Kuwait to Close All Children's Activities, Camps from July 25

THULHIJJA 4, 1442 AH WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021

16 Pages Max 48º Min 34º 150 Fils Established 1961

ISSUE NO: 18485 The First Daily in the Arabian Gulf www.kuwaittimes.net

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Kuwait to close all children’s activities, camps from July 25

Defense ministry, KPC hospitals urged to support health system

KUWAIT: The Cabinet decided late Monday to ministry on Monday reported 1,694 new cases and shut down all activities for children indefinitely as many as 19 deaths, all of whom had not from July 25 on recommendations by the ministeri- received any vaccination. The rate of infection Court frees poet Sayer, sets trial in October al committee overseeing the coronavirus pandem- remains high at 11.74 percent when it should be By B Izzak ing opinion charges. ic. The Cabinet decided to “close all activities for below 5 percent. Opposition MP Muhannad Al-Sayer, who is a children including summer clubs from Sunday, July The ministry said 1,175 people infected with the KUWAIT: The criminal court yesterday decided relative of the poet, said despite the release of the 25 until further notice” read a statement issued coronavirus are receiving treatment at hospitals, to free poet Jamal Al-Sayer without bail and set poet, opposition MPs are still demanding holding following the Cabinet’s weekly meeting. while as many as 331 patients are in intensive care his trial for Oct 5 on charges of writing tweets an emergency term of the National Assembly to The Cabinet also asked the ministry of defense units. The largest number of cases were reported deemed offensive to HH the Amir and spreading discuss a number of draft laws. The lawmakers and Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) to offer in Ahmadi governorate with 30 percent, followed false news. Sayer was arrested last week and the said the proposed term will debate the non- their hospitals to the country’s health system after by Farwaniya and Hawally governorates with 24 public prosecution ordered his detention pending implementation by the public prosecution of a a sharp increase in the number of new coronavirus percent each. Jahra came in fourth place with 12 his trial. He has denied the accusations. new amendment that bans the detention of defen- cases. Kuwait has seen a spike in the number of percent and the Capital governorate came in last MPs have strongly criticized the way Sayer, dants being interrogated in opinion cases. new coronavirus cases and deaths despite vacci- place with 10 percent. who is elderly, was arrested by police without The term also seeks to debate and approve a nating hundreds of thousands of people. The Cabinet called on the public to continue calling him for investigation. They also criticized a law challenging judges and prosecutors and a law The ministry of health has reported well over their cooperation by complying with health pre- decision by the public prosecution to detain him, that will set the duration of service for judges and 1,400 new cases daily for the past several weeks cautions and to register with the national vaccina- saying the action violates a new amendment to prosecutors. So far, 29 MPs have signed the and also reported a significant increase in the tion program in a bid to reach immunity levels in the law banning the detention of defendants fac- Continued on Page 2 number of deaths, patients receiving treatment at the society which will result in reducing pressure hospitals and patients in intensive care units. The on the health system in the country.

News in brief Grief, anger as Gene editing ‘blocks virus’ 64 killed in Iraq PARIS: Scientists have used CRISPR gene- editing technology to successfully block the COVID unit fire transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in infected human cells, according to research released NASIRIYAH, Iraq: Grief and anger gripped the yesterday that could pave the way for COVID- Iraqi city of Nasiriyah yesterday after fire swept 19 treatments. Researchers in Australia used an through a temporary COVID isolation unit, killing at enzyme, CRISPR-Cas13b, that binds to relevant least 64 people and injuring dozens. The devastating RNA sequences on the novel coronavirus and blaze on Monday evening at the southern city’s Al- degrades the genome it needs to replicate inside Hussein Hospital, which medics said was fuelled by human cells. — AFP oxygen canisters exploding, was the second such tragedy in Iraq in three months. “Sixty-four (bodies) were retrieved and 39 identi- Iran, US in prisoner swap talks fied and handed over to their families,” a source at the provincial forensic science department told AFP. TEHRAN: Iran confirmed yesterday ongoing “Medical teams and relatives of victims are finding it “negotiations” with the United States over a difficult to identify the rest of the corpses,” the potential prisoner swap, after a US official said source said, adding that the toll could rise as more Washington is working to release its detained bodies were feared buried under the rubble. An offi- citizens. The US envoy for Iran, Robert Malley, cial tally listed in local media said 39 of the victims so NASIRIYAH: People gather as a massive fire engulfs the coronavirus isolation ward of Al-Hussein hospi- said on Saturday that US President Joe Biden Continued on Page 2 tal in this southern Iraqi city late Monday. — AFP insists on the release of all Americans and will not accept a “partial deal”. — AFP International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has Qatar and Bahrain were left with maritime Qatar takes key given Qatar permission “in principle” to establish its boundaries drawn by Britain, the former colonial GBS risk after J&J jab own Flight Information Region (FIR) in its airspace, power, that have been the source of recurring dis- the wealthy Gulf emirate announced. putes and clashes. Airspace is largely determined WASHINGTON: The US Food and Drug step to control This decision was in response to a request from based on existing land and maritime borders. The Administration updated its warning labels Doha to withdraw from an agreement signed with ICAO “agreed, in principle... with the establishment Monday for the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 its own airspace Bahrain, another Gulf monarchy, under which it had of a Doha Flight Information Region (FIR) and Doha vaccine to include information about an observed delegated its air navigation services. A three-year Search and Rescue Region (SRR),” at talks last “increased risk” of a rare neurological disorder DOHA: Qatar said yesterday that it has been given row with its Gulf neighbors led by Saudi Arabia had month, Qatar’s transport and communications min- called Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS). — AFP a preliminary green light by a UN body on a pro- highlighted the shortcomings of the deal, which left istry said in a statement. It would “include Qatar’s posal to control its own airspace, months after Qatar completely reliant on access to airspace con- sovereign airspace and, to optimize safety resolving a rift with its neighbors. The UN’s trolled by other countries. Continued on Page 2 Face recognition to fight COVID

BEIJING: Facial recognition tech linked to per- further into poverty, politicians remain sonal health codes has been rolled out in a Foreign envoys unable to agree on a new government Chinese city bordering Myanmar as authorities line-up, nearly a year on from a dead- seek to squash a coronavirus outbreak. This is ly port explosion that forced the last the first publicly reported instance of facial in Lebanon one to resign. “There’s great frustra- recognition being used to track a person’s tion with the Lebanese political class, movements and health status as they enter and despair because it’s incapable of placing the exit residential areas, supermarkets, transport common good above its personal hubs and other public places. — AFP BEIRUT: As Lebanon’s economy tanks, interests,” a French diplomatic source foreign envoys are resorting to increas- said. As political parties squabble over ingly undiplomatic language to make ministerial portfolios, the Lebanese Iran unveils Islamic dating app clear their exasperation with politicians pound has plunged, lately trading on who demand bailout cash without deliv- the black market at less than a tenth TEHRAN: Iran on Monday unveiled an Islamic ering basic reforms in return. Donors of its official value. dating application aimed at facilitating “lasting have conditioned any financial aid to the Bread has become more expensive and informed marriage” for its youth, state tele- Mediterranean country on the estab- and petrol scarce, while at home and vision reported. Called Hamdam - Farsi for lishment of a new government to enact work Lebanese swelter during BEIRUT: French Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and Economic “companion” - the service allows users to urgently needed reforms that would increasingly long power cuts. Supplies Attractiveness Franck Riester and French Ambassador to Lebanon Anne “search for and choose their spouse”, the tackle endemic graft. of some drugs have run low and the broadcaster said. — AFP Grillo visit Beirut port yesterday. — AFP But while Lebanese citizens slide Continued on Page 2 2 Established 1961 Wednesday, July 14, 2021 Local Deputy Amir receives Kuwait social security authority officials

KUWAIT: His Highness the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets Public Institution for Social Security officials. — KUNA

KUWAIT: His Highness the Deputy Amir and chief Abdullah Al-Humaidhi, alongside his deputy pension fund’s Deputy Director General for His Highness the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Crown Prince Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Mishal Al-Othman. The PIFSS contingent, which Investment Affairs Raed Al-Nusf, spoke of the insti- thanked the officials for their contributions towards Sabah received yesterday the Public Institution for also included committee members Abdulaziz Al- tution’s record asset gains this year, which amount- this remarkable achievement, encouraging them to Social Security’s (PIFSS) investment committee Turaiji and Ziyad Al-Mukhaizeem, in addition to the ed to a 20.9 percent increase from last year’s figure. strive for similar accomplishments. — KUNA

Turkish speaker lauds Kuwait’s Foreign exceptional ties with Kuwait Minister meets Turkey’s top lawmaker KUWAIT: Kuwait’s Foreign Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Sheikh Dr Ahmad Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah met yesterday with the Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey Mustafa Sentop; who is currently on a visit to the country. During the meeting, they discussed views on strong bilateral ties and their advancement in various fields, in addition to reviewing regional KUWAIT: Kuwait’s Foreign Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs and international developments, as well as issues of Sheikh Dr Ahmad Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah meets the Speaker of the common concern. — KUNA Grand National Assembly of Turkey Mustafa Sentop. — KUNA Deputy FM KUWAIT: Turkish Parliament Speaker Mustafa Sentop speaks during a receives UK, press conference in Kuwait yesterday. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat

KUWAIT: Turkish Parliament Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Sudan envoys Speaker Mustafa Sentop lauded Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Ahmad Al- yesterday the exceptional ties with Sabah, stressing that such meetings KUWAIT: Deputy Minister of the State of Kuwait, saying that would contribute to the develop- Foreign Affairs Ambassador Majdi KUWAIT: Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Majdi Al-Dhefeeri meets UK’s both Turkey and Kuwait were open ment of relations on all aspects. Ambassador to Kuwait Belinda Lewis. — KUNA Photos Al-Dhefeeri received yesterday for more cooperation in different Both countries are willing to seek fields. Speaking to the press on the further cooperation in various fields UK’s Ambassador to the country sidelines of his visit to Kuwait, reiterated the Turkish parliamen- Belinda Lewis, as well as Sudan’s Sentop affirmed that he was eager tary Speaker, adding that the two Ambassador to Kuwait to visit Kuwait despite the coron- countries shared common vision in Abdulmonem Al-Ameen. Bilateral avirus (COVID-19) pandemic, regards to political issues in the ties between Kuwait and both adding that he was thankful for the region namely the Palestinian nations, in addition to latest invitation by Kuwait National cause. He added that Kuwait and regional and international develop- Assembly Speaker Marzouq Al- Turkey would work on the parlia- Ghanem. Sentop said that he was mentary level to promote the ments were discussed during the honored to have met with His Palestinian dream of an independ- separate meetings; both attended Highness the Deputy Amir and ent state within the 1967 borders in by Deputy Foreign Minister Office Crown Prince Sheikh Mishal Al- line with international laws regard- Director Ambassador Ayham Al- Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Majdi Al-Dhefeeri meets Sudan’s Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His ing the matter. — KUNA Omar. — KUNA Ambassador to Kuwait Abdulmonem Al-Ameen.

vowing to make Kuwaitis 70 percent of the popula- organized by former colonial power France. But, Court frees poet tion. Kuwaitis currently make up 30 percent of the Foreign envoys said the French source, “we’re not going to provide population. the Lebanese state with a blank cheque”. A high- Sayer, sets... Sayer said the prime minister in June 2020 made ranking UN official said a third donor conference a statement in which he vowed to make Kuwaitis 70 in Lebanon... this month would be the chance to sound the alarm Continued from Page 1 percent of the population with expatriates making over the “humanitarian consequences” of the politi- up 30 percent, exactly the reverse of the current Continued from Page 1 cal paralysis. request, which needs the signature of at least 33 percentage. He asked the premier if any measure “Lebanon - which has a GDP higher than most members to enforce the term, which is unlikely to be had been taken to implement the plan, adding what cash-strapped state can barely buy enough fuel poor countries - is facing food insecurity, malnutri- secured because there are only 31 opposition MPs. were the technical, legal and administrative factors to keep the nation’s power on, respectively leaving tion and issues of access to basic services,” the offi- In another development, MP Sayer sent a ques- for the statement. The lawmaker asked if the state- charities and private backup generators struggling cial said. But “humanitarian aid cannot be a sustain- tion to HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al- ment was based on studies and requested copies of to fill the gap. able solution,” the official noted, adding that the Khaled Al-Sabah about what the authorities have those studies. He also demanded to know the time- The French diplomatic source said the interna- international community will not “take over the done to implement a statement he made last year frame of implementing the statement. tional community was ready to help Lebanon. But state’s... role”. “sadly we can’t because, opposite us, we have no An Arab diplomat in Beirut said Lebanese deci- one to talk to, or we do but they don’t have the sion-makers did not appear to have a plan of their died in the inferno. In Al-Nasr, north of the city, means - or the willingness - to act”. The last gov- own, hoping instead that the international communi- Grief, anger as mourners laid to rest two brothers and two sisters ernment, painstakingly cobbled together, had barely ty would help, without them “making any conces- who perished in the flames. got off the ground before the explosion at Beirut sion, any change” in return. “The international com- Other funerals were held in the Shiite holy city port on Aug 4, when hundreds of tons of ill-stored munity has long been repeating the same thing: Help 64 killed in Iraq... of Najaf, where mourner Yunus Saleh blamed ammonium nitrate fertilizer ignited, killing more than yourself so that we can help you.” politicians for the tragedy. “My family lost five 200 people. In Lebanon, more than half the population now Continued from Page 1 members and a sixth wasn’t found. We couldn’t Foreign donors have over the past year pledged lives below the official global poverty line. Beirut’s identify his body,” he said. “Where else would millions of dollars in humanitarian aid to the diplomats have seen living conditions deteriorate far identified were women. The blaze also injured something like this happen? Where? The (political) Lebanese people, including at two conferences first hand. — AFP 100 people. “We heard their screams but we parties burned them.” couldn’t help them much,” said activist Hisham Al- Hundreds of young protesters shut down private demonstrates the huge investments made by Qatar to Sumeri, who had helped in the relief effort. He hospitals in Nasiriyah to pressure the authorities to develop its air navigation system,” Transport Minister accused the authorities of negligence. open the doors of a new public hospital. Last month, Qatar takes key Jassim Al-Sulaiti said in the statement. Smoke was still rising from the charred debris of Prime Minister Mustafa Kadhemi inaugurated the The move comes a few months after a landmark the temporary building yesterday, as grieving rela- Turkish-built facility. But the more than 400-bed step to control... reconciliation between Qatar and other Gulf coun- tives looked on. “A patient comes in looking for facility has yet to open to patients. Yesterday, tries including Bahrain. The regional bloc led by treatment and he ends up being carried out in a cof- Kadhemi declared three days of national mourning Continued from Page 1 Saudi Arabia broke ties with Doha in 2017, accusing fin,” said Abou Nour Al-Shawi, an elderly onlooker. for the “martyrs” of Nasiriyah. it of supporting Islamist movements - charges that it He pointed out the frailty of the structure, which had The city is seen as the heart of a nationwide anti- and efficiency of the regional airspace, other con- denied. During the boycott Qatar sought to collapsed quickly in the flames. “This place is not government protest movement that broke out in late even fit for animals,” he said. 2019. “The state must take the necessary measures... tiguous airspace over the high seas,” it added. Qatar’s strengthen its self-sufficiency in various sectors of As the first funerals were held, indignant protest- to confront the corrupt,” one young protester told proposal also covered “its intention to withdraw from its gas-rich economy. The emirate, which is hosting ers vented their outrage at provincial authorities AFP. He said those responsible must be held the current arrangement whereby it has delegated to the 2022 World Cup, has become a major player in they blame for the deaths, an AFP correspondent “accountable... in transparaent investigations that Bahrain the provision of air navigation services over the airline industry through Qatar Airways, which said. In Al-Dawaya, east of Nasiriyah, a joint funeral show people that it (the state) is serious about put- its sovereign territory”. “The proposal represents along with Dubai-based Emirates is one of the was held for six members of a single family who had ting an end to these tragedies”. — AFP one of the sovereign rights of the State of Qatar and largest airlines in the Middle East. — AFP Established 1961 3 Local Wednesday, July 14, 2021 Cabinet calls on Defense, KPC to support Kuwait’s health system

KUWAIT: The Cabinet assigned the Foreign Ministry’s committee of prison- Ministry of Defense and Kuwait ers and missing persons on the identifi- Petroleum Corporation to harness their cation of ten prisoners and missing mar- hospitals to support health system in the tyrs through the analysis of genetic fin- country. The Cabinet also decided to gerprint of the remains that were shut down all summer clubs with chil- brought from Iraq, the Cabinet offered dren’s activities, effective from Sunday condolences to the families of those July 25 until further notice. The decisions martyrs who sacrificed for their home were made during the weekly Cabinet and its territorial integrity. meeting, held on Monday under the direction of His Highness the Prime Health developments Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al- Within the government’s attention to Hamad Al-Sabah at Seif Palace. follow up the latest developments of On the advent of Eid Al-Adha, the health situation, the Cabinet listened to Cabinet congratulated His Highness the a presentation made by Minister of Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Health Sheikh Dr Basel Hmoud Al-Sabah Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown on the numbers of infections, deaths and Prince Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber recoveries in all governorates. He added Al-Sabah as well as Kuwaitis and resi- that the rate of recovery exceeded 94 dents on this occasion, wishing happy percent, pointing to a rise in the deaths returns of this joyful occasion, Foreign amongst unvaccinated people, and Minister and Minister of State for patients in the hospitals and ICUs. The KUWAIT: His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah chairs the Cabinet’s meeting. — KUNA Cabinet Affairs Sheikh Dr Ahmad Nasser minister also appraised the Cabinet of Al-Sabah said after the meeting. The all efforts made by the ministry’s staff in overcome this crisis with minimal losses. It commended efforts of those responsi- submit a report every three months on Cabinet decided that Eid holiday will order to combat the pandemic and vari- The ministers discussed the educa- ble for preparing that strategy aiming to the strategy’s implementation. In addi- start on July 18 until 22. ant strains as well as complete vaccination, health and youth committee’s rec- develop media in order to achieve a tion, the Cabinet discussed political The Premier briefed the Cabinet on tion of all segments, noting that the vac- ommendations on the integrated plan vision of building sustainable and pio- affairs in light of the latest developments the gist of his talks with Speaker of cine has proven high effectiveness submitted by Kuwait University, General neering media of a meaningful content on the political arena on international Grand National Assembly of Turkey against the virus variants. The Cabinet Secretariat of the Council of Private that combines citizenship, originality and and Arab levels. It followed with great Mustafa Setop who is on an official visit expressed appreciation to the efforts Universities, Higher Institute of Musical modernity. concern the repercussions of Ethiopia’s to Kuwait. The talks covered the deep- made by the entire ministry’s staff to Arts, and Higher Institute of Theatrical The strategy abides by Kuwait’s val- dam, expressing Kuwait’s support to rooted relationships and means of perform this humanitarian mission at Arts regarding resuming study at educa- ues stemmed from moderate Islam and legitimate water rights of both Egypt enhancing them to serve the two peo- these exceptional conditions. It urged tional institutions as of September 2021. traditions, and aims to boost the coun- and Sudan. The Cabinet lauded efforts ples, and a number of issues of common the public for cooperation and continu- The Cabinet considered the committee’s try’s history and media as well as its by Egypt and Sudan to contain the crisis concern. ing abidance by health requirements to recommendation regarding the 2021- Gulf and Arab culture. The Cabinet and solve it in line with the rules of In light of the announcement by the ensure providing health services to all to 2026 Ministry of Information’s strategy. assigned the Ministry of Information to international law. — KUNA

Lacroix. A ministry statement Kuwait, France said that both sides tackled topics of common interests, means to discuss security boost relations and exchange of World should information and expertise. During the meeting, Lt Gen Nahham KUWAIT: Undersecretary of stressed deep bilateral relations not wobble amid Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior Lt with France, while Lacroix Gen Essam Al-Nahham met yes- affirmed the importance of the adversity: Kuwait terday with the French Internal meeting as it improves level of KUWAIT: Undersecretary of Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior Lt Gen Essam Al- Security Attache in Kuwait cooperation between the two Nahham meets the French Internal Security Attache in Kuwait Gendarmerie KUWAIT: The world Gendarmerie Colonel Stephane sides, it added. — KUNA Colonel Stephane Lacroix. — KUNA should not wobble in the face of increasing adversity, Kuwait’s foreign minister told his counterparts from Kuwait National Guard celebrates graduates countries that form the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) yesterday, citing the Dr Ahmad Al-Nasser COVID-19 pandemic Al-Sabah as an unprecedented challenge. As the world continues to grapple with hardships ranging from conflicts and crises to disasters and pandemics, Sheikh Dr Ahmad Al-Nasser Al-Sabah urged NAM member states, amid Serbia-hosted talks via video link, to navigate the COVID pandemic with “optimism.” The Kuwaiti minister said the Cold War era bloc’s “core mission” remains unchanged since its inception back in 1961, which is to ensure a world where “peace and parity” abound, as embedded in UN resolutions and conventions. “We remain shoulder-to-shoulder with the international community in the pursuit of global justice, “the minister emphasized, saying the world is dealing with hardships at every KUWAIT: Kuwait National Guard and stability of the country. Rifae spoke during higher command, headed by Chief of National corner, the latest of which was the coronavirus Undersecretary Lt Gen Hashim Abdelrazaq Al- the swearing-in ceremony of the 25th batch of Guard HH Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah and pandemic. On the COVID pandemic, he said it Rifae said the guard is concerned with developing non-commissioned officers who graduated from Deputy Chief Gen Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al- “caught the world off guard,” but hoped that the human element and enhancing their skills so the non-commissioned officers institute at the Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Rifae wished the grad- the next time the bloc meets, “the worst of the that they fulfill their duties towards the security interior ministry. He conveyed greetings of the uates all success. pandemic would have elapsed.” — KUNA

