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QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune Thursday MAY 7, 2020 ramadan 14, 1441 Vol.13 no. 4940 qR 2
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Ramadan Timing Nation 3 Business 8 Sports 11 Today Tomorrow Iftar imsak QC provides healthcare to QP enters into three Angela Merkel gives pregnant Syrian refugees exploration blocks go-ahead for Bundesliga 6:08pm 3:20am with QFFD support in Mexico to resume in mid-May Enjoy double speed with Ooredoo ONE while you’re at home #Hadaya_Ooredoo *Terms and conditions apply
Cabinet extends PM WITNESSES SIGNING OF DEAL TO ESTABLISH COVID-19 measures CENTRE FOR DIGITAL COMPETENCIES QNA amending some provisions of Doha Law No 12 of 1998 organising the Central Municipal Council The Cabinet has decided to and referring it to the Shura extend the precautionary meas- Council. ures in place to combat the coro- The Cabinet also approved navirus (COVID-19) pandemic. a draft decision by the Minis- Prime Minister and Minister ter of Justice to issue rules for Amir, Canadian PM review of Interior HE Sheikh Khalid bin the obligations of real estate Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al Thani brokers and notaries empow- chaired the Cabinet meeting ered with requirements to efforts to combat COVID-19 through video conference. combat money laundering and The Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani held a tel- The Cabinet took the deci- terrorist financing. ephone conversation with Prime Minister of Canada Justin sion after hearing a brief ex- The Cabinet also approved Trudeau on Wednesday. During the phone call, they reviewed planation from the Minister of the draft decision of the Minis- cooperation relations between the two countries and the Public Health on the latest de- ter of Commerce and Industry prospects for strengthening and developing them, in addition velopments in efforts to limit in the executive regulations of to discussing efforts related to combating the novel corona- the spread of the virus. Law No (1) of 2019 regulating Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al Thani witnessed the virus (COVID-19) pandemic. In this regard, the Canadian PM After that, the Cabinet ap- non-Qatari capital in econom- signing of a cooperation agreement to establish a centre for digital competencies between the Qatar Free expressed his thanks and appreciation to the Amir for the proved a draft law amending ic activity. Zones Authority (QFZA) and the French Thales Group. The agreement was signed by Minister of State HE role of Qatar Airways in bringing back Canadian nationals from some provisions of Law No 1 It also gave the go-ahead to Ahmed bin Mohammed al Sayed, who is also Chairman of the Board of Directors of QFZA, and Chairman various parts of the world to Canada during this crisis. of 1986 regarding the registra- the provisions of Law No (24) and Chief Executive (CEO) of Thales Group Patrice Caine at a virtual signing ceremony in Doha and Paris The call also discussed regional and international develop- tion of pharmaceutical compa- of 2002 regarding retirement through video conference. The centre will serve as a hub for software development and facility facilitation, ments, particularly security and stability in the region. (QNA) nies and their products. and pensions for some depart- including security events and solutions, which will support the growing technology sector. page 8 It also approved a draft law ments.
Amir, Ukraine president review efforts to defeat coronavirus QA plans to resume The Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani held a tel- ephone conversation with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine on Wednesday. During the phone call, they discussed flight services to 52 the relations between the two countries and the ways of boost- ing them. They also discussed the ways of combating new coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and curb its spread. They also reviewed areas of cooperation in this regard. (QNA) cities by May-end Airline seeks to start operations in a phased manner COVID-19 recoveries reach 2,070 Tribune News Network Tribune News Network citizens and residents who Doha Qatar Airways aims Doha have contracted the virus from to fly 80 destinations by family members, who in turn Qatar Airways (QA) will begin a Qatar on Wednesday reported had contracted the virus at their phased approach to expanding its net- the end of June 840 new COVID-19 cases, tak- workplaces or other places Industrial Area reopens work in line with passenger demand ing the total positive cases to where they had been exposed The Industrial Area streets under lockdown reopened on Wednesday, with the entry and the expected relaxation of entry 17,972, the Ministry of Public to infected people. All the newly- and exit being regulated strictly as part of efforts to curb the spread of the novel restrictions around the world. The air- Health has announced. diagnosed individuals have coronavirus (COVID-19). The phased lifting of the lockdown began a few weeks ago, line will start a phased rebuilding of As many as 146 people recov- been quarantined with proper with the first phase seeing the reopening of Streets 1, 2 and Al Wakalat on April 22. network to an initial 52 destinations by ered from the disease in the last medical attention. The reopening of the rest of the Industrial Area is being implemented in adherence the end of May and 80 in June. work to help take over 1 million people 24 hours, bringing the total recov- The ministry called on all to all the preventive precautionary measures determined by the Ministry of Public In a statement on Wednesday, the home through our state -of -the -art eries to 2,070. In a statement, the members of society to stay at Health. The reorganisation of exit and entry will result in resuming work and supply airline said it maintained flights to at hub in Doha and to transport more MoPH said most of the new cases home and not to go out unless chains inside and outside the area to normal, while making sure that the community least 30 destinations during this crisis than 100,000 tonnes of essential med- are that of expatriate workers who absolutely necessary and to is not at risk of infections. These procedures will allow the following groups to enter and to most continents, helping to take ical and aid supplies to where they are have come in contact with those implement preventive meas- and exit the area: employers, employees who work in the area but live outside, resi- over 1 million people home. needed.” tested positive earlier. ures and maintain physical dents who live in the area but work outside. —Santhosh Chandran “The airline has been in a unique “As we follow the indicators of the Several cases are that of distancing. position to closely monitor global pas- global travel market on a daily basis, senger flowsand booking trends to we continue to focus on our mission. confidentlybegin planning the gradual How we can enable mobility for our reintroduction of additional flights and customers and provide them with destinations to its network,” it said. seamless connectivity to their final Qatar Airways Group Chief Execu- destination. We have built a strong Repatriation of stranded Indians to start on May 9 tive Akbar al Baker said, “Throughout level of trust with passengers, govern- women, urgent medical cases, this crisis our passengers have been ments, trade and airports as a reli- First flight with 200 workers in distress, senior citizens at the centre of our focus. Our airline able partner during this crisis and we as well as to other people who are has implemented industry-leading hy- intend to continue delivering on this passengers to take off stranded in difficult situations. giene practices and commercial poli- mission as we gradually expand our from HIA on Saturday The passenger list was finalised cies enabling our passengers to book network,” he said. by the embassy on the basis of regis- and travel with confidence. We have trations made in the embassy web- maintained a flexible and agile net- Continued on page 2 Santhosh Chandran site for this purpose. The embassy Doha has contacted the short-listed peo- ple for each flight directly through The flight to repatriate stranded email/telephone. Indians from Qatar to India on Speaking to Qatar Tribune, Pres- Thursday has been rescheduled. ident of Indian Cultural Centre A P 38 doctors graduate from WCM-Q The first flight from Doha to Manikantan said, “Following the in- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) Dean Dr Javaid Sheikh has underlined Kochi will now depart on Saturday structions of the Indian embassy, ICC the act of heroism taking place in hospitals during the virtual graduation cer- (May 9) at 7.05 pm and the second provided all facilities to passengers emony for WCM-Q’s Class of 2020 held on Wednesday. Thirty-eight graduates flight to Thiruvananthapuram will People wait for buying tickets at the Indian Cultural Centre on Wednesday. and Air India to reserve tickets. Asho- received their Cornell University MD degrees this year including 13 Qataris. The depart on Sunday at 4 pm, accord- ka Hall of ICC and its office premises Class of 2020 consists of 15 males and 23 females coming from 13 different ing to an Indian embassy official. counter set up for the purpose at the port before their departure. Air tick- were used for this purpose.” nationalities. They are the first class to have completed WCM-Q’s innovative A total of 200 Indian expatri- Indian Cultural Centre in Abu Ham- ets were issued by the airline only The embassy will also be pub- six-year medical programme, which comprises both pre-medical and medical ates, who have registered with our on Wednesday. to those on the list prepared by the licising the details of further flights curricula. The ceremony was held online to observe physical distancing rules the Indian embassy for the travel, All passengers will undergo a embassy. to different destinations in India, as for the coronavirus pandemic. — Ailyn Agonia page 14 booked their tickets at a special COVID-19 thermal test at the air- Priority was given to pregnant and when they become available. 02 Thursday, May 7, 2020
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Qatari and Italian experts working on plasma-based Al-Waha expansion helps meet 70% therapies to treat patients Ashraf Siddiqui chilled poultry, 40% egg local need Doha table eggs needs, Hassad an- The operation of the sec- well as cover 40 percent of the Qatar Foundation Re- Hassad owns 46% nounced on Wednesday. ond phase of Al Waha’s ex- table eggs needs. We are cur- search, Development and In- of Al-Waha poultry Hassad owns 46 percent pansion will increase the local rently working in full capacity novation (QF RDI) and the stake in Al Waha and super- poultry production to 16 mil- to operate the second phase of Italian Universities of Rome production vises its operations. lion per year - the additional the expansion, which will see Tor Vergata and Trieste have After the blockade, Hassad six million chicken will be al- a noticeable increase in local established cooperation to Tribune News Network developed an expansion plan located to frozen poultry pro- poultry production levels”. collect and analyse genomic Doha consisting of two phases of op- duction lines and cuts. The He said since Hassad took information to study erations to develop Al Waha’s company’s production from over the process of supervising the different impacts of Hassad, Qatar’s premier operations and increase its table eggs will also reach 130 on Al Waha’s operations post COVID-19 among the popu- investor in food sector, has production. million per year. the blockade, the senior man- lation, Italian Ambassador to completed the first expansion The company successfully Hassad CEO Engineer Mo- agement have developed an Qatar HE Alessandro Prunas phase of its poultry produc- concluded operations phase Eng. Mohamed Bin Badr El Sadah, hamed al Sadah said, “It is our expansion plan to increase the has said. Ambassador Alessandro Prunas tion sector, Arab Qatari Com- one of the expansion, which Hassad CEO pleasure to announce the com- company’s capacity and devel- In an exclusive with Qatar pany for Poultry Production- led to an increase in local pletion of the first operations op its production processes to Tribune, Ambassador Prunas Talking about his per- Al Waha, resulting in meeting poultry production from seven the expansion of the layer sec- phase in Al Waha’s expansion, satisfy the market needs from said Qatar Foundation’s Hos- sonal contact with the fam- 70 percent of the market de- million to 10 million chilled tion, which increased the table where we were able to cover poultry and table eggs in or- pital Mater Olbia in Sardinia ily members back in Italy, he mands from chilled poultry chicken per year. eggs production from 55 mil- 70 percent of the market de- der to support the country in and Hamad Medical Corpo- said, “It is not easy not to see and covering 40 percent of the The company also finalised lion to 110 million egg per year. mands from chilled poultry, as achieving self-sufficiency. ration are also working to them but we have to adopt find new therapies to treat responsible behaviours to COVID-19 patients based on protect who we love most.” the use of plasma from recov- The envoy said he is ered individuals. working from home, holding Zakat Fund provides QR10.6mn aid to help 3,886 families in Qatar He lauded Qatar’s hu- meetings through telephone manitarian support to pro- and video conferences with QNA ness’ project, in accordance that the Zakat Fund has been its provision of seasonal as- Ministry of Awqaf and Is- vide Italy with two fully- Qatari officials and members Doha with the ‘funds’ policy and the carrying out since its estab- sistance, the Zakat Fund will lamic Affairs distributes the equipped field hospitals with of the other diplomatic mis- Sharia regulations. lishment, in order to help the be announcing other seasonal assistance to the beneficiary capacity of 1,000 beds to sions to ensure regular coor- Zakat Fund at the Min- The Zakat Fund provided beneficiary families by de- aid projects related to the Holy families who meet the Sha- treat people with the corona- dination on dossiers and plan istry of Awqaf and Islamic the ‘Baskets of Goodness’ as- positing money in their bank Month and Eid Al-Fitr, such ria conditions after carefully virus. new activities. Affairs provided aid worth sistance to the families before accounts, so as to help them as Zakat Al-Fitr and other Eid examining their requests in Advising his community Prunas said that despite QR10,617,700, benefitingthe onset of the Holy Month of purchase their basic and con- requirements, which will help order to ensure that the Zakat members in Qatar, the en- the emergency, services go 3,886 families including Ramadan. sumer needs during the Holy ease the burden of the benefi- of the people of Qatar are voy said, “As a result of the on as usual at the embassy. 21,005 members in Qatar The ‘Basket of Goodness’ Month. ciary families. distributed to those who are social distancing measures, He said, “What has through the ‘Basket of Good- is one of the seasonal projects Within the framework of The Zakat Fund at the most in need. which are crucial in contain- changed is how we deliver ing COVID-19, we all have them to adapt our work flows to change our daily routine, to this unprecedented situa- go out only if strictly neces- tion and the many ideas and sary, use face masks in public projects we have in mind for COVID-19 norms: 5 private health facilities shut spaces and reduce contacts the future.” Stay-at-home: Social with other people. Fortunate- On the likely impact of the The Ministry of Public Health Health Prosecution for further clinics and surgeries, with the ly, thanks to technology, we pandemic on normal life in (MoPH) closed five private action. The violations were de- exception of emergency cases. can be fully operative work- future, the Italian envoy said medical centres for violating the tected during inspection visits It also decided to extend the media helps people ing remotely and limit staff every country would have to decision to suspend some non- to health facilities. suspension of services of diet in workplaces at the mini- deal with the consequences emergency health services as At its weekly meeting on and nutrition centers, physio- mum level required to ensure of the pandemic either in so- part of precautionary measures April 29, the Cabinet decided therapy clinics, complementary unleash creativity continuity of services.” cial or economic terms. to check the COVID-19 out- to extend suspension of non- (alternative) medicine, home Meriam Jelliti ing making those videos.” break and ensure the safety of emergency medical services in healthcare services, except for Doha Some chefs, meanwhile, are patients and medical workers. private health facilities, includ- long-term nursing contracts, using the ‘quarantine kitchen’ as These private medical cen- ing dental clinics, dermatology and health centers for people As the world marks May 2020 a form of stress-buster during tres have been referred to the and laser clinics, plastic surgery with special needs. (QNA) as the Mental Health Awareness the pandemic, with some, like PHCC to issue medical Month, more than a quarter of Qatari chef Noura al Mazroei, the world’s population is stay- sharing their recipes with online certificates online ing home as part of the coro- audience. navirus (COVID-19) prevention Noura has been posting Tribune News Network link available on the PHCC QA set to meet expected demand measures. on her Instagram account and doha website, using the health Continued from page 1 “Qatar Airways will take full ing London, Chicago, Dallas As people stay home and YouTube channel a ‘Today’s centre number. advantage of its diverse and ef- and Hong Kong along with reo- follow social distancing, social recipe’ every day. Her recipes IN light of the rapidly evolv- This service is available “While the situation remains ficient fleet with the right air- pening many major business media activities have increased include all types of food, such ing COVID-19 situation, the for all the patients registered hugely dynamic, Qatar Airways craft size to ensure the best fit and leisure destinations such as manifold and more people are as salads, sweets and cakes, as Primary Health Care Corpo- with the PHCC. The medical has made a number of assump- for expected demand on each Madrid and Mumbai. unleashing their creativity and well as cuisines from across the ration (PHCC) has activated certificates are for patients tions based on its unique per- planned route. By the end of Currently, the airline con- talents in front of the online world. a set of remote access chan- requiring confirmation of spective, having been one of the June, the aim is to have 80 tinues to operate flights to more audiences. nels to its healthcare servic- chronic illnesses or pregnan- only carriers to operate globally destinations in the schedule, than 30 destinations around the Sana, a 24-year-old recep- es. The new virtual health- cy, for employers during the in recent months. With entry including 23 in Europe, four in world. tionist, is one among them, who Due to the orders to stay care services have been COVID-19 situation. restrictions constantly evolv- the Americas, 20 in the Middle Qatar Airways maintains uses her Instagram account to home and social distanc- developed to ensure safety of Enhancing remote ac- ing, accurately predicting future East/Africa and 33 in Asia-Pa- the highest possible hygiene share beauty and health tips ing, social media activities everyone. cess to healthcare at the time travel is challenging,” he said. cific. Many cities will be served standards, which include with her followers. have increased manifold The new online service of COVID-19 crisis will help While the expectation is that with a strong schedule with dai- the regular disinfection of “It focuses mainly on beauty will allow patients to request curb the rapid spread of the short haul travel will rebound ly or more frequencies,” he said. aircraft, the use of cleaning and health routines,” she said. and more people are a certificate online. They disease. The PHCC in collab- first, business between large The gradual expansion will products recommended by “Before I started staying unleashing their creativity will be issued a medical cer- oration with key stakehold- global cities will pick up more focus initially on strengthen- the International Air Trans- home, I had never thought of and talents in front of the tificate electronically via the ers will continue providing gradually and there will be a ing connections between the port Association (IATA) and starting an online business. online audiences PHCC website. The patient quality medical care to the move towards visiting family airline’s hub in Doha with the the World Health Organiza- But, now I have many follow- can then download the medi- people of Qatar in a timely and friends following months of global hubs of its partner air- tion (WHO), and thermal ers and a lot of free time, so, cal certificate through the and accurate manner. lockdown. lines around the world includ- screening of crew. I started with sharing skincare Her videos are voice-guided tutorials and hair tutorials. to help her followers unleash Now I share my healthy food their cooking skills and enjoy recipes as well. I have 90,000 homemade food. followers now and I have re- beIN Sports anchor Ab- cently started my YouTube dulaziz bin Hamad has started channel. It’s keeping me very a live show on Instagram, ti- Qatar’s embassy in France offers support to medical staff busy and happy during these tled ‘Quarantine hour’, where hard times.” he joins his distinguished guest QNA that medical staff are playing Riham Jawish, a college of the day from sport, art and Paris every day in dealing with the student who, like millions of health sectors. He interviews situation. others across the world, joined the guests while a large number The Embassy of Qatar in The meal distributed car- the TikTok, a video-sharing ap- of followers watch and evaluate France has supported the as- ried the solidarity banner plication used to create videos the show. Abdulaziz chooses his sociation of ‘Paris Hospitals- launched by Ambassador of of short dances, lip-synch as guests according to the needs France Hospitals’ and its Qatar to France HE Sheik Ali well as comedy and acting vid- of the followers. Experts share medical apparatus, as part of bin Jassim al Thani. The ban- eos. “My friends and I started their ideas, experience and the campaign launched by the ner bears the word “Solidar- recreating some famous movie knowledge to entertain and edu- embassy under the banner of ity” in French to symbolise scenes -- we would choose a cate people on quarantine. solidarity with France and as Qatar’s support to France and long scene and each one of us Social media has helped an incentive to the efforts of the efforts of doctors and par- acts her part, then combine all many celebrities as well as com- the medical sector to fight the amedics working to combat the videos together. It would mon people to discover their coronavirus in France and to for several days in a row. The the spread of COVID-19. look like we have been at the talents and share them while look after the infected. association distributed food The Embassy of Qatar and same place together. staying home and safe. The on- The embassy’s support to medical staff at Argenteuil those working in Qatar sent “We even joined the TikTok line platforms have witnessed The meal distributed was carried by the solidarity banner launched included providing daily Hospital and de La Fontaine their condolences to the fami- challenges and shared some. It a massive participation from by the Ambassador of the State of Qatar to France HE Sheik Ali bin meals to medical staff, doc- Hospital in recognition of the lies of the victims and wished is fun and very creative. I was people as they see a silver lin- Jassim al Thani. tors, nurses and paramedics great and courageous role the sick a speedy recovery. looking for anything to keep me ing in them beyond the current busy, and then I ended up enjoy- situation. Nation Thursday, May 7, 2020 03
