” Karki said that two more members of the family and another police officer were also injured and are undergoing Nepal seeks review of Gurkha recruitment deal with Britain treatment. “We are investigating the REUTERS British army in 2020, according Britain has been by foreign armies, the country’s benefits, which retired serv- case, no one has claimed its KATHMANDU to British media. enlisting Gurkhas, a Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar icemen say are not at par with responsibility yet,” he said. Britain has been enlisting tribe from Nepal’s Gyawali told said in an interview their British counterparts, Gyawali Nepal has enjoyed relative Nepal wants to review a military Gurkhas, a tribe from Nepal’s Himalayan foothills, late on Friday. “(Some) provisions added. peace since the end of a deal allowing its citizens to be Himalayan foothills known for of that agreement have become Nepal, a natural buffer decade-long civil war which enlisted in the British army, before their fierce combat abilities, since since 1815. irrelevant now. Therefore, we between China and India, is one concluded with a peace deal a planned recruitment of Nepali 1815. An agreement between New have told Britain that we should of the world’s 10 poorest coun- struck in 2006. women in the Brigade of Gurkhas Delhi, London and Kathmandu that issues such as recruitment review it... make bilateral tries and remittances from Nepalis In May, four people were for the first time in two centuries, following India’s independence and selection standards needed arrangements,” said Gyawali. working abroad, including the killed and seven injured in three the Himalayan country’s foreign from colonial rule in 1947 allowed to be settled. “We should define the Gurkhas, account for more than blasts in the capital Kathmandu, minister said. India and Britain to share and Nepal now wants the 72-year- presence of the government of a quarter of its GDP. Currently, as members of an outlawed It is not clear how many recruit Gurkhas. old tripartite deal renegotiated Nepal in the (recruitment) there are about 3,000 Nepalis in Maoist faction made a botched Gurkha women Britain plans to In 2007, Britain announced since that accord does not allow process.” A new agreement the Brigade of Gurkhas who have attempt to plant bombs around enlist, but the first Gurkha women plans to recruit Gurkha women Kathmandu to play any role in the should also address Gurkha griev- fought in Iraq, Afghanistan and the city. could begin their training in the for its elite force, adding however recruitment process of Gurkhas ances such as pensions and other the Balkans. SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019 ASIA 13 North Korea conducts another ‘crucial test’ at satellite launch site AFP The “research last year with South Korean SEOUL successes” will be President Moon Jae-in in “applied to further Pyongyang as part of trust- North Korea has conducted bolstering up the building measures. another “crucial test” at its Sohae Kim has also held three satellite launch site, state media reliable strategic meetings with US President reported yesterday, as nuclear nuclear deterrent” Donald Trump since June 2018. negotiations between Pyongyang of North Korea, the But his nuclear negotiations and Washington remain stalled spokesman said. with Washington have been with a deadline approaching. deadlocked since a summit in The announcement comes Hanoi broke up in February, and just a day before US Special But Pyongyang has carried Pyongyang has issued a series Envoy on North Korea Stephen out several rocket launches there of increasingly assertive com- Biegun is set to arrive in Seoul that were condemned by the US ments in recent weeks as its time for a three-day visit, and after and others as disguised long- limit approaches. the United States tested a range ballistic missile tests. The North this week criti- Members of a dive squad conducting a search during a recovery operation around White Island, medium-range ballistic missile The North is banned from cised Washington as “foolish” for which is also known by its Maori name of Whakaari, in New Zealand, yesterday. over the Pacific Ocean on firing ballistic missiles under UN convening a UN Security Council Thursday. Security Council resolutions, and meeting over growing concern “Another crucial test was rocket engines are known to be about short-range rockets fired NZ divers search for two more volcano victims successfully conducted at the easily repurposed for use in from the isolated state. Sohae Satellite Launching missiles. By arranging the meeting AFP/WELLINGTON Ardern, meanwhile, has called Scientists monitoring the Ground from 22:41 to 22:48 on Frustrated by the lack of Washington “decisively helped for a minute’s silence to be island said the likelihood of December 13,” a spokesman for sanctions relief after three us make a definite decision on Divers searched seas around observed on Monday in honour another eruption over the the North’s National Academy summits with President Donald what way to choose,” North New Zealand’s volatile White of the victims of the eruption. weekend was decreasing but the of Defence Science said in a Trump, North Korea has vowed Korea’s foreign ministry Island yesterday for two people “Together we can express risk remained. statement carried by the official an ominous “Christmas gift” if spokesman said. still missing five days after the our sorrow for those who have “Their new calculation was KCNA news agency. the US does not come up with Last week, the North’s vice- volcano erupted, while police died and been hurt, and our that there is a 35-50% chance of The “research successes” will concessions by the end of the foreign minister warned of formally named the first victim. support for their grieving fam- an eruption occurring,” Natalia be “applied to further bolstering year — with some analysts sug- returning to a war of words with