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Sunday 16 December 2018 | 9 Rabia II 1440 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 23 | Number 7742 | 2 Riyals

Amir patronises Lusail Stadium design unveiling ceremony

Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani giving the inaugural speech at the 18th Doha Forum yesterday. Amir reaffirms Qatar’s stance on Gulf crisis

Amir H H Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani; H H Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Personal Representative of H H the Amir; The crises of our region will not aggravate and and other dignitaries during the unveiling of the design for Lusail Stadium, yesterday. multiply, if the commitment to QNA & THE PENINSULA of Ecuador, Lenin Moreno also attended by the Prime Min- during the tournament, which international conventions, values of dialogue, coexistence, DOHA Garces; United Nations Sec- ister and Interior Minister H E will kick off on November 21, human rights and mutual respect, do not diminish. As well the retary-General, Antonio Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin 2022 and be the first to take challenges of migration, asylum, poverty, development and Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Guterres; President of the Khalifa Al Thani and the Shura place in the Arab world. terrorism facing our world will not increase. #Doha Forum Hamad Al Thani yesterday United Nations General Council Speaker According to details released by patronised the ceremony of Assembly, Maria Fernanda H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin the Supreme Committee for revealing the design for Lusail Espinosa, and Prime Minister of Zaid Al Mahmoud along with a Delivery and Legacy (SC), THE PENINSULA “Dialogue is what Stadium, the venue at which the the Federal Republic of Somalia, number of Their Excellences Min- renowned British firm Foster + DOHA bridges the gap opening and final matches of the Hassan Ali Khairi. isters and a lineup of heads of Partners provided the design 2022 FIFA World Cup to be H H Sheikh Jassim bin sports federations, Arab and inter- concept for the stadium. Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin between adversaries, hosted by Qatar. Hamad Al Thani, the Personal national Olympic committees and The venue’s golden vessel Hamad Al Thani inaugurated no matter how The ceremony, held at Lusail Representative of H H the Amir, members of the press. takes its inspiration from an Arab yesterday the opening of the intense the area last evening, was attended also attended the function. The 80,000-capacity venue architectural sense as much as it 18th Doha Forum under the title differences are, it is by the President of the Republic The glittering ceremony was will be the largest stadium does from literal symbolism by of “Shaping Policy in an Inter- celebrating the region’s ancient connected World.” the point of inception tradition of craftsmanship. The Addressing the forum, and the point of design features ‘fanar’ lanterns H H the Amir said that “Dialogue conclusion in this and intricately detailed bowls is what bridges the gap between difficult time." that have been created for cen- adversaries, no matter how turies in the region. intense the differences are, it is Construction of the stadium, the point of inception and the international cooperation that which is being delivered by a point of conclusion in this dif- has gained the international joint venture comprising Qatari ficult time. community's consensus. firm HBK Contracting Company “And this applies to the Gulf H H the Amir added that in and China Railway Construction crisis, which is represented by the aftermath of the Cold War Corporation, is already well the blockade on our country. and conclusions drawn by the underway. With the substructure Our position towards solving world from the massacres in complete, concrete super- this crisis has remained Rwanda, Burundi and the structure and infrastructure unchanged; lifting the blockade Balkan, it seemed that an inter- works are progressing in all and settling differences through national security order is in the zones, while internal works have dialogue based on mutual making to enable also cooper- commenced in the west stand. respect and non-interference ation that would be marked by A computer-generated image of the Lusail Stadium. `SPORT 10,11 & 12 in the internal affairs of other integrated efforts to find out countries. The issue of coex- solutions to various challenges istence and good neighbour- in the fields of education, health liness among nations is sep- and development. Siege ‘unfair, unjustified’: arate from any other issues,” But there was a concurrence Regional alliance should be reshaped: FM H H the Amir said. of challenges and crises facing Turkish Foreign Minister The President of the the world; from September 11 THE PENINSULA discussed the role of superpowers and the Republic of Ecuador, Lenin events and the spread of ter- DOHA changing dynamics of regional and interna- Moreno Garces; Prime Minister rorism, violence and extremism, tional alliances. He said, “We believe that QNA of the Federal Republic of to the global financial markets Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the global order is being revisited, but this DOHA Somalia, Hassan Ali Khairi; crisis, the phenomenon of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed isn’t new to us. President of UN General climate change and global bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, participated "The world experiences this cycle every Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu Assembly, Maria Fernanda warming, H H the Amir said. in the 18th edition of Doha Forum in the few decades. However, technology, connec- has described the siege of Qatar as unfair and Espinosa Garces, and a number H H the Amir added: "We opening plenary session, The Global Order tivity and communication have shortened unjustified, and that it is an artificial crisis. He of Ministers from different Arab have moved from talking about Revisited: Old Actors, New Alliances, with the cycle of change. This is a main con- said The Turkish Republic rejects the prin- and foreign countries attended cosmopolitanism to concern Hassan Ali Khairi, Prime Minister of tributor to the change in the global order ciple of resorting to sanctions to resolve the the opening, which took place over politicising xenophobia by Somalia; Maria Fernanda Espinosa, Pres- and how countries view shaping their problems, expressing hope that the crisis at the Sheraton Hotel yesterday the populist movements that ident of the United Nations General alliances.” would end as soon as possible, although it did morning, QNA reported. rally the public along ethnic, Assembly; Teodor-Viorel Meleşcanu, “Regional alliances are still valid and not harm the Qatari economy. H H the Amir said that national, religious and sectarian Foreign Minister of Romania, and important because we share common In a press statement on the sidelines of his H H the Father Amir launched affiliations; and we have also Wolfgang Ischinger Chairman, Munich concerns and interests (with our neigh- participation in the Doha Forum, the Turkish the Doha Forum in 2000 as a moved from being optimistic Security Conference, who moderated the bours). But, these alliances need to be Foreign Minister said that Qatar is working hard global dialogue platform at the about market globalisation and panel. revisited not just by big countries and to diversify its economy and achieve self-suffi- advent of the new millennium elimination of borders to dealing Discussing Qatar’s foreign policy and superpowers, but also by member states ciency in many fields and has been very active on when the United Nations her- with protectionist economic pol- commitment to dialogue, H E Sheikh in the UN and as part of the region,” he the regional and international arenas and that its alded principles of a new era of icies. `P3 Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani added. `P4 economy continues to grow and rise. `P4 02 HOME SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018

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everyday new deals SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 03 Amir reaffirms Qatar’s stance on Gulf crisis

FROM PAGE 1 solutions were culminated in The exclusionary and totali- success beyond the set of universal tarian tendencies have recurred to values reached by humanity after overwhelm our world and usher the Second World War on the one in regimes that do not recognise the hand, and after the battles of liber- least basic human rights.” ation from colonialism on the other H H the Amir stressed that the hand. They are the values which gravity of these challenges has exac- should not change when circum- erbated due to the increasing stances and times change. political tensions engulfing the H H the Amir said that these current world order with their neg- universal values have been incor- ative impact on international coop- porated in the UN Charters and eration, the selectivity in dealing principles aimed at maintaining with some issues and resorting international peace and security, sometimes to the use of force, as resorting to dialogue and peaceful well as the growing racism in all its means of settling disputes, rejecting forms. the annexation of the territories of In this context, repression, des- others by force, as well as the right potism, double standards that to self-determination of peoples, render the principles of justice non-interference in the internal devoid of its essence, in addition to affairs of States and rejection of all the violation of human rights and forms of racism and discrimination, fundamental freedoms have respecting human rights and cit- become a threat to humanity or izens, upholding the values of justice what can be described as human and equality, renouncing extremism security, H H the Amir said. and terrorism, and promoting H H the Amir stressed that sta- peaceful coexistence and interna- bility should not be based on tional cooperation. repression and injustice, as true H H the Amir said the sponsors peace is based on justice, and not and advocates of this narrow- on occupation. Also the narrow minded exclusionary thinking have concept of security poses a threat to missed that the technological security itself, because the lack of advancement and open cyber space human security falls back to have made it difficult to monopolise Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani during the opening of the 18th Doha Forum yesterday. threaten the very security and sta- views and muzzle people. Out of our bility in their narrow sense. And as belief in the importance of views, Forum was a global platform to shared goals and joint interests session of Doha 2018. She praised December 10. The President of the economic development cannot be the necessity of dialogue and the achieve the most ambitious goals without marginalizing any segment the Doha forum, its topics and General Assembly of the UN pointed achieved in the long run without inevitability of diversity, we have in the modern world and to launch of society. The President stressed important issues to be discussed, to the failure of the international human development, it is essential been keen to keep the dialogue a serious and effective global dia- on the importance of technology including security, peace, medi- community, including the United to achieve security in all its eco- forums and networking platforms logue among all people on the chal- in achieving those goals. ation, economic development, and Nations and multilateral institutions nomic, political, environmental and active and open to exchange views lenges ahead, which he said were The President also said that policy-making trends and trends to respect such covenants, and to societal dimensions. in a free environment for all, irre- increasing. everyone is responsible for pro- in an interconnected world. It also the failure in finding solutions to For us, these are not theoretical spective of their intellectual affilia- He noted that the world tecting the planet, noting that there reviewed challenges facing challenges, inequality and migration statements. In the Middle East, we tions and political perceptions, and remains fragmented regarding the remains many conflicts and differ- humanity, including conflict and and development crises. She also have our share of challenges and this forum is a relevant epitome. challenges it faces despite the ever- ences. He stressed in that regard migration, and pointed out in this called for dialogue to resolve dis- crises, from the Palestinian issue, the Prime Minister and Interior greater role that globalisation plays. that the role of policy makers is to regard that in the city of Marrakesh putes and end conflicts Arab-Israeli conflict to the Iraq war Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin He stressed on the importance of turn the resulting mistrust into faith Morocco, the Global Compact for In a related context, she said and the Arab uprisings, which were Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani; dialogue to resolve differences and in building the future. Safe, Orderly and Regular that there will be a meeting held universally known as the Arab Speaker of Shura Council H E conflicts and remove fears among The President called on Migration was adopted. She hailed next year in Buenos Aires, as well spring; and from migration and Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al the people and reach peace. He learning from past mistakes, the feat as an achievement for as a summit in Uganda with the unemployment-related problems Mahmoud, and their excellencies added young generations are able stressing that coexistence, international cooperation. support of the Qatar Fund for to the issues of communal security, ministers and heads of diplomatic to enhance dialogue and make it a respecting freedoms, and resolving She added that next week will Development, saying that such food security and other missions accredited by the state all means of communication, adding conflicts peacefully is what will see a meeting held in New York City meetings and conferences oppor- challenges. attended the forum. that it was boring to live with no help countries prosper. to discuss the agreement, which is tunities help strengthen partner- H H the Amir added that in the For his part, the President of diversity. He said that cyberspace, President of UN General related to the principles of the Uni- ships between countries and also midst of all these challenges and the Republic of Ecuador, Lenin the smartphone, and the Internet Assembly Maria Fernanda Espinosa versal Declaration of Human Rights help reach an agreement with the crises, it has been proven that no Moreno Garces, stressed the Doha all helped enhance dialogue under Garces also spoke at the opening that the world celebrated on ILO on political changes. 04 HOME SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018

Amir, President of Ecuador discuss bilateral relations Amir reviews ties with Somalia

Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani received a verbal message from President Mohammed Abdullah Faramajo of the Federal Republic of Somalia, pertaining to bilateral relations and means Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met with President Lenin Moreno Garcia of the Republic of boosting and developing them. The message was conveyed by the Prime Minister of the Federal of Ecuador, on the sidelines of the 2018 Doha Forum, at Sheraton Hotel yesterday. During the meeting, Republic of Somalia, Hassan Ali Khairi, during his meeting with H H the Amir at the Sheraton Doha they reviewed bilateral relations and ways to develop them, as well as the most important regional Hotel yesterday, on the sidelines of the 2018 Doha Forum. H H the Amir reviewed with the Prime and international developments. Minister of Somalia areas of joint cooperation between the two countries.

Amir meets members of US Congress Regional alliance should be reshaped: FM FROM PAGE 1 H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani also touched on the Gulf dispute, stressing dialogue as a crucial tool to resolving this crisis. He continued, “We are a firm believer that a dialogue with blockading countries based on mutual respect will end the crisis that exists in the region. The regional alliance has been undermined by the crisis. Therefore the alliance that existed needs to be reshaped and redesigned to ensure future Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh stability and security of the Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Prime Minister of Somalia, region,” he added. Hassan Ali Khairi, at the Doha Forum, yesterday. Teodor-Viorel Meleşcanu, Foreign Minister of Romania, remarked, “We firmly believe added. case of Somalia. Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met yesterday with a number of members of the US in the power of dialogue. We The panel discussed the Hassan Ali Khaire stated: Congress, on the sidelines of the 2018 Doha Forum, at Sheraton Hotel. H H the Amir met with the want to organize a dialogue dawn of a new world order, both “The challenge we are facing in US Democrat Representative for Pennsylvania’s 13th congressional district, Brendan Boyle, the between GCC nations to resolve examining the state of regional the new interconnected world member of the Foreign Affairs Committee for the 7th District of Pennsylvania; the member of the the issue that exists in the region. cooperation and stability as well is how to change the old nar- US House of Representatives for the 7th district of Indiana, Andre Carson; the member of the US We see the GCC as a pillar of as the formation of new and rative and showcase Somalia’s House of Representatives from Michigan’s 5th district, Dan Kildee, the member of the US House of security that exists in the Arab unconventional alliances under real potential.” Representatives from New Jersey’s 1st district, Donald Norcross; the member of the US House of World.” the overarching theme “Shaping María Fernanda Espinosa Representatives from Connecticut’s 4th district, Jim Himes; the member of House Committee on “The resolution of the GCC Policy in an Interconnected Garcés, President of the United Energy, Tom Lantos; the Human Rights Commission and the US Representative for California’s 29th crisis must come through World.” Panel members Nations General Assembly, congressional district. During the meeting, they reviewed the strategic relations of cooperation political negotiations, but I have explored how countries can stated: “The United Nations is between Qatar and the United States and their development, and exchanged of views on a number to add that it has to respect the change the way they are per- the world’s umbrella. It is the of issues of mutual interest. principles and rules of interna- ceived globally, and in doing so parliament of humanity. It is the tional law, but also equality,” he carve out a new future, as in the norm setter for policy making.”

