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Tuesday 11 December 2018 | 4 Rabia II 1440 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 23 | Number 7737 | 2 Riyals

Amir launches Doha Historical Dictionary of Arabic

Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani launching the web portal of the Doha Historical Dictionary of Arabic. RIGHT: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, Speaker of the Shura Council, H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, and other dignitaries during the launch ceremony.

QNA Graduate Studies. number of university professors, and information about its web DOHA The ceremony was attended experts and linguists from Arab portal. by Prime Minister and Interior countries. The Director-General of the Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin At the beginning of the cer- Arab Center for Research and Hamad Al Thani launched the Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, emony, verses from the Holy Policy Studies and a number of "Today, I took part in the launch of the Doha Historical Dictionary for web portal of the Doha Speaker of the Shura Council, Quran were recited followed by members of the Scientific Arabic Language, which is the first of its kind in the history of the Historical Dictionary of Arabic H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin a number of films about the Council of the Dictionary gave Arabs and Arabic language. The dictionary is a historical milestone during a ceremony organised Zaid Al Mahmoud and a number importance of the Doha His- speeches on this occasion, in as it indicates the history of the development of words in Arabic yesterday morning by the Arab of Their Excellencies the Min- torical Dictionary of Arabic, the which they explained the his- language. I congratulate those in charge of this dictionary, speakers Center for Research and Policy isters, senior officials, academics stages of its development, the torical and linguistic value of this of Arabic Language, for this great and important achievement”. Studies of the Doha Institute for and intellectuals, as well as a characteristics of the first stage dictionary. `P2

World’s biggest football Amir to patronise launch of Qatar applies for ICAO’s Reservoirs Project today model to be unveiled QNA Council membership DOHA SIDI MOHAMED THE PENINSULA Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al SANAULLAH ATAULLAH National Convention Center the aviation industry. It also Thani will patronise today the launch In an attempt to set a Guinness World Record, the Police THE PENINSULA (QNCC). gives the chance to global ceremony of Water Security Mega College will make the biggest football model symbolising He said that one of the prom- experts to highlight the best Reservoirs Project held by the Qatar the hosting of 2022 World Cup in the country. Minister of Transport and inent developments in the avi- training practices to develop General Electricity and Water Corpo- It is part of the Police College participation in the events Communications H E Jassim bin ation industry is Hamad Inter- aviation training as it is an ration at the pumping stations in the of Darb Al Saai in celebrations of the Qatar National Day 2018. Saif Al Sulaiti announced national Airport (HIA) which has important element for growth. Umm Salal Ali area. This project which More than 4,000 people including citizens and residents of yesterday Qatar has applied for become one of the best airports The Minister said Qatar will is strategic for the State of Qatar’s water different ages will join this initiative of fixing 33,500 coloured the membership of ICAO’s in the world in terms of compe- not hesitate to provide the security is considered one of the largest wooden pieces. These pieces would be put together in the Council which is elected by the tence, service and comfort for required support to ICAO, Inter- of its kind in the world. The cornerstone shape of a huge football which will be unveiled on the last Assembly every three years and passengers. “In addition, Qatar national Air Transport Association of the project was laid in May 2015. day of National Day celebrations. consists of 36 members elected Airways (QA) took the lead and (IATA), Airport Council Interna- This was announced yesterday in a press conference held in three groups. The Council is won numerous international tional (ACI) and other interna- Amir holds phone call at the Officers’ Club of the General Directorate of Civil Defence. a permanent body of the Organ- awards,” said the Minister. tional organizations to help the Major Fahad Saeed Al Subaie, Director of Training isation responsible to the “Qatar Aeronautical College countries apply global standards with Kuwait Amir Department said that: “One of the highlights of the event is Assembly. He said that the (QAC), which is hosting the sym- especially in civil aviation and the the college’s attempt to break the Guinness Book of World meeting of the Council is posium has exerted great efforts recommended practiced QNA Records by creating a football model that symbolises the 2022 scheduled to be held next year. to reach its deserved position including aviation training. DOHA World Cup in Qatar, with the participation of a large number “Qatar’s civil aviation and through signing many agree- The Minister said the sym- of citizens, residents and school students.” transport sector witnessed a ments, memoranda of under- posium is an important oppor- Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Subaie noted that the events also include pavilions great leap and continuous standing and accreditation with tunity to gather ICAO member Al Thani held yesterday evening a tele- displaying latest techniques used by the Ministry of Interior development in light of the international universities,” said states with training entities and phone conversation with the Amir of in providing security and humanitarian services to the development boom of the the Minister. organizations in order to discuss Kuwait, H H Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad public, in addition to a model of the Police Museum. country under wise-leadership,” H E Al Sulaiti said that by new aspects and partnerships. Al Jaber Al Sabah, during which H H “The College is holding its activities this year under said the Minister while hosting this event, Qatar is able In addition to raising awareness the Amir assured about the well-being the slogan “Qatar brings us together 2022” and there are addressing the opening cer- to contribute to its strategic on the priorities for strength- of H H the Amir of Kuwait, who many surprises that will be offered by the Police College emony of 5th Global Aviation vision towards developing the ening the main capacities of avi- underwent successful regular medical to the public and the students in Darb Al Saai,” Al Subaie Training and TrainAir Plus Sym- human factor, given the partic- ation training in the near and examinations, wishing him good health added. `P3 posium yesterday at Qatar ipation of experts and VIPs from long term. `P3 and well-being.

Qatar's inventor wins at WSA 2018 for Digital Innovation QNA inclusion and empowerment innovations that have a great of Qatar at this global forum. the world in any language and banking DOHA category. impact on improving commu- Qatar is the only Gulf country dialect and has been selected Included with During the ceremony held nities, expressing pride of all the to win an award in the eight cat- among 40 winners out of a total Qatar’s inventor Mohammed Al on Sunday to honour the Qatari projects that have won over the egories of this year. Qatar and of 430 nominations from 182 today’s edition is a Jefairi won the 2018 World inventor, Minister of Transport past years. The Minister congrat- Lebanon and the only two coun- participating countries. special supplement Summit Awards (WSA) for Digital and Communications H E Jassim ulated Mohammed Al Jefairi for tries from all Arab countries that Qatar Airways Group chief Innovation as a representative bin Saif Al Sulaiti said that 2018 winning the 2018 WSA for Digital won an award. executive Akbar Al Baker con- banking SMEs have potential QIIB foresees rapid Commercial to transform Qatar economy: growth in Islamic Bank: A great Dr R Seetharaman `P 02 finance industry `P 05 turnaround story `P 11 of the State of Qatar through his WSA for Digital Innovation is an Innovation award for the Deaf Pedia is an open- gratulated Qatar’s inventor for Special Supplement Tuesday 11 December 2018

CAPITAL COMMENT

Qatar has repeatedly proven its continued economic resilience in the face of complex regional challenges. Banking sector proves its The banking sector in particular has demonstrated project encyclopeedia of sign international standard for hon- inclusion and empowerment source sign language platform winning at 2018 WSA for Digital continued growth, which has led international agencies to upgrade the ratings of Qatari financial institutions - a clear indicator of the strength and resilience: MENA Advisors positive outlook of the sector. Yousuf Mohamed Al-Jaida, Chief Executive Officer, QFC Authority SATISH KANADY strong performance in manufacturing and demand for a range of services in the non- `P2 THE PENINSULA construction. hydrocarbon sector from retail to edu- language “Deaf Pedia” for the ouring the best local digital category and raising the name can be used by any user around Innovation. The banking sector has proven its resil- cation and health. 02 HOME TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018

Amir condoles with Doha Historical Dictionary a milestone Sudan President The executive director Doha: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin of the dictionary Hamad Al Thani sent yesterday a cable of condolences to President confirmed that there of the Republic of Sudan Field is a plan to introduce Marshall Omar Hassan Ahmed Al the dictionary not Bashir on the victims of a helicopter only in the Arab world crash in Al Qadarif state in the East of Sudan, praying to Allah Almighty but also in the West. to bless the deceased with mercy.

QNA DOHA Deputy Amir chairs Arabic language experts QU Board of Regents’ stressed that Qatar’s adoption of the Doha Historical second meeting Dictionary of Arabic provides a great service for the Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin advancement of science in the Hamad Al Thani, who is also Chairman language of the nation. of Qatar University’s Board of Regents, A number of those who chaired the Board’s second meeting for worked on the dictionary the 2018/2019 academic year, at the stressed yesterday that com- Amiri Diwan yesterday. The Board Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani with a number of Their Excellencies the Ministers, senior officials, academics and pleting project, which was first reviewed what has been achieved of intellectuals, as well as a number of university professors, experts and linguists from Arab countries during the launch of the web launched yesterday, is worthy its decisions and recommendations of an unprecedented linguistic portal of the Doha Historical Dictionary of Arabic yesterday. taken in the first meeting for the renaissance. With the dic- 2018/2019 academic year tionary, the Arabic language Bishara stressed that what Academic Council for the Doha years until the year 200 Hijri. Council Dr Ramzi Baalbaki The Board discussed a number of and its texts will be compiled the project achieved in five Historical Dictionary of Arabic He said that the project can be pointed out that the dictionary topics on the agenda and approved into an electronic language years, two of which were for Ali Ahmed Al Kubaisi said that constantly updated, and is kept a balance between the the establishment of the Faculty of code that will be the largest establishing a methodology Doha Dictionary is a qualitative open to all experts and knowledge left by the Dentistry in line with Qatar National ever. and creating a database, is a leap in serving the Arabic lan- researchers to recommend ancestors, and modern human Vision 2030 and Qatar National General Director of the major and unique achievement guage. He added that the Doha amendments. knowledge which witnessed a Health Strategies 2011-2016 and Arab Center for Research and at the Arab and even interna- dictionary was the first suc- Speaking to Qatar News scientific revolution in the field 2018-2022, which recommended the Policy Studies Dr Azmi Bishara, tional levels. In three years, cessful Arab attempt in this Agency (QNA) on the impact of linguistic sciences in general creation of the educational and who is also director-general of 100 thousand dictionary regard, noting that it would the dictionary will have on the and in dictionaries in par- training capacity of dentists in Qatar the project, said in a speech entries covering seven hundred open new horizons for all future of the Arabic language, ticular. He then thanked the to provide a sustainable workforce marking the launch that the years were completed until the researchers and scholars in all Bouchikhi said that the dic- State of Qatar and its lead- in this area. The Board of Regents also dictionary would never have year 200 Hijri. This was despite fields of Arabic language tionary provides an important ership for supporting such an approved a project to develop the been completed if it weren’t for the special nature of the Arab studies and prepares for a repertoire of Arabic words that historic project. Center for Human and Social Sci- the faith in joint Arab work, language. sophisticated Arabic dictionary may have been neglected in Dr Mahmoud Ghanayem ences, which is specialised in devel- solid management, and the He discussed a number of industry. He also stressed that use, forgotten by people, or do told QNA that the launch of the oping and employing scientific Arab experts who worked on previous experiences with his- the support of the State of not know their implications, or dictionary represents a new research projects for researchers at it. He highlighted that other torical dictionaries in other Qatar reflects the commitment even the semantic develop- beginning for the Arabic lan- Qatar University and beyond. similar projects that took place languages, which took a long of its wise leadership to ments that have taken place. guage. He highlighted that in the past had to end before time compared to this project. enhancing the presence of the On the existence of a media there were previous attempts Shura Council approves reaching its desired goal. The Germans took centuries Arab language. plan to introduce the Doha His- in the last century to create a Bishara did also discuss the and two decades to finish 400 Executive Director of the torical Dictionary in the Arab historical dictionary but were decrees on Law Practice successes of the past, beginning years only from the history of dictionary Dr Aze-Eddine world, The executive director not fully completed, as it Act and QFMA with the establishment of the their language. It also took 70 Bouchikhi said for his part that of the dictionary confirmed needed a scientific and sound Arabic language complex in years for the English language any nation exists because of that there is a plan to introduce management staff. He also said The Shura Council held its regular Egypt in 1932 and elsewhere dictionary to produce its first the existence of a historical the dictionary not only in the that the period covered in the weekly session under the chair- in the Arab world, all of which edition. Bishara said that dictionary for its language. Arab world but also in the first phase was the most dif- manship of H E Deputy Speaker of were certainly remarkable adding ‘Doha’ to the name of Bouchikhi pointed out that the West. He also said that the ficult to cover. Dr Abdulghani the Council Mohammed bin Abdullah efforts but have not yet the dictionary was to reflect historical Doha Dictionary of e-portal will allow them to Abo Al Azm also said that the Al Sulaiti. The Council started its reached the milestone of estab- that it is a gift from Doha to the Arabic was unique, as it added gauge the interaction with the project was a leading initiative session by discussing the report of the lishing a historical dictionary entire Arab world. 100 thousand dictionary dictionary as well. by Qatar, and called for efforts Legal and Legislative Affairs Committee of the Arabic language. For his part, member of the entries covering seven hundred Head of the Academic to continue to complete it. on a Decree Law No. 19 of 2018 amending some provisions of Law Practice Act No 23 of 2006. The Council also discussed Decree Law No. 22 of 2018 amending some provisions of Law Malaysian PM praises Qatar’s No. 8 of 2012 regarding Qatar Financial Markets Authority (QFMA). The Shura Council approved the role in fighting corruption said decrees and decided to submit its recommendations thereon to the QNA Anti-Corruption (GIACC) in Malaysian youth to work on esteemed Government. The Shura KUALA LUMPUR cooperation with the Rule of winning the award. He also Council reviewed the reports of a number Law and Anti-Corruption presented the efforts made by of its delegations, which recently partic- The Prime Minister of Malaysia Center (ROLACC). The session Malaysia to face corruption ipated in international and regional par- Dr Mahathir Mohamad praised was attended by UN Special such as establishing the GIACC, liamentary meetings and forums. The the role of Qatar in fighting Advocate against Corruption formulating national policies reports showed the active participation corruption and supporting H E Dr Ali bin Fetais Al Marri. for briberies and setting up of the delegations of the Council in these development issues in world The prime minister expressed private institutions to fight meetings and forums, during which the countries, referring to the his thanks to Qatar and H H the corruptions. views of the Council were raised among Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Amir for the international He highlighted the impor- the topics discussed. UN Special Advocate against Corruption H E Dr Ali bin Fetais Al Thani International Anti- efforts to fight corruption tance of the rule of law saying Marri; Prime Minister of Malaysia Dr Mahathir Mohamad, and Corruption Excellence Award through establishing ROLACC that governments would never Qatar’s inventor which is an initiative by Amir and the Anti-Corruption Excel- prosper without integrity and other officials during the sharing session. H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad lence Award. He also expressed transparency. He said the wins at WSA 2018 Al Thani to support the efforts his pride that Malaysia hosted award is a great incentive for organiser of the award, as well head of Malaysian Anti-Cor- of the UN to fight corruption the awards ceremony. governments, individual initi- as GIACC, the Malaysian ruption Commission Dr Wan for Digital Innovation and encourage those who Dr Mahathir Mohamad reit- atives, academic institutions, Institute of Integrity and the Azizah Wan Ismail launched FROM PAGE 1 contribute to combating it. erated his commitment to sup- press and civil institutions to Malaysian Anti-Corruption the national initiative to fight This came in a sharing porting these efforts globally fight corruption, since it is Commission. corruption and the guidelines session with winners of the and locally. He called on world usually the cause for the After the session, the prime on correct procedures that help He pointed out that Qatar Airways, award, which was organised by countries to join the United downfall of many civilizations. minister along with H E Dr Ali financial institutions prevent as part of its support to Qatari entre- Malaysia’s National Center for Nations Convention against Dr Mahathir Mohamad praised bin Fetais Al Marri and H E corrupt practices in the private preneurs and innovators, will support Governance, Integrity, and Corruption (UNCAC) and for the the ROLACC which is the main Deputy Prime Minister and and public sectors. Al Jefairi and his project. The WSA for Digital Innovation includes eight categories: government and citizen participation, health and welfare, green environment and energy, business and commerce, edu- QND celebrations gain new meaning cation and education, tourism and culture, urbanization and smart soci- QNA come as the country is pro- its development; preserved its inconsideration to neighbors Long As It Was Proven By Our eties, inclusion, and empowerment. DOHA ceeding on the path of devel- sovereignty; safeguarded the and authentic Arab values. Deeds”, which is one of the A local jury was formed by the opment and construction and dignity of its people and made “On this occasion, I reit- poetic verses said by the local expert of the WSA in Qatar and The Speaker of the Shura is proceeding at a great and Qatar a united, cohesive and erate the Shura Council’s Founder Sheikh Jassim bin Assistant Under-Secretary for Digital Council H E Ahmed bin confident pace towards the independent State, feared by keenness on keeping abreast Mohammed bin Thani, and the Society Development Sector at Min- Abdullah bin Zaid Al future, relying on the perspi- enemies, embracing brothers of the rapid pace of economic, accompanying slogan “Qatar ister of Transport and Communications Mahmoud stressed that the cacity of its loyal people and and friends and respectful of political and social devel- Will Remain Free”. Reem Al Mansoori. The jury worked celebration of Qatar National their ability to create and covenants, the right of neigh- opment in the country, In this regard, H E Al on evaluating the work presented by Day (QND) this year is gaining innovate and meet the chal- borhood and upholding through careful and thorough Mahmoud said that the slogan the State of Qatar and selecting one new meaning considering the lenges with determination, values, ethics and examination of the draft laws was in harmony with the candidate for each category of the great achievements made by precision steadfastness, self- principles.” and legislation that are pre- speech of H H the Amir at the award to participate at the global level. the State under the wise lead- confidence, self-determi- He stressed that this great sented to the Council and opening of the current 47th Mohammed Al Jefairi, Qatar’s rep- ership of Amir H H Sheikh nation and support for their legacy was one of the main making appropriate recom- regular session of the Shura resentative, will be honoured at the Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, leader. reasons for our ability to mendations thereon, as well Council, where His Highness 2018 WSA on Digital Innovation, as well as his good guidance His Excellency said: “On overcome the challenges as through close and con- focused on good morals and scheduled for next March in Portugal. and wise internal and external this glorious national experienced by the country, structive cooperation with the the need to adhere to them in In May, Ministry of Communications policies. occasion, we proudly recall most notably this unjust siege, honorable government,” HE all our actions; humility; sense and Communications has invited com- On the occasion of Qatar the achievements and sacri- with everything it embodies Al Mahmoud added. of duty and responsibility and panies, institutions, and individuals in National Day, H E Al Mahmoud fices of the founder Sheikh as blatant violation of inter- HE the Speaker of the appreciation of the value of Qatar to compete for the 2018 WSA for said in remarks to Qatar News Jassim bin Mohammed bin national law, humanitarian Shura Council praised the work, all of which are among Digital Innovation, to identify the qual- Agency (QNA) that the anni- Thani, who laid the founda- norms and Islamic teachings, motto chosen for this year’s the good deeds that the founder ified to represent the State of Qatar at versary of the national day has tions of our modern state and and everything it indicates as National Day celebration, “As pointed out in his poems. the global level. TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 03 Al Thawadi confirms positive PM reviews ties with ICAO Secretary-General role of 2022 FIFA World Cup QNA Middle Eastern country for the event, the SC’s Communications LONDON first time. And like we saw this Director, Fatma Al Nuaimi, dis- summer in Russia, I’m confident cussed digital diplomacy, The Secretary-General of the that through football, people will including Qatar’s approach to Supreme Committee for see our country and region in a sharing information. Delivery and Legacy (SC) Hassan positive light. Negative stereo- “Social media helps us to Al Thawadi discussed sport’s types will be dispelled and - share our messages directly with power to strengthen interna- thanks to football - we will members of the public,” said Al tional ties, increase dialogue and bridge the gap between East and Nuaimi. “Social media also break down social barriers West.” allows us to have two-way con- during a summit at the Hosted by Dr. Corneliu Bjola, versations, which I see as a pos- University of Oxford in the UK. from the University of Oxford, itive when it comes to shaping Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani met here During the ‘Sports and and Dr. Simon Rofe, from SOAS the fan experience in 2022.” yesterday with the Secretary-General of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), Dr Fang Digital Diplomacy: A Vision for University of London, the event Al Nuaimi also discussed the the Future’ summit, which was was attended by academics and recent World Cup in Russia and Liu, and the accompanying delegation on their visit to the country to participate in the 5th ICAO organized by the University of practitioners in the field of sport said there was plenty Qatar Global Aviation Training and TRAINAIR PLUS Symposium, which is being held in Doha. The meeting Oxford, in collaboration with and digital diplomacy, including could learn from the reviewed areas of cooperation between the State of Qatar and ICAO, and discussed a number of SOAS University of London, Al representatives from UNESCO, tournament. topics on the agenda of the symposium. Thawadi said sport had the the UN, Special Olympics UK “Much of the media — and power to positively change peo- and the Red Cross. many fans — had a negative per- ple’s lives. “Our Generation Amazing ception of Russia before the “Nothing brings people program, which harnesses the World Cup,” said Al Nuaimi. “But together — and breaks down power of football to bring people the tournament was a great Qatar applies for ICAO’s Council membership social barriers - like sport,” said together and teach new skills, is success - everyone felt safe and FROM PAGE 1 Al Thawadi. “People’s passion currently active in seven coun- was warmly welcomed by the fifteen years since this data Secretary-General of ICAO at for sport - in particular football tries,” said Al Thawadi. Russian people. We are already Millions of workers in the began being analysed in the mid the ceremony. “Quite - transcends linguistic and soci- “Whether it’s leadership, engaging closely with our industry are playing an 1970s, and air traffic continues remarkably, aviation’s e-com- ocultural differences.” teamwork or communication Russian counterparts, along with important role in developing it to grow robustly today. Last year merce impact grew from 16 to Al Thawadi continued: “In skills, football helps us to our colleagues at FIFA, to see to ensure the safety for safe for example, airlines worldwide 83 percent in just the six years 2022, fans from across the world provide people with the skills how we can build on this pos- operation. “Commercial aviation carried more than 4.1 billion period between 2010 and 2016,” will visit Qatar, with the vast they need to succeed in all areas itive sentiment ahead of our has doubled in flight and pas- passengers on some 37 million she added. majority visiting an Arab and of their lives.” Also, during the own tournament in 2022.” senger volumes once every flights,” said Dr. Fang Liu, QFFD signs agreement World’s biggest football with Birzeit University model to be unveiled FROM PAGE 1 QNA Minister of Foreign Affairs H E undergoes in the college, such DOHA Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdul- as military parade, military rahman Al Thani, Chairman of Captain Rashid Ali Al Tamimi, salute, as well as their self- Qatar Fund for Development QFFD and Chairperson of Birzeit Head of Sports Training Section, defense skills, by specialised (QFFD) signed a cooperation University’s Board of Trustees said that the school students trainers in this field. During the agreement worth $12.5m, with Dr Nasir Hanna and represent- will have opportunity to partic- event, a number of barriers will Birzeit University of Palestine to atives from the fund and ipate in various police and be passed, which will enhance offer financial aids for students university. military training and self- the physical fitness and flexi- and complete the infrastructure The grant offered by QFFD defense activities which are bility of the students. The stu- of the university, over five years. aims to expand the university’s aimed at developing self-confi- dents group will later learn how The agreement was signed capacity and offer student dence and physical fitness. The a security man work, in various by Director General of QFFD financial aids, giving Palestinians main event includes the scenarios, such as raids and Khalifa bin Jassem Al Kuwari the opportunity to complete training for 380 students from crime scene. The Police College and President of Birzeit Uni- their university and higher primary schools in the country. invites the public to visit Dar Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H E Sheikh versity Dr Abdullatif Abuhijleh. studies in universities accredited The participating students Al-Sai and enjoy the special Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Chairman of QFFD, Dr The event was attended by by the fund, part of the Qatar will undergo the basic training events that the college Deputy Prime Minister and scholarships programme. Nasir Hanna, witnessing the signing of the agreement. that the officer candidate organizes for all age groups. 04 HOME TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 Global Aviation Training symposium begins QP and QNB to The opening sponsor Doha Forum ceremony was attended by over THE PENINSULA such events that support local DOHA 800 participants and global development and highlight Qatar’s status as a representing Members Doha Forum announced Qatar global destination for decision- of the TrainAir Plus Petroleum and Qatar National makers, leaders, and senior Programme, industry Bank (QNB) as the official officials from all over the world stakeholders and sponsors of the 18th edition of and as a global mediator for Doha Forum. The annual policy peace and stability.” academic institutions gathering, held under the Lolwah Al Khater, Official with the aim of patronage of the Amir H H Spokesperson for the Ministry providing them with a Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al of Foreign Affairs, stated: “We Thani, is set for December 15th are honoured to have Qatar forum to learn about and 16th at the Sheraton Grand Petroleum and QNB - two new programme Doha Resort & Convention champions of Qatar’s features and benefits. Minister of Transport and Communications, H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti with Dr. Fang Liu, Hotel. economy - on board as Doha Secretary- General of ICAO; Akbar Al Baker, Group CEO, Qatar Airways and other officials on the The Minister of State for Forum’s official sponsors. As opening of ICAO 5th Global Aviation Training and TrainAir Plus Symposium 2018 held at QNCC Energy Affairs, the President & key players in their respective THE PENINSULA yesterday.PIC: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA CEO of Qatar petroleum, H E fields, both institutions offer DOHA Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, stated: the Forum support, credibility, Membership awarding in the The opening ceremony was offer Advanced Masters in Avi- “We are pleased to be part of and knowledge-sharing The 5th Global Aviation Training presence of Minister of Transport attended by over 800 partici- ation Safety Management to stu- this important global platform opportunities that are inval- & TrainAir Plus Symposium and Communications H E Jassim pants representing Members of dents and aviation professionals for dialogue on critical chal- uable to us and to the inter- kicked off yesterday in a bin Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti, Sec- the TrainAir Plus Programme, in QAC. lenges facing our world. We are national community that will ceremony at Qatar National retary General of the Interna- industry stakeholders and aca- The ceremony was followed also pleased that energy takes convene in Qatar very soon.” Convention Center (QNCC). The tional Civil Aviation Organi- demic institutions with the aim by the first session of the Sym- a prominent place in this year’s This year’s edition brings symposium, a three-day event zation (ICAO), Fang Liu, and of providing them with a forum posium entitled: Building Avi- discussions in an effort to see together international is being held for the first time in Director General of Qatar Aer- to learn about new programme ation Training Intelligence, how countries can cooperate decision-makers, heads of Qatar and the Middle East, onautical College, Jabor bin features and benefits,. which was moderated by the to ensure a healthy balance state, ministers, business hosted by Qatar Aeronautical Hamad Al Thani. This event provides a forum Civil Aviation Training Magazine between the growing global executives and advocates to College in collaboration with The ceremony awarded new where ICAO Member States and European Affairs Editor Chris demand for energy and the examine policy around the ICAO and support from Ministry associate members as well as training organizations come Long. need to reduce greenhouse gas critical challenges facing the of Transport and Communi- new full members, and new cor- together to forge new part- The session focused on emissions.” Abdulla Mubarak world today. Under the theme cation. porate partners from a host of nership opportunities in aviation building aviation training intel- Al Khalifa, QNB Group Acting “Shaping Policy in an Inter- The opening ceremony was countries that included Algeria, training, and at the same time ligence methods through iden- Chief Executive Officer, stated: connected World”, the Forum followed by the TrainAir Oman, China among others. increase their awareness of key tifying and integrating decision “We are pleased to be the organizers and partners are near- and long-term useful information, establishing Platinum Sponsor of the Doha executing high-level panels, capacity-building prior- operational plans and training Forum, an important forum in plenaries and workshops ities for global air transport portfolios and meeting aviation the field of policy innovation in around four key themes: . growth projections with qual- the regional and international Security, Economic Devel- A leading Media Company As part of its efforts to ified personnel, all in support of arena and a unique opportunity opment, Peace and Mediation, develop its offering State implementation of to share knowledge and expe- and Trends and Transitions. in Qatar is looking for: through partnerships and standards and recommended riences between our Qatari In line with the 2018 agreements with its global practices. institutions and many pres- Forum’s new model and vision Business Reporter peers, Qatar Aeronautical After a networking lunch tigious international institu- to become a leading global hub College signed during the break, the Symposium continued tions, benefiting Qatar and the for policy innovation, this year’s → Should have at least 4 years experience. opening ceremony a part- with the second session of the international community as a edition marks a new phase of →Bachelor’s degree in journalism, mass nership agreement with day entitled: Enhancing the whole. We also pledge to partnerships with renowned communication or a related field. French National Civial Avi- TrainAir Plus Network through always be at the forefront of international organizations and →GCC and/or MENA experience would be an advantage. ation Collge (ENAC), to Aviation Training Intelligence. national institutions that back leading local institutions. →Bilingual (Arabic/English) preferred.

