BUSINESS | 21 SPORT | 28 & UK sign MoU Ruthless for cybersecurity Al thrash cooperation UAE’s Al Ain

Wednesday 16 May 2018 | 30 Sha’baan I 1439 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 23 | Number 7528 | 2 Riyals

QP to build world-scale Prime Minister inspects Metro project Petrochemicals Complex

A group of leading international ethane produced primarily companies invited to submit proposals for from the new North Field LNG partnering with Qatar Petroleum. expansion project that will produce an additional 23mtpa of LNG, as well as from The Petrochemicals Complex will include existing gas projects pro- Middle East’s largest ethane cracker. ducing ethane. QP, in mid-February, had Complex start-up planned for 2025. rolled out its new Corporate Strategy signalling to further boost Qatar’s leading global THE PENINSULA position by raising its LNG pro- of the Petrochemicals Complex duction from 77 to 100mtpa. should commence shortly, The new corporate strategy DOHA: Qatar Petroleum has leading to a planned start-up in and core values were designed Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani made an invited a group of leading inter- 2025. to firmly place QP on the road inspection visit to Project, during which he learned about the progress of the project national companies, with Eng. Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, to realising its vision “to become and witnessed the test of the metro auto-drive between New Doha and Ras Abu Fontas stations. extensive experiences in the President and CEO of Qatar one of the best national oil and The Prime Minister inspected the Main Maintenance Center of Doha Metro Station in Ras Abu Fontas petrochemicals industry, to Petroleum, said, “this devel- Gas companies, with roots in and the main control center for Doha Metro Networks. Thhe Minister was accompanied by a number submit proposals for partnering opment is a first step towards Qatar and a strong international of Their Excellences Ministers and senior officials. →SEE ALSO PAGE 2 with Qatar Petroleum in the the launch of a new world scale presence. development and operation of Petrochemicals Complex at Ras “The rollout signals a new a new world-scale Petrochem- Laffan, marking another era of growth for Qatar icals Complex at Ras Laffan important milestone for Qatar Petroleum, led by the planned Industrial City (RLIC). Petroleum.” expansion of North Field pro- The Petrochemicals Al Kaabi added: “Petro- duction, which will further Qatar, Turkish PMs discuss Israeli aggression Complex will include an ethane chemicals represent a major boost Qatar’s leading global cracker with a capacity of more pillar of our growth strategy to position by raising its LNG pro- QNA than 1.6 million tonnes per achieve our vision of becoming duction from 77 to 100mtpa,” Palestinian people and dis- about this crisis to stop these annum (mpta) of Ethylene, one of the best national oil com- the energy icon had said in a DOHA: Prime Minister and cussed arrangements for the attacks and to protect the Pal- making it the largest ethane panies in the world. statement. Interior Minister H E Sheikh emergency Islamic summit estinian people. They stressed cracker in the Middle East, and “This project will com- The roll out of new strategy Abdullah bin Nasser bin which is scheduled to be held that relocation of the US one of the largest in the world. plement our efforts to also comes amidst an increasing Khalifa Al Thani yesterday to discuss the repercussions of embassy to Jerusalem will The Petrochemicals Complex implement our strategy, and will international upstream activity, received a telephone call from these attacks and the Israeli threaten the stability of the will also include world-class enable Qatar Petroleum to which saw Qatar Petroleum’s the Prime Minister of Turkey, crimes and the transfer of the region and international peace derivative plants, which will further expand its footprint in footprint expand to include Binali Yildirim. US embassy to Jerusalem. and security. consolidate Qatar’s position the global petrochemicals promising offshore areas During the telephonic con- They also stressed the The two sides also dis- among the leading petrochem- markets.” spanning Latin America, Africa, versation, they discussed the need to coordinate efforts cussed bilateral relations and icals producers in the world The feedstock for the Pet- the Mediterranean, and the Israeli aggression against the between the two countries issues of common concern. markets. The engineering design rochemical Complex will be Middle East.

Qatar Airways will spare no effort MoI facilitates family visit visa through to develop cooperation with EU website & Metrash2 THE PENINSULA reduced to just two corridors. Elaborate measures were necessary to assure safe THE PENINSULA DOHA: Qatar Airways Group Chief operations into and out of Qatar, Al Executive Akbar Al Baker has said the Baker said. DOHA: The Ministry of illegal blockade imposed on the State of He added that Qatar Airways will Interior (MoI) yesterday Qatar had reduced the number of daily spare no effort to develop cooperation launched a new service that flights to the country’s national carrier with the concerned parties in the will enable people to apply from 600 to 440, or 27 percent per day. European Union with the application for family visit visa through This came during a speech of an open and fair aviation system, MoI website and Metrash2. delivered by the CEO yesterday, before supported by good governance and the This came within the the Transport and Tourism of the Leg- rule of law around the world. framework to develop islative Committee of the European Par- Al Baker marked a world first by services to the public. Brig- liament, on the blockade imposed on becoming the first airline leader outside adier Mohammed Ahmed Al the country, but Al Baker stressed that of the European Union to personally Ateeq, Director General of the Qatar Airways has become a funda- address the European Parliaments Department of Passport and mental strategic pillar of food security Committee on Transport and Tourism Expatriates Affairs at MoI, in Qatar after about one year of siege . (TRAN). said the new service has been Qatar Airways offices were closed Qatar Airways has a strong eco- added to the various Sheikh Dr. Khalid opens QIIB branch at City Center by force and without prior notice by nomic footprint in the European Union e-services already provided local authorities in the blockading and provides direct employment to by MoI by the use of modern Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Thani bin Abdullah Al Thani (centre), Chairman and Managing states. These actions, perpetrated 1,100 residents, while contracts with technology in providing high Director of Qatar International Islamic Bank (QIIB), and Abdulbasit Ahmad Al Shaibei, without warning and justification, manufacturer Airbus are valued at quality of services to residents CEO of QIIB, with other officials cutting a ribbon to mark the opening of the QIIB imposed significant human hardship almost €27bn. and their families. branch at City Center, yesterday. PIC: BAHER AMIN/THE PENINSULA →SEE ALSO PAGE 21 on the families separated as a result, He added that this service with 18 air corridors immediately →CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 is easy and in case of some missing documents or any other issue, the applicant will get required alert. Al Ateeq said that this e-service is for MoPH launches national anti-tobacco campaign the purpose of providing family visit visa to expatriates in the country. He pointed out THE PENINSULA associated with tobacco use, to currently smoke tobacco and we is not only designed to reduce starts by raising awareness of that the Department has eval- discourage youth from starting the continue to see more young people tobacco consumption in Qatar but Law No.10 of 2016 on the control uated this electronic service DOHA: The Ministry of Public habit and to direct people to useful take up the habit. The National also to protect non-smokers such of tobacco and its derivatives. over two months and proved Health has launched a national resources to help them quit. Health Strategy 2018-2022 sets a as children, who are exposed to The law prohibits smoking in a great success by 100%. campaign to curb the impacts of Minister of Public Health, target of reducing the prevalence harmful second-hand smoke. This closed public spaces, including Moreover, he said, the smoking and tobacco use. H E Dr Hanan Mohamed Al of smoking, and to achieve this, it campaign highlights our com- a ban on smoking in cars with Department will evaluate the The three-phased, multi-year Kuwari, said: “Smoking is a signif- is important that we redouble our mitment to achieving that goal, minors. These offences can lead service daily and will work to campaign aims to encourage res- icant public health issue in Qatar. efforts to combat tobacco use.” and reducing the impact tobacco to a fine of up to QR3,000. develop it in order of reducing idents to follow the tobacco Around 37 percent of the popu- “This includes enforcement of has on our community.” the number of visitors to the control law, understand the risks lation over the age of 15 say they our law on tobacco control which The Ministry’s campaign →CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 department. 02 HOME WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 Prime Minister visits Doha Metro project 3,414 violations of law on entry and exit of expatriates THE PENINSULA Director of the Search and He said that the Search and Follow-up Department at the Follow-up Department spares DOHA: The Ministry of Interior Ministry of Interior Brigadier no effort to carry out search in cooperation with a number Abdullah Jaber Al Labda said the campaigns in which various of Ministries caught 3,414 viola- inspection campaign has security departments of the Min- tions of the law regulating the achieved great success and istry of Interior and other min- entry and exit of expatriates and unprecedented achievement istries take part as well as to take their residence and other due to the efficiency of those legal action against violators of relevant laws. involved in the campaign and laws in force in the state. The campaign continued for their ability to absorb instruc- Head of Prosecution of Res- one month and carried out by tions very quickly and idence Affairs, Dr Khalifa the Ministry of Interior, repre- implement them ideally, a Sulaiman Al Abdullah, praised sented by the Search and matter which helped in the efficiency of the participants Follow-Up Department in col- achieving its goals. in the campaign, their familiarity laboration with the Ministry of In a speech during the with the arrest and search rules, Economy and Commerce, Min- closing ceremony of the cam- and their professionalism in the istry of Municipality and Envi- paign yesterday, Al Labda said preparation of the reports in ronment, Ministry of Adminis- that the campaign was able to legal form, which helped the Prime Minister and Interior Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, made an trative Development, Labour find many violators and issue prosecution of residence affairs inspection visit to Doha Metro Project, during which he learned about the progress of the project and Social Affairs and The violations against some com- to play its role in violating the and witnessed the test of the metro auto-drive between New Doha and Ras Abu Fintas stations. Internal Security Force panies and individuals that accused and then refer them to (Lekhwiya). reached 3,414 violations. the competent court.

PM briefs Advisory Doha Declaration on crime prevention Holy month of Ramadan Council on views on permanent residence and criminal justice ‘historic’ starts tomorrow in Qatar QNA QNA ID draft law E Dr. Abdullah Yousif Al Mal, prevention through sport, reha- Adviser to the Minister of bilitation of prisoners and edu- THE PENINSULA VIENNA: The State of Qatar Interior and representative of cation for justice, Dr Al Mal DOHA: The Moon Sighting Committee of the Ministry of has underlined that the Doha the State of Qatar to the 27th noted. He added that “with the Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has announced that Wednesday, DOHA: Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Declaration adopted by the session of the Commission on launch of this program in May 16 (today) is the last day of Sha’ban and tomorrow, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Thirteenth Congress on Crime Crime Prevention and November 2015, we have seen (Thursday), May 17, will be the first day of the holy month Al Thani, attended yesterday the meeting of Prevention and Criminal Criminal Justice, currently in a great international welcome of Ramadan. the Advisory Council’s Internal and Foreign Justice is a “historic document session in Vienna, Austria. and the desire of States to This came in a statement issued by the Committee Affairs Committee. The Prime Minister and an integrated interna- In implementation of the benefit from its activities, as after its meeting lasgt evening at the Ministry of Awqaf briefed the Committee on the Government’s tional road map” that has recommendations of the Doha the latest statistics of the and Islamic Affairs, chaired by Dr. Sheikh Thaqeel Al views about the draft law on permanent resi- integrated crime prevention Declaration, the State of Qatar, United Nations showed that Shammari. dence ID card and responded to the Commit- and criminal justice into the in cooperation with the United the number of countries ben- The Crescent (Moon) Sighting Committee held its meeting tee’s queries concerning the draft law. wider United Nations agenda Nations Office on Drugs and efiting from the projects of the yesterday evening, 29 th of Sha’ban 1439 AH, corresponding Speaker of Advisory Council, Ahmed bin and led the international Crime (UNODC), has adopted a global program reached (121). to May 15, 2018, to sight the crescent of the holy month of Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, attended community’s efforts to unique initiative in the history The program has reached Ramadan and to prove the testimony of whoever see it. the meeting. address organized crime and of the United Nations congresses more than 13,000 stake- The committee said the Ramadan moon was not At the conclusion of the meeting, chaired the establishment of effective, on crime prevention, (The holders in more than 180 sighted and announced that Wednesday, May 16 2018, is by its Rapporteur Abdulla bin Fahad Al Marri, fair, humane and accountable World Program for the Imple- countries, most of them the final day of Sha’ban, and that Thursday, May 17, 2018 the Committee thanked the Prime Minister criminal justice systems, the mentation of the Doha Decla- judges, sports coaches, aca- will be the first day of the holy month of Ramadan. and Minister of Interior for attending this consolidation of the rule of ration) aimed at assisting States, demics, teachers and prison The Committee extends greetings to Amir H H Sheikh meeting. The Committee completed the study law and the achievement of particularly developing States, practitioners, as well as Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah of the draft law and decided to submit its sustainable development. in implementing these recom- awareness campaigns that bin Hamad Al Thani, as well as the Government, the people recommendations thereon to Advisory This came in a speech mendations in four main areas: have reached more than 180 of Qatar and all Muslims, on the advent of the holy month of Council. delivered by Major General H judicial integrity, youth crime countries. Ramadan. WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 HOME 03 QF’s Academic Bridge Program celebrates graduation

THE PENINSULA A total of 127 ABP-EC motivation. Afterwards, graduates, as well Mohammed Larri, an ABP student DOHA: In the presence of Deputy from the Class of 2018 with an out- Prime Minister and Minister of as 280 ABP-QAF standing record in community State for Defence Affairs, H E Dr graduates, celebrated service and events, talked about Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah, the ABP-EC’s 17th how extracurricular activities at graduates from Qatar Founda- graduation as well as the ABP this year simultaneously tion’s (QF’s) Academic Bridge developed his skills and gave him Program (ABP), under the the QAF-ABP inaugural the chance to help others. umbrella of Pre-University graduation ceremony The ceremony saw two Education (PUE), celebrated their on Monday. keynote speakers: alumnus Dr graduations at an official Mohammed Al Hashmi from the ceremony at Qatar National ABP’s Class of 2008, and Engineer Convention Center (QNCC). Sara Al Muhannadi from the ABP’s A total of 127 ABP-EC grad- have been or will be admitted to Class of 2012. Dr Mark Newmark, uates, as well as 280 ABP-QAF universities in the United Assistant Director of the ABP Aca- graduates, celebrated the ABP- Kingdom, Canada, or the United demic Affairs, and Ms Moza Al EC’s 17th graduation as well as the States. Boainin, Assistant Director of QAF-ABP inaugural graduation After the procession of faculty Student Services at ABP, recog- ceremony on Monday. and students into the theater at the nized students for their achieve- The combined ABP-EC and QNCC, the Qatar Armed Forces ments, followed by Dr Lewallen ABP-QAF Class of 2018 brings the Band Regiment played the Qatari presenting the ABP-EC’s gradu- total number of ABP graduates to National Anthem. This was fol- ation certificates. Dr Lewallen, over 3,200 since the initiation of lowed by a recitation from the with help from Hamza Duhaini, the program in 2001. More than Holy Qur’an by ABP student, Assistant Director of Academic 90 percent of the graduating Class Mohammed Yahya Taher. Affairs, QAF, also presented the of 2018 from both campuses are Dr Bryan Lewallen, Director Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah, QAF-ABP graduating students Qatari. of the Academic Bridge Program, with other guests during the graduation ceremony. with their certificates. Many of this year’s graduating welcomed the attendees and The valedictorians from both class have been accepted to one shared his comments with the young men and women who will Academy, Major General Saeed bin salutatorian, Saleh Al Marri, wel- campuses, Maryam Al Thani from or more of Hamad Bin Khalifa Class of 2018. In his speech, Dr someday lead their country and Hamad Al Nuaimi, highlighting the comed and congratulated his ABP-EC and Abdulla Kafoud from University’s (HBKU’s) colleges. Lewallen said, “Our ABP graduates change our world for the better.” accomplishments and success of peers on their achievements, while ABP-QAF, said their farewells and Some graduates will also enroll at have not only increased their aca- This was followed by a few words this year’s Academic Officers recognising and thanking his shared some memories of this past Qatar University or one of the demic knowledge, they have from the president of the Qatar Program (ABP-QAF) family as well as the ABP teachers year with the attendees, following other universities in Qatar. Others become responsible, confident, Armed Forces National Service The ABP-EC’s Class of 2018 for their constant help and the awarding of the certificates.

Qatar, Somalia review transport & communications ties Traffic change on F-Ring Road from tomorrow THE PENINSULA . The new route comprises four DOHA: The Public Works lanes, replacing the Authority ‘Ashghal’ has three-lane carriageway announced that a traffic for a short distance of change on F-Ring Road approximately 1,850 will take place to enable metres. the construction of an Ashghal has interchange linking advised that the speed F-Ring Road with G-Ring limit to remain at Road. The detour, held in 80km per hour instead coordination with the of 100km per hour. General Directorate of Ashghal has also Traffic, starts tomorrow. requested all road Traffic will be realigned to users to abide with the the permanent lanes of the F-Ring Road for users new speed and follow the new signage installed travelling from Hamad International Airport towards by Ashghal for their safety.

The President of Somalia, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo, received Minister of Transport and Communications, Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti, yesterday. The President is currently on an official visit to the State of Qatar. They reviewed bilateral relations in the fields of transport and communications and means of further enhancing them, in addition to a number of matters of common interest.

Qatar & UK discuss means of enhancing ties in legal matters

of its consideration and the levels of litigation. Ajay Sharma said: “I am delighted to visit the Qatar Inter- national Court which is playing an important role in attracting international businesses in Qatar. There is a long history of cooperation between the legal professions and judiciaries in both Qatar and the UK, and the Qatar International Court is a key element of this. The UK has a world-famous legal system and this is one of the UK’s greatest assets. I look forward to further expand the existing strong links with the Court”. CEO of QICDRC, Faisal bin Rashid Al Sahouti, with UK Ambassador As part of the visit, Ajay to the State of Qatar, Ajay Sharma. Sharma visited the courtroom where he met with the Registry team at QICDRC who provided THE PENINSULA Qatar’s attempt to establish its a brief overview of the new specialised judiciary through the eCourt system and the high level DOHA: Qatar International establishment of the Qatar of accessibility for parties Court received the UK Ambas- International Court, the first without having to be present in sador to the State of Qatar, Ajay specialised court in Qatar to deal the courtroom. Sharma, where he was with commercial and This feature contributes to welcomed by Faisal bin Rashid investment disputes arising saving time and money, as well Al Sahouti CEO of QICDRC. from international financial as ensuring the speed of settling During their meeting, they transactions, which operates disputes and proceedings before discussed means of enhancing through the Qatar Financial the court. Such developments the ties between the Qatar Inter- Centre. at the court demonstrates how national Court and the United Al Sahouti also discussed the QICDRC continuously aims to Kingdom in legal matters. judicial system of the Qatar provide an attractive and safe In this context, Al Sahouti International Court, the mech- legal environment for foreign gave a detailed explanation of anism of its work, the nature of businesses wishing to invest in the success of the State of its proceedings and the manner Qatar. 04 HOME WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 Al Muraikhi meets outgoing Ambassador of Costa Rica Kahramaa gets ready for Ramadan Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, H E Sultan THE PENINSULA from 9:30am to 1:30pm, Sunday well as water transmission and bin Saad Al Muraikhi, to Thursday. distribution networks, as well yesterday met with DOHA: Qatar General Electricity Electricity network as maintaining the country’s the Ambassador of the and Water Corporation department completed all the strategic stock at its highest level Republic of Costa Rica to (Kahramaa) has readied trans- regular maintenance work of its before the beginning of the Qatar, Luis Alberto Guillen mission and distribution main and secondary trans- summer. Downing, on the occasion networks of electricity and mission stations and secondary Supervisory control and of the end of his tenure in water, pumping stations and feeding stations and control data acquisition SCADA of water the country. The Minister filling tanks stand for the holy centres. Several maintenance control centre continuously of State for Foreign Affairs month of Ramadan. workshops were held to secure monitors the network to provide extended thanks to the The preparation aims at and enhance the continuity of water throughout the holy Ambassador of Costa Rica meeting customers’ demand and electricity supply without inter- month and the summer period, for his efforts in promoting achieve Kahramaa’s mission in ruption during peak times, espe- while technical teams of water the bilateral relations, securing electricity and water cially in some important instal- emergencies are prepared to wishing him success in in a sustainable and high-quality lations in the state, such as meet any shortage throughout future duties. manner. Kahramaa also stressed mosques in order to meet any the country and around the the readiness of all technical expected increase of electric clock. teams round the clock to loads due to the increasing In order to meet the water intervene quickly to address demand for electricity. needs, Kahramaa explained that faults in a record time to reduce Kahramaa’s water network Al Sailiya and Umm Salal sta- service interruption quickly and services have completed all tions will work around the clock professionally. Kahramaa’s cus- regular maintenance of water seven days a week to ensure Joint Special Forces Commander tomer service centres will open pumping stations and tanks, as continuous water service. attends SOFEX 2018 in Jordan THE PENINSULA Defence Ministry, RUSI sign DOHA: The Commander of the Joint Special Forces Major General, H E Hamad bin Abdullah Al Fetais Al Marri, cooperation agreement participated in the opening QNA ceremony of the Special Oper- ations Commanders Conference LONDON: The Ministry of (SOFEX 2018) in its 12th edition. Defence has signed a training The event was held in Jordan cooperation agreement with the from May 7 to 8. Major General Royal United Services Institute Al Marri participated in the for Defence and Security Studies event on behalf of Deputy Amir (RUSI) in London. H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad The agreement was signed Al Thani. for the Qatari side by Major On the sidelines of the con- General Fahd bin Mubarak Al- ference, Major General Al Marri Khayarin, Commander of Ahmed met with Jordan’s Chief of Staff Bin Mohammed Military College, General Mahmoud Freihat. and for the RUSI by Dr. Jonathan During the meeting, they Eyal, Associate Director, Strategic discussed issues of common Research Partnerships. The dignitaries at the ceremony. concern between the two The agreement aims to brotherly countries and means provide educational lectures to forces to build analytical capa- tools for operational and stra- of enhancing them. The officials at the event. train officers of the Qatari armed bilities, as well as learn basic tegic military planning.

