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Umnia Bank Pakistan dominate discusses Sri Lanka on strategic opening day of expansion plans historic Test

Thursday 12 December 2019 | 15 Rabia II 1441 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 24 | Number 8103 | 2 Riyals

MoTC in collaboration Amir honours Ambassador of Italy with Microsoft to set up cloud datacenter region QNA/THE PENINSULA The new region is Communications H E Jassim bin DOHA anticipated to be Saif Al Sulaiti and EVP and Pres- ident of Microsoft Global Sales, Prime Minister and Interior available starting with Marketing and Operations Jean- Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Microsoft Azure in Philippe Courtois. Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani 2021, and Office 365, Commenting on the occasion, attended yesterday a ceremony Dynamics 365 and H E Minister of Transport and to announce the establishment Communications said: “This col- of a new cloud datacenter region Power Platform to laboration with Microsoft comes in Qatar, in cooperation between follow. as part of accelerating the efforts the Ministry of Transport and led by the Government of Qatar Communications (MoTC) and to implement the country’s digital Microsoft, to deliver its intelligent, managed from the Qatari Free transformation agenda and build trusted cloud services and expand Zones to show their capabilities a knowledge-based economy as the Microsoft global cloud infra- at the global level as a modern and laid down in the Qatar National structure to 55 cloud regions in distinctive incubator for such ini- Vision 2030.” H E the Minister 20 countries. tiatives, in order to enhance self- said that the Ministry, through its The new region is antici- sufficiency and sustainability and partnership with Microsoft, seeks pated to be available starting improve the local environment to make the new cloud data- with Microsoft Azure in 2021, and make it effective in devel- center region in the State of Qatar and Office 365, Dynamics 365 oping the region and the world. available with Microsoft Azure by and Power Platform to follow. The ceremony was attended 2021, to serve Qatar and turn it The new region will be by Minister of Transport and into a region center that con- Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met at the Amiri Diwan yesterday with the Ambassador of tributes to the devel- the Republic of Italy to the State of Qatar, Pasquale Salzano, who called on H H the Amir to greet him opment of the region and on the occasion of ending his tenure in the country. H H the Amir granted the Italian Ambassador Al the world. Wajbah Decoration in recognition of his efforts and role in contributing to enhancing bilateral relations, He added that the wishing him success in his future missions, and the relations between the two countries further progress cloud datacenter region and prosperity. The Ambassador expressed thanks and appreciation to H H the Amir and the State’s will contribute to sup- officials for the cooperation he received that contributed to the success of his work in the country. porting the innovation mechanism in smart solutions in the healthcare services and scientific research in the Cabinet approves draft law on areas of artificial intel- ligence education, and sports event man- state budget for fiscal 2020 agement solutions and QNA E Paul Kagame’s honour of the with the convening of the 7th applications. DOHA winners of Sheikh Tamim Bin Global Organisation of Parlia- Government entities, Hamad Al Thani International mentarians Against Corruption organizations, public Prime Minister H E Sheikh Anti-Corruption Excellence Conference, hosted by the and private enterprises Abdullah bin Nasser bin Award in its fourth edition Shura Council, and attended by and developers will have Khalifa Al Thani chaired the during a ceremony held on parliamentarians from 106 access to scalable, highly Cabinet regular meeting held Monday in the Rwandan capital countries, reflects the State of available, and resilient at its seat at the Amiri Diwan Kigali, in the presence of the Qatar’s keenness in fighting cloud services to accel- yesterday. President of the Republic of corruption and the extreme erate their digital trans- Following the meeting, Min- Namibia, H E Hage Geingob, danger it poses to the future of formation journeys ister of Justice and Acting Min- H E Chairperson of the African nations and the welfare of better engage cus- ister of State for Cabinet Affairs Union Commission, H E Pres- peoples. It also reflects the tomers, empower H E Dr. Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al ident of the International global appreciation of Qatar’s employees, optimise Nuaimi stated the following: Football Association (FIFA), H E efforts in this field, and its role operations, and At the outset of the meeting, Deputy Secretary-General of the in promoting transparency and Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin transform products and the Cabinet hailed Amir H H United Nations, and a number principles of good governance Khalifa Al Thani, Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim bin services from the new Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al of international figures. for a world prevailed by justice Saif Al Sulaiti, and EVP and President of Microsoft Global Sales, Marketing cloud region in Qatar. Thani’s and the President of the The Cabinet affirmed that and the rule of law, the Cabinet and Operations, Jean-Philippe Courtois, during the event. `P3 friendly Republic of Rwanda H this event, which coincided stressed. `P4 QR600,000 prize to encourage productive families Qatar wins gold medal SANAULLAH ATAULLAH productive families are con- Affairs appreciated to Qatar three awards for each as IJSO 2019 concludes THE PENINSULA testing for the prize. Charity for its support and spon- category. The details about initiative sorship to establish the prize for She said that a total of 33 QNA students won the silver medals, The Ministry of Administrative were given by the officials from the productive families in its fifth productive families out of 1,490 DOHA including 5 medals for the State Development, Labor and Social the Ministry and Qatar Charity edition and the accompanying families registered with the of Qatar, and 137 students won Affairs in collaboration with in press conference held yes- exhibition. ministry are competing for the The 16th International Junior bronze medals from which stu- Qatar Charity has launched a terday at the headquarters of the He stressed the Ministry’s prize. “The prize for the best Science Olympiad, hosted by dents of Qatar who participated prize worth QR600,000 to Ministry. interest in directing all kinds of productive family should go to Qatar for 10 days, concluded in the Olympiads won 12 encourage productive families. The projects competing for support to productive families a productive family, taking into yesterday under the slogan medals. A cooperative agreement the prize will undergo an eval- to promote their products account the number of its par- ‘motivating today’s generation In a statement to Qatar News was signed between the Ministry uation process by a specialised through organizing local exhibi- ticipation in events and exhibi- for tomorrow’s skills’. Agency, Under-secretary of the of Administrative Development, jury bench comprising experts tions and participating in inter- tions inside and outside the During the closing ceremony Ministry of Education and Labor and Social Affairs and from several relevant bodies national exhibitions, and country, training courses and at Qatar National Convention Higher Education and Chairman Qatar Charity yesterday to hold such as the Ministries of Admin- launching strategies that support workshops organised by the Center, the results of the Inter- of the Supreme Organizing 2019 Prize for Encouraging Pro- istrative Development, and handicrafts, heritage and tradi- ministry,” said Najat Al national Junior Science Committee for the Olympiad ductive Families and an asso- Labor and Social Affairs; Ministry tional crafts through marketing, Abdullah. Olympiad (IJSO) were H E Dr. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al ciated exhibition ‘Aswaq’ of Commerce and Industry; training and financing opportu- Youssef bin Ahmed Al announced, medals and awards Nuaimi, expressed pride in the (bazaar) which is scheduled to Qatar Chamber; Qatar Foun- nities to achieve the growth and Kuwari, CEO of Qatar Charity were distributed to the winning great success of the 16th edition be held from December 14 to 17 dation for Social Work; and spread of these crafts and pre- confirmed that signing a coop- teams and sponsors, partners of this global scientific event in at Katara Cultural Village with Qatar Development Bank, where serve them for next eration contract with the Min- and officials were honoured. the State of Qatar. the participation of 76 pro- the winners will be announced generations. istry of Administrative Devel- Germany received the H E Al Nuaimi congratulated ductive families. next Sunday. Najat Al Abdullah, Director opment, Labor and Social Affairs Olympic flag as the country that the students of the State of Qatar The prize worth Addressing the press con- of the Family Affairs Department greatly contributes to empow- will host the Olympiads in its who won medals in this Olym- QR600,000 will be distributed ference, Ghanem bin Mubarak at the Ministry of Administrative ering families economically and 17th edition next year. piads or those who participated into two categories ‘best pro- Al Kuwari, Assistant Undersec- Development, Labor and Social enabling them to benefit from A total of 32 students from in it, praising their efforts and ductive families’ and ‘best retary for Social Affairs of the Affairs, said that the prize is their own resources to become the 70 participating countries perseverance, whether from products’ as three winners of Ministry of Administrative divided into the best productive owners of productive economic won gold medals, one of which public or private schools, cit- each categories. A total of 33 Development, Labor and Social family and the best product as projects. `P4 was for Qatar. While 66 izens and residents. `P4 02 HOME THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019

OFFICIAL NEWS Amir congratulates Burkina Faso President DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdul- lah bin Hamad Al Thani sent cables of congratulations to H E Presi- dent of Burkina Faso, Roch Marc Christian Kabore, on the occasion of his country’s National Day. The Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani also sent greetings to H E Prime Minister of Burkina Faso Chris- tophe Dabire. QNA Amir sends message to H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser during the unveiling of the final artwork by M F Husain, in Education City yesterday. President of Ethiopia ADDIS ABABA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Sheikha Moza attends unveiling Thani, sent a written message to H E President of Ethiopia, Sahle- Work Zewde, related to bilateral relations and ways to support of ‘Seeroo Fi Al Ardh’ art installation and develop them. The message was delivered by the Ambassa- THE PENINSULA/DOHA and understanding, and that it you do that, this world will be a dor of Qatar to Ethiopia, Hamad should be open to all.” Najma better place’.” bin Mohammed Al Dosari. QNA H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Husain, the late artist’s daughter- At its inauguration, guests Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, in-law, told the ceremony: “I am learned the story behind the ele- PM congratulates yesterday attended a celebration honoured and extremely grateful ments that comprise the Seeroo Finland counterpart to reveal the ‘Seeroo Fi Al Ardh’ – to be here for his dream project.” Fi Al Ardh: the flying machines of the final work of the late world- “M F Husain walked the earth Abbas Ibn Firnas and Leonardo DOHA: Prime Minister and Inte- renowned artist Maqbool Fida teaching us to appreciate life. It is da Vinci, glass horses, and vintage rior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah Husain — in Education City. amazing how his art survived cars, which move to music bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani The Seeroo Fi Al Ardh is part catastrophes, and it taught us to selected by Husain and are set sent a cable of congratulations to of a wide-ranging project chron- appreciate the visual language of against the backdrop of a giant H E the Prime Minister of Finland, icling the journey of human civ- art. He said ‘See the form, the con- mosaic of horses, a tribute to Sanna Marin, on the occasion of ilization through the lens of the tours, and the colors through Qatar’s equine heritage as well as her appointment as Prime Minis- Arab region’s history that was unbiased, unconditional eyes. If the artist’s love of the animals. ter of her country. QNA undertaken by Husain, alongside a series of paintings that reflect Deputy PM receives the 99 names of Allah, the Mer- H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice-Chairperson and CEO message from Dhaka ciful, the Compassionate. of Qatar Foundation, with Indian Ambassador P Kumaran (right). The art installation was DOHA: Deputy Prime Minister unveiled at a ceremony also Qatar Foundation completed the providing opportunities for people and Minister of Foreign Affairs attended by H E Sheikha Hind installation – which is housed of all ages, all cultures, and from H E Sheikh Mohamed bin bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice- within a permanent building close all walks of life to explore, engage Abdulrahman Al Thani received Chairperson and CEO of Qatar to Al Shaqab equestrian center at with, and be inspired by art. a written message from H E the Foundation, dignitaries, repre- Education City, and will be open “The Seeroo Fi Al Ardh, Foreign Minister of Bangladesh, sentatives of local and interna- to the public – incorporating every which we are honoured to have Dr A K Abdul Momen. The mes- tional art institutions, and aspect of the artist’s original plan. brought to completion in the way sage was handed to Minister members of Husain’s family. Machaille Al Naimi, President M F Husain envisaged many of State for Foreign Affairs H E Husain passed away before of Community Development, years ago, is a reflection of our Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi by the Seeroo Fi Al Ardh could be fin- Qatar Foundation, said: “Qatar belief that art is an avenue that Ambassador of Bangladesh to ished, after which Foundation is committed to leads to knowledge, discovery, Qatar, Ashud Ahmed. QNA THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 HOME 03

PM meets Deputy Interior Minister of Turkey

Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani met yesterday Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani during the with H E the Deputy Interior Minister of the Republic of Turkey, Mohtaram Injeh, and the delegation ceremony to announce the establishment of a new cloud datacenter region. accompanying him on the occasion of their visit to the country. The meeting dealt with bilateral cooperation and the means to enhance it, particularly in security fields.

PM attends launching of PM welcomes Vietnam’s Security Minister cloud datacenter region

FROM PAGE 1 in bridging the skills gap in and privacy standards, some of “The new Microsoft cloud Qatar. Microsoft is also collabo- which form the basis of Qatar region will deliver unprece- rating with the Qatar Digital government policies, including dented opportunity for gov- Government to launch a the Ministry of Transport and ernment and businesses in Qatar nationwide upskilling program Communications National to successfully embark on their that will train government Information Assurance Policy digital transformation journey,” employees enhancing their tech- and the Cloud Security and said Courtois. nical acumen in cloud Information Privacy Protection “Intelligent cloud services technologies. regulations. are at the heart of our efforts to The new cloud region will The new Microsoft region in help establish the country as a adhere to Microsoft’s trusted Qatar will offer Microsoft’s knowledge and innovation hub, cloud principles and become scalable, trusted and reliable and builds on our investments part of one of the largest cloud cloud services combined with in- to develop a cloud region in infrastructures in the world, country customer data resi- Qatar. We expect it will also help already serving more than a dency. Microsoft will help drive economic growth, upskill billion customers and 20 million empower customers through its the workforce, and provide a businesses. Microsoft’s cloud deep expertise in protecting cus- foundation for the country in line services are compliant with the tomer data to meet extensive Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani welcomed H with the Qatar National Vision European Union’s General Data security and privacy require- E the Minister of Public Security of Vietnam and Political Bureau of the Central Committee Communist 2030.” Protection Regulation (GDPR) ments as well as the broadest set Party of Vietnam, General To Lam. They reviewed cooperation relations between the two countries The new cloud region is and are certified for a large port- of compliance certifications and and means of developing them in different areas, as well as issues of common concern. anticipated to play a pivotal role folio of international security attestations in the industry. 04 HOME THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 Importance of human resources in national Ahmed bin Mohammed Military College celebrates graduation development highlighted in conference of 4th military sciences class QNA and has highlighted values that Administration Program and Affairs Yousuf bin Mohamed Al QNA during the ceremony and con- DOHA reflect the aspirations of the Director of the Executive Edu- Othman Fakhroo, in which he DOHA veyed the greetings of Deputy people of Qatar and its goals and cation Excellence Center at the highlighted the importance of Prime Minister and Minister The joint regional conference on culture. The four central pillars of Doha Institute, Dr. Farid Al Sahn, human resources in national Ahmed bin Mohammed Military of State for Defence Affairs, developing human resources Qatar National Vision 2030 are the organisers of the conference, development as the primary College celebrated yesterday the H E Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed capabilities to achieve national economic, social, human and said that the event was inspired means to achieve development graduation of the 4th class of the Al Attiyah, and Chief of Staff development plans began environmental development. from the importance of the issue goals, in the economic, social, military sciences Diploma in the of Qatari Armed Forces, H E yesterday in Doha. H E Al Nabit said that the to the international community environmental and other sectors attendance of H E the Deputy Lieutenant General (Pilot) The two-day conference vision has made the transition to in general, and to Qatar in par- and that preparation and qualifi- Chief of Staff for Education and Ghanem bin Shaheen Al gathers a number of experts, aca- a knowledge-based economy an ticular. He noted that the reason cation are necessary for achieving Training at the Qatari Armed Ghanim, and called them to demics, and officials to discuss the important priority by fostering a it was importance to Qatar was the national development goals. Forces, Major General Hamad implement what they learned topic. President of Planning and culture of creativity and inno- that the country was undergoing He added that the State of Ahmed Al Nuaimi. in the service of the Qatari Statistics Authority H E Dr. Saleh vation in which human capital is a complete rebuild of its human Qatar has realised since the Al Nuaimi gave speech armed forces. Mohamed Salem Al Nabit stressed the main driving force for sus- capital, to help it take the lead in launch of the Qatar National that the conference represents an tainable development. His Excel- development with the estab- Vision 2030, that human opportunity to enhance cooper- lency concluded by saying that the lishment of a knowledge based resource development is one of ation between government success of the country of making society based on Qatar National the four main pillars of this Cabinet approves draft agencies on the one hand, and the transformation will hinge on Vision 2030. vision, as the vision and what institutes and universities, the success in developing human The General Director at the followed in the first and second research centres and international capital. His Excellency stressed in Institute of Public Administration, national development strategies law on state budget organisations on the other. He that regard that this aspect of Abdulaziz Saad Al Majali, included an integrated program noted that Qatar’s national vision development remains a high delivered a speech on behalf of H for human resource devel- for fiscal 2020 has set the general directions of national priority. E Minister of Administrative opment and the development of the state and its future since 2008, Director of Public Development, Labour and Social the public sector. FROM PAGE 1 inclusion of a representative of the Supreme Judiciary Council Qatar and Vietnam The Cabinet also reviewed into the membership of the QR600,000 prize for productive families the results of the 40th session of Committee to look into appli- to sign agreement the GCC Supreme Council, cations of foreign marriages. which was held on Tuesday in The Cabinet also took the on transnational Riyadh, the sisterly Kingdom of necessary measures to certify: Saudi Arabia, with the partici- An agreement between the crimes pation of Prime Minister and Government of the State of QNA Interior Minister, H E Sheikh Qatar and the Government of DOHA Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Hungary on cancelling visa Al Thani. requirements for holders of dip- The State of Qatar and the Socialist The Cabinet then took the lomatic and private passports. Republic of Vietnam have signed, in necessary measures to issue a An agreement between the Doha, yesterday, the work minutes draft law approving the state Government of the State of of implementation of the joint coop- budget for the fiscal year 2020, Qatar and the Government of eration agreement on preventing and after the Cabinet reviewed the the Federal Republic of Brazil combating transnational crimes, recommendation of the Shura regarding joint exemption from which also included a number of Council on the draft law. entry visa requirements for other aspects of cooperation in the The Cabinet also approved holders of ordinary passports. security fields and issues related to a Draft Amiri Decision to reor- A memorandum of under- strengthening security cooperation. ganise the Regulatory standing for cooperation in the The minutes were signed by Authority for Charitable Activ- field of health between the Gov- Director General of Public Security, ities (RACA). ernment of the State of Qatar H E Staff Major General Saad Bin The Cabinet also approved and the Government of the Jassim Al Khulaifi, and Minister of Ghanem bin Mubarak Al Kuwari, Assistant Undersecretary for Social Affairs of the Ministry of the following draft laws and Federal Republic of Brazil. Public Security, and the member of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs; Najat Al Abdullah, Director of the Family referred them to the Shura Approving a draft memo- the Central Committee of the Com- Affairs Department at the Ministry; and Youssef bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, CEO of Qatar Charity at a press Council: A draft law amending randum of understanding (MoU) munist Party of Vietnam, General To conference to announce 2019 Prize for Encouraging Productive Families and an associated exhibition some provisions of the Penal for cooperation between the Lam. ‘Aswaq’ at the headquarters of the Ministry. Code promulgated by Law No. Diplomatic Institute of the Min- 11 of 2004. A draft law istry of Foreign Affairs in the amending some provisions of State of Qatar and the Diplo- the Criminal Procedure Law matic Academy Jose de la Mar- Ooredoo announces FIFA Club World Cup fun for customers issued by Law No. 23 of 2004. coleta at the Ministry of Foreign THE PENINSULA — an international men’s football been updated just in time for the clubs and players, navigate event Approving a draft law amending Affairs of the Republic of DOHA competition featuring the six con- event to include teams and players venues with the wayfinding some provisions of Law No. 18 Nicaragua. tinental club champions from competing. The app — a sports feature, play the augmented of 2017 on Public Hygiene. The Cabinet then reviewed Ooredoo, National Supporter of around the world alongside Qatar conversational Artificial Intelli- reality game in Khalifa Interna- Approving the Cabinet’s draft the results of the 29th Ministerial the FIFA Club World Cup, has Stars League champions Al Saad, gence platform enhanced with tional stadium and take part in a decision amending the organ- Meeting of the GCC’s Agricul- announced a raft of exciting ways is being held from December 11-21 Augmented Reality technology fun selfie competition to win isation of some administrative tural Cooperation Committee for fans to join in the fun of the at Al Saad and Khalifa Interna- that enables a transformed fan 100,000 Nojoom points. Two units that comprise the Ministry (Sultanate of Oman - September competition. tional stadiums in Doha. engagement — allows fans to winners will be chosen throughout of Justice and determining their 2019) and took the appropriate The FIFA Club World Cup The Ooredoo Sports app has access information on favourite the event. jurisdictions. Approving the decision thereon.

Undersecretary of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee for the Olympiad, H E Dr. Ibrahim bin Saleh Al Nuaimi, with the winners of International Junior Science Olympiad 2019. Winners collect medals as IJSO 2019 concludes

FROM PAGE 1 Joshi, praised the great success of the 2019 edition of the Olympiads and His Excellency said that they considered it exceptional in its scien- competed honourably with their col- tific programme, which encouraged leagues from other countries and About 70 youth countries students to highlight their best skills achieved success and medals within participated in the and insights as young scientists ten days that inspired all of them. International Junior exchange conversation and experi- As for the Acting Assistant Science Olympiad in ences about science and build mul- Undersecretary for Higher Edu- tiple partnerships in a spirit of coop- cation Affairs at the Ministry of Qatar, of which 15 are eration to make this edition of the Education and Higher Education participating for the first Olympiads in Qatar very fruitful com- and Chairman of the Scientific time, and about 700 pared to previous editions, appreci- Committee for the Olympiad, Dr. participants are students, ating in the same context the efforts Khaled Al Ali, he reviewed in a made by all the committees that led statement to QNA the great efforts team leaders, observers, to the great results that were achieved. made by the Committee for this and supervisors. About 70 youth countries partic- international scientific Olympiad, ipated in the International Junior as it had the responsibility of pre- Science Olympiad in Qatar, of which paring questions, offering exams, be ready on the day following any 15 are participating for the first time, correcting them, giving grades and exam. and about 700 participants are stu- reviewing them, especially as it is The President of the International dents, team leaders, observers, and necessary that the results should Junior Science Olympiad, Dr. Paris supervisors. THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 HOME 05 Attorney-General meets Ecuador Vice-President Sustainable Indian fashion event opens at MIA Speaking at the launch yesterday, Indian Ambassador to Qatar, H E P Kumaran, said the event displays “the variety and depth of the kind of talent there is in the textile sector in India” being showcased by the participating Indian artisans and designers.