Job duties and responsibilities include: →Covering assignments and developing own ideas into Culture Minister meets Unesco relevant news content. →Following prescribed editorial style and format. Regional Office Director in Doha → Attending business events and meetings as assigned. QNA DOHA Online Content Editor Minister of Culture and Sports H E Salah bin → Should have at least 2 years experience. Ghanem Al Ali met with Director of Unesco →Bachelor’s degree in mass communication or a related field. Regional Office in Doha Anna Paolini and the →Should be active on social media platforms. office team on the occasion of International →Bilingual (Arabic/English) preferred. Human Rights Day, which falls on December 10 of each year. Job duties and responsibilities include: The meeting discussed ways of developing →Updating the website with latest news. joint work between the two sides to promote →Writing reports about events and happenings in Qatar human values and achieve the common purpose →Manage social media accounts of Unesco and Qatar. On December 10, world cel- ebrates Human Rights Day, the day on which the Qualified candidates are invited United Nations General Assembly adopted in 1948 the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as a to send their CVs at historic document proclaiming inalienable rights [email protected] that everyone has the right to enjoy as a human being regardless of race, color, religion, gender, Minister of Culture and Sports, H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali, with Director of language or political opinion. Unesco Regional Office in Doha, Anna Paolini.

Qatar ranks among most secure countries globally

QNA the patriotic spirit enjoyed DOHA by every citizen and resident on this land, noting that eve- Ambassador of the Lebanese ryone who lives in Qatar Republic to Qatar Hassan could sense that spirit Najem stressed that Qatar among people especially has become, thanks to its their honouring of the sac- wise leadership, one of the rifices of the earlier gener- most prosperous, secure and ations. He paid tribute to the stable countries in the world. founder of Qatar and to He added that the country H H the Father Amir Sheikh also enjoys growing regional Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, and international presence. who the ambassador said He said that Qatar has built on the previous become one of the most success. prosperous parts of the He pointed out that the world and has been able to foundations of Qatar’s implement many mega domestic and international projects, advanced infra- policies have enabled it to structure and programs in overcome the challenges of the fields of education, the region by building devel- health, security and urban opmental projects that planning, as well as leading reduce the dependence of media experiences in the the State on imports from Arab world. abroad, adding that Qatar’s The ambassador then success during the unjust congratulated Amir H H blockade stemmed from its Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad ability to resort to self-suf- Al Thani, the wise gov- ficiency in many products. ernment, the Qatari people He also said that the success and the residents on the during the crisis is indicative national day. Ambassador of the sound actions taken Hassan Najem also praised by the government last year. TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 05 QND Organising Committee unveils National Day gifts

The boxes of the National Day The gift box is decorated with the National Gift 2018 contains five gifts Day 2018 slogan, ‘Qatar Remains Free’. Also the representing a profession phrase ‘time is gold’ is written in clear reference including engineer, health care, to the importance of time and its importance in accomplishing the work. business, media and artist. In the gift box for the engineer, children and Officials during the press conference yesterday. families. their families will find tools which motivate children to build and work, in order to achieve the desired development. THE PENINSULA Children also will find a doctor’s gift (medical QCA to celebrate QND with DOHA headset), from which they can develop the dream of joining the medical profession. The gift box of The Organising Committee of Qatar National Day business will inspire children to be able to provide 2018 celebrations unveiled ‘the National Day 2018 initiatives and ideas in order to develop the society. Asian stars T20 match Gift’, yesterday. The gifts embodies the message The media gift box contains tools like ‘micro- of investing in the human capital and developing phone’, showing the important role media plays THE PENINSULA Secretary-General Jassim Nepal and Sri Lanka. We hope an individual to make them an effective and strong in society. DOHA Rashid al Buenain and the Min- that a large number of fans will pillar on which a strong nation will be built. This gift matches the theme of the National istry of Interior. We extend our turn up at the venue to support The boxes of the National Day Gift 2018 con- Day 2018 which is ‘As long as it was proven by The Qatar Cricket Association deepest gratitude to them for the match and make the Qatar tains five gifts representing a profession our deeds .. Qatar remains free’, a verse taken from and the Ministry of Interior have extending their backing and National Day celebrations an including engineer, health care, business, media one of the poems by the Founder Sheikh Jassim teamed up for a memorable cele- cooperation in organizing this event to cherish for a long time,” and artist. Al Adaam ( the national flag) is present bin Mohammed bin Thani, and also from national brations of the Qatar National match at the Asian Town the QCA president said. in every gift of the National Day to encourage anthem. Day at the Asian Town Cricket Stadium,” he added. MoI PRO Lt Hamad Ali national identity among children and their The gift also reflects the vision of the Organ- Stadium on December 18. Al Kuwari stressed that Jahweel al Marri said, “It is our families. izing Committee of Qatar National Day celebration, The Association, with the cricket is one of the most big pleasure to join hands with Some of the jobs have been selected to be used which aims at enhancing loyalty, solidarity, unity support of the Qatar Olympic popular sports in Qatar and the QCA for this big cricket to highlight and achieve this national spirit and and pride in the national identity of Qatar and Committee, will host a 20 played by a huge number of match to celebrate the Qatar to be creative and attract children and families in emphasizing on the values of inspiration, crea- cricket match between Asian people from Asian sub-con- National Day. The ministry general. tivity and transparency. stars and Qatar national team tinent communities here. “We appreciates the efforts such as players, informed Yousef Jeham love and respect all those who this one to involve various com- al Kuwari, President of the QCA. are living here. So this is our munities, cooperate with the During a press conference social responsibility to host QCA at every level and we wish held yesterday, and attended by sporting activities to involve the event a big success.” MoI Public Relations Officer Lt them. QCA Operations Manager Hamad Ali Jahweel al Marri Al “We’ve already launched a Manzoor Ahmad said the QCA Kuwari said, “The Qatar social media campaign to reach has made elaborate arrange- National Day is a very significant out to cricket fans. We’re ments to engage the crowd event for all of us in Qatar. We delighted to say that about during the match with a variety wish to contribute to its massive 50,000 likes and hits we’ve of dance and music items. All the success like the previous years received from mostly members players have confirmed their with a T20 match between of communities of India, participation and we’re antici- Asian Stars(International) and Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh pating a thrilling match on the Qatar stars. and Nepal. big occasion of the Qatar “This match, of course, “The feature of the Asian National Day. Mr Gul Khan said would have not been possible stars team is that we tried to that there is a separate seating without the support of QOC include players from many arrangement for families and President H E Sheikh Joaan bin countries like Afghanistan, they can enter the stadium The National Day gifts on display which will be distributed for children. Hamad Al Thani, QOC Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, through Gate 7.” NMoQ to offer wide array of multi-layered content

RAYNALD C RIVERA national identity, the thoroughly universities, museums and THE PENINSULA restored Palace of Sheikh individuals. Abdullah. In Qatar, a wide range of The National Museum of Qatar “Each gallery will be an all- subjects have been developed (NMoQ), set to officially launch encompassing experience of its with experts at Qatar University on March 28 next year, will be a own, in which photographs, and HBKU, including botanical, feast to the intellect and the films, texts, oral histories, rare socio-cultural and political senses as an immersive and and precious objects, music, history research. Arthropod col- experiential museum which tells digital displays, and even aromas lections have been developed about the country’s past, present are blended into a seamless with the support of the Friends and future through an innovative whole,” Dr. Karen Exell, NMoQ of the Environment Centre. Saif Al Kuwari, Deputy Director for Operations, National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ); Dr Haya Al Thani, display of multi-layered content. Senior Museum Development International examples Deputy Director of Curatorial Affairs, NMoQ; Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud, Special Advisor to The innovative museum is Specialist, said at a press briefing include geological and natural Chairperson of Qatar Museums, H E Sheikha Al Mayasa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani; and Karen organized in three “chapters”— yesterday. history research with Leiden Exell, Senior Museum Development Specialist, NMoQ; at a gala lunch at the IDAM restaurant at the Beginnings, Life in Qatar, and As the much awaited Naturalis, paleontological Museum of Islamic Art in Doha yesterday. PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT / THE PENINSULA Building the Nation—presented opening nears, the team com- fieldwork with Raimund Alber- in eleven galleries. The visitor’s prising representatives from sdoerfer (Germany) to excavate chronological journey, which Qatar Museums and NMoQ, who and reconstruct fossil dugong children,” said Exell, adding local heritage and traditions of its memories of recent history. In extends through more than 1.5 are behind the landmark skeleton, and donations of shells and international artists had people. all, more than 300 members of km of experiences, starts in the museum, yesterday provided a from the Houston Museum of been commissioned to create Dr. Haya said the museum the public participated in the geological period long before the glimpse into what people can Natural History. site-specific pieces to enhance had worked with partners project, she added. peninsula was inhabited by expect when the desert rose “Working with expert craft- exhibition experience. including the Doha Film Institute The new museum has many humans and continues to the inspired museum designed by speople from around the globe, Dr. Haya Al Thani, NMoQ over five years to record these other features such as the present day. renowned architect Jean Nouvel we have also created over 1,400 Deputy Director of Curatorial memories and preserve infor- 112,000sqm public park with The route passes through a opens its doors to the public. beautiful bespoke models for the Affairs said information related mation about the country. family-friendly interactive succession of impressive, Exell said a rich and multi- museum: natural history, archi- to oral histories will feature More than 70 films will be learning environments, remarkably shaped volumes layered content was developed tectural, archaeological, doc- heavily in the museum, bringing displayed through the museum walkways, a lagoon, landscaped until it reaches its culmination in partnership with local and ument replicas, boat models, to life this critically important galleries, bringing the displays exclusively with drought- in the very heart of Qatari international research centres, tactile models and models for aspect of Qatar’s culture and the of objects to life through shared resistant native vegetation.

NHRC holds awareness event on human rights Quranic Botanic Garden hosts

QNA The Director of the NHRC She also dealt with cooperation between tree-planting event DOHA International Cooperation the NHRC and all human rights international Department outlined the organizations, the most important of which THE PENINSULA Mohammed Al Thani Secondary DOHA As part of its celebration of the 70th anni- establishment of the NHRC, are Amnesty International and Human Boys School, the participants versary of the Universal Declaration of Rights Watch, in addition to its efforts to planted 30 trees. The ‘Ghars’ led Human Rights on December 10th each year, its objectives, powers raise awareness about human rights and The Quranic Botanic Garden event was designed to raise the National Human Rights Committee and competencies, and its freedoms to consolidate their principles in (QBG), recently hosted a tree- awareness of the importance of (NHRC) organized an educational lecture accreditation by the Global thought and practice through training planting event in Education City environmental conservation, and for Qatar Steel’s employees on the origins Alliance of National Human courses, media campaigns and as part of its popular ‘Ghars’ is in line with QBG’s overarching and principles of human rights and the role publications. campaign. goal of cultivating 2,022 trees by of the NHRC in promoting and disseminating Rights Institutions with ‘A The Director of the Department of Bringing together represent- the 2022 FIFA World Cup. the culture of human rights. Status’ in 2010 for five years Administrative Affairs of Qatar Steel, atives from the Qatar Financial Fatima Saleh Al Khulaifi, Director of the NHRC International renewed in 2015 for the same Mohammed bin Saleh Al Mahdi stressed the Centre Regulatory Authority and Manager, QBG, said, “These Cooperation Department Sheikha Najwa Al- company’s belief in human rights issues and more than 70 students from ongoing activities reflect QBG’s Thani spoke about the historical context of period. its keenness that all its employees be fully various schools in Qatar - efforts to raise environmental the emergence of human rights, saying it aware of their rights and duties to include including Qatar Leadership awareness in Qatar in order to came as a result of the cross-fertilization Cooperation Department outlined the estab- their behavior in this culture. On the Academy, part of QF’s Pre-Uni- protect and preserve the natural between different cultures and civilizations, lishment of the NHRC, its objectives, powers occasion of the day on which the UN General versity Education, Dukhan world. Ultimately, we want to and it is a continuous struggle for all and competencies, and its accreditation by Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration Primary Preparatory Secondary help create solutions to global humanity against injustice and exploitation, the Global Alliance of National Human Rights of Human Rights in 1948, the NHRC will hold School for Girls , Omar bin Al- environmental issues, such as wherever it may be. Institutions with ‘A Status’ in 2010 for five numerous awareness and educational activ- Khattab Secondary School for desertification, climate change, The Director of the NHRC International years renewed in 2015 for the same period. ities and events. Boys, and Ali bin Jassim bin and biodiversity.” 06 HOME TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 Techno Blue, Fujifilm open Digital Imaging Service outlet at DFC