Qatar Airways will spare no effort Ooredoo launches Ramadan commercial to develop cooperation with EU THE PENINSULA providing new opportunities to online multinational survey, showing how, with Ooredoo’s CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 bring families and friends closer covering five of the company’s support, people can adapt and DOHA: Ooredoo launched a together during this special time markets in the Gulf and North evolve their digital lifestyles to The airline currently flies to 31 destinations across 21 member special Ramadan campaign of year. Africa, to explore behavioural connect with families, friends countries of the European Union, connecting passengers to its network yesterday, with a new Sheikh Saud bin Nasser Al patterns during the Holy Month. and with the spiritual side of of more than 150 global gateways, he said. commercial that celebrates the Thani, Group Chief Executive The results of this first-of-its- Ramadan,” added Sheikh Saud Last month, the European Union and the State of Qatar concluded traditions of the Holy Month and Officer, Ooredoo, said: “We are kind survey will be used to map Bin Nasser Al Thani. the fourth successful round of negotiations for a Comprehensive Air the spirit of togetherness that investing heavily in building the online activity and content pref- Ooredoo’s new Ramadan Transport Agreement, with both sides reaching agreement on 70 people now enjoy as part of best possible networks across erences during Ramadan, which commercial was designed to percent of the provisions, including those on safety, security and air their daily digital lifestyles. our markets, which enables our will enable Ooredoo to further demonstrate how people in dif- traffic management. This follows a 2017 Memorandum of Under- The commercial shows how customers around the world to refine its portfolio of digital ferent countries enjoy the standing, signed between the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority and the people can enjoy the internet in access and enjoy the best of the options created especially for internet and illustrate the European Safety Agency, with a view to creating a joint framework a way that is personal and internet, share their best #Ram- the Holy Month. common themes that unite dif- on regulatory and aviation safety issues. unique to each one of them, as adanMoments, and use online “Technology can help us ferent communities. well as highlights how tech- technology for good during the develop and expand our rela- The new commercial can be nology can enrich people’s Holy Month”. tionships and reflect on the watched on all Ooredoo social digital lives, allowing them to As part of its campaign, important things in our daily media channels from the first live new precious moments and Ooredoo has also launched an lives. This campaign is all about day of Ramadan.

Ihsan announces URGENTLY results of scientific REQUIRED research competition DOHA: Qatar Foundation for Elderly People Care (Ihsan) yesterday announced the results of the 5th edition of the scien- tific research competition, which involved students from 21 Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Akbar Al Baker, addressing secondary schools across the country. the European Parliament’s Committee on Transport and Tourism. Ihsan awarded the first seven schools in the main com- Accountant petition, and honored five other schools for excellence in research ideas. The first place was “Rawda Bint Jassim Sec- ondary School for Girls” and the second was “Qatar Banking Studies and Business Administration School for Boys,” The 3 years experience third was Ahmed Bin Mohammed Secondary School.” MoPH launches national The students presented their research on the issues and needs of older persons to the judging panel of specialists and anti-tobacco campaign experts from Qatar University, the Ministry of Education, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Dentist Higher Education, schools and Ihsan Center, where the understand the rules and the research was subjected to a theoretical process that was eval- Shops that allow indoor importance of working together uated and judged according to specific criteria and a practical tobacco use or allow the sale of toward a tobacco-free Qatar.” aspect during which the researchers discussed the students’ tobacco products to minors can Dr Al Thani also stressed the 3 years experience goals. After the evaluation, five research papers were nomi- face steep fines and up to three importance of working together nated for the Creative Ideas Award in addition to the seven months closure. The law also with partners at Hamad Medical schools that won the main competition. prohibits advertising or promo- Corporation and Primary Health The competition aims to prepare a generation aware of tions for tobacco products and Care Corporation to provide a the issues of older people, and to enhance research compe- bans the use of electronic ciga- unified voice on the tobacco- Bachelor Degree tition on the values and respect of parents, to achieve inter- rettes, sweika and other control issue. She explained the generational cohesion, and spreading the message of the insti- chewing tobacco products. campaign will also emphasize tution and its vision through the procedural research according Dr Al Anoud Mohammed Al the harmful impacts of tobacco to the steps of the scientific approach to research, and the Thani, Manager, Health Pro- use and highlight the national enhancement of the spirit of the team work through partici- motion and Non-Communicable resources available to support Email: pation in group research. Executive Director of Ihsan Center, Diseases at MOPH said, “By people to quit. Mubarak Abdulaziz Al Khalifa, said the researches received informing the public of the The public can report viola- [email protected] in this edition has varied to include a number of promising tobacco control law and the tions of the tobacco control law projects that will result in instruments, studies and researches impact of violating it, we better to the Tobacco Inspection Team that serve the elderly and facilitate their daily lives. equip the population to by calling 50302001. WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 HOME 05 Ashghal completes Doha Corniche Development Project THE PENINSULA The Doha Corniche Development project Doha Municipality, along with a DOHA: The Public Works number of Ashghal staff and Authority (Ashghal) yesterday included extended project engineers. announced the completion of the expansion and Ashghal started imple- Doha Corniche Development maintenance including menting this project in October project implemented along a flooring, parking lots 2017, within an integrated plan distance of 9km from Dafna area to develop Corniche areas in to Ras Abu Abboud Bridge. and toilets. Doha, , Shamal City and The opening was held in the Al Wakra Beach, as part of Cor- presence of CMC members porate Social Responsibility. Jassem Abdulla Al Maliki and Ibrahim Al Sada, Director of The Doha Corniche Devel- Shaikha Al Jufairi, Eng. Abdulla Technical Affairs Department in opment project included extended expansion and maintenance including flooring, parking lots and toilets. All pedestrian walkways between the parking lots and the main walkway of Doha Corniche are The CMC members along with officials from Ashghal during the announcement of Doha Corniche Development also renovated using Project completion at a function held at Doha Corniche, yesterday. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA new interlock with a variety of designs, shapes and colours. maintenance in the future. said, “what distinguishes this Al Mansouri added also that This is in addition Eng. Abdulla Ibrahim Al Corniche is that it will serve all the concrete parts of the sea- to replacing the floor Sada, Director of Technical visitors to Doha City, especially water were repaired and 24 of the public yard in Affairs at Doha Municipality, after the completion of this public toilets were completely the Corniche with praised Ashghal’s efforts to development project.” refurbished in Doha Corniche, new interlocks having implement the development and Eng. Noora Al Mansouri of along with installation of 10 facil- seven squares of dif- maintenance of Doha Corniche. the Building Design Department ities within a span from Sheraton ferent sizes. The Jassim Abdulla Al Malki, CMC at Ashghal said that the design Park to Al-Shuyoukh Port project also included Member of Constituency One, for this development project was opposite Souq Waqif, and these renovation of all said that Ashghal had opened selected and approved from facilities are connected with parking slots in Doha Corniches at Al Wakra, Shamal, multiple designs presented by a surface water network and elec- Corniche by replacing Al Khor and Doha as a gift to the team of new engineers, and Doha tricity in cooperation with other old interlock with a people and the country. Corniche renovation project was service providers. The 2006 more solid asphalt Shaikha Al Jufairi, CMC completed within a period of 7 Asian games oryx mascot will layer enabling ease of Member of Constituency Eight months. also be renovated. Call to pay close attention to food consumed during Ramadan THE PENINSULA that short time, but being mindful of ritual. Everything should be enjoyed in Also according to experts that fried hydrated for longer. Caffeinated what we eat is key to our health as the moderation, ensure that you and your food, such as pakoras and samosas, can products have diuretic benefits and can DOHA: As Ramadan has arrived, consequences of not doing so may cause family break your fast with a nutritious, be easy to cook but they also contain a cause the body to lose fluids, salts and Primary Health Care Corporation has discomfort, says an expert. healthy meal and avoid consuming large high percentage of the daily sodium and other important minerals to our body urged those observing the fast to pay Moudi Hajri, Head of Dietetics quantities of food quickly.” carbohydrates required by the human need during Ramadan. Having a sugary close attention to the type and quantity Service at PHCC said, “The holy month With a bad diet in Ramadan can body and eating them on a daily basis dessert after an Iftar can be a delicious of food that is consumed during the holy of Ramadan should not be as an excuse result in indigestion, upset stomach, may amplify the impact of fatigue way to end the fast but be mindful of the month. to indulge in food, it is key for all of us heartburn, bloating, belching, nausea, caused by fasting in Ramadan. amount, as while these provide an It may be tempting to enjoy what to observe our eating habits during this low energy levels and unwanted weight In addition, reducing the intake of energy boost they are high in calories your heart desires after long hours of month and ensure that healthy eating gain. Overeating when breaking the fast coffee and other similar caffeinated and poor in nutritional value and the fasting and indulge in delicious food in and responsible lifestyle is a part of the can also cause breathing difficulties. products can help the body stay energy boost is short lived. HIA voted as ‘Best Airport for Layovers’ THE PENINSULA

DOHA: Hamad International Airport (HIA) was voted as the “Best Airport for Layovers” at the Global Traveler’s (GT) Leisure Lifestyle Awards in Los Angeles on May 10. Now in its 6th year, the annual GT Leisure Lifestyle Awards celebrates the best in leisure travel and recognises the greatest airports, islands, cities, hotels, and cruise lines, as voted by its readers. The award comes as another great accomplishment for the young and ambitious airport which, last year was voted as the “Best Airport in the Middle East” at the Global Traveler’s GT Tested An inside view of the Hamad International Airport. Reader Survey Awards in Los Angeles, which recognised out- standing performance and cus- beverages options, shopping continue to invest in cutting-edge tomer service displayed by air- experience and design among innovative solutions to ensure a ports across the world. others. HIA has stood out from the hassle-free and seamless journey HIA took the lead among a list rest, scoring high on all criteria by for our passengers. Thank you to of 10 top international airports readers. all the readers who trusted and including Singapore’s Changi Eng. Badr Mohammed Al voted for us”. Airport and Germany’s Munich Meer, Chief Operating Officer at HIA has recently increased Airport ranking second and third HIA, stated: “We are honoured to security screening capacity and respectively in the category for receive the ’Best Airport for Lay- reduced queuing time in its the “Best Airport for Layovers.” overs’ award, which recognises transfer areas. It has also further Competing airports were ranked our state-of-the-art facilities and improved customer service in the according to their ease of access, 5 star services. As we work hard transfer areas, now providing an walk between terminals, signage, towards our target to welcome industry-leading customer helpful staff, variety of food and 50 million passengers, HIA will service promise.

Medical Commission announces Ramadan timing

THE PENINSULA In the meantime birth registration offices receive applications for newborns registration DOHA: The Ministry of Public Health yesterday and birth certificates in two periods. The first announced the working hours at the Department period extends from 9:30am to 1:30pm at Al Khor of Medical Commission during the holy month of Hospital, Al Wakra Hospital, Cuban Hospital in Ramadan. Dukhan, Doha Clinic Hospital, Al Ahli Hospital, Al It said that Medical Commission will be open Emadi Hospital and Sidra Medical, while the for the public, during the holy month, from 9am second is between 2pm to 5pm at Al Ahli Hospital, to 6pm. Sidra Medical and Doha Clinic Hospital. 06 HOME WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 Msheireb Museums marks International Museum Day

THE PENINSULA The theme of the the conventional approach to celebration was cultural education and enables DOHA: Msheireb Museums has ‘Hyperconnected us to create a knowledge eco- celebrated International Museum Museums: New system that delivers cultural, Day at Bin Jelmood House Approaches, New societal and educational wealth,” located at Msheireb Downtown said Ali. Publics’ chosen by the Doha’s Heritage Quarter. In line with its mandate, The theme of the celebration International Council Msheireb Museums has built was ‘Hyperconnected Museums: of Museumsand strong connections and collabo- New Approaches, New Publics’ International Committee rations with academic institutions, chosen by the International for Education and including universities, colleges, Council of Museums (ICOM) and Cultural Action. research programmes and exhi- International Committee for Edu- bitions to engage with the cation and Cultural Action (CECA). museums’ offering and content. Hafiz Ali, Msheireb Museums passion to positively contribute In addition, visitors of the Director, CECA President Milene to the flourishing global cultural museums have access to the Chiovatto, and representatives scene,” said Ali. library’s valuable digital resources of cultural and educational insti- In his welcoming speech, he of Qatar National Library. To tutions in Qatar attended the announced that Msheireb promote tourism to Qatar, event which included presenta- Museums was one of five entities Msheireb Museums also collabo- tions by CECA and UCL Qatar to get the “Best Practices Award” rated with Qatar Tourism A panel discussion held at Bin Jelmood House as part of Msheireb Museums’ celebration of International representatives, the first by CECA, accoupling the Authority to provide tour guides Museum Day. Msheireb Museums Friends pro- museums’ role in promoting with best practices and training to gramme graduation and a panel educational initiatives and cul- share with international visitors. discussion. tural events. explore the possibility of seeing together to support their cur- a wide range of educational and International Museum Day “It is a great pleasure to cel- Milene Chiovatto, President the transformation of ideas, and riculum and bridge the gap pre- youth associations along with stu- is marked by more than 36,000 ebrate International Museum Day of CECA conducted a presen- go from a theoretical aspect to sented by language and culture. dents by developing leadership museums across 147 countries here at Msheireb Museums, a tra- tation with the results of a practice through showing The event also witnessed the grad- skills, and to help highlight the his- to raise awareness on museums dition we have followed in recent two-day workshop for students, examples from around the world. uation of Msheireb Museums toric cultural houses. as an important means of cul- years. Marking this important academics, and cultural leaders A panel discussion took place Friends programme. Last year, this “We are pleased to celebrate tural exchange, enrichment of date reiterates our commitment to commemorate this global enabling participants to discuss programme was launched aiming the Msheireb Museums Friends cultures and development of to supporting artistic devel- event. During the workshop, par- ways in which museums and to create cultural ambassadors by graduation, our programme that mutual understanding, cooper- opment in Qatar, and reflects our ticipants had the chance to educational institutions can work training teachers and leaders from is designed to challenge ation and peace.

MEC: Round-the-clock Take extra precautions 3rd edition of QGBC’s inspection drive annual QSW in October during Ramadan during Ramadan: HMC THE PENINSULA DOHA: As the holy month of concentrate, especially SIDI MOHAMED THE Ramadan approaches, the Ministry during the first few days of PENINSULA of Economy and Commerce has DOHA: Hamad Medical Ramadan when they are announced round-the-clock Corporation’s (HMC) Hamad adjusting to their new DOHA: Qatar Green Building inspection campaigns targeting all Injury Prevention Program routine. It is therefore Council (QGBC), a member of commercial activities across Qatar (HIPP), the community important that people pay Qatar Foundation (QF), has to ensure compliance of suppliers outreach arm of the Hamad extra attention when driving, announced that the 3rd edition of with their obligations under Law No. Trauma Center, has issued operating machinery or its annual Qatar Sustainability 8 of 2008 on consumer protection. advice on how to stay safe using potentially harmful Week initiative, will take place Ministry traditionally intensifies during the holy month. household items such as from October 27 to November 3. its inspection campaigns before, “Ramadan is a special knives and gas cookers. Qatar Sustainability Week throughout and after the holy month time of the year during “A key factor contrib- (QSW), held under the patronage of Ramadan and Eid El Fitr to monitor which Muslims are uting to the increase in of the Prime Minister and Min- and regulate markets, crack down on reminded to concentrate on motor vehicle crashes, and ister of Interior H E Sheikh price manipulation and uncover vio- their faith, practice self- therefore subsequent Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa lations in a bid to protect consumer control, and show com- injuries, comes when Hamoda Youssef, Head of Communications, Qatar Green Building Al Thani, serves as a unique rights. Over the past two weeks, the passion to others,” said Dr people drive without due Council (QGBC), addressing Qatar Sustainability Week 2018 platform to promote the nation’s Ministry has intensified its unan- Hassan Al Thani, Head of care when trying to reach Introduction Event, organised by QGBC at the Grand Hyatt Hotel sustainability vision as well as nounced inspection campaigns tar- the Hamad Trauma Center. their destination to break in Doha, yesterday. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA engage the wider community in geting the central market, vegetables “Ramadan presents its their fast at Iftar,” said Dr a range of sustainability-ori- and fruit shops, clothing and textile own unique challenges as Aisha Fathi Abeid, Assistant ented activities. groups as well as previous par- Week for the last two years is a outlets and gold shops across Qatar. people adjust to a new Director of the Hamad The announcement of QSW ticipating partners. notable achievement for QGBC The Ministry has also launched routine, and these chal- Injury Prevention Program. 2018 is a continuation of the The event showcased the and a significant nationwide inspection campaigns targeting retail lenges have the potential to “For this reason, we ask success of the initiative over the achievements of the 2016 and event.” “This initiative plays a outlets and malls to monitor and follow increase the risk of injury. that people allow extra time last two years. QSW 2016 saw 2017 QSW editions. Attendees crucial role in raising awareness up on its discounted consumer goods Traditionally, we have seen to reach their destination so more than 10,000 participants got a chance to hear success among the wider community, initiative, which covers more than 500 a rise in the number of that they are not rushing to get attend more than 100 events stories from previous QSW while showcasing the progress, products. The Ministry has ensured trauma admissions during to the place where they will held in three Qatari cities. partners including, Qatar Uni- Qatar has made in the areas of the display of the list of consumer Ramadan due to motor break their fast. As always, the Furthermore, QSW 2017 wit- versity School of Business and sustainability and green goods in a prominent location and vehicle crashes, but the risk single most important action nessed the participation of 108 Economics, Al Wakra Munici- buildings.” monitored the compliance with the of injury at home may also you can take to protect government and private institu- pality, among others. QGBC also Mansour Ajran Al-Buainain, discounted price list. The Ministry has be increased during this yourself in a vehicle is to wear tions with 210 activities, attracting shared many event ideas for the Director of Al Wakra Munici- also conducted surprise inspection time,” added Dr Al Thani. a seatbelt at all times. If you more than 20,000 participants, week of activities, as well as pality commented: “We are very campaigns targeting the central market “We encourage eve- are not in the habit of regu- in addition to a reach of 500,000 partnership opportunities. proud to be part of Qatar Sus- as the subsidized sheep prices initiative ryone to take extra precau- larly wearing your seatbelt, people with the support of the Engineer Meshal Al Shamari, tainability Week for the third went into effect on the occasion of tions during Ramadan, we encourage you to use Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Director of QGBC, said: “We are year. This initiative truly Ramadan and will continue throughout whether they are at home, Ramadan as the time to begin Affairs, and Vodafone. delighted to announce Qatar encourages the people of Qatar the holy month. Those who violate at work, or traveling this good habit,” added Dr The QSW 2018 introduction Sustainability Week 2018. QGBC to participate and do more laws and ministerial decrees will be around Qatar, so that we Abeid. The Hamad Injury event, hosted by Grand Hyatt has made tremendous strides in towards helping the community referred to competent authorities, can all enjoy this important Prevention Program has Doha Hotel, presented plans for advancing Qatar’s sustainable and I look forward to this part- who will in turn take appropriate time of year safely,” said Dr advised people take precau- QSW 2018 to more than 80 new development goals, and the nership and supporting QGBC action against perpetrators in order Al Thani. Fasting can affect tions on roads and at home organizations and community running of Qatar Sustainability towards a sustainable future.” to protect consumer rights. people’s ability to to avoid accidents.

