www.thepeninsula.qa Friday 29 May 2020 Volume 25 | Number 8272 6 Shawwal - 1441 2 Riyals

BUSINESS | 01 SPORT | 08

EU can move on Premier League to Brexit, but needs UK restart on June 17 to budge, says EU after coronavirus trade chief shutdown

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CONNECT voucher with Shahry 5G #Hadaya_Ooredoo *Terms and conditions apply Amir and Russian President review HMC announces new strategic ties, global developments protocol for handling COVID-19 patients THE PENINSULA — DOHA Majority of patients with COVID-19, will be Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has announced a new discharged from healthcare facilities after 14 protocol for the handling of days of their first positive swab. COVID-19 patients in compliance with World Health The new discharge policy applies only to Organisation’s guidelines. those patients who do not require medical According to the new pro- tocol, the majority of patients support. QNA — DOHA with COVID-19 in Qatar will be and enhancing them in the fields of investment, discharged from healthcare Discharged patients should follow the health military, defence, health and sports cooper- facilities 14 days after their first instructions including downloading and Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani ation, especially the exchange of experiences positive swab. Upon discharge yesterday held via telephone a conversation in the field of organising FIFA World Cup Qatar from a hospital or isolation activating the Ehteraz application. with H E Vladimir Putin, President of the 2022. facility, patients should follow Russian Federation The latest developments in global energy the instructions provided by Discharged patients should remain in home During the call, the strategic relations markets and the most prominent issues on the medical professionals, quarantine for an additional week and between the two friendly countries were regional and international arenas were also dis- including downloading and reviewed, in addition to ways of supporting cussed during the call. activating the Ehteraz mobile offenders will be subject to penalties application. according to the penal code laws. But, they should also remain in home quarantine — not Mosques will remain closed in leaving home for any reason — for an additional week and those who violate these condi- Qatar, says Ministry of Awqaf tions will be subject to penalties according to the penal code THE PENINSULA — DOHA laws on the prevention of infec- tious diseases and the pro- The Ministry of Awqaf and tection of the community. Islamic Affairs has clarified that To date, many patients have the decision to suspend the remained in hospital or iso- prayers in mosques is still in lation facilities for longer than place while responding to the 14 days as their discharge news shared on social media required them to have two neg- the most recent scientific evi- come through because for some about reopening of the mosques. ative PCR test results before dence showing that after 10 days people the body still contains The Ministry of Awqaf con- leaving the facility. The new from the first positive swab, the traces of the virus. However, firmed on its Twitter account that protocol will benefit patients by majority of patients are no longer guidance from WHO and from the decision to suspend prayers prayers is “not official”. mosques. Preventive measures enabling them to return home contagious with COVID-19,” said around the world, including the inside mosques will continue as The illustrative pictures, and social distancing will and back to normal life as Dr. Naema Al Molawi, Virologist United Kingdom, United States, part of preventive and precau- showing worshipers per- remain and instruction stated quickly as possible. at HMC. and Germany shows that patients tionary measures taken by the forming prayers and have been in these educational materials “The new protocol for dis- “Our process for discharge so are no longer contagious after ten State to curb the spread of circulated widely on social will be followed when the sit- charging patients with COVID-19 far has required patients to wait days. In Qatar, we will go a step COVID-19. The Ministry also media platforms are a proactive uation would allow reopening is an encouraging step forward for two negative swabs before further with a 14-day period pointed out that the news circu- educational materials which of mosques according to the and brings Qatar in line with the being able to return home. between the first positive swab lated in social media regarding prepared to educate the com- conditions to be specified by the World Health Organisation However, a negative test result and discharge,” added Dr. Al reopening of mosques for munity before reopening the authorities concerned. (WHO) recommendations and can take a number of weeks to Molawi. `P2 Qatar: Unjust blockade threatens region’s security and stability

QNA — NEW YORK meeting held by the UN Security Alya said. Instead of seeking to The State of Qatar is an active Council on the ‘Protection of contribute to solving and settling member of the support group of The State of Qatar reiterated that civilians in armed conflict’. these crises and their root causes, the UN Office for the Coordination the unjust blockade imposed H E Sheikha Alya said the the blockading countries have of Humanitarian Affairs, H E said, against it threatens the security Security Council stressed the Instead of seeking to chosen a path that violates the pointing to the assumption of the and stability of the region, importance of conflict prevention contribute to solving and provisions of international law State of Qatar to chair the group violates international law and in the context of a commitment and contradicts the orientations for the month of July. contradicts the orientations of to collective action to spare settling these crises and of the international community, H E Sheikha Alya noted the the international community, people all over the world the suf- their root causes, the she added. support to country-based stressing that this blockade is fering and destruction caused by Her Excellency added that the pooled funds in the UN Office imposed under false pretexts conflicts and to enhance inter- blockading countries State of Qatar is proud of its part- for the Coordination of Human- without regard for the dire national peace and security. have chosen a path that nership with the United Nations itarian Affairs since 2016, by consequences for the security Her Excellency expressed her violates the provisions of system to improve the United providing unearmarked and and stability of the region. regret that this approach was not Nations ability to respond quickly rapid funding to bridge funding This came in a statement observed in many cases, as the international law. to the millions of civilians in need gaps, referring to the support delivered by Permanent Rep- unjust and unlawful blockade in armed conflicts, noting Qatar’s provided by the State of Qatar resentative of the State of Qatar against the State of Qatar will multi-year and unearmarked to humanitarian efforts in Syria, to the United Nations Ambas- enter its fourth year on June 5. regard for the dire consequences Arab region is witnessing many contributions to the United Yemen, Afghanistan, Iraq, sador H E Sheikha Alya Ahmed The blockade is imposed for the security and stability of crises and conflicts that cause tre- Nations Office for the Coordi- Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey and bin Saif Al Thani during a virtual under false pretences without the region, at a time when the mendous suffering, H E Sheikha nation of Humanitarian Affairs. Nigeria. `P2 Record 2,116 patients recover from COVID-19 NEW NEW CASES ACTIVE THE PENINSULA — DOHA Qatar records 1,967 new cases. The Ministry has also clarified RECOVERIES ANNOUNCED CASES that cases of infection have also 2,116 1,967 35,482 Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) New cases were detected after conducting increased among citizens and has announced 2,116 new recov- investigations by the research and investigation residents as a result of contact eries from COVID-19, which is with infected family members, higher than 1,967 new confirmed teams of the MoPH. lack of adherence to health cases reported, yesterday. The instructions and regulations. Most COVID-19 TOTAL TOTAL Ministry has also announced Non-compliance with health instructions, of the infection cases are taking DEATHS RECOVERIES three deaths due to COVID-19. place in workplace or through QATAR UPDATES regulations and contact with infected family ON 28 MAY 2020 33 15,399 Some 23 people were admitted visits and family gatherings. to intensive care due to the virus, members behind the hike in new cases. The new confirmed cases of bringing the total number of cases infection have been introduced in intensive care to 214. The three new deaths recorded yesterday belong to complete isolation in the among citizens and residents also said that most infected are The MoPH said that the new to people aged 81, 50 and 25 years. various medical facilities in the witnessed a significant rise, people ignoring the preventive cases are due to expatriate country, where they receive the with the number of infections measures recommended by the workers who were infected with new cases of infection among investigations by the research and necessary healthcare according relating to family gatherings, concerned authorities; most the virus as a result of contact with groups of workers in different investigation teams of the MoPH to the health status of each case. visits and sharing meals importantly staying at home individuals who were previously regions. The new cases have been that contributed to early detection The Ministry revealed that together with relatives and and maintaining social dis- infected, in addition to recording identified after conducting of cases. the number of positive cases extended families. The Ministry tance. `P3 02 HOME FRIDAY 29 MAY 2020

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER TODAY

FAJR03.17 am SUNRISE 04.44 am o o Misty at places at first becomes hot daytime with slight dust at times and mild by night. ZUHR 11.31 am ASR 02.56 pm 29 C 40 C Minimum Maximum HIGH TIDE 07:44–21:50 LOW TIDE 05:01 – 13:42 MAGHRIB 06.21 pm ISHA 07.51 pm W ALRUWAIS: 29o↗35o W ALKHOR: 26o↗38o W DUKHAN: 29o↗34o W WAKRAH: 26o↗38o W MESAIEED 26o↗38o W ABUSAMRA 26o↗37o

MADSLA: Public OFFICIAL NEWS sector to continue NCCCR continues to deliver high-quality COVID-19 timings Amir sends services during COVID-19 pandemic greetings to THE PENINSULA — DOHA For the safety of all patients, the Outpatient under quarantine. Visitors are Communicable Disease Centre President of The Ministry of Administrative Department at NCCCR has been relocated to limited to inpatients at NCCCR (CDC).” The female patient who Azerbaijan Development, Labor and the Ambulatory Care Center (ACC). All patients and patients can get their has met Dr. Al Bader after Social Affairs (MADSLA) has routine medicine by Q-post. recovering form COVID-19, was said that when government with an incoming scheduled appointment will If a cancer patient is expe- thankful for the treatment that DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim sector reopens after Eid Al Fitr be contacted by the NCCCR physicians and riencing cold or flu-like she received at CDC. bin Hamad Al Thani sent yester- holidays, they will adhere to have a telephone consultation. symptoms such as cough, fever “I’m one of those COVID-19 day a cable of congratulations the same working hours and or shortness of breath, or if victims, but thankfully I to the President of the Republic percentage of employees patient under quarantine wants recovered. The staff at CDC are of Azerbaijan, H E Ilham Aliyev allowed at workplace, as FAZEENA SALEEM cancer patients that HMC has to speak to oncology/ hema- very committed and they took all on the occasion of Republic announced earlier as part of THE PENINSULA taken all possible precautions tology physician about ongoing needed precautions, because the Day. the COVID-19 precautionary to prevent the spread and treatment can call the hotline requirements for my treatment The Deputy Amir H H measures. Hamad Medical Corporation’s infection with the new COVID- 16000 and press option three was different from a normal Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad “We would like to remind National Center for Cancer Care 19,” she said in a video posted (3). The hotline is available 24 COVID-19 patient with no medical Al Thani sent a cable of con- everyone of the working and Research (NCCCR) on HMC’s Facebook page. hours a day, seven days a week. condition,” said the woman gratulations to the President of hours in the government continues to deliver high- For the safety of all patients, Referring to a cancer patient recovered from COVID-19. the Republic of Azerbaijan, H sector, starting from Sunday quality cancer services during the Outpatient Department at diagnosed with COVID-19, D. Patients with cancer are E Ilham Aliyev on the occa- May 31, 2020 will be from the COVID-19 pandemic. NCCCR has been relocated to Al Bader said, “She is a breast urged to take additional pre- sion of Republic Day. 7am until 1pm with 20% of Measures has been taken the Ambulatory Care Center cancer patient, treated at vention measures to avoid con- The Prime Minister and Minis- employees at workplaces protect all vulnerable patients (ACC). All patients with an NCCCR. She is undergoing tar- tracting COVID-19 as even a mild ter of Interior, H E Sheikh Khalid (offices) and 80% working and limit the risk of exposure incoming scheduled geted treatment. She came here illness associated with the virus bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani from remotely,” the Ministry to patients and staff. Also appointment will be contacted for her regular appointment for could cause serious complica- also sent a cable of congratu- tweeted yesterday. necessary procedures are by the NCCCR physicians and treatment and she was com- tions, due to cancer patients lations to the Prime Minister of “We remind all employees implemented if a cancer patient have a telephone consultation. plaining of a mild throat pain. already having a weakened the Republic of Azerbaijan, H E and visitors of the need to is tested positive with Based on the patient condition So we test her for COVID-19 and immune system. They are Ali Asadov on the occasion of adhere to the precautionary COVID-19, Dr Salha Bujassoum the physician may also offer a the result came positive. All advised to avoid contact with Republic Day -QNA measures like wearing face Al Bader, Senior Consultant physical visit in the ACC pro- necessary procedures were individuals who are sick and to mask and maintaining social Medical Oncologist at NCCCR. vided that the patient has no taken immediately and the strictly adhere to hand hygiene Amir sends distance announced earlier to “I would like to reassure flu-like symptoms and is not patient was treated at and social distancing measures. greetings to protect members of society from the coronavirus,” the Ethiopian Ministry added. President Qatar has made wearing masks in public compulsory DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh as part of the efforts to fight Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani the COVID-19 epidemic. sent yesterday a cable of congratulations to the President of the Federal Unjust blockade Democratic Republic of threatens region’s Ethiopia, H E Sahle-Work Zewde on the occasion of security and her country’s National Day. The Deputy Amir H H Sheikh stability: Qatar Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani FROM PAGE 1 sent a cable of congratula- tions to the President of the In line with the State of Federal Democratic Republic Qatar’s intention to support of Ethiopia, H E Sahle-Work the International Committee Zewde on the occasion of her of the Red Cross, a joint dec- country’s Ntional Day. laration of intent, the first of The Prime Minister and Minis- its kind in the region, was ter of Interior, H E Sheikh Khalid signed to support civilians bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al affected by armed conflict, Thani sent a cable of congratu- which contributes to strength- lations to the Prime Minister of ening respect for international Maintaining precautions the Federal Democratic Repub- humanitarian law, she said. lic of Ethiopia, H E Abiy Ahmed In the context of sharing Hypermarkets across the country have adopted precautionary measures to limit the spread of COVID-19. A view from a popular on the occasion of his coun- PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA responsibility and interna- hypermarket in Doha. try’s National Day.-QNA tional cooperation to address the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Her Excellency underlined cooperation Qatari Forum for Authors discusses between the State of Qatar and Nato in support of the calls made by the Secretary- writing experience during Eid General of the United Nations THE PENINSULA — DOHA to counter the humanitarian studying medicine in Britain, members. For his part, Leb- effects of this pandemic, The Qatari Forum for Authors but the circumstances of the anese critic and novelist Dr. Ali noting the support provided held remotely another session COVID-19 pandemic forced her Nesr talked about his memories by the State of Qatar to the of ‘Writers’ Council’ on writing to return to the country. The about Eid in Lebanon and the global appeal launched by the during Eid . story includes initiative of the customs he experienced during UN Office for the Coordination The session was moderated students to volunteer within the his childhood. of Humanitarian Affairs to by the writer Maryam Yassin Al medical team after she spent 14 He noted that although the FROM CLOCKWISE LEFT: Saleh Gharib, Maryam Yassin Al Hammadi, provide support for the trans- Hammadi, the general manager days in quarantine. world is intersecting with new Dr. Ali Nesr and Sarah Al Yacoub portation of humanitarian and of the forum, and the writer, The winning this award ideas, accelerated technology medical supplies by air Saleh Gharib, the program comes after her first cultural and aspects of modernity, but through the Nato Disaster director of the forum, through experiences through her partic- still traditional festivities are Relief Coordination Center. the Microsoft-Teams app, said ipation in school morning need for happiness. Sheikha Alya said that the the Ministry of Culture and assembly, cultural competitions Ali Nesr talked about some world is facing today an Sports in a statement. and debates organized by her aspects of Qatari literature unprecedented global health The Writers’ Council hosted school. She praised the initiative through a master’s thesis pre- crisis as a result of the the student, Sarah Al Yacoub, launched by the Qatari Forum pared by a Lebanese student COVID-19 pandemic, pointing winner of the Youth Literature for Authors, under the super- residing in Qatar on the novel to the forced displacement of Competition, which was vision of writer Hessa Al Awadi.. ‘Al Qunbula’ (The Bomb) by more than seventy million organised by the Forum in Student Sarah Yacoub also Ahmed Abdel Malek. people due to armed conflicts, March. talked about the Ramadan and He said that this distin- reading in the heritage books in celebrating the holiday, saying that they are the most Sarah Al Yacoub spoke Eid during when people kept at guished novel, with beautiful that fit the holy month. which turns into a noble and vulnerable to the threat of the about her participation in homes, noting that she learned narrative techniques, provides “We were deprived of many appropriate value for resolving pandemic. this competition with a lot of things, including how to a comprehensive and extensive things because of this pandemic differences and breaking psy- She stressed the need for encouragement and follow- prepare popular meals, and view of Qatari traditions and but it helped us in social man- chological barriers, reconcili- immediate action by the inter- up from her mother, noting how she devoted to helping her customs. For its part, Kuwaiti agement,” said Al Sadia. ation and visits. At the end of national community to protect that her winning work was mother in house chores, writer Al Sadia Lemufreh said For his part, writer Mokhtar the session, the members gave civilians in light of the risks about ‘14 days’ based on a strengthening the bonds of love that staying at home provided Khawaja talked about the advice to the young writer to posed by the pandemic, story of a Qatari student and affection among family opportunity to regain her customs and traditions of Sudan continue writing. stressing the critical importance of a serious response by all parties to armed conflicts to the call of the UN Secretary-General HMC announces new protocol for handling COVID-19 patients on March 25, 2020 for a general ceasefire in the world. FROM PAGE 1 “Over the past few weeks we have follow the instructions provided by “The policy will apply to the vast Concluding, Sheikha Alya The new discharge policy applies been seeing an increase in the number medical professionals, including down- majority of COVID-19 patients; however, pointed out that the State of only to those patients who do not require of patients making a full recovery from loading and activating the Ehteraz there are some exceptions. If the patient Qatar is proud to co-chair the medical support. Any patient with mod- COVID-19. This is very encouraging, and mobile application. They should also is returning to a household which Group of Friends of the erate to severe symptoms that require we expect the number to continue to remain in home quarantine – not leaving includes one or more people over 60 Responsibility to Protect with ongoing medical treatment will continue increase in the near future. While some home for any reason – for an additional years of age, and it is judged appropriate, Denmark and Costa Rica. to be cared for in a medical facility until people can become seriously ill as a week and their Ehteraz status will an additional COVID-19 test will be done Her Excellency affirmed their symptoms subside. result of the virus, the vast majority of remain yellow for this period of time. prior to discharge. If the test is positive Qatar’s endeavor, on the fif- “Under the new policy asymptomatic patients make a full recovery and expe- “The revised policy, which was the patient will remain in a hospital or teenth anniversary of the patients – those who display no rience only mild symptoms. There is approved by the Ministry of Public isolation facility for further seven days launch of this historic principle symptoms – will be discharged fourteen clear evidence from around the world Health, is based on the latest scientific and will then be discharged without a at the 2005 World Summit of days from initial diagnosis. For mildly that after ten days of testing positive for knowledge about the dynamics of the repeat test. Additionally, hospitalized the United Nations, to ensure symptomatic patients, isolation can be the virus people are no longer conta- virus and the recent changes in US and patients, especially older patients and that the international com- discontinued fourteen days from diag- gious. This means they cannot pass the European Centers for Disease Control those with chronic conditions, who had munity will not again fail to nosis and a minimum of five days from virus on to other people and can and Prevention guidelines as well as required acute care because of severe stop the crimes of the mass resolution of symptoms, whichever is therefore return home and start to get World Health Organization guidelines,” COVID-19 symptoms, will be judged on atrocity crimes such as war longer,” said Dr Nasser Al Ansari, Head back to their normal lives,” said Dr Al said Dr Muna Al Maslamani, Medical a case-by-case basis by the treating phy- crimes, ethnic cleansing and of Infection Control at Hazm Mebaireek Ansari. Upon discharge from a hospital Director, Communicable Disease Center sician before discontinuing isolation,” crimes against humanity. General Hospital. or isolation facility, patients should and the Medical Director for COVID-19. added Dr Al Maslamani. FRIDAY 29 MAY 2020 HOME 03