Gulf Bank shines Arabian red fox thrives in latest lyrical in Kuwait’s desert masterpiece KUWAIT: Gulf Bank is celebrating the successful launch of its latest song, which was released in anticipation of the semi-annual Al-Danah account draw for the KD 1 million prize taking place tomorrow. The new song is performed by Abdulsalam Mohammed and Hadi, with a maritime melody that reflects the culture of the people of Kuwait and the spirit of Gulf Bank. As is tradition, Gulf Bank’s clients have KUWAIT: Group photo of the team. become accustomed to expecting enter- taining performances from the Bank in celebration of various national and social Gulf Bank’s recent grown accustomed to celebrating our occasions. This time around, after Gulf increase of the national and social occasions with our Bank increased the Al-Danah account Al-Danah account dear clients. With this year’s updated Al- prizes with the promise to announce two prizes, and how Danah account prizes, we have even more new millionaires this year, the Bank even during the reason to celebrate: the announcement of launched a song that celebrates its rela- past year, all cus- our upcoming millionaire in our semi- tionship with its loyal customers, reward- tomers’ Al-Danah annual Al-Danah account draw! We are ing them in a similar fashion as to how the chances were excited to have launched our latest song sea rewards its seafarers depicted in the accumulated as a to highlight just how rewarding saving music video. This is evident in the music Najla Aleisa reward for their with an Al-Danah account can be, and to video released with the song, which loyalty. The song’s remind our clients that there are always depicts the difficulty of pearl diving and lyrics also refer to plenty of chances for them to win with the hardship that our forefathers endured Gulf Bank’s slogan, the Al-Danah account Al-Danah.” while, at the same time, highlighting the draws and prizes, and to the increase in Gulf Bank’s semi-annual Al-Danah ease of winning with Gulf Bank’s Al- the Al-Danah prize amounts. account draw will take place tomorrow at KUWAIT: The Arabian red fox, holes in the ground. The animal — Danah account, and how life changing Commenting on Gulf Bank’s latest 7 pm. Viewers can watch the live broad- locally known as ‘Al-Hesni’, is common feeding on mice, gerbils, small rabbits winning an Al-Danah prize can be. work, Gulf Bank’s Deputy General cast event on Al-Rai TV, Gulf Bank’s in the open desert of Kuwait, living in and birds’ eggs — is facing a bit of a During the course of the song, artists Manager of Marketing, Najla Aleisa, social media channels, and via the event small groups and seeking refuge from struggle due to illegal hunting, which Abdulsalam Mohammed and Hadi refer to commented: “At Gulf Bank, we have link at https://www.e-gulfbank.com/kdm. the merciless sun by digging deep threatens its existence. — KUNA 4 Established 1961 Local Wednesday, July 14, 2021

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Young Writers The sincere dean of diplomatic corps

By Nermin Al-Houti

, since my return to my dear homeland Kuwait, kept seeing him in almost every Icultural and art event. This man always participated with educated and creative individuals. He is the Senegalese Ambassador to Kuwait, Abdou Lahad Mbacke, who was the dean of the diplomatic corps for over 23 years in Kuwait. Culture and politics are two sides of a KUWAIT: The sun sets behind buildings in Kuwait City on Monday. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat coin, and this is what Mbacke was doing. Our words today are to tell him goodbye with the hope to meet this political and cultural per- sonality in the future at cultural or art events in Kuwait or anywhere else. I did not expect to write to see off a friend ‘Friendship Society’ who always backed Kuwait and educated Kuwaitis with his views and advised us. We will miss you for sure. Ambassador Mbacke is covers patients’ an excellent reader of all Kuwait writers, particularly the columnists in Kuwait. We will medication bills miss your follow-up and opinion of our columns. KUWAIT: Director General of Kuwait We tell you goodbye, hoping to see again. Humanitarian Friendship Society Khalid bin Sabt You are the son of Kuwait and will remain so. paid a visit to Farwaniya Hospital Director General You joined us for more than a quarter centu- Dr Mohammad Al-Barrak in the presence of head ry in our sad and happy times. You were and of accounting Ali Al-Mutairi. Bin Sabt handed Dr still are a member of all Kuwaiti families Barrak a cheque to cover the cost of medication of through your visits and contacts with insolvent patients of various nationalities, to relieve diwaniyas. You will soon depart your second them from this burden in coordination with the country, and all we have are prayers for you hospital administration. Meanwhile, Dr Barrak and your family to have a happy life. We ask thanked the chairman and board members of KHFS KUWAIT: Director General of Kuwait Humanitarian Friendship Society Khalid bin Sab hands over the cheque Almighty Allah to always hear good news for their efforts to achieve their humanitarian goals to Farwaniya Hospital Director General Dr Mohammad Al-Barrak, in the presence of the hospital’s head of about you. We will miss you. towards all those who live in Kuwait regardless of accounting Ali Al-Mutairi. nationality, race or religion. Ooredoo Kuwait honors Dr Feeli KUWAIT: Ooredoo Telecom, the first to introduce innovative digital services in Kuwait, honored Dr Bassam Al-Feeli, the founder of Orbital Space, the first private company in the Middle East to provide access to space through CubeSat technology, Nada Al-Shemmari and Abdulraof Al-Feeli, on the occasion of the success of releasing Kuwait’s first Nano satellite into orbit called “Qmr Kuwait”. Dr Feeli and Nada Al-Shemmari were greeted by Abdulaziz Yaqoub Al-Babtain - Chief Executive Officer; Fadi Kawar - Chief Operating Officer; Mijbil Alayoub - Senior Director, Corporate KUWAIT: Ooredoo CEO Abdulaziz Yaqoub Al-Babtain Communications; Fatima Dashti - Senior Manager, (center) honors Dr Bassam Al-Feeli (right) and Public Relations, Internal Communications and Nada Al-Shemmari. Social Responsibility; Essa Al-Moosa - Senior Director, Customer Care; Thamer Al-Tahous - advanced technologies including nanotechnolo- Director, VIP and the Public Relations Team in gy, lasers and photonics, advanced nuclear reac- Ooredoo Kuwait. The team expressed their pride in tors design, and space technologies. He is cur- Dr Feeli’s strenuous efforts and great achievements rently a Scientific Consultant and Program on behalf of the State of Kuwait, which resulted in Manager within Innovation and Enterprise a historic achievement called the “Qmr Kuwait”, Directorate at the Kuwait Foundation for the which was released from Cape Canaveral Space Advancement of Sciences (KFAS). Among his Force Station located in Florida, United States. responsibilities at KFAS is organizing science, Meanwhile, Dr Feeli gave a detailed explanation technology, and innovation related learning proof the project and its development stages, stressing grams that would provide local companies with on the fact that the main objective of this project is tools and skills to improve business productivity to raise awareness about satellite technology, in and competitiveness. addition to raising the name of the State of Kuwait Dr Bassam holds PhD in Microelectromechanical and encouraging Kuwaiti youth. Systems (MEMS) from Virginia Tech where he con- Ooredoo affirmed its continuous support for tributed to the development of micro gas analysis youth and local skills and talents in various sec- devices. He has served as scientist in the tors including; science, technology and space Nanotechnology program with the Kuwait Institute innovations, since space inspires the youth. for Scientific Research, and program coordinator in Further, the company stressed on the fact that the the Kuwait National Nuclear Energy Committee. In ultimate goal of such honors is to develop the 2012-2013, Bassam was a Fellow of the Kuwait-MIT capabilities of youth in scientific research and Center for Natural Resources and the Environment. raise awareness about space experiments and He has served as a visiting scientist at MIT their role in sustainable development along with Chemical Engineering Department, and was a visit- improving the quality of life. ing scientist at the Institute for Materials Research, Dr Feeli is a Kuwaiti scientist with expertise in Tohoku University, Japan.

A group photo at Ooredoo headquarters. International WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 Philippine police win battle for the bulge after rule dropped US says helping investigate Haitian president’s killing Page 6 Page 7 Taleban will not fight inside Afghan cities Militants warn Turkey against extending its troop presence KABUL: The Taleban do not want to battle gov- by the Taleban in June after surrendering. ernment forces inside Afghanistan’s cities and would rather see them surrender, a senior insurgent leader Turkey warning said yesterday, as the militants also warned Turkey In a separate statement yesterday, the Taleban against extending its troop presence. said Turkey’s decision to provide security to The hardline Islamist group has swept through Kabul airport when US-led forces leave was much of the north as foreign troops complete their “reprehensible”. withdrawal, and the government now holds little “We consider stay of foreign forces in our home- more than a constellation of provincial capitals that land by any country under whatever pretext as must largely be resupplied by air. occupation,” the group said, days after Ankara Yesterday, the head of a Taleban commission that agreed with Washington to provide security for oversees government forces who surrender urged Kabul airport. residents of Afghanistan’s cities to reach out to As foreign forces wind up their withdrawal — them. “Now that the fighting from mountains and due to be completed by August 31 — the situation deserts has reached the doors of the cities, on the ground is changing rapidly. Mujahiddin (Taleban) don’t want fighting inside the The top US general in Afghanistan relinquished city,” Amir Khan Muttaqi said in a message tweeted his command Monday at a ceremony in the capital, by a Taleban spokesman. the latest symbolic gesture bringing America’s “It is better... to use any possible channel to get longest war nearer to an end. in touch with our invitation and guidance commis- The pace of the pullout — and multiple offen- sion,” he said, adding this would “prevent their sives launched by the Taleban — have raised fears cities from getting damaged”. that Afghanistan’s security forces could be swiftly The strategy is one well-worn by the Taleban — overwhelmed, particularly without vital US air sup- particularly during their first rise to power in the 1990s port. Around 650 American service members are — cutting off towns and district centres and getting expected to remain in Kabul, guarding elders to negotiate a surrender. Muttaqi’s comments Washington’s sprawling diplomatic compound. KANDAHAR: Men donate blood for people who got injured during clashes between Taleban and government came as the defence ministry said Afghan forces had But Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan forces, in Kandahar district on July 12, 2021. — AFP cleared Qala-i-Naw city after days of fighting. said Friday he had agreed with the United States on The Badghis province capital saw sustained the “scope” of how to secure Kabul airport. independently — and strongly disputed by the torching its main bazaar and killing scores of civil- street fighting last week in the first assault by the Peace talks between the insurgents and the gov- government. ians. In the latest fighting, local officials said the Taleban on a major urban centre since foreign ernment supposedly taking place in Doha have The insurgents have tried to capture cities in the Taleban had captured two districts in the largely troops commenced their final withdrawal in May. largely fizzled out, and the Taliban now appear set past, but so far have failed to keep them. They Shiite Hazara province of Bamiyan. During their The call also came the same day as a video on a complete military victory. briefly held the northern city of Kunduz in 2015 and repressive rule two decades ago, the insurgents emerged that CNN said it had verified showing a But claims by the hardline group to control 85 2016 but were pushed out by government forces. In drew international outrage by blowing up giant group of Afghan commandos being gunned down percent of the country are impossible to verify 2018, insurgents seized Ghazni for a few days, centuries-old statues of Buddha in Bamiyan. — AFP Malaysia shuts Cuba blames US COVID centre after for unprecedented 200 workers infected KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian coronavirus vaccination centre was temporarily closed yesterday anti-govt protests after more than 200 workers tested positive for HAVANA: Havana on Monday blamed a US COVID-19, authorities said, as the country’s cases “policy of economic suffocation” for unprece- set a new daily record. The Southeast Asian nation dented protests against Cuba’s communist gov- is battling a serious outbreak driven by highly ernment, as Washington pointed the finger at infectious variants, and has been under a strict “decades of repression” in the one-party state. lockdown since the start of June. The longtime foes traded barbs a day after It has ramped up its jab drive by opening mass vaccination sites, and about 11 percent of the popu- KUALA LUMPUR: File photo shows single mother Tilda Kalaivani waving a shirt to use as a white flag to call for thousands of Cubans took to the streets help, after being affected by COVID-19 in her rental apartment in Kuala Lumpur. —AFP chanting: “Down with the dictatorship” in lation are so far fully vaccinated while almost 25 percent have received a first dose. But one centre in protests dispersed by police who arrested hard-hit Selangor state was forced to close after “This is the first time we’ve had to shut down a with 125 deaths. dozens. The anti-government rallies erupted 204 staff and volunteers out of 453 there tested (vaccination centre) because of positive cases, but Health Minister Adham Baba later told reporters spontaneously in several cities as the country positive, said Khairy Jamaluddin, minister in charge we acted fast,” Khairy said, adding it would not nearly 700 new beds for virus patients had been endures its worst economic crisis in 30 years, of the inoculation drive. hamper the overall programme. added at hospitals in the capital, as well as in with chronic shortages of electricity, food and Those infected had low “viral loads” and none The centre’s closure led to thousands of appoint- Selangor and Negeri Sembilan state, taking the medicine and a recent worsening of the coro- had serious symptoms, possibly because most ments being rescheduled, but it will re-open total to over 5,000. He also announced an extra navirus epidemic. workers at the site in Shah Alam city had been vac- Wednesday after sanitisation, with new staff. 1,200 medical staff would be hired and about 5,000 The only authorized gatherings in Cuba are cinated, he said. He added that 400 of the workers Despite being under strict curbs for weeks, with new volunteers brought in to help in the three hard- usually events of the ruling Communist Party, there had been inoculated, but he did not say which only essential businesses allowed to operate, hit areas. The country of almost 33 million people but according to the data journalism site vaccine they had been given. Malaysia is using the Malaysia’s infection rates have remained high. Daily has so far reported more than 855,000 virus cases, Inventario, a total of 40 demonstrations took Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca and Sinovac shots. cases hit a new record of 11,079 Tuesday, along and nearly 6,400 deaths. — AFP place on Sunday. President Miguel Diaz-Canel blamed the discontent on the United States pursuing a “policy of economic suffocation to provoke social unrest in the country.” Cuba has been under US sanctions since 1962. “What do they want? To provoke social unrest” with a view to “regime change,” he said in an address broadcast on public television and radio.

‘Decades of repression’ In a statement from Washington, US President Joe Biden expressed support for the protesters’ demand for relief “from the decades of repression and economic suffering to which they have been subjected by Cuba’s authoritarian regime.” Secretary of State Antony Blinken said it would be a “grievous mistake” for Cuba to blame Washington for protests he said could be traced to the communist leadership’s “mis- management” of the economy and COVID-19. US-Cuba relations have been particularly fraught since then-president Donald Trump reinforced sanctions following an historic but temporary easing of tensions under Barack Obama between 2014 and 2016. The tougher measures, left unchanged by Biden, and the collapse of tourism due to the global pandemic, contributed to Cuba’s economy declining 11 percent in 2020. On Sunday, several hundred protesters marched through the capital Havana chanting: “We want liberty” as police and soldiers kept watch. AFP witnessed officers spraying tear- gas and beating protesters with plastic pipes. Social media showed scenes of rallies around the country despite the mobile internet-only introduced to the island in 2018 — being mostly offline on Sunday afternoon. It remained so by lunchtime Monday. The EU and UN on Monday called for Cuba to respect freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. “I would like to call on the government there to allow peaceful demonstrations and to listen to the discontent being expressed by the demonstrators,” EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said. — AFP 6 Established 1961 International Wednesday, July 14, 2021 UN human rights council urges ‘verifiable withdrawal’ of Eritrean troops from Tigray Voiced grave concern at reported widespread abuses in the region in recent months

GENEVA: The UN Human Rights Council called Joint investigation yesterday for an immediate end to all violations in Yesterday’s resolution, adopted with 20 of the Ethiopia’s conflict-torn Tigray region and for rights council’s 47 members in favour, 14 opposing and Eritrean troops to quickly withdraw in a verifiable 13 abstaining, called “for an immediate halt to all manner. The top UN rights body approved a resolu- human rights violations and abuses and violations of tion presented by the European Union, which hailed international humanitarian law.” The text also called for a unilateral ceasefire declared by Ethiopia last month “the swift and verifiable withdrawal of Eritrean troops and also its participation in a joint investigation into from the Tigray region.” Eritrean troops are accused the Tigray situation. of massacring civilians and forcing Eritrean refugees But it voiced grave concern at reported widespread back across the border, according to rights groups abuses in the region in recent months, including mass during the eight-month conflict. killings of civilians and rampant sexual violence. In For months, both Ethiopia and Eritrea flatly denied particular, it highlighted the reported participation of the involvement of Eritrean forces in the conflict, but Eritrean troops in serious abuses there, including vio- Abiy finally admitted their presence in March, and said lations of international law, “exacerbating the conflict”. they would withdraw. Before the vote, Eritrea’s repre- Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed-who won the sentative, Adem Osman Idris, slammed the resolution, Nobel Peace Prize in 2019 for rapprochement with insisting that his country’s troops had left the region. neighbouring Eritrea-sent the army into Tigray last Yesterday’s resolution was met with strong resistance November to oust the region’s once-dominant ruling from Eritrea, as well as China and Venezuela, which party, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). together presented 15 proposed amendments, which Abiy had accused them of orchestrating attacks on were all rejected. Ethiopia also categorically rejected Ethiopian military bases in Tigray, an important eco- the text, saying it interfered with an ongoing investiga- nomic and industrial region in the Horn of Africa tion into the situation in Tigray. The resolution did wel- HUMERA: People gather at a gas station during a food distribution organized by the Amhara government near the village nation. After eight months of brutal conflict with feder- come Ethiopia’s decision to agree to the joint probe of Baker, 50 km southeast of Humera, in the Tigray Region of Ethiopia. — AFP al troops, the Tigray Defence Forces last month swept with the UN rights office, and urged the government to across large parts of Tigray and seized the regional ensure the conditions needed for a “full, unhindered be credible, transparency is needed.” “Given the seri- Yesterday’s resolution called on Bachelet’s office to pro- capital Mekele. and independent investigation” and for attaining ousness of the situation, the international community vide the Ethiopian government with advice and techni- The months of fighting-marked by grisly massacres accountability for all violations. has the right to be kept informed.” cal assistance towards ensuring accountability. It also and widespread sexual violence-has killed thousands Anita Pipan of Slovenia, who presented the resolu- UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet told the council called for her to present an oral update to the council of people, while the United Nations says hundreds of tion on behalf of the EU, insisted the intention was not last month that the joint investigation had begun in mid- during its next two sessions in September and March on thousands are on the brink of famine. to interfere with the probe, but said “for the process to May was expected to conclude its work in August. progress made in the joint investigation. — AFP

ical checks where he was certified to be in good Nigerian kidnappers health. “The bandits are still holding 13 members of the family,” the son said. Twelve family members were initially thought to have been abducted with the emir. free abducted emir, A video clip seen by AFP shows the emir address- ing his followers, who came to sympathise with him hold 13 relatives after his release. He broke down in tears as soon as he began his address. A source in the palace said the kidnappers had contacted the palace for ransom for the KANO: An emir kidnapped in northern Nigeria’s release of the other hostages. Kaduna state has been freed while 13 other family Police in Kaduna have not yet commented on the members remained in captivity, his son said yester- incident. Kaduna has recently become a target for kid- day. The attackers, known locally as bandits, stormed napping-for-ransom gangs, seizing students and trav- the palace of 83-year-old Alhassan Adamu, the emir ellers on highways, but the abduction of the emir of Kajuru outside the state capital of Kaduna early marked the first time such a high-profile victim had on Sunday, and seized victims, including women and been seized. Northwest and central Nigeria have in children. recent years been terrorised by gangs of cattle thieves Emirs are revered in predominantly Muslim north- and kidnappers who raid villages, killing and abducting CARACAS: Venezuela’s opposition leader Juan Guaido and his wife Fabiana Rosales are seen outside their house in ern Nigeria as custodians of Islam and tradition. They residents as well as stealing livestock after looting and Caracas. — AFP have no constitutional role, but wield influence and act burning homes. The gangs have lately been attacking as a link between the people and government. “His schools and abducting students to squeeze ransom sition leader Freddy Guevara, who was detained Highness was released yesterday and he is now in the from parents. Venezuela’s Maduro Monday by the secret police and will be charged with palace,” said Musa Alassan Adamu, the emir’s eldest Around 1,000 students have been kidnapped since terrorism and treason, according to the prosecutor’s son. “He was dropped by his captors outside the town December. On July 5, more than 100 students were office. Guevara has been accused in the past of from where he walked to the palace,” Adamu told AFP. kidnapped from a boarding school in Kaduna state, in says Mexico to host encouraging violence in protests that called for He said the monarch was taken to hospital for med- the latest mass abduction targeting schools. — AFP Maduro’s departure, although the lawmaker was par- talks with oppn doned by the president last year. Without referring to Guevara directly, Maduro said on Monday that some of those who have been par- CARACAS: Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro doned “go free and immediately join in looking for said Monday that Mexico will host talks between his criminals, paying for violent groups and preparing government and the opposition, but insisted he will assassinations.” The US and EU have said they are only take part if international sanctions are lifted and willing to review sanctions if negotiations in favor of he is protected from any plots to oust him. “credible” elections advance. Maduro’s re-election in 2018 has not been recog- Maduro insisted his participation in Mexico nized by either the opposition at home or by around depended on whether the measures, which include an 60 other countries — including the European Union oil embargo by the US, were lifted. “We have pro- and the United States. Washington in particular has posed three conditions to go to Mexico,” Maduro told ramped up sanctions against Venezuela and its regime, lawmakers. “One, that the United States and the putting huge pressure on a country that has plunged European Union lift all sanctions. deeper into political, economic and humanitarian crisis. “Two, that all political sectors, by sitting down, rec- “Norway has been promoting an international dia- ognize the validity and functioning of public powers logue based in Mexico, and very well, we agree,” and constitutionality of the country and its legitimate Maduro said at a meeting with lawmakers at the presi- authorities. “Three, that all sectors renounce violent dential palace in Caracas. “What we do not agree with plans with criminals, coups, assassination and other is that some people who say they want to participate avenues of violence.” in the dialogue are preparing coups, financing crimi- Regional elections are taking place in Venezuela in nals, terrorist attacks, and are planning assassinations,” November, and Maduro has promised to respect the added the president. results should his opponents triumph in the mayoral Maduro’s comments come after the arrest of oppo- and gubernatorial contests. — AFP MEXICI CITY: Passengers travel on the cable car system dubbed Cablebus after its inauguration outskirts of Mexico City, on July 12, 2021. — AFP

