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UDC posts Bautista to give QR343m net it another shot at profit on QR1.3bn world title next revenues season

Thursday 24 October 2019 | 25 Safar 1441 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 24 | Number 8054 | 2 Riyals

Diverse business Prime Minister chairs NTC Board meeting activities allowed in administrative towers area The decision allows commercial activities like medical centres, colleges, nurseries, cultural centres and health clubs in admin- istrative towers area, streets and malls.

SANAULLAH ATAULLAH the country, Qatar News Agency THE PENINSULA reported yesterday. According to the decision the The administrative towers area buildings have been granted per- in West Bay, 14 administrative mission to add new commercial streets and malls operating in activities like medical centres, col- the country have been allowed leges, nurseries, cultural centres, to conduct new commercial and health clubs. activities at their facilities. The new initiative has come Prime Minister and Interior into force and the interested parties Prime Minister and Interior Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, chairing the meeting of the Board of Directors Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah can apply to add new businesses to of the National Tourism Council, yesterday. bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, the department concerned at the issued a decision allowing the Ministry of Municipality and Envi- practice of many vital com- ronment (MME) under certain rules QNA tourism sector in the State of this year, most importantly the started with the first cruise ship, mercial activities that support and regulations. DOHA Qatar, and visitor statistics since Arabian Gulf Cup, the FIFA Club out of 74 ships expected to visit the diversity needed to develop The details about the initi- the beginning of 2019 until the World Cup Qatar 2019, and Qatar Doha, docking at Doha Port, and investment and support ative were given by the officials Prime Minister and Interior end of the third quarter, which Shopping Festival. the opening of the new tem- investors, in the framework of of the MME and Building Permit Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah showed a growth rate of 12% The meeting also highlighted porary terminal for visitors of the the government’s keenness on Complex at a panel discussion bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, compared to last year. the latest developments latest cruise ships during the current strengthening the partnership entitled “Allowing Commercial chaired yesterday the meeting The Board also reviewed the developments related to the season and the next two seasons, between the public and private Activities in Areas and Streets in of the Board of Directors of the sector’s preparations for the maritime tourism sector and the until the completion of the sectors and the participation of the Country” held yesterday at National Tourism Council. various international and development and renovation of development of Doha Port the private sector in the eco- ‘Cityscape Qatar 2019’ exhi- The meeting reviewed the regional events which Qatar will Doha Port. before the start of the 2022 nomic development projects in bition. `P7 latest developments in the host during the fourth quarter of The new season (2019-2020) World Cup. Qatar Rail signs pacts with QA, QNB and Commercial Bank SACHIN KUMAR THE PENINSULA Stations naming rights is Qatar Rail’s strategy to Qatar Rail yesterday signed a form strategic alliances number of high-level agreements in the presence of Prime Minister with firms and brands and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser These agreements allow bin Khalifa Al Thani; Minister of companies to promote Transport and Communications their brands H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti, and Minister of Municipality and Naming rights agreement Environment and Qatar Rail’s allows companies to reach Managing Director H E Abdulla bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie. a wider segment During the naming rights agreement signing ceremony, held at Cityscape Qatar, Qatar “Lusail -QNB Station” is a major at Qatar Rail, said: “We are pleased Rail signed agreements with achievement. The station will to have entered into these agree- Qatar Airways (QA), Qatar operate as the metro station ments which confirm the impor- National Bank (QNB) and Com- serving Lusail that will provide tance of these partnerships. These mercial Bank. a convenient and secure trans- agreements allow companies to Qatar Rail signed a naming portation option to avoid the achieve marketing objectives and agreement of Hamad Interna- city’s traffic congestion. promote their brands. Naming tional Airport Station with QA. "We are keen to support rights is a strategic and long-term The agreement was signed by every project that contributes to opportunity that allows com- H E Abdulla bin Abdulaziz bin the development of the country’s panies to reach a wider segment Turki Al Subaie and Akbar Al infrastructure and the variation of its target market and promote Baker, Group Chief Executive of of income sources. We would their brand across. Qatar Airways and Secretary- make sure to continue sup- "We look forward to working General of Qatar National porting Qatar National Vision more closely with our partners to Tourism Council. 2030, along with the largest further strengthen our alliance The stations naming rights institutions in the country,” he and contribute to achieving their is one of Qatar Rail’s strategies added. goals.” aimed at forming strategic alli- The Lusail Station, one of the In addition, Qatar Rail ances with renowned local and Red line’s elevated stations of the signed two agreements with international corporations and Doha Metro, is the key metro Commercial Bank, firstly brands to promoting their station in Lusail City and will be allotting commercial spaces at services at the stations and reach part of the first operational Qatar University Station and the wider market segments. phase of Doha Metro. The station naming rights to boost their Qatar Rail also signed is one of the exchange stations promotions for a period of five naming rights agreement of and will link to Lusail Tram years. Lusail Station with QNB. Ali network, enabling passengers to The agreement details the Rashid Al Mohannadi, Group travel between Lusail Tram and right for Commercial Bank to Chief Operating Officer, signed Doha Metro lines to complete promote its brand within prom- the agreement on behalf of QNB. their journeys. inent advertisement spaces both He said: “Obtaining the right of Ajlan Eid Al Enazi, Chief of inside and outside the metro naming Lusail Metro Station as Strategy & Business Development station. `P4 02 HOME THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019

Prime Minister tours Cityscape Qatar

Prime Minister and Interior Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, toured Cityscape Qatar Exhibition, yesterday. During the tour, H E the Prime Minister and Interior Minister was briefed on the various real estate projects in the exhibition, which is the largest real estate investment exhibition in the State of Qatar and is one of the most important platforms for communication with prominent real estate developers in the country and abroad.

Cabinet holds weekly meeting QNA and Housing’s Decision No. 8 of the Fund abroad. DOHA 2005 on regulating the condi- Moreover, the cabinet tions and procedures for approved a draft memorandum The Prime Minister and Interior obtaining a license to recruit of understanding (MoU) for Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah foreign workers for others. cooperation in the field of bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, The amendment aims to accreditation between Qatar chaired the Cabinet regular modernize the controls over the General Organization for meeting held at its seat at the guarantee period granted to Standards and Metrology (QS) in Amiri Diwan yesterday. employers wishing to recruit the State of Qatar and the Following the meeting, the domestic workers, to strike a National Authority for Accredi- Minister of Justice and Acting balance between the rights of tation (NAH) in Hungary and a Minister of State for Cabinet employers and recruitment draft MoU between the Qatar Affairs, H E Dr. Issa bin Saad Al agencies. Central Bank (QCB) in the State Jafali Al Nuaimi, said that the The Cabinet also approved of Qatar and the Central Bank of Cabinet reviewed topics on its the proposal of the Qatar Fund the Dominican Republic. meeting’s agenda as following: For Development (QFFD) con- The Cabinet reviewed the The Cabinet approved the cerning the exemption of the results of the study of the com- draft decision of the Minister of Fund from the application of the ments and observations received Administrative Development, provisions of the Tenders and on the annual report of the Per- Labour and Social Affairs Auctions Law issued by Law No. manent Population Committee amending some provisions of the 24 of 2015 in respect of contracts and took the appropriate Minister of Civil Service Affairs related to projects executed by decision thereon. THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 03

PM opens first Scrap Art Exhibition

The Prime Minister and Interior Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, at the first edition of the Scrap Art Exhibition at the West Square of Souq Waqif, last evening.

QNA/DOHA evening. H E the Prime Minister Arab and international artists. and Interior Minister toured the The opening was attended by a The Prime Minister and Interior exhibition, where he was briefed number of Their Excellencies the Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah on the most important art Ministers, members of the diplo- bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, exhibits as well as the modern matic corps accredited to the opened the first edition of the techniques and tools used in the State, and an elite of artists, Scrap Art Exhibition, at the West works and designs of scrap art media and guests interested in Square of Souq Waqif last created by a number of famous arts.

Lolwah Al Khater hails Qatari-Ethiopian media ties QNA H E Lolwah Al Khater around the world. ADDIS ABABA stressed Qatar’s support She stressed Qatar’s support for the positive reforms for the positive reforms wit- The first TV reporter workshop nessed by Ethiopia, adding that sponsored by the Ministry of witnessed by Ethiopia Qatar hopes that cooperation in Foreign Affairs in cooperation and also congratulated the field of media development with the Ethiopian Broadcasting the friendly Ethiopian will be a positive step that will Authority opened on Tuesday as push forward bilateral relations part of a series of media devel- people for Abiy Ahmed between the two countries. opment initiatives, in the winning the Nobel General Director of Ethi- presence of Spokesperson of the Peace Prize. opian Broadcasting Authority Dr. Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E Getachew Dinku thanked Qatar Lolwah Al Khater, and Qatar’s for its cooperation and support Ambassador to the Federal Abiy Ahmed winning the 2019 in the field of media devel- Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Nobel Peace Prize, noting the opment, recalling his visit to Hamad Al Dosari. Addressing the efforts exerted by his Qatar and his admiration of its opening ceremony, H E Lolwah government to achieve peace media scene. He expressed hope Al Khater congratulated the and stability in the African that cooperation will contribute friendly Ethiopian people for the continent. She stressed that these to the enhancement of media winning the Nobel Peace Prize efforts are inspiring to the capabilities and the development of Prime Minister of Ethiopia for peoples who aspire to peace of this field in Ethiopia. 04 HOME THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019

Qatar Rail signs pacts with QA, OFFICIAL NEWS QNB and Commercial Bank Amir sends FROM PAGE 1 visitors.” congratulations Eng. Abdulla Saif Al Sulaiti, Additionally, Commercial Chief of Service Delivery at Qatar to PM of Canada Bank will take over all com- Rail, commented, “The DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh mercial spaces at Qatar Uni- agreement is a model example of Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani; versity Station and open an inte- public-private partnership that Deputy Amir H H Sheikh grated branch spreading over contributes to the development Abdullah bin Hamad Al 110sqm to provide a wide range of the business sector while pro- Thani and Prime Minister of banking services to students, viding opportunities for busi- and Interior Minister, H E entrepreneurs and metro pas- nesses to reach a broader cus- Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser sengers. The station will also tomer base. We are pleased to bin Khalifa Al Thani, sent feature a meeting point for pro- partner with CBQ to enrich the yesterday cables of con- fessionals in addition to food and services we provide at Doha gratulations to the Prime beverage facilities. Metro station this will position the Minister of Canada, Justin Joseph Abraham, Group Chief stations as a destination for stu- Trudeau, on the occasion of Executive Officer of Commercial dents, SMEs and other segments winning a second term in Bank, said, “Commercial Bank is of the community.” Qatar Rail is the general elections held proud to sign such a high-end showcasing Transit Oriented in his country. QNA agreement with Qatar Railways Developments (TOD), which are Company. Such an agreement high density, mixed-use, pedes- FM sends message to represents one perfect collabo- trian-friendly developments Croatian counterpart ration and partnership between around rail transit stations that public and private companies. We act as community hubs with easy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani; Minister of ZAGREB: The Minister of hope to reach a wider niche of walkability, minimal parking and Transport and Communications, H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti; Minister of Municipality and Environment Foreign and European Affairs customers through our branch in other design features that will and Qatar Rail’s Managing Director, H E Abdulla bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, and Ali Rashid Al of Croatia, Gordan Grlic-Rad- Qatar University, especially uni- enhance public transport use and Mohannadi, Group Chief Operating Officer of QNB, during the naming rights agreement signing of man, received yesterday a versity students, teachers and overall accessibility. Lusail Station with QNB. written message from the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, per- taining to bilateral relations and means to develop them. The message was handed over by the Ambassador of Qatar to Croatia, Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, during his meeting with the Croatian Minister.QNA Al Muraikhi meets Serbian First Deputy Prime Minister and FM

BAKU: The Minister of State of Foreign Affairs, H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi, The Minister of Transport and Communications, H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti, met yesterday with the First witnessing the signing of the naming agreement of Hamad International Airport Deputy Prime Minister and The Minister of Transport and Communications, H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti, and other Station by the Minister of Municipality and Environment, H E Abdulla bin Abdulaziz Minister of Foreign Affairs of officials witnessing the signing of the agreement with Commercial Bank. bin Turki Al Subaie, and Akbar Al Baker, Group Chief Executive of Qatar Airways. the Republic of Serbia, Ivica Dacic, on the sidelines of the preparatory ministerial meeting of the 18th Summit Qatar participates in Kenyan parliamentary delegation briefed of Heads of State and Gov- ernment of the Non-Aligned Global Policy Movement (NAM), held in on Qatar Visa Centers abroad project Baku, Azerbaijan. During Dialogue on Climate the meeting, they reviewed QNA and representative of the Ministry of project reached 14 centres in six coun- the bilateral cooperation Governance in Seoul DOHA Administrative Development, Labour tries: Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, relations as well as issues of and Social Affairs, Mohammed Ali Al India, Nepal and the Philippines, common concern. QNA QNA In order to inaugurate a Qatar Visa Meer, made a presentation on the stressing that work is underway to SEOUL Center in Kenya, a delegation from the project and its objectives and the target complete this stage. Qatar attends meeting Kenyan Parliament visited the Ministry countries in the first phase and plans He added that the second phase of 18th Summit of The State of Qatar participated in the Global Policy of Interior and was briefed on the for future expansion. will see the inclusion of new countries Dialogue on Climate Governance, held in Seoul, experience of Qatar in relation to the Major Abdullah Khalifa Al to open visa centres, including Kenya, Non-Aligned Movement South Korea, on the occasion of the Global Green Qatar Visa Centers abroad, a project Mohannadi said the meeting aims at Ethiopia and other Asian and African Growth Week organised by the Global Green initiated by Qatar a year ago to facil- introducing the Kenyan side to the countries, pointing out that the min- BAKU: Qatar participated Growth Institute. itate the reception of labour from a advantages of the Qatari Visa Centers istry is working to study the countries in the preparatory minis- The Director of Policy and Planning number of countries. project in order to inaugurate a center of expatriate workers that were not terial meeting of the 18th Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. During the meeting with the in Kenya. He pointed out that the covered by the service in stages to Summit of the Non-Aligned Khalid Fahad Al Khater, represented Qatar. In a Kenyan delegation, Director of the Visa project is going on in two phases, the cover at the end of the project all coun- Movement, which started speech delivered during the opening session, Dr. Support Services Department at the first is to open 20 centres in eight tries from which workers are recruited, yesterday in Baku, Azerbai- Al Khater reviewed the role of Qatar in climate General Directorate of Passports, countries. He added that the number and that the project in its next stages jan. The delegation of Qatar change, and addressed the outcomes of the Climate Major Abdullah Khalifa Al Mohannadi, of centres opened since the start of the will include all visas issued by Qatar. is headed by the Minister of Change Conference held in 2012, which resulted State for Foreign Affairs, H E in the Doha Climate Gateway, which paved the Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi. way for Paris Conference, and bridged the gap The meeting will discuss the between developing and developed countries by AZF to donate 30% of registration fee to QCS future of the Non-Aligned reaching a consensus on the issues that were Movement, disarma- pending at the three conferences preceding the THE PENINSULA/DOHA Aspire Zone Foundation (AZF) has to support its activities. Qatar Cancer ment, counter-terrorism, Doha Conference. He noted that Amir H H Sheikh announced that it going to donate 30% Society is also participating with an democracy, peacekeep- Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, announced Qatar’s On the occasion of breast cancer of the registration fees for the partic- awareness booth located in the race’s ing operations and other contribution of $100m to support small devel- awareness month and in line with its ipants of the 8th edition of the Torch fun zone in addition to an Early important regional and oping island states and the least developed states commitment to its social responsibility, Staircase Run to Qatar Cancer Society Detection van (Ladies Only). international issues. QNA suffering from climate problems during the United Nations Climate Action Summit in September 2019. The Director said that despite the challenges faced by Qatar since the imposed illegal air and Sidra launches Ponseti Clinic to treat children with clubfoot land blockade from the three neighbouring coun- tries in the Gulf Cooperation Council since June THE PENINSULA/DOHA manipulate their foot or feet. Each 2017, Qatar has not retreated from its interna- session also requires plaster changes tional commitments, adding that Qatar is even Sidra Medicine has launched a Ponseti as we apply a cast from the toes to the more emphasising the importance of responsible Clinic to treat congenital clubfoot. thigh, to hold the foot in position.” global partnerships to build a better future for the Clubfoot refers to a condition in which One of the first patients to be region and the world. He also noted Qatar’s support a newborn’s foot or feet is inwards at treated at the Ponseti clinic was for the Global Policy Dialogue Program organised the ankle. One in every 1000 babies Hassan, who was born with bilateral by the Stimson Center on the Global Government is born with clubfoot1. Over 50 complex clubfoot. “Hassan’s feet as a Project in the context of the Albright-Gambari percent of the babies have bilateral newborn had signs of severe Commission Report, and the recommendations clubfoot, meaning both feet are deformity with complex clubfoot. To on global challenges including justice, security affected. address this, he required a combi- and sustainable development. The Ponseti Clinic, launched by nation of refined specialized Ponseti The foot of Hassan after and before treatment at the newly launched the Division of Orthopedic Surgery at manipulation and casting followed Ponseti Clinic of Sidra Medicine. Sidra Medicine, follows the Ponseti by surgery,” continued McDermott. method whereby the treatment aims After 10 successful cast changes for early and full correction of all the tiple surgeries. newborn’s foot can be gently at the Ponseti Clinic at Sidra Medicine, components of the deformity by Acting Division Chief of Ortho- manipulated.” Hassan underwent “posterior release” gentle manipulation and well- pedic Surgery, Dr. Talal Ibrahim, who Ponseti care also requires after surgery by Dr. Ibrahim, to release both molded, thinly padded plaster casts was one of the key surgeons in home monitoring where parents and feet. Post-surgery, Hassan wore a cast changed every seven days. launching the specialised clinic at caregivers play a central role in the for another six weeks which was then At Sidra Medicine, the Ponseti Sidra Medicine, said: “The Ponseti healing and treatment process. followed by wearing custom boots method is performed by specialized method is a life-changing technique Paul McDermott, Supervisor in the attached to a metal bar. The metal bar physiotherapists who gently manip- and has become the most widely Physical Therapy unit at Sidra Med- held his feet in the correct position to ulate the baby’s foot with their hands. practiced method for the initial icine said: “Babies diagnosed with prevent them from relapsing. Hassan The method’s aim is to correct the treatment of infants born with clubfoot are referred to the Ponseti will continue wearing the boots – at deformity in the foot without the baby clubfoot. The key principal of the clinic and normally have to undergo night and during naptimes – until he having to undergo extensive and mul- method is that the tissues of a one session a week where we gently is four years of age. THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 05 Qatar participates in meeting of GCC Municipal Ministers in Muscat

QNA Supreme Council, in Muscat, Oman. and the decision of the Council of MUSCAT Qatar delegation was headed by Ministers on strategic urban the Minister of Municipality and planning, in addition to the GCC Qatar participated in the twenty- Environment, H E Eng. Abdulla bin Municipal Award, the Gulf Building second meeting of Their High- Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie. Code, municipal databases, work- nesses and Excellences Ministers The meeting discussed a shops and specialized training pro- concerned with municipal affairs number of topics, including the grams in the field of Municipal in the Gulf Cooperation Council, decisions of the Supreme Council work, as well as highlighting the which was held yesterday, at the on voluntary work and the strategy joint Gulf municipal work in GCC Advisory Board of the of the joint Gulf municipal action, regional and international forums.