Record 2,116 88-year-old Qatari man cured of COVID-19; patients recover from COVID-19 family hails the care given at HMGH FROM PAGE 1 The Ministry stated that the THE PENINSULA — DOHA three new deaths recorded yesterday belong to people An 88-year-old Qatari man, aged 81, 50 and 25 years, who believed to be the oldest patient were suffering from chronic to recover from COVID-19 in diseases and received Qatar, has been discharged treatment in intensive care. from hospital, earlier this week. The Ministry of Public Health He has spent 11 days at has extended sincere condo- Hamad Medical Corporation’s lences and great sympathy to (HMC) Hazm Mebaireek General the families of the deceased. Hospital (HMGH) and dis- The Ministry of Public charged after recovering. Health states that Qatar is still The man was admitted in in the peak phase of the virus mid-May with COVID-19 and a outbreak, which is seeing a rise fractured femur (thighbone). His in the number of infections recovery is not only a tangible recorded daily, and therefore example of the high-quality it is necessary to adhere to, care provided by HMC, but it is more than ever before, the also a cautionary tale of how preventive measures and dangerous this virus can be, social measures recom- especially to the most vul- mended. This includes main- nerable members of our com- taining physical distance from munity. The man has been others in the workplace and transferred to Rumailah Hos- public places, using a facemask pital where he will continue to and avoiding social visits to receive treatment, including reduce the risk of contracting physiotherapy and the virus. rehabilitation. The Ministry also stresses “Thank God the patient has the importance for the elderly recovered from his COVID-19 or those suffering from chronic diagnosis in addition to a The man’s son during a visit to the hospital to personally thank the team who cared for his father. diseases and their family fracture in his thighbone. Our members to follow strict teams here at Hazm Mebaireek “Thank God the patient has recovered from his COVID-19 diagnosis the team who cared for his measures to reduce the General Hospital performed the father. chances of infection, including necessary surgery to repair his in addition to a fracture in his thighbone. Our teams here at Hazm “I’m here to thank all staff refraining from social visits. femur and we also treated him Mebaireek General Hospital performed the necessary surgery to at hospital for the care given Anyone who has symptoms for COVID-19. He has been dis- to my father during his stay. I of COVID-19 should either charged from our hospital and repair his femur and we also treated him for COVID-19. He has been also wish to extend my grat- quickly contact the 16000 hel- will now continue his recovery itude to H H the Amir, staff at pline or go directly to one of and receive physiotherapy at discharged from our hospital and will now continue his recovery Ministry of Public Health for the designated health centers Rumailah Hospital,” said and receive physiotherapy at Rumailah Hospital,” said Hussein all the care given to my father for testing the virus. This is Hussein Abdulaziz Al Ishaq, and other patients,” said Saud important as the earlier the Executive Director of HMGH. Abdulaziz Al Ishaq, Executive Director of HMGH. Al Ahmadi son of the disease is detected the easier Al Ishaq expressed his grat- recovered man. it will be to receive the right itude for the ongoing efforts and Al Ahmadi met with the staff treatment and recover from it. wise leadership of H E Dr Incident Command Committee (NCCCR) and a member of expressed their appreciation for at Hazm Mebaireek General The four main testing Hanan Mohammed Al Kuwari, (SWICC) at HMC and Dr SWICC. He said patients are the team at Hazm Mebaireek Hospital greeted and thanked centers are: Muaither Health Minister of Public Health and Mohamed Salem, Medical HMC diagnosed with COVID-19 General Hospital, with the them as shown on a video Centre, Rawdat Al Khalil Health Dr. Saad Al Kaabi, Chair of the Director of the National Centre are receiving world-class care. man’s son visiting the hospital posted on the social media Centre,Um Slal Health Centre; COVID-19 System-Wide for Cancer Care and Research While, patient’s family yesterday to personally thank pages of HMC. and Al Gharafa Health Centre. GU-Q scholars examine most pressing issues of COVID-19 crisis

THE PENINSULA — DOHA to contain the viral outbreak. Higher education institutions have Top scholars from Georgetown an important role to play in the University in Qatar (GU-Q) in the fields response to the crisis, explained Dr. of history, political science, ethics, Gulf Dallal, who moderates all three panels studies, and theology have come in the series. together to examine the most pressing “Knowledge and education are issues of the COVID-19 crisis through essential to recovery from the a series of virtual panel discussions current global crisis, and are the hosted by GU-Q’s Dean, Dr. Ahmad very foundation of human well- Dallal. The Pandemic Panels aim to being. Factual evidence and fact- engage the QF partner’s faculty based decisions are the foundations members in analyzing historical prec- of our human strength, and resil- edents, policy impacts and relevant ience, and welfare.” ethical issues surrounding the He adds that while experts look to COVID-19 response, in order to the past to understand the biological contribute to the construction of an origins of an emerging infectious evidence-based road to recovery from disease, a study of history is also the pandemic. required for any understanding of the Reflecting on key outbreaks of social, political, and economic reper- emerging infectious disease and other cussions of pandemics. threats to national security in the past, “We hope this forum will construc- the Pandemic Panels examine how tively channel the intellectual energies these events inform the current crisis. of the participants to better inform the Over the three part series, issues general public and reflect on not only Pirbhai, who specializes in South Asian notes were similar to the national Recovery, brings the expert focus examined include how political and how we got here, but also where we and World History, discussed the responses to the crisis today. back onto the response and path to economic systems are being reshaped need to go next, and most importantly, bubonic plague outbreak that affected The second panel, Governance In recovery for Qatar and the Middle as a result of the crisis, and the impact what that road to recovery might look south Asia in the late 1800s. A Time Of Pandemic: A Global View, East. on ethics, global trade, access to like.” At the time, British colonial author- draws the connections between The GU-Q Pandemic Panels resources, and the balance of indi- In the first panel, The COVID-19 ities set up a plague committee and national and global strategies and including a full list of the participating vidual liberty and public welfare in Pandemic: Historical and Cultural Per- relied on expert input, implementing responses, and the third panel, scholars are available for viewing on light of the response measures needed spectives, Associate Professor M. Reza a series of measures that Dr. Pirbhai Regional Concerns In Pandemic the university’s website. HEC Paris in Qatar to run COVID-19 webinar series by WCM-Q brings online information session expert medical opinion to community THE PENINSULA — DOHA The COVID-19 Live Webinar THE PENINSULA — DOHA provide participants with an The HEC Paris in Qatar Spe- Clinical Series was developed by understanding of the social, eco- cialized Master’s comprises three Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) has WCM-Q’s Division of Continuing HEC Paris, will be running an nomic and environmental aspects stages, starting with the core cur- launched a live webinar series to allow the online information session about of international business, as well riculum focused on strategy, healthcare community in Qatar to discuss Professional Development. In its degree programs on as the skills to implement their finance, leadership and change. the challenges posed by the COVID-19 addition to providing a means Wednesday, June 3, from 4pm to vision. The curriculum is built Participants can also personalize pandemic, its impact, recommended for discussing the implications 5pm, Qatar time. around three components: 11 core their learning journey further by responses and treatment protocols. of the pandemic, the webinar During this session, pro- courses covering key business choosing one of the three tracks: The COVID-19 Live Webinar Clinical spective participants can meet areas, a specialization (major), and General Management, Digital Series was developed by WCM-Q’s Division series also addresses an urgent HEC Paris in Qatar admissions a final strategic business project Innovation & Transformation, and of Continuing Professional Development. need to support the ongoing team remotely to learn more about (capstone project). Entrepreneurship & Business In addition to providing a means for dis- learning of the local healthcare accelerating their career path by The comprehensive core Development. cussing the implications of the pandemic, community while physical studying in one of the world’s most courses include modules on Furthermore, the profes- the webinar series also addresses an urgent prestigious business schools. strategy, analysis and implemen- sional thesis enables participants need to support the ongoing learning of distancing measures are being Apart from providing useful tation, as well as leadership and to focus on a specific challenge the local healthcare community while observed. career tips, this online session is human resources management. related to their industry and physical distancing measures are being also intended to give professionals Participants will choose one of the provide detailed and well- observed. and entrepreneurs from the eight specializations, delivered in researched solutions. The live webinars are accredited Epidemic and its Future; and Dr. Malavika private and public sector in-depth different locations. The program reflects HEC locally by the Qatar Council for Prabhu on COVID-19 and pregnancy on insights into how they can enhance These specializations are Paris’ commitment to contribute Healthcare Practitioners-Accreditation June 4. their leadership skills through HEC Energy; Innovation & Social to the development of a Department (QCHP-AD) and interna- Other scheduled speakers are Devin Paris’ renowned International Business; Entrepreneurship & knowledge-based economy in tionally by the Accreditation Council for Thompson on airways management on Executive MBA (EMBA) and Spe- Innovation; Differentiation & Qatar and to strengthen corporate Continuing Medical Education (ACCME). June 10; Kirsten Ann Uhde on June 17 on cialized Master’s Degree in Stra- Innovation through Services; competitiveness in the region. The The speakers include Dr. Ibrahim prevention of aerosolization when pro- tegic Business Unit Management Leading Digital Transformation; next intake of the Specialized Mas- Fawzi Hassan and David Berlin who spoke viding oxygenation and ventilation in the (SBUM) degree programs. Luxury; Finance; and Entrepre- ter’s is November 2020. about intensive care specialists caring for pre-hospital setting; and WCM-Q’s Dr. The International Executive neurship - Project Accelerator. The For more information on the patients with COVID-19, yesterday; Dr. Ravinder Mamtani with a talk titled The MBA is a practical and intense next intake of the Executive MBA session, please email admis- Laith Abu Raddad on June 3 with a talk Evolving Face of the COVID-19 Pandemic 16-month program developed to is February 2021. [email protected]. titled COVID-19: A Scientific Look into the on June 24. 04 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA FRIDAY 29 MAY 2020 Israeli PM: No citizenship for Palestinians in Jordan Valley AP & AFP — The US embassy in Israel issued a security OCCUPIED JERUSALEM alert for the Palestinian territories yesterday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin amid increased tensions over the Jewish Netanyahu said yesterday that Palestinians living in the Jordan state’s plans to annex parts of the occupied Valley will remain in what he West Bank. described as an “enclave” after Israel annexes the territory and control also applies to these Authority has said it is no longer will not be granted Israeli citi- places.” bound by any agreements zenship. Palestinians in the West signed with Israel and the US, Netanyahu has vowed to Bank have lived under Israeli and says it has cut off security press ahead with plans to annex military rule since the 1967 war, coordination with Israel. the Jordan Valley and Jewish when Israel captured the ter- Neighbouring Jordan, a settlements in the occupied ritory, along with east Jerusalem close Western ally and one of West Bank, in line with Pres- and Gaza. The Palestinians want only two Arab states to have ident Donald Trump’s Middle all three territories to form their made peace with Israel, has A handout picture by Iran’s Defence Ministry shows views of an official ceremony where the ministry East plan, a process that could future state. warned of a “massive conflict” handed over 110 high-speed vessels to the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), in the port begin as early as July 1. The Trump plan would grant if Israel proceeds with city of Bandar Abbas, yesterday. The annexation of the the Palestinians limited statehood annexation. Jordan Valley and the far-flung over scattered enclaves sur- Meanwhile, the US embassy settlements would make it vir- rounded by Israel if they meet a in Israel issued a security alert tually impossible to create a long list of conditions. for the Palestinian territories Iran Guards warn US after viable Palestinian state alongside Israel has embraced the yesterday, amid increased ten- Israel, which is still widely seen plan, while the Palestinian sions over the Jewish state’s plans as the only way to resolve the Authority, which administers to annex parts of the occupied receiving new combat vessels decades-old conflict. parts of the West Bank, has West Bank. The embassy advised In an interview with the angrily rejected it and cut ties its citizens living or travelling in AFP — TEHRAN will feel our presence even more remaining defensive is the Israel Hayom newspaper, with the US and Israel. the West Bank or Gaza to in the near future,” the Guards’ nature of our work,” said Netanyahu said Palestinians in Netanyahu said that if the “maintain a high level of vigi- Iran’s Revolutionary Guards navy chief Rear Admiral Alireza Guards commander Major the Jordan Valley, including res- Palestinians accept all the con- lance” and “increase their yesterday warned the United Tangsiri said during a ceremony General Hossein Salami. idents of the city of Jericho, ditions in the plan, including security awareness”. States against its naval presence in southern Iran. “But this does not equal would remain under limited Israel maintaining overall “Violence can occur with in the Gulf as they received 110 Iran and the United States passivity against the enemy,” Palestinian self-rule, with Israel security control, “then they will little or no warning,” said the alert new combat vessels. have appeared to be on the he added, noting that Iran “will having overall security control. have an entity of their own that published on the embassy’s The vessels included brink of an all-out confron- not bow down to any foe.” “They will remain a Pales- President Trump defines as a website. It mentioned check- Ashura-class speedboats, Zolf- tation twice in the past year. The Guards’ navy had been tinian enclave,” he said. “You’re state.” points, markets, tourist sites and aghar coastal patrol boats and The latest confrontation instructed to expand Iran’s not annexing Jericho. There’s a Under a coalition agreement transportation hubs among a list Taregh submarines, state tele- between the arch-foes came naval power until it can ade- cluster or two. You don’t need reached last month, Netanyahu of possible targets for attacks, but vision reported. after the United States accused quately defend “territorial inde- to apply sovereignty over them. can bring his annexation plans did not detail a specific threat to “We announce today that the Guards of harassing its ships pendence and integrity, protect They will remain Palestinian before the government as early a location or to American wherever the Americans are, we in the Gulf in mid-April. naval interests and pursue and subjects, if you will. But security as July 1. The Palestinian citizens. are right next to them, and they “Advancing while destroy the enemy”.