Siege of Qatar ‘unfair and unjustified’: Turkish FM FROM PAGE 1 strong impetus to the Forum. He said in all the findings of the Turkish On the Forum and its role in pro- that he and the Turkish Finance Min- investigation. moting dialogue among countries, the ister in addition to a number of other He added that the Turkish side had Turkish Foreign Minister said that the officials representing Turkey in the not received any new from its Saudi Doha Forum is one of the most big event. On the killing of Saudi jour- counterpart regarding their investi- important international events, evi- nalist Jamal Khashoggi, Cavusoglu said gations, and called on the Saudi side denced by the strong participation of that he would discuss the matter at to work transparently in this regard, all elements of the international com- the Doha forum, noting that Turkish stressing at the same time that Turkey munity. The theme of the dialogue for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was will not abandon the truth in this the year was also vital, which gave a clear and committed to transparency regard and is continuing to the end. HIA voted ‘Best Airport in Middle East’

THE PENINSULA terminal. HIA recently started offering DOHA on-the-go spa services for departing or transferring passengers at the airport Hamad International Airport (HIA) has with ‘Be Relax’, an international well- been voted as the “Best Airport in the being and beauty service provider spe- Middle East” at the 15th Annual Global cialized in airports. Located in the Traveler’s GT Tested Reader Survey North Node of the airport terminal, Awards in Los Angeles. The award near concourses D and E, ‘Be Relax’ recognises outstanding performance provides passengers with massage and customer service displayed by services, manicures, pedicures, and airports across the world. shower facilities in a calm and serene HIA’s VP of Commercial and Mar- environment away from the airport keting, Abdulaziz Al Mass, accepted the hustle. The airport also has the Vitality award during the gala reception in wellness spa with a range of spa treat- Abdulaziz Al Mass, Vice-President, Beverly Hills. ments and facilities. Commercial and Marketing, HIA, Commenting on the award, Eng. The airport will also be launching Badr Mohammed Al Meer, Chief Oper- receiving the award. an upgraded version of the HIA Qatar ating Officer at HIA, stated: “It is truly mobile app soon, a state-of-the-art an honour to be awarded the “Best thank Global Traveler for this out- iBeacon enabled app that enables HIA Airport in the Middle East” award by standing recognition, and our pas- customers to access everything Global Traveler for the second consec- sengers for their continued support and airport-related at the tips of their utive year. Since our opening, we have confidence in HIA.” fingers. displayed an unwavering commitment HIA continues to redefine the pas- By simply searching “coffee” or to providing the best passenger expe- senger experience through comfort, “handbag”, the app offers a list of all rience and customer service excellence, convenience and leisure, with state- outlets offering the products of which is increasingly being recognized of-the-art infrastructure and facilities interest along with a turn-by-turn by the international community. We all housed within one its expansive navigation to reach the destination. SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 05 06 HOME SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 Prime Minister meets officials taking part in Doha Forum

QNA the Republic of Mongolia Damdin Director of UNICEF Relief Hen- DOHA Tsogtbaatar , the Minister for rietta Fore, the UNDP Adminis- Foreign Affairs of Japan Taro trator Achim Steiner, HE Chief Prime Minister and Minister of Kono, the Minister of Finance of Executive Officer of Deutsche Interior H E Sheikh Abdullah bin the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Bank Christian Sewing, the CEO Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani met this Asad Umar, and the Minister of the Investment in the Sultanate of morning a number of Their Excel- Finance of the Republic of Ghana Oman Abdul Salam Al Morshedi. lencies Ministers and senior offi- Ken Ofori-Atta. During the meetings, they cials, on the sidelines of their partic- H E the Prime Minister and reviewed relations of cooperation ipation in the 18th Doha Forum. Minister of Interior also met with and means of developing them in His Excellency met with the the President of the United various fields in addition to a Minister Responsible for Foreign Nations General Assembly Maria number of topics on the agenda Affairs of the Sultanate of Oman Fernanda Espinosa, the Executive of the forum. Yousef bin Alawi bin Abdullah, the Minister of Finance of Kuwait Dr. Nayef Falah Al Hajraf, the Min- ister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr. Mohammad Javad Zarif , the Turkish Minister of Finance Berat Albayrak and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the sisterly Republic of Turkey Mevlut Cavusoglu. H E the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior also met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs meets UN officials Roads to World Cup stadiums to be ready two years before tournament

QNA DOHA

The President of the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) Dr. Eng. Saad bin Ahmed Al Muhannadi affirmed that the Authority is working on full swing to complete all infra- structure work for the roads leading to the World Cup stadiums before the start of the championship by about Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani held a number of bilateral meetings with UN Officials yesterday on two years. the margin of the 18th Doha Forum. His Excellency met separately with the Executive Director of the UN International Children’s Emergency Fund (Unicef), Henrietta Fore, the In 2017, Ashghal has Executive Director of the UN Development Programme (UNDP) Achim Steiner, the Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Office, Vladimir Voronkov implemented the Lusail and the United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Nickolay Mladenov. Bilateral cooperation and topics of mutual interest were discussed. Expressway, which will directly serve Lusail Stadium where the masses can go from Doha to the stadium in a short time, he Speaker of Shura Council meets French Parliamentarians explained. He added that Ashghal QNA two countries and ways of enhancing and has also completed the imple- DOHA developing them in various fields, especially mentation of Al Shamal road The Speaker of Shura Council H E Ahmed the parliamentary field, a number of issues improvements project in bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud met of mutual concern were also reviewed. 2017, which will also facilitate Saturday with the HE head of the Qatar- H E the Speaker expressed his appre- access to the Lusail Stadium France Friendship Society at the French ciation for the great role played by the two for those coming from the National Assembly Maurice Leroy and the parliamentary groups in strengthening north and the western President of the French Senate friendship relations between the two countries, regions. He pointed out that group with the Gulf countries Jean-Marie stressing his support for their efforts and Ashghal is working on the Bockel, who are currently visiting Doha to their keenness to expand cooperation completion of Al Khor participate in the 2018 Doha Forum. between the Shura Council and the French Expressway by the end of They reviewed relations between the National Assembly and the French Senate. 2019. SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 07 Thousands of visitors Deputy PM meets US Envoy for Global Coalition to Counter ISIS flock to Darb Al Saai SIDI MOHAMED The festivities varied of Customs is participating in THE PENINSULA from heritage and the activities of the National cultural events, to Day celebrations through a Thousands of people visited special pavilion.The pavilion Darb Al Saai festivities in the introduce the new includes a number of cultural last two days to participate in generation about and recreational events many activities held by more the Qatari customs suitable for all ages. Customs than 50 governmental and and traditions and to officials also provide details to non-governmental institutions. visitors about the importance The festivities varied from cultivate the values and role of customs and its heritage and cultural events, to of loyalty and unity security and economic introduce the new generation among them. functions. about the Qatari customs and In the pavilion, the public traditions and to cultivate the is introduced to the methods of values of loyalty and unity dates back to 100 years,” Saadi inspecting the containers, among them. The Organizing Talal, the auction of antiques where there is a simulator that Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs H E Dr. Khalid bin Mohamad Al Committee of Qatar National supervisor said. simulates a real container. Attiyah met yesterday with US Special Presidential Envoy for the Global Coalition to Counter ISIS, Day 2018 Celebration has allo- On prices, he said that the Customs inspectors are clari- cated a big space this year for price varies in terms of scarcity fying the ways in which smug- Brett McGurk. The meeting discussed the efforts exerted in combating terrorism and extremism heritage traditions. and importance, some of which glers hide the contraband and ways to strengthen them. Among the most important cost more than QR100,000. inside these containers. events is the pavilion of the The sales daily is in the range The Authority is trying to auction of antiques and rare of QR20,000 to QR30,000. educate the public, especially artifacts in Darb Al Saai, Among the important the new generations, on the mostly from the Qatari, Gulf events also are the Traffic nature of the customs work and and Arab heritage, including Village at the Ministry of the its security and economic MOTC official discusses relations, potential fishing equipment, diving, Interior, which has attracted importance in a simple way radios, old cameras, swords, large numbers of children. through games, interactive investment opportunities with Argentina and boxes. Children get tips about the competitions and animation “Some of the machines that safety driving and also offers designed to facilitate the THE PENINSULA The meeting, which was by Mwani Qatar CEO Capt. we have in the auction dates them simulation driving delivery of important customs DOHA held at the offices of Mwani Abdulla Al Khanji. back to more than 200 years experience. information to children of all Qatar, discussed cooperation Following the meeting, Sec- such as manuscripts, and some Also the General Authority age groups. Hassan Al Hail, Advisor to the ties between the two countries retary of Public Works at the Minister of Transport and in the fields of mobility, Ministry of Transportation in Communications, met with transport and ports and means Argentina, Manuela López and the Secretary of Public Works of further enhancing them, as her escorting delegation paid a at the Ministry of Transpor- well as potential investment visit to Hamad Port and were Dredging work begins in Doha Port tation in Argentina, Manuela opportunities. briefed on its development López. The meeting was attended works. THE PENINSULA Port’s watercourse will qualify it 2018-2023 that aims to place DOHA to become a tourist destination Qatar among the world’s best that is able to accommodate giant tourism locations.” The Ministry of Transport and cruise ships. These works will gen- The project will be a key Communications has begun erate significant economic returns landmark during the events of the dredging works in Doha Port as to companies, hotels, restaurants, 2022 FIFA World Cup, Sheikh Al efforts continue to develop all retailing and service sectors as Thani noted. ports countrywide and preserve well as the tourist landmarks of MOTC earlier awarded the their infrastructure. Qatar,” said Sheikh Mohamed bin dredging and expansion contract The Ministry aims to boost Khalid Al Thani, Director of Tech- to a consortium that includes the Doha Port’s capacity to be able to nical Affairs, MOTC. Middle East Dredging Co. (MEDCO) accommodate the largest cruise This key project, he added, and the Belgian Jan De Nul, which ships in the future, helping to “contributes to the Qatar National will use two of the world’s largest position Doha among world’s top Vision 2030 and assists in dredgers to clear up to 3.5 million cruise ship tourism destinations. achieving the goals of the Qatar cubic meters of material in the “Dredging deeper in the Doha National Tourism Sector Strategy approach channel. Officials during the event. 08 HOME SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 QDF and HIA give glimpse of culture to transit passengers

THE PENINSULA To celebrate Qatar attendance of Hamad Interna- DOHA National Day, travellers tional Airport Chief Operating will also enjoy 20 Officer, Engr. Badr Al Meer, and Proudly arrayed in hues of percent discounts on Qatar Duty Free Vice President maroon and white, Qatar Duty Operations, Thabet Musleh. Free (QDF) and Hamad Interna- shopping and dining, Qatar Airways Group Chief tional Airport (HIA) treated all from December Executive, Akbar Al Baker, said: passengers who arrived and 15 - 20, throughout “We are delighted to be a part of transited through the airport the airport. The today’s special celebration at our yesterday to a taste of true Qatari home and hub, Hamad Interna- hospitality. Qatari art, enter- celebration also tional Airport. As the National tainment, cuisine and local featured the official Carrier of the State of Qatar, we products were showcased and opening of two pop-up are proud to bring visitors from sampled through captivating around the world to Doha, to souqs operated by HIA and QDF officials during the event held at HIA. ‘Ardha’ sword dancing perform- experience Qatar’s remarkable ances, two traditional souqs and QDF. culture and hospitality. We look a variety of Qatari dishes. To forward to welcoming all visitors every year to engaging our trav- Musleh, said: “This celebration another example of the successful celebrate Qatar National Day, Qatar National Day. Visitors will transiting through HIA this month ellers in the celebration of Qatari hosted at our home, Hamad collaboration between Qatar Duty travellers will also enjoy 20 be able to experience the magic to experience the beauty of these culture. “As one of the busiest International Airport, is an Free and Hamad International percent discounts on shopping of the souqs until the end of unique offerings, which showcase months of the year, we are important event and we are Airport.” Next year, Qatar Duty and dining, from December 15 - December as a part of this our pride in our Qatari heritage.” thrilled that so many of our trav- proud to be able to highlight Free, along with Qatar Airways 20, throughout the airport. The national celebration. A reveal of Engr. Badr Mohammed Al ellers will have the opportunity Qatar’s resilience, showcase and Hamad International Airport, celebration also featured the bespoke artwork pieces created Meer, said: “As a gateway to to admire the many facets of Qatari culture and values and will host the world’s most influ- official opening of two pop-up by contemporary Qatari artist world cultures, we are constantly Qatar’s unique national identity. invite travellers from around the ential airport commercial rev- souqs operated by QDF. Ahmed bin Majed Al Maadheed, seeking creativity and inspiration This national day, our travellers world to experience the enues conference, The Trinity Inspired by the traditional known for his iconic Tamim Al when curating experiences for will leave HIA with a truly mem- Qatari hospitality through our Forum. The conference, architecture and beauty of Qatar, Majd portrait, also took place our travellers. Qatar National orable experience demonstrating pop up traditional souqs and organised by The Moodie Davitt the souqs feature products made yesterday behind the signature Day is a celebration of our what Qatari hospitality is really selected dishes and menus Report, ACI World and ACI Asia- by Qatari entrepreneurs and Lamp Bear art installation. The culture, heritage and identity as about.” Qatar Duty Free Vice created exclusively to mark this Pacific, will take place in Doha business owners in celebration occasion was marked by the a nation, and we look forward President Operations, Mr. Thabet significant occasion. This is yet from October 30-31, 2019.

QF welcomes thousands of visitors to Darb Al Saai tent ICAO Aviation Training THE PENINSULA that was a few years ago, and I and TrainAir Plus DOHA really like the Qatar Foundation tent this year because my child is Qatar Foundation (QF) has really enjoying the activities here. Symposium concludes welcomed thousands of visitors “We love Qatar every day, to its Darb Al Saai tent since not just on National Day, but this THE PENINSULA collaboration between member opening last Wednesday. event is special because it allows DOHA organizations in order to find The tent features an array of us to really express our love for training partners that suit their activities designed to honor this country. And it’s a wonderful The ICAO 5th Global Aviation needs. Qatar National Day, highlighting occasion for children, as it is an Training and TrainAir Plus Sheikh Jabor bin Hamad M. this year’s overarching theme of opportunity to learn more about Symposium concluded its three Al Thani, Director General, Qatar ‘together for our homeland’. The this nation’s rich traditions and days activities in Doha with huge Aeronautical College commented: celebrations – running until culture.” success. The symposium “we are proud and delighted to December 20 – strive to Mirna Al-Obaidly, who also provided a forum where ICAO have hosted the global civil avi- showcase Qatar’s culture, recently visited the QF tent, Member States and training ation community in Doha, and we support the preservation of its added: “In general, the events at organizations came together to are looking forward to contrib- rich traditions, and bring Darb Al Saai are great. The Qatar forge new partnership opportu- uting to the growth and devel- Children at QF’s Darb Al Saai tent. members of the wider com- Foundation tent, in particular nities in aviation training, and at opment of the aviation industry munity together. however, offers the perfect the same time increase their through educating and qualifying Fatema Al Nema, a visitor to will be enough. to learn about the National opportunity for people to learn awareness of key near- and the next generation of aviation the QF tent on the opening day, “I watched the documentary Reading Campaign and how, about the entity’s different uni- long-term capacity-building professionals”. said: “The Qatar Foundation tent about Qatar Foundation, where through its various activities, it versities. The information booths priorities for global air transport. During the symposium Qatar is the first tent I visited at Darb I learned a lot about its vision encourages children to read.” provide information about their The event was attended by Aeronautical College signed a Al Saai, and seeing the various and goals. I was deeply moved Another visitor to the tent, different programs and func- over 900 participants from partnership agreement with Ecole activities and games that it has by the contributions it has made Hissa Al Mohannadi, said: “I’ve tions, and also feature fun and member states of ICAO. During Nationale de l’Aviation Civile organized, I don’t think one stop to our society. I also got a chance been to Darb Al Saai before, but educational activities.” the symposium attendees par- (ENAC), to offer Advanced Masters ticipated in seven panel sessions, in Aviation Safety Management two workshops, and 28 speeches to students and aviation profes- with 33 global experts discussing sionals in Qatar. The Advanced Asian Town set a variety of topics related to Masters program is the only Nurse-run pre-anesthesia clinic building aviation training intel- program of its kind that has ICAO to celebrate ligence. The three-day sym- accreditation and will be taught posium also facilitated com- for the first time in the world at helping to alleviate patient anxiety National Day mittee meetings on the sidelines Qatar Aeronautical College. for the TrainAir Plus Student Sheikh Jabor concluded: “We Committee (TPSC) and Associ- will continue to play an active THE PENINSULA during the time of surgery. leadership team at the ACC, I THE PENINSULA ation of African Aviation role in supporting ICAO and the DOHA Dr. Khalid Al Jalham, would like to take this oppor- DOHA Training Organizations (AATO). global aviation community as Director of the ACC, said a major tunity to extend my sincere The symposium also Qatar further develops its An innovative new clinic at positive outcome of the new thanks and gratitude to eve- Asian Town is all set to cele- included networking sessions position as a leading aviation Hamad Medical Corporation’s clinic is a more effective use of ryone involved in setting up brate Qatar National Day on dedicated to fostering industry hub in the region”. (HMC) Ambulatory Care Center hospital resources. Qatar’s first Nurse-Run Pre- December 18, 2018, Ibn Ajayan (ACC) has resulted in improved “The pre-anesthesia clinic Anesthesia Clinic. This award is Projects (IAP), managers of patient experience and opera- provides comprehensive pre- an important and much-appre- Asian Town said yesterday. tional efficiency. The ACC is anesthesia patient evaluations, ciated gesture from our leaders Several activities will be home to Qatar’s first nurse-run information, and patient edu- who are continuously encour- organised to mark this pre-anesthesia clinic and the cation. Our highly-qualified aging us to deliver the best pos- momentous occasion. initiative is being credited with nurses are well poised to sible care,” added Dr. Al Jalham. Asian Town is completely improving how patients feel provide each patient with Professor Abraham Marcus, decorated with flags and about having to undergo detailed information about the Chairman, Department of colorful ribbons. The prepara- surgery. anesthetic process. Working Anesthesiology, Intensive Care tions are in full swing and the In recent years, pre- under the direct supervision of Unit and Perioperative Medicine whole Asian Town is getting a admission anesthesia clinics, an anesthesiologist, they also at HMC noted that the new clinic makeover with all the streets commonly known as PAACs, assess patients to ensure their is helping ensure patients are getting adorned with the have gained in popularity and overall medical condition is the fully prepared for their surgery national flags. A series of events have been implemented to best it can be prior to encoun- or procedure. He says this has that reflect the country’s her- improve the experience of tering the stresses of anesthesia resulted in an improved patient itage, culture, and traditions patients. The clinics have been and surgery,” said Dr. Al Jalham. experience by allowing nursing are organized at Asian Town shown to help reduce the risk of He said the clinic has also staff to create a positive rapport by IAP and Ministry of Interior. Officials during an agreement signing ceremony between QAC surgery as well as the anxiety resulted in anesthesiologists with patients and their families, IAP will demonstrate Al and ENAC. levels of patients by allowing having more available time to which he says can help allay Ardha, a traditional Arabic them to better understand the spend with patients who have anxiety. sword dance on December 18 pathway, anesthesia and pro- more complicated care needs. “This new clinic has led to a from 6 pm to 9 pm in front of cedure they will undergo. Dr. Al Jalham added that the ini- significant improvement in how Plaza Mall. Al Ardha, a cele- Sudanese Vice-President lauds During their visit to the tiative, which was recently rec- our patients feel about their bratory dance that symbolises clinic, patients undergo a ognized with the Managing upcoming surgery, including a strength and unity, where all Qatar’s support for peace in Darfur thorough medical evaluation to Director’s Special Award and a reduction in anxiety levels as visitors will be welcomed and ensure they are ready to proceed Star of Excellence at the cer- well as an improved under- encouraged to participate QNA returnees from camps of with their planned procedure or emony for HMC’s annual Stars standing of the procedure they alongside the dancers, a true DOHA displacement and refuge in the surgery. The appointment, of Excellence employee awards would be undergoing. The representation of solidarity homeland. He was speaking which is normally scheduled a program, has improved the pre- establishment of a ‘one-stop’ within the community. Sudanese Vice-President Osman yesterday at closing ceremony month before the surgery date, operative experience of patients clinical model where patients The programs will be Mohammed Yousuf Kibir has of Peace Cup for the displaced is used to conduct an assessment by coordinating surgical, are able to see the surgeon, organised in different locations lauded Qatar’s support for peace people of the Darfur states in El of the patient and to inform him anesthesia, nursing, and labo- anesthetist, and phlebotomist on of Asian Town, including and development in Darfur and Geneina. or her of any special steps that ratory care. the same day, is an example of outside yard at cricket stadium, its support for efforts to He inspected a number of vital should be taken before their “We are extremely proud of one of the initiatives which has open parking area in front normalize life in the region, peace facilities in West Darfur procedure, such as fasting or the team for winning this award contributed to such an Plaza Mall. Cultural events will stressing that Darfur has moved state that promote sustainable taking new medication or even out of more than 508 submis- improvement in patient expe- be held inside the Asian Town to a new phase of recovery, stability and establish sustainable stopping some medication sions this year. On behalf of the rience,” said Professor Marcus. Amphitheater on these days. affirming Sudan welcome of all development in region. SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 09

