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QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune Monday April 6, 2020 Sha`baan 13, 1441 Vol.13 no. 4913 qR 2

Fajr: 4:03 am Dhuhr: 11:36 am Asr: 3:06 pm Maghrib: 5:53 pm Isha: 7:23 pm

Business 8 Sports 11 Private sector working in Handling of Premier fine High : 35°C tandem with govt to combat League pay row ‘a LOW : 22°C COVID-19: QC chairman disgrace’: Rooney

FM, Lebanon Nat ional Guarantee Programme aims to support salaries & rents of private companies FM discuss ways to beat COVID-19 QDB launches programme to QNA Doha

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs support affected companies HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al Thani on QNA The programme will pro- benefit from the programme, banks to offer finance without to the COVID-19 in coopera- Sunday received a phone Doha vide guarantees for local the QDB indicated that com- any fees or commissions. It is tion with the Ministry of Fi- call from Minister of Foreign banks to grant interest-free panies or their official repre- stipulated that the beneficiary nance, the Qatar Central Bank Affairs and Emigrants of the Implementing the direc- loans to affected companies sentatives should communi- company will pay to the com- and commercial and Islamic Lebanese Republic Nassif tives of the Amir HH Sheikh to meet the challenge of the cate only with the commercial mercial and Islamic donor banks in Qatar is a continua- Hitti. Tamim bin Hamad al Thani coronavirus (COVID-19) pan- and Islamic banks in which banks within a maximum of tion of the efforts to provide During the phone call, to provide financial and eco- demic. their accounts are registered all types of support for SMEs they discussed bilateral co- nomic incentives amounting The National Guarantee for the wages protection sys- BATTLE and various components of operation and coordinating to QR75 billion to the private Programme aims to support tem. They should submit re- AGAINST the private sector during the efforts to curb the spread sector, and the directives of salaries and rents of compa- quests for benefit exclusively current circumstances. of the coronavirus (COV- Prime Minister and Minister nies in the private sector. through commercial and Is- COVID-19 He said the programme ID-19) as well as matters of of Interior HE Sheikh Khalid The Qatar Development panies wishing to benefit from lamic banks operating in the will equip private companies mutual interest. bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al Bank will manage and issue the programme are required country. three years, including a one- to face the economic impacts Thani to extend QR3 billion the guide for this programme, to be fully owned by the pri- The programme’s mecha- year grace period. of the pandemic, and it will guarantee to local banks, the while banks will grant financ- vate sector and to be regis- nism of work includes pro- QDB CEO Abdulaziz bin ensure that they continue to Qatar Development Bank ing with a guarantee from Qa- tered in the Wage Protection viding a 100 percent cover- Nasser al Khalifa said the work in a manner that does (QDB) launched the National tar Development Bank. System in force in the country. age guarantee by the QDB to launch of the National Guar- not affect their commercial Coronavirus Guarantee Programme. The QDB stated that com- As for filing application to the commercial and Islamic antee Programme to response operations. cases set to stabilise soon, COVID-19 awareness among workers says official ‘If COVID-19 measures work, life will return to normal in four weeks’

Tribune News Network Sheikh Dr Mohammed bin Doha 14 more recover from virus; Hamad al Thani. It will take at least four 279 new cases detected Tribune News Network weeks to return to some Doha kind of normalcy if the Coronavirus (COVID-19) care, but his condition dete- measures to contain the cases jumped by 279 to 1,604 riorated resulting in his death The number of new coronavi- spread of coronavirus yield in Qatar on Sunday as 14 on Sunday morning. rus (COVID-19) cases reported positive results, a top health more people recovered from The MoPH extended con- daily is likely to start stabilis- official said on Sunday. the virus, the Ministry of Public dolences and sympathy to the ing soon, a top health official “Four weeks is the least Health (MoPH) has announced. family of the deceased. has said. period we need from now … In a statement, the MoPH The MoPH said new “There are several reasons to allowing back schools and said so far 123 people have cases are now in quarantine for the rise in new coronavirus businesses to run normally,” The Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social recovered from the virus. and are receiving necessary cases. And one of the top Dr Abdullatif al Khal, Co- Dr Abdullatif al Khal. Affairs (MADLSA) has launched a campaign to raise awareness Sadly, an 88-year-old Qatari medical care. reason is the increase in the chair of the National Epi- among workers to combat the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. citizen, who was suffering from The MoPH said it conduct- number of tests conducted in demic Preparation Commit- four weeks, the measures The campaign includes providing educational leaflets and preven- several chronic diseases and ed laboratory tests on 3,806 our laboratories. On Sunday, we tee, told Doha 360 website. taken will be reviewed,” he tive advice to workers to limit the spread of the coronavirus. (TNN) bacterial infection in the blood, people to detect COVID-19 conducted the highest number However, he stressed the added. succumbed to the coronavi- on Sunday. So far, a total of tests -- about 6, 000. On need to wait and see the re- Based on the experi- rus. So far, coronavirus have of 35,757 tests have been Saturday, we conducted about sults of the measures being ences of other countries, he claimed four lives in Qatar. conducted. “This is owing to 4,000 tests,” Sheikh Dr Mo- taken now and their impact said, these measures will not The MoPH said the the use of new laboratory tech- hammed bin Hamad al Thani, on the level of virus retreat. be cancelled in one go, but New radio frequency QU unveils new deceased received intensive niques and increasing the num- Director of the Public Health “If we find positive re- will be phased out if we can for virus awareness in evaluation medical care upon his arrival ber of laboratories being used. Department, told Qatar TV. sults in terms of controlling control the virus within the at the hospital on Tuesday, Work continues to increase the the virus during the next next four weeks. Bengali language (PG 2 ) procedures (PG 2 ) March 3, and was given the capacity of laboratories,” the Continued on page 2  necessary treatment and MoPH said. (TNN) QU launches tech competition to fight COVID-19

Tribune News Network a field hospital to accommo- dividual or an integrated team Doha date infected patients are also can participate in, and that the part of the competition. idea is technology-inspired, Qatar University’s College Entries for the competi- supports sustainable innova- of Engineering on Sunday tion can be submitted until tion, and is scalable. launched a competition to har- June 24. The university said the nesses technology and innova- The winners will be an- competition comes in the tion to design engineering so- nounced on September 24, context of the urgent need to lutions to fight the coronavirus 2020, which will be followed develop the industry of scien- (COVID-19) pandemic. by an international virtual ex- tific and medical technologies Titled “Global Virtual De- hibition on October 20. to respond to the challenge of Ashghal opens new underpass and sign and Innovation Com- The entries are open in six the coronavirus and in light of petition – Coronacvirus The competition includes ventilation valves, breathing official languages of the Unit- expectations that large num- bridge at Mesaimeer Interchange (COVID-19)”, the competition several categories such as de- filters and masks using 3D ed Nations — English, Arabic, ber people around the world The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has opened a new under- will be held under the slogan signing mobile applications technology. French, Chinese, Russian and will be infected with the virus, pass and bridge at Mesaimeer Interchange to traffic going towards “Reengineering the future of for coronavirus mitigation, Designing smart, afford- Spanish. which increases the pressure Al Wakra and Al Wukair from Industrial Area Road and E- Ring healthcare and improving life- non-chemical disinfection able and mobile buildings that Design is required to be on health systems in various Road. The 750m underpass will provide free flow traffic.p age 14 impact design”. devices and tools such as can be assembled quickly into original work, in which an in- countries. 02 Monday, April 6, 2020

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Quick read Qatar University unveils new Amir sends condolences to Bulgarian president The Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani on Sunday student evaluation procedures sent a cable of condolences to President Rumen Radev of Bulgaria on the death of his father. (QNA) QNA by regional and international students an opportunity to ish the academic semester the expected outputs of the Deputy Amir sends condolences Doha universities,” the QU presi- maintain their academic per- and get the highest of grades,” educational process that will to Bulgarian president dent said, adding that over formance.” he added. qualify them to serve their Qatar University (QU) has the past few days, the uni- QU provided a document communities and nations. The Deputy Amir HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al Thani announced new measures versity has deliberated on containing a set of questions “In the end, I would like to on Sunday sent a cable of condolences to President Rumen related to the evaluation pro- the methods of evaluating The university has deliber- and answers that could pro- extend my sincere gratitude Radev of Bulgaria on the death of his father. (QNA) cess for students in the cur- students. ated on the methods of vide further explanation of to my fellow faculty members rent Spring 2020 semester He said, “During the meet- evaluating students. All the new procedure outlined, and researchers, who have Qatar condemns explosion in Somalia following the transition to a ings, we have examined a va- colleges of Qatar adding that this file will also positively responded to this distance learning system as riety of evaluation examples University and the student be published on the Univer- transition and showed their Qatar has condemned the explosion that targeted a popular part of the preventive meas- applied by regional and inter- affairs departments had sity’s website. high sense of responsibility. coffee shop in Jowhar city in southern Somalia, killing one per- ures to control coronavirus national universities. In addi- participated in this con- It is important to under- I would also like to thank the son and injuring others. In a statement on Sunday, the Ministry (COVID-19). tion, the university has taken stand that we are currently university employees who of Foreign Affairs reiterated the firm position of Qatar rejecting In a message to the stu- into account a number of im- versation and provided val- living through exceptional spared no effort and worked violence and terrorism, regardless of motives and reasons. The dents, Qatar University Pres- portant factors, such as ensur- uable insights circumstances that enforced a tirelessly day and night to statement expressed the condolences of Qatar to the family of ident Dr Hassan bin Rashid ing the quality and serious- semester upon us that differs move the University through the victim and to the government and people of Somalia, wish- al Derham said the univer- ness of the education process He expressed confidence from any previous semesters this transition and implement ing the injured a speedy recovery. (QNA) sity has decided to continue and the need to reduce anxiety that the university had cho- because in exceptional cir- the new learning system in re- teaching with distance learn- and stress on both students sen the optimal evaluation cumstances, exceptional pro- cord time,” Dr Derham said. ing for the remainder of the and faculty members. method to be adapted and cedures are required. There- He added, “To you, my current semester (Spring “Another important fac- that the additional proce- fore, patience, flexibility and dear students, I would like CRA assigns new FM 2020). tor is to ensure that students dures outlined above would mutual understanding should to share my gratitude and Over the last few days, are not adversely affected by ensure that students would be practiced by all members appreciation for your under- frequency to broadcast the university has discussed this shift and to provide them not be adversely affected of QU community. This is standing, cooperation and the methods used to evaluate with appropriate compensa- by this sudden transition of why I would like to take this continued hard work. I also awareness in Bengali students. All the colleges of tion and assessment opportu- the learning process. It will opportunity to call upon all extend my gratitude to your the Qatar University and the nities. In alignment with this, also provide opportunities students and faculty mem- families for their understand- Tribune News Network MHz to promote awareness to student affairs departments the university has decided for compensation in order to bers to do their best and work ing, cooperation and support Doha the audience about the pre- participated in this conver- to maintain the scale of final protect the student’s overall together to achieve optimal for students and the efforts of cautionary measures that need sation and provided valuable estimates currently in use academic performance. benefit considering what is the University. I am confident The Communications Regu- to be taken to limit the spread insights. (the letter system A, B +, B, “I am also confident that available. We shall aspire to that the University, with the latory Authority (CRA) has of COVID-19 in the country. “During these discus- etc.) while implementing new this choice will motivate stu- support the students to gain cooperation and solidarity assigned a frequency to a new “In accordance with the sions, we examined a variety procedures that will help to dents to work even harder the required skills and infor- of all of us, will emerge from FM radio broadcasting station, CRA’s mandate related to allo- of evaluation examples used reduce anxiety and will give and will support them to fin- mation in order to achieve this phase stronger.” in coordination with the Min- cating and managing of scarce istry of Culture and Sports, resources like radio spectrum, to broadcast awareness pro- the CRA has taken urgent grammes in Bengali language measures to assign appropri- for the Bengali-speaking com- ate frequency that can be used munity in Qatar. This comes temporarily during this period More tests lead to detection of more cases as part of Qatar’s efforts to to help in raising awareness limit the spread of coronavirus and ensuring the safety of a Continued from page 1  On Sunday, the number “We currently see that the “What is happening is not in of Qatar, and how a disciplined disease (COVID-19). large population of people “In the past, we used to ex- just increased by 20 as com- majority of people are disci- the customs and traditions of country managed to contain After being coordinated who speaks Bengali language amine 1,500 cases daily. The pared to Saturday, he added. plined and we hope that the 1 Qatari people, who are known the disease that no one should with the Ministry of Culture in Qatar. The CRA will con- number of new cases is high “On Monday, the number or 2 percent of undisciplined to keep their promises. If such underestimate,” he noted. and Sports and Qatar Media tinue to take any other urgent today because we conducted of new cases is likely to be the people abide by the law soon violations continue, the num- “We are proud that the Corporation, the new FM sta- measures that support Qatar’s more tests,” he said, adding same as that of Sunday.” to keep their families and ber of cases may increase and number of volunteers is be- tion started broadcasting pro- efforts in limiting the spread that on Saturday the number Discipline among the pub- country safe,” he said. multiply, but if everyone com- tween 30,000 and 35,000, grammes on Sunday, March of COVID-19 in the country,” of new cases jumped to 250 lic is very essential for limiting On violations of the quar- mits, the whole world will be and we are training them 22, 2020 on FM Channel 95.3 said CRA. from 128 the day before. the spread of the virus, he said. antine guidelines, he said, surprised by the achievement now,” he said. Perfect online classes as Indian schools begin new session NMoQ invites mascot Satyendra Pathak was almost full attendance and our staff, teachers throughout the day,” the official Doha teachers and students faced no difficulty noted. designs to celebrate on day one,” Loyola International School A number of parents too expressed Most of the Indian schools in Qatar wit- Doha Operations Director Sarad Chandra satisfaction with the way the online class- nessed almost full attendance on day one said. es were conducted. its first anniversary of the new academic year that began with “The ministry provided all support “The first day of my son’s online class- near-perfect execution of online classes in our preparation for our major shift es went very well. The school ensure that pealing manner. on Sunday. to virtual classes. Our schools used the parents and students have a clear guide- The museum has The deadline for submit- Although there were technical set- two-week spring break to prepare for the line about the online classes. I think the selected the dugong ting designs is July 1 and in- backs in individual cases, no major dis- unprecedented transition under the guid- school has done well to ensure students dependent artists and design- ruptions were reported as classes moved ance of the ministry. We held e-learning are kept up-to-date with the learning pro- as its mascot ers from all age groups and online for thousands of students studying the students and conducted the classes classes for two weeks before the schools gramme. The school has created digital nationalities can submit their in more than 20 Indian schools in Qatar, through the Zoom App. re-opened for the 2020-2021 academic videos for the benefit of students,” Fa- Tribune News Network designs; international submis- following the government’s decision to Officials of most of the Indian schools year on April 5. Teachers and other staff tima, mother of a class 2 student of DPS- Doha sions are also welcome. close schools and universities nationwide Qatar Tribune spoke to praised the Min- were given training on technical issues MIS, said. The prize for the winning due to concerns about the outbreak of the istry of Education and Higher Education like converting and editing video files, “The school commenced e-learning As part of marking its first an- design will include major media coronavirus (COVID-19). for its support in smooth transition from uploading files, conducting remote meet- for the students through the MICRO- niversary, the National Mu- and press interviews for the art- The day started with students log- physical classes to virtual classes. ings, and creating sharable links,” a senior SOFT TEAMS platform. The e- learning seum of Qatar (NMoQ) has ist and coverage featuring the ging into their school’s e-learning system, “It was perfect execution of online official of another Indian school said. process is facilitated through the Pearson launched an open call for art- design, recognition by Her Ex- as suggested by their respective schools. classes to begin the new academic year. “Students of today know technology Active App, which is made accessible for ists and designers to submit cellency Sheikha al Mayassa bint Most of the schools had system in place to The ministry gave us all support in en- a lot better than we do. And thanks to our all the students. Both teachers and stu- creative designs for the mu- Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani, enable teachers to upload class work for suring that the work set for home was IT team, the classes were held smoothly. dents interacted online via Zoom App to seum’s new mascot. Chairperson of Qatar Museums students to study online. accessible through various devices and As per the information, at least 90 per- accomplish the target of learning online,” The NMoQ has selected (QM), and Sheikha Amna bint The teachers interacted virtually with operating systems to all our students. It cent of our students interacted with their DPS-MIS said in a statement. the dugong, a large marine Abdull Aziz bin Jassim al Thani, mammal that has lived in director of NMoQ, a free culture Qatari waters for over 7,500 pass membership and gift pack- years, as its mascot. age from the NMoQ Gift Shop. Katara sterilises facilities, buildings and streets to combat COVID-19 This initiative is part of If an international artist is se- the programming around the lected, the prize will also cover a museum’s upcoming exhibi- round-trip ticket to Doha. tion on dugongs set to open NMoQ was inaugurated on next year in collaboration with March 28, 2019, and since then ExxonMobil Research Qatar. has welcomed over 600,000 The Arabian Gulf is home visitors from all across the to the second largest popula- world. The museum was also tion of dugongs in the world, recognised for its efforts in making them significant to sustainability by receiving the Qatar. These mammals are LEED Gold certification, a currently on the World Wild- first-ever certificate awarded life Fund’s vulnerable list and to a national museum. raising awareness of them NMoQ remains one of Qa- links to the museum’s key tar’s key landmarks that high- themes around sustainability lights the country’s culture and conservation. and heritage. To learn more The design of the dugong about and/or apply for the The Cultural Village Foundation (Katara) carried out a campaign to sterilise all its streets, facilities and buildings in cooperation with the Ministry of Municipality and Environment, should have a unique concept dugong mascot design open as part of a nation-wide cleanliness campaign to contain the spread of coronavirus in Qatar. The sterilisation, spraying and disinfection works included all the buildings such as the which symbolises NMoQ’s call, visit the website: https:// chandelier dome, streets and galleries as well as waterfront, the Katara beach area, the health club, the southern region and the Katara hills. (TNN) identity and relates to Qatari nmoq.org.qa/dugong-mascot- culture, in an aesthetic and ap- open-call Nation Monday, April 6, 2020 03