Ex-Tehran mayor Kuwait Airways to lay off 1,500 foreign employees Ghalibaf elected

AFP — KUWAIT CITY coronavirus crisis and its neg- Kuwait, like other oil-rich The carrier’s losses are paid threatened some 1.2 million Iran speaker ative impact on commercial Gulf states, has been severely by the government, which has jobs. Private companies in TEHRAN State-owned Kuwait Airways operations... Kuwait Airways hit by a slump in oil revenues not yet announced any special Kuwait have fired hundreds of AFP — said yesterday it will lay off announces the termination of and the economic impacts of compensation. The Interna- employees but the airline is the 1,500 expatriate employees due around 1,500 non-Kuwaiti coronavirus. tional Air Transport Association first government agency to take Iran’s new parliament to “significant difficulties” employees,” the airline said on Kuwait Airways, which has forecast last month that air such action. yesterday elected former caused by the coronavirus Twitter. a fleet of 30 aircraft, has been traffic in the Middle East and The Kuwait Municipality Tehran mayor Mohammad- pandemic. It said the decision comes mostly grounded like almost all North Africa is set to tumble by has said it would soon sack at Bagher Ghalibaf as its speaker, The loss-making national as part of a “comprehensive airlines in the Middle East due more than a half. least half of its 900 expatriate consolidating the power of carrier, which has a total of plan” to deal with the pan- to the massive lockdowns. IATA said that MENA air- employees. conservatives ahead of next some 6,925 employees, has demic’s economic impacts It, however, operated over lines’ revenues in 2020 will be Around 3.4 million for- year’s presidential election. struggled amid the regional and which meant the company is 200 flights in late April and early slashed by $24.5bn compared eigners live and work in Kuwait, The vote further shifts the worldwide downturn in air facing “significant May to repatriate some 30,000 to last year, and warned the making up some 70 percent of political balance towards travel. “In dealing with the difficulties”. Kuwaiti citizens from abroad. region’s aviation shutdown the Gulf state’s population. ultra-conservative opponents of the relatively moderate President Hassan Rouhani at a time Iran is engaged in a Lebanon removes banking bitter standoff with arch foe the United States. State television said the secrecy rules to fight graft 58-year-old Ghalibaf — also a former national police chief AP — BEIRUT banking secrecy laws, which and ex-commander of the have turned tiny Lebanon into Revolutionary Guards’ air Lebanon’s parliament approved the region’s Switzerland, force —won 230 of the 267 yesterday a law to remove attracting clients from around votes cast to secure one of the decades-old banking secrecy the Arab world who prized the most influential positions in rules in order to better fight anonymity its banks offered. the Islamic republic. rampant corruption that has The new law gives powers Bespectacled, balding and pushed the country to the edge to National Anti-corruption wearing a dark suit, Ghalibaf of economic collapse. Commission and a Special accepted congratulations from The move opens the way for Investigative Committee at the MPs, then moved towards the investigations into bank central bank to investigate bank speaker’s seat with a smile and accounts of current and former account of officials, the report told the chamber: “I thank God officials such as Cabinet min- said. For yesterday's session, for being given a chance to isters, legislators and civil Lebanese lawmakers convened serve the people.” servants, state-run National inside a Beirut theater so that Ghalibaf is a three-time News Agency reported. they could observe social dis- presidential candidate who The restoration of stolen tancing measures imposed served as Tehran mayor from public money in the cor- during the pandemic. Dozens of Demonstrators confronting with riot police as they try to cross barricades on a road leading to the 2005 to 2017. ruption-plagued nation has anti-government demonstrators Unesco Palace where Lebanon’s parliament is holding a legislative session, during a protest against In the vote for the speaker been a key demand of pro- briefly clashed with riot police a controversial amnesty draft law, in Beirut, yesterday. post, he roundly defeated con- testers who have been dem- outside as legislators met. servative lawmakers Fer- onstrating since mid-October As lawmakers in face masks currency losing more than half The amnesty issue has hundreds of Islamists held as eydoun Abbasi and Mostafa against Lebanon’s ruling elite, arrived at the theater, known as of its value against the dollar. deeply divided parliamentary terror suspects. Lebanon and Mirsalim who garnered 17 and which they blame for wide- the Unesco Palace, paramedics After the banking secrecy blocs, with Christian groups Israel are at a state of war and 12 votes respectively. spread corruption and sprayed them with disinfectant measure was passed, Par- calling for pardoning Lebanese some Lebanese who fled to Israel Ghalibaf also received mismanagement. before they entered, one at a liament Speaker Nabih Berri who fled to Israel after it ended now hold Israeli citizenship. the most votes from the The approval of the law time. Lebanon has been facing suspended the session until its occupation of southern Scores of protesters demon- capital in Iran’s February 21 came two months after the its worst economic crisis in later in the afternoon when the Lebanon in 2000, while former strated in Beirut and southern parliamentary election, Cabinet approved a draft reso- decades, with unemployment legislators were to discuss a Prime Minister Saad Hariri and Lebanon yesterday against par- which saw the lowest lution to abolish the country’s figures soaring and the local draft general amnesty law. others want the release of doning those living in Israel. turnout in decades. As Iraq lockdown chokes off imports, local businesses thrive AFP — BASRA, IRAQ Local producers were left be stuck melting in storage,” of goods and services would As a result, Iraq is importing less month — to “tougher moni- in the dust, struggling to said Qassem. drop from $92bn in 2019 to according to data from its trade toring measures”. In Iraq, a national lockdown to compete given their expensive “Now, I can sell at higher $84bn this year and to $81bn in partners. Higher duties force Iraqi halt the coronavirus pandemic raw materials and low outputs prices. We were able to win 2021. It bought $973m worth of retailers to bump up the prices has found some unexpected compared to the enormous back the same markets where Diversification has been a Chinese goods in December but of imported goods, so local fans: local businesses who no quantities being imported. imports once crushed us.” tall order for a country with a that dropped to $775m by April, businesses can better compete longer have to compete with Not anymore, said Amin Experts have long warned fledgling private sector, under- according to the Chinese in the markets. Hadi Abbud, Turkish, Iranian or Chinese Qassem, who has operated an that oil-rich Iraq must diversify developed banking system and General Administration of who owns a plastics factory in imports. ice cream factory in the oil-rich its economy to insulate it from a weak customs regime that Customs. Basra, has already seen an Those countries, as well as province of Basra since 2006. the swings of the energy market. makes it cheaper to import than Imports from Iran also fell exponential surge in orders for Saudi Arabia, Jordan and “The coronavirus crisis has As OPEC’s second-biggest to produce. But with corona- from $450m per month before plastic tubing, usually brought Kuwait, typically flood Iraqi allowed us to prove ourselves oil producer, it relies on oil virus restrictions, all that could the coronavirus pandemic to in from China. markets with inexpensive on the Iraqi market,” he said, exports to fund more than 90 change. As part of Iraq’s $300m currently, according to His factory has been products at prices local pro- relishing the sweet moment. percent of its state expenses. lockdown measures put in place Hameed Husseini, a member of working 24/7 to mould, cut and ducers can’t compete with. Qassem’s 3,000 employees This year, with oil prices in March, it has officially closed the Iran-Iraq Chamber of Com- polish thick plastic cylinders That includes everything across six factories pack crashing to around a third of its federal border posts with merce. Iraq is also taxing proudly stamped “Made in from cars and computers to 144,000 ice cream cones and their 2019 prices, Iraq will Iran, Turkey and Kuwait to both imports more stringently. Iraq.” frozen chicken and even Iraq’s wafer sandwiches every hour. struggle to keep its government people and goods. Its Customs Office “These days, I’m getting national fruit, dates, which in “When there was cheap ice running, pay salaries or import Imports through Um Qasr, attributed “the notable rise” in new orders for plastic tubes recent years were more often cream coming in from Iran, I essential goods. the southern port through customs revenues -- from $2.5 faster than I can even produce imported from the Gulf than had to lower my prices to sell The International Monetary which Iraq brings in crucial food million in the first half of April them,” said Abbud, his white plucked from local palm trees. so that my ice cream wouldn’t Fund projected Iraq’s imports and medicine, have dropped. to $7.3m in the first half of this hair meticulously combed back. FRIDAY 29 MAY 2020 ISLAM 05 The Quran tells who the believers are A S HALAWANI Allah commanded them not to leave him in these situations until they had he Holy Quran is not a storybook asked his permission. If they did this, relating stories from the past, nor then they were of the true believers. Tis it only a book of wisdom. It is Then Allah commanded His Messenger a book of guidance. to give permission when someone Muslims believe also that if anyone asked for it, if he wanted to. wants to understand a given issue, the Abu Hurairah narrated that the Quran should then be consulted. Amaz- Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: “When ingly, one of my mentors used to read any of you joins a gathering, let him say the whole Quran for at least once Salam, and when he wants to leave, let immediately before he starts to write him say Salam. The former is not more anything on the issue he is studying to important than the latter.” (Abu Dawud) see what the Quran has to say about it. However, I think there is more than To me as well as many others, this this in the ayah; though the issue of mentor of mine is one of the most influ- educating the believers about the eti- ential Muslim scholars of the age. quette of dealing with the Prophet Using the same technique in a non- (PBUH) is crystal clear in more than literal way, it is found out that there one place in the Quran to preserve his are four ayahs in the Quran that lofty status as the Messenger of Allah. present an extensive description of the But, here I think that the Quran indi- believers. These ayahs use what can cates it is obligatory for the true be called “the Restriction Style” (uslub believers to realise that they must obey Al Hasr or Al Qasr) which is uniquely their leader, the Prophet (PBUH), and used in the Quran for the purposes of accept all his decisions in all of their stressing certain issues and empha- affairs be it private or common. sizing certain pieces of information as True believers should realise that surely is known to those who are they constitute a whole body with a learned about the inimitable style of single leadership which should be the Quran. obeyed all the time. They should realise Apparently, there are numerous that if the Prophet (PBUH) gives them ayahs in the Quran which speak in one Allah Almighty says: For only those are true believers who, when Allah is permission to leave or refuses to do so, way or another about the believers. this is for their own good and the good However, what is unique about these mentioned, their hearts tremble; and when His verses are recited to them, of the whole Muslim Ummah. four ayahs is their use of the Restriction Style. This style in Arabic — as well as it increases them in faith; and upon their Lord alone do they rely Striving against ordeals in other languages — is very effective (Al Anfal 8:2). This verse describes the quality of true believers who when The fourth and, thus, final ayah in in showing the importance of some- which we are concerned here reads thing and the significance meant to be Allah is mentioned, they feel a fear in their hearts, and thus implement what may mean, attributed thereto. Let us take as an His orders and abstain from His prohibitions. Only those are Believers who have example the hadith in which Prophet believed in Allah and His Messenger, Muhammad (peace and blessings be and have never since doubted, but have upon him) is reported to have said: invoke Him alone for their various oppressed, but how should we help him said, “A believer to another believer is striven with their belongings and their “I was sent by Allah to only perfect needs and even for the fulfillment of if he is an oppressor?’ The Prophet said, like a building whose different parts persons in the Cause of Allah: Such are the sublime morals.” their dreams. Their faith tells them that ‘By preventing him from oppressing enforce each other.” The Prophet then the sincere ones. (Al Hujurat 49:15) (Ahmad’s Musnad) whatever He wills, occurs and that others.’ (Al Bukhari) clasped his hands with the fingers The Muslim Ummah will never be As if the Prophet (PBUH) summed whatever He does not will never interlaced (while saying that). left alone without being exposed to up his entire divine mission in this occurs. They deeply believe in the fact Right Action and Activism (Al-Bukhari) trials, ordeals and afflictions at the matter through using the Restriction that it is Allah alone who has the The above ayah stresses the fact In Allah’s saying, “…and have piety hands of the people of falsehood who Style in the Arabic source of the hadith. decision in His whole Kingdom with that all Muslims are but brothers in of Allah that you may receive mercy,” are always hostile to Allah, His Mes- Accordingly, though there are no associates or partners whatsoever. Islam as is said earlier. One can find it is clear that Allah Almighty com- senger and the true Muslims. Then, the many ayahs dealing with the To quote Said ibn Jubair as cited in many hadiths attesting to this very fact; mends Muslims to have piety in all of stand of Muslims must be decided description of the believers in the Tafsir Ibn Kathir, “Tawakkul (faithful foremost among which are the their affairs and He promises that whether to be patient, not to have any Quran, let us focus here on only those reliance on Allah) is the essence of following: mercy will be granted to those who fear doubt, and to strive for the cause of in which the Restriction Style is used. faith.” Narrated Abdullah bin Umar: and obey Him most. Allah and His faith, or vice versa! These ayahs can be put in the following Amazingly, the following ayah (Al Allah’s Apostle said:“A Muslim is a Therefore, brotherhood can be seen Therefore, those who have perfect order which may differ from their Anfal 8:3) describes the actions of the brother of another Muslim, so he as a positive and constructive rela- faith are those who believe in Allah and order according to the time of reve- believers after their faith has been should not oppress him, nor should he tionship among all members of the His Messenger (PBUH); they do not lation. They are Al Anfal 8:2, Al Hujurat mentioned. The acts mentioned here hand him over to an oppressor. Muslim Ummah under the banner of have any doubts and their faith is never 49:10, 15 and Annur 24:62. include all types of righteous acts such Whoever fulfilled the needs of his Islam. A banner that covers all those shaken. Rather, their faith remains on as performing the salah and spending brother, Allah will fulfill his needs; who obey Allah’s orders and execute conviction. Actions of heart and organs in the cause of Allah. Spending from whoever brought his (Muslim) brother what is demanded from them as per- In addition, it is obligatory on them Allah Almighty says: For only those what Allah has granted includes giving out of a discomfort, Allah, in return, fectly as required while having piety that they gladly give away their life are true believers who, when Allah is the obligatory zakah as well as the rec- will bring him out of one of the dis- and complete submission to the Will and the most precious of their wealth mentioned, their hearts tremble; and ommended voluntary charity. comforts of the Day of Resurrection, of Allah. and property in obedience to Allah when His verses are recited to them, Then, the following Quranic and whoever screened a Muslim, Allah as a means of seeking His Pleasure it increases them in faith; and upon expression emphasises and concludes will screen him on the Day of Resur- Leadership and obedience in this present life and the their Lord alone do they rely. this description of the believers as rection.” (Al Bukhari) The third ayah we are concerned Hereafter. (Al Anfal 8:2) saying: Umm Addarda’ reported: My with here is what follows and which Finally, four ayahs in the Quran This ayah describes the quality of It is these who are, in truth, the husband reported that he heard Allah’s may mean, present a complete description of the true believers who when Allah is men- believers. (Al Anfal 8:4), meaning that Messenger (PBUH) as saying, Only those are believers, who believers who have true faith in Allah tioned, they feel a fear in their hearts, those who have these qualities are the Abu Addarda’ narrated that the believe in Allah and His Messenger: and His Messenger (PBUH) and who and thus implement His orders and believers with true faith. Prophet (PBUH) said: The supplication when they are with him on a matter constitute the whole Muslim Ummah abstain from His prohibitions. Allah of a Muslim for his (Muslim) brother in requiring collective action, they do not that is loyal to Allah and who can enjoin Almighty says in another ayah: Religious Brotherhood his absence will be answered. An angel depart until they have asked for his that which is good and forbid that Moreover, these are the ones who The second ayah that presents is appointed at the head of the (suppli- leave; those who ask for thy leave are which is evil. They can be summed up when they commit any act of obscenity, another aspect of the description of the cating) person; so every time he makes those who believe in Allah and His as follows: or wrong themselves with sin, they true believers in Allah: a supplication for his brother’s good, Messenger; so when they ask for thy - A true believer must have sincere remember Allah, to whom they are The believers are but a broth- the angel says: ‘Ameen! May it be for leave, for some business of theirs, give faith in Allah and should be performing accountable, and so seek forgiveness erhood. So make reconciliation you, too’. (Muslim) leave to those of them whom thou wilt, all commended righteous acts for their sins. For who is it that forgives between your brothers, and have In the hadith narrated by Abu and ask Allah for their forgiveness: for (Al Anfal 8:2); sins but Allah? Nor do they persist in (piety) of Allah that you may receive Hurairah, the Messenger of Allah said: Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. - All true believers are but brothers whatever wrong they have done when mercy. (Al Hujurat 49:10) …Allah helps a servant so long as the (Annur 24:62) and therefore should do what they they know it is wrong. Following showing the faith that servant helps his brother.” (Muslim) Scholars of Tafsir (i.e. Interpre- have to do to keep this sense of broth- (Aal Imran 3:135) must be obtained by the believers as There are many hadiths with this tation of the Quran) see this as a matter erhood intact (Al Hujurat 49:10); It is worth noting here that Imam well as the righteous actions they meaning, such as the following: of etiquette to which Allah has guided - All believers constitute the Muslim Al Bukhari and other Muslim scholars should be observing and sincerely per- Narrated Nu’man bin Bashir: Allah’s His believing servants. As Allah orders Ummah with a single leadership that relied on this ayah (Al Anfal 8:2) and forming, the Quran states that all Apostle said, the believers just as He commanded should be respected and obeyed (Annur those similar, as evidence that faith Muslims are regarded by Allah as “You see the believers as regards them to seek permission when 24:62); increases and varies in strength from nothing but brothers and sisters under their being merciful among themselves entering, - As it is inevitable that the true heart to heart. This is also the view of the umbrella of monotheism. and showing love among themselves He also commanded them to seek believers of Allah are always fought the majority of the reliable and distin- It is reported by Anas that the Mes- and being kind, resembling one body, permission when leaving, especially against and defied, they should have guished scholars of Islam. senger of Allah said: so that, if any part of the body is not when they are doing something faith, patience, certainty of Allah’s The ayah also explains that the true ‘Help your brother, whether he is well then the whole body shares the together with the Messenger (PBUH) victory and they should strive with all believers hope in none except Allah as an oppressor or he is an oppressed sleeplessness (insomnia) and fever with such as the Friday, Eid, or congrega- they have be it their life or dear they direct their dedication to Him one.’ People asked, ‘O Allah’s Apostle! it.” (Al Bukhari) tional prayers, or a meeting for the belongings (Al Hujurat 49:15). alone, seek refuge with Him alone, and It is all right to help him if he is Narrated Abu Musa: The Prophet purpose of consultation and so on. courtesy:onislam.net Spend from that which you love hose who (in charity) charitable people. And the voice from a cloud saying: ‘Go such and such a person.’ It was his nails and wipes out his used to go into this orchard spend of their goods by believer will stand in the shade and irrigate the orchard of your name that I heard. Now footsteps. As for the miser, and drink of its wholesome Tnight and by day, in of his charity on the day of res- such and such person.’ what do you do in your each time he intends to give in water. secret and in public, have their urrection.” (Tabrani) That cloud moved and orchard?’ charity, the armour becomes Anas says: When this verse reward with their Lord: on Abu Bakr Al Siddiq (may poured its water onto a stony The gardener replied: ‘Now tighter and every link of the was revealed: ‘You will never them shall be no fear, nor shall Allah bless him) narrates: I ground. A drain then gathered that you have said this, (this is armour remains firmly in its attain to piety till you spend they grieve. (Quran, 2:274) heard the prophet (PBUH) all that water.’ The man fol- what I do): I look at the place.” from that which you love’ (3:92) “They used to sleep but little saying while standing on the lowed the water and even- produce of this land, I give one Abu Hurayrah Radhiallohu Abu Talhah went to the at night. pulpit: tually saw a man standing in third of it in charity, I, and my anhu said: “I saw ”Rasulullah Prophet (PBUH) and said, “O And in the hours of dawn “Fear the hell-fire even if an orchard, transferring the family eat one third of it, and Sallallohu alaihi wasallam Rasulullah! Allah says: ‘You they used to seek forgiveness. it is by a piece of date, for water with his spade. So he I reinvest one third into the demonstrating with his fingers will never attain to piety till In their wealth there was a surely it sets right the one who asked him: orchard.” (Muslim) like this: he tried to broaden you spend from that which you share for the beggar and the is crooked, it repulses an evil ‘O servant of Allah! What Abu Hurayrah narrates the neck of his upper garment love’. And of all my wealth, defeated.” (Quran, 51:- 17-19) death, and it can fulfill a is your name?’ The gardener that the Prophet (PBUH) said: and it did not expand.” Bayraha’ is the most beloved “Surely the men and hungry person just as it can a replied by giving a certain “The similitude of a miser and (Bukhari,Muslim) to me. I am giving it in charity. women who give in charity full person.” name, the same name which a charitable person is like that Anas narrates: Abu Talhah I hope for its goodness and and give to Allah a goodly loan, The Prophet (PBUH) said: the person had heard form the of two men who are wearing was the wealthiest of all the treasure from Allah. they shall receive double and “Hasten in giving charity for cloud. The gardener asked him an armour of steel. Their hands Ansar in Madinah due to the O Rasulullah! You may for them is a noble reward.” surely calamity does not cross ‘O servant of Allah! Why did are forced towards their upper date orchards which he pos- utilise it wherever Allah tells (Quran, 57:18) paths with it.” (Tabrani) you ask me my name?’ chests and collar bones. Each sessed. Of all his possessions, you to.” The Prophet (PBUH) Uqbah narrates that the Abu Hurayrah narrates The man replied: ‘I heard time the charitable person the orchard, Bayraha’, was the said: “Excellent! That is very Prophet (peace be upon him) that the Prophet (PBUH) said: in a cloud from which this gives in charity, his armour most beloved to him. This profitable wealth. Excellent! said: “Charity extinguishes the “There was a man in a wide water came down, a voice opens up from him to such an orchard faced the Musjid That is very profitable wealth.” heat of the graves for the open field, when he heard a saying: Irrigate the orchard of extent that it even spreads out Nabawi. The Prophet (PBUH) (Bukhari, Muslim) 06 AFRICA FRIDAY 29 MAY 2020 Call for 'conviction' of officers in Mozambique poll observer murder case