Moroccan system’s fundamental promise of fair trials US criticizes for individuals accused of crimes and is inconsistent In contrast to the buses and metro where pick- with the promise of the 2011 constitution and His Commuters escape pockets and thieves operate, passengers aboard the Morocco jailing Majesty King Mohammed VI’s reform agenda,” State new Cablebus system enjoyed comfortable seats, Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters. Mexico City gridlock legroom, air conditioning and Wi-Fi. “It reduces my “Press freedom is foundational to prosperous and travel time a lot,” 21-year-old psychology student of journalist secure societies, and governments must ensure that Karen Leon said, traveling with family members who journalists can safely perform their essential roles in new cable car gazed down on the city with a mixture of astonish- without fear of unjust attention, violence or threats,” ment and amusement. WASHINGTON: The United States on Monday criti- he said. But the Moroccan prosecutor’s office said It was a welcome change from the hellish com- cized its ally Morocco for handing a five-year prison Raissouni received a “fair” trial and had been “prose- MEXICO CITY: Commuters soared over one of the mute that many endure in the capital and surround- sentence to a journalist and urged the kingdom to pro- cuted for crimes that have nothing to do with his jour- world’s biggest and most traffic-clogged cities as a ing urban sprawl, home to a total of more than 20 tect media freedom. The State Department said it was nalistic work.” new cable car system went into operation in the million people. The line between Cuautepec and “disappointed” by Friday’s sentencing of Soulaimane Price said the United States was also raising with Mexican capital on Monday. The 9.2-kilometer (5.7 Indios Verdes can carry up to 5,000 people an hour Raissouni, the editor-in-chief of the now-defunct Morocco other cases of journalists including that of miles) aerial tramway, comprising 377 cars that can between six stations, according to Mayor Claudia Akhbar Al Yaoum whose allies say he was targeted for Omar Radiwho has, according to the Committee to each carry 10 passengers, promises to cut travel times Sheinbaum’s office, which plans to open a second his critical coverage. Protect Journalists, been held in solitary confinement for thousands of people in northern Mexico City. line in the east of the city. Raissouni, who has lost a significant amount of on charges of sexual assault and undermining state “How much time was wasted. They should have Another cable car system was inaugurated in 2016 weight after a hunger strike of more than 90 days, was security. Morocco is a longstanding ally of the United done this much earlier,” said 46-year-old electrician in Ecatepec just north of the capital, an area plagued convicted of indecent assault against another man, States, which under former president Donald Trump Marco Antonio Garcia, delighted that what was a jour- by crime and poor public transportation. Similar sys- making him the latest in a string of journalists prose- recognized its claim to disputed Western Sahara as ney of more than an hour now takes 20 minutes. “Are tems also exist in a number of other Latin American cuted for alleged sex crimes. “We believe the judicial the kingdom agreed to normalize relations with we in France or Switzerland?” he said, laughing along cities, notably La Paz and adjoining El Alto in Bolivia process that led to this verdict contradicts the Zionists entity.—AFP with the other passengers. which have a 32-kilometer aerial tramway. — AFP

US citizens — killed the president in his home last ue to provide assistance.” White House Press Department of Justice, Department of Homeland US says helping week, also injuring his wife. Secretary Jen Psaki said the delegation of US law Security, State Department and National Security “At the request of the Haitian government, the enforcement and national security officials who visited Council met with top Haitian officials. Department of Justice, along with its US government Haiti on Sunday noted the country’s instability in the “The delegation reviewed the security of critical investigate Haitian partners, is assisting the Haitian National Police in the wake of Moise’s murder. infrastructure with Haitian government officials and investigation,” the department said in a statement. “What was clear from their trip is that there is a met with the Haitian National Police, who are leading president’s killing “An initial assessment has been conducted in Haiti lack of clarity about the future political leadership,” the investigation into the assassination,” NSC spokes- by senior US officials. The department will continue to Psaki said. She said Haiti’s request for US troops to woman Emily Horne said. support the Haitian government in its review of the deploy and provide security was “still under analysis.” They also met with Haitian political leaders, WASHINGTON: The United States said Monday it facts and circumstances surrounding this heinous Asked if the White House had ruled out sending including interim Prime Minister Claude Joseph and was helping investigate Haitian president Jovenel attack.” It added it would also investigate if any US troops, she said “no.” Senate President Joseph Lambert, “to encourage Moise’s assassination and did not rule out sending laws had been broken. No motive is publicly known for the killing, and open and constructive dialogue to reach a political troops at Haiti’s request. According to Haitian authori- “Political leaders need to come together,” Biden questions are swirling about who masterminded the accord that can enable the country to hold free and ties, a hit squad of 28 men — 26 Colombians and two told reporters earlier. “The US stands ready to contin- assassination. The US delegation representing the fair elections.” — AFP Established 1961 7 Wednesday, July 14, 2021 International Thailand defends COVID-19 vaccine ‘mix-and-match’ after WHO warning Russia says India will produce 300m Sputnik V doses each year

BANGKOK: Thailand yesterday defended mixing two inactivated virus vaccine-Sinovac-with a viral vector the bulk of them detected since the latest wave kicked off different COVID-19 vaccines to battle a surge in infec- vaccine such as AstraZeneca. in April from an upscale Bangkok nightlife district. tions, after the WHO’s top scientist warned it was a “dan- “We can’t wait 12 weeks (for a booster effect) in this Healthcare workers were the first in line to receive gerous trend” not backed by evidence. The kingdom is outbreak where the disease is spreading fast,” he said. Sinovac, but authorities said Sunday nearly 900 medical struggling to contain its latest outbreak fuelled by the “But in the future, if there are better, improved vaccines... staff-most of them vaccinated with that shot-got highly contagious Delta variant, with cases and deaths we will find a better way to manage the situation.” His COVID-19. They will now also get an AstraZeneca or Myanmar junta hits skyrocketing and the healthcare system stretched thin. comments come a day after the World Health Pfizer-BioNTech booster shot, authorities said. Authorities said they will mix a first dose of the Organisation’s chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan called Virus hotspot Bangkok and nine other hard-hit Suu Kyi with more Chinese-made Sinovac jab with a second dose of the strategy a “dangerous trend”. provinces are now under tougher restrictions that include AstraZeneca to try and achieve a “booster” effect in six “We are in a bit of a data-free, evidence-free zone as a night-time curfew and a ban of gatherings over five weeks instead of 12. Thailand’s chief virologist Yong far as ‘mix-and-match’”, she said. Thailand has reported people. corruption charges Poovorawan said this would be possible by combining an more than 353,700 coronavirus cases and 2,847 deaths- Meanwhile, the developers of Russia’s Sputnik V coronavirus vaccine said yesterday a deal had been YANGON: Myanmar’s junta authorities have struck with Indian vaccine maker the Serum Institute to slapped more corruption charges on Aung San produce 300 million doses annually. “The parties intend Suu Kyi, her lawyer said yesterday, adding to an to produce over 300 million doses of the vaccine in India eclectic charge sheet that could see the Nobel per year with the first batch expected in September laureate jailed for more than a decade. 2021,” the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) said in A mass uprising in Myanmar against the mili- a statement. tary’s February coup has been met with a brutal Sputnik V was registered by Russia in August last crackdown that has killed more than 890 civilians, year-the first of four vaccines developed in the country- according to a local monitoring group. Suu Kyi, and the RDIF says it is approved for use in 67 countries. 76, who is under house arrest, is already on trial Its hasty development and distribution for use ahead of for sedition, illegally importing walkie talkies and late-stage trials meant the jab was initially greeted with flouting coronavirus restrictions during elections scepticism. last year her party won in a landslide. Sputnik V has since won over experts, in a scientific She will face four more charges of corruption, and geopolitical victory for President Vladimir Putin, who her lawyer Khin Maung Zaw told reporters on announced late last month he had been inoculated with Tuesday, adding to those she already faces over the vaccine. Kirill Dmitriev, the CEO of RDIF, described claims she illegally accepted $600,000 in cash the deal with Serum as “a major step” that would and around 11 kilos of gold. increase Sputnik V production capabilities and ultimately “save lives both in India and around the world”. He said that technology transfer had begun and joint production was expected to start in the coming months. Serum Institute CEO Adar Poonawalla said in the statement that since it had shown “high efficacy and a good safety profile, it is critical that the Sputnik vaccine is accessible in full measure for people across India and NARATHIWAT: A civilian defence volunteer alerts people to lockdown measures including the curfew introduced to the world.” halt the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus in the southern province of Narathiwat, as Thailand faces a surge in In January, the RDIF, which helped finance Sputnik V, cases of the virus. — AFP announced that it had applied for registration of the vaccine in the European Union. — AFP

before.” The white paper prompted an angry New COVID rules Japan says ‘sense response from Beijing. “Japan has for some time... levelled unreasonable accusations against China’s Aung San Suu Kyi normal national defence construction and military spark France of crisis’ needed activities, made irresponsible remarks about China’s legitimate maritime activities, and exaggerated the Her legal team has yet to see “the first informa- vaccination rush so-called China threat,” foreign ministry spokesman tion reports and other documents”, he said, over Taiwan Zhao Lijian said. adding that the charges would be heard by a Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga’s gov- court in the second city of Mandalay from July 22. PARIS: A record number of French people booked TOKYO: Japan yesterday said US-China tensions ernment approved the paper, which also warned that Tuesday’s hearing on charges Suu Kyi violated appointments for COVID-19 jabs after President over Taiwan are an increasingly urgent issue that North Korea poses “grave and imminent threats to Covid restrictions was adjourned, as no prosecu- Emmanuel Macron announced restrictions on the threatens regional stability, as the balance of power Japan’s security” and criticised China’s “insufficient tion witnesses showed up, Khin Maung Zaw said. unvaccinated, including mandatory tests to enter in Asia shifts between the rival countries. In its transparency” regarding its military affairs. On Monday a prosecution witness failed to restaurants. The head of the main website to book annual white paper-a rundown of the most pressing Japan has been increasingly vocal about China’s testify after becoming infected with the coron- vaccination appointments said traffic was at an all- military threats to the country-Japan’s defence min- maritime expansion and military build-up, publicly avirus. Infections are spiking in Myanmar, with time high following Macron’s televised speech on istry referred to the tussle over Taiwan in more protesting the presence of Chinese vessels around the State Administration Council — as the mili- Monday night. direct terms than ever before. disputed islets known as the Senkaku by Tokyo and tary junta calls itself — reporting more than “We recorded 20,000 appointments per minute, Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and the Diaoyu by Beijing. But the country also has con- 5,000 new cases Monday, up from fewer than 50 an absolute record since the start of the campaign, has ramped up diplomatic, military and economic siderable concerns about the economic impact of per day in early May. — AFP and it’s continued during the night and into this pressure on the self-governed island in recent irritating Beijing-its number one trading partner- morning,” Doctolib boss Stanislas Niox-Chateau years. The United States has reacted to Beijing’s after recent attempts to improve diplomatic ties. told BFMTV. A total of 926,000 people had booked pressure campaign with testy words and hardline In April, Suga and US President Joe Biden a jab on the site, with 65 percent of them under 35, policies-prompting its ally Japan, which has key emphasised “the importance of peace and stability Greece hit with he added. trade relationships with both world powers, to eye across the Taiwan Strait”. While these words were Macron announced that from August anyone the situation with caution. cautious, it marked the first time a Japanese leader new migrant wanting to go out to eat or drink, take a long-dis- “The overall military balance between China and has joined a US president in a statement on Taiwan tance train or visit a shopping centre would need to Taiwan is tilting to China’s favour, and the gap since the allies separately switched recognition show a “health pass”, which means either proof of appears to be growing year by year,” the Japanese from Taipei to Beijing in the 1970s. pushback claim vaccination or a negative test. document said. “Stabilising the situation surround- China reacted angrily to remarks made earlier The pass will also be needed to attend a festival, ing Taiwan is important for Japan’s security and the this month by Japan’s Deputy Prime Minister Taro ATHENS: Tchinda said the longed-for destination of his a theatre show or a cinema screening as part of the stability of the international community,” it added. Aso, who said his country would “have to defend government’s strategy to tackle the surging number Taiwan” if the island is invaded by Beijing, accord- risky Aegean crossing — the island of Kos — was “It is necessary that we pay close attention to already tantalisingly in view when Greek vessels halted of new cases linked to the Delta variant. Free the situation with a sense of crisis, more than ever ing to local media. — AFP COVID tests will end in September “to encourage the boat he was sailing in along with 30 other migrants. vaccination instead of taking many tests”, Macron “First a navy ship blocked our way, then it was joined by added in the speech watched by 22 million people. two smaller Zodiac-type boats,” the 39-year-old from The head of state also announced mandatory Cameroon told AFP. “The coastguards were armed and vaccinations for healthcare staff, retirement home shouted at us to go home,” he said in a series of phone workers and others working with vulnerable people interviews conducted between July 1 and 8. A cellphone from September, in line with similar moves in video shared by the Cameroonian with AFP shows a Greece, Italy and Britain. packed dinghy immobilised by a Greek coastguard patrol boat, with four crew members monitoring the migrants. Objections A second patrol boat and a third vessel can be seen in The measures sparked fierce criticism by some the distance. “Stay down and stay calm, for your safety,” on social media, with the French word for dictator- a Greek coastguard, in a mask and gloves, says, holding a ship — #Dictature-trending on Twitter amid accu- long pole. Next to him, a female coastguard fingers a sations the government has introduced mandatory machine gun. But the migrants, most of them men wearing vaccination by stealth. Some objected on the life jackets, are agitated. grounds that the health pass infringed on the per- “I am tired,” one man shouts back. “Pushback,” says sonal liberty to choose to get vaccinated or not, another. Tchinda, who declined to give his last name, said while anti-vaxxers pushed conspiracy theories he believed the guards “did not dare” to act violently about the links between the government and phar- towards the migrants because they saw them filming. But, maceutical companies. he said, they made waves to push the dinghy back QUEZON CITY: In this photo taken on January 25, 2021, members of the Philippine National Police conduct morn- towards Turkish waters. “Luckily no one fell into the A tweet from Macron from December 2020 in ing exercises outside their ofﬁce in Quezon City, as part of a ﬁtness programe in the force to combat obesity and which he said “the vaccine will not be obligatory” water but it could have been very dangerous,” the weight gain amongst its personnel. — AFP Cameroonian added. The Turkish coastguard confirmed was also shared. French far-right leader Marine Le in a June 11 written statement that it had picked up a boat Pen criticised the government for making vaccina- the previous day shortly before 1:00 p.m. local time. tions mandatory for healthcare staff, who will not be submit monthly body mass index (BMI) readings. Details on the number of migrants on board, its location paid after September 15 if they are not jabbed. Officers seeking to rise up the ranks were blocked and the time chimed with those described by Tchinda. “We applauded them at 8pm, considered them Philippine police win if they failed to meet BMI targets, said personnel The incident comes amid a series of media and NGO our daily heroes, always there despite their low head Major General Rolando Hinanay. reports in recent months on the forced return of migrants salaries and difficult working conditions,” she wrote battle for the bulge In a memo to his recently appointed boss, the from Greek territory or in Greece’s waters to Turkey. on Twitter. “Now they’re being made to feel guilty reed-thin police chief General Guillermo Eleazar, Amnesty International said last month that illegal and threatened with not being paid, with indecent after rule dropped Hinanay called for the rule to be suspended. pushbacks of refugees and migrants to Turkey had brutality.” Jocelyn Bouyssy, the head of the CGR He argued COVID-19 restrictions had made it dif- become Greece’s “de facto” border policy. The Greek Cinemas group, told Franceinfo radio that he was ficult for officers to work out and lose weight. government has repeatedly denied the accusations. “very angry” about the health pass which would be MANILA: Philippine police have a won a battle for “As a result, many personnel were disqualified for Between January 2020 and March 2021, the United difficult to implement and dissuade people from the bulge after the force dropped a requirement for promotion,” Hinanay said. Eleazar confirmed to Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) doc- going out to watch a film. “We’re like lambs being officers seeking promotion to meet body fat targets, reporters yesterday he had approved the request. umented around 300 reported incidents of illegal expul- led to the slaughter,” he said. Health Minister Olivier an official document showed yesterday. Expanding Officers are supposed to have a BMI of between 18.5 sions around the Aegean islands and Greece’s northeast- Veran insisted that the health pass was “not a pun- waistlines have been a hefty problem among police in and 27, depending on their age, to qualify for service. ern Evros land border with Turkey. Several migrant sup- ishment, it’s not blackmail”. the Southeast Asian country for years. A 2019 study Generally a BMI of between 18.5 and 24.9 is consid- port groups, including the Greek Helsinki Monitor, in “You can carry on working without being vac- showed almost 35 percent of personnel were over- ered a “healthy weight”. May filed a complaint at the European Court of Justice cinated, taking your children to school without weight and nearly 10 percent obese. A petition filed by disgruntled officers had argued against Frontex, the EU’s border monitoring agency. The being vaccinated,” he told RMC radio. He said the Rules introduced at the start of the pandemic by the policy was “detrimental” and “a form of discrimi- case was based on testimony from Ange, a young woman choice was between accepting the new measures, former police chief Debold Sinas — who publicly nation to personnel who are above normal BMI”. from Burundi, who said she and a Congolese minor were which primarily affect the unvaccinated, or head- acknowledged his own efforts to shed kilos through In the past officers have been sent to training assaulted, robbed and detained on their arrival on the ing for a fourth lockdown, which would hit the diet and exercise — made it compulsory for the camps or assigned to less desirable posts to shame Greek island of Lesbos, then abandoned on rafts without whole country. — AFP 220,000 members of the force to work out daily and them into losing weight. — AFP a motor, water or food.—AFP Established 1961