RAYNALD C RIVERA Indian Ambassador to Qatar, H E P Kumaran, tours the “Tradition, Vice-President of the Republic of Ecuador, Otto Ramon Sennonholzner, who is currently visiting the THE PENINSULA Craft and Sustainability: A Path to Timeless Beauty” Exhibition country, met yesterday with the Attorney-General, H E Dr Ali bin Fetais Al Marri. During the meeting, they which opened at Museum of Islamic Art, yesterday. PIC: BAHER AMIN/THE PENINSULA discussed the cooperation relations in the field of fighting corruption and establishing the rule of law, in Sustainable Indian fashion and addition to discussing a number of issues of joint interest. The meeting was attended by the Ambassador textile industry is at the forefront of Ecuador to the State of Qatar, Yvonne Abdul Baki. of “Tradition, Craft and Sustain- and themes that are used in participation of fashion and ability: A Path to Timeless Indian textiles and how they textile brands 11.11/eleven eleven, Beauty” - a three-day exhibition reflect various socio-cultural Injiri, Khanijo, James Ferreira, and symposium which opened and socio-religious traditions in Ode to Odd, Maku Textiles, Ashghal fully opens Al Furousiya Street yesterday at the Museum of different parts of the country and Three, Urvashi Kaur, Chola, and Islamic Art as part of Qatar-India how they are related to festivals Vimor Handloom Foundation. THE PENINSULA lanes on 7.8 kilometers of the 2019 Year of Culture. in India,” he said. Participating artisans are PL DOHA street starting from Al Manaseer The event presented by The ambassador said he was Bhanumurthy for Vimor Foun- Intersection towards Al Furousiya Qatar Museums (QM) and Car- pleased that the theme was dation, Renuka Jalan for Chola, The Public Works Authority Intersection. Further to upgrading avane Earth, which is an inter- linked to sustainability and sus- Taslim for Ode to Odd, Moideen ‘Ashghal’ has announced the full the street and increasing its national movement for social, tainable development which are Hizqeel for 11.11, Dinesh Vankar opening of Al Furousiya Street to vehicular capacity, works cultural and ecological transfor- very important topics nowadays for Injiri, Taj Mohamed for traffic, to improve the traffic in included the construction of mation, celebrates sustainability, particularly sustainability in the Urvashi Kaur, and Irshad Annad the area as well as significantly service roads on both sides of the heritage, and traditional design of fabrics. He highlighted for Khanijo, The symposium, facilitating the commuting of fans street and upgrading four sig- craftsmanship. the importance of increasing which is open to the public, takes to Khalifa International Stadium, nalised intersections by Speaking at the launch yes- “awareness about sustainable place today at MIA Auditorium one of the stadiums that will host expanding Al Manaseer Inter- terday, Indian Ambassador to development given the kind of from 10am to 3pm. the FIFA Club World Cup. section, introducing a new sig- Qatar, H E P Kumaran said the damage that is caused to the Moderated by Bandana On this occasion, Eng. Saoud nalized intersection at Umm al event displays “the variety and atmosphere by pollution and the Tewari, sustainability activist and Eng. Saoud Al Tamimi, Manager of Al Tamimi, Manager of the Roads Jamajim Street as well as con- depth of the kind of talent there kind of chemicals that are used former Vogue India Editor-at- the Roads Projects Department Projects Department at ‘Ashghal’ verting Al Furousiya and is in the textile sector in India” in taking care of and maintaining Large, the symposium will focus at Ashghal. highlighted the pivotal role of Al Muaither Roundabouts to sig- being showcased by the partic- these fabrics.” on themes such as the history of Furousiya Street in linking explained how the completion of nalized intersections in order to ipating Indian artisans and Kumaran also hailed the Abaya and traditional Qatari wear, several vital residential areas upgrading works on Al Furousiya alleviate the traffic congestion at designers. event as it coincides with this building a sustainable global such as Muraikh, Al Rayyan Al Street has significantly enhanced two of the most crowded round- “As you all know the textile year’s sesquicentennial birth brand, and the textile heritage of Jadeed, Baaya, Muaither and Al the traffic flow and reduced the abouts in the area especially tradition in India goes back anniversary of the Father of the Qatar and India. Speakers include Aziziya in addition to facilitating congestion in the area especially during peak hours. 5,000 years right from the Indus Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, as Tania Al-Majid, Associate Curator access to many public amenities that the project aimed at Works also included the con- Valley civilization. The kind of “sustainable fabrics and natural at the National Museum of Qatar, and leisure destinations such as improving the vehicular capacity struction of 570 parking bays in diversity that is seen in India is dyes are a subject that was very Pavitra Muddaya, Head of Vimor Aspire Zone Complex, Villaggio of the street by increasing its addition to the upgrading of the mind boggling, whether it is dear to Gandhi.” Foundation and the Director of Mall and the Equestrian Club. lanes from three to four in each lighting system and the instal- regional or the kind of material The exhibition, which is Education at Qatar Museums, Dr. It also provides connection direction, upgrading exits and lation of 233 lighting poles. To that is used, the kind of motifs located in MIA’s atrium, sees the Jelena Trkulja. to several hotels, commercial and entrances of the surrounding encourage a healthy lifestyle, a service centers as well as educa- streets as well as providing 15.7 km of pedestrian path and tional facilities such as University service roads. 5.6 km of cycle paths were also of Calgary and Aspire Academy. He also shed the light on the constructed. Improvement works Ooredoo launches Aamali Mobile 5G Plans He stated that the opening has connection of Al Furousiya Street also included pavement, interlock gained importance during the to some of the most vital roads in and road marking works as well THE PENINSULA international calling and full set of easy-to-use digital Arabian Gulf Cup and will gain the country such as Salwa Road, as the development of an irri- DOHA roaming for greater value, tools that can enhance opera- even more as the FIFA Club Al Waab Street, Muaither Street, gation system and landscaping control, and flexibility all tional efficiency and employee World Cup event started and Al Al Rayyan Al Jadeed Street, works along the street covering Ooredoo, the region’s leading through the ease of self-service experiences. Thousands of Furousiya Street provides a direct Huwar Street, etc. over 70,000 m2 with 1000 trees. enabler of digital business inno- digital tools. business customers have moved link to Khalifa Stadium. Al Furousiya Street project Infrastructure works within vation, has refreshed its Now, Ooredoo has refreshed to Aamali 5G, and we expect Eng. Al Tamimi then has increased the number of the project comprised developing industry-leading Aamali Mobile the Aamali Plans to include a thousands more to do so real the main drainage networks and Plans to provide greater choice wider range of plans that better soon” connecting homes to this and flexibility for business the needs of organisations across Business customers can network, constructing permanent mobility to include 5G capabil- different sizes, industry verticals, select from eight different plans, stormwater, groundwater and ities, among others. and business goals, and through and start with an introductory wastewater treatment networks Since Ooredoo launched 5G network. plan and scale up. in addition to protecting the Aamali Mobile Plans in early Yousuf Abdulla Al Kubaisi, Business customers can lev- underground telecommunica- 2018, Ooredoo has seen strong Chief Operating Officer, erage the Ooredoo Advantage, tions, potable water and elec- success on business customers Ooredoo Qatar, said: “Aamali making Ooredoo “Best for tricity utility lines. switching or upgrading their Mobile 5G Plans have been Business”, thanks to its breadth It is worth mentioning that mobile plans. Aamali Mobile 5G transformative for Qatar’s and depth of talent, best fixed the project was implemented by Plans provide rich mobile data organisations – providing real- and mobile networks, broadest Al Furousiya Street in linking several vital residential areas such as Al Jaber & Makhlouf Contracting allowances and flexibility to time visibility on employees’ portfolio of ICT services and Muraikh, Al Rayyan Al Jadeed, Baaya, Muaither and Al Aziziya Company, at a cost of approxi- activate multiple add-ons for mobile usage, full control over solutions, and trusted partner for mately QR250m. local calling, local data, their mobile allowances, and a 60 years. M F Husain’s ‘Seeroo Fi Al Ardh’ unveiled in Education City FAZEENA SALEEM and Qatar’s equine heritage. The ele- THE PENINSULA ments on the artwork will move to music selected by the artist himself. Qatar Foundation has unveiled the The Seeroo Fi All Ardh is part of renowned artist Maqbool Fida Husain’s Husain’s extensive project on Arab civ- final art installation, the ‘Seeroo Fi Al ilization. The installation was commis- Ardh’, in Education City. sioned by H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, The most unusual – Husain designed Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, in artwork tells the story of the progression addition to a series of paintings that of human civilization through the history reflect the 99 names of Allah, the Mer- of the Arab region, and how people in ciful, the Compassionate. the region used nature and eventually “Though it was commissioned in machines to further their ambitions. The 2009, Husain could complete only a part Layla Ibrahim Bacha, Senior Art Specialist art installation imagined to be both of the installation before his death in at Qatar Foundation. RIGHT: Seeroo Fi Al kinetic and experimental. 2011. But the original mock-up of the Ardh, latest art installation of renowned Husain has wanted to highlight the project was with QF, allowing us to con- artist M F Husain in the Education City. fact that an ambience conducive to inno- tinue the project,” said Layla Ibrahim vation existed in the Arab world long Bacha, senior art specialist at QF, during Pics: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA before the European Renaissance. a media tour of Seeroo Fi Al Ardh, This is reflected in the elements on yesterday. letters that were created and written by is being housed in a permanent building a further exhibition being held at the the installation such as Abbas Ibn Firnas’ “The fact that we managed to finish the Husain, and the original mock-up of near the Al Shaqab equestrian center Museum of Islamic Art over a decade ago. and Leonardo da Vinci’s flying machines, all the elements as per his masterplan, the installation itself. It includes a within Education City. Initially Seeroo Following this, he took up residence glass horses, and vintage cars. Firnas’ is a matter of pride for us. We wanted to sketchbook with dedication to H H Fi Al Ardh will be attended by local and in Qatar, a relationship that was flying machine predated that of da preserve the legacy of M F Husain. The Sheikha Moza bint Nasser. foreign celebrities and dignitaries. It will cemented when he was conferred Qatari Vinci’s by a few centuries, while Arabian public deserve to see a full-scale com- Husain passed away before the be open to public from mid January. The citizenship in 2010. An exhibition of the steeds galloped across deserts long pleted version of that mock-up, exactly installation was completed. After his installation will be presented in sessions paintings that the artist executed during before modern transport arrived in the as the artist had envisioned it,” she death, QF has completed the installation, that last for 18-20 minutes. his time in Qatar, titled Horses of the Sun, region. A giant mosaic of horses forms added. taking care to ensure it includes all the Husain’s works have been exhibited the was held at Mathaf: Arab Museum of the background to the artwork, repre- The unique work is showcased along details in the artist’s final plan. world over. His first solo exhibition in Qatar Modern Art, in Education City, earlier senting the artist’s love of the animals with an exhibition that includes sketches, The installation of Seeroo Fi Al Ardh was held in 1984 at the Sheraton Hotel, with this year. 06 HOME THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 HOME 07 National Day an occasion to remember CMC Chairman hails achievements of State under guidance of wise leadership

glorious history, celebrate achievements QNA/DOHA being is the center of every the principles of justice, right- civilisation process and the eousness, international cove- QNA/DOHA Chairman of the Central main pillar of the state. nants and laws, sovereignty and Qatar celebrates the significant achievements in various fields, Municipal Council (CMC) H E He added that the wise territorial integrity of states and Minister of Public Health H E Dr Hanan Mohammed bin Hamoud Shafi leadership paid attention the establishment of close rela- Mohammed Al Kuwari (pictured) has affirmed according to a clear vision and planning aimed at achieving Al Shafi (pictured) stated that to education, as schools, tions with all countries of the that the celebration of the National Day repre- comprehensive and sustainable development and achieving celebrating the National Day universities and various world. sents an abiding national occasion for Qatar’s decent living for the people of Qatar. embodies feelings of pride in the educational institutions He stressed that the wise people, as it represents great indications in achievements made by Qatar were provided, and the leadership had succeeded, with which we remember our glorious history of under the guidance of its wise development of health its wise policy, in overcoming establishing our state on solid foundations leadership, noting that the 18th services in terms of their difficulties and achieving victory under the leadership of wise leaders who excellent is difficult” is inspired by the founder challenges and that Qatar was able to of December every year will diversity, distinctiveness over the unjust blockade, noting worked sincerely and with their people in Sheikh Jassim bin Muhammad bin Thani, con- overcome the unjust blockade imposed on it, remain a bright day in the heart and modernity, as well as the internal cohesion and the order to build, stabilise and develop their firms that excellence needs hard work, as H H the Amir made clear in his speech at and memory of the people of achievements in infra- establishment of the rules of country to be pioneer among nations. knowledge and morals. the opening of the 48th ordinary session of Qatar. in his own behalf and on behalf structure and social and energy justice, quality and the rule of Her Excellency said that Qatar National H E Minister of Public Health stated that the Shura Council that “by virtue of God’s He also noted that the of Council’s members, Amir fields and construction of indus- law, so that goodness prevails Day is an opportunity from which we can draw the people of Qatar participate in celebrating Qatar celebrates the significant achievements support, credit for our success in containing National Day is an occasion in H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad trial projects, cities, bridges, throughout the country under important lessons to preserving our values and this occasion in a national scene embodying in various fields, according to a clear vision most of its negative impacts is attributable to which the people of Qatar recall Al Thani; Father Amir H H roads and ports to complement the wise leadership, which principles that we have inherited across gen- the solidarity and cohesion of the people of and planning aimed at achieving compre- maintaining our calm and decisive approach the glorious past of their Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al the march started by the devoted every effort to protect erations, which the Qatari citizen is proud of. the country, their love, sincerity and loyalty hensive and sustainable development and in handling this crisis, revealing all its related country, which was established Thani, Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Founder to establish values and the country and care for the cit- H E offered the most sincere congratula- to the wise leadership and homeland. achieving decent living for the people of Qatar. facts to the whole world, while adhering to by the late Sheikh Jassim bin Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani principles and prepare an edu- izens. He stressed that what tions and blessings to Amir H H Sheikh Tamim She said that one of the important fea- “Therefore, under our wise leadership, the independence of our political decision vis- Mohammad bin Thani. and the wise government and cated and healthy citizen. Qatar has achieved since its bin Hamad Al Thani; Father Amir H H Sheikh tures that contribute greatly to the consoli- our country was able to enhance its global avis attempts to impose tutelage on us, as well He added that the National Qatari people on the occasion H E Al Shafi continued by establishment is a credit not only Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani; Deputy Amir dation of national values and principles is the presence through its firm positions that as strengthening our bilateral relations with Day will remain a milestone to of the National Day. saying that everyone in Qatar is for Qataris, but for the Arab and H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani and slogans of the National Day chosen by the support rights and serve humanity. Our friendly and allied countries.” be examined in order to look H E the Chairman of CMC blessed with security, stability Islamic nation. the Qatari people on the occasion of the organizing committee for the National Day country has also led great humanitarian ini- H E talked about the efforts made by the forward to a promising future said that everyone’s goal was to and progress, and the state is He concluded by saying “we National Day. celebrations annually, which embody an tiatives to support people in need, and ensure Ministry of Health to develop the health sector with our wise leadership, which serve and contribute to the taking its rightful place among stand on our national day to She also stressed that the National Day integral part of our values and principles, that appropriate education and diverse human in the country, saying that the Ministry of utilized all capabilities for the country, adding that the citizen nations as a modern, developed remember the march of benev- contributes to the consolidation of the values therefore, the slogan for this year: “ Ten years needs are provided,” she added. Public Health and its partners in the health progress and prosperity of the has been the primary concern country with the success of its olence to accumulate pride and of loyalty to the country, where the various embraced glory and arts... Obtained all excel- She also explained that Qatar’s great sector are working to implement the National country. in the process of building the foreign policy that is guided by dignity as an extension of the institutions and authorities in the state and lence and manliness” and “ The Path of national achievements continued despite all Health Strategy 2018-2022. H E Al Shafi congratulated, state out of belief that the human H H the Amir in accordance to path of ancestors.” Qatar, France relations Qatari-Russian relations Qatar is Australia’s second can be described as made qualitative leap largest trading partner ‘exceptional partnership’ during past few years in the Middle East SIDI MOHAMED QNA/DOHA QNA/DOHA THE PENINSULA Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Ambassador of Australia to the State of The Ambassador of France to Qatar, Franck Qatar H E Noor Mohammad Khulov Qatar H E Jonathan Muir (pictured) said Gellet (pictured) said that the relations between (pictured) stated that the Qatari-Russian that the Qatari-Australia relationship is France and Qatar are strong and based on relations made a qualitative leap during growing deeply year by year, noting that mutual trust and common understanding. the past few years that allowed them to Qatar became Australia’s second largest Speaking to reporters on the occasion of reach a new level, adding that this is due two-way trading partner in the Middle East Qatar National Day which falls on December to the solid relations between President and North Africa (MENA) region, and that 18, the Ambassador said: “We congratulate Amir H E Vladimir Putin and Amir H H Sheikh Australia ranked as Qatar’s twelfth largest H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. trading partner overall. the people and government of Qatar on the H E explained that the Qatari- Russian The Ambassador noted that five direct occasion of the Qatar National Day.” cooperation witnessed a dynamic and suc- flights a day between Qatar and Australia “The bilateral relations can be described cessful multi-dimensional development, are playing a part in this growth, adding Discover, explore and as an ‘exceptional partnership’ rooted in deep which resulted in an interest in deepening that increasing pace and volume of the friendship. France has always been supportive bilateral cooperation in all fields with a ties between the two countries are also of Qatar in the hard times. Special moment for focus on the commercial and economic growing with many collaborative projects the Qatari people and residents of Qatar, field. He also pointed out that the high- underway, building stronger people-to- experiment at QF’s Qatar including the 5,500 French citizens, who highly level bilateral meeting between the two people links at the same time. appreciate the hospitality they receive in Qatar The excellent level of our bilateral sides show that both Qatar and Russia are Qatari- Russian cooperation In statements to Qatar News Agency Travel and trade between the and to contribute to the high standards in every cooperation has been showcased seeking to reach a common goal, which is witnessed a dynamic and (QNA) on the occasion of Qatar National two countries continues to National Day celebrations field,” he said. peace and stability in the region and the Day, the Australian Ambassador said that On bilateral economic ties, Gellet said: “Our at an international level: President whole world. successful multi-dimensional travel and trade between the two coun- increase rapidly, noting that THE PENINSULA/DOHA “The interactive and diverse Children can explore the bilateral trade has steadily exceeded Euro 2bn Macron and H H the Amir co-chaired He emphasised the mutual interest of development, which resulted tries continues to increase rapidly, noting nearly 40,000 Australians activities within our tent at Darb world of literature and books in per year since 2014. In 2018, it increased by 33 the Climate Finance Initiative at the Russian and Qatari sides in various in an interest in deepening that nearly 40,000 Australians visited visited Qatar over the The opportunity to create Al Saai is reflective of our the Qatar Reads corner, while percent to Euro 3.5bn, a historic high. This his- fields such as energy, investment, con- Qatar over the past year, and over 3,000 storybook ideas, transform nation’s values, identity, unity, also learning about the impor- torical level will most certainly be exceeded in the last United Nations General struction, industry, agriculture, tourism, bilateral cooperation in all Australians live in Doha. past year, and over 3,000 phones into 3D hologram and culture. tance of displaying strong and 2019 since, over the first 10 months of 2019, Assembly during which H H the Amir culture, sports, innovation, education and fields with a focus on the The Ambassador also highlighted the Australians live in Doha. projectors, discover more about “Qatar National Day is a positive moral virtues at the our trade has increased by 13 percent. We wish announced a $100m contribution to exchange of experiences in preparation commercial and economic visit of Minister of State for Foreign Affairs clean energy sources, and unique and wonderful oppor- Akhlaquna Award booth. that this positive commercial trend will con- the Green Climate Fund. for hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup in field. H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi to Aus- perform detailed microscopy tunity for the entire community Meanwhile, the three tinue in 2020.” Qatar. tralia in November, and the visits paid by the country’s many political, social and experiments will be on offer to come together to not only research institutes under QF He said that around 120 French companies, He noted that in 2019 the trade volume ranking Australian officials to Qatar, such economic achievements over the past year, during Qatar Foundation’s Qatar reflect upon past achievements member Hamad Bin Khalifa Uni- mainly major groups leaders in their fields, are between Russia and Qatar reached $80m, as the visits of the Australian parliamentary wishing the Qatari people a prosperous National Day celebrations this and the milestones our nation versity will also be on hand with present in Qatar, in a wide range of sectors such adding that Qatar is the largest investor in and trade delegations, as well as defense and successful year to come. year. has reached, but to showcase a range of educational activities. as oil and gas, aeronautics, defence, security, he said that Thales (a French company) has the Russian economy among the coun- learn about the best cultural and artistic officials and the Australian Ambassador for The Ambassador expressed his great Taking place from December how we are working collectively Qatar Energy Environment infrastructure, construction, engineering, urban been implementing a security system all over tries of Gulf Cooperation Council. He also works of both people. H E pointed out that Cyber Affairs, all of which have contributed admiration for Qatar’s resilience and 12 to 20 at Darb Al Saai, in Al Sadd, toward building a better future Research Institute will teach vis- development, transport, environment, infor- Doha Port, as the company previously did for said that a joint working mechanism has there are great opportunities to enhance to building a stronger relationship. determination, saying that there are few Qatar Foundation’s (QF) festiv- for Qatar. itors about renewable energy; mation technology, hospitality and mass Hamad International Airport. Also Cegelec has been reached between the Russian Direct bilateral partnership in the cultural and The Australian Ambassador congrat- countries globally that exemplify these ities will be held under the theme “Our activities are designed while the principles of 3D design retailing. been carrying out the modernization of Kah- Investment Fund (RDIF) and Qatar humanitarian field. ulated Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad national characteristics as much as Qatar of Our Unity...Our Pride, and will with the intention to empower, and printing will be demon- “The excellent level of our bilateral coop- ramaa’s communication and data transmission Investment Authority (QIA) within the H E the Ambassador of the Russia Al Thani and the Government of Qatar for does. feature an array of activities that inspire, and excite people, and strated by Qatar Computing eration has been showcased at an international facilities, and Atos company has signed a con- framework of the joint financial and eco- stressed that the challenges experienced showcase the full spectrum of QF can be enjoyed by the whole Research Institute; and Qatar level: President Macron and H H the Amir co- tract with Ooredoo to provide cybersecurity nomic platform. by the State of Qatar due to the blockade and the contribution it makes to community, regardless of age, Biomedical Research Institute chaired the Climate Finance Initiative at the services to clients in Qatar. He said that the Russian economy has have produced many positive results, Qatar, from education to science nationality, and interests. There will offer people the chance to last United Nations General Assembly during Regarding the military cooperation, the attracted Qatari investments worth $2.5bn, adding that Doha has achieved many and research and community truly is something on offer for test how many calories can be which H H the Amir announced a $100m con- Ambassador said that a year 2019 was mile- and projects worth more than $9 billion accomplishments during the past two development. everyone, and we look forward burned on a digital bicycle. tribution to the Green Climate Fund,” said the stone in the field of military cooperation. “It are being considered in sectors such as years in various fields. He pointed out that “We are proud to play our to visitors discovering this for Following the inauguration Ambassador. witnessed the signature of the SoFA (Status of infrastructure, agriculture, medicine, real everyone notes the development in infra- part in the Qatar National Day cel- themselves.” of Darb Al Saai today, where vis- “Qatar also pledged $50 million, five times Forces Agreement) during the visit of the French estate and oil and gas. structure, social facilities, transportation ebrations, to help illustrate and In the QF tent at Darb Al Saai itors will be able to explore its the amount of its previous contribution, to the minister for the Armed Forces. Defence coop- He placed emphasis on the great network and the production of industrial celebrate the essence of the this year, visitors will be able to activities from 3.30pm to 11pm, Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and eration is strong and I am convinced that it will importance attached to deepening the and agricultural local products. nation, while highlighting the role learn the secrets and explore the the QF tent will then be open to Malaria at the 6th replenishment conference get stronger during the coming years,” he Russian-Qatari cooperation in the cultural He emphasised that Qatar plays an our organization plays in sup- beauty of Arabic calligraphy in the public on: Friday, December of the Fund held in October in Lyon, France,” added. and humanitarian field, praising the great important role at the international level, porting the development of a an activity organized by the Edu- 13, from 2pm-11pm; Saturday, he said adding that this cooperation is a sign On the cultural field , the Ambassador said success of the mutual cultural year especially in maintaining stability and diversified and sustainable cation City Mosque, as well as December 14; Thursday, of a shared vision of multilateralism that must that next year (2020) will be the Qatar-France between Russia and Qatar, which took security in the region, and contributes to economy,” said Khalifa E Al find out more about specific December 19, from 9am to 1pm, be strengthened to address global issues. Year of Culture. The Ambassador also praised place during 2018. The cultural year settling regional disputes by peaceful Kubaisi, Manager, Media Rela- plants mentioned in the Holy and from 3.30pm to10pm; and On the Information and Security Systems, the Qatar’s steps in the field of workers’ rights. allowed Russian and Qatari citizens to means. tions & Press Office, Qatar Qur’an and Hadith courtesy of Friday, December 20, from 2pm Foundation. the Qur’anic Botanic Garden. to 11pm.