Mada new platforms to HEC Paris in Qatar all set to organise aid access to education, series of online masterclass sessions culture, society sectors QNA ports the society through ena- Doha bling everyone – especially The sessions are designed to improve the leadership skills needed for senior business managers people with disabilities and Qatar Assistive Technol- the elderly -- to access infor- Tribune News Network time). The session will exam- innovation and what it takes The third masterclass of the leadership skills needed ogy Center (Mada Centre), mation from digital sources Doha ine population reaction to the to convince them to do so. At the series is titled ‘The future for senior business managers affiliated to the Ministry of and services which they need coronavirus pandemic and the HEC Paris Strategy and of human collaboration in a to succeed in their positions. Transport and Communica- on a daily basis, such as gov- HEC Paris will hold a series of the response of various gov- world of automation and AI’. These interactive discussions tions (MoTC), has launched ernment services, purchasing online master class sessions ernments around the world. The session will take place on will give participants an in- two platforms on its website to services, health services and covering a wide range of top- It will be led by Prof Olivier The sessions will examine Wednesday 29 from 2:30pm sight into innovation subjects, support access to information many other useful services. ics in April. They are ranked Sibony, who teaches strategy, population reaction to the to 4pm (Qatar time); and will such as being more creative in from various sources in the number three in the Financial decision-making and problem coronavirus pandemic and be hosted by Professor Mathis a professional context; the le- education, culture and society Times executive education and solving at HEC Paris. the response of various Schulte, who argues that in an vers becoming a more sectors. the top in International Execu- The second masterclass governments around the automated world, human col- innovative individual; or The first platform is dedi- tive MBA in 2019. titled ‘How To Make Innova- world laboration will prove to be the providing a framework for cated to supporting compre- The first of the three mas- tion Part of Your DNA!’ will decisive factor for organisa- their immediate team to be hensive digital education. It ter classes entitled ‘Cognitive take place on Wednesday 22 tions. Professor Schulte is an more innovative supports distance learning as Biases and Decision-Making: from 4:30pm to 6 pm (Qatar Market Management, Profes- HEC Paris Associate Professor For more information on an initiative that guarantees CEO of Mada Centre Case Of The Covid-19 Re- time), where Professor Lau- sor Ortega served as an associ- of Management and Human the masterclass sessions, con- comprehensive education Maha al Mansouri said the sponse’, will take place on rence Lehmann-Ortega will ate professor at the HEC Paris Resources since 2009. tact HEC Paris Admissions Of- for all students, especially launch of the two platforms Wednesday, April 8 from address how well developed Startegy and Business depart- HEC Paris masterclass ses- fice: admissionsqatar@hec-q. those with disabilities and reflects the centre’s mission 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m (Qatar businesses are able to accept ment since 2009. sions are designed to improve qf.org.qa. job restrictions. It contains to unleash the potentiality of programmes and open educa- all persons with functional tional resources (OERs) avail- restrictions through capacity- able on internet with an open building. Mansouri noted that licence, and provides a set of the two platforms function in interactive online services for accordance with best practices Q-Tickets launches free delivery service to combat COVID-19 teachers, learners, parents and international standards to and others involved in the support access to information, Tribune News Network vice charge and the products follow COVID-19 hygiene education process. It also of- digital resources and services Doha will be delivered at market rules and regulations. We will fers the information, tools and available in the education, cul- prices, with no extra cost. be at your service from 9am resources necessary to sup- ture and society sectors. Q-Tickets, Qatar’s leading Explaining the concept to 9pm daily, including week- port education in accordance Mansouri added that that one stop ticketing platform, behind the ‘Stay Home, Stay ends.” with the principle of universal the platforms aim to facili- has launched a free delivery Safe’ free delivery service, “Q-Tickets are committed design for learning and a com- tate access to information for service of groceries, food and Q-Tickets Vice President to serving the community, es- prehensive digital learning en- all persons and ensure the medicines for all its clients in Bhaskar Bhatt said, “Over the pecially our loyal customers vironment. full participation of persons order to help combat COV- years, Q-Tickets has been Qa- and therefore, I am delighted In addition, the platform with disabilities in education ID-19. tar’s leading entertainment to share that we are extend- offers a variety of applica- and community activities, The ‘Stay Home, Stay Safe’ partner in movies, events, ing this service at no service tions that are categorised into enabling them to live indepen- free service offers clients the sports and leisure during good charge and you can be assured sections to improve specific dently and enjoy all aspects of benefit of food and medical times. We are grateful for the to get your orders at market skills such as reading, writing, life. essentials delivered to their love and support shown by price. This is our humanitar- cognition and mathematics. Mada Centre is a private doorstep without the need to our customers and that is ex- ian initiative of providing you In addition, it provides acces- institution for public benefit, download apps, browse, select actly what has kept us striving happiness and care, making sible, designed and developed which was founded in 2010 as items and then choose various to bring you the latest and the sure that you stay home and educational resources that an initiative that aims at pro- payment methods. best in entertainment. ‘Stay Home, Stay Safe’ free de- Bhatt added, “Let me also stay safe,” he added. have been approved by Mada moting digital inclusion and All customers have to do “But today, in this corona- livery service of groceries, food assure you that our delivery Bhatt thanked clients Centre to meet the needs of building a technology-based is place their orders by call- virus pandemic crisis where and medical items. You can team has been fully trained for their unending love and students of all levels, abilities community that meets the ing +97433958126, WhatsApp your safety lies in staying at simply either call, WhatsApp to follow strict hygiene guide- support and assured them and knowledge capabilities in needs of persons with func- +97433958126 or emailing home, or email us your requirements lines laid down by the Ministry Q-Tickets will be back, once general and students with dis- tional limitations (PFLs), per- their needs to delivery@qt- Q-Tickets has stepped up without the cumbersome need of Public Health (MoPH). All regulations permit, with the ability in particular. sons with disabilities (PWDs) souq.com. Payment can be and taken the onus to help to download apps, select items our delivery personnel wear usual favourite dose of fun and The second platform sup- and the elderly. made on delivery with no ser- our customers by offering our and modes of payment.” masks, gloves and diligently entertainment. 04 Monday, April 6, 2020 Middle East / Gulf / Africa

Ethiopia reports first two Iran to restart ‘low-risk’ deaths from coronavirus AFP tremely limited. Addis Ababa As of Friday, the country had conducted just 1,222 economic activities soon Ethiopia on Sunday tests, according to the Ethi- announced the first two opian Public Health Insti- AFP While some people in Teh- deaths of patients suffering tute. Tehran ran told AFP they were reas- from COVID-19, as officials South Africa, by com- sured by the government’s ramped up testing to get a parison, has performed tens Iran said on Sunday it will al- response, others remained clearer picture of the out- of thousands of tests. low “low-risk” economic activi- fearful. break there. Ethiopian officials said ties to resume from April 11 as “There have been a lot of The first victim was Saturday they were conduct- its daily coronavirus infection people out on the streets the a 60-year-old Ethiopian ing an additional 647 tests, rates slowed for a fifth straight last two days. It’s terrifying,” a woman who had spent six notably of targeted health day. housewife, Zohreh, told AFP. days in intensive care, a workers, transportation sec- “Restarting these activities But Zahra Zanjani, another health ministry statement tor workers who have “direct does not mean we have aban- housewife, said she believed the said, with the second a contact with passengers” doned the principle of staying at situation was under control. 56-year-old Ethiopian man and randomly selected peo- home,” President Hassan Rou- “People are very respectful” diagnosed with COVID-19 ple in Addis Ababa, the capi- hani said at a meeting of Iran’s of instructions from authori- last Thursday. tal, and the city of Adama in anti-coronavirus task force. ties, “and are taking great care,” “It is my deepest regret the Oromia region. The president, whose she said. to announce the first death It was intended to help country has been battered by A retiree named Amir wor- of a patient from #COVID19 determine whether there US economic sanctions, did ried about the economic impact in Ethiopia,” Health Minis- has been undetected com- not specify what qualified as of the pandemic. ter Lia Tadesse said in an- munity transmission, said “low risk” activities, but said “People still have expenses nouncing the country’s first Dr Adisu Kebede, director of bans would remain on schools to pay,” he said. fatality on Twitter. national laboratory capacity and large gatherings. “They can’t stay at home. Four hours later, Lia building. A “gradual” return of “low- The government needs to sup- published a second post ex- “There are also a few risk” economic activity will be Iranians wear protective face masks against the novel coronavirus as they walk on a street in Tehran on Sun- port them financially.” pressing “great sadness” as cases that we identified permitted from next Saturday day. The spread of the virus in Iran has slowed for the fifth day in a row, according to official figures.(AFP) In Isfahan, Iran’s third larg- another death emerged. that have no travel history in the provinces and from April est city and tourism capital, Ethiopia, a country of and things like that, and 18 in Tehran, Rouhani said. He also reported 2,483 in China, has reported 58,226 marked a return to regular ac- 35-year-old teacher Samira more than 100 million peo- from their contacts, you can The novel coronavirus pan- new cases of COVID-19 infec- infections, a figure which some tivity in Iran after a two-week said large numbers of people ple, confirmed its first case guess that there is commu- demic claimed another 151 lives tion, the fifth straight day of foreign experts suspect is an holiday for the Persian New were ignoring advice to stay of COVID-19 on March 13 nity transmission already,” over the past 24 hours in Iran, declining numbers, compared underestimate. Year. home. and has recorded just 43 in Adisu said. raising the Islamic republic’s to a record number of 3,111 in- After resisting a lockdown Jahanpour at his briefing “I passed by two parks and total -- mostly people with “The WHO recommend- declared death toll to 3,603, fections on March 31. or quarantine measures, Iran criticised “those who think saw 25 to 30 people in each,” a history of recent foreign ed ‘test, test, test,’ so we had health ministry spokesman Ki- Iran, the Middle East imposed an intercity travel ban that the situation is normal she said. travel. to test more people,” he anoush Jahanpour said Sunday country worst affected by the late last month. now that the holidays are over, “Public gardens are sup- But testing has been ex- added. at his daily press briefing. pandemic, which originated Saturday should have because it is not normal”. posed to remain closed.”

News Nigerian prisoners killed after demanding release over Covid-19 fears in brief DPA tained in the melee that ensued inmate who had shown signs of ernment intended to free 70 per Inmates in Nigeria often live Jordan to use drones, cameras to Lagos while being restrained by the having Covid-19 - the potential- cent of inmates. in cramped conditions as the custodial officers from break- ly deadly disease caused by the Earlier in the week, Inte- country’s prisons are usually monitor curfew Four inmates on death row in ing jail,” said Sanusi Mu’azu novel coronavirus - had sparked rior Minister Rauf Aregbesola overcrowded, many of them Amman Jordan said it is to use drones and surveillance cam- Nigeria were killed during an Danmusa, head of correctional the riots on Tuesday. said that with the number of housing more than four times eras to monitor compliance with a nationwide curfew imposed altercation with prison staff af- services in Nigeria’s northern Danmusa said his state- Covid-19 cases steadily growing their capacity. to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. ter the government announced Kaduna State. It was not imme- ment was in response to “mali- in Nigeria, the prisons would be Other countries around the “The armed forces and security services will ensure the plans for early release due to the diately clear how the prisoners cious publications by a section “decongested” so as to prevent world - such as France, Tuni- curfew is being respected by using modern technology such as spread of the novel coronavirus, sustained their fatal injuries, of the media.” the spread of the virus among sia, Algeria, Ethiopia and Iraq drones and surveillance cameras,” the minister of state for in- authorities have confirmed. but local media had reported He said the prisoners had the country’s large prison pop- - have announced similar plans formation, Amjad al-Adayleh, told a press briefing late Saturday. “Four inmates died in the gun shots being fired. been demanding their release ulation. He did not say who or to halt the spread of Covid-19 in Jordan has declared five dead and 323 cases of the OC V- hospital from the injuries sus- They also reported that an based on rumours that the gov- how many would be released. their correctional facilities. ID-19 illness. Adayleh, who also serves as government spokesman, warned that authorities would take “the necessary measures against anyone violating decisions” taken to contain the out- break. Egypt bans public charity banquets Israel detains Palestinian Turkey exempts Jordan says it has arrested at least 1,600 people for violat- governor of Jerusalem again young workers ing the curfew, which imposes heavy penalties and has been in during Ramadan amid pandemic force since last month. (AFP) DPA The Ministry of Awqaf, AFP smoking a cigarette, being from confinement Cairo responsible for mosques in Jerusalem escorted by police out of his mostly Muslim Egypt, said it east Jerusalem home. order Five killed in shelling of women’s prison Egyptian authorities have would not permit fast-break- Israel detained the Pales- His attorney Rami Oth- AFP in embattled Yemeni city banned public charity ban- ing or iftar charity tables this tinian governor of Jerusa- man said Ghaith, who was Istanbul quets, an age-old feature Ramadan around mosques. lem on Sunday over “illegal” taken for questioning, was Sana’a At least five inmates erew killed on Sunday after a shell of the Islamic month of Ram- “We call on all benefactors, activities, in at least the sev- apprehended primarily due Turkey on Sunday said work- hit a women’s prison in Yemen’s embattled city of Taiz, according adan, in an effort to contain charity associations and other enth time Adnan Ghaith has to Palestinian activity related ing youth, including seasonal to a government official. the spread of the new corona- bodies who used to set up the been arrested in less than 18 to the coronavirus outbreak. agricultural labour, will be ex- The head of the health office inT aiz, Abdel-Rehim al-Samei, virus, state media reported on iftar tables in the holy month months. A statement from a body empted from a confinement or- told dpa that Yemen’s Houthi rebels had fired a shell at the Sunday. in the past to offer their char- “Adnan Ghaith was de- representing various Pales- der imposed as part of tougher women’s sector of the city’s central prison, injuring 23 prisoners. Benefactors in Egypt have ity in the form of cash or food tained this morning for Pal- tinian factors in Jerusalem measures against the coronavi- So far there has been no comment from the Iran-linked re- the tradition of hosting such items to the poor and those in estinian activity in Jerusa- condemned the arrest. rus outbreak. bels, who have been locked in a devastating war with the Saudi- banquets, which offer free need this year,” the ministry lem, which is illegal,” police Israel’s action was aimed President Recep Tayyip backed government since late 2014. meals to the needy at break of said in a statement. spokesman Micky Rosenfeld at “obstructing (Palestinian) Erdogan on Friday issued a Government forces are in control of the city, which is be- daily fast at sunset - known as Last month, Egypt closed told AFP. The Palestinian national action in Jerusa- mandatory confinement order sieged by the Houthis. “iftar” - in Ramadan. mosques as a precaution Authority (PA) official was lem,” it said, stressing that for everyone aged under 20 Yemen’s feud has intensified sinceM arch 2015, when the The ninth month of Islam’s against the virus, which has arrested by Israel at least six Ghaith had been working to starting from midnight, in the Houthis advanced on the government’s temporary capital of lunar calendar, Ramadan is to infected 1,070 people and times last year. ensure Palestinians living latest series of measures taken Aden, prompting Saudi Arabia and its Sunni allies to start an air start this month amid growing caused 71 deaths. A video circulating on in the city had the supplies nationwide. campaign against the Shiite group. concerns in Muslim countries It is not clear if mosques social media showed Ghaith, needed for protection against Public and private sector The conflict is seen as a proxy arw between Saudi Arabia and that the pandemic will impact will reopen in Ramadan, when wearing rubber gloves and the virus. employees as well as seasonal its regional rival, Iran. (DPA) its observance. they are traditionally packed. agricultural workers aged be- tween 18 and 20 will now be exempted, the interior ministry Libya’s ex-premier Jebril dies of Covid-19 said in a circular. People aged over 65 or those Cairo Libya’s former prime minister Mahmoud Jebril died on Exhumation of 30,000 bodies in Rwandan mass grave begins with chronic medical conditions Sunday after developing Covid-19, the respiratory disease are already subject to mandato- caused by the new coronavirus, Libyan media reported. DPA been exhumed. The challenge in the East African nation’s begin commemorations of the ry confinement in Turkey. His death, in a Cairo hospital at the age of 68, was con- Kigali we face now is that the valley genocide in 1994 complete genocide, in which more than The country’s death toll firmed by his former party, theN ational Forces Alliance (NFA). dam contains water but we are their sentences and provide 800,000 ethnic Tutsi and from coronavirus reached 574 Jebril served as prime minister for eight months in 2011 af- Exhumation of about trying to dry it up,” Naphtal new information about where moderate Hutus were killed after 73 more people lost their ter the eruption of an armed revolt that toppled Libya’s long-time 30,000 bodies from a dam Ahishakiye, executive secre- victims were buried. during a 100-day period. lives over the last 24 hours, ac- dictator Moamer Gaddafi. outside Rwanda’s capital of tary of genocide survivor or- Authorities say the valley This year’s commemora- cording to figures published by The NFA offered its condolences to Jebril’s family without Kigali began on Sunday, more ganization Ibuka, told dpa. dam, east of Kigali, had been tion activities, however, can Health Minister Fahrettin Koca specifying the cause of his death or where he passed away. than a quarter century after The discovery of this latest dug by Chinese farmers before be followed only on television on Sunday. Late last month, the alliance said Jebril had tested positive the genocide in which more site is the most significant in a 1994 to provide rice-farming and social media as the gov- The total number of con- for the coronavirus. than 800,000 people were while, authorities say. irrigation. ernment has banned gather- firmed cases rose to 27,069 while So far, there has been no official comment in Cairo.(DPA) killed. New graves keep being dis- The exhumation comes ings due to the outbreak of the the country performed more “So far, 50 bodies have covered as prisoners involved two days before Rwandans coronavirus. than 20,000 tests on Sunday. Lebanon repatriates nationals in rare flights despite virus

AFP the morning bringing in 78 has officially infected 527 peo- up to be repatriated in total guidelines. Beirut passengers from Riyadh, local ple and killed 18 nationwide. this week or at the end of the They must pay for their television reported. An AFP photographer saw month. own ticket and their families Lebanon on Sunday started A second carrying 79 pas- a dozen buses outside the air- Lebanese carrier Middle are not allowed to meet them repatriating nationals who sengers from Abu Dhabi fol- port, which the health minis- East Airlines said flights would at the airport. were stranded abroad in its lowed in the afternoon, the try said were to transport the land in Beirut later on Sunday The government has said first flights in weeks since it National News Agency said. passengers to their homes to from Lagos and Abidjan. priority will be given to those closed its international airport Local television showed self-quarantine or to a hotel It has also announced re- with critical health conditions to stem the novel coronavirus. health personnel in protective to await the results of tests on turn trips to Paris, Madrid and such as diabetes or cancer, Many Lebanese work gear taking the temperature of arrival. Kinshasa on Tuesday. those aged over 60 and under abroad, in the Gulf or in Af- disembarking passengers. Prime Minister Hassan Lebanese returning home 18, and families. rica, while thousands of youth The Mediterranean coun- Diab had arrived earlier amid must either test negative for But critics have com- study in Europe. try announced a lockdown and heavy deployment of the Leba- the virus no longer than three plained of steep ticket fares, The first of four planes closed its airport from March nese army. days before their return, or be while a financial crisis has se- touched down at the Beirut 19 as part of measures to curb Authorities said more than tested immediately upon ar- verely restricted transactions Lebanese nationals, residing in Saudi Arabia, arrive at the Beirut inter- international airport late in the spread of COVID-19, which 20,000 people had signed rival, according to government from Lebanese bank accounts. national airport on Sunday. (AFP) Asia / World Monday, April 6, 2020 05 20,000 worshippers quarantined in Pakistan after major search