AFP — XAI-XAI Prosecutor Leonardo Last month, the public pros- ecutor refused to compensate Mozambique’s public prose- Cumbe’s remarks Matavele’s family on behalf of cutor yesterday called for an marked the end the state. “exemplary conviction” of six of a trial in the Court documents said the elite officers accused of claim was rejected on the basis murdering a poll observer southeastern city that the policemen who killed ahead of national elections last of Xai-Xai for the Matavele were acting “at their year, but denied any state own risk” and not in service of involvement in the killing. murder of Anastacio the government. Prosecutor Leonardo Matavele — a local “Those who committed the Cumbe’s remarks marked the crime are police officers, agents end of a trial in the south- election observer of the state,” Menete told the eastern city of Xai-Xai for the gunned down behind court. murder of Anastacio Matavele “They used state weapons, — a local election observer the wheel of his car which were picked from the gunned down behind the wheel just days before the police arsenal and (returned) of his car just days before the October 15 vote. after the crime.” “Not con- October 15 vote. demning the state to pay com- Matavele’s killers were pensation means transmitting Prime Minister of Libya’s UN-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA) Fayez Al Sarraj (right) caught red-handed after col- vehicle was hit by 13 bullets, the idea that the state allows receives his Maltese counterpart Robert Abela at the GNA headquarters in Tripoli yesterday. liding into another car as they seven of which entered the vic- this type of practise,” he added. fled the scene, allowing police tim’s back and legs. Cumbe debunked the accu- to link the murder to Mozam- “The defendants were sations, claiming the defendants Malta, Libya sign pact to boost bilateral ties bique’s elite rapid intervention hunting Mr. Matavele as if he had planned Matavele’s murder unit. were a rhino,” said Cumbe, who “outside office hours”. ANATOLIA — ANKARA daily Malta Today reported. violence. It launched Operation Six members of the unit called for a “severe conviction” “They were not assigned to During the talks, Sarraj Peace Storm on March 26 to have since been arrested, of the defendants. any mission the day they mur- Malta and Libya yesterday praised bilateral relations counter attacks on the capital. including two officers who The two policemen caught dered the activist,” the prose- signed a memorandum of between the two friendly coun- Following the ouster of late were wounded in the accident. after the car crash had previ- cutor said, adding that the understanding for combating tries and Malta’s support to the ruler Muammar Gaddafi in A seventh suspect escaped ously confessed to taking part officers were “taking advantage irregular migration and consol- Libyan government. 2011, Libya’s government was the crash site before police in Matavele’s murder. of their functions”. idating bilateral relations. Touching upon the latest founded in 2015 under a UN-led arrived and is being tried in Their lawyer, however, It is the first time the killing This came during a visit by developments in Libya, he political deal. absentia. claimed they killed the observer of a rights defender is brought Maltese Prime Minister Robert stressed the need to defeat the Malta has shut its ports to The defendants have been in the context of an “armed to court in Mozambique. Abela to Tripoli in which he dis- aggressive offensive by warlord asylum seekers and migrants charged with voluntary hom- robbery”. The remaining four Menete claims the murder cussed irregular migration with Khalifa Haftar and his militias. since the start of the corona- icide, conspiracy, forgery and defendants have denied all was “politically motivated”. his Libyan counterpart Fayez For his part, Abela extended virus outbreak. However, illegal use of firearms. charges. “(Matavele) was the holder Al Sarraj. support to the Libyan gov- tightened measures did not stop A verdict is expected on If found guilty, they could of electoral information... that This is the first foreign visit ernment, adding that conflict migrants from coming. June 18. each face up to 24 years in he intended to convey... to for Abela since he took office in should be resolved through Arrivals of migrants in Malta “There is no doubt that the prison. central level observers,” the January. dialogue. have increased this year, with defendants’ intention was to Meanwhile, Matavele family lawyer said. Abela also met top Libyan The Libyan government has around 1,135 people entering as kill,” Cumbe told the court. lawyer Flavio Menete asked “They silenced Matavele officials including Foreign Min- been under attack by Haftar’s of March, compared to 136 at Citing forensic reports, the judges to hold the state “civilly because... they are not yet used ister Mohamed Taha Siala and forces since April 2019, with this point in 2019, according to prosecutor said Matavele’s responsible” for the death. to hearing a different opinion.” Interior Minister Fathi Bashaga, more than 1,000 killed in the the UN. Libyan army Algeria recalls France envoy after airing of documentaries destroys 13 AFP — ALGIERS Unprecedented mass pro- The films cited by the intentions on the part of certain “will not accept any inter- armoured vehicles tests rocked Algeria early last Algerian ministry had sparked circles, which do not wish to see ference or tutelage” from Algeria said on Wednesday it year to demand the departure fierce debates on social peaceful relations between abroad. of Haftar militia would “immediately” recall its of veteran president Abdelaziz media. Algeria and France after 58 He was referring to state- ambassador from France for Bouteflika, sparked by the ailing “Algeria, my love”, aired by years of independence”. ments made by French Pres- ANATOLIA — ANKARA consultations after documen- 82-year-old’s announcement France 5, told the story of the France Televisions, which ident Emmanuel Macron early taries about the North African that he would stand for a fifth Hirak protest movement owns France 5, declined to on in the Hirak protest The Libyan army announced country’s anti-government term. through the eyes of five Alge- comment on the Algerian movement, calling for “a tran- yesterday that it had destroyed protest movement were aired In April 2019 he resigned, rians in their 20s from across announcement on Wednesday sition of reasonable duration” 13 armored vehicles belonging on French public television. and in December, President the country. evening. — remarks seen by Algiers as to militias of Khalifa Haftar in The Interior Ministry said Abdelmadjid Tebboune was Directed by French jour- France and Algeria have “interference” in its internal southern Tripoli, the capital of films including two broadcast elected on an official turnout of nalist of Algerian origin Mus- often had tense ties since affairs. Libya. on Tuesday, while “seemingly less than 40 percent. Analysts tapha Kessous, it broke with a Algeria won independence in In recent weeks, the A statement issued via the spontaneous and under the say participation was consid- number of taboos and high- 1962 after eight years of war. Algerian government has official Facebook account of pretext of freedom of erably lower. lighted sociocultural divisions In early April, the French repeatedly blamed “foreign” the Libyan army-led Oper- expression, are in fact attacks Mass protests against the driving the movement, trig- ambassador to Algeria, Xavier NGOs for influencing Algerian ation Volcano of Rage said that on the Algerian people and its ruling system only halted when gering heated discussion on Driencourt, was summoned to media outlets aiming to damage three armoured vehicles pro- institutions” including the army. the novel coronavirus arrived social networks. the foreign ministry after state- state institutions. vided to Haftar’s militias by Citing the “recurrent char- in Algeria earlier this year. The second film, “Algeria: ments on the France 24 satellite Last month, authorities United Arab Emirates were acter” of such programmes on Despite the movement sus- the Promises of the Dawn” was news channel about Chinese blocked three news websites rendered inoperable by the French public TV, it singled out pending demonstrations since broadcast on France’s Parlia- medical aid. that had covered the Libyan forces. two documentaries broadcast mid-March, a crackdown has mentary Channel. Earlier in the year, Teb- protests. The army has gained on Tuesday by France 5 and the continued against regime In its statement, the Algerian boune had called for “mutual Algeria ranks 146 out of 180 ground in Ain Zara and Wadi former colonial power’s Parlia- opponents and independent ministry cited what it said were respect” in Franco-Algerian countries on RSF’s world press Al Rabie regions, the statement mentary Channel. media. “malicious and lasting relations, saying his country freedom index for 2020. added. Earlier yesterday, Libyan army announced that it had destroyed 10 other military Amid lockdown, Kenyan vehicles of Haftar’s militias. Army units have also cleared the Qarizma and Ahya medical startup brings al-Barriya regions in southern Tripoli from militias to “a sig- nificant extent,” army clinic to your home spokesman Colonel Mohammed Gununu said in a REUTERS — NAIROBI call, the health professional written statement. travels to the patient. Having recaptured the Nathalie Maikere sat at her The process from request strategic Al Watiya airbase in dining table, her two children to deployment takes on average western Libya from Haftar’s playing video games a few feet of about 20-30 minutes, said militias on May 18, the army away, as a doctor in a lab coat Carmichael. The key, he added, continues to clear the country unpacked her medical bag and was the health kit. of the militias. took her temperature, pulse, “We show up lock, stock Army units surrounded the and blood pressure. and barrel.” The outsized back- town of Tarhuna, which is Maikere is one of over 600 packs contain equipment being used as a military and Nairobians getting medical care ranging from blood pressure supply base by Haftar’s at home through TIBU Health, gauges to kit for testing for dis- militias. Some militia groups a Kenyan startup. eases to tools that help with the were forced to retreat from It is a small player in a management of illnesses like fronts in southern Tripoli to global movement towards diabetes. defend the town. home-based medical care, and There are US companies Army units have cleared a Nurses participate in a Zumba aerobic fitness program as a way of helping them to cope with working its March launch coincided with offering comparable services, wide region from Haftar’s situations during the coronavirus disease outbreak within the Infectious Disease Unit grounds of the the coronavirus pandemic that like Los Angeles-based Heal militias, including Hamzah, Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, yesterday. has forced much of the world’s and New York-based Pager. Yarmuk and as-Sawarih. They population to stay at home. But TIBU’s price point - also reclaimed some critical Kenya: ‘Poor quarantine centres may raise cases’ “People think that health 1,000 Kenyan shillings (under points from the militias and equals clinic or hospital $10) for a consultation — means took control of the Al Tekbali whenever I’m sick,” said CEO it is targeting Kenya’s middle military camp. ANATOLIA — ANKARA Commission, and Journalists for orders to wear face masks.” and co-founder Jason Car- class with a view to expanding After the Libyan army Justice said in a joint statement. People interviewed by the NGOs michael. “They don’t realise through Africa, where few such cleared southern Tripoli of Kenyan authorities are “potentially “Kenyan authorities are described poor conditions of the that... often you don’t even need services exist at scale. Haftar’s militias, mercenaries facilitating” a rise in coronavirus exposing people to a risk of quarantine facilities, including to go to a clinic. Or that it can One challenge has been to reportedly retreated from infections by forcefully quaran- infection in poorly managed and lack of bedding, water, food, and come to you.” TIBU also admin- create a digital system that fronts in Tripoli and were dis- tining tens of thousands of persons ill-equipped quarantine facil- cleaning supplies, including isters COVID-19 tests in peo- safely stores patients’ health patched to an unknown point in facilities with undesirable condi- ities,” Osieno Namwaya, senior soaps and detergents. ple’s homes. records. from Bani Walid Airport. tions, right groups said yesterday. researcher at HRW was quoted They said they weren’t told of Customers start by Although there is a growing The media recently The quarantine facilities in as saying. test results and that staff did not requesting medical assistance push for digitising health reported that many vehicles Kenya “lack proper sanitation, The authorities have also adhere to the government’s own via a mobile app. They get records in Kenya, much of the carrying mercenaries had protective equipment and been accused of forcing people protocols to ensure that those paired with the closest medical information is still on paper retreated from fronts in food,” Human Rights Watch into quarantine “for violating quarantined do not become officer or doctor, depending on only, raising the risk of ineffi- Tripoli. (HRW), Kenya Human Rights curfew or for not following exposed to the virus. their complaint. After a triage ciencies and data loss. FRIDAY 29 MAY 2020 ASIA 07 India sidesteps Trump mediation offer over row with China