About 40 productive families to take part in Darb Al Saai From 36 to 40 productive families out SANAULLAH ATAULLAH total of 1,490 productive families reg- different occasions and places. She the products and marketing. Some out that the Department is working of a total of 1,490 productive families THE PENINSULA istered at the Ministry will showcase said that the Department provides people have skills but they do not in every way to push productive fam- registered at the Ministry will showcase their quality products at the pavilion marketing platforms for productive know how to enter the market. We ilies to more production and achieve Director of Family Affairs Department of the Ministry in Darb Al Saai,” Najat families in Souq Wqif Al Wakra, support them for marketing their the highest positive results desired their quality products at the pavilion at the Ministry of Administrative Daham Al Abdullah (pictured) told Barwa and Aspire among many more. products,” said Najat Daham Al from them. of the Ministry in Darb Al Saai. Family Development, Labor and Social The Peninsula on the sidelines of an Speaking about the productive Abdullah. “We are also working on devel- Affairs Department in cooperation with Affairs, Najat Daham Al Abdullah has event yesterday at the headquarters families, Director of Family Affairs She said that the Family Affairs oping projects for productive fam- Qatar Development Bank supports said that about 40 productive families of the Ministry. Department said that they are Qatari Department in cooperation with ilies, from small or micro-household will participate in Darb Al Saai. She said that the Family Affairs families with ideas of business about Qatar Development Bank supports projects to major projects that can the idea of productive families into a Darb Al Saai, a major venue of Department provides opportunity to producing some specific product. the idea of productive families into a compete in the labor market and complete project, after they reach to a celebration of Qatar National Day, is each productive family to market “If they have idea of business for complete project, after they reach to achieve the desired goals at the local certain level of productivity. set to be opened this evening. “From their products through various mar- particular product with basic capa- a certain level of productivity. and international levels,” said Najat 36 to 40 productive families out of a keting platforms round-the-year at bilities we support them in developing Najat Daham Al Abdullah pointed Daham Al Abdullah. 08 VIEWS THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 Qatar & Malaysia: 45 years of strong ESTABLISHED IN 1996 ties and fraternal cooperation

CHAIRMAN QNA/DOHA SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI n the context of the growing friendship and good relations EDITOR-IN-CHIEF between Qatar and Malaysia, the DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI IPrime Minister of Malaysia H E Dr. [email protected] Mahathir Mohamad arrived to the country yesterday on an official visit. Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al ACTING MANAGING EDITOR Thani will meet him today at the Amiri MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED Diwan to discuss bilateral relations [email protected] and cooperation between the two countries. H H the Amir and H E the Malaysian DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR Prime Minister also will witness the MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI signing of a memorandum of under- The diplomatic ties between Qatar peoples.The two countries are linked [email protected] standing on establishment of joint high committee between the two countries, and Malaysia began in 1974 at the level to a set of agreements and memo- and will exchange views on regional and of a non-resident ambassador. The randa of understanding that regulate international issues of common concern. embassy of the Kingdom of Malaysia their relations in many areas such as It is expected that this visit, discus- in Doha was officially opened in 2004, avoiding double taxation and pre- sions and the agreements that will be and the embassy of the State of Qatar venting financial evasion, economic, signed, will was opened months later in Kuala technical, cultural and media cooper- EDITORIAL contribute to Lumpur. ation, and an agreement between strengthening Bilateral relations have witnessed Qatar News Agency and the Malaysian relations many mutual visits and talks at the News Agency, in addition to memo- between tQatar highest levels between the leaders of the randa of understanding on cooper- Doha Metro changing lives The Qatari-Malaysian and Malaysia two countries, ministers, government ation in the field of training diplomats, relations culminated pushing them officials and private sector officials, the higher education, legal cooperation he launch of the preview services of the Doha Metro in several historical towards most notable example is the visit of the activities, and judicial cooperation. Green Line on Tuesday marked a momentous visits by H H the broader pros- Father Amir H H Sheikh Hamad bin In last October, the second session Toccasion for Qatar and its residents. Opening of pects, espe- Khalifa Al-Thani to Malaysia in 2009 of the Qatari-Malaysian Joint Trade Green Line has brought more areas under the coverage Amir to Malaysia in cially in the and the visit of the King of the Kingdom Committee was held in the Malaysian of Doha Metro network. 2015 and 2017, the fields of of Malaysia at that time Al-Wathiqu capital, Kuala Lumpur. Minister of Opening of Doha Metro services shows that Qatar con- last of which was economy, com- Billah Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin to Commerce and Industry H E Ali bin tinues to march on the path of progress in spite of several merce and the State of Qatar in 2010. Ahmed Al Kuwari chaired the Qatari challenges. The country has completed several mega in December 2018 investment. The Qatari-Malaysian relations delegation there. projects including, stadiums, road projects, water security that opened the Qatar culminated in several historical visits The future of Qatari-Malaysian projects and power projects ahead of schedule. doors to developing -Malaysia by H H the Amir to Malaysia in 2015 cooperation is promising in light of the The launch of the Green Line preview service is relations between witness a and 2017, the last of which was in economic potential of both countries, expected to significantly increase the number of customers growing devel- December 2018 that opened the doors which will bolster bilateral trade that using the metro. the two countries and opment in to developing relations between the reached $291 million in the first half of The Green Line preview service which runs from Man- pushing them to a many sectors, two countries and pushing them to a 2019, HE the Minister said. soura in the east to Al Riffa in the west introduces all 11 wider strategic level. and they are wider strategic level, especially in the Al-Kuwari hailed Malaysian com- stations along the line, including The White Palace, Hamad characterized economic, commercial exchange, panies for contributing to strength- Hospital, Al Messila, Al Rayyan Al Qadeem, Al Shaqab, by strength and mutual brotherly investment opportunities and human ening bilateral economic relations, Qatar National Library and Education City, as well as the cooperation in various political, eco- and social development fields, in a noting that over 85 Malaysian com- opening of the Green line interchanges at Msheireb and nomic and commercial fields over the way that serves the common interests panies, are currently operating in Al Bidda. past 45 years. of the two countries and two brotherly Qatar. The launch of Green Line follows opening of preview service of Gold Line in November. The Gold line preview service covers 11 sta- Kuala Lumpur Islamic Summit: Beyond the mask tions, including Ras Bu Abboud, National Museum, seems to be not limited to the following: United States. While Qatar still ranks on With all the three Souq Waqif, Bin Mahmoud, Al First, Geographical advantages: the throne of the highest per capita, lines functional, Sadd, Joaan, Al Sudan, Al The new alliance, if we can say, extends according to the last report published by including Waab, Sport City, Al Aziziyah from the frontier of Europe, where the the UN. On the other hand, Qatar is the previously and interchange station Turkish city of Istanbul, passes through the third largest gas exporter in the world, Msheireb. Persian Gulf, Pakistan, Malaysia in south Qatar supplies Pakistan with this vital launched Red energy, while Malaysia is expected to top Going to airport has also EBRAHIM H AL SADA East Asia, reaching to Indonesia in the far Line and Gold become easier as four new Author and columnist specialised in south of Asia, that makes a length approxi- the biogas producers in Asia by 2021, Line, the total stations, including the station management, administration and public affairs. mately equal to half the circumference of bearing in mind that Turkey is one of the number of at Hamad International the Earth with an area of four million major consumers of natural gas, hence the Airport, on Red Line have also few days separated us from a square kilometers. The five countries opportunities for integration between stations opened opened. With all the three lines great event that might cast a oversee eight important seas, the Black Sea, these countries in the energy field exist. across Doha functional, including previ- shadow over the course of affairs Mediterranean, Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea, It is worth noting that, the GDP of the Metro network ously launched Red Line and in the Middle East and may Indian Ocean, Timor and China Seas. It thus alliance countries is equivalent to 73% of the A has many ports that play a major role in the OIC’s members, all of which reflects the Gold Line, the total number of extend to other neighboring regions, has reached 36. stations opened across Doha where Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. global trade movement, including but not impact of this alliance on the reality of its Metro network has reached Mahathir Mohamad announced that his limited to, the port of Gwadar which members ’economy and future growth 36. country will host a mini-Islamic summit, located in the southeast of Pakistan, on the opportunities. There is no doubt that we are Doha Metro stations carry Doha Metro’s distinct archi- which includes 5 countries, namely Arabian Sea, which is the western end of on the threshold of a new era, through which tectural identity, “Vaulted Spaces”, the network’s con- Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkey and the New Silk Road, that pathway connects we look at the birth of a promising Islamic temporary design imprint, reflecting regional heritage Qatar. Four leaders of the aforementioned northern Pakistan and western China with bloc linked by common challenges and through open spaces that mimic traditional Bedouin tents. countries, in addition to nearly 500 politi- deep warm waters in Arabian Sea. views. The facts and indications presented The station interior spaces and floors subtly signifies the cians and intellectuals, are expected to These countries also overlook several above show the political, economic and mil- color of each line. participate in the summit. waterways and fjords, including two of the itary strength and influence that makes the Doha Metro stations are accessible and air conditioned. The Malaysian Prime Minister said that most important waterways in the world. five countries a major world player. Each one contains customer information and goldclub the summit will focus on “The role of One is the fjord of Malacca, located In addition to the aforementioned, centre, separate male and female prayer areas and development in achieving national sover- between Indonesia and Malaysia, through these five countries have common denomi- restrooms. Live service updates and information is dis- eignty”, he added that the summit will be which a quarter of global shipping and half nators and many common visions and played on monitors in all stations, and information on concerned with issues of the Islamic of the world’s oil trade passes, at an interests intersect pushing them to last train schedule and metrolink services can be found world, proposing appropriate solutions, average of 50,000 ships annually. The overcome the consequences of the poor at the stations entrances. stating that these countries share common other one is Bosphorus fjords, through performance of OIC dealing with the chal- The launch of new Doha Metro services has not only concerns and challenges. which oil exports from the Caspian coun- lenges of Islamic world which gave the made it convenient to travel to new areas in Doha but will As if it means reassuring those wary of tries that make up to 3% of world oil opportunity to regional and international also make their journey affordable. Travellers will be able holding this summit, he said that the mini- exports with an annual average passing of powers to dominate over the sanctities and to complete a one way journey between two stations in Islamic summit is not a substitute for the 48,000 ships. capabilities of Islamic states. Gold and Red and Green Line in just QR2. Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). It Second, Military capabilities: It is noted that the regimes in the Launch of preview services of Doha Metro lines will is worth noting that the OIC was established According to a recent reports countries of the new alliance, excluding transform the way residents travel across the country. in Rabat in 1969 before moving its head- “business insider”, the coalition includes Qatar, are vary between constitutional quarters to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The organ- three of the world’s twenty-five strongest monarchy and presidential republic, yet, it ization includes 57 members with a Muslim military forces, Turkey, Pakistan and is considered a very advanced healthy majority from four continents: Europe, Indonesia, ranked 9th, 15th and 16th state by far from most of the OIC coun- Africa, Asia and South America. Its first Sec- sequentially, bearing in mind that Pakistan tries. On the other hand, they participate retary-General was Malaysian Mr. Tonkou is the only Islamic nuclear-weapon states, in the positive interaction with Islamic QUOTE OF THE DAY Abdel Rahman (1970-1974). in addition, the total military personnel’s world’s issues and challenges, especially Development and military indicators count approximately half of that of the the issue of Palestine, they support Pales- We need to have show a strength, harmony and weight of the OIC’s states. Compare to other OIC’s tinian resisting and opposing the Israeli new alliance. Thus, the chances of success in members, the coalition has the greatest occupation in all international forums. the big emitters creating a healthy and dynamic envi- potential in various military’s field such as I believe that Mahathir’s initiative is a understanding ronment in dealing with issues related to the air fighters, submarines, warships, tanks, very successful and smart one, and has that their role is countries of the new alliance, and chances to drones and aerospace industries. enormous ingredients for success, these play an effective role in facing the challenges However, Turkey plays a pivotal role countries have a great opportunity to essential, because if of the Islamic world look greater at the time within the group by means of bilateral reshape the concept of Islamic cooper- the big emitters fail, the OIC appears divided, paralyzed and agreements in several areas, including ation in the conscience of Muslims and everything will fail. influenced by other global and regional military industries and mutual defense. build a strong fabric capable of achieving interests. Third, Economic Capability/ the aspirations of their nations, should be The population of the new coalition indicators: based on respecting human dignity and Antonio Guterres constitutes nearly half the population of In the most recent study prepared by presenting the nation’s strategic interests. UN Secretary-General the OIC member countries, this makes Standard Chartered PC, Indonesia and Only by that the alliance may gain the these five countries the center of gravity Turkey were expected to be in the list of respect of the world, the world whom only for Muslims, especially if we add the the 5 largest economies around the world knows the logic of power in its political, human factor their incredible potential, by 2030, preceded by China, India and the economic and military dimensions. THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 HOME 09 Azerbaijan’s national leader Heydar Aliyev commemorated in Qatar THE PENINSULA Azerbaijan maintains a companies. This was the first and largest Aliyev gave to his country, you may be DOHA delicate balance between contract of its type ever signed in the sure that Azerbaijan has achieved tre- former Soviet Union and the results fol- mendous successes in building a pros- Azerbaijani Embassy and community regional actors and great lowed when Azerbaijan’s economy perous nation by following his vision in Qatar commemorate the 16th death powers, strengthening the recorded the fastest growth in the world. and strategy. anniversary of its national leader, nation’s freedom while His vision and strategy enhanced Azerbaijan maintains a delicate Heydar Aliyev (pictured). developing its economy, regional cooperation in the South Cau- balance between regional actors and Sixteen years ago, on December 12 casus, which benefited Azerbaijan’s great powers, strengthening the nation’s the Azerbaijani people with sadness and which in turn increases neighbours. The Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan freedom while developing its economy, sorrowful bid farewell to their national stability. oil and the Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum gas which in turn increases stability. Today, leader. Since then as recognition of his pipelines have transformed strategic the Republic of Azerbaijan is an initiator role in establishing and building the Secretary General Michael Gorbachev, realities in the South Caucasus. The and an important participant in a modern state of Azerbaijan, its citizens resigned from his position. energy networks of Azerbaijan, Georgia number of international projects. and their friends from differentparts of In July 1990, Heydar Aliyev returned and Turkey have become more inte- Some international projects such as the world remember this leader with to Azerbaijan. After the collapse of the grated, increasing the significance of the Baku Process, World Forum on Inter- more pride and gratitude. Soviet Union and beginning of Armenian After the collapse of Soviet Union East-West energy corridor. cultural Dialogue, Baku Humanitarian President Heydar Aliyev, a great his- aggression against Azerbaijan, the and gaining independence in the early On October 11, 1998, gaining 76,1 Forum, Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan Main torical leader and founder of contem- country faced the threat of civil war and 1990s, Azerbaijan faced a number of percent of the votes, Heydar Aliyev was Export Pipeline, Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum porary Azerbaijan, has dedicated his life loss of independence. In such a difficult problems. One of the main problems was re-elected President of the Republic of Gas Pipeline, Baku-Tbilisi-Kars Railway, to the development and prosperity of time the people of Azerbaijan invited how to attract sufficient foreign Azerbaijan. Southern Gas Corridor, South Caucasus his country and people. He was born on Heydar Aliyev to Baku to retake the investment to develop the country’s At the hands of the late president, Pipeline which is also part of Southern May 10, 1923, in Nakhchivan, city of power and lead the country. On October hydrocarbon reserves, as there was still great successes were achieved at various Gas Corridor, also TANAP and TAP Azerbaijan and held high level official 3, 1993, as a result of nationwide voting, a risk associated with doing business in levels and fields. He also always believed projects, as well as trilateral cooperation positions in former Soviet Union, such Heydar Aliyev was elected President of this part of the world, as well as tech- in Azerbaijan’s belonging to the Islamic formats with a number of neighboring as First Secretary of the Central Com- the Republic of Azerbaijan. nical, financial and other problems. world. Based on this principle, he sought countries, have become reality on the mittee of the Communist Party of As a result of Heydar Aliyev’s far- In such conditions Heydar Aliyev to consolidate fraternal relations with initiative or with the support of Azerbaijan, member of Political Bureau sighted domestic and foreign policy, as who returned to Azerbaijan by the brotherly Muslim countries. Azerbaijan. of the Central Committee of the Com- well as intensive activities, Azerbaijan request of the people stood with the During his presidency the relations The work on the East-West and munist Party of the Soviet Union and has started to play the role of a reliable slogan “Oil is the national wealth of between Azerbaijan and the Organi- North-South transport corridors is cur- First Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet bridge between the East and the West Azerbaijan” and engaged in the devel- zation of Islamic Cooperation began rently underway. of Ministers of the USSR. and become one of the most dynamic opment and restoration of the country’s expanding and they continue today with Today, Heydar Aliyev lives in the In October 1987, Heydar Aliyev, pro- economies in the world. He has led oil industry. In 1994, during the first year all success. memories and hearts of all Azerbai- testing against the policy pursued by Azerbaijan from disintegration and frag- of his presidency, Azerbaijan signed the On December 12, 2003 national janis. He will remain with Azerbaijani Political Bureau of the Central Com- mentation to unity and stability, and Contract of the Century - an unprece- leader of the Azerbaijani people, Pres- people eternally through his ideas and mittee of the Communist Party of the from poverty to progress and prosperity dented multi-billion dollar production- ident Heydar Aliyev passed away. the works he accomplished for the Soviet Union and personally the in all aspects of life. sharing agreement with foreign oil Now, looking back on what Heydar prosperity and future of Azerbaijan. Meinhardt announces expansion plans for its operations in Qatar THE PENINSULA Qatar Airways Group Chief Centre (QFC). The expansion is DOHA Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker, also part of the Group’s global said: “I am very excited to hear strategy to establish key hubs for Global Engineering firm Mein- about Meinhardt’s significant specialist capabilities. hardt Group announced signif- expansion plans for its presence Meinhardt EPCM offers icant expansion plans for its in Doha, Qatar. This is a on-time delivery of projects Qatar operations in a glittering reflection of the long-term rela- through the integrated man- ceremony held on Tuesday. tionship between Qatar and agement of design, procurement, The event was attended by Meinhardt to continue the trans- construction, cost management industry captains including Engr. formation of our physical space. and general administration. As Badr Mohammed Al Meer, Chief I am confident that with the Qatar is rapidly expanding with Operating Officer of Hamad opening of the new Doha entities, the region, there is a growing International Airport, developers, Meinhardt Engineering Pro- demand for complex projects to financiers and contractors. The curement Construction Man- be delivered on a fast-track basis. event was held in conjunction agement, Meinhardt BIM Studios Meinhardt EPCM focuses on large with Meinhardt Group’s year end and MGI Capital, Meinhardt will scale and multi-site roll out of FROM LEFT: Omar Shahzad, Meinhardt Group CEO; Dr Shahzad Nasim, Meinhardt Group Executive global board meeting in Doha. continue to offer its unrivalled industrial, infrastructure and Chairman; Engr. Badr Al Meer, COO of Hamad International Airport; Sheikha Alanoud bint Hamad Al Speaking at the event, Mein- design, engineering, project and building projects. Thani, Managing Director of Business Development, Qatar Financial Center; Jonathan Muir, Australian hardt Group CEO Omar Shahzad construction services to the local MBS will undertake BIM High Commissioner to Qatar; Jai Sohan Singh, Singapore Ambassador to Qatar. said: “We have been operating market.” Meinhardt announced Services for Meinhardt’s projects in Qatar for more than 20 years. that it will be setting up three in Qatar and will also support development life cycle. MGI include project and construction growing needs of clients who We are here today to reaffirm new specialist companies in Meinhardt Group’s international Capital is the advisory arm of management, advanced Building want to engage a firm that can our continued commitment to Qatar comprising Meinhardt projects by operating as a Centre Meinhardt Group that covers Information Modelling Solutions offer a full range of services Qatar and our desire to con- Engineering Procurement Con- of Excellence (COE) for BIM capacity building, commercial and front-end advisory services across a project’s life-cycle. The tribute to the continued devel- struction Management (EPCM)1, Services. BIM has become critical and technical advisory. where capacity building, com- new companies will employ a opment of Qatar by leveraging Meinhardt BIM Studios (MBS)2 for the facilitation of design, con- “The new companies will mercial and technical advisory total of 250 highly qualified staff our local and international and MGI Capital(3) under the struction and facilities man- help add to our portfolio of services will be delivered. These in Qatar by 2020” Omar Shahzad experience”. auspices of Qatar Financial agement of a project across the services offered in Qatar and will three entities will meet the concluded.

