www.thepeninsula.qa Sunday 19 January 2020 Volume 24 | Number 8141 24 Jumada I - 1441 2 Riyals

BUSINESS | 17 SPORT | 24

MoCI, QBA Guardiola’s to set up Joint birthday ruined Follow-up as Palace Committee snatch point

Enjoy unlimited local data and calls with the new Qatarna 5G plans Around 320,000 visit DIBF; Deputy PM meets Pakistan Foreign Minister over 210,000 books sold SIDI MOHAMED Some 335 publishing The Fair was held under the THE PENINSULA slogan “Do you then not houses from 31 ponder?”, with the participation After witnessing huge response countries participated of 335 publishing houses from from book lovers, the 30th 31 countries. Also the number edition of the Doha Interna- in the fair in which of the pavilions of Arabic books tional Book Fair concluded the number of the is 559, represented by 228 pub- yesterday with the participation lishing houses, and the number of around 320,000 visitors who pavilions of Arabic of foreign pavilions is 91 bought over 210,000 books in books was 559, pavilions represented by 35 the last 10 days. represented by 228 foreign publishers. “A total of 319,937 people The Minister of Culture and visited this year’s 10-day long publishing houses, Sports, H E Salah bin Ghanem book fair, while the daily and the number of Al Ali, said that the book fair is turnout of book lovers was for everyone and not just for the 31,994. foreign pavilions was writers and intellectuals. It is Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al "About 215,840 books were 91 represented by 35 not also a place to sell books Thani, met yesterday with H E Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic sold during the book fair,” said despite the increase in the Republic of Pakistan. During the meeting, the two parties reviewed bilateral relations, cooperation ` Hamad Mohammed Al Zakiba, foreign publishers. number of publishing houses and developments in the region, in addition to topics of common concern. P2 Director of the Culture and Arts and the number of participating Department of the Ministry of attended by 2,700 people, countries, but it is a place that Culture and Sports. while 685 schools visited the enriches culture. Al Zakiba also said yes- fair. He added that everyone UN warns against stopping oil production in Libya terday during an open forum He added that the Ministry was allowed to participate in with H E the Minister of Culture is concerned with the content the fair. “We banned only few QNA — TRIPOLI of oil” stressing that this step will ensure transparency in the allo- and Sports, organised at the fair of books and not only the books, not more than seven, as reflect its tremendous repercus- cation of state resources.” in the presence of a number of number of books that are pub- the Ministry prohibits only The United Nations Support sions on the already deterio- The mission reiterated “the writers and intellectuals, that lished, but what is important is books that offend a race or a Mission in Libya yesterday rating economic and financial importance of maintaining the “the number of activities during the content. certain segment or offend expressed its deep concern situation in the country. integrity and neutrality of the the exhibition reached 453, The forum discussed the religions”. about stopping oil production The UN mission urged all National Oil Corporation.” The which were attended by about successes of the 30th edition of The Minister said: “In Qatar in Libya. Libyans to “exercise maximum Libyan National Oil Corporation 74 guests, while the seminars the Doha International Book there are 200 nationalities, and The mission has warned in restraint while international had announced, yesterday, ‘the and lectures were attended by Fair compared to previous edi- this was taken into consider- a statement that “the conse- negotiations continue to force majeure’ after stopping 3,678 people.” tions and the Ministry’s support ation for cultural diversity, as a quences will be severe for the mediate an end to the pro- oil exports from the ports Regarding the workshops for cultural affairs and the pub- number of radio stations were Libyan people, who depend tracted Libyan crisis, including located in the east of the for children, he said it was lishing houses. opened”. `P3 entirely on the permanent flow recommending measures to country. 02 HOME SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER TODAY

FAJR05.01 am SUNRISE 06.21 am o o Misty at some places at first becomes moderate temperature 17 C 25 C daytime with some clouds, cold by night. ZUHR 11.45 am ASR 02.48 pm Minimum Maximum HIGH TIDE 01:28 – 10:34 LOW TIDE 06:04 – 18:50 MAGHRIB 05.10 pm ISHA 06.40 pm W ALRUWAIS: 16o↗24o W ALKHOR: 16o↗24o W DUKHAN: 14o↗22o W DOHA: 17o↗25o W MESAIEED 14o↗23o W ABUSAMRA 11o↗25o Over 12,000 people visit Qatar FM meets Burundian counterpart, UN official Foundation booths at Book Fair

THE PENINSULA — DOHA QF to showcase its literary needs of the nation, so we can excellence through its national integrate reading into their More than 12,000 people reading initiative 'Qatar daily lives and create positive visited the Qatar Foundation Reads'. habits.” booths at the Doha Interna- Al Jazi Al henzab, Project Other QF entities and pro- tional Book Fair, which Manager, Qatar Reads, said: grammes that participated concluded yesterday. “Participating in the Doha include the Akhlaquna Award, The fair, which saw H E International Book Fair was a Hamad Bin Khalifa University Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al great way to build bridges with Press, and the Qur’anic Thani, Vice-Chairperson and the community, which is key Botanic Garden, with Qatar CEO of Qatar Foundation (QF), to designing our programmes. National Library also attending the first day, allowed It’s important to listen to the exhibiting.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, met here yesterday with the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations in Iraq, H E Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, who is currently visiting Qatar. They reviewed a number of issues of common concern , especially developments on the regional arena. H E the Deputy Prime Minister also met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Burundi, H E Ezechiel Nibigira.