AFP — NEW DELHI We are engaged with when asked about Trump’s dispute, but it was tersely state of Arunachal Pradesh in China, before “dialogue and the Chinese side to tweet. rejected by India. 1962. China still claims some interaction” calmed tempers. India yesterday sidestepped US “Our troops have taken a While blaming each other 90,000 sq km of territory under The focus has since moved President Donald Trump’s offers peacefully resolve very responsible approach for the flare-up, India and China New Delhi’s control. to India’s Ladakh region across to mediate the country’s border this issue. Our troops towards border management,” — the world’s two most pop- While no shot has been fired the border from Tibet. Indian showdown with China, saying it Srivastava added. ulous countries and nuclear- across their border for more defence sources say Chinese was already engaged with have taken a very India is committed to the armed neighbours — have than four decades, there have forces have moved into Indian Beijing to “resolve this issue”. responsible approach objective of maintenance of stressed the need to negotiate been numerous face-offs. In territory at four points. Trump’s offer on peace and tranquility in the a settlement to the latest dispute 2017 there was a 72-day The sources said hundreds Wednesday came after Indian towards border border areas with China... At the along their tortuous border. showdown after Chinese forces of Chinese troops and vehicles defence sources said hundreds management: Anurag same time, we remain firm in Alice Wells, the top US State moved into the disputed have taken over the Indian side of Chinese troops had moved Srivastava our resolve to ensuring India’s Department official for South Doklam plateau on the China- of the Galwan valley, one of the into a disputed zone along their sovereignty and national Asia, said last week that China India-Bhutan border. four disputed sites. 3,500km-long frontier. security.” was seeking to upset the regional Punches and stones were Diplomatic and military “We are engaged with the Affairs Ministry spokesman Last year Trump offered to balance and had to be “resisted”. thrown this month at Naku La observers said both sides Chinese side to peacefully Anurag Srivastava told reporters mediate between India and India and China fought a in India’s Sikkim state, which seemed to be digging in for resolve this issue,” External during a weekly media briefing Pakistan over their Kashmir war over India’s northeastern borders Bhutan, Nepal and another long face-off. India’s virus deaths top China Former Malaysian PM expelled from as global hot spots shift ruling party BLOOMBERG — NEW DELHI according to data from Johns Hopkins University. REUTERS — KUALA LUMPUR India is the latest country whose While still far behind the coronavirus (COVID-19) death number of cases and deaths Malaysian Prime Minister toll has topped the number of seen in places like the US, Spain Muhyiddin Yassin’s ruling lives lost in China, where the and Italy, the rapid growth of party yesterday terminated the pandemic started, as hot spots India’s virus burden comes as membership of his prede- shift to developing countries ill- the pace of new infections starts cessor Mahathir Mohamad, a equipped to contain its spread. to plateau or decline in many move widely seen as an The South Asian nation’s of the wealthier countries attmept to consolidate power death toll hit 4,695 yesterday, where the pandemic first struck, as he faces a possible chal- climbing past the 4,638 fatal- and explode across the devel- lenge to his nascent ities from COVID-19 in China. oping world. premiership. The nation of 1.3 billion In recent weeks, Brazil’s Mahathir, 94, had said he people now has the highest epidemic has quickly grown to would seek to oust Muhyiddin number of fatalities in Asia, be the largest in the world from office for making a excluding Iran, despite the behind only the US, while Peru, “backdoor arrangement” that largest lockdown in the world. Mexico and Chile are all rapidly brought back into power a The country’s death toll developing into problem spots. graft-tainted party rejected by quadrupled in less than a Health experts warned voters in an election in 2018. month, accelerating by more earlier this year of the dangers In a letter circulated than 1,000 over the past week, the coronavirus presents to widely on social media, the while infections have been developing nations such as A young passenger uses a hand sanitiser dispenser before entering the line for the security check-in party stated that Mahathir soaring at a similar pace. Gov- India, which possess fewer area at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), in Mumbai, yesterday. automatically ceased to be a ernment experts have begun to strategies to contain the dis- member after he made a show acknowledge the outbreak ease’s spread than wealthier are under-resourced even to boost economic activity and more time to build up its health- of rejecting Muhyiddin’s lead- won’t peak until June or July. countries. Lockdowns can’t be during the best of times. ease the pain of what’s set to be care system. The government ership as prime minister and The total number of cases maintained for as long in poorer India’s coronavirus infec- the economy’s first annual con- has been scaling up its testing party president by sitting with in India is already about twice countries where many people tions are escalating at the fastest traction in 40 years. to identify new cases, but India’s the opposition when par- the level in China, and also sur- depend on daily wages to pace in Asia as Prime Minister The lockdown — which huge population means its liament met last week. passes those in Iran. Infections survive, crowded slum areas Narendra Modi has been forced began on March 25 and is set to efforts still only cover a rela- Similar letters were also rose to 165,069 yesterday, the make social distancing impos- to start gradually relaxing the end on May 31 — was partly tively small portion of the issued to Mahathir’s son and ninth highest globally, sible, and health-care systems country’s nationwide lockdown aimed at giving the country citizenry. party deputy president, Mukhriz, and three others aligned with the former prime minister. Bangladesh to Sri Lanka to reimpose selective lockdown after cases spike An aide to Muhyiddin con- firmed the letters were partly ease AFP — COLOMBO impose lockdowns on days Workers Congress party had including a woman who authentic. when crowds were likely to been expected to attend. returned from Kuwait last week. Muhyiddin, once a trusted lockdown amid Sri Lanka will reimpose form — including the planned It will then be lifted until Officials said they were lieutenant to Mahathir, unex- selective lockdown restrictions funeral of a popular minister. Thursday, when it will be scaling back repatriations in pectedly emerged as prime virus concerns from Sunday to restrict large The health ministry said imposed again for two days to order not to overwhelm minister in March after forging gatherings after recording its that out of 460 Sri Lankans who coincide with a holiday. facilities. an alliance with the former ANATOLIA — DHAKA biggest daily surge in corona- returned from Kuwait this Under lockdown restric- “It is not easy to increase ruling party, the United Malays virus infections — most found week, some 252 had tested pos- tions, no-one is allowed to leave quarantine capacity overnight,” National Organisation, to gain Bangladesh will partly ease a in citizens repatriated last week itive for coronavirus. home unless they are involved government spokesman a parliamentary majority. more than two-month from Kuwait. All the returnees were being in essential services. Bandula Gunawardana told The opposition have lockdown due to the novel The island nation on held in quarantine. Officials said new cases of reporters. “We are also building accused him of stealing power coronavirus after May 31 for the Tuesday lifted a shutdown on Officials said the lockdown coronavirus were also found at hospital capacity to bring back by shifting alliances instead of sake of the country’s economy, the capital and a neighbouring will apply on Sunday, the day a navy camp outside Colombo. more Sri Lankans who are earning it at the ballot box. a top government official said. district, two weeks after easing of the funeral of tea plantation Some 771 sailors and their stranded abroad.” Mahathir, who resigned The country initially it in other parts of the nation. trade union leader and gov- immediate family members Some 41,000 of around 1.5 the premiership in February imposed the nationwide But after more than 250 ernment minister Arumugam have so far tested positive from million Sri Lankans employed as his multi-ethnic ruling coa- lockdown on March 26 to stem returnees from Kuwait were Thondaman, who died Tuesday. the facility, out of a nationwide abroad have registered with lition collapsed, has said he the spread of the coronavirus found to be infected with coro- Tens of thousands of total of 1,469 cases. Ten people authorities asking to return will seek a confidence vote in and it was later extended navirus, authorities decided to mourners from his Ceylon have died from the virus, home. Muhyiddin’s leadership. several times until May 30. “We have decided to withdraw the nationwide lockdown on a limited scale to South Korea virus spike stirs resume the country’s eco- nomic activities like most of second wave concern, social the European and Western countries,” State Minister for Public Administration Farhad distancing crackdown Hossain said. He added that a gov- REUTERS — SEOUL woman said. ernment gazette in this regard The new cases on a third will be published Thursday South Korea reported 79 new straight day of rising infections after final approval from coronavirus cases yesterday, took South Korea’s tally to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. the most in nearly eight weeks, 11,344 with 269 deaths by mid- Experts, however, have triggering the return of tougher night on Wednesday. A robust expressed concern that the social distancing curbs amid testing programme this year move may exacerbate the the spectre of a second wave was credited with keeping coronavirus outbreak in the of disease in a country praised deaths comparatively low in a overcrowded nation of nearly for containing the first global pandemic that has now 165 million people. outbreak. killed more than 350,000. The leader of a local At least 82 cases this week The warehouse cluster medical doctors’ foundation, have been linked to a cluster of appears linked to an outbreak Dr. Shahed Pavel, said they infections at a logistics facility that emerged in several Seoul had urged the government to run by Coupang Corp, one of nightclubs and bars in early continue the lockdown for at the country’s largest online May, the KCDC said, and comes A makeshift isolation unit for coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients in the United Hospital is pictured least 15 more days after the shopping firms, in Bucheon, amid efforts to ease social dis- after a fire broke out and killed several patients, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Muslim Eid Al Fitr holiday to west of Seoul, the Korea tancing rules. More than 2 stem the spread of the virus. Centers for Disease Control and million children returned to “But citing the country’s Prevention (KCDC) said. class on Wednesday, the latest economic interests, the gov- Five die in Bangladesh hospital fire About 4,100 workers, in a phased opening of schools. ernment has not granted our including 603 delivery people, Unlike many countries, appeal. Now I earnestly AFP — DHAKA “Fire service teams have time (1548 GMT) and soon at the warehouse were believed South Korea did not impose a request to ensure social dis- controlled the fire in around a engulfed the isolation unit, to have not properly followed strict lockdown against the tancing and health guidelines,” Five people were killed in a top hour. Five people have died of which was built adjacent to the social distancing and protective virus. Pavel said. “Otherwise, the Bangladesh hospital on suffocation due to the fire,” hospital in recent weeks to treat measures, such as mask But the rise prompted lethal pandemic may spread Wednesday after a fire swept Hasan said. suspected coronavirus patients. wearing, KCDC deputy director health officials to call yes- on a massive scale within a through a makeshift coronavirus The blaze quickly raced A doctor at the hospital said Kwon Jun-wook told a briefing. terday for a return to tougher short time span.” isolation unit, officials said. through the unit due to the panic gripped patients as the Coupang, one of a group of social distancing rules in major Bangladesh is experiencing The blaze occurred in presence of flammable items fire spread. e-commerce firms whose metropolitan areas, including a surging trend in COVID-19. Dhaka’s posh Gulshan neigh- such as sanitizer, Dhaka police “We are already very plants have scrambled to fill a closing some public places, As of Wednesday a total bourhood and comes as the deputy commissioner Sudip stressed out at work and the fire surge in demand, has said the such as museums, and getting of 544 people have died from country faces a rising number Kumar Chakraborty said. only added to our headache,” Bucheon centre was disinfected employers to adopt flexible the coronavirus since the of coronavirus cases. “Three of those who have he said, speaking on the con- every day, with all employees work plans. country’s first death was con- Fire service official Kamrul died are COVID-19 patients and dition of anonymity. “Thank wearing masks and gloves and Health officials said they firmed on March 18. Of these, Hasan said the fire began when the rest two were COVID-19 God they controlled the fire their temperatures checked. would perform on-site inspec- 275 succumbed to the virus in an air conditioner exploded in negatives,” he said. before it reached the main hos- “We’ll take every measure tions of logistics centres the last two weeks, according a shed belonging to United Police said the fire origi- pital. Otherwise, it would have we can take until safety is con- nationwide, to develop better to government data. Hospital. nated at 9:48 pm Bangladesh been a catastrophe.” firmed,” a Coupang spokes- prevention policies. 08 VIEWS FRIDAY 29 MAY 2020

Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI 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]