Police deputy commissioner ilies and friends,” Ardern said, Deligne, a volcanic hazard and up the reliable strategic nuclear gesting the North may be the US, threatening to resume John Tims said the divers faced with the minute’s silence to start risk modeller, said. deterrent” of North Korea, the referring to an intercontinental referring to Trump as a “unique and challenging condi- exactly one week after the The remains of six people spokesman added. ballistic missile (ICBM). “dotard”. tions” as they searched waters eruption began. were retrieved on Friday in a The statement did not Earlier this month, the North Back in 2017, North Korea “with between zero and two Of the 47 people on the daring operation by elite soldiers provide further details on the announced it conducted what it announced it successfully tested metres visibility”. island at the time of the eruption, with two military helicopters test. called a “very important test” at an ICBM capable of reaching They were focusing on an at least 16 were killed while 28 under threat of another blast. Sohae, on North Korea’s the same site in Sohae. Alaska. area where a body was seen remain in hospitals in New The recovery had been on northwest coast, is ostensibly a North Korean leader Kim At the recent Nato summit, floating in the water earlier in Zealand and Australia with 21 hold for days as poisonous gases facility designed for putting sat- Jong-Un had agreed to shutter Trump boasted about Washing- the week. listed as being in a “critical” continued billowing from the ellites into orbit. the Sohae site during a summit ton’s “most powerful military.” Prime Minister Jacinda condition. volcanic vent. HK leader visits Beijing as Samoa extends measles state of emergency pressure mounts at home REUTERS Samoa has a population of only vaccinated against measles. WHO has described the fact MELBOURNE 200,000. “Prevention through vacci- children die from a vaccine- with failing to address social Measles started appearing en nation is the most effective way preventable disease as a “col- inequality issues in one of the The South Pacific island nation masse earlier this year in the of avoiding illness and a costly lective failure” to protect the world’s most expensive cities. of Samoa yesterday extended a New Zealand city of Auckland, health emergency,” New Zealand world’s most vulnerable “Our sincerity to have dia- state of emergency due to a a hub for travel to and from small Foreign Minister Winston Peters children. logue with citizens has not measles outbreak which has South Pacific islands. said in a statement announcing The organisation said that changed,” Lam said in a killed 72 people, mostly infants, The majority of those who the funding. measles infected nearly 10 Facebook post yesterday. She as New Zealand announced have died in Samoa due to the Under the plan, children million people in 2018 and killed said her governing team would $640,700 to help combat highly infectious disease have under five and new mothers and 140,000, mostly children. continue to pursue “different measles in the Pacific. been aged four and under. their families will be targeted for The picture for 2019 is even formats of dialogue to listen to Samoa said a state of emer- Following a mandatory vaccination. The funding would worse, it said, with provisional citizens sincerely.” gency will be extended to immunisation campaign, the be directed to the United Nations data up to November showing a This week Lam said a December 29 with 5,154 cases of Samoan government said Fund for Children (Unicef) and three-fold increase in case REUTERS cabinet reshuffle was not an measles now reported since the approximately 93% of all eligible the World Health Organization numbers compared with the HONG KONG “immediate task” and she would outbreak started in October. people in Samoa have now been (WHO). same period in 2018. focus her efforts on restoring Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam law and order to Hong Kong. (pictured) visited Beijing for her Still there are doubts about how Indonesia arrests first trip to the Chinese capital long Beijing is willing to back since her government was her, especially after pro- seven suspected handed a crushing defeat in local democracy candidates won elections last month, prompting nearly 90% of the seats in dis- IS militants speculation about changes to her trict elections last month. AP leadership team. China has condemned the JAKARTA During a four-day visit, Lam unrest and blamed foreign inter- is due to discuss the political and ference. It denies that it is med- Indonesian police said economic situation in China- dling in Hong Kong’s affairs. In yesterday that they have ruled Hong Kong with Chinese an editorial this week, the arrested seven suspected IS officials. She will meet Chinese official China Daily newspaper militants in the country’s east- President Xi Jinping tomorrow. called on Hong Kong’s gov- ernmost Papua province as Hong Kong has been con- ernment to uphold the rule of authorities beef up security vulsed by daily and sometimes law. ahead of holidays. violent protests for the last six Separately, three men were Papua police’s deputy chief, months as demonstrations arrested yesterday and charged Yakobus Marjuki, said the elite against a now-withdrawn extra- with testing remote-controlled counterterrorism squad arrested dition bill broadened into explosives, police said. Police a man, identified only as Kar- demands for greater democratic also found body armour, shields wanto, in a raid at a house in freedom. and gas masks, they said. Sentani town in December 5 Hundreds of thousands of Police also arrested five after receiving a tip from intel- people marched last Sunday to teenagers in connection with the ligence that some members of protest against what is seen as murder of a 70-year-old man the extremist group have fled to Beijing undermining freedoms last month and on rioting