Malabar Gold & Diamonds unveils Qatar University signs MoU with Qafco latest collection of jewellery in THE PENINSULA diamonds and precious gems DOHA THE PENINSULA Qatar University (QU) signed DOHA recently a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Qatar Malabar Gold & Fertiliser Company (Qafco) that Diamonds, one of the aims to conduct research in the largest jewellery agricultural field and support the retailers globally with a development of the agricultural strong retail network of sector in Qatar to achieve 250 outlets spread sustainable and reliable across 10 countries has production of the required unveiled the details of quantity and quality of agricul- their latest campaign tural products. ‘Diamond Celebrations’ in a chance to win up to 100% Dr. Hassan Al Derham, QU President, and Abdulrahman M Al Suwaidi, Qafco Managing Director and Furthermore, it aims to Qatar running until January 4, cash back. Customers can also Chief Executive Officer, pose for a group photo with other officials after signing the Memorandum share, maintain and expand the 2020. avail zero deduction offer on of Understanding. knowledge of global best farming To mark the celebration of exchange of 22K gold (GCC) practices amongst Qatari The centre will test appro- provide a supportive research with the local educational sector diamonds, Malabar Gold & Dia- with Diamond jewellery as stakeholders. priate nutrient management and environment. as part of its support towards monds is showcasing a vast well. The MoU was signed by Dr. fertigation solutions in order to Dr. Hassan Al Derham com- Qatar’s vision of a knowledge- variety of diamond jewellery The above offers will be Hassan Al Derham, QU President achieve optimal results in local mented on the MoU by stating based economy. By signing the in their collection offering GIA/ running till 4th of January in and Abdulrahman M Al Suwaidi, climate conditions with limited that the partnership between cooperation with Qatar Uni- IGI certified diamonds at the all outlets in Qatar. Qafco Managing Director and access to water. It will rec- Qatar University and Qafco is not versity, Qafco hopes to facilitate best prices. To add more glitter to this Chief Executive Officer. The cer- ommend fertilizer blends spe- new, but a long partnership. He the development of a world- The campaign brings season, they have also unveiled emony was attended by a cific to the requirements of the praised the great accomplish- class educational system in unprecedented opportunities to the latest collection of jew- number of officials from QU and Qatari agriculture sector. ments of Qafco locally and inter- Qatar, in alignment with the avail cash back with diamond ellery in gold, diamonds and Qafco. In addition, the MoU agreed nationally through the years and human development pillars of jewellery purchases. precious gems to suit the tastes The MoU agreed on the estab- on the establishment of research mentioned how many QU grad- QNV 2030.” A true shopper’s delight, of their multicultural and mul- lishment of an Agricultural grant open to QU Students and uates have joined the task forces The MoU agreed on other Malabar Gold & Diamonds will tinational customers. Research and Training Center to faculty for Qafco on topics deter- of Qafco subjects such as a collaborative captivate the customers by Malabar Gold & Diamonds support the development of the mined by Qafco. The aim of the Dr. Hassan as well stressed pilot scale Algae Biomass Pro- exhibiting eye catchy designs has incorporated these designs agricultural sector in Qatar to competition is to support on the importance of this MoU duction Project utiliding urea for in diamonds and precious as a part of various brands pre- achieve reliable and sustainable QAFCO’s strategy in creating the in the context that food security the production of different gems from different parts of sented at Malabar Gold & Dia- production of the required knowledge to enable Qatar to has become a priority to the potential products; the provision the world to flaunt any monds’ namely Ethnix — quantity and quality of agricultural become self-sufficient. Fur- country and QU wants to activate of summer training, internship occasion or event and are well Handcrafted Designer Jew- products as well as to establish and thermore, it will support QU’s the role of its farm and develop and sponsorship opportunities priced too. ellery, Era — Uncut Diamond spread agricultural knowledge and Research Strategy in R&D sus- it into a model farm that benefits at Qafco for QU students based With every Diamond jew- Jewellery, Mine — Diamonds practices among Qatari stake- tainability and reinforcing researchers and society. on Qafco’s requirements and eli- ellery purchase customers will Unlimited, Divine Indian Her- holders involved in the agricultural research culture and innovation Abdulrahman M. Al-Suwaidi gibility criteria and other get a Scratch & Win Coupon for itage Jewellery and Precia - production value chain. in the QU community and said, “Qafco is proud to partner initiatives. a guaranteed cash back and get Gem Jewellery. 10 HOME THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 QFSW, Unicef strengthen ties with signing of MoU The MoU provides a framework of cooperation between the parties to facilitate work in areas of common concern, including their common commitments Accessible Qatar Ambassadors at DICDD Exhibition. to development and the advancement of the rights of children Sasol launches films on and their families. disability inclusion at DICDD THE PENINSULA DOHA THE PENINSULA and issues the disabled com- inclusion and accessibility in the DOHA munity encounter and include country. We hope more com- Qatar Foundation for Social QFSW and Unicef officials exchanging documents after the MoU films on hearing impairment and panies from the private sector Work (QFSW) and the United signing ceremony. Sasol, the international integrated on wheelchair users. The short apply similar corporate social Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) chemicals and energy company, films highlight respect for the responsibility approaches. The signed a Memorandum of as part of its ongoing efforts to disabled community and how awareness films launched at the Understanding (MoU) at the Social Work and UNICEF have rights. This agreement rein- promote inclusion and accessi- they are breaking stereotypes. DICDD exhibition truly represent Doha International Conference for many years worked together forces the State of Qatar’s bility under its Definitely Able The film on hearing the daily lives of the disabled on Disability and Development. to promote positive change on unwavering commitment to the and Accessible Qatar initiatives, impairment highlighted the life community. I urge everyone to The MOU aims to strengthen development issues. Today’s advancement of human and launched a series of films on disa- and everyday scenarios of the watch them and share widely to the bonds of cooperation agreement further strengthens social development in Qatar and bility inclusion at the Doha Inter- hearing-impaired community help promote awareness and between the two organisations this partnership and formalizes around the world.” national Conference on Disability members. It showed how they inclusion in our community.” in order to achieve their our joint commitment to the Sus- Guided by the Convention on and Development (DICDD). are definitely able to have full Chris Molefe, President of common objectives. tainable Development Goals and the Rights of the Child, Unicef The Doha International lives and expressed their desire Sasol in Qatar said, “Sasol is The MoU provides a improving the rights of vul- works with governments, civil Conference on Disability and to be treated equally. delighted to support the Doha framework of cooperation nerable people.” society organizations and other Development was held on The film representing the International Conference on Dis- between the parties to facilitate Amal Abdullatif Al-Mannai partners worldwide to advance December 7 and 8 2019, under wheelchair users displays the dis- ability and Development through work in areas of common added, “The occasion of today’s children’s rights to survival, pro- the guidance and patronage of regard with which people can treat our Definitely Able and Acces- concern, including their MOU signing is fitting as we tection, development and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint those in a wheelchair and empha- sible Qatar initiatives, and to common commitments to devel- come together with local and participation. Nasser, founder of Qatar Foun- sises the need to respect people launch our films about disability opment and the advancement international partners to QFSW works to support, dation for Social Work, to high- who are disabled. Both films were inclusion on this prestigious of the rights of children and their address the issues and chal- strengthen and promote the light and address the issues and displayed on the main screen platform. The films have families, all in the context of lenges faced by people with dis- civil society organizations challenges faced by persons during the DICDD exhibition. received acclaim from the con- helping to achieve the Sus- abilities worldwide. The UNICEF working under its umbrella, with disabilities, which affect Amal Abdullatif Al Mannai, ference attendees for the way tainable Development Goals and delegation has visited both developing and activating their more than 1.5 billion people Chief Executive Officer of Qatar they show the issues as well as taking into account national pri- QFSW’s the Protection and role in society, and developing across the world. Foundation for Social Work the capabilities of hearing orities and development plans. Social Rehabilitation Centre strategies, policies and pro- The films, released as part of commented, “We are grateful for impaired people and wheelchair Amal Abdullatif Al Mannai, (AMAN) and Dreama, the grams that contribute to their Sasol’s leading CSR initiatives the work conducted by Sasol’s users and how they are changing CEO of QFSW, highlighted the Orphan Care Centre, and advancement in order to Definitely Able and Accessible Accessible Qatar initiative and stereotypes about disabled importance of the agreement, applauded their efforts in the achieve the goals for which they Qatar, represent the daily lives its ambassadors in promoting people in the community.” saying: “Qatar Foundation for advancement of children’s were established. Kids’ activities begin at Ezdan Mall Al Gharaffa and Al Wakra THE PENINSULA In preparation for the adventure, of achieving the highest levels of com- DOHA Ezdan Mall Al Gharrafa has set up a munication with the public and creating model of an aircraft on a large area that a family atmosphere within the Malls, Ezdan Mall Company has invited enables children to delve into it and which proved impressive success within children and families to participate in enjoy the unique experience in making a short period, as the mall is keen to par- the recreational events during which captain caps, aircrafts and coloring and ticipate in Celebrating the National Day they will live adventures filled with joy, parents can enter the model to take pic- through cultural activities, as well as fun and entertainment that suit different tures of their little ones inside the holding summer festivals for shopping age groups, especially children. aircraft. and entertainment, and distinguished Activities will be held every While Ezdan Mall Al Wakra has pre- Ramadan activities that include sem- Thursday and Friday from 6 to 9pm pared for a deep-sea trip through the inars, lectures and religious starting from December 12, 2019 – and establishment of a model of a cruise ship competitions. wrap up on January 10, 2020. The event that provides a workshop for children Ezdan Mall Al Gharffa, since its theme in Ezdan Mall Al Gharrafa is inside where they can manufacture the opening in mid- 2013, has contributed to taking you in a flight inside an aircraft cruise ship and its anchors from paper a boom in the country’s retail sector, by during which children act as the pilot dishes, as well as learning the art of stimulating shopping footfall, due to its and cabin crew while parents will take origami, and parents can take memorial Ezdan Mall Al Wakra response to the needs of visitors, and it pictures inside the cabin. photos in a designated areas next to the contains a number of international brands Meanwhile, the theme of activities ship, and the organizers of the events their children to participate during the running of events. that penetrate for the first time in the in Ezdan Mall Al Wakra will appeal to expect the participation of more than holidays, which enables them to enjoy Ezdan Mall organizes seasonal activ- Qatari market, in addition to the distin- the children who are sea lovers, as it 500 children per day for the specified edutainment activities, expected to ities throughout the year, including guished services. It gives visitors a unique comprises a cruise ship crafts, and period. attract the attention of about 8,000 national, cultural, and entertainment shopping experience, and contributes to activities. Families are expected to flock with children and their families during the events, as well as shopping, with the aim attracting large numbers of shoppers. Compass students win QEERI Young Innovators Award Mandarin Oriental Hotel THE PENINSULA a fantastic achievement for our announces Lobster night DOHA students and is a fitting reward for their hard work, diligence THE PENINSULA has developed a distinct menu Compass International School and determination to make a DOHA that offers a wide variety of Doha (Compass) has announced positive difference in our school options which include Lobster that its Madinat Khalifa Young and the local community. At Mandarin Oriental Hotel Doha and Avocado Sushi, Peruvian Innovators Team won the pres- Compass, we encourage every offers its patrons a world of style Lobster and Mango tigious Qatar Environment and child to ‘Be Ambitious’ and these exceptional experiences in the Ceviche, Lobster Thermidor, Energy Research Institute Young students have certainly shown field of hospitality and providing Lobster and Tomato Pide, Tan- Innovators Award in their age their ambition throughout this exquisite international cuisine doori Lobster kebab. category out of 300 teams from project.” options. The hotel has recently Premium Lobster enthu- around Qatar. Compass International announced the launch of Lobster siasts will be able to revel in all The team of seven Primary School Doha is one of Qatar’s night, during which Asian, that Lobster night offers at students from Compass’ Madinat leading schools, providing the European, Middle Eastern and Mosaic Restaurant at the Man- Khalifa Campus were very best of British and inter- Canadian dishes and delicacies darin Oriental Hotel Doha every announced as winners and national curricula for over will be served. Wednesday from 6pm until received their award at the thirteen years. As part of For the occasion, the hotel 11 pm. International Conference on premium education provider Sustainable Energy – Water – Nord Anglia Education, the Environment Nexus 2019 held school offers children a truly at the Qatar National Convention unique international learning Centre this month. experience across four cam- With the Unicef Global Goals puses: Gharaffa, Madinat for Sustainable Development Khalifa, Rayyan and the forming the foundations of the newest, state-of-the-art event, the Compass Young Inno- The team of seven Primary students from Compass’ Madinat Khalifa campus, Themaid, which vators’ video project aimed Campus received their awards at the International Conference on opened in September 2019. towards Goal 6: Clean Water and Sustainable Energy – Water – Environment Nexus 2019 held at QNCC. Children are educated for the Sanitation. future with enhanced learning The students researched around school. As part of their Jimmy Frawley, Head of through collaborations with water sustainability in Qatar research, the students visited Primary at Compass Interna- world leading organisations; Premium Lobster enthusiasts will be able to revel in all that Lobster and innovative ways to use Hamad Bin Khalifa University tional School Doha’s Madinat Massachusetts Institute of night offers at Mosaic Restaurant at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Doha water more responsibly and to and Texas A&M University at Khalifa Campus said: “Winning Technology (MIT), The Julliard reduce water consumption Qatar. the Young Innovators Award is School and Unicef. every Wednesday from 6pm until 11 pm. THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 11 US hopeful for Boycott rallies rock Algeria day before poll Iran prisoner AFP/ALGIERS Thousands of Algerians demon- strated for a boycott yesterday talks but imposes on the eve of a widely unpopular presidential election today. Police in the capital Algiers new sanctions used truncheons to hold back demonstrators near the central AGENCIES/WASHINGTON In the latest post office, the rallying point of the measures, the “Hirak” anti-government protest US Secretary of State Mike movement since February. Pompeo said yesterday he Treasury Department The movement forced the hoped for further dialogue with slapped sanctions on resignation of ageing president Iran to free prisoners but shipping networks Abdelaziz Bouteflika in April, but announced new sanctions as he and Mahan Air’s sales has continued marching across vowed no let-up in pressure. the country each week to Iran has also voiced a will- offices in Hong Kong demand sweeping reforms ingness for more prisoner swaps and Dubai. ahead of elections. after the exchange Saturday of Demonstrators brandishing Xiyue Wang, a US scholar red cards shouted “no vote” to detained since 2016, for Aerospace Industries Organi- an election they perceive as a Massoud Soleimani, an Iranian zation, which oversees all of regime ploy to cling to power. scientist detained in the United Iran’s missile industry” and has The five approved candi- States since last year. worked with Iranian organiza- dates all either supported Boute- “I do hope that the exchange tions subject to UN sanctions. flika or participated in his gov- Algerian security forces surround protesters during an anti-government demonstration in the capital that took place will lead to a The sanctions on ESAIL and ernment, including two as prime Algiers yesterday, ahead of the presidential vote scheduled for today. broader discussion on consular additional sanctions on Islamic ministers. affairs. We still have Americans Republic of Iran Shipping Lines Yesterday marked the anni- held in Iran — too many, for will take effect in June 2020. versary of the outbreak of major “Today we spent the night weekly Hirak protests on Fridays has exercised power from the sure.” Pompeo told reporters. The Treasury Department demonstrations against French outdoors,” protesters chanted and student marches on shadows since independence in Pompeo said the United said the companies have been colonial power in Algeria in when police tried to block access Tuesdays. Demonstrators also 1962, and analysts say com- States will “follow every even used by the elite Revolutionary 1960, and calls online urged pro- to the post office. chanted slogans against pow- manders are hoping to use the tiny opening” to free handful of Guards’ Qods Force to send testers to converge on the Algiers Despite police making calls erful army chief Ahmed Gaid vote to install a “civilian facade”. Americans known to be in weapons to Yemen’s Houthi square commemorating it. to disperse and a dozen arrests, Salah, who has emerged as Alge- Demonstrators opposed to Iranian custody. rebels, who are battling US ally Demonstrators then protesters held their ground. ria’s de facto strongman since the election also rallied in the “I hope it portends well for Saudi Arabia. marched towards the central Protests have been illegal in Bouteflika’s resignation and is a provincial cities of Bouira and this. We have had some indi- The Treasury Department post office, skirting riot police Algiers since 2001 and until now champion of today’s election. Constantine, according to social cation that may be the case, but also designated sales offices in cordons. police have only tolerated Algeria’s powerful military media. I don’t want to overstate that and Hong Kong and Dubai for Iran’s I don’t want to give false Mahan Air, which is already optimism about that pathway,” under US sanctions. Iran says it Pompeo said. The United States says that Israel poised for new election Pompeo, however, said the the airline has assisted the defused large United States would not deviate regime by flying fighters and AGENCIES/TEL AVIV whom have failed to build a gov- Netanyahu facing the fight of his from its campaign of trying to supplies to war-ravaged Syria erning majority in the Knesset, or life for political survival after a cyberattack on strangle Iran’s economy through to support President Bashar Al Israel’s parliament began parliament, since a deadlocked criminal indictment. sanctions. Assad. rushing through a bill to call a vote in September, have spent What had once seemed infrastructure “As long as its malign President Donald Trump, third general election within a days trading blame for the failing nearly impossible to many behaviour continues, so will our who has close relations with year, as talks between embattled coalition talks. Last morning, the Israelis — a third visit to polling AP/TEHRAN campaign of maximum Iran’s rivals Saudi Arabia and premier Benjamin Netanyahu parliament passed 50-0 a prelim- stations after inconclusive elec- pressure,” Pompeo said. Israel, last year pulled out of a and his centrist rival broke down inary reading of a bill immediately tions in April and September - Iran’s telecommunications The US State Department multinational deal on Tehran’s ahead of a midnight deadline. dissolving parliament and setting a carries a heavy economic price: minister announced yesterday targeted Shanghai-based ESAIL nuclear program and imposed A deal to avert a new election new election for March 2. Israel it will be well into 2020 before that the country has defused a Shipping Company, which sweeping sanctions aimed at must be reached before 11:59 pm headed towards a third national a new budget is passed, which massive cyberattack on unspec- Pompeo said “knowingly trans- curbing the clerical regime’s (2159 GMT). But Netanyahu and election in less than a year with will mean months of cutbacks ified “electronic infrastructure” ports illicit materials from Iran’s regional influence. his rival Benny Gantz, both of Prime Minister Benjamin that will weigh on growth. but provided no specifics on the purported attack. According to the official Irna news agency, Mohammad International Support Group meets on aid for Lebanon Javad Azari Jahromi said the “security attack was very large” REUTERS/PARIS “reliable 2020 budget” in the and that authorities were inves- first weeks after the formation tigating its exact dimensions. Lebanon faces a chaotic of a new government and fight He said he cannot reveal unwinding of its economy and more rigorously against any further details beyond increased instability if it does not corruption. saying that the “attack has been enact swift reforms that give Lebanon won pledges of identified and defused.” international financial institu- over $11bn at a conference last It was not clear if the tions the confidence to offer year, conditional on reforms reported attack caused any support, the country’s interna- that it has failed to implement. damage or disruptions in Iran’s tional support group said. The economic crisis is rooted computer and internet systems, Grappling with its worst eco- in years of corruption and and whether it was the latest nomic crisis since the 1975-90 waste that have generated one chapter in the US and Iran’s civil war, Lebanon has been of the world’s heaviest public ongoing cyber operations tar- politically paralysed since Saad debt burdens. geting the other. Al Hariri quit as prime minister French Foreign Minister “I cannot give details but after mass protests against the Jean-Yves Le Drian said a yes, we were targeted by a very ruling elite. The pound currency credible government was needed organized and governmental has slumped and banks have to push through the reforms cyber attack,” he said. “We are enforced capital controls. needed to open the way for looking into the attack’s dif- “In order to halt the sharp international financial support. ferent dimensions and will deterioration in the economy... “The ISG members consider release a report on it. It was a there is an urgent need for the that the support from interna- massive attack.” adoption of a substantial, tional financial institutions is Lebanese anti-government demonstrators holding placards outside the French embassy in the capital credible and comprehensive pivotal to help the authorities Beirut yesterday to protest against the UN-created International Support Group’s (ISG) meeting in Paris. policy package of economic sustain their efforts to Hamas denies reforms to restore fiscal balance implement the necessary eco- and financial stability,” the UN- Group (ISG) for Lebanon said in meeting in Paris co-hosted by The group urged the Leb- nomic reforms over time,” the backing Corbyn created International Support a final communique after a the UN and France, yesterday. anese authorities to adopt a statement added. in UK election