QSC produces QC provides healthcare to pregnant protective gear to support fight Syrian refugees with QFFD support against virus Qatar Charity is implementing the Pregnant Women Care Project in different parts of Lebanon Maryam Maged Abouzaid Doha Tribune News Network (QFFD). This project provides ser- the Pregnant Women Care Project Doha vices to underprivileged Syrian fe- with funding and support from In light of the current situation and in support male refugees during pregnancy. the QFFD, in cooperation with of Qatar’s efforts to fight COVID-19, Qatar Sci- They were brought together in “The project has relieved her several clinics in different parts entific Club (QSC) has established integrated the same place, and their stories of burdens upon her by providing of Lebanon, providing full health production lines for the design and manufacture were similar, although they dif- checkups and natural and cae- care to pregnant women. Some of preventive medical equipment for the medical fered in some details. sarean childbirth services free of 4,000 women benefit from the staff and other entities fighting against the pan- They’re women, and like other charge,” says Manal, adding that project, which also provides pre- demic. mothers, they’re waiting for the “the project, in cooperation with natal and postnatal services. QSC Executive Director Engineer Rashid al birth of their newborns. However, the UNHCR, will bear all costs These clinics are located in Rahimi said, “With the emergence of COVID-19 the difficult economic situation of childbirth, and the baby will Beirut, Bekaa, Arsal, Shebaa, Sai- and with Qatar’s effort to fight the virus, we start- and the conditions of the life of be provided with an incubator, if da, Aaramoun, and Ketermaya. ed studying the situation to be able to support the asylum have turned the joy of re- needed, in addition to providing The project includes four basic state’s efforts, through knowing what medical ceiving newborns into a state of medicines and some nutritional services, providing two prenatal equipment can be manufactured at QSC lab.” fear. The spread of coronavirus supplements.” and postnatal check-ups, as well He said the club collaborated with Hamad (COVID-19) has caused further The story of Nouf is no dif- as providing medicines and nu- Medical Corporation (HMC) to decide which difficulties. ferent from that of Manal. She is tritional supplements to pregnant medical equipment are massively needed by the Manal, a 27-year-old Syrian Qatar Charity is implementing the Pregnant Women Care Project with also a Syrian, whose family lives women. medical staff. refugee from Idlib, is currently funding and support from the QFFD, in cooperation with several clinics in in great economic hardship, and In addition, a certain amount “In the beginning, the QSC manufacture line living in the Arsal camps under different parts of Lebanon, providing full healthcare to pregnant women. her husband, who worked in a of money is given to pregnant produced 500 to 800 face protective gears and many economic hardships and mechanic’s shop, is now unem- women. Fifty dollars are given to then the production capacity increased, with the challenges, as her husband is circumstances. However, there is tect her and her expected child, ployed. If this project was not women for all checks, and if deliv- support of the Ministry of Culture and Sports, to currently unemployed due to the always a glimmer of hope, no mat- as she is among the registered available, due to its economic cir- ery is normal, $100 is provided. cope with local demands,” Rahimi said. coronavirus outbreak. ter how severe the difficulties. She beneficiaries of this health project cumstances, it could not carry out However, if the delivery is a c- The club, he noted, aims to increase the Manal was not able to bear the found a life buoy in the Pregnant funded by Qatar Charity (QC) and the necessary checks. section, the project will offer the production line to be able to export the face costs of childbirth in these difficult Women Care Project that will pro- the Qatar Fund for Development Qatar Charity is implementing woman $250 after birth. protective gears as a 100 percent Qatari product. The manufacturing process of the face pro- tector went through five phases to be improved after being tested by HMC before the product was approved. The product is mainly manufac- QR500,000 from QC boosts QRCS’ COVID-19 control efforts tured to be comfortably used by the medical staff and to be a reuse material instead of the dispos- Tribune News Network Rashid al Kaabi, assistant CEO been at the forefront of extend- He stressed the importance able face masks. Doha for Communication and Re- ing support to all the govern- of concerted efforts from every- “Qatar ScientificClub provides face protec- source Mobilization at QC, and ment bodies and NGOs. Let’s one to complement the heroic tors to many entities in the state,” said Rahimi. Qatar Red Crescent Society Abdullah Sultan al Qatan, execu- pray for an end of the pandemic. endeavours of the country to get The club has the ability to manufacture (QRCS) has received a donation tive director of Medical Affairs at May Allah protect Qatar and its out of this serious emergency. more products to be used in Qatar’s medical of QR500,000 from Qatar Char- QRCS. people,” said Kaabi. “There are women and men corporations such as spare parts for medical ity (QC) to support its coronavi- The funding is contributed Qatan appreciated the sup- making considerable sacrifices devices, as it has engineers from various fields rus control campaign, as part of to QRCS’s ongoing services de- port from QC, which reflected and working hard for us to be such as mechanical, digital manufacturing and the government’s efforts to fight signed to reduce the spread of its belief in the common hu- safe at our homes. They deserve electronics. the virus, protect the community the virus, driven by a spirit of manitarian values and goals. every form of support from us by “The club attracts Qataris and residents’ in- against infection, and treat the solidarity between NGOs and It built upon a long legacy of donating to the anti-coronavirus ventors besides collaborating with many com- patients at hospitals and quar- the Government of Qatar in such working together on numerous initiatives and following the in- petent authorities such as the Ministry of Com- antine facilities. an emergency. QRCS in the global mainstream operations for the vulnerable structions of the government to merce and Industry, and Qatar Foundation,” said The handover of the cheque “This support embodies of fighting this pandemic. Since locally and internationally, he avoid causes of infection,” he re- Rahimi. was attended by Mohamed cooperation between QC and the crisis broke out, we have added. marked. Ooredoo On-Premise Collaboration tool to boost employee productivity Tribune News Network Doha
Ooredoo, the region’s leading enabler of digital business innova- tion, has launched a new On-Prem- ise Collaboration, which combines all business telephone services into one easy-to-use solution to boost ness customers to optimise costs from Ooredoo’s technical experts, new levels of employee productivity. by moving from a capex to an opex along with industry-leading service In response to demands from model. Business customers can also level agreement services. customers, the On-Premise Col- find convenient monthly billing, and “Using our On-Premise Collabo- laboration solution combines all hardware that is available to rent on ration solution, our business cus- of the features of high-end Unified a 12-month or 36-month plan. tomers can easily and cost-effective- Communication and Collaboration Sabah Rabiah al Kuwari, Direc- ly manage and scale up their phone including Audio and Video Confer- tor PR at Ooredoo, said: “As Qatar’s services, with the convenience of encing, contact centres and fixed- organisations digitally transform, a cloud-like management and the mobile phone convergence. they need integrated communica- security of their own on-premise The On-Premise Collaboration tion and collaboration services to equipment”, al Kuwari added. also combines fixed voice line ser- optimise employee productivity. Business customers can lever- vices with private automatic branch Instead of disparate phone services age the Ooredoo Advantage, making exchange (PABX) services, such as provided by different vendors, our Ooredoo “Best for Business” with short digit dialling, assigning names On-Premise Collaboration solution its breadth and depth of talent, the to extensions, voice mail, and multi- provides an all-in-one managed tel- best fixed and mobile networks, the party conferencing. ephone service. widest portfolio of ICT services and With a pay-per-use model, On- Ooredoo’s business customers solutions, and a trusted partner for Premise Collaboration helps busi- will also receive 24/7 local support 60 years. QU-CPH thesis reveals prevalence of insomnia among QU’s students Tribune News Network “For the purpose of this study, Doha two questionnaires were used: one investigated the students’ quality of An MSc student of Clinical Pharmacy sleep and another explored behav- and Practice at Qatar University’s ioural and environmental factors College of Pharmacy (QU-CPH), Raja which could affect sleep, also known Mahamade Ali’s study has revealed as Sleep Hygiene.” that insomnia affects more than two She also explained that for the thirds of Qatar University (QU) stu- second phase of the study, pharma- dents. cists and physicians from PHCCs Poor sleep hygiene practices were were interviewed on the commonly also highly prevalent among QU followed approaches for the identifi- students and appear to contribute Raja Mahamade Ali cation and treatment of insomnia. substantially -- by four folds -- to the Healthcare professionals at the poor quality of sleep identified in this ducted under the supervision of CPH PHCC revealed that insomnia is an population, says the study. Assistant Professor Dr Monica Zolez- important health concern which of- Ali recently defended her MSc zi and was co-supervised by CPH As- ten presents a challenge to manage it thesis entitled ‘Sleep patterns among sociate Professor Dr Ahmed Awaisu. adequately. Several reasons for these university students and insomnia Raja Ali said, “University stu- challenges emerged from these in- management in primary care in Qa- dents were selected because they are terviews, including the complexity of tar: A two phase investigation’. known to be a population at risk of insomnia symptoms and its link to The study aimed to explore the having sleep disturbances, and pri- mental illness, the limited availability prevalence of insomnia among uni- mary healthcare centres (PHCCs) of pharmacological and non-phar- versity students, and assess how were chosen for being the first point macological treatments, patient atti- insomnia is being addressed and of contact with the healthcare system tudes towards insomnia and its treat- managed within Qatar’s main public for people who may be experiencing ments, and the lack of local guidelines health services. The study was con- sleeping problems. to guide insomnia management. 04 Thursday, May 7, 2020 Middle East / Africa
News Kenya seals off in brief
Chad isolates virus hotspots in capital N’Djamena due to coronavirus two main cities N’Djamena Chad’s capital N’Djamena will be isolated AFP 24 cases of the virus have been from the rest of the country Nairobi recorded. for two weeks from Friday Kenya has stopped short to stem the spread of Kenya’s health minister an- of ordering a full lockdown, coronavirus, the government nounced Wednesday that one like many of its neighbours. announced. suburb of the capital Nairobi, Observers have warned to do The central African as well as a part of the port city so would be a disaster for the nation, one of the world’s of Mombasa, will be cordoned millions of urban poor who live poorest, has recorded 117 off due to skyrocketing cases of hand to mouth in slums in the coronavirus and 10 deaths, coronavirus in those areas. capital. according to an official Cases of the virus have The country has imposed count on Tuesday. crept up slowly in Kenya, as in a dusk-to-dawn curfew and The vast majority of many other African countries, blocked movement in and out these cases -- 115 -- were however in recent days it has of Nairobi, three coastal towns, diagnosed in the capital, the become clear the virus is fast and the north-eastern county health ministry said. (AFP) spreading in several hotspots. of Mandera, as well as two Eastleigh, a suburb in Nai- refugee camps housing some Israel hits Hamas robi with a large Somali popu- 400,000 people. positions after Iranian cabinet members wearing protective masks against the coronavirus COVID-19 during a session with President Hassan Rouhani in lation, has recorded 68 cases, However while nations that Tehran on Wednesday. (AFP) while Mombasa’s Old Town has did confine their population, Gaza rocket 64 infections, out of a total 582 like Mauritius, Rwanda and Jerusalem The Israeli cases in the country. There have Uganda, are starting to ease re- army attacked military posi- been 26 deaths nationwide. strictions as new cases flatten tions of the Islamist Hamas Health Minister Mutahi out, Kenya has seen a jump in movement early Wednesday Iran warns of ‘rising Kagwe said that from Wednes- cases in recent days. after militants in the Pales- day, for the next 15 days, “there The Kenyan government tinian enclave fired a rocket shall be cessation of move- also announced that from at the Jewish state, the ment” in and out of Eastleigh Wednesday it will shoulder army said. and Mombasa’s Old Town. all the costs of quarantine, as “A rocket was fired from “Let me be clear, there will citizens have resisted taking the Gaza Strip towards Israe- trend’ as coronavirus be no movement to or out of free tests out of fear that if they li territory,” the army said in the two places from 7 pm (1600 are positive they will have to a statement. “In response, GMT) today. Within those ar- pay for their own isolation and an (army) tank targeted eas people are free to move but treatment. three Hamas military posts we encourage people to stay in Several stories of patients in the northern Gaza Strip.” cases top 100,000 their houses.” in quarantine being held as A security source in Gaza No such measures were an- they are unable to pay their confirmed three positions AFP return to work to revitalise its nounced for the informal set- bills have circulated in local had been damaged, but Tehran Iran blasts ‘stupid’ US nuclear economy since April 11 and tlement Kawangware, where media. reported no casualties. The reopened mosques in parts of Gaza rocket hit an open Iran warned of a “rising pullout, warns over arms ban the country deemed to be at field near the border, with no trend” in its coronavirus out- low risk. immediate reports of casual- break on Wednesday as it said Tehran Iran’s president said “The wise thing for the US Jahanpour also reported 78 ties or damage, a military 1,680 new infections took its Wednesday the United States is to return to the JCPOA... but new COVID-19 fatalities in the spokeswoman said. (AFP) overall caseload beyond the made a “stupid mistake” by those in charge today won’t past 24 hours for the country 100,000 mark. abandoning a nuclear deal and ever reach such wisdom,” he whose virus death toll has also Twelve wounded The Islamic republic has warned of severe consequenc- added. been creeping up since Sunday. in inferno at UAE struggled to contain the Middle es if its allies agree to extend Rouhani said the lifting of This brought to 6,418 the East’s deadliest COVID-19 out- an arms embargo. the embargo was “an insepara- total number of fatalities of- residential tower break since announcing its first The United States is wag- ble part” of the nuclear accord. ficially recorded inI ran since Abu Dhabi At least 12 cases in mid-February. ing a campaign to extend the “If it is ever reimposed... February 19, when it an- people were wounded in a Concerns were raised last ban on selling conventional they know well what severe nounced its first two deaths in massive fire that engulfed month about the threat of a weapons to Iran, which is set to consequences and what histori- the Shiite holy city of Qom. a residential tower in the “second wave” of the virus in a be progressively eased starting cal defeat awaits them if they Out of those hospitalised, United Arab Emirates, the report by parliament that criti- in October. make such a mistake.” 