DICID condemns cold-blooded Karwa bags two Chinese honorary awards killing of Palestinians THE PENINSULA DOHA: Mowasalat (Karwa) has THE PENINSULA bagged two honorary awards future, full of blood and destruction. during the ceremony held by the DOHA: The Doha International Center for DICID said that confronting a group leading Chinese bus manufacturer, Interfaith Dialogue (DICID) condemned of peaceful demonstrators, who only Higer Bus Company, at its 6th the Israeli aggression against Palestinian have their throats and their hearts full Overseas Business Conference demonstrators in the Gaza Strip in the of love of the homeland and of humanity, 2018, in Suzhou city, China. Great Return March, and the siege on the with a torrent of live bullets and A delegation from Mowasalat West Bank on Monday and in various parts excessive violence is a crime against management attended the con- of the West Bank. humanity and a deliberate killing in cold ference, where Mowasalat In a statement, the Center con- blood. received two prestigious awards demned moving the American Embassy The Center called on religious of “Outstanding Contribution to Jerusalem, which enshrines the scholars across the world, from all reli- Award” and “Excellent Service American recognition of the Holy City as gions and sects, to stand united and to Station Award”. the capital of Israel, in flagrant violation declare a clear humanitarian position in Khalid Kafoud, Mowasalat Gov- Khalid Kafoud, Mowasalat Government Relations Manager, receiving the of international law. DICID warned that the face of an occupation that violates ernment Relations Manager, awards on behalf of the company in Suzhou city, China. this would undermine future opportu- all religious and human values and received the awards on behalf of nities for any peaceful settlement. customs, all this should be devoted to the company. Kafoud, highlighted and National vision. between the two companies has The center warned that Israel’s blind urgent appeals to the actors in interna- during his speech in the conference, Mowasalat received the awards also culminated in the agreement circle of violence, with the American tional politics and to sending them in one on the phenomenal growth of oper- due to the important role it played to establish Karwa Motors plant (a support and the disregard for Pales- language, in appreciation of the value of ations and fleet strength of Mow- during its strategic collaboration subsidiary of Mowasalat “Karwa” tinian rights guaranteed by all interna- justice , in the face of injustice , which asalat till it reached what it is today, with the Chinese Higer Bus and Oman Investment Fund) in a tional laws, as well as human values, began 70 years ago with the Palestinian as the company moves on to Company for more than twelve joint venture to establish a bus will inevitably lead to an uncertain Nakba. accomplish Qatar Ministry of years. assembly plant in Duqm, Sultanate Transport and Communications’ The strategic collaboration of Oman. WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 HOME 07 MME-QRC work program on crisis Qatar Charity opens new management, safety environment donation collection points THE PENINSULA and nine for women across dif- Al Busairi also pointed out THE PENINSULA ferent areas of the country. that the cash and in-kind col- DOHA: Qatar Charity (QC) has Director of Collection lection points of different types, DOHA: The Ministry of Munic- opened three new collection Department at QC, Amer Al scattered all over the country, are ipalities and Environment points at Al Ahli Hospital, Mall Busairi said the opening of new the mainstay of QC to bring in the (MME) and Qatar Red Crescent of Qatar and Mirqab Mall to collection points and new local resources and revenues necessary (QRC) signed a joint work facilitate easy access to donors. branches will help serve the com- to implement its humanitarian program in the fields of training QC also organised a number munity easily by simplifying the projects, programmes and activ- for management and response of courses and workshops to donation procedures for citizens ities across the globe. to risks, crises, disasters and the enhance the abilities of its col- and residents, quickly completing Also, donations can be made safety and health of the envi- lectors to deal with benefactors their transactions and receiving easily through the Qatar Charity ronment under the slogan of and the masses. donations using the best means. website (https://www.qcharity. “safety first” during a coordi- With the opening of these He added that the new col- org) and its App (qch.qa/q/app). nation meeting held between three collection points, the lection points will contribute to Al Busairi also noted that on officials of both parties number has risen up to 95 col- the expansion of QC’s capacity Fridays, QC’s collection points yesterday. lection points located in malls, to easily collect donations and will remain open after Friday Officials at the Ministry of Municipalities and Environment and On this Occasion, Director hospitals and other places. The receive alms, noting that the prayer till 10 pm to receive Qatar Red Crescent during the program launch. of the Municipal and Environ- charity also has 1,477 donation new branches receive material donations from donors and mental Studies Center of the boxes, 162 collectors, and 64 and in-kind donations. respond to their queries. Ministry of Municipalities and program coincides with the work program set a road map electronic donation machines Environment Dr Mohamed Saif program named “Risks, crises, to enhance the level of coordi- across the country. Al Kuwari stressed on the emergencies, disasters and nation and cooperation between Earlier, Qatar Charity has importance of launching such occupational and environmental the two sides with a view to opened six new branches in programs to enhance the level health and safety” launched by sharing experiences in disaster Muaither, Al Khor, , of cooperation between the the Center in cooperation with management training and Abu Hamour to work more Ministry and the Qatari Red the concerned bodies inside and programs. closely with the Qatari com- Crescent in order to increase the outside the ministry to protect He pointed out that QRC munity and facilitate an easy expertise and efficiency of their the employee from the risk of pays great attention to the field access to donors in their resi- employees through exchanging injury. of dealing with natural disasters dential areas to make their experiences and knowledge in For his part, Director and international cooperation donations. related specialized training pro- General of International Relief to confront and reduce their With the inauguration of grams related to crisis and dis- and Development Sector at QRC, effects, calling for concerted these new collection branches, aster management. Rashed Saad Al Muhannadi said actions to develop such skills the number of QC branches has He pointed out that this that the meeting and the joint and expertise. risen to 25, including 16 for men One of the new collection points opened by Qatar Charity.

High-level Omani delegation visits CRA headquarters Meeting discusses safety promotion in malls and hotels THE PENINSULA in these vital facilities. the Ministry of Interior to solve any THE PENINSULA The meeting also saw drills for challenges faced. DOHA: The fourth coordination the procedures needed to be done Director of Establishments and DOHA: A high-level delegation from the Telecom- meeting with security managers in by mall and hotel security personnel Authorities Security Department Ali munications Regulatory Authority (TRA), the hotels, security companies, in different emergency situations Khajim Al Adhbi said the meeting is Sultanate of Oman, visited the headquarters of the commercial complexes and tourist such as maintaining a crime scene, part of discussing shared topics and Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA). The sites was held recently at the Estab- how to use safety and security issues that is of importance to all Omani delegation was headed by Eng. Yousuf bin lishments and Authorities Security equipment, alarm panel, the impor- entities, including the ministry, state Abdullah Al Balushi, TRA Vice-President for Department of the Ministry of Interior. tance of providing the civil defense institutions, hotels, halls or security Spectrum Affairs. The meeting was attended by officials with maps and being guard companies. The meetings were held on Monday and yes- representatives from different Director of Establishments and familiar with the evacuation process. He highlighted that the discus- terday. During the meetings both regulatory bodies departments of the ministry and Authorities Security Department The attendees also discussed a sions reflected everyone’s keenness discussed future bilateral cooperation and related entities. The meeting dis- Ali Khajim Al Adhbi. number of topics related to pre- to promote security and safety in exchanged ideas and experiences, CRA also pre- cussed topics related to main- serving safety and security in vital hotels and malls, confirming the sented latest regulatory frameworks related to the taining the security and safety strengthening cooperation and establishments and the ways to importance of cooperation in order sector, specifically around radio spectrum. of establishments and coordination to achieve security contact with the relevant entities at to achieve the shared goals. 08 HOME WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 HMC recognises over 8,800 nurses and midwives

THE PENINSULA In support of the dedicated nurses, the delivery of ongoing efforts to safe, effective, and compas- DOHA: More than 8,800 nurses sionate care at HMC would not and midwives who work across raise the standards of be a reality. Nurses are the most Hamad Medical Corporation nursing and midwifery visible and trusted members of (HMC)’s hospitals, clinics, and care at HMC and the our patient care team and Inter- homecare service are among the public profile of nursing, national Nurses Day is a great most trusted members of the opportunity for our multidisci- patient care team, says Dr Nicola the healthcare provider plinary care teams to come Ryley, Chief Nursing Officer at recently announced together and celebrate the good HMC. a partnership with work that we do,” said Dr Ryley. During an event held in rec- Dr Ryley also spoke about the ognition of International Nurses the World Innovation importance of developing and Summit for Health Day (IND) Dr Ryley said nurses supporting Qatar’s future The nurses and midwives working across HMC attended events held in recognition of International support their patients through (WISH). healthcare leaders. Nearly half of Nurses Day. some of the most significant all the senior nursing and mid- moments in their lives, including wifery leadership positions at birth, death, diagnosis, treatment, Many of the nursing and mid- HMC are currently held by Qatari In support of the ongoing announced a partnership with by raising the profile and status and recovery. She added that wifery leaders working across nationals and HMC’s leadership efforts to both raise the the World Innovation Summit for of nurses worldwide and sup- nurses and midwives are highly HMC also hold advanced qualifi- team is committed to helping more standards of nursing and mid- Health (WISH). The partnership porting nurses to lead, learn, and trained clinicians, with over 70 cations, such as a Master of nationals develop the right skills wifery care at HMC and the saw the establishment of Nursing build a global movement. The percent of HMC’s nurses and mid- Science in Nursing degree. and experience to take on leading public profile of nursing, the Now Qatar, a campaign that aims Qatar chapter is the first in the wives being university graduates. “Without skilled and roles in the organization. healthcare provider recently to improve healthcare globally region.

Malabar Gold to provide Iftar QF lines up many meals; plans CSR Ramadan activities THE PENINSULA initiatives Qur’anic Botanic Garden will host the AlUtrujah Holy Quran DOHA: Qatar Foundation (QF) contest for school students DOHA: Malabar Gold & is set to host a range of activ- below the age of 12. The contest, Diamonds has associated with ities for the wider community held in collaboration with Edu- various associations and like- during the holy month of cation City Mosque, aims to minded organizations this Ramadan at various locations encourage primary school stu- Ramadan to provide Iftar throughout Education City. dents to study the Holy Quran. meals and other CSR initiatives. Families and children of all The contest also highlights the Qatar University President Dr Hassan Al Derham at THE’S fourth Emerging Economies Summit which Like previous years, ages and nationalities are invited Qur’anic verses and stories that took place in Morocco. Malabar Gold & Diamonds, one to take part, and can look feature botanical terms. among the BIG 5 global jew- forward to a variety of cultural, Education City Mosque will ellery retailers has religious, and health and well- hold an Iftar program throughout QU and THE to co-host strengthened its CSR activities being activities themed around Ramadan, providing 1,000 meals in the GCC and Far East region Islam and the Holy Quran. to members of the wider com- this Ramadan. Malabar Gold & Machaille Hassan Al-Naimi, munity. In the spirit of good faith, summit in January 2019 Diamonds has planned a President of Community Devel- members of the public are month long CSR activities in opment, QF, said, “At Qatar encouraged to volunteer their THE PENINSULA high-value returns to societies of summit with Qatar University – association with like-minded Foundation, we’re delighted to time to pack and distribute the emerging economies and devel- one of the most internationally- organizations like KMCC, host a diverse range of events meals. Those interested in vol- DOHA: Qatar University (QU) will oping countries. focused universities in the world, Youth Forum, Community and activities for Ramadan. The unteering should email their host the 2019 Times Higher QU President Dr. Hassan Al based at one of the most beautiful Development Authority, Dis- month-long program has been name, contact details, and a Education BRICS & Emerging Derham said: “The summit will university campuses in the world.” covery Islam, Al Hedaya Centre specially designed to be enjoyed suitable day and time they are Economies Universities Summit explore strategies for driving up “Qatar’s focus on driving up to benefit the needy. Over by all, and will enable us to able to volunteer to communit- on January 14-16, 2019, in collab- quality in teaching, research and the quality of research and the 70,000 special Iftar meals / kits foster greater social [email protected] oration with the Times Higher knowledge transfer; leadership pace of innovation, and its focus will be distributed during this engagement as part of our year- Throughout the month, QF Education (THE). challenges facing institutions in on aligning graduate skills with period, said a statement. round community development will also host a range of sporting The event, first of its kind in developing economies; and how the needs of the economy, make Since its inception in efforts. We look forward to wel- events, including adult the Arab world, aligns with industry partnerships can prepare it a perfect national case study for 1993, Malabar Group has coming the wider community swimming classes, artistic gym- Qatar’s pioneering role in edu- students for employment. Such the event, and Doha’s location as been actively involved in CSR to Education City, where each nastics, mixed martial arts for cation in the region. It is also the priorities are already underlined a major global transport hub activities with the aim of cre- day they can expect new and children, a women’s volleyball second THE summit organized by by Qatar National Vision 2030 makes it the perfect location to ating a difference to the com- exciting activities as they cele- tournament, and a men’s bad- QU as the University hosted in and Qatar University’s strategy bring together universities from munity in and around their brate this special period.” minton competition. 2015 the first edition of the Times 2018-2022, which maps out the over 40 countries across four area of operations. The “Ramadan is a time for QF will celebrate Garangao, Higher Education MENA Univer- routes to achieving continuing continents: Europe, Africa, Asia importance of CSR activities reflection, giving, and con- a popular children’s festival tra- sities Summit, said a statement. performance excellence building and South America. As Qatar for Malabar Group has grown necting with the community. ditionally held across the The event will bring together on our achievements in our key University has hosted a previous over the decades and the We invite families from across Arabian Gulf region mid-way experts from THE and top leaders areas of education, research, THE summit, I also can guar- group sets aside 5% per- Qatar to join in the festivities, through Ramadan, on June 1 at from the university and industry institution and engagement.” antee they will offer exceptional centage of its net profit for volunteer their time for the the Al Shaqab Indoor Arena. sectors to share their experiences THE Editorial Director, Global organization and a very, very the benefit of the needy in greater good, and learn more The event will feature a range in building and developing Rankings Phil Baty said: “We are warm welcome to all of our the respective markets it about the teachings of Islam.” of activities hosted by QF and knowledge economies for delighted to be working on this delegates.” operates in. As part of the annual event, its various entities. LG launches SK9Y 500W ‘Screen For Life’ extends bowel cancer awareness campaign THE PENINSULA The ‘Don’t Wait sound bar in Qatar for Symptoms’ DOHA ‘Don’t Wait for THE PENINSULA messaging continues Symptoms!’ is the message that is continuing to reverberate to reach the people DOHA: LG has around Qatar during May as of Qatar during launched in Qatar ‘Screen For Life’, Qatar’s National May through the SK9Y 500W Breast and Bowel Cancer sound bar the Screening program, continues to a widespread follow up model to drive bowel cancer awareness campaign last year’s very across the country. The decision incorporating successful SJ9 of campaign extension came as advertisements in Sound Bar. a result of high community With the new engagement and immense the print media, on SK9Y 5.1.2Ch sound bar one can sampling rates and bit depth, demand on screening. A campaign message at Villaggio. TV and in malls, and now experience cinematic both of which can contribute to The extension of the awareness messages sounds at home with Dolby more accurate, more enjoyable awareness drive follows a on national radio. Other activ- they can carry out the Fecal on national radio. Atmos® where the action can music listening. This certified Hi- hugely successful month-long ities continued also during May Immunochemical Test (FIT) move anywhere in three- Resolution Audio sound bar can campaign to mark Bowel like awareness lectures and test with ease in the privacy of dimensional space, including play back lossless stereo audio Cancer Awareness Month to registration desks where a their own home and they can Life’ objectives and the benefits above the listener for the at up to 24-bit/192kHz quality. educate people of Qatar that nurse was present to explain collect their complementary kit of taking a proactive approach ultimate in surround audio. The SK9Y has Google because bowel cancer can be the bowel cancer screening test from one of the PHCC to one’s health,” said Dr The SK9Y lets users cus- Chromecast™ built-in that works a non-symptomatic illness it is using the FIT kit as demon- screening centers. Shaikha Abu Shaikha,” Cancer tomize dimensional surround seamlessly with popular music paramount to not wait until stration. During these activities, “The campaign throughout Program Manager, PHCC. sound however one may like it. apps like Pandora® and Google you feel the symptoms and to educational material was dis- Bowel Cancer Awareness The campaign throughout Dolby Atmos® audio includes Play™ Music, enabling wireless undergo screening as a precau- tributed in addition to the Pro- Month was a great success and May is continuing to remind overhead audio channels for audio from a compatible phone tionary measure. gram’s newsletter, which is a exceeded expectations. The men and women in the target even more thrilling effects, like or tablet, iPhone®, iPad®, Mac® The ‘Don’t Wait for quarterly publication that ‘Don’t Wait for Symptoms’ age range of 50-74 not to wait spaceships flying above. One can or Windows® laptop or Symptoms’ messaging con- includes the latest news and strong messaging clearly res- and to get a free screening at now adjust this overhead volume Chromebook™. tinues to reach the people of activities of the Program. onated with a great number of one of the ‘Screen For Life’ specifically to suit personal pref- The new LG SK9Y sound bar Qatar during May through a The initiatives will high- people, and we identified an facilities at Al Wakra, Lebaib erence using the handy remote is available at LG Brand shops, widespread campaign incor- light the benefits of screening opportunity to maximize its and Health control. Jumbo Electronics showrooms, porating advertisements in the in the early detection of cancer reach and extend the campaign Centers. Appointments can be Digital music for audiophiles Spark Lifestyle Electronics and print media, on TV and in and potential to save lives. The in May to further raise made by calling the call center has gotten better with higher leading Hypermarkets. malls, and awareness messages public are also reminded that awareness of the ‘Screen For at 8001112 WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 09 Israel faces diplomatic fallout after Gaza massacre Turkey expels Israel’s Kuwait wants draft Gaza ambassador while South Africa resolution; US defends Israel recalls its envoy in Tel Aviv. AFP