Papua from other Indonesian guaranteed when the former charges, the government said. islands since last year. British colony was handed back The man had been hit with His arrest led police to six to China in 1997. Many young bricks and later died in hospital, Tsunami museum other suspects who were cap- A visitor looking at pictures during a photograph exhibition ahead of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami protesters are also angry at the government said in a tured in the past week in anniversary, at the tsunami museum building, in Banda Aceh, Indonesia, yesterday. Lam’s government, charging it statement. Jayapura, the capital of Papua province. Police seized knives, laptops, explosive materials and a bomb from three houses invokes fake news law over opposition party posts rented by the suspects. Marjuki declined to say what REUTERS called the Protection from Online article on its website about the government statement said the may stifle free speech, and oppo- the suspects had planned in SINGAPORE Falsehoods and Manipulation Act city-state’s job market. posts and the article will need to sition politicians say it could give Papua province. He said those (POFMA), since it came into The article said a rising pro- carry a notice that says they the government too much power arrested are suspected members Singapore’s government invoked effect about two months ago. But portion of local professionals, “contain a misleading graphic as elections loom. of a local affiliate of the IS group a fake news law to order an it is the first time it has been used managers, executives and tech- and false statement of facts.” The Singaporean gov- known as Jama’ah Anshorut opposition party to publish against a political party. nicians (known as PMETs) were The SDP, which does not ernment said that the city-state Daulah (JAD) from Lampung and corrections on two social media The government ordered the losing their jobs. hold any seats in parliament, said is vulnerable to misleading and Medan on Sumatra island. posts and an article on its website Singapore Democratic Party That was disputed by the it was looking into the directives. inaccurate news because of its JAD has been implicated in about local employment, an (SDP) to issue corrections to a Manpower Ministry, which said As of 1200 GMT, the posts and position as a global financial hub, numerous attacks in Indonesia official statement showed. sponsored Facebook post, the employment of PMETs had article had not been changed. its mixed ethnic and religious over the past two years and was It is the third time that another post on its page on the been rising steadily since 2015. Rights groups have warned population and widespread designated a terror organisation authorities have used the law, social network as well as an Ordering the corrections, the that the so-called fake news law internet access. by the US in 2017. 14 EUROPE SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019

Greece still in Massive power violation of some norms for outage as rains, detention: UN AP ATHENS winds hit France A group of UN experts on arbi- AFP Enedis said trary detention said that despite PEYREHORADE, FRANCE 50,000 houses in some improvements, Greece was southwestern France still in violation of certain inter- Fourteen departments in south- and 10,000 in the national obligations in how and western France, the Alps region where people are imprisoned. and the Mediterranean island of north, primarily in The UN Working Group on Corsica were on alert following Normandy, were Arbitrary Detention presented gale-force winds and flooding without power. a preliminary report following that cut off electricity in 60,000 a visit to 20 detention facilities homes, killed one person and across the country between injured five others. December 2 and 13. It noted The department of Pyrenees- Rescuers resumed searches several areas of concern Atlantique in the Basque Country as floods inundated parts of the involving both the criminal was downgraded by the weather region with waters rising to up justice system and migration. service Meteo France however to nearly nine feet and by 30 Firefighters inspect a flooded neighbourhood following heavy rains in Peyrehorade, southwestern The group, which visited from the maximum level red centimetres per hour in some France, yesterday. Greece following an invitation alert to orange. areas. by the government, said it had A 70-year-old man died Lot-et-Garonne was placed Laruns was interrupted. everything from the garage,” he Upper Corsica was on enjoyed unrestricted access to there on Friday when his vehicle under red alert for floods and a In the nearby Landes said. “This is happening more orange alert for winds packing facilities and full cooperation struck a tree that had fallen into rugby rematch between Cardiff department, about 600 people and more”. speeds of up to 150 kmh. Some from officials. the road during the storms. Blues and Pau for the European were evacuated on Friday as a “It’s here that we see there is 16,300 households did not have The group’s concerns Five others were injured, two Challenge Cup in the city of Pau preventive measure in areas a malfunctioning with the electricity and rail services have included prison overcrowding, seriously, when trees fell on their yesterday evening was can- where the Gaves de Pau and weather.” been suspended until the the non-segregation of suspects vehicles. celled by the prefecture. Oloron rivers converge. Meteo France has warned afternoon. held in pre-trial detention from In Espeins in the Lot-et- Flooding and landslides cut “We are getting used to this that the winds posed a French electrcity distributor those already convicted, the Garonne region, a man in his off access to the skiing stations now,” a weary pensioner who heightened avalanche risk in the Enedis said 50,000 houses in access of asylum seekers to seventies was swept away by of Gourette