The Minister of Justice and Acting Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, H E Dr. Issa bin Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi, during a visit at the Ministry of Justice’s pavilion at Cityscape Qatar 2019, yesterday. Minister of Justice: New version of SAK project to be launched at QITCOM 2019

QNA services provided by the Min- be held in Doha from October DOHA istry to the sector, whether 29 until November 1. through real estate registration H E also praised the exhib- The Minister of Justice and systems or documentation, itors’ efforts and their role in the Acting Minister of State for noting that the Ministry of Justice success of the exhibition, which Cabinet Affairs, H E Dr. Issa bin is working on a comprehensive is an interactive platform Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi, modernization of the system of between investors and strategic yesterday visited the Ministry of services provided to citizens. partners, praising the exhibi- Justice’s pavilion at Cityscape The Minister pointed out that tion’s efforts to reflect Qatar’s Qatar 2019. a new version of the SAK project investment attractiveness and H E the Minister pointed out will be launched in accordance its advanced position in enacting that the participation of the Min- with the latest regulations in the legislations and laws that istry of Justice comes within the ministry, during the Qatar Infor- encourage and stimulate framework of supporting the mation Technology and Com- investment in order to achieve The Minister of Municipality and Environment, H E Eng. Abdulla bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie real estate sector in the country, munication Conference and the development goals of Qatar (third left), with the ministers concerned with municipal affairs in the Gulf Cooperation Council, and facilitate access to legal Exhibition - QITCOM 2019—to National Vision 2030. during the meeting at the GCC Advisory Board of the Supreme Council, in Muscat, Oman, yesterday. 2019 Discover America Festival brings US culture and innovation to Qatar THE PENINSULA/DOHA fashion, business, music, con- products, as well as new lines that cities and technology. are free and begin at 7pm. compared to 2018. Nearly 40,000 sumer products, food, and films. support a healthier lifestyle and For film movie-goers, the US After more than 45 years of Qataris and residents of Qatar visit The US Embassy in Qatar During the festival, Al-Shaya foster environmental Embassy has partnered with the friendship and partnership, rela- the United States every year, yesterday kicked off the 2019 Group offers promotions on sustainability. Doha Film Institute to present the tions between the United States 15,000 of them as students. More Discover America Festival, which famous American brand names The Embassy also has a booth “Cinema Under the Stars” series, and Qatar have never been than 100 US-based companies are brings the best of American inno- including Foot Locker, West Elm, at QITCOM to promote the Select every evening from yesterday until stronger. The US continues to be located in Qatar. vation and culture to Qatar. Bath and Body Works, Pottery USA Investment program and Saturday in which the entire Qatar’s largest trading partner and For the latest updated Running until November 2, the Barn, Pinkberry, Payless, Shake share information with entrepre- family can enjoy watching a the largest source of foreign schedule of events and promotions Festival features events which are Shack, and Texas Roadhouse. Lulu neurs on investing in the US as line-up of four American films at investment in Qatar. Trade has for the 2019 Discover America open to the public and explore Hypermarket also has special pro- well as to highlighting the existing the Museum of Islamic Art Park in increased by more than 17 percent Festival, visit: https:// American innovation, education, motions on favorite American US-Qatar partnership on smart the cooler evenings. Screenings in the first eight months of 2019 qa.usembassy.gov/daf2019/. 06 HOME THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 Qatari Diar launches ‘Lusail Downtown’ at Cityscape Qatar QNA The CEO of Qatari Diar, Lusail and the priority is for the DOHA Eng Abdullah bin Hamad Qatari contractor, adding that all Al Attiyah, said in a the projects awarded were to During it participation in City- Qatari contractors because they scape Qatar 2019, Qatari Diar statement on the sidelines were able to take on such huge launched its new brand ‘Lusail of Cityscape that the new projects. The focus today is to Downtown’, which includes projects presented during prepare the city of Lusail to three different projects (Al Seef, the exhibition confirms receive the World Cup, and to Boulevard and Plaza). finish the ongoing investments It also gave a detailed pres- the soundness of the real and turn them into income-gen- entation on three of its global estate and construction erating and profitable projects, projects: Chelsea Barracks in UK, sector in the State of he added. Southbank Place in UK and Sea Qatar and that the State’s Al Attiyah said that the com- Pearl in Istanbul, Turkey. mercial street in Lusail city will be The CEO of Qatari Diar, Eng projects are ongoing opened before the 2022 World Cup Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah, and work is proceeding in preparation to receive visitors The Attorney-General of the State of Qatar, H E Ali bin Fetais Al Marri; Executive Director of the United said on the sidelines of Cityscape in full swing without to the country during the tour- Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Yuri Fedotov, and Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar that the new projects presented nament. Qatari Diar is participating to the UN Organisations in Vienna, Sultan bin Salmeen Al Mansouri, during the meeting in Vienna. during the exhibition confirms interruption. in Cityscape Qatar 2019 as the Gold the soundness of the real estate Sponsor of the exhibition. and construction sector in the urban development of the State Lusail Downtown has been Attorney-General meets UN official State of Qatar and that the State’s of Qatar as it is developed on 38 designed to be a new cultural hub projects are ongoing and work square kilometres with inte- in Qatar and a centre of QNA Mansouri, discussed means of Qatar’s generous contributions in is proceeding in full swing grated services and advanced attraction that will create a new VIENNA promoting the cooperation support of the projects undertaken without interruption. infrastructure, pointing out that centre for Doha and will be a between the State of Qatar and by the United Nations Office, espe- Al Attiyah pointed out that the city’s infrastructure has now local model to experience the The Attorney-General of the the UN Office in the field of com- cially in the areas of combating Qatari Diar alone launches reached advanced stages of up modern Doha lifestyle. The State of Qatar, H E Ali bin Fetais bating corruption. crime and corruption in all its during this exhibition a series of to 90 percent, stressing that downtown will consists of three Al Marri, met yesterday with the H E the Attorney-General forms, thus contribute to achieving new projects within the com- Qatari Diar, which operates in main areas: Plaza, Boulevard and Executive Director of the United underlined the commitment of the Sustainable Development mercial district in the Lusail city, 24 countries, pays special Seef Lusail. Lusail Plaza lies at Nations Office on Drugs and the State of Qatar to continue Goals set by the United Nations. which includes three of the most attention to the Lusail city, the heart of Lusail City. It over- Crime, Yuri Fedotov. combating corruption and The Attorney-General also met distinct areas in the city, namely, inviting everyone to visit the city looks the coast at the end of the The meeting, which was money laundering and strength- with Assistant Director of the Plaza, Boulevard and Al Seef and invest it. Boulevard District and is attended by the Permanent Rep- ening criminal justice systems United Nations Office on Drugs Lusail. He pointed out that Qatari bounded North and South by Fox resentative of the State of Qatar worldwide. and Crime, John Brandolino. The He added that Lusail city is Diar has launched new projects Hills and Seef Lusail Districts. to the UN Organisations in Fedotov expressed the UN meeting discussed joint projects preparing for the 2022 World in Britain, US, Turkey, Morocco The Plaza District is defined Vienna, Sultan bin Salmeen Al appreciation and gratitude for between the two sides. Cup, and that is why it is exhib- and others. At the end of the year, by four iconic towers providing iting the Lusail City Stadium in it will open a 5-star hotel in both a focus to the city and to the its stand at Cityscape Qatar. He Tunisia, he said, noting the law Plaza itself. The four towers are Premier Inn Doha Airport Hotel to open in November stressed that the city is wit- of ownership of real estate by positioned in order not to nessing a great expansion both foreigners, which includes the obstruct views and to take full THE PENINSULA/DOHA locations in Doha have a World in Qatar, and our guests are in terms of construction opera- city of Lusail and owning a advantage of the coastal aspect. Cup Stadium next door. Doha is eagerly awaiting the opening our tions or at the level of the transfer property in it, especially as it Lusail Plaza has been The UK’s largest hotel brand at the centre of the world and the new location, which is 10 minutes of many ministries, government serves to increase the level of designed as both a destination Premier Inn will open its second hosting of the World Cup in 2022 from Hamad International institutions and major companies demand for foreign investment and a vital link within the overall hotel in Qatar this November. provides a greater opportunity to Airport, as well as the Corniche to the city, the most important of in the city. City master plan. The connection Premier Inn has signed a develop a wider selection of hotels and West Bay”, added Tarcar. which is the Media City. Al Attiyah said that Qatari of the Lusail Boulevard to the management agreement with Al for travelling fans and supporters,” The hotel is ideally located for Al Attiyah stressed that the Diar is investing more than Lusail Corniche is a fundamental Majed Group to operate the 105 said Country General Manager for business and leisure travellers Lusail city highlights the great QR10bn in all new projects in driver of the master plan. bedroom hotel in Old Airport area. Premier Inn Hotels, Rajiv Tarcar. being in the centre of Doha’s Old “We are very excited about Britain’s most loved hotel Town and close to Hamad Inter- our new location in Doha. There chain is also becoming the national Airport from where it will is great demand for high quality Middle-east’s most loved mid- operate a complimentary shuttle midscale hotel brands like market hotel “We are a well- bus. The Premier Inn brand prides Premier Inn in Qatar. We look known brand in the region. The itself on offering an excellent value forward to 2022 as both our product has been well received but high quality product for their guests will be minutes away from the city’s most popular attractions, including Souq Waqif, the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) and the National Museum of Qatar. The hotel’s 105 stylish bed- rooms, all fully en-suite and including adapted rooms for guests with special needs, come with a working desk space and Premier Inn’s signature and super-comfy Hypnos bed which The hotel is ideally located for business and leisure travellers being Qatari Diar’s projects Chelsea Barracks in UK (right) and fulfils the brand promise of a in the centre of Doha’s Old Town and close to HIA. Sea Pearl in Istanbul, Turkey. guaranteed good night’s sleep. QA and Education City Golf Club to host CIS lecture to look at tournament for Privilege Club members changing approaches THE PENINSULA encourage more residents to DOHA take up golf, and we hope that to crescent sighting Privilege Club members take full Qatar Airways’ award-winning advantage of our facilities, THE PENINSULA frequent flyer programme, Priv- instructors, and convenient DOHA ilege Club, and its newest location.” partner, Education City Golf Club Qatar Airways Privilege Club Changes in the approach to (ECGC), will host the first Qatar Golf Day will kick off at 06:00 crescent sighting provides the basis Airways Privilege Club Golf Day for registration, with a shotgun of the next public lecture by on November 9. start at 07:00. The entrance fee Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s The format of the event, for the tournament is QR400 for (HBKU) College of Islamic Studies which is open to all Qatar Platinum Privilege Club (CIS). Delivered by Sheikh Salman Airways Privilege Club members, members, QR500 for Silver and bin Jabor Al Thani (pictured), Pres- will be an individual Stableford Gold members, and QR600 for ident of the Qatar Astronomical competition with hundreds of Burgundy members. Prices Center, Crescent from the Qmiles in prizes up for grabs for include lunch, range balls, and Perspective of Astronomy, Sharia, competitors in first, second, and shared golf carts. Families are and Modern Science looks at how third place. welcome at the event, and a chil- modern science and technology The Qatar Airways Privilege dren’s play area will be set up at have influenced the traditional the ‘how’ but also the ‘why.’ As we Education City Golf Club Club Golf Day is the first major the ECGC’s clubhouse gardens. practice of crescent sighting. In see it, there are few better qual- event organised by Qatar After play, competitors will have doing so, the event will also ified than Sheikh Salman bin Jabor Airways and ECGC since they The Qatar Airways Privilege Club Golf Day is the another chance to win additional consider changes in the perception Al Thani to offer a unique per- announced a new partnership in first major event organised by Qatar Airways and Qmiles in a longest drive contest of this sensitive subject from the spective on this particular topic.” September. Through this collab- ECGC since they announced a new partnership on ECGC’s innovative Trackman standpoint of Sunnah and Shari’a. Crescent from the Perspective oration, Qatar Airways Privilege in September. Through this collaboration, Qatar Range. Speaking ahead of the lecture, of Astronomy, Sharia, and Modern Club members can earn Qmiles Privilege Club was launched Dr. Mohamed El Gammal, Asso- Science public lecture will take through club packages, day Airways Privilege Club members can earn Qmiles in 2000 as a form of appreci- ciate Professor of Comparative place from 6:30pm to 8:30pm on passes for lessons, and mem- through club packages, day passes for lessons, ation to loyal passengers, Fiqh, CIS, said: “We’re looking October 30 at the Auditorium, Min- bership referrals. and membership referrals. offering them the opportunity to forward to hosting such an aretein (College of Islamic Studies) Qatar Airways Vice Pres- earn Qmiles when travelling esteemed astronomer to discuss Building, Education City. The event ident, CRM and Loyalty, Jake with Qatar Airways, oneworld what is an emotive issue for so will be held in Arabic, with simul- Miller, said: “Qatar Airways Priv- hundreds of Qmiles in prizes, Education City Golf Club is airlines, or any of the airline’s many Qataris and the wider taneous translation provided. ilege Club Golf Day will be a helping them to unlock even hugely excited to welcome com- partners. region. There can be no doubt that The College of Islamic Studies great opportunity for local golf more benefits as valued Privilege petitors to Qatar Airways Priv- Its members enjoy a range scientific and technological regularly hosts public lectures and enthusiasts and their families to Club members.” ilege Club Golf Day. Golfers at of exclusive privileges and ben- advances have changed how soci- conferences to promote a deeper come together to enjoy this great Education City Golf Club every level are welcome to par- efits designed to make travelling eties perceive the practice of understanding of the various sport. It also represents a very General Manager, Michael ticipate. Our partnership with with Qatar Airways even more crescent sighting. Our public aspects of Islam among the wider rare opportunity to win Braidwood, said: “The team at Qatar Airways aims to rewarding. lecture will not only cast light on community. THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 07 Ashghal hosts International Conference & Workshop

THE PENINSULA Thinking to government opera- Ansari, Technical Office Manager DOHA tions and non-profits in general, at Ashghal, said that the lean supporting the development of construction of infrastructure The Public Works Authority new and more effective ways to projects is achieving positive ‘Ashghal’ organised yesterday the deliver projects, in addition to results. He pointed out that the International Conference & improving the efficiency and consulting company “WSP- Workshop on “Recognising Lean quality of government services. Middle East” has played an Transformation in Public Sector Ashghal President said in his important role in adopting lean - LIPS Qatar 2019”, which is speech: “Ashghal started imple- transformation approach and being held for the first time in menting lean construction initi- applying it in “Ashghal” local Doha and the Middle East in atives in 2017 on many infra- areas infrastructure programme Ashghal Head Office and it will structure projects and pro- projects since 2017, in collabo- conclude today. grammes. Changing a business ration with the technical office Engineer Saad bin Ahmed Al culture takes partnership, per- and projects affairs in Ashghal. Muhannadi, President of Ashghal severance and continuous It was also included in the opened the event in the presence improvement and this is exactly project’s contracts since March of experts and speakers from what we are going to do. Lessons 2018, in parallel with the launch Qatar, the United States, the learned from the different stages Engineer Ahmad Ali Al Ansari, Technical Office Manager at Ashghal, addressing the International of KPI system to measure our United Kingdom and Finland, in of implementation are shared Conference & Workshop on “Recognising Lean Transformation in Public Sector - LIPS Qatar 2019”at progress in this regard. partnership with Qatar Univer- across the projects and pro- Ashghal Head Office. Dr. Khalid Kamal Naji, Dean of sity’s College of Engineering, and grammes as well as our the College of Engineering, the Lean Construction Institute partners”. He added, “The lean implementation and follow-up urging contractors and projects the application of the best prac- expressed his happiness in par- - Qatar. construction approach has been with contractors closely to engineers to apply the latest tices in the Middle East, while we ticipating in the conference and LIPS primarily aims at implemented in 13 projects so achieve the desired results of technology methods in project remain flexible and agile to its workshops, to add the value expanding Lean design and con- far. The effectiveness of this ini- productivity and high quality in implementation such as BIM and ensure we focus on the relevant of practical training for young struction ideas to the gov- tiative is essentially dependent delivery. Lean Construction, to deliver areas and components of lean. engineers on the basics of lean ernment construction projects, on the support of senior officials He also emphasised the world-class infrastructure This will ensure that we max- design and construction. This is based on the importance of and managers from all partici- importance of lean construction projects and achieve the imise benefits realisation for all in addition to the benefit of the public sector projects and their pating entities”. on reducing time, waste and the excellence. involved and the return to presence of many experts from role in urban renaissance. Since President of Ashghal stressed cost of projects implementation He added: “We intend to Ashghal and the government and different countries to share their 2014, this aim has evolved to the need for continuous moni- by up to 50% as happened in one continue to focus on our imple- all concerned entities”. experiences and expertise in this include the application of Lean toring the projects of the sub-divisions projects, mentation strategy and to lead Engineer Ahmad Ali Al field. Diverse business activities allowed in administrative towers area FROM PAGE 1 recommendations submitted by allowing commercial activities in they are compatible with the sur- Road, Al Jazeera Al Arabiya Street, Speaking about the proce- “The initiative was taken both the Ministry of Municipality a number of areas and streets in rounding uses and activities, as C-Ring Road, D-Ring Road, dures to obtain the licenses for under Qatar’s keenness to and Environment and the Min- the country mainly at the Admin- well as ensure the quality of the Prince Street, Al Rawabi Street, additional business activities, Al strengthen the bilateral part- istry of Commerce and Industry, istrative Towers Area (West Bay provided service, and to avoid Jaw’aan Street, Ibn Sina Street, Al Marzouqi said that the interested nership between the public and to encourage the private sector Area) where commercial uses are any negative impacts,” said Al Markhiya Street, Al Rayyan Street parties can apply online through private sectors and to ensure their to participate in the economic permitted,” said Al Turki. Turkey. and Rawdat Al Khail Street. authorized consultancy firms with participation in the projects of development of the country. He said that educational The Head of Urban Design Head of Building Permit required documents and drawing. economic development,” said “The recommendations activities permitted for adminis- Department at the Department Complex (Assigned) Khalid Juma He said that the licensing Assistant Head of Urban Planning include allowing the conduct of trative towers area are such as of Urban Planning Juma Sabah Al Marzouqi said that various department at the Ministry of Department at the MME, Turki many vital business activities that colleges, institutes and nurseries Juma said that 27 commercial administrative activities were Municipality and Environment Fahad Al Turki, during the support the diversity needed to and medical activities such as activities were permitted within permitted to be added within the will study the application and give discussion. develop investment and support primary health care centers, diag- the administrative streets malls. “These include, but not the approval. The candidates will He said that in the same investors,” said Al Turki. He said nostic and treatment centers, and approved in the country. limited to, medical centers, cul- approach to Civil Defense and context, the Ministerial Group that the decision complements clinics. He said that there are 14 tural services, offices (considered Kahramaa for the certificates of headed by the Prime Minister and previous decisions taken by H E “Each case should be assessed administrative streets for offices as supportive activities) in order completion, finally Ministry of Interior Minister, H E Sheikh the Prime Minister and Interior on a case to case basis, and all in the country including Al to achieve integration in the Commerce and Industry will issue Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Minister to support investment. regulations & planning require- Muntazah Street, Halul Street, Ali required services within the one the license to begin the new com- Al Thani, had adopted the “These recommendations include ments to be applied to ensure that Bin Ali Taleb Street, Corniche facility,” said Al Marzouqi. mercial activities. 08 VIEWS THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 Qatar doesn’t tolerate corruption ESTABLISHED IN 1996 in sport and life aspects CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI [email protected]

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI [email protected]