Auto Class Cars launches special offer on MG cars The MG 6 will be THE PENINSULA DOHA equipped with performance. This efficient petrol a 1.5-litre turbo unit delivers maximum power of Celebrating Qatar National Day, engine, mated to 169hp and maximum torque of Auto Class Cars, the authorized 250Nm. distributor of MG in Qatar, has a 7-speed Dual The MG ZS is available in launched a special offer on MG Clutch Transmission three high value trim levels - 1.5L vehicles available now at Auto (DTC) with paddle STD, 1.5L COM and 1.5L LUX – the Class Cars showroom on Salwa shift option, for perfect option for buyers seeking Road. a good-looking, well-equipped, The offer allows the customers smooth, effortless well-built car at a sensible price. to buy MG ZS for QR899 per month, performance. The arrival of MG’s new crossover MG RX5 for QR1,066 per month, marks an exciting new era of MG GS for QR1,235 per month and design for the famous British car MG 6 for QR1,099 per month. brand with the introduction of a Besides, customers can enjoy The sleek, dynamic profile of totally modern design philosophy. many benefits including 1-year the all-new MG 6 is boosted by The more expressive design lan- free registration, 1-year free com- carbon fibre trim on the front guage showcased by the MG ZS The different models of MG cars. prehensive insurance, and 0 bumper, headlamps featuring a is set to feature across all percent down payment. ‘London Eye’ design concept, twin upcoming models, and empha- gearbox and is offered for either mobility with sharp, smooth compliment the eccentric body Sheikh Faleh bin Nawaf Al chrome exhaust pipes and a ‘Star sises the premium experience and COM or top-of-the-range LUX body lines and swooping design. The MGE2.0TGI direct- Thani, Automotive Operations Rider’ front grille, which takes commitment to quality of the trim levels, with the latter fea- flowing shapes. The trunk of the injection turbo-charged engine Director, at Nasser Bin Khaled inspiration from the brand’s ambitious brand. turing all-wheel drive. The MG car comes with a remote open +TST 6-speed wet dual clutch Holding said: “Celebrating Qatar expressive design language. The The MG RX5 will appeal to a RX5 boasts an attractive, futuristic feature that allows for easy transmission generates an National Day, Auto Class Cars and sporty, premium vibe continues range of customers in Qatar, espe- design that is instantly recog- opening and closing of the car’s impressive 220HP of power. MG are pleased to launch this offer inside the cabin with a smartly cially younger buyers looking for nisable, notably at the front where trunk, keeping in mind that your The cars are available now in on wide range of MG cars. This is configured dashboard and central value for money in a stylish, tech- the stylish square LED headlamps, hands will be filled with baggage Auto Class Showroom on Salwa part of our social responsibility console, complemented by stylish nologically-advanced package imposing wing-shaped grille and when on an expedition. The road. Customers can visit the towards Qatar and its people, to leather-wrapped seats boasting that allows them to stand out from innovative fog lamps endow it “Diamond-cut Flow” design showroom from Saturday to celebrate together this precious a black and red interior on top- the crowd. Equipped with a 1.5T with real on-the-road presence. creates a “Faceted Flow” car Thursday 8 am to 9 pm and on occasion. We extend our congrat- of-the-range models. petrol engine and 7-speed auto- MG GS is the only British body design. SHARD projection Friday from 5 pm to 9 pm. The ulations to the people of Qatar and The MG 6 will be equipped matic gearbox the MG RX5 is compact SUV in the middle- type Xenon headlamps and LED working hours in Ramadan is are pleased to provide them with with a 1.5-litre turbo engine, mated available as entry level standard class market segment that is combination tail lamps are hard from Saturday till Thursday from this special offer to own an MG car to a 7-speed Dual Clutch Trans- or mid-range COM models. The designed to be stylishly mas- to miss. Beautiful diamond-cut 8:30 am till 12 PM, and from 8:30 that is known for their reliability mission (DTC) with paddle shift more powerful 2.0T power plant culine. The design is a trendy 18-inch double-color aluminum pm till 12:30 am. Fridays open and performance”. option, for smooth, effortless is mated to a 6-speed automatic mix that combines sporty alloy hubs are fitted to from 8:30 pm till 12:30 am. QFC celebrations highlight rich heritage and culture THE PENINSULA 2018 has been a momentous year and its hard-working community DOHA for Qatar as it has once again to maintain a strong economy persevered and prospered and safe environment for cit- The Qatar Financial Centre despite continued challenges. izens, investors and visitors. Con- (QFC), one of the world’s leading The resilience of our beloved sidering the exceptional circum- and fastest growing onshore nation comes as no surprise. stances faced by Qatar, we have business and financial centres, Thanks to wise and forward- continued to develop our held its annual employee gath- thinking leadership and fiscal bilateral relationships with judi- ering to celebrate Qatar National policies, Qatar’s economy is ciaries across Europe, Asia and Day 2018 under the theme of stronger and more independent the Middle East as we recognise “Qatar Will Remain Free” than ever before.” the importance of working The event brought together Al Jaida added: “We are also together to achieve the goals set all members of the QFC com- very proud to have the oppor- out in the Qatar National Vision munity who engaged in a variety tunity to support Education 2030.” of activities that celebrated Above All Foundation as part of Dr. Khalid Mohammed Qatar’s rich heritage, history and our Qatar National Day celebra- Al-Horr, Chief Executive Officer, culture and included Qatari QFC officials at the event. tions – this stems from our belief QFBA, said: “The 18th of entrepreneurs, artists, and res- in the importance of education December marks an auspicious taurateurs. The QFC also helped included Yousuf Mohamed Al Mohammed Al-Horr, Chief Yousuf Mohamed Al-Jaida, and community development as occasion for Qatar, a day where raise funds for the Education Jaida, Chief Executive Officer, Executive Officer, Qatar Finance Chief Executive Officer, QFC a national priority.” pride and patriotism resonates Above All Foundation, as part of QFC Authority; Faisal Rashid Al- and Business Academy (QFBA) Authority said: “Qatar National Faisal Rashid Al-Sahouti, throughout the nation. It is a call its commitment to charitable Sahouti, Chief Executive Officer, and Michael Ryan, Chief Exec- Day is an opportunity to reflect Chief Executive Officer, QICDRC, for all of us to come together – causes and the wider Qatar International Court and utive Officer, Qatar Financial on the values that form the basis said: “On the occasion of Qatar citizens and residents alike – to community. Dispute Resolution Centre Centre Regulatory Authority of our rich cultural identity – National Day, we reflect on the celebrate our beloved country, Speakers during the event (QICDRC); Dr. Khalid (QFCRA). freedom, strength, and resilience. immense strength of our nation Qatar.” Spectacular cultural activities CMU-Q showcasing Alice Middle by students of ISL Qatar East software at Darb Al Saai THE PENINSULA artefacts, a wide variety of typical Supermarket and Agrico for THE PENINSULA DOHA Qatari national dishes to enjoy, a providing fresh vegetables. The DOHA display of a camel and Qatari finale included a fashion show The International School of falcons. The entire school by the staff - all demonstrating Carnegie Mellon University in London Qatar’s entire assembled and was led by their love for Qatar by wearing Qatar (CMU-Q) is showcasing community, on Wednesday, students Abdulla Al Dahneem and traditional Qatari clothing. The its Alice Middle East software came together to celebrate Qatar Sheikha Al Kubaisi with a reading ceremony was admired by at Darb Al Saai as part of the National Day. The spectacular from the Quran, songs, a poem parents and attendees. We wish 2018 Qatar National Day festiv- event was organised by Ahmed about Qatar, as well as music and a happy year for Qatar! “This ities. CMU-Q is part of Qatar El Hadidi and began with diverse a traditional sword dance. year we welcomed a larger Foundation’s tent, which cele- Qatari cultural activities held The school also dedicated a crowd who joined us in the cel- brates the theme, ‘together for around the school - including a special section of the event to ebration. We are grateful to our our homeland’ to promote large majlis to welcome the support national products, such students, parents and the ISL Qatari culture, support the community, a museum of Qatari as Baladna, Al Baladi Qatar community for being a preservation of its rich tradi- part of the school’s National Day tions, and bring the community celebration. We’d also like to together. thank Qatar Museum Authority Alice Middle East is an edu- for providing us with beautiful cational platform that helps CMU-Q showcasing Alice Middle East software at Darb Al Saai. art and handicrafts,” says children learn the basics of Ahmed El Hadidi. computer programming, and ISL Qatar has an outstanding is supported by the Hamad bin adapted at the Qatar campus information communication reputation for high academic Jassim Center for K-12 Com- for Middle East school technology. standards, prestigious Interna- puter Science Education that children through funding from In addition to computer tional Baccalaureate (IB) pro- promotes learning in the basic the Qatar National Research science, CMU-Q offers under- grammes and an impressive computational thinking skills. Fund (QNRF). Alice Middle graduate degree programs in Students record of admission to the best Alice Middle East was orig- East is now taught in the 11th- biological sciences, business at the universities worldwide. The inally developed at Carnegie grade in all Ministry of Edu- administration, computational function. student body of 1,000 are aged Mellon’s main campus in Pitts- cation and Higher Education biology and information from 3 to 18. burgh, USA, and was later government schools that offer systems. 10 VIEWS SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018

ESTABLISHED IN 1996

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]

EDITORIAL Minister of Public Health: National Day an occasion Yemen’s fragile ceasefire to celebrate values, achievements of Qatar emen’s warring parties held the first negotiations and QNA accordance to wise visions, and with direct talks in over two years amid pressure from unswerving determination to achieve YWestern nations, US Senate and the UN pressing to he Minister of Public Health progress and comprehensive devel- end war and stop supply arms and intelligence support to H E Dr Hanan Mohamed Al opment based on solid foundations Saudi Arabia and other members of the coalition. Kuwari (pictured) affirmed that achieve sustainability and take The negotiations in Sweden gave big hope when the that Qatar National Day is a into account the rights of successive warring parties on Thursday agreed to a ceasefire on a vital Tglorious occasion, during which the generations. She pointed out in this port of Hodeida in a series of breakthroughs in UN-bro- people of Qatar celebrate their original regard to the remarkable achieve- kered peace talks that could mark a major turning point values and the great achievements in ments made by Qatar in all political after four years of devastating war in Yemen which has all fields. and economic sectors and human killed tens of thousands of people and caused a major Speaking to QNA on the occasion development. humanitarian disaster. of Qatar National Day, H E the Minister In the field of health, H E the The direct communications and the general atmosphere said that on this timeless national Minister pointed out that Qatar is witnessed during the talks in Rimbo, Sweden have increased occasion, Qataris are inspired by the among the world’s best health systems the level of expectations and optimism about the possible glory of great leaders who have as to strive for the sincere work of the as it has been ranked 13th globally outcomes of the negotiations, in particular when the two written the glorious history of Qatar dear homeland. She pointing out that after being ranked 27th in 2008 leaders of the negotiating warring parties shook hands. and take advantage of their fragrant the achievements of this blessed according to the Legatum Prosperity Yemen’s Foreign Minister Khaled Al-Yamani and Huthis’s biography and sincere work to build march and the foundations of modern Index. She added that the state is con- delegation leader Mohammed Abdelsalam made this high the nation on Qatar, which was laid by the founder tinuing to work hard to achieve symbolic gesture shaking hand after more than seventh days solid founda- Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin further progress by paying attention to of peace talks. tions, to Thani, continue to achieve progress the adoption of the highest quality The agreement to a ceasefire enhance its and prosperity. standards in the health system, and on Hodeida and prisoner swap national H E the Minister pointed out that the highly qualified workforce, in involving some 15,000 detainees identity and from the time of the founder who took addition to the expansion of health welcomed by the Saudi Arabia The motto of this to achieve power on December 18, 1878, and laid facilities and the adoption of advanced and Iran although the week-long year’s National great the foundations of the modern state of care systems to improve the health of talks left a number of key issues achievements Qatar, and until today under the wise Qatari society. The fragile peace unresolved like Sanaa airport or Day, which with strong leadership of the Amir H H Sheikh Furthermore, H E Dr Hanan agreement on economic measures needed was chosen by will despite Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the State Mohamed Al Kuwari stressed that on Hodeidah to spare the population from the organizing the diffi- of Qatar has achieved great historical Qatar has overcame the effects of the requires from further hunger. For settling these committee and culties they achievements that have made it siege imposed on it thanks to Allah differences a new round of talks have faced. among the developed countries in Almighty and the wisdom of the wise the international is scheduled at the end of derived from the H E the various fields. Moreover, She said that leadership and the sincerity and dedi- community to put January. founder’s words Minister the motto of this year’s National Day, cation of the loyal people, adding that more pressures The breakthrough made in “As long as it is noted that which was chosen by the organizing Qatar succeeded in overcoming the on the Saudi led the peace talks is significant proven by our from this committee and derived from the unjust siege effects ably by dealing process towards ending the war point of view, founder’s words “As long as it is with it with high efficiency and coalition and the and secure the key gateway for deeds ... Qatar all the proven by our deeds ... Qatar remains making sure that it does not affect the Yemeni warring aid and food imports but the con- remains free,” meanings of free,” confirms that the good deeds are lives of the population. parties to respect tradictory readings of the two confirms that the loyalty and the foundation of the building of H E the Minister pointed out that parties to the deal shortly after good deeds are love for the beloved Qatar and a noble attribute the most important of all is that the the agreement the announcement by UN Sec- dear inherited by Qataris across genera- State of Qatar has proved to the world and encourage retary General Antonio Guterres the foundation homeland tions, adding that the slogan “Qatar its advancement and high status as to build on the has put doubtful about their of the building and for the remains free” affirms the strength and well as the ethics of its loyal people progress they commitment. of beloved Qatar wise lead- determination of the Qatari people to and their principles preservation, The fragile cease-fire on and a noble ership are maintain their freedom, dignity, and noting that Qatar did not reciprocate have made in Hodeidah which gave much hope embodied in independence whatever the with the citizens of the siege countries, Oslo last week. to people of Yemen yesterday has attribute. the National challenges. but treated them with the moral values become under real test with Day, as all the H E the Minister further said that stemming from the values of its reports about shell and gunfire people of the thanks to Allah Almighty for pro- original people inherited generation in an eastern district of the city. AFP reports mentioned that Qatar spontaneously express them- viding Qatar with great leaders, who after generation and without any con- the city of Hudaiah witnessed yesterday scattered clashes selves in an inspiring scene that loved their country and their people, fusion between the political problems with artillery and machine-gun exchanges heard through reflects the unique cohesion between who exchanged love and loyalty with with their countries and their rights as the south and east of the city, quoting residents city. the leadership and the people as well them and worked together in brothers live in its land. It was the first test of the fragile ceasefire as the UN envoy for Yemen called Friday “for the urgent deployment of UN monitors to observe the implementation of a cease-fire in the strategic port city of Hodeida and the withdrawal of rival Al Thawadi: National Day strengthens our ties to Qatar’s land forces - a potential breakthrough in Yemen’s four-year civil war”. he Secretary-General of the in the State of Qatar are a clear indi- The fragile peace agreement on Hodaidah requires from Supreme Committee for cation that countries are not measured the international community to put more pressures on the Delivery and Legacy (SC) by their geographical size, but by their Saudi led coalition and the Yemeni warring parties to respect Hassan Al Thawadi (pictured) ambition and the productivity of their the agreement and encourage to build on the progress they Tstated that the National Day is an citizens. He added that Qatar has rede- have made in Oslo last week. occasion to strengthen our ties to the fined the limits after it continued to land and a chance to return the overcome difficulties to progress step favored offered by our homeland. by step to the ranks of advanced coun- Al Thawadi said, in a statement, tries. The Secretary-General believe that the National Day is an important that Qatar’s success in winning the QUOTE OF THE DAY symbol of the people’s embrace of right to host the World Cup 2022, their leadership. He added that seeing despite expectations, is a continuation HH the Amir and HH the Father Amir Day represent the end point of the of this custom that differentiated Qatar UN climate talks go and his children among the people of project they continued to work on since over the years. into overtime. Latest Qatar on the Corniche reflects this 2010, as it will be the finale of the first He said that Qatar is, undoubtedly, version of the draft unique relationship between the lead- World Cup tournament in the Arab among the first countries in the region agreement just out...A ership and the people of Qatar. world in 2022. The Secretary-General to grow and flourish in various fields, He pointed out that the joy of of the Supreme Committee for including sports, adding that Qatar deal to make the Paris children and their families during the Delivery and Legacy said that the became a capital of sport and athletes Agreement operational annual celebrations of this day is a cooperation of various governmental around the world and the destination is within reach. true indicator that the love of Qatar is and semi-governmental institutions of many major sporting events. inherited through generations. He during the activities of the National Al Thawadi said that the ambitious emphasized that loving Qatar is an Day, especially in Darb Al Saai, is a vision of the leadership embodied in Miguel Arias Canete important feature to convey to our valuable opportunity for these institu- Qatar National Vision 2030 will move European Climate children generation after generation. tions to communicate with each other the society to new, more prosperous, Commissioner Al Thawadi explained that for the and with various segments of society. sustainable and independent horizons employees of the Supreme Committee Al Thawadi stressed that the ren- in which human beings are at the for Delivery and Legacy, the National aissance and achievements witnessed center of this growth and prosperity. SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 OPINION 11 National Day an opportunity for Qatari people to express solidarity and support for wise leadership