and Artouste, while gave his name as Christian said. Alps, in particular in the popular southwestern France and 10,000 interpreters and legal help, and rising waters when he went out the distribution of potable “We put everything on the skiing departments of Isere and in the north, primarily in Nor- reports of arbitrary push-backs to fetch his mail. water in the commune of upper levels, and we clear out Savoie. mandy, were without power. of migrants attempting to cross the border into Greece. Greek prisons have suffered from overcrowding for years. Belgian carnival removed from Unesco list over racism row A recent change to the penal code reducing the length of AP piles of money. A document filed permissive of displays of the carnival from the cultural Otone said that inclusion in prison sentences and encour- BOGOTA by Unesco’s secretariat said the anti-Semitism. heritage list was made by a the heritage list highlights the aging the use of alternatives event goes against the organisa- Ottone said that town offi- 24-nation committee that meets need to preserve the traditions such as community service “are A famous Belgian carnival was tion’s principles, including a cials were warned several times each year to review nominations, and can make some of them eli- positive steps forward,” the removed from the UN’s cultural clause stating that cultural about anti-Semitic symbolism in and new ways to safeguard gible for Unesco funding, partic- group said. But it added that heritage list following complaints expressions included in the list previous versions of the carnival traditions. ularly those that are in danger of “there is still considerable scope that its most recent edition should foster respect among but failed to take actions that The committee also disappearing. for their implementation,” and contained blatant displays of communities. would “draw a line” on what approved the inclusion of 40 cul- The Aalst Carnival was noted that the conditions in anti-Semitism. “They can continue to do the kind of floats and displays were tural practices to its list of intan- included in the Unesco list in prisons and police station The Aalst carnival was taken festival. We are not opposing acceptable. gible heritage during this week’s 2010, and is described in the holding cells “do not generally off Unesco’s Intangible Cultural that” said Ernesto Ottone, In an interview earlier this meeting. organisation’s website as an meet international standards.” Heritage list during a meeting in Unesco’s assistant director- month, Aalst Mayor Christoph Those included Alpinism, event with a “slightly subversive The preliminary findings Colombia’s capital city, general for culture. “What we D’Haese said that the town was Thai massage and bachata atmosphere” that celebrates the criticised the widespread use of becoming the first cultural tra- don’t want is the brand of Unesco fed up with “grotesque com- dancing from the Dominican unity of the Flemish-speaking pre-trial detention. It also said dition stricken from the UN’s on a festival that for (some) may plaints” over the carnival. Republic, as well as Mexico’s town. that holding people awaiting global inventory of cultural be humour, but for us is mockery D’Haese added that it was not his Talavera ceramics. Belgian delegates at the trial together with convicts runs practices. of some communities.” job to police humour. The host nation of Colombia Unesco meeting declined to contrary to the International The festivity was criticised by Belgium’s government “We are on a very dangerous was also recognised for imple- comment on the carnival’s Covenant on Civil and Political anti-discrimination groups after requested that the carnival to be slippery slope when people will menting a national scheme that removal from the heritage list. Rights and is “contrary to the this year’s edition included a taken off the Unesco list fol- be able to decide what can be helps to preserve traditions like But some of their European peers presumption of innocence that float depicting Jews with side- lowing several complaints by laughed at,” he said. basket weaving, ceramics and described it as a necessary all persons are entitled to prior curls and oversized noses atop groups that the event was The final decision to remove wood sculpting. decision. to conviction.” I don’t feel like a role model, says Finland PM

REUTERS with leaders of 27 countries, model” for others living in soci- a feeling “that the older gener- BRUSSELS including the powerful figures eties where politics have long ation weren’t paying enough of of France been dominated by older men. attention” to it. She may be the world’s and Angela Merkel of Germany. “I don’t feel like a role model,” She said there is no trick to youngest-serving head of European Commission Pres- she said in an interview. “I might her success — just hard work. government, but Finland’s ident Ursula von der Leyen be for some people, but we are Marin, whose Cabinet of 19 newly appointed prime minister beamed and embraced Marin all just human beings: The issues ministers will include 13 women, does not feel like a role model, warmly as they met at the matter, not the people behind the said she would work closely with 34-year-old Sanna Marin said. Brussels summit. issues we are all working on. I European allies. Marin became the Nordic The appointment of a think everyone matters.” “We are stronger together. country’s prime minister on youthful women to lead her Marin, who started out on Neither one of us can find the Tuesday, and two days later country has been seized on by her political career when she solutions alone so I think that we found herself rubbing shoulders media around the globe, many was in her mid-20s, said she was have a platform, we have to use at a European Union summit of them seeing in her a “role spurred by climate change and it,” she said. Malgorzata Kidawa-Blonska (centre), a former deputy parliament