81,587 had recovered and were Interior Ministry said on cised the government’s slow The ban is to be lifted in Rouhani did not elaborate discharged while 2,735 were in Wednesday. response. accordance with UN Secu- on the consequences but said critical condition. Passengers walk through a disinfectant tunnel as they prepare to The fire erupted at the “We are witnessing a ris- rity Council Resolution 2231, they were detailed in a letter Experts and officials both board the commuter train service in Nairobi. (AFP) 48-storey Abbco Tower in ing trend in the past three or which blessed the landmark sent previously to the remain- in Iran and abroad have cast the city of Sharjah on Tues- four days, which is significant,” international agreement that ing parties to the deal -- Britain, doubts over the country’s COV- day night. The cause is still health ministry spokesman Ki- placed limits on Iran’s nuclear China, France, Germany and ID-19 figures, saying the actual unclear. anoush Jahanpour told a tel- programme in 2015. Russia. number of cases could be much Civil Defence teams evised news conference. US President Donald Trump Tehran has progressively higher than reported. Three rockets hit near brought the blaze under The rise was “based on our withdrew from the accord scaled back its commitments A report published by par- control after two hours, and behaviour, especially in the -- known formally as the Joint to the JCPOA in retaliation liament in mid-April said the the high-rise building was past two weeks, considering Comprehensive Plan of Action, to the US pullout and what it real death toll could be as much Baghdad airport evacuated, according to Gulf that a part of society has appar- or JCPOA -- in 2018 and began sees as European inaction to as 80 percent higher than what News. ently had a change of attitude,” reimposing sanctions on the salvage the accord. the government announced. AFP also hosts US diplomats mov- One side of the building he added. Islamic republic. Iran’s Supreme National It said the officially an- Baghdad ing in and out of the country. was almost entirely dam- The newly reported infec- “America made a very stu- Security Council secretary, nounced figures were based Baghdad’s airport has been aged, the report said. (DPA) tions brought the country’s pid mistake by abandoning this Ali Shamkhani, warned Sun- only on “patients that are hos- Three Katyusha-type rock- closed since mid-March as overall number of confirmed agreement,” his Iranian counter- day that the deal would “die pitalised with severe symp- ets early Wednesday struck a part of a nationwide lockdown Nigeria to begin cases to 101,650. part, Hassan Rouhani, said at a forever” if the embargo is toms”. military complex near Bagh- to contain the coronavirus repatriating On Saturday, Iran’s official televised cabinet meeting. extended. (AFP) It also said a “second wave” dad’s international airport pandemic. nationals stranded tally of daily infections hit its of the virus may come next win- that is used by US troops and It has coincided with a rel- lowest level since March 10, The health ministry’s Ja- movement across cities and ter, possibly without a break diplomats, Iraq’s military said, ative lull in tensions between abroad but cases have picked up again hanpour said the spike in cases unnecessary travel. due to containment measures without reporting casualties. the US and Iran after a par- Abuja Nigeria on Wednes- since then. could be due to an increase in Iran has allowed a phased taking too long. The attack was the first ticularly tense few months. day was to start repatriating time American installations in In January, Washington nationals stranded overseas Iraq have been targeted since carried out a drone strike that by coronavirus travel restric- late March, after around six killed Iranian general Qasem tions, the foreign ministry months of rocket attacks that Soleimani and top Iraqi com- said. A first batch of 265N i- killed US, UK and Iraqi troops. mander Abu Mahdi al-Muhan- gerians is due to fly back to Virus patients protest in north Nigeria It also comes hours before dis at the Baghdad airport. Lagos from Dubai aboard an Iraq’s parliament is set to vote It then began planning for Emirates flight, followed on AFP tion commissioner Alhassan Local residents said they with the fifth-highest official on a long-awaited new govern- a widespread bombing cam- Friday by 300 others from Kano Ibrahim Kwami said. watched the protests from a case rate in the country. ment, five months after the paign against pro-Iran groups London, the ministry said. “Their complaint was that distance, with the angry pa- State authorities have current cabinet resigned. in Iraq that it blamed for the An unspecified number A group of coronavirus pa- they were kept in the isolation tients “ranting” about their banned large gatherings, Iraq’s security forces said rocket attacks on its forces. of Nigerians is also expect- tients staged a protest outside centre without being adminis- plight. including religious con- in a statement that the rock- Iran, in turn, launched ed to return from New York an isolation centre in northern tered any drugs,” Kwami said. “They complained of poor gregations in mosques and ets hit near the airport around missiles at US troops stationed on Sunday. Nigeria to demand increased But he insisted the pa- feeding arrangement at the churches, and the wearing of dawn and that military units in west Iraq and has vowed to “The federal govern- medical attention and food, tients had “misunderstood facility by the health person- face masks is mandatory in found the launching pad in an oust all American forces from ment has commenced the officials and residents said on their status” and did not re- nel attending to them,” a local public. area of west of Baghdad. the Middle East. process of evacuating willing Wednesday. quire any drugs as they were resident who gave his name as Nigeria’s health system “The target was the head- The tit-for-tat attacks Nigerian nationals outside Twenty patients on Tues- asymptomatic. Abdullahi said. has suffered from years of un- quarters of the Counter- brought the two countries to the country,” the foreign day walked out of the facility Kwami said the protesters Gombe state has recorded derfunding and neglect and Terrorism Service, where the brink of war in Iraq, but minister said in a statement on the outskirt of the city of were also worried about who 98 cases of Coronavirus since experts are concerned about American troops are based,” a since late March there had late Tuesday. (AFP) Gombe and blocked a nearby would look after their families it reported the first case on that it could buckle quickly if security source told AFP. been no rocket launches and highway, regional informa- during their confinement. April 20, making it the region cases surge. The high-security complex little escalatory rhetoric. Afghan forces bust ‘IS-Haqqani’ cell blamed for deadly attacks
AFP other outside the capital. also behind a rocket attack condition of anonymity. side by side in the same trench Kabul “This joint cell of Daesh that targeted the swearing-in “They jointly plan and as the NDS says... this could and Haqqani network had car- ceremony of Afghan President carry out terrorist attacks, es- be an alarming development,” Afghanistan’s intelligence ried out major attacks in the Ashraf Ghani, the intelligence pecially in Kabul.” Atiqullah Amarkhail, a former agency said Wednesday it had capital, including an attack on agency said. Late last year, Afghan offi- Afghan army general turned busted a joint Islamic State- a Sikh temple in March,” the The members of the cell cials said IS-K had been com- security analyst told AFP. Haqqani network cell it ac- NDS said, using the Arabic ac- had also killed several Afghan pletely defeated in Nangarhar, “It may indicate that even cused of carrying out several ronym for IS. officials and fired rockets at a key eastern province where it if the Taliban one day agrees attacks, including a deadly At least 25 people were Bagram, the US military’s had first sought to establish a to reduce or end violence, the raid on a Sikh temple in Ka- killed when gunmen stormed largest base in Afghanistan, stronghold in 2015. actual violence perpetrated bul. the temple in Kabul where the NDS said. A senior security analyst by more radical groups like The National Directorate worshippers were offering Afghan officials have long said Afghanistan’s intelligence Daesh and Haqqanis may con- of Security (NDS) said in a morning prayers. accused the Haqqani net- agents have long believed that tinue.” statement that five militants The attack was claimed work, a US-designated terror The IS-Haqqani cell was also behind a rocket attack that targeted the the Haqqanis were either aid- The Taliban dismissed as were killed and eight others by the Islamic State in the group with ties to the Taliban, swearing-in ceremony of Afghan President Ashraf Ghani. ing IS-K in carrying out at- “propaganda” the NDS state- arrested when security forces Khorasan (IS-K), the Afghan of carrying out major attacks tacks or actually carrying out ment that the Taliban-affili- stormed two hideouts of the branch of IS. claimed by or blamed on IS-K. dence showing a strong link Haqqani network and IS,” a attacks in their name. ated Haqqanis were working group -- one in Kabul and the The IS-Haqqani cell was “There is undeniable evi- and cooperation between the senior security official said on “If they are now caught with IS-K. Asia / World Thursday, May 7, 2020 05
Philippines caseload tops 10,000; hundred people join clinical trial 6.8 magnitude DPA were added to the national coming days,” she said. Vergeire said that, accord- that we are starting to flatten quake strikes Manila tally of coronavirus infections, “The Japanese govern- ing to data, the Philippines the curve, but it is too early to bringing the total to 10,004. ment is providing supply for appears to have slowed down say that we have flattened the in Indonesia’s The number of COVID-19 Twenty-one additional mor- 100 patients. We already have the spread of the coronavirus curve.” Banda Sea, no cases in the Philippines has talities were recorded, push- the clearances from different since a lockdown was imposed Vergeire said experts topped 10,000, the govern- ing the death toll to 658. institutions in the country.” on the country’s most popu- stressed that the Philippines tsunami alert ment said on Wednesday, as The department was pre- Inclusion in the trial will be lous island, Luzon, in mid- needs to step up its testing it announced that 100 patients paring a protocol to choose the voluntary, Vergeire added. March. capacities to at least 15,000 AFP will join a clinical trial using patients to be included in the The Philippines is also par- “Our case-doubling time COVID-19 tests per day to de- Jakarta the anti-flu drug Avigan in trial for the drug Avigan from ticipating in solidarity trials of has slowed down from two to termine the actual state of the treating the highly contagious Japan, Health Undersecretary the World Health Organiza- three days to five days,” she outbreak in the country. A 6.8 magnitude earth- Residents wearing face masks disease. Maria Rosario Vergeire said. tion for four other medicines said. “We still need to be careful quake jolted a remote part aboard their wooden boats in sub- The Department of Health “We have the go signal to against CoOVID-19 and some “In other areas, it’s 7.5 and observe physical distanc- of eastern Indonesia late urban Manila on Wednesday. (AFP) said 320 new confirmed cases conduct the clinical trial in the vaccines. days. This is a good indication ing,” she added. Wednesday, the United States Geological Survey said, but there was no tsu- nami warning issued and no immediate reports of damage. The undersea quake struck at a depth of some Indian aviation ministry website 107 kilometres (66 miles) in the sea between Indo- nesia’s Maluku and East Timor at 22:50 local time (13:50 GMT). crashes in repatriation ‘panic’ The epicentre was about 390 kilometres AFP south of the city of Am- New Delhi bon in the archipelago’s No breach in COVID-19 Maluku province. The Indian civil aviation “We have not received ministry’s website crashed on tracking app, despite any reports of damages so Wednesday as panicked citi- far as a result of the quake. zens abroad rushed to register hacker warning: India The result of our modeling for a mass repatriation of al- also shows that the earth- most 15,000 nationals from 12 New Delhi There has been no There have been an estimated quake did not trigger any countries on planes and naval security breach in a COVID- 90 million downloads so far. potential tsunami,” said Ta- ships. 19-tracking app that the The federal Home Ministry ufan Maulana, the spokes- India banned all incom- Indian government has made on May 1 said the app was man of Indonesia’s weather ing international flights in a mandatory download for compulsory for all public and and geophysics bureau. late March as it imposed one anyone stepping out of their private sector workers. It has The bureau further of the world’s strictest virus homes to go to work, officials also been made mandatory reported that the tremors lockdowns, leaving hundreds said on Wednesday. for delivery personnel and were strongly felt by people of thousands of workers and “No personal information couriers. on nearby small islands, as students stranded abroad. of any user has been proven Delhi-based digital rights well as those in some cities Two ships were steaming to be at risk,” according to a organization Internet Freedom in Papua, the easternmost towards the Maldives to evacu- statement from the creators of Foundation has said the app province of Indonesia. ate some 1,000 Indian citizens Airport staff cleans the arrivals terminal ahead of the arrival of an evacuation flight carrying Indian citizens the app, named Aarogya Setu. runs risks of institutional- Researcher Fawwaz Ri- from Friday while another was from Gulf countries, at the Cochin International Airport in Kochi on Wednesday. (AFP) They were responding to izing mass surveillance in the fasya told AFP that he was headed for the Gulf, according concerns raised by a French absence of any robust data on the fourth floor of a ho- to the navy and the defence hacker, Robert Baptiste, protection law in India. tel in Manokwari, Papua, ministry. Notorious Indian bandit dies at 92, after stints in Bollywood, politics who goes by the name Elliot Aarogya Setu said it had when he felt the building The first of 64 flights over Alderson on Twitter and tries contacted the hacker after he swaying. the next week were due to Mumbai A notorious bandit ficial in Bhind district toldA FP. larity,” Singh said. to alert groups to potential posted: “A security issue has Meanwhile, Andika leave the United Arab Emir- who spent years rampaging Despite having 315 cases After he surrendered to problems. been found in your app. The Baskoro in Merauke, Pap- ates -- home to more than across central India’s impover- against him, including 89 police in 1972 with his gang The app launched by the privacy of 90 million Indians is ua, said that he noticed the three million Indians -- and ished badlands before trying murders, he cultivated a Robin of 140 bandits, he spent eight Indian government on April 2 at stake.” quake after he saw hanging Qatar on Thursday bound for his luck as a Bollywood actor Hood-like image among the years in jail before securing evaluates users’ risk of infec- It said the app collects lamps and water in a gal- the southern state of Kerala. and politician has died aged poor, district superintendent an early release, the Times of tion based on their medical user location and stores them lon swaying. In total 26 flights will bring 92, police said Wednesday. of police Nagendra Singh told India reported. and travel history and their on a server in a “secure, en- An AFP journalist in Indians home from the Gulf Mohar Singh, once one of AFP. Drawn to the arclights, he location. crypted, anonymised manner.” Dili, East Timor, roughly region, while others will oper- the most feared men in the “He was an old-school starred in a 1982 Bollywood The app uses GPS and Alderson indicated on Twit- 400 kilometres away, re- ate from Southeast Asia, Brit- Chambal region accused of gang leader, targeting mainly film called “Chambal ke Daku” Bluetooth services to trace a ter that he was not convinced ported feeling a slight ain and the United States, in- hundreds of murders, kidnap- businessmen and rich land- (“The Bandits of Chambal”) users’ contacts. by the response. “I will come tremor. cluding in San Francisco and pings and other crimes, died lords and distributing the loot and ran unopposed in local Aarogya is disease-free in back to you tomorrow,” he Indonesia is one of the Washington. on Tuesday, a senior police of- among the poor to win popu- elections in the 1990s. (AFP) Hindi and setu means bridge. posted. (DPA) most disaster-prone na- Indian media quoted civil tions on Earth. In 2018, a aviation minister Hardeep 7.5-magnitude quake and Puri as saying that 200,000 His ministry blamed the the flights, for details. welfare body for non-resident people who have registered ing procedure. Especially preg- a subsequent tsunami in Indians abroad had registered crashing of its website on “un- Kerala is the biggest source Keralites, told AFP that the to go to Kerala from the UAE nant women. They’re absolute- Palu on Sulawesi island for repatriation and that the precedented traffic” and urged of Indians in the Gulf. people were “desperate” and in alone,” he said. ly worried that people, even if left more than 4,300 peo- final number could be twice people to check the website of OV Mustafa, the director a “panic”. “People are worried about they are asymptomatic, might ple dead or missing. that. Air India, which is operating of Norka Roots, a government “There are about 200,000 the lack of clarity on the test- be carriers. It’s a real fear.” Top militant commander killed in Singapore’s Covid-19 cases top 20,000 Kashmir, mobile internet suspended as pandemic batters business DPA Beighpora, inspector general of Wani’s death triggered Srinagar, Kashmir police Vijay Kumar said. months of violent protests DPA product per head, according “Weapons and warlike stores against the Indian government Kuala Lumpur to an International Monetary A top militant commander was were recovered from the site.” in Kashmir. At least 90 civil- Fund ranking. It depends on killed by security forces in In- Mobile internet services ians, mostly young men, were Singapore confirmed 788 1.4 million foreign workers dia-administered Kashmir on were cut off across the Kashmir killed and thousands wounded new coronavirus cases on to help run its open economy Wednesday, police said. valley as the operation began. in clashes with police and para- Wednesday, taking the total - 320,000 of them living in Riyaz Naikoo, 35, was com- Villagers pelted stones at secu- military. to 20,198, the second-highest cramped dormitories that have mander of the Hizbul Mujahi- rity forces as soon as news of Naikoo was wanted for sev- reported number in East Asia become virus hotbeds. deen, one of the oldest militant Naikoo’s death spread, NDTV eral killings, including of po- after China. Singapore diagnosed its groups operating in the region. news channel reported. licemen and informers, a police The ministry stated that first case of COVID-19, the dis- People, wearing face masks cross a road along the Orchard Road He had a bounty of 1.2 million Naikoo succeeded Burhan source said. the “vast majority” of the new ease caused by the new corona- shopping belt in Singapore on Wednesday. (AFP) rupees on his head. Wani as commander of the He worked as a teacher be- cases “are work permit holders virus, as far back as January 23. Naikoo and an associate Hizbul Mujahideen after Wani fore he joined the Hizbul Muja- residing in foreign worker dor- The wealthy and trade- as the pandemic spread around alded the onset of a surge, with were killed in a joint operation was killed in a gunbattle with hideen and played a key role in mitories.” dependent city-state was in the world - with just 1,000 con- case numbers hitting 10,000 by the Indian Army and Kash- security forces in July 2016. getting Kashmiri youth to join Singapore has the world’s March lauded for keeping case firmed by April 1. two weeks ago and double that mir police in his native village, Wani was 22. the rebel group. fourth-highest gross domestic numbers relatively low, even However that landmark her- number by Wednesday.
Pompeo has no evidence about virus lab leak: China Bangladesh starts remdesivir AFP production for COVID-19 treatment Beijing China’s space test hits snag DPA gency Use Authorization for with capsule ‘anomaly’ Dhaka remdesivir. China hit back on Wednes- Bangladesh, as a UN Least day at US Secretary of State A cargo capsule that was part today during the return” of Bangladesh has begun the Developed Country, is allowed to Mike Pompeo over his claims of a key test in China’s space the cargo capsule, the China production process for the an- produce any patented medicine that the coronavirus originat- programme experienced an Manned Space Agency said in ti-viral drug remdesivir, which without prior permission un- ed in a lab in Wuhan, saying he “anomaly” on Wednesday a statement. is being closely watched as a der World Trade Organization “doesn’t have any” evidence. during its return trip, the space “Experts are currently ana- possible effective treatment agreements. None of the eight Washington and Beijing authority said. lysing the data,” it said without for COVID-19, pharmaceutical companies are interested in ex- have clashed repeatedly over The cargo capsule was offering details. executives said on Wednesday. porting the drug at the moment. the virus, which emerged in launched Tuesday aboard a The cargo capsule was “We have started the pro- The experimental treat- China late last year but has new type of carrier rocket along not designed to transport cess well with more than 200 ment is being studied in mul- since spiralled into a global A file photo shows workers inside the P4 laboratory in Wuhan. The with a prototype spacecraft, astronauts, only equipment. researchers engaging at our tiple ongoing international pandemic. Chinese biosafety laboratory accused by top US officials of being at the and the latter is expected to The device, developed by labs,” Abdul Muktadir, head of clinical trials, and the safety Conspiracy theories that origin of the coronavirus pandemic studies the world’s most dangerous return to Earth on Friday. China Aerospace Science and Incepta Pharmaceuticals Lim- and efficacy of remdesivir for the virus came from a max- diseases, with researchers who investigate viruses that live in bats. (AFP) The launch is a major test Industry Corporation, is an ited, said about the production the treatment of COVID-19 are imum-security virology lab of China’s ambitions to operate experimental prototype. of the United States’ Gilead not yet fully established, Gile- in Wuhan have swirled since Chinese lab. “Mr Pompeo repeatedly a permanent space station and The capsule was fitted with Sciences-developed drug in ad has cautioned. earlier this year, but were “I think this matter should spoke up but he cannot present send astronauts to the Moon. an “inflatable” heat shield. Bangladesh. Remdesivir production in brought into the mainstream be handed to scientists and any evidence. How can he? Be- But “an anomaly occurred (AFP) The drug, he hoped, will Bangladesh is new, and it will last month by US government medical professionals, and not cause he doesn’t have any,” she be available on the domestic take time to get it available in officials. politicians who lie for their said. market by the end of May as the market, said Rabbur Reza, Pompeo said on Sunday own domestic political ends,” Most scientists believe the han that sold wildlife for meat. the outbreak. the government allowed eight chief operating officer of Bex- that there was “enormous evi- said foreign ministry spokes- new virus jumped from ani- Beijing has accused the US “We urge the US to stop... companies to produce the drug imco Pharmaceuticals Ltd, dence” to show that the new woman Hua Chunying at a mals to humans, with suspi- of trying to divert attention shifting the focus to China,” after the US Food and Drug another company that was al- coronavirus originated in a regular press briefing. cion around a market in Wu- from its domestic handling of Hua said. Administration issue an Emer- lowed to produce the drug. 06 Thursday, May 7, 2020
Established September 3, 2006 hamad bin suhaim al thani chairman Opinion adel ali bin ali managing director dr hassan mohammed al ansari editor-in-chief