UNITED NATIONS: The UN Security Council UN Human Rights Council calls held an emergency meeting on the violence in Gaza, with Kuwait preparing a draft resolution for independent probe. to protect Palestinian civilians and the United States defending ally Israel’s use of “restraint.” The emergency talks began at UN head- 9-month-old girl dies quarters in New York with a moment of silence to honor the 60 Palestinians who died on from tear gas exposure. Monday, the majority killed by Israeli fire, in the bloodiest day in Gaza since 2014. Some 1,360 Palestinians were wounded by AP gunshots, 130 of whom were in serious or critical condition, the ministry said. GAZA CITY: Israel faced a growing backlash The Kuwaiti ambassador to the United yesterday and new charges of using excessive force, Nations told reporters that his country intended a day after Israeli troops firing from across a border to circulate a draft UN resolution to protect Pal- fence killed 59 Palestinians and wounded more estinian civilians. than 2,700 at a mass protest in Gaza. Mansour Al Otaibi said the draft would be Turkey expelled Israel’s ambassador, while circulated “most probably tomorrow” and would Palestinian protesters braving tear gas demonstrate near the border with Israel, east of Khan Yunis South Africa recalled its envoy to Israel. Ireland be designed to protect the Palestinians and in the southern Gaza Strip, yesterday. and Belgium summoned Israeli envoys. Leading “provide international protection for civilians.” European countries and the UN human rights office Kuwait is a non-permanent member of the called for an investigation of the bloodshed. condemned by Palestinians as blatantly pro-Israel, to mark three days of mourning. China called on Security Council. Israel says it has the right to defend its border further dimmed prospects of what President Donald Israel to exercise restraint. On Monday, South Africa “This cycle of violence in Gaza needs to end,” against a possible mass breach and accuses Gaza’s Trump had once touted as plans to negotiate the recalled its ambassador to Israel until further notice. said Nickolay Mladenov, the UN special coor- Hamas rulers of trying to carry out attacks under the “deal of the century.” The Palestinians seek Israeli- The UN human rights office said Israel has dinator for the Middle East peace process. cover of the protests. A military spokesman said that annexed east Jerusalem as a capital. repeatedly violated international norms by using “For if it does not, it will explode and drag 14 of those killed a day earlier were involved in attacks. The high casualty toll revived international crit- deadly live fire to repel protesters from its border everyone in the region into another deadly con- Monday marked the deadliest day in Gaza since a icism of Israel’s open-fire policies. Rights groups with Gaza, suggesting its forces should instead arrest frontation,” he told the council by video link from 2014 cross-border war with Israel, and was part of a have said the use of potentially lethal force against those who reach the fence. Jerusalem. high-stakes campaign by the Islamic militant Hamas protesters who pose no immediate threat to sol- For Hamas, which seized Gaza in 2007, Mon- But US Ambassador Nikki Haley launched to break a decade-long border blockade. diers’ lives is unlawful. The military has said pre- day’s border protest was the culmination of a week- a stinging attack on Iranian aggression in the Gaza Health Ministry, which provided the toll sumably less lethal rubber-coated steel pellets are slong campaign to try to break the blockade. The Middle East, deploring a “double standard,” con- from Monday’s violence, said a 9-month-old girl not effective in keeping demonstrators from the group has led weekly protests near the border with demning Hamas provocation and said ally Israel died from tear gas exposure, but medical officials fence. Germany, Belgium and Ireland called for an Israel since late March. had acted with restraint. “No country in this later cast doubt on that claim, saying the infant had investigation of the violence. Yesterday, there were no signs that Hamas had chamber would act with more restraint than a pre-existing medical condition. It remained In Brussels, Prime Minister Charles Michel called made a breakthrough in shaking off the blockade Israel has,” Haley told the council. unclear Tuesday where and how the child died. the Israeli actions “unacceptable violence” and said imposed by Israel and Egypt. Egypt extended the Britain and Germany have backed an inde- In jarring contrast to the Gaza bloodshed, the there was a “clear lack of proportionality.” Michel opening of its border crossing with Gaza, initially pendent investigation into the violence, but the US held a festive inauguration ceremony for a new said the violence and killings would be moved onto set to continue for four days, by two more days, United States on Monday blocked the adoption US Embassy in contested Jerusalem at the same the calendar of the European Union summit in Sofia until tomorrow, the Rafah crossing is closed for of a UN Security Council statement that would time Monday, just several dozen miles away. The today and tomorrow. German spokesman Steffen most of the year. In recent days, there had been have called for an independent probe. juxtaposition of violence on the Gaza border and Seibert said the violence “concerns us greatly,” but negotiations between Egypt and Hamas, pre- Israel has also laid the blame squarely with festivities attended by a Trump administration del- also accused Hamas of cynically escalating the sumably on easing the blockade in exchange for Hamas, accusing Gaza’s Islamist rulers of war egation — captured on split screens in TV broad- unrest. Ireland’s Foreign Ministry summoned the ending the protests. Hamas has said protests would crimes. Its ambassador to the United Nations casts around the world — briefly drew attention to Israeli ambassador to express “shock and dismay.” continue in a weekly format, but it was not clear if called on the Security Council to condemn the the plight of Gaza and its 2 million people. Turkey asked Israel’s ambassador to leave tempo- it would be able to maintain momentum during the faction. “Only then will justice be served,” Danny The relocation of the embassy from Tel Aviv, rarily and the country lowered flags to half-mast fasting month of Ramadan, which begins tomorrow. Danon told reporters. Arab League calls on ICC Turkey urges Islamic world to review Israel ties to probe Israeli crimes AFP States formally moved its of the Organisation of Islamic summit at 3pm (1200 GMT) a CAIRO: The Arab League’s Permanent Committee on Human embassy in Israel to Jerusalem Cooperation (OIC) on Friday. giant rally would be held at the Rights yesterday called on the International Criminal Court pros- ANKARA: Turkey yesterday from Tel Aviv in defiance of inter- Turkish President Recep Tayyip vast Yenikapi meeting area in ecutor to urgently investigate “the crimes of the Israeli occupation” urged Islamic countries to review national outrage. Erdogan currently holds the Istanbul under the slogan of “Stop against Palestinians. “Israel is an oppressive and murderous entity their ties with Israel and said it “Islamic countries should rotating chairmanship of the the Oppression” to express soli- and its politicians and officers must be taken to the International would call an extraordinary without fail review their relations body. It was not immediately darity with the Palestinians. Criminal Court,” Amjad Shamout, the committee’s chairman, said. summit of the world’s main pan- with Israel,” Turkish Prime Min- clear what format the meeting “This has nothing to do with The ICC chief prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda, said she would Islamic body after dozens of ister Binali Yildirim told his ruling would take or who might party politics. This is to show sol- “take any action warranted” to prosecute crimes. Palestinians were killed by Israeli party in parliament. attend. idarity, brotherhood and togeth- “My staff is vigilantly following developments on the ground fire on the Gaza border. “The Islamic world should A Turkish foreign ministry erness,” he said. and recording any alleged crime that could fall within” the tribu- Ankara has reacted with fury move as one, with one voice, official, who asked not to be “The Islamic world should nal’s jurisdiction, she said, adding: “The violence must stop.” to the killing Monday of 59 Pal- against this massacre,” he added. named, said there was to be “a move as one, with one voice, Arab League chief Ahmed Abul Gheit condemned the “mas- estinians in clashes and protests, Yildirim said that Turkey had summit in Istanbul on Friday”. against this massacre,” added sacres” of Palestinians, which he said resemble “war crimes”. on the same day as the United called an “extraordinary summit” Yildirim said that after the Yildirim. Sadr eyes govt Zimbabwe public workers reject as election upset higher government salary offer rocks Iraq HARARE: Zimbabwe’s public sector workers have rejected an improved salary offer of 15 percent from President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government and want wages for the lowest paid AFP employees to more than double, the main public sector union said. The government agreed last week to raise salaries by 10 percent BAGHDAD: Populist Shia for the army, police and other civil servants from July, when cleric Muqtada Sadr yesterday Zimbabwe is expected to hold its first general election since Robert eyed a broad coalition after Mugabe left power last year. Apex Council, the union which repre- appearing to deal a blow to sents all government workers, said the government’s higher offer both Iranian and American on Monday was still below the poverty datum line (PDL) used to influence with a shock assess whether a person is deemed poor. election triumph that has upended Iraqi politics. Counting was still Kenya police mistakes teenager for ongoing three days after the first parliamentary poll since wanted man, shoot him dead the defeat of the Islamic State group, but the fiery Shia NAIROBI: Kenyan police on the trail of one of the country’s most preacher’s grouping was in wanted criminals shot dead a 17-year-old boy after mistaking him the lead with 16 of 18 prov- for their suspect, the boy’s father said, in the latest accusation of inces tallied. wrongful killing to be levelled at the force. Kenyan police face Victory for the veteran frequent allegations of brutality and extrajudicial killings from nationalist’s Marching civilians and rights groups, but officers are rarely charged and Towards Reform alliance almost never convicted. The police service was not available imme- with Iraq’s communists -- diately for comment on the accusation by the boy’s father, Thomas pitched an anti-corruption Okong’o, who told Reuters his son, Arnold Mudanya, was shot outsider force -- would be a dead as he left a shop in Nairobi’s Eastlands area on Friday morning. slap in the face for Iraq’s widely reviled ruling establishment. US imposes sanctions against Sadr — who has ruled himself out of becoming Iran Central Bank governor prime minister — looks likely to be the key powerbroker WASHINGTON: The United States sanctioned Iran’s Central Bank and has already mooted a Governor Valiollah Seif and Iraq-based Al Bilad Islamic Bank for technocrat government of trafficking millions of dollars for Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard, some dozen parties that the second batch of sanctions by the Trump administration since bridge sectarian divides. it withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal last week. 10 VIEWS WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 International condemnation of systematic ESTABLISHED IN 1996 massacre of Palestinians in Gaza QNA CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI or the second consecutive day, international reactions to the EDITOR-IN-CHIEF brutal massacre and systematic DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI Fkilling committed by the Israeli [email protected] occupation forces against unarmed Pales- tinians in the Gaza Strip, continued as Pal- estinians continue their peaceful and legit- ACTING MANAGING EDITOR imate protest against the unilateral MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED decision that contradicts all relevant UN [email protected] resolutions, of moving the US embassy to Jerusalem. In Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence against Palestinian demonstrators in Gaza, during two telephone conversations on Monday night with Palestinian President Mahmoud EDITORIAL Abbas and King Abdullah II of Jordan. According to The Elysee, Macron reit- erated his opposition to the relocation of the US embassy to Jerusalem, pointing that Safety is foremost the status of the city can be determined only between the parties to the conflict, transfer of the US embassy to Jerusalem cating the US embassy to Jerusalem. atar has made serious efforts in recent years to within the framework is negotiated under would have serious implications for Japan’s Foreign Minister Taro Kono decrease road fatalities and with the help of the auspices of the international com- security and stability in the Middle East said “We didn’t send officials to participate Qsincere, untiring efforts of relevant authorities, the munity. He also stressed the “right of the and would inflame the feelings of Muslims in the opening ceremony and the Japanese country has accomplished remarkable achievements in Palestinians to peace and security,” and Christians, stressing that the question government is not thinking about moving this regard. recalling the French position in favor of the of Jerusalem must be settled within the our embassy to Jerusalem.” The implementation of National Traffic Safety Strategy two states solution within secure and rec- framework of a final and comprehensive He added that he has heard that the US is passing through its second phase (2018-22) while the ognized borders. solution in accordance with the two-state government plans to announce a policy state has achieved numerous goals in its first phase from Macron voiced his country’s deep solution, leading to the establishment of package related to the Middle East peace 2013-17. concern over the situation in Gaza and the an independent Palestinian state with East process, and that he is waiting for that to Addressing the sixth Forum of the Stakeholder Coor- other Palestinian cities, calling on all Jerusalem as its capital. happen, NHK World reported. dinators of the National Road Safety Strategy, Brig. parties to ease tensions in the region. The statement added that the Jor- Kono also said Japan hopes to support Mohamed Saad Al Kharji, Second Vice President of the Macron is planning to talk with Israeli danian King confirmed during a telephone Palestine, such as through an industrial National Traffic Safety Committee and Director General Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on conversation with French President complex in the West Bank. of Traffic Department, emphasized that the forum coin- Tuesday, the Emmanuel Macron on Monday that the Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon cided with the completion of five important years in the statement international community should shoulder saw comprehensive strikes, sit-ins and sol- implementation of the first phase of the national strategy said. its moral and legal responsibilities to idarity activities to condemn the Israeli for traffic safety. At least protect the rights of the Palestinian people. massacre in Gaza, coinciding with the 70th He pointed out that the implementation of the second 59 Pales- Moreover, the Sultanate of Oman anniversary of the Nakba. The camps’ resi- phase of the strategy requires extraordinary efforts, coop- At least 59 tinians were affirmed its solidarity and support for the dents organised angry marches and sit-ins eration from all sides and unparalleled implementation Palestinians were martyred by just rights of the Palestinian people to in camps and at headquarters of interna- mechanism to address traffic problems and the Israeli army establish their independent state on the tional organisations operating in Lebanon. achievement of the 2022 goals martyred by Israeli gunfire and borders of June 4, 1967 with Jerusalem as The UN Security Council will hold a with high efficiency. army gunfire and thousands its capital. public briefing at a later time today to He also said that the first thousands more more injured An official source in the Omani discuss the latest developments in Gaza, phase of the implementation injured during anti- during anti- Foreign Ministry said yesterday that the during which the UN Special Coordinator of the strategy (2013-2017) occupation Sultanate calls for a political solution to for the Middle East Peace Process Nikolay achieved remarkable results, occupation rallies rallies along the conflict between the Palestinians and Mladenov will brief the attendees. The The which resulted in a decrease along the Gaza the Gaza Israelis in a way that guarantees the estab- weekly demonstrations of the Palestinians, implementation in the mortality rate in 2017 to Strip’s eastern Strip’s lishment of two states and their peaceful called the Great Return march, began on of National Traffic 177 cases, an average of 6.6 border, according eastern coexistence side by side. March 30 and are expected to peak in time Safety Strategy is cases per hundred thousand border, Meanwhile, Pakistan expressed with the 70th anniversary of Nakba. people. to the Palestinian according to concern about the relocation of the US Ambassador and Permanent Observer passing through Qatar under second phase Health Ministry. the Pales- embassy to Jerusalem, which sparked to the State of Palestine to the UN Riyad its second of implementation of strategy tinian Health angry Palestinian demonstrations. Mansour said in a message to the Security phase (2018-22) aims to reduce the number of Ministry. Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said in a Council, Israel “continues to intensify its while the state deaths due to traffic accidents In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia expressed statement that despite calls by the interna- military attacks against civilians in the to 130 annually by 2022. It also its strong protest over US official opening tional community to abide by the resolu- besieged Gaza Strip, in a serious breach of has achieved aims at the implementation of of its embassy in Jerusalem. According to a tions of the General Assembly of the international law. The US had previously numerous goals the United Nations goals for statement issued by the Malaysian Foreign United Nations (UN) and the Security blocked the adopting of a statement by the in its first phase sustainable development Ministry, it stressed that this move would Council on the two-state solution, the US UN Security Council calling for an inde- related to reducing congestion, undermine and jeopardize the efforts to transferred its embassy to the city of Jeru- pendent investigation into the violence from 2013-17. developing urban planning, find solutions and comprehensive set- salem in violation of international law and taking place at the border between the road and transport networks, tlement of the conflict between Palestine Security Council resolutions. Gaza Strip and Israel. improving traffic safety, and and Israel. The statement added that the In Tehran, Speaker of the Parliament The draft statement read, “The Security linking improved traffic safety with economic growth, move would also have a negative impact of Iran Ali Larijani said that the transfer of Council expresses its outrage and sorrow national security and population policy. not only on security and stability in the the US Embassy to Jerusalem is contrary at the killing of Palestinian civilians exer- The State of Qatar is at the forefront of the region’s region, but would inflame anger, hinder to the resolutions of the UN Security cising their right to peaceful protest. The most advanced countries in the field of roads, transport any future negotiations and further Council and the UN General Assembly, Security Council calls for an independent and traffic safety by building an integrated transport worsen the situation. and undermines the status of international and transparent investigation into these system in accordance with national strategic vision. Malaysia reiterated its commitment to institutions. actions to ensure accountability.” Along other state organizations, Ashghal is performing the two state solution and that the Pales- Larijani said in a speech before the its due role regarding road safety by constructing more tinian and Israeli peoples live in peace and Iranian parliament Tuesday that the roads and maintaining safety related aspects of existing security with Jerusalem as the capital of Israeli entity committed yesterday a large road infrastructure. Palestine. massacre against the oppressed Pales- An official of The Public Works Authority told the Iraq also condemned the Israeli occu- tinian people, which claimed the lives of meeting of stakeholders that the Department of Mainte- pation forces opening gunfire on Pales- more than 50 martyrs and more than Palestinian refugee camps in nance of Roads (related to safety) completed 36 projects tinian demonstrators in Gaza, calling on 2,000 wounded, considering it a great dis- in the period from 2014 - 2017 including 371 bicycle tracks, the international community to take grace for the Israeli entity and the US that Lebanon saw comprehensive while the aim of the work during the next five years urgent measures to protect the Palestinian will remain throughout history. strikes, sit-ins and solidarity (2018-22) is to complete a number of projects including people and renewing Iraq’s rejection of In addition, China called Tuesday for activities to condemn the 1543 kilometers of road works and 2000 km of footpaths, the United States decision to move its restraint, especially on Israel’s part, and Israeli massacre in Gaza, In addition to 1028 km of bicycle tracks. embassy in occupied Jerusalem. expressed deep concern about the toll of The Public Works Authority too has started a new era Iraqi President Fuad Masum expressed casualties on the Gaza border. coinciding with the 70th in implementing its projects and achieving its vision in Iraq’s firm rejection of the use of violence Beijing reiterated its support for a two- anniversary of the Nakba. The line with Qatar National Vision 2030 to achieve the highest in the face of peaceful demonstration state solution and the establishment of a camps’ residents organised safety rates in the road network in Qatar. demanding legitimate and just rights, Palestinian state based on the 1967 affirming Iraq’s full support for the legit- borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. angry marches and sit-ins in imate rights of the Palestinian people, The UN Security Council late last night camps and at headquarters especially the right to establish their inde- failed to adopt a draft press statement pre- of international organisations pendent state with Jerusalem as its capital. sented by the State of Kuwait expressing operating in Lebanon. For his part, Turkish Foreign Minister the council’s deep concern about recent Mevlut Cavusoglu last night telephoned developments in the QUOTE OF THE DAY his Palestinian counterpart Riyad Al occupied Palestinian Maliki. territories, especially in I must reiterate that Turkish news agency (Anadolu) the context of peaceful international human rights quoted diplomatic sources as saying that protests in the Gaza law sets strict prohibitions that the telephone call between the two Strip and tragic human on the use of force by ministers came after the developments in losses, in view of the law enforcement officials. the Palestinian arena and the Israeli mas- objection of one of its Lethal force against demo- sacre on the borders of the Gaza Strip. members. For his part, Jordan’s King Abdullah II The draft nstrators is prohibited condemned the blatant attacks and vio- statement, which was unless strictly unavoidable lence practiced by Israel against the Pales- not endorsed, in the case of an imminent tinian people in the Gaza Strip. expressed the council’s threat to life or threat of A statement issued by the Jordanian anger and regret at the serious injury. Royal Court said that King Abdullah II killing of Palestinian warned of the repercussions of the civilians exercising transfer of the US embassy to Jerusalem, their right to peaceful Michael Lynk pointing out that Jerusalem is the key to protest. UN Special Rapporteur on achieving peace and stability in the region From its part, Japan Human Rights and the world. called for “calm” reac- The statement pointed out that the tions towards relo- WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 OPINION 11 Somali Planning Minister praises Amir’s vision for Qatar’s development

QNA bilateral, regional and international interest in the country, its devel- aspects of common interest. This opment and the prosperity of its confirms sincere desire and the people. omali Minister of Planning, political will to move forward for the With regards to Somalia’s vision Investment and Economic benefit and interests of both coun- of the Gulf crisis, the minister said Development Gamal tries and peoples.In addition, the Somalia is neutral, supports the The minister said H H SMohamed Hassan said the minister praised the vision of H H Kuwaiti mediation and hopes for its the Amir is a friend of The Minister talks between the Amir H H Sheikh the Amir, stating that under His success, calling for resolving the sit- the Somali leadership stressed that the Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Highness’ leadership Qatar is uation peacefully through dialogue and people, thanking President of the Federal Republic of moving in the right direction, and diplomatic methods. issue of sovereignty Somalia Mohamed Abdullahi steadily and confidently towards The minister said the GCC His Highness for his and territorial Farmajo were constructive. The development, modernisation and states are brothers and they should interest in Somalia integrity and non- talks were held in a brotherly growth. sit at the negotiating table to and his support and interference in the atmosphere which proves the trust The minister said H H the Amir is resolve this crisis and any other assistance to its people. and depth of the relations between a friend of the Somali leadership and differences. He encouraged this affairs of others, both countries, he said. people, thanking His Highness for direction and called for the estab- The Somali people as is a priority of Speaking to Qatar News Agency his interest in Somalia and his lishing peace through negotiation well aware of this and Somali politics, and (QNA), the minister said the Somali support and assistance to its people. and dialogue. thank H H the Amir and said that Somalia president’s visit to the State of Qatar The Somali people as well aware of The Somali Minister of Planning, is with no doubt a reaffirmation to this and thank H H the Amir and the Investment and Economic Devel- the Qatari people for never put down the the continuous communications and Qatari people for their support, opment Gamal Mohamed Hassan their support, assistance principles, no matter consultations between both leader- assistance and for standing by them. stressed the need to spare the and for standing by how big the support ships. He highlighted the willingness He highlighted that Qatar’s region from any conflicts, and focus them. and promises of of the two countries’ leaderships to support to Somalia is clear and con- instead on the challenges the area improve the bilateral relations tinuous in all fields adding, the faces, including the file of terrorism assistance from between Doha and Mogadishu in all future is promising for prospering represented by “Al Qaeda and the any State and fields. this brotherly relations. The minister ISIS.” the Minister said that things destination were. The minister said the talks were said Somalia is satisfied with Qatar’s On his view of the so-called are improving and will be comprehensive and covered all support and with H H the Amir’s Republic of Somaliland and its better. decisions and agreements, the He said that President Minister said that “Somaliland” is Farmajo met with the Somali part of the motherland, and that community in Qatar and heard Mogadishu does not recognise from their members all the praise any agreements and steps without and thanks to Qatar, the lead- the consent of the Somali federal ership of Qatar and the people of government, in that regard, the Qatar for their assistance, support Somali parliament rejects any and brotherly relations. agreements signed with any In conclusion, the Minister party. stressed that the issue of sover- Regarding the Somali govern- eignty and territorial integrity ment’s stance on the subject of the and non-interference in the relocating the US Embassy in Jeru- affairs of others, is a priority of salem, he said that his country’s Somali politics, and said that stance is the same of the Arab Somalia never put down the prin- League and the Organization of ciples, no matter how big the Islamic Cooperation. support and promises of In response to a question on the assistance from any State and role of Somalia as a member of the destination were. League of Arab States, he said that the situation in the Arab region needs to be unified, and that the Member States should intensify their efforts to overcome the problems they face. In response to a question on the internal affairs in Somalia, D-RING ROAD POST BOX: 3488 DOHA - QATAR f there’s one thing consistently allusions to the dark consequences of political activity roughly equivalent to [email protected] wrong with Canadian politics, it’s unregulated political activity we Cana- what they already endure on election too much consensus. dians supposedly “see” in the United day. The restrictions are not absolute — Political consensus is fash- States loom similarly large. as is the case with current campaign EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE I TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 ionable in this polarised age, conjuring Together, these twin partisan anxi- law, there are carve-outs for journal- inspiring images of uniting disparate eties have honed in on the problem of istic-style commentary and private FAX: +974 4455 7758 J J MCCULLOUGH ideologues on common ground for the the so-called permanent campaign, a communication — but they still place MANAGING EDITOR THE WASHINGTON POST common good. In practice, alas, it more illiberal slur that describes nothing numerous burdens on those whose often manifests as multiparty more than the freedom that Canadians ambition to effect meaningful political TEL: 4462 7505 endorsement for the bad ideas of the enjoy to engage in and finance political change includes public conduct or governing class. Such is the case with activism year-round without state speech that “promotes or opposes” spe- DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR TEL: 4455 7769 Canada’s current drive to further reg- restriction or regulation. It is this cific political parties or politicians. phantom menace that the Trudeau gov- Spending more than $500 (about LOCAL NEWS SECTION ernment now seeks to choke with the $400 in US currency) on “partisan TEL: 4455 7743 Elections Modernization Act, a advertising” or “partisan activities” mammoth piece of legislation (which includes “canvassing door-to- BUSINESS NEWS SECTION embodying the worst consensus door, making telephone calls to electors TEL: 4462 7535 Why is Canada wisdom of both right and left. and organising rallies”) during the pre- Proving that Canada is incapable of election period requires registering with SPORT NEWS SECTION moving forward without several steps Ottawa and submitting documentary TEL: 4455 7745 trying to restrain back, the panic over a “permanent cam- reports, as well as appointing a regis- paign” appears to have been triggered by tered financial agent, an auditor and ONLINE SECTION the country’s introduction of set election surely at least one lawyer to ensure TEL: 4462 7501 political activism? dates in the early 2000s. Once the compliance with the Elections Moderni- [email protected] scheduling of an election became fixed zation Act’s dozens of pages of dense legalese. Along with imposing a hard by law, as opposed to the discretion of PUBLIC RELATIONS budget cap of about $700,000 (about the prime minister, it became easier to TEL: 4455 7613 ulate and restrain rights of free political rationalise the idea that there was only $550,000 in US figures) to limit total [email protected] expression under the pretext of one proper time for political activity — activity, the intent is obviously to dis- cracking down on “pre-election cam- the legally defined “campaign period” in courage politics by making it such an ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT paigning” — an odious cause that all of the few weeks leading up to voting day elaborate chore to do legally. TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 the country’s political parties are — which in turn made all activity not in The new law would help censor FAX: 4455 7870 scrambling to embrace for equally self- that narrow window suspect. established NGOs, unions and other [email protected] serving reasons. Since during the campaign period activist groups as intended, but given their Fractured and demoralised in the people or groups that engage in resources and experience in complying CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT age of Justin Trudeau, the Canadian “election advertising” (expansively with existing federal regulations, they TEL: 4455 7857 right increasingly rationalises its low defined under present law as trans- would not be its worst victims. Of far [email protected] Canada’s left, standing with grouchy allegations of a mitting to the public “by any means” greater consequence will be the discour- meanwhile, has rigged system in which progressives messages that endorse or oppose agement and intimidation of those upstart SUBSCRIPTION & always viewed the have all the cash and organisational parties or candidates) are subject to actors and activists whose political organ- DISTRIBUTION muscle. Rare is the Canadian conserv- spending limits and a bevy of other ization is more amateurish and whose TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 regulation of political ative these days whose grand theory of rules, those engaging in such behavior causes, accordingly, are most likely to be activity as a good FAX: 44557819 Why We Can’t Win Elections does not before the campaign period can be disruptive or challenging to Ottawa. [email protected] unto itself. Spending center on the well-heeled partisan accused of exploiting a too much money on activism of unions and environmen- “loophole.” After all, if one talist groups — particularly those who politics is deemed engages in a burst of receive “foreign funding” - a conclusion political “advertising” in All thoughts and views self-evidently that seamlessly transitions to cries for the weeks just before legal dangerous and the paternal hand of government to campaign season begins, expressed in these columns empowering of the correct this injustice. isn’t he or she making are those of the writers, Canada’s left, meanwhile, has mockery of the law’s not of the newspaper. right, as is a climate always viewed the regulation of intended discipline? of political expression political activity as a good unto itself. Trudeau’s bill thus All correspondence without government- Spending too much money on politics is introduces the novel regarding Views and provided guardrails — deemed self-evidently dangerous and concept of a “pre-election empowering of the right, as is a climate period,” a new three- Opinion pages should be such as the country’s of political expression without gov- month window before a send to editor-in-chief sweeping “hate ernment-provided guardrails — such as scheduled election in office or mailed to the propaganda” laws. the country’s sweeping “hate propa- which Canadians will face ganda” laws. Vague anti-American restrictions on their [email protected] 12 ASIA WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 Congress extends support to JD-S to form govt in Karnataka