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 Oil demand surges, market set for deficit and volatility: IEA Rising vaccination rates help underpin robust economic activity PARIS: Oil demand surged last month as rising vac- sibility: the overall OPEC+ deal breaks down and cination rates helped underpin robust economic producers open the taps and try to gain market activity, but with OPEC+ nations pumping less than shares, which would likely lead to prices crashing. needed prices are set to be volatile until it reaches a “At the same time, the possibility of a market deal to raise output, the IEA warned yesterday. A share battle, even if remote, is hanging over markets, meeting of OPEC+ nations earlier this month was as is the potential for high fuel prices to stoke infla- deadlocked over plans to gradually ease production tion and damage a fragile economic recovery,” said cuts, imposed to reverse the plunge in oil prices at the IEA. Investors have been worried that a surge in the start of the coronavirus pandemic as demand inflation could force central banks to raise their ultra- tumbled. low interest rates, thus removing one of the main But demand is rebounding, with the International supports for the economic recovery. Energy Agency estimating it surged by an estimated The IEA said that absent increased production by 3.2 million barrels per day (mbd) last month, which is OPEC+ nations the market for crude is set to tighten, more than a third of the overall drop in demand last with additional stocks built up during the pandemic year. The IEA expects oil demand to rise by another already gone and reserves running below the long- 3.3 mbd in the three months from July. That is more term average in industrialized nations. Furthermore, it than twice as large as the seasonal increase regis- forecasts the biggest draw upon stocks in at least a tered during the same period in 2019, which the IEA decade will happen this quarter as OPEC+ pumps said is a result of easing COVID restrictions and nearly 2 mbd less than market demand. The gap will increasing vaccination. rise to 3.2 mbd in the final three months of the year. While OPEC+ had been set to gradually raise oil “Oil markets are likely to remain volatile until PARIS: Oil demand surged last month as rising vaccination rates helped underpin robust economic activity, but with output, the stalemate means production is frozen at there is clarity on OPEC+ production policy,” OPEC+ nations pumping less than needed prices are set to be volatile until it reaches a deal to raise output, the IEA current levels until an agreement is found. “Oil prices the IEA warned. It also noted that a spike in reacted sharply to the OPEC+ impasse last week, prices would not be in the long-term interest of warned yesterday. eyeing the prospect of a deepening supply deficit if a oil producers. deal cannot be reached,” the IEA said in its latest “While prices at these levels could increase the report said. While the agency, which advises oil- demand growth in the near- to medium-term, in par- monthly report. pace of electrification of the transport sector and consuming nations, foresees oil demand recovering ticular in the non-OECD.” Emerging nations not in the The main international oil contracts have been help accelerate energy transitions, they could also along with the global economy, it doesn’t discount OECD group of advanced nations-such as China and trading around $75 per barrel, and some analysts see put a drag on the economic recovery, particularly the pandemic continuing to weigh upon the market. India-were responsible for much of the growth in the a spike to $100 as possible. But there is another pos- in emerging and developing countries,” the IEA “COVID-19 remains a significant threat to oil global economy before the pandemic. —AFP Lhasa building boom heightens divisions in Tibet France fines Google LHASA: Under towering mountains, since deadly anti-China protests cranes and newly-built blocks of flats exploded across the region in 2008. 500m euros in stretch up to blue skies around the Tibetan capital of Lhasa, as a con- Haves and have-nots news copyright row struction boom creates a two-tier sys- China’s government says develop- tem of property wealth between state ment is the antidote to discontent in PARIS: France’s competition watchdog yes- workers and everyone else. A huge Tibet, where many people still revere terday slapped Google with a 500-million- infrastructure and building drive in the Dalai Lama-the region’s spiritual euro ($593-million) fine for failing to negotiate Tibet has brought airports, roads, rail- leader-and resent an influx of Chinese “in good faith” with media companies over the ways and new flats, which Beijing says tourists and settlers. Since 2008 it has use of their content under EU copyright rules. are improving life across the remote poured investment into the region, This photo taken on June 3, 2021 shows a general view of new building sites under It is “the biggest ever fine” imposed by the mountainous plateau. making Tibet one of China’s fastest- construction in the regional capital Lhasa in China’s Tibet Autonomous Region. —AFP Competition Authority for a company’s failure But the boom is also changing the growing regions economically and to adhere to one of its rulings, the agency’s chief Isabelle De Silva told reporters, saying historic Buddhist city and pushing fuelling rising average incomes. make the big bucks,” said Andrew uates. Interviewing locals was difficult the decision was intended to “reflect the grav- property prices out of reach of many Many residents agree such mod- Fischer, a professor at Erasmus under the watchful eyes of government ity” of Google’s shortcomings. residents, Tibetans say, sharpening ernizations are welcome, but experts University Rotterdam. “The property minders, but overseas Tibetans who The regulator also ordered Google to pres- divisions in a region well-known for have warned Lhasa’s 860,000 people market opens up only once you’ve are in close touch with those on the ent media publishers with “an offer of remu- discontent under Chinese control. A are also increasingly polarized passed that gateway. That gateway is ground say a toxic social brew is neration for the current use of their copyright- short distance from the Potala Palace, between haves and have-nots. The what controls people.” developing. ed content”, or risk paying additional damages the former home of the exiled Dalai building binge is perhaps the most Rural migrants are moving from “Most people who are educated of up to 900,000 euros a day. A Google Lama, construction workers crawl over visible evidence, seen as largely bene- other parts of Tibet to Lhasa to seek work for the government. (But) you spokesperson said in a statement to AFP that high-end condo towers being built by fitting educated government workers better economic and educational have increasing numbers of young the company was “very disappointed” by the Chinese developer Country Garden. while Tibetan rural migrants struggle opportunities but usually end up on Tibetans who are well-educated... and decision. “We have acted in good faith during They are priced similarly to many to keep up. Nearly one million square society’s lower rungs, said Emily Yeh, didn’t get a government job,” said an the entire negotiation period. This fine does major Chinese cities, despite average meters of newly-built housing was professor at the University of Colorado overseas Tibetan who spoke on condi- not reflect the efforts put in place, nor the Tibetan incomes still being among the sold in 2020, up 28 percent from the Boulder. Many have low Mandarin lan- tion of anonymity. He says this is creat- reality of the use of news content on our plat- country’s lowest. The development sits previous year. guage abilities, a prerequisite for many ing a pool of educated youths unable form,” the company insisted. opposite billboards advertising other Real estate listings show around urban jobs. to earn enough to buy homes. Tibetans “This decision is mainly about negotiations projects and near a modern new shop- three dozen new developments cur- also told AFP that government workers that took place between May and September ping center. AFP recently joined a rare rently selling homes in Lhasa. With Job competition face extra controls and pressure to 2020. Since then, we have continued to work and tightly controlled government-led prices rising, entering the market relies Even at the higher end, competition shun their Buddhist faith, which they with publishers and news agencies to find tour of Tibet, which has heavily on public-sector jobs “because there for top jobs is fierce as employment fear endangers their religious and cul- common ground.” restricted entry for foreign journalists are very few options outside of that to growth lags the numbers of new grad- tural heritage. —AFP The long-running legal battle has centered on claims that Google has been showing arti- cles, pictures and videos produced by media China growth slowed outlets when displaying search results without adequate compensation, despite the seismic shift of global advertising revenues towards sharply to 7.7% in the search giant. In April 2020, the French competition authority ordered Google to second quarter: Poll negotiate “in good faith” with media groups after it refused to comply with a 2019 EU law BEIJING: China’s economic growth slowed sharply governing digital copyright. in the second quarter as the country’s army of con- The so-called “neighboring rights” aim to sumers remained hesitant to splurge and exports ensure that news publishers are compensated were dented by disruptions, according to an AFP when their work is shown on websites, search poll of analysts. The world’s second largest economy engines and social media platforms. But last has staged a rapid recovery from last year’s pan- September, French news publishers including demic-induced slump, but the investment and manu- Agence France-Presse (AFP) filed a complaint facturing rebound fuelling it now seems to be fad- with regulators, saying Google was refusing to ing-and other drivers are not picking up fast enough. move forward on paying to display content in It is forecast to have grown 7.7 percent on-year web searches. While Google insists it has made in April-June and 8.5 percent for the full year, progress on the issue, the French regulator said according to a poll of 12 analysts conducted by the company’s behavior “indicates a deliberate, AFP. While the quarterly figure would be much SHENZHEN, China: This file photo taken on June 22, 2021 shows cargo containers stacked at Yantian port in elaborate and systematic lack of respect” for its slower than the record 18.3 percent seen at the order to negotiate in good faith. —AFP start of the year, that jump was largely driven by Shenzhen in China’s southern Guangdong province. —AFP the low base of comparison owing to large parts of the country being locked down to prevent the economist Christina Zhu told AFP. ing in order to stop the rise in private corporate and spread of the virus. “Input shortages, surging raw material costs, and household debt”, said Hao Zhou, senior emerging Official figures will be released tomorrow. The shipping disruptions are weighing on the country’s markets economist at Commerzbank. “The industrial virus first emerged in China in late 2019, but the manufacturers, threatening to drag down the coun- sector has so far remained relatively unimpressed by strict containment measures meant the disease was try’s growth,” she said. China’s factory activity has this,” he added, pointing to expectations of slowing brought under control fairly quickly, allowing the been bogged down in recent months by supply industrial output. country to be the only major economy to expand shortages of key commodities and semiconductors, Unlike most other countries, the government has last year. But analysts note that the economy has which are used to make a range of goods from elec- so far refused to embark on a big-spending stimulus been expanding more slowly since the start of 2021 tronics to vehicles. drive as it looks to prevent overheating. However, on as the pandemic drags on globally. “The production Friday the central bank lowered the amount of cash side of the economy is... under pressure amid Export challenges lenders must keep in reserve, which it said would increasing supply challenges,” Moody’s Analytics The government has also “put the brakes on lend- pump an extra $154 billion into the economy. — AFP 9 Business Wednesday, July 14, 2021 Boeing to reduce 787 production after identifying a new jet issue EU airlines fear fuel tax as climate push takes off LOS ANGELES: Boeing will temporarily reduce plane deliveries, up from 70 in the year-ago period. production of the 787 Dreamliner plane after iden- The figures include a big jump in 737 MAX tifying a new issue with the jet during inspections, deliveries after the FAA cleared the jet to resume the company announced yesterday. service in November 2020 following a 20-month Boeing is “reprioritizing production resources grounding due to two deadly crashes. Boeing’s for a few weeks” after it “identified additional shares fell 1.9 percent in pre-market trading to rework that will be required on undelivered 787s,” $233.85. the company said, without providing further details. Meanwhile, the European Commission will pro- The aviation giant has been working with regulators pose a raft of measures to slash EU aviation emis- at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on a sions when it unveils a bumper package of legisla- system of 787 inspections after earlier production tion aimed at reaching its climate goals. problems on the plane. But the push, including an unprecedented tax on The FAA described the problem as a “manufac- highly polluting jet fuel, is facing strong headwinds turing quality issue near the nose on certain 787 from airlines in the bloc, who fear they will have Dreamliners in the company’s inventory of undeliv- their wings clipped. ered airplanes,” an agency spokeswoman said. Brussels argues that a new levy on kerosene for “Although the issue poses no immediate threat to flights inside the EU is a must if the 27-nation bloc flight safety, Boeing has committed to fix these air- is serious about reaching its ambitious target of planes before resuming deliveries. Based on data, cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 55 percent the FAA will determine whether similar modifica- compared with 1990 levels by 2030. The aviation tions should be made on 787s already in commer- sector-which makes up about three percent of cur- cial service.” The latest 787 problem adds to the rent EU emissions-insists the tax would make it headwinds facing Boeing even as the travel industry unable to compete with rivals from outside the bloc. LOS ANGELES: In this file photo a grounded United Boeing 787 Dreamliner is seen on the tarmac at Los Angeles begins to rebound from a deep downturn caused by And the proposal is set to be one of the thorniest International Airport. — AFP COVID-19, and commercial airlines announce sig- issues when European lawmakers, EU member nificant new plane orders. A Boeing spokesman said states, lobbyists and green activists start what is and cargo planes would remain exempt from the its own concerns. new 787 deliveries remain halted as the company expected to be months of furious haggling to shape new levy. The commission also plans to issue a sep- A group of eleven major companies including Air negotiates with the FAA on an inspection protocol the final laws. arate directive aimed at boosting the-still very France-KLM and Lufthansa warned that the moves for the jet’s fuselages. The proposed legislation, seen by AFP, lays out modest-use of “sustainable fuels”. would “significantly increase the competitive The announcement means Boeing’s 787 output the strategy envisioned by the EU executive. The advantage of non-EU airlines and non-EU hub air- “will temporarily be lower than five per-month and tax-to be introduced gradually over a decade- Cheap fuel havens? ports compared to their EU counterparts”. will gradually return to that rate,” the company said. would be based on how energy efficient and envi- Some member states have already come out in The carriers, struggling to overcome the huge “Boeing now expects to deliver fewer than half of ronmentally friendly different types of kerosene are. favor of the plan. Belgium, Luxembourg and Austria hit to business from the coronavirus pandemic, the 787s currently in inventory this year.” The aim is to convince carriers to switch to more wrote an open letter calling for a kerosene tax to be cautioned the plan could spur so-called “carbon Boeing has previously said it has about 100 787 “sustainable” mixes that contain some biofuels. applied “without delay” in the EU-and pushing for leakage”-including seeing airliners fill up in coun- planes in inventory. The disclosure about came as These would not be taxed. the same measure to be adopted internationally. tries on the EU’s fringes like Turkey or Britain to Boeing reported 79 second-quarter commercial Due to international legal constraints, private jets Meanwhile, the EU’s airline sector has hit back with avoid the charge. — AFP

offs for bad loans. JPMorgan “Consumer and wholesale balance sheets remain exceptionally strong as the economic outlook continues to Chase profits improve,” said Chief Executive Jamie Summer marketing Dimon. But revenues for the period surge fell eight percent to $30.5 billion, as the bank’s trading business saw much campaign for Wafra NEW YORK: JPMorgan Chase said less activity compared with the year- yesterday that second-quarter earn- ago level. Real Estate clients ings more than doubled to $11.9 bil- JPMorgan scored much higher lion, as it reported profits from funds profits in consumer banking, thanks KUWAIT: The that had been set aside earlier in the to the reserve releases. Marketing Department pandemic for bad loans. But home-lending revenue fell and of Wafra Real Estate The big US bank, kicking off the credit card and auto revenues were Company launched its earnings season for the sector, bene- flat. Dimon alluded to the heavy role summer marketing cam- fited from $3 billion that had been set of reserve releases in the bank’s paign for its customers, aside as reserves in case clients results, which topped expectations. in cooperation with defaulted. JPMorgan budgeted $8.9 “This quarter we once again benefited many cafes and restau- billion for bad loans in the year-ago from a significant reserve release as rants and the Kuwaiti period, when much of the economy the environment continues to improve, National Cinema remained closed due to the Covid-19 but as we have said before, we do not NEW YORK: In this file photo the JPMorgan Chase & Co World headquarters are pic- Company (Cinescape), Shaikha Al-Fadala pandemic. In the second quarter, it consider these core or recurring prof- tured in New York City. —AFP which includes special reported just $734 million in charge- its,” he said. —AFP discounts, various offers and free gifts, to achieve the highest levels of satisfaction for its customers. Assistant Marketing Director Shaikha Al- N Irish unionists air Brexit Fadala stated, “It comes out of the desire of many of our customers to spend the summer in Kuwait, especially in light of the difficulties bitterness at ceremonial marches and restrictions of travel, as the campaign BELFAST: Thousands of pro-UK Since the start of the year the “pro- contributes to revitalizing the local shopping unionists marched across Northern tocol” has effectively kept Northern movement, in addition to achieving the best Ireland on Monday, in a ceremonial Ireland-and its 1.9 million residents- service and the highest satisfaction rate for tradition freighted with heightened inside the EU customs union and sin- (Wafra) customers.” emotion as post-Brexit arrangements gle market for goods. The special stir up ill feeling in the divided scheme prevented new infrastructure province. Marching pipe and drum on the border with EU member the bands filed through the streets of the Republic of Ireland, a flashpoint in British-ruled overseas region marking “The Troubles” 30 year-long sectarian BoE matches July 12, the anniversary of the 1690 conflict between unionists and pro- Battle of the Boyne. Ireland nationalists. The battle saw the Protestant King But many unionists feel the “proto- Fed on lifting William of Orange defeat the Catholic col” made a hefty concession to King James II and is celebrated yearly nationalists orchestrating a slow slide dividend curbs by predominantly protestant pro-UK to a united Ireland and created a bor- BELFAST: Spectators watch the bands in the city centre during the 12th July Orange communities of Northern Ireland. In der in the Irish sea. At the Belfast marches in Belfast. July is the main marching day in the Orange Order calendar. The LONDON: The Bank of England yesterday axed Belfast, hundreds of musicians and march, one band arrived with a banner parades mark the 331st anniversary of King William III’s victory at the Battle of the pandemic curbs on shareholder dividend payouts in members of the fraternal Protestant reading: “North Belfast says ‘no’ to Boyne in 1690. — AFP the commercial banking sector, mirroring a move by Orange Order marched in front of Irish sea border”. the US Federal Reserve. British-based lenders had crowds of families waving Union Jack Anger over the protocol fuelled there remain signals in the unionist dangerous thing.” “Unionists are a bit axed billions of pounds in dividends and share buy- flags in celebrations pared back more than a week of rioting in April community that tensions are still high. confused, they’re a wee bit angry,” backs after the BoE requested the move to boost because of the coronavirus pandemic. which stemmed from unionist commu- “We as a people feel that we’re confided marcher Bobby Rainey. liquidity at the height of the coronavirus crisis. Last year’s parades were cancelled nities and spread into nationalist being marginalized in our own coun- “They’re certainly angry with the “Extraordinary guardrails on shareholder distri- but on Monday they went ahead with enclaves, injuring 88 police. try,” Orange Order marcher Fraser protocol, with what they see as the butions are no longer necessary,” the BoE said in smaller localized marches. Many of the There were fears the “marching Agnew told AFP as the Belfast march- deceit of the English government.” UK its latest financial stability report after declaring unionists marching are currently in season” which reaches its crescendo es prepared to begin. “We feel com- Brexit minister David Frost has said the resilience of the sector. political turmoil over a post-Brexit on July 12 could herald further unrest. pletely isolated and the British govern- London wants a “consensual approach” The curbs were imposed in March 2020 but “protocol” for Northern Ireland they Marches and related bonfire events in ment, Europe, the Irish Republic are all to resolving issues with the protocol, loosened in December with the resumption of lim- feel is prying the province loose from the early hours of Monday passed off conspiring against us. So it creates this promising to set out the government’s ited shareholder dividends. “We expect bank its place in the United Kingdom. without reports of violence, however siege mentality which can be a very approach before July 22. — AFP boards to be appropriately prudent in distribution they make both to their shareholders and their staff given the vital role banks can play in supporting antee the key revenue source for Ukraine. Germany has repeatedly said it stands ready to the recovery,” said Sam Woods, BoE deputy gov- Ukraine to remain The nearly finished 10-billion-euro ($12-billion) play middleman in discussions to ensure Kiev keeps ernor for prudential regulation. pipeline is set to double Russian gas supplies to receiving the fees beyond that date. Merkel said “That is the message that we’re giving to the Germany, Europe’s largest economy. But the project Germany would strive to keep Russian gas flowing banks,” he told a press conference. gas transit country is fiercely opposed by the United States and several through Ukraine “in the future”. “That’s what we The BoE added that the economic outlook had European countries which argue that it will increase promised Ukraine,” she said, “and I keep my promises brightened thanks to rapid vaccinations. At the after Nord Stream 2 energy dependence on Russia and Moscow’s and I think any future German chancellor will as well”. same time, it expressed caution over risks to the geopolitical clout. The pipeline bypasses Ukraine’s The veteran German leader, who is bowing out at nascent recovery, as Delta COVID variant infec- BERLIN: German Chancellor Angela Merkel insist- gas infrastructure, depriving the nation of around a September’s general election after 16 years in power, tions continue to spike. ed on Monday that natural gas transit through billion euros annually in transit fees and, Kiev fears, will travel to Washington this week for talks with US The update comes after recent Federal Reserve Ukraine would continue even after the controversial removing a key check on potential Russian aggres- President Joe Biden in which Nord Stream 2 is stress tests concluded that the largest US financial Nord Stream 2 pipeline linking the country with sion in the region. expected to feature heavily. Despite strong criticism institutions had sufficient capital to weather a Russia is completed. “Ukraine is and will remain a Speaking in Berlin, Zelensky reiterated that Nord of the pipeline, Biden in May waived key sanctions severe downturn. That cleared the way for US transit country even once Nord Stream 2 is com- Stream 2 posed “a potential security threat to on Nord Stream 2 after concluding that it was too restrictions on dividends and share buybacks to pleted,” Merkel told a Berlin press conference Ukraine and the region”. To soothe tensions, late to stop the project and it was better to seek be lifted from this month. The Bank of England alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Germany has helped broker a deal that will see cooperation with Germany. US officials have previ- yesterday added that it expected UK lenders to “There are big worries about this on the Ukrainian Russia’s Gazprom pay transit fees to Ukraine until ously voiced hope that Germany will agree to outline continue aiding the recovery from pandemic tur- side and we take those seriously,” she said, adding end-2024, regardless of whether it actually uses automatic retaliatory steps that would be triggered if moil, particularly as emergency stimulus measures that Germany would do “everything we can” to guar- Ukrainian pipelines. Russia steps up pressure on Ukraine. —AFP are withdrawn. —AFP 10 Established 1961 Business Wednesday, July 14, 2021 Burgan Bank announces one-year partnership with Scientific Center Bank reaffirms its active role in supporting initiatives of environmental awareness and protection