THE PENINSULA The outlet offers customers Quality and enjoy a huge following and DOHA with specialised services customer base. Fujifilm is the only pho- such as printing high tographic company from the past era Techno Blue (A HBK Group Company) quality print (from that survived through and grew and Fujifilm Corporation Japan, cele- stronger on the face of onslaught by brated the opening of their new trendy digital cameras, mobile the Digital revolution. This strength is Digital Imaging Service outlet at Doha phones, memory cards what encourages us to further invest Festival City. The conveniently located etc), customized personal and expand the Brand and Fujifilm “Fujifilm Imaging “outlet near the food- albums and host of other success is attributed to their decades court facilitates an easy and quick of knowledge in analogue and appli- access location within the Doha Festival services related to pictures. cation of them in combination with the City. Digital innovation. Sheikh Ali bin The outlet offers customers with Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairman of specialised services such as printing generation to indulge into the art of Techno Blue, graced the occasion with high quality print (from Digital Cameras, photography. his presence. mobile phones, memory cards etc), cus- Visitors are encouraged to provide Commenting on the occasion Jun tomized personal albums and host of feedback and share their ideas for using Higuchi, the Managing Director of other services related to pictures. Cus- photos in their everyday lives. In this Fujifilm Middle East praised the effort tomers can get their ID pictures taken way, the store acts as a learning centre of Techno Blue to grow Fujifilm Photo within few minutes, which is stand- giving guests the opportunity to Imaging and Electronic Imaging ardized to the requirement of Gov- influence product features as they share business in Qatar and revealed his plan ernment departments and Embassies. their own preferences and opinions. to support more such stores in Qatar The “Wonder” photo station installed These interactions allow Techno Blue aligning to their international agenda. in the outlet can receive pictures trans- and Fujifilm to gain a better under- Prabunathan, Division Manager at Techno Blue (A HBK Group Company) and Fujifilm Corporation Japan, celebrated mitted through a mobile application and standing of what the market wants and Techno Blue commented, “the hottest the opening of their new trendy Digital Imaging Service outlet at Doha Festival City allows customers to collate their sweet share these learnings with our retail selling product in the outlet is the Instax memories on fun templates and have yesterday. Sheikh Ali bin Hamad Al Thani, Vice-Chairman of Techno Blue; Jun Higuchi, partners as well as ultimately enhancing products which gives instant photo print them done as prints. the Managing Director of Fujifilm Middle East, and other officials inaugurated the the customer experience. from the camera. The main customers The outlet also caters to the outlet. PIC: QASSIM RAHMATULLAH. / THE PENINSULA Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Thani, for this product are the younger gener- requirement of professional photogra- Chairman of Techno Blue, while inau- ation who are excited of seeing retro phers by selling a wide range of Profes- Techno Blue, associates with various regular Photo workshops, Seminars and gurating the outlet commented that product producing a print which are sional cameras, Lenses and accessories. Photographic clubs in Qatar to organize Competitions to encourage the younger Fujifilm products are synonymous with amusing in their era. PISQ hosts inter-school football tournament THE PENINSULA present. For this two-day event, fourth match was again a DOHA the chief guest was Turki walkover for Stafford Sri Lankan Hussein Alyazidi, manager Al School because the Jordanian Sporting events constitute an Ahleh Football Club, Doha who School was absent. The first important part of a school’s honoured the teams with his semi-final was between Al- curricula. They work as an alloy presence on December 4, 2018 Jazeera Academy and PISQ and not only support but also at the final match which started Green. Therein, Al-Jazeera enhance learning ability of the with the national anthems of bagged the victory scoring 4 students. PISQ, being cognizant Qatar and Pakistan. goals against PISQ Green’s 2 of the importance of this physical This year, six teams took goals. The second semi-final activity, aptly arranges for its part in this event. Pool A com- was played between PISQ Blue students to take healthy part in prised Al Jazeera Academy, and Stafford Sri Lankan School. such events. Continuing its last Oscar Academy, and PISQ Green Here, PISQ Blue stood victorious year’s tradition, PISQ held the (host school’s team). Pool B had with 4 goals against zero. 2nd Quaid-e-Azam U 12 Inter- Turkish School, Stafford Sri The final match was played School Football Tournament on Lankan School, and PISQ Blue on December 4, 2018 between December 3 and 4, 2018. (host school’s team). Al-Jazeera and PISQ Blue. PISQ Nargis Raza Otho, principal The matches started on Blue won this match by scoring PISQ and Muhammed Ali Kara- December 3, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. two goals. From PISQ Blue, Safari names ‘Win 10kg Gold’ Promotion winners tosun, principal Turkish school in the PISQ’s football ground. Muneeb Ahmad scored the first graced the opening day of the The opening match was goal followed by the second goal The Safari Hypermarket Group in Qatar announced, the 2nd Lucky Draw Winners of Win 10kg Gold tournament. The programme between PISQ Blue and Turkish scored by Ahmad Nasir who Promotion. The draw was held at Safari Mall, Abu Hamour in the presence of a Ministry official and started with the lining up of all School which was won by PISQ nailed the victory for his team. Safari management staff. The first winner of first prize of 1kg gold was Ibrahim Basheer (coupon no. the teams present. This was fol- Blue by scoring four goals; The referees were Muhammad 1086787), second prize of 500gms gold was won by Subair T V (coupon no. 1251714), third prize lowed by the recitation of Quran whereas, Turkish School scored Anwar and Noor Hussain. The of 300gms of gold was won by Abdul Harif K (coupon no. 1259766) and fourth prize of 200gms and oath taking by Sarim, a PISQ two. The second match was a player of the tournament was gold was won by Dhaneesh P (coupon no. 1898613). student, and then the national walkover for Al-Jazeera School Mohsin Hamza, PISQ Blue, who anthems of Turkey and Pakistan as Iranian School could not truly enthralled the spectators were played. The principal manage to come to play. The with his overall great football Turkish school inaugurated the third match was played between skills. The tournament ended event by cutting the ribbon and Oscar Academy and PISQ Green with the distribution of certifi- Expert shares research findings on mental illness stigma hitting the football. At this where Oscar Academy was cates, medals, and trophies occasion, all vice principals of defeated by PISQ Green that among the players, coaches, and four wings of PISQ were also scored 7 goals against zero. The captains of the participant teams. THE PENINSULA self-stigma in patients here in mental illness is a serious issue DOHA Qatar. because it not only socially isolates “The issue of mental health is the individual, but it also prevents Dr Vahe Kehyayan, PhD, a of great relevance to Qatar,” said them from seeking timely researcher and assistant professor Dr Kehyayan. “Qatar’s National treatment,” said Dr Kehyayan. “The at the University of Calgary in Health Strategy 2018-2022 illness can have an impact on other Qatar (UCQ), presented his includes mental health as one of areas of the individual’s health as research findings at the recent 7th its seven priority areas which well, such as increased risks around Qatar International Mental Health underscores the importance of smoking, reduced activity, poor Conference hosted by Hamad stigma reduction as a concern. I diet, obesity, and blood pressure. Medical Corporation. am very appreciative of the Qatar However, very little research on the In a presentation entitled, National Research Fund for stigma of mental illness has been “Stigma towards Mental Disorders backing this important study. UCQ conducted in the Middle East, and in Patients in Qatar,” Dr Kehyayan is pleased to be leading research our study aims to improve under- shared the findings from this col- that supports the goals of Qatar.” standing of the issue in Qatar and The school officials and team members posing for a group picture. laborative research that examined “Stigma associated with in the region.” TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 07

400,000 homes Increase in number of people connected to fibre network: with seasonal influenza virus Ooredoo

THE PENINSULA Throughout October THE PENINSULA DOHA and November DOHA

Recent national data on this there have been Ooredoo announced A Qatar Social Work tent demonstration at Darb Al Saai. year’s seasonal influenza virus more than 6,800 yesterday it has reached shows three times as many another historic milestone in people have tested positive for respiratory samples its drive towards the future the flu in October and testing positive for of home entertainment November, compared to the the flu virus. systems, as it confirmed it has QSW announces same period in 2017. This indi- connected 400,000 Qatari cates a much higher activity of homes to its fibre network. the virus this winter compared This impressive Darb Al Saai to previous winters, resulting in at all PHCC health centers across achievement was reached in Dr Abdullatif Al Khal many more people becoming the country, as well as at more November 2018, and consol- sick due to the flu. than 35 private clinics. idates Ooredoo’s position as activities According to Dr Abdullatif encouraging, but with the “Primary Health Care Cor- a market leader in the tele- Al Khal, Hamad Medical Corpo- severity of this year’s flu virus poration is committed to pro- communications industry and AMNA PERVAIZ RAO active sessions. ration’s (HMC) Deputy Chief being clear for us, we encourage tecting the health of Qatar’s a driving force behind Qatar’s THE PENINSULA Sheikha Najla bint Ahmed Medical Officer and Head of even more people to get their population and providing the flu mission to be one of the best- Al Thani, Director of the Office Infectious Diseases, this is a sig- free vaccine,” said Dr Al Khal. vaccine free to all Qatar’s resi- connected nations in the The seven centres that operate of Communication at QSW said: nificant and worrying increase Influenza is a serious dents with a valid health card is world. under the umbrella of Qatar for “The participation of QSW will in the prevalence of the flu in disease; it can lead to hospital- just one way in which we can Ooredoo’s state-of-the- Social Work (QSW) are geared host series of educational and Qatar. ization and, if complications do this,’’ said Dr Khalid Hamid art fibre network offers cus- up to host several exciting informational games for “Throughout October and arise, sometimes even death, as Elawad, Health Protection tomers a groundbreaking events at Darb Al Saai which children in our ‘Qatar Kidz’ November there have been Dr Muna Al Maslamani, Medical Manager, Preventive Health network experience with fea- will start on December 12. from the seven entities working more than 6,800 respiratory Director of HMC’s Communi- Department at PHCC. tures such as ultra-fast home Darb Al Saai, one of the under QSW. Children will be samples testing positive for the cable Disease Center said. “Across our 26 health broadband, with blistering major attractions of Qatar given coupons on wining these flu virus. During the same period “Every year, millions of people centers, we are currently vacci- speeds up to 10Gbps, as well National Day 2018 celebrations, games and will collect a gift in 2017, there were only 2,274 around the world get the flu and nating around 4,000 people a as content with 4K enter- gives many the opportunity to from gift booth located at the positive tests, so it is clear that millions are hospitalized as a week against seasonal influenza. tainment on Ooredoo tv. celebrate as well as learn about end of our tent.” seasonal influenza is posing a result of it, while hundreds of There are three simple ways to With gigabit-speed fibre achievements of the country. “Nama Centre will have greater threat to the health of thousands end up dying from receive your flu vaccine from penetration only commer- This event will be nine days mountain climbing game to people in Qatar this year, and flu-related complications. Vac- the health center you are regis- cially available in about ten long and will end on December teach children how to reach this is expected to get worse cination to prevent influenza is tered at: you can ask for the countries worldwide, Qatar’s 20. their target, Dreama centre will during December and January,” particularly important for vaccine during an existing is the highest in the world – The seven centres that have special puzzles for kids, said Dr Al Khal. people who are at high risk for appointment, schedule a flu vac- as confirmed by an Arthur D operate under the umbrella of Ehsan will have racing compe- At the start of October, the the flu and its complications. cination appointment by calling Little report in Q1 2018 - with QSW include Wifaq (Centre for tition which will teach them Ministry of Public Health, This includes the elderly, young PHCC on 107, or simply drop in some 99 percent of Qatar’s Awareness and Consulting), physical activities, Wifaq will Primary Health Care Corpo- children, pregnant women, and to your health center without an homes covered by fibre. Over Aman Centre (Protection and dedicate a booth for kids to ration (PHCC), and HMC joined people with chronic medical appointment and receive your 88 percent of households in Rehabilitation), Shafallah make special cards for their forces to launch a national cam- conditions,” said Dr Al vaccine swiftly,’’ Dr Elawad Qatar are fully connected to (Centre for persons with disa- parents and Shafallah and Best paign to provide free flu vac- Maslamani. added. fibre, also the world’s highest bility), Nama (Empowerment Buddies Qatar will give children cines to the public in Qatar. To ensure as many people For more information about rate matched only by and Entrepreneurship), Ehsan experience to work on wheel- “To date, more than 75,000 as possible are vaccinated this influenza and where to get the Singapore. (Elderly Empowerment and chairs and blind folded to teach people have been vaccinated year, members of the public can vaccine for free in Qatar, go to Waleed Al Sayed, CEO of care centre), Dreama (Empow- children how disable people against the flu. This is very get the influenza vaccine for free www.stoptheflu.qa Ooredoo Qatar, said: “We are erment of the Orphans) and cope up with life tasks,” she delighted to announce such Best-Buddies Initiative-Qatar added. a phenomenal achievement (Friendship, Support and Special 9D theater will have in reaching 400,000 homes Inclusion). screening of educational film connected to our fibre These centres will host which they can enjoy with their Infiniti Q30 models of 2017-2018 recalled network, and we are proud variety of events which will caretakers and parents. This THE PENINSULA 2017-2018 over wrong vehicle defects and repairs. to be offering Qatari citizens include, awareness activities cinema has 12 persons capacity. DOHA description in the owner’s The Ministry said that it will and residents such world- and interactive competitions The tent will include a book manual (Child Lock). coordinate with the dealer to class connectivity. We hope .QSW tent at Darb Al Saai will vending machine from which The Ministry of Commerce and The Ministry said the recall follow up on the maintenance our customers are enjoying be divided in four sections; VIP kids and elders can buy books Industry, in collaboration with campaign comes within the and repair works and will com- making the most of the tech- section, information desk, Qatar of their choice. This entire Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana framework of its ongoing efforts municate with customers to nology and we look forward Kidz area, 9D cinema, Majlis for activities will be free of cost for Company, has announced the to protect consumers and ensure ensure that the necessary to many more such mile- visitors, gift booth and a stage children in order to teach them recall of Infiniti Q30 models of that car dealers follow up on repairs are carried out. stones in the future.” set for competitions and inter- throughout nine days. Qatar Airways to launch direct Malta flights

THE PENINSULA Valletta, a city with honey-coloured limestone travellers from around the DOHA a rich historical and buildings, fine palaces, shops world to this captivating city.” cultural past, offers and cafés. Passengers travelling to Qatar Airways announced that much for visitors to Qatar Airways Group Chief Malta in Business Class can it will launch direct services Executive, Akbar Al Baker, look forward to relaxing in one to Valletta, Malta, starting on explore, including said: “We are tremendously of the most comfortable, fully- June 4 next year, marking the some of Europe’s excited to announce the launch lie-flat beds, as well as enjoy airline’s first gateway to Malta finest baroque of direct services to Malta, one the five-star food and bev- and the latest addition to its architecture as well of Europe’s architectural gems erage service, which is served rapidly-expanding European and a key new addition to our ‘dine-on-demand’. Passengers network. as many museums. European network. This new can also take advantage of the The Valletta route will be direct route demonstrates our airline’s award-winning in- served with an A320 aircraft, commitment to enhancing flight entertainment system, with daily services in summer architecture as well as many connectivity for both business Oryx One, offering up to 4,000 and four-times-weekly flights museums. Visitors can admire and leisure travelling to and entertainment options. in winter. the striking views of Malta’s from Europe, which we have Qatar Airways currently Valletta, a city with a rich Grand Harbour, often enhanced during the past year operates a modern fleet of historical and cultural past, described as the most beau- with the launch of non-stop more than 200 aircraft via its offers much for visitors to tiful in the Mediterranean, or services to Prague, Kyiv, hub, Hamad International explore, including some of stroll the cobbled streets of the Skopje and many more. We Airport (HIA) to more than 160 A view of Valletta. Europe’s finest baroque fortified capital, lined with look forward to introducing destinations worldwide. QTTSC organises workshop for ‘Vulnerable Road Users’

THE PENINSULA can be taken to reduce these impacts. countries, vulnerable road users rep- DOHA The engineering faculty, students resent more than 45% of the fatalities and staff along with representatives while in Qatar the percentage is around A training workshop on “Safe Urban from local and international institutions thirty percent (30%). Generally, vul- Street Design for Vulnerable Road Users” attended the workshop, which was nerable road users’ crashes are due to recently hosted by the Qatar Transpor- delivered by Eng. Tawab Kazemi from the lack of proper facilities to accom- tation and Traffic Safety Center (QTTSC) the International Road Federation. modate their needs, high speeds of at Qatar University’s (QU) College of Engi- Commenting on the workshop, traffic and the lack of separation neering (CENG) in collaboration with the QTTSC Director Prof Faris Tarlochan between these fast moving motorized International Road Federation aimed to said, “Vulnerable road user safety is a vehicles and vulnerable users. The provide information on counter measures critical issue in Qatar, thus QTTSC is course offers different policies and strat- and technologies that help in providing working actively to improve the traffic egies to provide safer roads for vul- a safe road environment for vulnerable safety status in collaboration with local nerable road users. road users. authorities and international partners. He added, “This training course This course discussed the reasons This workshop is one in a number of targets Road Agency Executives, Highway why vulnerable road users are involved forums that are addressing sustainable The officials at the Safe Urban Street Design for Vulnerable Road Users Workshop at QU. Engineers, Traffic Management Profes- in road crashes constituting in high ratios road safety solutions and is in line with sionals, Traffic Safety Professionals, of fatalities and injuries. It also discussed the efforts by the Center and the College Assistant Professor, Dr Wael Alhajyaseen non-motorized vehicles users are at Pedestrian Safety Advocates, Bicycle different policies and strategies, including of Engineering to raise public awareness said that vulnerable road users such as greater risk than vehicle occupants and Safety Advocates, Motorcycle Safety engineering counter measures, edu- and responsibility in road safety.” pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, usually bear the greatest burden of Advocates, Law Enforcement Authority, cation, awareness and enforcement that QTTSC workshop coordinator public transportation and injury during road crashes. In some and Research & Academia Personnel.” 08 HOME TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 09 Turkey calls for justice for Khashoggi under international law

REUTERS communications at the Turkish Saudi consulate in Istanbul when best interest of the interna- widen the investigation. al-Qahtani, a top aide to Prince ANKARA presidency, said Riyadh’s refusal he went there to collect docu- tional community to seek Altun said Saudi intelligence Mohammed, and General Ahmed to extradite the suspects was ments for his forthcoming justice for the late Saudi jour- operatives, including an autopsy Al Asiri, who served as deputy Turkey said yesterday the world very disappointing and would marriage. nalist under international expert, travelled to Istanbul for head of foreign intelligence, were should seek justice for slain play into the hands of critics Altun said that Saudi author- law,” Altun said. the specific purpose of killing among the planners of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi “who believe Saudi Arabia has ities had not been sufficiently Turkey’s foreign minister Khashoggi. The Saudi consul Khashoggi’s killing. under international law after been trying to cover up the cooperative and Turkey has seen said last month Ankara may “was apparently complicit in this On Sunday, Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh ruled out extraditing two murder”. “little evidence of the Saudi pros- seek a formal United Nations crime”, he added. Foreign Minister Adel Al Jubeir senior Saudi officials who Khashoggi, a critic of Saudi ecutors intending to shed light inquiry if its dealings with Saudi Turkish officials said last ruled out sending them to Turkey Turkish officials suspect planned Arabia’s de facto ruler Crown on what happened to Mr. Arabia came to an impasse, but week that the Istanbul prosecu- for trial. “We don’t extradite our his killing in Istanbul. Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Khashoggi”. Altun’s comments appeared to tor’s office had concluded there citizens,” he said at a Gulf Arab Fahrettin Altun, director of was killed two months ago at the Therefore “it will be in the be the most direct call yet to was “strong suspicion” that Saud summit in Riyadh.

Lebanon says Israeli troops police thwarted IS attacks storm Ramallah, AP BEIRUT

Lebanon’s Interior Minister raid HQ of Wafa Nouhad Mashnouk says the country’s police have discovered and thwarted AFP Israeli soldiers planned bombing attacks by RAMALLAH entered Ramallah the Islamic State group. Mashnouk told reporters Israeli forces entered the Pales- yesterday morning, yesterday that the bombs tinian city of Ramallah with low-level clashes were smuggled in from the yesterday and raided the offices breaking out a few rebel-held northwestern of the official Palestinian news hundred metres Syrian province of Idlib in agency, the agency and buckets of cheese, and were witnesses said, a day after from the house of intended for targeting places gunmen wounded several Palestinian president of worship, gatherings of Israelis near a settlement. Mahmud Abbas. They Christians and military posts. Seven people were wounded The minister added that also raided the the Israeli forces conducting raids in Ramallah in the West Bank, yesterday. in the drive-by shooting by Pal- the attacks were supposed to estinian gunmen at a bus stop headquarters of Wafa, take place during Lebanon’s near the Ofra settlement in the the official Palestinian Doctors at the Shaare Zedek The army said that the per- “resistance” was still alive in the parliamentary elections in occupied West Bank late on news agency. hospital in Jerusalem earlier petrators had so far not been West Bank. May.He added that those Sunday, with doctors forced to delivered the baby of one victim located. Palestinian attacks against planning the attacks were prematurely deliver the baby of of the shooting who was “IDF (Israel Defence Forces), Israelis occur sporadically in the monitored by police intelli- one of the wounded, Israeli offi- according to the Palestinian Red pregnant via a caesarean border police and security forces West Bank. gence for 10 months through cials said. Crescent. section, the hospital said. commenced extensive searches On November 26, a Pales- a Syrian informer in Lebanon. Israeli soldiers entered Later soldiers raided the The hospital added that the in the villages in the area as part tinian rammed Israeli soldiers The announcement came Ramallah yesterday morning, headquarters of Wafa, the official mother, 21, was stable on of the hunt for the terrorists who with a car and injured three of ahead of the Christmas season with low-level clashes breaking Palestinian news agency, Monday but the baby had taken committed the attack,” a them. The assailant in that when many Lebanese celebrate out a few hundred metres from including the photography and a turn for the worse. statement said. incident was later killed by in public places. IS and Al the house of Palestinian pres- editing offices, a statement from “There has unfortunately “The IDF will continue to Israeli forces. Qaeda-linked militants carried ident Mahmud Abbas, jour- the news agency said. been a deterioration in the operate to apprehend the ter- Sunday’s shooting north of have out attacks in Lebanon in nalists said. An army spokeswoman said baby’s condition. The family is rorists and ensure the security Jerusalem was the most serious the past, killing scores. They seized the security she could not comment on the requesting prayers for him,” a of civilians.” attack in the West Bank since camera footage of a nearby Ramallah raid, including whether hospital spokeswoman said. The Islamist Hamas October 7, when Palestinian building, according to employees. it was part of the hunt for the The others wounded in the movement, which runs the Gaza Ashraf Naalwa shot two Israelis Amnesty urges ICC Two people were hit with live gunmen from Sunday night’s attack were not in life-threat- Strip, praised the attack, saying dead in an industrial zone for a to probe conflict bullets during the clashes, incident. ening condition. in a statement that it proved nearby settlement. atrocities in Nigeria