AFP Islamic missionary movement lamic preachers who attended Punjab city Lahore, while in Jamaat had tested positive for Lahore -- between March 10-12 over the Lahore meeting. southern Sindh province up coronavirus, with two fatali- fears they are now spreading “Health officials are con- to 8,000 Tablighis have been ties, authorities told AFP. Pakistan has quarantined COVID-19 across Pakistan and ducting tests for coronavirus quarantined, government of- Coronavirus has killed at 20,000 worshippers and is overseas. and some of them have test- ficials said. least 45 people in Pakistan still searching for tens of thou- More than 100,000 people ed positive,” Ajmal Wazir, a Dozens more have been but with only limited testing sands more who attended an went to the meeting, organis- spokesperson for the region, forced to self-isolate in south- available, observers worry the Islamic gathering in Lahore ers said, undeterred by gov- told AFP on Sunday. western Balochistan province. number is far higher. last month despite the wors- ernment requests for it to be Wazir said thousands of The Tablighi mosques and Tablighi Jamaat is consid- ening coronavirus pandemic, cancelled as the virus hit the Tablighis from his province the movement’s other places ered one of the world’s largest officials said Sunday. country. were stranded in other regions of worship were shut down or faith-based movements, with Authorities said they want In northwestern Khyber because of the closure of major marked as quarantine centres millions of followers, particu- Policemen wearing facemasks stand at the Tablighi Markaz check- to test or quarantine those who Pakhtunkhwa province, au- highways across the country. at the end of March. larly in South Asia, and sends point in Lahore on Sunday. Pakistani authorities are searching for tens congregated at the event held thorities have so far quaran- About 7,000 have been At least 154 worshippers preachers to countries to of thousands of worshippers who attended an Islamic gathering in by the Tablighi Jamaat -- an tined 5,300 Tablighis or Is- quarantined in the central who went to last month’s spread Islam’s ideas. Lahore last month. (AFP)

News in brief China sends experts as Fishing boat takes 202 Rohingya migrants to Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Manila mulls extending on Sunday detained 202 suspected Rohingya Mus- lims who arrived illegally by boat, a top official said, raising fears that people smugglers are back in ac- coronavirus lockdown tion despite the coronavirus Migrant labourers stand at a window from a rented house as govern- pandemic. ment municipal workers (unseen) spray disinfectant along a street in DPA Zulinda Ramly, deputy Srinagar on Saturday. (AFP) Manila director with the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Experts sent by the Chinese Agency, told AFP a large Nine militants, three government arrived in the fishing boat ferried the sus- Philippines on Sunday to help pected Rohingya migrants to in the country’s fight against the northern resort island of soldiers killed in clashes coronavirus, as Philippine au- Langkawi. thorities weighed extending a Malaysia is a favoured month-long lockdown on the destination for the migrants in Indian Kashmir main island to stop the spread from Myanmar as it is a DPA and doctors were fighting the of the virus. Muslim majority nation with Srinagar, Kashmir coronavirus, Indian security The Chinese team of anti- a sizeable Rohingya dias- forces were fighting the “terror epidemic medical experts has pora. With few opportunities Nine militants and three virus from Pakistan.” had “front-line experience in for jobs and education in My- soldiers were killed in two India accuses Pakistan of Hubei province to fight against anmar or refugee camps in separate gun battles in restive aiding the militants and help- the epidemic,” said China’s Bangladesh, thousands have India-administered Kashmir, ing them cross the border to ambassador to the Philippines, attempted to reach South- Indian defence officials said carry out attacks in India-ad- Huang Xilian. east Asian nations. (AFP) on Sunday. ministered Kashmir. The novel coronavirus, Indian forces killed five in- Islamabad denies the which can lead to the potentially surgents after they infiltrated charges and describes the mil- deadly Covid-19 respiratory dis- Indonesia orders the Line of Control (LoC), a itants as freedom fighters. ease, was first detected in the citizens to wear de facto border, that divides The nuclear-armed neigh- Chinese province late last year. A resident using an improvised face shield made from a plastic water tank to protect himself from the face masks as Kashmir between India and bours both claim the divided The experts are in the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic in Manila on Sunday. (AFP) virus cases soar Pakistan, army spokesman Kashmir region in its entirety Philippines to share “invalu- Colonel Rajesh Kalia said. and have fought two wars over able first-hand experiences number of infections has not Jakarta Indonesian citizens Three soldiers were also it. ... on fighting and containing Up to 130 officers from Hong Kong peaked. are now required to wear killed in the battle, which took The police identified the Covid-19,” said Foreign Secre- The Department of Health face masks when they are place in the Keran sector of slain militants as members tary Teodoro Locsin, who wel- anti-riot squad to be quarantined on Sunday reported 152 new outside, the government an- northern Kashmir, he added. of Pakistan-based Islamist comed them at the airport. Hong Kong Up to 130 police Base in Shek Kip Mei will confirmed cases of Covid-19, nounced on Sunday, as the This was the second battle militant groups, the Lashkar- For the next two weeks, from Hong Kong’s elite tacti- likely be subject to quarantine bringing the country’s tally to number of Covid-19 cases in the troubled region in the e-Taiba and the Hizbul Muja- they will “observe and give cal squad will be quarantined and testing, local broadcaster 3,246. Eight additional deaths rose to 2,273. past 24 hours. hideen, who, they said, were recommendations ... to im- for 14 days after a second RTHK reported, citing a police were recorded, pushing the The order to wear a On Saturday night, four responsible for “half a dozen prove our infection prevention officer from the unit tested statement in Cantonese. death toll to 152, while 64 pa- face mask is in accordance militants were killed in anoth- senseless killings of civilians and control, critical care and positive for the novel corona- Facilities at the base and tients have recovered. with recommendations from er clash with security forces in over last few weeks.” laboratory (operations),” said virus, local media reported police quarters where the of- One of those who recov- the World Health Organiza- the Kulgam town. More than 45,000 people Health Undersecretary Maria on Sunday. ficer lives have been disinfect- ered, 73-year-old Mila Costales, tion, according to Achmad The clashes come amid a - civilians, security person- Rosario Vergeire. All male officers who ed. The department of health was discharged from a hospital Yurianto, the government nationwide lockdown in India nel and militants - have been The team of Chinese ex- shared facilities with the advised all anti-riot police to in the northern mountain re- spokesman for issues relat- designed to check the spread killed since a secessionist mili- perts also brought additional infected officer - including seek testing for Covid-19, the sort city of Baguio on Friday. ing to the disease. of the new coronavirus. tant movement broke out in medical supplies, including toilets and changing rooms - South China Morning Post In thanking doctors and “Starting today, eve- Indian state police said India-administered Kashmir surgical masks, medical N95 at Kowloon West Operational reported. (DPA) nurses who took care of her, ryone has to wear face that, while medical workers in the 1980s. masks, medical protective suits Costales said the medical work- masks when going outside,” and face shields, and non-inva- ers never “showed any negative Yurianto said, noting that sive ventilators, Huang said. of the Philippines’ population, “The community will still sign” towards her and this con- “even asymptomatic people The team’s arrival comes beyond April 14. be in danger if we relax (the tributed to her fast recovery. could be a virus spreader.” as Philippine government of- “It is better to continue the lockdown) early. All our efforts “What I can say about this Citizens should wear Singapore quarantines migrant ficials are scheduled to discuss lockdown until we have flat- would have been wasted.” Covid-19, it’s nothing to be washable cloth masks since workers in virus fight on Monday whether to extend tened the curve, so we will not Ano noted that the lock- scared of,” she said as she held surgical masks and N95 the lockdown on the island of have any relapse,” Interior Sec- down appears to have slowed on to pink and purple balloons masks are for medical work- AFP its highest figure for a single Luzon, home to more than half retary Eduardo Ano said. the spread of the virus, but the while sitting in a wheelchair. ers only. Singapore day, with many linked to for- Indonesia reported 181 eign workers’ sleeping quarters. new cases of infection on Singapore has put nearly Two dormitories hous- Sunday, according to Yurian- 20,000 migrant workers under ing 19,800 workers have been to, while 14 more patients quarantine for two weeks after placed under quarantine and Taliban accuses US and its allies of violating agreement have been cured, bringing a growing number of coronavi- their inhabitants will be pro- the total to 164. (DPA) rus infections were detected in vided with on-site medical DPA ban’s claim. militants. til the parties agree a cease- their dormitories, authorities support, food and essential Kabul In a statement, Tali- “We are seriously asking fire. Tokyo records 143 said on Sunday. supplies, officials said in a ban lists the alleged viola- the Americans to abide by The group says its has only new coronavirus The city-state had largely statement. The Taliban militant group tions: 5,000 prisoners of the the contents of the agreement conducted attacks in rural ar- cases in 24 hours kept the virus outbreak under There are about 280,000 on Sunday accused the United group not freed, attacks on and to alert their allies to fully eas, a claim rejected by gov- control through a regime of foreign construction workers States and its allies of violat- Taliban bases, and continued abide by the agreement,” the ernment officials. Tokyo Tokyo recorded 143 testing and tracing contacts of in the city-state from coun- ing an agreement signed over raids and airstrikes against Taliban statement reads. The US military said it had new cases of the coronavi- those infected, but cases have tries including Bangladesh and a month ago in Doha, the cap- them by US and Afghan forces. Taliban claims that it has upheld the military terms of rus on Sunday, taking the increased sharply in recent China, with many housed in ital of Qatar. Taliban warns that such remained committed to the the agreement and that Tali- number of people who have days. Authorities announced shared rooms in large dormi- The US military in Af- actions could harm the deal agreement, despite having the ban’s assertions were “base- tested positive for Covid-19, 120 new infections on Sunday, tory complexes. ghanistan rejected the Tali- and increase violence by the right to attack any outpost un- less”. the respiratory disease caused by the virus, to over 1,000. Sunday’s figure marks another record after health authorities recorded 118 Sydney coronavirus cruise ship fiasco prompts criminal investigation new cases a day earlier - DPA the first time that the daily Canberra New Zealand coronavirus cases rise above 1000; only one death caseload has risen above 100. Police say they are launching Sydney The number of novel coronavirus cases The largest cluster of cases, 66, are con- The rising caseload a criminal investigation into in New Zealand has reached over 1,000, health nected to a school in Auckland, Bloomfield said. means that Prime Minister why a cruise ship was allowed officials announced Sunday. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said New Zealand- Shinzo Abe is under increas- to disembark in Sydney, result- As of Sunday morning there were 1,039 ers had mostly been complying well to strict ing pressure to declare a ing in more than 10 per cent of cases in the country, up 89 from the previous lockdown policies, which had contributed to the state of emergency to slow the total coronavirus cases in day, while still only one person has died as a re- disease spread being below what modelling had the spread of the fast- Australia. sult of complications from Covid-19, the disease predicted. moving virus, local media The Ruby Princess, owned caused by the virus. New Zealand’s director gen- “Our case rate and death toll is well below reported. by British-American cruise op- eral of health, Ashley Bloomfield, said at a news other comparable countries,” Ardern said at the As of Saturday, 817 erator Carnival, docked in Syd- Cruise liner Spectrum of the Seas sits in Sydney Harbour after coming conference 156 patients have recovered. same news conference. (DPA) coronavirus patients were ney Harbour on March 8 after in to refuel and restock. (AFP) receiving treatment in Tokyo 11 days at sea. hospitals. Border and health authori- they disembarked. cess passengers. crimes” have been commit- mitted, but there was “clear ev- ing the port authority, para- The rise in cases on ties allowed some 2,700 pas- The debacle is responsible The police will look into ted, New South Wales Police idence” that the novel corona- medics, police, the state health Sunday means the bed sengers to leave with only min- for at least 622 of Australia’s whether national and state Commissioner Mick Fuller told virus was brought off the ship. department, as well as the of- capacity for coronavirus imal checks, even though about total coronavirus cases, while biosecurity and border laws reporters in Sydney on Sunday. The criminal investigation ficials on board the ship and patients is stretched to its a dozen passengers had shown 11 of the country’s 35 Covid-19 were breached, as well as if Fuller said it was too early will also look into the actions of the cruise company Carnival limits. (DPA) respiratory symptoms before deaths have been Ruby Prin- any “criminal negligence-type to tell if a crime had been com- every agency involved, includ- Australia. 06 Monday, April 6, 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

Closing Houses Of Worship Trump’s Racist Comments During The Pandemic Is An Act Of Faith And Charity Are Fuelling Hate Crimes

It would be tragic — and fundamentally irreligious — to rush to return to normalcy and risk human lives by opening places Against Asian Americans of worships as long as the virus remains rampant

mong the other disruptions caused by or hugging, and sit at a distance from each By insisting on labelling COVID-19 as “Chinese virus” or “Wuhan virus”, President the COVID-19 pandemic has been the other, we still commune.” He also suggested Trump and several Republicans have fuelled racial hatred against Asian Americans Aclosing of houses of worship and the that continuing church services would serve cancellation of religious gatherings. The as “a societal roll call, especially for older arrival of what could be called spiritual people: Those who don’t show up should be Russell Jeung, Manjusha P distancing was powerfully symbolised last checked on during the week.” Kulkarni and Cynthia Choi week by images of Pope Francis offering (The idea that religious services are vital Tribune News Service a blessing to an empty St. Peter’s Square. isn’t confined to members of the clergy and Christians around the world in the coming commentators. When Florida Gov. Ron De- oughing is now a doubly serious weeks will be “attending” Easter services via Santis belatedly issued a stay-at-home or- concern for Asian Americans. Like YouTube and Jews will be participating in der, he included attending religious services everyone else, we’re afraid of con- Passover Seders on Zoom. as one of the “essential activities” exempt tracting the coronavirus. As a racial The alacrity with which mainstream from the order.) group, we have an additional fear: religious groups have responded to the Arguments against suspending worship beingC profiled as disease carriers and being pandemic is admirable, but the idea of aren’t just a variation on President Don- maliciously coughed at. suspending public worship also has pro- ald Trump’s “aspiration” that American After news of the coronavirus broke in voked dissent. We’re referring not only to churches would be filled onE aster as part January, Asian Americans almost immedi- a handful of religious leaders who have of an expedited economic revitalisation. ately experienced racial taunts on school behaved recklessly in holding services Trump was later persuaded that this wasn’t campuses, shunning on public transit in defiance of social distancing norms or a good idea. and cyberbullying on social media. When government decrees, but also to those Many who worry about closing churches President Donald Trump insisted on label- clergy members and commentators who, or suspending services aren’t cheerleaders ling the coronavirus the “Chinese virus” in without advocating violation of the law, for capitalism; they want to defend religious early March, these attacks became more have questioned the idea. values. Those values include fellowship with virulent and common. For example, Cardinal Raymond Burke, other believers — it was an Anglican priest The FBI now warns of an increase of the former archbishop of St. Louis and one- who wrote that “no man is an island” — and, hate crimes against Asian Americans, but nese were segregated and confined. During American history repeats itself in an- time Vatican official who is a hero of con- of course, contact with God. As Burke put it: we’ve already experienced a surge. Since World War II, fear and racist hysteria led to other way. Asians in the US have always servative Catholics, has criticised the clos- “In considering what is needed to live, we the Stop-AAPI-Hate website, a project the unconstitutional relocation and impris- fought the discrimination they faced. Chi- ing of churches for worship — undertaken must not forget that our first consideration of the Asian Pacific Planning and Policy onment of 120,000 Japanese Americans. nese Americans filed lawsuits against the in some cases even before civil authorities is our relationship with God.” Council and Chinese for Affirmative Ac- The current vilification of Asian Amer- Chinese Exclusion Act and engaged in acted to shut down public meetings. (The Of course a religious leader would say tion, launched on March 19 to track icans is reminiscent of the scapegoat- mass resistance to unjust government poli- California Catholic Conference announced that. But the bishops and pastors who have anti-Asian harassment, it has received ing of Arabs, Muslims and South Asians cies. Japanese Americans won reparations a suspension of public celebrations of Mass decided to close churches for the time being more than 1,000 reports from people in after 9/11. Hate crimes against Muslim for their wartime incarceration. Muslim on March 18, a day before Gov. Gavin News- in the interest of public health are also act- 32 states detailing verbal abuse, denial Americans surged in 2001 and remained Americans are gaining political power and om ordered Californians to stay at home.) ing on a religious impulse, a reverence for of services, discrimination on the job or elevated above pre-9/11 levels years later. have run for office in record numbers, with “Even as we have found a way to pro- human life. physical assaults. Ethno-religious groups, like Sikhs from two recently elected to Congress. vide for food and medicine and other In an editorial written partly as a re- Several people have reported others India, also suffered attacks and discrimi- Last week, Rep. Grace Meng (D-N.Y.) necessities of life during a time of con- sponse to Stone, the magazine Christianity coughing at them, including this frighten- nation after 9/11. introduced a resolution calling on all pub- tagion, without irresponsibly risking the Today made a powerful case for erring on ing incident: “A white man on open side- Immediately after 9/11, President lic officials to condemn anti-Asian bias and spread of the contagion, so, in a similar the side of safety. walk approached and stepped directly in George W Bush denounced those who in- on federal law enforcement officials to col- way, we can find a way to provide for the The editorial argued that “even if we do front of me and coughed in extremely exag- timidated Muslims and called on the nation lect data to document and investigate hate necessities of our spiritual life,” Burke practice stringent hygiene and social dis- gerated manner in my face _ loudly, mouth to treat this American community with re- crimes tied to COVID-19. wrote on his blog on March 21. He sug- tancing, coming together as congregations wide open, about 2 feet from my face, said spect. In contrast, Trump repeatedly used State leaders like California Gov. Gavin gested that worshipers could gather in in the face of this pandemic actually mars ‘take my virus.’” the term the “Chinese virus” despite warn- Newsom should form a multiagency task large churches “without violating the re- our witness. Rather than looking coura- In Texas, the FBI is investigating the ings that this would incite racist threats force to coordinate efforts to combat racial quirements of social distance,” a debat- geous and faithful, we come off looking cal- stabbing of a father and two children from against Asian Americans. His tepid retreat bias spurred by the pandemic. They should able proposition at best. lous and even foolish, not unlike the snake Burma by an assailant who blamed them on that rhetoric last week did little to stem notify stores to provide safe access to their A similar argument was proposed in a handlers who insisted on playing with poi- for the pandemic. This case harks back to the harm. The damage is done. goods and warn employers about work- March 13 article in Foreign Policy magazine son as a proof of true faith.” It added: “The the 1982 murder of Chinese American Vin- Republicans in Congress continue to place discrimination. And schools and col- by Lyman Stone, a research fellow at the In- church remains the church online, too.” cent Chin, whose killers believed he was blame China as the source of the virus, leges need to provide culturally competent stitute for Family Studies and a Lutheran. The same can be said of other faiths Japanese and responsible for the decline of rather than focusing on how to control mental health services to Asian American Stone suggested that the lesson of Christian that must worship virtually as the price the American auto industry. the spread of COVID-19. Trump’s lan- students and other affected communities. responses to plagues over the years is: “We of protecting themselves and others from Sadly, this kind of racist resentment is a guage, along with media coverage of his This pandemic requires us to stop the don’t cancel church.” a rampant virus. In time, churches, syna- recurring pattern in American history, par- remarks, have framed how Americans spread of both COVID-19 and racial ha- Stone, who wrote a handbook that sug- gogues, mosques and private homes will ticularly during health crises or in wartime. view Chinese people, and correspond- tred. Asian Americans need allies who will gests ways for churches to continue to meet again be filled with worshipers. But it When the bubonic plague arrived in ingly, Asian Americans. Even the face intervene when they see racial profiling in small groups, further argued: “Even as we would be tragic — and fundamentally irre- 1900, the San Francisco Health Depart- mask has become racialised, with some happening. We need to learn from Ameri- take Communion from separate plates and ligious — to rush that return to normalcy ment quarantined that city’s Chinatown Asian Americans fearing that wearing one can history and have the courage and cups to minimise risk, forgo hand-shaking and risk human lives. with barbed wire and ropes. While white in public would draw attention and make leadership to counteract fear and anxiety citizens were allowed to leave, 30,000 Chi- them targets for physical attacks. in this time of crisis. (Tribune News Service) Working Remotely In Time Of Coronavirus Vodafone Qatar has implemented remote working for almost 90% of staff, and it’s experiencing no interruption to operations