A research scientist works inside a laboratory of India's Serum Institute, the world's largest maker of vaccines, which is working on EDITORIAL vaccines against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Pune. Fighting the pandemic Vaccines should not be IT has been three months since the first case of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) emerged in the State of Qatar. Ever since, the country has recorded over 50,000 cases of infection with the virus, with 33 deaths. The authorities moved quickly to take preventive immune to market forces measures and safeguard the most vulnerable after the first cases were detected and have been greatly suc- surgeon charges, although of The market can also help differ- cessful in curbing its spread. course that should not be the only entiate among vaccines. For The recent increase in the number of confirmed factor in your decision. example, some may not scale, cases has been attributed to the peak phase of the out- You might think that you perhaps because of their costly break which the country and the region are currently should ignore market information storage and transport requirements. passing through, according to health officials. However, and simply listen to the WHO and Nevertheless, it might do the world a world-class public healthcare system has resulted in CDC. This argument was easier to good if one or two of those vaccines a very high recovery rate from the infection in Qatar. TYLER COWEN make before the pandemic, but were available as luxury goods, sold More than 15,000 patients have already fully recovered BLOOMBERG now those institutions have made on active markets to wealthy indi- and discharged from hospitals and quarantine facilities. several mistakes in communi- viduals. Making it easier for the For the first time yesterday the number of people recov- The renowned economist Erik cating scientific information, such wealthy to travel safely can boost ering was greater than people being diagnosed with Brynjolfsson recently asked: “At as initially underplaying the risks trade and investment and revitalize the infection. least so far, I haven’t seen any one of Covid-19 and later overplaying business confidence. Rich people So far, more than 0.2 million people have been tested suggesting to use the market skepticism about masks. It is not might also buy doses for their for the coronavirus in the country. With aggressive system to allocate vaccines. Not obvious that they should be the favorite scientists or even enter- testing and contact-tracing, health authorities aim to even those who strongly advocate sole sources of information. tainers, so there could be a benefit reach positive cases as early as possible to help break it in other areas. Why is that?” So how might we get market to society at large. And early expe- the chain of transmission and reduce the spread of As one of several people prices for those vaccines? To rience with limited sales may offer infection in the community. copied at the bottom of the tweet, I repeat: The government should lessons in how to make these vac- The preventive measures taken by the authorities feel compelled to take up the chal- allocate a large share of the vac- cines more scalable. recently included closure of all non-essential businesses lenge. The most obvious point is cines to those working on the front As a purely technical matter, during the Eid holidays, compulsory use of protective that a vaccine should first go to lines. But the U.S. government has you might be afraid that pure price face mask in public and the introduction of contact- health-care workers and others in performed poorly in procuring discrimination will allocate all of tracing mobile phone app ‘Ehteraz’. The app helps track The most obvious critical jobs, rather than to those tests and masks. What reason is the benefits of the vaccine to the COVID-19 cases, informing users if they come into who would pay the most for it. So there to fully rely on it for vaccines, sellers. But there is little danger of contact with anybody who has tested positive for point is that a government action will most likely a far more vital need? that outcome, since each person COVID-19. vaccine should be necessary to do that. Still, I see So it is possible to imagine getting a vaccine confers signif- At the same time, the government has ensured the considerable use for markets in some of the new vaccine products icant benefits on others, through a protection of migrant workers in the country, both from first go to health- allocating vaccines - at some being sold at market prices, subject reduced risk of infection. And if the infection as well as the economic impact of the global care workers and margins. to additional regulation where you are worried that poorer health crisis. Qatar’s efforts to protect the rights of workers others in critical One striking feature of the needed. The market prices for vac- people won’t be able to afford the and ensuring a state-of-the-art healthcare for all have been current vaccine landscape is how cines could be useful for other pur- vaccine, give them vouchers or lauded by diplomats and community leaders. jobs, rather many candidates there are, some- poses as well. If scientific resources other forms of aid. Qatar has also been an embodiment of global coop- than to those times based on different scientific need to be allocated to improve Finally, from a purely American eration in the fight against the pandemic, sending who would pay approaches. That is promising, but vaccines or particular vaccine standpoint, there is no guarantee medical and essential supplies and field hospitals to it means multiple vaccines could approaches, for instance, market that the US will win the race to nations in the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe. the most for it. be circulating at the same time. prices might be useful signals. produce vaccines. Many of the As the country passes through the peak phase of So government Those vaccines could offer varying Note also that the scope of the current Chinese efforts, for instance, the COVID-19 outbreak, it is vital, more than ever now, action will degrees of protection and risk. market might expand over time. In are based on older vaccine ideas, that the public adhere to all the preventive and social If you had to choose among the early days of vaccine distri- and might be ready fairly quickly, distancing measures announced by the authorities. most likely be those vaccines, wouldn’t it make bution, health-care workers will even though they provide only With an aggressive contact-tracing and testing necessary to do sense to look for guidance from be a priority. Eventually, however, partial protection. Americans may system in place, coupled with all the preventive that. market prices? They will reflect most of them will have access to not be first in line to receive Chinese measures, it is hoped the country will soon pass the information about the perceived vaccines. Selling off remaining vaccines, at least not through peak of the outbreak and see significant reduction in value of both protection and risk. vaccine doses might do more to normal bureaucratic channels. new cases. On the same principle, if you need encourage additional production brain surgery, you would certainly than would bureaucratic allo- The author is a Bloomberg opinion want to know what the brain cation at a lower price. columnist. Ensure effective support measures to bolster restarting economy D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR JAPAN NEWS - YOMIURI importance to rescuing people one-person businesses whose which people can go out and EMAIL: [email protected] and companies that could not profits have sharply declined. engage in consumption with Although the declaration of a be covered by past measures. It Start-ups that have just been peace of mind. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 state of emergency has been is appropriate to extend strong launched and do not meet the In the second supple- FAX: +974 4455 7758 lifted, the economy will remain support to people and com- requirement of a year-on-year mentary budget, the gov- in a difficult situation for a panies in need. decline in revenues will also be ernment significantly increased MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 while. Strategic measures must A new system will be included. the amount of subsidies that be implemented to normalize created to enable people who The problem is the slow local governments can use to DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 economic activities while cannot receive on-leave allow- response. The payment of cash strengthen their medical strengthening the safety net. ances from companies to benefits of 100,000 yen per systems, compared with the LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 The government approved directly seek benefits from the person is notably stagnant. It is first supplementary budget. at a Cabinet meeting a second central government. The ben- necessary to devise measures The subsidies will be used BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 supplementary budget that efits will be 80% of their to ensure prompt payment. mainly to support the man- includes additional economic monthly wage. With the patchwork of support agement of medical institu- SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 measures. These efforts, which Some companies have not measures, the system for those tions, and provide medical include loans from financial been applying for employment measures has become even staffers and others with special ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 institutions and money to be adjustment subsidies, which more complex. Further efforts remuneration for their services email: [email protected] paid by local governments, are provided to firms that put are needed to make people to help secure human total about 117 trillion yen, and workers on leave instead of widely aware of the system. It resources. PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 reach about 234 trillion yen firing them, because of the is vital to examine whether Measures to help the email: [email protected] when combined with the first complicated procedures there are wasteful projects and medical field are extremely supplementary budget. involved. Even in that case, the whether the system is being important. They are also ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 The first supplementary employees will be able to used effectively. essential in terms of preparing FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] budget focused on supporting receive benefits. In the Tokyo metropolitan for a second wave of infections. small and midsize companies Freelancers will be eligible area, a growing number of The government should thor- CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 and household budgets that for a system, which did not commercial facilities, restau- oughly examine whether these email: [email protected] have been hit hard by the previously cover them, to rants and others have resumed support measures are sufficient spread of the new coronavirus. provide benefits for small and operations. It is important to and consider additional SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 The second one attaches midsize companies and create an environment in measures if necessary. 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www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar Debt relief must be extended to all developing, middle-income countries /Peninsula_Qatar that request forbearance as they lose /ThePeninsulaNewspaper access to financial markets. Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary-General +974 6698 6188 FRIDAY 29 MAY 2020 ASIA 09 Chinese lawmakers back HK national security law

AP — BEIJING The law reflects the Washington will no longer treat determination of Hong Kong as autonomous from China’s legislature endorsed a Beijing. That could hurt the ter- national security law for Hong President Xi Jinping’s ritory’s attractiveness as a Kong yesterday that has government to tighten business centre. strained relations with the Pompeo’s notice adds Hong United States and Britain and control over Hong Kong Kong to the Trump administra- prompted new protests in the following 11 months tion’s conflicts with China over territory. trade, technology, religious The National People’s Con- of anti-government freedom, Chinese handling of gress approved the bill as it protests. the coronavirus pandemic and wrapped up an annual session the status of Taiwan, the self- that was held under intensive ruled island Beijing claims as its anti-coronavirus controls. The country’s No. 2 leader, defended own territory. vote was 2,878-1 with six the law as consistent with Bei- Li called for mutual respect abstentions, in line with the jing’s promises. “The decision and Sino-US cooperation to Chinese Premier Li Keqiang is seen on screens during a press conference held via online video link high-profile but largely cere- adopted by the NPC session is promote “extensive common following the National People’s Congress at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, yesterday. monial body’s custom of near- designed for steady implemen- interests” in resolving global unanimous support for all legal tation of ‘one country, two problems and promoting trade, ejected from Hong Kong’s leg- cooperation in fighting the be conducted. changes decided by the ruling systems’ and Hong Kong’s long- science and other fields. islative chamber during a coronavirus pandemic but Beijing has resisted pressure Communist Party. term prosperity and stability.” “Both countries stand to debate over a bill that would didn’t answer a question about for an inquiry following crit- The law will alter Hong The law and the way it is gain from cooperation and lose criminalise insulting or abusing how an investigation into the icism it mishandled the early Kong’s mini-constitution, or being enacted prompted US from confrontation,” Li said. the Chinese national anthem. origins of the pandemic response to the disease that Basic Law, to require the ter- Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Yesterday, three pro- In an anti-virus measure, Li demanded by Washington and emerged in central China in ritory to enforce measures to be on Wednesday to announce democracy lawmakers were called for international some other governments should December. decided by the NPC’s standing committee, a small body con- trolled by the ruling party that handles most lawmaking work. Taiwan govt pledges help for fleeing Hong Kongers The law reflects the deter- REUTERS — TAIPEI leave the former British colony Kongers, some of whom may is still working on sympathy in democratic mination of President Xi Jin- because of the new take part in increasingly violent programme. Taiwan, which China considers ping’s government to tighten Taiwan promised yesterday to legislation. pro-democracy protests in China denounced Taiwan’s as its territory to be taken by control over Hong Kong fol- settle Hong Kongers who flee Chen Ming-tong, head of Hong Kong. move, saying its ruling Demo- force, if necessary. Taiwan has lowing 11 months of anti-gov- the Chinese-ruled city for Taiwan’s top China-policy “Many Hong Kongers want cratic Progressive Party was shown no interest in being ernment protests. political reasons, offering help maker, the Mainland Affairs to come to Taiwan. Our goal is seeking to “loot a burning ruled by autocratic China. Activists in Hong Kong say from employment to coun- Council, told parliament yes- to give them settlement and house” and sow discord. Taiwan has no law on ref- the law will undermine the selling, and prompting angry terday that the government care,” Chen said, urging the “Bringing black, violent ugees that could be applied to “high degree of autonomy” condemnation from Beijing as will establish an organisation public not use the word refugee forces into Taiwan will bring protesters seeking asylum, but promised to the former British it pushes security legislation for to deliver “humanitarian as it could be “emotionally disaster to Taiwan’s people,” its laws promise to help Hong colony when it was handed Hong Kong. relief” that includes set- harmful” for people from the China’s Taiwan Affairs Office Kongers whose safety and back to China in 1997 under a Taiwan President Tsai tlement and employment in a city. said, in language Beijing typi- liberty are threatened for “one country, two systems” Ing-wen this week became the joint effort with activists Chen did not give details, cally uses to refer to Hong Kong political reasons. framework and might be used first world leader to pledge spe- groups. such as scale and timing of the protesters. Some say Tsai’s gov- to suppress political activity. cific measures to help people He said counselling services relief when pressed by law- Hong Kong’s demonstrators ernment is not moving fast Premier Li Keqiang, the from Hong Kong who may will also be available for Hong makers, saying the government have won widespread enough. 14 Afghan forces dead in ‘Taliban attacks’ after ceasefire ends Pakistan uses militant-tracking AFP — KABUL the capital, early Thursday, said “Eight Taliban fighters were According to Afghanistan’s that they were ready to start Waheeda Shahkar, spokes- also killed in the clash that Independent Human Rights peace talks. tech to hunt virus Fourteen members of the woman to the provincial lasted for half-an-hour,” he Commission, civilian casualties Afghan authorities have Afghan security forces were governor. said, adding four policemen fell by 80 percent during the responded to the ceasefire by AFP — ISLAMABAD killed in two separate attacks “The Taliban have also suf- survived the attack. short truce. pushing forward with an agreed yesterday in the first deadly fered casualties,” Shahkar said, The Taliban have not com- Kabul-based political prisoner exchange, releasing Pakistan’s intelligence services assaults officials have blamed adding that seven members of mented so far. analyst Sayed Nasir Musawi some 1,000 Taliban prisoners are deploying secretive on the Taliban since the end of the Afghan forces died. Yesterday’s attacks are the said he expected the insur- this week, with plans to release surveillance technology a three-day ceasefire. District police chief Hussain first such assaults Afghan offi- gents to reduce attacks, more in the coming days. normally used to locate mili- The temporary truce ended Shah said Taliban fighters set cials have blamed on the without officially extending A Taliban delegation was in tants to instead track corona- on Tuesday but an overall lull fire to the checkpoint, killing Taliban since the end of the sur- the ceasefire. Kabul yesterday to discuss the virus patients and the people in the country’s grinding vio- five security force personnel. prise ceasefire offered by the “Unofficially, this ceasefire prisoner swap with government they come into contact with. lence has largely held despite Two more were shot dead. militants over the Eid Al Fitr will continue and we will have officials, National Security In a programme publicly the latest attacks, raising hopes In the western city of Farah, festival. a meaningful reduction in vio- Council spokesman Javid Faisal touted by Prime Minister the militants and Kabul could Taliban gunmen mounted an Afghan security forces, lence,” Musawi said. said. Imran Khan, the government soon start much-delayed peace attack on a police post, killing however, carried out air strikes He added that the truce The ongoing exchange is has turned to the powerful talks. seven policemen, provincial in the south on Wednesday that offer from the Taliban was a part of a US-Taliban deal signed Inter-Services Intelligence Taliban fighters attacked a police spokesman Mohibullah police said had killed 18 signal to the Afghan gov- in February, which excluded the agency (ISI) for help in tackling checkpoint in Parwan, north of Mohib said. “militants”. ernment and the United States Afghan government the virus, which still is spreading at an accelerating rate across Pakistan. Details about the project Crashed Pakistan plane have not been released, but two officials said that intel- ligence services are using hit runway three times on geo-fencing and phone-mon- itoring systems that ordi- narily are employed to hunt first approach: Minister high-value targets including homegrown and foreign REUTERS — ISLAMABAD Minister for Civil Aviation militants. Ghulam Sarwar Khan told A lack of awareness, The captain of a Pakistani reporters the plane’s engines stigma and fear have con- airliner that crashed last week, touched the ground three tributed to some people with killing 97 people on board, times on the first attempt at symptoms not seeking approached Karachi airport landing. treatment or even fleeing without announcing he couldn’t “The pilot never announced hospitals, while others open his landing gear and hit the his landing gear wasn’t opening. who’ve had contact with runway three times, a He haphazardly touched the virus patients have flouted government minister said engines thrice with the ground,” self-isolation rules. yesterday. Khan said. Speaking on condition of Search teams recovered the “All marks are present (on anonymity, a senior security cockpit voice recorder from the the runway). He was not at the official said that agencies are wreckage of the Pakistan Inter- proper height... Control tower now “quite effectively” using national Airlines Airbus A320 informed him you aren’t at the the technology to track coro- that crashed into a residential required height, lower your navirus cases. “The gov- neighbourhood of Karachi last altitude,” he said, adding that the ernment has been successful Friday, a spokesman for the pilot replied: “I will manage.” Rose petals and candles are seen during a vigil for the victims of the Pakistan International Airlines’ in tracing even those who airline said. Two people on According to communica- PK8303 plane crash, in Karachi, yesterday. tested positive but went into board survived. tions posted on liveatc.net, an hiding.” Flight PK8303, from the aviation radio monitoring scraped along the runway in the shut down because of their col- including an accessory gearbox Geo-fencing, a discreet eastern city of Lahore, came website, the pilot told con- aborted first landing attempt, lision with the runway, fol- and hydraulic pumps. tracking system that alerts down less than a mile short of trollers “we’re comfortable the pilot reported problems in lowing what appeared to be a “All sorts of things can authorities when someone the runway as it was making a now” during the approach, but maintaining altitude, then said steeper and faster approach happen to an engine if you leaves a specific geographic second attempt to land. the reason for the remark has both engines had failed. than normal. bounce it down the runway,” a area, has helped officials The flight data recorder has left most experts puzzled. Investigators are expected The lower part of the engine person familiar with its design monitor neighbourhoods on already been found. Shortly after the engines to examine whether the engines housing contains key components said. lockdown. Philippines eases one of world’s toughest curbs amid spike in virus cases Philippine health REUTERS — MANILA new cases brought the Manila’s lockdown will this pandemic-induced lockdown people will be allowed. Work- minister, Francisco nationwide tally to 15,588, of weekend surpass the 76-day shuttered businesses and places, shops and some public Philippine President Rodrigo which 921 have led to deaths. quarantine of Wuhan, the sapped domestic demand. transportation will reopen and Duque, said 90 Duterte eased one of the “For me, this does not look Chinese city where the first out- The more relaxed rules will movement in and out of toughest and longest lockdowns bad,” Duterte said in a late night break of the coronavirus was be in place from June 1 to 15, and Manila will be permitted, pro- percent of the in the world for residents in the televised address, citing what detected. local officials can still place vided the people wear masks country’s COVID-19 capital Manila from June 1, even he described as the country’s The easing could help to communities deemed as high and observe social as the country saw its biggest low mortality rate. reduce damage to an economy risk under lockdown. distancing. cases are “mild,” spike in coronavirus cases. His health minister, Fran- that is facing its deepest con- Health authorities have Schools, universities, tourist and only less than 2 The Philippines reported cisco Duque, said 90 percent of traction in 34 years. The conducted nearly 290,000 tests destinations and dine-in restau- 539 infections yesterday, the the country’s COVID-19 cases economy unexpectedly shrank since January, equivalent to rants will stay closed, however, percent are “severe highest daily tally since it are “mild,” and only less than 2 0.2 percent in the first quarter about 0.26 percent of the 107 while stay-at-home orders will and critical.” recorded its first case of the percent are “severe and and is expected to fare worse in million population. remain for the elderly and coronavirus in January. The critical.” the second quarter as the Gatherings of up to 10 children. 10 EUROPE FRIDAY 29 MAY 2020 UK’s Johnson eases lockdown as furore over aide rumbles on REUTERS — LONDON system on Thursday for COVID-19 Starting Monday, up to six people will be able to meet patients, seen as crucial to helping ease The coronavirus lockdown will ease outside in England, and schools will gradually reopen. lockdown measures. next week for most of Britain’s popu- Contacts of those who test positive lation, Boris Johnson announced for COVID-19 will be asked to isolate yesterday, as a row persisted over the Johnson stressed that the changes majority of Britons think Cummings for 14 days, even if they have no Prime Minister’s closest adviser taking were “small tentative steps forward”, should resign for — in their view — symptoms. a long-distance journey during and health experts warned the situ- breaking the lockdown rules, but The tracing service, which will have lockdown. ation remained finely balanced with Johnson has said he acted with a task-force of 40,000 specialists to In England, up to six people will be new cases declining, but not very integrity. test those with symptoms and identify able to meet outside and schools will quickly. At the news conference, Johnson their contacts, will initially rely on what gradually reopen from Monday, The devolved governments in blocked questions from journalists put the government described as people Johnson said at a news conference Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to his top medical and scientific offi- doing their “civic duty”, but sanctions where he was again challenged over are responsible for their own public cials about Cummings’ behaviour. could be introduced if people did not his aide Dominic Cummings’ decision health policy. Johnson said he wanted to “protect comply. to drive 400 km during lockdown. Johnson’s announcement came them from ... an unfair and unnecessary Scotland, Wales and Northern “These changes mean that friends hours after more lawmakers from his attempt to ask a political question”. Ireland have similar programmes just and family can start to meet their loved Conservative Party called for Cum- The two officials, England’s chief about to launch or already running. ones, perhaps seeing both parents at mings to quit. medical officer Chris Whitty and Brit- Britain abandoned a strategy of once or grandparents at once,” he said, The Prime Minister also faces crit- ain’s chief scientific adviser Patrick testing and tracing in March when the Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson adding that outdoor retailers and car icism for his handling of a pandemic Vallance, also said they did not want virus started spreading exponentially holds the daily news conference on showrooms would also be able to open that has left Britain with the world’s to be drawn into politics. and there was insufficient capacity to COVID-19 outbreak, at 10 Downing from Monday. second-highest death toll. The dispute over Cummings has test more than a fraction of those with “You could have meetings of fam- Cummings travelled from London prompted some to lose faith in the gov- Street in London, yesterday. symptoms. ilies in a garden, you could even have to the northern English city of Durham ernment’s strategy, with many people Official data show that more than a barbecue provided you did it in a in March with his four-year-old son unable to understand how a senior “stay home” and “save lives”. 48,000 Britons have died from con- socially distanced way, provided eve- and his wife, who was sick at the time, official had not broken the rules by The move to ease lockdown firmed or suspected cases of COVID-19, rybody washes their hands, provided to be close to relatives. driving across the country when the measures came as England launched the respiratory disease caused by the everybody exercises common sense.” A YouGov opinion poll showed a government repeatedly told people to a new testing and contact tracing novel coronavirus.