H E Ambassador Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the UN, speaking at at a special event organized by the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the UN in cooperation with the Permanent EDITORIAL Missions of the Russian Federation, Italy and Colombia and the UNODC. QNA promote and enhance the protection Representative of Colombia to the UN, NEW YORK and safety of sport security. Andres Rugeles; Director of the Division The ICSS has raised awareness of for Inclusive Social Development within Big leap for cruise tourism he State of Qatar reiterated the need to fight corruption in the UN Department of Economic and Social that it does not tolerate cor- region, and serves as a training and Affairs (UNDESA), Daniela Bas; and atar’s tourism sector is set to witness record number ruption in sport or any aspects exchange of experiences center Coordinator of UN Program on Drugs of cruise tourists in the current cruise season. This of life and seeks to promote through strategic partnerships. and Crime and on Fighting Corruption T She also noted the partnership and Crime in Sport, Ronan O’Laoire par- Qwas evident when a new cruise passenger terminal transparency and accountability in all was inaugurated at Doha Port as thousands of passengers its aspects and at all levels. between the Centre, UN Office on ticipated in the event. disembarked from the megaship Mein Schiff 5, ushering in This came at a special event Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and a Meanwhile, the Permanent Dele- Qatar’s fourth and largest cruise tourism season. organized by the Permanent Mission number of institutions, in order to gation of the State of Qatar to the United Spread over 6,000 square meters, the new facility will of the State of Qatar to the United launch the anti-corruption initiative, Nations also hosted, on its own initiative, act as a temporary terminal for the next two seasons until Nations in cooperation with the Per- adding that this is a comprehensive the meeting of the Group of Friends of the completion of Doha Port’s expansion plan in 2022. With manent Missions of the Russian Feder- tool in multiple languages to support Sport for Development and Peace. 3,350 passengers aboard, Mein Schiff 5 is the first of 74 ships ation, Italy and Colombia and the universities and to integrate anti-cor- Permanent Representative of the expected this season which equates to a 66% increase in the United Nations ruption into their curricula. This initi- State of Qatar to the UN H E Ambas- number of ships from last season. MSC Lirica, AIDA Prima, Office on ative, H E said, is of a particular impor- sador Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Seabourn Encore, Crystal Esprit, Costa Diadema, Seabourn Drugs and tance as it targets young people inter- Thani welcomed the participants to Ovation, Azamara Quest are among major luxury cruise Crime ested in sports. The State of Qatar uses the special meeting and stressed the ships that will bring tourists to Qatari shores this season. (UNODC). sport as an essential tool to empower strong relationship between sport and MSC Bellissima and Jewel of the Seas will mark their maiden Partici- both young females and males to the goals of development and peace. voyage to Qatar. The cruise season runs from September to Permanent pants in the develop their skills to better meet the In this context, HE Sheikha Alya said April in Qatar. event shed the challenges of everyday life and that the United Nations Counter-Ter- The government’s focused measures for the tourism sector Representative light on cor- promote the culture of law, she said. rorism Office (UNOCT) and the Interna- and Mwani Qatar’s efforts to bring in major cruise liners to of the State of ruption in H E also noted the International tional Centre for Sport Security (ICSS), a Qatar are the major factors behind country’s booming cruise Qatar to the UN sport as some- Anti-Corruption Excellence Award non-profit organisation based in Doha, tourism sector. Doha Port’s pas- H E Ambassador thing new, which was established by Qatar in 2016 have recently signed an agreement to senger terminal infrastructure is calling for a and was named after Amir H H Sheikh strengthen cooperation on issues related being developed to bring it in line Sheikha Alya Ahmed compre- Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, stressing to the prevention and combating of ter- with international passenger ter- bin Saif Al Thani hensive that the award seeks to review the rorism, particularly in relation to the minals in anticipation of further response to the approach and ways to combat cor- protection of vulnerable targets in the The government’s said in her speech volume growth leading to FIFA during the event risks of this ruption in all over the world. context of major sporting events. focused measures World Cup 2022. As a result of phenomenon Her Excellency stressed that these Her Excellency expressed her great for the tourism various initiatives by Qatar that the State of at the interna- achievements are noticeable and not satisfaction at the selection of the State sector and Mwani National Tourism Council and its Qatar ranks first tional, regional coincidence, but are the result of the of Qatar to commemorate the United partners, Qatar’s cruise industry among countries and national vision of HH the Amir, who has Nations Day ceremony on October 24, Qatar’s efforts has seen remarkable growth levels, building worked hard during the past years to with the support of the Supreme Com- to bring in major during the last few years. in preventing on the relevant develop the sports infrastructure in mittee for Delivery and Legacy (SC), cruise liners to The 2018/19 season achieved and combating resolutions of the State of Qatar and to ensure sports Doha Film Institute (DFI) and the foreign Qatar are the 121 percent growth in the number corruption both the United safety with the assurance that all liaison office with the participation of of cruise passengers and 100 locally and Nations sports are characterized by security, the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. major factors percent growth in the number of General equality and inclusiveness. She also noted the State of Qatar’s behind country’s cruise ships, with over 140,000 internationally. Assembly. The In this regard, HE Sheikha Alya participation in hosting the high-level booming cruise passengers arriving aboard 44 basis for this referred to the Aspire Academy, which event on “Promoting the Power of Sport ships, including 38 mega ships, special event was the International was founded in 2004 with the goal to to Prevent and Counter Violent tourism sector. which typically carry between Conference on Safeguarding Sport provide a vibrant learning envi- Extremism” which was jointly organized 3,000 and 4,000 passengers and from Corruption held in Vienna in June, ronment and a multicultural expe- by the United Nations and the UNOCT, crew. Last season also recorded 2018. The participants also sought to rience to develop the athletic and aca- in which participants sought to significant increases in the numbers of German (144 percent), discuss current issues with a possible demic potential of athletes. empower youth skills and life values Italian (93 percent) and British (22.5 percent) tourists arriving plan to protect sport from corruption. She underlined that the graduates that would prevent their involvement in aboard cruise ships compared to the 2017/18 season. Permanent Representative of the of the Academy are not only athletes, violent extremism and give them a pos- Added to the list were Russian tourists, whose numbers State of Qatar to the UN H E Ambas- but are future leaders who will work itive outlook for the future. grew significantly by 257 percent in Qatar as a cruise desti- sador Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al to prevent and combat corruption in Permanent Representative of the nation compared to the previous season, making them the Thani said in her speech during the all its forms and manifestations and to Principality of Monaco to the UN fourth largest nationality. The top ten nationalities aboard event that the State of Qatar ranks first ensure that all Qataris are confident Ambassador Isabelle Pico, who co- cruise ships also included Americans and Mexicans. The among countries in preventing and that Qatari sports will remain trans- chair the Group of Friends of Sport for 2019/20 season is expected to be even bigger, with over combating corruption both locally and parent, fair, safe and inclusive. Development and Peace together with 186,000 passengers and over 61,000 crew arriving on Qatari internationally. Ambassador at Large for Interna- the State of Qatar, participated in the shores. In this context, H E Sheikha Alya tional Anti-Corruption Cooperation at meeting, along with Under-Secretary- Cruise passengers transiting through Doha Port’s new said that the State of Qatar’s hosting of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, General of the UN Counter-Terrorism terminal will experience the same level of services and facil- the International Centre for Sport Andrey Avetisyan; Deputy Permanent Office Vladimir Voronkov and ities as Hamad International Airport including seamless Security (ICSS), a non-governmental Representative of Italy to the UN, Football for Peace co-founder Kashif immigration and customs, foreign exchange, taxi and bus organization established in 2010 to Stefano Stefanile; Deputy Permanent Siddiqi. stands, duty free shops, cafe, waiting areas for cruise pas- sengers and staff as well as city tours and other tourist infor- mation services. The record-breaking number of tourist arrival has con- firmed Doha Port’s important role in boosting marine tourism Germany’s ‘debt brake’ is an unnecessary drag revenues and transforming Qatar into a regional cruise hub. BLOOMBERG government has a bit of wiggle room; the government has sufficient room for fiscal states have none. The only exceptions are maneuver, running a controlled budget ermany’s refusal to use fiscal for natural disasters or severe recessions. deficit supports employment and growth. policy, in the form of a big and Such laws aren’t unheard of. In the US, Under the right circumstances, higher QUOTE OF THE DAY quick stimulus, to ward off almost every state has a balanced-budget government borrowing can even reduce Grecession is a serious problem rule in some form. Switzerland adopted a public debt as a proportion of gross for the global economy. This excessive debt brake in 2001. The European Union domestic product. Unduly rigid rules The international caution is enshrined in a balanced- has the Stability and Growth Pact, with foreclose this opportunity. community has a budget law known as the “debt brake.” ceilings for deficits and debt. But Ger- At the moment, the case for fiscal flex- responsibility and a legal Several other countries have been emu- many’s law is especially strict. Since its ibility in Germany is especially strong. The obligation to compel lating it, or thinking about doing so. They introduction, the Austrians and Spaniards ill-advised trade war led by President shouldn’t. And Germany should recon- have adopted rules modeled on it. Donald Trump is putting pressure on the Israel to completely sider the law in a hurry, as a growing To Germans, fiscal wisdom is global economy. Much of Europe is end its occupation and chorus of economists and the country’s embodied by the proverbial “Swabian slowing down. Germany’s economy has remove barriers to self- largest business lobby are demanding. housewife,” who is thrifty bordering on been hit particularly hard, and its plight is determination for the The debt brake dates to 2009, when stingy. Chancellor Angela Merkel has compounded by years of anemic Palestinians. Germans blamed the financial crisis on been known to invoke her. But the investment, in public goods such as roads excessive debt, the German word for housewife runs only one household and bridges and broadband lines. Ger- which happens to be etymologically akin within a larger economy - an economy many’s debt is low enough to provide Michael Lynk to that for “guilt.” They approved a that would tank if all its participants sud- ample fiscal space. And the government’s UN Rapporteur for federal constitutional amendment and denly turned frugal. In the aggregate, cost of borrowing is now less than zero: Human Rights changes to state constitutions to outlaw economies can suffer from deficient That is, lenders are willing to pay the gov- structural budget deficits. The federal demand. When they do, and the ernment to borrow their money. THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 09 QCS takes part in World Cancer Leader’s Summit THE PENINSULA Approximately 350 global influencers and DOHA leaders in cancer control and public health Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) from across governments, UN agencies, represented in Sheikh Dr. Khalid academia, non-profit organisations and private bin Jabor Al Thani, QCS Chairman sectors participated in the summit. participated in the ‘World Cancer Leader’s Summit organised by requires addressing inequities in control of NCDs, promoting Union for International Cancer access to cancer services to health equity in access to cancer Control (UICC) in in Nur-Sultan, achieve the UHC vision of services, and priority setting as Kazakhstan from October 15- 17. “Health for All”. part of the progressive reali- Approximately 350 global With “Cancer and Universal zation of UHC. influencers and leaders in cancer Health Coverage” as a topic, the Sheikh Dr Khalid said, “Our control and public health from 2019 edition of the World Cancer participation in this summit came across governments, UN Leaders’ Summit aimed at within the framework of our agencies, academia, non-profit focusing attention on expanding membership in Union for Inter- organisations and private sectors access to quality preventive, national Cancer Control, which considered the ways in which early detection, treatment and is one of the largest international cancer detection, treatment and care for cancer. Issues to be institutions stressing the impor- care contribute to the examined during the day include tance of keeping up with the achievement of Universal Health perspectives on the relationship international experience to Coverage. between strong, sustainable and develop programmes and future Reducing the number of pre- ‘people centred’ health systems plans through participation in all Participants during the World Cancer Leader’s Summit organised by Union for International Cancer mature deaths caused by cancer and the effective prevention and internal and external events.” Control (UICC) in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan. QU’s CPH organises preceptor appreciation night HEC Paris in Qatar to showcase Executive Education Programs THE PENINSULA to introduce a new software Commenting on this event technology can lead to better DOHA system to enhance the delivery CPH Dean Dr. Mohammed Diab student education, facilitation of at EduTrac Oman exhibition and efficiency of the experiential said, “Experiential training is health care provider decision- Doctor of Pharmacy Program programs at the college. In one of the pillars of the cur- making and improve patient’s THE PENINSULA “We will be able to meet with pro- (PharmD) and The Structured addition to the appreciation riculum of the College of adherence and empowerment. DOHA spective participants and discuss Practical Experiences in segment, a development session Pharmacy. It is of great impor- During this year’s preceptor the programs that are best suited Pharmacy Program (SPEP) at was also delivered called “Imple- tance to enhance student’s skills development session, we HEC Paris, ranked number 3 for them while exploring with HR Qatar University’s (QU) College mentation of Technology into and help them serve in practice. explored some of these available worldwide in Executive Education professionals how HEC Paris in of Pharmacy (CPH) organized Practice and Education,” which Having time dedicated to appre- applications, how to use them by the Financial Times in 2019, is Qatar can help address the their annual appreciation night aimed to enhance preceptor ciate our preceptors and train and apply them in real-life to take part in the EduTrac Oman training needs for emerging and preceptor development skills and foster new knowledge them is pivotal. Preceptors are situations.” 2019 Higher Education Training leaders or senior executives.” event. for practice. the heart of rotations and One of the preceptors who and Career Expo from October 27 “We will also highlight our The event was hosted at Bayt The session was presented training them regularly will only attended the event Dr. Mai to 29 at the Oman Convention & distinctive advantage of offering Al Dhiyafah, Hamad Medical by CPH PharmD and SPEP coor- make sure we match the Omar, a Clinical Pharmacist Exhibition Center. world class executive education Corporation (HMC) and was dinators Dr. Hazem Elewa, Dr. expected outcomes of the at Enaya (ESCC) said, “I am HEC Paris in Qatar will be and faculty within a short distance attended by over 60 preceptors Monica Zoelezzi, and Dr. Bridget training.” very grateful for attending the located at the Higher Education of Oman with frequent daily from hospital, community, and Javed, with assistance from CPH Dr. Hazem Fathy Elewa, preceptor development pavilion from where it will flights between the Sultanate and primary care clinic MSc student Ms. Nour Al Ziftawi. Head of Clinical Training said, session and appreciation promote the benefits of enrolling Doha making HEC Paris a viable pharmacies. The session was accredited by “Recently, technology became event. I think being a pre- in one of its Executive Programs executive education option, par- The event aimed to show The Qatar Council for Healthcare an integral part of the health care ceptor in QU is an achievement such as the International Exec- ticularly those who wish to pursue appreciation for preceptors and Practitioners (QCHP). system. The application of such in and of itself.” utive MBA (EMBA), the Specialized qualifications while continuing to Master’s Degree in Strategic work.” Business Unit Management After the event, HEC Paris will (SBUM), Executive Short Pro- be running a public information Over 2,500 people grams and Certificates, as well as session on Tuesday, October 29 Custom Programs for from 6pm to 8pm at Interconti- registered for 17th organizations. nental Muscat Hotel, to give pro- “EduTrac Oman Expo takes fessionals and entrepreneurs from Asian Medical Camp us into direct contact with the private and public sector in working executives and major Oman in-depth insights into how THE PENINSULA corporations interested in exec- they can boost their careers and DOHA utive education”, explained enhance their leadership skills Abdallah Abdel-Daem, Director through HEC Paris’ renowned Over 2,500 low-income Asian expatriates of Programs, HEC Paris in Qatar. Degree Programs. registered for the 17th Asian Medical Camp which will be organised jointly by Centre for Indian Community (CIC) and Indian Doctors’ Club (IDC) tomorrow (Friday) at Thumama MME’s Information Systems Health Centre from 7am to 3pm. Pre-registered low-income labourers receives ISO Certificate from India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh and QNA/DOHA international requirements and Sri Lanka will be offered free medical check- standards required for the inter- up, counselling, medicines and follow-up The Information Systems national quality control system in Centre for Indian Community (CIC) and Indian Doctors’ Club (IDC) officials during a press treatment arrangements through this annual Department of the Ministry of accordance with ISO 27001, in the conference held at Rotana Oryx Hotel. event which is held under the auspicious Municipality and Environment context of its modernization, patronage of the Ministry of Public Health, (MME) has obtained the certificate development and application of Primary Health care Corporation and Hamad awareness, adequate rest, proper health care Dr. Biju Gafoor Vice-President, Indian of information security international best practices to Medical Corporation. and a disorderly lifestyle. Doctors Club, said that the doctors attending management system according ensure the security and integrity Speaking at a press conference held at Abdul Latheef KC, Chairman of the the patients at the camp will work in four to the international standard / EN of data and information, especially the Rotana Oryx Hotel, the organisers said organising committee of the camp and Pres- shifts throughout the camp. Over 100 doctors ISO 27001: 2013 / issued by the with the continuous expansion that the camp will be inaugurated by the ident of CIC said in the press conference that and hundreds of para-medical staff will be International Organization for witnessed by the Ministry of Ambassador of India, P Kumaran, who is the everything is well set to keep the uniqueness available to attend the camp’s registered Standardization (ISO). Municipality and Environment in Chief Patron of the camp at 9.30am of the annual free Asian medical Camp. Reg- participants. The MME’s Information the digital transformation of its tomorrow. istration of the deserving beneficiaries of the Services offered at the camp include Systems Department obtained services in all its sectors. Asian Medical Camps are being organised camp reached 2,500 and special registration clinical tests for blood pressure, blood sugar, this certificate from the famous The Information Systems in Qatar for the last sixteen years targeting cards had already been issued. and cholesterol; oral and breast cancer international audit and documen- Department of the Ministry of low-income Asian expatriates. The main However, lab tests for blood pressure and screening, eye test, glaucoma, ultrasound, tation authority (TUV Austria - Municipality and Environment objective of the camp, is to impart right random sugar are available on the spot for ECG audiology tests as well as consultation Bureau of Inspection & Certifi- has previously obtained the cer- health education to labourers, mainly from all visitors. Ooredoo’s support is very signif- and counselling. Free medicines will be dis- cation (PVT). tificate of conformity with the Asian countries, who are vulnerable to some icant in arraigning the facilities required to tributed for common diseases, as per pre- By obtaining this certification, specifications of the quality man- life-threatening diseases due to many link the weaker section of the society with scription by doctors almost all main special- the Information Systems agement system ISO 9001: 2000 reasons like mental stress, lack of health the services arranged by to government. izations of the modern medicine. Department has met all the by Bureau Veritas. QFBA in collaboration with Northumbria University participates in University Expo

THE PENINSULA Providing a platform to On this occasion, Khalifa Al Yafei, DOHA connect high school students Director of Academic Affairs and Oper- with university degrees in ations said: “We are thrilled to partic- Qatar Finance and Business Academy line with the changing needs ipate in this year’s University Expo, as (QFBA) in collaboration with North- their vision align with those of QFBA- umbria University recently participated and landscape of Qatar’ Northumbria which is to assist high in this year’s University Expo, which took booming market, University school graduates in reaching their aca- place over a two-day period at Doha Expo 2019 provided a model demic goals and aspirations with the Exhibition and Conference Centre (DECC) opportunity for QFBA- guidance of experts in the field.” to raise awareness to the public on the “Within many financial disciplines, university’s programs and finance related Northumbria to participate. access to the latest services in combi- degrees. nation with internationally accredited With a greater aim to raise awareness teachers, school administrators, coun- degrees enable them to become true on the importance of higher education, selors and professionals pursuing edu- competitors in their respective labor QFBA-Northumbria united parents and cational opportunities. market. Our aim to assist in molding the students with admission officials to Providing a platform to connect high new generation of qualified and ener- answer any inquiries about their uni- school students with university degrees getic youth entering the financial versity education and their respective in line with the changing needs and land- services sector, ultimately raising the academic and professional future. scape of Qatar’ booming market, Uni- level of human capital and aiding in University Expo Qatar targets stu- versity Expo 2019 provided a model positioning Qatar as an attractive and dents aged 16+ who are considering their opportunity for QFBA-Northumbria to favorable financial hub in line with the higher education options as well parents, participate. Visitors during the University Expo, at Doha Exhibition and Conference Centre. 2030 Qatar Vision.” 10 GULF / MIDDLE EAST THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 Russia warns Kurdish YPG to pull back as its forces move in