Way To Cope With The N95 Mask Shortage Myanmar’s 2020 Elections: Prolonged use and reuse of N95 mask can be safe if decontaminated the proper way What Does The Future Hold? F pre-pandemic Americans didn’t know al amounts of the chemical that the wearer what N95 masks were, they certainly could breathe in via off-gassing, 3M said If and when polls are held despite the pandemic, it will be a landmark development Ido now. Like gowns, face shields and in an April technical bulletin. gloves, they are a key piece of personal Health care workers are putting them- in helping consolidate fragile electoral democracy in the Southeast Asian state protective equipment that safeguards selves at risk in hospitals, nursing homes health care workers in the fight against and testing sites where sick COVID-19 COVID-19. patients are concentrated. They deserve Prashanth Parameswaran In short supply, N95 masks have the best armour we can give them. Trbune News Service become a topic of debate on reuse: Can Is there an alternative cleaning solu- hospitals and health care facilities safely tion? Yes, and its FDA-approved method- ATER this year, Myanmar is clean them to prolong their use, even for ology is already in use. In the parking lot scheduled to hold its third general multiple shifts? of a medical device supplier in Wauke- election in six decades in a land- Northfield, Illinois-based Medline In- gan, an Ohio biochemical research firm, mark development for the coun- dustries has pitched to the White House Battelle, has been using vaporised hy- try’s democratic transition. While a way to decontaminate N95 masks. That drogen peroxide to clean up to 80,000 detailsL remain unclear amid the global would be laudable, if it weren’t for the masks a day for reuse by health care per- coronavirus pandemic, as of now the chemical Medline wants to use to clean sonnel. The FDA backed usage of the pro- Southeast Asian state is set to hold its the masks: ethylene oxide, a known car- cess within the past month. expected polls as the ruling party faces cinogen, the Chicago Tribune’s Michael Medline is looking for the same emer- manifold challenges that could pose Hawthorne reports. Researchers say the gency approval that the FDA gave Bat- significant risks for the future trajec- compound can damage the brain, and telle. Yes, N95 masks are in short supply, tory of reform and freedom. can raise the risk of leukemia, breast and decontaminating masks to keep doc- While Myanmar had been under the cancer and lymphomas at extremely low tors, nurses and other health care work- rule of the military, known as the Tat- levels of exposure. ers properly equipped makes sense. But madaw, for a half-century, an opening Medline uses ethylene oxide to steri- a remedy that could put them at risk is in the 2010s saw subsequent political lise medical instruments at its plant in no remedy. inroads made that turned the country Waukegan, Illinois. That plant recently Richard Peltier, a health sciences pro- into a rare story of hope for democra- underwent an overhaul to reduce emis- fessor at the University of Massachusetts cy and freedom in Southeast Asia. The sions of the compound into surrounding Amherst, told Hawthorne, “If I were faced changes culminated in the assumption neighbourhoods. with a choice in wearing a mask that just of power by the long-time opposition The Food and Drug Administration came out of an (ethylene oxide) steriliser National League for Democracy (NLD), ture, and foreign investment, in part NLD’s governance challenges, but it can would have to approve use of ethylene ox- or a surgical mask that doesn’t meet N95 led by democracy icon Aung San Suu exacerbated by the aforementioned also reinforce the case for continuity ide to decontaminate N95 masks. Here’s standards, I’d take the surgical mask.” Kyi, following a landslide win in free na- stalled efforts at national reconcilia- and political stability and take the focus why the agency should say no: The Centers It’s a fair bet that most health tional elections held in November 2015. tion. Though Myanmar itself has thus away from the party’s own problems, for Disease Control and Prevention, the care workers would make the same Nearly five years on, while Suu Kyi far not been majorly affected by COV- thereby cementing its expected return Occupational Safety and Health Adminis- choice. So to the FDA: Say no to Med- and the NLD have undertaken reforms ID-19 relative to the rest of Southeast to power. tration and 3M, a leading maker of masks, line’s request for emergency approval. in some areas, they have not lived up Asia, the virus has nonetheless further Even so, the realisation of an expect- have all said it’s a bad idea. Masks cleaned There are safer alternatives to clean and to the high expectations that existed dimmed economic prospects in the ed NLD election win, albeit one smaller with ethylene oxide could still have residu- reuse N95 masks. when they took office. Politically, at near term, with the NLD as of now set than the landslide that the party had home, Suu Kyi’s relationship with eth- to enter into the 2020 elections with the recorded back in 2015, will not change (Tribune News Service) nic groups has worsened over the years lowest growth rates since the country’s the sobering reality of the NLD’s tough as hopes for national reconciliation and opening began. road ahead and the prospects for My- decentralisation have dimmed, and her The confluence of these political, anmar’s democracy and reform mov- ties with the military – which contin- security, and economic challenges rein- ing forward. While a second term for Other Views ues to exercise significant independent force the reality that the NLD will enter the NLD would keep the prospects for influence – remain strained. Abroad, into 2020 elections amid a much more reform intact, the dizzying array of is- though Myanmar has reinforced its for- somber atmosphere than the hope dis- sues it will have to deal with – from eign alignments, the balance of those played in the historic 2015 polls that constitutional reform to managing eth- alignments continues to be hampered brought it to power. The NLD is fac- nic conflict – remains daunting. And as Stars And Scientists Call For World by the legacy of the Rohingya crisis, ing waning support in certain ethnic the years progress, other variables, in- which soured ties with some Western and urban areas of the country. More cluding discontent among smaller eth- countries including the United States broadly, even though the elections nic parties, maneuvering by elements Not To ‘Go Back To Normal’ and reinforced Myanmar’s continued could help consolidate the country’s within the military to maintain or even dependence on China. fragile electoral democracy, these un- increase their political influence, and HOST of celebrities and scientists includ- “Adjustments are not enough. The prob- Security-wise, the country’s ongoing derlying challenges have also height- the NLD’s succession dynamics beyond ing Madonna, Robert de Niro and a clutch lem is systemic,” the letter added. ethnic conflicts, which have plagued it ened anxieties about polls themselves, Suu Kyi herself, mean that the ruling Aof Nobel Prize winners have called for rad- “The ongoing ecological catastrophe is since independence in 1948, earning including whether or not they will be party’s continued ability to govern My- ical change in the world rather than “a return a meta-crisis. Unlike a pandemic... a global the title of the world’s longest-running held on time, will proceed in a free and anmar may be far from assured. to normal” after the coronavirus lockdowns. ecological collapse will have immeasurable civil war, have shown few signs of abat- fair manner, and will be held peacefully This is not to say that Myanmar’s Hollywood stars Cate Blanchett, Jane consequences,” it said. ing. Despite initial hopes for peace and in the country, especially in conflict- upcoming polls are unimportant: in- Fonda, Marion Cotillard and Monica Bel- The 200 signatories said it was time talk of a temporary ceasefire amid COV- ridden areas. deed, if and when they are held and lucci also added their names to the open for leaders “to leave behind the unsus- ID-19, a series of structural challenges To be sure, despite these challenges, whatever their limits, competitive elec- letter published in the French daily Le tainable logic that still prevails and to un- – including lingering civil-military ten- it is far from doom and gloom for the tions will be a landmark development Monde pleading for an end to unbridled dertake a profound overhaul of our goals, sions, fierce divisions among its various NLD heading into polls expected later in helping consolidate fragile electoral consumerism and a “radical transforma- values, and economies. ethnic groups, and the influence of in- this year. While the ruling party has had democracy in the Southeast Asian state. tion” of economies to help save the planet. “The pursuit of consumerism and an surgent groups, including the new Ara- a rocky road during its term in office But a broader, future-oriented perspec- “We believe it is unthinkable to ‘go back obsession with productivity have led us to kan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) and has at times admitted as much, for tive must be kept in mind even as the to normal’,” said the letter which was also deny the value of life itself: that of plants, – suggest that there is little chance of now, the fact is that the 2020 elections focus is on the dynamics and then the signed by Nobel laureates for medicine, that of animals, and that of a great num- things truly changing for the better un- still remain the NLD’s to lose, with Suu results of Myanmar’s upcoming elec- chemistry and physics as well as peace ber of human beings,” the short letter til the dust settles after 2020 polls. Kyi herself continuing to retain signifi- tions in the coming months. Otherwise, prize winner Muhammad Yunus. added. “Pollution, climate change, and Economically, while the NLD has cant popularity in most of Myanmar and the window of hope for change in the They said the pandemic was a tragedy the destruction of our remaining natural made some efforts to encourage busi- little appetite for the military to return country that we saw open in the early but it was a chance for humanity to “exam- zones has brought the world to a break- nesses, this has largely been an area of to power. It is also important to keep in 2010s could soon begin closing and the ine what is essential”. ing point.” missed opportunity. Major issues re- mind that the focus on COVID-19 can country’s trajectory could take a turn main in areas such as jobs, infrastruc- cut both ways: It can exacerbate the for the worse. (Agence France-Presse ) Warren Buffett Shared A Very Reassuring Message For Tough Times At this time when people need wisdom and reassurance, the business tycoon offers an example for business leaders to follow
Bill Murphy Jr business leader to follow. “The range, the probabilities, or possi- nise that people are often driven by emo- pany or as leader, or that you’ve seen else- Tribune News Service The meeting ran more than four hours, bilities, and on the economic side are still tions even in the best of times. Right now, where (without seeming Pollyannish), do and the full transcript runs more than extraordinarily wide,” Buffett said. “We do there’s a lot of fear, a lot of anxiety, and so -- it allows you to ground your optimism S a business leader, you’re being asked 35,000 words. not know exactly what happens when you a lot of anger. You hope to help them get in solid history. right now to do something that can If you wanted to pick out the most voluntarily shut down a substantial por- past that. They take the long view. This last Aseem almost impossible: offer reassur- important words from Buffett’s remarks, tion of your society.” They’re rooted in history. I once section is the payoff, but it only works be- ing messages in the midst of an unprec- however, I think you can make a good case Reassurance depends on trustworthi- analysed all of Warren Buffett’s share- cause of what comes before. edented crisis. that it’s a key passage that starts early--at ness. Thus, any honest message to your holder letters, and found that the num- “We haven’t really faced anything Warren Buffett just gave a masterclass about the 11th minute. stakeholders right now has to start with ber-1 most-repeated word is simply, that quite resembles this problem,” Buf- on how to do exactly that. There are four parts to this two-min- the acknowledgment that we just don’t “will” (as in “this will happen”). But here, fett said,” but we’ve faced tougher prob- The scene was the annual Berkshire ute passage. I’ll quote from each part and know a lot of things. Buffett’s words work because he roots lems. The American miracle, the Ameri- Hathaway shareholders’ meeting on Sat- show how they work together, below. They acknowledge the emo- them the past. can magic has always prevailed, and it urday. Every year around this time, people But, know that it all leads up to this tions. People are afraid right now. “I would like to talk to you about the will do so again.” flock to Nebraska to hear from Buffett, the reassuring conclusion: “[W]e’ve faced Maybe not Buffett; for one thing he’s economic future of the country,” he con- On their own, these words could seem so-called ‘Oracle of Omaha’. tougher problems. The American miracle, sometimes attributed his success to be- tinues, “because I remain convinced -- I like a platitude. But in the context of eve- Thanks to COVID-19, this year’s meet- the American magic, has always prevailed, ing aggressive when other people are was convinced of this in World War II. I rything else Buffett does to set them up, ing was virtual-only. Buffett and one of his and it will do so again.” Here’s why I think afraid, and vice-versa. But he acknowl- was convinced of it during the Cuban mis- they’re reassuring. company’s two vice-chairmen appeared on Buffett’s remarks are worth emulating edges, the sidelining a huge portion of sile crisis, 9/11, the financial crisis -- that His assurance takes the long view, be- stage (without an audience). when you have to offer similar reassur- the workforce has meant “creating a nothing can basically stop America.” cause paradoxically, the broader your ho- There were surprises for sure, includ- ances to your team. huge amount of anxiety, and changing In a separate passage -- too long to rizon right now, the more confident and ing a question for Buffett from shareholder They acknowledge the uncertain- people’s psyches, and causing them to quote here -- Buffett gives a lengthy sort of reassuring you can be in your predictions. and actor Bill Murray (posed remotely). ties. Buffett starts out here by admitting somewhat lose their bearings in many “History of the United States According to That’s your goal, too: to reassure your But, at this time when people need wisdom upfront that these are very uncertain times, cases, understandably.” Warren Buffett.” stakeholders, and keep them on board. I and reassurance like no other, I think Buf- and despite his reputation as the “Oracle of In dealing with employees, customers, As a takeaway, if you can talk about think you could do a lot worse than try to fett offered an excellent example for any Omaha,” nobody can predict the future. and other stakeholders, it’s key to recog- past challenges you’ve overcome as a com- use Buffett’s remarks as a model.
THE VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THE OPINION AND ANALYSIS PAGES ARE THE AUTHORS’ OWN. QATAR TRIBUNE BEARS NO RESPONSIBILITY. Europe / Americas Thursday, May 7, 2020 07 Spain lawmakers extend state of Russia reaches new coronavirus emergency AFP Madrid milestone as cases top 165,000 Spain’s parliament on Wednesday voted to extend AFP the country’s state of emer- Moscow gency, allowing stringent cor- Putin’s approval rating among onavirus lockdown measures Russia recorded more than to remain in place for at least 10,000 new coronavirus cases Russians drops to all-time low two more weeks. for the fourth day in a row on MOSCOW: The percentage nated. Russia’s oil-dependent The government imposed Wednesday, surpassing Ger- of Russians who approve of economy has also suffered a nation-wide lockdown near- many to become the country President Vladimir Putin’s amid a global economic slow- ly eight weeks ago to curb the with the sixth-highest number leadership has fallen to an down caused by the pandemic, outbreak, which has killed of confirmed infections. all-time low of 59 per cent, the with reduced trade pushing more than 25,000 people and Russia has emerged as a country’s largest independent down oil prices to historic lows. infected over 220,000 in the new hotspot for the virus and pollster, Levada Centre, said There is rising discontent country -- one of the hardest in recent days has been re- on Wednesday. among Russians who have hit in the world. cording the highest number of Putin remains popular “not received the expected Spanish Prime Minister new infections in Europe. among groups who have help amid the growing econom- Pedro Sanchez warned that Health officials on “limited ability to change their ic crisis,” the pollster said. abruptly ending the strict Wednesday reported 10,559 lives for the better,” such as Putin’s spokesman, Dmitry lockdown would be “unforgiv- new cases over the last 24 the elderly and certain rural Peskov, dismissed the poll- able”, ahead of a parliamenta- hours, bringing the total num- populations, the pollster said in ster’s assessment, saying that ry vote Wednesday to further ber of confirmed infections to a statement. other surveys have provided extend the state of emergency. 165,929, with 1,537 deaths. Only 12 per cent of young contradictory results. “Ignoring the risk posed The increase took Russia adults, aged 18 to 24, approve “We have repeatedly said by the epidemic and lifting the to fifth place in Europe, be- of Putin’s work, the pollster that they use different meth- state of emergency very quick- hind Spain, Italy, Britain and said. ods. We are not inclined to ly would be absolutely wrong, France. The poll was conducted completely trust the results of a total, unforgivable error,” he The number of infections late last month as Russia’s these surveys,” Peskov said said. in Russia has been rising by reported coronavirus caseload in comments carried by the Despite efforts by his right- more than 10,000 a day since surpassed that of neighbouring Russian news agency Interfax. wing opponents to block the Sunday, in contrast to coun- A medical staff gets out from a tent of a testing point for COVID-19 in central Moscow recently. (AFP) China, where the virus origi- (DPA) move, parliament approved tries in western Europe who the extension by 178 votes in are taking steps to ease lock- favour to 75 votes against, with down measures after their Moscow to pull out military medics from Italy as Russia’s cases rise not expected to take part. Wednesday as saying the gov- 97 abstentions. rates of new cases and deaths MOSCOW: Russia will on Thurs- Russian President in a statement on Wednesday. The government has an- ernment “does not want to It was the fourth time the dropped. day begin pulling out military Vladimir Putin touted the mis- “Tomorrow we will begin the nounced a number of meas- spend much” of the fund. measure had been approved, Despite the sharp rise, medical personnel who have sion as important for the Rus- pull-out of radiation, chemical ures to buttress the economy “It would not be right to meaning the restrictions will Russia’s fatality rate has re- assisted in Italy’s coronavirus- sian personnel to gain experi- and biological protection units and businesses but has been max it out in two years,” Silu- now remain in place until mained low in comparison to stricken Lombardy region, as ence treating the disease. The from Italy,” Russian Defence accused of not doing enough anov said. May 23 as Spain slowly moves countries with similar levels of Russia’s caseload continues to United States has criticized the Minister Sergei Shoigu said to support ordinary Russians Putin’s approval rating has through a staged rollback of infections. rise, state media reported. presence of Russian military in comments carried by state in the face of what is likely to dropped to a historic low since the lockdown. Officials credit quick Russia had sent about 100 forces in Italy, a NATO member news agency TASS. be a long and difficult econom- the start of the crisis, accord- A state of emergency was moves to close the country’s military medical experts and state. Russia’s identified coro- ic downturn. ing to independent pollster first declared on March 14 in borders, as well as widespread other staff to the north-west The Russian personnel as- navirus caseload surpassed Some economists have Levada, which said Wednes- Spain, allowing the govern- testing and tracking of infec- Lombardy region to help care sisted in more than 90 locali- 165,000 on Wednesday, mak- said Moscow should be tap- day it had fallen to 59 percent ment to roll out confinement tions, but critics have cast for coronavirus patients and ties in the Lombardy region, the ing it the world’s fifth largest ping its national wealth fund -- in April from 63 percent in measures for its nearly 47 mil- doubt on the numbers and disinfect medical facilities. Russian Defence Ministry said nationwide outbreak. (DPA) which has accumulated some March. lion citizens. accused authorities of under- $150 billion -- to provide more Moscow, which has The country has only re- reporting deaths. said it will be lifted or extend- was set to chair a government Prime Minister Mikhail support. emerged as the epicentre of cently started ease some re- A non-working quarantine ed depending on the extent of meeting to discuss a gradual Mishustin, who has tested But Finance Minister An- the pandemic in Russia, has strictions, allowing children period is in place in Russia un- outbreaks in different regions. withdrawal from lockdown positive for the virus and is ton Siluanov was quoted in recorded 85,973 cases and 866 outdoors and adults to leave til May 11 and authorities have President Vladimir Putin later on Wednesday. undergoing treatment, was business daily Vedomosti on deaths. the house to exercise.