speaker, reacts after being elected as the Civic Platform (PO) presidential candidate for next year’s election, in Warsaw, yesterday. Dutch police arrest climate Main Polish opposition party activists at Schiphol airport picks presidential candidate AFP cheers. THE HAGUE Dutch border police said in AP servative Law and Justice party. a tweet that the protesters were WARSAW Civic Platform led Poland Dutch border police yesterday “being relocated”. Dutch media from 2007 to 2015, most of the detained dozens of climate reported the group was being Poland’s main opposition party, time with Donald Tusk as prime protesters at Amsterdam’s dropped off outside the Haar- the centrist Civic Platform, chose minister before he left to Schiphol airport during a lemmermeer municipal lawmaker and deputy become EU leader. During its demonstration aimed at forcing boundary where Schiphol is parliament speaker Malgorzata eight years at the helm, the party the busy international air hub to located. Kidawa-Blonska as its presi- oversaw economic expansion adopt a plan to curb greenhouse “The first bus with protesters dential candidate at a party and even guided the country emissions. has left,” said the Royal Dutch congress yesterday. through the financial crisis of Gendarmes started removing Marechaussee, the paramilitary Kidawa-Blonska will be 2008 without Poland’s economy protesters inside the busy police responsible for airport and facing the popular conservative falling into recession. Schiphol Plaza where a group of border safety. incumbent, President Andrzej But voters grew tired of its between 100 and 150 climate Demonstrators were also Duda, as well as the candidates heavily pro-market policies, activists had gathered with gathering outside Schiphol People demonstrate as Greenpeace stages a climate protest at of smaller parties in the election which had also allowed inequal- placards and shouting slogans, airport for a legal protest under Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, in Schiphol, yesterday expected to be held in the spring. ities to grow, and booted it out live television images showed. the eye of Dutch police, some on “I will be the president of all in 2015 in favor of a populist One protester chained horseback, Amsterdam’s AT5 tel- “Schiphol must come with a This included reducing Poles,” she declared to party party that has expanded the himself to a pillar during the evision news showed. climate plan,” one of the Green- flights, scrapping short-distance members after a secret vote in welfare state. unauthorised rally inside the Protesters waved banners peace organisers said, adding flights in favour of using trains which 700 party delegates chose Kidawa-Blonska is seen as shopping mall that leads to the reading “Tax the plane, take the that activists planned to stage a and stopping the planned her over Poznan mayor Jacek a moderate politician with arrivals and departures section train” and “Shrink aviation”. 24-hour protest at the air hub. upgrade of an airport at nearby Jaskowiak. patriotic credentials. She is the of the airport. Activists from Greenpeace, Ahead of the protest, Green- Lelystad to accommodate more Kidawa-Blonska was also the great-granddaughter of both a More than two dozen police which organised the demon- peace said it wanted to force holiday destination flights. opposition’s candidate for prime pre-World War II president, Sta- officers had watched the dem- stration, told the crowd: “Schiphol airport authorities to adopt Schiphol spokesman Hans minister in a parliamentary nislaw Wojciechowski, and a onstrators before arresting them is one the biggest airports in urgent measures to reduce CO2 van Kastel said no flights were election in October. The party, prime minister, Wladyslaw and leading them outside to a Europe and yet they still want to emissions in the aviation so far disrupted by the however, lost to the ruling con- Grabski. waiting bus among clapping and expand it. That’s not normal!” industry. demonstration. SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019 EUROPE / AMERICAS 15 Johnson vows to repay trust of Labour voters AFP Boris Johnson said LONDON with the European Union when “It is getting Brexit done but that he understood he re-submits it to parliament it is also delivering on our how difficult it was next week. National Health Service, our edu- Prime Minister Boris Johnson for traditional Labour This would assure that cation, safer streets, better hos- vowed yesterday to repay the Britain formally leaves the other pitals, a better future for our trust of former opposition voters voters to switch sides 27 EU nations by the January 31 country,” he said. who gave his Conservatives a and back his right- deadline set by Brussels. “We are going to recover our mandate to take Britain out of wing government The sides would then set off national self-confidence, our the European Union next month. in Britain’s on the tricky task of trying to mojo, our self-belief.” Johnson toured a leftist reach a brand new compre- bastion once represented by biggest election in hensive trade agreement by the former Labour leader Tony Blair generations. end of 2020. in a bid to show his intent to Failure to meet that deadline unite country after years of divi- — which Johnson has repeatedly sions over Brexit. support for Labour and relegated vowed not to extend -- would The northeastern region fell the century-old party to its worst have unknown repercussions for to the Tories in a general election finish since the 1930s. global markets and economic on Thursday that turned into a Johnson now commands an growth. re-run of the 2016 EU mem- 80-vote majority in the 650-seat But Johnson said his govern- bership referendum in which House of Commons — a margin ment’s main focus after the first Johnson championed the Brexit last enjoyed by the late Tory icon stage of Brexit was completed Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson shaking hands with supporters during a visit to meet newly- cause. Margaret Thatcher in the 1980s. would be on bread-and-butter elected Conservative party MP for Sedgefield, Paul Howell, at Sedgefield Cricket Club in County Johnson told cheering cam- The lead assures Johnson issues important to Labour Durham, northeast , yesterday. paigners that he understood how safe passage of his divorce deal voters. difficult it was for traditional Labour voters to switch sides and back his right-wing government Johnson must accept new Scottish independence vote: Sturgeon in Britain’s biggest election in REUTERS parliament in Thursday’s a choice. He reiterated his the 2016 Brexit referendum to in Edinburgh would next week generations. LONDON national election, prompting opposition to that,” Sturgeon stay in the European Union, publish a detailed case for a “I can imagine people’s pen- sturgeon to step up her demands told Skynews after visiting while a majority of English and transfer of power from London cil’s hovering over the ballot British Prime Minister Boris for another independence ref- supporters in Dundee Welsh voters supported leaving that would allow her to hold a paper and wavering before Johnson needs to “focus on erendum. However, Johnson, yesterday. the bloc. second independence coming down for us and the Con- reality” and recognise that the boosted by his own Conserv- “But you know, let’s focus Since then Sturgeon has referendum. servatives,” he said. “And I want Scottish National Party (SNP) ative Party winning an 80 seat on reality here — the election argued that Scotland deserves “Scotland very clearly wants the people of the northeast to has been given a mandate for a parliamentary majority in the this week was a watershed another vote on becoming an a different future to the one know that we in the Conservative second independence refer- election, told sturgeon by phone moment for Scotland,” she said. independent nation because it that’s been chosen by much of party — and I — will repay your endum, Scottish First Minister on Friday that he opposed Scots voted in an inde- is being taken out of the EU the rest of the UK, and Scotland trust.” Nicola Sturgeon said. another independence vote. pendence referendum in 2014 against its will. wants to have the right to The working class north of The SNP won 48 of Scot- “I was firm with him that I to remain in the United Sturgeon said on Friday her choose its own future,” she said England dropped its traditional land’s 59 seats in the UK have a mandate to offer people Kingdom, but they also voted in semi-autonomous government yesterday.

Albania seeks arrests Amazon deforestation up by more than double: Data for quake deaths in AFP Research (INPE), which provides That is nearly twice the August 2018, deforestation of the forest lost 10,100 sq km in that collapsed buildings RIO DE JANEIRO official data on deforestation. 4,878.7 sq km reported for the Brazilian Amazon had passed the 12-month period, compared to That is considered a signif- first 11 months of 2018. 10,000 sq km threshold for the 7,033 sq km in the previous 12 REUTERS Deforestation in Brazil’s Amazon icant increase, particularly The data was collected by the first time since 2008. months. TIRANA in November surged by 104 during the rainy season, when satellite-based DETER system, That represented a 43 On Friday, Ricardo Galvao, percent compared to the same deforestation generally slows. which monitors deforestation in percent increase from the pre- INPE’s former president, was Albanian prosecutors have month in 2018, according to For the first 11 months of the real time. ceding 12-month period. named one of the 10 most issued a series of arrest warrants official data released yesterday. year — also the first months in Another satellite-based Deforestation in indigenous important scientists of the year on charges including murder The 563sqkm deforested office of Jair Bolsonaro, a far- system used by the INPE known areas rose even faster, by 74.5 by the British journal, Nature. In and abuse of office over the that month is also the highest right leader who has eased as PRODES, considered more percent from the preceding early August, he was fired by the deaths of 51 people killed when number for any November since restrictions on exploiting the reliable but slower to compile period, INPE reported. Bolsonaro government, which a 6.4-magnitude earthquake 2015, according to Brazil’s Amazon’s vast riches — defor- data, reported in late November Overall, PRODES showed accused him of exaggerating the toppled dozens of buildings last National Institute for Space estation totaled 8,974.3 sq km. that in the 12 months beginning that the world’s largest tropical extent of deforestation. month, police said yesterday. Police and prosecutors said initial investigations showed Russia’s nuclear-powered “the loss of life in the collapsed buildings came also because their builders, engineers and icebreaker completes test run owners had failed to observe AFP 2.8 metres of ice. the rules, norms and standards SAINT PETERSBURG Inaugurated in 2016, it is part of safe constructions.” of a planned fleet aimed at sig- Prosecutors issued 17 war- Russia’s nuclear-powered nificantly boosting freight traffic rants in total, police said. Two icebreaker Arktika, touted as the along Russia’s Arctic coast which of the nine people detained yes- strongest of its kind and a symbol links the Pacific and Atlantic terday on murder charges were of Moscow’s ambition to tap the Oceans all year long. the owners of two hotels that Arctic’s commercial potential, The Arctic holds huge oil and collapsed, killing four people in returned to Saint Petersburg gas reserves that are being eyed Durres. A third was the manager yesterday after a two-day test run. by Russia and other countries of a police vacation hotel where Destined to transport liq- including the United States, a high-ranking police officer