KUWAIT: Burgan bank announced a new dynamic port of science, technology, engineering and mathe- the videos also highlight the local efforts of environ- Khaled Al-Ramly, Marketing & Communications partnership with the Scientific Center of Kuwait matics (STEM) learning, with a focus on helping youth ment conservation and help present environmental and Department Manager at TSCK, reaffirmed the center’s (TSCK) - one of the centers established by the Kuwait communicate the wonders of science, environmental science related subject matters in a simple, easy-to- commitment towards a sustainable future for Kuwait, Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) - protection messages, and being a force for change understand format, produced in an effort to enrich the both through developing skills, knowledge and passion as part of the bank’s endeavors within its social through social media. Participants in the internship community with a fresh and engaging approach to sci- in science in Kuwait’s youth, as well as through envi- responsibility program and strategic sustainability ini- program will enjoy a rich ence information that works as a learning resource ronmental awareness activities. tiatives to support the efforts of protecting the envi- onsite learning and capacity about Kuwait’s ecosystems for the world. “We are confident that this partnership with Burgan ronment and raising the public’s awareness of environ- building experience on the Commenting on this strategic partnership Manager Bank will lead to a positive impact in educating the mental issues. basic tenets of effective sci- Public Relation - Hessa Hussain Al-Najadah, Burgan people of Kuwait about the natural ecosystems found This one-year partnership with the Scientific ence communication and Bank, said “Burgan has committed itself to be a firm in our country, and the lifeforms that are under threat Center reaffirms the bank’s commitment to strengthen educational programming. supporter of environmental protection efforts and due to various external influences that can be stopped the coordination mechanisms upholding the efforts of The two-month practical on awareness raising initiatives through various cam- through greater awareness. As a whole, the entire cen- raising the public’s awareness of environmental issues the job training will expose paigns and actions targeting all of society in general, ter is committed to building environmental protection and of the vital importance of actively participating in participants to the best but with an eye towards youth as our future leaders. awareness, and the urgency to take the protection of environmental protection. The partnership aims specif- practices in informal educa- Under its social responsibility program and sustain- the environment seriously.” ically to provide Kuwaiti youth with the opportunity to tion and enhance their crit- ability strategy, Burgan’s partnership with The This partnership underpins Burgan Bank’s commit- take part in a rich educational experience through the ical thinking, communica- Scientific Center serves a common goal of raising the ment to its holistic and inclusive sustainability strategy Hessa Hussain Al-Najadah TSCK Internship Program in Science Communications, tion, creative thinking, and public’s awareness of the importance of our environ- that reflects the bank’s dedication to support all the “Be a Science Communicator”. The collaboration also collaborative working skills. ment, the issues threatening it, and the ways to ensure major matters affecting the community’s welfare. It extends an initiative to support the production of 12 The young interns will also take part in the develop- environmental protection and sustainability.” also stresses Burgan’s keenness to further develop its videos for TSCK’s “Discover Kuwait” program, which ment, preparation and delivery of TSCK’s 2021 sum- Al-Najadah added “Burgan Bank is proud to be an various social responsibility programs by sustaining is shown exclusively on TSCK’s social media channels, mer programming. active partner in the efforts aimed at shedding light on impactful collaborations with organizations acting for showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of Kuwait’s In addition to the internship program, Burgan is environmental issues. This collaboration with the the same goal of promoting continuous learning habitats, flora and fauna. supporting the Scientific Center in the production of Scientific Center reaffirms our loyalty to this cause, opportunities as well as awareness, knowledge and The “Be a Science Communicator” internship pro- the center’s “Discover Kuwait” series, aimed at helping and the steadfast commitment to our core value to be capacity building among the younger generations in gram extends over the months of June and July, and to shed the light on the beauty and uniqueness of partners in positive change to enhance the overall particular to prepare the future leaders of change and was opened to youth aged 16 to 18. TSCK designed Kuwait’s habitats, flora and fauna. In addition to help- wellbeing of our community, and to be a major con- the driving force of sustainable development and this program as a community capacity building in sup- ing build awareness for Kuwait’s natural ecosystems, tributor to sustainability and development efforts.” growth. Burgan Bank Big Eid sales rewards its Youth at LuLu account customers

Hypermarket KUWAIT: Burgan Bank announced a new special offer to its Youth Account customers with a 10 percent discount on their purchases from Unique Hype in line with KUWAIT: To celebrate the auspicious occasion the bank’s commitment to continuously provide its cus- of Eid Al-Adha, LuLu Hypermarket, the largest tomers with special offers and promotions that fit their retailer in the region and named among the lifestyle and aspirations. world’s most powerful retailers, launched the ‘Big Burgan’s partnership with Unique Hype, the region’s Eid Sales’ promotion at all its outlets in the first and largest e-commerce platform specialized in country. The week-long promotion, held from 14 limited edition sneakers and apparel and one of the or perhaps you are in a crowded shopping mall with July to 20 July, drew shoppers from all over loud ambient sound not letting you enjoy your music. trendiest stores for streetwear clothing, is part of the New Huawei Kuwait to participate in what was described as Bank’s objective to diversify its palette of offers to the The new Huawei FreeBuds 4 features dual-microphone one of the most comprehensive sales offerings of noise cancellation technology to deliver upgraded Youth account customers so they can enjoy an excep- FreeBuds 4 being the year. The promotion allowed shoppers to tional lifestyle and shopping experience. All Burgan noise cancellation performance and ensures that the avail of amazing offers during Eid Al-Adha holi- microphones pick up the noise surrounding you with Bank’s Youth account customers are eligible to Unique days, with an extensive array of products from a Hype’s promotion applicable on selected items until the released in Kuwait far greater accuracy. wide range of categories being on special offer To enhance noise cancellation effectively across end of July 2022. Customers can get the discount by during the ‘Big Eid Sales’ bonanza. simply using the promo code “Burgan10” when check- different wearing scenarios, the Huawei FreeBuds 4 Among the range of categories offering pro- KUWAIT: Huawei announced yesterday the release uses Adaptive Ear Matching (AEM) noise cancellation ing out from Unique Hype’s website or when shopping of the studio-quality open-fit ANC earphone with air- motional pricing during the sales period were from Unique Hype store at Al-Hamra Mall. technology that automatically detects your ear shape electronic products including smartphones, TVs, like comfort - the Huawei FreeBuds 4 - in Kuwait. They and determine the optimum noise cancellation setup, provide studio-quality sound, open-fit noise cancella- and other electronic items in the Digi Deals cate- resulting in the most comfortable noise cancellation gory; Toys, inflatables and game consoles in the tion, air-like comfort as they do not put any pressure experience. on your ears while using them. Fun at Home category; perfumes and cosmetics The curvature and size of the earphones are opti- in the Fragrant Deals section; choicest cuts of The Huawei FreeBuds 4 are compatible with differ- mized and polished at the micro level, which fits the ent operating systems including Android and iOS. For fresh meat in the Meat Feast; a full range of ears better, providing better comfort and enhanced chocolates in the Chocolate Delights category; a more convenient experience, you can download the noise cancellation thanks to an airtight seal. Therefore Huawei AI Life app to adjust settings or perform vari- Items from the hot food counters in the Biryani no need to worry about that pressure on your ears Fest; and a wide selection of fresh fruits in the ous controls, such as wearing detection, quick con- when wearing them! trols, status query, noise cancellation control, and Fruit Fest category. In addition to the selections from the above categories, there were special device management. Smart and personalized cool features The Huawei FreeBuds 4 are available in two colour- ‘Buy-Two get One-Free’ offers on garments, Dual-device connectivity: Huawei FreeBuds 4 sup- footwear, and ladies handbags. This special pro- ways including Ceramic White, Silver Frost and you ports dual device connection with various kinds of would be able to grab them in Kuwait on 5th August motion which started on 30 June is slated to end devices such as smartphones, tablets, PCs, smart- only on 31 July. Another unique aspect of the Big 2021 with pre-orders starting on 29th July 2021 at a watches, and smart TVs under Huawei’s all-scenario price of KD 44.900. Eid Sales promotion was that the amazing pro- devices. It also supports dual device connection with motional offers were available to shoppers on smart devices running on different operating systems both, the online platform at www.luluhypermar- LONDON: British business optimism indicator jumped to Huawei FreeBuds 4 like Android, iOS, and Windows systems, achieving The Huawei FreeBuds 4 are the earphones that pro- ket.com and from offline stores. 112.45 points in June, the highest level since 2005. simultaneous connection with smart devices of differ- Big Eid Sales promotion, which was held vide studio-quality sound. Huawei’s newest earphones ent operating systems and brands. come fitted with a fully upgraded 14.3 mm driver unit throughout the festival period in full adherence Smart and personalized controls: The Huawei to health guidelines issued by the authorities, with a wide frequency range of up to 40 kHz providing FreeBuds 4 comes with a smart interactive experience. British business you with studio-quality immersive sound that uncovers marked yet another successful promotional event You can effortlessly enable active noise cancellation, in the long list of promotions and festivals held at the rich details of every melody. In addition, they also adjust the volume, answer calls, press play, and switch bass on earphones to a new level with a bass enhanc- LuLu Hypermarket outlets throughout the year. confidence soars songs right from the earphone stems, with simple The Big Eid Sales was also a continuation of the ing power engine. Swipe/Double tap/Long press touch controls. You might sometimes need to take a call when Hypermarket’s commitment to offer shoppers the before reopening Meta Description: Huawei announces the launch of widest range of quality products at the most commuting to work during rush hour but the sur- the studio-quality open-fit ANC earphone with air-like rounding noise is just too much for you to hear clearly, competitive prices in Kuwait. comfort Huawei FreeBuds 4. LONDON: British business confidence has soared to a 16-year peak on easing COVID restrictions, a key survey showed yesterday as the economy prepared to fully reopen in one week. Accountancy firm BDO said Musk defends Tesla’s in a statement that its business optimism indicator jumped to 112.45 points in June, the highest level since SolarCity deal in 2005. June marked the fifth successive monthly increase, following 109.71 in May, with manufacturers US shareholder trial in particular boosted by vaccine-driven optimism. Separately on Monday, the UK government confirmed it will press ahead with so-called Freedom Day next WILMINGTON, Delaware: Tesla chief Elon Musk Monday with the lifting of most remaining pandemic defended the electric car maker’s controversial 2016 curbs in England. acquisition of SolarCity Monday at the start of a trial “Businesses are clearly looking forward to the lift- on whether the billionaire put his own interests ahead ing of restrictions on July 19,” said BDO partner Kaley of investors. Musk told a Delaware court that he was Crossthwaite. “After a gruelling year of unpredictable not enriched by the Tesla-SolarCity deal and that he change, the ending of restrictions is timely, although did not inappropriately pressure fellow board mem- rising COVID-19 cases still leave an element of uncer- bers to greenlight the transaction, according to CNBC. tainty. “The Summer spending surge that could follow A group of Tesla shareholders contends that Musk, will provide a huge boost to the economy, and busi- who was chairman of both Tesla and SolarCity at the nesses will be hopeful that the tide is turning over the time of the transaction, “poisoned” Tesla’s ability to long term.” At the same time, major corporates are fairly evaluate the purchase, wasting corporate assets WILMINGTON, DE: Tesla Founder Elon Musk leaves a courthouse after testifying in a court case on July 12, 2021 in ramping up plans for rapid growth, according to a sur- in the $2.6 billion deal and harming shareholders, Wilmington, Delaware. — AFP vey of chief financial officers compiled by Deloitte. according to a complaint. The group of investors, Expectations for an increase in hiring and investment which includes union pension funds and other institu- with the payment coming from insurance. This group, Musk said. Concerning the case Tesla said in a securi- are at their highest levels in almost seven years, tional investors, argues that SolarCity was a failing which included Kimbal Musk, Elon Musk’s brother, did ties filing that “we believe that claims challenging the Deloitte revealed Monday. “With the economy enterprise that faced “likely bankruptcy” were it not not admit fault. A key question in the trial is whether SolarCity acquisition are without merit and intend to reopening, CFOs’ perceptions of external uncertainty for the actions of Musk and other Tesla board mem- Musk, who held 22 percent of Tesla’s equity at the defend against them vigorously.” have dropped below the average of the last five years bers, who also had large equity stakes in SolarCity. time, controlled the transaction, which won approval Dan Ives, analyst at Wedbush Securities, said Wall and businesses have tacked away from the defensive The plaintiffs contend Tesla’s board breached their from Tesla shareholders. Street will be watching the trial “very closely to see strategies that helped them through the downturn,” fiduciary duty to Tesla shareholders. They are seeking Musk told the court that buying SolarCity was part the outcome for Musk and the corporate governance.” said Deloitte chief economist Ian Stewart. “The pan- unspecified monetary relief in the complaint. Plaintiffs of his “master plan,” according to CNBC. “Since it was The SolarCity deal has been a “black eye” for Musk demic, like all major shocks, will reshape the economy have already reached a $60 million settlement with a stock-for-stock transaction and I owned almost the and Tesla and a “clear low light” in the company’s and we are likely to see years of normal growth com- other Tesla directors originally named in the complaint, same percentage of both there was no financial gain,” whirlwind rise, Ives said in a note. — AFP pressed into just a few months.—AFP Established 1961 11 Lifestyle Features Wednesday, July 14, 2021

In this ﬁle photo a protester displays a banner during a demonstration to press for the scrapping of Basil Abia, Organiser of New Nigeria Movement prepares Special Ant-Robbery Squad (SARS) on Lagos - Ibadan expressway, a major link from Lagos to other Basil Abia, Organizer of New Nigeria Movement gestures during a state of for a state of the union meeting with other Nigerians via parts of the country blocked by the protesters. — AFP photos the union meeting with other Nigerians via Clubhouse application. Clubhouse application.

hat does it mean to be Nigerian? become a better version of ourselves if end to popular #EndSARS protests in the sions always simmer close to the surface. last October’s protests. Like Mafe and In a country of 210 million inhabi- we don’t know where we come from.” streets and also on the Internet. But for Some hardliners in southern states have Adele-Oso, he also identifies the Wtants with more than 500 native Mafe and Adele-Oso, it also became the been calling for more independence or #EndSARS movement as a turning point languages and hundreds of ethnicities ‘Indifference not an option’ moment to start awakening consciences even a breakaway for their regions. Mafe he says pushed people to take an interest that was colonized by the Portuguese and The inspiration for The New Nigerian with civic and political engagement. describes a “New Nigerian” who is able to in politics. the British, identity can be a daunting came during last October’s #EndSARS “Being politically indifferent is not an embody diverse points of view. “They are “You have to understand the political question. But using the power of social protest movement against brutality by the option anymore,” Mafe says. Within days very progressive in terms of gender or establishment, the social contract, the media, two activists have decided to take country’s SARS-or Special Anti-Robbery of being created, The New Nigerian gath- sexual orientation,” says Mafe. “We want principle of justice and human rights, to it on through a forum called The New Squad. The protests that followed ered thousands of subscribers, becoming to include everyone and we will never be know who you want as a leader,” he says. Nigerian. Hosted on the platform broadened to a larger call for reform and one of the fastest growing communities tribalistic. Never.” Since the protests, and with the country’s Clubhouse, the group’s 45,000 members were the largest in modern Nigerian his- on Clubhouse. economy hit hard by the pandemic and can join chatrooms on languages and cul- tory before security forces cracked down A platform for live audio content that ‘Hungry for knowledge’ spiralling inflation, Abia says some middle ture, politics and citizenship, pop culture, on demonstrators. A former activist, reports some 10 million weekly active Basil Abia is a 26-year-old political and upper-class Nigerians have left to live technology and well-being. Its creators Mafe’s work in technology and sustain- users, Clubhouse lets people create, par- researcher and New Nigerian member in Dubai, Ghana, Great Britain, the US or say the goal is to help subscribers ability requires her to travel between ticipate in or just listen to discussions on who organizes four weekly chatrooms on Canada. President Muhammadu Buhari’s “relearn to be Nigerian”. Geneva and Lagos. “I was in Geneva at all kinds of topics. The New Nigerian’s current affairs topics and Nigerian history. recent Twitter ban dealt a serious blow to “Like in a lot of ‘Black countries’, many the time, my eyes on Twitter, my ears on subscribers log on to discuss current With fellow researchers or invited special- freedom of expression and access to people don’t know their history and their Clubhouse,” says Mafe, “Within the dias- affairs and life in Africa’s most populous ists, they discuss the slave trade and information, further discouraging Nigeria’s culture,” says Lola Adele-Oso who co- pora, we were trying to know what’s country. But the group’s chatrooms also decolonization, but also the heritage of hyper-connected youth. But Abia has founded the forum with Eniola Mafe. A for- going on, debunking fake news, organize host courses on history, Nigeria’s different the great Edo kingdoms or the Sultans of decided to stay and help build the new mer activist with the movement to release donations.” languages, local philosophers and Sokoto. The talks draw up to 200 listeners Nigeria of which he dreams and discuss- schoolgirls kidnapped by Boko Haram, “It became soon evident that we could debates on myths from Yoruba culture. from Nigeria and around the world. es daily. “I dedicated my life, my skills, my Adele-Oso runs a lifestyle brand that pro- use this platform as a tool. We decided to While many of the participants are from “Nigerians are hungry for this knowledge. education to this country,” he says. “I will motes everything from apparel to small- keep the momentum.” The “Lekki killing” the south of Nigeria, the founders say the Sometimes we start at 11pm until 7am! stay here till I die.”— AFP group travel. “Who are we? Who are our of October 20, 2020, when the army platform promotes a sense of unity in a But I have to say... I love talking!” he says. heroes?” she says. “As citizens, we can’t opened fire on protesters, marked a brutal country where ethnic and separatist ten- Abia says he was beaten by police during Iris Law ‘loves’ her new ordic movies are among the hottest full of love and good humor, but most of it properties at Cannes this year, happens at the end. You can’t have light blonde buzzcut Nbringing their understated cool to without the darkness.” the world’s top film festival. On its first full day, Cannes fell head over heels for a ‘We’re not that loud’ he 20-year-old actress admitted her Norwegian romantic drama, “The Worst Another slow-moving Cannes movie, long locks were always a “deciding Person in the World”, the early favorite for Icelandic entry “Lamb” by Valdimar myself and I shaved a huge chunk out, so its top prize, the Palme d’Or. Previously Johannsson, brings sumptuous land- Tfactor” in how good she felt about that’s initially why I went to blonde - to herself but after undergoing a radical unknown lead Renate Reinsve “takes off scapes into the equation in a tale of a hide the chunk I took out! “So I haven’t like a rocket” in the quirky romantic dra- couple in a remote corner of Iceland griev- transformation for her role as Soo tried to do anything myself since then. I Catwoman in upcoming TV show ‘Pistols’, ma, gushed one critic. While Joachim ing for the loss of a child, and who get a would like to teach myself because Trier’s “gloriously sweet” story almost wondrous second chance at parenthood. she no longer has to worry about her there’s something empowering about appearance. She told British Vogue: “I passes for fast-paced, other Nordic offer- It’s another slow burner, starring Noomi being able to if I’m on holiday or travel- ings require a bit more work before yield- Rapace, more than a decade after the had a lot of hair - it was very light and ling.” Iris walked the red carpet at the fluffy - and it would always be the deciding ing their subtle pleasures, especially to Swedish actress achieved world fame as Cannes Film Festival premiere of ‘The viewers stepping into the cinemas from the badass hacker Lisbeth Salander in the factor on whether I felt good or not. I just French Dispatch’ on Monday and was love it like this. “I don’t need a hairstylist the hot and hectic bustle of the Cannes “Millennium” trilogy. delighted with how her hair complement- circus. “We’re quite minimalistic, we’re not that when I get ready. Bleach it and then it’s ed her white Christian Dior dress. She ready! “It definitely reduces the time it loud,” Rapace told AFP. “I’m loud, but I’m said: “This was the first look I tried on and ‘Mild, tender’ the exception,” she laughed. Emmy win- takes to get ready, especially when I’m it really stood out. Straight away I knew I seeing my friends; I don’t have to be in a “The Nordics have a mild, tender gaze ner Rapace regularly plays in big produc- wanted to wear it. It’s a really beautiful, on the world. It’s very discreet,” said Sofia tions, which include Ridley Scott’s hurry and, like, scrape my hair back!” Iris simple dress, with layered, pleated chif- only decided to go blonde to hide the Norlin, a Paris-based Swedish director “Prometheus” and Guy Ritchie’s “Sherlock fon. It’s chic and classic but it has an who also writes for film magazine Point of Holmes: A Game of Shadows”, but regu- botched attempts she’d made at shaving interesting twist at the neckline. “I really her hair, so she’s keen to improve her View. “It’s like a door that opens slowly to larly returns to Scandinavia to shoot arty, liked the dress because it’s chic and clas- cast light on the shadows, and on the independent films, such as “Lamb” in ayle King plans to “ban” unvacci- skills to do it herself in the future. She sic. This is my first month being blonde nated relatives from her said: “I’ve had people bleach my hair and faultlines of life. It’s very smooth,” she told which she plays an Icelandic-speaking and I love it with the creamy white AFP. Finnish director Juho Kuosmanen, character for the first time. “I feel like GThanksgiving celebrations. The 66- I’ve done it with my agent because he dress.”— Bang Showbiz year-old presenter addressed the “prob- bleaches his hair as well, so we did it whose “Compartment No 6” is also vying there’s a great wave of amazing film-mak- lem” of people not taking up coronavirus together. But I tried to shave my head for Cannes’ top prize admits that his mini- ers now in Scandinavia,” she said. “It feels vaccinations so she’s decided to take malist style risks slipping below the radar like a movement, an earthquake. There’s drastic action with her own family in the of viewers as they watch a slow train rum- a kind of contagious bravery that’s hope it will make them change their mind. bling north in snowbound post-Soviet spreading.” Speaking to Dr. Anthony Fauci, President Russia. Mia Hansen-Love displayed a different Joe Biden’s chief medical adviser, on “I worry whether people get those kind of bravery with her decision to take ‘CBS This Morning’, she said: “I don’t nuances, but if I exaggerated those feel- her French director’s eye to the remote know how many more times you can say ings, the humor and the sadness, then it Swedish island of Faro for her main com- to people, ‘Listen, it will save your life’. “I wouldn’t be my film,” he told AFP. “I feel petition entry “Bergman Island”. The have this problem with some members of I’m always putting on the soft pedal, rugged windswept scenery where Ingmar my own family, which I’m now going to always doing less, and even less.” Bergman produced several of his films is ban for Thanksgiving vacation. That’s how Nothing much happens at first in the Arctic not just the backdrop for the story around strongly I’m taking what you’re saying.” trip bringing together a Finnish wannabe a couple of film directors looking for inspi- The infectious diseases expert had archaeologist and an rough-and-ready ration, but a discreet character in its own appeared on the show on Monday to dis- Russian worker who travel from Moscow right. “In that sense, Mia Hansen-Love cuss the importance of getting the vac- young age by her mother, Jada Pinkett to “that shithole” Murmansk, as the adopts some of the Scandinavian style of cine, particularly in the face of the highly- Smith, who she hailed a “perfume genius” Russian calls it. “You need to get on the cinema,” said Norlin.—AFP contagious Delta variant. He said: “We Willow Smith gets because of her ability to mix her own wavelength first, but then you start to see really to get more people vaccinated scents. She said: “ My mom was a huge the details,” Kuosmanen said. “It’s a film because that’s the solution. This virus will, ‘super excited’ perfume fan. A perfume genius, no pun in fact, be protected against, with the vac- intended. (Shout-out, Perfume Genius, cine.” Gayle previously admitted having you’re awesome, I love your music.) the vaccine had given her her freedom by face wash “Anyway, [my mom] would mix essential back because she’d spent the last year oils and make her own perfumes. I remem- “so afraid” to leave the house in case she ber being young and smelling her and contracted COVID-19. She said: “I was so he 20-year-old singer has a “pretty thinking, What’s the mixture today? afraid to leave the house. We were broad- simple” skin care regime but loves Peppermint and clove? Nag champa and casting from here, so I’d literally go from Ttrying out new products and incorpo- chamomile? That was a source of joy for my bedroom to the TV room to the kitchen rating them into her daily routine. She told me as a kid.” The ‘Whip My Hair’ singer is to the bedroom to the TV room. For Allure: “I have a pretty simple skin-care the new face of Alien Goddess and she excitement I’d go stand in the living room routine, but I love different products. I get was thrilled to work with Thierry Mugler and wave at the birds! ‘Hi, birds! Hi!’ I was super excited when I get a new face because of the history of the brand. She so afraid. “But now I am vaccinated. It is cleanser. Recently, I’ve been exploring way said: “I had seen some old photos and my superpower. I am vaccinated. ... I’m more with face and lip masks. “The lip videos of fashion shows from Mugler in the taking little baby steps [back into the masks are really new for me, because I’d past - it was just fire. Even then, they were world].” And the broadcaster admitted she never used them before this year. That’s a innovating and doing such unique and dif- had grown “tired of being scared” and hid- new addition to my skin-care routine. “[I ferent things. “The name feels cosmic and ing away from the world. She said: Love Dr. Jart+]. The moisturizing face spacey, but the scent is so floral, warm, “Here’s the thing: I’m tired of being masks are my everything. I’ve been imple- and earthy, it has both of these extremes. (From left) Finnish actress Seidi Haarla, Finnish director Juho Kuosmanen, Russian actor Yuriy scared. Honestly. I’ve been so afraid, hun- menting that into my skin-care routine at [Plus] the name is Alien Goddess. I so Borisov, Russian actress Dinara Drukarova, Finnish actor Tomi Alatalo and ﬁnish producer kered down here at home. I’m tired of least twice a week.” The Anxiety front- relate to that.”— Bang Showbiz Jussi Rantamaki pose as they arrive for the screening of the ﬁlm ‘Hytti No6’ (Compartment being scared.”— Bang Showbiz woman was introduced to fragrance at a No6) at the 74th edition of the Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, southern France. — AFP 12 Established 1961 Lifestyle Features Wednesday, July 14, 2021