IANS In a dramatic turn of constituencies. The Congress suf- events, the Congress fered major blows and was BENGALURU: Major drama announced its backing ahead only in 62 seats. unfolded as the counting of votes The BJP was so confident of progressed in Karnataka to the JD-S to form returning to power that congrat- yesterday with the BJP, for most a government and ulatory messages from its party part of the day, seeming set to prevent the BJP from leaders as well as allies started return to power until the pouring in with several BJP Congress sprung a surprise by regaining power in its leaders crediting the victory to announcing its support to the only southern bastion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) and The Congress and JD-S extensive election campaign. paving the way for the party with did not have a pre-poll However, the Congress the smallest number of seats to improved its tally to over 70 form the government. alliance. However, it seats by the second half of However, the Bharatiya is for the Governor to counting with the JD-S also Janata Party (BJP) also take a call on who to taking its number close to 40, announced it had urged Gov- invite first. thereby narrowing the BJP’s lead ernor Vajubhai Vala to let it and pulling it short of the half- Outgoing Chief Minister of Karnataka Siddaramaiah (centre) and Janata Dal (Secular) leader H D prove its majority support in the way mark. Kumaraswamy (right) speak to the media outside the governor’s house in Bengaluru, yesterday. Assembly. However, by the second After the initial euphoria of The Governor is yet to invite hour, the BJP dramatically surged the BJP crossing the half-way any party to stake claim to form ahead towards the victory mark mark in the 224-member backing to the JD-S to form a Chief Minister H D candidate, B S Yeddyurappa, the government. by leading in 105 seats, leaving Assembly — the election was government and prevent the BJP Kumaraswamy. announced in the evening that The BJP and the Congress the ruling Congress badly bruised countermanded in one constit- from regaining power in its only Congress General Secretary he had urged the Governor to let were engaged in a close fight and the JD-S at the third spot. uency and one member is nom- southern bastion. Ghulam Nabi Azad told the him prove his majority in the during the first hour of counting The BJP claimed victory by inated — Election Commission As it became clear that the media in the company of out- Assembly. with the former, at around around 11am and noisy celebra- data showed the BJP could end BJP might not cross the half-way going Chief Minister Siddara- In Karnataka, the Congress 9.30am, leading in 98 and the tions broke out in party offices up with 104 seats, eight seats mark, Congress leaders quickly maiah that the JD-S had accepted and JD-S did not have a pre- latter in 91 of the 222 constitu- in Bengaluru, New Delhi and short of a simple majority. got in touch with the JD-S of the Congress offer of support. poll alliance. However, it is for encies that went to the polls on across Karnataka as its nominees In a dramatic turn of events, former Prime Minister H.D. Deve But in another twist in the the Governor to take a call on Saturday. were on the victory lap in 118 the Congress announced its Gowda and his son and former tale, BJP’s chief ministerial who to invite first. Piyush Goyal to Congress objects to Modi’s warning, urges President to caution him handle Jaitley’s IANS 13 and released to the media on In his speech on May 6, Modi democratic polity, the Prime Min- Ahmed Patel and Mukul Wasnik. portfolio; Irani Monday, Congress leaders had said: “Congress leaders, ister as head of government would The Congress leaders said NEW DELHI: Former Prime referred to Modi’s speech in Hubli listen with your ears open, if you utter words which are threatening, that the President as the consti- loses I&B Ministry Minister Manmohan Singh, along during the Karnataka Assembly cross boundaries, then this is intimidating in content and a tutional head of the union enjoys with several senior Congress election campaign in which he Modi, you will have to pay for it.” public warning to the leaders and high duty and obligation to leaders, have taken strong had warned the Congress against The Congress letter said that members of the main opposition advise and guide the Prime Min- AFP objection to Prime Minister crossing boundaries. the words used by Modi were party — Indian National Con- ister and his Cabinet. Narendra Modi’s remarks against “Hon’ble President may “menacing and intimidating with gress,” the letter said. “Admittedly, the Prime Min- NEW DELHI: India’s Finance party leaders at a poll rally in caution the Prime Minister from intent to insult and provoke Apart from Singh, the letter ister is not expected to use men- Minister Arun Jaitley was Karnataka and written to Pres- using such unwarranted, threat- breach of peace”. has been signed by senior party acing language even in the recovering in hospital ident Ram Nath Kovind urging ening and intimidating language It said that all Prime Min- leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad, course of election campaign yesterday after undergoing a him to caution Modi against against leaders of the Congress isters in the past have main- Karan Singh, Mallikarjun Kharge, which tantamounts to using his kidney transplant that forced “unwarranted, threatening and or any other party or person, as tained immense dignity and P. Chidambaram, A.K. Antony, powers and privileges as the Prime Minister Narendra intimidating” language as it does it does not behove the position decorum “in discharge of public Anand Sharma, Ashok Gehlot, Prime Minister to settle personal Modi to reshuffle his cabinet. not behove him. of Prime Minister,” the letter or private functions/ actions”. Motilal Vora, Ambika Soni, and political scores,” the letter Railways Minister Piyush In the letter written on May said. “It is unthinkable that in our Kamal Nath, Digvijaya Singh, said. Goyal on Monday was assigned Jaitley’s duties man- aging Asia’s third-largest economy until the ruling party stalwart returns to good Chandy gets partial relief health. Jaitley, 65, has been suf- fering kidney-related in solar scam case problems for months and was on dialysis for a fortnight at IANS New Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences ahead of KOCHI: Former Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy yesterday the transplant. got partial relief in the solar scam case as the High Court said alle- Jaitley underwent bari- gations of sexual exploitation against him need not be taken into atric surgery in 2014 to treat account. diabetes and weight gain. He The court’s direction came while hearing Chandy’s petition also underwent heart surgery over the solar scam Commission report. It said findings of the com- several years ago. mission based on the letter of accused Saritha Nair which alleges He is the second minister sexual exploitation need not be considered. from Modi’s cabinet to However, the court failed to stay the ongoing probe based on undergo a kidney transplant the Commission report, which was also another demand of Chandy. after foreign minister Sushma Chandy, approached the court demanding the one member Swaraj in 2016. Justice (retired) Sivarajan Commission be stayed as it had gone Jaitley, a lawyer, has beyond its brief, and the letter of Saritha was never part of the served as a senior minister in Commission’s terms of reference. Hence, the probe that Chief Min- Modi’s cabinet since the ister Pinarayi Vijayan ordered based on the letter should not take Bharatiya Janata Party came place. to power in May 2014. The multi-crore solar energy investment fraud that rocked the In another cabinet Chandy government in 2013 was led by Saritha Nair and her live-in change, Smriti Irani was partner Biju Radhakrishnan, as it came to light that a section of dumped as head of the high- the Chief Minister’s office had links with the couple. profile information and broadcasting ministry. Memories from the monument Irani has been embroiled in numerous controversies, Visitors take photographs inside the historic Victoria Memorial monument, built during British Army helps 16 Manipuri including a failed bid to colonial rule, after the authorities allowed visitors to take photographs inside the memorial for the punish journalists accused of first time, in Kolkata, yesterday. broadcasting fake news. students clear JEE Main IANS

IMPHAL: A total of 16 students from Bishenpur in Manipur were CPI-M, PDS to move court against Bengal poll violence able to clear the first leg of the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) with the help of the Army, officials said yesterday. For 19-year-old Kumar Sanjay Singh, the son of a self-employed IANS a free and fair manner. and said the bench asked them appeal before the bench with mechanic struggling to make ends meet, and several others like “The SEC has failed to to submit a report on what took specific records of all the inci- him living in a small hamlet of Moirang, becoming an engineering KOLKATA: The West Bengal conduct the election in a proper place. dents,” PDS General Secretary graduate from a renowned institution was only a dream until the CPI-M and the Party of Demo- manner. We highlighted the inci- “The state government and Samir Putatundu said. Army stepped in. cratic Socialism (PDS) yesterday dents of murder and vandalism the SEC claimed before that The state BJP has, however, The Army Company Commander in Bishenpur helped the stu- said they will move the High on the polling day before the court that they had made the decided not to move court dents clear the JEE Main by convincing the Centre for Social Court against the state court. The court has asked us to necessary arrangements to immediately but said it would Responsibility and Leadership (CSRL) — a National level educa- government and the state file a petition with proper appli- ensure the security of the voters. be sending reports of attacks on tional organisation — to come to Manipur and select students for election commission (SEC) for cation. We will do that,” the But yesterday’s (Monday) vio- its activists to the Prime Minis- coaching. failing to conduct the rural polls CPI-M counsel told reporters lence including murders, attacks, ter’s Office (PMO). The JEE, an engineering entrance examination conducted for properly. here. looting of ballot boxes at several “We are moving the court admission to various engineering colleges across the nation, The court earlier ordered The PDS had also appealed places clearly show that the right now... Seventeen of our includes two different examinations — JEE Main and JEE Advanced. the West Bengal government before a Division Bench of High security arrangements were not activists have died in Bengal The students who qualify JEE Main can appear for the JEE Advanced and the SEC to make proper Court Chief Justice Jyotirmay adequate. during the election process. We examination. security arrangements to Bhattacharya and Justice Arijit “We informed the Chief are preparing report to be sent “Having realised the far-reaching benefits to society by meeting ensure the safety of the elec- Banerjee to look into the inci- Justice about the same today. He to the PMO,” state BJP chief Dilip the aspirations of the youth through better opportunities in edu- torate and hold the election in dents of violence across the state listened to us and asked us to Ghosh said. cation and vocation, the Army wholeheartedly took to the idea.” WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 ASIA 13 Abbasi’s presser after NSC meeting adds to confusion INTERNEWS While the former Indian media for blowing up premier himself Sharif’s remarks about the ISLAMABAD: Pakistani Prime Mumbai attacks, PM Abbasi Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi’s owned his remarks requested the Pakistani media hurriedly called presser that appeared in the “not to become part of their yesterday soon after the National interview about the [Indian] design.” Security Committee (NSC) 2008 Mumbai attacks, He said he had decided to meeting further compounded the meet media persons soon after confusion about its outcome Abbasi said Sharif had his meeting with Sharif only to when he claimed that NSC told him just before “present the facts” before the members had in fact condemned leaving for Bannu that nation. “I have come here to tell “misreporting” by the newspaper his remarks about the you what Nawaz Sharif has just and not his party’s supreme told me,” responded the Prime leader Nawaz Sharif’s statement. non-state actors and Minister when reminded that While the former premier militants had been Sharif had not only owned the himself owned his remarks that “misreported”. remarks but also read out his appeared in the interview about published remarks on his mobile the 2008 Mumbai attacks, Abbasi phone before the media in the said Sharif had told him just Accompanied by Information accountability court and asked before leaving for Bannu that his Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb the reporters what was wrong remarks about the non-state and Finance Minister Miftah with the remarks. actors and militants had been Ismail, PM Abbasi said Sharif was In reply to a question, Abbasi Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi (left) heads a meeting of the National Security “misreported”. misquoted as having said that denied that the interview was Committee in Islamabad, yesterday. Surprisingly, unlike the past Pakistan had sent the non-state “facilitated” by the government practice, the prime minister’s actors or militants to India to and that the interviewer was presser held at the PM House was carry out the attacks “whereas given “official protocol” in meeting said that the participants Minister categorically stated that Nawaz Sharif or Chief of the not telecast live even by the Nawaz Sharif is saying that he Multan. “He is a reporter. Nawaz had declared the statement by they had “condemned the mis- Army Staff to address a news official Pakistan Television (PTV), has not said anything like that Sharif is a free man and he can Sharif “misleading” and reporting”, especially Sharif’s conference. He said he was doing though more than two PTV nor can it be said on the basis of meet anyone he wants to,” said “incorrect” and there was no wrongly attributed remarks it in an effort to “control the cameras and a DSNG (Direct Sat- assumptions that planning for the Prime Minister. mention of the newspaper’s mis- about the non-state actors. damage being caused to the ellite News Gathering) vehicle the Mumbai attacks was done in When asked that the official reporting in it then what were PM Abbasi then explained country due to this were present there. Pakistan”. While blaming the handout issued after the NSC they condemning, the Prime that he had not been sent by controversy”.

Sharif demands national commission to probe treason Australia to INTERNEWS upgrade airport integrity of Pakistan and its Supreme Court decision last year 220 million people of the country court decisions of barring people were being labelled as in Panamagate case, said would decide who the culprit himself from becoming PML-N security ISLAMABAD: Strongly reacting ‘traitors’ while those who vio- whoever was found guilty of was among those levelling the president, member of parliament to widespread criticism and alle- lated the Constitution were being treason should be hanged pub- allegation and himself. and prime minister. after bomb plot gation against him for his called ‘patriotic’, said Sharif licly. Some elements described Sharif then told the rally that He said he was not ready to remarks about the 2008 Mumbai while addressing a rally at him as a traitor when he said he was a patriotic Pakistani and tolerate anyone bringing harm AP attacks, the ousted prime College Playground in the Swari Pakistan was being isolated, he respected the army’s support on to the motherland and would minister, Nawaz Sahrif, area of Buner district hours after added. the Kargil issue. He claimed he continue to fight the powers yesterday demanded formation the National Security Committee “If I am actually a traitor or was ready to work for the dignity working against the country’s AUSTRALIA: Australia’s of a national commission to held a meeting in Islamabad over anti-national character, then and solidarity of Pakistan till the interests. “Will you stand with government said yesterday probe the matter and determine the controversial comments he come and form a national com- last drop of his blood. me in this?” he asked the crowd. that it will upgrade airport who ‘has actually committed made in a recent interview. mission to probe the matter,” the He repeatedly asked his sup- He said being the former security around the country treason’. The former premier, who Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz porters in the rally to raise their prime minister he was the cus- and increase police powers Those who worked for the had been disqualified by the supreme leader said, adding that hands to say ‘no’ to the apex todian of national interests. in response to an alleged attempt to smuggle an impro- vised explosive device aboard a flight out of Sydney last year. US diplomat leaves The government will spend $222m on improving security equipment and Pakistan after tussle staffing levels at all major city airports plus 13 regional air- ports, government ministers over traffic accident said. It follows an attempt to check in a bag allegedly con- AFP injuries while his cousin, who taining military-grade explo- was the passenger, was sives into the luggage hold of ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has injured. an Etihad Airways Airbus allowed a US diplomat Weeks later, a second A380 double-decker jet involved in a fatal traffic accident involving a US dip- headed to the Middle East last accident to leave the country, lomat and a motorcyclist also July in a plot authorities say an official said yesterday, made headlines in the country was directed by the Islamic following a weeks-long stand- but resulted only in minor State group. off and street protests over the injuries. The airline rejected the incident. Tensions are simmering bag at the check-in counter The diplomat — described between Islamabad and because it was overweight. as the defence attache in an Washington as the US pushes The alleged plot wasn’t dis- earlier report — departed Pakistan to crack down on covered until weeks later, but Islamabad late Monday, a safe havens it allegedly pro- two Sydney men were even- senior Pakistani government vides for militants. tually charged with planning An Afghan security force personnel stands guard at the entrance gate of the government compound official said. In January the White a terrorist act. of Farah province, western Afghanistan, yesterday. “The US diplomat has been House suspended nearly two allowed to return to the US in billion dollars in funding in an Suspected light of the High Court’s attempt to force Pakistan to militant shot US, Afghanistan launch air strikes decision that he had diplo- halt its alleged support for the matic immunity,” the official Afghan Taliban and other AFP dead in Indonesia capturing one urban district and Danish said the Afghan air force said. Islamist groups. AP parts of another, said local pro- was also taking part in the A US State Department Pakistan has long denied HERAT: US and Afghan aircraft vincial council member Jamila fighting. “(The Taliban) will fail,” spokesperson also confirmed the accusation. yesterday bombed Taliban posi- Amini. “Heavy fighting con- he vowed. Police special forces that “the American diplomat In the wake of the fatal INDONESIA: Indonesian tions in the western city of Farah tinues inside the city and aircraft from Kandahar and commandos who was involved in a tragic collision, the Pakistani media police fatally shot a militant after the insurgents launched a have just started bombarding from Herat have also been car accident on April 7 in drew repeated comparisons and arrested 13 others major attempt to capture the Taliban positions,” she said. deployed to the province which Islamabad has departed with the fatal shooting of two yesterday suspected of links provincial capital, with fearful Nato’s Resolute Support borders Iran, according to Pakistan.” men by CIA contractor to suicide bombings carried residents seeking shelter from mission in Kabul tweeted that Afghan officials. A sports utility vehicle in Raymond Davis in the eastern out by two families in the explosions and gunfire. the Afghan Army, supported by Defence Ministry which the diplomat was trav- city of Lahore in January 2011. country’s second-largest city. The attack — the first major US airpower including A-10 spokesman Mohammad Rad- elling was in collision with a After months of negotia- Surabaya police assault targeting a city since the Thunderbolts, was “on the manish said at least 10 insur- motorcyclist and his pas- tions, a Pakistani court even- spokesman Frans Barung Taliban launched their annual offensive” and the city “remains gents and two Afghan security senger at an intersection in tually freed Davis following Mangera said the militant spring offensive — began around under govt control”. Interior force members had been killed Pakistan’s capital last month. the payment of $2m to the died in a shootout in a midnight, with the militants Ministry spokesman Najib so far. Atiq Baig, 22, died of head families of the dead men. Surabaya neighborhood with counter-terrorism police, who had tried to arrest him over possible involvement in the attacks that killed at least 13 people. He said the arrests Amnesty slams ‘digital attacks’ on activists of suspected militants were made in raids in Surabaya AFP activists’ electronic devices, the after calling for the release of emails disguised as messages to try to contaminate activists’ and its neighboring cities of watchdog said in a report. activist Raza Khan, who fellow from government departments computers and phones with Malang and Pasuruan. ISLAMABAD: Rights activists in The study — entitled “Human campaigners say was abducted containing malicious links aimed malicious software, some of Coordinated suicide Pakistan are facing “a targeted Rights Under Surveillance” — is from the eastern city of Lahore at stealing her passwords and which was created by “a network bombings at three churches campaign of digital attacks”, based on the experience of four in December. data. of individuals and companies were carried out on Sunday Amnesty International said activists out of a dozen cases Saeeda told Amnesty that “Every time I open an email based in Pakistan”. by a family of six that yesterday, the latest warning investigated by Amnesty, the after she started campaigning for I am now scared. It’s getting so The watchdog said it was included girls aged 8 and 12. about the rising threat to report’s co-author Sherif Khan’s release, she was lured by bad I am actually not able to unable to identify the entity A second family bombed campaigners in the country. Elsayed-Ali said. a hacker posing as an activist on carry out my work,” Saeeda told orchestrating the attacks, but Surabaya’s police head- Attackers have used elab- One campaigner, Diep Facebook into revealing her the organisation. demanded that Pakistani author- quarters on Monday. Their orate schemes to steal data and Saeeda, said she suffered sus- email address. Amnesty documented a ities order an “independent and 7-year-old daughter survived install spyware on Pakistani tained harassment by hackers She was then sent series of similar methods used effective” probe. the attack. 14 ASIA WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 Philippine Congress urged to reject Chief Justice’s ouster