ANATOLIA/GAZA CITY Rebels optimistic as Iraqi families fear worst after protesters abducted Palestinian group Hamas has Sudan peace talks resume denied support for the Labor AFP/BAGHDAD Yousef Al Harbi, an activist who was him until he reappeared outside his Party and its leader, Jeremy in the building when it was attacked. home on Tuesday morning, after AFP/JUBA Corbyn, in this week’s UK “Last seen: Friday, 9:18pm.” About an Amer, a 26-year-old demon- being held by masked men for three general election. hour after gunmen began attacking strator, said he was nearby when gun- days. The Sudanese government and rebel groups yesterday “We don’t interfere in the a protest encampment in Iraq’s capital shots began echoing from the “They drove for about three kicked off a fresh round of peace talks, expressing internal affairs of any other at the weekend, Mustafa — who had building, so he called friends he knew quarters of an hour and then their optimism they could reach a deal in the next two country and we are not part of slept there for weeks — went offline. were inside. captors handed them over to another weeks to end years of conflict. any internal conflict,” Hamas In the days since, the 20-year- “Mustafa picked up and said, group,” his father Rahim said. The peace talks began in October in South leading figure Basem Naim said. old demonstrator has not reappeared ‘things are really bad, they’re shooting “They were asked for their Sudan and aim to put an end to conflicts in Darfur, “We ask the upcoming on messaging application WhatsApp, at us.’ He hung up and his phone names, their parents’ names and Blue Nile and South Kordofan, where rebels have British prime minister to or in real life. turned off,” said Amer, using a pseu- their addresses,” Rahim said, fought bloody campaigns against their marginal- support the rights of the Pales- Late Friday, unidentified gunmen donym as he has faced threats. declining to use his full name for isation by Khartoum under ousted president Omar tinian people topped by the stormed and torched the multi-storey “We’ve called everyone — from fear of reprisals. Hassan Al Bashir. right to return and inde- building known as Al Sinek Garage, the government to the militias,” Amer The description of where they Numerous rounds of talks mediated by the pendence,” he said. where anti-government protesters said. Security forces say none of the were held — on a tributary of the African Union have previously failed, but there is Israeli media said that a had camped out for weeks. demonstrators were taken into Tigris on Baghdad’s northeastern out- fresh hope after Sudan’s transitional government, Facebook support page for At least 20 protesters and four custody, while pro-Iran armed groups skirts— corresponds to where other led by Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, made peace Corbyn was allegedly run by police officers were killed in the blamed by protesters for Friday’s Iraqis say they were detained. in these areas a priority. Hamas. “We affirm that Hamas melee, medical sources said, while killings swore they had no role in the “It’s a place overlooking the “We are optimistic that this time (we) will achieve does not have representatives about 80 demonstrators were violence. Nineteen-year-old Sajad Diyala” tributary, Iraqi blogger Chojaa positive results,” said Abdal Aziz Alhilu, leader of in Britain and accusations of abducted. was among those abducted by bus on Al Khafaji said after he was taken to Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army-North interfering in UK election and “They filled up two charter buses Friday night. the same place after being abducted (SPLM/A-N) a coalition of three rebel groups at the supporting Corbyn were with people from Al Sinek,” said His family heard nothing from from his home in October. talks. untrue,” Naim said. 12 ASIA THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 Army deployed as Rajya Sabha clears Citizenship Amendment Bill AFP Troops were deployed attempted to barge past security GUWAHATI barriers to converge on the to the state of Tripura adjoining state capital Dispur. Indian authorities in the far- and were on standby Tripura has suspended flung northeast called in troops in Assam, a senior mobile Internet services to stop yesterday to help contain army official said, the spread of misinformation on demonstrators opposed to social media, according to contentious citizenship legis- as police battled authorities there. lation approved by the upper protesters railing “If the CAB is passed in Rajya house, officials said. against the Bill. Sabha (the upper house) today, The bill will let New Delhi we appeal to all the students, grant citizenship to illegal immi- civilians, tea garden workers and grants who entered India from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s all sections of the society to come three neighbouring countries Hindu-nationalist agenda to out to the streets again tomorrow before 2015 -- but not if they are marginalise India’s 200 million to protest,” local activist Akhil Security personnel use batons to disperse students protesting against the Citizenship Amendment Muslim. Muslims —something he denies. Gogoi said earlier. Bill, in Guwahati, yesterday. The legislation was passed But many in India’s northeast, The legislation — which 125-105 by the Rajya Sabha, after which yesterday was rocked by Modi’s government tried and failed the Lok Sabha voted in support a third straight day of demonstra- to get through the upper house in Modi’s government says second-class citizens since Modi Modi’s government has said of it on Monday. tions following a general strike its first term — passed the lower Muslims from Afghanistan, Bang- stormed to power in 2014. it intends to replicate the register Troops were deployed to the on Tuesday, oppose the new law house following a fiery debate. ladesh and Pakistan are excluded Several cities perceived to nationwide with the aim of state of Tripura and were on for different reasons. Derek O’Brien, an opposition from the legislation because they have Islamic-sounding names removing all “infiltrators” by standby in Assam, a senior army They object because the Cit- lawmaker in the upper house, do not face discrimination in have been renamed, while some 2024. Amit Shah, Modi’s right- official said, as police battled izenship Amendment Bill (CAB) yesterday said the legislation bore those countries. school textbooks have been hand-man and home minister, protesters railing against the Bill stands to give citizenship to large an “eerie similarity” to Nazi laws Also left out are other minor- altered to downplay Muslims’ has likened illegal immigrants to that will fast-track citizenship numbers of Hindus who have against in the Jews in 1930s ities fleeing political or religious contributions to India. “termites”. claims for immigrants from three emigrated from Bangladesh in Germany. persecution elsewhere in the A citizens’ register in Assam “The Indian government is neighbouring countries — but not recent decades. “In 1935 there were citizenship region such as Tamils from Sri finalised this year left 1.9 million creating legal grounds to strip if they are Muslim. Police fired tear gas in dif- laws to protect people with Lanka, Rohingya from Myanmar people, many of them Muslims, millions of Muslims of the fun- For Muslim groups, the ferent parts of Guwahati, Assam German blood... today we have a and Tibetans from China. facing possible statelessness, damental right of equal access opposition, rights groups and state’s biggest city, as several faulty bill that wants to define who Many Muslims in India say detention camps and even to citizenship,” Human Rights others this is part of thousand demonstrators true Indian citizens are,” he said. they have been made to feel like deportation. Watch said yesterday.

Apex Court begins in-chamber Modi cleared of complicity in deadly religious riots AFP Modi, who was accused by India over a citizenship bill that boosting the local economy and the police force of negligence, review on AHMEDABAD human rights groups of turning proposes excluding Muslim ref- rooting out corruption. finding that police were unable Ayodhya today a blind eye to the violence. ugees from neighbouring Afghan- The report — which included to control mobs as they had Indian Prime Minister Narendra The Nanavati Commission istan, Bangladesh and Pakistan. 44,445 affidavits from witnesses inadequate numbers or were not IANS Modi was not complicit in deadly found that the riots were spon- Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party and 488 government officials — properly armed. NEW DELHI religious riots that broke out in 2002 taneous, sparked by the train (BJP), re-elected in a landslide in was tabled in the Gujarat state In 2008, it had concluded in one of the bloodiest episodes in burning deaths, rather than pre- May after coming to power in assembly yesterday, five years after that the train incident was a pre- The Supreme Court will begin independent India, according to a planned attacks. 2014, has long been accused of it was submitted to the government planned conspiracy, with 31 in-chamber review on petitions judge-led commission report “There is no evidence to following a “Hindutva” agenda following a 12-year probe. people later convicted of challenging the November 9 released yesterday. show that these attacks were favouring officially secular India’s While the commission’s terms criminal conspiracy and murder verdict in the Ayodhya title Modi was the chief minister either inspired or instigated or majority Hindus. of reference did not require the by a special court. More than 100 dispute yesterday. of Gujarat when nearly 1,000 abated by any minister of the In August Modi’s adminis- government to make the findings people have already been con- The apex court had allocated people — the majority of them state,” the Nanavati Commission tration rescinded the partial public, it said in September the victed over the riots. the disputed site for the con- Muslims — were killed in riots said in its nine-volume report of autonomy of Jammu and report would be released after a Modi — who set up the struction of Ram temple, and triggered by a fire on a train more than 2,500 pages. Kashmir, India’s only Muslim- petition for its publication was inquiry in 2002 — was cleared granted five-acre land to Muslim which killed 59 Hindu activists. The release of the report came majority state, in what his gov- filed in the High Court. in 2012 by a Supreme Court- parties for the construction of The riots have long dogged amid protests in northeastern ernment said was aimed at The commission also cleared ordered investigation. mosque elsewhere in Ayodhya. The new five-judge bench is headed by Chief Justice SA Bobde Telangana sets and comprises Justices Ashok India’s foreign satellite Bhushan, SA Nazeer, DY Chandr- up special court achud and Sanjiv Khanna. Justice launch count touches 319 Khanna is the new judge on the to try woman’s bench who has replaced retired IANS to decide on the image use. Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi. SRIHARIKOTA One more such satellite murder case The in-chamber review will RISAT-2BR2 will soon be begin at 1:40pm. A total of 18 India yesterday successfully launched by ISRO. IANS review petitions have been filed placed into orbit its latest radar “I am extremely happy to HYDERABAD in the apex court in connection imaging earth observation declare that 50th PSLV rocket with its November 9 judgement. satellite RISAT-2BR1 and nine had injected the RISAT-2BR1 and For delivering speedy justice in a The bulk comprises review foreign satellites from four coun- nine customer satellites into case of gang-rape and murder of pleas from Muslim parties tries using its PSLV rocket. precise orbit,” the ISRO Chairman a woman in the Komaram Bheem expressing discontent with the In the process, India touched said post launch. Asifabad district last month, the judgement. 319 foreign satellite launch mark “Alongwith 50th mission of Telangana government yesterday Yesterday, the Nirmohi ever since 1999. Declaring this PSLV rocket, the mission marks set up a special court. Akhara also filed a review will be the last rocket mission of another milestone for ISRO. This With the Telangana High seeking clarification on its role ISRO for 2019, its chief K Sivan is the 75th rocket launch from Court giving approval to a pro- and extent of representation of said in 2020, there will be the Sriharikota,” Sivan said. posal sent by the government, the Nirmohi Akhara in the trust maiden launch mission of new He said for the last 26 years fifth additional sessions court in directed to be created through rocket Small Satellite Launch of PSLV rocket team was led by the Adilabad district has been the apex court judgement. Vehicle (SSLV) and other rockets. eminent persons like Srinivasan, designated as the special court “It is submitted the role of India’s latest radar imaging former ISRO chairman Madhavan for the speedy trial in the case. Nirmohi Akhara has not been earth observation satellite RISAT- Nair, RVPerumal, Ramakrishnan The case relates to a woman spelt out with specificity which 2BR1 now up in the sky will send and others. hawker. The police have is necessary to rule out ambi- sharp clarity images for surveil- Sivan said the PSLV rocket arrested three in the case. guity and future disputes,” said lance, agriculture, forestry and has five variants now. The rocket Law Minister Indrakaran the Akhara in its review plea. disaster management. The sat- that first had a capacity to carry Reddy said, the setting up of The Akhara contends that the ellite camera can look through 850kg, now has a carrying special court would ensure extent of its role is not spelt out the clouds and take pictures. capacity of 1.9 tonnes. hearing in the case on daily in the direction and is instead left A spectator watches as the Indian Space Research Organisation The Indian space agency offi- He said the PSLV rocket has basis and would result in to the central government. The launches the surveillance satellite RISAT-2BR1, along with nine other cials said they would supply the lofted a total of 52.7 tonnes till speedy disposal of the case. Akhara also sought restoration commercial nano-satellites onboard the Polar Satellite Launch required images for various date and out of that 17 percent The Minister said following of its other temples. Vehicle from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, yesterday. agencies. It is for the user agency consists of customer satellites. the recent gang-rape and murder of a veterinarian in Hyderabad, Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao had Data Protection Bill introduced in LS amid protests decided to take steps to ensure justice in the other case. IANS examination by a Joint Parlia- consequences. And we have given must come with a data pro- country. At least 2,000 recom- Following killing of all four NEW DELHI mentary Committee. penalty of crores of rupees on all tection law. Therefore, there is a mendations came. After the dis- accused in the veterinarian’s rape Introducing the Bill in the Lower the persons. Therefore, by this mandate of the SC also that we cussions, we have come here.” The and murder case by the police, The Centre yesterday introduced House, Union Electronic and IT Min- data protection, they are safe- must come with the data pro- Bill has created quite a buzz since people in the Asifabad district the Personal Data Protection Bill, ister Ravi Shankar Prasad rejected guarding the rights of Indian.” tection law,” Prasad said. Tuesday after it came to light that staged protests, demanding 2019, empowering the the Opposition’s objection, saying Referring to the Opposition’s The Minister clarified that the the latest version of the Bill seeks similar ‘punishment’ to this case. government to ask companies “by this data protection, they are claim that the Supreme Court (SC) government did not come with to allow the use of personal and Protesters criticised the including Facebook, Google and safeguarding the rights of Indians”. has held that privacy is a funda- this Bill suddenly and that it had non-personal data of users in government for adopting others for anonymised personal “As per the architecture of the mental right of individuals, the set up a committee headed by a some cases, especially when double-standards in rape cases. data and non-personal data. Bill, if data is taken without Minister said the members are very distinguished SC judge national security is involved. The victim’s family alleged they The move was vehemently consent of the individual, you will right but the apex court had also Justice BN Srikrishna before Several legal experts have were denied justice for being opposed by the Congress and the suffer a penalty,” Prasad said. pointed that a corrupt person taking the decision. already red-flagged the issue and Dalits while the perpetrators in TMC. Calling it a violation of “The second is, if you misuse don’t have the right of privacy. “They had set up a member said the provision will give the gov- Hyderabad case were immedi- “fundamental rights” of citizens, the data beyond the permissible “The SC in Aadhaar case committee also. They had the ernment unaccounted access to ately ‘punished’ as the victim they demanded its (the bill’s) consent, you will suffer itself had emphasized that we widest consultations in the entire personal data of users in the country. belonged to an upper caste. THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 ASIA 13

Qureshi: Peace Zardari gets bail on in Afghanistan medical grounds is in Pakistan’s INTERNEWS The former president own interest ISLAMABAD has been admitted to INTERNEWS A special bench of the Islamabad a government hospital ISTANBUL High Court (IHC) yesterday in Islamabad while granted bail to Pakistan People’s in custody due to his Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Party Co-chairperson Asif illness. Shah Mahmood Qureshi says Zardari on medical grounds in peace and stability in Afghan- the Park Lane and money-laun- istan is in Pakistan’s own dering corruption cases. interest. The court ordered the courtroom. According to the Talking to media in Istanbul former president to submit medical report, the former pres- yesterday, he said Pakistan surety bonds worth Rs10m in ident is suffering from several deems that establishment of order to secure his bail. diseases, including a heart con- peace in Afghanistan will lead Last week, the IHC had dition, and is admitted at PIMS to more bilateral trade between admitted a bail plea filed by the to get the best possible Pakistan and Afghanistan. former president seeking bail on treatment. The court was He said Pakistan will have medical grounds in the two assured that Zardari had access opportunities of investment, cases initiated against him by to doctors of his choice for reconstruction, and infra- the National Accountability seeking medical advice and structure development in Bureau (NAB). In his bail plea, assistance. Afghanistan. Shah Mahmood Zardari said he was suffering However, the report also Qureshi said Pakistan has Policemen chase lawyers following a clash between lawyers and doctors at a hospital in Lahore, from a heart condition and conceded that it was not pos- played a positive role in holding Pakistan, yesterday. diabetes. sible to provide the former pres- of talks between the US and Zardari had been arrested ident with medical care in jail. Taliban and this contribution is by NAB on June 10 after cancel- Upon hearing this, the court being hailed by the world. lation of his pre-arrest bail. In asked the NAB whether it was Three patients die as lawyers clash He said the international October, Zardari was transferred necessary to keep Zardari in community is also appreciative from judicial custody at Adiala detention any longer, since the with doctors at Lahore hospital of Pakistan for clearing its side Jail in Rawalpindi to the Pakistan references against him had of the border from terrorists. Institute of Medical Sciences already been filed. AFP lawyers, who had ongoing provincial law minister Raja Shah Mahmood Qureshi (PIMS) in Islamabad after his NAB prosecutors told the ISLAMABAD issues with the doctors of the Basharat said. said Pakistan has created health deteriorated. court that there were some con- Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Private television channels internal political consensus During the hearing today, ditions under which Zardari’s At least three heart patients died stormed the hospital, vandal- showed live footage of the regarding its tribal belt and Zardari’s counsel Farooq Naek bail could be approved. After a yesterday after a group of ising property and damaging scuffles from the scene where merged it into Khyber submitted his client’s medical few more inquiries, the court lawyers attacked doctors at a dozens of vehicles of visitors some of the lawyers were also Pakhtunkhwa province. reports to the court. IHC Chief decided to grant bail to Zardari cardiac hospital in Pakistan’s and setting ablaze a police van, seen brandishing pistols. He said the incumbent gov- Justice Athar Minallah and on medical grounds in the mega eastern city of Lahore, officials Rashid said. Prime Minister Imran Khan, ernment has allocated a special Justice Amir Farooq presided money laundering and Park and ministers said. The incident was apparently who ordered an inquiry into the financial package for the devel- over the hearing. Lane cases. “Three patients including an triggered by video clips some incident, directed Punjab pro- opment of erstwhile tribal areas Additional Prosecutor PPP chairperson Bilawal elderly woman died after doctors had made ridiculing the vincial government to take stern to remove the sense of depri- General Jahanzeb Bharwana and Bhutto-Zardari, who is also the doctors failed to provide them lawyers. action against all those involved vation and poverty from the Deputy Prosecutor General son of Zardari, expressed relief timely treatment and remained Punjab information minister in the attack. area. He said Pakistan made it Muzaffar Abbas were also at the decision. engaged in averting the assault,” Fayyaz-ul-Hassan who arrived “Several lawyers have been clear at the Heart of Asia Con- present before the court on “We are thankful to the Punjab provincial Health Min- at the hospital to mediate was identified from the television ference that Islamabad cannot behalf of the NAB. Upon the judges for their fair assessment ister Yasmeen Rashid said at a also thrashed by angry lawyers. footage and the government will make efforts in Afghan peace directions of the IHC bench, NAB of the situation in which the televised press conference in “This was kind of a high- deal with all those involved in process alone and the world prosecutors read out the medical former president finds himself,” Lahore. handedness which none of civ- the attack with an iron hand,” should come forward to play its reports of Zardari to the Bilawal said. A group of more than 200 ilised societies can tolerate,” Basharat said. role in this regard. Russia, Pakistan Myanmar’s Suu Kyi rejects genocide claims at top UN court agree on greater AFP “Regrettably, The Gambia amounted to genocide. cooperation THE HAGUE has placed before the court a The Gambia, a small west misleading and incomplete African state that is mainly ANATOLIA Nobel peace laureate Aung San factual picture of the situation in Muslim, claims Myanmar ISLAMABAD Suu Kyi rejected allegations of Rakhine state,” said Suu Kyi, breached the 1948 genocide con- genocide against Myanmar in the wearing traditional Burmese vention and wants the court to Russia will help boost Paki- UN’s top court yesterday, despite dress and flowers in her hair. take emergency measures to stop stan’s economy by cooperating admitting the army may have Brushing off international further violence. in various fields including used excessive force against criticism, the 74-year-old civilian It has the backing of the aircraft manufacturing, state Rohingya Muslims. leader said Buddhist-majority 57-nation Organisation for media said yesterday. Suu Kyi denied “misleading Myanmar was dealing with an Islamic Cooperation plus Canada Visiting Russian Trade Min- and incomplete” claims by The “internal armed conflict” and and the Netherlands. ister Denis Valentinovich told Gambia that a 2017 military that troubles in the area go back A day after sitting through reporters in the capital operation had attempted to centuries. hours of graphic accounts of vio- Islamabad that his country was exterminate the Rohingya, in a “Please bear in mind this lence read out by The Gambia’s looking forward for joint col- rare address by a state leader to complex situation and the chal- lawyers, Suu Kyi admitted there laborations, Radio Pakistan the International Court of Justice lenge to sovereignty and security may have been civilian casualties reported. (ICJ). in our country,” she said. including some killed when a “We will extend cooper- Once hailed worldwide as a “Surely under the circum- helicopter opened fire. Some of the 95 Rohingya arrested for travelling outside their home ation to Pakistan to revive the rights icon for her defiance of the stances genocidal intent cannot But she argued these were an townships without permission, step out of a police van upon their Steel Mills and enhance its pro- same generals she is now be the only hypothesis.” Lawyers inevitable part of the conflict. ductivity,” the Russian minister defending, Suu Kyi also warned for Myanmar argued that to arrival at a court in the western Myanmar city of Pathein, yesterday. Myanmar was leading its said. the Hague-based court that its prove genocide, international own investigation and “if war Pakistan Steel Mills, a mega involvement in the case risked law required concrete proof of before ruled that genocide was UN investigators last year crimes have been committed”, industrial complex having the “feeding the flames of extreme the intention to destroy a race of committed, in the 1995 Sre- concluded that Myanmar’s then its justice system would deal production capacity of over one polarisation”. people. ICJ judges have only once brenica massacre in Bosnia. treatment of the Rohingya with them, she added. million tons of steel and iron foundries, was built with con- tribution of the Soviet Union in Taliban target 1973. Court indicts Hafiz Saeed in He said that his country also wants to cooperate with key US base in terror financing case Pakistan in the aircraft manu- facturing sector. Afghanistan, 2 INTERNEWS Department (CTD) on charges Pakistan’s Economy Min- ISLAMABAD of terror financing. ister Hammad Azhar while civilians dead The JuD leaders deny alle- addressing reporters welcomed AFP An anti-terrorism court in gations against them as being the offer, stating there is huge KABUL Lahore yesterday indicted Hafiz baseless and a result of interna- scope of cooperation between Saeed, the chief of the tional pressure on the Pakistan the two countries in the energy Taliban suicide bombers proscribed Jamaatud Dawa (JuD) government. They claim that sector. targeted a key US military base group, and four other JuD they have been charged in cases “There are tremendous in Afghanistan yesterday in a leaders who were booked in July by wrongly attributing them as opportunities to enhance coop- major attack that killed two for offences pertaining to terror leaders of the banned Lashkar- eration in the fields of trade, civilians and wounded more financing. e-Taiba (LeT). business to business relations than 70 others, officials said. Saeed, along with the others, They plead it was an and people to people contacts,” The early morning assault was presented before the court admitted fact supported by Azhar said. He added that his began when a suicide bomber yesterday under strict security superior courts’ decisions that Afghan security forces stand guard at the scene of a car bombing country desires to transform detonated his explosive-packed protocol. they had already quit the LeT relations with Russia into a vehicle outside a hospital near the US Bagram Air Base in Bagram, Afghanistan, yesterday. During the proceedings, before the organisation was pro- strategic partnership. building near Bagram military Saeed’s lawyer presented argu- scribed in 2002. Earlier during a delegation base in Parwan province, north An Afghan interior ministry said. A Taliban spokesman later ments against the indictment. They argue the cases against level meeting in the Foreign of the capital Kabul, according spokesman, Nasrat Rahimi, said claimed responsibility for the After filing charges, the court them have been made on the Ministry, both countries agreed to local officials. on Twitter that all the attackers attack, claiming that “tens” of US summoned the prosecution’s basis of a link to defunct Al-Nifal to increase volume of bilateral Seven more gunmen, some inside the hospital compound and Afghan soldiers had been witnesses. ATC-I judge Malik Trust which, they claim, was trade from the present levels to wearing suicide vests are were killed fighting Afghan and killed or wounded. Arshad Bhutta, who heard the formed to construct mosques in its true potential through believed to have then entered foreign forces. In a WhatsApp message case, adjourned proceedings the country. They say the CTD greater cooperation and the building — which was under At least two Afghan civilians, Zabihullah Mujahid said the mil- until today. registered cases without any enhanced business activities by construction and not operational including one woman, were itants had detonated a truck On Saturday, the court had substantive evidence. the private sector of both the — in order to use it as a killed while 73 others were bomb outside Bagram base, but delayed the indictment owing On July 3, the top 13 leaders of countries. The Russian side launching pad for attacks against wounded in the explosion that denied Taliban fighters had to unavailability of one of the JuD were booked in nearly two invited Pakistan to organize a the nearby US base, local offi- damaged houses up to 300 taken up positions inside a suspects in a case registered by dozen cases pertaining to terror road show in Moscow. cials said. metres (yards) away, Rahimi hospital. the Counterterrorism financing and money laundering. 14 ASIA THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019