ow is the time for Africa to Kgaogelo Moagi, has been ranked by changed for his chosen singer, Nomcebo shine, to present our culture to Forbes Africa as being among the 30 Zikode. When he contacted her to lend “Nthe world.” Master KG, the most influential personalities aged under her voice to “Jerusalema”, she was think- South African DJ-producer behind global 30 on the continent. And he has just ing of giving up music. Instead, she has hit “Jerusalema”, sees bright prospects for released a new track, “Shine Your Light,” just released an album. Master KG also Afro-pop. Even at 25, he knows what he with two star DJs, the Frenchman David has a recording studio near is talking about. He made the whole plan- Guetta and the Senegalese-American Johannesburg, which is an unexpected et dance with a song in a Zulu dialect Akon (on the Elektra/Warner label). success for one who describes himself as which he composed while his compatriot a “village kid”, born in Calais, a small town Nomcebo Zikode laid down the yearning Life-changer in the northeast of South Africa. He is lyrics, a plea for unity and the coming of “Yes, ‘Jerusalema’ changed my life,” amazed when he is told that a French the New Jerusalem. The day AFP met Master KG told AFP. “I am here in Paris town has the same name. Master KG in Paris on one of his trips to talking to you! I would not travel the world Master KG lived with his mother, a Europe, the musician is wearing a yellow- like I am now without this song.” The hit hotel employee (his father is a teacher), and-blue jacket emblazoned with the has racked up more than 210 million and got into music when an uncle gave words “Wake up Afrika”. plays on Spotify and more than 415 mil- him his first computer in 2013. He has “We’re just getting started. We’re get- lion views on Youtube. Stars like Cristiano already released two albums, which he ting on the right path ... with Afro-beat and Ronaldo and Janet Jackson have praised considers more like a cluster of singles. Afro-pop, we will hear more and more him on social networks. “When I look at The third, which he hopes to present at African artists around the planet-there is the statistics, the numbers, it always sur- Master KG (right), the South African DJ behind the global pop hit ‘Jerusalema’, performs at the the end of 2021, will be more “construct- room for everyone,” enthuses the young prises me, no one could have predicted Sand Festival held on the beaches of Lake Malawi, in Salima on November 1, 2020. — AFP ed, prepared”. “For the title of the album, man, still a little shy, his bespectacled face this,” he comments. For eight weeks the fans must help me, help me find a tucked inside his hoodie. Indeed, the term towards the end of 2020, “Jerusalema” video then spread across networks, from ‘Jerusalema’, unrelated of course, but title, it will be an album from South Africa “Afro-pop” often comes up in the mouths was the most frequently searched track nursing assistants in France to monks in then everything becomes more comfort- to the world, rich in the encounters I have of prominent DJs such as America’s on Shazam, a software program that iden- Italy. “I would never have thought that the able. The song is gonna generate income had,” he says. When told that he risks Diplo, the powerhouse of the Major Lazer tifies a song that is playing. police would be able to dance to my for the rest of my life,” he said frankly. receiving a colossal number of proposals, electronic-dancehall hit machine. Artists The success story is well known. music,” laughs the musician, who shows he laughs. “There’s bound to be one that like Burna Boy from Nigeria or Fally Ipupa Released at the end of 2019, the single no signs of developing a big head, despite ‘Village kid’ will stick”.—AFP from the Democratic Republic of Congo got a new lease of life when it went viral the luxury cars exhibited on his social net- In South Africa, Master KG has bought are building reputations far beyond Africa. on TikTok, garnering seven billion hits. work channels. a house for his mother and built one for Master KG, whose real name is The choreographic dance challenge in the “I already had success before his grandmother. And life has also

‘Hire people who know’ “When you make casting choices and you hire actors of color in something, you have to hire people who know how to do their make-up, who know how to do their hair, who know how to light them proper- ly,” she said. Turner-Smith, 34, who is making “White Noise” at the moment with “Marriage Story” director Noah Baumbach, said film and television had a ollywood star Jodie Turner-Smith way to catch up on theatre in the way they US rapper Freddie Gibbs smiles as he arrives said the film industry must go used black actors. She won plaudits for for the screening of the ﬁlm “Tre Piani” Hbeyond having token black faces on playing the fated English queen Anne (Three Floors) at the 74th edition of the screen and have people of color at every Boleyn, who was white, in the series for Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, southern level of the business. The British actress- Britain’s Channel 5. “I definitely anticipat- France. — AFP who played Henry VIII’s wife Anne Boleyn ed that there were going to be people that in a new television series of the same felt a certain way about it,” she said. People exercise at a gym in Seoul, as South Korea announced implementation of level 4 social name-said she had been struck by how “We’ve seen for years and years that in distancing measures amid concerns of a fourth wave of the coronavirus pandemic. — AFP few people of color work behind the theatre characters being played by people scenes. of all different ethnicities, but in TV or film set on three consecutive days recently. Hollywood should stop trying to tell it’s something we see much less.” The That has alarmed authorities in a country black people’s stories without hiring peo- actress fell victim to cat burglars while at No Psy but BTS where the vaccine rollout has been slow ple of color, she told a “Women in Motion” Cannes, with police investigating a theft of and convoluted, hampered by a failure to talk at the Cannes film festival-where her jewelry from her hotel room. Turner-Smith obtain supplies. latest sci-fi movie “After Yang” was pre- wore eye-catching gold and diamond jew- play on as And while the restriction allows busi- miered. “You have to hire producers who elry loaned by Gucci to the red carpet pre- nesses to remain open, gym owners and understand what kinds of stories we’re try- miere of “After Yang” on Thursday. It is rammy-nominated hip hop artist users alike poured scorn on the measure. ing to tell and how to honor those stories unclear if the missing jewelry was Gucci’s Freddie Gibbs has made his movie Seoul bans fast “Now I have to worry about the bpm of the so that you don’t end up with things that or the actress’s own. Her mother’s wed- Gdebut at the Cannes film festival song I’m playing,” wrote a user in an online feel like tokenism or strange stereotyping,” ding ring is reported to among the haul. “I playing a rapper who finds more meaning club of gym owners. “I guess the virus the “Queen & Slim” star said. “So many didn’t think I would be spending 2.5 hours in country living than in music fame. “Down gym music spreads faster depending on the tempo of times, it’s like (producers say), ‘We are in the police station on my final day in with the King” stars the 39-year-old the music,” another added. And 35-year- going to tell a story that involves black Cannes, but here we are,” the actress American as “Money Merc”, a rapper who old gym-goer Kim Hyun-joon questioned people’, but there are no black people in tweeted late Sunday. — AFP goes to rural Massachusetts to produce a outh Korean mega-hit “Gangnam the rule’s effectiveness. “I’m grateful that I the writers’ room, and there are no women new album, but instead befriends a local Style” may be taken off gym playlists can still work out at a gym,” he said, in the writers’ room.” She said that some farmer who teaches him how to skin pigs Sin the greater Seoul region-but K- adding: “Wouldn’t most people listen to basics were also sometimes lacking. and herd cattle. Written and directed by pop giants BTS can stay-under new rules their own music on their airpods any- Frenchman Diego Ongaro, the film and its aimed at stemming a rising tide of coron- ways?” The new rules also put a maximum improbable plot allowed Gibbs to avoid the avirus infections. The regulations, aimed 6 kilometers an hour (3.7 mph) speed limit cliche rags-to-riches role of an urban rapper at stopping gym-goers breathing too hard on treadmills. “Are we going to get speed- who makes it big. or splashing sweat on others, ban gyms ing tickets?” wrote an online user. “I didn’t want to do that shit, because from playing music with a faster tempo Another user added: “Maybe they’ll people typecast you,” Gibbs told AFP in than 120 beats per minute during group start placing limits on how fast we walk or an interview. “I never wanted to play a exercises like zumba and spinning. They run outside.” South Korea had previously rapper in a movie, but this was far more come as tighter social distancing rules- been held up as a model of how to combat significant than just a rapper movie.” such as smaller gatherings and shorter the pandemic, with the public largely fol- Gibbs and his character are alike in many store hours-begin to bite this week. lowing social distancing and other rules, ways, he said, but “Money Merc is an The musical diktat has prompted but adherence has waned over time. The emotional kind of guy. He kind of wears it ridicule and fury, and a list of “safe” K-pop country reported 1,100 new infections yes- on his sleeve a little bit more than I do,” songs is circulating online, which includes terday, most of them in the capital and its he said. Director Ongaro, who lives in the latest hits from BTS including surrounding areas, which are home to western Massachusetts, told AFP that “I “Dynamite” (114 bpm) and “Butter” (110 around half the South Korean population. wanted to make a film with an outsider bpm). But Psy’s “Gangnam Style”, at 132 The resurgence prompted President Moon coming to this place. And I thought it could bpm, will have to stay off the workout Jae-in to apologize to the public on be a rapper, if possible a real one.” Gibbs playlist for now. South Korean infection Monday for the tightened rules. — AFP accepted the role although he acknowl- rates remain low by global standards at lit- British actress Jodie Turner-Smith poses during a photocall for the ﬁlm ìAfter Yangî as part of the edged that rappers and the countryside “don’t match at all” and that he wasn’t tle more than 1,000 a day, but are at their Un Certain Regard selection at the 74th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, southern France. — AFP highest of the pandemic, with new records sure the plot would work, but Ongaro “made it happen”, he said. looks pretty bad,” Bao Mingwei, director of a nature reserve. Scientists are still baf- the Asian Elephant Breeding and Rescue fled by what prompted the elephants to He doesn’t do modesty Center, told CCTV, adding that with a leave their home at the Xishuangbanna “I was doing the thing on the farm and I longer period of care it should be able to National Nature Reserve, on the border went, ‘OK this shit is real.’ And as we went fully recover. “It’s possible that something with Laos. along it just became more real,” Gibbs said. like rattan spines pricked it and the But their mammoth trek has helped “Diego laid this shit out on a platter for me, injuries slowly became infected.” highlight habitat loss and conservation and all I had to do was bring some rap ele- State media footage showed around a challenges in one of the few places in the ments to this character.” The film’s music is critically endangered Sumatran dozen rescuers and police surrounding world where wild elephant numbers are by Gibbs, most improvised during shooting heavily injured baby elephant left elephant has been found decapi- the animal in a rainforest clearing, as they on the rise. China’s wild elephant popula- over soul-inspired samples and loops. behind by a migrating wild herd in tated with its tusks missing in tied its thrashing limbs with rope and tion has doubled to over 300 in the past A Gibbs said rapping had always helped him Asouthwest China has been res- Indonesia, the conservation agency said deal with a checkered past-which includes loaded it into a van. The elephant was three decades-but their habitats have cued, state media reported yesterday, the Monday, as it opened a poaching investi- brushes with the law for theft and drug then driven 100 kilometers to a rescue shrunk by nearly two-thirds over the same latest twist in a chaotic odyssey. The herd gation. The rotting carcass was discov- offences-and “Down with the King” turned center. Last week, a 10-year-old male ele- period. — AFP of Asian elephants has spent months ered Sunday at a palm oil plantation in out to be yet another outlet. “This film was phant who broke away from the herd a roaming across Yunnan province, travel- Sumatra’s Aceh region and a subsequent definitely therapeutic for me.” month ago was captured and returned to ling more than 500 kilometers (310 miles) autopsy found that the animal had also Director Ongaro agreed. “He brought from their home nature reserve in one of been poisoned. “The remains of the wild things from his own experience to the table, the longest ever animal migrations of its elephant were found in a tragic condition his upbringing, his past as a dealer, and kind in China. Since setting off last year, with its head gone,” said Rosa Rika that all strengthens the authenticity.” Next the meandering mammals have stolen vil- Wahyuni, a doctor at the Aceh conserva- the rapper, who is releasing a new album in lagers’ food and trampled crops worth tion agency. “We found poison in its the autumn (“probably my best”), plans to over $1 million, with thousands of resi- digestive system,” she added. play a gangster in a television show. “I can dents evacuated from their path. It was not clear how long the male ele- slide into that role kind of easily,” he Locals sighted the baby elephant- phant, estimated to be about 12 years old, laughed. But he could also see himself as a weighing 180 kilograms and born on the had been dead. Rampant deforestation banker, “or a cop or a lawyer. I can do it all.” lumbering trek-alone on a tea plantation has reduced the elephants’ natural habitat In the meantime Gibbs said he was not Saturday morning, struggling with an and brought them into increasing conflict only “the freshest motherfucker on the red infected injury on its leg. The elephant’s with humans, while their tusks are prized carpet” at Cannes, but also the leading rap- wound could have been life-threatening if in the illegal wildlife trade. There have per in town. “I’m the only good rapper in authorities hadn’t arrived and given treat- been several elephant poisoning cases in Cannes. If there’s a rapper here he ain’t as ment, state broadcaster CCTV reported. recent years, including one in 2019 when good as me,” he said. “Down with the “We gave it anti-bacterial and anti-inflam- This handout photo shows a part of a herd elephants which had wandered 500 kilometers north a Sumatran elephant was found decapi- King” premiered at the festival’s ACID side- matory drugs, because its wound still from their natural habitat, walking near Yuxi city in China’s southwest Yunnan province. — AFP tated with its tusks ripped off. —AFP bar event. — AFP Established 1961 13 Sports Wednesday, July 14, 2021 ‘Never apologize for who I am’, says Rashford after racist abuse LONDON: England’s Marcus Rashford over since I struck the ball and there’s who booed the team for doing it. said he will “never apologize for who I probably not a word to quite describe Premier League teams have taken the am” in an emotional statement after how it feels. Final. 55 years. 1 penalty. knee since last year following the murder receiving racist abuse following the History. All I can say is sorry. I wish it of George Floyd at the hands of a white side’s Euro 2020 final defeat. The had gone differently,” he wrote. police officer in the United States. Patel Manchester United forward was one of “I can take critique of my perform- had said on Monday the racial abuse of three players, along with Jadon Sancho ance all day long, my penalty was not the three players was “disgusting” but it and Bukayo Saka, who were attacked by good enough, it should have gone in but did not wash with Mings. racist trolls after missing penalties in I will never apologize for who I am and “You don’t get to stoke the fire at the Sunday’s 3-2 shoot-out defeat by Italy. where I came from,” Rashford added. beginning of the tournament by labeling Rashford’s England team-mate Tyrone our anti-racism message as ‘Gesture Mings criticized British Home Secretary ‘Stoke the fire’ Politics’ and then pretend to be disgust- Priti Patel, saying she had “stoked the Images on social media showed a ed when the very thing we’re campaign- fire” by defending those who booed mural honoring Rashford in his home- ing against, happens,” tweeted Mings. players taking the knee. Rashford has town of Withington had been defaced Mings remarks received support from become a hero to many outside football before locals covered the hateful lan- Patel’s fellow Conservative lawmaker and by lobbying the British government to guage with messages of support. former defence minister Johnny Mercer. provide free school meals for under- “Seeing the response in Withington had “The painful truth is that this guy privileged children during the coron- me on the verge of tears,” Rashford said. (Mings) is completely right,” Mercer avirus pandemic. He added that he was proud to have tweeted. “Very uncomfortable with the “I’m Marcus Rashford, 23-year-old worn the England jersey during his side’s position we Conservatives are needlessly black man from Withington and first major final appearance in 55 years, forcing ourselves into. Do I fight it or LONDON: England’s forward Marcus Rashford carries a note during the Euro 2020 Wythenshawe, South Manchester. If I and grateful for the “brotherhood” that stay silent? Modern Conservatism was final football match between Italy and England at the Wembley Stadium in London have nothing else I have that,” Rashford was created in the England camp. Mings always so much more to me. We must not on Sunday. —AFP wrote in a statement on Twitter. criticism is not the first time he has dis- lose our way.” Rashford, who came on late in the sec- agreed with Patel. England captain Harry Kane lashed summer had the courage to step up and media you’re not an England fan and we ond period of extra time, apologized for The Aston Villa star criticized her — out at those who had posted the racial take a pen (penalty) when the stakes don’t want you.” The racist attacks were his penalty miss and said “something after the opening Euro 2020 win over slurs — following England manager were high,” tweeted Kane. “They strongly condemned by the English didn’t feel quite right” when he came to Croatia — for her remarks that taking Gareth Southgate who had said the deserve support and backing not the vile Football Association whose president, take the kick. the knee was “gesture politics”. She also abuse was “unforgivable”. racist abuse they’ve had since last night Prince William, said he was “sickened” “It’s been playing in my head over and refused to condemn the England fans “Three lads who were brilliant all (Sunday). If you abuse anyone on social by the abuse. — AFP