ANATOLIA Saudi-backed govt rejects UN members adopt migration LAGOS Amnesty International pact rejected by US and others yesterday said the Interna- tional Criminal Court (ICC) UN troops in Hodeidah city should launch a probe into REUTERS atrocities committed by Boko MARRAKESH REUTERS government. The Houthis control will never accept,” he said on the Haram insurgency, accusing RIMBO, SWEDEN most population centres, sidelines of the talks. UN members yesterday adopted a deal aimed at improving the Nigerian government of failing including the capital Sana’a which Yamani, who heads the way world copes with rising migration, but almost 30 coun- to bring perpetrators to justice. Yemen’s Saudi-backed it seized in 2014 after ousting the Hadi government delegation, tries stayed away from the ceremony in Morocco. The demand followed government is willing to accept internationally-recognised gov- said the city should be placed The pact, meant to foster cooperation on migration, was claims of a Dec. 5 publication a UN role in Hodeidah’s seaport, ernment of Abdrabuh Mansour under the control of the interior agreed in July by all 193 UN members except the United States, by the ICC that Abuja has not a lifeline for millions of people Hadi that is backed by a Saudi- ministry’s police forces as a but only 164 formally signed it at the meeting yesterday. held people to account over during the country’s war, but not led coalition. matter of sovereignty. Ten countries, mostly in formerly Communist Eastern numerous rights violations in a long-term presence in the city Control of Hodeidah, the However, the government Europe, have pulled out. Six more, among them Israel and Bul- the country’s northeast, itself, Foreign Minister Khalid Al Houthis’ main supply line, is one is willing to accept the garia, are debating whether to quit, a U.N. spokesman said after where Nigeria is fighting an Yamani said yesterday. of the trickiest issues at the talks, deployment of monitors from the pact was adopted. He did not say whether the rest of the insurgency that claimed over Mediator Martin Griffiths, aimed at paving the way for a the UN Verification and countries absent from the conference in Marrakesh might also 30,000 lives and displaced who opened United Nations- political process to end nearly Inspection Mechanism (UNVIM) pull out. With a record 21.3 million refugees globally, the United nearly 3 million people. sponsored peace talks between four years of war. The Houthis in the port, the entry point for Nations began work on the non-binding pact after more than “The Nigerian gov- Yemen’s warring parties in said they want Hodeidah to be most of Yemen’s commercial 1 million people arrived in Europe in 2015, many fleeing civil ernment is unwilling and Sweden last week, wants to declared a neutral zone. goods and aid supplies. war in Syria and poverty in Africa. unable to meet its obligations avert a full-scale assault on the Yamani rejected this idea. It could also accept the Since July, the accord, which addresses issues such as how as a member of the ICC to Red Sea city. Yamani said that “The concept of peacekeeping transfer of port revenues to the to protect migrants, integrate them and send them home, has investigate and prosecute Hodeidah, which is currently or some sort of permanent central bank in Hodeidah been criticised by mostly right-wing European politicians who both Boko Haram and the held by the Iranian-aligned presence of the U.N. -- boots on instead of routing them to Aden, say it could increase immigration from African and Arab Nigerian military (officials),” Houthi group, should come the ground -- or making the city the Hadi government’s tem- countries. Amnesty International said in under the control of his as neutral is something that we porary base, the minister said. a report yesterday. Iraq celebrates victory over IS, opens Green Zone

AP embassies and key government in the fighting. BAGHDAD buildings after the U.S.-led invasion of The government declared Monday 2003 and has since then been sur- a national holiday, and a moment of Iraq began removing cement walls rounded by blast walls and barbed silence was held at midday. Check- from areas surrounding the capital’s wire, inaccessible to most Iraqis. points in the capital were decorated most fortified enclave yesterday The partial reopening of some side with Iraqi flags and balloons, as opening parts of the so-called Green streets - initially just for five hours a security forces patrolled the streets Zone to traffic in a symbolic move day - has been repeatedly delayed and playing patriotic music. coinciding with nationwide celebra- then timed to coincide with the one “That victory and the relative sta- tions marking the anniversary of the year anniversary of Iraq’s victory over bility in security is a golden opportunity country’s costly victory over the Islamic IS. The group has lost virtually all the for the government to rebuild the State (IS) group. territory it once held but still carries country and to meet the needs of its The partial reopening of parts of out sporadic attacks to hang on to its people,” said Sameer al-Obaidi, who the high security area is meant to last enclave in Syria near the Iraqi led an initiative in the capital’s Sunni- portray increased confidence in the border. dominated northern Azamiyah neigh- country’s overall security situation and The government declared victory borhood to distribute flowers to is also being billed as an act of trans- last December after a grueling three- security forces at checkpoints. parency following protests against cor- year war in which tens of thousands “It is important to treat all Iraqis ruption and poor public services. of people were killed and hundreds of equally so that they feel that their sac- The enclave on the west bank of thousands displaced. Entire towns and rifices are appreciated,” Al Obaidi Cars drive past over a suspension bridge in the Green Zone in Baghdad, Iraq, yesterday. the Tigris became home to foreign neighborhoods were reduced to rubble added. 10 VIEWS TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 Qatar Petroleum continues ESTABLISHED IN 1996 developing oil and gas sector CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI QNA

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ecently, Qatar Petroleum (QP) DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI was able to achieve rapid [email protected] steps locally and interna- tionally in the oil and gas Rsector especially in 2018. With regards ACTING MANAGING EDITOR to exploratory activity in Qatar, a plan MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED to implement a 3D marine seismic [email protected] survey south Al Khalij field has been set as well as a petroleum trap has been discovered and the required DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR studies to evaluate this discovery and MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI the petrol potential of the area will be [email protected] taking place. Preparations have also been com- pleted for drilling an oil well in the area south of Qatar to explore the country’s non-conventional hydro- carbon potential. With regards to global exploratory activities, QP con- EDITORIAL ducted an international technical study to assess the various sedi- mentary basins at a global level, in cooperation with French Petroleum Protecting human rights Institute (IFP). The study will be used to direct QP future plans towards the condensates reached 14.5 thousand rate of production of condensates was atar has always been at the forefront in the fight for field of global exploration and barrels per day and natural gas liquids 534 thousand barrels per day. protecting human rights in accordance with inter- production. to 68.6 thousand barrels per day. A comprehensive study for Qnational human rights standards and is making In terms of acquisition and global The implementation of the first Dukhan Field, which aims to highlight sincere efforts in employing all available resources and global exploration agreements a consortium phase of the redevelopment of Bul the low production and find appro- channels to safeguard rights of its citizens. including QP (25 percent), Shell (55 Hanine Oil Field where the drilling priate solutions to enhance the The National Human Rights Committee, as part of its percent project operator) and China began in early 2017 through two off- capacity of the field, showed more celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Universal Decla- National Offshore Oil Corporation shore platforms and 11.8 million than 100 thousand barrels per day of ration of Human Rights on December 10 each year, held an (CNOOC) won the bid held by the Bra- barrels of oil were produced in 2017 at curde oil can be recovered through the awareness event highlighting the role of NHRC in promoting zilian government in October 2017, for a production rate of about 32.2 technology of water injection and and disseminating the culture of human rights. The NHRC the Alto de Cabo Frio-Oeste block in thousand barrels per day. For Maydan carbon dioxide alternately and stressed that under the wise leadership of Amir H H Sheikh the prolific Santos hydrocarbon basin Mahzam Field a feasibility study for economically. Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar has taken a legislative offshore Brazil. the redevelopment of the field and the With regards to petrochemical approach in line with the principles of preserving, respecting, QP promoted it presence in Brazil selection mode phase for developing industries, preliminary engineering promoting and protecting rights in all fields. The Committee by winning along with Exxon Mobil the field and 8.3 million barrels of oil studies are being carried out to add the on Monday commended Qatar’s accession to the Interna- (QP 36 percent, Exxon Mobil 64 were produced in 2017 with a pro- sixth furnace to the ethane cracker tional Covenants on Human Rights, the International Cov- percent) a bid for exploration rights for duction rate of about 22.7 thousand complex in Qchem to increase pro- enant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Cov- Santos basin. barrels per day. duction between 20 to 30 percent. enant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, which would In addition, in For Al Shaheen oil field the transi- There is also a study to improve the reflect positively on strategies, policies and legislation, the its alliance tions of operatorship from Maersk Oil energy efficiency of the production most prominent of which is its National Vision 2030. with Exxon to North Oil Company, which is a joint lines of ammonia 1 and 2 in Qatar The NHRC said that in light of the unjust siege imposed Mobil and venture between QP (70 percent) and Chemical Fertilizer Company on Qatar, it has worked continu- Brazilian Total France company (30 percent). In (QAFCO), which could lead to an ously without interruption since the With regards Petrobras (QP 2017, 102 million barrels of oil were increase in production by 30 percent first moment to receive those to global 30 percent, produced from the field, producing by the reuse of the currently wasted affected by the siege, and it has exploratory Exxon Mobil about 261 thousand barrels per day. energy due to the aging of the plant. taken swift action internationally activities, QP 40 percent, In Al Khalij field work began on There is also a study to establish a and coordinated with all the Petrobas 30 the development plan adopted in plant for PVC production, using Vinyl The NHRC authorities concerned to lift the conducted an percent) QP 2016, which includes the drilling of Chloride Monomer (VCM) produced by stressed that, siege, and has exerted all possible international won explo- new oil wells and improving the level Qatar Petrochemical Company under the wise efforts to mitigate the siege’s con- technical study to ration rights of separation of water in the main (QAPCO) in order to maximize the leadership of sequences on the citizens and res- assess the various for two station. 6.5 million barrels of oil were added value of this raw material. idents of Qatar, including nationals blocks in the produced in the field during 2017 at a Employment in the petrochemicals Amir H H Sheikh of the siege countries. sedimentary Campos Basin daily production rate of about 18 and industries sector has been Tamim bin The blockade has inflicted basins at a in a bid thousand barrels. reduced by 12 percent on average, Hamad Al Thani, untold sufferings and hardships global level, in organized by In Idd El Shargi North Dome, the while studies continue to rationalize Qatar has taken and are continuing to date. The the Brazilian first phase of the fifth field devel- labor in this vital sector. siege has prevented hundreds of cooperation with government opment plan has been completed and For the rest of the achievements, a legislative students from continuing their edu- French Petroleum in March eight limited platforms have been con- QatarGas and RasGas have been approach in cation, many have been separated Institute (IFP). 2018. structed and connected to allow the merged to create a world-class line with the from their families, individuals The study will In Oman, drilling of new oil wells. In addition, operator of scale, service and relia- have been denied their right to QP agreed four new platforms will be constructed bility that will create significant principles of work or to access their property be used to direct with Eni of during the period from 2018 to 2024. opportunities for operating cost preserving, because of their nationality, and QP future plans Italy to In the field, 29 million barrels of oil savings of nearly QR 2 billion annually. respecting, the Saudi authorities are continuing towards the acquire a 30 were produced during 2017 with a Qatar Vinyl Company (QVC) has also promoting and to create obstacles against people field of global percent par- production rate of about 79 thousand been merged into QAPCO to enhance of Qatar from performing Umrah ticipating in barrels per day. competitiveness, improve financial protecting rights and the Haj pilgrimage. exploration and the Contrac- In Idd El Shargi South Dome, 2.9 performance and provide flexibility in all fields. Chairman of the National production. tor’s interest million barrels of oil were produced for the two companies while providing Human Rights Committee, Dr. Ali under the during 2017 with a production rate of more robust and sustainable founda- bin Smaikh Al Marri, after meeting exploration about 8.4 thousand barrels per day. tions for growth by using the skills, with officials of the Austrian Ombudsman Council, a national and production sharing located in the Al Rayyan Field has successfully resources and capabilities of the two human rights institution in Austria, said that the GCC was Arabian Sea off the coast of Oman. completed the field operation task companies. QP also launched a forum established as a basis for asserting the unity of the Gulf In Mexico, in its consortium with from Occidental Petroleum for QP to for offshore field operators to provide people. However, the discriminatory and arbitrary measures Shell Global (QP 40 percent, Shell 60 manage and operate the field starting a platform for them to work together imposed by the blockading countries on Qatar have caused percent) QP won a exploration rights June 1st which is the expiration date of on continuous improvements in off- a deep blow to the social fabric of the Gulf. He pointed out in four blocks in the Perdido basin, in the sharing agreement signed with the shore operations, which made nearly that with every additional day going through the crisis, the the eastern part of the Gulf of Mexico company. In 2017, 1.7 million barrels of $15 million a year. rift and gap between the Gulf countries is increasing, and in an exploratory tender organized by oil were produced at a daily pro- QP is also reviewing developing the suffering of the people, who paid the biggest price of this the Mexican government in January duction rate of about 4.7 thousand compressed natural gas (CNG) projects unjust siege, is increasing. Qatar is concerned about the well 2018. barrels. as an alternative fuel for the domestic being of its people. To this effect, Qatar has urged the United QP also signed an agreement with In Al Karkara Field, 1.8 million transport sector, and pledged to Nations Human Rights Council and its relevant mechanisms, US ExxonMobil under which they barrels of oil were produced during implement a major project to use CNG to act urgently in a more effective manner to put an end to acquired a 30 percent stake in two of 2017 at the rate of production of about as alternative fuel by 2022. the human rights violations caused by the siege imposed on the latter’s affiliates that that have 5 thousand barrels per day, while Among QP’s successes are the con- Qatar and its people. rights to seven blocks in the Vaca Bunduq oil field produced 4.3 million struction of storage and distribution Muerta play in Neuquen in Argentina. barrels of oil during 2017 with a daily facilities for petroleum products to be QP also entered into an agreement production rate of 11.7 million barrels. consumed domestically and the suc- to acquire a 25 percent participating In March 2018, a new agreement with cessful operation of the Laffan interest in the exploration block, off- signed with Bunduq Company, under Refinery 2. This is a significant QUOTE OF THE DAY shore South Africa. which the company’s concession was reflection of Qatar’s strategic In terms of production and devel- extended for 20 years. expansion in the production and opment, QP’s production in 2017 was With regards to programs and diversification of energy sources, You cannot be safe about 1.76 billion barrels of oil equiv- projects, QP signed an agreement with especially as it doubles production and secure, you alent, about 7.3 trillion cubic foot of Shell to develop LNG marine fuelling capacity by refining an additional 146 can’t help peace and natural gas, 210 million barrels of con- or bunkering infrastructure at stra- thousand barrels of condensates per stability of the world densate and 232 million barrels of oil, tegic shipping locations across the day from North Field production. which included QP’s share in global globe. QP also announced fuel-oil In addition, drilling and mainte- without being in operations. bunkering solutions for all vessels nance of 148 oil and gas wells in the peace yourself, having In Dukhan Field the implemen- calling on Qatari ports, which is a first land and sea fields were carried our, your own army. tation of the improved water injection and important step towards self- which increased the production project continues as part of the field’s reliance for fuel-oil bunkering solu- capacity of QP fields, and the project redevelopment plan for the coming tions for all vessels since Qatari and of supplying Halul Island with 100 km Ramush Haradinaj phase. The total production of the field non-Qatari-vessels heading to Qatar long power cables through Ras Laffan Kosovo’s Prime Minister reached 63.02 million barrels of oil were using Port of Fujairah. to provide 100 megawatts of elec- during 2017 with a production rate of Production of natural gas from the tricity for the island and its facilities, as 172.7 thousand barrels per day. In North Field during 2017 was nearly well as the National Security Shield addition, the rate of production of 19.5 billion cubic foot per day and the (NSS) project for offshore facilities. TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 OPINION 11 Why Brexit might not happen

ore than two years ago, the “mandates issued, which the member From 1975 to 2016, only one legislation that mandates a second British public voted 52 is bound blindly and implicitly to national referendum took place in referendum on the proposed Brexit percent to 48 percent in obey, to vote, and to argue for,” as Britain. But in 2016, Conservative terms, including an option to favor of leaving the dangerous and “a fundamental Prime Minister David Cameron made remain, which proponents have EuropeanM Union. In accordance with mistake of the whole order and tenor the fateful mistake of trying to repeat referred to as a “People’s Vote.” this outcome, Prime Minister Theresa of our constitution.” Wilson’s trick by calling a referendum Alternatively, MPs could simply May invoked Article 50 of the Treaty These sentiments continued to that he believed would again show amend any future proposals to say LAURA BEERS of the European Union, formally initi- reverberate over the next two cen- majority support for remaining in the that, in fact, Britain would remain THE WASHINGTON POST ating Britain’s exit, which is scheduled turies. The referendum has been used E.U. and silence anti-Europeans on his in the E.U. to happen March 29. only rarely, and then as a political own backbenches. Whichever tactic pro-remain But just under four months out, it tool, not a celebration of direct This time, it backfired. MPs decide to pursue has serious remains an open question whether democracy. In 1973, Britain joined While a majority of MPs in Cam- implications for the debate over Britain will actually leave the E.U. In what was then the European Eco- eron’s party and across Parliament who holds sovereignty in Britain, fact, on Tuesday, Britain’s political nomic Community without recourse supported remaining in the E.U., the the House of Commons or the betting markets placed odds against to a referendum, and few questioned public voted to leave. The result led to British people. Brexit actually taking place in the the government’s right to take that Cameron’s resignation and his Parliamentary action to reverse spring. decision on behalf of the country. replacement by May, who had previ- Brexit without a second refer- To appreciate why the refer- And yet debates between pro- and ously served as home secretary. After endum would be politically risky, endum mandate might not actually anti-European forces persisted within nearly two years of negotiations, as May’s government has been translate into Britain’s leaving Europe both main political parties. During the May’s government has agreed to insisting for the past two years that as planned, one needs to take into 1974 election campaign, pro- terms of “divorce” with Europe. The the referendum result is a clear account the British political system’s European Labour leader Harold government is now faced with getting mandate on which the government historically fraught relationship with Wilson managed to unite his party by the proposed agreement through Par- is duty-bound to deliver. Voters, direct democracy. promising that, if elected, Labour liament. It is not proving an easy task. even some remain voters, might Britain and the United States have would seek to renegotiate the terms of The essential issue is whether the well see a reversal as a betrayal. democratic forms of government. But Britain’s membership and then House of Commons will be guided by But constitutionally, the refer- while the Us political system accords subject the revised terms to a refer- the views of its members or the views endum result is not binding, and significant weight to the direct voice endum. While Wilson promised to of their constituents, as expressed by there are historical arguments for of its citizens in decision-making abide by the result of the referendum, the result of the 2016 referendum. The reasserting parliamentary sover- processes, the British system does not. he was not genuinely interested in government claims that the refer- eignty to decide Britain’s future British members of Parliament view taking cues on foreign policy from the endum “mandate” must be adhered relationship with Europe. After nearly two their role as representing the interests man in the street. Rather, he made a to. But an increasing number of MPs If the first referendum was a years of negotiations, of their constituents in Parliament, calculated gamble that the pro- are reasserting parliamentary sover- mistake, a People’s Vote would May’s government has not acting on voters’ expressed European forces in both political eignty to decide Britain’s future. As only be doubling down on that agreed to terms of opinions. This is one reason refer- parties would be able to convince the Burke argued in 1774, an MP should initial error. It is hard to see how a endums and ballot initiatives, while public of the wisdom of their view, never “blindly and implicitly ... obey” vote for remain in a second refer- “divorce” with Europe. common in parts of the United States, and that the public “mandate” would the will of constituents at the expense endum could be perceived by the The government is now are extremely rare in Britain. silence anti-European politicians on of “the clearest conviction of his Brexiteers to hold any more finite faced with getting the The distrust of direct democracy both sides. judgment and conscience.” legitimacy than the leave vote did proposed agreement runs deep in British history. As the Wilson’s maneuver was a success. Last week, the government suf- in 2016. Rather than looking to a Whig statesman Edmund Burke The 1975 referendum resulted in a fered a significant defeat with the second referendum to undo the through Parliament. It famously declared during the 1774 2-to-1 vote in favor of remaining in passage of a motion to allow the errors of the first, pro-remain MPs is not proving an easy election campaign, an MP’s will the EEC, and those Labour left- House to offer substantive amend- should reassert the sovereignty of task. “ought not to be subservient to” that wingers who had opposed mem- ments to any new proposals on Brexit their judgment and conscience, and of his (or her) constituents. He saw bership were effectively silenced. put forth by the government in the vote to reverse Brexit directly. To event that the current Brexit plan fails do so would not be a democratic to win support in Parliament. The affront, but a representative motion, which passed 321 to 299, triumph. effectively incentivizes pro-remainers to vote against May’s current proposal in hopes that they will then be able to intervene in the next round of debate and put forth amendments that would substantially soften, or even poten- tially halt, Brexit. D-RING ROAD These victories for pro-remainers POST BOX: 3488 expose the tensions between direct DOHA - QATAR democracy and representative gov- [email protected] ernment that have shaped MPs’ responses to the Brexit referendum. International Trade Secretary Liam EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE Fox openly warned: “I think there is a TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 real danger that the House of FAX: +974 4455 7758 Commons, which is a natural remain majority, may attempt to steal Brexit MANAGING EDITOR from the British people, which I think TEL: 4462 7505 would be a democratic affront.” “Stealing” Brexit could take two DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR forms. MPs could push for an TEL: 4455 7769 amendment to future Brexit LOCAL NEWS SECTION TEL: 4455 7743