WB: Indonesia Bougainville votes for independence from PNG sustains $5.2bn AP The referendum is CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA nonbinding, and the losses from process of becoming a The South Pacific region of forest fires Bougainville voted overwhelm- separate nation could ingly to become the world’s take years to achieve. AFP newest nation by gaining inde- JAKARTA pendence from Papua New Guinea, results showed the Papua New Guinea Forest fires that raged across yesterday. mainland. Indonesia dented Southeast Bougainville Referendum The violence in Bougainville Asia’s biggest economy to the Commission Chairman Bertie began in the late 1980s, triggered tune of some $5.2bn, the World Ahern was cheered when he by conflict over an enormous Bank said yesterday, not announced that more than 98% opencast copper mine at including the health impacts of valid ballots favoured inde- Panguna. The mine was a huge from toxic haze that sent air pendence. The other option in export earner for Papua New quality plummeting. the vote was greater autonomy Guinea, but many in Bougain- The fires are an annual from Papua New Guinea. ville felt they received no benefit problem but this year was the The referendum is non- and resented the pollution and worst since 2015 due to dry binding, and independence will disruption of their traditional weather, with 942,000 hectares need to be negotiated between way of living. (2.3 million acres) of land, leaders from Bougainville and The mine has remained shut mostly on Sumatra and Borneo Papua New Guinea. The final say since the conflict. Some believe islands, razed by the out-of- would then go to lawmakers in it could provide a revenue source control blazes. the Papua New Guinea Par- for Bougainville should it Authorities deployed tens liament. The process of become independent. of thousands of personnel and Bougainville Referendum Commission staff count votes in Bougainville, Papua New Guinea, yesterday. becoming a separate nation Gianluca Rampolla, the water-bombing aircraft to could take years to achieve. United Nations resident coordi- tackle the slash-and-burn Papua New Guinea Prime nator in Papua New Guinea, con- Rampolla said in a statement. would sound a note of caution — the Panguna Copper Mine — blazes set to clear agricultural Minister James Marape’s office gratulated national and pro- David Sharma, an Australian that Bougainville is an island of but really because of Bougain- land, including on palm oil and said he was out of town and was vincial governments on the government lawmaker who once about 200,000 people and coun- villean separatism or inde- pulp plantations. not available for comment. “inclusive and peaceful conduct lived in Bougainville as a dip- tries of that sort of population pendence aspirations at the time, The World Bank said the Around 85% of eligible voters of the Bougainville lomat and helped draft the 2001 often struggle to take on all the so obviously these issues have economy took a hit of some cast more than 181,000 ballots Referendum”. peace agreement, said Australia full attributes of a sovereign sparked serious civil conflict $5.2bn, equal to about 0.5 in two weeks of voting. “There are ways to go, and would keep a close eye on devel- state,” Sharmer told Australian before and unrest, and so I think percent of gross domestic The referendum is a key part like all paths it may be neither opments in its nearest Broadcasting Corp. it is a time we need to tread cau- product. of a 2001 peace agreement that smooth nor straight, but the neighbours. “How this plays out will be a tiously and watch closely and do That included $157m in ended a civil war in which at United Nations will continue to “I’m pleased that the Bou- concern. The civil war that what we can to make sure the direct damage and another least 15,000 people died in the be there as the two governments gainvilleans have expressed their started all this in 1988 was ini- situation remains as calm as pos- $5bn from losses in the agri- cluster of islands to the east of map their future, together,” view in such a clear way, but I tially over a big resource project sible,” he added. culture, industry, trade, tourism, transportation and environmental sectors, according to the Washington- Experts quit Hong Kong police probe based bank. A dozen airports and hun- AFP The watchdog can only Pro-democracy lawmaker dreds of schools in Indonesia HONG KONG handle complaints forwarded by Tanya Chan described the res- — as well as neighbouring the police themselves and it ignation of the expert group as Malaysia and Singapore — An international panel of experts cannot subpoena documents or a “vote of no confidence” in the closed temporarily, while more hired to advise Hong Kong on compel witnesses to testify. IPCC and the interim report it is than 900,000 people reported the police response to huge pro- Such limitations, the expert expected to produce next year. respiratory illnesses, it said. democracy protests announced panel said, do not “begin to meet The panel was announced in “The agriculture and envi- yesterday they were quitting, the standards citizens of Hong September and was chaired by ronmental sectors make up saying the watchdog was not fit Kong would likely require of a Sir Dennis O’Connor, who was over half of the estimated loss, for purpose “in a society that police watchdog operating in a tasked by the British government because fires damaged valuable values freedoms and rights”. society that values freedoms and to write a report on the police estate crops and released sig- The group’s damning con- rights”. after the 2011 London riots. nificant greenhouse gas emis- clusion is a blow to Hong Kong’s Protests have rocked Hong It included current or former sions to the atmosphere,” the government, which has insisted Kong for more than six months, police watchdog chiefs from bank said in its Indonesia Eco- its Independent Police Com- with up to two million people Canada, Australia and New nomic Quarterly report. plaints Commission is capable taking to the streets, initially Zealand, and a British specialist of holding the force to account against a now-shelved extra- on crowd behaviour. over snowballing claims of dition bill. A month ago, a leaked Philippines brutality. Latterly, one of the core statement from the group “We ultimately concluded demands of protesters — revealed they felt the police ends utilities’ that a crucial shortfall was alongside fully free elections — watchdog was not equipped to evident in the powers, capacity has been an inquiry into the carry out a proper investigation, water contracts and independent investigative police, who have been left to and suggested a fully inde- capability of IPCC,” the experts battle increasingly violent black- pendent inquiry would be better REUTERS / MANILA said. clad activists and are now suited. Critics have long charged the loathed by significant chunks of But their frank assessment The Philippines’ water regulator body lacks adequate powers, is the deeply polarised was not welcomed by Anthony said yesterday it has cancelled Australia climate protest stacked with pro-establishment population. Neoh, the IPCC’s head. He gave the 15-year extension of Protesters rally during the ‘NSW is Burning, Sydney is Choking’ figures and has been toothless But both chief executive an interview rebuking the panel, concession deals it signed with climate emergency rally organised by university students for when it comes to keeping the Carrie Lam and the police have saying they “do not understand the country’s two largest utilities climate justice in Sydney, Australia, yesterday. police in line. repeatedly rejected those calls. Hong Kong’s situation”. after pressure from President Rodrigo Duterte. Duterte described the con- Cambodian PM cession agreements with Manila Eruption fears halt Water Co Inc and Maynilad dismisses EU Water Services as “onerous and disadvantageous” to the public, sanctions threat plans to get bodies off prompting them to be revoked in a move that could turn off REUTERS investors at a time the gov- PHNOM PENH New Zealand volcano ernment is seeking foreign AFP hospital burns units around the capital to modernise its Cambodian Prime Minister Hun WHAKATANE, NEW ZEALAND country remained in a critical infrastructure. Sen yesterday dismissed a condition requiring airway Metropolitan Waterworks threat from the European Union Fears of another eruption at the support. and Sewerage System, the coun- (EU) to halt special trade priv- New Zealand volcano believed They said an extra 1.2 million try’s regulator, told lawmakers ileges with the Southeast Asian to have killed 15 people made it square centimetres (1,300 square it had revoked last week a country over human rights, too dangerous for emergency feet) of skin for grafts was being decision extending the water saying Britain’s exit from the teams to recover bodies, police sent from Australia and the concession deals with the two bloc will ease the pain of sanc- said yesterday, as doctors fought United States to treat burns utilities until 2037, sending their tions. to save survivors who suffered victims. shares tumbling more than 13%. The EU has threatened to horrific burns. When the volcano exploded The existing concessions will Steam rises from the White Island volcano following the December suspend the Everything But The official death toll after it is believed to have sent super- expire on 2022. 9 volcanic eruption, in Whakatane, New Zealand, yesterday. Arms (EBA) trade scheme with Monday’s explosion on White heated steam, ash and can- The firms, which are serv- Cambodia after a European Island stands at six, with police nonball-like rocks hurtling from icing a combined 16 million cus- Commission report found that listing another nine as missing, the caldera at supersonic speed. but warned “there are still some in addition to one previously tomers, secured 25-year con- Hun Sen’s government has up from the previous figure of Police Minister Stuart Nash very, very seriously injured announced death. cession agreements in 1997, cracked down on the oppo- eight. said some injuries were so severe people in hospital”. Police have been cautious which were extended in 2009 sition, civil society groups and Their bodies are thought to that victims could not identify Australia says 13 of its cit- about identifying victims but late by a further 15 years. the media. It has given Cam- be on the island, but it remains themselves. izens were being treated and 11 Wednesday released a list of nine Duterte acted after Manila bodia a December 12 deadline too hazardous for rescuers to “There are a number of were unaccounted for. people who were missing, Water and Maynilad won arbi- to respond to the allegations. travel there, and for forensic people in hospital who cannot Prime Minister Scott Mor- including seven Australians and tration cases in Singapore “I don’t care, if (they) want pathologists, odontologists and communicate, they have signif- rison said three military aircraft two New Zealanders. against the government. to do whatever, do it,” Hun Sen other victim identification icant burns not only to skin but with specialist medical crews A coronial process has begun The arbitration court in Sin- said in a speech at a university experts to begin their work. internal organs,” he told Radio had been dispatched to repat- to identify the six confirmed gapore ordered the Philippines graduation ceremony in the “Every day that passes with New Zealand. riate some of the survivors. dead but police said it “can take government to pay the utilities capital Phnom Penh. those bodies unrecovered is a A total of 47 day-trippers and “This is a time of immense some time”. a combined 10.8 billion pesos The Cambodian leader said day of anguish for their loved guides were on the island when grief and great sorrow for eve- Families of Australian ($212.14m) in compensation. he believes Britain’s exit from ones... but right now, the science the blast occurred, hailing from ryone involved,” he said. victims expressed doubt they “These companies not only the EU will ease sanction tells us that the risk is just too Australia, the United States, Two Britons have also been were made aware of the risks of have inefficiently delivered water pressure on Cambodia because high,” Civil Defence emergency Britain, China, Germany, confirmed as injured and Malay- visiting the island, where the vol- to the households, but exacted Britain will continue to buy director Sarah Stuart-Black said. Malaysia and New Zealand. sia’s High Commission on cano’s threat level had been unconscionable amounts from goods from Cambodia despite Health officials said 22 sur- Nash said the survivors were Wednesday confirmed one of its raised in the days before the the taxpayers,” Salvador Panelo, the EU’s decision on the matter. vivors still being treated in receiving world-class treatment nationals was critically injured, eruption. Duterte’s spokesman, said. THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 EUROPE 15 UK votes in ‘Brexit EU’s Michel to represent election’ today Britain at AFP The YouGov study MIDDLESBROUGH, UK summit showed the Tories AFP Britain’s political party leaders on course for a BRUSSELS yesterday criss-crossed the 28-seat majority in country in a frantic last-minute the 650-seat House The new president of the push for votes, after polls European Council, Belgium’s predicted a tight finish to a of Commons. It had Charles Michel, will represent highly-charged general election forecast a 68-seat Britain at this week’s EU aimed at settling the long- edge in a poll released summit, a UK spokesman said running Brexit crisis. on November 27. yesterday. Polls open today for the third European leaders are to time in four years in what is begin their Brussels meeting widely seen as a re-run of the over the main opposition Labour today, as British voters go to the 2016 referendum in which a party led by Jeremy Corbyn polls in an election dominated narrow majority opted to leave narrowing. by the issue of Brexit. the EU. The YouGov study showed “In line with common Parliament’s splintered the Tories on course for a 28-seat practice, the UK has passed its parties — some seeking broader majority in the 650-seat House vote to the President of the independence and others of Commons under Britain’s European Council to exercise wanting to keep Britain’s first-past-the-post system. on its behalf,” the UK Britain’s Liberal Democrat leader Jo Swinson (centre) stands between a Stop Brexit sign as she attends European ties — repeatedly It had forecast a 68-seat edge spokesman said. a general election campaign event at Esher Rugby Club in Esher, southwest London, yesterday. rejected the divorce terms in a poll released on November The first day of the former prime minister Theresa 27. European summit will focus on May struck with Brussels. “A Conservative majority is to core Tory voters made him the confounded pollsters by coming Corbyn’s proposal for Brexit plans to transition the conti- Her tearful resignation the most likely outcome but a logical choice to replace the within a whisker of winning the is for Labour to strike a more EU- nental bloc to a carbon-neutral brought Boris Johnson into the hung parliament remains increasingly hapless May. last election in 2017. friendly agreement with economy by 2050 and on a new fray with a vow to succeed where entirely plausible,” said Uni- “It could not be tighter,” The socialist is pushing a Brussels. Voters would then seven-year budget. she had failed. versity of Kent professor Johnson said while helping to radically left-wing programme choose between that deal and the But on Friday, after the The former London mayor Matthew Goodwin. load milk bottles onto delivery to overhaul public services and option of staying in the bloc. British election results come in, and foreign minister has spent A result in which the biggest vehicles while campaigning in “end austerity” caused by the But Brexit remains a political the leaders will meet without the campaign hammering home party does not command a northern England. “We’re global financial meltdown of liability for Labour. Corbyn has British officials to discuss a “Get Brexit Done” message majority raises the possibility of fighting for every vote.” 2008-09. said as little as possible about the launching post-Brexit trade aimed solely at winning a Brexit being delayed for years or Turnout will be vital in Brit- Corbyn told the undecided subject and steered attention talks. majority that could let him get even cancelled in a second ain’s first December election in that they could vote for “hope”. toward the taxpayer-funded If Johnson wins a working the deal passed by the end of referendum. nearly a century. Rain and even “We will put money in your National Health care System. parliamentary majority he next month. It could also end the political snow are forecast for parts of pocket because you deserve it. Labour accuses Johnson of aban- should be able to ratify an Yet a closely-watched poll career of Johnson — a sharply election day. Corbyn is a veteran The richest and big business will doning the principle of free orderly divorce agreement with showed his Conservatives’ lead polarising figure whose appeal leftist campaigner who pay for it,” he said. treatment for all. Britain’s European partners and leave as planned. Under this scenario, the leaders would German govt then have only until the end of French govt raises retirement age as strikes grind on December and the post-Brexit to compensate transition period to agree on AP the necessity to step up the strike action.” new trading terms. Thomas Cook PARIS The new scheme is aimed at replacing a com- plicated pension system that included dozens tourists France’s prime minister said yesterday that of special privileges for some sectors, like Woman to head the full retirement age will be increased for public transport, with one set of rules for all. AFP the country’s youngest, but offered conces- Philippe said the changes would ensure constitutional BERLIN sions in an ill-fated effort to calm a the pension system is “fair and sustainable” nationwide protest against pension reforms in the face of a growing population with, a court in Italy Germany is set to hand out that critics say will erode the nation’s way record number of people over 90. hundreds of millions of euros of life. For people entering the workforce, the AFP/ROME in compensation after it The government is trying to make the reforms will only start to apply in 2022, announced support for tourists pensions system sustainable and simpler but which happens to be the last year of Macron’s Judge and law professor Marta affected by the collapse of is facing huge public pressure, including a term. The government also introduced the Cartabia was unanimously British travel group Thomas week of the most debilitating transport country’s first ever minimum pension, which elected yesterday to head Italy’s Cook yesterday. strikes in decades. will be available to those who worked their constitutional court, the first In a statement, Chancellor Major unions were quick to reject gov- whole life, at a relatively high ¤1,000 ($1,100) time in the country’s history a Angela Merkel’s office said ernment proposals and vowed to strike on. per month. That compares with ¤858 (£723) woman has presided over the French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe looks Berlin will reimburse “losses The day after over 300,000 protested a month in the UK. powerful body. on as he unveils the details of a pensions which have not been compen- across France, authorities measured a Beginning under Macron’s watch, it will Cartabia, 56, had been con- sated” by the now insolvent log-jam of some 460km (285 miles) of traffic reform plan before the Economic, Social and be harder for the law to be undone by a suc- sidered in 2015 as a potential package holiday group and its in Paris. All metro lines bar two were closed Environmental Council in Paris, yesterday. cessive president but late enough in his candidate for Italy’s presidency. insurance company. and many train routes remained cancelled mandate to avert protracted political harm. And in September this year, she A quirk of German law as unions dig in their heels against President previously. Those born before that date will The plans though seem to have done little was approached to become meant that Thomas Cook’s Emmanuel Macron, who they accuse of not be affected in any way, he said, throwing to abate the strikes that were billed as prime minister after the disin- German arm only had bank- shaping policies in favor of the rich. out a sweetener. “unlimited” and threatened to mirror similar tegration of the previous ruptcy insurance up to ¤110m Prime Minister Edouard Philippe detailed The leader of the prominent CGT ones in 1995 that caused the ousting of Prime government. ($122m). the pension reforms in a speech yesterday, workers’ union, Philippe Martinez, flatly Minister Alain Juppe. That action paralysed Cartabia was elected unan- Insurer Zurich Ver- saying bluntly that the French “will need to rejected the new plans. “The government is the country with widespread public support imously by the 15 judges sitting sicherung in November work longer.” It was rich in detail. People making fun of everyone,” he said. Several and were themselves compared to the events at the court, where she has reported claims totalling born after 1974 will have to work until the other unions including Workers’ Force, said of May 1968, when France reached the brink served since 2011 as one of ¤250m. age of 64 to get a full pension, instead of 62 the prime minister’s address only “confirms of revolution. three women on the bench. But citing experts, broad- caster NTV estimated the total losses sustained by customers Fire controlled at ¤500m — leaving a potential Italy urges donor summit gap of 390 million for the at Barcelona federal government to bridge. for quake-struck Albania Berlin said the Thomas Cook case had “far exceeded waste plant AP Romania, Switzerland, Israel, the boundaries” of previous AFP TIRANA, ALBANIA Turkey and Serbia — headed to travel company insolvencies, MADRID the country from the first day of throwing up “a number of dif- Italy’s foreign minister yesterday the quake. Some 80 structural ficult legal questions which are A huge fire that broke out urged an international donors’ engineers are now helping to still unsolved”. yesterday at an industrial waste conference to raise funds for determine whether buildings left “It is not reasonable to disposal plant near Barcelona, Albania following last month’s standing can still be inhabited, expect customers to deal with sending vast plumes of black earthquake that flattened or to help construct buildings to these complex legal questions smoke into the air, has been buildings and killed 51 people. replace those that were on their own,” the statement brought under control, local offi- Luigi di Maio also pledged destroyed. added. cials said. further aid from Italy, saying Rama highly praised Italian Further details of the gov- The blaze which broke out Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe rescuers “for putting their life in ernment scheme are set to be just before dawn on an indus- Conte would soon announce a danger to save lives in our published “in early 2020”. trial estate in Montornes del new package of assistance. country.” Forty-five survivors Consumer groups wel- Valles, some 15km northeast of Italy sent the biggest group were taken out of the rubble comed the state intervention, Barcelona, has been “stabilised of rescuers in the first days after from the earthquake that but called for a review of the by firefighters”, emergency the November 26 earthquake damaged more than 14,000 liability cap on package services in Spain’s northeastern that left more than 13,000 buildings, out of which 2,500 holidays. region of Catalonia said in a people homeless, who are cannot be used any more. “It is important that we now tweet. housed in hotels, public Albania has called for inter- get bureaucracy-free repay- Three people received buildings, tents, with relatives national financial assistance for ments and better protection of medical attention at the scene or in neighboring Kosovo. reconstruction, pledging to com- package holidays in the future,” of the fire for “minor” reasons, “The EU can do more and it plete it within 2020. tweeted Klaus Mueller, head of it added. Nearly 30 teams of fire- will do more,” di Maio said at a The government has set 13 Germany’s VZBV consumer fighters were drafted in to tackle news conference with Albanian billion leks ($117m) aside for advice bureau. the blaze which erupted at a firm Prime Minister Edi Rama. “This reconstruction, while other 7 Germany is not the only that recycles solvents and indus- tragedy is a case when the billion leks have been collected country that could bear the trial waste. European institutions show their from donations. A plume of black smoke billows from a fire at a waste disposal costs of Thomas Cook’s bank- Lluis Iglesias, owner of nearness to Albania, a friendly The European Union is plant in Montornes del Valles, Spain, yesterday. ruptcy. In early November, the neighbouring warehouse, told country for Italy and the EU.” assisting Albania to assess UK government announced reporters he heard an Some 670 foreign search- damages and reconstruction plans to develop a statutory “explosion” at around 7:30 am. was a very large fire, and they Local authorities said there and-rescue personnel — 180 needs and the European Com- compensation scheme for out- “We went out to see what were barrels flying. Then the was “no chemical or toxic risk from Italy and the others from mission had already sent ¤15m of-pocket holiday-makers. happened and we saw that there local police came,” he added. to the population”. Kosovo, France, Greece, ($16.6 million). 16 EUROPE THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019