News in brief UK could start easing virus lockdown next week: PM Belgium to reopen AFP try in Europe, with more than than 6,000, but added that and he would set out the next Wednesday: “It would be an shops under social London 32,000 deaths related to COV- there had been a “palpable im- The UK health ministry says steps on Sunday. economic disaster for this distancing May 11 ID-19 -- behind only the United provement” in the last few days. 29,427 people with corona- “We’ll want if we possibly country if we were to pursue a British Prime Minister Bo- States in the global rankings. The wider death rate is virus have died so far, can to get going with some of relaxation of these measures BRUSSELS: Belgium retail- ris Johnson said on Wednes- Johnson said that “every coming down, six weeks after although broader official these measures on Monday. I now in such a way as to trigger ers closed by the corona- day he could begin to ease a death is a tragedy”, calling the the government imposed stay- data puts the number above think it would be a good thing a second spike.” virus epidemic will reopen nationwide coronavirus lock- statistics “appalling”, but said at-home orders to stem the rate 32,000 -- including 107 if people had an idea of what is It was the first time John- to shoppers from Monday down next week, but warned he there was not yet enough data of infection, and the lockdown coming,” he said. son had appeared at his weekly under strict social distanc- would do nothing that would to make international com- measures are up for review on health care workers and 29 However, the government prime minister’s question time ing rules, Prime Minister risk a new surge of cases. parisons. Thursday. care staff has previously stressed that (PMQs) in the House of Com- Sophie Wilmes said. He was speaking the day In particular, he said he “bit- Speaking in parliament for measures would only be lifted mons since March 25 -- two Customers will be after Britain overtook Italy to terly regrets” the deaths in care the first time since he himself virus, Johnson said the govern- gradually. days later he announced he had advised to remain apart become the worst-hit coun- homes, which stand at more was hospitalised with corona- ment would review the data Johnson repeated on tested positive for coronavirus. and to wear masks when the stores open on May 11 but, in their private lives, Belgians will be allowed to enjoy a little more social life Trump backtracks on scrapping of White House coronavirus task force from Sunday. (AFP) AFP More than 15,000 Washington US demands WHO invite Taiwan to meeting US delays Hong Kong report that could upset China COVID-19 deaths in Latin America & President Donald Trump WASHINGTON: The United States on Wednesday urged the WASHINGTON: Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday the Caribbean on Wednesday appeared to World Health Organization to defy Chinese pressure and invite postponed a report on whether China is respecting the au- backtrack on plans announced Taiwan to its annual meeting, which will discuss the coronavi- tonomy of restive Hong Kong as required under a new law that MONTEVIDEO: More than the previous day to shut down rus pandemic. infuriated Beijing. 15,000 people have been the task force advising him on The United States itself has yet to confirm its participation Pompeo, who did not announce a new date, said the delay killed by the novel coronavi- the coronavirus pandemic. in the May 18-19 talks of the World Health Assembly, which was due to China’s plans to convene its top legislature on May rus in Latin America and the The White House’s earlier comes after President Donald Trump vowed to slash funding 22 -- a time when Beijing is especially sensitive about prevent- Caribbean as of 0230 GMT suggestion that the high-level President Donald Trump for the UN body. (AFP) ing dissent. (AFP) Wednesday, according to an team could close around the AFP tally based on official start of June was Trump’s lat- ful that it “will continue on Vice President Mike Pence, has spearheaded the complex weeks frantically trying to help gave daily press conferences reports. est signal that he thinks it’s indefinitely with its focus on who heads the task force, said response to the fast-spreading overwhelmed hospitals. meant to inform the nation Across the region more time to move on from the SAFETY & OPENING UP OUR on Tuesday he was “starting to virus, which has already killed The task force also drew on on the latest status of the pan- than 282,000 COVID-19 health crisis and reopen the COUNTRY AGAIN.” The pres- look at the Memorial Day win- more than 70,000 Americans. medical experts to formulate demic. But they were often cases have been officially economy. ident, however, said that he dow, early June window” for The group coordinates be- national recommendations on overtaken by Trump’s own reported. But in a series of tweets on could “add or subtract people” shutting it down. That holiday tween medical institutes, po- social distancing that led to the freewheeling question-and- Topping the death toll Wednesday, he said the task to the group, which suggested falls on May 25. litical staff and state governors, economic shutdown. answer sessions and ended list is Brazil, with 7,921 fa- force had been so success- the situation remained fluid. The coronavirus task force some of whom have spent Members of the task force more than a week ago. talities and 114,715 cases; followed by Mexico with 2,271 fatalities and Ecuador with 1,569 deaths. Experts believe that the pandemic Social distancing still necessary will peak in Latin America in French waistlines expand under the coming days. (AFP) for Germany to fight virus: Merkel coronavirus lockdown: Poll Texas woman DPA call on Wednesday with state jailed over refusal Berlin leaders on how to proceed AFP On average, the French their male counterparts on to close hair salon against COVID-19. Without Paris gained 2.5 kilogrammes (5.5 average -- 2.3 kilogrammes vs Despite Germany’s success everyone’s participation, the pounds) each due to the im- 2.7 kilogrammes, said the poll WASHINGTON: A woman in in slowing the spread of the measures would not be effec- French women don’t get posed sedentary lifestyle and a conducted among a nation- Dallas, Texas, was sen- coronavirus, social distanc- tive, Merkel said. “Every bit of fat, according to one bestsell- steep rise in a practice gener- ally-representative sample tenced to seven days in jail ing will remain necessary freedom that is possible must ing book. But the nation which ally frowned upon in France: of 3,045 people aged 18 and after she refused to comply until June 5, German Chan- be used responsibly by each likes to look after its figure has snacking between meals. older. with court orders to shutter cellor Angela Merkel said on and every person under the piled on the pounds during the With more time on their Unemployed people and her hair salon, in line with Wednesday. “We can afford a circumstances of the virus.” coronavirus lockdown, a sur- hands given the lack of a daily married couples with children the state’s lockdown orders. bit of courage, but we have to The daily number of new vey showed on Wednesday. commute, 42 percent of re- were more affected by the During a court hearing remain careful,” Merkel said. infections has fallen below More than half of French spondents reported that pre- broadening trend. on Tuesday, Shelly Luther, Keeping personal contact 1,000 in Germany, Merkel people, 57 percent in total, got dinner cocktail snacks have The poll also found that owner of Salon A La Mode, to a minimum is important said, calling the numbers were fatter since confinement be- become a more of a feature in 42 percent of couples argued was told she could avoid in preventing infections from German Chancellor Angela Merkel “very pleasing.” But she noted gan on March 17, according to their daily routine. about cooking -- hardly sur- jail time if she apologised, spreading quickly and over- that while the first phase of an Ifop poll, with many work- Women were more likely prising given that 71 percent admitted she was acting loading the health-care sys- demic remains positive not- the pandemic is behind us, ing from home and some not to put on weight (58 percent of women living with a partner selfishly and shuttered her tem, Merkel said. withstanding the initial steps there is a long way to go be- at all, and outdoors exercise compared to 56 percent of said they tasked with prepar- business. (AFP) Germany’s progress in taken to ease the restrictions, fore the battle with the virus strictly limited. men), but gained less than ing the majority of meals. fighting the coronavirus pan- Merkel said after a conference is over. GM Q1 profits dive 86%, aims to reopen US plants page 10
Thursday, may 7, 2020
23,897.21 8,758.90 23,897.21 1,685.38 +14.12 pts -40.83 pts +14.12 pts Gold -1.20% EU faces worst recession Dow QE sensex followed by patchy recovery page 9 Price percentage Price percentage 15.07 Brent 29.19 -5.75% WTI 23.47 -4.44% Silver -0.26% Thales Group signs deal to set up QP enters into three exploration Digital Competence Centre in QFZ blocks in Mexico
Centre to support projects related to security of sports facilities, counter-UAV and airport security Tribune News Network demonstrate our commitment Doha to achieving our international Tribune News Network growth strategy, with Latin Doha Qatar Petroleum (QP) en- America as a core area in our tered into three farm-in agree- international portfolio.” Qatar Free Zones Authority ments to acquire about 30 Kaabi said, “We look for- (QFZA) and Thales Group on percent of Total’s participating ward to collaborating further Wednesday signed a coopera- interest in blocks 15, 33, and with Total, our other partners tion agreement to establish a 34 located in the Campeche in these blocks, and the gov- Digital Competence Centre in Basin, offshore Mexico. ernment of Mexico. I would Qatar Free Zones (QFZ). Each of the farm-in agree- like to take this opportunity to Minister of State and ments is subject to customary thank the Mexican authorities QFZA Chairman HE Ahmad regulatory and other approv- and our partners for their con- bin Mohamed al Sayed and als by Total’s existing partners tinued support.” Thales Group Chairman and and the government of Mexico. The three offshore blocks CEO Patrice Caine signed Commenting on this oc- are situated in the Campeche the agreement during a vir- casion, Minister of State for basin and within 30 to 90 kilo- tual signing ceremony held in Energy Affairs and Qatar Pe- meters of the giant Cantarell Doha and Paris. troleum President and CEO and KMZ oil fields. The total The Centre will be a hub HE Saad Sherida al Kaabi area covered by the blocks is for software development and said, “We are pleased to sign approximately 2,300 square facilitate large-scale projects these agreements, which will kilometers, with water depths including events and security further expand Qatar Petrole- ranging from about 10 meters solutions, playing a key role um’s footprint in Mexico, and to 1,100 meters. in Qatar Free Zones’ growing technology ecosystem. In the short term, this includes pro- viding development support for large applications such as FAN ID, to manage spectator flows and access during large Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al Thani witnesses signing of agreement between QFZA Chair- sporting events. man HE Ahmad bin Mohamed al Sayed and Thales Group Chairman and CEO Patrice Caine during a virtual ceremony held in Doha and Paris. Over the longer term, QFZA and Thales expect the QFZA chairman said, “We region in Doha, based in Qa- cal competencies in digital the State of Qatar by creating Centre to support projects in look forward to working with tar Free Zones, as well as our and innovate for the future of highly skilled jobs and estab- areas including counter-UAV, Thales, already a key player in existing cooperation with Mi- the country’s industrial eco- lishing a hub for innovation in airport security and opera- Qatar Free Zones, to set up this crosoft. These agreements are system. We are honoured to Qatar.” tions optimisation, large event hub for innovation and techno- key pillars in our strategy to launch this strategic collabo- Since it started its opera- security, mobility and experi- logical exploration. The centre localise agreements and inter- ration with Qatar Free Zones tions in 2019, Qatar Free Zones ence solutions. will be able to support a very national centres and to further in order to provide leading has approved projects worth a Thales and QFZA will also exciting range of projects, and develop our leading technology technological support as well total of more than $1 billion investigate the opportunity provide leading technological ecosystem, for the benefit of as groundbreaking solutions from a wide range of leading to create a start-up incubator support for other companies in Qatar and all our investors.” in different areas including local and global companies fo- and research partnerships to Qatar Free Zones, and across Thales chairman said, “In- large events security, coun- cused on the new economy, in- grow a local and international the country. Today’s agree- novation and digital trans- ter-UAV, airport security, ternet of things, sustainability, ecosystem and explore in the ment builds on the strategic formation are at the heart of operations optimisation, and IT, big data, communications, future the development of oth- collaboration agreement we Thales’ strategy. Our vision is mobility. Thales is proud to transport, logistics, medical er activities in Thales’ areas of signed recently with Google aligned with Qatar National be contributing further to the services, aviation, cybersecu- expertise. Cloud to launch a new Cloud Vision 2030 to develop lo- growth and expansion plans of rity, and agritech. QNB announces completion of 5-year $1 bn bond issuance Oil, stocks surge as coronavirus lockdowns ease QNA sification of funding in terms Doha of type, tenor, and geography. AFP Brent gained 0.45 percent to tions, with US Crude falling mies start shuddering back to had passed and as countries The Reg S issue attracted Singapore $31.11 a barrel, reversing early into negative territory for the life. begin to slowly open up from QNB Group on Wednes- strong interest from investors losses, having surged 14 per- first time. The rally has also been lockdown. day announced the success- globally and was arranged by Oil prices on Wednesday cent above $30 on Tuesday for But they have started to supported by a deal agreed be- Hong Kong rose 0.7 per- ful completion of a five-year Barclays Bank, Credit Agri- built on the previous day’s the first time since mid-April. rally which is evident from tween top producers to reduce cent, Seoul gained 0.8 percent bond issuance under its Me- cole, ING, Mizuho, QNB Capi- surge, boosted by signs of eas- US marker West Texas In- the fact that WTI has doubled output by almost 10 million and Singapore put on 0.9 per- dium Term Note (EMTN) tal and Standard Chartered ing in the coronavirus that is termediate climbed 1.1 percent since last Tuesday as govern- barrels a day, which came into cent. There were also gains in programme and listed on the Bank as “Joint Lead Manag- allowing some countries to be- to $24.18 a barrel, after rising ments from the Pacific to Eu- effect on May 1. Taipei, Jakarta and Welling- London Stock Exchange. ers”. gin opening their economies, 20 percent the previous day. rope and some US states re- Meanwhile, most equities ton, though Sydney dropped Under this programme, a This success confirms the though traders are keeping an Oil markets were battered port lower new infection rates rose again on Wednesday as one percent. $1.0 billion tranche was issued trust of international investors eye on brewing China-US ten- in April as the virus strangled and deaths, and begin easing investors grew increasingly, US stocks pushed higher at on May 5, 2020. The issuance in QNB Group’s strategy and sions. demand owing to business tough lockdowns from Europe but cautiously, hopeful that the open, with the Dow rising was part of QNB Group’s on- the strength of its financial po- International benchmark closures and travel restric- to Asia ease curbs and econo- the worst of the coronavirus 0.4 percent. going strategy to ensure diver- sition.
UDC receives international safety award for The Pearl-Qatar
es to monitoring and regulating Othman: This is a major achievement for UDC work environments in addition to and The Pearl-Qatar community as it demon- promoting a culture of account- ability to mitigate exposure to strates our true dedication to international risks. health and safety standards As such, more than 400 safe- ty, fire life safety inspections, au- dit, and training were conducted Tribune News Network onstrated commitment to oc- in 2019, with zero lost time injury Doha cupational health, safety, and cases recorded for over 8,000 wellbeing where more than 500 employees. United Development Company organisations of all sizes and UDC is a leading Qatari pub- (UDC), a leading Qatari public sectors in more than 50 coun- lic shareholding company with a shareholding company and mas- tries worldwide, were awarded mission to identify and invest in ter developer of The Pearl-Qatar for their commitment to In- long-term projects contributing and Gewan Island, has received ternational Safety standards, to Qatar’s growth and providing the International Safety Award including businesses from Eu- good shareholder value. 2020 in Merit category by the rope, UK, Asia, Africa, and the Established in 1999, the Com- British Safety Council. Middle East. pany was first listed on the Qatar The award is in recognition Commenting on this award, UDC President and CEO Ibrahim Jas- More than 400 safety, fire life safety inspections, audit, and training were conduct- Exchange in June of 2003. UDC of UDC’s commitment to keeping UDC President and CEO Ibra- sim al Othman ed in 2019, with zero lost time injury cases recorded for over 8,000 employees. activities cover a multitude of vi- its community at The Pearl-Qatar him Jassim al Othman said, “This tal investment sectors including including workers and workplac- is a major achievement for UDC national health and safety stand- velop, in line with Qatar National bers.” real estate development, property es, healthy and safe. and The Pearl-Qatar community ards and to improving the quality Vision 2030’s development pil- UDC maintains the highest management, infrastructure and This award recognises or- in particular as it demonstrates of life and standard of living for lar to provide a healthy and safe standard of health and safety by utilities, maritime & hospitality- ganisations that have dem- UDC’s true dedication to inter- people in the communities we de- environment for all society mem- applying core strategic approach- related businesses. 10 Thursday, May 7, 2020 Economy & Business QAC introduces extended warranty for FUSO vehicles in Qatar
Tribune news network those challenges and accom- Doha plish mutual interest”. CEO of Mitsubishi-Fu- Qatar Automobiles Compa- so, Hartmut Schick, further ny (QAC), the authorised dis- commented, “Our customers tributor of Mitsubishi Fuso are working tirelessly. We Truck & Bus Corporation in want to give them our fullest Qatar, has launched extend- support”. ed warranty to its customers Prioritizing the safety, in Qatar to support them and health and wellbeing of its their services to society. customers, business partners The extension is part of a and employees, FUSO has FUSO worldwide assistance rolled out this program to as- programme designed to help sist customers in tackling the meet the challenges imposed increased demands on trans- by the current global situa- port, supply, delivery and tion which has resulted in ex- emergency support, which tremely trying times for busi- are paramount to communi- nesses and individuals alike. ties and the vital services that The scope of the extended safeguard society’s well-be- warranty includes any FUSO Additional two-month coverage for FUSO products with expiring warranties extension to be offered as part of worldwide programme to support FUSO customers and their services to society. ing. Meanwhile, FUSO con- truck, bus or engine with a tinues to ensure the safety of warranty expiring between months of warranty coverage. biles Company, said: “Qatar on customer value proposi- for FUSO vehicles in Qatar to commitment to support our customers and employees at March 15 to May 15, 2020, is Hesham al Sahn, General Automobiles Company con- tion and are pleased to intro- support customers during the community with all means service locations that remain now valid for an additional two Manager of Qatar Automo- tinues to raise the benchmark duce the extended warranty pandemic. We reaffirm our so we can together overcome open. India’s services EU faces worst recession sector plunges after virus lockdown followed by patchy recovery AFP A decline in manufac- Mumbai turing meant that the Com- posite PMI also plunged to EU GDP will contract 7.7% in a downturn of ‘historic proportions’ this year India’s key services sector a record low, sliding from plummeted last month, data 50.6 points in March to 7.2 dpa showed on Wednesday, in- points last month, the re- Brussels dicating a severe slowdown port said. across Asia’s third-largest Historical comparisons The European Union is fac- economy which has been of the figures with GDP data ing the worst recession in its under a lockdown for six suggest that “India’s econo- history and an uneven recov- weeks to tackle coronavirus. my contracted at an annual ery that will further deepen The services Purchas- rate of 15 percent in April”, the socio-economic woes of ing Managers Index (PMI) said Joe Hayes, an econo- the south, according to its first fell from 49.3 points to 5.4 mist with IHS Markit. full forecast for the post-lock- points in April, the sharpest In more bad news for down era. contraction since record- Prime Minister Narendra The coronavirus contain- keeping began in 2005, as Modi, 122 million Indians ment measures in place since the restrictions brought lost their jobs last month, March wiped out a third of the manufacturing, trade and data from Mumbai-based EU’s economic activity “practi- construction activity to a think tank Centre for Moni- cally overnight”, the European grinding halt. toring Indian Economy Commission’s outlook shows, The lockdown spurred showed, with small trad- and are expected to leave last- millions of migrant workers ers and daily wage earners ing scars on economic output to flee India’s cities, many of accounting for the bulk of and the labour market. them on foot, as business- losses. Eurozone gross domestic es stopped operations in The figures have raised product (GDP) will contract March, dealing a huge blow concerns about the pros- 7.7 percent in a downturn of to manufacturing and to the pects of recovery for the “historic proportions” this year services sector, which con- economy, which was already and then partially rebound to tributes 54 percent of GDP. battling a liquidity crisis, 6.3 percent growth in 2021, Measures imposed to bad loans, and rising unem- according to the commission’s slow the spread of the coro- ployment even before the calculations. navirus including restric- pandemic arrived in India. Across all 27 EU countries, tions on movement and India has so far record- including the eight outside business shutdowns “were ed under 50,000 cases and the eurozone, the contraction A pedestrian wears a protective face mask as he walks past the European Union Commission building in Brussels on Wednesday. (AFP) the key factors causing out- fewer than 1,700 deaths re- is forecast at 7.4 percent, fol- put and demand to fall at lated to coronavirus, but ex- lowed by a return to growth at according to the commission. commission, is based on the as- Wednesday’s forecast Rome and Madrid have unprecedented rates,” a re- perts say the country is not 6.1 percent next year. Poland is facing the small- sumption that the coronavirus will amp up the pressure on stressed that allocating dedi- port from IHS Markit said. testing enough people. The sobering figures dwarf est contraction of 4.3 percent. lockdown measures are to be the commission to present cated EU funds as loans would the recession following the fi- The unemployment