REUTERS The arrival of Russian military police in Kobani marked MOSCOW/ANKARA the start of a period when Russian and Syrian security forces will oversee the removal of YPG fighters Russian military police arrived in the at least 30km into Syria, under the deal struck by strategic Syrian city of Kobani yesterday as Moscow warned Presidents Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Kurdish YPG forces that they face further armed conflict with Turkey the YPG fighters, which were once YPG fighters at least 30km into if they fail to withdraw from Syria’s US allies but which Ankara calls Syria, under the deal struck by entire northeastern border. terrorists. The police arrival in Presidents Vladimir Putin and Russia’s warning came a day Kobani marked the start of a period Recep Tayyip Erdogan. after it struck an accord with Turkey when Russian and Syrian security A complete pullout of the YPG calling for the complete pullout of forces will oversee the removal of would mark a victory for Erdogan, who launched a cross-border Trump announces lifting of Turkey sanctions offensive on October 9 to drive the Syrian Kurdish militia from the A convoy of Turkish military vehicles is seen in the town of Tal Abyad, Syria, yesterday. AFP/WASHINGTON border and create a “safe zone” for the return of Syrian refugees. President Donald Trump announced yesterday the United States would Russia’s Defence Ministry, border for the first time in years. Under the Kurdish formations would then fall under the be lifting sanctions on Turkey, hailing the success of a ceasefire along its quoted by TASS news agency, said deal, Syrian border guards were to deploy weight of the Turkish army,” he said. In a border with Syria. “Earlier this morning, the government of Turkey the police would help facilitate the there from noon yesterday. swipe at Washington, which has called into informed my administration that they would be stopping combat and YPG withdrawal from Kobani, a Six days later, Russian and Turkish forces question how the deal will be guaranteed, their offensive in Syria and making the ceasefire permanent,” he said in border city to the west of Turkey’s will jointly start to patrol a 10 km strip of land Peskov said: “Now they (the Americans) a televised address from the White House. “I have, therefore, instructed military operations. It was vacated in northeast Syria where US troops had long prefer to leave the Kurds at the border and the Secretary of the Treasury to lift all sanctions imposed on October by US troops after President Donald been deployed along with their former almost force them to fight the Turks.” 14th in response to Turkey’s original offensive moves against the Kurds Trump’s abrupt decision this month Kurdish allies. Those changes reflect the diz- Russia’s Foreign Ministry also dismissed in Syria’s northeast border region,” he added. to pull out. Kobani is of special sig- zying pace of changes in Syria since Trump a German proposal for a security zone under nificance to the Kurdish fighters, announced the US withdrawal on October 6, international control, an idea which the US forces from Syria not allowed in Iraq: PM who fought off Islamic State mili- shaking up the military balance across a United States and Nato had cautiously wel- tants trying to seize the city in quarter of the country after more than eight comed. The Kurdish-led SDF were Washing- REUTERS/BAGHDAD 2014-15 in one of the fiercest battles years of conflict. ton’s main allies in the fight to dismantle of Syria’s conflict. Russia said Turkish Kurdish militia commanders have yet to Islamic State’s self-declared caliphate in Syria. Iraq’s prime minister yesterday said Baghdad is taking “all international forces would not deploy in Kobani. respond to the deal reached in Russia’s Black Trump’s decision to pull troops out was crit- legal measures” over the entry of US troops from neighbouring Syria, in Tuesday’s accord, which expands Sea resort of Sochi, and it was not immedi- icized by US lawmakers, including fellow an apparent attempt to assert his government’s opposition to the arrival on a US-brokered ceasefire deal last ately clear how their withdrawal could be Republicans, as a betrayal. Trump said the of the American forces. In a statement, Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi week, underlines Putin’s dominant enforced. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov ceasefire agreed between Ankara and Wash- reiterated his government’s position that US troops pulling out of northeast influence in Syria and seals the said if Kurdish forces did not retreat, Syrian ington last week had held, hailing what he Syria and moving into Iraq were not allowed to remain in his country. return of his ally President Bashar border guards and Russian military police called a big success. “Kurds are safe and have Al Assad’s forces to the northeastern would have to fall back. “And remaining worked very nicely with us,” Trump tweeted. Oman could allow third-party airlines to operate domestic flights REUTERS/MUSCAT sources previously said. Oman’s regional airports. “This process for a feasibility study to supports commercial air services the Oman Aviation Group Oman Aviation Group had may involve third-party airlines increase flights on busy routes to rural airports, he added. spokesman said. State-owned Third-party carriers could requested a feasibility study or investors operating in and to unserved or underserved Proposals for the feasibility Oman Air, part of Oman Aviation operate domestic flights in Oman into setting up a new regional domestic airports, but will not airports in Oman, he said. study are to be submitted by Group, and budget carrier Salam to increase journeys to regional airline, Oman Link, to operate entail a new airline being estab- Oman Link could be mod- November 11, citing one of the Air, owned by Omani gov- airports, but a new airline will domestic flights. The lished in Oman,” the spokesman elled on commuter airlines and sources. ernment pension funds and the not be set up, an Oman Aviation spokesman said Oman Link was said. those that offer Essential Air “Detail on certification, man- Muscat municipality, operate Group spokesman said instead a programme exploring Oman Aviation Group is in Services, a government pro- agement and strategies will be both international and domestic yesterday, rebutting what how to promote and connect the early stages of a bidding gramme in some countries that known as the study progresses,” flights. THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 11 Tunisia’s new president sworn in, vows to fight for women’s rights

AGENCIES/TUNIS

Tunisia’s newly elected president has vowed to fight hard for women’s rights during his first address to the nation after being sworn in at the country’s parliament. In his speech yesterday at the Assembly of People’s Rep- resentatives, Kais Saied said his administration would fight cor- Anti-government protesters facing Lebanese soldiers waving national flags in the area of Jal Al Dib ruption and shore up the on the northern outskirts of the capital Beirut, yesterday. freedoms gained over the past few years, since the Arab Spring began in Tunisia. “We will support women to Protesters unbowed as army gain more rights, especially economic and social rights,” he said. “The dignity of a nation vows to open Lebanese roads comes from the dignity of its citizens, men and women AFP/BEIRUT near these blockades and a the demonstrators remained, Tunisia’s new President Kais Saied taking the oath of office in equally.” senior military official said a keeping the road closed. “That’s Tunis, yesterday. With the Tunisian economy A week of unprecedented decision had been made to push it, the fear has gone,” said the struggling, the 61-year-old said Lebanese street protests against back. “There is a clear decision 27-year-old. Michel Khairallah, “there will be no tolerance in With the Tunisian economy struggling, the 61-year- the political class showed no to reopen main roads and facil- a young waiter, said people would wasting any cent of the money old President Kais Saied said “there will be no signs of abating yesterday, itate the movement of the cit- “block the country until victory.” of our people” and promised to tolerance in wasting any cent of the money of our despite the army moving to izens,” the official said. A dem- For him that means a new respond to the “youth’s aspira- people” and promised to respond to the “youth’s reopen key roads. onstration was forcibly removed government “without corrupt tions for employment and aspirations for employment and dignity”. Demonstrations sparked on by security forces from a main ministers,” made up of “young and dignity”. October 17 by a proposed tax on road north of Beirut. competent people” able to finally He pledged to tackle the WhatsApp and other messaging Three people were injured move the country forward. “They roots of extremism, saying “we “The Tunisians need a trust strongly advocate for “the Pal- apps have morphed into an during scuffles and several exist, they are just waiting for must stand united against ter- relation to be established estinian cause.” unprecedented cross-sectarian arrested and later released, the their turn,” he said. rorism.” The country was hit in between those who are gov- Tunis, which currently chairs street mobilisation against the Lebanese official news agency Tens of thousands again 2015 by a series of deadly attacks erning and those who are being the Arab League, could renew political class. Prime Minister Saad said. Banks, schools and univer- gathered in Beirut, Tripoli and which hit the tourism sector governed, who have long suf- diplomatic ties with Syria, Hariri has presented a series of sities remain closed. other cities, with protests con- hard. fered injustice and iniquity,” he severed since 2012, and play a reforms including cutting minis- Also yesterday, prosecutors tinuing in a generally relaxed and Saied, who presented said. role in the return of the war-torn terial salaries, but the rallies have in the Mount Lebanon area joyful atmosphere. More than a himself as an independent out- An international novice with country to the bloc. continued — crippling the capital announced they would press quarter of Lebanon’s population sider while winning the presi- no real foreign policy expe- Saied then headed towards Beirut and other major cities. charges against former Prime lives in poverty, according to the dential election earlier this rience, he emphasised Tunisia’s the presidential palace of Yesterday morning pro- Minister Najib Mikati and his World Bank. The country month, also pointed at the gov- respect for “various international Carthage, north of the capital testers set up fresh blockades to brother over “illicit enrichment.” endured a devastating civil war erning elite’s failure since the agreements but also to revise Tunis, to formally start his five- close down key highways into Hassan, 27, was brandishing that ended in 1990 and many of 2011 revolution that unleashed them according to the interest year term. He succeeds the late Beirut, a correspondent said. a Lebanese flag as protesters the political leaders are those the Arab Spring pro-democracy and will of the people”. Beji Caid Essebsi, who died in There was a noticeable increase blocked a main street into Beirut. that fought, often brutally, along uprisings. He reaffirmed he would office in July. in the number of security forces The army removed barriers but religious lines.

Leader of South Israel’s former military chief aims at premiership Africa’s leading

REUTERS/TEL AVIV rose through army ranks, now counsel than sap his credibility years, and which the veteran Gantz was a media darling. oppn party quits has the chance to dethrone with promises that voters know leader denies. He went on to serve a rela- Confronted by a right-wing Netanyahu, who is sometimes will never be delivered. Netanyahu’s counter-charge tively short period in the West AP/JOHANNESBURG heckler while campaigning for referred to as “King Bibi” after As top general, Gantz orches- that a suspected Iranian hack of Bank, where a Palestinian revolt last month’s parliamentary dominating Israeli politics for trated two Gaza wars in which Gantz’s cellphone may have raged. Gantz later commanded The leader of South Africa’s election in Israel, Benny Gantz more than a decade as prime around 2,300 Palestinians were opened him up to blackmail by forces on the Lebanese border largest opposition party has grabbed the man by the lapels minister. killed. “We don’t differentiate Israel’s enemy did not appear to but was reassigned before the resigned in a blow to efforts to and glared down at him. “No As chief of the Israeli military between either Gantz or dent the challenger’s image. inconclusive 2006 war with shed the liberal party’s image one’s doing anything wrong by between 2011 and 2015, Gantz Netanyahu,” said Moussa Abu A more earthy orator than Hezbollah, so was spared much as representing the country’s you,” Gantz, who leads the was a consensus figure. He has Mazouk of Gaza’s dominant Netanyahu, he makes occasional of the after-action blowback white minority. centrist Blue and White Party, tried to retain his broad appeal Hamas Islamists. scriptural word play and is given from an Israeli inquest. Mmusi Maimane stepped told him. “We only want what’s as head of Blue and White, a The more moderate Pales- to reminding listeners of his mil- How he won the nickname down as Democratic Alliance good for you.” newly formed party named after tinian Authority has said it is itary background. When his “The Prince” is unclear. Some say leader Wednesday shortly after The encounter was part the national colours. open to talking to any Israeli party won more seats than it stemmed from his assured rise the return of former party embrace, part menace, and But what he would do in leader. But Hanan Ashrawi, a Netanyahu, he spoke of having through the ranks, others from leader Helen Zille as its chair. highly ambiguous. So is much power is not completely clear as senior Palestine Liberation fulfilled his “mission” and of his what critics call his sense of Zille has been criticized over else about Gantz, who will try to he had avoided committing Organization official, also said rival having failed in his. entitlement. comments suggesting that colo- form a government after Prime himself on some important before the September election Netanyahu has cast Gantz as Gantz has dismissed sugges- nialism wasn’t all bad. Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s issues. Gantz casts himself as more that Gantz was no different from a “weak leftist” who was gun-shy tions he lacks the stomach to Tensions have risen after decision to abandon his own diplomatically accommodating Netanyahu. on Iran and the Palestinians fight. Referring to a Hamas mil- the DA saw a loss of support in attempts to put together a new than Netanyahu, urging redoubled Gantz, who is 6 foot 3 inches while in uniform. It was, itary commander whom he this year’s general elections. A coalition. efforts to restart peace talks with (1.91 metres) tall, was brought up however, Netanyahu who ordered assassinated in 2012, he recent internal review heavily President Reuven Rivlin the Palestinians, but has stopped on a collective farm founded by appointed Gantz as Israel’s top said in January: “The heads of the criticized Maimane for the poor turned to Netanyahu first after short of any commitment to the Holocaust survivors including his general and, at the time, praised terrorist groups need to know performance. Maimane has been the September 17 election, in statehood they seek. parents, and had a stint in a reli- him as “an officer and a gen- that Ahmed Jaabari was not the accused of pursuing the support which no party won a majority. Supporters see Gantz’s reti- gious school. He is married to an tleman... a warrior and a human first, nor may he be the last.” of South Africa’s black majority Gantz, was next in line after Blue cence as an attempt to calm the ex-paratrooper with whom he being”. Retired US general Martin at the expense of the party’s tra- and White won 33 seats in par- political scene after two elections has four children. As a brigadier-general in Dempsey, who as chairman of ditional, mainly white, base. liament, one more than Netan- this year - Netanyahu also failed Throughout the election he 1999, Gantz took over a liaison the Joint Chiefs of Staff between yahu’s right-wing Likud. to form a government after an attacked Netanyahu over cor- unit to Lebanese allies. By the 2011 and 2015 was Gantz’s coun- Protests in Ethiopia The 60-year-old general, April ballot. They say Gantz ruption allegations that have following year, when Israel terpart, recalled him as a “superb after activist says nicknamed “The Prince” as he would rather keep his own dogged the prime minister for withdrew from south Lebanon, leader” in that role. he was threatened Botswana votes as ruling party AFP/ADDIS ABABA Protesters in Ethiopia blocked faces surprising challenge roads, burned tyres and chanted slogans denouncing AP/GABORONE on elephant hunting to appeal to rural Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed voters. yesterday after a high-profile Botswana faced its tightest election in Opposition leaders say their coalition activist accused security forces history yesterday as the long-peaceful could unseat the ruling party for the first of trying to orchestrate an southern African nation wondered if the time since independence in 1966. attack against him. ruling party would be toppled for the first Khama has openly supported the Demonstrations occurred time since independence. opposition coalition Umbrella for Dem- mainly in towns in Oromia, one The ruling party and President Mokg- ocratic Change and its presidential can- of nine regions in the ethnically weetsi Masisi have been presented with didate, human rights lawyer Duma diverse country, and in the a surprising challenge after former Pres- Boko. capital Addis, after Oromo ident Ian Khama broke away and “With their vote they will rewrite the activist Jawar Mohammed announced his support for an opposition history of this country,” a buoyant Boko made the claim. “Everything is coalition instead. said, indicating the long lines at a school shut down. Businesses are shut Khama hand-picked Masisi as his in the capital, Gaborone. and all the roads leading to successor when he stepped down last He called the process smooth. His other parts of Ethiopia are bar- year following two terms in office in the campaign pledges included creating ricaded with tyres, tree trunks Mokgweetsi Masisi, the President of Botswana and the leader of the Botswana diamond-rich country. But Masisi then 100,000 jobs in his first year in office and stones,” said Berhanu Democratic Party (BDP), casting his ballot at the Mosielele Primary School polling moved away from some of Khama’s pol- and providing free sanitary pads to girls Kebede, a resident of station in his home village, Moshupa, yesterday. icies, including by loosening restrictions across the country. Shashamane. 12 ASIA THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019

Former CM of India sees Uttarakhand and his aide sharp fall in booked by CBI IANS NEW DELHI

In more troubles for the trafficking Congress, the Central Bureau of Investigation yesterday registered a case against former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Harish Rawat for allegedly cases buying support of rebel MLAs in 2016. REUTERS Figures released Besides Rawat, the CBI has MUMBAI by National Crime also booked his then cabinet colleague Harak Singh Rawat, Cases of human trafficking in Records Bureau who is now a member of the India have fallen sharply showed around 3,000 state’s BJP-led government, for according to new government human trafficking alleged attempts at horset- data, but campaigners warned cases were reported rading in 2016, which was on Tuesday that the figures may caught on tape by Umesh not reflect the full magnitude of in 2017, a drop of Kumar, CEO of a Hindi News the crime. around 60 percent Channel. South Asia, with India at its from just over 8,000 Harak Singh Rawat had centre, is one of the fastest- recorded in 2016. Modi meets JP Morgan council members later joined the BJP and is now growing regions for human traf- a minister in the Trivendra Prime Minister Narendra Modi with former British prime minister Tony Blair (top left), former US ficking in the world. Singh Rawat-led cabinet in the secretary of state Henry Kissinger (bottom right), former US secretary of state Condoleezza Rice Thousands of people — home affairs ministry said a state. largely poor, rural women and series of government measures (centre, top left), former US secretary of defence Robert Gates (centre, top right), and former They have been booked for children — are lured to cities to address the crime of human Australian prime minister John Howard (top right), during a gathering of members of the JP Morgan criminal conspiracy, taking each year by traffickers who trafficking had led to the drop International Council in New Delhi. gratification in order to promise good jobs, but sell them in numbers. influence public servants. into modern day slavery. Such measures included The case pertains to a 2016 Figures released by India’s joint-initiatives by government sting video shot in the VIP National Crime Records Bureau ministries to stop those profiting No recent transgression on lounge of Dehradun airport that late on Monday showed around from the crime and awareness purportedly showed Rawat 3,000 human trafficking cases campaigns to promote increased negotiating a deal to buy the were reported in 2017, a drop of vigilance at railway stations and support of rebel MLAs. around 60 percent from just bus terminals, she added. India-China border: Official A senior CBI official said the over 8,000 recorded in 2016. “The success of our IANS a very good understanding. perception of incursion. There case was registered after the The data on trafficking, awareness programme against NEW DELHI There is a well understood and are some pockets on the border Uttarakhand High court gave usually released annually, is trafficking was astounding,” said agreed upon mechanism to find which we as well as our coun- its nod on September 30, after seen as crucial to efforts by an official who declined to be Noting that India and China have solutions to all the situations terpart claim. the probe agency submitted a charities and organisations to named from West Bengal, a a very good understanding and arising on the border. That “So, we both patrol on these report in a sealed cover on its stop the practise. common destination for Indian mechanism to solve problems mechanism is perfect and the pockets. There are no new areas preliminary inquiry. Campaigners said a drop in trafficking victims. on the border, Indo-Tibetan border is absolutely safe and in these pockets where they The preliminary inquiry was trafficking cases was to be Human trafficking in West Border Police Director-General secure,” Deswal said while patrol and we don’t. In all the registered in April 2016 when the expected partly due to increased Bengal plummeted to around Surjeet Singh Deswal yesterday addressing the media at the disputed areas, we as well as our state was under President’s rule. vigilance spurred by government- 350 cases in 2017 from over said that no “transgression” ITBP’s annual conference here. counterparts do the patrolling.” The CBI said the agency had sent backed awareness campaigns. 3,500 in 2016, according to the incident occurred in the recent Responding to a query, Deswal said ITBP troops do both the tape of the sting operation to Campaigner Digvijay Kumar data, released on Monday after past and the status quo is well Deswal said “the status quo is Long Range Patrolling (LTP) and the Forensic Science Laboratory, said, though, that traffickers had a delay of over a year. maintained. very well maintained” and that Short Range Patrolling (SRP) in Gandhinagar in Gujarat, which changed their tactics to cir- The figures are broadly con- Deswal said the India-China is not something recent. “It has these areas. opined that the recording was cumvent authorities. sistent with the findings of anti- border was “absolutely safe and been maintained for the last 57 To a query regarding a face- “genuine” and that there was no “Traffickers have changed slavery group Walk Free Foun- secure” and there had not been years,” he added. off situation, the DG said: “Yes, it evidence of any tampering or their mode of operating, dis- dation that reduced its estimate any major incident of “incursion” Asserting that the border was happens sometimes when morphing in the video files. carding known routes and of enslaved people in India from by Chinese troops post the “peaceful”, the ITBP chief said patrolling teams of both the coun- Several senior Congress finding new ones. In many cases, 18 million in 2016 to eight Malappuram meeting between both Indian and Chinese troops tries come on the same route as the leaders are facing the heat of the police are not registering million in 2017. Prime Minister Narendra Modi keep patrolling it and there have area is very vast.” The ITBP chief the central investigative cases under trafficking laws,” Campaigners said that esti- and Chinese President Xi Jinping. been no incidents of aggression. said with 25 more Border Outposts agencies. In August the CBI said Kumar of anti-trafficking mates of the scale of human traf- He however, clarified that Asked about the number of (BoPs) added over the past five arrested former Finance Min- NGO Institute for Development ficking in India should incor- “diplomacy cannot be linked incursions by Chinese troops in years along the 3,488-km India- ister and senior party leader P Education and Action. porate data on missing children with national security”. the Indian area, Deswal said: China border manned by the ITBP, Chidambaram in INX Media A spokeswoman for India’s as kidnapped persons. “We (India and China) have “There is some difference in the patrolling has also increased. case. Delhi High Court People in Delhi’s unauthorised colonies to get ownership rights grants bail to IANS bringing a Bill in the next session residents of 1,797 unauthorised of 1,797 identified unauthorised into valid property transactions Shivakumar NEW DELHI of Parliament to implement the colonies of Delhi which will now colonies spread over around 175sq and can now invest in safe struc- proposal. Puri asserted that the get ownership, transfer & kms, as redevelopment can now tures as the unsafe structures IANS In a Diwali gift for the national move is not linked to the upcoming mortgage rights,” Puri tweeted. take place in these colonies. were a major worry. NEW DELHI capital, the Modi government Assembly elections in Delhi which Alleging that the Delhi gov- Calling it a “historic and The Urban Development yesterday approved ownership are just a few months away. ernment was taking too much landmark initiative” for Delhi, Minister said the focus is on the The Delhi High Court yesterday rights for 40 lakh residents of 1,797 “This is not for the election. time, Puri said the Union gov- Puri said it will address major lower income group and does granted bail to Congress leader unauthorised colonies in Delhi, a We will bring the bill and Delhi ernment decided to move ahead issues being faced by the resi- not apply to 69 affluent colonies and former Karnataka minister decision that even the usually Development Authority is immediately on the proposal as dents of these colonies like lack identified by DDA, including DK Shivakumar in a money combative Delhi Chief Minister beginning work immediately,” the Delhi government was asking ownership/transfer rights, pro- Sainik Farms, Mahendru Enclave laundering case. Arvind Kejriwal welcomed while he added. for time till year 2021 and even vision of basic infrastructure and and Anant Ram Dairy. He, The High Court granted bail thanking the Centre. “I am extremely thankful to the company to draw the bound- civic amenities. however conceded that the same to Shivakumar asking him to Union Urban Development PM Sh @narendramodi Ji for aries had not been set up. With recognition of property logic does apply to these colonies furnish a personal bond of Rs25 Minister Hardeep Puri said the Union Cabinet’s landmark Diwali Puri said the decision will documents, the property holders but they will address these issues lakh and two sureties of like Union Cabinet further approved Gift for more than 40 lakh benefit more than 40 lakh residents in these colonies can now enter later. amount each. The court directed him not to leave the country without permission. Enforcement Directorate Indian troops kill three (ED) had arrested the former Karnataka minister on Sep- tember 3. senior militants in J&K Shivakumar has been on the radar of the Income Tax AP Tuesday’s killings. Indian forces Department and the ED since SRINAGAR suffered no casualties or injuries demonetisation in 2016. An in the fighting, he said. Income Tax search at his New Indian forces have killed a top Yesterday, thousands of Delhi flat on August 2, 2017, led militant commander and his two people participated in three sep- to the seizure of unaccounted associates in a counterinsurgency arate funerals for the killed mil- cash amounting to Rs8.83 crore. operation in Jammu and Kashmir, itants in their native villages. Thereafter, the Tax police said yesterday. In mid-2017, an Al Qaida- Department lodged cases Hamid Lelhari and his asso- linked propaganda network said against the Congress leader and ciates were killed on Tuesday Musa joined its affiliate group after his four associates. evening in a gunfight that erupted he quit Kashmir’s largest rebel Incidentally, according to after Indian security forces group, Hizb-ul-Mujahideen. Shivakumar’s affidavit submitted launched a counterinsurgency Musa regularly issued audio to the Election Commission operation in southern Awantipora messages that mainly stressed that ahead of the Assembly elections area, said Dilbagh Singh, chief of Kashmiris’ struggle was for an in 2018, his daughter Aisshwarya police in Kashmir. Islamic cause and had nothing to do owned assets of Rs108 crore Police say Lelhari became the with nationalism. This highlighted compared to only Rs1.09 crore operations chief of Ansar a shift in ideology among some rebel in 2013. Shivakumar, however, Ghawzat-ul-Hind, an affiliate of groups that have mainly fought for clarified that Aisshwarya was not the Al Qaida militant group, after Kashmir’s independence from India dependent on his income and Indian troops killed a top militant, or its merger with Pakistan. that he was still declaring her Zakir Musa, last year. Previously, no global assets as per the Representation Singh said the group has been insurgent groups had openly A paramilitary trooper standing guard on a street during a lockdown in Srinagar, yesterday. of Peoples Act. wiped out in Kashmir with operated in Kashmir. THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 ASIA 13 Imran’s cabinet gives nod to eight ordinances INTERNEWS Official sources said here yesterday a majority significant ordinance which got whistleblowers would also get forgery and cheating”. The Legal ISLAMABAD of the ordinances deal with the judiciary the cabinet’s nod was the one 20 per cent share in the amount Aid and Justice Authority Ordi- seeking an amendment to the recovered from the culprits. nance seeks establishment of a Despite facing criticism for and one specifically relates to amending the NAB Ordinance under which The Letter of Administration legal and institutional “bypassing the parliament and National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Ordinance those facing charges of cor- and Succession Certificates framework to promote access relying on presidential ordi- that may affect high-profile political prisoners ruption worth Rs50 million or Ordinance provided a mech- to justice by providing nances for legislation”, the in the country. more would only be entitled to anism for issuance of succession affordable, accessible, sus- federal cabinet of the Imran be kept in ‘C-Class’ prisons. certificates by the National tainable, credible and Khan government has approved About the ordinances, Database and Registration accountable legal aid, financial eight ordinances. sources said an amendment to Authority (Nadra), which would or other services to the poor and Official sources said here The ordinances, which Ordinance 2019; the Superior the Code of Criminal Procedure reduce burden on courts. vulnerable sections of society in yesterday a majority of the ordi- received green signal from the Courts (Court Dress and Mode (CrPC) would ensure speedy and The Enforcement of criminal cases. nances deal with the judiciary cabinet, included the Letter of of Address) Order (Repeal) Ordi- expeditious justice, which was Women’s Property Rights Ordi- The bill gives priority to dis- and one specifically relates to Administration and Succession nance 2019; the National “the only way forward to change nance guarantees right of own- advantaged women and amending the National Account- Certificates Ordinance 2019; the Accountability (Amendment) the status quo”. ership to women in inheritance. children, especially in matters ability Bureau (NAB) Ordinance Enforcement of Women’s Ordinance 2019; the Legal Aid Through another ordinance The bill aims at preventing the of sexual offences, saying that that may affect high-profile Property Rights Ordinance 2019; and Justice Authority Ordinance the government seeks to provide family members from denying it is a constitutional right of cit- political prisoners in the the Benami Transactions (Pro- 2019 and Whistle-Blowers Act. protection to the whistleblowers this right to women through izens to consult and engage a country. hibition) (Amendment) The most exposing corruption. The “coercion, fraud, fabrication, lawyer to defend themselves. Report: Smartphone malware Afghan FM targeting Pakistani officials resigns