EU court should Greta Thunberg is Time not intervene in Croatia-Slovenia ‘2019 Person of the Year’ dispute: Adviser AFP Time wrote in the interview: Greta Thunberg REUTERS NEW YORK has succeeded in creating a global attitudinal LJUBLJANA shift, transforming millions of vague, middle-of- Greta Thunberg, the Swedish An adviser at the EU Court of teenager who became the voice the-night anxieties into a worldwide movement Justice agreed with Croatia that of conscience for a generation calling for urgent change. settling the border between facing the climate change emer- Slovenia and Croatia was not a gency, was named yesterday as are as entrenched and complex The daughter of an opera matter on which EU courts Time magazine’s 2019 Person of as the phenomenon itself, and singer mother and an actor- should rule. the Year. Thunberg has no magic solution,” turned-producer father born, Slovenia had argued that, The 16-year-old first made Time wrote in the interview. “But Thunberg has faced severe crit- by not implementing an arbi- headlines with her solo strike she has succeeded in creating a icism — the latest from Brazilian tration tribunal’s determination against global warming outside global attitudinal shift, trans- President Jair Bolsonaro, who in 2017 of the land and sea Sweden’s parliament in August forming millions of vague, dismissed her as a “brat” — and border between Croatia and 2018. middle-of-the-night anxieties been subjected to a swarm of Slovenia, Croatia was violating “We can’t just continue living into a worldwide movement online conspiracy theory. EU law and could be sued under as if there was no tomorrow, calling for urgent change. Some mock her youth or try EU law. because there is a tomorrow. “She has offered a moral to discredit her because of her “Determining that That is all we are saying,” clarion call to those who are Asperger’s syndrome, a diagnosis boundary is, by its very nature, Thunberg told Time. willing to act, and hurled shame she has never hidden. a matter of public international The magazine interviewed on those who are not.” Her diagnosis means that law in respect of which the Thunberg aboard the sailboat Within months of launching Thunberg “doesn’t operate on court does not have juris- that took her from the United her lonely “School Strike for the the same emotional register as diction,” Advocate General Priit States to Europe after a hectic Climate” protest outside the many of the people she meets,” Pikamae said in his non- 11-week North American trip to Swedish parliament Thunberg Time magazine wrote. binding opinion. several US cities and Canada. was spearheading global dem- “She dislikes crowds; ignores Slovenian Foreign Minister Thunberg has taken her dis- onstrations by young people and small talk; and speaks in direct, Miro Cerar yesterday said that armingly straightforward message demanding environmental uncomplicated sentences. She A photo shows the Time ‘Person of the Year’ December 23/December he believed the court would not — “listen to the scientists” — to action from world leaders. cannot be flattered or distracted” 30, 2019 cover with Greta Thunberg. follow the adviser’s guidance, global decision-makers, accusing “I want you to panic,” she — and according to the mag- adding the opinion and conse- them of inaction. told CEOs and world leaders at azine, “these very qualities have spend their time mocking and “not received any money” for her quent court decision “has no The Swedish activist was in the annual World Economic helped make her a global threatening teenagers and activism. And with 12 million fol- influence on the validity of the Madrid as the award was Forum in Davos Switzerland in sensation.” children for promoting science lowers on her Instagram, Twitter arbitration ruling” regarding announced, at a UN climate January 2019. “I want you to feel Thunberg says she is mys- when they could do something and Facebook accounts, she con- the border. forum tasked with saving the the fear I feel every day. And tified by the hostility of some of good instead,” she wrote on tinues to rack up high-profile world from runaway global then I want you to act.” the reaction to her. Twitter in September. “Being dif- supporters, from Barack Obama warming. Her words spread like “I honestly don’t understand ferent is not an illness.” to the Dalai Lama and Arnold Russian TV to air “The politics of climate action wildfire online. why adults would choose to She also insists that she has Schwarzenegger. series starring Ukraine President EU leader urges MEPs to back green growth plan AF/MOSCOW AFP from parliament and EU leaders. The document is the first MEP Karima Delli as associations economy by 2050. Russian TV was set to start BRUSSELS “We do not have all the major political challenge for the feared the proposals did not go Three countries still highly airing a popular comedy series answers yet. Today is the start of former German defence minister far enough. dependent on fossil fuels, par- starring Ukraine’s actor- The EU’s top official yesterday a journey. But this is Europe’s since she took charge of the The leaders of EU member ticularly coal, could still block the turned-president Volodymyr launched the bloc’s new “Green man on the moon moment,” European Commission this states will hear it on Thursday at way: Poland, Hungary and the Zelenskiy as new efforts were Deal”, hailing it as a strategy for Ursula von der Leyen said. month. their Brussels summit and von Czech Republic. underway to de-escalate a jobs and economic growth, not She promised a “new growth And it comes as a UN global der Leyen’s deputy Frans Tim- To convince them, the Com- conflict in east Ukraine. just for cutting emissions. strategy” that “gives back more climate summit is under way in mermans will take it to this mission plans to establish a The Russian premiere of Unveiling the plan to the than it takes away”, aiming to Madrid — focusing attention on week’s COP25 forum in Madrid. 100-billion-euro “transition “Servant of the People”, to European Parliament, European mobilise around 100 billion the crisis — and on the eve of von “It’s important that, in parallel mechanism” to help them tran- screen on the entertainment Commission president Ursula euros to fund clean energy der Leyen’s first EU summit. to the announcement, there’s a sition to renewable energy channel TNT, comes two days von der Leyen also warned projects. Various leaked versions of signal” of support from European sources. after Russian President against the steep cost of inaction. “We have to make sure no the plan have been flying around leaders, European Council Pres- “It would help if at the Vladimir Putin and Zelenskiy Earlier, she had compared one is left behind,” she told Brussels for weeks, and lobby ident Charles Michel said. Council we get some progress on met in Paris for their first face- the ambition of the plan to the reporters. “This transition will groups from all sides of the The “European Green Deal” carbon neutrality,” said MEP to-face talks. 1960s US mission to the moon, either be working for all and be debate have been piling on lists legislative proposals, Pascal Canfin, chair of the envi- The series premiered in but Green groups were quick to just, or it will not work at all.” pressure. financial instruments and action ronment committee of the Ukraine in 2015, becoming one warn it does not go far enough. In parliament, she said: The European Parliament plans in different sectors, with a leaders’ meeting. of the most popular TV shows The key element of the plan “Some say the cost of this tran- was the first to officially receive timetable. The European Commission in the war-scarred country. will be a law committing sition is too high, let us never the plan. The key goals are to use a wants to set a target of cutting Kremlin spokesman Dmitry member states to build a carbon forget what the cost of non- “At this point, we can’t yet combination of cleaner tech and greenhouse gas emissions by 50 Peskov said Putin was unlikely neutral economy by 2050 — but action would be. It is rising by say if it’s a Green Deal or green carbon capture methods to make or even 55 percent by 2030, up to watch the show. “He does not first it will need the go-ahead the year.” washing,” said French Green Europe the first “carbon neutral” from its 40 percent goal. have time,” he told reporters. Germany rejects Putin’s claim on slaying victim

AGENCIES accusations and threatened to “regrettably it wasn’t met with The Russian-Georgian victim, BERLIN retaliate for the expulsion of its understanding.” known as Zelimkhan Khangoshvili, diplomats. Germany pushed back was shot dead in August as he was Germany yesterday rejected an On Monday night, Putin said against that assertion. heading to a mosque. assertion by Russian President at a news conference with “The German government is Surveillance camera footage Vladimir Putin that it failed to German Chancellor Angela not aware of any extradition showed the suspect had cycled comply with requests from Merkel and the French and requests from Russia for the up close to the victim who Moscow to extradite a Georgian Ukrainian leaders that the victim victim,” Justice Ministry managed to push him over. The man who was killed in Berlin in “was on a wanted list, he was a spokesman Stefan Zimmermann victim then tried to flee but the August. militant, a very cruel man who told reporters in Berlin. killer pursued him and shot him German prosecutors said last shed a lot of blood.’’ Merkel’s spokesman reit- at least twice, German prose- week that evidence suggests the Putin said he didn’t know erated calls for Russia to coop- cutors have said. slaying was ordered either by what happened to the man, but erate in the investigation. There were sufficient leads Moscow or authorities in Rus- added: “it’s a bandit milieu, and “Our position is clear ... we to indicate the Russian state or sia’s republic of Chechnya. anything may happen there,” are calling on the Russian side Chechen authorities ordered the Police officers standing at a house during a police operation, in Germany expelled two Russian adding that Russia had to cooperate and make available killing, they said. Valby, yesterday. diplomats a week ago. repeatedly requested the man’s to us the information it has,” A suspect is in custody in Russia has rejected the extradition from Germany, but Steffen Seibert said. Germany. Danish police foil suspected IS terror attack plans, 20 arrested Journalist returns Nobel AP have tried to acquire weapons,” COPENHAGEN Bergen Skov told a joint press prize, protesting Handke conference with the domestic Danish police have arrested intelligence service. ANATOLIA Slobodan Milosevic, who died “some 20 people” suspected of Bergen Skov said police STOCKHOLM of a heart attack in his prison involvement in IS terrorism in a raided about 20 addresses in cell in 2006 while being tried series of raids across the Denmark and six police depart- Swedish journalist Christina for war crimes and genocide at country, authorities said ments across the country were Doctare returned her 1988 Nobel the International Criminal Tri- yesterday. involved. The raids and arrests Peace Prize to the Royal Swedish bunal for the former Yugoslavia Flemming Drejer, the oper- were coordinated by the Copen- Academy on Tuesday in protest in The Hague. ative head of the Denmark’s hagen police. against the awarding of the 2019 Handke also claimed that Security and Intelligence Danish authorities have literature prize to Austrian writer Muslim Bosniaks in Sarajevo had Service, said the suspects were reported foiling several Peter Handke. killed themselves and said he “driven by a militant motive.” extremist attacks in recent years. Handke is accused of never believed that the Serbs had Copenhagen Police Chief A Danish court earlier this denying the 1995 Bosnian gen- committed genocide in Inspector Joergen Bergen Skov year gave a Syrian asylum ocide by Doctare, who received Srebrenica. Swedish journalist Christina Doctare holding the medal she received, said some of them would be seeker in Sweden a 12-year the prize as a member of the UN Doctare also spoke during wanting to return it, as a protest against the Peter Handke’s 2019 charged under the Scandinavian prison sentence for planning to peacekeeping forces. protests in the capital Stockholm Nobel literature prize during a demonstration, in Stockholm. country’s terror laws today explode one or more bombs in The 77-year-old Handke against Handke’s award. behind closed doors. Copenhagen and stabbing was awarded the Nobel Prize in “I was proud of the Swedish Doctare said she had wit- her prize due the Nobel Com- “Some had have procured random people with kitchen Literature despite his open Academy, but all I feel now is nessed the Bosnian massacre mittee’s decision to award things to make explosives and knives. support of Serbian leader shame and guilt,” she said. 27 years ago and was returning Handke. THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 AMERICAS 17 Gun battle in New Jersey leaves six people dead

AP Authorities believe immediately engaged by high- JERSEY CITY the Jewish market power rifle fire.” was targeted by the A video shot by a witness Six people, including a police gunmen, Jersey City shows a police officer on the officer and three bystanders, ground by a car, apparently were killed in a furious gun battle Mayor Steven Fulop wounded. Another officer goes yesterday that filled the streets tweeted. to him, helps him up and the two of Jersey City with the sound of run around a corner as gunshots heavy fire for hours, authorities authorities now believe the ring out. Seconds later, as a said. market was targeted. police cruiser pulls up in front of The dead included the two Messages were left seeking the store, about a dozen shots are gunmen, Jersey City Police Chief comment on Fulop’s tweet. heard in rapid succession. Michael Kelly said. “It’s a really tough day for the “Our officers were under fire The slain officer, Detective city of Jersey City,” Fulop said. for hours,” the chief said. Joseph Seals, 40, was credited by Seals “was one of the best Inside the grocery store, his superiors with having led the officers for getting the most guns police found the bodies of who department in the number of off the streets. He was a good they believed were the two illegal guns removed from the cop.” gunmen and three other people streets in recent years, and might Two other officers were who apparently happened to be have been trying to stop an wounded but were later released there when the assailants rushed incident involving such weapons from the hospital, authorities in, authorities said. Police said when he was cut down by said. they were confident the gunfire that erupted near a cem- The bullets started flying bystanders were shot by the Demolition and recovery crew working at the scene of the shooting at a Jewish Deli, in Jersey City, etery, authorities said. early in the afternoon in the city gunmen and not by police. New Jersey, yesterday. The shooting then continued of about 270,000 people, sit- The kosher grocery is a at a kosher supermarket about uated across the Hudson River central fixture in a growing com- walked out of the store into the City Public Safety Director SWAT teams, state police and a mile away, where five more from New York City. Seals, who munity of Orthodox Jews who synagogue not five feet away just James Shea said earlier that federal agents converged on the bodies were found, Kelly said. worked for a unit called Cease have been moving to Jersey City before this happened, and then authorities believe the bloodshed scene, and police blocked off the Authorities believe the Fire, was shot around 12:30 p.m. in recent years. he couldn’t get back for hours,” was not an act of terrorism but area, which in addition to the Jewish market was targeted by The gunmen then drove a stolen Chabad Rabbi Moshe Schapiro said. “His wife was that it was still under school and supermarket included the gunmen, Jersey City Mayor rental van to another part of the Schapiro, who shops at the inside the store. He said, ‘I hope investigation. a hair salon and other shops. Steven Fulop tweeted Tuesday city and engaged police in a kosher store and attends a syn- my wife is safe.’” The shooting spread fear Dozens of bystanders pressed night. Fulop, whose public safety lengthy shootout. agogue next door, said he spoke The names of the victims through the neighbourhood, and against the police barrier to director said earlier in the day Kelly said when police with the store owner, Moishe inside the store were not imme- the nearby Sacred Heart School capture the action on their cell- that terrorism wasn’t suspected, responded to the area of the Ferencz. diately released, pending notifi- was put on lockdown as a phones, some whooping when did not elaborate on why kosher store, officers “were “He told me he had just cation of relatives. precaution. bursts of fire could be heard. Trump trial ‘first’ priority in January: McConnell House to vote AFP to his dealings with Ukraine. be our first item of business in most unfair impeachment danger” to national security if not on massive WASHINGTON The panel will likely vote to January,” Senate Majority Leader inquiry in modern history.” removed from office. approve the charges. Mitch McConnell told colleagues “If the House continues Trump has reportedly told defence bill The trial of Donald Trump will That would send the articles on the floor. down this destructive road and advisers he wants to make a dra- REUTERS be the Senate’s first priority in to a full vote by the Demo- Conviction appears unlikely sends us articles of matic show of the trial, and that WASHINGTON January if the US president is cratic-led House of Represent- given that Republicans hold a impeachment, the Senate will calling witnesses to appear in impeached as expected next atives as early as next week on majority in the chamber and the take them up in the new year and person in the Senate could help The US House of Representa- week, the top Republican in whether to impeach a US pres- threshold for conviction is high, proceed to a fair trial.” him damage Democrats ahead tives is due to vote today — and Congress said yesterday. ident for only the third time in at two thirds of members. In multiple public House of the November election. likely pass — a $738bn defence The House Judiciary Com- US history. McConnell savaged Demo- hearings, Democrats have McConnell told reporters on bill setting policy on everything mittee was set to meet beginning The case would then shift to crats who he says have been des- argued that Trump abused the Tuesday that no decision on from family leave to fighter jets, today to debate two articles of the Senate in the new year for a perate to impeach Trump from powers of his office to solicit whether to hear from witnesses despite opposition among some impeachment that accuse Trump trial to decide whether Trump is the day he took the oath of office, foreign interference in 2020’s US live, rather than in taped depo- Democrats who control the of abuse of power and removed from office. and who have rushed the process elections, and that he would sitions, would be made until after chamber. obstruction of Congress related “A Senate trial will have to “based on the least thorough and remain a “clear and present the trial’s opening arguments. The Democratic-led House and Republican-led Senate Armed Services Committees announced their compromise First commercial electric version of the annual National Defense Authorization Act, or plane takes flight in Canada NDAA, late on Monday, after months of negotiations. AFP Civil aviation is one of the The announcement eased VANCOUVER fastest growing sources of concerns the legislation would carbon emissions as people fail after passing for 58 straight The world’s first fully electric increasingly take to the skies and years. But details of the massive commercial aircraft took its new technologies have been bill, the first NDAA since Dem- inaugural test flight yesterday, slow to get off the ground. ocrats took control of the House taking off from the Canadian city At 285 grammes of CO2 in the November 2018 election, of Vancouver and offering hope emitted per kilometre travelled disappointed some of the most that airlines may one day end by each passenger, airline liberal-leaning Democrats, who their polluting emissions. industry emissions far exceed promised to vote against it. “This proves that commercial those from all other modes of The fiscal 2020 NDAA aviation in all-electric form can transport, according to the increases defence spending by work,” said Roei Ganzarski, chief European Environment Agency. about $20bn, or about 2.8 executive of Seattle-based engi- The emissions contribute to percent, and creates a Space neering firm magniX. global warming and climate Force as a new branch of the The company designed the change, which scientists say will US military, both key priorities plane’s motor and worked in unleash ever harsher droughts, A photo of the world’s first all-electric, zero-emission commercial aircraft during a test flight in a de for Republican President partnership with Harbour Air, superstorms, and sea-level rise. Havilland DHC-2 Beaver from Vancouver International Airport’s South Terminal on the Fraser River Donald Trump. which ferries half a million pas- The e-plane — a 62-year- in Richmond, British Columbia, yesterday. But the compromise NDAA sengers a year between Van- old, six-passenger DHC-2 de does not include several policy couver, Whistler ski resort and Havilland Beaver seaplane ret- power,” he said. “Our goal is to actually elec- have to wait at least two years planks the House included in the nearby islands and coastal rofitted with an electric motor — McDougall took the plane on trify the entire fleet. There’s no before it can begin electrifying version of the bill it passed in July. communities. was piloted by Greg McDougall, a short loop along the Fraser reason not to,” said McDougall. its fleet of more than 40 Those include a provision Ganzarski said the tech- founder and chief executive of River near Vancouver Interna- “On top of fuel efficiency, the seaplanes. that would have barred Trump nology would mean significant Harbour Air. tional Airport in front of around company would save millions- The e-plane has to be tested from using military funds to build cost savings for airlines — not to “For me that flight was just 100 onlookers soon after sunrise. maintenance costs, as electric further to confirm it is reliable a wall on the border with Mexico, mention zero emissions. like flying a Beaver, but it was a The flight lasted less than 15 motors require “drastically” less and safe. In addition, the electric and a measure that would have “This signifies the start of the Beaver on electric steroids. I minutes, according to a journalist upkeep.” motor must be approved and ended all support for the military electric aviation age,” he said. actually had to back off on the on the scene. However, Harbour Air will certified by regulators. campaign in Yemen. Pompeo insists Trump raised election meddling with Russian minister

AFP But Lavrov, speaking to rest of the Russian team that was Trump is facing WASHINGTON reporters afterward, said that there, that President Trump per- impeachment over charges that Trump never raised election sonally and America finds their he delayed nearly $400m in aid US Secretary of State Mike meddling and that the topic had meddling in our elections unac- to Ukraine to combat Russian- Pompeo insisted yesterday that only come up in the context of ceptable,” he said. backed separatists as he pressed President Donald Trump issued Pompeo raising it at the news US intelligence concluded for an investigation into the a warning on election meddling conference. that Russia interfered in the 2016 election theory as well as into his to Russia’s foreign minister, who “Foreign Minister Lavrov’s election, especially through domestic rival Joe Biden. said the topic never came up. statement is not an accurate manipulation of social media, to Russia has denied meddling, The White House issued a reflection of my recollection of support Trump. and at his news conference with statement after Trump’s closed- that meeting,” Pompeo, who took The mogul turned president Pompeo Lavrov said the door meeting on Tuesday with part in the White House meeting, has repeatedly spoken of a Ukrainian theory showed the Lavrov that said the president told reporters. “Russia hoax” and has instead “absurdity” of saying Moscow warned against attempts to “There was no mistake that promoted a conspiracy theory, interfered. interfere in US elections, after a President Trump made clear in rejected by US intelligence, that Democrats criticised Trump similar public statement by the meetings that he had with Russia’s rival Ukraine intervened for again meeting Lavrov and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo addressing the media at the press Pompeo at a news conference. Foreign Minister Lavrov, and the instead. urged a full account of their talks. briefing room of the State Department, in Washington, DC, yesterday. 18 AMERICAS THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 Trump adviser skips Argentina inauguration over Maduro minister BLOOMBERG Unfortunately, due according to Clarin. He added WASHINGTON to some invitations that Fernandez was perhaps and surprises that we “poorly advised” and that “you A top adviser to US President learned about upon don’t do this between friends.” Donald Trump flew to Buenos Fernandez’s spokesman Aires but decided not to attend arrival, I decided didn’t respond to a request for Alberto Fernandez’s inaugu- not to go and I’m comment. ration after learning that a top leaving early: Mauricio Claver-Carone appears to be minister to Venezuelan leader Claver-Carone the top contact between Trump Nicolas Maduro would be and Fernandez after he met with attending. Fernandez in Mexico in early Mauricio Claver-Carone, a secretary for Western Hemi- November and co-led the dele- presidential adviser for hemi- sphere Affairs, would remain in gation to Buenos Aires. Fernandez spheric affairs, told Argentine Buenos Aires, adding that he had has also met with US Ambassador newspaper Clarin he hadn’t been communicated his displeasure to Argentina Edward Prado. Relatives of people aboard the Chilean Air Force C-130 Hercules cargo plane that went missing, arrive told in advance that Maduro’s to Fernandez’s secretary for stra- His absence potentially holds at Chabunco army base in Punta Arenas, Chile, yesterday. deputy, Jorge Rodriguez, would tegic affairs, Gustavo Beliz. implications beyond optics and also be there. Fernandez was US Health and Human diplomacy. Argentina has a sworn in as Argentina’s president Services Secretary Alex Azar did record $56bn credit line with the on Tuesday. Argentine media attend the inauguration and International Monetary Fund Chile expands search for missing plane showed photos of Rodriguez at greeted Fernandez. (IMF), which is currently on hold Argentina’s Congress, where Claver-Carone emphasized until Fernandez spells out his REUTERS The cause of the crash was tinue,” the general added. Fernandez’s swearing-in took that the Trump administration economic policies. The US gov- SANTIAGO not known and officials The flight appeared routine place. is committed to helping Fernan- ernment is the IMF’s top fin- acknowledged the chances of until the moment it disappeared, “Unfortunately, due to some dez’s new government turn ancier, giving it heavy influence The Chilean military sent fighter finding survivors were slim. Mosqueira said. invitations and surprises that we around the Argentine economy, over the approval of any new jets yesterday in an expansion of Large rolling waves in the The region where the plane learned about upon arrival, I which is in recession, battling deal between Fernandez’s new its search for an airforce cargo icy Drake Passage and low disappeared is a vast, largely decided not to go and I’m leaving 50% inflation and facing an government and the Fund. plane that crashed with 38 people clouds had complicated the untouched ocean wilderness of early,” Claver-Carone told the unsustainable debt load. And Trump labels Maduro a dic- aboard over a remote stretch of search on Tuesday, authorities penguin-inhabited ice sheets off newspaper. A US Embassy Fernandez’s comments about tator and the US government has frigid sea between South America said. the edge of the South American spokesman confirmed the potentially offering asylum to slapped a range of sanctions on and the Antarctic. Air Force general Eduardo continent with depths of 3,500 quotes. “I’m not going to have former Bolivian leader Evo the Venezuelan government in The Hercules C-130 cargo Mosqueira, who leads the search metres (11,500 feet). the many work meetings that we Morales and the presence of an effort to push him out. Trump plane disappeared shortly after effort, told reporters yesterday The military was using have scheduled for tomorrow,” former Ecuadorian President recognizes Juan Guaido, a taking off late on Monday from that the search area would be sonar-enabled Navy ships to Claver-Carone told the paper. Rafael Correa factored into the Maduro opponent, as Vene- the southern city of Punta expanded for at least the next six detect irregularities at depth, and The US Embassy spokesman decision not to attend, Claver- zuela’s president, and up until Arenas. The Air Force concluded days. that it had established quad- said the meetings would still go Carone said. now Trump counted on Fernan- the aircraft must have crashed “We could add four days rangles to help organize the on with other US officials. “However, these distractions dez’s predecessor, Mauricio early the next morning, given the and bring this to 10 days, but search, Mosqueira said. Ships Claver-Carone told Clarin that don’t bring any benefits to Macri, as a Latin America ally number of hours it had been after that we would need to from Argentina and Brazil were Michael Kozak, acting assistant Argentina,” Claver-Carone said, against Maduro. missing. decide whether or not to con- assisting, he said.