rate gradually eased from May on- an ambitious proposal for a drive up the already problemat- nancial crisis in 2009, when across the 19-country eurozone wards and that they will have shared EU recovery fund, due ic debt levels of many member GDP shrank 4.5 percent. is also predicted to rise to 9.6 proved effective. in mid-May and expected to be states, and are calling for grants “Europe is experiencing an percent in 2020 - up from 7.5 A second wave of coronavi- worth at least 1 trillion euros instead. economic shock without prec- percent last year - before falling rus infections could wipe a fur- (1.1 trillion dollars). Fiscal hawks such as Ger- edent since the Great Depres- back to 8.6 percent in 2021. ther 3 percent off GDP, the EU The 27 member states are many and the Netherlands are sion,” EU Economy Commis- The situation looks the executive stressed. divided over how much to reluctant to throw more into sioner Paolo Gentiloni said on bleakest for Greece, which can The calculations suggest throw into the next EU seven- the EU pot for what domestical- Wednesday in Brussels. expect its joblessness rate to that the EU - the world’s larg- year budget, which is set to be ly might be seen as a hand-out “Both the depth of the re- rise to 19.9 percent, and Spain, est trade bloc - is set to take a the cornerstone of its long-term or a back-door move towards cession and the strength of where it will reach 18.9 cent. GDP hit much higher the global response to the crisis. closer fiscal integration. recovery will be uneven,” he Official EU figures released average of 3 percent predicted EU leaders agreed in prin- The commission has said added. last week already showed that by the International Monetary ciple on the fund following a the proposal will likely in- Greece, Italy, Spain and women and young people are Fund. summit last month, but passed volve a combination of grants Croatia - all countries with stub- disproportionately affected by Most of the continent is the buck back to the commis- and loans. European Parlia- bornly high unemployment the current labour market dif- beginning to relax restrictions sion to work out the crucial, ment President David Sassoli rates and a heavy dependency ficulties. on citizens’ movements, but and potentially explosive, de- urged the bloc’s institutions Men sit ouside a closed barber shop during a government-im- on tourism - are to be the worst The forecast, which is sur- normal public life is unlikely to tails. Any proposal will require and leaders “to be courageous posed nationwide lockdown in Mumbai recently. (AFP) affected. Athens should brace rounded by “fundamental resume in the coming months the approval of all national gov- and ambitious” on the plan on for a downturn of 9.7 percent, uncertainty” according to the given the absence of a vaccine. ernments. Wednesday. Air purifiers effectively improve indoor air quality for asthma sufferers Tribune news network asthma sufferers. Believing that clean air pecially important. LG air puri- ance and product testing giant DOHA Those who have been im- should be accessible wherever fiers have been recognized by – Intertek has certified the Puri- pacted by asthma, whether per- a person goes, LG also recently various global health certifica- Care Mini as capable of remov- Asthma continues to be a seri- sonally or through their families, launched the world’s first filter- tion bodies for their thorough ing up to 99% of 0.3-micron ous global health problem, caus- are striving to create healthier type, portable air purifier across antibacterial cleaning abilities. ultra-fine dust particles from the ing strain on healthcare systems, environments to ease respirato- markets in the Gulf region. With Among a host of other ac- environment. loss of productivity and disrup- ry issues. LG is helping improve people spending more time on- creditations, the LG PuriCare With LG’s promise of de- tion to daily life. Exposure to in- indoor air quality with its range the-go, the PuriCare Mini is de- single and double tower mod- livering intuitive solutions, the door air pollution and allergens of advanced air purifiers. signed to deliver on the promise els are both Asthma & Allergy company’s air purifiers are also such as house dust mites, pet These air purifiers include of clean air, no matter where a Friendly certified – reducing operational via smartphone appli- dander and mold can contribute the LG PuriCare single and dou- user may be. bio-allergen airborne levels by cations – the LG ThinQ app for the towards both causing and aggra- ble tower models, which each When it comes to portability, 75% or greater over time. In ad- single and double tower PuriCare vating respiratory conditions. use deodorizing HEPA filters the PuriCare Mini weighs a mere dition, the British Allergy Foun- models and a custom-built LG Pu- In recognition of World Asth- and a 360-degree purification 530 grams – similar in likeness dation has given its seal of ap- riCare Mini app for the portable ma Day (May 5), LG (Electron- mechanism to absorb pollutants to a 500ml bottle of water. Even proval, commending the ability model. Available on both Android ics) continues to demonstrate more efficiently and harmful with its sleek profile, the compact of the single and double tower and iOS devices, with each appli- its investment in advanced tech- substances such as airborne bac- device can deliver fast and effi- models to prevent allergens cation, users can control airflow nologies to reduce exposure to teria. They also feature a Clean cient air purification, via its own which can cause respiratory and speed, conduct real-time air qual- major indoor air pollutants and Booster, which rises and rotates unique 4-step filtration system. skin diseases. ity checks, see the status of their improve wellbeing. to deliver clean air to all cor- PuriCare Mini also have holders LG’s PuriCare Mini also filter’s lifespan and more. With people spending up to ners of a room, via a 70° Rota- for cars and strollers as acces- comes with its own acclaim, with The LG PuriCare Air Puri- 90% of their time indoors, it is tion Circulator. With the added sories, making it easy to access the model’s optical dust sensor fiers are available at the intro- more crucial than ever for home- benefit of its Clean Booster, the clean air for every movement. Korean Air Cleaning Association ductory prices of QR799 for the owners to also consider how to PuriCare can remove dust up to For asthma and allergy suf- certified for its ability to detect Mini, QR2,499 for single tower protect their internal environ- 74% faster than conventional air fers, the importance of quality and remove super-fine dust. Ad- and QR3,999 for the double ments and mitigate flareups for purifier mechanisms. and comprehensiveness are es- ditionally, British quality assur- tower. 10 Thursday, May 7, 2020 Economy & Business Grim and getting worse: US set for historic surge in unemployment
AFP that there are no comparisons. Washington Statisticians in the Labor Department’s Bureau of La- Like a global tsunami, the bor Statistics (BLS), which coronavirus pandemic has produces the monthly unem- caused a huge loss of life and ployment report, are using taken a massive economic toll. natural disasters as a point of In the US economy, sky- reference. rocketing unemployment is “The closest that we have the most-visible sign of the in terms of what was in our devastation: almost overnight, playbook has been usually at least 30 million workers hurricanes, because they tend lost their jobs. to be large and impact signifi- The April employment cant periods of time, or areas,” report, due out Friday, is ex- BLS Associate Commissioner pected to show the jobless rate Julie Hatch Maxfield told soaring into double digits, AFP. perhaps as high as 20 percent, But even devastating far surpassing the worst of events, like Hurricane Katrina the global financial crisis and reaching levels not seen since the Great Depression last cen- tury. The US government and File photo shows GM vehicles are parked at the General Motors Assembly plant in Oshawa, Ontario. (AFP) central bank worked at a stun- ning pace to rush out aid and Worst crisis financing to workers and busi- nesses to try to prevent a com- The April employment report, plete economic collapse, but due out Friday, is expected to there is a growing fear that show the jobless rate soaring GM Q1 profits dive 86%, aims the temporary shutdowns im- into double digits, perhaps as posed to contain the spread of high as 20 percent, far the virus will become perma- surpassing the worst of the nent for many companies. global financial crisis and The coronavirus has in- reaching levels not seen since fected nearly 1.2 million peo- to reopen US plants on May 18 ple in the United States and the Great Depression last killed around 70,000, accord- century ing to a count from Johns The company estimated the overall hit from the coronavirus in the first quarter at $1.4 billion Hopkins University, and ana- lysts fear some of the econom- in 2005, were regional -- not AFP the impact was mitigated by outbreak. GM said it has a May 18 sible at the current time and ic damage may be permanent. national and certainly not New York gains in GM’s full-size pick- In the US, some 800 addi- target to resume auto produc- eventually full-testing when “We took the elevator global. ups. tional dealers have launched tion under enhanced safety available,” UAW President down, but we’re going to need The job losses spread from General Motors said on Analysts expect a bigger GM’s “Shop. Click. Drive.” measures that it said exceed Rory Gamble said Tuesday. to take the stairs back up,” airlines and hotels to restau- Wednesday it aims to reopen hit to US sales in the second government guidelines. “As for the start date, Tom Barkin, president of the rants and factories as states most US and Canadian manu- quarter. Many GM dealers are Manufacturers have been the companies contractually Federal Reserve Bank of Rich- ordered lockdowns and then facturing operations on May open for service and online Global car sales fell by upgrading their operations in make that decision and we all mond, said in a recent speech. closed schools, sending ini- 18 as it reported a steep drop car sales, but retail operations more than one-fifth during the wake of COVID-19 to in- knew this day would come. Despite nearly $3 trillion tial claims for unemployment in first-quarter earnings due are skeletal in many cases. the quarter, with the big- corporate more social distanc- Our UAW focus and role is in financial aid approved by insurance surging from mid- to the coronavirus. GM estimated the overall gest hit in China, where ing by staggering work shifts. and will continue to be on Congress in March alone and March, with 20 million post- The US auto giant report- hit from the coronavirus in the coronavirus raged for They have also deep-cleaned health and safety protocols to trillions more in liquidity pro- ed in the four weeks of April ed that first-quarter earnings the first quarter at $1.4 bil- factories, installed extra sani- protect our members.” vided by the Federal Reserve, alone. plunged 86 percent to $294 lion. much of the period tizing equipment, monitored With the hit from shut- the US economy contracted by But those figures could million on a 6.2 percent de- Shares rose after the re- employees’ temperature for tered production plants and 4.8 percent in the first three underestimate the true size of cline in revenues to $32.7 bil- port, which topped analyst service, meaning that around illness and required personal lower car sales, GM has taken months of the year -- a period the shock, since many people lion. expectations. 85 percent of the company’s protective equipment. steps to retain cash and boost that included only a couple of have not been able to file for Global car sales fell by Chief Financial Officer dealers now have the pro- The United Auto Work- liquidity. weeks of the strict business benefits, and others do not more than one-fifth during Dhivya Suryadevara said gram. ers has reacted cautiously to The company, which in shutdowns. qualify. the quarter, with the biggest the company was seeing a Online sales jumped by a plan by Fiat Chrysler an- April suspended its divided, The second quarter could The official unemploy- hit in China, where the coro- “stronger recovery” in China, 40 percent, Suryadevara nounced prior to GM’s state- ended the quarter with $33.4 see the economy plunge by ment rate in March jumped navirus raged for much of the with much more retail traffic said, but she acknowledged ment Wednesday to also re- billion in liquidity. twice that amount. from a historic low of 3.5 period. in April after the market bot- the second quarter “will be sume operations on May 18. Shares jumped 7.6 per- The data on the jobs mar- percent to 4.4 percent, with Car sales also declined in tomed out in February at the tough” during a briefing with “We continue to advocate cent to $22.85 in pre-market ket has become so bad so fast 701,000 jobs lost. the United States, although height of China’s coronavirus reporters. for as much testing as pos- trading.
Virus-hit United Airlines to UK construction hits record low slash 30% of executive jobs in April as pandemic bites AFP AFP New York London
United Airlines plans to Britain’s construction sec- lay off about 30 percent of its tor suffered a record drop managers as the coronavirus in activity during April as slows global air travel sharply, the coronavirus pandemic according to a document seen shut sites, data showed on by AFP on Tuesday. Wednesday alongside news The airline also is plan- of surging food sales at on- ning to eliminate thousands line supermarket Ocado. of pilot positions, the US car- The latest data show- rier’s operations director Greg ing the UK’s biggest sector Hart said in a memo, while the winners and losers from the cuts amid executives would COVID-19 outbreak comes amount to about 3,450 jobs. as the Bank of England holds “Unfortunately, in the a regular meeting Wednes- Workers are seen at work on the HS2 building site at Euston in coming weeks and months day at which it is expected to London on Wednesday. (AFP) we expect to be faced with the keep its main interest rate at need to right size our frontline a record-low 0.1 percent. CIPS UK construction pur- net-based orders during the workforce to match demand,” The BoE’s policy an- chasing managers’ index pandemic should have con- Hart wrote, without giving fur- nouncements and new UK showed a reading of only 8.2 vinced other grocers around ther details. growth forecasts will be an- in April, down from 39.3 in the world of the need to have A source familiar with the nounced Thursday, ahead of March and the lowest since top-notch infrastructure to matter said a third of United’s Prime Minister Boris John- records began in 1997. fulfil online food orders,” 12,250 pilots may have to son telling the country on A score below 50 indi- said Russ Mould, investment leave the company. File photo of a United Airlines Airbus A319-100 at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Sunday how he plans to ease cates a contraction in output. director at AJ Bell. Other airlines, including Arlington, Virginia. (AFP) its lockdown measures. “Today we found out that Times are tougher how- Delta, also have warned of It comes amid reports social distancing has also ever for British independent coming job cuts. The airline also is planning for the next several months, she said. that finance ministerR ishi brought construction activ- television group ITV, which United received about $5 to eliminate thousands of while continuing to employ The company has been Sunak is looking into taper- ity to a complete halt,” noted on Wednesday said adver- billion from the US govern- pilot positions, the US car- 100% of our workforce. That’s forced to cancel 90 percent of ing the government’s fur- Capital Economics analyst tising revenue slumped 42 ment as part of a massive rier’s operations director not sustainable for any compa- its flights, and Gebo encour- lough scheme that is paying Thomas Pugh. “That indi- percent in April, as leading $2.2 trillion stimulus pack- Greg Hart said in a memo, ny,” Hart wrote in his memo. aged executives to take 20 UK workers stuck at home. cates that the construction brands hold onto precious age intended to help indus- In another memo, United’s days of unpaid leave between Latest government fig- sector has been hit even hard- cash. tries hit by the coronavirus while the cuts amid execu- human resources director mid-May and the end of Sep- ures showed 6.3 million er than the services sector.” In an attempt to get re- downturn. tives would amount to Kate Gebo said workers fac- tember, and asked some to people are being paid up to On the upside, revenue tail banks lending during the Under the terms of the about 3,450 jobs ing layoff will be informed by work four-day weeks. 80 percent of their salaries, soared more than 40 percent pandemic, the BoE recently funding, the airline must not mid-July. “The reality we are faced costing the taxpayer £8.0 in the second quarter to date slashed its key interest rate make layoffs before Septem- ernment grant that covers a Employees leaving volun- with, especially heading into billion ($9.8 billion, 9.0 bil- at British online supermar- to 0.1 percent and pumped ber 30, but the company has portion of our payroll expense tarily will receive a severance what would normally be our lion euros). ket Ocado as people stay at £200 billion of fresh cash made clear that once that date through September 30, we an- package, part of which will be busiest time of year, is daunt- On Wednesday, the home. into the economy in emer- passes, cuts are necessary. ticipate spending billions of in cash, but that offer will not ing to say the least,” Gebo closely-watched IHS Markit/ “The importance of inter- gency measures. “Even with a federal gov- dollars more than we take in be available after October 1, said. England skipper Morgan bats for T10 at Olympic Games Thursday, May 7, 2020 page 13
German football has ‘enormous Angela Merkel gives go-ahead for responsibility’, says Neuer AFP Bundesliga to resume in mid-May Berlin Germany captain Manuel AFP Neuer says Bundesliga Berlin footballers have an “enor- mous responsibility” after the German Chancellor Angela league was given permission Merkel and state leaders on on Wednesday to restart from Wednesday gave the Bundes- mid May. liga the green light to restart Matches will be The DFL is expected to set a behind closed doors from mid- allowed under the restart date - most likely May 16 May after weeks of shutdown approved rules or the weekend after - following imposed to control the spread a video conference meeting on of the coronavirus. German Chancellor Thursday. The political blessing makes Angela Merkel The Bundesliga will then the German top-flight the first become the first of Europe’s top of Europe’s five major leagues five leagues to restart. to return to the field. (From left) Bayern Munich’s Spain defender Alvaro Odriozola, French “People will be looking “Matches will be allowed midfielder Michael Cuisance, head coach Hansi Flick, defender Jerome at us from other European under the approved rules,” Boateng, French defender Lucas Hernandez and Bayern Munich’s countries, indeed all over the said Merkel at a press confer- defender Lars Lukas Mai practice during a training session at the foot- world,” Neuer told Frankfurt- ence in Berlin, referring to a ball team’s training grounds in Munich, Germany, on Tuesday. (AFP) based newspaper FAZ. plan by the German Football “This is an enormous League (DFL) for the Bundes- when Hertha Berlin player Sa- nounced last week it will not responsibility for us, which we liga to resume in empty sta- lomon Kalou filmed himself resume the Ligue 1 or Ligue 2 must be aware of with every diums and with players regu- German Chancellor Angela Merkel shaking hands with teammates seasons, with Paris Saint-Ger- fiber.I t is now up to us.” larly tested. arrives for a press conference at the this week, flaunting the social main being awarded the top- The DFL has drawn up Permission was granted Chancellery in Berlin on Wednesday distancing rules that clubs have flight title. detailed plans to restart and on condition that strict guide- after holding a video conference with put in place. The Netherlands aban- Neuer, captain and goalkeeper lines are followed -- with a the leaders of the Federal states “The video has done the doned its season a week earlier. of defending champions Bayern hygiene officer appointed to on easing the lockdown restrictions German league and profession- The Premier League, Eu- Munich, sees the medical each team -- to prevent conta- during the novel coronavirus al football a disservice,” Anja rope’s richest league, has said concept as the “best possible” gion of the virus. COVID-19 pandemic. (AFP) Stahmann, who chairs Germa- it aims to restart in June, way forward. The DFL must now set a ny’s regional sports ministers, but deep differences have “Now it is up to each indi- date for the restart with either told RBB radio on Wednesday. emerged over plans to use vidual at each club to bring this the weekend of May 16-17 or the from TV contracts if the sea- not allowed to change at train- known to be from the Cologne Hertha have suspended neutral stadiums. concept to life in a disciplined following weekend earmarked. son is completed. ing grounds. club and two from Borussia Kalou, and the 34-year-old Players in Italy’s Serie A re- manner.” He said the players Representatives from the The season was suspended The league says its inten- Moenchengladbach. former Chelsea player has turned to training this week and must ensure the league returns clubs will finalise those de- in mid-March. The league has sive testing plan allows match- Health Minister Jens Spahn apologised profusely. in Spain, Barcelona say players successfully. tails in a videoconference on long urged restarting play, es to be relaunched with low has argued that the testing re- Bayern Munich, seeking will undergo coronavirus tests “We are particularly respon- Thursday. which it says is vital for a sec- risk to health. gime “makes sense and can their eighth consecutive title, on Wednesday as La Liga clubs sible for tens of thousands of With 13 of the 36 teams tor that employs 56,000 peo- So far, clubs in the top serve as an example for other were four points clear at the begin restricted training ahead jobs in diverse industries that in Germany’s top two divi- ple in Germany. two divisions have returned forms of professional sport,” al- top of the table when play was of a proposed resumption of the live with, and through, football,” sions reportedly on the brink Teams returned to training 10 positive results for coro- though he warned “it has to be halted. Leagues across Europe season next month. Neuer added. And we are of bankruptcy, the league des- on April 6 although sessions navirus from 1,724 tests since lived up to”. are taking different approaches The Serbian and Turkish responsible for all those fans perately needs to claim around have followed stringent social training resumed. The league and politicians to the unprecedented crisis. leagues have also announced for whom football is a big part €300 million ($325 million) distancing rules and players are Three of the cases are reacted with consternation The French league an- plans for matches to resume. of their lives.” Bayern were four points clear - and chasing an eighth league title - when the Bundes- Quick read liga halted on March 13. There is fierce debate whether league Serbian football to restart on May 29 Turkish football leagues set to resume from June 12 football should resume amid the pandemic which has so far BELGRADE: Serbia will restart its football championship, ISTANBUL: Turkish football leagues will resume from June 12 without specta- claimed around 7,000 lives in interrupted in mid-March by the novel coronavirus pandemic, tors after a nearly three-month suspension due to the novel coronavirus, the Germany. on May 29, the national organization FSS said on Wednes- football federation chief said on Wednesday. “We have decided to resume the Hertha Berlin striker day. “The four remaining rounds will be played within the postponed leagues on the week of June 12-13-14,” Nihat Ozdemir told a video Salomon Kalou was suspended 2019/20 