Khames Mohammed al Naimi The rapid adoption of high-speed mo- the confidence, transparency and informa- We have almost reached a stage Doha bile data services, fixed-line broadband tion they need to be empowered. They need when newer technologies such as aug- and cloud services is playing an integral regular feedback and open communication mented and virtual reality will help us he coronavirus pandemic has forced role in this workplace revolution. Along with their line managers, which helps every- make remote work feel more and more companies and organisations across the with these backbone technologies are one align with team objectives. In my view, like a day in the office, with holograms Tglobe to roll out mandatory work-from- platforms designed to enhance the re- and as an example, HR delivery platforms and real-time video conferencing getting home policies to reduce exposure to COV- mote work experience for companies and that offers remote employees the same level us talking virtually face-to-face. Voda- ID-19. The next few weeks will surely show employees. Google and Microsoft’s suite of support as when they are on-site, many of fone Qatar is bringing many of these whether remote working can stand up to the of productivity platforms, including Slack them cloud-based, are essential to maintain innovations to the market, powered by test of maintaining business continuity. and Microsoft Teams, enable employees to staff morale and a sense of inclusivity. our state-of-the-art GigaNet network I foresee it will be challenging to collaborate remotely on business tasks on Communication is vital and now is including 5G and fibre, which provides maintain productivity and collaboration the cloud and can help increase employee the time to use the technology and solu- incredible internet speeds. during this pause to normal office life as productivity and efficiency. tions available to us to create new dialogue For now, remote work - forced on busi- we know it. I also believe there is much we Companies still need to optimise their channels; “keeping the virtual door always nesses by the coronavirus pandemic - can can do to deliver results with our remote workflow to match. Functions such as open”. One way is choosing to make calls present an opportunity for all of us to think workforce, whether that means support- scheduling meetings and monitoring em- rather than sending emails and using video about how it can improve our organisa- ing our employees in making use of tools ployees’ productivity can be done digitally conferencing and other alternative, uncon- tions. Vodafone Qatar has implemented re- and technology or adapting the way we with the help of project management tools ventional means. Instant messenger ap- mote working for almost 90% of our staff, talk to our team. and timecard software technology. Highly plications like WhatsApp, Telegram and and we are experiencing no interruption It’s noticeable that many businesses efficient, this approach can also reduce the WeChat can be a friendlier form of commu- to our operations. As a leading technology are embracing the availability of technolo- complexity of standard business processes that all employees have enough technical nication for teams to instantly collaborate company that provides essential commu- gies that enable employees to work from for a remote workforce, ultimately saving support to make a smooth transition to us- and even brainstorm together. Sustaining nications, we are fortunate to have state- nearly anywhere and from any device. In time and paperwork. ing our remote working platforms and tools. our connections with people – whether they of- the art infrastructure and tools in place. countries like the US, there has been a 159% Yet, I am sure that in Qatar and other Even with all these tools readily avail- are our colleagues, clients, suppliers, or I believe that as long as we maintain open increase in people working remotely from countries, many employees will be work- able, there are right and wrong ways to stakeholders – takes effort but is essential to communication with our team, the future 2005 to 2017, even in sectors such as com- ing remotely for the very first time, as part implement remote work, and I see tech- align with the same business objectives and of remote working looks very encouraging puter and IT, medical and health, sales and of the coronavirus precautionary measures. nology as an important enabler of an over- make constructive progress. Giving custom- in terms of business continuity education. Upwork’s “Future Workforce Re- They are having to navigate technology that all inclusive approach. ers confidence and access to the right staff port” predicts that 73% of all teams will have is new to them while staying on task in an Employees want to feel informed and during this next period will be an important (Khames Mohammed al Naimi remote workers by 2028, showing that this environment that may or may not be suita- companies and organisations must use part of maintaining a level of business pre- is Chief Human Resources Officer, trend is only set to continue. ble for productivity. It’s important to ensure these tools appropriately to give their people dictability in somewhat uncertain times. Vodafone Qatar)

THE VIEWS EXPRESSED ON THE OPINION AND ANALYSIS PAGES ARE THE AUTHORS’ OWN. QATAR TRIBUNE BEARS NO RESPONSIBILITY. Europe / United States Monday, April 6, 2020 07 Coronavirus hospital blaze near Moscow kills construction worker Man spits at woman in German supermarket in row over distancing MOSCOW: A fire at a construction site for a coronavirus treatment hospital near Moscow has RIEDRICHSHAFEN: Police in the southern German city of Friedrichshafen are looking for a man who killed one worker, state news agency Tass reported on Sunday, citing civil protection officials. spat at a woman in a supermarket during a row about keeping a safe distance during the novel News The fire broke out at a collection of tents being used by workers as accommodation and coronavirus pandemic. The two were standing when it came to an altercation about respecting the spread to an area encompassing 90 square metres, the report said, adding that a faulty wood recommended minimal distance, according to a police statement issued on Sunday. in brief oven is thought to be the cause of the blaze. The 27-year old woman apologised to the man in front of her, but he became aggressive, raised Construction on the 500-bed hospital, located some 70 kilometres south west of the his hand as if to hit her and spat in her face. capital, began in mid-March and a launch is expected later this month. Some 3,000 people are The police put out an appeal for witnesses who can help track down the perpetrator, estimated working around the clock to complete the building. (DPA) to be around 35 years old and wanted on charges of assault. (DPA) Pentagon chief defends firing of navy captain who voiced virus concern

AFP quickly vacate the ship after it But some senior Pentagon Democratic convention may be ‘virtual’: Biden Republican convention to go ahead in August: Trump WASHINGTON docked in Guam became public. officials said Crozier erred by Asked about a report that letting his plea go public. WASHINGTON: White House hopeful Joe Biden said on Sunday WASHINGTON: Republicans will hold their presidential nomi- US Defence Secretary Mark President Donald Trump want- Crozier “demonstrated ex- he would wear a mask in public amid the coronavirus pandemic nating convention in August in Charlotte, North Carolina, US Esper on Sunday defended the ed Crozier fired, Esper replied, tremely poor judgment in the and that the Democratic Party’s presidential nominating conven- President Donald Trump said on Saturday evening, despite the firing of a naval commander “This was the secretary’s call. middle of a crisis,” creating tion might need to be “virtual” to avoid spreading disease. ongoing coronavirus pandemic that has shut down large gather- whose plea for help for a coro- He came and briefed me ... It unnecessary worry for family The former vice president told ABC that the Democratic ings across the country. navirus-affected crew angered was the secretary’s call. I told members, Modly said. National Convention, already delayed by five weeks, is a require- “We have no contingency plan. We’re having the convention his superiors but drew wide- him I would support it.” Former vice president ment to formally nominate the candidate who challenges Trump at the end of August and we think by the end of August we’ll be in spread public support. The firing was widely con- Joe Biden, the leading Demo- in November’s election. “We’re going to have to do a convention. good shape,” Trump said during a press conference at the White Esper told ABC that Navy demned as a callous and unfair cratic candidate for president, We may have to do a virtual convention,” Biden said on the ABC House. “It’s going to be in North Carolina, as you know, in Char- Secretary Thomas Modly “made punishment of a respected of- sharply condemned the firing talk show ‘This Week’. (AFP) lotte. And I think we’re going to have a great convention.” (DPA) a tough decision, tough call” in ficer who was looking out for on Sunday, telling ABC it was deciding to fire Captain Brett the welfare of his crew. “close to criminal.” - Protection and readiness ship Friday. pointing to an ongoing inves- been tested for the coronavi- Crozier, commander of the car- “We are not at war,” Crozier Biden said Crozier should -Video that quickly went viral Esper declined Sunday to tigation. He told CNN that rus. In all, 155 sailors tested rier USS Roosevelt, whose plea pleaded in a letter to superiors. have gotten “a commendation” showed hundreds of sailors say whether other Pentagon more than half the Roosevelt’s positive but none required hos- to the Pentagon to allow him to “Sailors do not need to die.” -- not dismissal. cheering Crozier as he left his leaders agreed with the firing, 4,800-member crew had now pitalization.

Pope livestreams Palm Sunday mass Spanish premier in plea for due to virus ‘tragedy’ AFP -- just like the 83-year-old Vatican City pontiff. ‘coronabonds’ crisis funding Pope Francis has been POPE Francis called for communicating with the AFP courage in the face of the outside world by video so BERLIN coronavirus pandemic as that crowds do not gather he delivered Palm Sunday to see and hear him in one SPANISH Prime Minister Pe- mass by livestream instead of the world’s most famous dro Sanchez urged the EU on of before Saint Peter’s squares. Sunday to issue “coronabonds,” Square crowds. controversial pooled debt in- The Vatican is abandon- struments to help the bloc’s ing centuries of tradition hardest hit countries fund their and refraining from public battle against the devastating celebrations of the official economic impact of the pan- start of the Catholic world’s demic. Holy Week. Sanchez’s call in Germany’s Pope Francis called the conservative broadsheet Frank- pandemic a tragedy on Sun- furter Allgemeine Zeitung came day that must be faced with after his Italian counterpart courage and hope. Giuseppe Conte made a simi- “Today, in the tragedy lar plea this week in another of a pandemic, in the face newspaper of Europe’s biggest of the many false securities economy. that have now crumbled, in Pope Francis holds a palm Their campaign targeting the face of so many hopes branch as he celebrates Palm German readership is no ac- betrayed, in the sense of Sunday mass behind closed cident -- Chancellor Angela abandonment that weighs doors at St Peter’s Basilica in Merkel has so far been firmly upon our hearts, Jesus says The Vatican on Sunday. (AFP) against such joint bonds, fear- to each one of us: ‘Cour- ing that fiscally disciplined na- age, open your heart to my Vatican City itself has tions would be forced to pay for love’,” the pope said. been closed to tourists for excesses by less frugal nations. Palm Sunday marks the nearly a month as part of Yet within Germany, calls arrival of Jesus in Jerusa- global efforts to stop the are growing on her to relent, lem before his crucifixion. spread of a disease that has with some in her centre-right Easter Sunday on April 12 officially killed more than party CDU too sympathising celebrates his resurrection 65,000 people worldwide. with the hard-hit EU neigh- from the dead. The Argentine-born bours. But many of the world’s pontiff went on to call on “It is time for the mutualisa- A delivery person working for Delivery4Heroes hands some pizzas to healthcare workers dealing with the novel coronavirus at a hospital in 1.3 billion Catholics are the faithful to overcome tion of debts,” Sanchez wrote in Barcelona on Saturday. (AFP) observing the sacred days their fears and remember Sunday’s edition of the Frank- under home confinement that they are not alone. furter Allgemeine Zeitung. Italy and Spain have been no senseless conditions” to help This is the time to act in of people dying from the coro- “This is the time to act in pushing for coronabonds struggling states. solidarity -- by setting up a navirus pandemic as the coun- solidarity -- by setting up a The ESM, set up at the new mechanism for try recorded another 674 fatali- new mechanism for mutualis- which would allow hard-hit height of the eurozone debt ties on Sunday. ing debt, by acting in unison countries to raise funds on crisis in 2012, helped fund the mutualising debt. Such joint The health ministry said to- in procuring essential medi- the financial markets under massive bailouts needed then action would mean that tal deaths were now 12,418, the Italy records lowest virus cal equipment, by establishing the umbrella of the EU but its aid normally comes with there are no gulfs between highest in the world after Italy, coordinated strategies against strict and often burdensome North and South and that since the pandemic emerged in death toll in over two weeks cybercrime, and by preparing conditions. no one is left behind China in December. a large-scale master plan for a costs and mean that they could For Sanchez, the ESM could The 674 fatalities, which AFP down,” civil protection service rapid and solid recovery of the raise funds without singling help in a first step by ensuring Spanish Prime Minister were sharply down on the re- Rome chief Angelo Borrelli told re- continent,” he said. themselves out as broke. a financial lifeline to economies Pedro Sanchez cord 950 declared on April 2, porters. Officials also reported Such joint action would Germany, like other north- in trouble. represented an increase of 5.7 ITALY on Sunday recorded its the first decline in the number mean “that there are no gulfs ern EU members including “But it would not be suf- percent over the last 24 hours, lowest daily death toll from the of non-critical COVID-19 pa- between North and South... the Netherlands, has repeat- ficient in the medium term,” for talks on Tuesday to chart and compared with a 30 per- novel coronavirus in over two tients receiving hospital care. (and) that no one is left be- edly dismissed the idea as an at- wrote the Spanish leader. the bloc’s next steps in battling cent leap in one recent day. weeks and saw the number of That number fell from hind,” he urged. tempt by over-spending south- “The challenge that we are the economic fallout from the The number of infections critical care patients decline 29,010 on Saturday to 28,949 Italy and Spain, backed by erners to take advantage of the faced with is immense and coronavirus. rose 4.8 percent to 130,759, for the second day. on Sunday. The number of France and some key EU of- cheap borrowing rates enjoyed unprecedented. It requires an In an editorial this week, indicating a slowdown in the The 525 official COVID-19 critical patients edged down ficials have been pushing for by states with balanced budgets. unanimous, extreme and ambi- Spiegel magazine accused Ger- spread from 8.2 percent on fatalities reported by the civil from 3,994 on Saturday to coronabonds which would al- Merkel’s government is in- tious response in order to pre- many of “lacking solidarity, April 1 and 14 percent 10 days protection service were the 3,977 on Sunday -- the second low hard-hit countries to raise stead looking at using the Eu- serve our economic and social being small-minded and cow- ago. lowest since 427 registered on successive decline. funds on the financial markets ropean Stability Mechanism system.” ardly” by rejecting its fellow EU The number of people de- March 19. Italy’s official death toll, under the umbrella of the EU. bailout fund, which German Debate over the corona- members’ calls. clared to have recovered has “This is good news but the highest in the world, now Proponents argue that this Finance Minister Olaf Scholz bonds is heating up with euro Spain saw its third consecu- increased by 11 percent, to we should not let our guard stands at 15,887. would lower their borrowing said could be activated “with area finance ministers slated tive daily decline in the number 38,080. Britain warns of tougher social distancing measures AFP tially threatening any gains unbelievable” that a minority Chief constable Iain Living- fied, and she was right to apolo- LONDON made in cutting transmission were not. stone of Police Scotland said gise. But she backed her to re- rates. “The truth is the more peo- officers“spoke to her about her main rather than resign. THE British government on A major south London park ple go out from home, the more action, reiterated crucial advice “She should not have got Sunday warned that outside was closed on Sunday after the virus spreads,” he added. and issued a warning about her this wrong... But I need to have exercise could be banned if concern about high numbers of “I don’t want to have to take future conduct”. the best possible expertise... if people flout stringent guide- sunbathers on Saturday. away exercise as a reason to Calderwood, who fronts a we are to steer the best course lines to cut the spread of coro- Health Secretary Matt leave home because people are public advertising campaign through this,” she added. navirus infections. Hancock, who himself tested not following the rules... urging Scots to stay at home, The developments came The UK government on positive for COVID-19, told Sky “If the result of that is that told a news conference: “What as Britain reported 621 more March 23 ordered a three- News television that sunbathing too many people go out and flout I did was wrong. I’m very sorry. deaths as of 1600 GMT on Sat- week shutdown of non-essen- was “against the rules” and any- the rules I’m afraid we’ll have It will not happen again.” She urday, taking the total toll to tial shops and services to cut one doing so put lives at risk. to take action.” Hancock later Instructions on social distancing attached to railings on the front in added: “This was a mistake. 4,934. close-contact transmission of He told the BBC most peo- told a daily government brief- Brighton, on the south coast of England, on Sunday. (AFP) Human error. And there’s no The toll -- down from a re- the virus. ple were following guidance ing changes to social distancing excuses. I should not have done cord day-on-day high of 708 But warmer weekend only to leave their homes to rules were “not imminent”. own advice about non-essential visiting her family’s second what I did.” as of Friday, after a week of weather has stoked fears that shop for essential supplies and Meanwhile in Scotland, the travel. home more than an hour from Scotland’s First Minister steady increases -- includes a people could congregate in medicine, and to exercise once country’s chief medical officer Police said they warned Edinburgh after photographs Nicola Sturgeon said people’s five-year-old child and seven parks and open spaces, poten- a day. But he said it was “quite apologised for ignoring her Catherine Calderwood for twice were published in a newspaper. criticism and anger was justi- healthcare workers. Air passenger demand sees steepest decline since 9/11 page 10