uified natural gas from the Arctic, Canada and Norway. was killed under the rubble. the giant vessel is 173 metres long The plan will also make it During the three decades and 15 metres high. easier for Russia to deliver since toppling communism in The run served to test the hydrocarbons to South East Asia. 1990, many Albanians have vessel’s functioning and The final tests for Arktika are moved nearer cities, squatting manoeuverability, said Mustafa scheduled for March and April on land and building with little Kashka, general-director of and it is set to start sailing in May. supervision by authorities. Atomflot, the company which Two other similar vessels the Many of the buildings have runs Russia’s icebreaking fleet. Ural and the Sibir are under been legalised since then by The nuclear-propelled ship construction. governments eager to get votes however used diesel on its The economic development but also seeking to urbanise maiden voyage. According to of the Arctic is one of the key such areas by putting in sewage Russia’s nuclear-powered icebreaker Arktika project 2020 returns, in Saint Petersburg, yesterday. its builders it can cut through goals of President Vladimir Putin. systems and roads. Erik held secret talks with Venezuela V-P Crashed Chile plane suffered

REUTERS Betsy DeVos, discussed with Rodriguez. began ratcheting up sanctions and dip- emergency in 2016: Air Force WASHINGTON The meeting was first reported by lomatic pressure in an effort to oust Bloomberg. Maduro. He remains in power. AFP/PUNTA ARENAS the Atlantic and Pacific en route to a Erik Prince, the controversial private A meeting with Rodriguez, who is Prince’s spokesman Marc Cohen Chilean airbase. security executive and prominent under US sanctions, could raise ques- declined to comment. Rodriguez did not The Chilean Hercules C-130 plane that As it came to land at the base in Ant- supporter of US President Donald tions about whether Prince might have respond to questions via text message. crashed on its way to Antarctica this arctica in 2016 “the crew realised that Trump, made a secret visit to Venezuela run afoul of US law, which prohibits Her brother, Information Minister Jorge week killing all 38 people on board the left main gear of the aircraft did not last month and met Vice-President Delcy Americans from virtually any business Rodriguez, also did not respond to a suffered an emergency three years ago travel to the down position and secure Rodriguez, one of socialist leader Nicolas dealings with sanctioned individuals and request for comment. on the same route, the air force said when activating the landing gear,” the Maduro’s closest and most outspoken specifically with the venezuelan gov- Five sources said that Prince, a busi- yesterday. statement said. allies, according to five sources familiar ernment. The Venezuelan vice-presi- nessman known for his right-wing Following the plane’s disappearance The pilot decided to turn back to with the matter. dent’s office also oversees the country’s views, visited Caracas around November after taking off from the southern city Punta Arenas, using an alternate method The visit, described by one source as national intelligence service. 20 or 21 and met with Rodriguez, a of Punta Arenas, local media broadcast to lower the landing gear and touching “outreach” by Prince to Maduro’s gov- The White House declined to leader of venezuela’s ruling socialist a video showing emergency equipment down uneventfully, it added. ernment, came just eight months after comment when asked if US officials had party who was appointed as vice pres- including firefighters and ambulances The air force has previously said the the founder of the private security firm advance word of Prince’s visit or ident by Maduro last year. waiting on the runway in the city’s crashed plane’s maintenance record Blackwater floated a plan to deploy a whether it was seen as a possible line of “It was something more than a airport in April 2016. was in order, but that it would inves- private army to help the Venezuelan communication with the Maduro gov- private business trip,” one venezuelan In a statement, the Chilean Air Force tigate a WhatsApp audio message sent opposition topple Maduro. ernment. In January, Washington rec- source in Washington who has contacts said the plane shown in the footage is by a passenger to relatives that allegedly It was unclear what Prince, the ognised opposition leader Juan Guaido with both the opposition and Maduro’s the same one that crashed as it was said the plane was having electrical brother of Trump’s education secretary, as Venezuela’s legitimate president and government said of Prince’s visit. crossing the Drake Passage connecting problems. 16 AMERICAS SUNDAY 15 DECEMBER 2019 Shooting highlights difficulty of keeping guns out AP Officials have renewed He’s also made a priority of strict gun laws. Jersey is not an oasis and that’s closest state with the weakest TRENTON demands for gun highlighting the so-called iron For years, Chicago officials why it’s extraordinarily frus- gun laws.” pipeline of firearms from other have complained that street vio- trating,” said Bill Castner. “We Second Amendment advo- Officials from states with strong control at the federal states — particularly along the lence often comes from the will continue to push and identify cates, though, push back on the gun restrictions have called for level. Interstate 95 corridor. Murphy, muzzles of guns sold in states the most aggressive actions, but need for tougher state and national stricter firearm control in places for example, is requiring state with less-stringent laws. without a federal solution, it’s laws. Scott Bach, the executive with weaker laws to thwart traf- opening fire, officials said. Two police to publish data monthly Officials there and elsewhere extraordinarily challenging.” director of the New Jersey Asso- fickers, but the fatal attack on a of the weapons used