Italy sees 70 new French restaurants, virus deaths, 593 museums to reopen new cases REUTERS — ROME with restrictions Deaths from the COVID-19 epidemic in Italy climbed by AFP — PARIS museums and monuments on 70 yesterday, against 117 the June 2. day before, the Civil Protection France said yesterday it would But there will be restric- Agency said, while the daily reopen its restaurants — with tions: Paris eateries are only tally of new cases edged up to restrictions — following months allowed to serve on outdoor ter- 593 from 584 on Wednesday. of coronavirus closures, as races, and face masks will be The total death toll since countries across Europe inch mandatory in museums. the outbreak came to light on out of lockdowns toward a new Citizens will also be allowed February 21 now stands at post-pandemic reality. to travel more than 100km 33,142, the agency said, the Deaths in Europe topped from their homes, just in time third highest in the world after 175,000, while the United for the summer holidays. those of the United States and States passed the grim mile- “Freedom will be the rule Britain. stone of 100,000 deaths on and restriction the exception,” The number of confirmed Wednesday. Philippe said. cases amounts to 231,732, the Parisian healthcare workers rally to call for better working conditions and an increase of manpower More than 355,000 have Elsewhere in Europe, Span- sixth highest global tally amid the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in Paris, France, yesterday. now died from the disease glo- iards were revisiting old joys — behind those of the United bally, and recorded infections but with new social distancing States, Russia, Spain, Britain have raced past 5.7 million since measures. Perez said, at a screening of compiled by official figures. The tinent back on its feet. and Brazil. the disease first emerged in At a drive-in cinema in “Grease”. US has 303 deaths per million Amid a deluge of dire news, People registered as cur- China late last year. Madrid, crowds were delighted “It’s a great way of being inhabitants. there were some promising rently carrying the illness fell But France crept toward a to finally be able to go to the entertained safely.” Governments around the developments as well. to 47,986 from 50,966 the day new normal after weeks of movies again, while avoiding Though the US has the globe are faced with the pre- Swiss pharmaceutical giant before. lockdown that has seen new crowded theatres. highest number of deaths in the carious task of keeping popu- Roche joined forces with US There were 489 people in infections and deaths drop. “Everyone has their own world, it is not the most affected lations safe while trying to kic- biotech firm Gilead to test a mix intensive care on Thursday, Prime Minister Edouard private space, there aren’t many in terms of fatalities per million kstart their economies, with the of drugs to treat severe cases of down from 505 on Philippe unveiled phase two of surfaces where you could pick inhabitants. world facing a global slump not COVID-19. Wednesday, maintaining a the country’s deconfinement up infection because during the Belgium leads with 808 seen in decades. Scientists around the world long-running decline. Of those measures yesterday, which film, no one gets out of their car deaths per million inhabitants, The European Union has are racing for a vaccine — or originally infected, 150,604 included the reopening of cafes and if you want to order food followed by Spain with 580 and unveiled a historic ¤750bn effective treatment — for the were declared recovered and restaurants along with you can do that online,” Belen Britain’s 552, according to data recovery plan to get the con- disease. against 147,101 a day earlier. World’s officially Spain’s increase in COVID-19 oldest man dies deaths slows almost to a stall in UK aged 112 REUTERS — MADRID confinement measures at the AFP — LONDON beginning of May, a handful of Spain said its coronavirus minor outbreaks have sprung The world’s oldest man, death toll reached 27,119 up across the country, Health according to the Guinness yesterday, rising by just one Minister Salvador Illa said World Records, has died from for the second day in a row as yesterday. cancer in Britain at the age of authorities fine-tune a new One cluster was detected 112, his family confirmed way of logging cases and in an industrial zone in the yesterday. deaths. Catalan province of Lleida, Bob Weighton, a former The Health Ministry’s data another in the southern town teacher and engineer from the showed 38 people died over of Totana, and a third in the central English county Hamp- the last seven days, down from central province of Cuenca. shire, died “peacefully” in his hundreds of daily deaths “The good news is that they sleep at home on yesterday reported a month ago, while a have been detected and con- morning, they said. total of 237,906 cases have trolled very early,” Illa told Weighton took up the title been detected since the parliament. of the oldest man in the world beginning of the outbreak. Health emergency coor- in February after the death of The government has dinator Fernando Simon on the previous holder, Chitetsu warned the data may fluctuate Wednesday said they were Watanabe of Japan. Protest in Barcelona over factory closure in coming days as it adjusts to isolated events and there was “With great sadness, the the new methodology. no evidence of a broad-based Weighton family announces Nissan employees gather to protest against the closure of the Japanese car manufacturer’s plant, Since Spain began to grad- resurgence across the the death of our beloved Bob where about 3,000 people are employed, in Barcelona, Spain, yesterday. ually ease its stringent country. Weighton,” relatives said in a statement to Britain’s domestic Press Association newswire. “A role model to us all, he Germany calls in Russian envoy, seeks sanctions over hacking lived his life interested in and engaged with all kinds of AFP — BERLIN “the German government will of Merkel’s email accounts “there are no facts in relation behalf of Russian or Chechen people from across the world. seek in Brussels to use the EU containing correspondence to Russia”. state agents. “He had many, many Germany’s foreign ministry cyber sanctions regime against dating between 2012 and 2015. Russia has drawn the anger The foreign ministry friendships and read and yesterday called in the Russian those responsible for the attack Last year, the European of Western powers over issues statement stressed that calling talked politics, theology, ambassador to discuss possible on the German Bundestag, Union adopted a cyber sanc- ranging from annexing in the ambassador “also comes ecology and more, right up sanctions over a 2015 hacking including Mr Badin,” the min- tions regime to impose “tar- Ukraine’s Crimea to allegedly against the backdrop of the until his death. attack on the German istry said. geted restrictive measures to meddling in elections and ongoing investigation of the “He also cared greatly for parliament, in an escalating Badin is also wanted by the deter and respond to cyber backing Bashar Al Assad’s gov- Tiergarten murder case”. the environment.” The family diplomatic row. FBI for other cyberattacks, attacks”. ernment in Syria. It noted that Germany “may said they were grateful that The ministry said in a including those targeting the Germany’s intelligence Merkel has walked a fine still take further measures” Weighton had remained witty, statement it had spoken to Democrats during the 2016 US services have repeatedly called line, stressing the importance against Russia. kind, knowledgeable and a Sergey Nechayev after evi- presidential election. out attempts by Russian of dialogue even while making In a speech in Berlin on conversationalist “until the dence suggested a Russian mil- The operation aimed at the hackers to spy on lawmakers clear her disapproval of Wednesday, Merkel said very end”. Weighton was born itary spy had targeted leading Bundestag, as parliament is or leading politicians. Russian moves on the world Germany would “doubtlessly” in Yorkshire in northern German politicians including known, involved a group Merkel told parliament this stage. have to contend with Russia England on March 29, 1908 Chancellor Angela Merkel. known as Sofacy or APT28 that month that Russia was tar- However, relations have during its forthcoming EU and was one of seven children. German prosecutors issued has also struck Nato members geting her in hacking attacks, worsened of late, triggered in presidency, which begins in He is survived by his three an arrest warrant for Russian and knocked French TV station saying she had concrete proof part by the murder of a former July. children, 10 grandchildren and national Dmitry Badin on May TV5Monde off the air. of the “outrageous” spying Chechen commander in Ber- “We will call out funda- 25 great-grandchildren. 5 and accused him of spying It is believed to have attempts and raising the pos- lin’s Tiergarten park, which led mental violations of interna- South African Fredie Blom against the lower house of par- scooped up data from Merkel’s sibility of sanctions. to Germany expelling some tional law where they are com- claims to have celebrated his liament in 2015 on behalf of email account as well as those The following day, Russian Russian diplomats. mitted” including “attacks on 116th birthday this month, but Russia’s GRU military intelli- of MPs. According to Spiegel Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov German prosecutors have western democracies including his age has not yet been ver- gence service. magazine, hackers managed to accused Berlin of judging said they have evidence the Germany using hybrid means”, ified by the records body. As a result of the warrant, completely copy two Moscow guilty even though killing was carried out on she said. FRIDAY 29 MAY 2020 EUROPE / AMERICAS 11

Denmark data Russia reports over 4,000 virus deaths shows schools' AFP — MOSCOW In Moscow, the worst reopening didn't

Russia’s coronavirus death toll affected city, there worsen outbreak passed 4,000 yesterday as were 2,054 new cases COPENHAGEN medics in the second city Saint yesterday, the lowest REUTERS — Petersburg said hospitals were operating at the peak of their number since late Sending children back to capacity. April. schools and day care centres Health officials reported in Denmark, the first country that 4,142 people had died in in Europe to do so, did not Russia from the virus, with 174 benches, without mattresses or lead to an increase in coro- new deaths over the last 24 pillows,” Sayapin was quoted navirus infections, according hours. The number of new as saying on Wednesday. to official data, confirming deaths equalled Russia’s highest Saint Petersburg governor similar findings from Finland daily toll recorded yet on Alexander Beglov said last week yesterday. Tuesday. Officials said last week he saw no evidence of the epi- As countries across Russia would see a sharp rise demic declining. Europe make plans to exit in the mortality figures for May Just 11 percent of the city’s months of lockdown aimed as they anticipate deaths of 11,000 beds are currently at curbing the virus outbreak, patients who were admitted to vacant, according to official some parents worry that hospitals during the peak of the statistics. opening schools first might epidemic several weeks ago. President Vladimir Putin on put the health of their Although the number of Wednesday hailed a trend children in danger. new cases has steadily declined, towards stabilisation in the Following a one-month medical workers in Saint country’s virus situation and lockdown, Denmark allowed Petersburg said hospitals yesterday’s number of new Vehicles spray disinfectant while sanitising a road amid the outbreak of the coronavirus disease children between two to 12 remain at peak capacity. cases was below 9,000 for the (COVID-19) in Moscow, Russia, yesterday. years back in day cares and Sergei Sayapin, a doctor at fifth day running at 8,371. schools on April 15. Based on the Pokrovskaya municipal Putin earlier this week The Kremlin said it was affected city, there were 2,054 reopening non-food shops and five weeks’ worth of data, hospital, told local media that announced the annual May 9 coordinating with countries new cases, the lowest number allowing people to go on walks health authorities are now for 650 patients were being treated Victory Day parade would be including France to invite their since late April. Moscow Mayor with masks on. Russia has the the first time saying the move at his hospital last week, which held in June after postponing leaders to attend the military Sergei Sobyanin has announced world’s third largest number of did not make the virus has just over 540 beds. the event last month to slow the showcase. new steps towards lifting confirmed cases at 379,051, proliferate. “People lie on examination spread of the coronavirus. In Moscow, the worst lockdown from June 1 including behind the US and Brazil. “You cannot see any neg- ative effects from the reo- pening of schools,” Peter EU wants ¤9bn Andersen, a doctor of infec- Brazil tops 25,000 virus deaths, 6th highest in world tious disease epidemiology and prevention at the Danish health boost AFP — RIO DE JANEIRO army general Eduardo Pazuello Serum Institute, told Reuters AFP — BRUSSELS — the third person to hold the yesterday. Brazil’s death toll from the new post in a month. In Finland, a top official The EU is asking member coronavirus surpassed 25,000 His predecessor quit, announced similar findings states to approve ¤9bn on Wednesday, as the country reportedly because he disa- on Wednesday, saying ($9.9bn) in new health emerged as the latest epicenter greed with Bolsonaro on nothing so far suggested the spending as part of the bloc’s in the global pandemic. hydroxychloroquine. And the coronavirus had spread ambitious post-coronavirus The health ministry said it president fired the previous faster since schools reopened recovery plan, a top official had confirmed 1,086 new health minister, also after in mid-May. said yesterday. deaths in the past 24 hours. clashing over how to respond The number of infected The spending would be a It was the fifth time the to the pandemic. children aged between one significant leap forward for number exceeded 1,000 since Meanwhile, hospitals are and up to 19 has declined European integration as health the crisis accelerated in Brazil dangerously close to the steadily since late April, is currently a solely national a week ago. breaking point in the hardest- Andersen said, following a responsibility for member That pushed the nationwide hit areas, and the outbreak is slight uptick immediately states of the European Union. death toll to 25,598, the sixth- not expected to peak in Brazil after the reopening of With this new programme, highest in the world. until next month. schools. A government medical worker checks a passenger on a boat in the Brussels hopes to “change the The country of 210 million “We are particularly con- But this was too early to Melgaco bay, southwest of the island of Marajo, Brazil, yesterday. game” in how the EU manages people now has 411,821 con- cerned that the number of new have anything to do with the health, EU Health Commis- firmed cases of the virus, cases reported last week in reopening and could be sioner Stella Kyriakides told second only to the United Facebook. But most state gov- as a potential wonder drug Brazil was the highest for a explained by an increase in journalists. “During the crisis, States. Experts say under- ernments have stuck to the against COVID-19. seven-day period since the out- tests performed, he said. there was a gap between what testing means the real figures World Health Organization’s Brazil’s health ministry rec- break began,” Carissa Etienne, “Based on preliminary citizens expect from the EU are probably much higher. guidance and closed non- ommends doctors in the public director of the Washington- experiences, it does not look and what we could actually President Jair Bolsonaro is essential businesses. health system prescribe based Pan American Health like there has been a negative do,” she said. The aim is to facing mounting criticism over Sao Paulo, the country’s hydroxychloroquine or a Organization, said on Tuesday. effect on the spread among invest in prevention, crisis pre- his response to the health crisis. industrial hub and hardest-hit related drug, chloroquine, from One of the country’s best- school children or in the paredness, life-saving drugs The far-right leader has state, extended its stay-at-home the onset of COVID-19 known doctors, the neurosci- society in general,” Andersen and equipment, she said. downplayed the seriousness of Wednesday until June 15, symptoms. entist Miguel Nicolelis, called it said and called Denmark’s The programme would the virus and railed against though Governor Joao Doria It said on Monday it stood “the worst war Brazil has ever reopening strategy “prudent”. also serve to strengthen the stay-at-home measures, announced a gradual reopening by that guideline, despite the faced.” A steady drop in daily European Centre for Disease arguing the economic fallout of “some activities” would be WHO ending clinical trials of “We never had an event like infections, hospital admis- Prevention and Control and risks causing more damage allowed from June 1. hydroxychloroquine over con- this. We never lost 25,000 sions and deaths since early the European Medicines than the virus itself. Bolsonaro has meanwhile cerns about its safety and effec- people in a span of three April has led Denmark to Agency, both EU agencies. “The so-called second wave pinned his hopes on the medi- tiveness against the months,” Nicolelis, who is coor- continue its reopening, with The commission would is coming: recession. It will cation hydroxychloroquine, coronavirus. dinating the virus response in shopping malls, bars, restau- also attempt to boost intra- affect everyone, without which — like US President Brazil is facing the crisis the impoverished and hard-hit rants allowed to reopen in European drug production. exception,” he wrote on Donald Trump — he has touted with an interim health minister, northeast, told AFP. May. Norway eases Croatia reopens borders for Nordic business 10 EU nations for tourism travel rules AFP — ZAGREB coronavirus outbreak in check, REUTERS — OSLO limiting deaths to around 100 Croatia yesterday reopened its and known infections to Norway will allow entry to borders without restrictions to slightly over 2,000. business travellers from all the citizens from ten European When the country started other Nordic countries from Union countries as the Adriatic relaxing lockdown measures June 1, in a further easing of nation looks to salvage a vital earlier this month, it opened coronavirus restrictions, the tourism sector hit by the coro- borders to EU citizens travelling government said yesterday. navirus pandemic. for business purposes, as well The new rules mean The “temporary ban on as those who own real estate, business travellers arriving border crossing” has been lifted a boat or have a confirmed from Denmark, Finland, “for tourism”, Prime Minister accommodation booking in the Iceland and Sweden will no Andrej Plenkovic told a Cabinet country. longer be subject to a man- session. From now on, citizens of datory 10-day quarantine, The measure applies to ten the 10 countries listed will not which is currently the case for countries who have had simi- need to provide any reason for almost all arrivals from larly successful results in con- entry and can submit their per- abroad. “This is about bringing taining the virus, he said, sonal data on a special website back everyday work, slowly Refugees protest in Athens including Austria, the Czech before travelling to reduce wait and controlled. Not every Republic, Estonia, Germany, times at the border. Syrian and Kurd refugees holding asylum status protesting outside the EU offices in Athens, yesterday, meeting, negotiation and deal Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, The list will be expanded as against the government’s decision for them to leave accommodation provided through EU programmes can be done digitally,” Industry Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia. the health situation improves by the end of May. Greece has announced that recognised refugees shall leave camps and provided Minister Iselin Nyboe told a Home to 4.2 million people, in other countries, Plenkovic news conference. accommodation one month after receiving the asylum status. Croatia has largely kept its added. Venezuela reaches deal with UN to buy food, medicine with gold: Official