Monday, April 6, 2020

21,052.53 8,479.20 27,590.95 1,620.81 −360.91 pts -55.12pts −674.36 pts Gold +0.42% Coronavirus pandemic Dow QE sensex amplifying’ poverty in UK page 9 Price percentage Price percentage 14.49 Brent 34.11 +13.93 % WTI 28.34 +11.93% Silver -1.09% Private sector working in tandem with govt to combat COVID-19: QC chairman QR75 billion economic support by the government vital in supporting companies amid COVID-19 outbreak QNA Doha

Qatar Chamber Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed al Thani has said that Qatar Chamber, as the representative of the private sector, has undertaken a set of measures supportive of the ef- forts made by the government to address the economic crisis arising from the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). In an interview with Qa- tar News Agency (QNA), the QC Chairman said the perfor- The performance showed by the private mance showed by the private entities and the initiatives launched by sector and the important ini- business owners proved that the private tiatives launched by business sector is a real partner to the government in its owners proved that the private development process, and reflected the extent of sector is a real partner of the support and attention the wise leadership and the government in its develop- esteemed government attach to this sector. ment process, and reflected the extent of support and at- QC Chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed al Thani tention the wise leadership and the esteemed government The Qatar Chamber headquarters in Doha. attach to this sector. local food products, the QC tor towards the society, and its The chairman called on billion economic support pro- adopted by Qatar Chamber in committee to monitor all de- courage its members from the chairman noted. support for the efforts exerted merchants and owners of com- vided by the Qatari govern- the current crisis, he said that velopments at the level of all public and private joint-stock The initiatives also include by the government, noting panies to provide all forms of ment would play a vital role Qatar Chamber immediately economic sectors and to rep- companies and businessmen providing transportation, that the chamber directs the support, through cooperation in mitigating the damages and contacted all concerned par- resent a communication link to support the country’s ef- cleaning and hospitality ser- initiatives it receives through in reducing or fixing prices, helping companies to contin- ties to identify the obstacles between companies and gov- forts in curbing the spread of vices, sterilization and disin- Takatuf to the government and providing services and fa- ue their business and achieve faced by companies in order ernment agencies. coronavirus. fection services for buildings, institutions based on their cilities, within the framework growth. to address them, while the The chamber also called on Through Takatuf initiative, streets and manors, as well as needs. of social solidarity and to meet Sheikh Khalifa praised the chamber’s board of directors business owners to facilitate Qatar Chamber received more medical equipment and medi- In this context, he said, the dfsdfsf the requirements of corporate keenness of the leadership in held an emergency meeting to the conditions for defaulters, than 70 initiatives presented cines, in addition to supply- chamber directed 24 initiatives social responsibility. supporting the private sec- discuss the causes of the cri- especially the small and medi- by business owners and local ing mattresses and providing to the Ministry of Public Health, Noting that the business tor and developing economic sis and the efforts that can be um-sized companies, whether companies, including estab- volunteers, display screens, and coordination is currently owners have great responsi- plans assigned to it in the way made by the private sector and by exempting from the rental lishing field hospitals, provid- speakers, printing guide underway to direct a number bility in the current situation, out of this crisis, in addition to local companies to support the value or postponing the dues ing medical personnel when boards and setting up self-ser- of other initiatives to Qatar Red he said, “It is time to return taking the necessary precau- government efforts, especially until the crisis eases. necessary, providing drivers vice devices in labour camps to Crescent according to its needs. the favour and show loyalty to tionary measure to protect the those implemented by the Su- He added that among the and support services as well reduce the spread of the virus. The chamber is also coordinat- the homeland at this difficult citizens and residents from the preme Committee for Crisis most important measures as equipment, air conditioners Sheikh Khalifa said these ing with many government time”. spread of the coronavirus. Management. adopted by Qatar Chamber and generators, in addition to initiatives reflect the solidar- institutions to direct the ini- Sheikh Khalifa noted the In response to a question He added that the cham- was the launch of Takatuf providing and delivering food, ity, cooperation and patriot- tiatives according to their needs various facilities and the QR75 on the most significant efforts ber also formed an emergency initiative which aims to en- masks and medical gloves, and ism shown by the private sec- and assigned roles.

Trump threatens tariffs if needed QCSD registers QCB T-Bills to protect domestic oil industry worth QR600 million in March Agencies QNA New Work Doha

US President Donald Trump Qatar Central Securities ramped up his threats to Depository (QCSD) regis- impose oil import tariffs as Jobs at risk tered the treasury bills is- renewed diplomatic tension sued by Qatar Central Bank between Saudi Arabia and Hundreds of thousands of US during the month of March Russia threatens efforts to oil industry jobs are hanging in with a value of QR 600 mil- reach a new deal to cut out- the balance, with about $15 lion. The T-Bills are of vary- put. billion of investments wiped ing maturity periods- three Trump said on Saturday out from the budgets of shale months, six months and at a White House press brief- explorers and many of them nine months. ing he’d use tariffs if needed on the brink of bankruptcy. The T-Bills included to protect the domestic oil Trump suggested he wasn’t three-month treasury bills industry, a day after meeting inclined to target Russia or worth QR300 million. The with US industry leaders. A Saudi Arabia with oil tariffs. total number of T-Bills is- gathering of OPEC and other sued was 30,000 and a ma- major producers scheduled turity date of June 2, 2020. for Monday was delayed un- The QCSD also regis- The Qatar Central Bank in Doha. til later in the week as Saudi US President Donald Trump speaks during the daily briefing on the novel tered six-month T-Bills Arabia and Russia traded coronavirus at the White House, in Washington. (AFP) with the heads of Exxon Mo- worth QR200 million, and a bank account stood at Regarding the number barbs about who’s to blame bil Corp., Chevron Corp. and the total number of T-Bills 56,532. of shareholders who own for the collapse in crude um Institute, which helped world to stay at home, caus- other major producers. “Ul- issued was 20,000 and a In March, there were shares on the system ac- prices. arrange Friday’s meeting, ing demand for gasoline, die- timately the marketplace will maturity date of September 203,165 ownership trans- cording to nationality (Qa- Optimism over prospects argues tariffs would inject sel and jet fuel to collapse by take care of it.” 1, 2020. fers and QCSD conducted tari and non-Qatari) and for a deal sent benchmark uncertainty into an already tens of millions of barrels a In a statement early on The QCSD also regis- 195 family transfers and 511 the type of shareholder (in- oil futures to a record gain rattled global marketplace. day. Saturday, the Saudi For- tered nine-month treas- inheritance transfers. dividuals and institutions), this week, despite an unprec- “If I have to do tariffs Hundreds of thousands eign Minister Prince Faisal ury bills with the value of The company provided the number of shareholders edented global demand loss on oil coming from outside, of US oil industry jobs are bin Farhan said comments QR100 million. The total numbers and statistics in of Qatari individuals dur- from the Covid-19 outbreak. or if I have to do something hanging in the balance, with by Putin laying blame on number of T-Bills issued the report that show main ing March 2020 reached A failure to come to an to protect thousands and about $15 billion of invest- Riyadh for the end of the was 10,000 with maturity activities that were carried 231,741 individual share- agreement would likely cause tens of thousands of energy ments wiped out from the OPEC+ pact between the two date of December 1, 2020. out in March, where 130 holders, while the number prices to crater again. The workers, and our great com- budgets of shale explorers countries in March were “ful- This came in the month- mortgages and 158 mort- of shareholders from Qa- US oil industry is split on the panies that produce all these and many of them on the ly devoid of truth.” ly report issued by QCSD gage closures were record- tari institutions in the same idea of tariffs, with some in- jobs, I’ll do whatever I have brink of bankruptcy. Trump still expressed op- which was released on Sun- ed, while 111 new account month reached 1,545 insti- dependent shale producers to do,” Trump said. Low oil On Friday, Trump had timism that Russia and Sau- day. QCSD said the number opening transactions were tutions. - who’ve been hardest hit by prices are “going to hurt a lot suggested he wasn’t inclined di Arabia would reach a deal. of shareholders recognised registered and 5,501 ac- As for non-Qatari indi- the recent market slump - in of jobs,” he said. to target Russia or Saudi “I think they’re going to in the company’s system in count statements were is- viduals, there were 154,770 support, while refiners and Measures to stem the cor- Arabia with oil tariffs. settle it, you know why? Be- December 2020 amounted sued, in addition to issuing shareholders, and 1,080 large integrated companies onavirus outbreak has forced “It’s a free market. We’ll cause they’re going to be de- to 389,136, while the num- 463 certificates to whom it from non-Qatari institu- are typically opposed. businesses to shut and bil- figure it out,” he told report- stroyed, they’re destroying ber of shareholders with may concern. tions. The American Petrole- lions of people around the ers after Friday’s meeting themselves if they don’t.” Economy & Business Monday, April 6, 2020 09 ADB warns global cost of coronavirus could top $4tn Growth in China could slow to 2.3 per- cent this year from 6.1 percent in 2019

AFP Manila

The coronavirus pandemic could cost the global economy $4.1 trillion as it ravages Unit- The crisis has sent equity ed States, Europe and other markets spinning as traders major economies, the Asian fret over the long-term impact Development Bank warned on on the world economy, though Friday The estimated impact is governments and central equivalent to nearly five per- banks have pledged more cent of worldwide output than $5 tn in stimulus based on a range of scenarios, Police monitor members of the public exercising in Greenwich Park in London on Sunday. (AFP) but the lender said losses from “the worst pandemic in a cen- tury” could be higher. “No one can say how wide- “The estimated impact ly the COVID-19 pandemic could be an underestimate, as may spread, and contain- Coronavirus pandemic additional channels such as... ment may take longer than possible social and financial currently projected,” ADB crises, and long-term effects chief economist Yasuyuki on health care and education Sawada said. are excluded from the analy- “The possibility of severe ‘amplifying’ poverty in UK sis,” the ADB said. financial turmoil and financial The Manila-based bank crises cannot be discounted,” said a shorter containment he added. period could pare the losses to the forecasts assume the Some 4.2 million children are poor, or around 30 percent of the total, government figures show $2 trillion. coronavirus outbreak will be The crisis has sent equity contained this year and a re- AFP in sectors like hospitality and Poverty Action Group UK. households who don’t have avoid “poverty” in the UK. markets spinning as traders turn to normality in 2021. London retail where people are more As for families who were Internet or don’t have a com- “Economically we know fret over the long-term impact However, there is still the likely to be on low wages and already classed as living in puter, they are not able to do there is very likely to be a big on the world economy, though potential for additional out- The coronavirus pandemic is in insecure work,” said Dave poverty prior to the outbreak that learning.” recession and it’s difficult to governments and central breaks and the severity of the increasing poverty in Britain, Innes, head of economics at McGeehan told AFP: “We recover quickly from a big re- banks have stepped in to ease pandemic remains uncertain. where levels are already high the Joseph Rowntree Founda- have a nation where a child cession,” said Innes. the pain, pledging more than “Outcomes can be worse after a decade of austerity trig- tion, an organisation for social Official data shows that poverty crisis has been ampli- “We know that recessions $5 trillion in stimulus and eas- than forecast and growth may gered by the global financial change. more than 14 million peo- fied by the impact of coronavi- tend to hit people in poverty ing monetary policy. not recover as quickly,” the crisis, according to experts. Over the past fortnight, al- ple in the UK are classed rus.” But unlike the aftermath -- or in risk of poverty -- hard- Officially reported COV- bank said. Official data shows that most one million adults in the as living in poverty, or of the 2008 financial crisis est,” he told AFP. ID-19 cases worldwide topped Growth in China, the re- more than 14 million people in UK have applied for Universal nearly one-quarter of the when the government slashed Meanwhile foodbanks, the one million mark on gion’s largest economy, could the UK are classed as living in Credit, the government’s main public spending, COVID-19 which help feed the most vul- Thursday, with tens of thou- slow to 2.3 percent this year poverty, or nearly one-quarter form of state aid. That is near- population. has sparked huge state stimu- nerable people including the sands dead, while there are from 6.1 percent in 2019, be- of the population. ly 10 times the level in an aver- lus, including a boost to Uni- homeless, are seeing fewer do- warnings the numbers will fore bouncing back in 2021. Some 4.2 million children age two-week period. -- and whose children are versal Credit. nations amid fallout from the continue to balloon as the dis- “The outbreak became are poor, or around 30 percent stuck at home owing to schools An adult receiving the ben- coronavirus. ease rapidly spreads. a demand shock as people of the total, government fig- ‘Education poverty’ being shut -- the demands of efit who is aged over 25 will The Trussell Trust, which With billions of people in stayed home. It became a sup- ures show. “If families who were earn- online education add to the receive £1,000 ($1,239, 1,137 has a national network of lockdown and economies at a ply shock as companies suf- The situation is worsen- ing decent wages before the problem, she said. euros) extra per year. 1,200 food banks, said it faced standstill, the ADB said Asia fered shortages of labor...and ing with Britons losing jobs en pandemic move on to the Uni- McGeehan noted that “a However an increase in an “unprecedented challenge”. is forecast to grow 2.2 percent of materials as supply chains masse as the UK experiences versal Credit, they will very lot of schools are putting les- the monthly amount to £400 The government is howev- this year, its slowest pace since faltered,” ADB said. lockdown. suddenly find themselves liv- sons on the Internet for chil- remains far below the level of er still providing children who a 1.7 percent expansion dur- Close to five percent, or “The risk of poverty is ing in poverty,” said Louisa dren to do at home. £600 considered sufficient for ordinarily received free school ing the Asian financial crisis $628 billion, of China’s GDP particularly high for workers McGeehan, a director at Child “If those children are in a single-person household to meals with lunches. in 1998. could be lost. US small businesses seek $5.4 bn in virus relief loans AFP ness Administration, said late eventually total $350 billion, But things were “so far, thousands of applications by Washington Friday on Twitter that 17,503 constitute a central part of the way ahead of schedule,” he the end of the day. companies -- those with 500 $2.2 trillion coronavirus re- said, adding that Bank of Treasury Secretary Steven Small and medium-size or fewer employees -- had lief plan adopted by Congress America and community Mnuchin told the Fox Busi- US businesses have applied filed applications through lo- and then signed into law by banks “are rocking!” ness Network that “our expec- for more than $5.4 billion in cal banks for loans totaling President Donald Trump on On Friday, most applica- tation is starting next week” government-backed loans as more than $5.4 billion. March 27. tions were submitted to local all big banks would be ready. a key pillar of the country’s Friday was the first day “I will immediately ask banks. Some of the biggest US Companies that receive coronavirus relief plan took the companies were able to Congress for more money to banks said they had encoun- the money and do not fire effect, the Trump administra- apply for the money, intended support small businesses... tered difficulties with admin- their workers -- or that oth- tion said. in large part to help them pay if the allocated money runs istrative procedures, although erwise re-hire those they have Jovita Carranza, who employees’ salaries. out,” Trump tweeted on Sat- Bank of America reported laid off -- will have their debt A police officer stops a motorist at a checkpoint on a deserted road in heads the federal Small Busi- The loans, which could urday. that it had processed tens of forgiven. New Delhi on Sunday. (AFP)

Huawei p40 pro: Exquisite design, robust 5G and biggest camera Tribune news network Huawei P40 Pro has its own unique and videography to the next level. Placed horizontally inside the Doha and elegant style that compliments MOST EXCITING LAUNCH Embedded in the Huawei P40 Pro is Huawei P40 Pro, the SuperSensing the highest levels of aesthetics. the Ultra Vision Leica Quad Camera, SuperZoom lens is a system of prism Huawei’s P series are reputed for The Huawei Quad-curve Over- which includes a 50MP Ultra Vision and precision-engineered zoom its innovative designs and powerful flow Display, inspired by the art of Wide Camera, a 40MP Ultra-Wide components that support 5x optical camera features, making it one of motion, brings a curved edge to all Cine Camera, a 12MP 5x Optical Tel- zoom and 50X digital zoom. Huawei the most exciting launches from the four sides of the display which gives dalone ephoto Camera and a ToF Camera. P40 Pro brings excellent zoom per- brand. Here is what we think of the it a look that is reminiscent of water (NSA) and The Huawei P40 Pro breathes formance. newly launched Huawei P40 Pro, overflowing from the rim of a cup. Standalone (SA) new life into sensor innovation with At the same time, The Hua- the company’s latest flagship phone. In addition to being an aesthetic modes. Non Standalone a new sensor embedded in the Ultra wei P40 Pro is equipped with a A power packed device in an at- masterpiece, paving the way for nar- (NSA) networks are the first wave Vision Wide Camera. This revolu- front dual camera, which includes tractive body with a top-notch 5G row bezels and streamlined round of 5G networks, which uses existing tionary Quad Bayer sensor simul- a 32MP AF Camera and the depth performance and an Ultra Vision corners for a more ergonomic hold n o 4G infrastructure. However, mov- taneously supports 4-in-1 pixel sensing camera. From close-up self- Leica camera system with Huawei’s and near borderless look and add- surprise ing forward there will be a transition binning and Full Pixel Octa PD Au- ies to groupfies, the camera can fo- largest CMOS sensor to date, every ing to the immersive qualities of the that at the to the 5G Standalone (SA) network toFocus technology, redefining what cus perfectly on the subjects’ faces. ground breaking innovation of the display. The display also has a fluid heart of the Huawei P40 which provides users with much it means to shoot in Super Defini- The Huawei P40 Pro not only Huawei P40 Pro is designed to im- 90Hz refresh rate and TÜV Rhein- Pro lies the Kirin 990 5G, Huawei’s faster speeds, wider bandwidth and tion. supports OIS with the telephoto press and expand the capabilities of land screen certification, giving it a first dedicated 5G chipset and most lower latency. Support for both NSA The Huawei Ultra Vision Wide lenses, but also AI Image Stabilisa- modern smartphones. In addition more comfortable viewing experi- sophisticated yet simple SoC to de- and SA networks is therefore cru- Camera sensor measures 1/1.28- tion. Powered by AI, the stabilisa- to continuing the photography ex- ence. The hole-punch display up- liver integrated 5G connectivity. cial if you plan on getting the most inch. It is not only the largest sensor tion enhancement solution lever- cellence the series is known for, the front houses the front cameras and Manufactured with a cutting edge out of your 5G smartphone. The embedded in Huawei’s smartphones ages the synergy between software Huawei P40 Pro benefits fromH ua- sensors for gesture support as well, 7nm process, the chipset provides smartphone also supports WiFi 6 to date, but it’s also one of the largest and hardware to vastly improve the wei’s developments in the 5G sector, which can also be used for the all- highly competitive performance, Plus for 160MHz bandwidth and sensors in the smartphone industry. stability of zoom shots. bringing users a device they can al- day Face Unlock. energy efficiency and transistor advanced 1024-QAM modulation Every shot taken with the Huawei The Huawei P40 Pro makes ways rely on. On the back however, the Hua- density, while also ensuring efficient to achieve the industry-leading peak Ultra Vision Sensor retains exquisite 7680fps video filming possible. It wei P40 Pro comes in a glossy finish power management. This means, theoretical transmission speed of detail. It also supports mesmerising can record Ultra Slow-motion Vid- Immersive ID Design of Black and an innovative refractive you can enjoy long sessions of 2400Mbps. shallow depth-of-field effects and a eo at 7680fps, which when played First things first, theH uawei matte glass finish of Silver Frost, streaming or browsing at 5G speeds, dynamic range that accommodates back, the action plays out at 1/256 P40 Pro definitely stands out thanks both of them flush with elegance. while also gaming without draining Ultra-Vision Leica Quad both bright and dark scenes. Par- the actual speed. The Ultra Wide to its borderless and immersive the phone out! Camera ticularly in dimly lit environments, Cine Camera can also make time go Huawei Quad-curve Overflow Dis- Ultra 5G performance The unique architecture also al- The Huawei P series is known the sensor can deliver outstanding faster and 4K Ultra HD quality for play. Continuing in the footsteps of With the huge strides Huawei lows the support of 2G/3G/4G and for its photography prowess, always photographic results that are both time-lapse videos, with a choice of its trend-setting predecessors, the has been making in the 5G sector, it’s 5G networks in both 5G Non-Stan- taking smartphone photography crisp and crystal clear. video duration and rate 10 Monday, April 6, 2020 Economy & Business COVID-19: Avolon cancels order for 75 Boeing 737 MAX planes