AP The protesters said Duterte by speaking up for respect of law and human rights PHILIPPINES: Legal groups the judges’ 8-6 vote as he led a brutal crackdown on called on Philippine legislators on Friday to remove illegal drugs that has left thou- yesterday to defend their consti- Chief Justice Maria sands of suspects dead. tutional power to impeach offi- Lourdes Sereno from “It’s a few unelected justices cials which they said was who are deciding which usurped by Supreme Court the 15-member court impeachable officials should be justices who ousted the chief violated the country’s removed,” human rights lawyer judge last week. constitution. and former House member, Neri Wearing black arm bands, Colmenares, said in an interview leaders of legal and rights groups during the protest. “This is one staged a protest in front of the Senate and House of Represent- of the worst days and one of the heavily guarded Supreme Court atives of their constitutional lowest moments not only of the in Manila, carrying a streamer power to prosecute and try top Supreme Court but also as that read, “We dissent, resist officials like Sereno. members of Congress.” authoritarianism, oppose attacks Sereno was ousted for Jose Manuel Diokno, on judicial independence.” A allegedly failing to file statements Chairman of the nongovernment Members of lawyer’s groups shout slogans during a rally in front of the Supreme Court in Manila, protester held up the scales of of assets and liabilities. She has Free Legal Assistance Group, said yesterday, voicing concern on the ousting of former Chief Justice, Maria Lourdes Sereno. justice, with a mock sword denied any wrongdoing, but the petition to oust Sereno that piercing her white gown. President Rodrigo Duterte and was filed by Solicitor General The protesters said the his officials have argued that she Jose Calida, called a “quo war- impeachment charges accusing Senate was preparing to turn with Sereno’s ouster by her judges’ 8-6 vote on Friday to breached the law prior to ranto,” set the judiciary on a col- Sereno of corruption, breach of itself into an impeachment court fellow judges. Senate President remove Chief Justice Maria becoming a Supreme Court judge lision course with the legislature public trust and other crimes. to try Sereno, who had gone on Aquilino Pimentel III said Sereno Lourdes Sereno from the and should not have been des- and pre-empted months of Sereno, 57, was ousted by her a two-month leave from the can only be removed by a con- 15-member court violated the ignated chief justice by Duterte’s impeachment actions against fellow justices before the House court to prepare for her defence. gressional impeachment process country’s constitution. predecessor, Benigno Aquino III, Sereno in Congress. was able to vote on the charges Even Duterte’s allies in the and called on the Supreme Court They said it robbed the in 2012. Sereno earned the ire of The House was to vote on and send them to the Senate. The 24-member Senate did not agree to review its verdict.

Pyongyang to invite 8 scribes from Seoul to witness N-site closure Editor loses job for criticising AP global diplomatic push to resolve It said the dismantling would Beijing to the North Korean talks aimed at reducing border the nuclear standoff with the take place between May 23 and coastal town of Wonsan on May tensions and restarting reunions Thailand govt SOUTH KOREA: North Korea North. Still, analysts say the 25. Seoul’s Unification Ministry 22, the ministry said. between families separated by AP will invite eight South Korean closure wouldn’t represent a said it was informed by the North Kim has already declared his the Korean War. Seoul’s Unifi- journalists as part of an interna- material step toward full yesterday that eight South nuclear weapons and missile cation Ministry said yesterday tional media group to witness the denuclearisation. Korean journalists will be programme as finished and the that the meeting will discuss BANGKOK: An editor at an closure of its nuclear test site North Korea’s Foreign Min- invited. The North did not reveal nuclear testing site’s mission as ways to carry out peace commit- English-language newspaper next week, the South’s istry announced on Saturday that the number of spots it will give completed. Some analysts ments made during the inter- in Thailand said yesterday he government said yesterday. journalists from South Korea, the to non-Korean journalists, question whether the disman- Korean summit. The discussions has been sidelined for The site’s closure would set United States, China, Russia and according to the ministry. tling of the site is aimed at may also include setting up refusing to tone down up next month’s historic summit Britain will be invited to observe The eight South Korean jour- destroying evidence. working-level talks between the coverage critical of the coun- between North Korean leader the destruction of tunnels and nalists — four each from a wire The two Koreas will hold a countries’ sports officials over try’s military government. Kim Jong-Un and President the removal of observation and agency and a broadcaster that high-level meeting today at a plans to field combined teams in Umesh Pandey said yes- Donald Trump, which is shaping research facilities at the coun- have yet to be determined — will border truce village to discuss some sports at the Asian Games terday that he lost his post as up to be a crucial moment in the try’s northeastern testing ground. take a chartered flight from setting up military and Red Cross in August. editor-in-chief of the Bangkok Post after a meeting with company executives where he was told that gov- ernment officials had been Malaysia’s PM will stay pressuring them. Pandey said he started working at the newspaper, in office for 1-2 years one of two main English-lan- guage dailies in Bangkok, in REUTERS conference in Tokyo. “I will 2006 and became editor-in- play a role in the background chief in 2016. “I gave my staff KUALA LUMPUR: New even when I step down.” The a free hand, saying ‘do as Malaysian Prime Minister pardons board in Malaysia’s much as you can and I will Mahathir Mohamad said capital will meet today to protect you and I’ve been yesterday he will remain in discuss Anwar’s release and protecting them,’” Pandey office for one or two years and Mahathir said he would be said. Pandey said he was still that Anwar Ibrahim, the jailed released the same day. Anwar, employed by the newspaper reformist he had vowed would 70, is serving a second five-year but has no active role. replace him, will be released jail term. He and his supporters Representatives of the today. have said the charges are polit- Bangkok Post had no imme- Mahathir, 92, said he ically motivated. diate comment. thought that “in a short while” A royal pardon would Thai junta Chief and the government could have a reverse Anwar’s conviction and Prime Minster, Prayuth Chan- case against his predecessor, make him eligible to actively ocha, told reporters yesterday Najib Razak, who has been participate in politics. He has Leisure time that he did not know Pandey. dogged by a multi-billion- been in hospital for a few Media organisations are Boys enjoy a ride at the Everland Amusement Park in Yongin, South Korea, yesterday. dollar scandal at state fund months recovering from a responsible for looking after 1Malaysia Development Berhad shoulder operation. During the themselves, he said. (1MDB). campaign, Mahathir, who was A four-party alliance driven prime minister for 22 years in by Mahathir and Anwar won a previous stint from 1981, the general election last week, promised to step aside and ousting the ruling Barisan make Anwar prime minister Sri Lanka probes sudden deaths of British rugby players Nasional coalition for the first once he was pardoned. AFP time in the history of the But there have been differ- morning after returning from the injuries or any illness,” said a Football Club on Saturday. After Southeast Asian nation. ences between the two over the club in Colombo and were police spokesman. the match, the team visited a Mahathir was sworn in as Prime cabinet formation, and COLOMBO: A second visiting rushed to the main state-run The spokesman added that night hotel and returned to their Minister on Thursday, making Mahathir made it clear on English amateur rugby player hospital in the capital. a judicial medical officer had hotel in small groups early on him the world’s oldest demo- Tuesday that he was in charge. has died in a Sri Lankan hospital Howard died shortly after given an “open verdict” on the Sunday, police said. “We don’t cratically elected leader. “I expect him to play the after visiting a night club and admission, police said. Baty was deaths and “further forensic tests have a cause of death yet and In “an initial stage, maybe same role as the leaders of the police are now investigating the transferred to the intensive care are being carried out”. investigations are ongoing,” lasting one or two years, I will other three parties. There will circumstances, a spokesman unit of a private hospital where Gunasekera said the two men Gunasekera said. The British be the Prime Minister”, be no special powers given said yesterday. he died yesterday, a police from Durham City rugby club in High Commission (embassy) said Mahathir said, speaking by live except as are given to ministers Thomas Howard, 25, and statement said. “An autopsy on the northeast of England had it was supporting the families of video link from Kuala Lumpur or deputy ministers or deputy Tom Baty, 26, developed Howard has revealed that he did played a friendly against the the two men and was in contact to a Wall Street Journal CEO prime ministers,” Mahathir said. breathing difficulties on Sunday not die due to any external local Ceylonese Rugby and with local authorities. UN warns of rising attacks in Myanmar’s Kachin, Shan

ANATOLIA internally displaced in Kachin been forced to flee their homes areas of active fighting, with Ta’ang National Liberation Army Township in northern Shan,” State since early April,” UN as fighting between the military extremely difficult escape routes (TNLA) said it had launched sur- Colville said. GENEVA: The UN yesterday Human Rights Spokesman and Kachin Independence Army through mountains and forests, prise attacks on three military Kachin and Shan are not the warned of increasing attacks Rupert Colville said in a press (KIA) has escalated in the and in need of humanitarian outposts near and in Muse, a only states to have faced their perpetrated by military forces conference in UN at Geneva northern Kachin state since April. support,” Colville said. major trading town in the north- share of violence in Myanmar. and armed groups in the Kachin yesterday. “About 2,000 of these “In Shan State, on Saturday, eastern part of Shan, earlier in Since August 25, 2017, some and Shan states of Myanmar. The Myanmar military and civilians spent about four weeks at least 14 civilians were the day. 750,000 Rohingya, mostly “We are deeply concerned the Kachin Independent Army trapped in the jungle after fleeing reportedly killed and at least 20 “There are also reports that children and women, fled about the escalation in attacks (KIA), an armed ethnic group, the fighting in the conflict zone others injured in attacks by the military, known as the Tat- Myanmar when Myanmar forces by military forces and armed have engaged in clashes after a of Awng Lat, but this weekend, armed groups, with the military madaw, has used heavy launched a crackdown on the groups in Kachin and northern 17-year cease-fire broke down they were reportedly relocated mounting an offensive in weaponry an aerial bombing in minority Muslim community, Shan States in Myanmar. Some in June 2011. to other towns in Kachin State. response,” Colville said. the region. More than 600 people according to the Amnesty 7,400 people have been Thousands of people have Many more remain trapped in The ethnic rebel group have been displaced in Namtu International. WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 EUROPE 15 Protests as Erdogan meets British leaders AFP

LONDON: Angry protests greeted Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan yesterday as he met Queen Elizabeth II and held talks with Prime Minister Theresa May. Minor scuffles broke out as pro-Erdogan counter-protesters walked in front of Kurdish dem- onstrators outside Downing Street, with police wrestling some of the ringleaders to the ground. A Downing Street spokesman said a “frank discussion” on human rights was on the agenda Police officers restraining a demonstrator during a protest against for May’s meeting with Erdogan. Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan outside the entrance to “We’ve always been clear Downing Street. that we want Turkey to uphold its international obligations, Outside Downing Street yes- President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and his wife Emine are greeted by Britain’s Queen Elizabeth including respect for freedom of terday, dozens of campaigners during a private audience at Buckingham Palace, in London, yesterday. expression and political assembled in a protest organised freedoms,” he said. by freedom of expression groups own country is anchored upon,” campaign period without having Critics fear the new full exec- Queen Elizabeth welcomed A Downing Street English PEN, Index On Cen- Reporters Without Borders UK the full picture.” utive powers afforded to the Erdogan for a private audience spokesman said a sorship and Reporters Without chief Rebecca Vincent told The demonstrators were president will lead to one-man at Buckingham Palace ahead of “frank discussion” Borders (RSF). protestors. later joined by a larger group rule. the May meeting. on human rights was RSF said over 100 journalists Calling for the release of protesting Erdogan’s treatment Meanwhile, a state of emer- The three-day visit comes as have been arrested, 140 media imprisoned journalists, she of the Kurds — as well as a gency remains in place in Turkey the Turkish leader campaigns for on the agenda for outlets shut down and at least added: “There is an election handful of counter-protestors 22 months after a failed 2016 re-election after calling a snap Theresa May’s meeting 889 press cards rescinded since coming up.” seemingly chanting in support coup. poll for June 24, bringing the vote with Recep Tayyip a crackdown began in the year “Under the state of emer- of the president. The Turkish leader has forward by a year and a half. Erdogan. 2016. gency people do not have full The early election is set to already stoked controversy on The move is widely regarded “We must make it clear to access to independent infor- accelerate Turkey’s transition to the trip by meeting Germany as a plan to shore up his power our government here that we do mation, so you now have an elec- a new presidential system international footballers Mesut in the country and comes as on the president over his sup- care about the fundamental torate that will be going to the approved in a referendum last Ozil of Arsenal and Ilkay Gun- international pressure mounts pression of political dissent. freedoms — these values that our polls again after quite a short year. dogan of Manchester City.

German police find man arguing French-US relations at odds over Middle East conflict REUTERS with a parrot soldiers shot dead more than 50 leader on almost all major issues Weeks after he took office, in January. “I like him. He’s a Palestinian protesters on the so far. he invited the US president to friend of mine.” AP PARIS: France’s foreign Gaza border. Asked if Trump was still attend the annual Bastille Day Yet Macron has struggled to minister warned yesterday that “The president of the Macron’s friend, Benjamin celebrations, putting on a spec- convert the ‘bonhomie’ into BERLIN: Police were called President Emmanuel Macron republic has decided to take all Griveaux, a close adviser to the tacular military parade for influence on critical issues. to investigate a domestic was prepared to respond to US necessary political initiatives” in French president, said: “When Trump. Soon after Macron took disturbance in a southern moves in the Middle East, response, Le Drian said, without you are the president of the During their first phone call, office, Trump announced he was German town — and found a marking a sharp departure from providing specifics. republic, you are not the friend 71-year-old Trump gave the walking away from the Paris man arguing with a parrot. the warm relations on show Britain’s minister of state for of foreign leaders, you are their Frenchman his personal mobile climate accord, a landmark A resident in Loerrach, during Macron’s visit to Wash- the Middle East expressed similar partner, you have strategic phone number, and the two have international agreement to near the Swiss border, called ington last month. exasperation with Washington, alliances. spoken frequently since. combat global warming. the emergency number on To date, Macron’s best buddy saying the Trump administration “France is attached to one Last month, Macron and his In recent weeks, over the Monday to report his concerns approach to President Donald needed a greater understanding thing — multilateralism. We wife Brigitte travelled to Wash- objection of Macron and other about loud shouting from a Trump has produced little prac- of the root causes of the Israeli- talk to everyone and we speak ington for a state visit, the first leaders, Trump has moved to next-door apartment that had tical influence on his policies. Palestinian conflict. firmly and frankly to them, we Trump has hosted since he took impose tariffs on European steel been going on for some time. “The situation in the Middle Earlier, the French gov- don’t mince our words,” he office. Trump described Macron and aluminium imports, has Police said yesterday that East is explosive, violence is ernment spokesman defended added. as “perfect” and the two made a withdrawn from the Iran nuclear officers sent to the scene doing the talking, war could Macron’s efforts to build a close Since coming to power a show of giving each other warm deal and moved the US embassy found there was a loud loom,” Jean-Yves Le Drian said, working relationship with year ago, Macron has not hidden hugs. in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jeru- argument going on - but it a day after the US moved an Trump, despite the US president his desire to build a familiar rela- “He’s a great guy, his wife is salem, fuelling widespread Pal- was between a 22-year-old embassy in Jerusalem and Israeli having gone against the French tionship with Trump. fantastic,” Trump said of Macron estinian unrest. man and a parrot. The man told them he had been annoyed with the bird, which belonged to his girlfriend. The parrot responded to Poll: Majority of Britons not being shouted at with loud noises of its own. interested in royal wedding REUTERS the royal wedding and the 18 hurt after recent birth of Prince Louis to LONDON: A global audience Prince William and his wife seats collapse will be watching when Prince Kate were events of which Harry weds his US fiancee Britain could be proud. in Barcelona Meghan Markle Saturday, but The YouGov survey sug- most Britons don’t care much, gested that the popularity of the AP a YouGov poll said. royal family is contingent on the The poll, commissioned by personalities of its members. BARCELONA: Barcelona’s anti-monarchist pressure group While 60% of respondents said city hall said 18 people Republic, found that 66% of they like Queen Elizabeth, her received minor injuries when Britons are not interested in the son Charles is far less popular. a temporary stand of seats event, with 60% of Britons Nearly half of respondents collapsed during a television planning to have a normal would prefer “someone else” interview with Spain weekend. to succeed the Queen, while midfielder Andres Iniesta. Harry and Markle are set to only 37% want Charles, who is Iniesta was not hurt in the marry at St George’s Chapel in the father of Harry and his older incident at a municipal Windsor Castle with more than brother William. football pitch in Barcelona. 5,000 media staff and Barcelona’s city hall said 11 around 100,000 well- people were taken to a nearby Greek protest against pension reforms wishers expected to hospital to be treated for con- descend on the market Greek pensioners holding demonstration against planned pension reforms in Athens, yesterday. tusions. The other seven people town. hurt were treated on site. The poll by polling firm YouGov showed that 57% of respondents believed the royal family should Scottish Parliament rejects Brexit bill pay not only for the wedding but also for AFP to 30 to refuse “legislative Scotland’s SNP government parliament “will be noted here the costs of police. consent” for the highly-con- wants such powers to be under and across Europe”. An opinion poll EDINBURGH: The Scottish tested EU (Withdrawal) Bill cur- Scottish control, while the Con- “The UK government cannot published last week Parliament yesterday formally rently being debated by the servative British government ignore the reality of devolution showed that most rejected legislation for taking British parliament. argues they should reside in or try to drown out what this Britons are in favour of Britain out of the EU, in an Scottish First Minister Nicola London, at least initially. parliament says,” he said. the monarchy con- unprecedented move that sets Sturgeon, leader of the seces- Michael Russell, the “They cannot pretend that tinuing in Britain. the scene for a constitutional sionist Scottish National Party Scottish government’s chief no motion has been passed. And another poll A stamp depicting an official engagement crisis. (SNP), said Britain was heading Brexit negotiator, said any “It will be the UK that would by polling firm photograph of Britain’s Prince Harry and Lawmakers in the devolved into “uncharted constitutional attempt to use Brexit to restrict be breaking trust, and breaking ComRes found 58% of his fiancee Meghan Markle, taken by Edinburgh assembly voted by 93 territory”. the powers of the Scottish the rules, not us.” respondents thought photographer Alexi Lubomirski. 16 EUROPE WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 Putin inaugurates bridge to Crimea AFP southern Krasnodar region with the Crimean city of Kerch, KERCH: Russian President spanning a strait between the Vladimir Putin yesterday drove Ukraine, which Black and Azov seas. a truck across a new bridge Ukraine, which along with linking mainland Russia to along with most of most of the international com- Moscow-annexed Crimea, trig- the international munity has not recognised Rus- gering a fierce reaction from community has not sia’s annexation of Crimea, con- Kiev. recognised Russia’s demned the project, which was Russian state television personally championed by Putin. showed Putin dressed in jeans annexation of “The Russian occupying and a casual jacket sit behind the Crimea, condemned powers, which have temporarily wheel of a construction truck the project, which occupied Crimea, are continuing with workers to drive 19km to act outside international law,” across the bridge, which links the was personally Ukrainian Prime Minister Volo- Taman peninsula in southern championed by Putin. dymyr Groysman said. Russian to Ukraine’s Crimea Ukraine has also previously Russian President Vladimir Putin (right foreground) greeting builders before an opening ceremony peninsula annexed by Moscow under Joseph Stalin. During complained that the construction for a bridge near the Taman Peninsula, in Krasnodar Region, Russia, yesterday. in 2014. World War II the occupying has damaged the environment “I want to sincerely congrat- Nazis also began building a and that larger ships will be on the offices of RIA Novosti state to reach from southern Russia December. Once it opens for ulate you with this remarkable, bridge but abandoned the unable to get through to its ports news agency, which is part of the with long queues of vehicles traffic on Wednesday, it will be festive and, in the full sense of project. on the Azov Sea. same media group as RT. often forming to board ferries, able to carry up to 40,000 cars the word, historical day,” Putin “And finally, thanks to your Meanwhile, Ukraine’s European Union and US which cannot always run in per day. told workers upon arrival on the work, your talent, this project, security service raided the offices sanctions have targeted those winter storms, so the easiest way The railway bridge is not yet Crimean side of the bridge. this miracle happened!” Putin of Russian state media in Kiev involved in building the bridge, across is to fly. finished and has a deadline of the “In different historical eras, said. and detained one journalist, principally Putin’s close ally, Because of blocks imposed end of 2019. even under the tsar, people were The Russian leader, who was moves the chief editor of Rus- businessman Arkady Rotenberg, by Kiev, in addition to Western A connecting highway from dreaming of building this bridge,” re-elected for a fourth Kremlin sia’s RT television suggested whose company Stroygaz- sanctions, a large amount of food Kerch to the regional capital of Putin told cheering workers. term in March extending his long were linked to the bridge montazh won the construction is currently shipped to the Simferopol is set for completion He was referring to Russia’s rule, then pledged to build more opening. contract. peninsula from Russia, so the in 2020. last tsar, Nicholas II, who first of “such projects” across Russia. The chief editor of the The annexation of the bridge will play an important Ships will be able to pass proposed such a bridge, but the The Crimean Bridge over- Kremlin-funded channel, Mar- peninsula in 2014 was con- role in reducing the region’s through an arch of the bridge outbreak of World War I pre- takes Lisbon’s Vasco da Gama garita Simonyan, wrote on demned by Kiev and the West as reliance on sea transport. that is 35 metres high in the vented it going ahead. Bridge as the longest in Europe. Twitter that “Kiev decided to an illegal land grab but The four-lane road bridge is deepest part of the strait. It is also Another unsuccessful Built at a cost of $3.7bn, the take revenge on us for the applauded in Russia. opening ahead of schedule as it designed to withstand ice floes attempt was made in the 1930s new structure connects the Crimean Bridge,” after the raids The peninsula has been hard was due to be completed in in winter.