season without play-offs,” it said on its website. press conference in Istanbul, adding the federation aims to finish the season by his club on Monday and The Super League sides were divided over the format, the by the end of July. Ozdemir said Turkey’s health ministry will provide guidance as slammed by politicians for FSS said, with 11 in favour of the adopted version and five, to how to proceed with the games. Ozdemir also said Turkey plans to host the shaking hands with team-mates including top clubs Red Star and Partizan, wanting to play Champions League final in Istanbul in August. Turkish football, basketball and in a video, flaunting social the additional matches. The national Cup will be played from volleyball leagues were suspended on March 19 amid the spread of the pan- distancing guidelines. the quarter-finals on June 3 to the final on June 24, it said. demic. Matches in Turkey were played behind closed doors a week prior to the An advertisement for the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics Games is The decision came on the same day as the Serbian parlia- suspension decision. Some players and trainers had criticized the authorities for seen in Bangkok on Sunday. (AFP) ment was due to lift the state of emergency and most of its not postponing the games earlier. Galatasaray vice president Abdurrahim Albay- “People will be looking isolation measures. By Wednesday, the country reported rak and coach Fatih Terim had in March tested positive for coronavirus. The two at us from other 9,791 confirmed infections and 203 deaths, but the later in April announced they had recovered. Turkey’s death toll from the virus European countries, Spain’s Olympic boss numbers, particularly the share of the infected among those has reached over 3,500 with nearly 130,000 confirmed cases, Health Minister indeed all over the tested, have been falling for longer than a week. (DPA) Fahrettin Koca said on Tuesday. (DPA) world. Now it is up to each individual backs 2021 Games to be The Roger Federer Foundation gives $1 million to crisis-hit African families at each club to bring this ‘most celebrated’ ever Vienna: The Roger Federer Foundation will use $1 million to on which they depend for nutrition, according to the UN World Food concept to life feed families who are affected by the coronavirus crisis in Africa, Programme. In March, Roger Federer and his wife Mirka donated 1 in a disciplined DPA federations set dates for quali- the Swiss tennis star’s philanthropic organisation announced on million Swiss francs ($1 million) for vulnerable families in Switzer- Barcelona fying tournaments that have Wednesday. The money will be used to fund meals for 64,000 land. The Roger Federer Foundation has been supporting educa- manner.” not yet been held. young children and their families while schools are closed because tional projects in Switzerland as well as in the southern African Manuel Neuer, Bayern Munich Spanish Olympic boss Ale- “As of today, the calendars of the pandemic. Such closures have left some 300 million primary countries of Botswana, Malawi, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and goalkeeper and Germany captain jandro Blanco has no doubts are not closed and when they school children around the world are missing out on school meals South Africa. (DPA) that the 2021 Tokyo Games are defined, the correct sani- will go ahead despite con- tary conditions may not be in cerns over qualifying and the place, or athletes from other Olympic Village. countries will not be allowed The global coronavirus to enter.” Another potential Barcelona and Real Madrid players begin virus testing pandemic meant the 2020 problem for next year is the Olympics were postponed by a Olympic Village with many of AFP cal protocol with which teams June, the government have year to July 23-August 8, 2021. its apartments already sold Madrid must comply before a return to said outside events can go Speaking to Spanish news- and due to be handed over to training. ahead when attended by fewer paper Diario AS on Wednes- their owners this October. Players at Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, who will than 400 people. day, Blanco said: “The com- But Blanco backed Japan Real Madrid started to undergo also carry out tests Wednes- La Liga is proposing to ing together of 206 countries to resolve the situation. He coronavirus tests on Wednes- day, are aiming to resume complete its season behind after this health and economic said: “Some 20,000 people day as La Liga clubs planned training immediately once the closed doors, with games start- crisis would be a sign that we have to sleep there. I can’t to return to restricted training results are known if all goes to ing again in the middle of June. have passed the worst. They imagine a Games without ahead of the proposed resump- plan. “People’s health is para- will be the most celebrated an Olympic Village.” Blanco tion of the season next month. “It’s been a very strange mount, so we have a compre- Games in history.” Of possible added: “I have no doubt that Barca captain Lionel Messi time for us. We’ve never gone hensive protocol to safeguard difficulties, he said: “The first there will be a [2021] Games. and France international An- as long without touching a ball the health of everyone involved problem will be recovering To question the date now is toine Griezmann were among and we are eager for it all to re- as we work to restart La Liga,” normality in all countries and to send a negative message, players pictured arriving one start,” said Atletico midfielder league president Javier Tebas the second because science will defeat by one in their cars at the club’s Marcos Llorente. said on Monday. that inter- the coronavirus sooner rather training centre early Wednes- “Each week they sent us “Circumstances are un- national than later.” day morning. training programmes adjusted precedented, but we hope to Players at Madrid, includ- a bit to each player and I think Barcelona’s Argentine forward Lionel Messi arrives to undergo coro- start playing again in June and The coming together of 206 countries ing Eden Hazard and Karim we are ready to return.” navirus tests at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper in Sant Joan Despi finish our 19/20 season this after this health and economic crisis Benzema, also underwent The first of a four-phase near Barcelona, Spain, on Wednesday. (AFP) summer.” would be a sign that we have passed health checks at Real’s train- de-escalation programme an- Spain has been one of the worst. They will be the most ing base on the outskirts of the nounced by the Spanish gov- arrive on club premises already La Liga’s programme will the worst-hit countries in the city. ernment last week would allow in their kit and wear a mask then permit training in small world by the coronavirus pan- celebrated Games in history. Results from the corona- players to initially train alone, and gloves when not training. groups before a return to larg- demic, with almost 26,000 Spanish Olympic boss virus tests are typically known with a maximum of six players After each session they will be er team sessions. deaths in the country accord- Alejandro Blanco within 48 hours. The testing is allowed on the pitch. given a bag with clothes for the In the fourth and final ing to the latest figures on part of the league’s strict medi- Players will be expected to next day. phase, scheduled for early Wednesday. 12 Thursday, May 7, 2020 Sports Football set to allow ‘I’m healed’: Dybala gets all-clear after coronavirus AFP players to test positive along with Italy outstretched looking at the sky: “My five substitutions Milan defender Daniele Rugani and France’s face says it all, I’m finally cured from Blaise Matuidi. Covid-19.” AFP Leagues will not be obliged Juventus star Paulo Dybala revealed Rugani was the first Italian top- Italian champions Juventus also Lausanne to implement the change, a on Wednesday that he has been given flight footballer diagnosed with the vi- confirmed that their Argentine star had source said, but they will be the all-clear almost a month-and-a-half rus on March 11. recovered. Football’s lawmakers are free to do so as soon as they after contracting coronavirus. Both he and World Cup winner Ma- “Dybala performed, as per proto- this week set to announce a restart after almost all football “Many people talked in the past tuidi recovered mid-April. Dybala was col, a double check with diagnostic tests “temporary” change to the around the world shut down weeks ... but I can finally confirm that diagnosed on March 22, along with his (swabs) for Coronavirus-Covid 19, which laws of the sport allowing in mid-March because of the I am healed. Thank you once again girlfriend Oriana, who recovered soon- came back with negative results,” Juven- teams to make up to five sub- pandemic. for your support and my thoughts on er from the disease which has killed tus said in a statement. stitutions in games when the The German Bundesliga is all who are still suffering from it. Take nearly 30,000 people in Italy. “The player has, therefore, recov- Argentine forward Paulo Dybala was one of sport resumes after the coro- set to be the first leading Eu- care,” tweeted the 26-year-old. Dybala also posted a picture of ered and will no longer be subjected to three Juventus players to test positive for navirus-induced suspension. ropean league to restart later Dybala was one of three Juventus himself on Instagram with his arms the home isolation regime.” coronavirus. (AFP) The proposal to help teams this month. cope with likely fixture con- The IFAB’s objective is to gestion in a packed calendar “protect players’ health” when was made by world governing matches do resume, with a body FIFA and is expected to fixture schedule that could be be validated by the Interna- even more packed than usual tional Football Association potentially leading to an “in- Board (IFAB) this Friday. creased risk of injuries”. NBA players can start The IFAB said last week While the measure is in- that it was working with FIFA tended to be temporary, it on a “temporary dispensation could be maintained for the of Law 3 (The Players) allow- whole of the 2020-21 season ing competitions to give teams and right through to the next the option to use a maximum European Championship, solo workouts at team of five substitutes onup to which was postponed by a three occasions during the year until June and July 2021 match, plus at half-time.” because of the pandemic. Limiting the number of oc- FIFA have said that imple- casions on which teams can menting the measure will be make changes would remove “at the discretion of the organ- sites on Friday the incentive to do so purely iser of each competition”. for time-wasting purposes. “If the measure is still in AFP said. The Phoenix Suns were A sixth change may also be force, UEFA could then adopt New York “We want to make sure looking at May 16 return, a day permitted in matches that go it for the Euro,” a source said. the facility meets all the league after Arizona stay-at-home reg- to extra time. It remains to be seen if NBA team facilities are set to specifications, the local and ulations are eased. Currently teams can make the measure could be left in reopen for individual player state health officials’ proto- The Milwaukee Bucks, who three substitutions during place permanently, but doing workouts on Friday in areas cols, and then we’re going to be had the NBA’s best record at 53- games, although since 2018 so may play into the hands of where state and local govern- even more stringent with those 12 when the season went on hia- teams have been allowed to the wealthiest clubs with the ments have eased coronavirus standards and create our own.” tus, were unsure as of Tuesday make a fourth substitution in largest squads and greatest lockdown restrictions. Another concern for the about workout timing. extra time. strength in depth. It’s the first small step on league is not to provide some “When you hear reports the road to resuming a 2019-20 clubs a major edge over others about things opening up, you NBA campaign that was shut because their players are al- get pretty excited,” Milwaukee’s down March 12 after Utah’s lowed to work out at facilities Pat Connaughton said. “But Rudy Gobert tested positive while others are denied the op- we don’t have any information Swimmer Schooling seeks for COVID-19, even though the portunity, although no solu- about ours yet.” league has unveiled no timeta- tion to that issue has been an- The workouts mark small national service delay after ble to return and says it could nounced. progress toward a return to change its workout plan based Many health safeguards games, but safety is a top prior- Olympics moved on updated virus news. will be in place for the solo ity and what the relaxed stay- About a month of the regu- workouts, with only four at-home measures produce in AFP try said Schooling and another lar season remains unplayed. players allowed on the court terms of virus spread will be a Singapore Tokyo-bound Singapore swim- Two months of playoff games at once, each shooting at major factor in any return time- mer, Quah Zheng Wen, have were to have started almost different hoops with no table. Olympic swimming cham- applied to further postpone three weeks ago. passing between players “I do want to play right pion Joseph Schooling is seek- their national service to com- “We’re excited... to take that and no coaches allowed in the now, but I feel like everything ing to further delay his national pete in the Olympics. first small step toward return- sessions. that’s going on right now is to service in Singapore so he can The ministry said it would ing to play. We miss the com- According to multiple re- protect everybody as long as we compete in the postponed To- examine “details of their train- petition. We miss the camara- ports, the NBA will detail ex- stay home and sort of stay away kyo Games, officials said on ing plans and milestones” be- derie,” Utah Jazz executive vice tra requirements for clubs and from each other,” said Mem- Wednesday. fore making a decision. president of basketball opera- players, including all balls be- phis Grizzlies rookie guard Ja The city-state requires all Schooling faces a tough tions Dennis Lindsey said in a ing sterilised after each session Morant. male citizens aged 18 to serve fight to repeat his 2016 suc- posting on the club website. and players not being allowed to “I’m doing good, but I defi- two years in the military, the cess -- he was criticised for be- “We’re going to ramp up exercise at any team facility but nitely want to be out there on police or the emergency ser- ing out of shape at last year’s systematically. The biggest goal that of their own club. the court.” vices, an obligation authorities Southeast Asian Games in the is to have the confidence of the In this file photo Zach LaVine #8 of the Chicago Bulls handles the ball Players reportedly must Oklahoma City forward rarely let people skip. Philippines, where he won only players and the staff that they against the Phoenix Suns at the United Center on February 22, 2020 wear face masks except dur- Danilo Gallinari, whose Italian But Schooling was al- one individual gold medal. can enter our facility safely.” in Chicago, Illinois. (AFP) ing physical activity and have homeland has also struggled lowed to defer national ser- In 2018, the defence min- Not every team can open their temperatures taken with the deadly virus, longs for vice in 2014 to train for the istry refused an application by facilities for workouts and some rules will keep the Los Angeles open on Friday, Lindsey said. before entering the building a post-pandemic world. 2016 Rio Olympics, where Singaporean football player clubs might choose not to open Lakers and Clippers from work- “That could be within a day while staffers who rebound “We’re going to get through he famously beat his idol Ben Davis to defer national given the safety precautions ing out at team facilities. or two, but my best guess is it balls for players must wear it,” he said. “Sooner or later, Michael Phelps to win the service so he could play in the required. California lockdown The Utah Jazz don’t plan to will be after May 8,” Lindsey masks and gloves. we’re going to get through it.” 100-metre butterfly gold. English Premier League, say- He got another deferment ing he did not meet the criteria. to train for the 2020 Tokyo Davis signed a deal with Olympics, but the Games were Premier League side Fulham moved to next year because of anyway, and could now face jail Paris 2024 organisers vow to not change Olympic ‘DNA’ the coronavirus pandemic. for missing his national service Singapore’s defence minis- if he returns to Singapore. AFP led to more than 257,000 “Our objective will be to will first think of their own re- Paris deaths worldwide . find solutions to deal with covery rather than investing in “What is certain is that the unforeseen events, with com- sponsorship. The budget for the 2024 challenge will be enormous. plexities which will generate “It will take a little longer, Olympic Games in Paris cur- “Concretely, that means additional costs. but the target remains the rently remains unchanged de- always trying to be one step “We will also examine same.” spite the coronavirus pandem- ahead, to have room to man- how we optimise other lines Estanguet also dismissed ic, according to the head of the ouevre to anticipate anything to save money. But today, the the idea of rehashing the organising committee. unforseen.” budget for Paris-2024 is still Olympic model to reduce Tony Estanguet, in a con- But Estanguet added: because a few billion euros will the same.” events and the number of ath- ference call Wednesday, added “There are things we don’t be reinvested, jobs generated, He admitted that sponsors letes attending. that his committee would not want to touch, it’s in the DNA how will we do so that the mar- will likely be affected because “The strength of the Games bow to external criticism to of Paris 2024: a spectacle, a kets will benefit businesses...” of the “unprecedented crisis” must be preserved, and this change the DNA of the Sum- very strong collective emotion, Estanguet insisted that COVID-19 has thrown up. strength also lies in its univer- mer Games in four years’ time. the most beautiful unifying there were currently “no addi- “What is urgent today is sality, this diversity of sports “This crisis is not over and event that our country is capa- tional costs identified, either on relaunching the French econo- and athletes from around the we must keep a lot of humil- ble of organising. infrastructure investments (€3 my,” he said. world, 200 countries who ity,” Estanguet, a three-time “Then there is the question billion, including 1.6 from the “Needless to say, it disrupts come together to demonstrate Olympic champion for France of legacy. How this project is state and local authorities) or our calendar because in the this very fraternal message Singapore’s Joseph Schooling won the 100m butterfly gold at the in slalom canoe, said of the useful, how it makes it possible for the organisational budget coming months, you have to around performance,” the Rio Olympics. (AFP) COVID-19 outbreak that has to revive the French economy of Paris-2024 (€3.8 billion)”. think that French companies 42-year-old said. beIN SPORTS launches beINSPIRED podcast unveils incredible journeys of elite female athletes Tribune News Network tional sporting results against adversity. weeks I’ll be sharing the amazing stories Doha With most live sport currently on of six inspiring and world-beating ath- pause, beIN SPORTS said it was delighted letes who have turned adversity into op- beIN SPORTS has announced the launch to launch this global podcast series exclu- portunity. The podcast series reveals the of a standout new beINSPIRED podcast sively showcasing female athletes, which key figures and moments that have helped which celebrates trailblazing female ath- is accessible anywhere in the world on propel our beINSPIRED guests from as- letes, all of whom have paved the way for all major podcast platforms (Apple Pod- piring athletes into the world’s elite. By present and future female athletes to keep casts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Breaker, sharing their journeys, we hope to shed breaking barriers. Castbox, Overcast, Pocket Casts, and Ra- light on narratives that have too often Hosted by beIN SPORTS Senior Cor- dioPublic). The six-part podcast series been ignored, and to continue our com- respondent and Football Writers’ Associa- will include inspiring interviews with mitment to provide a platform to incred- tion Chair Carrie Brown, the beINSPIRED Magdalena Eriksson, Pernille Harder, Li- ible role models across all sports.” podcast delves into the inspiring stories of anne Sanderson, Danielle Carter, Nadia Andrea Ekblad, Partnerships and Lead female athletes from across the world, such Nadim, Bethanie Mattek-Sands. Follow on beINSPIRED at beIN MEDIA GROUP, as Paris Saint-Germain’s Nadia Nadim; the conversation on social media with the who also produces the show, said, “Follow- Chelsea FC captain and Olympic silver- #beINSPIRED20 hashtag. ing the success of beINSPIRED across all medallist Magdalena Eriksson; and Olym- In the first episode, Nadim shares her Nadia Nadim - beINSPIRED podcast our platforms last summer, we’re deter- pic tennis gold medallist Bethanie Mattek- journey from Afghanistan to Denmark, mined to continue our key mission of giv- Sands, who address the various cha,llenges where she witnessed for the first time country. It was from this refugee camp Commenting on the launch of the ing visibility to female athletes’ formidable they have encountered throughout their young girls playing football just metres that Nadia was inspired to make a career beINSPIRED podcast, Brown said, “I am stories. The talented heroes selected for successful careers, while giving tips to lis- away from the refugee camp where Na- out of a sport that she was forbidden from proud and delighted to launch the beIN- Season One of our podcast series provide teners on how they have achieved excep- dia’s family settled after arriving in the playing in Afghanistan. SPIRED podcast, and over the next six unique voices to inspire all generation.” Sports Thursday, May 7, 2020 13
QMMF honours first QORC winners Stokes runs half marathon for NHS charities
AFP three amateur cricketers London who ran full marathons in their back garden. England all rounder Ben After completing the Stokes has run his first half run, in a video posted on marathon to raise money for his social media channels, Britain’s National Health the 28-year-old Stokes said: Service. “That was so hard! Please World Cup winner Stokes donate if you can, it’s all for completed the run in one a great cause: the NHS Char- hour and 39 minutes and ities Together and Chance to will donate the money raised Shine.” to NHS Charities Togeth- Laura Cordingley, chief er and national children’s executive at Chance to Shine, cricket charity Chance to said “For Ben to see their ef- Shine amid the coronavirus forts and decide to support The Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) presented the trophies of the first Qatar Online Racing Championship for drivers to top three finishers. Due to the coronavirus pandemic. them is really amazing. pandemic, no ceremony was organised so the trophies were delivered through postal service to overall champion Ahmad Kholy, second-placed Hamad al Sulaiti and third-placed Stokes, who completed “I’m sure he could have Khalid al Kuwari. It may be recalled that Kholy won the title with 116 points, including two wins in the three-race finals. Sulaiti got 100 points, while Kuwari had 97 points. Sheikh the run near his home in raised a huge amount in his Saud al Thani was fourth with 96 points and Rashid al Lebdah came fifth, collecting 92 points. All the top five finishers were rewarded by the QMMF also. Sheikh Soud, Lebdah, the North-East of England, own name but to get behind Khalid al Abdulla, Abdulla al Khelaifi, Mansour Dbeissy, Faesal al Yafei, Basil Sholy, Mohammed Emadadhi, Khalid Saadon, Salman al Khater, Abdulla Shaikhan and Ibrahim al urged fans to donate to a their fundraising page is a Muntafeky were other 12 finalists and they will be presented with the medals. fundraising page set up by really amazing gesture.”