Frustrated Suns try to keep News in brief Bucks from leveling NBA Finals Giroud close to Milan MILWAUKEE: A frustrated Phoenix face. It’s a terrible feeling. That feeling ROME: French center-forward Olivier Giroud, Suns squad, struggling to slow is going to motivate us to get back out currently at Chelsea, is close to signing a two- Milwaukee forward Giannis there, get ready for the next one and year contract with AC Milan, Italian media Antetokounmpo, risks losing its NBA go right back at them.” reported yesterday. “Giroud is expected to be Finals lead unless it can find some The Suns have been resilient in the in Italy on Thursday to undergo medicals and answers in the next two days. The 26- playoffs, winning nine playoff games in sign the contract,” wrote Sky Sport on its web- year-old Greek star scored 41 points a row after back-to-back losses to the site. The daily, La Gazzetta dello Sport, reported that the deal will be worth three million euros and grabbed 12 rebounds to lead the Los Angeles Lakers in the opening MILWAUKEE: Devin Booker (right) and Chris Paul of the Phoenix Suns talk to the host Bucks to a game three win on round. “We got to be the desperate per season to Giroud while Chelsea will receive media after Game Three of the 2021 NBA Finals against the Milwaukee Bucks on a one-million-euro transfer fee. It wrote that AC Sunday and Milwaukee can level the team next game. We got to bring the Sunday at the Fiserv Forum Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. — AFP best-of-seven series at 2-2 with anoth- fight to them,” Johnson said. “We’ve Milan coach Stefano Pioli is “eagerly awaiting er home triumph tonight. got to come back and execute better his arrival” of the 34-year-old, as the team’s star “It’s on us to stop him, give him and play with more physicality. We’ve bling. We have enough bodies to get and then adjust to that.” striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who is 39 and under- more resistance,” Suns forward Cam shown we can do it. It takes poise. We that job done. We just got to do it col- Suns guard Devin Booker, who siz- went knee surgery in Rome in June, “is still Johnson said. It’s tough to balance knew this one wasn’t going to be easy. lectively and be better individually. We zled in game two, went 3-of-14 from uncertain” for the coming season. — AFP that physicality, especially when he’s (Milwaukee) is a team that’s desperate, got to man up and do what we’ve been the floor and scored only 10 points in coming at you so hard. “But you just that wants to fight.” doing all year, respond to a defeat, to Sunday’s loss. “I can get better (shots). got to do it. We’re capable of doing it. Antetokounmpo has consecutive things not going our way.” We’ll make that happen,” Booker said. Jabeur auctions racquet We know that. We’ll go back, look, 40-point games, aided in game two by Suns coach Monty Williams expects “We’re going to get back right and be see what we need to change and foul trouble on Suns center Deandre 22-year-old Bahamas big man Ayton to ready Wednesday. We have to come in TUNIS: Ons Jabeur, who became the first Arab change it.” Ayton, whistled for five violations for bounce back for game four. “He had a with the energy and effort. The 50/50 woman to reach the quarter-finals at Wimbledon The Suns will need to adjust to the first time in the playoffs. “It affect- good game going, but the foul trouble balls, offensive rebounds, protect the last week, announced on Monday that she is boost their hopes of the first NBA title ed us obviously, but we have to weath- didn’t allow for him to continue it,” paint. That’s why it’s a series. We have auctioning one of her racquets to help hospitals in their 53-year history. “We know we er the storm,” Suns forward Jae Williams said. “We expect him to play some room for improvement. We have in her native Tunisia fight COVID-19. Jabeur, got to be better,” said Johnson. Crowder said. “We have to adjust. that way again. He’ll grow from this. I to bring that same effort we had in the who will add a personal donation to the amount “There’s a lot of frustration anytime “We had to throw a lot of different promise you he will. We have to under- first two games and I think we’ll be in collected during the sale, said the money raised you lose. You can see it on everybody’s things at them and it led to us scram- stand how the refs are calling the game good shape.” — AFP would be used to buy “drugs and medical equipment”. The racquet, which Jabeur used in her Wimbledon victories over Venus Williams, said of his style. “Defense is what gets me going.” Garbine Muguruza and Iga Swiatek, went on Bahamas big man When 16-year veteran guard Chris Paul joined sale Monday for 2,000 dinars ($720). —AFP the club, he showed Ayton key details that have enabled him to elevate his game. “Really just Ayton powers Suns approaching the game the right way — always Galatasaray denied entry being alert, little things that matter in long stretches into NBA title hunt of the game, knowing my matchup tendencies and ATHENS: Turkish side Galatasary had a wasted just being a presence on both ends of the floor,” trip to Greece for a friendly on Monday when MILWAUKEE: Three years after being the top Ayton said. “Just putting pressure on the rim and they were denied entry by Athens airport pick in the NBA Draft, 22-year-old Bahamian big also protecting the rim. I’m having a lot of fun authorities because of unacceptable coronavirus man Deandre Ayton has fine-tuned his talents and because my guys in there they keep me level and tests. The visitors, who were due to play against made the Phoenix Suns a championship contender. they keep me intent with it.” Greek champions Olympiakos yesterday, were Ayton scored 22 points and grabbed 19 rebounds in Ayton learned how to deliver pick-and-roll plays refused entry despite providing negative PCR the Suns’ game-one NBA Finals win but struggled just how Paul wants them and use positioning to test results from within 72 hours. Greek authori- with foul trouble for the first time in the playoffs in a enhance his physical skills. “First thing he taught me ties said that the entry protocol from Turkey to game three loss as Phoenix carries a 2-1 lead into that I’m going to need in my career for a while is Greece requires a molecular test from the previ- Wednesday’s fourth game of the best-of-seven learning angles, how to get people open and learn MILWAUKEE: Deandre Ayton of the Phoenix Suns reacts ous 24 hours — not 72 hours. Galatasaray series at Milwaukee. how to get open and set the screen,” Ayton said. during Game Three of the 2021 NBA Finals on Sunday allegedly refused to undergo a further COVID- The Suns, who hadn’t reached the finals since Paul has seen the work ethic and growth in Ayton at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. — AFP 19 test and, after two hours at the airport, flew 1993, could win their first title since joining the since his arrival in November. “Just seeing the matu- back to Istanbul, airport authorities said. — AFP league in 1968. Ayton shakes off pre-game goose rity in him not only as basketball player but as a bumps with a routine that locks him in upon the person,” Paul said. “He has the biggest heart, one of Suns coach Monty Williams was glad Ayton on-court challenges. “I really just take three deep the best guys you’ll ever meet. The success and the accepted the challenge. “I’m thankful he has allowed breaths, close my eyes and after that, the whole recognition that he’s getting is well deserved and I the staff to push him the way they needed to push Bordeaux avoid relegation arena is really empty,” he said. “I just see my couldn’t be happier.” him,” Williams said. “I’m happy he has an effect on BORDEAUX: Bordeaux and Angers will both teammates and my coaches. There’s a task at hand Ayton has learned how to better maximize his the game in different ways. It’s not just offense. There play in Ligue 1 next season after their appeals after that.” body and mind. “I definitely feel every game, body are games where defensively he impacts the game against relegation imposed by France’s financial Ayton’s focus is on having an impact in a game, hurting and all that,” Ayton said. “I feel every part and covers up a lot of mistakes we make. He’s a tal- watchdog DNCG were successful, the clubs whether it means points and rebounds or defensive of this, the physicality throughout the games and ented player. His ability to rebound, finish around the announced separately on Monday. Bordeaux domination. “Just being relentless, doing what I do just the mental stamina you have to have in basket and then step up and make free throws is were spared after the presentation of a recovery best. Just being a presence on both ends,” Ayton between games.” something we don’t take for granted.” — AFP plan put together by businessman Gerard Lopez, who is set to take over the club. Bordeaux, who have won six league titles and are one of the biggest clubs in the country, saw Team Australia hands US former owners American financial group King Street appoint an administrator in April saying their second-straight loss they wanted out after investing 46 million euros (55 million dollars) since buying the outfit in LAS VEGAS: The United States Aussies, who shot 53 percent from the 2018 for 100 million euros. — AFP men’s team suffered its second floor as a team in the tuneup event for straight shocking loss on Monday, the Tokyo Olympics. losing 91-83 to Australia in a pre- Australia outscored the US 6-0 in Ohtani makes history Olympic friendly tournament in Las the final 30 seconds. Boston Celtics Vegas. The Americans, whose roster player Jayson Tatum threw up an air- LOS ANGELES: Japanese sensation Shohei includes a host of NBA all-stars, also ball in the final minute, and Durant Ohtani made history yesterday after being lost 90-87 to unheralded Nigeria on missed a three-pointer in the waning named as both the starting pitcher and leadoff Saturday and have now lost four of seconds. Australia, one of the favorites hitter for the American League team in Major their last five games dating back to to reach the podium in Japan, has nev- League Baseball’s All-Star game in Denver. the 2019 FIBA World Cup, where they er beaten the US in the men’s Olympic Ohtani, who has electrified baseball this season finished an embarrassing seventh. basketball tournament in eight tries LAS VEGAS: Kevin Durant #7 of the USA Men’s National Team plays defense on with a league-leading 33 home runs, is the first Brooklyn Nets star Kevin Durant dating back to 1964. Monday’s exhibi- Patty Mills #5 of the Australia Men’s National Team during the game on Monday at player in the history of the All-Star game to be was held to 17 points for the second tion win comes 33 years after the US Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. — AFP selected as a position player and pitcher. consecutive game, and Damian Lillard defeated the Boomers 78-49 to win Ohtani took part in the Home Run Derby on of the Portland Trail Blazers finished the bronze medal in Seoul, South Monday, just losing a close showdown with with a team-high 22. Patty Mills, of Korea. finals. The United States, who have are looking to regain global domi- Washington Nationals slugger Juan Soto in the Canberra, scored 22 points, and The United States were without won three Olympic men’s basketball nance after finishing in seventh at the first round. —AFP Adelaide’s Joe Ingles scored 17 for the three players still active in the NBA titles since earning bronze in 2004, 2019 World Cup. — AFP 14 Sports Wednesday, July 14, 2021 48,000 meals a day: Tokyo tackles feeding an Olympic Village TOKYO: Even under ordinary circumstances, feeding steamed chicken, edamame beans, broccoli, plum paste an Olympic Village is a mammoth task, with chefs and grated yam. The dish, she said, “is full of things that preparing tens of thousands of meals a day for elite ath- are good for the body”. letes from around the world. But at Tokyo 2020, there’s an added pressure: strict coronavirus rules forbid ath- Gluten-free section letes from eating at local restaurants, so it’s their only It uses “salmon with its skin on, which has great chance to sample Japan’s famous cuisine. nutrients like collagen. The edamame beans are full of “I feel it’s a lot of responsibility for us,” admitted protein, and broccoli has antioxidants for your body”. Tsutomu Yamane, senior director of Tokyo 2020’s food Other meals chosen include oden — a Japanese stew and beverages services department. “We want them to with a dashi broth base — and a panna cotta made from enjoy (Japanese food)... but it’s major pressure,” he edamame. told AFP. It’s a huge undertaking: the village can host Ingredients used will come from all 47 regions of up to 18,000 people at a time and its cafeterias will Japan, including areas hit by the 2011 earthquake, serve up to 48,000 meals a day, with some open tsunami and nuclear disaster, in keeping with the around the clock. Anti-infection rules mean athletes Olympics’ “Recovery Games” theme. While some can’t go anywhere but the village, training sites and countries still restrict food from areas affected by the competition venues. Fukushima nuclear accident, Japan says produce So organizers will provide 700 menu options, from the region is subject to stricter standards than 3,000 seats at the main two-storey cafeteria and those used elsewhere in the world and items are rig- 2,000 staff at peak hours to meet the needs of all. orously tested. Menus are largely divided into three categories: So while organizers will indicate the origins of food Western, Japanese and Asian, which covers Chinese, served in the casual dining area, there won’t be any Indian and Vietnamese options. specific labeling to mark out items from Fukushima. Meals will cater to just about every religious and TOKYO: This ﬁle photo taken on June 20, 2021 shows a view of the main dining hall of the Olympic Village during Healthy home cooking dietary restriction, including the first gluten-free sec- And given Japan’s world-famous cuisine, there will a media tour of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Village in Tokyo. — AFP tion at a Games. be plenty of local flavor. The focus will be on informal As with everything at the pandemic-postponed dishes rather than high-end dining, with ramen and Two other favorites will be available though: grilled there is Japanese home cooking, courtesy of locals who Olympics, the virus will cast a long shadow. Seating has udon noodles among the staples, said Yamane. wagyu beef and tempura — battered, fried vegetables entered a competition to have their dishes featured. been reduced and athletes must keep mealtimes as Always-popular ramen will be offered in two of its and seafood. Some less familiar Japanese dishes will Yoko Nishimura, a 59-year-old mother and house- short as possible. Nishimura is hopeful though that her most famous broths: soy sauce, and miso — the fer- also be featured, including two specialties from the wife from Kamakura outside Tokyo, had almost forgot- dish will offer up something restorative. “Athletes commented soybean paste that is central to Japanese cui- western Osaka region: okonomiyaki and takoyaki. ten about the competition after the Games was post- ing for the Olympics could lose their appetites because sine. But there may be one big disappointment for The former is a savory pancake cooked on a griddle poned. “Then I was contacted and told I was chosen. I of the hot summer and training hard. They may also feel Japanese food fans: no sushi with raw fish. Safety rules that often contains cabbage and pork and is topped could barely believe it,” she told AFP. a lot of pressure from competing in such a big event,” mean rolls will only feature cooked shrimp, canned tuna, with a sweet sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. She was inspired by the summer heat to create a dish she said. “I would even say that eating this (dish) will let cucumber and pickled plum. Takoyaki are small batter balls filled with octopus. And of cold somen noodles topped with grilled salmon, them compete in top condition.” — AFP

throat swab PCR test. A third positive result will Outbreak: Managing mean the athlete is out of the Games. They’ll have to isolate or be hospitalized, with no chance of rejoin- coronavirus at the ing the competition. What if you’re a close contact? pandemic Olympics Things are a bit more complicated for “close contacts” of an infected person. The term only applies to people who have spent 15 minutes or more within one TOKYO: Tokyo’s Olympics will be like no other meter of the infected person without wearing a mask. Games, with the specter of coronavirus hanging over That might include a roommate, or a dining companion every part of the event, and organizers determined to but probably not a tennis partner, for example. prevent an outbreak. Here’s a look at some of the ways Those considered close contacts will face a nervous they’ll try to prevent infections among some 11,000 wait to hear whether they are judged safe to continue athletes, and what will happen if cases do emerge at participating in the Games. Rulings will be made the Games, which open July 23. “case-by-case” and consider whether the close contact is likely to spread infection. If close contacts are TOKYO: In this ﬁle photo taken on June 20, 2021, a reporter looks at the buildings which will host the athletes What safety measures are there? allowed to compete, they may face additional restric- The latest rulebook for athletes and sports officials tions, including being moved to a separate room and during the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, during a media tour of the Olympic Village in Tokyo. — AFP is 70 pages long, and the requirements start before eating meals alone. they get to Japan. Athletes must test negative for the spreading potentially contagious droplets. Each seat is virus twice within 96 hours of travel, and again when What if someone gets really sick? Daily tests, cardboard screened off with plexiglass. There’s an immense selection they land. They’ll be tested daily while in the country, Medical staff and facilities are key at any Games, of food, with traditional Japanese cuisine highlighted. Just and they have to leave the Olympic Village within 48 but the stakes are higher given the pandemic. about every dietary preference is catered to — vegetari- hours of their competition ending. Organizers say there will be some 7,000 medical staff, beds: 24 hours at an, halal, gluten-free — with nutritional values clearly And there won’t be any soaking up the atmosphere: including doctors and nurses, but have declined to indicated. they aren’t allowed anywhere except their accommo- specify the number of beds available. Tokyo’s Olympic Village dation and competition venues, with a ban on using The push to find these resources has been contro- 9:00am public transport. Masks will be mandatory, even on the versial in Japan, given a recent surge in infections that The world’s top sportsmen and women can train at a medal podium, with exceptions only for eating, sleep- stretched the local healthcare system. To head off that TOKYO: For athletes competing at the Tokyo Games, the huge gym with 600 cardio and weight-training ing, training and competing. criticism, the International Olympic Committee has Olympic Village will be almost all they see, with strict machines. Masks are mandatory even when getting pledged to bring additional medical staff from outside coronavirus rules preventing them from leaving the com- sweaty, and even though the gym machines are cleaned What about vaccines? to reduce pressure on resources. pound except to train and compete. Their stay in the vil- frequently, users are recommended to disinfect them Olympic officials say 85 percent of the athletes and lage will also be shorter than usual: competitors can only before they start. teams staying in the Village will be vaccinated. Getting Is everyone insured? arrive five days before their event, and must leave within jabbed is not a requirement, but has been strongly Olympic participants from overseas, including ath- 48 hours of winning or losing. Here’s what a typical day 11:00am encouraged. The anti-coronavirus rules will be the letes, team officials and media, are required to have might look like at Tokyo 2020’s waterside mini-city: Public transport and walks outside the village are for- same for those taking part in the Games, whether insurance that will cover medical treatment and repa- bidden, so athletes must take dedicated buses from the they’re vaccinated or not. Tokyo 2020 has organized triation. Olympic rulebooks specify that the insurance 6:30am site — built on reclaimed land in Tokyo Bay — to compe- vaccinations for 38,000 officials, volunteers, local must include cover for COVID-19. The village is built to sleep up to 18,000 Olympians, tition venues or training centers. media and airport staff, among others. Before they enter Japan athletes will need to sign a coaches and officials. They should wake up refreshed, “written pledge” to obey coronavirus restrictions, and despite Tokyo’s 4:40am sunrise, thanks to thick black-out 5:00pm What happens if there’s an infection? take responsibility for their trip. “Despite all the care curtains. As in many Japanese homes, space is limited, On their return to the village, Olympic teams can stop Athletes will be given daily saliva antigen tests, taken, risks and impacts may not be fully eliminated,” however — single rooms measure just nine square meters off at the “Village Plaza”, a wooden annex incorporating and if they come back positive or unclear, they’ll warns the Olympic playbook, which details anti-virus (100 square feet), and doubles 12 square meters. The beds traditional Japanese construction techniques. Inside are have a follow-up saliva PCR test, which is more sen- measures. “Therefore you agree to attend the Olympic and partition walls are made from sturdy recyclable card- ATMs, cleaning services, a hairdresser and a cafe, among sitive. If that test is positive, they’ll have a nasal and and Paralympic Games at your own risk.” — AFP board, to be cleared away after the Games when the 21 other conveniences — giving athletes the chance to buy a towers are turned into luxury homes. Perhaps not so good souvenir, even though sightseeing is off the cards. if your neighbor snores, however... 7:00pm 7:00am It’s getting dark already. Back at the village, tired ath- Time for a daily coronavirus test — a requirement for letes can take one of the 17 self-driving shuttles, which cir- everyone staying in the village. They will administer the culate the site 24 hours a day, back to their block. Each saliva antigen tests themselves and then submit them for one can seat 19 passengers and there’s a human operator processing. A positive result and a second positive on a on board just in case. more accurate PCR test means a trip to the fever clinic, a small prefab building in the center of the village. At the 8:00pm clinic, a third test determines if you are out of the Games After dinner, athletes aren’t obliged to stay cooped up and need to isolate or go to hospital. in their rooms. The Village recreation center beckons, with Nintendo consoles and spaces to relax, or they can wan- 7:30am der around the waterside park. Having a post-dinner beer Forgetting to wear a mask can be easy, especially early al fresco isn’t an option, though, as alcohol is forbidden in in the morning — but they are mandatory in the village, groups and in public areas. Violations of any rules will be except when sleeping and eating. On the way to get punished, organizers have said — with disqualification breakfast, athletes can check an app that shows how from the Games a possibility. crowded communal areas are, including the two floors of TOKYO: This ﬁle photo taken on July 9, 2021 shows security personnel checking the accreditation and body the vast 3,000-seat canteen. 10:00pm temperature of a man entering Tokyo Big Sight, the site of the International Broadcast Centre (IBC) and Competitors aren’t allowed to bring family members Main Press Centre (MPC) for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, next to a sign illustrating 8:00am with them to the Games. But before bed, they can chat “COVID-19 countermeasures” in Tokyo. — AFP Village residents are asked to eat alone to avoid with loved ones back home using free wifi. — AFP