QNA promoting global partnerships for organizations. development, as well as preserving the The Authority publishes statis- he Chairman of the Planning environment through improving the tical reports and statistical bulletins and Statistics Authority H E quality of air and coastal waters, recy- in the Statistical Calendar of the Dr. Saleh bin Mohammed Al cling waste and reducing the effects of Authority on the website so that the Nabit, (pictured) said that the climate change. public and users of statistical data TNational Day this year has a special H E affirmed the Planning and Sta- in the State of Qatar and abroad can meaning and character, considering of tistics Authority’s continuation of its view them immediately after their the circumstances experienced by the role in supporting the implementation issuance. Among the most state and on the background of the of the future visions of the State and important of these publications are political and economic turmoil hitting participating in the development and annual statistical bulletins and the the region. This day is an opportunity follow-up of the national strategies of monthly and quarterly publications. for the Qatari people to express their the State of Qatar and overseeing their One of the most important solidarity and support for their wise implementation in coordination and achievements of the Permanent leadership. cooperation with the competent Population Committee was the On Qatar National Day, His Excel- authorities in addition to the devel- publication of the Population Policy lency extended greetings and congrat- opment of the national statistical Document on the country’s popu- H E Dr. Al Nabit pointed ulations to the Amir, H H Sheikh continue its march, become stronger, system.. lation day, which was observed in Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the benefit from its experiences and adapt During the year 2017-2018, the October 2017, with the completion out that the siege Father Amir H H Sheikh Hamad bin to its reality more effectively thanks to Planning and Statistics Authority of the work program for the first speeded up the pace Khalifa Al Thani and to all the Qatari its wise leadership. H E Dr. Al Nabit made several achievements, the most phase (November 2017- October of the completion of people, wishing the wise leadership pointed out that the siege speeded up important being the follow-up of the 2018) of the population policy work business and economic continuous progress, excellence and the pace of the completion of business implementation of Qatar’s National programme. success for the good of the State of and economic plans in Qatar, and the Development Strategy 2011-2016. The In the preparation of studies plans in Qatar, and Qatar. strategies became more clear and system works to follow up the exec- and periodic reports, in May 2017, the strategies became He added in a statement to Qatar flexible to increase the effectiveness utive plans of government agencies, the Permanent Population Com- more clear and News Agency (QNA) on the national and efficiency of performance. After evaluate the implementation, monitor mittee completed the preparation flexible to increase day of the state, that the National Day imposing the siege on Qatar, it has wit- the objective and institutional chal- of a detailed (unpublished) study on represents an important historical day nessed wide regional and global lenges and report on the follow-up the “Demographic Structure of the the effectiveness for every citizen, being an opportunity openness, and expanded its relations results to the competent authorities. State of Qatar”, finalized the pre- and efficiency of to celebrate the anniversary of with many friendly and sisterly It launched the second national liminary plan for the study of performance. After founding the State more than a countries. development strategy for Qatar 2018- domestic labor and prepared the first national report on the review imposing the siege on hundred years ago, and to com- He pointed out that the second 2022 in March 2018. It also worked on plement the development process to national development strategy sup- building and developing strategic of the Program of Action of the Qatar, it has witnessed which the founders have contributed ports the country’s economic and planning capacities in ministries and Conference on Population and wide regional and with setting the priorities. social development, institutional government agencies, in accordance Development. global openness, and He pointed out that this occasion is maturity, development of the private with the results-based strategic In organizing meetings and a bright spot in the history of the sector, the creation of appropriate planning guide. The Planning and Sta- events, the Committee organized expanded its relations country and a memory for generations investment environment to attract tistics Authority held a training the “Qatar Population Day”. with many friendly and to strengthen national cohesion and foreign investments in the coming workshop on the strategy within a The Permanent Population sisterly countries. emphasize unity, and social solidarity years and encouraging investment in series of relevant training workshops. Committee publishes several infor- and the rejection of all kinds of dis- sectors that accelerate the transition The Planning and Statistics mation materials to make popu- Authority also issued the first report lation policy successful and reach on the classification and ranking of the out to various components of Qatari State of Qatar in international indices society. in November 2017, the second report on the classification and ranking of the State of Qatar in international indices in February 2018, and the third report in July 2018 to follow up and analyze the performance and the extent to which the quarterly changes can be linked to the ranking of Qatar in these D-RING ROAD indicators. POST BOX: 3488 The Authority also formed the DOHA - QATAR National Advisory Committee for [email protected] Qatar’s fifth Human Development Report, which held its first meeting in March 2018. In addition, it held the EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE first national seminar on Qatar’s fifth TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 National Human Development Report FAX: +974 4455 7758 in March 2018 in the presence of rep- resentatives and experts from the con- MANAGING EDITOR cerned authorities. TEL: 4462 7505 About the Sustainable Devel- opment Agenda 2030, the Authority DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR finalized the initial assessment of the TEL: 4455 7769 statistical system, which includes the exploration of national priorities for LOCAL NEWS SECTION the transformation and updating of TEL: 4455 7743 crimination. It is also an opportunity towards the knowledge economy. official statistics for strategic areas, the BUSINESS NEWS SECTION to reaffirm the continuation of Dr. Al Nabit expected that the identification of key national com- TEL: 4462 7535 national development plans and strat- coming years to witness the com- parison procedures and criteria and egies to achieve the Qatar National pletion of high-level physical and the development of a framework for SPORT NEWS SECTION Vision 2030 and its goals, he said informational infrastructure in the progress in implementation. Mean- TEL: 4455 7745 adding “This is not merely a day of joy State of Qatar, as well as the com- while, the Authority completed the in achievement but a day of renewed pletion of the economic infrastructure, preparation of the first voluntary ONLINE SECTION determination to continue on the road especially the major development national report on the implementation TEL: 4462 7501 to prosperity, progress in all fields and projects, and the development of the of the Global Sustainable Devel- [email protected] adherence to sovereignty and estab- plant, animal and fish production opment Agenda 2015-2030. lished national principles”. system to promote self-sufficiency. It participated in the High-Level PUBLIC RELATIONS H E Dr. Al Nabit pointed to the Electricity will be produced from a Political Forum on Sustainable Devel- TEL: 4455 7613 variety of traditional and renewable opment 2018, held at United Nations achievements and renaissance wit- [email protected] nessed in Qatar, where the State has sources, in addition to seeking to Headquarters in New York from 15 to 19 July 2018. made many achievements in the achieve added value to the petro- ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT The Planning and Statistics process of development and compre- chemical industry. TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 Authority presented the second vol- hensive construction in all aspects of He looked forward to the com- FAX: 4455 7870 untary national review of the State of life; within the framework of the mod- pletion of the restructuring of the [email protected] ernization system, which HH the Amir public sector, e-government projects, Qatar and issued a report on the alignment of the objectives of Qatar’s continued to accomplish envisioning a the service sector, increasing effi- CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT promising future and a new era of ciency of financial management, National Development Strategy 2018- One of the TEL: 4455 7857 prosperity for the homeland and the enhancing economic stability, ration- 2022 with the sustainable devel- [email protected] most important citizens. alization of expenditure, the pro- opment goals. It also formed an achievements of the He added that the State of Qatar motion of an integrated model for the internal team to update corporate SUBSCRIPTION & information through a field team and Permanent Population has witnessed a qualitative leap on all provision of high-quality health care DISTRIBUTION levels of the establishment of the eco- services, focus on enhancing the issued the 2018 Competitive Committee was the TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 nomic, education and health infra- quality of education, raising Yearbook, in which Qatar ranked 14th FAX: 44557819 publication of the structure, achieving a major transfor- enrollment rates, achievement levels out of 63 countries. [email protected] Population Policy mation, especially in the economic and achievement, and raising gradu- On the Authoritys achievements in Document on the sector through upgrading the oil and ation rates for citizens in academic the Statistics Sector, it has completed gas industry and by raising the pro- programs related to the knowledge the preparatory work for the General country’s population ductivity of the hydrocarbon sector economy. Population, Housing and Estab- All thoughts and views lishment Census (2020), which is the day, which was and implementing multiple partner- H E Dr. Al Nabit pointed out that expressed in these columns observed in October ships and agreements with foreign oil the State will continue its efforts to first of its kind in the State of Qatar, based mainly on administrative are those of the writers, 2017, with the companies, to become a cornerstone develop social welfare systems and of the national economy. legislation, focus on empowering and records, in addition to the estab- not of the newspaper. completion of the He stressed that the State of Qatar raising the productivity of all sectors lishment of an interactive platform for national and international sustainable work program for the has succeeded in addressing the siege of Qatari society, providing security All correspondence first phase (November and transformed it from challenge to and public safety, achieving cultural development indicators in coordi- opportunity, and increased confidence enrichment and sports excellence by nation with the concerned authorities regarding Views and 2017- October 2018) of in the national economy, adding that nurturing distinctive national cultural in the State to update and develop the Opinion pages should be the population policy “the siege crisis is not the first to face and sporting talents. He stressed the database in line with the requirements send to editor-in-chief of the national development strategy work programme. the people of Qatar, but it has a special importance of paying attention to office or mailed to the nature and circumstances. Qatar will international cooperation and and international and regional [email protected] 12 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 Australia recognises West Jerusalem as Israel’s capital Syrian oppn backs Turkey’s REUTERS Morrison said Australia such as Indonesia and Malaysia, Jerusalem remains a final status SYDNEY would not move its neither of whom formally rec- issue for negotiations, while East operation embassy to West ognise Israel’s right to exist. Arab Jerusalem, under international Australia formally recognises Jerusalem until the countries worried that the move law, is an integral part of the ANATOLIA West Jerusalem as Israel’s would unnecessarily inflame occupied Palestinian territory.” ISTANBUL capital, reversing decades of city’s final status was tensions in the Middle East. Indonesia’s foreign ministry Middle East policy, but will not determined, but said Morrison said Australia spokesman, Arrmanatha Nasir, The National Coalition for move its embassy there imme- trade and defence would not move its embassy to noted that Australia had not Syrian Revolutionary and diately, Prime Minister Scott offices would be West Jerusalem until the city’s moved its embassy to Jerusalem Opposition Forces (SMDK) Morrison (pictured) said final status was determined, but and called on all members of the has voiced support for yesterday. opened there. said trade and defence offices United Nations to recognise a Turkey’s planned military Israel described the move as would be opened there. Palestinian state “based on the operation in Syria, east of the a step in the right direction. Pal- “Israel views the decision of principle of two-state Euphrates River, near Turkish estinian chief negotiator Saeb Morrison also confirmed the Australian government to solutions”. borders. Erekat said the announcement Australia’s support for a two- open its Trade and Defence The status of Jerusalem is Abdurrahman Mustafa, was born of Australian “petty state solution with a Palestinian office in Jerusalem as a step in one of the biggest obstacles to a head of the coalition, said the domestic politics.” “Australia capital in East Jerusalem. Morrison’s unexpected the right direction,” the Israeli peace agreement between Israel Syrian people continue to now recognises West Jerusalem, In October, Morrison said he announcement in October was Foreign Ministry said in a and Palestinians who want East suffer at the hands of the being the seat of the Knesset and was open to shifting Australia’s viewed cynically at the time statement. Jerusalem recognised as the regime forces, as well as many of the institutions of gov- embassy from Tel Aviv. President because it came days before a The Palestinians’ Erekat said capital of a Palestinian state. Iranian Revolutionary Guard ernment, is the capital of Israel,” Donald Trump’s move of the US crucial by-election in an elec- the move stemmed from “petty Israel regards all of Jeru- Corps. Any military operation Morrison said. embassy to Jerusalem from Tel torate with a strong Jewish rep- domestic politics.” “The policies salem as its capital, including the to eliminate these terror “We look forward to moving Aviv in May delighted Israel, resentation, a poll his party sub- of this Australian administration eastern sector that it annexed in groups “will be welcomed our embassy to West Jerusalem infuriated Palestinians and upset sequently lost. have done nothing to advance a move not recognised interna- and supported by us,” Mustafa when practical,” he told the wider Arab world and It also drew criticism from the two-state solution,” Erekat tionally, after the 1967 Middle said. “We are working with reporters in Sydney. Western allies. Muslim-majority neighbours said in a statement. “All of East war. our Turkish ally to liberate all cities and towns from the control of terrorist forces.” He also stressed that all the Free Syrian Army members stand Israel army razes home ready to cooperate in the upcoming military of Palestinian attacker operation. in night-long raid Two soldiers dead in blast AFP entered the city’s Al Amari RAMALLAH refugee camp late on Friday, in Borno state leaving yesterday morning. Israeli troops demolished the Inside the camp, soldiers AFP home of a Palestinian accused demolished the home of Islam KANO of the May killing of a soldier Abu Hamid, who was arrested yesterday, completing a night- in June for the soldier’s killing. Two Nigerian soldiers were long incursion into the Pales- The family house was com- killed yesterday in a roadside tinian-controlled city of pletely destroyed in a controlled mine explosion in the restive Ramallah. explosion, . northeast near the border The raid on the West Bank Neighbours said several with Cameroon as troops city where Palestinian president hundred residents, including repelled a militant attack on Israeli soldiers withdraw from Al Amari Refugee Camp after demolishment of the house of Latifa Abu Mahmud Abbas has his head- children, were ordered out of a base in the region, military Hamid, mother of one killed and five Palestinian prisoners, who are serving life sentences in Israeli quarters comes as Israeli forces their homes and kept in a sports sources said. search for the perpetrator of a field in the cold of night while prisons, in Ramallah, West Bank, yesterday. A military convoy on Thursday shooting that killed the army operation continued. patrol near the town of two Israeli soldiers. “The weather was very cold. it. One hundred or one thousand response to the killing of the sol- “Palestinians instigated a violent Gamboru in Borno state hit a The incursion late on Friday A lot of the elderly, the children times we will rebuild and they diers on Thursday. riot adjacent to Jalazone,” a mil- mine planted by Boko Haram, triggered clashes with angry res- and the women were ill,” said demolish it.” Israel regularly In clashes on Friday, itary spokesman said, adding killing two soldiers and idents following a week of rising Samir Al Tukhi, one of those kept demolishes the homes of Pales- Mahmoud Nakhla, 17, was killed that troops were pelted with injuring one other, according tensions. outside. It is the third time the tinians who carry out attacks by Israeli fire near the Jalazone rocks. to sources. Both army and border police house has been destroyed, with against Israelis. refugee camp outside Ramallah, “During the riot a Palestinian “Around 8:15 this morning units took part in the operation, several of Abu Hamid’s brothers It argues it is a deterrent the Palestinian health ministry approached a soldier carrying a our men on patrol between including members of the com- also jailed by Israel on terrorism though critics say it amounts to said. The army said yesterday suspicious object,” he said. Logomani and Gamboru mando unit in which the soldier charges, while one was killed. collective punishment. that an “initial investigation” “In response the soldier fired encountered an IED (impro- was serving when he was killed Their mother, Latifa, SAID Prime Minister Benjamin showed that a soldier opened fire toward the Palestinian. He was vised explosive device) buried by a slab hurled from a building the demolition didn’t matter to Netanyahu has faced pressure when a Palestinian came toward then treated at the scene by along the road which killed during an army raid. her. “The first time we rebuilt it, from right-wing rivals and him in what was seen as a poten- troops before being evacuated one soldier and injured Several hundred soldiers the second time we also rebuilt Jewish settlers for a strong tially threatening way. by a Palestinian ambulance.” another,” the source said. Rebels hail Yemen ceasefire accord as success Turkey won’t ‘give up’ on