tries work hard to slow the sis over the grounding of the “As we have produced Avolon also pushed back delivery of 16 spread of COVID-19.” 737 MAX due to two deadly fewer MAX airplanes than other 737 MAX planes to 2024 or later The International Air crashes. planned, we have imple- Transport Association has es- On Thursday, the Chicago- mented these adjustments to timated that global airlines based firm unveiled a volun- regain flexibility inmanaging AFP had been scheduled for deliv- would see a drop of $252 tary worker layoff program the more than 4,300 unfilled New York ery in the 2020-2023 time- billion in revenues in 2020 that a company official said 737 MAX orders,” the Boeing frame. Avolon also pushed under a scenario in which se- will result in the departure of spokesman said. Irish aircraft leasing com- back delivery of 16 other 737 vere travel restrictions last for several thousand employees. “This is also the right step pany Avolon said on Friday it MAX planes to 2024 or later three months. A Boeing spokesman said to align to the realities of the was canceling an order for 75 and also annulled a plan to buy Avolon’s announcement Avolon’s announcement re- marketplace as we balance 737 MAX planes due to the four Airbus A330neo aircraft. File photo of a Boeing 777X airplane. (AFP) is the latest bit of bad news flected a “mutual agreement” supply and demand and pro- massive deterioration in travel “We are currently facing for Boeing, which prior to the in light of the MAX grounding tect the 737 MAX’s underlying because of COVID-19. the most challenging period aviation,” said Avolon Chief “The global fleet has been coronavirus shutdowns was and the deterioration in the value, especially in the leasing The planes being canceled in the history of commercial Executive Domhnal Slattery. effectively grounded as coun- already dealing with the cri- outlook for commercial flying. sector.”

Video app Zoom rockets to fame, with some hiccups, amid pandemic AFP been celebrated. Funerals San Francisco have been virtually attend- ed. “It’s really easy to use, What does British Prime and free; that’s nice,” said Minister Boris Johnson US school teacher Justin have in common with vir- Minkel, who instructs stu- tual happy hour celebrants dents remotely using Zoom. and thousands of students “Just click a link.” around the world? Home chaos such as All use the Zoom vide- dogs barking or outbursts oconferencing application from siblings can be disrup- to get together while stay- tive, but Minkel cures that ing apart during the deadly by “muting” students’ mi- coronavirus pandemic. crophones until he needs to But amid its newfound hear them. fame, the Silicon Valley- According to Yuan, the based company has come number of people taking under stepped-up scrutiny part in Zoom meetings dai- over how it handles privacy ly eclipsed 200 million in and security -- including al- March, up from just 10 mil- lowing uninvited guests to lion at the end of last year. barge in on sessions. Created by engineer Eric Yuan in 2011 and listed All use the Zoom video- on the Nasdaq a year ago, conferencing applica- Zoom has seen its market tion to get together value skyrocket to some $35 billion. while staying apart dur- Yuan has spoken of a ing the deadly coronavi- A Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways aircraft are seen at Haneda Airport in Tokyo recently. (AFP) passion for communica- rus pandemic. tion technologies that dates back to the 1990s when, as a university student in Video calls have surged mainland China, he longed on all messaging platforms for a way to see his girl- including WhatsApp, Mes- Air passenger demand sees friend without needing to senger, and Google Hang- travel hours by train. outs, but Zoom has become Zoom hit the market a star. as a tool for people work- It lets as many as 100 ing apart to collaborate on people simultaneously at- business, competing with tend a video-conference, al- steepest decline since 9/11 offerings from the likes of lowing 40 minutes free and Microsoft, Facebook, Goog- then charging for premium le and others. accounts that provide more IATA said air passenger demand nosedived 14.1% globally in March compared to Feb 2019 As people around the time and features for $15 world stay home due to monthly. Zoom lifted the AFP and government-imposed extraordinary circumstanc- felt most in the Asia-Pacific fell towards the end of the coronavirus risk, Zoom has 40-minute limit on free ac- Geneva travel restrictions.” es,” Juniac said, pointing region, where airlines saw a month, with results expected become a go-to service for counts for teachers in an ar- The pain was not evenly out that since February the 30.4-percent drop in inter- to have slowed significantly remote education, exer- ray of countries. The coronavirus pandemic distributed, with carriers in situation “has only grown national traffic. in March. cise classes, poker games, Among Zoom settings sent global air passenger de- the Asia-Pacific region suf- worse”. European carriers mean- “This is aviation’s darkest church services and happy is an option to chose a mand plunging 14 percent in fering a 41-percent drop. “Without a doubt this is while saw demand for inter- hour and it is difficult to see hour celebrations. backdrop image, such as February, marking the steep- Global airline capacity the biggest crisis that the in- national flights remain virtu- a sunrise ahead unless gov- Couples have gotten the Golden Gate Bridge or est decline in traffic since meanwhile fell by 8.7 per- ally flat in February, showing ernments do more to support married in “zoomed” cer- tropical beach, hiding what the September 11 attacks in cent in February as airlines their weakest performance in the industry through this un- emonies. Birthdays have is really behind a user. 2001, the global aviation as- scrambled to cut back ser- Global airline capacity a decade, and IATA warned precedented global crisis,” sociation said recently. vices in line with plunging meanwhile fell by 8.7 per- that the March figures would Juniac said. Fresh data from the In- traffic. cent in February as airlines be far worse for the region IATA has estimated that ternational Air Transport “Airlines were hit by a that has overtaken Asia as the airlines may burn through Association showed that air sledgehammer called COV- scrambled to cut back ser- epicentre of the pandemic. $61 billion of their cash re- passenger demand, meas- ID-19 in February,” IATA vices in line with plunging Meanwhile, worldwide serves during the second ured in the number of kilo- chief Alexandre de Juniac traffic. demand for domestic air quarter of the year, includ- metres travelled by paying said in a statement. travel dropped 20.9 percent ing $35 billion worth of passengers, nosedived 14.1 His comment came as the in February compared to the sold-but-unused tickets due percent globally last month number of people infected dustry has ever faced.” same month last year. to widespread flight cancel- compared to February 2019. with COVID-19 approached The IATA data showed The Chinese domestic lations amid government- “This was the steepest a million, including nearly that international passenger market all but collapsed, imposed travel restrictions. decline in traffic since 9/11,” 50,000 who have died from demand, which covers only with an 83.6-percent drop “Air transport will play IATA said in a statement, the virus, spurring govern- international flights, fell in passenger demand, mark- a much-needed role in sup- adding that the slump “re- ments to order around half of 10.1 percent year-on-year ing the worst outcome since porting the inevitable recov- flected collapsing domestic humanity to remain at home. in February, marking the IATA began tracking the ery. But without additional travel in China and sharply “The impact on aviation worst slump since the SARS market in year 2000, it said. government action today, falling international demand has left airlines with little to outbreak in 2003, while in- Domestic traffic mean- the industry will not be in a A school teacher uses Zoom app from her home to interact to/from and within the Asia- do except cut costs and take ternational capacity fell five while soared in the US in position to help when skies with her students in Washington recently. (AFP) Pacific region, owing to the emergency measures in an percent. February, jumping 10.1 per- are brighter tomorrow,” said spreading COVID-19 virus attempt to survive in these The impact was again cent, but IATA said demand Juniac. Smartphone vs virus: Is privacy always going to be the loser?

AFP Firms can “anonymise” large amounts of data from Singapore pioneered a phone and come within range. The TraceTogether app Paris location data received from One obvious attraction for users of its myriad services, method using Bluetooth. This Germany is looking at roll- then matches up the codes your smartphone by stripping health officials is the pos- plans to publish information is the technology that allows ing out a similar system. (non-identifiable except to the In Europe, officials, doctors out personal identifiers. It can sibility of using smart- about the movement of people people to connect wireless The Singaporean app is operator of the system) with and engineers are looking at then be presented in an “ag- phones to find out with to allow governments to gauge headphones or earbuds to designed to reduce privacy the telephone number of own- how smartphones could be gregate” form where individu- whom someone diagnosed the effectiveness of social dis- their smartphones. If you’ve concerns. For one, the app is ers, and then messages them enlisted in the war against the al and identifiable data points tancing measures. ever connected a pair to your voluntary. they had been in contact with spread of the new coronavirus. are not accessable. with COVID-19 has been in In particular, it will display phone in a public place you’ll Another is that it doesn’t someone who has been diag- One obvious attraction for Your location data is al- contact. percentage point increases probably have noticed the de- track your location, rather it nosed with COVID-19. health officials is the possibil- ready likely being used that and decreases in visits to such vices of others nearby. just collects codes from the - Spies in charge -The oth- ity of using smartphones to way by mobile operators to by measuring the phone signal locations as parks, shops, and It is this feature of Blue- phones of people with whom er means to get practical infor- find out with whom someone feed traffic information to map strength from more than one workplaces. tooth that the Singaporean you come into relatively close mation is to utilise the location diagnosed with COVID-19 apps. network tower. In fact, mobile Anonymised and aggregat- app TraceTogether exploits. contact. data of phone users. has been in contact. But can And it is such information operators have already been ed only get you so far. To get Someone who has down- That information is only This is the method chosen this be done without intrusive that the European Commis- providing such data to health practical data like the people loaded the app and kept their uploaded to the operator of the by Israel, which put internal surveillance and access to our sion has requested from mo- researchers in both France with whom an infected person Bluetooth enabled will begin app when a person declares security agency Shin Bet in devices that store a wealth of bile operators, which can de- and Germany. has had contact, you need to to register codes from all peo- himself or herself as having charge of obtaining the data private information? termine the location of users Google, which collects get invasive. Or do you? ple who have the app on their come down with COVID-19. from mobile phone operators. “I do truly believe the Indian Premier League should happen. I think every single player around the world is desperate to play the IPL.” Former England Monday, April 6, 2020 batsman Kevin Pietersen Trump hopes Handling of Premier League virus-hit sport back pay row ‘a disgrace’: Rooney ‘sooner than later’ AFP AFP percent salary reduction would Washington London cost the country 200 million pounds ($245 million) in lost President Donald Trump Wayne Rooney has criticised tax receipts. said he believed US sports the UK government and the England manager Gareth leagues hit by the coronavi- Premier League for placing Southgate has reportedly taken rus pandemic would resume footballers in a “no-win situ- a 30 percent pay cut, although “sooner rather than later” but ation” over proposed pay cuts the Football Association is yet declined to set a timetable for after players were urged to to confirm the move. their return. make sacrifices during the cor- A handful of top-flight On a conference call with onavirus crisis. clubs, including last year’s the commissioners of the ma- The former England cap- I’m in a place where I could give Champions League finalists jor professional sports leagues, tain, now playing with Cham- something up. Not every Liverpool and Tottenham, Trump told National Football pionship side Derby, penned footballer is in the same have opted to furlough non- League commissioner Roger US President Donald Trump. an impassioned column in the position. Yet suddenly the whole playing staff using the safety Goodell he believed the season Sunday Times saying his fellow profession has been put on the net of the government’s job would kick off as scheduled in “We need it for this period professionals were “easy tar- retention scheme. September. of time. But eventually people gets” in the wider response to spot with a demand for 30 Former Liverpool play- US sports have been up- are going to be able to occupy the pandemic. percent pay cuts across the ers including Jamie Carragher ended by the coronavirus, those seats next to each other. It came after the Profes- board. Why are footballers strongly criticised the move by with the NBA, Major League I’m not committing to it. It sional Footballers’ Association suddenly the scapegoats? the European champions, who Baseball, Major League Soccer would be great if we could.” (PFA) said a proposed 30 per- in February announced pre-tax and National Hockey League The NFL has so far made cent pay cut could hurt Britain’s profits of 42 million pounds for all halting or suspending their no plans to alter the start of its state-run National Health Ser- Derby County’s English striker 2018/19. respective seasons last month 2020-2021 season, with pre- vice (NHS) because it would hit Wayne Rooney. (AFP) Manchester City said they as the pandemic erupted. season games usually starting tax receipts. would not be furloughing em- “I want fans back in the in August. Rooney said he had both ployees. Britain’s Press Associa- arenas...whenever we’re However California Gov- the means and the will to proached me to help support was accused by one British the focus of similar attention. tion said the club’s stance was ready,” Trump told reporters ernor Gavin Newsom was make financial contributions, nurses financially or buy venti- lawmaker of operating in a Former England striker approved and staff informed at a White House briefing on sceptical of the possibility of either in the form of salary re- lators I’d be proud to do so -- as “moral vacuum”. Gary Lineker echoed Rooney’s before Liverpool’s position be- Saturday. sports resuming in August or ductions or direct donations long as I knew where the money But Rooney questioned the sentiments, telling the BBC that came public. “As soon as we can obvi- September. to the NHS, but felt the pub- was going,” wrote Rooney. wisdom of the Premier League footballers he had spoken to “We remain determined to ously. I can’t tell you a date but Speaking at his daily brief- lic pressure being exerted on The 34-year-old added: in preempting behind-the- were “desperately keen” to offer protect our people, their jobs I think it’s going to be sooner ing, Newsom warned of a pos- players was unhelpful. “I’m in a place where I could scenes talks involving play- help but were an easy target. and our business,” City said in a rather than later.” sible resurgence in infections The Premier League’s sug- give something up. Not every ers with its own proposals for “Why not call on all the statement. Major League Baseball and if sport returned to soon. gested strategy involving a footballer is in the same posi- sweeping reductions. wealthy to try and help if they Rooney’s former England NBA officials are reportedly Asked about the possibil- combination of pay cuts and tion. Yet suddenly the whole “In my opinion it is now possibly can rather than just and Manchester United team- studying plans to play games ity of fans heading to stadiums deferrals amounting to 30 per- profession has been put on the a no-win situation,” he said. pick on footballers?” he said. mate Gary Neville, now a lead- without spectators at neutral in September, Newsom said: cent of wages, was discussed in spot with a demand for 30 per- “Whatever way you look at it, “Nobody seems to talk about ing broadcaster, was highly venues to minimise the risks “I’m not anticipating that hap- a conference call with players’ cent pay cuts across the board. we’re easy targets.” the bankers, the CEOs, huge critical of the Premier League. of infection associated with pening in this state.” and managers’ representatives Why are footballers suddenly He said the Premier millionaires. Are they stand- “The PL are handling the crowded arenas. “We’ve all seen the head- on Saturday. the scapegoats? League’s contribution of £20 ing up? Are they being asked to CV (coronavirus) crisis ter- Trump, however, spoke lines in the last couple of days Initial talks were already “How the past few days have million to the NHS was “a drop stand up? We don’t know.” ribly,” he wrote on Twitter, optimistically of fans eventu- in Asia where they were open- taking place before key politi- played out is a disgrace.” in the ocean” compared with before outlining a checklist of ally being let back into sta- ing up certain up businesses cal figures, including Health The Premier League has the amount clubs would save PFA warning perceived mis-steps including diums. “We’re not going to and now they’re starting to roll Secretary Matt Hancock, been seen as lagging behind with wage cuts. The PFA said its members their slowness in imposing a have separation for the rest back those openings because called for action. other European leagues in its And he questioned why wanted to play their part but lockdown and the “PR disas- of our times on the planet,” there’s some spread, a boo- “If the government ap- response to coronavirus and stars from other sports were not warned that a proposed 30 ter” of furloughing. Trump said. merang,” Newsom said.