BUSINESS NEWS SECTION hen employees first into China before writing off a country information on Chinese dissidents, TEL: 4462 7535 learned of the Google of almost 1.4 billion people. “The along with source code for the com- project known as Drag- standards of acceptable surveillance pany’s treasured search engine. SPORT NEWS SECTION onfly, there was an are unclear,” says an appendix to the Even after the hack, Google - like TEL: 4455 7745 Winternal uprising. letter, which Techcrunch did not all Silicon Valley companies - con- It is easy to see why. The project, a publish. Google has yet to announce tinued to hire Chinese engineers and ONLINE SECTION search engine for China, would not its plans for Dragonfly. But one core computer scientists. Spokesmen for ELI LAKE TEL: 4462 7501 only help a totalitarian regime censor issue raised by this letter goes far Google would not comment on the BLOOMBERG [email protected] the web, it could also track Internet beyond Google: how the Chinese gov- record, nor did they provide infor- mation on how many of the 80,000 ernment pressures and deploys its cit- PUBLIC RELATIONS employees of Alphabet, Google’s izens in order to expand its power and TEL: 4455 7613 parent company, are Chinese influence. [email protected] It sounds paranoid. But the role of nationals. Chinese citizens in Chinese statecraft Chinese nationals inside Google ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Google’s China problem is is raising concerns in official and have at times clashed with its techno- TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 unofficial Washington. Members of libertarian culture. One infamous FAX: 4455 7870 Congress have warned about Chinese example, detailed in a book by the [email protected] America’s China problem students in Us universities. The Justice former head of Google’s “people oper- Department has a new initiative ations,” comes from 2008, when the CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT aimed in part at prosecuting unregis- company cafeteria offered employees TEL: 4455 7857 tered Chinese agents of influence. a “Free Tibet Goji-Chocolate Creme [email protected] Chinese defense universities often Pie.” This offended a Chinese national users. Thousands of Googlers, as they task promising students with missions at the company, who sent an email to SUBSCRIPTION & are known, eventually went public to obtain valuable technology abroad, Chief Executive Larry Page. The chef DISTRIBUTION with their opposition, signing an open for example, according to a recent was immediately suspended - then, TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 letter in protest of the project. Is it any report from the Hoover Institution. after a companywide email thread FAX: 44557819 surprise that a company that canceled Larry Diamond, a senior fellow at that at the time was the longest in [email protected] a contract with the Pentagon to sort Hoover, told me: “If you understand Google history, reinstated. An through drone video images would be how China operates, it would be engineer who was at Google at the queasy about helping the Chinese shocking to the point of disbelief if time told me the whole controversy Communist Party consolidate control they were not in an organized fashion was “ridiculous.” All thoughts and views One core issue over its people? trying to penetrate Google.” The Tibetan pie incident is trivial expressed in these columns raised by this letter But there is another view within Google has a difficult history in compared with the implications of are those of the writers, goes far beyond Google: that Dragonfly is not diamet- China. As my Bloomberg colleague Dragonfly. But the basic issue is the rical but crucial to the company’s Mark Bergen has reported, Google’s same: Chinese citizens are subjects of not of the newspaper. Google: How the mission. These employees - some 500 leadership was initially (and cau- a totalitarian government. This does Chinese government of them so far - have also signed a tiously) optimistic about bringing its not mean that every Chinese national All correspondence pressures and letter making their case on an internal search engine to China in 2006. at Google is a spy or a plant. It does company message board. Interest- Google developed a compromise with mean that Chinese Googlers are more regarding Views and deploys its citizens ingly, the campaign was organized by the Chinese government: Users would likely to face pressure from their gov- Opinion pages should be in order to expand Chinese nationals inside Google. be informed when search results were ernment than Googlers who come send to editor-in-chief its power and The letter, which Techcrunch first being filtered. By 2009, however, that from more open societies. Just like the office or mailed to the influence. reported last month, argues that optimism had turned to dread with old Soviet Union, the Chinese state Google needs to at least try to get back the discovery that hackers had stolen views its people as its appendages. [email protected] 12 ASIA TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 RBI Governor Urjit Patel quits setting off a crisis

IANS Patel’s resignation On the issue of reserves, the MUMBAI comes in the RBI board decided to form an expert committee to examine its The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) backdrop of the economic capital framework, Governor Urjit Patel resigned ongoing tiff between which will decide the amount from his post yesterday with the government and of reserves it can maintain, immediate effect, citing the central bank handing over the balance to the “personal reasons”, setting of a government. major crisis in India’s politico- over the liquidity On the matter of relaxing the economic sphere. and credit crunch Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Patel’s resignation comes in in the economy norms for banks with bad loans, the backdrop of the ongoing tiff that provoked an it decided that the issue will be between the government and examined by the RBI’s Board for the central bank over the extraordinary meeting Financial Supervision. Vijay Mallya arrives to attend a hearing at Westminster Magistrates Court in central London, yesterday. liquidity and credit crunch in the of the RBI board on Eleven of the 21 state-run economy that provoked an November 19. banks are under the PCA extraordinary meeting of the framework, while NPAs accu- RBI board on November 19. mulated in the Indian banking Extradite Mallya to India “On account of personal capital requirements for lenders, system have touched a stag- reasons, I have decided to step relaxing the prompt corrective gering Rs 12 lakh crore. down from my current position action (PCA) rules for banks “The RBI-government fight for trial: London court effective immediately,” Patel struggling with accumulated has been pushed down, abated said in a brief statement released non-performing assets (NPAs or for now and postponed, but the IANS Arbuthnot, a Senior District the Home Secretary of State for a by the RBI. bad loans) and support for NPAs issue continues to remain,” LONDON Judge, said she accepted the decision to be taken on whether to Patel had taken charge as micro, small and medium Sudipto Mundle on the Board of Indian government’s contention order his extradition. Governor on September 4, 2016, enterprises. Governors of the National Beleaguered industrialist Vijay that because Mallya had such a The court ruling came six days for a three-year term, following Central to the liquidity issue Institute of Public Finance and Mallya must be extradited from high profile, his trial would be after British national and mid- Raghuram Rajan’s decision not was the government’s demand Policy had said following the RBI the UK to India to stand trial on under great scrutiny. dleman in the Rs3,600 core Agus- to seek a second term. that the RBI hand over its board meeting. charges of committing huge “I find that Mallya will be taWestland VVIP chopper deal, The historic tensions in gov- surplus reserves by amending Asked about the government- bank frauds, a London court able to raise with the court any Christian Michael, was extradited ernment-central bank relations its “economic capital RBI tiff, former Chief Economic ruled yesterday, saying there overly prejudicial publicity... It to India after his arrest in Dubai. were reignited in October when, framework”. Analysts noted that Advisor (CEA) Arvind Subra- was no evidence that the pros- will not be a trial by politicians. Mallya fled from India in in a public lecture, RBI Deputy the government’s demand came manian told reporters here on ecution was politically moti- Courts are used to dealing with March 2016. But he has Governor Viral Acharya talked in the face of a huge fiscal deficit Saturday that the central bank’s vated. high profile cases which are repeatedly denied fleeing the about the independence of the and the need to boost the autonomy must be protected “The criticism made of the accompanied by often ill- country and said he was ready Reserve Bank, arguing that any economy in an election year. because the country will benefit possible effect of the consid- advised political commentary. to pay back the money he owed compromise could be “potentially The RBI’s central board has 18 from strong institutions. erable media attention which “I do not accept that the to Indian banks. catastrophic” for the economy. members, which includes the Gov- “I have myself advocated would attend a prosecution of courts in India are there to do Earlier, before appearing in The government responded ernor and his four deputies as full- that RBI should play a pro-active Mallya is not significant enough what the politicians tell them to the court, Mallya told reporters: with the Finance Ministry time official directors, while the role, but its surplus funds should for this court to find he would do. As I have already said, the “Whatever the judgement, my seeking discussions with the rest have been nominated by the not go towards routine financing not have” a fair trial, The West- court will be under great legal team will review the central bank under the never- government, including the Eco- of spending and deficit financing minster Magistrates Court’s scrutiny. I do not find any inter- judgement if required and take used-before Section 7 of the RBI nomic Affairs and Financial -- that would amount to raiding Emma Arbuthnot said. national consensus which would appropriate steps thereafter.” He Act which empowers the gov- Services Secretaries. the RBI,” he added. “There is insufficient evidence enable me to find that the judges said he offered to repay the ernment to issue directions to Prime Minister Narendra On the RBI board, with a for this court to find that he will in India are corrupt.” public sector banks and the RBI Governor, who then Modi met with Patel before the majority of government nom- not be tried by a competent and Referring to defence argument employees what he owed. summoned a meeting of the board meeting and what inees, the former CEA said: “I fair court,” the court said. that there was abuse of legal “But that has nothing to do bank board. emerged on November 19 was think that part of maintaining a The judge also noted that any process, the London judge said: with this extradition decision, The government’s differ- seen as settling the debate on the real autonomy is not to politicise suggestion that the Central “There is no evidence that the pros- this is a completely separate ences with the RBI centres on central bank’s autonomy and the board. The board should not Bureau of Investigation (CBI) ecution is politically motivated... I matter.” Proceedings are on in four issues - it wanted liquidity clearly establishing the gov- be politicised. Not only it must courts in India were too “pliable” find no grounds for finding an the Mumbai Special Court against support to head off any risk of a ernment as a stakeholder in not be done, it must not be seen when it came to CBI cases “is not abuse of process.” The judge said Mallya under the Fugitive Eco- credit freeze, a relaxation in policy making. to be done either.” borne out by reliable evidence”. she was sending Mallya’s case to nomic Offenders Act.

Chandrababu, Modi seeks smooth winter session; Congress wants JPC on Rafale Mamata and IANS Talking to the media after Tomar said all political - Muslim Women (Protection of a long time that there should be a Sonia attend NEW DELHI the meeting, Parliamentary parties present at the meeting Rights on Marriage) Ordinance, JPC probe into the Rafale scam but Affairs Minister Narendra Singh have assured full cooperation for 2018, Indian Medical Council the government has failed to take oppn meet Prime Minister Naredndra Modi said Modi underlined that in a smooth functioning of (Amendment) Ordinance, 2018 a decision. We have again urged yesterday sought cooperation of democracy both the government Parliament. and the Companies it to form a JPC,” he said. IANS opposition parties in smooth and the opposition share their Asked if the government was (Amendment) Ordinance. Azad said it is important for NEW DELHI running of the winter session of inputs for efficient governance. ready for a Joint Parliamentary Congress leader Ghulam democracy that voters have faith Parliament as the Congress “The Prime Minister said that Committee (JPC) probe into the Nabi Azad, who is the Leader of on EVMs. UPA Chairperson Sonia sought a JPC probe into Rafale the government was ready to Rafale fighter jets deal, he said the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, “But unfortunately since the BJP Gandhi and Congress Pres- deal, discussion on “misuse” of discuss all issues as per rules and opposition had several issues said the Congress will press for came to power, people have lost ident Rahul Gandhi, Chief EVMs and discussion on procedures. If anybody wants to including Rafale, farmers’ plight a JPC inquiry into the Rafale deal faith in EVMs because the ruling Ministers Mamata Banerjee, problems concerning farmers. bring something to the govern- and economy “but they would have and raise the issue of alleged party is misusing them. In the recent N. Chandrababu Naidu and Modi, who took part in an ment’s notice inside the House to prioritise things as the session misuse of electronic voting Assembly polls, this crossed all Arvind Kejriwal, NCP leader all-party meeting convened by or even outside, we are open to was only four weeks long. “These machines (EVMs). limits. EVM machines were found Sharad Pawar and DMK the Parliamentary Affairs Min- it,” Tomar said. things can be settled in the Business Azad said the party will also in houses, hotels, on roads, they leader M K Stalin were among istry ahead of the winter session, Modi urged political parties to Advisory Meetings,” he added. seek discussion on “misuse of were being taken unprotected in senior opposition leaders who said the government is always create constructive atmosphere The Minister said a legis- investigative agencies” by the buses and jeeps...,” he said. attended a meeting here receptive to issues raised by during the session and to collec- lation on Ram Mandir was “not government to target political “There is a big doubt, a yesterday to discuss ways to political parties. tively address issues concerning the topic of today’s discussion”. rivals, problems faced by question mark whether elections take on the BJP in the Lok The government agenda for people. “It is our prime responsi- “When something to this farmers, fall in the value of were free and fair or being held Sabha elections next year. the session, which is the last full bility to contribute to the service effect comes up, we will let you rupee, rise in prices of petroleum under the watch of the gov- TDP leader and Andhra session before the Lok Sabha of the nation and its people by know,” he said. products, security of women and ernment.” The session will have Pradesh Chief Minister elections next year, has 46 items ensuring smooth functioning of The government will bring “erosion of RBI autonomy”. a total of 20 sittings spread over Chadrababu Naidu had taken including 45 bills. the Parliament,” he said. three bills to replace ordinances “We have been demanding for a period of 29 days. the initiative to call the meeting, a day ahead of the start of winter session of Par- liament and the declaration of Assembly election results in DRT serves notice to Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Mizoram and Tel- angana — seen as a trendsetter Nirav Modi and family for general elections. Those present also included Janata Dal-Secular IANS barred from disposing off, trans- leader and former Prime Min- MUMBAI ferring, or entering into any trans- ister H D Deve Gowda, CPI-M actions pertaining to the secured General Secretary Sitram The Debt Recovery Tribunal properties, the notice said. Yechury and Nationalist Con- (DRT) yesterday served notice They have been allowed time gress Party’s Praful Patel. to absconder diamantaire Nirav till January 15, 2019, to reply to the Others who attended were Modi, his family members and notice, failing which the PNB plea All India United Democratic his companies to recover over would be decided ex-parte. Front’s Badruddin Azmal, Rs7,000 crore owed to the Besides Nirav Modi, the Muslim League’s P.K. Kulhan- Punjab National Bank (PNB). notice has been slapped on his ikutty, National Conference’s The notice by the DRT-1 wife Ami, their children Rohin, Farooq Abdullah, Jharkhand Registrar, A. Murali, came six Ananya and Apasha, his Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik)’s months after the beleaguered brothers Nehal Deepak Modi, Babulal Marandi, Rashtriya PNB had moved the tribunal in Neeshal Deepak Modi, Deepak Lok Dal’s Ajit Singh, Loktantrik July to recover around Rs7,029 Keshavlal Modi and sister Purvi Janata Dal’s Sharad Yadav, Indo-US joint air exercises crore. This includes the prin- Mayank Mehta, at their last- RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav, CPI’s D. cipal component of around known Mumbai addresses. Military personnel deplane from an Indian Air Force C-130J Super Hercules troop transport aircraft Raja, Revolutionary Socialist Rs6,800 crore plus interest. In the notice, nine com- at Air Force Station Kalaikunda yesterday, as part of the Cope India joint air exercises between Party’s N.K. Premchandran The accused-defendents panies, besides the branches of and Hindustani Awam IAF and US Air Force. include seven individuals and some companies in Surat and Morcha’s Jitan Ram Manjhi. nine group companies, and all are Japiur have been named. TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 ASIA 13 Pakistan PM reviews ministries’ performance

INTERNEWS ISLAMABAD It was decided in the cabinet meeting yesterday that each Ministry would be A Performance Review of Pakistan’s each Ministry is further tasked with a specific strategic being held under the chair- plan for implementation, spread over manship of Prime Minister Imran Khan. five years so that all concerned work in Discussions on the actions tandem for optimum output. already taken in terms of service delivery, austerity measures adopted and future plans was held in each case with a view deserves a chance and time to self-respecting man. Don’t how to improve performance prove his intentions with push him into a corner. He can under each of these heads regards to Pakistan-India change things in the further. relations. subcontinent.” It was decided in the cabinet “PM Imran is our best bet Referring to the ‘better’ rela- Relatives of missing Pakistanis hold pictures of their loved ones during a demonstration on Human meeting yesterday that each after former military ruler tions between Islamabad and Rights Day in Quetta, the capital city of Balochistan province, yesterday. Ministry would be further tasked general Pervez Musharraf,” said New Delhi during the Musharraf with a specific strategic plan for AS Dulat, the ex-Research and regime, Dulat said. implementation, spread over Analysis Wing (RAW) chief, “There has not been a more five years so that all concerned while speaking at a session on reasonable leader in Pakistan in Pakistan observes Human Rights Day work in tandem for optimum wisdom of spies during the Mil- the past 30 years,” adding, “It is output. itary Literature Festival in Chan- sad that once Musharraf stepped It was also decided that such digarh on Saturday, Hindustan down, a lot less has been done INTERNEWS across the globe.The United invited to celebrate this day. review meetings would be held Times reported. in terms of Pakistan-India ISLAMABAD Nations (UN) had declared The High Commissioner every three months to judge “We need to give him time relations.” December 10 as the Interna- office of the Human Rights was performance of the ministries, and a chance to prove his inten- Without naming Islamabad’s International Human Rights Day tional Human Rights Day, the awarded by the Guinness World adopt mid-way course correc- tions,” he added. efforts for better bilateral ties was observed yesterday in date when the world body had Record for the collection, trans- tions, where required, and to Lieutenant General Kamal and its stance to resolve all Pakistan to uphold human rights adopted the Universal Decla- lation (around 380 languages) ensure overall performance of Davar (retd), the first Director issues through dialogue, the and throw light on the plight of ration of Human Rights in 1948. and distribution of the the Government is on track- General of the Indian Defence former RAW chief said. the people being denied those Seminars, rallies and worldwide announcement of main aim of which is improving Intelligence Agency, who was “Talks are the only way basic rights. awareness campaigns were held the Human Rights. the quality of life of Pakistani also in attendance at the forward for both nuclear-armed This year, Human Rights today across the world to At this event celebration, a citizens. session, agreed with Dulat’s nations. I would even suggest an Day marks the 71th anniversary encourage people to stand up for global discussion on the human Meanwhile, India’s former stance on better ties with institutional arrangement of the Universal Declaration of their own rights and those of rights was also hosted by the spy master has said that Paki- Pakistan, saying: between the intelligence Human Rights. The day was others. All the member states and High Commissioner through the stani Prime Minister Imran Khan “Imran Khan is a agencies of both countries.” commemorated in Pakistan and interested organizations were social media websites.

Myanmar seizes Poll campaigning under way in Bangladesh amid arrests 370kg of heroin AFP “The government wants to worth $4.7m DHAKA hold a lopsided election. These arrests are just to create fear AFP There is no opposition candidate among the people, so that they YANGON for prime minister, hundreds don’t go to vote,” BNP have been arrested and spokesman Rizvi Ahmed said. Myanmar has seized 370kg incumbent premier Sheikh The sweep has further of heroin worth $4.7m during Hasina stands accused of thinned the ranks of an oppo- a raid in the northeast, police ignoring democratic checks on sition whose veteran leader, said, the latest big bust in the her power, but Bangladesh Khaleda Zia, is already behind world’s second-largest opium began campaigning yesterday bars serving 10 years for graft. producer after Afghanistan. for a year-end election. The 73-year-old’s supporters Weak rule of law and More than 100 million say the charges are politically conflict-riddled border areas people are registered to vote on motivated to keep Hasina’s chief allow industrial-size trade in December 30 for either Hasina’s rival out of the race. heroin, pills and crystal meth- Awami League and its allies, or The BNP boycotted the 2014 amphetamine — known as ice a beleaguered opposition that election over fears it would be — to flourish, even as massive says it is being hobbled by police. rigged, allowing Hasina to be re- drug seizures routinely grab As the election campaign elected unchallenged. That headlines. was launched, with candidates election was condemned by The most recent narcotics holding processions and distrib- international observers. batch was discovered in a uting leaflets, the Bangladesh The opposition opted to truck outside a monastery Nationalist Party (BNP), which contest the ballot this time around, near the Shan state capital hopes to deny Hasina a record but with just weeks to go before Taunggyi on Saturday night, fourth term, said nearly 2,000 voting day has not named anyone police said in a statement of its supporters had been to run against Hasina. Still, it has Sunday. arrested. fielded candidates in all 300 con- Two men were arrested Police said those detained Supporters of Bangladesh Awami League take part in a general election campaign procession in stituencies and is counting on a after officers found them with since the election was Dhaka, yesterday. groundswell of support to “62 bags containing 170kg of announced in November — overcome other hurdles. “If there white heroin and 200kg of including a number of candi- — had prior warrants for their Hasina and her party were fol- designed to stifle her rivals and are free and fair polls, we will brown heroin”, it said, dates about to hit the hustings arrest. But the opposition said lowing a pre-election “blueprint” intimidate their voters. win,” Ahmed said. referring to colours indicating levels of purity. The bust was worth a little more than 7 billion kyat, or nearly $4.7 million. Sri Lanka’s ousted premier Authorities in the area could not be reached for additional comment. sets deadline to end crisis Though still vast, the cul- tivation of opium -- the base ingredient for heroin -- has AFP of thousands of the party faithful would declined in Myanmar as COLOMBO rally in Colombo if the president did not demand for methamphet- heed the court. amine surges. Sri Lanka’s ousted prime minister “After the court ruling, we will launch In 2017, 41,000 hectares promised yesterday to bring tens of thou- our “People Power’ campaign to force (101,300 acres) of land were sands of supporters to the capital next the president to end the crisis,” he said being used to grow poppies week for a massive demonstration unless in a statement. Wickremesinghe has compared to 55,000 hectares President Maithripala Sirisena reinstated cobbled together a majority in par- in 2015, according to esti- him imminently. liament, which has twice voted against mates by the United Nations Ranil Wickremesinghe, whose dis- Rajapaksa. Office on Drugs and Crime Vaccination drive missal in October plunged Sri Lanka into A court of appeal last week also (UNODC). crisis, said he still commanded the stripped Rajapaksa and his cabinet of In the 1970s and 1980s, A Pakistani health worker administers polio vaccine drops to a child during a support of parliament and Sirisena had their authority until he could prove his Myanmar was the leader in vaccination campaign in Karachi, yesterday. until Friday to recognise that. right to hold office. global opium production in Sri Lanka has been trapped in a bitter The war-era strongman, backed by the “Golden Triangle” -- a power feud since Sirisena replaced Wick- the president, has ignored parliament, region spanning borders of remesinghe with Mahinda Rajapakse, a and has named a cabinet and assumed Myanmar, Thailand and Laos controversial former strongman leader. the duties of prime minister. -- before Afghan farmers Parliament has twice voted against But the 225-member legislature has started to dominate the Peshawar launches first surveillance vehicle Rajapaksa but Sirisena has refused to blocked his office from spending any market. reinstate his former ally Wickremesinghe funds, worsening the acrimony between Many of the country’s INTERNEWS The surveillance vehicle is equipped —even if he has the numbers on the floor. the factions. The chamber has witnessed drug gangs have in recent PESHAWAR with CCTV cameras connected with The country’s Supreme Court is violence in recent weeks as the power years switched to meth, District Smart Control Room where ruling this week on whether Sirisena’s struggle dragged on, with brawls between feeding the growing popu- The Peshawar district administration has trained staff converts gathered infor- sacking of parliament in November was warring sides. larity across the Asia-Pacific launched first administrative surveillance mation into actionable data, upon unconstitutional. Last week, Wickremesinghe likened for crystallised “ice” and the vehicle for efficient monitoring of admin- which the deputy commissioner will Wickremesinghe —who is confident Sirisena to Hitler, his strongest comment lower-grade caffeine-laced istrative matters of the district. take decisions. of a ruling against Sirisena -- said tens yet directed at his former ally. “yaba” pills. 14 ASIA TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 Lion Air passenger numbers drop after deadly crash

REUTERS “There was a between the airline and JAKARTA decline but it wasn’t Boeing had worsened in a spat over responsibility for Lion Air said yesterday too significant,” the crash. passenger numbers dropped the airline’s CEO The airline has 190 Boeing by less than 5 percent in jets worth $22bn at list prices November compared to a year Edward Sirait told waiting to be delivered, on top earlier, after one of its Boeing television network of 197 already taken, making it Co 737 MAX jets crashed in late one of the largest US export October killing all 189 people CNN Indonesia. “It customers. on board. was under 5 percent Bankers and some analysts “There was a decline but it say Lion Air and Southeast Asian wasn’t too significant,” the air- compared to the rivals over-expanded and would line’s CEO Edward Sirait told tel- traffic at the same be comfortable with fewer evision network CNN Indonesia. orders. “It was under 5 percent com- month last year.” Boeing has declined to pared to the traffic at the same comment on contractual matters month last year.” largest, is privately owned and but industry sources say aero- He said Lion Air did not does not publicly release traffic space companies rarely leave “clearly understand” whether statistics or financial results. room for unilateral cancellations the crash was responsible for the Sirait said last week Lion Air except in exceptional Activists march to promote human rights fall in traffic in November, was considering cancelling circumstances. Activists raise clinched fists as they march during a rally to commemorate the 70th International which he said was a low season orders for 737 MAX jets but it The cause of the October 29 Human Rights Day, near the Presidential Palace in Manila, yesterday. for travel. had not yet made a decision. crash into the Java Sea has yet The airline, Indonesia’s Sources said that relations to be determined.