AFP loyalists but besieged by rebels. Khashoggi murder probe SANA’A The two sides agreed to meet again in late January, for more AFP a palace insider turned critic of Houthi rebels yesterday hailed talks to define the framework for DOHA the Saudi regime, was strangled a ceasefire accord for a vital negotiations on a comprehensive and his body cut into pieces by Yemeni port agreed at peace settlement. Turkey’s foreign minister said a 15-strong Saudi hit squad, UN-brokered peace talks in Quoted by the rebel-run yesterday his country would according to Turkish officials. Sweden, although the deal’s Saba news agency, Shami said “not give up” on finding out the The US Senate gave its implementation remained the accord highlighted the desire truth about the murder of Saudi unopposed backing on fragile. of the Houthis’ political lead- journalist Jamal Khashoggi Thursday to a resolution The breakthrough ership to “alleviate humanitarian inside the kingdom’s consulate holding the kingdom’s de facto agreement at the first round of and economic conditions and the in Istanbul. ruler, Crown Prince negotiations since 2016 was a people’s suffering”. “We haven’t received any Mohammed bin Salman, “success”, said Daif Allah Al Mehdi Mushat, head of the new information or outcome of responsible for the murder after Shami, information minister for rebels’ supreme political council, the investigation from the Saudi the Central Intelligence Agency the rebels’ unrecognised national called the breakthrough “a pos- side,” Mevlut Cavusoglu said on reportedly concluded he gave salvation government. itive step towards achieving the the sidelines of a conference in the orders. Reached on Thursday aspirations of the Yemeni Turkish ally Qatar. Turkish President Recep A view of a market in the Houthi-held Red Sea port city of Hodeida. between the Houthis and a del- people”, according to Saba. “Turkey will not give up on Tayyip Erdogan has said that egation for the internationally Impoverished Yemen has this, we will go to the end.” the killing was ordered at the recognised government, the Friday evening, the Red Sea port days, according to the deal. A been mired in fighting between Earlier this month, the minister highest levels of the Saudi gov- accord called for an “immediate” city saw sporadic clashes in its prisoner swap involving some the Houthi rebels and troops said Turkey was in talks over a ernment, although he has ceasefire in Hodeida city and its eastern and southern neighbour- 15,000 detainees is also planned loyal to President Abedrabbo possible United Nations inves- repeatedly absolved the ageing lifeline port, a key gateway for hoods, highlighting the fragility and a “mutual understanding” Mansour Hadi since 2014. But tigation into the October 2 King Salman. A journalism aid and food imports in a country of the already limited truce. has been struck to facilitate aid the war escalated in 2015 when murder, which has provoked group at Indiana State Uni- where 14 million people stand Fighters are to withdraw deliveries to Yemen’s third city a military coalition stepped in global outrage. versity is taking steps to honour on the brink of famine. But on from the area in the next few Taiz — under the control of on the government’s side. The 59-year-old Khashoggi, Jamal Khashoggi.

Ethiopia jails soldiers who marched on PM palace to up to 14 years REUTERS soldiers in fatigues and red leaders of the group had slapped with sentences ranging Desalegn Dana said he would abuses by security forces, even ADDIS ABABA berets who descended, armed, “nefarious aims” to stop reforms from five to 13 years, for “vio- lodge appeals for a few likening them to state terrorism. on the compounds of Abiy’s res- and unnamed members had lation of military ethics”. suspects. But violence has plagued the A military court in Ethiopia idence and office on October 10 “regretted missing out on the “These sentences delivered Since his appointment in nation of 100 million people, yesterday jailed 66 soldiers for and met him in what the gov- opportunity to kill him”. today will serve as lessons,” April, 42-year old Abiy has pre- often pitting different ethnic between five and 14 years for ernment initially said was a bid Yesterday, Colonel Meshesha prosecutor Captain Hailemariam sided over a raft of reforms in groups against each other, marching on Prime Minister Abiy to press for a rise in pay. Areda, Head of the military tri- Mamo said. There has been no the Horn of Africa country, remains a challenge. Ahmed’s palace in October, But Abiy, who was shown on bunals directorate, told reporters word on legal action against including the pardoning of dis- About 2.7 million people ruling they had broken military state television that day doing that a military court sentenced other members of the 200- sidents long outlawed by the have been displaced this year, ethics, officials said. push-ups with the soldiers, sub- one defendant to 14 years in strong group. government. He has also 2.2 million of which were forced The 66 were among 200 sequently announced that prison, while 65 others were The defendants’ lawyer acknowledged and condemned to flee due to ethnic clashes. SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 ASIA 13 11 dead in gunfight, clashes in Kashmir IAN The 11 deaths took to disperse the protesters. SRINAGAR place in a gunfight and No injury to any protester or security man was reported It was a blood-soaked day in subsequent clashes in during these protests. Kashmir in which 11 persons, Jammu and Kashmir’s Protests also occurred in old including seven civilians, an Pulwama district, in city Nowhatta area of Srinagar Army soldier and three militants, one of the bloodiest where protesters shouted anti- were killed and over three dozen India and pro-freedom slogans. civilian protesters sustained days in the Valley’s Students of the Kashmir Uni- injuries in clashes with the recent history. Three versity also carried out peaceful security forces. militants and a soldier protest in the campus over the The 11 deaths took place in a were killed in the civilian killings in Pulwama dis- gunfight and subsequent clashes trict. Markets, public transport in Jammu and Kashmir’s gunfight, the police and other businesses were shut Pulwama district, in one of the said. in south Kashmir, Srinagar and bloodiest days in the Valley’s Badgam district and some other recent history. places after the tension spilled The gunfight erupted in were taken for treatment of over to these areas. Sirnoo village as security per- gunshot injuries. Five other Authorities have imposed sonnel surrounded the area after civilian protesters — Suhail curfew in Pulwama town and receiving a tip-off that militants Ahmad, Shahbaaz, Liyaqat Dar, deployed additional security per- were holed up there. Tauseef Ahmad and Murtaza sonnel to maintain law and order Three militants and a soldier Bashir — succumbed to their in the wake of the civilian deaths. were killed in the gunfight, the wounds later, authorities said. Mobile Internet services Army soldiers walk near a gun battle site between militants and government forces in Sirnoo Pulwama, police said. One of the three slain Reports coming from the area were suspended in south south of Srinagar, yesterday. militants, Zahoor Ahmad Thokar, said that more than 35 protesters Kashmir districts and in Srinagar had deserted the Army to join the were injured in the clashes and while its speed was brought militant ranks. three of them were critical after down throughout the Valley. one soldier killed in the line of avoided during gunfights. “The don’t bring peace,” he said. Immediately after the gun- receiving gunshot wounds. Rail services between the duty. Together with the three administration of Governor Former Chief Minister Meh- fight, scores of civilian protesters Spontaneous protests broke Kashmir valley and Bannihal militants from this morning’s Malik has one task and one task booba Mufti also expressed clashed with the security forces out immediately after the news town in the Jammu region were encounter that’s 10 dead. Reports only - to focus on the security of serious concern over the day’s who used firearms and pellets to about the civilian killings spread also cancelled. of many injured at the encounter the people of Jammu and incident. Other political leaders control the agitating mob. in the Valley. Reacting to the tragedy, site. What a horrible day!” Kashmir and restore peace to a condemning the civilian killings Two youths identified as Protesters clashed with the former Chief Minister Omar Omar slammed Governor troubled Valley. Sadly, it appears included Ghulam Hassan Mir of Amir Ahmad and Abid Hussain security forces in north Kash- Abdullah said in a tweet: Satya Pal Malik’s administration that’s the only thing the admin- Democratic Party Nationalist were declared brought dead in mir’s Sopore town where the “Another blood-soaked weekend for its alleged failure to ensure istration is not doing. Publicity (DPN) and Engineer Rashid, a district hospital where they security forces used tear smoke in Kashmir. Six protesters killed, that civilian casualties are campaigns and full page ads former MLA.

11 dead in Congress steps up heat on Modi over ‘CAG report’ on Rafale suspected food IANS The opposition party up the deal again and again. The Public Accounts Committee did the PAC examine it. “The NEW DELHI demanded that the Attorney CAG report, relying on which the (PAC)”, the Congress maintained government lied in the Court that poisoning, General and the Comptroller and Supreme Court dismissed the that “no portion of the CAG the CAG report was presented in A day after the Supreme Court Auditor General (CAG) be sum- petitions, turned out to be the report has been placed before the House and in PAC. They also 3 arrested dismissed petitions seeking a moned by the Public Accounts latest flashpoint over the Modi Parliament or placed in the told the Court that the PAC has probe into the Rafale deal, the Committee (PAC) of Parliament government’s decision to buy 36 public domain”. probed it. They claimed that the AP political dogfight over the issue in this connection. French built fighters. Keeping the pot boiling, PAC report was in the public domain. NEW DELHI intensified with the Congress The Centre’s ruling BJP, While the Chief Justice of Chairman and senior Congress Where is it,” Kharge told the accusing the Narendra Modi which has been touting the India Ranjan Gogoi-led bench in leader Mallikarjun Kharge said media here. Police yesterday arrested government of “misleading” the verdict as a “clean chit”, hit back the verdict said that the “pricing he will press for summoning the The Supreme Court on three people after at least 11 apex court that resulted in charging the Congress with details have been shared with Attorney General and the CAG Friday junked the pleas seeking died of suspected food “factual bloomers” in the trying to sabotage the country’s the CAG, and the report of the to ask them when was the public a court-monitored probe into the poisoning following a judgment. security preparedness by raking CAG has been examined by the auditor’s report tabled and when alleged irregularities in the deal. ceremony to celebrate the construction of a new Hindu temple in southern India. Police officer Musharraf said that more than 130 sick Baghel is Congress’ likely people were recovering from poisoning in various hospitals in Chamarajnagar district of pick for Chhattisgarh CM Karnataka state. The area is 180km south of Bangalore. IANS Musharraf, who uses one NEW DELHI name, said that Hindu dev- otees ate contaminated Bhupesh Baghel (pictured), cooked vegetables and rice who is credited with playing a on Friday. They immediately crucial role in a landslide started vomiting, complained victory of the Congress in of severe stomach pain and Chhattisgarh, is understood to were taken to nearby have been picked as the party’s hospitals. choice for Chief Ministership and a formal announcement in this regard is expected today. Zoramthanga This emerged after hectic parleys between Congress Pres- meeting of newly-elected leg- sworn in as ident Rahul Gandhi and four islators in Raipur today. The contenders in the race for the sources also dismissed reports CM post — Bhupesh Baghel, TS that one of the contenders, Mizoram CM Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj (right) shakes hands with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Singh Deo, Tamradhwaj Sahu Sahu, threatened to quit the Le Drian during a joint press conference at the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi yesterday. IANS and Charan Das Mahant, at his party if he was not made the AIZAWL residence here. Chief Minister. The sources also Congress’ central observer indicated that unlike Rajasthan, Days after ending Congress’ India, France reiterate resolve Mallikarjun Kharge and Con- there would be no deputy chief 10-year rule in Mizoram, Mizo gress in-charge for party affairs minister. Representing Patan National Front (MNF) chief in Chhattisgarh P L Punia were Assembly constituency in Durg Zoramthanga yesterday took also present at the meeting. district, Baghel is the President oath as the Chief Minister of to jointly fight global terrorism Reliable sources said the of Chhattisgarh Congress since the northeastern state for a leadership issue has been October 2014. third term. IANS future. “This holds true on the described defence cooperation sorted out and name would be Punia said the meeting of Governor Kummanam NEW DELHI strategic front, notably with the between India and France as formally announced at the the newly-elected lawmakers Rajasekharan administered strengthening of our exchanges “historical and comprehensive”. will be held at 12pm today and the oath of office and secrecy India and France yesterday reit- on the Indian Ocean, which “It includes institutional the name of the new Chief Min- to Zoramthanga and his 11 erated their resolve to jointly today are fast developing, and exchanges, joint production, Rahul to attend ister will be announced Council of Ministers (six of fight the global scourge of our shared commitment to joint military exercises and thereafter. them as ministers of state) at terrorism following delegation- fighting terrorism, as we mark training,” she said. oath-taking Gandhi tweeted a picture of a ceremony at the Raj Bhavan level talks headed by External 10 years since the deadly “As you know, our Defence himself flanked by all the four here. Zoramthanga, 74, Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj Mumbai attacks,” he said. Minister (Nirmala Sitharaman) ceremony claimants to the post, hinting at earlier headed the state from and French Minister of Europe Over 170 people were killed visited France in October which the end of tussle over who 1998-2003 and 2003-2008. and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves and more than 300 wounded in was very useful. in Rajasthan would be the next Chief Min- During the swearing-in Le Drian. the series of terror attacks in “Now the two sides are Congress President Rahul ister of Chhattisgarh. ceremony, the National “In our talks, we reiterated Mumbai in November 2008 working towards deepening and Gandhi, along with several Posting pictures of Baghel, Anthem was sung, followed our resolve to continue our fight carried out by the Pakistan- expanding these large contacts, senior party leaders, will be Deo, Sahu and Mahant — by reading of verses from the against terrorism,” Sushma based Lashkar-e-Taiba terror especially at the operational and present tomorrow at the Gandhi quoted American Bible, singing of religious Swaraj said in a joint address to outfit. service level.” oath-taking ceremony of Internet entrepreneur Reid hymns and prayer by Rev R. the media with Le Drian after In her address, Sushma Sushma Swaraj said that Rajasthan Chief Minister- Hoffman saying: “No matter Lalhmingthanga, chairman of the talks. “Cooperation among Swaraj said that both India and joint vision on space cooper- designate Ashok Gehlot, how brilliant your mind or Mizoram Kohhran Hruaitute us in this field is also there in France were implementing their ation is the cornerstone of space party sources said yesterday. strategy, if you’re playing a solo Committee, a conglomerate international forums like the outlined action in joint strategic collaboration between India and The programme, in which game, you’ll always lose out to of 16 major churches in the FATF (Financial Action Task vision cooperation in the Indian France. Sachin Pilot will also take a team.” Before the announce- state. The MNF in the Force),” she said. Ocean region. She also said that today oath as the state’s Deputy ments, there had been power November 28 Assembly polls Le Drian said that India “This will not only benefit India and France were among Chief Minister, would be jockeying between the rival secured 26 seats, five more knows in France it has a partner India and France, but also other the leading countries fighting held at 10am at Albert Hall camps, with both Scindia and than an absolute majority in that has never failed it and on countries and stakeholders in against climate change in the here. Pilot strongly advocating their the 40-member Assembly. which it can count on in the this area,” she stated. She also world. stake to the post. 14 ASIA SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 China to help Pakistan and Afghanistan improve ties