Serbia footballer Ex-Scotland rugby captain Walker faces Man City probe after hosting ‘party’ during lockdown pleads guilty, gets & coach Morgan no more AFP pictured next to a road in slip- three months’ London pers, just hours after he posted home detention AFP quarter-finals in South Africa a video urging fans to stay safe London and posted their first victory Kyle Walker is facing discipli- at home on social media. DPA over France in Paris in 26 years. nary action from Manchester Grealish apologised and was Belgrade Former Scotland rugby cap- Former Lions manager Ian City after reportedly breaking fined and disciplined by Villa. tain Dougie Morgan has died McGeechan said: “Dougie had a coronavirus lockdown condi- Football is on hold due to Serbian football inter- at the age of 73 after deep understanding tions by hosting a “party” even the coronavirus outbreak and national Aleksandar Pri- an illness, Scottish of the game and was though he has advised people to City will now look into Walker’s jovic was sentenced to three Rugby confirmed on tactically very aware. stay at home. conduct. months of home detention Sunday. I will never forget The England defender, 29 A club statement said: “Our for violating lockdown rules The scrum-half him standing on has apologised after the Sun staff and players have been in connection with the novel was capped 21 times (Wales player) Ga- newspaper reported that he in- working to support the incredi- coronavirus pandemic, local for Scotland between reth Edwards’ foot vited two call girls to his flat on ble efforts of the NHS (National media reported. 1973 and 1978 and to distract him whilst Tuesday. Health Service) and other key The Saudi side Al Itti- played two Test trying to put the On Wednesday Walker Kyle Walker faces disciplinary action from Manchester City after workers in fighting the effects had striker was arrested on matches for the Brit- Dougie Morgan at the ball into the scrum, posted on social media, urging flouting coronavirus lockdown rules. of the COVID-19 coronavirus in Friday afternoon for break- ish and Irish Lions 2003 World Cup in an approach which the public to follow government any way we can. Kyle’s actions ing the rule banning groups on their 1977 tour of Australia. stopped Wales play- guidelines on social distancing. letting them down,” Walker the past week.” in this matter have directly con- larger than five and was New Zealand. ing and we ultimate- Britain reported 621 more said in a statement. Walker is the second high- travened these efforts. arrested along with more After retiring Morgan ly won the game.” deaths from COVID-19 as of “There are heroes out there profileP remier League player “We are disappointed to than a dozen people attend- moved into coaching and be- He added: “On and off the 1600 GMT on Saturday, taking making a vital difference to so- to have been caught flouting the hear the allegations, note Kyle’s ing an impromptu party in came Scotland head coach in field he was a great friend and the total toll to 4,934. ciety at the moment and I have government’s guidelines after swift statement and apology, a Belgrade hotel. Prijovic the 1993-94 season. companion. I have memories I “I want to apologise to my been keen to help support and Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish. and will be conducting an in- pleaded guilty with the Bel- During his tenure, Scotland will always cherish and be very family, friends, football club, highlight their amazing sacri- The Villa captain went to ternal disciplinary procedure in grade prosecutor’s office in reached the Rugby World Cup thankful for knowing Dougie.” supporters and the public for fices and life-saving work over a party last weekend and was the coming days.” exchange for the mildest punishment a day later. His verdict still needs to be veri- fied by a court. Prijovic, 29, is billed as the wealthiest Serbian player, Van Avermaet wins ‘funny’ virtual Tour of Flanders from his attic with a four-and-a-half-year, €19.25 million ($20.8 mil- AFP Australian Michael Mat- discussions because we don’t lion) contract from January Brussels thews failed to finish while sev- know when the crisis will end,” last year. enth-placed Tim Wellens raced organiser Tomas Van Den According to the daily Olympic road race cham- from his balcony in Monaco. Spiegel told Flemish television Blic on Sunday, Al Ittihad are pion Greg Van Avermaet said “The effect of the wind was channel VRT. unhappy with Prijovic’s per- on Sunday winning the virtual also replicated, the effort was Virtual champion Van formance, but his contract is edition of the Tour of Flanders, much more difficult for the rid- Avermaet said he hoped guaranteed and can be termi- held instead of the real race due er in front than those behind,” it would take place which nated without pay only if he to the coronavirus pandemic, Lotto Soudal’s Wellens said af- would give him a shot at go- harms the club’s image. was “funny”. ter racing from his home on the ing one better than his two The report speculates that Avermaet, 35, was joined Mediterranean coast. second-placed finishes in the arrest and the sentencing by 12 other cyclists in racing the “I had without doubt a bet- 2014 and 2017. may provide the Saudi side final 32km of ‘De Ronde’, one ter view than Olivier Naesen “I hope the real Tour of an argument to cut Prijovic of cycling’s five one-day ‘monu- who was pedalling in his base- Flanders can take place in the without compensation. ments’, which was broadcast ment in Belgium,” Wellens autumn and I can really win it,” online after being postponed added. he said. due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Earlier in the day race or- The race was viewed more Avermaet’s daughter was ganisers said they could re- than 21,000 on YouTube and it seen on screen with her father schedule the race itself for later was also shown on Belgian TV. in their attic room as Team Viewers watched a virtual and a real Greg Van Avermaet win the Virtual Tour of Flanders. in the cycling calendar. This year’s week-long Tour CCC’s Belgian finished 20 “The goal is to still organise of Switzerland, originally set seconds ahead of compatriot “It was a funny feeling, you Avermaet, who was born in the derstand why her dad was busy ‘De Ronde’ later this year. Eve- for early June, has discussed Oliver Naesen and Ireland’s suffered without having the region, said. racing at home, was very happy ryone has agreed on that. But the idea of holding an online Nicolas Roche. feeling of being in the races,” “My girl, who couldn’t un- for me,” he added. for now, it’s just hypothetical version of its race also. Aleksandar Prijovic 12 Monday, April 6, 2020 Sports Pressure grows for shortened IPL behind closed doors

AFP “I think the fans need to New Delhi understand they can’t watch a live game at the moment Players are putting pres- and they might not be able sure on cricket authorities to to watch a live game for the plan a shortened Twenty20 foreseeable future.” Indian Premier League later The league is a huge rev- in the year to “kickstart” the enue earner for the Board of sports economy after the Control for Cricket in India coronavirus lockdown. (BCCI) and is estimated to The world’s richest generate more than $11 bil- cricket tournament has lion for the Indian economy. been postponed until April Chinese mobile phone- 15, which coincides with the maker Vivo paid $330 mil- end of India’s 21 day nation- lion to be the league’s top wide shutdown to halt the sponsor for 2018-2022. spread of the pandemic. Former India bats- But with the number of man Sanjay Manjrekar said cases and deaths rising and the league, which involves India isolated from interna- stars such as England’s Ben tional travel, few believe any Stokes, David Warner and sport will be possible in the Pat Cummins of Australia, sub-continent for at least and India captain Virat three months. Kohli, will inject life into the “Let’s say July-August is virus-ravaged economy. the earliest,” said Kevin Pi- “The moment we get etersen, the former England clearances from all the au- batsman. thorities that matter, the Rory McIlroy will have to wait for his latest attempt to complete the career Grand Slam at the Masters. “I do truly believe the IPL should happen, only IPL should happen. I think because it will kickstart the every single player around economy,” said the cricket- the world is desperate to er-turned-commentator. play the IPL,” he said on “Because when you talk Indian broadcaster Star about the IPL it’s not just Sports. about the Mumbai Indians, With ‘no competition’, Pietersen suggested the or a (Mahendra Singh) Dho- eight-team tournament be ni or a Virat Kohli, there are shortened from its normal a lot of people who are mak- eight-week duration and ing their livelihood through played behind closed doors. the IPL.” “There could be a way Stokes and Cummins golfers play waiting game in which to get some money have already voiced their into the franchises, into the eagerness to participate in economy by having a situa- the IPL. tion where you use maybe Kolkata Knight Riders- The world’s major golf tours have all been suspended until late May at the earliest due to the three venues which are com- contracted Cummins said pletely closed to fans,” said “everyone’s still really keen coronavirus pandemic, with the Masters and PGA Championship suspended indefinitely Pietersen. for it (IPL) to all go ahead”. “And the players can still BCCI president Sourav AFP the COVID-19 outbreak, with give fans something to do and with numerous Tour pros tak- and the FedEx Cup in the space go out and play the tourna- Ganguly has conceded the Paris the virus causing over 15,000 raise money for his local hospi- ing part in the ‘bounce’ golf ball of 12 weeks,” said McIlroy. ment in three weeks or in IPL will be a “truncated” af- deaths in the European nation. tals in Turin. keepy-uppy challenge, while But some professional four weeks. fair if it happens at all. From honing their short “Golf is not a priority. The “The only thing we ask is others have been answering players are still competing, games in the garden to giving most important thing right that in order to be able to par- questions from fans, or doing with several ‘mini-tours’ con- their children dubious haircuts now is to make sure we all be- ticipate, you have to make a do- interviews with other famous tinuing behind closed doors in and chatting to footballers, have in a way that can help this nation on our gofundme page, sportspeople. the US, where golf is allowed golfers have been finding ways situation get under control,” which goes to help hospitals in “I love golf, but I think I in most states as a designated to fill the time without compet- Molinari wrote in his blog for Turin,” he said. love the competition more. activity despite the lockdowns. itive sport. the European Tour website. On a lighter note, English If there’s no competition and LPGA Tour rookie Haley The world’s major golf Top golfers find it easier to Ryder Cup hero Ian Poulter there’s nothing to look for- Moore collected $2,500 for tours have all been suspended get through the lockdown than used his spare time to cut his ward to, I don’t really see the winning on the Cactus Tour in until late May at the earliest most people, with many hav- son’s hair “like Ronaldo’s”. point in going out and practis- Arizona on Sunday. due to the coronavirus pan- ing personal gyms, practice fa- Unfortunately for his son, ing,” world number one Rory “I just want to stay com- demic, with the Masters and cilities and swimming pools at the end result, shown in an McIlroy told former England petitive and stay sharp with PGA Championship suspended their homes. Instagram video, was a copy international footballer Jamie my game,” Moore told the indefinitely and three of the Major champions Sergio of Brazilian star Ronaldo’s in- Redknapp. Golf Channel after winning five women’s majors resched- Garcia and Martin Kaymer famous trim from the 2002 The players don’t know the event played under spe- uled. have joined fundraising efforts World Cup, not the style worn when the tours will resume, cial rules, with players in two- Former Ryder Cup winner to help those suffering from the by five-time Ballon d’Or winner with the potential for a packed somes, no bunker rakes and Edoardo Molinari is in his na- disease. Cristiano Ronaldo. schedule later in the year. one player to a cart. Fans wave national flags during last year’s Indian Premier League tive Italy, which has been one Molinari has been doing a He isn’t the only golfer “Potentially you’re looking “It’s very safe what they’re final in Hyderabad. of the hardest-hit countries by daily quiz on Instagram to help keeping busy on social media, at four majors, the Ryder Cup doing.” Strauss accepts his mistake Virtual Grand National raises on mismanagement of KP spirits and real cash for NHS Agencies “At some stage, it felt like AFP a really popular replacement tional in 2017, and we feel The 66-1 outsider had vic- LONDON there were two separate agen- London for the real thing.” honoured that it has been able tory in his sights, cruising in das. There was a problem for He said it had provided to stand in for the Grand Na- front before a fall at the sec- Former England captain An- me, for the team and for Andy Former Wales rugby star “a fun opportunity for people tional at this difficult time.” ond last fence. drew Strauss recently opened Flower. We were all tired, we Jonathan Davies wanted one to have their annual National The result was greeted Deutsch summed up his up on the controversy sur- had spent so much time. But small matter cleared up as flutter, as well as some light with delight by winning train- feelings in one word on Twit- rounding the tensions between if we had time to think it out part-owner of the big race relief at this unique time, er Christian Williams who ter: “Nooooooooo!” him and Kevin Pietersen which clearly, we could have managed winner Potters Corner at Ain- while most importantly also tweeted a photo with his two The Professional Jock- left a dent on England cricket it better,” Strauss added. tree on Saturday: “So is there helping to raise money for the children, both on toy horses eys Association respond- during the 2012-13 season. Strauss’s disappointment Virtual Grand National prize- fantastic NHS”. but wearing the victorious ed: “Hope you had your During South Africa’s tour of over Pietersen’s participation money?”. The company behind the red, black and white silks of gumshield in Charlie!” England in 2012, it came to light Former England skipper Andrew in the IPL was well document- With the world’s most event, programme-makers Potters Corners’ owners, All Such was the race’s prom- that Pietersen had sent texts to Strauss (right) with Kevin Pietersen. ed, and when the former was famous steeplechase fall- Carm Productions, told the Stars Sports Racing. inence in sport-starved Brit- South African players which in- appointed as the Director of ing victim to the coronavirus paper: “What an incredible But there was dismay for ain, Williams said his phone volved derogatory statements “I feel like I didn’t do Cricket (DOC) in 2015, he ruled shutdown, the computer- few days it has been. We first jockey Charlie Deutsch, on had been red hot with well- about his teammates and then enough work with KP. There out the right-hander’s return to generated edition, now in its aired the Virtual Grand Na- board Aso. wishers, and the BBC and ITV captain, Strauss. came a time where some of the national side. third year, found itself taking news rooms. The flamboyant right- the people he was close with in During the podcast, centre stage. “It’s nice that racing has hander was as a result dropped the team, either retired or got Strauss stressed on how he Tiger Roll, seeking a his- been able to do something for the third Test match of the dropped, there was an oppor- had ‘sympathy’ for Pietersen’s toric third straight win, was like that and cheer everyone series but made a comeback tunity to not bring him in, but desire to play in the IPL, con- sent off favourite but had to up,” he said. under Alastair Cook during spend time with him and make sidering the large amounts settle for fourth behind 18-1 “I’ve had hundreds of England’s 2-1 series win in In- sure his views were values or of money involved with his shot Potters Corner, the win- messages, including from dia. Pietersen made 338 runs considered,” Strauss said. contract. The former England ner according to complex people outside of racing who from four matches in that series Strauss claimed that al- opener claimed that he placed mathematical algorithms. watched it. It’s brilliant that and played an imperative role though Pietersen would not Test cricket on a higher ped- Bookmakers are donating racing can bring a smile in in his side’s win. have been a straight fit into estal at all times and did not all profits from betting on the tough times. However, the tensions be- the ‘engine room’ of the team, want Pietersen to steer away animated race shown live on “I’ve got about 20 people tween Strauss and Pietersen the motive was to allow the from his obligations to play ITV to Britain’s state-run Na- to ring back -- I’ve had the did not die down which saw right-hander to be himself and the longest format. tional Health Service, in the BBC and News At Ten calling the ouster of the latter from not give him a role he wasn’t Strauss also claimed that frontline in the fight against me!” the team. comfortable with. The former during his tenure as DOC, COVID-19. Coronavirus has claimed In a chat with the Sky opener also hinted on how the he wanted to explore the op- David Stevens of betting the lives of 4,313 people in Sports podcast, Strauss shed difference in ideologies in a portunity of forming a core firm Coral told TheR acing the UK, with 41,903 infected, light on how he did not spend short space of time might have of white ball specialists who Post it had provided some according to the latest official too much time understanding brought the curtains down on could focus only on the short- welcome respite: “The Virtual figures released by the health Pietersen. Pietersen’s career. er formats of the game. Grand National proved to be Tiger Roll at last year’s National. ministry on Saturday. Sports Monday, April 6, 2020 13

Ahmad Kholy, Khalid al Kuwari & Salman al Khater top groups in QORC first race

Exciting races marked the opening round of the Qatar Online Racing Championship as Ahmad Kholy, Khalid al Kuwari and Salman al Khater collected maximum points in their respective groups. With the coronavirus pandemic forcing sporting activities in the world to be cancelled or postponed, the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) decided to host the nine-race online challenge to keep competitors engaged at home. Kholy beat Rashid al Lebdah to win in the Group A, while Khalid al Maraghi completed the podium. In the Group B, Khalid al Kuwari emerged the winner, beating Abdulla al Khelaifi, the Qatar Touring Car Championship M240 Class winner. Basil Sholy bagged the third spot. Salman al Khater claimed the victory in the Group C as he defeated Hamad al Sulaiti. Abdulla Shaikhan followed them in the third spot. The next race will take place on Tuesday.

F1’s Bottas Motivation the key in trains in ‘arctic Citi Open offers hopes of training camp’ coronavirus times:

DPA Sports psychologist Berlin DPA team since 2008 and took part tennis season resumption Berlin in the Hawaii ironman in 1988, Mercedes driver Valtteri said that intrinsically motivat- Bottas has hiked up a moun- ith the sports world Training on through coro- ed athletes have a clear edge tain in the north of his native on pause due to the navirus-related lockdowns and at the moment, with events Finland and says he is feeling Woutbreak of coro- other restrictions is a daunting cancelled and no one knowing well in isolation amid the coro- navirus, the Citi Open could task in itself, with motivation when leagues can resume. navirus pandemic but can’t signal the start of a welcomed the driving force. Stoll said it helps to be wait for Formula One to start new day if it goes on as cur- And according to German “intrinsically motivated and at some stage. rently still scheduled later this sports psychologist Oliver active because you love it, Bottas late Saturday posted year, according to NBC Sports Stoll, athletes in individual and are not looking at a spe- a picture of himself at the top of Washington. sports have an advantage cial award directly related to the 1,029m Mt Saana and fol- This week the ITF, ATP and over those from team sports it.” Top athletes such as race lowed up Sunday with a video WTA announced the suspen- who can only train in small walker Christopher Linke, who for his followers on Instagram. sion of all tournaments world- groups, if at all. came fourth at last year’s world “I am very well,” Bottas said, wide through July 13. The Stoll acknowledges that championships in Doha, don’t standing in a snow-covered suspension includes the iconic those from athletics don’t have necessarily fall into that group. landscape. Wimbledon Championships in the tracks and fields available, Linke readily admitted he “I keeping away from all hu- England for the first time since and swimmers can’t train in has completely lost his motiva- man beings. I have been able World War II. Without it, play- the pools, but that nonethe- tion and doesn’t know what he to do lots of good training. It ers will go at minimum four less “team sports athletes are is training for. seems like a long training camp months in-between competi- much worse off. “I am not an athlete who that’s continuing since the win- tive tournaments. “Nothing at all is going for likes to train without goals. I ter break. That is where the Citi Open The William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center in Rock Creek Park, Washington, D.C, the venue of the Citi Open them. Except from being on- don’t go to training because I “As a driver I can’t wait to could have more of a mark on annual hard court tennis tournament. line or can playing the garden enjoy it so much but because get back to racing but we have the tennis world than usual, as- with their families,” he said. I know it is part of being to wait until it is safe to do so.” suming the suspension is not ration in the Rogers Cup and Obviously, the uncer- going to come here if we’re on.” Some football clubs like able to achieve a top result,” The first eight 2020 races extended. The tournament in subsequent US Open. tainly makes planning a large But as has been clear in re- Bundesliga champions Bayern Linke said. have been postponed or com- Washington DC would be the “The eyes of the tennis event a difficult task. The cent weeks, so much can change Munich have resorted to cyber Hurdler Pamela Dutkie- pletely scrapped, and teams and first combined event on the tour world and the sports world, tournament organizing team from now until July 13 and be- training and others have per- wicz, a 2017 worlds bronze officials now hope to start the since play resumed. It would more broadly, would be on though is still hard at work, fore the start of the tournament mission to be at the training medallist, said: “In sports, season on June 14 in Canada. the second ATP 500-level event Washington and the Citi operating as if the tourna- on August 1. Ein and the Citi ground in small groups. goals are clearly defined, and Last year’s world champi- and the fifth International-level Open,” Ein said. “Virtually ment will still be held. Open, as of now, are optimistic Individual sports athletes linked with a certain day and onship runner-up Bottas has tournament for the WTA. every single player is going to Players are in the same at the opportunity that has pre- have also had to change their even time. I adhere to the said he spent the last two weeks “It just became an incred- want to and need to play. They boat. Since the announcement sented themselves for the event training routines but at least guidelines ... But the aim- in isolation with his Austral- ible set of circumstances for will have been out of competi- of the suspension of the tours, but reaffirmed that the health decide on their own how to lessness of not knowing ex- ian partner Tiffany Cromwell in us to have an unprecedented tion for five months, made no players have been in contact and safety of the players and proceed, with motivation be- actly what will happen when, northern Finland, in an arctic player field and media, global prize money, got no ranking with the Citi Open on entry into fans are their top priority. ing the key factor. or at all, is really difficult.” training camp. media attention on us,” man- points. And I think the entire the field. Already the tourna- The ultimate decision on “The question is why I do Stoll meanwhile said that it aging owner of the Citi Open world would flock here for our ment is known for boasting an whether to have the event sport? If I am intrinsically mo- is also possible to run a mar- Mark Ein told NBC Sports event because it would be the incredible crop of players, es- would be in conjunction with tivated I do it for the sake of athon even without a com- Washington. “Our top priority first big event.” pecially on the men’s side. Last the ATP, WTA and the city. the activity, because I love it. petition, looking at those - is always going to be protecting Unlike Wimbledon and the year six top-15 players entered “We’ve talked about dif- An award is first of all no fac- mainly amateurs - who have people’s health and that is go- other majors, the week-long the men’s singles event. On the ferent ways of modifying the tor,” Stoll said. prepared for all those spring ing to be the first objective, but Citi Open does not require as women’s side, former US Open event to account for the ex- “When I am extrinsically races over 42.195km which if we can do that and have the much long-term event plan- champion Sloane Stephens is traordinary times we’re living motivated I do it because of have been cancelled. event it will be extraordinary.” ning. Major decisions on the a regular, while Naomi Osa- in and we would be flexible the result,” he said, referring “You can have the aim of Players across the world event won’t have to be made ka and Coco Gauff have also to accommodate certain ob- to promotion into another running 42km. And if it is im- would be vying for a spot in until the beginning of June. Ein played at Rock Creek Park. jectives if needed,” Ein said. league, a winners’ party, a fin- portant to prove that you can the tournament to get back in notes that they could even push “Everyone is waiting a little “But, it’s too early to have to isher t-shirt or a medal. run 42km you don’t need a action. It would be one of the back some of those deadlines bit longer to see,” Ein said. “But think about what those op- Stoll, who has been work- competition. If you want to,” Valtteri Bottas prime tournaments for prepa- later given the circumstances. it is very clear that everyone’s tions may be.” (NBC Sports) ing with the national diving Stoll said. NASCAR’s iRacing format brings thrills of virtual track to TV