REUTERS — CARACAS belonging to the government of interview in his downtown outside the country to fund the While those sanctions have “We have no income, no way of President Nicolas Maduro, Caracas office. ongoing efforts to address the slashed cash flow to the gov- generating cash flow, and no Venezuela has reached a deal whom Britain does not rec- “It’s the United Nations who urgent humanitarian, health, ernment, critics say corruption access to funds we have with the UN Development ognise as Venezuela’s legitimate is saying that. They are not and socioeconomic needs and misguided economic pol- deposited abroad in the middle Programme (UNDP) to destine leader due to allegations he going to be involved in anything arising from the COVID-19 pan- icies are the root causes of the of a pandemic.” part of its gold in Bank of rigged his 2018 re-election. dark that is not neutral and demic.” Ortega said he was collapse. The government had previ- England accounts toward the Central bank Governor independent.” Any program optimistic the legal case in Venezuela has so far been ously requested $5bn from the purchase of food and medicine Calixto Ortega told Reuters that would still require the Bank of Britain would be resolved in the less affected than neighbours International Monetary Fund to during the coronavirus under the arrangement, the England to release the gold. The coming weeks. by the coronavirus pandemic, handle the pandemic, an pandemic, its central bank UNDP would receive the funds Bank of England declined to A six-year economic col- with 1,245 cases recorded and embarrassment for a socialist governor said on Wednesday. directly, a move meant to comment. lapse in Venezuela has resulted 11 deaths. But its hospitals are government that has branded The deal comes after Ven- assuage concerns about In a statement, the UNDP in hyperinflation and shortages in disrepair after years of the IMF a tool of US ezuela’s central bank made a potential corruption. said it was “approached of basic goods, including food underfunding, prompting con- imperialism. legal claim earlier this month “It’s not my word, it’s not me recently to explore mechanisms and medicines. cerns about preparedness for a The IMF turned down the to try to force the Bank of saying that I am going to buy to use existing resources held Maduro blames US sanc- larger outbreak. request due to a lack of con- England to hand over part of the food, medicine and medical by the Central Bank of Vene- tions on the OPEC nation’s oil “This is the worst a nation sensus on Maduro’s 31 tonnes of gold in accounts equipment,” Ortega said in an zuela in financial institutions industry for its woes. can experience,” Ortega said. legitimacy. 12 AMERICAS FRIDAY 29 MAY 2020 US coronavirus death toll tops 100,000

AFP — WASHINGTON everything that these great final death count, only to be The US death toll, from people stood for & represent. quickly contradicted each time 1.7 million confirmed President Donald Trump God be with you!” by the relentlessly rising toll. yesterday marked the “sad The US death toll, from 1.7 On Wednesday, as many infections, is by far milestone” of 100,000 corona- million confirmed infections, is American politicians including the highest of any virus deaths in the United by far the highest of any nation, the Democratic Party’s pre- States, after his earlier silence and critics have accused the sumptive presidential nominee nation. prompted criticism that he was President of an inadequate early Joe Biden were sharing their failing in his duty to console response to the pandemic. condolences and grief over the victims and their loved ones. Trump has repeatedly said grim milestone, Trump was moment. “We have just reached a any death from COVID-19 is tweeting repeatedly about other “The day the United States very sad milestone with the tragic. issues. hit 100,000 deaths from the coronavirus pandemic deaths But he has been chided for He posted more than 40 COVID-19 pandemic Trump reaching 100,000,” Trump appearing to concern himself times on social media — on a shares a message calling himself US President Donald Trump speaks to reporters after he received posted on Twitter, about 16 more with the country digging variety of subjects but not about ‘the greatest President in our a 2020 hurricane season briefing during the coronavirus disease hours after the death toll passed out from economic devastation COVID-19 victims — between history.’ His vanity is nause- (COVID-19) outbreak in Washington, DC, yesterday. the threshold according to a than consoling tens of thou- Wednesday evening and his ating,” congressman Don Beyer Johns Hopkins University sands of American families yesterday morning tweet that tweeted. tracker. shattered by the loss of loved acknowledged the 100,000 Former vice-president video message to survivors. shared grief. Today is one of “To all of the families & ones. dead. Biden, who will challenge “There are moments in our those moments,” Biden said on friends of those who have He has also been criticized Democrats savaged the Trump for the White House in history so grim, so heart- Wednesday. passed, I want to extend my for repeatedly offering unduly President for appearing insen- November, swiftly addressed rending, that they’re forever “Take some solace from the heartfelt sympathy & love for optimistic predictions about the sitive to the magnitude of the the milestone by releasing a fixed in each of our hearts as fact that we all grieve with you.” Trump to target social Colombia to ease restrictions from media with executive the start of June order amid criticism REUTERS — BOGOTA Colombia will begin easing AFP — WASHINGTON One consequence of this restrictions put in place to could be to punish the com- control the spread of the coro- US President Donald Trump panies over their decisions on navirus starting from June, was set yesterday to target what to allow and what to President Ivan Duque said on social media giants like Twitter, restrict on their platforms. Wednesday, though he asked which he accuses of bias A draft of the order the public to continue isolating against him, with an executive reported by CNN accuses plat- at home and keep using order opening them to new forms of not showing the “good measures to contain the regulation. faith” required under their disease. “This will be a Big Day for current self-regulating status. Colombia has reported Social Media and FAIRNESS!” It attacks online platforms more than 24,000 confirmed Trump said on Twitter. for damaging free expression cases of COVID-19, the respi- The wording of the exec- by being able to “hand-pick the ratory illness caused by the utive order remained under speech that Americans may coronavirus, as well as 803 Protesters are shot with pepper spray as they confront police outside the Third Police Precinct in wraps. A White House spokes- access.” Democratic Senator deaths. Minneapolis, US, on Wednesday. woman on Wednesday said Ron Wyden accused Trump of The country began a only that it would be “per- “bullying” social media com- nationwide quarantine in late taining to social media.” panies into airing his “misin- March. Protests rock Minneapolis for 2nd night But Trump is on the formation campaigns” and “The pandemic hasn’t gone warpath against Twitter after playing “host to his lies.” away,” Duque said in his tele- AP — MINNEAPOLIS slowly stops talking and tioned behind a barricade. the platform for the first time In any case, resetting the vised nightly address. “This is moving. Minneapolis police said the labelled two of his tweets, on boundaries of how the going to be a very important Violent protests over the death Mayor Jacob Frey sought violence contrasted sharply the increasingly contentious mammoth companies operate month for all of us.” of a black man in police custody calm. “Please, Minneapolis, we with a mostly peaceful demon- topic of mail-in voting, with would likely hit immediate Sectors like retail and non- rocked a Minneapolis neigh- cannot let tragedy beget more stration on Tuesday afternoon fact-check notices. legal and political roadblocks. COVID-related medical care borhood for a second straight tragedy,” he said on Twitter. at the street corner where Floyd Although he is the dom- The constitution “clearly can begin normalizing grad- night as angry crowds looted Protests also spread to other died. inant US political presence on prohibits the president from ually once the lockdown ends, stores, set fires and left a path US cities. In California, hun- “They were chanting for Twitter and Facebook, a fight taking any action to stop but large events, bars and of damage that stretched for dreds of people protesting things to remain peaceful,” with social media also plays Twitter from pointing out his nightclubs will continue to be miles. The mayor asked the Floyd’s death blocked a Los police spokesman John Elder into Trump’s narrative ahead blatant lies about voting by closed. Restaurants will be governor to activate the Angeles freeway and shattered said. “Tonight didn’t have the of his difficult November ree- mail,” Kate Ruane, at the open for takeaway orders National Guard. windows of California Highway same feel. And that’s sad.” lection battle that liberal forces American Civil Liberties Union, only, Duque said. The protests that began late Patrol cruisers. Pockets of looting con- are trying to censor said. “We are not reviving Wednesday and stretched into Memphis police blocked a tinued yesterday. A liquor store Republicans. A wider debate has long social life,” Duque said. “We yesterday morning were the main thoroughfare after a employee displayed a gun as he Leaked versions of the been underway on the power have to continue protecting most destructive yet since the racially mixed group of pro- stood among the debris of executive order in US media that social media companies health and lives and going death of George Floyd, who was testers gathered outside a police broken bottles and beer cans suggest that Trump will seek to wield and what responsibility forward we have to adapt to seen on video gasping for precinct. inside the business. remove liability protections they bear for posts that are mis- a disease that will be around breath during an arrest in The situation intensified Amid the violence, a man that the social media giants leading or hurtful. Internet for a long time.” which an officer kneeled on his later in the night, with police was found fatally shot enjoy over content they services have been struggling Even as restrictions begin neck for almost eight minutes. donning riot gear and pro- Wednesday night near a pawn publish, thereby opening them to root out misinformation, to ease, public transport in In the footage, Floyd pleads testers standing shoulder-to- shop, possibly by the owner, to legal action and more gov- while at the same time keeping cities must not exceed 35% of that he cannot breathe and shoulder in front of officers sta- authorities said. ernment oversight. their platforms open to users. their capacity and land borders will continue to be closed. International flights, domestic Bodies of two flights and inter-city buses will US Senators offer bill to prepare for next pandemic continue to be suspended. missing French As part of the relaxed rules, REUTERS — WASHINGTON would eventually become law. In a statement, Risch said he global health security strategy, children aged 2 to 5 years old snowmobilers The measure, which was saw the “Global Health Security establish a coordinator for will be allowed out three times US senators offered a bipartisan introduced last week but and Diplomacy Act” as a first global health security and a week for 30 minutes from found in Canada $3bn plan yesterday to prepare announced yesterday, would step toward a carefully coordi- diplomacy at the State the first of June, while those for the next global health crisis, authorize $3bn to rebuild the nated approach to global health Department and encourage aged 6 to 17 will be permitted AFP — MONTREAL putting a premium on fighting US pandemic defense system, security. Trump to appoint a senior outside three times a week for disease outbreaks and invest in global vaccine devel- “We don’t have the luxury director for global health to the up to an hour. Police said yesterday they pandemics like COVID-19. opments and help countries that of waiting and rebuilding our National Security Council. Adults under 70 years old have found two bodies In a departure from partisan need it to build up their health global public health infra- It does not discuss the will be allowed out three times believed to be the last French divisions over the novel coro- systems. structure after this crisis is World Health Organization. a week for up to two hours at snowmobilers still missing navirus, Senator Jim Risch, Senate aides said it was not past,” Murphy told Reuters in a Accusing WHO of being a time. after their tour group crashed Republican chairman of the intended to reflect criticism of telephone interview. “China-centric,” People aged 70 and over through ice on a Canadian lake Foreign Relations Committee, Republican President Donald “The next pandemic may be Trump threatened to per- are considered a high-risk in January. and Democratic committee Trump’s response to the pan- on top of us this winter,” manently halt funding if it does population and should remain One was located near the members Chris Murphy and Ben demic, which has killed more Murphy said. not commit to improvements at home, though they may go site of the accident in northern Cardin introduced the bill, with than 100,000 Americans and The measure would also within 30 days and reconsider out for 30 minutes three times Quebec on Wednesday, five high hopes that much of it cratered the US economy. require Trump to develop a US membership. a week. days after the other was dis- covered further afield on the banks of a river feeding the lake. US indicts Venezuela's former “They’re likely our missing snowmobilers since the two lawmaker linked with Maduro bodies were wearing snow- mobile outfits,” Hugues AP — CARACAS, VENEZUELA El Zabayar, 56, remains out Beaulieu, spokesman for Que- of US custody and he could not bec’s provincial police, said. US authorities have filed immediately be reached by The The forensic pathologist charges against a former Vene- Associated Press for comment. will have to confirm their zuelan lawmaker linked with Venezuelan officials did not identities “in the next few President Nicolás Maduro immediately comment on the days,” he said. accusing him of narco- charges. Six snowmobilers fell into terrorism and weapons crimes. El Zabayar served as a law- the icy waters of Lac Saint- Federal prosecutors in New maker in the government of the Jean, near the mouth of the York alleged Adel El Zabayar late socialist leader Hugo Grande Decharge River. participated with Maduro and Chávez. He traveled to Syria in Authorities said they had been other top Venezuelan officials 2013, taking up arms to defend in an area that is off limits to as a key player in a scheme to its government in the Syrian snowmobiles because of thin flood the United States with civil war. ice. tons of cocaine. US prosecutors say El They launched a massive It follows a similar Zabayar served as an important search of the area in January, indictment of Maduro two intermediary between Vene- but called it off weeks later due months ago that US authorities zuelan officials and the militant to extreme winter weather used to announce a $15m Muslim groups Hezbollah and after recovering only three out reward for the socialist leader’s Hamas. of five bodies. Their guide, a Social distancing at the park arrest. Zabayar rejected the US A girl sits in a field where circles were painted to help visitors maintain social distancing to slow the 42-year-old Canadian, died in The Trump administration indictment on Twitter, spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) at Trinity Bellwoods park in Toronto, Canada, yesterday. hospital after trying in vain to has increased pressure to oust declaring it a victory rather rescue the team. Maduro. than a defeat.