REUTERS The officials also international forces and re- KABUL signed agreements to establish their version of strict Islamic law, have repeatedly China pledged to help Afghan- enable the expansion rejected the direct peace talks istan and Pakistan overcome of CPEC to Afghanistan offered by the Western-backed longstanding suspicions, as offi- through road and rail Afghan government. However, cials from the three nations met links. they have opened contacts with yesterday in the latest round of the United States to prepare for diplomacy aimed at opening talks possible talks to end a war that with the Taliban to end the talks with the Taliban. has killed and maimed tens of Afghan war. “China approves of this, and thousands in the 17 years since a China, a close ally of Pakistan, is willing to provide support and US-backed campaign overthrew has lately deepened its economic help for Pakistan and Afghanistan the Taliban in 2001. and political ties with Kabul and to improve their ties,” Wang told Afghan President Ashraf is using its influence to try to bring reporters after the meeting. Ghani recently formed a 12-strong the two uneasy South Asian The meeting, which followed team to negotiate with the neighbours closer, at a time when initial talks between the three Taliban, but has said any deal Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, the United States has sought Paki- countries a year ago, is the latest could take at least five years to and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi after signing a memorandum of understanding on cooperation stan’s help with faltering Afghan sign of China’s increasing implement. peace talks. engagement in the region, where “We support Afghanistan in fighting terrorism, in Kabul yesterday. The Chinese government’s it has invested massively in the and Pakistan efforts for peace top diplomat, State Councillor China-Pakistan Economic Cor- and we call on the Taliban to with allegations that security Pakistan’s Foreign Minister am here to build mutual political Wang Yi, met the foreign min- ridor (CPEC), a central part of its join the peace process,” said agencies in both countries Shah Mehmood Qureshi said trusts and facilitate the peace isters of Afghanistan and Pakistan global Belt and Road initiative. Wang, adding that both coun- support militant groups that bring Islamabad was committed to sta- process of Afghanistan,” he said. in Kabul to put into effect a mem- Direct talks between the tries have agreed to resolve dis- deadly attacks against one bility and peace in Afghanistan. The officials also signed orandum of understanding on Afghan government and the putes through “friendly another continue to strain rela- “By blaming, no one moves agreements to enable the security cooperation and support Taliban collapsed in 2015, and the consultations.” tions between Kabul and ahead, we have to stop pointing expansion of CPEC to Afghanistan for Afghanistan’s efforts to open Taliban, fighting to drive out Political tensions, coupled Islamabad. fingers at each other that why I through road and rail links. ‘Russia working with Pakistan to counter terrorism’

INTERNEWS role in world affairs, especially Talking about nuclear arena and another battleground by China, Kazakhstan, Kyr- KARACHI in Syria, and other global issues”. weapons, Ambassador Dedov for military confrontation. gyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Discussing Russia’s “stabil- said that the Russia Federation “Thus Russia, China and Uzbekistan, India and Pakistan. Keeping his promise to return ising role” in South Asia, Dedov, stood at the forefront of pre- Pakistan along with many others Talking to a packed audi- that he made during his first visit who has also served in India, venting the spread of nuclear are promoting this and are in torium with academics, students, to the Pakistan Institute of Inter- Bangladesh and Iran, said that weapons. negotiation to stop weapons foreign policy experts, Dedov national Affairs (PIIA) in 2015, the modern world was under- “Russia has made unprece- from going into outer space,” he said: “The international com- Ambassador of the Russian going a profound dented contribution to the said, adding that Russia was also munity needs to respond to Federation in Pakistan Alexey transformation. progress of this by cutting down working with Pakistan to counter global challenges and threats in Dedov arrived at the PIIA to a He added that they were also its nuclear capacity by 85 per terrorism. a comprehensive manner and very warm welcome. witnessing dynamic changes in cent over the last 30 years,” he Emphasising relations with with combined efforts under the Police question Since the ambassador’s last international relations. said. Another important issue, other countries, Dedov discussed coordination of the United visit, the moderator of the event “Globalisation and techno- according to Dedov, is the pre- the Shanghai Cooperation Nations. He also discussed the Yameen after said there had been a great logical progress contribute to the vention of the arms race in outer Organisation, which is also called problems of international ter- change in the global scene and increased independence of space and thus excluding outer Shanghai Pact, a political, eco- rorism, the drug trade and “we look with interest at Russia’s nations,” he said. space from becoming a new nomic and security alliance led organised crime. accounts frozen

AP MALE

US wants to help Police in the Maldives said they questioned the country’s defeated former strongman Pakistan in reviving president over complaints of alleged illegal financial trans- actions yesterday, a day after economy: Official they froze bank accounts with millions of dollars. Police said in a statement INTERNEWS early next month. Malpass told that they found transactions ISLAMABAD the senators that the Trump of big sums of money through administration also wanted to accounts opened by Yameen A senior official of the US ensure that any IMF loan to Abdul Gayoom (pictured) Treasury Department has said Pakistan was not used to repay over five years of his presi- that the United States wanted its Chinese debt. dency. On Friday, they said to help Pakistan in reviving its “With regard to Pakistan, accounts with nearly $6.5m economy so that it was not a Secretary Pompeo is exactly in both US dollars and Mal- failure in the future. right. So, we are working and divian currency had been David Malpass, Under Sec- making clear within the IMF frozen pending further retary of Treasury for Interna- that if it were going to supply investigations. Sri Lanka’s former leader Mahinda Rajapaksa shares a moment with his political party supporters tional Affairs, was part of the any funding to Pakistan that it Speaking to reporters after he resigned from the prime minister post in Colombo, Sri Lanka, yesterday. Congressional hearing where would not be used to repay after the questioning, Yameen concerns were raised by sen- Chinese loans,” Malpass said. said police did not accuse him ators regarding the IMF money “We are trying also to make of any crime. He said police being used to service the sure that Pakistan changes its Disputed Sri Lankan PM resigns questioned him over cash Chinese debts. economic programme so that received ahead of the Sep- A senator referred to the it’s not a failure in the future. tember presidential election Secretary of State Mike Pom- So, that’s the core of our AP President Maithripala Sirisena. Sirisena then named Rajapaksa and complaints that $1m peo’s last month stating that the purpose with regard to COLOMBO “Since I have no intention of the new prime minister, but Par- linked to a financial scam United States of America would Pakistan,” he added. remaining as Prime Minister liament twice rejected the allegedly were found in his not allow its taxpayers’ money, During the House Financial Sri Lanka’s disputed prime without a general election being appointment. account. He said the $1m which is the part of funds at Services Committee hearing on minister resigned yesterday, held, and in order to not hamper Rajapaksa’s resignation allegedly linked to a $79m IMF’s disposal to be lent upon ‘Evaluating the Effectiveness of saying he wanted to end a long the President in any way, I will came a day after the Supreme fraud has already been inves- request of countries, for the International Financial political impasse over his resign from the position of Court extended a lower court’s tigated and that he asked Pakistan to repay its Chinese Institutions’ Congressman Ed appointment and allow the Prime Minister and make way suspension of Rajapaksa and his police to get the details from debt. Royce said Pakistan is currently president to form a new for the President to form a new Cabinet. The top court put off the the Anti-Corruption Pakistan is seeking $8bn seeking a multibillion-dollar government. government,” Rajapaksa said. next hearing until mid-January, Commission. extended loan facility from the IMF bailout. “In July, Secretary Mahinda Rajapaksa signed Lakshman Yapa Abey- when it plans to rule on whether Yameen ruled Maldives International Monetary Fund (of State, Mike) Pompeo said a letter of resignation, flanked wardena, a lawmaker close to they should hold office after from 2013 until he lost an (IMF) to bail itself out of a there’s no rationale for IMF tax by lawmakers from his party Rajapaksa, told reporters on losing two no-confidence votes election to Ibrahim Mohamed severe balance-of-payments dollars and those associated and blessed by Buddhist and Friday that Rajapaksa had in Parliament. Sri Lanka has had Solih in September. crisis that threatens to cripple with American dollars that are other religious leaders in the decided to step down to end a no functioning government for His tenure was marked its economy. The two parties part of IMF funding for those to presence of media. It was not crisis that began in October nearly two weeks and is facing with allegations of misrule, are still discussing the package go to bail out Chinese bond- immediately clear if the letter when Sirisena sacked Prime the prospect of being unable to corruption and human rights and a final decision is expected holders or China itself,” he said. had been handed over to Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. pass a budget for next year. violations. At least 20 Afghan civilians dead in airstrike: Officials REUTERS The strike, against a local Several Taliban military eight women and 12 children 12 more. He said the operation children have been killed but we AFGHANISTAN Taliban commander named commanders have been killed were killed and more than 15 targeted Sharif Mawiya, a com- are sending a fact finding team,” Sharif Mawiya, was the latest in since the beginning of the month civilians wounded in the mander believed to be a facili- he said. A spokeswoman for the At least 20 Afghan civilians, a series of operations targeting by Afghan forces, backed by US incident. Kunar governor Abdul tator with Al Qaeda militants. Nato-led Resolute Support including 12 children, were killed senior insurgent field com- advisers and air power but the Satar Mirzakwal said an oper- He said an unknown number mission said it had not carried in an airstrike targeting a Taliban manders, including the shadow tactic has also increased the risk ation by Afghan forces in Sheltan of civilians were hit in the strike out any airstrikes in Kunar at the commander in the eastern governor of the strategic of civilian casualties. district killed 38 Taliban and Al but had no casualty details. time of the incident. No comment province of Kunar late on Friday, southern province of Helmand, Abdul Latif Fazly, a member Qaeda members, including four “We know that a number of was immediately available from local officials said. who was killed on December 2. of the provincial council, said foreign nationals, and wounded civilians, including women and the defence ministry. SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 ASIA 15 Xi declares an Joy as US-seized bells back in Philippines AFP ‘overwhelming BALANGIGA A sleepy central Philippine town erupted in joy yesterday as bells looted from Balangiga more than victory’ over graft a century ago by vengeful US troops were turned over to the community, and rang once again REUTERS on their home soil. BEIJING Children waving bell-shaped signs and tearful residents in Chinese President Xi Jinping Balangiga welcomed home the (pictured) has declared an three bells that are a deep local “overwhelming victory” in his source of pride, and which the fight against graft within the US flew to Manila this week after ruling Chinese Communist decades of urging by the Party, while still vowing that the Philippines. campaign to weed out deep- “Nobody, but nobody, can seated corruption will continue, claim a singular credit for the state media reported. generous act of the Americans,” Xi has pledged to wage war Philippine President Rodrigo on graft until corruption of all Duterte said after ringing one of kinds has been expunged at all Xi has pledged to the bells before a crowd of thou- levels of the Communist Party, sands that included US from high-level “tigers” to low- wage war on graft officials. level “flies”. until corruption of “The bells are returned. The He proclaimed during a all kinds has been credit goes to the American twice-a-decade meeting of the people and to the Filipino people President Rodrigo Duterte rings a Balangiga bell during a ceremony marking the return of three top party leadership in October expunged at all levels — period,” he said, striking a rare Balangiga bells taken by the US military as war booty 117 years ago, at Balangiga, Eastern Samar in 2017 that his fight against graft of the Communist positive tone regarding the had achieved “overwhelming Party, from high-level nation’s former colonial master. central Philippines, yesterday. At left is Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. momentum”. “tigers” to low-level American troops carted However, Xi announced at away the bronze objects as tro- said to have signalled the attack in the United States. from Manila’s historical ally and a meeting of the party’s “flies”. phies, after razing the town and on the Americans. But the repatriation was former colonial master the Politburo on Friday that the killing potentially thousands of The return of the bells long held back by some United States. fight had now obtained an Filipinos, in reprisal for a sur- prompted a massive street party American lawmakers and vet- At the same time, Duterte “overwhelming victory”, state architecture must continue to prise 1901 attack that left 48 of in Balangiga with singing, erans who viewed the bells, two signalled an end to the standoff broadcaster CCTV reported, modernise the systems of over- their comrades dead. children waving bell-shaped of which were in the US state of with Beijing over the disputed yesterday. sight for party members and For the people of Balangiga placards and even vendors Wyoming and the third at a US South China Sea. The shift from “momentum” state employees. the bells are a symbol of the selling wooden souvenir bells base in South Korea, as tributes Yet for some in Balangiga to “victory” reflects an China’s new National Philippines’ long struggle for and T-shirts. to fallen soldiers. the bells’ return is also a somber important judgment from the Supervisory Commission was independence, and a dark Yet the handover ceremony A confluence of factors occasion tinged with the pain party leadership, CCTV said. formally established in March, chapter which is the subject of took place far from the town earlier this year, that included of the past, which has been China’s powerful graft extending the graft fight to all an annual re-enactment and plaza that holds a monument a key veterans’ group dropping passed from generation to watchdogs handled 464,000 state employees and giving remembrance event locally. with statues of the American its opposition, culminated in the generation. cases and punished 406,000 legal backing to the party’s con- “It’s not just me but the soldiers having breakfast as the bells landing in Manila aboard “It’s mixed emotions people in the first nine months troversial internal investigation whole town is walking in the Filipino revolutionaries raise a US military cargo plane on because the bells also remind of 2018. “We must forcefully and detention techniques. clouds because the bells are their machetes at the start of the Tuesday for a solemn handover. me of what happened,” Con- reduce the number of cases and Some Chinese academics finally with us,” 81-year-old onslaught. Duterte, 73, bluntly called stancia Elaba, 62, said, adding effectively stop them from have voiced concerns that the Nemesio Duran said. Manila had pushed for the on Washington in a 2017 speech: how she grew up hearing stories growing,” the Politburo said, reforms will roll back years of “We are the happiest people bells’ return since at least the “Give us back those Balangiga of the episode from her father. according to CCTV. work by legal reformers to on Earth now,” he added, noting 1990s, with backing from Phil- bells. They are not yours.” His “It was painful and you Xi said efforts to overhaul protect the rights of suspects he is descended from the boy ippine presidents, its influential arrival in power in mid-2016 cannot take it away from us. We China’s extensive anti-graft during investigations. who rang one of the bells, long Catholic Church and supporters was marked by moves to split can never forget that,” she said. China jails businessman for inciting protests

REUTERS broadcaster CCTV reported late other nine individuals. BEIJING on Friday. Beijing police detained 67 The investors took to the Shan Xin Hui investors for dis- A Chinese court has jailed for 17 streets of the capital in July last turbing social order in July last years a businessman who ran a year, holding banners and year after they staged a rare 100bn yuan pyramid scheme shouting slogans, which protest on the heavily guarded and organised a rare street obstructed and defied police streets of the capital. protest in Beijing against police work, the court said. Investors said at the time investigations into his activities, Zhang’s company had lured that they had come to complain state media reported. investors with promises of high that the company had been dealt Zhang Tianming and nine rates of return on projects that a huge injustice and that it had other staff from his company, were meant to help the poor, but genuinely helped a lot of poor Shenzhen-based Shan Xin Hui, had instead paid out early people. They said by detaining were found guilty in a hearing members purely using funds its leaders, the government had of running a multi-level mar- from new joiners, a court inves- unfairly targeted the company, keting company and of dis- tigation found. which they called a charity. turbing social order. Nearly 6 million people and The government has Shuangpai County People’s over 100bn yuan ($14.48bn) repeatedly vowed to crack down Court in central Hunan province were involved in the scheme, on financial crime and fraud. In Daily living handed Zhang a 17-year jail sen- the court said. 2016, Chinese authorities shut tence and a 100m yuan fine after The nine other executives down peer-to-peer lender Vendors display a selection of second-hand goods for sale on the footpath in the Kowloon district he used social media to organise were handed prison sentences Ezubao over an online scam that a public protest involving more ranging from 18 months to 10 state media said took in some of Hong Kong, yesterday. than 600 people from his mar- years, it said. Reuters was 50bn yuan from about 900,000 keting platform, state unable to contact Zhang or the investors. Rakhine state praised for ‘auspicious’ year Cambodia seizes over