AP/ISLAMABAD because people use them for ANATOLIA work and in their personal lives. KABUL A security firm says fake smart- “I don’t think we saw phone apps laden with malware examples where they were tar- Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister are targeting Pakistan’s military geting specific individuals,” said Salahuddin Rabbani resigned and government. the company’s Brian Robison. suddenly from his post A report yesterday by “It was more of a broad stroke.” yesterday . In his resignation Canadian company Blackberry Blackberry’s report also outlines letter addressed to President identifies new espionage cam- ongoing smartphone malware Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, paigns attempting to steal sen- campaigns in other parts of the Rabbani said working space in sitive data from mobile devices. world in which hackers appear the National Unity Government Blackberry says it doesn’t to be acting in the interests of was not desired from the very know who is responsible for the the Chinese, Iranian, Vietnamese early days of this government campaigns but says it likely and North Korean governments. in 2014 until now 2019. involves state-sponsored One common thread among the “During this time, I’ve seen hacking groups. The report says different campaigns: they that by creating parallel struc- one of the fake apps promised interwove mobile malware into tures and bringing down insti- news about Kashmir. more conventional strategies tutions that have the prestige Blackberry, a former mobile targeting desktop computers. of the state in all systems of the phone giant now shifted to the Robison said many people Diplomacy world, the structure of the gov- security business, says the cam- have been falsely lulled into ernment was treated as a per- Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (left) shaking hands with Pakistan’s President Dr. Arif Alvi at the paigns reflect a global trend of thinking their phones are more sonal community,” he said with Akasaka State Guesthouse in Tokyo, yesterday. hackers targeting mobile devices trustworthy. a thinly veiled reference to Ghani’s “State Builder” election team. Rabbani is in the rival camp “Stability and Part- nership” of the chief executive EU, US agree to restart Afghan peace parley Abdullah Abdullah.

ANATOLIA Afghan forces claim KABUL Pakistan to attend talks in Moscow China planning to host retaking Taliban’s ISLAMABAD/INTERNEWS Afghanistan’s western backers talks among rival factions key bastion have agreed to work with the Pakistan will attend the upcoming Afghan peace talks in Moscow, Kabul government, the Taliban Foreign Office Spokesperson Dr. Mohammad Faisal said REUTERS and has been running parallel to ANATOLIA and civil society leaders to reach yesterday. Addressing a weekly briefing, Dr. Faisal said Pakistan KABUL the talks between the insurgents KABUL sustainable peace agreement in will attend the talks and it will be represented by additional and the United States. the country, an official statement Secretary for Afghanistan and the West Asia. China is organising talks among Shaheen said the talks in The Afghan forces yesterday said yesterday. “Pakistan had participated in the first round of four party Afghanistan’s rival factions as China would be held on that claimed to have recaptured the According to the US State talks in Beijing in July this year,” he said. “Pakistan has been part part of efforts to end years of war basis. “All participants will be Taliban’s long-held strategic Department statement, special of all efforts and processes to facilitate the peace and reconcil- after negotiations between the attending the meeting in their bastion of Dand-e-Ghori in envoys and special representa- iation efforts in Afghanistan.” “We [Pakistan] will continue its Taliban and the United States on personal capacity and they will northern Afghanistan after tives of the European Union, efforts as part of shared responsibility to make international the withdrawal of US forces share their personal opinions for killing scores of insurgents France, Germany, Italy, Norway, peace efforts successful in Afghanistan,” the spokesperson added. broke down. solving the Afghan issue,” he there. the UK and the US met in EU China, which shares a short said. He did not give a date for The country’s Defence Min- Headquarters in Brussels on border with Afghanistan, has the talks and officials at China’s istry said in a statement that October 22. Afghanistan’s future. It called on peace talks with the Taliban been trying to encourage peace embassy in Kabul were not dozens of Taliban fighters, It said the participants Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, “dead” following a recent attack efforts and last month a Taliban available for comment. including key regional com- “acknowledged the widespread Chief Executive Abdullah in Afghanistan’s capital Kabul delegation visited Beijing for The Afghan government was manders and shadow admin- and sincere demand of the Abdullah and other prominent which killed a dozen people, talks with government officials. aware of China’s plan to host istrators, were killed in the Afghan people for a lasting peace Afghan leaders to focus on pre- including a US service member. “China has invited a delegation... talks but it could not comment ongoing operation in Baghlan and an end to the war”. paring the government for Following the US move, the to participate in the intra-Afghan at this stage, said deputy foreign province housing the restive The statement called on all formal intra-Afghan negotiations Taliban opened new battle fronts dialogue,” a Taliban spokesman, minister, Idress Zaman. Dand-e-Ghori area long held sides to observe a ceasefire for with the Taliban, including the across the war-weary nation, as Suhail Shaheen, said in a post on A source, who attended by the Taliban. It also vowed to the duration of intra-Afghan naming of an inclusive, national Afghan security forces — suf- Twitter late on Tuesday. The so- intra-Afghan talks in Russia, said have captured more than 70 negotiations to enable partici- negotiating team. fering casualties and desertions called intra-Afghan dialogue is Karzai’s office was aware of Taliban fighters besides confis- pants to reach agreement on a Early September, US Pres- – struggle to beat back a revi- aimed at reconciliation between China’s plan for talks and Karzai cating large cache of arms and political roadmap for ident Donald Trump declared the talized insurgency. Afghanistan’s warring parties would attend if invited. ammunition. UN mission head: Risk of genocide recurring in Myanmar

AP August 2017 in response to an genocide,” he said. Darusman urged the assembly to also con- UNITED NATIONS insurgent attack. More than said the fact-finding mission has sider additional measures, 700,000 Rohingya fled to neigh- transferred 1,227 interviews with including the establishment of The head of a UN fact-finding bouring Bangladesh to escape victims and witnesses of crimes an ad hoc tribunal like the UN mission on Myanmar warned what has been called an ethnic against the Rohingya to another did for crimes in Rwanda and the that “there is a serious risk of cleansing campaign involving specially established U.N. body, former Yugoslavia. genocide recurring” against the mass abuses, killings and the Independent Investigative Myanmar’s UN ambassador, estimated 600,000 members of burning of their homes. Mechanism for Myanmar. It said Hau Do Suan, noted his gov- the Rohingya Muslim minority The Independent Interna- the material included “a list of ernment doesn’t recognise the still living in the country. tional Fact-Finding Mission on over 150 people suspected of fact-finding mission, calling its Marzuki Darusman told the Myanmar, which Darusman involvement in numerous inter- views “one-sided” and based on General Assembly’s human heads, said in its final report last national crimes.” He called on “misleading information and rights committee that “if any- month that Myanmar should be countries to support the inves- secondary sources.” He accused thing, the situation of the held responsible in international tigation by the prosecutor of the the mission of ignoring the situ- Rohingya in Rakhine state has legal forums for alleged genocide International Criminal Court of ation of the Hindu minority and worsened,” citing continued dis- against the Rohingya. alleged crimes on the Bang- other ethnic minorities in crimination, segregation, “There is a strong inference ladesh-Myanmar border and Rakhine state. The ambassador restricted movement, insecurity of continued genocidal intent on plans for Gambia, on behalf of said that Myanmar’s government and a lack of access to land, jobs, the part of the state in relation the Organization for Islamic takes accountability seriously education and health care. to the Rohingya and there is a Cooperation, to pursue a case and that perpetrators of all The government of serious risk of genocide against Myanmar before the human rights violations “causing Myanmar, a Buddhist-majority recurring,” Darusman said. International Court of Justice for the large outflow of displaced nation, has refused to recognise “Myanmar is failing in its breaching the 1948 Genocide persons to Bangladesh must be Rohingya as citizens or even as obligations under the Genocide Convention. held accountable.” “However, we one of its ethnic groups, ren- Convention to prevent genocide, In the absence of a referral will never accept any attempt to Festival flowers dering the vast majority stateless. to investigate genocide and to by the UN Security Council of the exert unjust and unwarranted A man collects marigold flowers for the upcoming Tihar fetival in Myanmar’s military began a enact effective legislation and to situation in Myanmar to the ICC, political pressures under the Ichangu Narayan village, on the outskirts of Kathmandu, yesterday. harsh counterinsurgency cam- enact effective legislation crim- he said, “these initiatives are all pretext of accountability,” Hau paign against the Rohingya in inalising and punishing the more important.” Darusman said. 14 ASIA THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 Kim orders ‘shabby’ South Korean hotels in resort town destroyed

AP rejected the North’s demands for SEOUL The report said Kim broad sanctions relief in criticised North exchange for a partial surrender North Korean leader Kim Jong Korea’s policies of its nuclear capabilities. Un ordered the destruction of pushed under his The United States and North South Korean-made hotels and Korea resumed working-level other tourist facilities at the late father as too discussions in Sweden earlier North’s Diamond Mountain dependent on the this month, but the talks broke resort, apparently because Seoul South and vowed down amid acrimony. South won’t defy international sanc- that the North would Korean officials held back direct tions and resume South Korean criticism on Kim’s remarks, tours at the site. redevelop the site on saying they need to take a closer Pyongyang’s official Korean its own. look at the North’s intent. Central News Agency said yes- Lee Sang-min, spokesman of terday that Kim had visited the Seoul’s Unification Ministry, said North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspects the Mount Kumgang tourist resort in North Korea, yesterday. resort and described its facilities Korean President Moon Jae-in, the South will “actively defend as “shabby” and lacking national who met Kim three times last the property rights of our people” character. year while expressing ambitions and plans to accept any proposed Mountain or trying to dial up inter-Korean economic activities Korean officials and construct The report said Kim criticised to reboot inter-Korean economic talks with North Korea over the pressure on the South to restart without defying US-led interna- “new modern service facilities North Korea’s policies pushed engagement. facilities. He didn’t offer a spe- the tours and upgrade the aging tional sanctions against our own way that go well with under his late father as too The prospects for that has cific answer when asked whether facilities. Pyongyang, which have been the natural scenery of Mt. dependent on the South and dimmed amid a standstill in the South could do anything to Tours to Diamond Mountain strengthened since 2016 when Kumgang,” the KCNA said.“(Kim) vowed that the North would nuclear negotiations between stop the North if it begins to tear were a major symbol of cooper- the North began speeding up its said that the buildings are just a redevelop the site on its own. Washington and Pyongyang, down the facilities unilaterally. ation between the Koreas before nuclear and missile tests. Kim hotchpotch with no national Kim’s comments came which faltered after the collapse Experts are mixed on the South suspended them in instructed officials to entirely character at all, and that they during a prolonged freeze in of a February summit between whether North Korea is really 2008 after a North Korean guard remove the “unpleasant-looking were built like makeshift tents relations with Seoul and are a Kim and President Donald intending to independently fatally shot a South Korean facilities” built by the South after in a disaster-stricken area or iso- major setback to liberal South Trump where the Americans develop tourism at Diamond tourist there. Seoul can’t restart discussing the matter with South lation wards,” the agency said.