Albania arrests Italian parties struggle to 17 suspects in reach coalition pact fake visa scheme REUTERS numbers and our ambitions,” AP said Claudio Borghi, the ROME: Italy’s anti-estab- League’s economics chief, who TIRANA: Albanian police lishment 5-Star Movement and has taken part in the negotia- report that 17 suspects have far-right League faced stark tions with 5-Star. been arrested for allegedly differences over both policies However, three sources being part of an international and personalities yesterday as within 5-Star, which was crime ring that issues fake they held a sixth day of talks to founded in 2009 and has no identity documents to help create a coalition government. experience of national gov- people enter United States, More than 10 weeks after ernment, said the main stum- Canada and Britain illegally. inconclusive elections, the two bling point remained who A national police political rivals had been should head the statement published yes- expected to tell President Sergio administration. terday said authorities raided Mattarella that they had a gov- League leader Matteo four workshops in Albania ernment deal and to reveal the Salvini and 5-Star chief Luigi where counterfeit visas, pass- identity of their pick for prime Di Maio have both agreed to ports and documents from minister. drop their own ambitions to be European Union countries Instead, they asked for prime minister and are looking The exterior view of the building that houses the Open Society Foundations run by US-Hungarian were produced. more time to hammer out an for a candidate from outside billionaire George Soros, in Budapest, yesterday. Police also seized cash accord, which is expected to their parties to head the gov- and said that the people include promises of tax cuts, ernment and enact their detained were paid at least increased welfare handouts and programme. $24,000. Hungary tightens grip on NGOs a roll back of an unpopular In a meeting with Mattarella Seven workshops also pension reform — measures on Monday, 5-Star proposed REUTERS were found in Greece. where Orban’s right-wing “regrettable” and that that could run foul of European little-known law professor Albanian citizens are Fidesz party last month was re- “democracy suffers” when budget rules. Giuseppe Conte. The League allowed to travel to European BUDAPEST: Billionaire George elected with a big majority. organisations like the OSF felt “Where there is a bit of dis- has not yet given its go-ahead Union member countries Soros’s pro-democracy foun- OSF said it would continue threatened and unable to work. agreement is whether we and a source in the president’s without visas, but require dation said yesterday it would to support civil society groups Frans Timmermans has should be more or less office said it appeared his can- visas to go to the US, Canada shut its office in Budapest and in Hungary, but beneficiaries of been leading a push by the EU aggressive over the economic didacy was provisional. and Britain. move to Berlin, leaving what it its grants such as the Hungarian executive to defend the rule of Police said 41 suspects in called “an increasingly Helsinki Committee expressed law in Hungary and also in Albania, Greece and other repressive political and legal concern that they too might Poland, by far the biggest of the countries have been arrested environment” in Hungary. come under heavier political EU’s ex-communist states. since an investigation of the Prime Minister Viktor Orban and legal pressure. Warsaw faces possible Swedish opera singer wins document crime ring started has repeatedly accused Soros “The government of moves to suspend its mem- two years ago. and his Open Society Founda- Hungary has denigrated and bership rights. Brussels is pur- Birgit Nilsson Prize 2018 In the year 2016, the UK tions (OSF) of encouraging misrepresented our work and suing legal action against AFP government brought in new migration into Europe and of repressed civil society for the Budapest over laws aimed at legislation to oust people who undermining Hungary’s national sake of political gain, using curbing foreign funding for gain entry into Britain culture, charges the Budapest- tactics unprecedented in the Soros-backed institutions. STOCKHOLM: Swedish illegally. born philanthropist denies. history of the European Union,” On Monday, Orban’s cabinet opera singer Nina Stemme Regulation now dictates Orban’s critics said the OSF’s OSF president Patrick Gaspard minister Antal Rogan said the (pictured) has won the those who are caught can be departure would mark a mile- said in a statement. government would further one-million dollar prize banned from returning to stone in a slide towards what In Brussels, the deputy head tighten restrictions on non-gov- awarded in memory of the the United Kingdom for 10 they see as authoritarian rule in of the European Commission ernmental organisations in its Nordic nation’s legendary years. Hungary, an EU member state, said the OSF move was planned “Stop Soros” bill. soprano Birgit Nilsson, the jury said yesterday. The prize, one of the largest in the world of clas- sical music, is given every Slovakian president rules out re-election bid three or four years to rec- ognise the achievements of an active artiste in the field. REUTERS Kiska pressured long-serving Slovaks have continued to and top politicians. Stemme was honoured “for her interpretations of the dramatic prime minister Robert Fico and hold regular protests at which A former businessman and soprano repertoire with her respect for the composer’s intentions, BRATISLAVA: Slovakia’s Pres- his cabinet to resign, earning him thousands gather to call for a philanthropist with no prior her tireless dedication to the dramatic soprano repertoire, and for ident Andrej Kiska said enemies among the supporters crackdown on corruption and political experience, Kiska has being a great Wagnerian soprano of today,” the jury said in a statement. yesterday he would not seek a of Slovakia’s ruling Smer party, Kiska has clashed with the new been a staunchly pro-western The Birgit Nilsson Prize was founded by the singer herself second term in a presidential which Fico still leads. government formed by the same voice in Slovak politics and has before she died in 2005 aged 87 with hopes of inspiring young election in 2019 because of the “I became involved in three-party coalition after Fico often clashed with Fico’s Smer, artistes to reach their full potential. “burden” posed by his political conflicts that I saw as and his cabinet resigned. which has ruled the euro zone One of the greatest Wagnerian sopranos of the twentieth involvement in political crisis important in forming the spirit In April, he refused to member state for most of the century, Nilsson, the daughter of a Swedish farmer, made her which erupted after the murder of our country... Some of my appoint the government’s first past decade. breakthrough at Milan’s legendary La Scala as the cold Princess of an investigative journalist. decisions left negative emotions nomination for interior minister As president, Kiska has less Turandot in 1958. Jan Kuciak had been covering in part of the society,” Kiska said. and reluctantly appointed the day-to-day executive power “It is a great honour to be recognised for my work, but it is high-level corruption when he “It will be better if people second candidate, calling it a than the prime minister but the even greater to be recognised in my home country by a world- and his fiancee were killed in Feb- chose a president who will not “wasted opportunity to restore post carries political weight with renowned organisation that bears the name and carries the legacy ruary. Their deaths, as yet carry the burden of conflicts I’ve public trust” in light of alleged the public. He is still the most of a legend... my idol Birgit Nilsson,” Stemme, who is the fourth to unsolved, raised public anger. been carrying,” he said. links between criminal networks trusted Slovak politician. win the prize, said in a statement. WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 AMERICAS 17 Court to weigh Trump’s decision to end DACA

AP brought to the US illegally as recipients and their families, the argument that DACA was illegal took the unusual step of trying children or came with families employers who hire them, for when it was enacted, but that’s to sidestep the appeals court and SAN FRANCISCO: The Trump that overstayed visas. our tax treasuries, and for our just wrong,” Jeff Davidson, an have the California DACA cases The Trump administration will try to A federal judge in San Fran- economy,” the judge said. attorney representing UC heard directly by the Supreme convince a US appeals court cisco in January blocked the The Trump administration regents, said on a recent con- Court. administration wants Tuesday that it was justified in Trump administration’s decision said it was forced to act because ference call with reporters. The high court in February the 9th Circuit to ending an Obama-era immi- to end DACA, reinstating the Texas and other states Federal judges in New York declined to do so. throw out Alsup’s gration policy that shielded program in a decision that threatened to sue, raising the and Washington, DC, also have The 9th Circuit has ruled hundreds of thousands of young applied nationwide. prospect of a chaotic end to the ruled against the Trump admin- against Trump’s travel bans and ruling along with immigrants from deportation. US rejected the argument programme. istration on DACA. The 2nd US is also considering the president’s the five lawsuits he The 9th US Circuit Court of that President Barack Obama It wants the 9th Circuit to Circuit Court of Appeals is executive order to cut off funding considered, including Appeals will be the first federal exceeded his power in imple- throw out Alsup’s ruling along expected to hear arguments this from so-called sanctuary cities one by the state of appeals court to hear arguments menting DACA and said the with the five lawsuits he con- summer on an appeal of the New that limit cooperation with about President Donald Trump’s Trump administration failed to sidered, including one by the York judge’s ruling. federal immigration authorities. California and another decision to phase out the consider the disruption that state of California and another The DACA decision appears Trump has said he has con- by the University of Deferred Action for Childhood ending the program would by the University of California’s likely to end up before the US sidered breaking up the court, California’s governing Arrivals program. cause. governing body. Supreme Court eventually. which is widely considered the body. DACA has protected some “This has become an “The rescission of DACA is The administration has been most liberal of the US appeals 700,000 people who were important programme for DACA based on what appears to be an critical of the 9th Circuit and courts.

Democrats seek counter Mother arrested, child found safe to Trump’s message after Tulsa stabbing AP Sens. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, AP Cory Booker of New Jersey and WASHINGTON: Grappling with Elizabeth Warren of Massachu- the realities of President Donald setts. Also speaking: former TULSA: Tulsa police Trump’s reign, Democrats are Housing Secretary Julian Castro yesterday arrested a woman trying to offer a counterweight and current New York City who they said bound and to the president’s message - Mayor Bill de Blasio. gagged her three daughters, without making it all about In the lead-up to the 2018 stabbed the eldest repeatedly Trump. midterm elections, Democrats and set their house on fire. An annual conference have pointed to growing activism Police said a patrol officer organised by a prominent Dem- since Trump’s election, from the found 39-year-old Taheerah ocratic think-tank yesterday women’s march after his inau- Ahmad around midday in a included an early glimpse at guration to a student movement vehicle in downtown Tulsa. some of the Democrats plotting in support of gun control Ahmad was taken into a challenge to Trump in 2020. measures following the deadly custody and her 7-year-old But it also laid bare some of the school shooting in Parkland, daughter who had been challenges Democrats face in Florida. And they have captured reported missing was found opposing a president whose special election victories in safe, police said. presence has been all-con- Alabama, electing Democratic Tulsa Police Officer suming and in developing an Sen. Doug Jones, and in western Jeanne MacKenzie said earlier alternative agenda to reach Pennsylvania, helping Democrat US President Donald Trump arrives at the US Capitol, in Washington, DC, yesterday. that the 7-year-old girl helped voters who turned to Trump in Conor Lamb overcome millions her 9-year-old sister escape 2016. in Republican expenditures in a But the party is still dealing secretary under Obama and the Trump, meanwhile, successfully on Monday night, and the “What they want to hear GOP-leaning district. with tensions on how far it former San Antonio mayor, said distilled his message into his 9-year-old ran to a nearby about is the economy and their Democrats are hoping for a should move to embrace more the party needed a “new blue- slogan, “Make America Great house for help. plans for it. They don’t want to “blue wave” in the midterms to liberal policies on the economy print” that would make universal Again,” and narrowly defeated MacKenzie told the Tulsa hear about Donald Trump every recapture one or both chambers and health care in response to prekindergarten a reality, Clinton in Midwestern states like World that when authorities single minute,” Sen Amy in Congress, which they have Trump. provide free college for at least Michigan and Wisconsin that had arrived, they found an Klobuchar, D-Minn, said at the said would serve as a precursor “It is so important that we set the first two years and protect been safe Democratic territory. 11-year-old girl with so many Center for American Progress’ to ousting Trump from office. big goals and we not be afraid of hundreds of thousands of young Sen Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, stab wounds that emergency Ideas Conference. “We resist, but “The reason why we don’t that,” said de Blasio, who immigrants from deportation. noted that Trump claimed responders “couldn’t even we also insist on a better way have Trumpcare today,” said Gil- announced plans for the New One of the critiques of Hillary victory in his home state, a per- count them.” forward.” librand, referring to the presi- York Police Department to Clinton’s 2016 Democratic pres- ennial presidential battleground, The house was on fire, The lineup at the daylong dent’s failed attempt to overhaul “overhaul and reform” policies idential campaign was that it by nearly 9 percentage points in and Ahmad and the youngest conference featured appear- the “Obamacare” system, “is related to marijuana failed to present a coherent 2016, saying the president won girl were missing. ances by several potential 2020 because the grassroots stood up, enforcement in the next month. argument on what the party in “communities he had no candidates, including Klobuchar, stood tall and said, ‘No.’” Castro, the former HUD would stand for under her watch. business winning.” $15.6m worth of cocaine seized Call to join green energy efforts Melania Trump to stay in Puerto Rico AP AFP in hospital for few days Schwarzenegger’s R20 climate that’s really what you want, then AP NGO and has brought together join us because then you will The White House did not SAN JUAN: Authorities in VIENNA: Former California business and political leaders, have a lot of victories,” offer any additional details on Puerto Rico said they found Governor Arnold including UN Secretary General Schwarzenegger went on. WASHINGTON: First Lady Mrs Trump’s condition, though cocaine worth an estimated Schwarzenegger urged US Pres- Antonio Guterres, as well as Schwarzenegger called for Melania Trump was expected Vice-President Mike Pence $15.6m on a fishing boat off ident Donald Trump to join climate change experts and drastic action on pollution, to remain hospitalised for the described the procedure as the southwestern coast of the action to support renewable activists. saying it killed nine million rest of the week following a “long planned” as he opened a US island territory. energy, at a summit on climate In June 2017, Trump people every year. “long-planned” procedure to speech at an event celebrating US Border Patrol and change in the Austrian capital withdrew from the global Paris He pointed to the impor- treat a benign kidney condition, Israel’s independence. “Melania Puerto Rican police searched Vienna yesterday. Climate Agreement aimed at tance of promoting renewable White House officials said. is already on the mend.” the boat after stopping it off “To those of you who resist capping global warming at “well energy, praising countries and Mrs Trump, 48, had an In the Senate, Minority the town of Cabo Rojo. because you can’t imagine under” two degrees Celsius, and businesses which had already embolisation procedure on Leader Chuck Schumer, D-NY, On board they found success without fossil fuels, we his administration has made made strides in this direction. Monday morning at Walter sent well wishes for “a speedy more than 601 kilograms of ask you to join us, every one, efforts to boost fossil fuel Earlier, Austrian Chancellor Reed National Military Medical recovery to the first lady.” cocaine. also you President Trump — join technologies. Sebastian Kurz addressed the Center outside Washington, her She was last seen in public The Border Patrol said in us,” said Schwarzenegger, “You said when you become summit, but was interrupted by staff said. President Donald on Wednesday at a White a statement that authorities prompting applause from the president you want to have so a protester who took to the stage Trump visited her yesterday House event where she and the arrested two men from the audience gathered for the Aus- many victories, that the to highlight what she called the and tweeted that the procedure president honoured military Dominican Republic who trian World Summit. American people would get sick Austrian government’s “empty was “successful” and that his mothers and spouses for were on board the 28-foot The summit is organised by and tired of winning. Well if words” on climate change. wife was in “good spirits.” Mother’s Day. boat.

Haspel regrets CIA’s harsh interrogation

AP senior Agency leader, the Senate voting. Trump has said enhanced interrogation the country should consider WASHINGTON: Amid an inten- program is not one the CIA using the so-called enhanced sifying public debate on torture, should have undertaken.” interrogation techniques. And President Donald Trump’s pick Haspel said she would Former Vice-President Dick to head the CIA yesterday said “refuse to undertake any pro- Cheney, who was integral to the the harsh interrogation posed activity that is contrary to post-September 11, 2001 programme the agency ran at my moral and ethical values.” strategy, said last week if it were black sites after the September Haspel’s letter was up to him, “I’d do it again.” 11 attacks should not have been requested by Sen Mark Warner, Haspel testified at a Senate undertaken. D-Va., who is among key Dem- hearing that torture does not Gina Haspel’s letter to the ocrats whose votes will be work as an interrogation tech- top Democrat on the Senate crucial in the narrowly divided nique and that as director her Intelligence Committee GOP Senate, especially after strong “moral compass” would appeared aimed at shoring up Republican Sen John McCain of ensure she did not carry out any support for her Senate Arizona urged colleagues to administrative directive she confirmation. reject the nominee over her past found objectionable. “I have learned the hard role in CIA interrogations. After the hearing, McCain, lessons since 9/11,” Haspel McCain’s comments sparked who is battling brain cancer home Arnold Schwarzenegger arrives for the opening ceremony of the R20 Austrian World Summit at wrote. “With the benefit of hind- a fresh debate over now-banned in Arizona, called Haspel a patriot Hofburg, Vienna, Austria, yesterday. sight and my experience as a torture techniques ahead of for her long service to the CIA 18 AMERICAS WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 Maduro vows economic reforms before elections

Regional neighbours call on

Nicolas Maduro is Venezuela to cancel votes expected to win AP due to a boycott by the mainstream MEXICO CITY: A dozen countries from the Americas and Spain opposition, loyalists’ are urging the Venezuelan government to cancel the presidential election scheduled for May 20. control of key The Lima Group of nations says the election was not legiti- institutions, and the mately called by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, will not vote-winning power of have international observers and won’t be free, just, transparent and democratic. state handouts. Monday’s statement followed an April 14 meeting of the coun- tries’ foreign and economic ministers in Peru to discuss the political REUTERS and economic crisis in Venezuela. The group’s latest meeting Monday in Mexico City focused on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro dancing during a campaign rally, in Charallave, about 65km CARACAS: Widely blamed for what actions the countries could take after the election. from Caracas, yesterday. Venezuela’s unprecedented Mexican Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray expressed concern economic crisis, President about the thousands of Venezuelans fleeing their homeland and Maduro’s pledges ring hollow Recent arrests of top executives Henri Falcon, is proposing dol- Nicolas Maduro vowed yesterday the public health problems they are bringing to destination coun- to many Venezuelans who blame at the country’s main private larizing the economy, reversing to make “great changes” in the tries such as Mexico. him for salary-destroying hyper- bank, Banesco, and two botched nationalizations, and OPEC nation reeling from hyper- inflation, food shortages, the employees at US oil major opening Venezuela to immediate inflation and shortages if make even minor reforms to the a boycott by the mainstream return of once-controlled dis- Chevron, have spooked the emergency foreign aid. re-elected this weekend. creaking state-led economy such opposition, loyalists’ control of key eases and mass emigration. business sector. “Which would you prefer to The 55-year-old leftist, as overhauling dysfunctional institutions, and the vote-winning The president blames a “With little appetite to have — two petros or two dollars?” however, gave no specifics about currency and price controls. power of state handouts. US-led “economic war”, unwind the existing forex he asked a crowd in a poor how he would turn around Ven- “Venezuela needs big eco- “If you give me your power including recent sanctions on the framework or otherwise adjust Caracas neighbourhood at a rally. ezuela’s economy, mired in the nomic changes and we are going on May 20, I swear ... to you with financial sector by US President to stem hyperinflation, the gov- He was referring to a new fifth year of a grueling recession to do it ourselves,” Maduro said my life that I will dedicate myself Donald Trump’s administration, ernment has few policy options cryptocurrency project, which under his rule since 2013. at a rally in the bedroom com- to making all the economic for hardships. beyond intervention and scape- Maduro has pitched as crucial to Despite pressure from munity of Charallave, south of changes that Venezuela needs for Some observers expect him goating,” said the Eurasia con- bypassing US sanctions on the political opponents and angst Caracas, prior to Sunday’s poll. rebirth,” added Maduro, who to take a harder line against sultancy in a recent report. South American country. among millions of Venezuelans, Though personally unpopular, danced and sang under the Car- companies after he is re-elected, Maduro’s main rival in Sun- “Dollars!” Falcon’s sup- Maduro has largely refused to Maduro is expected to win due to ibbean sun. likely exacerbating the crisis. day’s vote, former state Governor porters roared back.