South Korean China pressures US, Canada ahead of Huawei hearing cab driver burns AP weekend. CBS’ “Face the Nation” on Vice Foreign Minister Le British Columbia has already self to death in BEIJING Meng was detained on Sunday. “It is totally separate Yucheng summoned Canadian canceled a trade mission to December 1 while changing from anything that I work on or Ambassador John McCallum on China amid fears China could carpool protest China raised the pressure on the planes in Vancouver. The US anything that the trade policy Saturday and American Ambas- detain Canadians in retaliation United States and Canada as a wants her extradited. It alleges people in the administration sador Terry Branstad on Sunday. for Meng’s detention. AFP bail hearing for a top Chinese Huawei used a Hong Kong shell work on.... We have a lot of very He called Meng’s detention Commercial retaliation SEOUL technology executive was set to company to evade US trade big, very important issues. We’ve “extremely egregious” and against firms from countries at resume in Vancouver, British curbs on Iran. got serious people working on demanded that the US vacate the odds with China has grown A South Korean taxi driver Columbia. Her arrest could fuel US- them, and I don’t think they’ll be arrest warrant, the official increasingly common as Beijing burned himself to death A headline in a Communist China trade tensions at a time affected by this.” Xinhua News Agency said. exercises its leverage as the yesterday in protest at an Party newspaper called Canada’s when the two sides are seeking The hearing on whether to Le warned both countries world’s second largest economy. Uber-like ride-sharing service treatment of Meng Wanzhou, the to resolve a dispute over Beijing’s release on bail was due to that Beijing will take steps based Authorities closed most of being introduced by the coun- chief financial officer of Huawei technology and industrial resume later. Canadian prose- on their response. Asked Monday Lotte’s supermarkets in China try’s largest mobile chat app, Technologies, “inhumane.” The strategy. Both sides have sought cutor John Gibb-Carsley asked what those steps might be, after the South Korean retailer reports said. editorial published in yesterday’s to keep the issues separate, at the court Friday to reject Meng’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu sold land at home for a U.S. anti- South Korean taxi drivers Global Times followed formal least so far. bail request. Justice William Kang said only that “it totally missile system that Beijing have angrily protested against government protests to the “This is a criminal justice Ehrcke said he would think depends on the Canadian side opposed. the car-pooling service ambassadors of both Canada and matter,” US Trade Represent- about proposed bail conditions itself.” At least two companies are created by KakaoTalk, saying the United States over the ative Robert Lighthizer said on over the weekend. The Canadian province of rallying to support Huawei. it would threaten their jobs and livelihoods. US giant Uber has only a minimal presence in the country, offering only taxi- Four dead as Hong Kong schoolbus and licensed-hire vehicle hailing after closing its main ride-sharing service in 2015 mounts pavement, trapping passers-by in the face of an extensive backlash from drivers. AFP terrifying passers-by as the taken to hospital for But Kakao is used by HONG KONG driver ran towards it and treatment. Several remain in more than 80 percent of tried in vain to stop it, a serious condition. South Koreans, and in recent Four people were killed according to the police. Hong Kong prides itself months tens of thousands of when an empty runaway “We believe he might on having one of the world’s taxi drivers have held mass schoolbus mounted a have forgotten to pull the best public transport systems rallies in Seoul to condemn its pavement in a crowded handbrake or hadn’t properly but deadly bus accidents are upcoming car-pooling Hong Kong neighbourhood pulled it,” chief inspector of not unknown. service, which is due to launch yesterday, trapping passers- police Sun Lun-yum told Five people were killed next week. by underneath and injuring reporters. and 32 injured when a coach The 57-year-old driver, 10, police said. The 62-year-old driver carrying Cathay Pacific staff surnamed Choi, set himself Two women — aged 80 became trapped under the to Hong Kong’s airport col- alight in front of the national and 70 — and two men — bus and was dragged along lided with a taxi last month. parliament in Seoul after aged 83 and 77 — were killed for about 20 metres before A speeding double- complaining about the car- after the yellow bus careered falling onto the road. decker overturned in pooling service, according to out of control in the Police said the bus trav- northern Hong Kong in Feb- the police and Yonhap news downtown North Point elled for a total of 100 metres, ruary, killing 19 people and agency. Choi had told another district. hitting two taxis before finally leaving more than 60 injured. taxi driver he wanted to set Photographs in local crashing into a building in a The bus driver was arrested himself on fire “because of the media showed victims narrow lane lined with shops. for dangerous driving. Kakao carpool”, Yonhap news sprawled on the ground while In addition to the driver, And in 2003 a double- agency quoted the man as others received medical who suffered injuries to his decker bus collided with a saying. He poured fuel over treatment at the scene. head, neck and back, a truck and plummeted off a himself while sitting in his Police investigate after an empty schoolbus crashed in the North Point The vehicle rolled down further nine pedestrians aged bridge, killing 21 people and vehicle and set himself alight, district of Hong Kong, yesterday. the street after it was parked, between 22 and 89 were injuring 20. police said. South Korea charges four with illegally importing N Korean coal

AP Prosecutors said in a seeking sanctions relief in return SEOUL statement that the four people for some of the measures the and their five entities were country has taken since entering South Korean prosecutors said charged with violating a law nuclear talks early this year, yesterday that they have requiring government approval such as dismantling its nuclear charged four people with ille- to bring North Korean products testing site and suspending gally importing North Korean into the South. weapons tests. US officials want coal via Russia in violation of UN UN sanctions that were the North to take more signif- sanctions. toughened in 2017 ban member icant steps. The indictments, handed states from importing North South Korea’s liberal pres- down on Friday, came four Korean coal and other minerals ident, Moon Jae-in, who favours months after customs author- that had been key sources of a negotiated solution to the ities accused three of the four of foreign currency for the impov- nuclear issue, has facilitated US- using forged documents to erished yet nuclear-armed North Korea diplomacy this illicitly import 35,000 tons of country. year. But when he met President North Korean coal and other The prosecutors’ statement Donald Trump recently on the Solidarity with Rohingya minerals worth $5.8 million. said the four people attempted sidelines of the G-20 summit in Protesters hold banners during a demonstration in support of Rohingya Muslims in front of Myanmar South Korean media said to get profits by selling North Argentina, the two agreed that Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia, yesterday. Indonesian Muslims condemned Myanmar army’s oppressions prosecutors found an additional Korean minerals whose prices sanctions would remain in place person implicated in the case dropped in the wake of the until North Korea completes its towards Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine State of Myanmar. during an investigation. sanctions. North Korea has been nuclear disarmament. TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 EUROPE 15 May aborts parliamentary vote on Brexit deal

REUTERS May’s move on the an insurance policy to avoid a LONDON eve of the scheduled return to border checks between the British-ruled province and British Prime Minister Theresa parliamentary vote the EU-member Irish Republic. May yesterday abruptly post- opens up an array of But it also goes to the heart of poned a parliamentary vote on possible outcomes, the Brexit dilemma: allowing her Brexit deal, throwing Brit- ranging from a Britain to set its own rules ain’s plan to leave the European outside the EU without dis- Union into chaos after admitting disorderly Brexit with rupting trade. that she faced a rout. no deal to another The backstop requires May’s move on the eve of the referendum on EU Britain to abide by some EU scheduled parliamentary vote rules indefinitely — potentially opens up an array of possible membership. May’s long after it quits the bloc and outcomes, ranging from a dis- own position could gives up say in setting them - orderly Brexit with no deal to be in jeopardy, with unless some future mechanism another referendum on EU calls from opposition can be found to ensure a membership. May’s own friction-free land border. That position could be in jeopardy, parties for her to step prospect is rejected both by sup- with calls from opposition aside. porters of a cleaner break with parties for her to step aside. the EU and those who want to May said she still intended stay inside it. to put her deal to lawmakers. parliament, adding that she was May said the broader But she would first ask the EU confident it was the right deal. question was whether par- for more “reassurances” over “We will therefore defer the liament wanted to deliver on the Pro and anti-Brexit protesters argue opposite the Houses of Parliament in London, Britain, yesterday. the main bone of contention: a vote scheduled for tomorrow will of the people for Brexit, or “backstop” to ensure no hard and not proceed to divide the open up the divisions in the border on the island of Ireland, House at this time,” May said. world’s fifth largest economy top court ruled that Britain could the house to have a say would Conservatives and the main which her critics say means The United Kingdom would with another referendum. unilaterally withdraw its be the right and, dare I say it, the opposition Labour Party are Britain could end up indefinitely meanwhile step up contingency “If you take a step back, it is decision to leave the bloc on obvious course to take,” Speaker publicly committed to carrying subject to EU rules after it leaves. planning for a no-deal Brexit clear that this house faces a March, 29. Bercow said. In the June 23, 2016 out Brexit. A no-deal Brexit, Announcing the delay, May when it is due to leave on March much more fundamental The government did not referendum, 17.4 million voters, though, is seen as so disruptive was laughed at by some law- 29. question: does this house want spell out the mechanism for or 52 percent, backed Brexit to business that parliament makers when she said there was Sterling skidded to its to deliver Brexit?” May asked. delaying the vote scheduled for while 16.1 million, or 48 percent, would be under strong pressure broad support for the deal and weakest level since April 2017, The leader of the opposition Tuesday. backed staying. More than two to block it. that she had listened carefully falling to $1.2527. It was trading Labour Party, Jeremy Corbyn, The speaker of the lower years since, the United Kingdom A growing number of back- to different views over it — the at $1.50 on the day of the 2016 said the United Kingdom no house of parliament, John remains divided on how or even bench members of parliament result of 18 months of tortuous Brexit referendum. longer had “a functioning gov- Bercow, called for lawmakers whether it should leave the club say the only solution would be negotiations. May accepted there was ernment” and called on May to to be given a vote on the it first joined in 1973. Polls show a new referendum, an option “If we went ahead and held concern among lawmakers “make way” for a Labour decision to defer the vote on the few voters have changed their backed by three of the four the vote tomorrow the deal about the Northern Irish government. deal itself. “I politely suggest that minds, despite warnings of eco- living former prime ministers would be rejected by a signif- “backstop”. The decision to halt the vote in any courteous, respectful and nomic turmoil. but strongly opposed by the icant margin,” May told The provision is intended as came just hours after the EU’s mature environment, allowing Both May’s ruling government. Sweden stuck in Greek court rejects release limbo as Centre request by terror convict Party snubs Lofven AP ATHENS REUTERS Stefan Lofven four more years,” STOCKHOLM she said. Loof’s agenda was a A Greek court yesterday hard sell for Lofven, a former rejected a request for early Attempts to form a government welder whose party is heavily prison release by an extremist in Sweden were back at square backed by unions and who also convicted of terrorism for one yesterday after the Centre relies on support from the Left killings by the defunct Party, citing policy differences, Party. While Lofven’s chance November 17 group. A panel said it would vote against a of a second term now appear of appeals judges rejected the second term in office for Social slim, Alliance leader Ulf Kris- request of Savvas Xiros, who Democrat leader Stefan Lofven. tersson’s look little better. “We applied for early release The country has been have not taken any new under legislation designed to without a government since decision on (whether to back ease prison overcrowding by September, when an election Kristersson),” said Loof, whose allowing some convicts out delivered a hung parliament party has already voted against on health grounds. Commuters line up in front of a Deutsche Bahn information counter during a rail workers’ strike that has already rejected both him once in parliament. Xiros is serving five life across the country due to a pay dispute with Deutsche Bahn, in Munich, Germany, yesterday. Lofven and the leader of the The election gave the hard- sentences plus 25 years for his four-party, centre-right right, populist Sweden Demo- participation in November 17, Alliance as prime minister. crats the balance of power. an elusive group that killed German rail strike halts trains nationwide Despite being nominally Lofven said he was still 23 foreign diplomats and part of the Alliance, the Centre ready negotiate over a gov- Greeks between 1975 and AFP including cargo services, were in two phases, with an option and Liberal parties said they ernment that would sit in the 2000. Xiros was caught after FRANKFURT AM MAIN affected, DB said, adding that for staff to take extra time off were ready to support left- middle ground of Swedish pol- a bomb he planted exploded both sides had agreed to return instead, and a one-off payment leaning Lofven as a means of itics. “The most likely alter- prematurely in 2002, severely Germany was plunged into to the negotiation table today. of ¤500, DPA national news breaking the deadlock and native to this kind of com- injuring him. The blast left transport chaos yesterday as The industrial action came agency reported. keeping the anti-immigration promise... is a government that him with permanent vision train services were halted by a after talks broke down on Sat- A DB spokeswoman wel- Sweden Democrats politically is dependent on forces that and general health problems. railworkers’ strike over pay, urday between the DB and the comed the decision to resume isolated. have their origin in the white- His interrogation led to affecting millions of passengers. EVG railworkers’ union, which talks today. “We never left the But Centre leader Annie supremacy movement,” he said. the quick unravelling of the Inter-city and regional is demanding a 7.5-percent negotiating table,” she said. “We Loof said yesterday that Lofven But his position could be group, which included two of services as well as many urban salary rise for 160,000 have told the union that we are — premier before the election further weakened as soon as Xiros’ brothers. commuter trains were cancelled employees. prepared to make another and currently heading a care- Wednesday when parliament throughout Europe’s biggest “We believe the warning offer.” taker administration — had not votes on his budget for 2019. economy by the four-hour strike was a total success,” said Major transport hubs like accepted her demands for Without support from the 39 babies in stoppage that started at 5am, EVG head Torsten Westphal. Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne and lower income taxes and more Centre or Liberal parties, it may Deutsche Bahn (DB) said. “The next move is now up Munich were among those liberal labour laws, which were not pass and parliament could Romania hospital Although the walkout ended to Deutsche Bahn management.” impacted by the walkout. the price for support. adopt a budget motion put diagnosed as planned at 9am, its ripple DB had earlier described the DB said that purchased “We would have need to see forward by the Moderate and effects will be felt for the rest of strike as a “completely unnec- tickets would remain valid until considerably more liberal Christian Democrat parties, with superbug the day, particularly on long- essary escalation” in the tor- next Sunday or could be political reforms in order for the both in the Alliance, that distance lines, rail operator DB tuous negotiations. DB has so far refunded and urged passengers Centre party to be able to come includes roughly 20bn crowns AP warned. Some 1,400 trains, offered a pay rise of 5.1 percent to delay travel where possible. to an agreement and allow in tax cuts. BUCHAREST

Romanian authorities say the number of babies diagnosed with a drug-resistant Catalan leader slammed for urging ‘Slovenian route’ to secession superbug at a maternity hospital in the capital has AFP Slovenia,” government spokes- to follow the “Slovenian route” considered illegal by Yugoslavia Catalonia’s parliament unilat- risen to 39. MADRID woman Isabel Celaa told Spanish to achieve independence. won by the separatist camp, erally declared independence Raluca Alexandru, radio when asked about Catalan “Catalans are not afraid. Slovenian officials tried unsuc- from Spain in October 2017 to spokeswoman for Giulesti The Spanish government leader Quim Torra’s comments. They do not frighten us. There is cessfully to negotiate their inde- no avail following a banned Maternity hospital, which was yesterday criticised Catalonia’s The Catalan government “knows no turning back in the path to pendence with Belgrade. independence referendum. closed on November 30 due separatist president for urging very well that if there is any vio- freedom,” added Torra, who Slovenia’s parliament then Spain’s Supreme Court in to the outbreak, yesterday the region to follow the example lation of the law, the Spanish recently visited Slovenia, unilaterally declared inde- October ordered 18 former said tests have confirmed the of Slovenia, which sparked a government will act,” she added. according to the Catalan govern- pendence on June 25, 1991, Catalan separatist leaders to latest figure. It is triple the brief armed conflict when it Spanish Foreign Minister ment’s Twitter account. sparking a 10-day armed con- stand trial over the inde- number of newborns diag- declared independence unilat- Josep Borell also weighed in, “Slovenians decided to go flict with the Yugoslav army pendence declaration. nosed with antibiotic- erally from Yugoslavia in 1991. telling reporters in Brussels that ahead with all the consequences. which killed 62 people. Prosecutors are seeking jail resistant Staphylococcus “It’s unfortunate, regrettable. Torra “appeared to appeal for an Let’s do like them and be ready Torra’s predecessor, Carles terms of up to 25 years on aureus last month. Health I don’t know if he forgot that insurrection” with his language. for anything to live freely,” he Puigdemont, visited Slovenia charges of rebellion or misuse of Minister Sorina Pintea said dozens of people were killed and During a speech in Brussels on said. After holding an inde- during the summer of 1991 to public funds over the failed she will decide later whether hundreds were injured in Saturday, Torra urged Catalans pendence referendum observe its independence push. secession bid. to keep the hospital closed. 16 EUROPE TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018

Italian doctors Siberian cop face probe over football player’s death guilty of 56 AFP MILAN

Two doctors who issued more murders medical certificates declaring former Italian international footballer Davide Astori fit to AFP A court in the city of play despite evidence he IRKUTSK suffered from a heart Irkutsk found Mikhail condition prior to his death A Siberian policeman who raped Popkov guilty of 56 are under investigation for and killed women after offering murders between negligent homicide, the public them late-night rides was found 1992 and 2007, prosecutor’s office in guilty of dozens more murders Florence confirmed. yesterday, making him Russia’s sentencing him to a Fiorentina captain Astori most prolific serial killer of second life term. He was found dead in his hotel recent times. was already in prison Mikhail Popkov stands inside a defendant’s cage during a court hearing in Irkutsk, yesterday. room in the northeastern city A court in the city of Irkutsk of Udine on March 4 this year found Mikhail Popkov guilty of after being convicted He intends to appeal against that matched tracks found at and knives. ahead of a Serie A match 56 murders between 1992 and of killing 22 women in the sentence, regional prosecutor crime scenes. The number of killings for against Udinese. 2007, sentencing him to a second 2015. Alexander Shkinev told Russian In a 2017 interview with Rus- which he has been convicted An initial post mortem sug- life term. He was already in news agencies. sia’s Meduza website, Popkov exceeds the totals of several gested the 31-year-old died prison after being convicted of a “cleaner” who was purging his Prosecutors yesterday said he gave women lifts and tar- notorious murderers in Russia from bradyarrhythmia — when killing 22 women in 2015. home city of prostitutes. described Popkov as having “a geted those who were living in and the ex-Soviet Union. the heart slows so much it stops Popkov offered rides to All but one of his victims pathological attraction to killing a way he saw as immoral, adding “Chessboard Killer” Alex- — but the causes are unclear. women late at night, sometimes were women between the ages people” and “homicidal mania that “any society condemns the ander Pichushkin was jailed for The doctors, who signed in his police car, while off-duty of 16 and 40. His one male victim with sadistic elements,” but he behaviour of a debauched life in 2007 for 48 murders, the fitness certificates which around his city of Angarsk near was a policeman he gave a ride was ruled sane enough to stand woman”. mostly of elderly men he met in gave Astori the all-clear to Irkutsk, 4,200km east of to late at night and killed in a trial. While in jail, he confessed to a Moscow park. He aimed to kill play, work for public bodies Moscow. forest. Investigators had suspected 59 further murders but was con- one person for each of the 64 in Florence and Cagliari. His murderous spree initially The grey-haired 54-year-old a policeman because of the way victed only of 56 yesterday squares on the chessboard. The announcement of the went unnoticed during a period appeared in court in prison the killer carefully covered his because investigators had not Andrei Chikatilo was con- investigation comes after La of rampant mafia killings in the uniform, his head bowed. He will tracks. managed to prove three of the victed of 52 Soviet-era murders. Nazione published details of crime-ridden city. be sent to a prison that is exclu- The murders took place crimes took place, Interfax news He was known as the “Butcher two electrocardiogram tests He killed his victims using sively for convicts serving life while he was a serving police agency reported, citing the of Rostov” . He was executed in carried out on the player in weapons including a hammer terms, nicknamed the “Black officer and after he left the force court’s press service. 1994, before Russia imposed a July 2016 and July 2017. and an axe, then dumped their Dolphin”. in 1998. Investigators said that they moratorium on the death Both reportedly showed bodies in the woods, at the side As part of his sentence — a Popkov was caught in 2012 uncovered the remains of some penalty. anomalies, in particular the of the road and in a cemetery. rare case in Russia of a convicted after investigators re-examined of the victims’ bodies based on Popkov reportedly boasted latter, which allegedly demon- He was also found guilty of murderer being given a second the case and carried out DNA Popkov’s account, as well as to cellmates that he had com- strated that the player suffered raping 11 of the women. life sentence — Popkov was also testing of residents, focusing on finding murder weapons mitted more murders than from a ventricular extrasystole, Popkov described himself as deprived of his police pension. those who drove a make of car including axes, screwdrivers Chikatilo. or irregular heartbeats.