AFP and have garnered little sym- electricity” to certain premature and “reckless”. 3 tonnes of rare ivory YANGON pathy among the Myanmar townships. As for those within the public, have been forced to live He also praised a pact signed camps in Rakhine state, many AP He said the ivory was sent Myanmar’s President said in displacement camps in the between Myanmar and Bang- have attempted to leave by boats PHNOM PENH from the southern African yesterday it had been an “auspi- region with bleak conditions and ladesh to repatriate the Rohingya to Malaysia and Indonesia since nation of Mozambique. The ele- cious” year for Rakhine state, the a dire lack of food. refugees and the arrangements the monsoon season ended last Cambodian authorities said phant tusks arrived at the violence-scarred territory and But Myanmar President Win made to receive “those displaced month, enduring a perilous yesterday that they have seized Phnom Penh port in July, but epicentre of the Rohingya crisis. Myint painted a different reality people who have gone over to journey to escape what rights more than 3 tonnes of rare officials did not find them until More than 720,000 in a statement yesterday when the Bangladesh side”. groups call “open-air prisons”. African ivory hidden inside an Thursday. Rohingya have fled the western he congratulated the “ethnic The process which was “I wish to urge all Rakhine abandoned shipping container, Sun Chhay refused to state since August 2017 after the brothers and sisters” on the 44th repeatedly delayed was sup- ethnic nationals and citizens to the country’s largest haul of comment on where the ivory military conducted “clearance anniversary of the Rakhine State posed to finally commence last participate... (in the) transfor- elephant tusks in the last four was supposed to be headed, but operations,” sending a stream of Day. With no natural disasters, month but it fell flat when not a mation of Rakhine State into a years. said Cambodia was only being refugees to neighbouring Bang- “we can say that 2018 has been single Rohingya took up the offer beautiful and happy state,” Win Tipped off by the US used as a transit point. ladesh with accounts of rape, an auspicious year”, he wrote in of repatriation, with many on the Myint said at the end of his Embassy in Phnom Penh, a total Large hauls of smuggled arson and mass killings — acts Myanmar’s state-run returnee list going into hiding. statement. of 1,026 pieces of elephant wildlife goods are not that UN investigators say newspaper. The refugees fear returning Win Myint was appointed to tusks, weighing up to 3.2 uncommon in Cambodia. In amounts to “genocide” by the Rakhine, one of the poorest home without guarantees of his position by Myanmar’s de tonnes, was found on Thursday recent years, the country has military generals. states in the country, is also the protection, citizenship or rights facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi, at Phnom Penh Autonomous earned a reputation for being a Another 120,000 of the site of planned economic zones, from the government and the who has faced international con- Port, said Sun Chhay, a director hub for the illegal wildlife trade, stateless minority, who are he said, and the government is powerful military. Rights groups demnation for her handling of of the Customs and Excise most of it driven by demand largely reviled by ethnic Rakhine working to provide “24 hour have criticised repatriation as the Rohingya crisis. Office at the port. from China and Vietnam. 16 EUROPE SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 Russia reaches out to US for INF treaty talks

AP James Mattis, a proposal for Washington’s threat of with- missiles with ranges between launching system used by these MOSCOW launching a dialogue three days drawal, warning that a collapse 500 and 5,000km. missile defence installations. ago, according to a statement. of the treaty could undermine The US claims that a new The Mk-41, derived from the Russia wants to sit down with Russia said that the But Russia says it hasn’t nuclear arms control across the Russian missile, designated by US Navy’s Aegis missile system, Pentagon officials for “open and received any official reply from board. Nato as the SSC-8, operates in can launch a variety of American specific” talks on alleged viola- US is unwilling to the Pentagon, which spokesman Washington began sounding ranges forbidden by the INF missiles - including the sea- tions of the Intermediate-Range maintain professional Maj Gen Igor Konashenkov said off on a potential Russian vio- treaty. Russia has strongly and launched Tomahawk cruise Nuclear Forces treaty, the Russian dialogue with Moscow proves that the US is unwilling lation of the INF treaty under routinely denied the claim, at missile, a weapon that would be Defence Ministry said yesterday. on security issues. to maintain professional dia- President Barack Obama. times throwing accusations of banned by INF were it deployed The US claims Russia is vio- logue with Moscow on security Under President Donald non-compliance back at on a ground-based launcher. lating the INF treaty, and on issues. Trump, those allegations have Washington. INF not only bans ground- December 4 issued an ultimatum Russia denies it’s in breach On Friday, the Russian been specified and coupled with These claims have, at times, based intermediate-range mis- that Moscow come into com- of the treaty. mission to the UN submitted a threats of unilateral withdrawal focused on US deployment of anti- siles, but their launchers too. And pliance with the accord in 60 Russian Defence Minister draft resolution calling for the from the landmark 1987 arms missile systems in Romania and Moscow has seized on this point days, or else Washington will Sergei Shoigu sent his coun- international community to agreement, which banned an Poland. Moscow takes specific to claim the US is responsible for withdraw. terpart, US Defense Secretary support the INF treaty against entire class of ground-launched issue with the US Mk-41 vertical destabilising the INF treaty.

Spain rescues 2 UN climate talks minors crossing Strait of Gibraltar face deadlock over on truck tyre carbon credits issue AP MADRID REUTERS hard to monitor. KATOWICE One risk is the double Spain’s maritime rescue counting of emissions reduc- service said it has saved two United Nations’ climate talks to tions, when they are included by underage migrants who were agree on the rules of the 2015 both the host country and the trying to cross the Strait of Paris Agreement became dead- purchasing country, which could Gibraltar on a truck tyre. locked late yesterday over the ruin the integrity of the Paris The service said that its monitoring of carbon credits to Agreement. This is why a solid rescue craft took on board the reduce emissions, in marathon set of accounting rules is needed. two minors yesterday after it negotiations which have already Brazil has said it opposes was alerted to their plight. overrun. double counting but has issues The service didn’t specify Although a text of the around aspects of buying of their gender or nationality, package of rules has been pub- permits from a central registry but it appears they left from lished which shows many points and the subsequent selling. Morocco. have been settled, a stand-off “Ministers are still in bilateral Spain has become the continues over the accounting talks because of Brazil’s main entry point for migrants rules for future carbon permit position,” a negotiator said. to Europe this year with more schemes. “Brazil is doing this because than 57,000 arrivals, This has repeatedly delayed they will have a new president Participants take part in plenary session, during the final day of the COP24 UN Climate Change according to the UN Author- the closing plenary, when sparks soon and they are concerned that Conference 2018, in Katowice, Poland. ities have registered more could fly if there are issues still after the political change what than 11,000 unaccompanied stoking opposition. is agreed here might not be sus- remained optimistic and told to flesh out details of the 2015 Before the talks started, minors arriving this year. A senior negotiator said tained,” he said. Reuters: “We are moving Paris Agreement, which aims to many expected that the deal The Strait of Gibraltar is Brazil had concerns about some Brazil’s incoming far-right forward.” limit the global temperature rise would not be as robust as is 14km wide at its narrowest of the rules for governing inter- President-elect Jair Bolsonaro Another source close to the to less than 2 degrees Celsius. needed as the unity which point. The UN said more than national carbon credit schemes. takes office on January 1. discussions said, “the outcome The 156-page rulebook underpinned the Paris talks has 750 people have died while Rich nations often reduce There is a compromise might be close.” released yesterday is not as fragmented and one of the attempting to cross from their emissions by paying for option where the issue is Countries have been working defined and ambitious as some world’s biggest emitters, the Africa to Spanish shores in carbon-cutting projects in other deferred until next year. for two weeks in Katowice, countries and environmental United States, still intends to 2018. countries. But these programmes European climate commis- Poland, on a self-imposed groups want but most of the leave the pact when it can for- are not often transparent and sioner Miguel Arias Canete deadline to produce a “rulebook” package is ready to be approved. mally do so in 2020. Greek wildfire Dutch govt unveils plan to victim dies after a month boost defence spending AP AFP Stoltenberg have called on allies ATHENS THE HAGUE in the defence bloc to up their defence spending and member Greek authorities said a The Netherlands pledged to states in 2014 agreed to aim to 73-year-old man hospitalised boost its defence spending in spend two percent of GDP on with severe burns since July the coming year to buy more their militaries. has died, bringing the toll of fighter jets and strengthen its “This plan shows that a deadly wildfire east of special forces and cyber capa- cabinet is serious about the Athens to 100. bilities, officials said. current threats. The Nether- The wildfire, aided by “Extra investment in lands must take steps to show high winds, swept through the defence is a necessity because it will remain a reliable suburb of Mati, a popular our surrounding safety zone has partner,” Defence Minister Ank seaside resort, on July 23. become a more instable place,” Bijleveld said. People were trapped inside the Defence Ministry said. The plan consists of buying their homes or along narrow “There are more threats to a further batch of F-35 stealth roads as many tried to flee. contend with and threats have fighters to supplement 37 Some drowned in the sea. become more complex,” it planes already on order, and “to A database maintained by added in a statement, issued improve land and sea-based the Center for Research on after a weekly cabinet meeting firepower.” the Epidemiology of Disasters in The Hague. It also looking to improve in Brussels shows the wildfire Both US President Donald special forces and cyber was the deadliest in Europe Migrants waiting for food in a camp, in Bihac, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Trump and Nato chief Jens warfare capabilities. since 1900. Cold weather, Croatian police halt migrants at Balkan frontier Tourist arrivals in Portugal decline REUTERS going to try again,” said Hamza Migration and the UN refugee REUTERS economic recession of 2011 to spent in hotels slipped by 0.5%. BIHAC from Pakistan, echoing the agency UNHCR, officials said. LISBON 2014, but its hopes for another Travellers from all main words of others interviewed in Still recovering from a dev- record year after 2017’s 12.7 European markets except Spain Harsh weather conditions and the Bira centre in Bihac. astating war in the 1990s, Bosnia The number of foreign tourists million tourists look set to fall stayed fewer nights in Portu- tight police border controls have A small refugee town has was bypassed in 2015 and 2016 visiting Portugal edged lower in flat. guese hotels, with Britain, by far stopped thousands of migrants been set up in the giant concrete when more than a million the first 10 months of this year, Hotel revenues were still 6% the largest source of tourists, from attempting to cross into halls of a former factory, accom- migrants and refugees passed the first cumulative decline after higher in the period, helped by leading the declining trend with Croatia at the European Union’s modating more than 2,000 through the Balkans on their years of record figures, data growing domestic travel and a near 9% drop, followed by Balkan frontier, leaving them migrants and refugees in heated way to the wealthier European showed, with Britons accounting higher room rates. Germany, the data showed. stuck in impoverished Bosnia tents and containers. They have countries. for a large part of the drop. Arrivals started to decline at On a positive note, a higher until spring. three meals a day and access to But this year it has become a The National Statistics the height of the summer season number of tourists from North Over 3,000 people have medical services. major transit country for Institute, which monitors hotel in July, but it was not until Octo- America and Brazil spent more been cramped in three impro- On Friday, some of the 180 migrants as other countries, such stays, said total arrivals were ber’s 2% drop that the cumu- time in Portugal. vised migrant centres in the unaccompanied minors from as EU members Hungary and 0.1% lower than a year earlier lative number for the year Tourism and all travel- Bosnian towns of Bihac and the centre were enjoying playing Slovenia, sealed their borders. at just below 11.4 million. In the became smaller than at the same related revenues account for Velika Kladusa, on the Croatian in fresh snowfall, taking selfies. More than 23,000 people same period of 2017, arrivals point of 2017. over 10% of Portugal’s gross border, with emergency The European Union has have entered the country since were up by almost 12% to exceed Even with more Portuguese domestic product, which is workers rushing to provide allocated more than $10.4m to January. About 5,000 are now 11.4 million. travellers staying in hotels, expected to grow 2.3% in 2018. them with accommodation and help Bosnia cope with the stuck, as the cold winter and Seven years of booming boosting the total number of That would mark a food as winter bites. migrant influx before the winter, Croatian police make it impos- tourism have hugely benefited guests by 1.3% to 18.5 million in slowdown from last year’s 2.7 “Here is a big problem with channelling funding through the sible for them to continue their Portugal’s economy as it the January to October period, the percent rise, Portugal’s strongest winter, when it is finished, I’m International Organization for journey. recovered from a debt crisis and number of nights visitors overall growth since 2000. SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 EUROPE 17 Clashes as French protesters return

REUTERS Police fired water vandalism and violent clashes PARIS cannon and tear gas with security forces. Despite the in the afternoon to protests, several major stores, Thousands of protesters took to disperse groups of such as the Galeries Lafayette, the streets of French cities opened to lure in Christmas yesterday in the fifth weekend protesters in sporadic, shoppers. of nationwide demonstrations brief clashes with riot Loic Bollay, 44, marching on against Emmanuel Macron’s police on the Champs- the Champs-Elysees in a yellow government, despite calls to hold Elysees and adjacent vest, said the protests were more off after a gun attack in Stras- subdued but the movement bourg earlier this week. streets. would go on until the demon- In Paris, police were out in strators’ grievances were force to contain outbursts of addressed. violence. But the demonstra- Palace, the president’s “Since the Strasbourg attack, tions were noticeably smaller residence. it is calmer, but I think next Sat- than in previous weeks, possibly French media also broadcast urday and the following Sat- Protesters wearing yellow vests (gilets jaunes) facing off French riot police during an anti-government a response to the Strasbourg footage of clashes between urdays...it will come back.” demonstration on the Champs-Elysees in Paris, yesterday. attack or to the cold, rainy police and protesters in Nantes, The Interior Minister said weather. western France, and further around 69,000 police were protestors marched in splintered demonstrations have hit growth pensioners in further conces- Police fired water cannon south in Bordeaux. active yesterday with a rein- groups in several neighbour- and caused widespread sions meant to end the and tear gas in the afternoon to The ‘yellow vest’ movement forced presence in the cities of hoods, and at least 148 were disruption. movement, but many said they disperse groups of protesters in started in mid-November with Toulouse, Bordeaux and arrested by mid-afternoon, “France needs calm, order would maintain pressure. sporadic, brief clashes with riot protests at junctions and round- Saint-Etienne. according to a police official. and a return to normal,” Macron The government, as well as police on the Champs-Elysees abouts against fuel tax increases, According to official figures, On Friday, President Macron said, after a meeting of European several unions and opposition and adjacent streets. but quickly became a wider 33,500 protesters had been called for a return to calm in Union leaders in Brussels. politicians called on protesters to A handful of feminist activists mobilisation against Macron’s counted in France by 1300 GMT France after nearly a month of In a televised address to the stay off the streets yesterday, after braved chilly temperatures to economic policies. compared to 77,000 at the same protests by the so-called ‘yellow nation on Monday, Macron four people were killed in a gun face off with security forces, a Successive weekends of pro- time on December 8. vest’ movement against his gov- announced wage rises for the attack at a Christmas market in few metres away from the Elysee tests in Paris have lead to In Paris, more than 2,000 ernment’s policies. The poorest workers and tax cuts for the city of Strasbourg.