Mexican journalist gunned down in Seven governors back Trump for Nobel Peace Prize AP Pyongyang, has succeeded in adding their name to a list. in next month’s five-way South two countries due to the ongoing southern Tabasco opening new avenues of coop- Governors are not listed Carolina GOP primary. The pres- military exercises between the COLUMBIA: South Carolina Gov eration, friendship and unity among those who can officially ident appeared at an October US and South Korea. AFP Henry McMaster and a group of between the two Koreas — and make Nobel nominations, fundraiser, and McMaster has The meeting planned for fellow governors are backing the rest of the world.” according to the organisation’s featured footage from that event today at a border truce village to MEXICO CITY: A Mexican President Donald Trump’s nomi- The letter follows one from website . prominently in his television ads. discuss setting up military and journalist was murdered nation for the Nobel Peace Prize, 18 US House Republicans, who McMaster was an early Other signatories to the gov- Red Cross talks aimed at yesterday in the southern citing what they called Trump’s earlier this month formally nom- Trump supporter in the 2016 ernors’ letter include Guam Gov reducing border tension and state of Tabasco, the governor “transformative efforts to bring inated Trump for the award amid presidential campaign, formally Eddie Baza Calvo; Mississippi restarting reunions between said, as the country mourned peace to the Korean peninsula.” preparations for a historic backing him ahead of South Gov Phil Bryant; Kansas Gov Jeff families separated by the Korean acclaimed reporter and writer In a letter this week to Nor- summit with North Korea’s Kim Carolina’s first-in-the-South Colyer; Alabama Gov Kay Ivey; War. Javier Valdez on the first wegian Nobel Committee Jong-Un. primary. Then the state’s lieu- West Virginia Gov Jim Justice; Yonhap also said North anniversary of his killing. chairman Berit Reiss-Andersen, The National Republican tenant governor, the longtime and Maine Gov Paul LePage. Korea’s Korean Central News Juan Carlos Huerta was McMaster and six fellow gov- Senatorial Committee has also South Carolina politician became The governors’ letter came Agency reported that Pyongyang shot dead as he left his home ernors wrote that Trump’s “firm promoted the idea, sending an governor when Trump picked amid reports from South Korea’s was questioning whether next in city of Villahermosa, said stance against nuclearisation, email encouraging supporters to then-Gov Nikki Haley as his UN Yonhap News Agency that North month’s summit between Kim the state government. coupled with his willingness to “Nominate President Trump to ambassador. Korea was canceling a high-level and Trump could also take place He is at least the fourth engage one-on-one with Win the Nobel Peace Prize” by Trump is backing McMaster meeting planned between the as planned. reporter killed this year in what has become one of the world’s most dangerous countries for the press, according to activists. Lava flow threatens “I deeply regret this latest crime,” said Tabasco gov- ernor Arturo Nunez. “Juan Hawaii exit routes Carlos was a top journalist ... REUTERS you could also say a friend.” the molten rock traveled east- “Police have blocked all southeast towards the coastal roads out of the city and are PAHOA: Lava flowing from road — Highway 137— the searching for a vehicle appar- giant rips in the earth on the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory ently used in the attack.” flank of Hawaii’s erupting said. Kilauea volcano threatened Mass evacuations would be highways yesterday, raising the triggered if either highway is hit Coney Island possibility officials may order by lava, said Hawaii National thousands more people to Guard spokesman Jeff Hickman. boardwalk gets evacuate before escape routes “There’s a lot of worst-case are cut off. scenarios and roads getting landmark status Lava from a huge new blocked is one of them,” said fissure tore through farmland Hickman, standing on Highway AP towards a coastal dirt road that 137, in the potential path of the is one of the last exit routes for lava flow, some 3km away. NEW YORK: Brooklyn’s some 2,000 residents in the Dozens of homes have been iconic Coney Island southeast area of Hawaii’s Big destroyed since eruptions boardwalk, which has Island. began 10 days ago and officials attracted generations of New More lava-belching cracks have ordered the evacuations US Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen (centre) arrives at the Capitol Hill, in Washington, Yorkers and tourists who are expected to open among of nearly 2,000 residents in the DC, yesterday. come to enjoy the sand, surf homes and countryside some lower Puna district of the Big and amusement park rides, 40km east of Kilauea’s smoking Island, home to around 187,000 was designated a Scenic summit, possibly blocking one people. Landmark as it celebrated its US seeks counter-drone solution of the last exit routes, Highway The American Red Cross 95th birthday yesterday. 132. said 500 people sought refuge REUTERS The designation protects drones, to put our country in private-sector officials are con- Fountains of magma in its shelters on Sunday night the basic footprint of the danger. ISIS has used armed cerned that dangerous or even spouted “lava bombs” more because of worsening volcanic boardwalk, which has WASHINGTON: The head of drones to strike targets in Syria, hostile drones could get too close than 30 metres into the air as activity. undergone numerous the US Homeland Security and we are increasingly con- to places like military bases, air- changes over the years, Department yesterday told cerned that they will try the ports and sports stadiums. mostly in response to its envi- Congress that the agency needs same tactic on our soil,” she said. Nielsen added that DHS has ronment alongside the new legal authority to track A bipartisan group of sen- “also seen drones used to smuggle Atlantic Ocean. Some sections threatening drones and disable ators including committee drugs across our borders and to are now concrete, some are or destroy them if necessary. Chairman Ron Johnson and the conduct surveillance on sensitive wood and still others are Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen committee’s top Democrat, government locations.” recycled plastic, according to told the Senate Homeland Claire McCaskill, said they had Congress said it must give New York City Landmarks Security Committee that DHS introduced legislation to give additional authority to DHS to Preservation Commission needs “clear legal authority to DHS and the Justice Department deal with drones. spokeswoman Zodet Negron. identify, track and mitigate authority to “to protect buildings “It is not enough to just tell The famous waterfront drones that could pose a danger and assets when there is an drone operators not to fly in promenade, now 4.34km to the public and to DHS unacceptable security risk to certain high-risk areas; we must long, opened on May 15, 1923 operations.” public safety posed by an give federal law enforcement People taking photos of a fissure on the outskirts of Pahoa during and was built in three phases “Our enemies are exploring unmanned aircraft.” the authority to act if necessary,” ongoing eruptions of the Kilauea Volcano, in Hawaii, yesterday. between 1922 and 1941. other technologies, too, such as The US Government and Johnson said. WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018 HOME 19 WCM-Q explores healing power of music

THE PENINSULA The event featured any of the above conditions should be routinely referred for DOHA: The potential for music lectures by expert music therapy either as a main therapy approaches to improve speakers who gave a treatment or in addition to the patient health and wellbeing brief history of music standard medical treatment they were explored at a continuing therapy, discussed the are receiving.” The symposium, medical education workshop entitled Music Therapy and held at Weill Cornell Medicine- effect of music on the Healing, was part of WCM-Q’s Qatar (WCM-Q). brain, and described ongoing Lives in Medicine series, The event featured lectures the application which explores interactions by expert speakers who gave a of music therapy between art, medicine and brief history of music therapy, healing. Previous events have discussed the effect of music on interventions in clinical examined medicine and the the brain, and described the practice. visual arts, the medical human- application of music therapy ities, and narrative medicine. interventions in clinical practice. The event also featured Dr Attendees also took part in psychiatry, who discussed music Waseem Kotoub, a professional an interactive workshop to learn therapy in clinical practice. Dr concert pianist, composer and how music therapy can be an Rifai said, “Music therapy is cur- medical doctor. Dr. Kotoub, who effective treatment intervention rently a scientifically approved trained at the Royal Academy of to help clients deal with trauma treatment for the following con- Music in London, has used music and chronic illness, and how ditions: depression with anxiety; therapy with autistic children to playing music or musical instru- Parkinson’s disease to treat gait, aid the development of commu- ments can provide psychological speech and swallowing nication skills. He also estab- relief and an inner resource for problems; schizophrenia to lished what is believed to be the Participants at a continuing medical education workshop at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar. people to positively confront decrease hallucinations, delu- first music therapy centre in the their ongoing illness. sions and apathy, and to improve MENA region. Expert speakers at the event mood, cognition and quality of Dr. Khotoub gave a joint Weber, WCM-Q’s visiting pro- Council for Healthcare Practi- internationally by the Accredi- included, Dr Aicha Hind Rifai, life; and finally for sleep presentation about the history of fessor of English. The event was tioners-Accreditation tation Council for Continuing assistant professor of clinical problems. Patients suffering from music therapy alongside Dr Alan accredited locally by the Qatar Department (QCHP-AD) and Medical Education (ACCME). Indonesian community gears up for 2019 polls TFQ’s campaign: Students THE PENINSULA learn mathematics from

DOHA: The Indonesian community in Qatar is gearing ExxonMobil President up for Indonesian General THE PENINSULA Election to be held in April next appreciation of the true rela- year. tionship between communi- Indonesia is scheduled to DOHA: As part of Teach For cating knowledge and devel- hold presidential, legislative Qatar’s (TFQ) ‘Be A Teacher’ oping the learning experience, and simultaneous regional campaign, Alistair Routledge, but the real challenge is in elections in April 2019. This will President and General getting the message across to be the first elections in the Manager for ExxonMobil Qatar, students so that it’s interesting world to elect members of par- taught a group of secondary and understandable — and to liament and president school students mathematics do that, you need the right simultaneously. at Qatar Academy. skills and knowledge,” said To serve Indonesians living ‘Be A Teacher’ is a national Routledge. abroad, The Central General campaign launched by Teach This is why we see great Elections Commission in For Qatar that provides leading value at ExxonMobil Qatar in Jakarta is now working public figures and decision ensuring that teachers in together with Indonesian mis- makers with the opportunity schools are well trained. If sions around the world to to teach in Qatar’s private and we’re going to equip students engage Indonesian community public schools. with the skills needed to abroad as members of Overseas TFQ filmed the partici- succeed in the 21st Century Indonesian Ambassador to Qatar, Muhammad Basri Sidehabi (fourth right), with his family, embassy Election Committee. pant’s experiences through who can help build sustainable staff, Chairperson of Overseas Election Committee Doha and members of Committee for Voters In Qatar, the Indonesian hidden cameras to provide the societies, we must invest in our elections will be held on April Registration for the 2019 General Election, pose during an election activity. audience with a glimpse of the teachers and education 12, 2019. Voting ballots are difficulty of the teaching pro- systems today,” added planned to be located in Doha, In Qatar, the elections ulating the voting result. and companies in Qatar could fession. As a key local and Routledge. Al Khor, Dukhan, and will be held on April In carrying out its duties, positively support election inspirational figure that has a Nasser Yousef Al Jaber, . 12, 2019. Voting OEC Doha will be assisted by committee members of the strong personal interest in edu- Chief Executive Officer of To promote the success of Committee for Voters Regis- Republic of Indonesia to do cation, Routledge was invited Teach for Qatar, said, “The ‘Be the quinquennial event, the ballots are planned tration (Panitia Pendaftaran- their duty for the successful to take part in the campaign, A Teacher’ campaign provides Indonesian Embassy in Doha to be located in Doha, Pemilih/Pantarlih). Pantarlih is event of Indonesian General and was one of the first indi- wonderful opportunities for is actively supporting Overseas Al Khor, Dukhan, responsible for reaching out to Election. It is our hope that viduals to agree to participate students to talk and interact Election Committee in Qatar in and Mesaieed. The as many Indonesians living in when the time of the election and teach a secondary school freely with the presidents of carrying out their duties. Qatar as possible to make a list comes, the sponsors and com- advanced math class at Qatar major businesses, well-known In March this year, Indo- Indonesian Embassy of Indonesian citizens of legal panies here in Qatar will allow Academy. scientists and policymakers, nesian Ambassador to Qatar, in Doha is actively voting age (17 years old and the Indonesian citizens to fulfill Speaking about his expe- and other leaders from the Muhammad Basri Sidehabi wit- supporting Overseas above) as prospective voters. their civic duty to vote.” rience, Routledge, said, “The local community. It is such a nessed the oath-taking and The Indonesian Embassy in The tasks will include a lot lesson I taught has been one of great way to impart inauguration of the members Election Committee in Doha wishes that the relevant of activities of registering the most rewarding and mean- knowledge, and really make a of Overseas Election Com- Qatar in carrying out parties in Qatar could support people as well as data updating ingful things I’ve ever done - difference in the lives of stu- mittee (OEC) for the 2019 their duties. the embassy’s effort to promote and matching through social I’m honoured and grateful that dents. We’re very pleased to be General Election and its the success of the important media, website, or direct I was chosen to support this part of Teach For Qatar’s work secretariat. of Overseas Voters, establishing event. meeting, and information dis- effort.” and to share their goal of Their tasks include the Definitive Register of As the Ambassador said, semination to the Indonesian “Teaching as we know it is helping young people build announcing the Draft Register Overseas Voters, and recapit- “We really hope that sponsors community in Qatar. grounded in a very deep their future careers.” Qatari wins ‘Study UK Alumni Awards’

THE PENINSULA Following her Masters in In the 2014 Maryam Al Subaiey, the UK, Maryam was the only Enterprise Qatar alumna of the School of Ori- DOHA: Maryam Al Subaiey woman on the management ental and African Studies from Qatar has won the team for the new channel competition, Maryam (SOAS) and the University of Professional Achievement QTV, as well as the youngest. won first place in the Essex. Award in Middle East and In the 2014 Enterprise professional category British Ambassador to North Africa under Study UK Qatar competition, Maryam with her start-up Qatar, Ajay Sharma, said: “I Alumni Awards. won first place in the profes- would like to congratulate The British Council sional category with her start- Q-Talent. Following Maryam on winning this announced the names of 21 up Q-Talent, a talent agency her Masters in the Alumni award, and am regional winners of the Study that promotes local talent in UK, Maryam was the delighted that the Professional UK Alumni Awards. All are the creative industry. only woman on the Achievement award for the alumni of UK universities, The idea came to her while whole MENA region went to representing 17 countries and she was doing her Masters in management team someone from Qatar. This is 18 UK higher education Development Studies, com- for the new channel a great example of the part- institutions. bining her interest in human QTV, as well as the nership between our two They have been recog- development and the creative youngest. countries in the field of edu- nised for their outstanding industries to make a business. cation, and of the importance achievements as business pro- Maryam is also the founder of we attach to the education of fessionals, entrepreneurs and two youth initiatives that way of life and empowered tomorrow’s leaders.” community leaders, in seven support young Qataris, and me to be true to myself. The British Council in regions covering the globe. the author of several chil- My personal journey of Qatar has an established The Professional Achievement dren’s books. self-empowerment has also network for Qatar-UK Alumni Award in Middle East and Studying in the UK was not inspired many young girls in with the aim of building long- North Africa was awarded to only useful in terms of having Qatar who are afraid to take lasting connections and devel- Maryam Al Subaiey from Qatar who won the Professional Achievement Maryam Al Subaiey from great academic qualifications, bold steps to achieve their opment opportunities Award in Middle East and North Africa under Study UK Alumni Awards. Qatar. but it showed me a different dreams. between the two countries. 20 HOME WEDNESDAY 16 MAY 2018

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR 03. 24 AM Preparations for Ramadan in full swing SHOROOK 04. 49 AM AMNA PERVAIZ RAO ZUHR 11. 30 AM MAGHRIB 06. 15 PM THE PENINSULA ASR 02. 57 PM ISHA 07. 45 PM

DOHA: Amid massive preparations WEATHER TODAY across the country to welcome the holy month of Ramadan which will start from tomorrow, hotels offered tradi- tional dishes of Qatar and various other Arab, Asian and European countries. The offers aim at attracting cus- tomers by making them feel at home during this month long spiritual event. Several malls are also offering amazing packages on Ramadan special items such as, lanterns and decoration items with payers engraved on them. Several hotels have set up separate Ramadan tents at their permises offering suhoor and iftar meals, The Peninsula noted. W Doha Hotel & Residences’ ‘Great Room’ has been turned into the exquisite Sultan’s Tent, providing guests a majestic venue to break their fast. The tent will also house up to 10 live stations featuring Japanese, Italian, Indian, Arabic, Turkish, Asian and a host of other cuisines, infusing the ambience with freshly-cooked flavours — from savoury to decadently sweet. The hotel will With the Holy month of Ramadan beginning tomorrow, shops and supermarkets in Doha have stocked up Ramadan o o charge QR230 per person for Iftar, lanterns and foodstuff to cater to the needs of all nationalities. Some supermarkets are offering Ramadan promotions 28 C 36 C QR285 per person for Suhoor. in order to attract customers. PICS: SALIM MATRAMKOT / THE PENINSULA Minimum Maximum The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa will provide a wide array of International, The Torch Doha will serve, Iftar in Ramadan beverage and Suhoor: Serves butter and ground cinnamon. Another Relatively hot daytime and slight dust Turkish and Qatari dishes along with an ‘Arabian Nights’ buffet sytem in traditional dishes, hot and cold mezze essential item on the menu during with scattered clouds to partly cloudy with an eclectic assortment of desserts all Flying Carpet featuring an abundant and signature Arabic desserts QR160, Ramadan is Ath-Thareed, which con- chance of light rain at places. carefully crafted by a dedicated team spread of Arabic delicacies, live including Ramadan beverages. sists of tiny pieces of bread with gravy

HIGH TIDE 04:45 – 18:45 LOW TIDE 11:00 **** of Turkish chefs. Iftar and Suhoor will cooking stations and signature Arabic Embrace the spirit of Ramadan at poured over it. In addition to Al-Harees Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department cost equally QR195 per person. desserts at QR190, including special The St. Regis Doha’s very own Cor- and Ath-Thareed, Al-Majboos is also niche Tent. A unique food experience considered one of the most popular accompanied by live band enter- traditional dishes, which is always tainment at the price of QR230 per found on the tables during Ramadan. person (Iftar), QR290 (Suhoor). There are many types of Qatari The Ritz-Carlton, Doha this sweets served during Ramadan. They Ramadan formed a grand setting of include Al-Muhallabiyyah, which con- the Ramadan Tent in Al Wosail sists of rice and milk topped with saffron Ballroom. Offers Iftar and Suhoor and cardamom. They also eat Al-Mad- priced at QR220 per person, inclusive hroobah and Al-Luqaymaat (sweet of Ramadan juices buffet and water dumplings), which is similar to Luq- service. 50% savings for kids aged matul-Qaadhi or Al-’Awwaamah. 6—12 years, complimentary for kids Immediately after the Taraaweeh aged 5 and under. prayer, the men meet together for the Among the most famous dishes midnight meal called Al-Ghibqah during that locals eat is Al-Harees, which is which special dishes are served. Al- an essential food item on their table Mehammar, a dish of fried fish and rice during Ramadan. It consists of mashed cooked with sugar, is popular in addition wheat mixed with meat, clarified to Al-Hareesah and Al-Madhroobah.