Thailand King Hong Kong officially withdraws extradition bill dismisses six ANATOLIA Hong Kong to countries — cially dumped, the protests con- He spent 18 months in Pik “I hope this can make her ANKARA including mainland China — tinued unabated. Uk Correctional Institution on family feel slightly relieved, and palace officials triggering unrelenting protests. Lam invoked a colonial-era money-laundering charges, [the deceased girlfriend Poon After months-long protests, the As the session resumed yes- Emergency Regulations Ordi- South China Morning Post Hiu-wing] can rest in peace,” he AFP government in Hong Kong offi- terday, Hong Kong Secretary for nance in October, first time in reported. He is also wanted for added. Taiwanese authorities BANGKOK cially withdrew the extradition Security John Lee announced over 50 years, imposing ban on murder of his pregnant girl- wanted to send their own law bill as the session of Legislative that the bill was withdrawn, wearing face masks, in order to friend in Taiwan. “I am willing, enforcement agents to Hong Thailand’s king has fired six Council resumed yesterday, Hong Kong Free Press reported. curb unrelenting protests in the for my impulsive act and things Kong to take Chan’s custody senior palace officials for their local media reported. Legislators asked Lee region. Meanwhile, murder I did wrong, to surrender myself drawing criticism from Lam “evil actions”, the palace Earlier this month, Carrie whether he would step down suspect Chan Tong-kai, whose to Taiwan to face sentencing,” government saying the sug- announced yesterday, days Lam had announced to from his position. He side- case prompted months-long Chan told media describing the gestion was “a disrespect of after the monarch stripped his withdraw the bill which sought stepped the question. demonstrations in Hong Kong murder as his “worst mistake” Hong Kong’s jurisdictional consort of all her titles for to legalise extradition from Even after the bill was offi- released from jail yesterday. that could not be reversed. power”. “disloyalty”. In a week of palace intrigue which has gripped the Thai NZ Parliament backs euthanasia referendum public, King Maha Vaji- ralongkorn has stripped his AFP other on allowing recreational pass the legislation. consort, 34-year-old former WELLINGTON marijuana use. While a final vote Prime Minister Jacinda royal bodyguard Sineenat Won- to confirm a referendum on the Ardern has publicly stated her gvajirapakdi, of her noble title New Zealand lawmakers End of Life Choice Bill will be support for euthanasia reform and military ranks. narrowly backed a plan held in November, it is con- and reluctantly voted for the ref- Yesterday, six high-ranking yesterday to hold a referendum sidered a formality after the plan erendum, saying earlier this palace officials were fired, on legalising euthanasia won crucial backing from the week that it was the only way of including “a nurse at the alongside next year’s general New Zealand First (NZF) Party. advancing the legislation. bedroom guard service” and a election. The proposal to put the “This is an emotive topic. It’s Members of Ardern’s centre- veterinarian, according to two issue to a public vote passed a divisive topic... but we should left Labour Party were given a separate announcements 63-57 during a heated late-night have the courage to allow the conscience vote on the issue, as released by palace mouthpiece debate in Parliament. voting public to participate in were members of parliament’s the Royal Gazette. It means when Kiwis go to this conversation,” NZF’s Jenny largest party, the conservative “They have severely the polls late next year they will Marcroft told parliament. Nationals. National lawmaker breached disciplinary conduct Philippine Vice-President, Maria Leonor Robredo, speaking during not only be voting for their pre- NZF had threatened to pull Harete Hipango described the for their evil actions by an interview with Reuters in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines, ferred government but also on support for the bill if the refer- euthanasia legislation as exploiting their official posi- yesterday. two referendums — one on endum proposal was rejected “abhorrent, repugnant and also tions for their own or other legalising euthanasia and the and parliament tried to simply dangerous”. people’s gain,” said the gazette. Philippine V-P says time for Duterte to China: US has ‘weaponized’ visas to target exchanges AP/BEIJING travel to a key conference in it difficult for Chinese represent- ances and “repeatedly defied Washington. Foreign Ministry atives to attend important events international responsibilities and halt failed drug war China yesterday accused the US spokeswoman Hua Chunying at the meeting. Reports said the obligations and impeded normal of having “weaponized” the said that the head of the Chinese Vice-Chairman of the China international exchanges and REUTERS still very prevalent, so obviously, issuance of visas following the delegation to the International National Space Administration, cooperation.” The US Embassy MANILA it’s not working,” Robredo said. reported inability of a top Astronautical Congress wasn’t Wu Yanhua, had planned to in Beijing said it couldn’t discuss “We have seen a lot of police Chinese space programme able to obtain a visa following attend the congress. Hua said the individual visa cases because of Philippine President Rodrigo that have abused their powers official to obtain permission to an October 12 interview, making US has “weaponized” visa issu- privacy issues. Duterte should allow the United and not been penalised so this Nations to investigate his war is where the International on drugs, and abandon a deadly Criminal Court could come in, if Indonesia President taps oppn, campaign that has been failure we do not show the world that and a dent on the country’s we can take care of our own start-up founder for new cabinet international image, its vice mess.” president said yesterday. She added: “The lives of our REUTERS/ JAKARTA the new cabinet was closely The crackdown has over- people are on the line and the watched to see how many tech- whelmingly targeted the poor dignity of our country is on the Indonesian President Joko Widodo nocrats expected to heed Widodo’s rather than big drugs networks, line, but my first call is for our announced his second-term agenda to boost economic growth Leni Robredo said in an government to take care of the cabinet yesterday, retaining and investment were included. In interview, adding that Duterte’s mess.” The authorities reject former World Bank executive Sri the end, around half of the 34 new violent rhetoric was aiding a activists’ allegations that drug Mulyani Indrawati as finance ministers are technocrats valued culture of police impunity for dealers and users are being exe- minister and tapping the oppo- more for expertise in their fields which international help should cuted and say the more than sition leader as he seeks to push than political loyalties. be sought if the government 7,000 people killed by police through reforms. “First don’t be corrupt, create refused to change track. had all resisted arrest. Police say Widodo named his chief rival a clean system. Second, no sep- Robredo, who was elected they have no connection to the and former general Prabowo arate ministerial vision and separately to Duterte and has a mysterious murders of thou- Subianto as defence minister, mission, only the presidential frosty relationship with the pres- sands more drug users. angering rights activists given vision and mission,” Widodo said ident, said the thousands of Duterte is furious at a reso- accusations that he allowed while seated on the steps of the people killed was already too lution in July by the United abuses against civilians while in palace flanked by his ministers. many, with no evidence of a Nations Human Rights Council charge of Indonesia’s special Indonesia last month saw the Newly appointed Indonesian Education and Culture Minister, Nadiem decline in drugs supply or usage. to investigate the bloodshed, and forces. The co-founder of ride- biggest student demonstrations in Makarim, co-founder and ex-chief executive of ride-hailing and “We ask ourselves, ‘why is he last year withdrew the Phil- sharing and payments firm Gojek decades opposing new bills that this still happening?’. The pres- ippines’ membership of the ICC as well as a former chairman of critics say undermined the powers payments firm Gojek, reacts as he talks with Indonesian Finance ident has already made very after it launched a preliminary Inter Milan soccer club were also of the anti-corruption agency, Minister Sri Mulyani and Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi, serious threats to drug syndi- examination into alleged crimes named to the cabinet, confirming known as KPK, and also before taking their oaths during the inauguration at the Presidential cates, to drug lords... and yet it’s against humanity. earlier reports. The make-up of threatened basic rights. Palace in Jakarta, Indonesia, yesterday. THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 EUROPE 15

Turkey, Russia EU keeps UK waiting on Brexit delay discuss new S-400 supplies REUTERS/BRUSSELS Ambassadors of the 27 EU countries made maybe, but not up to January as apply EU rules while the rest of no decision on an extension at a meeting some people are saying, that’s the United Kingdom goes its own AFP/MOSCOW EU member states yesterday in Brussels yesterday. The envoys will meet just not possible,” Pieyre-Alex- way. That has cost him the delayed a decision on whether andre Anglade, a member of the support of a Northern Irish party Turkey is in talks to buy more to grant Britain a three-month again tomorrow. UK Prime Minister Boris French parliament who handles that had propped up his minority S-400 missile defence systems Brexit extension, while Prime Johnson’s spokesman said if the EU offers a European affairs for Macron’s government, but could unlock from Moscow, Russia’s state Minister Boris Johnson said if the delay until the end of January there would party, said. the support of parliament that arms exporter said, despite deadline is deferred to the end need to be an election in Britain, and this An EU official said Paris eluded May. Washington’s repeated of January he would call an needed more time to decide its In the latest day of Brexit warnings against such a election by Christmas. could be held before Christmas. position because Macron is vis- drama in Britain on Tuesday, purchase. Britain appears closer than iting the French island of La lawmakers handed Johnson the Alexander Mikheyev, head of ever to resolving its 3-1/2-year Reunion in the Indian Ocean. first major parliamentary victory state arms exporter Rosoboro- Brexit conundrum, after Johnson bloc would grant a three-month lawmakers said they needed Any extension must be of his premiership by signalling nexport, told Interfax news clinched a deal with the delay, with Britain permitted to more time. agreed unanimously among the their support for his deal in an agency that the two countries European Union on the terms of leave sooner if it could enact leg- Ambassadors of the 27 made EU 27. They have agreed twice early legislative hurdle. were discussing financing and its exit last week and secured an islation faster. There was also a no decision on an extension at a to postpone Brexit from the But that was overshadowed “a delivery schedule”. He did early signal of support for it from chance that some EU countries, meeting in Brussels yesterday, original deadline of March 29 minutes later when lawmakers not provide further details on parliament. notably France, could demand a senior diplomats said. The this year. Both times, the French defeated him on his timetable. the ongoing talks. But there are still hurdles to shorter extension, possibly of just envoys will meet again complained but eventually Johnson had hoped to make the In July, Nato member clear, and Johnson’s ability to days or weeks. tomorrow and hope to decide relented. delay request unnecessary by Turkey received the first batch deliver on a “do-or-die” pledge Johnson’s spokesman said if then, and avoiding an emergency Johnson confounded some passing the Brexit law within of Russia’s S-400 missile to get Britain out of the EU by the EU offers a delay until the summit of leaders on the issue. of his critics by emerging last days. defence systems in a move that October 31 is in doubt, after par- end of January there would need The one big uncertainty is week with a deal with the EU, Johnson has suggested he raised tensions with the United liament rejected a three-day to be an election in Britain, and whether France will agree. A which differs from an agreement would push for a new election, States. In response, Wash- timetable to enact his agreement this could be held before source at President Emmanuel reached by his predecessor campaigning on a platform to ington kicked Turkey off its on Tuesday. Christmas. Johnson paused the Macron’s office said on Tuesday Theresa May, mainly over how “get Brexit done” if the EU agrees F-35 fighter jet programme. European Council President bill that would implement the Paris was ready to grant an addi- it handles the land border of the full three-month delay that The US says Russia will be Donald Tusk said on Twitter he agreement he reached with the tional few days to facilitate the British-ruled Northern Ireland. lawmakers forced him to able to glean sensitive technical was recommending that the other EU members, after votes British parliament’s vote but May had agreed to apply request. knowledge about the new leaders of the EU’s 27 other on Tuesday in which parliament opposed any extension beyond some EU rules across all of the He cannot however call an fighter if it is operated alongside member states back a delay, accepted the deal in principle but that. United Kingdom unless a new election without the support of the S-400. Moscow and Ankara which Johnson says he does not rejected the three-day timetable Yesterday, French officials arrangement could be found to the opposition Labour Party, have made much of their want but was forced by par- to enact it. stuck to that view, despite Tusk’s keep the Irish border open. which has suggested it will defence and political liament to request. The government argued a recommendation for a longer Johnson would effectively create support one only if the Brexit cooperation. Senior EU diplomats said the tight schedule was necessary to delay. “The additional delay will a new border in the Irish Sea, deadline is extended beyond most likely scenario was that the meet next week’s deadline but be a few days, a few weeks leaving Northern Ireland to election day. Grenade blast in Kiev, two dead Storms batter southern AFP/KIEV France, flooding towns Two men were killed in an apparent hand grenade REUTERS Blocks of cement have been explosion in downtown Kiev, BEZIERS, FRANCE moved by flood water. Ukrainian police said. The blast “I’ve never seen water rise that left two men dead and also Storms and heavy rain lashed that fast. I’ve lived here for 20 one woman injured happened through southern France years and this is the first time,” late Tuesday at the entrance to yesterday, causing flooding Jean-Louis, a retiree in Servian, an office building in the centre strong enough to sweep away near Beziers, told Reuters TV. of the capital, police said. cars in some towns in the France’s national weather Kiev police spokeswoman region. authority said storms and heavy Oksana Blyshchyk said that one In the city of Argeles-sur- rains could continue today. of the dead was a former soldier Mer in the Pyrenees-Orientales It also said on its website who fought against Russian- department, one vehicle ended that 12 centimetres (4.72 inches) backed separatists in the coun- up wedged on top of a traffic of rain had fallen in less than try’s east. The second victim bollard. three hours in the Bezier area of was an office guard, she added. Across the region, streets Herault department. “Fragments found at the and roads have been severely Rainfall reached 16.5 cm (6.5 scene indicate that it was a damaged and covered with mud, inches) in 24 hours in the city of hand grenade,” Blyshchyk said. Flooded houses near Beziers, Southern France. The storms are expected in Provence and Corsica today. forcing residents to clean up. Beziers. Estonian far-right Relatives of Bosnian war victims condemn Handke’s Nobel Prize minister resigns REUTERS/TALLINN ANATOLIA and Herzegovina yesterday said. “Such decisions deeply hurt Nobel Prize brought immense the international tribunal in The BELGRADE jointly stood up against Handke’s relatives of victims,” Grabovic pain to countless victims”. Hague on trial for war crimes Estonia’s IT and foreign trade prize. The associations’ repre- added. The main reason for Between April 1992 and and genocide. “Stand up if you minister Kert Kingo from the Relatives of Bosnian War victims sentatives in the capital Sarajevo sending condemnation letters is December 1995, an estimated support the Serbs,” Handke said far-right party EKRE has yesterday condemned the sent a letter of condemnation to to prevent such decisions from 100,000 people were killed and in an article he published during resigned, the prime minister’s Swedish Academy for its decision the Swedish Academy which being made again in the future, 2.2 million displaced in Bosnia. the war in Kosovo. office said yesterday. to give the Nobel Prize in Liter- oversees the prestigious award. Jasmin Meskovic, president of Up to 50,000 women, mostly He claimed that the Muslim Kingo was one of five min- ature to Peter Handke. The academy’s statement on the Association of Victims of the Bosniak, were raped. The Bosniaks in Sarajevo killed isters of EKRE, whose anti- The Austrian playwright, Handke is “a poor explanation,” concentration camp in Bosnia Bosnian War was sparked by the themselves and put the blame immigrant message helped the novelist and poet Handke was Kata Hotic from Mothers of Sre- and Herzegovina said. break-up of Yugoslavia, which on the Serbs, and added that he party more than double its awarded the 2019 prize in early brenica Association said at a joint Earlier, Sefik Dzaferovic, a led Bosnia to declare its inde- never believed the Serbs com- support in the March election, October, “for an influential work press conference. member of Bosnian Presidency, pendence in February 1992. mitted genocide in Srebrenica. winning broad support in that with linguistic ingenuity has The Swedish Royal Academy said that the prize was “scan- Its capital Sarajevo came Also, he visited former poorer areas. explored the periphery and the of Science said that the author’s dalous and shameful”. under attack from Bosnian Serb Serbian leader Milosevic in She caused a political storm specificity of human experience,” literary life was separated from Albanian Prime Minister Edi militias, backed by the Yugoslav prison and made attempts to when she told parliament she according to the statement by the his political views. Rama on Twitter said that “Never army, in what became the testify in his favour. “I am here had no information about a Swedish Royal Academy of The academy lost its credi- thought would feel to vomit longest siege in modern history. for Yugoslavia, for Serbia, for plan to hire an advisor. The Science. bility, Fikret Grabovic, president because of a Nobel Prize”. Handke is known as a great Slobodan Milosevic,” Handke ministry later said the hiring Associations of war victims of the Association of Families of Kosovo President Hashim admirer of former Serbian leader said, attending Milosevic’s was done on the minister’s and relatives operating in Bosnia Children Murdered in the War, Thaci tweeted: “The decision of Slobodan Milosevic, who died at funeral in 2006. orders. Portugal’s private firefighters watch over volatile forests

AFP Portugal’s paper industry uses copter units, takes a different view. CONSTÂNCIA, PORTUGAL mainly fast-growing eucalyptus trees, While wildfires were becoming which environmentalists say are one “more and more intense, it’s not the Pedro Simoes pulls on a flame- reason the country suffers so many fault of eucalyptus trees,” he argued. resistant suit as he prepares to fly wildfires, such as those which “In the forests that belong to our over a eucalyptus forest in central claimed over 100 lives in 2017. After firms, the flames don’t advance so Portugal, a near daily routine aimed the 2017 fires, which devastated a ferociously. It’s the abandonment of at protecting his boss’s bottom line. record 500,000 hectares (1.2 million forests which causes big fires,” said He is part of a team of 250 private acres) the government imposed a Simoes. The pulp and paper sector firefighters employed by Portugal’s limit on the area that can be given is Portugal’s largest forest owner. It key paper pulp industry, Europe’s over to the crop. controls 150,000 hectares of euca- third largest, to protect its crop in a That was bad news for the paper lyptus trees such as those sur- country regularly hit by deadly and pulp sector, which accounts for rounding the central town of Con- wildfires. 4.6 percent of Portugal’s exports. stancia and its pulp factory on the In most countries, it is the state Many experts say the problem with banks of the river Tagus around that takes on the exclusive responsi- eucalyptus trees is not just that they 100km northeast of Lisbon. bility of protecting forests from fires. burn easily, but that their leaves and Their private firefighting force In Portugal however, the country’s bark are easily swept away by the Afocelca has an annual budget of two biggest pulp and paper firms, wind, which helps spread wildfires. $4.4m.And as well as protecting their Private firefighters from Afocelca, a fire brigade of the paper mill, taking shelter as the Navigator and Altri, set up their own Simoes, a 39-year-old former vol- own forests, they sometimes help civil firefighter helicopter drops water during a drill at Constancia in Abrantes, central Portugal, firefighting force, called Afocelca, in unteer firefighter who now heads one protection units fight wildfires in this August file picture. 2002. of Afocelca’s three firefighting heli- outside their domain. 16 EUROPE THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 UK launches probe after 39 found dead in truck