by David on guns recovered from crimes. have renewed demands for gun Shannon Watts, the founder ciation of Rifle and Pistol Clubs, Jewish market in New Jersey Anderson, 47, and Francine The data shows nearly 80% of control at the federal level. of Moms Demand Action for Gun an affiliate of the NRA, invoked a shows how fruitless those efforts Graham, 50, were bought by so-called crime guns are from “It keeps happening, over Sense in America, said her group common criticism of tougher can be. Graham in Ohio last year, police out of state. and over and over again, on their is pressing ahead with state level restrictions: criminals break laws, Three civilians and a police said. Murphy says it’s important damn watch,” California Demo- gun control because of the they don’t follow them. officer were gunned down on New Jersey is among the to “name and shame” states with cratic Governor Gavin Newsom political headwinds in “Criminals laugh at gun reg- Tuesday by two killers with anti- states with the toughest gun weaker gun laws that effectively said of federal politicians. “I can’t Washington. ulations - the only thing they Semitic and anti-law restrictions in the country, and import weapons into New put borders up in a neighbouring “What we have to do until we understand is severe punishment enforcement beliefs, the state’s in the past two years, Democratic Jersey. And in California, its state where you can buy this stuff have the right president and for actual gun crime,” Bach said. attorney general said. Gov. Phil Murphy has signed over Democratic governor and legally.” Congress is go state by state,” Officials are still investigating The attackers carried five a half-dozen new restrictions attorney general this year both Federal legislation is the Watts said in an interview. the Jersey City attack and have firearms and a pipe bomb in the into law, including a lower bullet criticized the continued ability missing factor, agreed Murphy’s “That’s what we have to do now yet to release details about how U-Haul van they drove to the limit for gun magazines and a red to bring in illegal firearms from top gun adviser. because of the political makeup. the deceased attackers obtained Jersey City Jewish market before flag law. other states despite California’s “If we’re being honest, New Every state is only as safe as the their weapons. Supreme Court takes up Trump Superman’s cape up for auction in Hollywood AFP bid to shield financial records LOS ANGELES Superman’s very first cape and REUTERS Cyrus Vance, a Democrat, is Supreme Court ... will uphold the Bilbo Baggins’ pipe are each WASHINGTON seeking Trump’s tax returns in Constitution, the rulings of the forecast to raise $100,000 to a criminal investigation of the lower courts and ensure that $200,000 at a blockbuster The US Supreme Court agreed president, the Trump Organi- Congressional oversight can auction of rare Hollywood to hear President Donald zation and his family real estate proceed.” memorabilia next week. Trump’s appeals in three business. The cases are a test for how the The props from Christopher separate cases to prevent his The court will hold oral justices view Trump’s arguments Reeve’s “Superman” and the financial records, including tax arguments in March, with rulings that the subpoenas are a threat to “Lord of the Rings” trilogy will returns, being handed over to due by the end of June. the presidency, on the one hand, headline tomorrow’s sale of Democratic-led House of Repre- “We are pleased that the and the need for lawmakers or some 400 cinephile items at Jul- sentatives committees and a Supreme Court granted review of prosecutors for information to ien’s Auctions in Los Angeles, New York prosecutor. the President’s three pending pursue legislation or criminal California. The Republican president is cases. These cases raise significant investigations on the other. Spokesman Jason DeBord trying to block subpoenas for constitutional issues,” said Jay The court has a 5-4 conserv- said it was “very rare to have bank records, tax returns or Sekulow, one of Trump’s lawyers. ative majority including two something that is identifiable” other materials demanded by Democratic leaders in the Trump appointees, Justices Neil surviving from the first various Democratic-led House House expressed disap- Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh. Superman film in 1978. An original Superman cape worn by actor Christopher Reeve in of Representatives committees pointment that the justices’ Trump’s lawyers say there “It is such a beloved film — the 1978 “Superman” film is displayed at Julien’s Auctions house, investigating corruption or decision to hear the cases will was no legislative purpose for Christopher Reeve was amazing. in Los Angeles, California, yesterday. foreign meddling in the US elec- result in further delay. the subpoenas and that the aim There has never been a Ring,” and according to the Trek memorabilia ever auc- tions process. The House probes “Unfortunately, the was merely to dig for dirt on the Superman like him,” he said. “It auction house is the only tioned, according to organisers, are not part of the Democratic- American people will now have president. can go for just a couple hundred example from the film known to including a jacket worn by led impeachment proceedings to wait several more months for The court on Friday thousand dollars; it can go for be in collectors’ hands. William Shatner’s Captain Kirk against Trump over his dealings final rulings,” House Speaker extended its hold on the lower half a million dollars.” They will go under the in “Star Trek II: The Wrath of with Ukraine. Nancy Pelosi said in a statement. court ruling, which it had tem- The pipe was used by Ian hammer alongside the “most Khan” estimated at $80,000 to Manhattan District Attorney “We are confident that the porarily blocked last week. Holm in “The Fellowship of the important collection” of Star $100,000.