But it also suffers from stifling heat and humidity in diplomacy who spearheaded unsuccessful efforts to Istanbul sets the summer as well as traffic nightmares for its 15.5 host the 2020 Games as well as the Euro 2024 foot- million residents. “Our objective is (to host) the ball championship that will be played in Germany. Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2036,” Istanbul Those defeats deprived Erdogan of the chance to sights on 2036 mayor Ekrem Imamoglu told reporters. “I am con- oversee new construction projects and brandish vinced that we will win.” Turkey’s achievement before the next scheduled elec- Summer Games The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is tion in 2023. expected to name the Australian city of Brisbane — Imamoglu wrested control of Istanbul from the only candidate — as the host of the 2032 Summer Erdogan’s ruling party in 2019 and is mentioned as one ISTANBUL: The mayor of Istanbul yesterday said he Games before the Tokyo Olympics launch later this of the possible challengers in the presidential election wanted the ancient Turkish city to host the 2036 month. A formal bid could potentially boost the politi- campaign. The two men’s bitter rivalry lowers the Summer Olympics after a failed bid for the pandemic- cal standing of the popular mayor of Turkey’s largest chances of Erdogan supporting Istanbul’s candidacy. delayed 2020 Games. The fabled capital of the city. Imamoglu is a prominent member of the main No government ministers attended Imamoglu’s formal ISTANBUL: Mayor of Istanbul metropolitan municipality, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires boasts strong infra- opposition party who has become a thorn in the side campaign launch event. The IOC has not yet started Ekrem Imamoglu (center) speaks during a launch event structure and the distinction of bridging Europe and of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. the formal bidding process but cities including London to announce a new sport strategy and future sport plan Asia along the Bosphorus Strait. The long-serving Turkish leader is a fan of sports have expressed early interest. — AFP yesterday in Istanbul. — AFP Established 1961 15 Sports Wednesday, July 14, 2021 Rapinoe spurred by Olympic 2016 exit as US chase double LOS ANGELES: The bitter memory of defeat is driv- as early as we did. I wouldn’t say it left a bad taste in with 59 goals and 69 assists. ing Megan Rapinoe and the United States women’s our mouth — it left a fire under people to never let She will spearhead a US team in Tokyo which is on football team as they chase an unprecedented double that happen again. It gave a lot of us motivation. a 44-game unbeaten streak, having not lost a game at the Olympics. Five years ago, the US women were Everybody who was in Rio does not want that to be since a 3-1 defeat by France in January 2019. A gold bundled out of the Rio de Janeiro Olympics in the their last Olympic experience.” medal in Tokyo would make the US women the first quarter-finals, losing to Sweden on penalties in an The ill-fated Rio campaign was a rare blemish on team to follow up a World Cup triumph with Olympic upset that shattered American hopes of a fourth con- Rapinoe’s dazzling record of success at international gold. secutive gold medal. It marked the first time that the level. The 36-year-old midfielder is arguably the most US has failed to reach the gold medal game since recognizable member of an American women’s team Pandemic’s ‘silver lining’ women’s football was introduced at the 1996 Atlanta that has dominated international football for most of Rapinoe says the enforced break caused by the Olympics. the past decade. pandemic has benefited the US women in their quest “It was terrible,” Rapinoe said. “It felt like total fail- A key member of the US team that won the gold for the double. “This was a nice silver living of COVID ure. We didn’t complete the task, we didn’t play well medal at the 2012 Olympics, Rapinoe was also a pillar and the pandemic — to have a year of rest,” she said. and it was a particularly kind of gutting loss in a lot of of the squads that won back-to-back women’s World “Some players played overseas, some players took ways. “It was really sad. We had a lot of people in their Cups in 2015 and 2019. Since making her international more time for themselves, time that we never really get, Allyson Felix first major championships, so that was tough to go out debut in 2006, Rapinoe has accumulated 177 caps to get our bodies right. I think of all the teams we probably have the most benefit because we would have been so tired after all the wildness of 2019.” Golden girl Felix The “wildness” of 2019 included her role in the US women’s World Cup success, as well as a much-publi- cized spat with then US President Donald Trump. readies for Rapinoe, who is openly gay, has forged a reputation as an unflinching advocate for social justice causes off the Olympic swansong field, from demanding equal pay and conditions for her and team-mates to protesting against racial injustice. “If there is a barrier in the way, I think I have to LOS ANGELES: Whether she is straining every last bust it down and extend beyond myself,” Rapinoe says. sinew for the finish line or blazing a trail to ensure bet- “I have people listening to me, so I feel a responsibility ter treatment of female athletes everywhere, Allyson to do what I can with what I have to try to make the Felix has made a career out of fighting. The 35-year- world better in whatever way I’m able to.” old elder stateswoman of US track and field brings the Rapinoe is circumspect about her future playing curtain down on her 17-year Olympic career in Tokyo, career, stating repeatedly that she will reassess her ending an odyssey that began when she competed as a options once the Olympics are done and dusted. teenage prodigy at the 2004 Athens Games. Nevertheless, she has suggested she may attempt to Felix’s fifth and final Olympics will almost certainly prolong her career until the 2023 World Cup, when she see her become the most decorated female track and will be 38. “I want to keep playing as long as I can,” field athlete in the history of the Games. She is cur- she said at the Forbes Power Women’s Summit in rently tied with Jamaican legend Merlene Ottey with December last year. “We have this short time in the nine medals, a dazzling haul that includes six golds and span of our life to be an athlete. I think sometimes it three silvers. feels long, like I’ve been doing this forever — but I One more medal in Tokyo — virtually guaranteed don’t really want to cut it short. It’s an amazing job. given her place in the dominant US women’s 4x400m Hopefully I can make it to Australia for a World Cup. relay squad — will see her pull clear of Ottey. If she EAST HARTFORD: Megan Rapinoe of the United States is announced during the Send Off ceremony following the Send Off That idea is pretty enticing. I feel like I’ll still be cling- wins two or more — another possibility given her like- series match against Mexico at Rentschler Field on July 05, 2021 in East Hartford, Connecticut. - AFP ing on for that one.” — AFP ly place in the mixed gender 4x400 relay team — she will overtake Carl Lewis as the most decorated Tokyo remains to be seen. The International American track athlete in history. Reluctant star Biles tackling Gymnastics Federation refuses to acknowledge the It will be a fitting conclusion to the final phase of a added difficulty of the move by giving it a start value career that has seen Felix become accustomed to bat- that is broadly in line with less difficult vaults, meaning tling through adversity, on and off the track. A chaotic, Dressel set to shine History, herself that as far Biles is concerned, there is additional risk pandemic-disrupted build-up to Tokyo left Felix with without reward. A similar criticism has been leveled at nowhere to train at times last year, forcing her to per- at Tokyo Olympics at Olympics the scoring for Biles’ signature double-twisting, dou- form improvised sprint workouts on the streets of her ble-back beam dismount. Biles believes the scoring of neighborhood in suburban Los Angeles. She booked her place on the US team for Tokyo LOS ANGELES: Thirteen world titles and a reputation the two moves is being kept artificially low in order to LOS ANGELES: Simone Biles heads into the prevent her from running away with the competition. with a typically gutsy performance at the Olympic tri- as a worthy successor to Michael Phelps haven’t made als in Eugene, Oregon in June, digging deep to secure Caeleb Dressel any more comfortable with fame. But the Olympics bidding to crown the greatest gymnastics “They’re both too low and they even know it,” she told career in history with only herself to beat. The 24- the New York Times earlier this year. “They don’t want second place with a time of 50.02sec after lagging US swim star will likely just have to get used to it at the behind in fourth place heading into the home straight. Tokyo Olympics, where the 24-year-old could become year-old American superstar has not lost an all-around the field to be too far apart. And that’s just something competition since 2013, an eight-year era of domina- that’s on them. That’s not on me.” The mere fact that just the fourth swimmer in history to win seven medals in ‘I have to fight’ a single Games. That’s a list led, of course, by Phelps’s tion that has encompassed 19 world championship Biles is returning to defend her title is unusual. At 24, gold and four Olympic golds. she would be the oldest winner of the Olympic all- “I told myself before the race that when it comes dazzling eight golds in eight events at the 2008 Beijing down to it, I have to fight,” Felix said after that per- Olympics. That eclipsed the record seven swimming In Tokyo, Biles is poised to become the first woman around crown since Vera Caslavska won the second of in more than half a century to retain the all-around her two gold medals in 1968 at the age of 26 years and formance. “That’s been a theme of mine for the past golds won by Mark Spitz in Munich in 1972. American couple years. I was just gonna give my all and leave it Matt Biondi won five golds, a silver and a bronze in Seoul title, and could well end up equaling Soviet gymnast 171 days. Every winner of the title since 1976 has been Larisa Latynina’s record of nine Olympic gold medals. a teenager. all on the track.” In the final years of her career, Felix in 1988. has emerged as a leading voice for the rights of Dressel has limbered up for a big Olympic splash To do that, Biles will need to win four individual events Biles admits that last year’s pandemic-induced — all-around, floor, vault and beam — while leading postponement of the Olympics — and the thought of women athletes. In 2019, she made headlines after with a record eight-medal tally — including six gold — denouncing long-time sponsors Nike over the compa- at the 2019 World Championships — adding them to the the United States to victory in the team competition. having to subject her body to another year of punish- Few are betting against her. In fact, Biles has been in a ing workouts to maintain fitness — prompted thoughts ny’s maternity practices, calling for greater support for seven he won at the 2017 worlds. Dressel is certainly female athletes who take time off from the sport to interested in transferring that success to the Olympics, league of her own for so long, she has recently taken of retirement. “I wanted to give up,” Biles said earlier to wearing a leotard decorated with silver rhinestones this year. “Once it was postponed it was, like, I’ve gone have children. “If we have children, we risk pay cuts even if he’s not enamored of the hoopla that surrounds from our sponsors during pregnancy and afterward,” the Games or concerned with cross-over stardom. “I in the shape of a goat’s head — a reference to her too far to give up now.” Biles says she has also grown being regarded by many as the “G.O.A.T” — greatest in confidence in recent years, often leading criticism of Felix wrote in a New York Times editorial. don’t very much care for the spotlight,” Dressel said “It’s one example of a sports industry where the before the US trials — where he was impressed, if of all-time. In other sports, that sort of confidence USA Gymnastics (USAG) and the United States might risk being perceived as arrogance. Where Biles Olympic and Paralympic Committee over their han- rules are still mostly made for and by men,” added slightly bemused, that sponsor Toyota displayed a car Felix, who gave birth to daughter Camryn in emblazoned by a Texas artist with an approximation of is concerned, it is more a matter of fact. Biles herself dling of the Larry Nassar sexual abuse scandal. November 18 after an emergency C-section. The his intricate tattoos. says the “G.O.A.T” design was meant to inspire others. In 2018, Biles revealed she was among the hundreds effects of Felix’s criticisms were striking. Nike swiftly Featured in GQ magazine’s pre-Olympic coverage, “I just hope that kids growing up watching this don’t of gymnasts who was sexually abused by Nassar, the changed its policy, vowing to ensure no female athlete widely touted by US Olympic broadcaster NBC as a face or aren’t ashamed of being good at whatever they do,” former Olympic team doctor who is now serving a life is adversely impacted financially by pregnancy. of the American team, Dressel is firmly focused on his job she said in a recent interview. “I want kids to learn prison sentence for his crimes. Biles has since led calls Felix meanwhile signed a new sponsorship deal in the pool, a job that hasn’t changed despite the one- that, yes, it’s okay to acknowledge that you’re good or for USAG and the USOPC to hold a wide-ranging with the Athleta leisurewear company, in a move she year pandemic delay of the Tokyo Games. even great at something.” investigation into the scandal. says redefines “what sponsorship looks like”. Booking With the sudden shut-down of competition in March This year, Biles has underscored her greatness by When USAG tweeted a birthday message to Biles her place on the Tokyo team was made sweeter by the of 2020, Dressel compensated by joining family members becoming the first woman ever to pull off a Yurchenko last year, she responded bluntly: “How about you fact that daughter Camryn was on hand to greet her at in hiking the Appalachian Trail, calling it a life-changing double pike — a complex, gravity-defying vault that amaze and do the right thing — have an independent experience. “I feel like I learned a lot more about myself, no other woman has attempted in competition. investigation.” Biles says that her position of promi- the finish line. Felix says motherhood has been a driv- my family and everything going on around me more on nence helps maintain pressure on USAG and the ing force as she seeks to make the most of the final the trail than I did with the Olympic Games,” he said. This Risk without reward? USOPC. “I’m still here, so it’s not going to disappear,” years of her career. “I wanted to really show her that, year Dressel’s personal horizons expanded again when Whether Biles — who already has four signature she told Glamour magazine recently. “We have power no matter what, you do things with character, integrity, he married fiancee Meghan Haila on Valentine’s Day — moves named after her — will attempt the move in behind it.”—AFP and you don’t give up,” —AFP although he let slip at a pre-trials press conference in June that he “never missed a practice for my wedding. “I ‘Rock bottom’ swam the morning of my wedding.” Gymnastics His aversion to vegetables and fondness for “Black Thunder” chocolate bars are also well known, but Day-in, day-out focus when it comes to competition, he is all business. “I just Coach Gregg Troy was quick to point out that was star Uchimura want to give a performance that I’m satisfied with,” he Dressel’s decision entirely. “He had the time off,” Troy said in June. “After that, it’s up to the people watching said. “He chose to do it himself.” That’s a reflection of how laser-focused for to decide what they think.” Dressel’s focus in the pool has remained the same Uchimura has struggled with injuries since the throughout the pandemic delay. “The only thing that’s Rio Games, and had described his chances of changed for me is instead of 2020 Games it’s 2021,” final Olympics appearing in Tokyo as “a fairytale” in 2019. But after Dressel said. “Perspective hasn’t changed. Same focus, taking radical action and dropping every event but day-in and day-out, looking for ways to get better, and TOKYO: He’s the Japanese gymnastics superstar with the horizontal bar, he is now ready to make his I’m going to stick to that.” a sweet tooth heading to his fourth Olympics, but this dreams come true. “If it hadn’t been for that, I don’t Dressel tackles three individual events in Tokyo — summer promises to be a different experience for think I would be here today,” he said of his injury the 50m and 100m freestyle and the 100m butterfly. “King” Kohei Uchimura. The 32-year-old etched his struggles. “I think people can come back stronger He’s the two-time reigning world champion in all three name into Olympic history at the Rio Games in 2016, and the 100m fly world record-holder. There’s also a RIO DE JANEIRO: This ﬁle photo taken on August 10, 2016 when they hit rock bottom.” becoming the first male gymnast in 44 years to retain possible four relays on his card as he stands poised to shows Japan’s Kohei Uchimura celebrating after winning Japan will have to do without him as they try to his all-around title. cement an Olympic legacy that began when he earned the men’s individual all-around ﬁnal in the artistic gymnas- defend their team title in Tokyo, however. Uchimura He also led Japan to team gold in Brazil, cementing two relay golds — as the leadoff swimmer in the tics at the Olympic Arena during the Rio 2016 Olympic recently described himself as “an ancient fossil” com- his place as one of his country’s most revered athletes. 4x100m free and a heats swimmer in the medley relay Games in Rio de Janeiro. — AFP pared to newcomers such as 18-year-old Takeru His chocolate-loving, Pokemon Go-playing persona — at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, where he was sixth in Kitazono — winner of five gold medals at the 2018 the 100m free. While Phelps was tight-lipped during his has also made him a favorite with Japanese fans, Youth Olympics. Games at the All Japan Apparatus Championships in career about any uncertainties that gnawed at him, revealing a different side to the man considered one of But the veteran is now ready to act as a big brother June. “It’s better to have made some mistakes, to make Dressel is up-front about the emotional ups and downs the best gymnasts ever. to the new generation. “I’m not competing in the team you more determined to train for the Olympics.” he goes through during meets. After his historic per- But persistent shoulder pain has forced Uchimura event, but I feel I have to use my experience in differ- Uchimura took up the sport as a toddler in his formance at the 2019 worlds he told USA Today: “Part to adjust his sights on home turf at the Tokyo ent ways,” Uchimura said. “I think I can play a part native Nagasaki at the encouragement of his parents of me is very happy. Part of me wants to cry that I’m Olympics, which will certainly be his last. The gymnast, beyond the actual competition.” — both former gymnasts. His iron determination and done with it. I’ve got pimples on my face from just the who took up the sport at the age of three, will forgo After his last Olympics, Uchimura is likely to stick stress of the meet. I’m probably losing some hair.” At the defense of his all-around title to compete only on superhuman concentration soon brought him interna- around for one final world championship in Japan this the US trials in June, where his first final didn’t come the horizontal bar. tional success, and he won the first of his 10 world October. He has described himself as “the kind of per- until the fifth day of the eight-day meeting, he admitted His desire to win more Olympic gold remains as championship golds in 2009. But he also cuts a relaxed son who doesn’t dwell much on the past”. But he did it was an agonizing wait. When he hits the water, none strong as ever though, and his rivals can expect noth- figure away from the mat, making headlines at the start allow himself a moment of reflection after booking his of that turmoil is evident, though Dressel himself says he ing less than laser focus. “If I had given a perfect per- of the Rio Games after racking up a 500,000 yen place at Tokyo. “It’s something I can’t even take in still feels like the wide-eyed 15-year-old who contested formance here, it would have been difficult to top that ($4,500) phone bill playing Pokemon Go on his arrival myself,” he said. “It’s amazing, when you look at it his first US Olympics trials in 2012.—AFP at the Olympics,” he said after qualifying for the in Brazil. objectively.” — AFP Established 1961 Sport

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 Japan’s ‘Recovery Olympics’ message fades with fan ban

TOKYO: Tokyo 2020 was supposed to 20,000 cherry trees. “I would have liked be the “Recovery Olympics,” showcasing them to have tried a little bit harder to find rebuilding after Japan’s 2011 disaster, but a reason to do it, rather than finding a rea- a spectator ban has left Fukushima resi- son not to do it.” dents feeling their efforts were all in vain. Neighboring Miyagi prefecture, which Japan’s bid for the Games specifically cit- is hosting the Games’ football, is currently ed a desire to show the resilience of areas set to allow up to 5,000 fans. But local hit by the 2011 quake, which triggered a media reported Tuesday that the mayor of tsunami that killed more than 18,500 peo- Sendai, the prefecture’s largest city, has ple and caused the Fukushima nuclear written to organizers asking for spectators disaster. The first event of the Games — to be banned there too. softball — will take place in Fukushima, and it is also a baseball host venue. ‘We’re not giving up’ Initially, organizers had said a spectator yesterday, three “Recovery ban in Tokyo and surrounding areas Monuments” were unveiled next to the would not affect regions in northeastern Olympic stadium in Tokyo, designed to Japan — but Fukushima’s hopes were “forge a connection” with the areas worst TOKYO: This picture shows the unveiling of the Tokyo 2020 Recovery Monuments, creations symbolizing the gratitude of the Japanese peo- dashed two days later, when the prefec- hit by the disaster. The brightly colored ple and in particular those from Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima - the prefectures worst affected by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, during ture’s governor said rising infections and monuments stand over two meters tall and a ceremony in Tokyo yesterday. — AFP pressure on hospital beds had prompted are partly made of aluminum recycled him to ban fans from events. William from temporary housing in the affected McMichael, a Canadian lecturer at regions. Fukushima University who has worked for Athletes will pass the monuments years to educate people about the region going into the stadium, and can read the IOC chief praises ‘best-prepared and its recovery, said the decision left res- messages of support written on them, as idents wondering “what we can do”. well as write and attach their own. But “There’s no way for us to help people some Fukushima residents believe the Tokyo’ as Olympic Village opens understand what’s going on in “Recovery Olympics” message has been TOKYO: Olympics chief Thomas Bach praised Tokyo yesterday as the without any of the welcome ceremonies or media opportunities often Fukushima,” said McMichael, who has lost as organizers focus on hosting the “best-ever prepared” host city, as athletes began entering the Olympic seen at the Games. lived in the area since 2007. “That was event safely during the pandemic. “I think Village 10 days before the opening ceremony. The final countdown to Organizers declined to even specify which teams were entering or the whole purpose, and it’s all in vain the phrase ‘Recovery Olympics’ has been the Games comes with Tokyo under a coronavirus state of emergency how many athletes were now in the Village. Strict coronavirus rules now.” Fans are currently allowed in limited forgotten,” said Hanae Nojiri, a reporter and spectators banned from attending all Olympic events in the city mean athletes can only enter the Village five days before their events numbers at other sporting events across with a local Fukushima TV station. “I think and surrounding regions. International Olympic Committee President and must leave within 48 hours of winning or being eliminated. Despite Japan, and some Fukushima residents people hesitate to talk about it because all Bach, who arrived in Japan last week and spent three days in quaran- the low-key opening, Bach said organizers could “be confident that the said the contradiction was difficult to the effort is going into tackling the virus.” tine, told Tokyo 2020 chief Seiko Hashimoto that organizers were stage is set”. Aside from the spectator ban in Tokyo and surrounding understand. Others are hopeful the message can “doing a fantastic job”. regions, the public will also be kept out of almost all venues elsewhere “Things are really bad because of the still get through, with Nishimoto saying “You have managed to make Tokyo the best-ever prepared city for in Japan. Athletes, media and officials are subject to regular virus testing virus, but I think at least kids should have local children were brainstorming ways to an Olympic Games,” he said. “This is even more remarkable under the and limits on their movement. Polls have regularly found most Japanese been able to see some top-class baseball share their stories of recovery. “We’re not difficult circumstances we all have to face.” The pair met as the first would prefer the Olympics to be postponed further or cancelled out- players,” said Yumiko Nishimoto, who giving up on the idea of the Recovery athletes began entering the Olympic Village, which opened yesterday right, though opposition has softened in recent weeks. — AFP leads a community project to plant Olympics,” she said. — AFP