AFP The truck driver, a The tragedy sparked ques- GRAYS, UNITED KINGDOM 25-year-old man from tions about the route taken by Northern Ireland, the truck — and whether people Britain launched a major murder has been arrested on trafficking had played a part. investigation after 39 bodies In August 2015, at the peak were found yesterday in a truck suspicion of murder. of Europe’s migration crisis, the from Bulgaria, as police tried to bodies of 71 migrants including establish where the victims were The police said they were a baby girl were found piled up originally from. alerted by the ambulance service in the back of a poultry refrig- All victims were pronounced shortly before 1:40am (0040 erator lorry left in Austria. dead at the scene in an industrial GMT) following the discovery of Investigations later revealed park in Grays, east of London, a truck container with people they had been transported along triggering revulsion among pol- inside at the Waterglade Indus- the Balkan migrant route and left iticians and once again putting trial Park. to suffocate in the back of the the spotlight on the shadowy Officers in white forensic truck after the driver dumped the people trafficking business. suits could be seen working by vehicle near Hungarian border. The local Essex Police force, the truck and a white tent was The truck discovered on who are working with immi- erected outside. Thursday is left-hand drive, indi- gration officials, said their pri- Ambulance services said the cating that it was not British or Police working at the scene where bodies were discovered in a truck container, in Grays, Essex, yesterday. ority was to try to identify the victims were already dead by the Irish. victims, thought at this stage to time they arrived. Police said it was thought the movement of goods or people Jackie Doyle-Price, the MP sympathies to the victims’ be 38 adults and one teenager. “We are in the process of lorry entered Britain on Saturday between the two. representing the local Thurrock families. The truck driver, a 25-year- identifying the victims. However at Holyhead on the northwest tip Richard Burnett, chief exec- constituency surrounding Grays, “I’m appalled by this tragic old man from Northern Ireland, I anticipate that this could be a of Wales — one of the main ports utive of the Road Haulage Asso- said the news was “sickening”. incident in Essex,” he said. has been arrested on suspicion lengthy process,” said Mariner. for ferries from Ireland. ciation which represents truck “People trafficking is a vile “My thoughts are with all of murder. “We believe the lorry is from The UK and the Republic of drivers in Britain, said: “Our and dangerous business,” she those who lost their lives and “This is a tragic incident Bulgaria,” he added. Ireland are not in the European thoughts are with the families of said. “Let’s hope they bring these their loved ones.” where a large number of people “We have arrested the lorry Union’s no-borders Schengen the deceased but whatever the murderers to justice.” Meanwhile, Home Secretary have lost their lives,” Essex Police driver in connection with the zone but have their own historic circumstances, it highlights the British Prime Minister Boris Priti Patel, Britain’s interior min- chief superintendent Andrew incident, who remains in police Common Travel Area, meaning danger of migrant gangs people- Johnson said he was receiving ister, said she was “shocked and Mariner said in a statement. custody.” there are no checks on the smuggling on lorries.” regular updates and sent his saddened”. Russia lands nuclear Zelenskiy urges MPs to take lie detector test AP Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s “I’m not going to allow anyone corruption and pushed for a snap bombers in Africa as KIEV Office yesterday announced an inside the faction or outside to parliamentary election shortly investigation into reports con- cast the shadow on the political after that, arguing that the pre- Ukraine’s President yesterday cerning 11 lawmakers from the movement that won a majority vious Rada was too corrupt. Putin hosts leaders urged a group of lawmakers to Servant of the People party. mandate from the Ukrainian His Servant of the People REUTERS potentially lucrative markets for take a lie detector test to show Zelenskiy, who has been on people.” party, named after the TV show SOCHI Russian-manufactured they are not involved in a a visit to Japan since early this David Arakhamiya, head of in which Zelenskiy played a weapons. widening corruption scandal. week, put out a statement urging the Servant of the People faction Ukrainian president, won an Russia landed two nuclear- But Russia is starting from a Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s ruling all members of the Rada’s at the Rada, told the Ukrainska absolute majority in parliament capable bombers in South Africa low base. Although it has party has been shaken by local finance committee to take the Pravda website that almost all in July, a first in Ukraine’s on a training mission yesterday, enjoyed considerable success media reports that several of its polygraph test to dispel the the members of the finance com- modern history. a flight apparently timed to selling arms to African countries, members at the Supreme Rada rumours or face the mittee have already agreed to Analysts raised concerns coincide with President Vladimir Moscow lags far behind com- accepted up to $30,000 in bribes consequences. undergo the test. about some of the new law- Putin’s opening of a flagship petitors in trade terms. each for pushing through an “If this test reveals even the Zelenskiy, a political novice makers, saying that the party list Russia-Africa summit designed Russia says its trade with amendment this month that slightest possibility that any of and Ukraine’s arguably best- was drafted too hastily and that to increase Russian influence. African countries rose to $20bn would benefit property com- the lawmakers took money for loved comedian, won the pres- the individuals lower down on The two Tupolev Tu-160 last year, but it did not rank panies linked to another voting at the committee, anti- idential election in April by a the party roll had not been vetted strategic bombers touched down among the continent’s top five lawmaker. corruption agencies will deal landslide on a promise to battle thoroughly enough. at Waterkloof air force base in largest partners for trade in Ukraine’s Special with these lawmakers,” he said. the country’s endemic Tshwane, the South African goods, according to Eurostat. National Defence Force said. That list was topped by the Russia’s Ministry of Defence has European Union, followed by French trial said the mission is designed to China, India, the United States Flash floods in Spain leave one dead nurture military ties with South and the United Arab Emirates. date finalised Africa. As it noted the arrival of AFP found late on Tuesday in a beach and her adult son — whose Speaking before dozens of Russia’s warplanes, the South BARCELONA in the town of Caldes d’Estrac prefab home was swept away for Charlie African heads of state at a African National Defence Force some 40km north of Barcelona by flood waters in Vilaverd, 30 two-day summit in the southern praised what it said were strong One man has died and four after he had been reported km from the port of Tarragona. Hebdo attacks Russian city of Sochi, Putin diplomatic links between the people are missing following missing, regional police said on Rescuers were also looking called for trade with African countries. “Our relations are not torrential rains that caused flash Twitter. for two people whose car was AFP countries to double over the next solely built on ‘struggle politics’, floods in northeastern Spain and Emergency services said found in a river near the village PARIS four to five years and said but rather on fostering mutually disrupted road and air travel, firefighters backed by a heli- of l’Espluga de Francoli in the Moscow had written off African beneficial partnerships based on officials said yesterday. copter were looking for two same area. Fourteen people will go on trial debts to the tune of over $20bn. common interests,” it said in a The body of a man was people — reportedly a mother Authorities said heavy over- in Paris next May over the The first Russia-Africa statement. night rainfall in the north- January 2015 attacks on the summit is part of a Kremlin drive South African media have eastern region of Catalonia Charlie Hebdo newspaper and to win business and restore been more sceptical about Mos- caused power cuts that other targets that heralded a influence that faded after the cow’s return to the continent. affected nearly 25,000 wave of jihadist strikes on 1991 collapse of the Soviet “Russia is the clumsy latecomer people while floods and France, judicial sources said Union, which backed leftist gov- at Africa’s superpower party,” landslides forced the yesterday. ernments and movements ran a Mail & Guardian headline closure of over 40 roads. The trial will take place across the continent throughout in June. Spain’s airport from May 4 to July 10, lawyers the Cold War. Russia’s reappearance was authority Aena said 37 and a judicial source said. “Many Russian companies thrust into the spotlight last year flights were diverted, most Seventeen people were have long and successfully when three Russian journalists had been due to land or killed over three days in and worked with partners from the were killed in the Central African take off from Palma on the around Paris in January 2015 in most different sectors of the Republic (CAR) while investi- holiday island of the attacks. African economy and plan to gating the alleged presence there Mallorca. Cherif Kouachi and his expand their influence in Africa. of a shady Russian private mil- Last month, record brother Said killed 12 people on We of course will provide itary contractor known as the rainfall in southeastern January 7 at the Charlie Hebdo support at the state level,” said Wagner group. Spain claimed seven lives. offices in Paris, including some Putin. Putin and CAR President Last year, 13 people of France’s best known The prize is greater political Faustin-Archange Touadéra dis- died on Mallorca as intense cartoonists. clout on a continent with 54 cussed the investigation into the rain caused rivers to Over the following two United Nations member states, killings at talks yesterday, the Cars are seen in an aftermath of the flooding in the village of Arbeca, in overflow through streets days, a third gunman, Amedy vast mineral wealth and Kremlin said. Spain, yesterday. and sweep away cars. Coulibaly, shot dead a young policewoman and killed four people at a supermarket. All three gunmen, who had UNHCR probes Libya-Malta interception in migrant rescue claimed allegiance to jihadist groups, were killed by police. AP assistance (from) the Libyan migrants in need of rescue at sea. coordination center stopped sea should be taken to the The 14 accused are sus- ROME coast guard to intervene” in its The group first received a answering calls from Alarm nearest port of safety. But pected of having provided own search and rescue region call and GPS position from the Phone, which attempted to migrants rescued by the Libyan logistical aid to the attackers. The UN refugee agency is inves- on October 18. boat carrying 50 migrants, follow up on the rescue. By 5 pm coast guard are returned to the The case will be heard by a tigating why Malta last week He said that “we are looking including 10 women and five the boat reported it was leaking war-torn country and sent to EU- special court seated, for logis- allegedly asked the Libyan coast into the reasons of Malta’s children, early that afternoon and later that a helicopter was funded detention centers where tical reasons, in a new, bigger guard to intercept a migrant boat request,” including that Malta and informed Malta about the flying over it. many are victims of extortion, building in the extreme in a zone of the Mediterranean may have asked Libya to case, as it was in the country’s At 9:30pm, nearly seven abuse and human trafficking. northwest of Paris and not the under Maltese responsibility, in intervene for technical reasons. search and rescue region. hours later, Malta informed According to the UNHCR Palace of Justice in the centre possible violation of maritime “The problem is that the “We will take care of every- Alarm Phone that the boat had there are currently 650,000 that would ordinarily have law, a UN official said. migrants were disembarked in thing” a Maltese officer on duty been intercepted by the EU- migrants in Libya. hosted it, the sources said. Vincent Cochetel, the UN Libya. That’s certainly a violation told an Alarm Phone activist at trained Libyan coast guard, some According to the transcript, Eleven of the suspects are High Commissioner for Refugees’ of maritime laws ... It’s clear that 2:40pm, according to a transcript 41 nautical miles from the Italian Maltese authorities justified the in detention, but three are set special envoy for the central Libya isn’t a safe port,” he added. of the call provided to the Asso- island of Lampedusa and 110 interception saying that the to be tried in their absence. Mediterranean, told reporters in The October 18 interception ciated Press by Alarm Phone. nautical miles from Tripoli. Libyans “had (taken) the case Responsibility for the attack Rome that “there’s some evi- was reported by Alarm Phone, But in the hours following the According to international earlier, outside the Maltese against Charlie Hebdo was dence that Malta requested an independent hotline for first contact, Malta’s rescue and maritime law, people rescued at Search and Rescue region.” claimed by Al Qaeda. THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 AMERICAS 17 Giuliani associates Republicans disrupt impeachment deposition AP plead not guilty to WASHINGTON Republicans disrupted a closed-door depo- sition yesterday with a Defense Department official who was scheduled to answer ques- campaign charges tions as part of the House impeachment inquiry into President Donald Trump. Igor Fruman and Lev court and being vindicated.” Laura Cooper, a senior official who Parnas were allowed His lawyer, Edward McMahon, oversees Ukraine policy, arrived yesterday to remain free on $1m complained of “leaks from the morning on Capitol Hill to appear before bond but are required highest levels of our government” the House panels conducting the investi- about the case but declined to gation. Shortly afterward, more than two to remain under house specify whom he was referring dozen Republican House members held a arrest with electronic to.Prosecutors have said they have news conference outside the secure room monitoring. records of financial transactions where the deposition was taking place and from more than 50 bank accounts, then pushed into the committee room, BLOOMBERG calls on a dozen separate telephone bringing the session to a halt. WASHINGTON lines and correspondence from 12 The Republicans decried that the dep- email addresses, suggesting the osition was happening behind closed doors scope of the investigation is and said Americans should be able to read Two associates of Rudy Giuliani broader than Parnas, Fruman and the transcripts of any interviews being con- pleaded not guilty to charges that two other co-defendants, David ducted as part of impeachment. US House Republicans speak to reporters after Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense they conspired to launder foreign Correia and Andrey Kukushkin. Democrats have promised to release Laura Cooper arrived to testify on impeachment inquiry on Capitol Hill in Washington, campaign contributions into US Correia and Kukushkin have the transcripts when it won’t affect their DC, yesterday. elections, in a case that has also pleaded not guilty. Authorities investigation. heightened scrutiny of Giuliani’s said the investigation is Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio said the Repub- constituents and find out what’s going on,” Republican lawmakers blew past Capitol foreign business ties and his work continuing. licans are fed up with the secrecy sur- he said. Police officers and Democratic staffers. The as personal lawyer to President Defense lawyers raised con- rounding the investigation. Republicans who do not serve on the staff member who was checking identifi- Donald Trump. cerns about the gathering of evi- “It’s finally reached a boiling point committees conducting the impeachment cation at the entrance was “basically The defendants, Igor Fruman dence that might have violated where members just said they are so frus- inquiry were among those who marched overcome” by the Republicans, she said. and Lev Parnas, entered their pleas attorney-client privilege, since trated at the idea that they can’t be a part into the secure facility. Some of them “Literally some of them were just yesterday in a brief arraignment Parnas and his companies were of this and can’t see what’s going on,” said brought their cellphones into the secure screaming about the president and what hearing before US District Judge using Giuliani as their lawyer. They Jordan, who is the top Republican on the room where electronics are not allowed, we’re doing to him and that we have Paul Oetken in Manhattan federal also said issues of executive priv- House oversight committee. several lawmakers said. nothing and just all things that were sup- court. They were arrested two ilege may arise as Giuliani was also “We’re at a standstill here.” Lawmakers described a chaotic scene. portive of the president. It just shows that weeks ago at Dulles International working as Trump’s lawyer. “The members have just had it and they Rep Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla, said there’s no depths to which they won’t sink Airport near Washington as they Prosecutor Rebekah Donaleski want to be able to see and represent their she had just walked into the room when the to protect the president.” sought to leave the country with of the Manhattan US attorney’s one-way plane tickets. office said authorities were using The pair were working with a so-called taint team to review Son of Bolsonaro gives up bid for US envoy Two charged in Giuliani in urging the Ukrainian evidence for privileged material REUTERS “I’ll stay in Brazil to defend number of his voters were government to investigate one of before it’s turned over to the pros- BRASÍLI, conservative principles, to against his going to the death of girl Trump’s top Democratic rivals, Joe ecution team. Parnas and Fruman make the tsunami that was the embassy. Biden, over his son’s business figure into an episode now under Brazilian lawmaker Eduardo 2018 election a permanent “It would be a very found in trash interests there. scrutiny by congressional investi- Bolsonaro, son of President Jair wave,” Eduardo Bolsonaro told important role to play, but now Both wore suits with American gators as part of the impeachment Bolsonaro, said he will no reporters. I believe that here in Brazil, I AP flag lapel pins. They were allowed inquiry of Trump, when he longer pursue an appointment During an official visit to have as important a role to BIRMINGHAM to remain free on $1m bond but are removed the US ambassador to as the country’s ambassador in Japan, President Bolsonaro said play,” he said. required to remain under house Ukraine, Marie Yovanovitch. Washington after his father said he would rather his son stayed Eduardo Bolsonaro made a Police said they will charge two arrest with electronic Prosecutors said the pair, the nomination was being in Brasilia to deal with a crisis push to take over leadership of people in the death of a monitoring. working at the behest of unnamed reconsidered. in their right-wing Social the PSL in the lower house of 3-year-old Alabama girl whose In a brief statement outside Ukrainian officials, raised funds for The 35-year-old lawmaker Liberal Party (PSL). Congress on Monday in a body was found amid trash 10 court after the hearing, Parnas said: then-US Representative Pete Ses- said he would relinquish his After standing down, struggle for control of the party days after being kidnapped “Many false things have been said sions of Texas, while seeking — and chance at the diplomatic post Eduardo said he had been and its large campaign war outside a birthday party. about me and my family. I look receiving — his help in advocating to defend the government’s looking into the matter for a chest ahead of next year’s local Birmingham Police Chief forward to defending myself in for the removal of Yovanovitch. agenda. long time, and that a large elections. Patrick Smith told a news con- ference that 39-year-old Patrick Devone Stallworth and his 29-year-old girlfriend, Trump seeks to block California as global climate leader Derick Irisha Brown, will be charged with kidnapping and AP in California, is the latest Trump signed an ongoing agreement mocks the science of climate in his efforts to relax Obama-era capital murder in the death of WASHINGTON administration push to stymie with Quebec to limit emissions. change and made pulling out of mileage standards for passenger Kamille McKinney. state efforts aimed at contesting California “veered outside its the Paris international climate vehicles. Both suspects are in The Trump administration sued the administration’s rollbacks of proper constitutional lane,” accord one of the first acts after Yesterday’s suit concerns Cal- custody. Stallworth was previ- to try to block California from environmental and climate pro- Assistant US Attorney General taking office. ifornia’s cap and trade pro- ously charged with child por- engaging in international efforts tections. California says it’s being Jeffrey Bossert Clark said in a California and other states gramme. Industries in the program nography, and Brown was against climate change, charging punished for its advocacy. statement. have filed dozens of legal chal- commit to purchasing pollution charged with a probation vio- that the state exceeded its consti- The complaint, which names Newsom countered that the lenges to administration roll- “credits” or to reduce their con- lation involving a prior kid- tutional authority by joining with Democratic Gov Gavin Newsom administration was “continuing backs of environmental regula- sumption of climate-changing oil, napping arrest. a Canadian province in a and others, alleges that Cali- its political vendetta against Cal- tions and laws. Tensions between gas and goal. Former Gov Arnold According to police those program to cut climate- fornia usurped federal power to ifornia, our climate policies and the Newsom and the adminis- Schwarzenegger started the pro- charges didn’t directly involve damaging fossil fuel emissions. conduct foreign policy and make the health of our communities.” tration escalated when Trump gramme, and Quebec signed on Kamille, and lawyers for both The suit, filed in federal court international accords when it President Donald Trump tried to compel California to join about a decade later. have said they’re innocent. ‘Mexico misleads on failed arrest of El Chapo’s son’ Gunman went to class

BLOOMBERG MEXICO CITY after shooting student

Mexico’s government isn’t being truthful near California school about the botched attempt to capture the son of the world’s most notorious drug trafficker, AP “It’s disturbing to see that he according to a former head of international SAN FRANCISCO was able to go right around to operations for the US Drug Enforcement his normal business,” Cregan Administration. A teenage gunman blended into said. “It’s a scary situation.” The administration of President Andres a classroom yesterday after Police do not yet know if the Manuel Lopez Obrador hasn’t revealed that shooting a fellow student person who took the backpack while trying to bring Ovidio Guzman Lopez multiple times just outside a and drove away knew a gun was into custody, security forces had caught Northern California high school, inside. another son of Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, an attack that prompted an Authorities said the two stu- Mike Vigil, the former DEA official, said in hourslong lockdown of more dents argued before the shooting an interview. than 10,000 students and and believe the violence was Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar had also staffers in a complex with three isolated. The victim, a 16-year- been detained and let go when gunmen over- schools, authorities said. old boy, was in stable condition powered police, Vigil said, citing unverified Using surveillance footage, after being shot twice in the intelligence he received from top Mexico A file photo of cartel gunmen are seen outside during clashes with federal forces following officers tracked the 17-year-old upper body on the sidewalk police sources. The New York Times had the detention of Ovidio Guzman, son of drug kingpin Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, in shooter to a physical education outside the high school shortly originally reported that Ivan Archivaldo had Culiacan, Sinaloa state. classroom at Ridgway High before second period began. also been captured and released, citing School in Santa Rosa, north of Witnesses told police that people who asked not to be identified. San Francisco, after a less than the shooter fired three to four “There are so many factors that point to amount of transparency, not only for Mexico was sentenced to life in a US prison. two-hour manhunt. They rounds before fleeing, author- the fact that he was there and they also but for international standards. The entire Initially, Mexico’s security chief, Alfonso arrested him on suspicion of ities said. released him,” said Vigil. “But they’ll never security cabinet was explaining every detail,” Durazo, had said the troops had stumbled attempted murder. The victim fell down before admit to it because they’ve been lying from said Jesus Cantu, the information chief of the on Guzman Lopez by accident. Afterward, Police Capt John Cregan said getting up to run to a vehicle, the get go.” Vigil wouldn’t disclose the president’s press office. “The president himself government officials said it was part of a authorities were still looking for which dropped him off at a hos- sources behind his assertions, which couldn’t said he’d testify before the authorities if they planned operation. More recently, officials the shooter’s handgun, which he pital, Cregan said. Dozens of stu- be independently corroborated. He added considered he’d done something illegal.” signaled that the arrest was approved by low- put into a backpack and handed dents were in the area at the time. that authorities have been misleading the Lopez Obrador, known as AMLO, has level law enforcement officials and cabinet off to someone in a vehicle. He Authorities initially said the public by playing down the amount of been struggling to convince the public that ministers may not have been aware. then went to the nearest shooter had an accomplice, but planning that went into the operation. his government took the right step by While the president and Durazo have classroom, following the Cregan said the person was The press office of Mexico’s president releasing Guzman Lopez after gunmen began spoken of “errors” regarding the operation, school’s lockdown protocol. released after police determined wasn’t able to say whether Ivan Archivaldo attacking civilians in efforts to free him in they’ve been distancing themselves from it. “The shooter was “behaving he was only a bystander. Detec- had been captured, but strongly rejected Vigil’s the northern city of Culiacan, Sinaloa. AMLO, as the president is known, said that normally,” and the teacher and tives were working to figure out assertion that it misled the public on the Guzman Lopez is said to have taken over he wasn’t informed about the operation to other students didn’t realise he if the shooting was gang-related, botched arrest. “There’s been an unusual some of the criminal activities after his father capture Guzman Lopez. carried out the violence.” he said. 18 AMERICAS THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 Morales says coup under way as rivals dispute vote