Suspected drug kingpin goes on France says protests no excuse to curb climate battle AFP political, economic and social question of ecological transition agree to limit global temperature trial in France KATOWICE problem,” said Brune Poirson and a poorly received carbon tax rises to below two degrees AFP (pictured), French secretary of in order to also curb their ambi- Celsius and under 1.5C if PARIS France said yesterday at the UN state for ecological transition. tions regarding the climate.” possible. climate talks it fears certain She spoke to reporters on the Conceding the need to figure The UN’s expert climate Briton Robert Dawes, countries will exploit the “yellow margins of the UN climate talks out a way to transition to clean panel in October warned that believed to be one of Europe’s vest” protests to curb their ambi- in Katowice, Poland, adding that energy “in the fairest way pos- fossil fuel emissions must be biggest drug traffickers, went tions in the fight against global she was notably there “to help sible”, Poirson said “the end goal halved by 2030 to have any hope on trial in Paris yesterday warming. countries decode” the situation remains the same, namely to get of reaching the 1.5C goal by the accused of importing 1.3 The “yellow vests”, clad in in France. over our oil dependence and end of the century. tonnes of cocaine into France. the luminous safety jackets “The ‘yellow vest’ movement speed up the ecological US President Donald Trump The drugs, stuffed in 30 carried by law in all French cars, is much broader and goes way transition”. on Saturday cited the French pro- unregistered suitcases, were began slowing or blocking traffic beyond the single issue of eco- Officials from nearly 200 tests as proof that he was right to discovered in 2013 after an on roads around France last logical transition, so I believe one countries are meeting in reject the Paris agreement on Air France plane arrived at month in protest against anti- Emmanuel Macron, accused of should not conflate things,” Katowice until the end of the fighting climate change. Paris’ Charles de Gaulle pollution fuel tax hikes. favouring the rich. Poirson said. week to try to flesh out the Polish President Andrzej airport from Caracas. The demonstrations have “It would be dangerous to “The risk is that other coun- promises agreed in the 2015 Duda for his part said: “We can’t Dawes, 46, was arrested snowballed, leading to calls to blame the environment for this tries... will use what happened Paris climate accord. enforce climate policies that go in 2015 at his luxury resort in topple French President entire crisis. It’s a broader in France and reduce it to a The Paris deal saw nations against the will of the people.” Benalmadena, southern Spain, after police intercepted a conversation in which he reportedly claimed own- ership of the cocaine, with a EU blacklists nine over street value of $275m. Dawes is on trial alongside two other Britons and three ‘rebel’ votes in Ukraine Italians, who risk up to 30 REUTERS individuals to hitting Russian years in prison and fines of up BRUSSELS ports and assets in Azov Sea. to 7.5 million euros. Yesterday, the EU added The European Union blacklisted nine locals in the Donetsk and nine locals involved in last Luhansk regions of east Ukraine Airport protesters month’s rebel elections in east to its blacklist as a follow-up to Ukraine yesterday, but was the separatist vote held there in UK convicted of unlikely to heed swiftly Kiev’s earlier in November, bringing call for more reprisals against the total number of people aviation offenses Moscow over the latest flare-up barred from the EU over of tensions in the Azov Sea. turmoil in Ukraine to 164. AP Ukraine’s Pavlo Klimkin “They further undermined LONDON asked the EU’s 28 foreign min- the territorial integrity, sover- isters in Brussels to step up sanc- eignty and independence of British prosecutors said that tions against Moscow but the bloc Ukraine,” the bloc said. “The EU 15 people who attached is deeply divided on Russia and considers these ‘elections’ Acting Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan (right) with members of ‘My Step’ alliance celebrate themselves to a plane at a is not seen acting swiftly, if at all. illegal and illegitimate and does their victory after the announcement of snap parliamentary elections’ results, in Yerevan, yesterday. London-area airport last year Instead, it will look at not recognise them.” have been convicted of offering more assistance to Any assets they have in the aviation security offenses. Ukraine. bloc are also frozen, as are The demonstrators used Armenian Premier wins in snap vote The ministers discussed those of a further 44 entities. bolt cutters to create a hole in with Klimkin “the support of the Kiev has called for more the perimeter fence at AFP bloc led by Pashinyan’s Civil rallies that ousted veteran leader European Union to Ukraine, to Western sanctions against Stansted Airport on March 28, YEREVAN Contract party had taken 70.43 Serzh Sarkisian. Ukrainian people, to territorial Moscow after Russian patrol 2017 and then used expanding percent of the vote, the central But efforts at reform stalled integrity of the country”, said boats fired at Ukrainian navy foam, scaffolding poles and Armenia’s acting Prime Minister election commission said. in the face of opposition from the bloc’s top diplomat, Fed- ships in the Azov Sea. lock box devices to secure Nikol Pashinyan has won a The Prosperous Armenia Sarkisian’s Republican Party, erica Mogherini. Klimkin said the EU themselves to the wheel and landslide victory in snap parlia- party led by influential oligarch which dominated the National Klimkin said he asked the promised him to consider that wing of a Boeing 767. The mentary elections, results and former arm wrestler Gagik Assembly until Pashinyan EU to push for the release of and also to look into aid for plane had been chartered by showed yesterday, cementing Tsarukyan came a distant resigned last month and trig- Ukrainian sailors held by Russia Donbas and southern Ukraine, the Home Office to repatriate his authority months after second with 8.27 percent. gered the snap vote. after the incident off Crimea in including safeguarding water passengers to Nigeria, Ghana sweeping to power in a peaceful Pashinyan hailed his victory The Republican Party took late November and to consider supplies for the Azov Sea port and Sierra Leone. revolution. yesterday morning, thanking the 4.7 percent in Sunday’s elec- setting up an international of Mariupol. Ukraine fears Mar- Judith Reed of the Crown Pashinyan has pledged to “mighty people” of Armenia. tions, failing to clear the five monitoring mechanism to iupol could be a future target Prosecution Service said that root out endemic corruption and “I am proud of you... Let’s be percent threshold needed to ensure freedom of navigation for Russia. the group “placed themselves, address widespread poverty in courageous,” he wrote on make it into parliament. in the Kerch Strait. But the bloc is split on the flight crew, airport per- the impoverished, landlocked Facebook. The only other party to clear “I’ve asked about different whether to go ahead with any sonnel and police at serious ex-Soviet republic of three He became prime minister the threshold was the liberal pro- types of sanctions,” Klimkin new economic sanctions, a risk of injury or even death million people. in May after spearheading weeks Western Bright Armenia, which said, adding he had proposed move that would require una- due to their actions.” With all votes counted, the of peaceful anti-government garnered 6.37 percent of the vote. options from targeting more nimity of all 28 member states. TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 AMERICAS 17 Russian probe: Trump warned of impeachment

AP Rep Jerry Nadler early to say whether Congress WASHINGTON described the details would pursue impeachment pro- Trump defends hush money payments in prosecutors’ filings ceedings based on the illegal Top House Democrats have in the case of Trump’s payments alone because law- REUTERS attention to six-figure payments ously disputed knowing any- raised the prospect of makers would need to weigh the WASHINGTON by his personal lawyer to two thing about the payments. impeachment or the real possi- former personal gravity of the offense to justify women during the 2016 Yesterday, the president bility of prison time for President lawyer, Michael Cohen, “overturning” the 2016 election. Donald Trump yesterday campaign so they would not again denied wrongdoing and Donald Trump if it’s proved that as evidence that Nadler and other lawmakers said defended hush money discuss affairs with Trump. shifted any blame on Cohen. he directed illegal hush money Trump was “at the they would await additional payments reported by his Under US law, campaign “There was NO COL- payments to women, adding to details from Mueller’s investi- former lawyer after the Demo- contributions, defined as things LUSION. So now the Dems go the legal pressure on the pres- centre of a massive gation into Russian election crats said the US president of value given to a campaign to to a simple private transaction, ident over the Russia investi- fraud.” interference and possible coor- could face impeachment and influence an election, must be wrongly call it a campaign con- gation and other scandals. dination with the Trump cam- jail time if the transactions are disclosed. Such payments are tribution, which it was not,” “There’s a very real prospect paign to determine the extent of proven to be campaign finance also limited to $2,700 per person. Trump tweeted. “But even if it that on the day Donald Trump “They would be impeachable Trump’s misconduct. violations. Trump earlier this year was, it is only a CIVIL CASE, like leaves office, the Justice offenses,” Nadler said. Regarding the illegal pay- Trump, in early morning acknowledged repaying his Obama’s — but it was done cor- Department may indict him, that In the filings, prosecutors in ments, “whether they are tweets, said Democrats were former lawyer Michael Cohen rectly by a lawyer and there he may be the first president in New York for the first time link important enough to justify an wrongly targeting “a simple for the $130,000 paid to actress would not even be a fine. Law- quite some time to face the real Trump to a federal crime of impeachment is a different private transaction” after court Stephanie Clifford, also known yer’s liability if he made a prospect of jail time,” said Rep. illegal payments to buy the question, but certainly they’d be filings last week drew renewed as Stormy Daniels. He previ- mistake, not me.” Adam Schiff, the incoming silence of two women during the impeachable offenses because chairman of the House intelli- 2016 campaign. Special counsel even though they were com- Attorney General William Barr obstruction of justice. removal from office,” Schiff said. gence committee. “The bigger Robert Mueller’s office also laid mitted before the president to the post to succeed Jeff Schiff, D-Calif, also stressed Democratic Sen Chris pardon question may come out previously undisclosed con- became president, they were Sessions. a need to wait “until we see the Murphy of Connecticut urged down the road as the next pres- tacts between Trump associates committed in the service of Nadler indicated that Dem- full picture.” He has previously Mueller to “show his cards soon” ident has to determine whether and Russian intermediaries and fraudulently obtaining the ocrats, who will control the indicated his panel would seek so that Congress can make a to pardon Donald Trump.” suggested the Kremlin aimed office,” Nadler said. House in January, will step up to look into the Trump family’s determination early next year on Rep Jerry Nadler, the incoming early on to influence Trump and Mueller has not said when he their own investigations. He said business ties with Russia. whether to act on impeachment. chairman of the House Judiciary his Republican campaign by will complete a report of any Congress, the Justice Department “I think we also need to see “Let’s be clear: We have Committee, described the details playing to both his political and findings, and it isn’t clear that and the special counsel need to this as a part of a broader pattern reached a new level in the inves- in prosecutors’ filings on Friday in personal business interests. any such report would be made dig deeper into the allegations, of potential misconduct by the tigation,” Murphy said. “It’s the case of Trump’s former per- Trump has denied wrong- available to Congress. That which include questions about president, and it’s that broad important for Congress to get all sonal lawyer, Michael Cohen, as doing and has compared the would be up to the attorney whether Trump lied about his pattern, I think, that will lead us of the underlying facts and data evidence that Trump was “at the investigations to a “witch hunt.” general. Trump on Friday said business arrangements with Rus- to a conclusion about whether it and evidence that the special centre of a massive fraud.” Nadler, D-NY, said it was too he would nominate former sians and about possible rises to the level to warrant counsel has.” Accused Russian Pence aide turns down spy to change plea in US court chief of staff job offer

REUTERS REUTERS WASHINGTON WASHINGTON

Accused Russian agent Maria Nick Ayers (pictured), Donald Butina appeared poised this Trump’s top choice to be his week to plead guilty in the next chief of staff, is no longer case, after her lawyers and in the running and the US pres- prosecutors filed a joint ident is now considering other motion asking a federal judge candidates, sources familiar yesterday to schedule a with the matter said, the latest change of plea hearing this sign of a chaotic White House week. staff shake-up. The filing comes after Treasury Secretary Steven Butina’s attorney and prose- Mnuchin and Republican Rep- cutors revealed last month resentative Mark Meadows, sought a two-year commitment they were actively in talks to chairman of the right-wing from Ayers but that he was settle the case. House Freedom Caucus, are unable to agree to that. Ayers, Two men preparing to pull a vehicle out of the snow after a motorist slid off the road, in Charlotte, Butina had previously among the possible contenders the father of young triplets, was North Carolina, yesterday. pleaded not guilty to charges to replace current White House willing to serve only until the that she was acting as an Chief of Staff John Kelly, one spring of 2019 for family agent of the Russian gov- source said. reasons, an administration ernment and conspiring to Winter storm hits southern US Ayers, 36, chief of staff to official said earlier. take actions on Russia’s Vice-President Mike Pence and The White House did not behalf. AP sledding and build snowmen in Georgia and Tennessee, also saw known as a skilled Republican immediately respond to a Specifically, prosecutors CHARLOTTE places that don’t often see so outages. political tactician, had been in request for comment. have accused the former much of the white stuff. Police in North Carolina and discussions for months about A source familiar with American University graduate A lingering storm kept dumping The National Weather Virginia said they’d responded taking the job, but was unable Mnuchin’s thinking said student of working with a immobilizing snow, sleet or Service said a “prolonged period to hundreds of snow-related to agree to terms with Trump, Mnuchin sees his role at Russian official and two US freezing rain across five of snow” began late Saturday traffic accidents as of Sunday another source said. Treasury as best suited to help citizens to try to infiltrate the southern states, leaving danger- and would last until today in the afternoon, as cars, trucks and Ayers tweeted that he would the president and feels very National Rifle Association, a ously icy roads and hundreds of region, with the heaviest snow tractor-trailers all struggled with instead be leaving the White committed to remaining in his powerful lobby group that has thousands of people without in northwest North Carolina and the snow and ice. House soon, apparently to return current position. close ties to Republican pol- electricity. Authorities urged southern Virginia. Some areas North Carolina Governor to his home state of Georgia. One A spokesman for Meadows iticians including President people to stay home yesterday of North Carolina and Virginia Roy Cooper strongly urged res- of the sources said Ayers would had no comment on the matter. Donald Trump, and influence in areas where driving was saw 30cm of snow by Sunday idents to stay off the roads, return to “America First Policies,” With Ayers out of the American foreign policy dangerous. afternoon. asking drivers not to put lives of a combative group that he helped running, it is unclear who will toward Russia. Accidents on snow-covered More than 300,000 power first responders needlessly at found before joining Pence in the take over the top administrative Butina has been in jail interstates caused major delays outages were reported across risk. Cooper said emergency White House. post in the West Wing at a time since her arrest in July this on Sunday, hundreds of flights the region, with North Carolina crews, including the National “I will be departing at the Trump has been weakened by year. were canceled and drivers in bearing the brunt of it, and Guard, worked overnight to end of the year but will work Democrats winning control of In the joint motion filed North Carolina and Virginia got nearly 270,000 remained clear traffic accidents on major with the #MAGA team to the House of Representatives yesterday, prosecutors and stuck in snow or lost control on without power yesterday- roadways. advance the cause,” he wrote in congressional elections last defense lawyers proposed icy patches. But the commuters’ morning, according to power- “Stay put if you can,” Cooper on Twitter, in a reference to month. holding a hearing sometime nightmare provided pre-winter outage.us. said. “Wrap a few presents, dec- Trump’s slogan, “Make America Trump will decide on his between today and Thursday thrills for kids and the young at South Carolina and Virginia, orate the tree, watch some Great Again.” new chief of staff by the end of of this week. heart, who were able to go along with parts of Alabama, football.” One source said Trump had the year, the sources said.

Trump backs $750bn ‘Fearless Girl’ statue gets permanent home at NYSE

AP exchange’s opening bell yes- defence budget request NEW YORK terday, said 301 companies that State Street identified as having REUTERS more than the $733bn request The “Fearless Girl” statue that no women on their boards have WASHINGTON that the Pentagon had been inspired millions with a message added at least one since “Fearless expected to make for fiscal year of female empowerment was Girl” made her debut in 2017. US President Donald Trump has 2020. It is also well above a installed yesterday at her new There are currently three backed plans to request $750bn $700bn figure Trump cited in home in front of the New York women on State Street’s from Congress for defense October. Stock Exchange (NYSE). 11-member board, according to spending next year, a US A US official said Defense “Welcome to the neigh- its website. official said yesterday, signaling Secretary Jim Mattis had dis- borhood, ‘Fearless Girl,’” said Taraporevala said the a Pentagon spending hike at a cussed the budget with Trump Betty Liu, executive vice- presence of female directors is time of potential belt-tightening in recent days and outlined the chairman of the stock exchange. crucial for companies’ success. elsewhere in the government. risks of flat defense spending. “You’re among friends here at “All else being equal, these com- Trump, faced with a budget The official said that it was the New York Stock Exchange.” panies tend to be better deficit at a six-year high, told clear during that discussion that The four foot bronze statue’s The ‘Fearless Girl’ statue is unveiled by Cyrus Taraporevala (left), managed,” he said. “This is about his Cabinet earlier this year to Trump wanted to “accelerate unveiling at what officials said President and Chief Executive Officer of State Street Global Advisors, value, not values.” come up with proposals to cut the progress his administration would be her permanent location at its new location outside the NYSE, yesterday The girl was removed from spending by their agencies by has made in rebuilding the happened nearly two years after her original spot on November 5%, but he suggested the mil- military.” Boston-based financial firm State Street’s “Charging Bull” in what women on their boards. 27, partly because of the traffic itary would be largely spared. In August, Trump signed a Street Global Advisors first the company said was an effort State Street CEO Cyrus Tara- hazard caused by the crowds The $750bn would be even $716bn defense policy bill. deposited her opposite Wall to spur companies to put more porevala, who rang the stock around the two statues. 18 AMERICAS TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 House blaze in Maduro’s party wins local elections AP CARACAS Ohio leaves 5 Socialist President Nicolas Maduro further consolidated power in Venezuelan local elec- tions, while accusing President Donald Trump of plotting to children dead overthrow him. The majority of nearly 2,500 AP council seats spread across the YOUNGSTOWN crisis-stricken country went to members of Maduro’s United Five children, including Socialist Party of Venezuela, 1-year-old twins, died in a late- Fire officials said so election officials loyal to Maduro night fire that swept through an far, there’s nothing said. Ohio house after neighbors that indicates the fire After casting his ballot, were awakened by a loud was suspicious. Maduro spoke on state TV boom, firefighters said scoffing at Trump and other yesterday. foreign leaders who have labeled Only the children’s mother, and boarded-up home yes- him a dictator. who jumped from a second- terday afternoon. “An attempt is under way floor window, survived the Neighbors said the family today coming straight from the Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro during the municipal legislators election in Caracas, yesterday. Sunday night blaze in Young- had moved into the house about White House to destroy our way stown, said Capt. Kurt Wright six months ago. The two-story of life in Venezuela and to over- popular opposition parties from on rallying international con- voters cast ballots in Sunday’s of Youngstown Fire wood home was built more throw our constitutional elections, while leading figures demnation of Maduro on January council races, said Tibisay Department. than 90 years ago. democracy,” Maduro said. in the movement are jailed or go 10, the start of his second six- Lucena, president of the The other three children Deborah Rivera, who lives The election came as an eco- into exile fearing for their safety. year term. National Electoral Council, who died were ages 9, 3 and 2, across the street, told The nomic crisis rocks the once- Other anti-government The US, many European praising the election as Wright said. The mother was (Youngstown) Vindicator she’d wealthy oil country after two leaders urged a boycott of the nations and most Latin American strengthening Venezuela’s taken to a hospital and is being heard a loud boom and called decades of socialist rule. Millions municipal elections, not wishing countries have rejected the May democracy. treated for injuries, he said. 911. Her boyfriend, Justin of Venezuelans have fled to legitimize what they consider 20 election that Maduro won by Maduro said many oppo- The Mahoning County cor- Viera, said flames were searching for a better life. a corrupt process. a landslide as a sham. sition leaders are waiting for a oner’s office hadn’t publicly shooting out of the first-floor Maduro’s government has The broader anti-gov- Little more than 27 percent US-led invasion without giving identified the children by windows. banned the most ernment movement is focused of some 20 million eligible details. midday yesterday as officials Firefighters found flames were still working to notify throughout the first floor when relatives. they arrived and were able to State and local investigators pull out three of the children, FBI charges two were just beginning to search but they died at a hospital, Trump on Time ‘Person of the Year’ shortlist for a cause of the deadly blaze. Wright said. for plotting Fire officials said nothing so far “We have a relatively young BLOOMBERG plans to officially reveal its Kavanaugh of an assault, Mur- indicates the fire was department and most the guys NEW YORK choice today. dered Saudi journalist Jamal separate attacks suspicious. have children. So it hits pretty On the list are: US President Khashoggi, the students who Most of the damage was on hard and the fact that it’s so Time magazine released the Donald Trump, migrant families organized the ‘March for Our AP the home’s first floor, leading close to Christmas hits even 10-member shortlist for its separated at the US borde, Lives’ gun-control demonstra- TOLEDO investigators to believe the fire harder,” Fire Chief Barry Finley annual ‘Person of the Year’ Russian President Vladimir tions after the deadly shooting started there, Wright said. said. selection, an eclectic assortment Putin, Special Counsel Robert at Marjory Stoneman Douglas Federal authorities said Mourners piled stuffed One firefighter was treated ranging from the US and Russian Mueller, “Black Panther” High School in Parkland, they’ve charged two people animals beneath balloons in a at the scene, and another was presidents to immigrants, director Ryan Coogler, Christine Florida, South Korean President in Ohio involved in planning makeshift memorial to honor taken to a hospital for treatment victims of violence and Britain’s Blasey Ford, who accused now- Moon Jae-in and Meghan separate attacks, including the children outside the charred and released. newest duchess. The magazine Supreme Court Justice Brett Markle, Duchess of Sussex. one who wanted to carry out a shooting at a synagogue. The FBI and Department of Justice said that the attacks were in the planning stages and that there was no imme- Russia sends two bombers to Venezuela diate threat to the public. But they said both people AP didn’t say if the bombers were took part in Russia’s campaign Russia is a major political meeting with his Venezuelan who are from the Toledo area MOSCOW carrying any weapons and didn’t in Syria, where they launched ally of Venezuela, which has counterpart Vladimir Padrino had identified specific places say how long they will stay in conventionally-armed Kh-101 become increasingly isolated in Lopez that Russia would continue they wanted to target. Two Russian nuclear-capable Venezuela. cruise missiles for the first time the world under growing sanc- to send its military aircraft and The FBI said a suburban strategic bombers arrived in The ministry said a heavy- in combat. tions led by the US and the warships to visit Venezuela as part Toledo man arrested on Venezuela yesterday, a lift An-124 Ruslan cargo plane The bombers’ deployment European Union, which accuse of bilateral military cooperation. Friday wanted to carry out an deployment that comes amid and an Il-62 passenger plane follows Venezuelan President Maduro of undermining demo- Russia sent its Tu-160 stra- attack on behalf of IS militants soaring Russia-US tensions. accompanied the bombers to Nicolas Maduro’s visit to Moscow cratic institutions to hold onto tegic bombers and a missile and began focusing on a syn- Russia’s Defense Ministry Maiquetia. last week in a bid to shore up power, while overseeing an eco- cruiser to visit Venezuela in agogue and talked of killing said a pair Tu-160 bombers The Tu-160 is capable of car- political and economic nomic and political crisis that is 2008 amid tensions with the US many people, adding that, the landed at Maiquetia airport rying conventional or nuclear- assistance even as his country worse than the Great Depression. after Russia’s brief war with other arrest involved a woman outside Caracas yesterday fol- tipped cruise missiles with a has been struggling to pay bil- Russian Defense Minister Georgia. A pair of Tu-160s also who wanted to shoot up a club lowing a 10,000km flight. It range of 5,500km. Such bombers lions of dollars owed to Russia. Sergei Shoigu said at last week’s visited Venezuela in 2013. and also blow up a pipeline.