KKR keen to explore Sangakkara investment opportunity Australian Open may set to serve in The Hundred extra year as
Tribune News Network & Tobago Red Steel, who are be for local fans only, MCC chief DOHA now known as Trinbago Knight Riders, a winner of successive AFP Kolkata Knight Riders CEO CPL titles in 2017 and 2018. London Venky Mysore did not entirely They also had acquired rule out the possibility of the a third team, the Cape Town or scrapped: Official Sri Lanka great Kumar San- popular IPL franchise ‘evaluat- franchise in Cricket South gakkara is set to serve an ing’ investment opportunities Africa’s Global T20 league extra year as President of in England and Wales Cricket which however did not see the the Marylebone Cricket Club Board’s ambitious franchise light of the day and was can- (MCC) as a result of the cor- league The Hundred, which celled in 2017. onavirus pandemic. had to be shelved this year due “We are the biggest brand Presidents of the MCC, to the coronavirus pandemic. in IPL and perhaps the only the owners of Lord’s Cricket British newspaper The global brand in cricket so we Ground in London, are tra- Telegraph on Tuesday quoted can understand why leagues ditionally in office for 12 Mysore saying that they would around the world would be in- months. surely be keen to “explore” in- terested in getting Knight Rid- But Sangakkara, the first vestment opportunities in The ers on board,” Mysore said. non-British holder of the posi- Hundred. A brainchild of the ECB, tion in the club’s 233-year his- However, the KKR CEO The Hundred will be 100-balls- tory, is in line for an extension was categorical that at this mo- per-side format and will be due to the disruption caused ment it’s nothing more than played by eight franchises rath- by COVID-19. speculations. er than the established 18 first- Sangakkara, who began “I know this story is going class counties. The 2021 edition of the Australian Open is scheduled to be played from January 18 to 31. his term on October 1, 2019, around. All I said was ‘if we are It was slated for a July start has been invited by the club’s approached to consider invest- but only to be pushed till 2021 DPA global top event at that time of year’s Australian Open took Open, Wimbledon and the US committee to serve as presi- ing in ‘The Hundred’, we will with ECB grappling in financial Sydney the year. place as planned in January Open have raised more than dent until September 30, evaluate it’,” Mysore said, re- crisis caused by the COVID-19 Tennis has been sus- and February but the French 6 million dollars “in a show of 2021. acting to the report in the Eng- pandemic. The 2021 Australian Open pended since March, and at Open has been moved from its support to players who are fac- The motion, however, will lish daily. According to ECB Chief could take place with local least until mid-July, but there traditional start date in May to ing unprecedented challenges need to be approved at the Owned by Bollywood su- Executive Tom Harrison, they fans only or even be scrapped are plenty of doubts whether the end of September. because of the global impact of annual general meeting on perstar Shah Rukh Khan, the are slated to incur a loss of over completely because of the matches in the global sport Wimbledon has been can- COVID-19,” they said in a joint June 24. In February, Sang- two-time IPL champions had 300 million (GBP), if the up- coronavirus pandemic, ac- will take place at all this year, celled while the US Open is still statement issued Tuesday. akkara captained MCC on a in 2015 acquired Caribbean coming season is wiped out due cording to tournament direc- possibly continuing into 2021, scheduled to start at the end of Professional tennis has tour of Pakistan. Premier League side Trinidad to the COVID-19 pandemic. tor Craig Tiley. because of travel restrictions August, although many players been suspended through July The aim was to encourage “Worst-case scenario is no around the world. accept this will not be possible. 13. Last week, eight male play- international teams to tour AO (Australian Open),” Tiley Tiley, who is also chief ex- Tennis governing bodies ers staged exhibition matches the country, more than a dec- told the Australian Associated ecutive of Tennis Australia, and Slams create player relief at a club in Hoehr-Grenzhaus- ade after an armed attack on Press (AAP) news agency on said the federation has made programme en, Germany, without specta- Sri Lanka’s team bus, which Wednesday. contingency plans and is talk- Meanwhile, the men’s and tors, ball boys or line judges wounded the wicketkeeper- “Our best-case scenario at ing with all stakeholders to women’s professional tennis and with many health-related batsman. this point is having an AO with save the event. tours, the International tennis restrictions in effect. All cricket in England is players that we can get in here “There’s four scenarios Federation and the four Grand The Women’s tennis As- suspended until July 1 at the with quarantining techniques and we’ve modelled every- Slam tournaments have created sociation and Association of earliest due to the coronavi- and Australian-only fans.” The thing,” he said. a Player Relief programme to tennis Professionals will ad- rus. two-week event in the second “We’ve modelled the times support players who have been minister payouts of the Player The MCC said it was brac- half of January is the biggest we have to make decisions, adversely affected by the sport’s Relief programme. ing for significant losses, with event on the Australian sports dates we have to make deci- coronavirus-related shutdown. Those payouts will be split the prospect of cricket at Kolkata Knight Riders CEO calendar and the first grand sions, who it impacts, how it’s The governing bodies and equally between men and Lord’s in 2020 looking “in- Venky Mysore slam of the season is also a going to impact them.” This the Australian Open, French women. creasingly remote”.
Quick read England skipper Morgan bats for T10 at Olympic Games British boxing chiefs issue guidelines for return to ring Tribune News Network the traditional pockets, according really does make it appealing, a T20 game LONDON: Boxers fighting in Britain would be required to wear DOHA to rediff.com website. and on top of that it really would is always overs masks during ring walks and would be banned from using a spit “The one thing that T10 of- be extremely entertaining,” said 10 to 20,” said bucket under proposals to allow for a resumption of the sport, it England’s World Cup winning fers above the three formats that the 33-year-old, who captains Morgan, who was reported on Wednesday. Boxing authorities are reportedly gear- captain Eoin Morgan says crick- makes it so appealing to an Olym- Delhi Bulls in the Abu Dhabi also captains ing up for a July re-start following the coronavirus shutdown. The et’s 10-overs format would be ide- pic Games or a Commonwealth T10 league. Delhi Bulls in the BBC said a consultation document sent to promoters proposed that al for a global multi-sport event Games is the fact that you can Twenty20 has emerged as Abu Dhabi T10 competi- boxing cards would take place behind closed doors with a maxi- such as the Olympics as the entire play a whole tournament in the cricket’s most popular format, tion. mum five bouts and no “championship contests”. Boxers would be tournament could be squeezed space of 10 days,” he said in a vid- having spawned several fran- “But if you look at a T10 allowed to box without a mask but referees and corner staff would into 10 days. eo conference. chise-based leagues around the game, the earlier overs are the be obliged to wear them. All boxers, trainers and referees would be Cricket featured at the 1900 “To have a tournament in world including the lucrative In- most important. You need to tested for COVID-19 48 hours before fights and would self-isolate at Olympics and was played in the such a short space of time maxim- dian Premier League (IPL). make the most of that very short a hotel until their test result was known. Eddie Hearn, the promoter 1998 Commonwealth Games but ises the opportunity and the expo- But Morgan, who plays for the powerplay, so who you put in of British heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, tweeted: “Huge has largely been absent from mul- sure that it will have for the sport. IPL’s Kolkata franchise, said T10 those key positions and in the Eoin (but mostly sensible) barriers to overcome to make it happen but ti-sport events, which some say “When you can play a cricket has its own merits. form that they’re in, is the most Morgan when the time comes we will be ready.” (AFP) has restricted its growth beyond tournament in eight-10 days it “The most important part of critical factor.”
Gobert, Mitchell ready to bury hatchet: Lindsey
LOS ANGELES: Utah Jazz chief Dennis Lindsey said on Tuesday that Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell are ready to bury the hatchet fol- Shoaib Akhtar open to coaching bowlers in India lowing the feud triggered by their positive tests for COVID-19. Gobert and Mitchell, two pillars of the Utah franchise, did not speak AFP The response surprised Akhtar said he would also like to to each other for around one month after Gobert tested positive for New Delhi many in India because of the coach bowlers in the cash-rich the coronavirus on March 11, triggering the suspension of the NBA poor relations between the Indian Premier League. season. French star Gobert had attracted widespread criticism for his Former Pakistan cricketer I will produce more neighbours who have fought The bowler played in the conduct in the days before his positive test, which included theatri- Shoaib Akhtar said he is ready aggressive, fast and more three wars since their independ- inaugural IPL season for Kol- cally touching multiple recording devices and microphones during a to coach fast bowlers from any talkative bowlers than the ence and angry split in 1947. kata Knight Riders but the press briefing. Gobert later apologised for what he described as his country -- even if an offer from current ones, who will tell-off The two countries have not Indian government banned “embarrassing, inexcusable” behaviour, saying he had not taken the arch-rivals India came his way. the batsmen in a way that played each other in a bilateral Pakistani cricketers from the threat of the virus seriously. Mitchell, who tested positive after Gob- In an interview with a so- series since 2012. Akhtar, who league in 2009. ert, later spoke of a need for individuals to “educate themselves” and cial networking platform, the you will enjoy a lot. was known as the Rawalpindi The speedster retired from “behave responsibly.” The comments hinted at a deep rift between 44-year-old paceman said he Shoaib Akthar Express in his playing days, international cricket in 2011 the two teammates. Mitchell subsequently admitted it had taken him wants to help produce aggres- said: “I will produce more ag- after more than a decade of a while to “cool off” following the incident. However Gobert and Mitch- sive and fast bowlers who can gressive, fast and more talkative controversies and glory, in- ell were ready to settle their differences, Utah executive vice president take on opposition batsmen When the presenter for the is to spread knowledge. What I bowlers than the current ones, cluding the record of bowl- of basketball Lindsey said Tuesday. (AFP) no matter which country they Helo app said India, Akhtar re- have learned is knowledge and I who will tell-off the batsmen in ing world’s fastest delivery at come from. plied: “I will definitely... My job will spread it.” a way that you will enjoy a lot.” 100.23 miles per hour. 14 Thursday, May 7, 2020 The Last Word Qatar’s new doctors batch hopeful, confident to face challenges of current time WCM-Q celebrated the achievements of its Class of 2020 at a virtual graduation ceremony on Wednesday Ailyn Agonia DOHA
While the coronavirus pandemic may have altered the graduation dreams of the Class of 2020 of Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q), it still has failed to dampen the high spir- its and crush the hopeful hearts of the 38 new doc- tors of Qatar in setting out to change the world and ful- filling their noble mission. Sara Ayman Mohamed Sharan Sunil Kumar Yadav WCM-Q celebrated the achievements of its Class of Thirty-eight graduates, including 13 Qataris, received their Cornell University MD degrees this year. The Class of 2020 comprises 15 males and 2020 at a virtual graduation 23 females of 13 different nationalities. ceremony on Wednesday. In an interview with Qatar Tribune, Fawzi Sal- eem Zghyer described cel- ebrating their hard-earned WCM-Q holds online degree amidst this extraor- dinary and difficult times as “unreal and like a scene from a movie script”. He said, “The past few graduation ceremony months was never easy. They were filled with dis- Mohammed Nasser al Abdulla Tarek Aboubakr Taha appointments, sadness but also hope and prayers. We fulfil our duties!” have learned to appreciate She said though it is dis- for its 38 new doctors all we have and to accept heartening to miss a tradi- as well as make the most of tional graduation ceremony what we have. This is some- that they all looked forward Dean Dr Sheikh thanks frontline healthcare workers who are fighting COVID-19 thing that was thrown at us, to for years, the accom- but we will see through it. plishment of reaching their Ailyn Agonia We have already begun to goals is still super worthy of DOHA see through it.” celebration. Fawzi graduated with a Tarek Aboubakr Taha Weill Cornell Medicine- slew of academic distinc- talked about having con- Qatar (WCM-Q) Dean Dr tions and was the Student flicting feelings as a gradu- Javaid Sheikh has under- Speaker at this year’s com- ate at this extraordinary lined the acts of heroism in mencement exercises. times. hospitals in Qatar and across He reminded the mem- He said, “Graduation the world during this time of bers of Class of 2020 not Fawzi Saleem Zghyer is a happy moment for us, the coronavirus (COVID-19) only from WCM-Q but from families, friends and for pandemic. across the globe to embark “These same customs the faculty. I believe that He was speaking at the on the new chapter in their are now done through a all the graduates of Class virtual graduation ceremony lives armed with hope and screen. This has created 2020 should be proud and of WCM-Q’s Class of 2020 on the love and support of their new difficulties yes, but excited for such a great step Wednesday. families who remain proud it also granted us a much in their lives. It is a sign of Thirty-eight graduates, of their achievements. needed opportunity to resilience and way to not let including 13 Qataris, re- He said, “Take this gift change many of the interac- the pandemic take over the ceived their Cornell Univer- and embark on the journey tions that we had into ones happy moments of your life. sity MD degrees this year. of life. Whatever you de- that are better equipped for Tarek described medi- The Class of 2020 comprises cide to do, know that there the future. If anything this cine as a calling. He said it 15 males and 23 females of 13 are always people out there serves as a wakeup call to is humbling to be able to different nationalities. They Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar Dean Dr Javaid Sheikh speaks at the virtual graduation ceremony of WCM-Q’s cheering for you and proud many of us, reminding us be there for people in their are the first class to complete Class of 2020 on Wednesday. to even know you. Stay of how important our cur- times of need. WCM-Q’s innovative six-year hopeful and keep working rent and future roles will “Graduating amidst the medical programme, which alongside their more senior single minded discipline and to make a real and lasting and remind yourself why be in this new and changing pandemic is, to me, a long includes both pre-medical colleagues who are currently life-long dedication. While it impact on medicine and sci- you have started whatev- world.” awaited green light to be and medical curriculums. working hard to treat pa- can be extremely challeng- ence, especially in the MENA er you started. Know that For Sara Ayman Mo- able to use my skills and The ceremony, held on- tients suffering from COV- ing at times, also brings far region,” Dr Choi said. things will be alright sooner hamed, witnessing COV- knowledge to help people line to observe physical dis- ID-19 and other diseases. greater fulfilment than any This year’s Student or later.” ID-19 pandemic and seeing in need of it. I can’t wait tancing rules for the pan- “I am sure everyone other profession that I can Speaker Fawzi Saleem Zghy- Mohammed Nasser al doctors being at the front to join all the doctors and demic, didn’t stop friends here will want to join me in think of. You are ready now er shared the mixed emo- Abdulla also described the lines fighting the disease healthcare practitioners in and family of the new physi- acknowledging and offer- to go out and be the heal- tions felt by the batch as they challenges of graduating has left her with “mixed their efforts to mitigate this cians, along with faculty and ing thanks to all healthcare ers for those in need of your fulfil their dreams of becom- while the world has come feelings of nervousness and pandemic,” said Tarek. staff of WCM-Q, logging in workers, both in Qatar and help; all of us wish you the ing physicians while the to a standstill due to the excitement”. Another Class of 2020 to watch the new doctors re- across the world, who are very best in this most noble world is at a standstill due to outbreak of coronavirus as She said, “It is a remind- graduate Sharan Sunil Ku- ceiving their degrees virtu- dedicating every fibre of their of endeavours,” Dr Sheikh the pandemic. He urged his “a difficult experience, like er of the degree of self-scar- mar Yadav described the ally from the WCM-Q dean. being to saving lives and pro- added. fellow graduates to face the something out of a fiction ification it takes to become current situation of health- In his address, Dr Sheikh tecting us all. Their sacrifice Dr Augustine M K Choi, challenges head on. book.” physicians, the immense care as upsetting. thanked Her Highness is humbling to behold and to the Stephen and Suzanne “We will be entering clini- He said, “It is a differ- sense of reward that accom- She said, “While we’re Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, cherish in awe,” he said. Weiss Dean of Weill Cornell cal practice when we are im- ent experience to what any panies it from being able all nervous to begin our chairperson of Qatar Foun- WCM-Q has so far pro- Medicine and provost for mensely needed and will un- of us could have imagined. to help others at such diffi- journeys as physicians dur- dation (QF), and HE Sheikha duced 422 doctors. The latest medical affairs of Cornell doubtedly be getting our feet However, this is not nec- cult times through practis- ing these challenging times, Hind bint Hamad al Thani, cohort will now begin their University, challenged the wet from day one. Embark on essarily a bad thing, there ing this profession and the I’m confident that my class- vice-chairperson and CEO of residencies – the first stage graduates to use their tal- this journey with the same are many benefits to us as overall power of medicine. mates will be great assets to QF, along with the leadership of their careers – in leading ents and abilities to shape passion and courage that al- Class of 2020. We have had As graduating students, we the residency programmes of Qatar, for their ambition hospitals in Qatar and the US. the “new normal” and to find lowed you to get past the pre- the chance to thrust into lost our traditional gradu- they join. I’m proud to join and leadership. “The recent events have novel ways to help patients. vious six or seven years and this new and more virtual ation ceremony but we all my field and excited to cel- He reminded the graduat- underlined that medicine “You are graduating at have the utmost faith that world instead of the face- feel honoured to finally be ebrate the occasion with my ing doctors that each of them makes more demands on such an important and un- your strong roots will help to-face customs that we had able to become physicians friends and family, albeit will take up their positions people than most other pro- precedented moment in his- you weather any storm that relied on. and ready to do our best to virtually.” within the healthcare system fessions. Being a doctor takes tory. You have the potential lays ahead,” Fawzi said. ‘Expectant mothers should live hygienic, healthy lifestyle to beat anxieties’
Tribune News Network information on how COVID-19 found myself thrown into the has been hard for El-Akoum, She has been advised by stay connected to friends and Doha affects expectant mothers, but deep end. I could no longer but she keeps her spirits high doctors to stay at home as family.” the infectious nature of the plan for the next day or the by staying in constant touch much as possible to protect Dr Felice Watt, division As the world remains in a disease also puts them at risk next week, let alone the re- with loved ones virtually and the health of her baby and chief of Adult Psychiatry for state of uncertainty, pregnant during every visit to the doctor. mainder of my pregnancy and limiting how much informa- stay safe. “I’ve been working Women’s Mental Health at women are facing perhaps Apprehension about potential the delivery of my baby.” tion she takes in about the from home, which helps with Sidra Medicine, said: “Anxi- one of the biggest mental changes to birth plans, fewer Advised to stay inside and pandemic on a daily basis. the anxiety and any over- ety is a normal response to a health struggles during the family members being present work from home, and with She’s also taken up hobbies to whelming feelings that come difficult, stressful or threaten- COVID-19 pandemic. during delivery, and general malls and shops closing at keep herself occupied and her from staying inside with a ing situation, and there are While surprises and chal- anxiety are all now part of the short notice, she was faced stress levels low. newborn,” she explained. some basic things that we can lenges are a part of every experience for women around with an array of challenges in Arpi Abouhanaian, who “I’ve also been exercis- all do to maintain our mental woman’s journey through the world currently getting acquiring necessities to pre- gave birth at the end of De- ing a lot, which really helps and physical wellbeing during pregnancy and birth, deal- ready to give birth. pare for her baby’s arrival and cember 2019, has also found boost my mental health and this pandemic. ing with the strain of a global Maha El-Akoum, a first- her own postpartum needs. Maha El-Akoum that the postpartum experi- is so important. Going out for “In addition to proper pandemic was not something time mother-to-be who is El-Akoum was diagnosed ence during a pandemic is a a walk, even alone and main- hand washing and applying they would have anticipat- due to give birth at Sidra with gestational diabetes at being taken and understand particularly unique one. Be- taining my distance from social and physical distancing ed. World Maternal Mental Medicine, a member of Qatar the start of her pregnancy, that it’s for my own safety and ing a first-time mother, she other people, really helps. measures, it is important that Health Day, which takes place Foundation (QF), said she is which meant she had to be that of my baby. It also helped finds it important to remain And just because we have to pregnant women or women on May 6, usually sheds light “quite overcome” by the unex- extra-cautious. that I was able to virtually positive and understand that stay at home doesn’t mean who have recently given birth, on women’s perinatal and pected backdrop to her preg- “Any symptom is usually connect with my doctors crises happen. “During vola- we can’t be with our loved are getting adequate sleep, postnatal struggles. This year, nancy. She describes herself a cause for concern, so being for checkups or unforeseen tile times like these, it’s im- ones virtually. I think every eating well and exercising it has a wider meaning and as a meticulous planner. unable to see my doctor made changes in my condition,” s perative that we trust that mother who’s currently ex- regularly. The support of fam- relevance. She said, “When this situ- it that much harder. But I’m he said. it will end and focus on the pecting or has recently given ily members is critical during Not only is there a lack of ation unfolded, I suddenly so grateful for the measures Coping with the situation positive,” she said. birth should make it a point to this time.”