AP LA PAZ

Bolivian President Evo Morales said yesterday his opponents are trying to stage a coup against him as protests grew over a disputed election he claims he won outright, though a nearly finished vote count suggests might head to a second round. The leftist leader needs a 10-percentage-point margin over his closest rival to avoid a December runoff in which he’d risk being defeated by a united opposition in his bid for a fourth consecutive term in office. And the vote count yesterday had him with a 9.48 percentage point lead with just 3.22 percent of the votes from Sunday’s Bolivia’s President Evo Morales speaks during a news conference at the La Casa Grande del Pueblo Presidential Palace, in La Paz, yesterday. RIGHT: A view of the election left to count. He led Departamental Electoral Court the day after protests following the election results, in Santa Cruz, yesterday. former President Carlos Mesa 46.49% to 37.01%. The vote count against US imperialism in Latin have called on Bolivians to still to be counted — largely from expressed concern about the Mesa has warned of fraud yesterday had Evo America. defend “the citizen vote and rural areas where he is most electoral process and called for and international vote monitors Morales with a 9.48 He cited the burning by pro- democracy” in the streets against popular — would be enough to calm. The US and Brazil, among have expressed concern at an testers of electoral offices in two suspicions of fraud by Morales’s give him an outright victory. others, joined the orders. earlier unexplained daylong gap percentage point lead cities where votes are being party. Twenty-four hours later, the The crisis was aggravated by in reporting results before a with just 3.22 percent tallied as proof of the coup. Suspicions of electoral fraud body suddenly released an the resignation of the vice-pres- sudden spurt in Morales’ vote of the votes from “We are waiting for a report rose when officials abruptly updated figure, with 95% of votes ident electoral council, Antonio percentage. Opposition backers Sunday’s election left from the Electoral Tribunal, stopped releasing results from counted, showing Morales just Costas, who said he disagreed have staged rowdy protests since although the TREP (a quick the quick count of votes hours 0.7 percentage point short of the with the decision to interrupt the vote. to count. count) has already said that we after the polls closed Sunday 10-percentage point advantage transmission of the vote count. Morales, Bolivia’s first indig- won,” the president said. with Morales topping the eight needed to avoid a runoff. On Tuesday, the Andean enous president and the region’s in a press conference in which But the tribunal’s quick other candidates, but also falling That set off an uproar among nations saw a second night of longest-ruling leader, repeated he did not take any questions. count webpage, whose results several percentage points short the opposition and expressions violent protests in several cities. his claim that he won outright “The right wing has prepared it are not binding, showed Morales of the percentage needed to of concern by international Then yesterday, a strike broke and said his opponents were with international support.” with a 9.7 percentage point lead avoid the first runoff in his nearly monitors. out in Santa Cruz, the most pop- conspiring to oust him. Morales did not specify over Mesa with about 99 percent 14 years in power. The observer mission of the ulous eastern region and oppo- “I want to denounce to the where the alleged international of votes accounted for Yet, the president claimed an Organization of American States sition stronghold, that was felt people and the world that a coup support for the coup is coming yesterday. outright victory late Sunday, asked for explanations and the mostly in transportation. d’etat is underway,” Morales said from, but he regularly rails Opposition leaders, in turn, telling supporters that the votes European Union and the UN ‘Venezuela exodus set to top 5 million as long-term needs grow’ Nine tornadoes confirmed in REUTERS refugee and migration agencies. back to Venezuela if the crisis in 28-29 in Brussels to raise fleeing the long-running crisis, GENEVA The crisis has worsened political terms were to be solved awareness of needs. Donors and which has caused widespread Dallas area from since the United States imposed today, it will take a good two officials from the World Bank and shortages of food and medicine. Sunday’s storms The exodus of Venezuelans is on sanctions in an effort to oust years or maybe even more,” Inter-American Development Some 1.4 million Venezuelans track to reach 5 million people, as leftist President Nicolas Maduro Stein told a news conference. Bank are due to attend, but no live in Colombia. AP pressure grows on neighbouring in favour of opposition leader A UN regional humanitarian Venezuelan representatives. The flow is overwhelming DALLAS countries to provide them with Juan Guaido. Dozens of nations response plan of $739m for this “This is the most severe and the financial and administrative long-term support, United Nations recognise Guaido as interim year is expected to nearly double fastest-growing refugee migrant capacities of host countries to The National Weather Service and EU officials said. president, saying Maduro rigged for 2020, he added. crisis in Latin American history, at provide education and health said nine tornadoes struck the Some 4.5 million refugees a 2018 election. The initially welcoming least recent history,” said Walter services, Stein said. Dallas area during Sunday’s and migrants have fled Vene- Roughly 5,000 people leave attitude to Venezuelans around Stevens, EU ambassador to the UN “Nine receiving countries stretch of severe storms in Texas. zuela since 2015, according to Venezuela daily, although the South America has soured amid in Geneva. “There are estimates have agreed to accept expired Forecasters confirmed the official figures, but more are number fluctuates as more states accusations they bring crime, also that it could further increase (Venezuelan) passports as valid twisters yesterday after sur- using illegal crossing points require visas, Stein said. crowd the job market, and strain if the situation does not change, documents. And so with an veying damage throughout because they lack identity “The experience of other social services. quickly reaching 5 million.” expired passport you can get a North Texas. papers, said Eduardo Stein, joint crises in the world shows us that The UN and European Union Colombia is the top desti- temporary permit sometimes for The strongest of the tor- special representative of the UN those who would want to go are hosting a meeting on October nation for Venezuelan migrants two years,” he said. nadoes hit the heavily popu- lated north Dallas area, where the EF3 twister had peak winds Four flight attendants accused of 225 kph and was on the ground for more than 25km. The other Texas tornadoes of money laundering in Florida had wind speeds ranging from AP Although he claimed to have 130 kph to 218 kph. MIAMI $100, an agent found $9,000. Four people died in Three other flight attendants Arkansas and Oklahoma as a Authorities said four American were then searched. result of the storms late Sunday Airlines flight attendants have The report says 55-year-old and early Monday. been arrested on money laun- Miaria Delpilar Roman-Strick The National Weather dering charges after they were had $7,300 and 48-year-old Service has confirmed two tor- found with more than $22,000 in Maria Wilson-Ossandon had nadoes in far western Arkansas, cash during a customs check. $6,371. Maria Pasten-Cuzmar as well as a pair of EF1 tornadoes An arrest report said a also was arrested. that hit northeast Arkansas and Customs and Border Patrol The flight attendants told Memphis, Tennessee. agent put 40-year-old Carlos agents they were smuggling the A study by Brooks last year Alberto Munoz-Moyano through cash on behalf of someone else. found that only one-third of the a routine check after arriving at American said it is cooper- most violent tornadoes hit com- Miami International Airport on ating with authorities. Lawyers munities of more than 5,000 a flight from Chile early Monday. weren’t listed on jail records. people. Brazil pension bill delayed in Senate A demonstrator in distress is helped by others at Plaza Italia during the fifth straight day of protest, in Santiago, yesterday. BLOOMBERG allowing senators to proceed new retirement rules are BRASILIA with the vote. He refrained from expected to come into effect as ensuring the reform wouldn’t soon as Alcolumbre, as head of Pinera offers social concessions in President Jair Bolsonaro’s need additional approval from Congress, signs them into law at landmark pension reform house deputies in case the a ceremony that’s likely to take proposal was delayed in Brazil’s amendment is approved. place after Bolsonaro returns bid to quell Chile’s violent protests Senate just as it was headed to “I believe we’ll vote on the from an international trip. be signed into law. final two amendments Pension reform represents BLOOMBERG/SANTIAGO state of emergency until security responsibility to avoid any effect Senators had already tomorrow,” he told reporters the cornerstone of Bolsonaro’s is guaranteed. on Chile’s very necessary mac- approved the reform’s main text after the decision. “Markets trust economic policy and the focus Chilean President Sebastian The social concessions signal roeconomic figures.” when doubts about the impact in the parliament,” he added, of his first sustained legislative Pinera unveiled a series of social the end of the centre-right gov- Pinera addressed the nation of a proposed amendment to the dismissing concerns that drive. The bill is crucial for measures designed to appease ernment’s previous economic after a fifth day of protests bill led Senate President Davi investors could sell off Brazilian investors who have expressed protesters and rioters who have agenda, which included allowing marked by largely peaceful Alcolumbre to suspend the assets after yet another unex- alarm over deteriorating public brought major Chilean cities to shareholders to offset corporate demonstrations in city squares session. pected delay in the reform’s finances in Latin America’s a near standstill in the past five tax against personal pay- flanked by armed soldiers and That particular modification, approval. largest economy. But while the days. mentsand a bill to boost pensions riot police. While public favouring workers submitted to The final two amendments legislation attacks one of the After meeting with opposition by topping up the existing system transport remains severely harsh work conditions, was would reduce the reform’s biggest culprits of Brazil’s leaders on Tuesday, Pinera said of individual savings accounts. restricted, small shops in several gaining traction among law- expected savings by $18.7bn, rampant budget deficits, other he plans to raise the maximum Protesters demand a return to a neighbourhoods opened for the makers when government sup- from a total 800 billion reais measures are needed to gain income tax rate to 40% from 35%, publicly-run system. first time in days and people porters argued its approval over a decade, but the main better control of spending. lift basic pensions by 20% and “All of this will demand an waited patiently for their turn in would force the reform to return concern is whether the text Before Bolsonaro, four pre- introduce a guaranteed minimum enormous spending effort and pharmacies and bakeries. Across to the lower house. would be changed to an extent vious presidents had tried and income among other measures. require efficiency and reas- the city, people banged pots in Alcolumbre said he was that requires additional approval failed to implement a broad But in a televised address, he signment of resources,” Pinera protest as cars rushed by to requesting a technical opinion from lower house deputies. overhaul of the country’s defied calls by protesters to lift a said. “It will be done with make it home before curfew. to clarify that point before After clearing the Senate, the pensions, THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 19 QU law students, faculty participate in HBKU’s ‘Maker-Majlis: Islam in a Global World’ event During the four-day event, more than 1,100 local school students and 500 visitors participated in a range of activities designed to raise awareness of the SDGs and their relevance for the Islamic world and Qatar’s strategic objectives.

THE PENINSULA DOHA

Students and faculty from Qatar University (QU) College of Law’s (LAWC) Legal Skills Department emphasised the importance of law student engagement to advance QU law students and faculty participate in HBKU’s Maker-Majlis event. the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 5 & 16 during Hamad Bin Khalifa Sara A Al Mohanadi, Teaching Marzouqi commented saying, “The evidence the very needed collabo- University (HBKU) College of Assistant of Private Law, Sharouq participation of the LAWC students rative mindset fostered by Qatar’s Islamic Studies’ “Maker-Majlis: S Bawazir, Law Student Research and faculty research at the Maker educational leadership.” Islam in a Global World” event. Assistant, and additional student Majlis event is a significant step Dr. Deehring, a current During the four-day event, members from QU LAWC’s towards ensuring our law students UNODC Education for Justice (E4J) more than 1,100 local school stu- Human Rights Club. and graduates actively contribute and Ethics Champion said, “We are dents and 500 visitors participated The exhibition memorialises the advance the role of law and the legal delighted to collaborate with in a range of activities designed to stories of female pioneers in law, profession in our society. We are very HBKU CIS to advance the SDGs, raise awareness of the SDGs and development, international law, happy for this collaboration.” particularly SDGs 5 & 16 in Qatar. their relevance for the Islamic world and diplomacy in Qatar while HBKU’s Dr. M Evren Tok, Our College continuously empha- and Qatar’s strategic objectives. inspiring youth by introducing them Assistant Dean of Innovation and sizes the importance of law More than 25 QU law students to new role models, and encour- Community Development and student engagement with the volunteered during the event while aging advancement of Global Goals Associate Professor of Islam and public and the significance of two QU law students, Shamma 5 & 16 and the Women, Peace and Global Affairs, said: “Collaboration Qatar’s legal community leading Khalid Al Hajri and Munira Jabir Al Security Agenda. The research between QU College of Law and on important social issues such Marri, presented a research stems from NPRP9-341-5-047 HBKU College of Islamic Studies combatting corruption and human regarding SDG 16 (Peace, Justice “Legal Education & the Skills Market Islam and Global Affairs Program rights abuses. But, it remains and Strong Institutions) during TED in Qatar” and the exhibit is pres- has been yielding fruitful results. experiential learning opportu- Talk-style ‘Halaqa Talks.’ ently touring Qatar with upcoming Maker Majlis showcased how nities like this, during which law In addition, QU sponsored a showings at THIMIUN Qatar’s common interests, such as Sus- students get direct experience research exhibition titled “Voices “Qatar Leadership Conference,” the tainable Development Goals, act as researching, teaching, and of Qatari Women in Law & Inter- “XIX World Congress of Crimi- a fertile ground to conduct inter- engaging with others, that make national Diplomacy,” an oral nology” and the “Doha Learning disciplinary dialogue. Students from the law students understand what history project conducted by Days,” part of the WISE Summit. both entities produced collaborative ethics, integrity, justice, equality, Melissa Deehring, Clinical LAWC’s Associate Dean for teaching products, produced exhi- and leadership in law really stand Assistant Professor of Law, with Research & Graduate Studies, Dr. bitions and engaged in collective for and why the concepts are so significant contributions from Muna Mustafa Al capacity building and proved ample important.”

CROSSWORD MALL ROYAL PLAZA

Vikrithy (2D/Malayalam) 2:15, 4:45 & 11:30pm Maleficent: Mistress Of Evil (2D/Adventure) 2:15, 4:30 & 7:00pm, War (2D/Hindi) 4:30pm Joker (2D/Crime) 5:15 & 9:15pm Mary (2D/Horror) 7:15pm Saand Ki Aankh (2D/Hindi) 2:00, 8:45 & 11:15pm Saand Ki Aankh (2D/Hindi) 2:30, 8:45 & 11:30pm Princess Emmy (2D/Animation) 3:00pm Princess Emmy (2D/Animation) 5:15pm Maleficent: Mistress Of Evil (2D/Adventure) 4:45, 7:00 Mary (2D/Horror) 7:00pm & 9:00pm Vikrithy (2D/Malayalam) 3:00 & 11:30pm Joker (2D/Crime) 9:15 & 11:30pm Countdown (2D/Horror) 7:30pm Killerman (2D/Action) 7:00pm Killerman (2D/Action) 9:15pm Dark Encounter (2D/Horror) 11:15pm LANDMARK Princess Emmy (2D/Animation) 2:15 & 4:00pm Saand Ki Aankh (2D/Hindi) 2:15, 6:30 & 11:15pm Vikrithy (2D/Malayalam) 5:00 & 9:15pm ROXY El Taeib El Shares W Ellaoub (2D/Arabic) 7:15pm Joker (2D/Crime) 9:00 & 11:30pm Abominable (2D/Animation) 10:30am, 12:30, 2:20 & 6:20pm Maleficent: Mistress Of Evil (2D/Adventure) 2:30, Bigil (2D/Tamil) 0:00, 12:30, 4:00,7:30, 8:30 & 11:00pm 5:30, 7:30 & 9:30pm Houseful (2D/Hindi) 12:30, 1:00, 3:30, 9:30pm & 0:30am Jallikattu (2D/Malayalam) 4:30pm Jallikattu (2D/Malayalam) 10:00pm & 0:10am Adhya Rathri (2D/Malayalam) 11:30pm Maleficent: Mistress Of Evil (2D/Adventure) 10:30am, 11:00am, 1:30, 3:30, 4:00, 6:30, 8:30, 9:00, 11:10 & 11:30pm Princess Emmy (2D/Animation) 12:30, 2:40, 4:30, 6:20 & 8:10pm AL KHOR Joker (2D/Crime) 11:30am, 1:00, 2:00, 4;30, 6:00, 11:00pm & 12:00 midnight Maleficent: Mistress Of Evil (2D/Adventure) 11:15am, Saand Ki Aankh (2D/Hindi) 12:30 & 6:30pm 1:45, 4:15, 6:45, 9:15 & 11:45pm Vikrithy (2D/Malayalam) 10:30am, 1:00, 3:30, 6:00, 8:30 & 11:00pm Jallikattu (2D/Malayalam) 10;45, 4:00 & 9:15pm Joker (2D/Crime) 12:15 & 9:00pm Laal Kaptaan (2D/Hindi) 1:00, 3:00, 6:15 & 11:30pm War (2D/Hindi) 6:00 & 11:45pm ASIAN TOWN

FLIK Mirqab Mall Vikrithy (2D/Malayalam) 3:30 & 8:45pm

Abominable (2D/Animation) 10:50am & 12:40pm Laal Kaptaan (2D/Hindi) 12:45, 5:30 & 10;15pm Countdown (2D/Horror) 2:20, 4:30, 6:20, 8:10 , Jallikattu (2D/Malayalam) 12:00, 1:00, 2:00, 3:00, 3:30, 4:00, 10:00pm & 0:20am; Dark Encounter (2D/Horror) 4:05 5:00, 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 10:00 & 11:00pm & 10:10pm; El Taeib El Shares W Ellaoub (2D/Arabic) 21:25pm; Joker (2D/Crime) 11:45, 2:10, 4:10, 4:35, 7:00, Asuran (2D/Tamil) 1:00pm; War (2D/Hindi) 5:30pm 0;45, 1:10, 3:35, 6:00, 8;25 , 10:50 & 11:30pm Adhya Rathri (2D/Malayalam) 10:30pm Killerman (2D/Action) 12:50, 1:50, 7:50pm & 0:10am Maleficent: Mistress Of Evil (2D/Adventure) 12:40, 3:20, 5:40, 7:30, 8:00 & 10:20pm Mary (2D/Horror) 10:55am, 12:05, 3:10 & 6:05pm Princess Emmy (2D/Animation) 11:00am Vikrithy (2D/Malayalam) 3:00,5:00,7:55, 9:30, pm Zombieland: Double Tap (2D/Action) 22:30 & 12:00 midnight

PRINCESS EMMY

Princess Emmy is a young girl with a secret gift -- she is the only one in the Kingdom of Kandis who can speak to horses. 20 MORNING BREAK THURSDAY 24 OCTOBER 2019

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR 04. 20 AM Italian opera artistes mesmerise Katara audience SHOROOK 05. 37 AM RAYNALD C RIVERA Italian culture and the Italian ZUHR 11. 18 AM MAGHRIB 05. 01 PM THE PENINSULA opera abroad.” ASR 02.33 PM ISHA 06. 31 PM She said the concert was Talented artistes from the pres- specifically chosen and tigious Teatro dell’Opera di Roma created to celebrate the Week WEATHER TODAY breathed new life into favourite of Italian Language in the classic arias by celebrated Italian World specially in Qatar, opera composers as they delivered adding that every year, the a bravura performance to a Italian Ministry of Foreign capacity crowd at the opulent Affairs promotes the special Katara Opera House on Tuesday. week dedicated to learning Soprano Erika Beretti, mezzo- Italian language and pro- soprano Irida Dragoti and pianist moting Italian language and Edina Bak enthralled the audience culture abroad. “This concert as they performed a selection of Carlotta Colli, Charge d’ Affaires at the Italian Embassy in Qatar, speaking at the Teatro dell’Opera is one of the many events for nine opera arias from famous di Roma concert presented by the Italian Embassy at Katara Opera House on Tuesday. RIGHT: the Italian Language Week operas by Giuseppe Verdi, Vin- Pianist Edina Bak (left), soprano Erika Beretti (centre), and mezzo-soprano Irida Dragoti perform because this year the theme cenzo Bellini, Pietro Mascagni and to a capacity crowd. BELOW: Carlotta Colli and Maryam Al Saad, Head of International Relations is specially dedicated to Giacomo Puccini. at Katara, with other officials at the concert.PICS: BAHER AMIN/THE PENINSULA “Italian Language on Stage”- Dragoti opened the show with a theme which allows us to a moving performance of “Stride explore the engaging world la vampa” from Verdi’s “Il Trov- of Italian opera, drama and atore” and soared in her rendition music,” she said. of “Voi lo sapete o mamma” From Colli also thanked Teatro “Cavalleria Rusticana” by Mas- dell’Opera di Roma and the cagni and “O don fatale” from Katara Cultural Village for “Don Carlo” by Verdi. Beretti was hosting the concert, while she mesmerising in her impeccable hailed the good cooperation interpretation of “Vissi d’arte” between Katara and the from Puccini’s “Tosca,” “Ritorna Italian Embassy holding vincitor!” from Verdi’s “Aida” and many of their events in the o o “Morrò, ma prima in grazia” from Cultural Village. A series of 29 C 36 C another Verdi masterpiece “Un events and activities had Minimum Maximum ballo in maschera.” been lined up throughout the The duets of the incredible opera concert, Carlotta Colli, Charge d’ giving them the possibility to perform week for adults, children and Misty at places at first becomes relative- singers were also met with ovations from Affaires at the Italian Embassy in Qatar with great artistes and abroad.” families interested in learning the basics ly hot daytime and slight dust with local clouds and chance of scattered rain by an impressed audience including “Duetto said the three guest artistes were from “The Italian Embassy here in Doha of the Italian Language and discovering afternoon. dei fiori” from “Madama Butterfly” by Teatro dell’Opera di Roma’s ‘Fabbrica” is very honoured to support this signif- the Italian culture by the Italian

Puccini, “Fu la sorte dell’armi” from Young Artist Program established in icant program and welcome these guest Embassy in cooperation with Qatar

HIGH TIDE 00:56 – 13:18 LOW TIDE 06:21 – 21:08 “Aida” by Verdi and “Mira o Norma” from 2016 with the aim of “training young artists here tonight,” said Colli while National Library and Società Dante Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department “Norma” by Bellini. Speaking before the talents, developing their career, and thanking the artistes for “promoting Alighieri in Doha. Heya to host Somali-American model Halima Aden at DECC tomorrrow

THE PENINSULA/DOHA fashion, and participate in a dis- Aden, who was born in a Kenyan the world, having made the cover history of firsts’, where she will cussion on women’s empow- refugee camp and moved to the of Vogue Arabia twice, challenging share her journey to success and International fashion model Halima erment in fashion and the arts on United States when she was seven the meaning of conventional beauty the rise of modest fashion on the Aden (pictured), will be special the first day of the event. years old, first made waves when she across the globe. international fashion scene. The guest at the opening of the 16th Heya A Somali-American model, wore a hijab and burkini during the At Heya, in collaboration with talk will take place on the main Arabian Fashion Exhibition Aden made history as the first swimsuit competition of the Miss Min- Bianca Bonomi, publisher of stage at 5pm on the opening day. tomorrow, organisers announced. hijab-wearing model to appear in nesota USA pageant in 2016, becoming Harper’s Bazaar Qatar, Grazia Heya Arabian Fashion Exhi- Aden will be flown in by Qatar Sports Illustrated magazine’s the first contestant to do so during the Arabia, and Esquire Qatar, Aden bition opens tomorrow and runs Airways to attend the exhibition swimsuit issue donning the modest pageant. She has since been featured will participate in the ‘Celebrity until Tuesday at Doha Exhibition on the latest Arabian and modest attire favoured by many women. on fashion magazine covers across Talk: Breaking boundaries, a and Convention Center (DECC).