Nasa’s spacecraft reaches interstellar space Social media tops

AP WASHINGTON print as news source

Nasa’s Voyager 2 is now the second human-made object to for Americans: Study zip away from the sun into the space between the stars. AFP social media was the most Voyager 2 last month exited WASHINGTON important news source, cited by “this bubble that the sun creates nearly three in 10 respondents, around itself,” longtime Nasa Social media has overtaken print with only two percent favoring mission scientist Ed Stone said newspapers as a news source for print newspapers. yesterday. The spacecraft is now Americans, researchers said A large majority of those 65 beyond the outer boundary of yesterday, highlighting the and older (81 percent) get news the heliosphere, 18 billion kil- growing importance of services from television, with 39 percent ometers from Earth. such as Facebook and Twitter as using print newspapers and just It’s trailing twin Voyager 1, well as the troubled state of eight percent social networks. which reached interstellar space legacy news organizations. “Younger Americans are in 2012 and is now 21 billion kil- The Pew Research Center also unique in that they don’t ometers from Earth. Interstellar report found 20 percent of US rely on one platform in the way space is the vast mostly emp- adults said they often get news that the majority of their elders tiness between star systems. via social media, compared with rely on TV,” said Pew research Even though they are out of 16 percent from newspapers. analyst Elisa Shearer. the sun’s bubble, the Voyagers In 2016, newspapers were “No more than half of those are still technically in our solar more important that social net- (aged) 18 to 29 and 30 to 49 get system, Nasa said. works and in 2017 the per- news often from any one news Scientists maintain the solar The Nasa artist’s concept shows the general locations of Nasa’s two Voyager spacecraft, Voyager 1 centages were roughly even for platform.” system stretches to the outer (top) has sailed beyond our solar bubble into interstellar space, the space between stars, and Voyager both sources, according to Pew The report, based on a edge of the so-called Oort 2 (bottom) is still exploring the outer layer of the solar bubble. surveys. survey of 4,581 US adults in July Cloud. It will take about 30,000 Despite the rise of social and August, highlights the years for the spacecraft to get instruments measures solar on its interstellar trip going power supply will eventually media, television remains the ongoing woes of print news- that far. plasma and this is the first time 34,191 mph (55,025 kph). end their usefulness. most important source for papers, which have been seeing Scientists know that Voyager Nasa saw a drop in that key “Both spacecrafts are very Yet the two Voyagers will news, cited by 49 percent of steady readership declines for 2 has left the sun’s influence instrument; the same healthy if you consider them keep travelling and in 40,000 American adults, Pew said. more than a decade. because of four different instru- instrument wasn’t working on senior citizens,” Voyager project years or so they’ll get close to the The researchers found A Pew study last year ments that are measuring solar Voyager 1. manager Suzanne Dodd said. next stars, or actually the stars, sharp differences among age showed total US daily news- particles and different types of The twin Voyagers launched She said the probes should which are moving faster, will get segments in accessing the news, paper circulation (print and rays. from Cape Canaveral, Florida, last at least five, maybe 10 more close to them, Stone said. with younger adults far more digital combined) in 2017 was They showed a dramatic in 1977, and zipped by Jupiter, years, but the cold - the temper- It receives support from the likely to rely on social media 31 million for weekday and 34 change on November 5, indi- Saturn, Uranus and Neptune. ature outside the vehicles is Howard Hughes Medical Insti- and older consumers favoring million for Sunday, down 11 and cating the spacecraft was now Voyager 2 has already logged about 49 degrees below zero tute’s Department of Science television and print. 10 percent, respectively, from in between the stars. One of the more than 30 billion kilometers (minus 45 Celsius) — and waning Education. In the 18 to 29 age group, the previous year. TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018 HOME 19 Sidra Medicine hosts its first Women in Science workshop

THE PENINSULA The panellists them to be successful in their DOHA highlighted their main careers. The conference scientific Sidra Medicine hosted its first motivation for joining committee also awarded Pro- Women in Science Workshop on the science and fessor Dame Kay Davies, as the the second day of its Functional research fields; the inaugural Sidra Medicine Plenary Genomics Symposium 2018, challenges they had Lecturer and for her contribution recently. to science, medicine and training The Women in Science to overcome and what of future scientists. workshop featured an array of it took for them to Workshop organizer and scientists including Professor be successful in their moderator, Dr Bernice Lo who is Dame Kay Davies, the Professor a Research Investigator at Sidra of Genetics from Oxford Uni- careers. Medicine said, “We are incredibly The members of the panel and moderators at the Women in Science workshop. versity, UK, Dr Elizabeth Ross, honoured to have amongst us a Professor of Neurology and Neu- Qatar University and Dr Souhaila spectrum of distinguished, roscience from Weill Cornell Al Khodor, Research Investigator accomplished and inspiring Awarding Prof. Davies was espe- Sidra Medicine, I was very excited interested in Prof. Mariam Al Maa- Medicine, New York, Dr Elizabeth from Sidra Medicine. female scientists and researchers. cially momentous as her contri- to hear from our female trail- deed’s insights, as a Qatari woman Phimister, Deputy Editor of The The panellists highlighted Our main aim for the Women in bution to science and genetics will blazers. The workshop clearly leading the way in the field of New England Journal of Medicine, their main motivation for joining Science workshop was to have a key impact on future gen- showcased that despite the chal- science. I enjoyed moderating USA, Professor Mariam Al Ali Al the science and research fields; empower and encourage young erations of young scientists.” lenges and obstacles we face as such an inspiring session and the Maadeed, Vice President of the challenges they had to women, especially in Qatar, pur- Moderator, Kholoud Al Shafai women in science, success is abso- audience interaction was Research and Graduate Studies, overcome and what it took for suing careers in science. said, “As a young researcher at lutely possible. I was particularly terrific.”

QAST students NU-Q Debate Club scores victories attend THE PENINSULA persuasively support their own DOHA beliefs with arguments and how engineering to constructively and respectfully At a time when some people seem challenge views they disagree camp to struggle to disagree agreeably, with––skills that are particularly students at Northwestern dear to me as someone who THE PENINSULA University in Qatar (NU-Q) are teaches philosophy. These are DOHA learning how to debate opposing important skills for anyone, and viewpoints collegially through the for future journalists and media Qatar Academy for Science university’s Debate Club – and professionals in particular.” and Technology (QAST), part they are winning awards and Al Rachid believes that in of Qatar Foundation’s (QF) recognition. order to be a leader, you have to Pre-University Education, The Debate Club is led by have the ability to bring your ideas kicked off its inaugural school Ayman Al Rachid and Sikandar together into a logical argument year with an engineering Ali Chaudary, who serve as co- while also respecting other views camp. It was organised in presidents with NU-Q Professor presented and considering the collaboration with Texas A&M Torsten Menge as the faculty other side of a story. University at Qatar (TAMUQ), advisor. Since the club re- Ali Chaudary also noted that a QF partner university. launched in 2017, the students the skills he is developing in the During the week-long have been participating in several club will be helpful in his profes- camp, students designed and tournaments and earning awards sional career. “Being a member built their own model drones, in recognition for their speaking of the NU-Q debate club has and were introduced to basic NU-Q Debate Club receives the award from QatarDebate. abilities. helped me to dissect topics in microcontrollers, aviation “Being able to converse terms of cost-benefit analysis, dynamics, and programming. calmly but confidently with Natasha Das placed within the top behind Qatar University and Weill members meet weekly to prepare stakeholder comparison, and The camp concluded with a someone who does not share the 10 speakers during the first Cornell Medicine - Qatar. – splitting into two teams to train principal ideas,” said Ali programming challenge, same perspective is a valuable English Qatar Universities Debate The members of the club par- and compete in both English and Chaudary. The Debate Club at which saw students autono- and necessary skill to develop in League (QUDL) tournament, and ticipate in monthly tournaments Arabic debates. NU-Q is one of several student- mously fly their drones life, and this club – one of many the team overall made the top 10. and additional events, and last “Debating is a fun way for stu- run organizations at the Uni- through an obstacle course. at NU-Q – trains students in that At the second English QUDL tour- year, hosted a QUDL tournament dents to practice their research, versity from The Daily Q, its Fajer Al Shamari, a Grade life skill,” said Everette E. Dennis, nament last month, NU-Q – a first in NU-Q’s Debate Club public speaking, and presentation online newspaper to Studio 20Q, 9 QAST student, said, “I really dean and CEO of NU-Q. debaters Mohamed Eltayeb and history. NU-Q now has hosted skills. It’s also a great way to build which provides opportunities for enjoyed programming the Most recently, NU-Q’s team Ali Chaudary defeated the Qatar three debating tournaments so far confidence,” said Menge. “Stu- students to experience film- drones. It was really inter- members Lina Draidia and National team coming in third, with plans to continue. The club dents also learn how to making outside of class. esting - you do not know what you are capable of until you try something, and practice. It gave me a whole new per- Birla Public School to hold higher spective on perfecting work HEC Paris in Qatar to host program through precision.” education fair on December 14 Haiqa Massoudi, another on enhancing managerial skills Grade 9 QAST student, said: “It was a unique experience THE PENINSULA Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine, and I learned something new DOHA Management, Humanities etc. THE PENINSULA to prepare participants to be and an MBA & Doctorate from through collaborating with offering about 200 plus courses. DOHA strategic and decide when to Harvard Business School. fellow classmates and Birla Public School is organising To encourage and enable focus on revenue growth rather Prof. Roger Hallowell, said, teachers during the process.” a higher education fair on the students for all the compet- HEC Paris in Qatar will be than cost-cutting. The program “Through this program, man- Dr Gregory J. Moncada, December 14. About 10 Univer- itive exams like IIT JEE / BITSAT hosting ‘Managing Business in blends strategic thinking with agers will attain the skills Director, QAST, said, “The sities and Institutes of higher / NEET / AIIMS / JIPMER etc, free Challenging Times’ Short Exec- leadership qualities necessary needed in times of headwinds program was created to learning from India, like online mock test will be con- utive Program designed to to steer business in an adverse and uncertainties to navigate introduce engineering funda- University of Petroleum and ducted every one hour at the enhance the skills needed for environment by helping partic- with prudence and wisdom. mentals to the students, while Energy Studies – Dehradun, Venue and immediate evalu- managers to anticipate uncer- ipants to understand and accept Most of the time, well-managed highlighting creativity and skill Hindustan University Chennai, ation for the exams will be tainty times in their companies. reality and acknowledge that companies do not need to development. Ultimately, the K.J. Somaiya Group of Colleges given. The two-day program will there will be a recovery. engage in the kind of brutal objective of the program is to Mumbai, Audisankara Group of Free online aptitude tests take place on tomorrow and Prof. Hallowell has designed cost-cutting that we frequently prepare students to, in the Institutes – Nellore, S.R.M. are aimed at Grade 11 students Thursday at the Tornado Tower. and delivered customized exec- see during economic downturns. future, address Qatar’s chal- Institute of Science and Tech- for Engineering and Medical. This interactive program led by utive education programs Well-managed companies lenges through research and nology , Chhtarapati Shivaji Prizes for the students and Roger Hallowell, Affiliate Pro- throughout the world. His aca- prepare for inevitable down- innovation.” The drone Maharaj University – Mumbai, parents every one hour is a fessor at HEC Paris, will include demic work focuses on lead- turns, they engage in best prac- program was developed by Dhanvantari Ayurveda College- special feature of the fair. numerous case studies to com- ership for organizations seeking tices that serve them well in members of TAMUQ through Karnataka, Jnanavikas Institute All the students of Grade 11 plement theories, frameworks to increase the value they good times and bad. Even those the STEM Hub, a joint initiative of Technology- Bangaluru, and 12 can take advantage of and best practices. deliver to customers. His pro- who are in the unenviable of TAMUQ and Qatar National Anna University- Chennai etc this opportunity. Entry to the Company leaders and exec- grams are designed to help position of not having prepared Research Fund, a member of will participate in in the fair. event is Free. Office of the utives considering launching executives and senior managers for the current turbulence in our QF, and aims to nurture inno- They will showcase their Indian Embassy will grace the their business can leverage this enhance their leadership skills. economy, will learn valuable vative thinking and a talent for graduate and post-graduate occasion on December 14 at short program’s offerings to He holds a Bachelor of Arts tools to deal with challenging original design in Qatar’s young courses in Engineering, 3pm. grow and prosper as it intends degree from Harvard College times such are ours.” students. QC organises educational camp for orphans in Tunisia

THE PENINSULA cultural and sports activities and The organizing of the camp participants were honored as DOHA visits, during which outstanding came within the framework of students making excellent aca- students were honored to QC’s comprehensive care for demic achievements and they Qatar Charity (QC) organised a encourage them to continue fol- orphans. The camp included were given valuable gifts. four-day educational and lowing the path of positive swimming, water sports, trips to The camp has left a good entertainment camp for a group behaviors, creativity and aca- the zoo, the Carthage Land, a impact on the participating of orphans, whom it sponsors demic excellence. water park, Science City, Plan- orphans, as it provided them in Tunisia, during the autumn The number of participants etarium, and the Bardo National with the opportunity to enhance holidays. in the camp, held at a tourist Museum, and a tour through a communication with others, The camp, which was held resort, has reached 35 orphaned tourist train, in addition to other develop their mental and with the support of sponsors in boys and girls, aged 9-12 years, games, cultural competitions motor capabilities, and Qatar in cooperation with the belonging to the remote areas and recreational activities. improve their general Jendouba Governorate, included of the governorate. During the camp, the knowledge. The boys and girls pose a group photo during the educational camp. 20 MORNING BREAK TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER 2018

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR 04. 47 AM Qatar-Indonesia ties ‘at an all-time high’ SHOROOK 06. 09 AM RAYNALD C RIVERA ZUHR 11. 27 AM MAGHRIB 04. 47 PM THE PENINSULA ASR 02. 25 PM ISHA 06. 17 PM Indonesian Ambassador to Qatar Muhammad Basri WEATHER TODAY Sidehabi underlined the strong bilateral ties between Indonesia and Qatar during the celebration of the 73rd anniversary of Proclamation of Indonesia’s Independence on Sunday. Addressing the occasion, the envoy described the current state of relations between the two countries “at an all-time high” with the exchange of high level visits Guests and dignitaries at the celebrations of the 73rd anniversary of Proclamation of Indonesian Independence at Sheraton and significant progress in Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel on Sunday. BELOW: A performance of Saman dance also known as ‘the dance of a cooperation in various fields. thousand hands’ during the celebrations. PICS: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA In 2015, Indonesian Pres- ident Joko Widodo visited “The bilateral trade volume of the two Eritrean Ambassador to Qatar Republic of Indonesia I would Qatar while Amir H H Sheikh countries was recorded at $977.8m from Ali Ibrahim Ahmed were like to thank His Highness the Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani among the guests at the event Amir and the Qatari Gov- visited Indonesia last year, he January to August of this year. There held at Sheraton Grand Doha ernment for supporting the noted. is also a significant increase of visitors Resort and Convention Hotel. Embassy and the Indonesian “The bilateral trade from Qatar to Indonesia and vice-versa,” Ambassadors and other society in Qatar,” he said. volume of the two countries said Indonesian Ambassador to Qatar, members of the diplomatic The celebration also fea- was recorded at $977.8m from community, guests and other tured cultural presentations January to August of this year. Muhammad Basri Sidehabi. dignitaries as well as members including Saman dance also There is also a significant of the Indonesian community known as ‘the dance of a o o increase of visitors from Qatar were among those who thousand hands’ and per- 20 C 26 C to Indonesia and vice-versa,” foster everlasting ties and Islamic Affairs, Dr. Gaith bin attended the auspicious formance of Angklung, a said Sidehabi. bonds between our two coun- Mubarak Al Kuwari; Secretary occasion during which native Indonesian instrument. Minimum Maximum He added: “As Qatar has tries. In turn, it will form a General of the Ministry of Sidehabi took the opportunity Both Saman dance and Ang- Moderate temperature daytime with slight increased its presence in Indo- strong platform to launch new Foreign Affairs, Dr. Ahmad to thank everyone for their klung have been declared by dust at times and scattered clouds, rela- nesia through investments in venues of cooperation,” he Hassan Al-Hamadi; Director longstanding support to Indo- Unesco as Masterpiece of Oral tively cold by night. telecommunication, energy, stressed. of Protocol of the Ministry of nesia-Qatar relations and to and Intangible Heritage of

HIGH TIDE 7:30 – 18:15 LOW TIDE 15:30 – 00:00 retail and banking sectors, As Indonesia marked its Foreign Affairs, Ibrahim the Indonesian Embassy. Humanity which need to be Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department Indonesia has also played a 73rd independence, Sidehabi Yousif Abdullah Fakhro; and “On behalf of the gov- safeguarded, transmitted and role in the development of also underscored the country’s Dean of Diplomatic Corps, ernment and people of the promoted. Qatar. To date there are pursuit “to actively contribute approximately 8,000 Indone- in establishing a world order sians working as professionals founded on freedom, ever- throughout Qatar and their lasting peace and social families,” justice.” He said that a 50-member “To this end, thanks to the delegation of Indonesian gov- support of many, I am glad ernment officials and Indo- that we have earned a seat as nesian chamber of commerce a non-permanent member of and industry are currently in the United Nations Security Doha to discuss matters of Council for the period of 2019- mutual concern with their 2020. Rest assured, we will counterparts, as well as to use this mandate to pursue an pursue new linkages with the everlasting world peace and people of Qatar. prosperity to all,” said the “I believe increased ambassador. people-to-people contact will Minister of Awqaf and