Tram accident in Lisbon leaves Lawmakers urged to find Brexit consensus

28 injured AFP House of Commons. among opposition Labour MPs. complained that May has failed LONDON Few people now believe the In Brussels, EU leaders to engage with them to get a deal AP agreement, forged over 17 refused to renegotiate the Brexit through parliament. LISBON A senior government minister months of tough negotiations deal and several said the But many Conservatives called yesterday for British MPs with Brussels, will pass in a vote problem of its ratification could accuse Labour leader Jeremy Portuguese emergency from all parties to “forge a of MPs planned for January. be resolved only by MPs. Corbyn of opposing the Brexit services said a Lisbon tram consensus” on Brexit to avoid a That raises the prospect that But the ruling Conservative deal for political rather than sub- has derailed and flipped over, potentially damaging “no deal” Britain could leave the European party is deeply divided, and stantial reasons, hoping the slightly injuring 28 people in withdrawal from the EU in Union with no arrangements at hardline Brexiteers this week chaos in government will bring a rush-hour accident. March. all on March 29. forced a confidence vote in the a snap election. Officials said the tram Work and pensions minister Rudd opposed Brexit in the prime minister. For now, Corbyn is went off the rails on a bend Amber Rudd (pictured) said that 2016 referendum, and was May won but 117 of her col- demanding MPs have a vote on at the bottom of a steep hill at Brexit could succeed “if politi- reported by The Times news- leagues — more than one-third May’s deal next week, and on around 6pm (1800 GMT) on cians are willing to try a different paper to be among five cabinet — voted against her. Friday accused her of “recklessly Friday. way and only if a coalition of ministers discussing whether Afterwards, she called for running down the clock” as It struck a building and those who want what’s best for another referendum is necessary MPs on all sides to come together, Brexit approaches on March 29. fell on its side, initially this country argue a little less and if May’s deal fails. but aides said this referred to He is under pressure to trapping about a dozen compromise a little more”. Theresa May returned from an The prime minister has Conservatives and their Northern launch a confidence vote in the people in the wreckage and Her comments, in an article EU summit without the reassur- repeatedly ruled out holding a Irish allies, who are also opposed government in the Commons, injuring others on the in the Daily Mail newspaper, ances she said she needed to get second referendum, but there is to the Brexit deal. but has held off so far because sidewalk. Nobody was badly come after Prime Minister her Brexit deal through the growing support for the idea Some Labour MPs have he believes May would win. hurt. Local media say British people were among the injured, but officials were not immediately available to Blaze at British zoo comment on those reports. Authorities gave no further details about the prompts evacuation incident. Electric trams are a AP gibbons are our nearest neigh- common mode of transport LONDON bours there, but there are many in Lisbon. other animals, including free- A fire broke out yesterday in an flying birds.” enclosure at one of Britain’s The zoo said in a statement largest zoos, forcing keepers to that its team were working “to Pilot dead in evacuate visitors and move bring the situation under animals away from the flames. control.” Ukraine jet crash One person suffered from The zoo has described the smoke inhalation and all of the Monsoon Forest exhibit as a AP animals were accounted for, chance to explore a tropical MOSCOW authorities said. world filled with creatures Witnesses said the blaze ranging from small insects to Ukraine’s military said an Air broke out at about 1130 GMT crocodiles together with exotic Force pilot has died when his (6:30am EST) in the Monsoon plants of different shapes and Sukhoi Su-27 fighter jet Forest habitat area, with winds sizes. crashed while attempting to fanning flames in the inflatable The zoo, which opened in land at a base in the northern roof of the building. The zoo 1931, has some 15,000 animals, region of Zhytomyr. hasn’t given a cause for the fire. CEO Mark Pilgrim wrote in a The Ukrainian General “We were very worried for statement on the zoo’s website. President of the Liguria region, Giovanni Toti (centre), and Genoa Mayor, Marco Bucci (right) attending Staff wrote on its Facebook the people and animals that It cares for some 500 different a preliminary meeting by the rubble of the Morandi Bridge, in Genoa, yesterday. page that the plane went would have been in the species, about half of which are down yesterday during a building,” said David Clough, endangered and supports and routine flight. An investi- who lives across the road from conducts 70 conservation gation into the crash is Genoa to get new bridge next year the structure. “Orangutans and projects at home and abroad. underway. The Su-27 fighter jets were designed by the Soviet AFP a site for the demolition of the The cost of the demolition Union and continue to be GENOA pillars and parts of the span that work and clearance of the site built by Russia. Depending on remained standing after the is estimated at $21.5m, author- the model, they carry either Genoa will have a new bridge accident in August. ities said Friday. one or two pilots. within a year, its mayor said A section of a viaduct on the A consortium of five Italian It was not immediately yesterday, as the Italian city A10 motorway collapsed in companies lined up for the clear what the model was in prepared to start demolition Genoa without warning, causing work, which still needs to be yesterday’s crash. work on the remains of the a 200 metre long piece of the approved by a judge. Ukraine lost a two-seat bridge that collapsed in August Morandi bridge to fall away. For now, the site of the dis- Su-27 in October near the killing more than 40 people. Cars and trucks fell with the aster is still closed off because village of Ulaniv, which is sit- “The objective is to take the rubble. Forty-three people died it is considered evidence in an uated approximately 185 demolition far enough so that in the accident and dozens were ongoing investigation into who miles southwest of the construction work can begin,” injured. is to blame for the bridge’s Ukranian capital Kyiv, during Marco Bucci said. The bridge’s reconstruction collapse. exercises with the US Air “The objective is to start was crucial not just for Genoa Demolition work could be National Guard. An American construction work on March 31 and its region, “but for all of considered to interfere with the pilot, riding in the second which will allow us to have a northern Italy and I daresay for probe. Emergency services are seen at Chester Zoo, in Cheshire, England, seat, died along with his bridge for Christmas.” France and Switzerland”, Bucci A court hearing is scheduled yesterday. Ukrainian comrade. Bucci yesteday inaugurated said. for tomorrow. 18 AMERICAS SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 Trump’s Interior Secretary resigns

REUTERS deputy and likely successor, WASHINGTON David Bernhardt, to continue with the “drill everywhere” US Interior Secretary Ryan agenda. Zinke (pictured), who has aggressively sought to roll back Critics have questioned Obama-era environmental Zinke’s ethics and some of his protections, will be leaving his moves triggered government post at the end of the year, Pres- investigations. ident Donald Trump tweeted In July, the Interior Depart- yesterday, the latest high-profile ment’s Office of Inspector departure from his adminis- General began investigating a tration. Montana land deal between a Trump did not give a reason foundation Zinke set up and a for Zinke’s departure. However, Trump did not give development group backed by the former Navy Seal and ex- a reason for Ryan the chairman of oil service congressman from Montana has Zinke’s departure. company Halliburton Co, which faced scrutiny of his use of has business with the Interior Rapper Pitbull honoured security details, chartered flights However, the former Department. and a real estate deal. Navy Seal has faced In late October, that inves- American rapper Pitbull is honoured with a “Hand and Footprint Ceremony” at TCL Chinese “Ryan has accomplished scrutiny of his use tigation was referred to the US Theatre, in Hollywood, California, yesterday. much during his tenure and I of security details, Justice Department for a pos- want to thank him for his service sible criminal investigation, to our Nation,” Trump said on chartered flights and according to multiple media Twitter. “The Trump adminis- a real estate deal. reports. The Department of tration will be announcing the Justice and the Interior new secretary of the Interior Department have declined to Colombian govt, next week.” the US energy and mining indus- comment. All evacuation orders in Zinke has run the Interior tries and a prime target for con- There are two other inves- students reach Department, which oversees servationists and environmental tigations of Zinke’s conduct. America’s vast public lands, groups. Interior’s watchdog is examining California wildfire lifted accord to boost since early 2017. He has aggres- Senate Democratic leader whether the department pur- AP property since fleeing the sively pursued Trump’s agenda Chuck Schumer welcomed posely redrew the boundaries PARADISE firestorm. education budget to promote oil drilling and coal Zinke’s departure in a tweet: of Utah’s Grand Staircase-Esca- The Butte County health mining by expanding federal “Ryan Zinke was one of the most lante National Monument to All evacuation orders have been officer issued an advisory AP leasing, cutting royalty rates, toxic members of the cabinet in benefit a state lawmaker who lifted in Paradise more than a strongly urging people not to BOGOTA and easing land protections the way he treated our envi- owns adjoining property. month after a devastating live on destroyed property despite environmental ronment, our precious public It is also probing Zinke’s wildfire that wiped out the until it is declared clear of Colombian students and protests. lands, and the way he treated decision to block casinos pro- Northern California town. hazardous waste, ash and President Ivan Duque said Zinke, 51, was among the govt like it was his personal posed by two Connecticut The fire that broke out on debris. they’ve reached an accord Trump’s most active Cabinet honey pot.” Native American tribes. Critics November 8 killed at least 86 The county is providing to boost education spending members, cutting huge wil- “The swamp cabinet will be allege he made that move, over- people and destroyed 14,000 masks, gloves and protective following months of derness national monuments in a little less foul without him,” ruling his staff’s recommen- homes in Paradise and nearby suits to reduce exposure to toxic protests. Utah to a fraction of their size Schumer said. dation, shortly after he met with communities in the Sierra materials. Duque announced an and proposing offshore oil Jamie Williams, president of lobbyists for MGM Resorts Inter- Nevada foothills. Authorities also warned of agreement yesterday to drilling in the Arctic, Pacific and the non-profit Wilderness national, which owns a new This will be the first time an increased risk for flash increase public higher edu- Atlantic. He became a darling of Society, said he expects Zinke’s casino in the region. many residents get to see their flooding in the burn areas. cation funding over the next four years by 4.5 trillion pesos, or about $1.4bn. The Colombian president said that he was “extremely happy to give this good news US judge rules Obamacare unconstitutional to the country.” Student leader Jose AFP Barack Obama in 2010. should be stricken down because McConnell and likely incoming appealed, Republicans are fully Cardenas praised what he WASHINGTON The case is likely to reach the the provision is “the keystone” Democratic Speaker of the responsible for this cruel called an “historic accord” US Supreme Court, where the of the program. House Nancy Pelosi and to “pass decision,” she said. and “a victory for education A federal judge in Texas ruled five justices in the nine-judge President Donald Trump, a STRONG law that provides For Democratic Senate and for Colombia.” that the US health care law court who voted to uphold who has long criticized GREAT healthcare.” Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, Students have been on known as Obamacare is uncon- Obamacare in a separate case in Obamacare and vowed to repeal Angry Democrats blamed the ruling “seems to be based on strike for two months and stitutional — a ruling that oppo- 2012 are still on the bench. the program, lost no time in Republicans for what they see faulty legal reasoning and hope- organizing weekly marches sition Democrats vowed to O’Connor’s ruling said that tweeting his opinion. as a debacle that will leave mil- fully it will be overturned.” drawing thousands to the appeal. the full Obamacare program was “Wow, but not surprisingly, lions of Americans without However if this “awful ruling streets, interrupting life in the US District Judge Reed unconstitutional because in last ObamaCare was just ruled healthcare and vowed to fight is upheld in the higher courts, it nation’s capital. O’Connor’s 55-page ruling came year’s tax overhaul, Congress UNCONSTITUTIONAL by a back in court. will be a disaster for tens of mil- The protesters com- in a lawsuit filed by several eliminated a penalty for people highly respected judge in Texas. The ruling “exposes the lions of American families,” he plained incremental budget Republican state attorneys who failed to sign up for the Great news for America!” Trump monstrous endgame of Repub- said. increases were leaving uni- general opposed to the federal program if they did not already wrote. licans’ all-out assault on people Opposing the lawsuit are 17 versities in poor condition government health plan, known have their own health insurance. “As I predicted all along, with pre-existing conditions and Democratic attorneys general led and deteriorating academic officially as the Affordable Care The 2012 Supreme Court Obamacare has been struck Americans’ access to affordable by Xavier Becerra of California. quality. Act. case was over whether such a down as an UNCONSTITU- health care,” Pelosi said in a They argue that the tax law The marches also drew Conservative Republicans penalty was legal — but now that TIONAL disaster!” he said. statement. changes do not mean that the workers angry about a pro- have long opposed the plan, it is gone, O’Connor says the Trump urged Republican While the court’s “absurd whole Affordable Care Act posed tax increase in the signed into law by president whole Affordable Care Act Senate Majority Leader Mitch ruling will be immediately becomes unconstitutional. country.

Three cops, one US and Canada vow due Marine dead in process for Huawei CFO Mexico clashes AFP uphold the rule of law, ensure AP WASHINGTON that Ms Meng’s right to due MEXICO CITY process is respected and that The United States and Canada the current judicial process in Mexico’s federal police promised a fair judicial process Canada remains apolitical,” she agency said three members for a Chinese executive arrested told a joint news conference. of its force have been killed in Vancouver on a US request, Freeland repeatedly said that in an attack in the western as they appealed to Beijing to Canada “is a rule-of-law state of Michoacan. free two Canadians held in country” that responded properly The federal Public Safety apparent retaliation. to an extradition request. Department said the officers Foreign ministers and Secretary of State Mike were on a routine patrol near defense chiefs of the neighbors Pompeo said the United States the state capital, Morelia, yes- met in the US capital as Canada was also “respecting the rule of terday when they came under increasingly looks like col- law each step along the way” fire from assailants traveling lateral damage in a simmering as it seeks Meng. in another vehicle. US-China trade war, with China, however, has said The officers were found Beijing at the same time that Canada and the United dead on the side of a highway working to ease trade tensions States overstepped their next to their bullet-riddled with Washington. authority and that Meng, who patrol cars. Canadian Foreign Minister was arrested while changing Mexico’s navy said in a Chrystia Freeland said author- planes in Vancouver, broke no statement that one marine ities were acting “scrupulously” laws. was also killed and three in the detention of Meng Canada’s fears of repercus- were wounded in a separate Wanzhou, the chief financial sions have turned out to be confrontation in the northern Unrest in Chile officer of telecom behemoth well-founded, as China has border state of Coahuila. The Huawei whom Washington since detained two Canadians navy said that the agents An activist is detained during a protest seeking justice for Camilo Catrillanca, an indigenous Mapuche wants extradited for allegedly on suspicion of “harm to came under fire near the man who was shot in the head during a police operation, in Santiago, Chile, yesterday. violating US sanctions on Iran. national security” — a phrase town of Hidalgo, about 130km “We all agree that the most often used by Beijing when from Laredo, Texas. important thing we can do is alleging espionage. SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018 MORNING BREAK 19

PRAYER TIMINGS Qatar: Integrated judicial FAJR 04. 50 AM SHOROOK 06. 12 AM system must to ensure

ZUHR 11. 29 AM MAGHRIB 04. 48 PM global peace and security ASR 02. 27 PM ISHA 06. 18 PM QNA ISTANBUL WEATHER TODAY The State of Qatar has affirmed the conditions and guarantees that achieve judicial integrity to establish the rule of law and called on Member States and observers to participate in the first meeting of the heads of the Supreme Courts of Member States and the observer of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC), currently in session in Istanbul, Turkey, to join the Global Integrity Initiative, an unprecedented initiative adopted by the United Nations based on the sincere efforts of Qatar to help the world achieve criminal justice for all. This came in a working paper presented by H E Dr Hassan bin Lahdan Saqr Al Mohannadi, Chairman of the Supreme Judicial Council, and President of the Court of Cassation, at the conference entitled “The Role of Law and Judicial Integrity... He reviewed the vision of the state to establish an integrated justice system that serves global justice, and international peace and security. He invited the participants in the conference, which was opened by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, to participate in the Second World Judicial Integrity Conference, which will be held in Doha from 18 to 19 November 2019, which will be coordinated by the joint judicial committee between the Supreme o o Council of the Judiciary of Qatar and the United 19 C 25 C Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in order to achieve its objectives by supporting global efforts Minimum Maximum and serving humanity in living in the light of justice. H E Dr. Hassan bin Lahdan Saqr Al Mohannadi Moderate temperature daytime with scat- tered clouds, relatively cold by night. said that the Qatari initiative came from the noble efforts of judges, jurists, academics and institutions

HIGH TIDE 00:45 – 10:45 LOW TIDE 01:45 – 19:00 that combine the interest in establishing the values Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department of justice in its comprehensive global perspective and in creating a scientific addition that contributes to transforming aspirations and hopes scattered around the world and in our region in shaping a judicial system that entrenches the principles of integrated justice. He noted that in this context, Qatar, in collabo- ration with the United Nations, initiated the organi- zation of the United Nations Congress on Crime Pre- vention and Criminal Justice, which resulted in its first meeting in Doha in 2015, reflected in the Doha Dec- laration, which introduced the World Program for the Implementation of the Doha Declaration, was one of the many items that included a plan to develop a pio- neering global initiative that was established after considerable effort in cooperation between the Qatari judiciary and various state agencies. 20 HOME SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER 2018