TCA/DPA every major racing team. iRacing After his win, however, she was Warfield, NASCAR managing di- Los Angeles turned the concept into an actual the one to deliver the ceremonial rector of gaming. competition though, allowing glass of milk as they celebrated in As he drove to Fox Sports’ Char- drivers to race against each other their home. Big impact lotte studios Sunday morning, Jeff from the comfort of their homes. “I definitely rank it up there,” “It’s having an impact on com- Gordon felt that familiar buzz of “I always thought it was a cool Hill, who has yet to win a NAS- pany morale and giving employees race day. concept,” Gordon said. “But I nev- CAR event on a major series, told something to rally behind in a very “I got excited when I woke up,” er knew it could do what it’s capa- reporters when asked how the tough time. There’s a fan benefit, the retired NASCAR legend and ble of doing today, to put the sport virtual victory compared to his there’s an industry benefit, and current television analyst said. on a broadcast.” The eye-catching other career achievements. “Just there’s a business benefit where “Knowing that I was going to get product has produced eye-pop- because the platform is being tel- you have a lot of partners that to go see a race, I was going to get ping results. evised on Fox, having essentially were able to help at a time when to broadcast a race, be a part of With a roster of 35 NASCAR the entire NASCAR audience tun- some of that exposure could have it.” Not a real race, of course. Not drivers headlined by semi-retired ing in.” Others in the industry been lost.” The phenomenon is now, anyway. Like the rest of the Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kyle Busch, are also toasting to the success loosely reminiscent to NASCAR’s sports world, NASCAR has sus- Jimmie Johnson and Denny Ham- of eNASCAR, which will continue coming-out party in 1979. That pended its schedule because of the lin, Fox’s two “eNASCAR” broad- until actual racing resumes. year, the first full national broad- coronavirus outbreak, its drivers casts together have drawn more community over the last 12 years force drivers to make the same After reaching peak popularity cast of the Daytona 500 coincided stuck at home while its monolithic than 2 million viewers, dusting among fans and drivers alike. mental calculations. Go for a pit early this century, the NASCAR’s with a massive snowstorm that venues sit empty and eerily quiet. previous eSports television rating Some professionals use it to stop or stay on the track? Attempt popularity has spiralled in recent kept much of the East Coast and Back in Fox’s Charlotte studios, records at a time all other sports learn new tracks. Others to keep a pass or maintain position in the years. The days when Gordon, Earn- Midwest inside, introducing the however, Gordon has been hard at are stuck in neutral. hand-eye coordination sharp. Ac- pack? Slow down through a turn hardt Jr. and Johnson captivated sport to a country-wide audience work the last two Sundays broad- cording to iRacing’s executive vice or risk smashing into the wall? capacity crowds and headlined tel- for the first time. casting races of a different variety. Perfect candidate president and executive producer “In the real world, you feel the air evision broadcasts of almost 6 mil- Today’s Covid-19 circum- In the TV time slots originally “There’s a lot of things that Steve Myers, most simply enjoyed moving in the window, you feel it lion television viewers are gone. stances are much bleaker, and the dedicated to NASCAR, computer- made NASCAR and iRacing a per- the competition. in the seat. The loads on your body Last season, the average NAS- impact of these virtual races will generated images of an iRacing fect candidate for this,” said Brad “They all got into racing be- tells you what the car is doing,” CAR race attracted about 3 mil- surely be much smaller in scale. competition have aired, a video- Zager, Fox Sports executive vice cause they love racing,” Myers Gordon said. lion viewers, according to Statista, Few other television programs, game broadcast that had the look of president and head of production. said. “So to be able to go to a soft- “In this world, it’s visual.” and swaths of empty seats were sports or otherwise, have provided a virtual presentation but the feel of “It’s a simulator rather than ware platform like ours that more noticeable in grandstands across a better large-scale distraction. something much more substantial. just any other eSport. You’re not closely, more accurately repre- Serious racing the country. “This is an opportunity, with “I don’t know what to call it,” just hitting a joystick ... These driv- sents what racing is ... it’s fun for NASCAR drivers have taken it The virtual races won’t reverse everything going on in the world Gordon laughed. “I guess you’d ers have rigs and it really feels like them to do.” While iRacing - which seriously. Timmy Hill, who won those declining trends. But they of- right now, to step away from that call it real racing. Our normal racing. They’ve got to deal with is currently staging similar virtual Sunday’s race, spent so much time fered up a timely reminder of just for a short period of time,” Gor- broadcast has now become iRac- shifting and the issues in the track series for Formula One and preparing for the race that his how relevant racing can still be. don said. ing.” Virtual simulators are noth- they normally would deal with.” Though NASCAR truck racing wife, Lucy, started asking, “When “It’s proven out beyond our “To go have some fun and be ing new to auto racing, used as Founded in 2008, iRacing carved can’t replicate all the physical sen- are you going to come downstairs? wildest dreams of being a tremen- able to do some racing that is as important training tools by almost out a niche within the racing sations of stock car racing, it does You’ve been on this thing all day.” dous business story,” said Scott realistic as it gets.” 14 Monday, April 6, 2020 The Last Word Qatar Foundation partnerships drive undergraduate level research projects

research across a wide array of top- genation (ECMO), a lifesaving pro- the South and West Asia Chapter QNRF, Qatar Shell renew agreement to co-sponsor ics. Many of these research projects cedure developed for the care of of Extracorporeal Life Support Or- ‘Undergraduate Research Experience Programme’ go on to be featured on interna- patients with short-term respira- ganization. tional platforms and get published tory and/or circulatory issues. This Dr Abdul Sattar al Taie, ex- in leading scientific journals. simulator, built in partnership with ecutive director, QNRF, said, “The Tribune News Network the Qatar Shell Research and Tech- One such research project Hamad Medical Corporation, inte- recognition received by the im- Doha nology Centre. was conducted by undergradu- grates engineering with medicine pressive outcomes of our UREP re- “At Qatar Shell, we are com- ate students from Qatar Univer- to build a high-fidelity and cost-ef- searchers reflects the quality of the Qatar’s unique research ecosys- mitted to fuelling innovation into sity, titled ‘Production of sensi- fective simulation device to ensure local research being produced and tem has produced an environment the nation’s energy ecosystem, and tive gas sensors using CuO/SnO2 increased deployment and subse- gives us confidence to say that fu- in which undergraduate research advancing research, development graduate programme for another nanoparticles’, was published in quently, training of more medical ture of the academic and research programmes and business partner- and deploying innovative solu- year. the Applied Physics A, a scientific practitioners in the specialised pro- landscape in Qatar is in safe and ships are able to thrive together. tions that have a sustainable and When QNRF was estalished journal focusing on experimen- cedure. capable hands.” Qatar National Research lasting impact towards achieving by Qatar Foundation 13 years ago, tal and theoretical investigations Medical corporations and hos- He added, “Special recognition Fund’s (QNRF) Undergraduate the country’s key priorities,” Hus- the UREP was one of the first pro- in applied physics and materials pitals from across the world have and acknowledgement must be giv- Research Experience Programme sain al Hijji, vice-president of the grammes it offered to build and science. expressed strong interest to pur- en to their mentors for providing (UREP) is one such initiative. Qatar Shell Research and Tech- nurture a research ecosystem in Similarly, another interdisci- chase this technology. step-by-step guidance to train the Backed by an agreement signed by nology Centre, said as Qatar Shell Qatar. plinary research project by the stu- The project won local and inter- students in best research practice Qatar Shell, UREP allows research and Qatar National Research Fund Over the years, students from dents of Qatar University success- national awards including the best and ensure that the results are at students to benefit from the learn- (QNRF) commit to extend their universities within the country fully developed a low-cost simulator oral and poster presentation award par with competitive international ing opportunities and expertise at partnership to co-fund the under- have received the UREP to conduct for Extracorporeal Membrane Oxy- at the 4th Annual Conference of standards.” QU to host Global Virtual Design and Innovation Competition on COVID-19

Tribune News Network by providing them with Doha Key dates technical, engineering, ma-  Going live and start of terials and compliance ex- The College of Engineering submission: 5 April 2020 perts who will actively sup- of Qatar University (QU-)  Submission deadline: port them in their design”. announced the launch of the 25June 2020 Design topics include COVID-19 Global Virtual  Announce shortlisted mobile apps that address Design & Innovation Com- applications: 20 August and dive into real-life pa- petition under the theme 2020 tients COVID-19 health- ‘Re-Engineer the Future of  Announce the winners: related cases such as; emer- Participants of the sessions will have the opportunity to raise concerns with Dr Rudwan Abdul-Al, a consultant psychiatrist at Al-Ahli Hospital. Healthcare and Improve 24 September 2020 gency dispatch; remote Lives - Design with Impact’.  International virtual health care; crowd manage- COVID-19 has affected exhibition: 20 October ment and census; cluster billions of people, and even 2020 and community spread pro- those who are not physi- files; in-depth data analysis; HBKU offers counselling cally affected are economi- healthcare to solve a preva- on-site and off-site cyber cally and mentally affected. lent global health issues. assets; and outreach to in- There is a clear need to im- We are looking for out of spire communities. prove healthcare systems the box ideas that works The design files for these and facilities. With 70 per now and in the future, as parts can be produced any- for students, employees cent of the population po- well as solutions that can be where in the world to help tentially on the verge of scaled-up to improve and end-customers bridge po- being infected with COV- enhance patients’ experi- tential supply chain inter- ID-19, our global healthcare ences. This challenge ends ruptions. over COVID-19 concerns systems will be strained be- with a unique, international Participations may in- yond their limits. exhibition of all shortlisted clude the design of smart, In his comment, Dr designs” he added. healthy mobile buildings Khalid Kamal Naji, Dean of In his comment, Prof hosting healthcare facili- Weekly online sessions are led by a senior consultant at the Al-Ahli Hospital QU-CENG said: “This com- Abdelmagid Hammuda, As- ties. Fast-assembled / dis- petition aims to contribute to sociate Dean for Academic assembled, low-cost and Tribune News Network and seek reassurance. This the reduction of the Corona- Affairs at CENG said: “Our user-friendly “buildings” Doha applies just as much to their virus (COVID 19) effect, and priority is to create an en- that can accommodate in- studies as the ongoing situa- contribute to the United Na- vironment that fosters col- fected and cured patients As part of its commitment to It’s never been so important to tion at home and abroad. We tions (SDG) Goals -“Ensure laboration to allow the best at 0-contagion risk. At a safe and healthy campus, remind HBKU’s students that are grateful to Dr Abdul-Al healthy lives and promote possible designs to see the the same time as provid- Student Affairs at Hamad Bin we are always here for them. and Al-Ahli Hospital for offer- well-being for all at all ages”, light. The winning design ing well-being, comfort Khalifa University (HBKU) COVID-19 has not only changed ing their support to our stu- UN Sustainable Develop- should support COVID-19 and healing atmosphere is offering students, staff and the way we pursue learning dent community.” ment Goal (SDG) No. 3”. patients anywhere in the through adequate spatial, faculty online counselling ses- Student Affairs is well “This global virtual world. We are committed artistic and architectural sions as the coronavirus (COV- opportunities, but it has also aligned with HBKU’s man- challenge aims to push to accompany the teams as considerations, the design ID-19) pandemic unfolds. isolated so many people from date of promoting commu- the boundaries of design they work towards meeting of such buildings should be Taking place every Satur- their family and friends nity outreach and ensuring and product innovation in the challenge requirements contagion-proofed. day, the sessions are geared an inclusive environment towards students in Education Maryam al Mannai for its students. The depart- City housing facilities. Partici- ment leads various activities pants, including members of time. Students are encouraged throughout the year to foster the wider HBKU community, to highlight any issues they not only changed the way we a sense of belonging within will have the opportunity to are facing from a wellness and pursue learning opportuni- the HBKU community. HB- raise concerns with Dr Rud- mental health perspective. ties, but it has also isolated so KU’s online counselling ser- wan Abdul-Al, a consultant Speaking about the ses- many people from their family vices for students, faculty and psychiatrist at Al-Ahli Hospi- sions, Maryam al Mannai, and friends. staff take place every tal. vice-president of Student Af- “These sessions serve as a Saturday in the morning and Dr Abdul-Al will offer fairs, said: “It’s never been so timely reminder that our stu- afternoon. Advance registra- practical advice on dealing important to remind HBKU’s dents are not alone and op- tion is not required. More in- with worries and safeguarding students that we are always tions exist for them to discuss formation is available at www. mental health at this difficult here for them. COVID-19 has problems, obtain clarification hbku.edu.qa. Ashghal opens new underpass, bridge on Mesaimeer Interchange

Tribune News Network traffic movement in all direc- tional, health and commercial Doha tions following the removal facilities such as the Medical of some diversions to provide Commission, Meteorological The Public Works Authority direct connections with other Department, many schools, (Ashghal) has opened a new routes. health centres and nearby underpass and bridge on Me- “Residents in Al Wakra shopping malls. saimeer Interchange to traf- and Al Wukair are the best The Mesaimeer Inter- fic towards Al Wakra and Al beneficiaries from the new change integrates with Sabah Wukair from Industrial Area routes since the underpass Al Ahmad Corridor linking Al- Road and E Ring Road in col- create easy access for those Watiyyat Interchange, which laboration with the General coming from Industrial Area is a strategic link between the Directorate of Traffic. Road as well as for those com- southern part of Doha Ex- The 750-metre underpass ing from E Ring Road, allevi- pressway and its main high- will provide free flow traffic ating traffic pressure on the way. This link provides a free from Industrial Area Road to- nearby roads and providing flow traffic between the north wards southern part of Doha more options for travelers,” and south of the country Expressway as well as the Emadi added. The new three- The 6.1-kilometre-long interchange consists of three to four lanes in each direction to accommodate about 30,000 vehicles per hour in both directions. through Doha. The project is 560-metre bridge linking traf- level interchange is the first of one of the vital interchanges fic from the E Ring Road. its kind in Qatar as it contains rections. change is the first of its kind the southern part of Doha Ex- Mesaimeer, providing an easy in the country, with two levels According to Ashghal, nine underpasses providing The 6.1-kilometre-long in- in Qatar connecting six main pressway, main carriageway of access to Al Wakra, Al Wukair comprising three bridges and the traffic movement from free flow traffic. terchange consists of three to roads, namely Mesaimeer Doha Expressway and Al Sha- and the Industrial area four underpasses for easy ac- Al Wakra and Al Wukair via The interchange also con- four lanes in each direction to Interchange, Doha Express- mal Road. It is located in a vital area cess of vehicles to nearby resi- southern part of Doha Ex- sists of two major bridges. One accommodate about 30,000 way, southern part of Doha It also connects trafficbe - that has many facilities, in- dential area of Al Thumama, pressway towards Doha Ex- of them connects Rawdhat Al vehicles per hour in both di- Expressway, Sabah Al Ahmed tween Industrial Area road cluding Al Thumama Stadium, Mesaimeer, Bu Hamour, Nu- pressway and 22 February Khail Street and Industrial rections. Corridor, Industrial Area Road and the heart of Doha through one of the World Cup stadi- aija, Al Wakra and Al Wukair. Street will open by the second Area road in both directions On completion in the sec- and Rawdhat Al Khail Street. a connection to Rawdat Al ums, where the interchange The interchange provides a quarter of 2020. and the other one connects ond quarter of 2020, the new The interchange also pro- Khail Street, which intersects has three pedestrian bridges free flow traffic for commuters Engineer Ahmed Ali al E-Ring Road with the south- interchange will improve traf- vides a vital traffic link be- with D-Ring and C-Ring Road, to ease people’s access to Al from these areas to Hamad In- Emadi from Ashghal Highway ern part of Doha Expressway fic flow, reducing travel time tween the south, central and as well as between the busy Thumama Stadium. ternational Airport, to south- Project Department, said the in one direction, ensuring a by more than 70 percent. north of the country. It links areas of Nuaija, Al Thumama, The interchange also ern areas, Doha and northern new openings will improve smooth flow of traffic in all di- The Mesaimeer Inter- traffic from the south through Bu Hamour, Al Maamoura, serves many important educa- areas of the country.