No injuries after Canada lawmakers rebuke Trudeau over China policy brief lockdown AFP rock bottom after last year’s who will have a hearing next stage,” Erin O’Toole, the inter- to parliament on Monday, the OTTAWA arrest of Huawei executive Meng month in a US extradition case national affairs spokesman for anniversary of Kovrig and Spa- at Texas naval Hangzhou in Vancouver. that could potentially last years. the opposition Conservative vor’s arrests. air station Canadian leader Justin Trudeau Former diplomat Michael The dispute has damaged party, said after vote. Trudeau’s centre-left admin- has been rebuked for his Kovrig and businessman Michael trade between the two countries, The committee — to be com- istration was elected for a second AP handling of a simmering dispute Spavor were arrested in China with Beijing blocking billions of posed of 12 lawmakers — will sit term in September but lost its CORPUS CHRISTI with China, with lawmakers just nine days later, in a move dollars worth of Canadian canola from January and will have the majority in parliament and relies voting against his government widely seen as retaliation for imports. power to call Trudeau and the on support from minor parties A naval air station in Texas was to set up a committee examining Meng’s arrest. “We have had serious con- Canadian ambassador to China to pass laws. locked down yesterday after an relations with Beijing. Both men have languished in cerns with the prime minister’s as witnesses. The vote was the govern- armed person who was later Diplomatic relations detention ever since and analysts ability to govern in Canada’s The Conservatives intro- ment’s first defeat in the House taken into custody was reported between Canada and China hit say their fate is tied to Meng’s, national interest on the world duced the committee proposal of Commons since its election. on base, officials said. No shots were fired and no one was injured, Naval Air Station-Corpus Christi said. Immigrant advocates sue US The naval air station was locked down yesterday morning over yanked detention hotline and those on base were told to AP/LOS ANGELES Kaba, a partner at Hueston Hen- shelter in place, but that order nigan, which is representing the was lifted later in the morning. Immigrant advocates sued the group. Spokeswoman Francoise “Fifi” Trump administration for “And they can’t shut down Kieschnick told the Corpus ending a free hotline that the hotline because they want Christi Caller Times that an allowed detained immigrants to to prevent Freedom for Immi- armed suspect was reported to report concerns about custody grants from saying it.” be near building 8 on the base. conditions after it was featured ICE declined to comment on The base said a suspect was on the show “Orange Is the New the lawsuit but said the hotline taken into custody. Base gates Black.” was removed last year from a were reopened, but people The nonprofit group list of pro bono legal service pro- were asked to stay away from Freedom for Immigrants, which viders that immigrants can call building 8. has run the hotline since 2013 for free. The lockdown came after with a free phone line provided At the time, the agency shootings last week at a naval by US Immigration and Customs notified the group that it had air station in Florida and at Enforcement (ICE), sued in been misusing the hotline, said Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. Corpus federal court in Los Angeles. Bryan Cox, an ICE spokesman. Christi Naval Air Station offi- The lawsuit alleged that the The line was not monitored cials said there’s no indication administration yanked the or recorded so immigrants could the events are linked. hotline in August after it was find and speak with lawyers, but Last month, a 47-year-old featured on the Netflix show, the group was using it for three- man pleaded guilty to which drew attention to the way calling to connect detainees destruction of US government group’s criticism of detention to family, Cox said. property and possession of a conditions for immigrants. The agency had provided the stolen firearm for ramming his “They cannot shut down this hotline after a request from the truck into a barricade at the hotline in retaliation for the fact nonprofit and a group of volun- International Clown Day Corpus Christi station. That they don’t like what Freedom for teers in Florida who had visited Clowns walk during the International Clown Day in Guadalajara, Mexico, yesterday. incident, in October, also Immigrants is saying,” said Moez detained immigrants. prompted a lockdown. Colombia’s Amazon forest gets boost with $366m protection fund REUTERS “The renewal of the decla- “Colombia’s ambition and forests worldwide, has pledged largest tropical rainforest and is Norway in August suspended BOGOTA ration is a recognition of Colom- commitment to reduce deforest- the bulk of its latest funding to considered key to the fight against its donations supporting projects bia’s ability to reverse the defor- ation is of global significance,” Colombia, committing to $311m. climate change because of the to curb deforestation in Brazil Norway, Germany and Britain estation trend, having achieved Ola Elvestuen, Norway’s climate Colombia has set ambitious vast amounts of planet-warming after the country’s right-wing said that they would spend up to a 10% reduction in deforestation and environment minister, said goals to curb deforestation, carbon dioxide it absorbs. government blocked operations $366m over the next five years in 2018 compared to 2017,” the in a statement. “We cannot solve including reducing the annual The urgent need to protect of the fund receiving the aid, the to help Colombia reduce defor- countries said in a joint statement. climate change without stopping loss of natural forests to 155,000 the Amazon has come under the Norwegian ministry of climate estation in its vast Amazon rain- The announcement was deforestation. The international hectares or less by 2022 and spotlight as deforestation in and environment said. forest. made at the UN climate talks community should now step up 100,000 hectares or less by Brazil, home to the biggest share Of the total $366m pledged The three nations have held in Madrid, where ministers to mobilize billions of dollars per 2025. of the Amazon, rose to its highest until 2025 to protect Colombia’s backed Colombia’s efforts since from around the world are clois- year to support forest countries If successful, this would in over a decade this year under rainforest and promote its sus- to preserve forest areas covering tered in the final days of two that succeed in reducing mean a reduction in Colombia’s the administration of President tainable use, up to $260m will almost 60 million hectares since weeks of talks to shore up the emissions”. deforestation rates by 50% com- Jair Bolsonaro. Brazil and Bolivia be payments for achieved 2015, with about $180m invested 2015 Paris Agreement to avert Norway, one of the world’s pared to 2018. have also struggled to curb emission reductions, the so far. catastrophic global warming. leading donors to protect tropical The Amazon is the world’s massive forest fires this year. announcement said. THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019 HOME 19 PHCC leads research for a healthy society

FAZEENA SALEEM One of the main roles of the Clinical Research Department THE PENINSULA is also to conduct field research or interventional research in addition to scientific research based on the analysis of Primary Health Care Corpora- information available from the institution of electronic tion’s (PHCC) Department of medical records in order to achieve optimal goals and Clinical Research, considered as aspirations for primary health care aiming to inform the one of the leading research units in Qatar, has set a mandate that is process of planning based on evidence,” she added. internationally recognised and with an aim to make an impact in analysis of information available Research also provides the nec- the society. from the institution of electronic essary support to build the Its research strategy presents medical records in order to research infrastructure through an ambitious vision for the future achieve optimal goals and aspi- training courses for the staff of the of primary care, in which its rations for primary health care organisation. The department is research will transform the way aiming to inform the process of responsible for delivering the Dr Hamda Abdullah Qotba, Director that it is understood and create a planning based on evidence,” she “Health Research Methodology of the Department of Clinical healthy society, said Dr Hamda added. Training Program” to PHCC Abdullah Qotba, Director of the Research at PHCC. The department of clinical employees with a clinical Department of Clinical Research research has two programmes — profession. at PHCC. numerous, but not limited to sci- clinical and service programme. “These training courses are “Within the framework of the entific and technical cooperation, Each work programme includes offered at various levels ranging role played by PHCC for research cooperation in providing financial work streams that are informed from assessing the self-abilities of related to supporting the health funding for research as well as by the national health strategy the employees of the organisation sector and the national health cooperation in the field of training 2018-22, PHCC’s corporate stra- to conducting scientific research strategy 2018-2022 in the Qatar. and development. tegic plan 2019-23 and clinical and then providing additional The Department of Clinical The PHCC’s Clinical Research staff. courses for those in need to help Research provides research gov- Department is affiliated with com- “Specific research priorities develop those abilities or to obtain ernance, undertakes research mittees to approve scientific are identified in Qatar such as non additional abilities for those who studies and provides research research associated with the Cor- - communicable diseases (NCDs) do not have those abilities. As well methodology training in PHCC,” poration and other institutes have been the leading cause of as we offer advanced courses in Dr Qotba told The Peninsula. having a reliance agreement with death. We give importance to such scientific research for those who She also highlighted the reality PHCC like University of Calgary priorities in our work. For are serious about doing research of the ongoing research in the and Aspetar Orthopaedic and example, the Department of that requires high knowledge and organisation as well as showed the Sports Medicine Hospital. clinical research undertook a exceptional capabilities to do it,” role given to the Department of “Those committees review the study to establish its prevalence said Dr Ahmed Alnuaimi who is a Clinical Research in this regard. plans of the proposed researches and risk factors in the population. consultant in public health “The department’s researchers and assesses their compatibility The findings showed that 16.2 research. have a breadth and depth of with scientific research from a sci- percent of the population has one Within one and a half years expertise across the entire range entific and ethical point of view or more of NCD. The prevalence 400 doctors, nurses and allied of health disciplines, primary care and then approves them if they of NCDs showed an increasing health professionals completed in particular. Individually, they comply with the required trend with increasing age, which the preparatory phase of the expand understanding of key standards after ensuring that they should be considered as an program, from which 76 con- issues; collectively and collabo- are also acceptable by the com- alarming sign,” said Dr Qotba. tinued with the Basic Training ratively, delivering analysis that munity as we usually probe group In another study, the Module and 21 transferred to the addresses challenges facing of PHCC services users on their department of clinical research last phase of training called the healthcare in Qatar,” said Dr acceptability aiming to reflect the found that the prevalence of Met- Advanced Module, Dr lnuaimi Qotba. voice of the community members abolic Syndrome (MetS), a syn- added. The department cooperates participating in research,” said Dr drome where there is co-occur- Over the last year the with the organisations such as Qotba. rence of insulin resistance, department managed to lead 13 Hamad Medical Corporation, “One of the main roles of the obesity, abnormal blood lipids and research projects in several health Qatar University, Education City Clinical Research Department is high blood pressure in individuals, related areas and published nine Universities and Colleges, Qatar to conduct field research or inter- was 48.8 percent in the study papers in international journals. Foundation and many others. The ventional research in addition to population. At present it has 19 ongoing fields of cooperation are scientific research based on the The Department of Clinical research projects.

CROSSWORD MALL ROYAL PLAZA

Frozen II (2D/Animation) 2:00, 3:30 & 5:15pm Jimmy Ee Veedinte Aiswaryam (2D/Malayalam) 2:00pm Jimmy Ee Veedinte Aiswaryam (2D/Malayalam) Frozen II (2D/Animation) 2:15 & 4:00pm 2:00pm Jumanji: The Next Level (2D/Action) 2:30, 4:00, 6:15 & 9:00pm Jumanji: The Next Level (2D/Action) 2:15, 7:00, 9;15 Bernie The Dolphin 2 (2D/Action) 5:00pm & 11:30pm The Body (2D/Hindi) 5:45pm Bernie The Dolphin 2 (2D/Action) 4:30 & 6:30pm Judy (2D/Biography) 7:00pm The Body (2D/Hindi) 6:00pm Mamangam (2D/Malayalam) 8:30 & 11:15pm Mardaani 2 (2D/Hindi) 7:45 & 9;45pm Mardaani 2 (2D/Hindi) 9:30 & 11:15pm Mamangam (2D/Malayalam) 8:30 & 11:15pm The Peanut Butter Falcon (2D/Comedy) 7:45pm Amma Rajymlo Kadapa Biddalu (2D/Telugu) Black Christmas (2D/Horror) 11:30pm 11:30pm LANDMARK FLIK Mirqab Mall

Jimmy Ee Veedinte Aiswaryam (2D/Malayalam) Bernie The Dolphin 2 (2D/Action) 10:10am & 12:25pm 2:00pm; Frozen II (2D/Animation) 2:15, 4:00 & Black Christmas (2D/Horror) 6:40pm 6:15pm; Jumanji: The Next Level (2D/Action) 2:30, Frozen II (2D/Animation) 11:00am, 12:00, 2:05, 3:10, 4:10, 5:15, 6:15, 4:45, 7:00 & 9:15pm; The Body (2D/Hindi) 5:45 & 7:20, 9:25 & 11:30pm 9;45pm; Mardaani 2 (2D/Hindi) 7:45 & 11:30pm; Judy (2D/Biography) 12:05 & 4:20pm Amma Rajymlo Kadapa Biddalu (2D/Telugu) Jumanji: The Next Level (3D/Action) 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:20, 1:00, 11:30pm; Bernie The Dolphin 2 (2D/Action) 4:15pm; 2:45, 2:00, 4:30, 5:10, 6:00, 7:35, 9:30, 10:00, 11:00pm, 12:00 mid- Mamangam (2D/Malayalam) 8:00 & 11:00pm. night & 0:25am; Jumanji: The Next Level (3D/Action) 3:30 & 8:30pm; Knives Out (2D/Action) 1:35 & 7:10pm AL KHOR Le Mans ’66 (Ford Vs Ferrari) (2D/Action) 10:40am, 4:10 &9:40pm Mardaani 2 (2D/Hindi) 8:00, 8:40, 10;55 & 11:10pm Mamangam (2D/Malayalam) 11:30am, 2:30, 5:30, 8:30 The Peanut Butter Falcon 2:25pm & 11:30pm Unbreakable (2D/Tagalog) 5:35pm Frozen II (3D/Animation) 11:00pm Mardaani 2 (2D/Hindi) 1:15, 6:15 & 11:15pm ASIAN TOWN Jumanji: The Next Level (2D/Action) 3:30 & 8:30pm Mamangam (2D/Malayalam) 12:30, 1:00, 4:00, 6:00, 7:00, 9:00, 10:00pm, 12:00 midnight& 1:00am ROXY Kettyolanu Ente Maalakha (2D/Malayalam) 3:15 & 11:15pm; Amma Rajymlo Kadapa Biddalu (2D/Telugu) 12:30pm Amma Rajymlo Kadapa Biddalu (2D/Telugu) 3:30, Jimmy Ee Veedinte Aiswaryam (2D/Malayalam) 8:45pm 7:00 & 10:00pm Venky Mama (2D/Telugu) 12:30 & 3:15pm Frozen II (3D/Animation) 11:00am, 12:30, 1:15, 2:45, 3:30, 5:10 & 7:15pm Mardaani 2 (2D/Hindi) 6:00pm Jumanji: The Next Level (3D/Action) 10:30am, 11:00am, 11:30am, 12:30, 1:00, 1:30, 2:00, 3:00, 3:30, 4:00, 4:30, 5:45, 6:00, 6:30, 8:10, 8:30, 9:00, 9:20, 10:45, 11:00 & 11:30pm Mamangam (2D/Malayalam) 1:00, 4:10, 7:20, 8:00, 10:00, 10:45, 11:15 & 11:50pm Pati Patni Aur Woh (2D/Hindi) 2:00 & 4:30pm Venky Mama (2D/Telugu) 6:20 & 12:30pm

JUMANJI: THE NEXT LEVEL

Jumanji: The Next Level is a 2019 American fantasy adventure comedy film directed by Jake Kasdan and written by Kasdan, Jeff Pinkner and Scott Rosenberg. 20 MORNING BREAK THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2019

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR 04. 48 AM NMoQ to unveil ‘Peace Bench’ sculpture SHOROOK 06. 10 AM THE PENINSULA The sculpture, a ZUHR 11. 27 AM MAGHRIB 04. 47 PM DOHA gift from the Nobel ASR 02.25 PM ISHA 06. 17 PM The National Museum of Qatar Peace Center, marks 50 years of industrial (NMoQ) will unveil a special WEATHER TODAY gift from the Nobel Peace collaboration Center in collaboration with between Qatar and the Norwegian company Hydro this Saturday to mark Norway. the 50-year industrial collab- oration between Qatar and Center, shedding light on the Norway, that is being cele- museum’s aim of bringing brated this year. communities together to expe- The gift — a sculptured rience Qatar’s past, present “Peace Bench”, which is an and future. internationally recognised Her Excellency Sheikha Al symbol of conversation, Mayassa bint Hamad bin diplomacy and dialogue — will Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson be situated within the Baraha of Qatar Museums, said, “Art at NMoQ. The unique design and culture are vital tools for will be in the shape of a partial bringing people together and circle that meets the ground at creating spaces for innovation its lowest point, embodying an and expression, and this instal- invitation to conversation. lation is a wonderful oppor- The first bench was placed tunity to demonstrate the outside the United Nations importance of conversation, headquarters in New York City diplomacy and dialogue in Peace Bench, an internationally-recognised symbol of conversation, diplomacy and dialogue. earlier this year and NMoQ will society, whoever we are or receive the second bench. The wherever we come from. The bench has been commissioned theme of diplomacy and dia- to the museum.” strangers and adversaries. started its industrial adventure by the Nobel Peace Center and logue is central to our final Liv Tørres, Executive Placing it at the National in Qatar in 1969, partnering o o is titled “The Best Weapon” in gallery, Qatar Today, which Director at the Nobel Peace Museum of Qatar will support with Qatar Petroleum to 19 C 24 C reference to a famous quote will be opening this month. Center, said, “The bench is a this idea and message in a establish Qafco and later Qatar Minimum Maximum by Nobel laureate Nelson The Peace Bench embodies symbol of diplomacy and dia- wonderful way.” Vinyl Company before Mandela: “The best weapon is this responsibility we all have, logue, which is much needed The 6.5-meter long bench Qatalum started production in to sit down and talk.” and NMoQ is proud to be rec- in today’s international is made from 100% recyclable 2010. Moderate temperature daytime with scat- tered clouds and relatively cold by night. The National Museum of ognised by the Nobel Peace climate. The idea of the bench aluminium supplied by Hydro, The bench is designed by Qatar was selected under the Center with this generous and is to encourage people to sit which is a part-owner of the the Norwegian architect and

basis of being a high-visibility inspirational gift, which can down and talk — not only to Qatar based aluminium design group Snøhetta and

HIGH TIDE 05:08 – 15:23 LOW TIDE 12:12 – 23:03 area by the Nobel Peace now be enjoyed by all visitors their friends, but also to company Qatalum. Hydro manufactured by Vestre. Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department Qatar Airways launches augmented reality game with Facebook THE PENINSULA virtual experience on Facebook. play the AR game directly from directly in line with the airline’s enhance our customers’ expe- businesses in our region. From DOHA By connecting reality and the Facebook’s newsfeed, without mission of bringing people rience. Excitement is building as try-on product experiences to virtual world, fans will now be having to install additional together. the FIFA Club World Cup Qatar immersive filters for games and Qatar Airways has launched a able to playfully engage with the applications. Qatar Airways Senior Vice- 2019 gets underway and we are movies, AR enables people to new Augmented Reality (AR) Qatar Airways brand. Qatar Airways has launched President Corporate Communi- delighted to welcome the football connect with businesses and experience that allows customers The award-winning airline a creative campaign with football cations, Salam Al Shawa, said: world to Qatar, the destination products in new ways. We are to play an innovative football has set another precedent, legend Xavi playing the AR game, “Qatar Airways is constantly pio- of champions.” excited to pilot this new ad game where they must ‘Blink to becoming the first regional delivering the first of its kind neering new ways to interact Facebook’s Managing format with Qatar Airways to Score.’ carrier to leverage the newly experience on the Facebook app with our passengers, and we are Director for MENA, Ramez build more engaging mobile ad This immersive feature lets launched Facebook AR ads to millions of football fans across grateful to Facebook for sharing Shehadi, said: “The use of AR is experiences and boost audience the player interact through a format, enabling consumers to the world. This initiative is our passion for innovation to growing among people and engagement.”