Institute of Public Administration, ACTA hold training courses QNA — DOHA establishing behavioural and international standards in this ethical standards, basic rules field, first and foremost the The Institute of Public Admin- and principles for public office United Nations Convention istration of the Ministry of etiquette, as well as promoting against Corruption. Administrative Development, professional values and culture The two training sessions Labour and Social Affairs, and based on honesty and loyalty, come within a framework of the Administrative Control and and clearly define job duties extended cooperation and part- Transparency Authority (ACTA) and prohibited works, by nership between the ACTA and have organised two training setting proper and responsible the Ministry of Administrative courses on “public service career behavior within a spe- Development, Labor and Social ethics”.The two training courses cific framework, and delve into Affairs represented by the were held at the headquarters concepts of integrity and trans- Institute of Public Adminis- of the General Tax Authority parency and their relationship tration, to implement a number and attended by 50 employees to performance Effective of training courses for capacity from various departments of career, within the framework building for public officials on The Vice-Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation, H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, attending the General Tax Authority. of many national and interna- public office ethics and related the first day of the Doha International Book Fair. The two sessions aimed at tional references, and topics for government agencies. Young techpreneurs to pitch ideas at AIA closing ceremony

FAZEENA SALEEM opportunity to showcase their while crossing the road,” said THE PENINSULA projects. The Peninsula spoke Haweeleh. He described the to a cross section of teams experience with AIA as Top ten teams of the third Arab about their work and expe- “amazing days of learning.” Innovation Academy (AIA) will rience with AIA. AIA cultivates a mindset of present their business ideas Mohammad Haweeleh, a innovation among young during the closing ceremony student at Jordanian Institute people to challenge the world’s to impress investors at Qatar of Science and Technology, biggest problems – problems Science and Technology Park and his team mates have that affect one billion lives (QSTP), tomorrow. developed a prototype for a every day. Some 190 students were device to help people with Basit Abass is from Ghana accepted to participate in AIA hearing disability to cross the and studying at University 2020. The participants were road. “Around half million College of Qatar. His team with As many as 30 teams participated in the Arab Innovation Academy's 'Startup Expo’. PIC: BAHER AMIN/ grouped into 30 teams, and people in the world have an aim to protect the envi- THE PENINSULA they underwent a unique hearing disability. They try to ronment has developed a accelerated mode of experi- cross the road and have no concept to make paper from ential learning to help them idea what is happening around lime stones. “We are hopeful the UK, European Union, and “I choose to apply for to between QSTP and the European turn an idea into a startup in as they can only see but not that our idea will be welcomed Singapore, in addition to the AIA because the program Innovation Academy (EIA) and only 10 days. hear vehicles honking from by companies,” he said. regional and local mentors. module impressed me. Over the hands-on entrepreneurship The 30 teams participated behind. Our solution to this According to Abbas the Gregoire Quemener, a the days the experience was programme will introduce par- in a ‘Startup Expo’ on problem is to build a device learning experience with AIA marketing student, has come very good, it was great to learn ticipants to an accelerated mode Thursday. Among them 10 with artificial intelligence that was “fantastic” as it has helped to AIA from France and his from different mentors,” said of experiential learning, teams and a ‘wild card’ will can be kept in the pocket. It him to think out of the box. team ‘Sub Earth’ has developed Quemener. including how to develop and qualify for the finals. will listen to certain signals AIA 2020 gathered more prototype of a plug in for AIA is the largest entrepre- launch a tech startup in a real During ‘Startup Expo’, the and send notifications and get than 40 mentors and coaches, glasses that displays real-time neurship boot-camp of its kind marketplace with customer participants had the the attention of the person with some coming from the US, subtitles of what people talk. in the region. It is a collaboration feedback. HMC clinic offers organised care for patients with haemophilia THE PENINSULA — DOHA The clinic, which is located at Hamad Medical

A specialised multidisciplinary Corporation’s (HMC) Bone and Joint Center, clinic that is helping individuals is the first of its kind in the country and with haemophilia to prevent its establishment has meant that patients musculoskeletal complications has cared for over 25 patients with haemophilia now have access to a since being established last more streamlined pathway when accessing November. The clinic, which is located orthopaedic care. at Hamad Medical Corpora- tion’s (HMC) Bone and Joint Center, is the first of its kind in individuals with haemophilia puzzle. He says under the the country and its estab- who have had orthopaedic guidance of Ms. Noora Al lishment has meant that FROM LEFT: Dr. Mohamed Mubarak Al Ateeq Al Dosari, Dr. Hasan Azzam Abu Hejleh and Muhammed surgery — specifically, reduced Mudahka, Chief of Physio- patients with haemophilia now Rafeeque. pain and discomfort, and sig- therapy, physiotherapists have access to a more stream- nificantly improved quality of working at Hamad General lined pathway when accessing musculoskeletal system care inside their body (internally), experience chronic degener- life, coordinated, specialized Hospital can help patients orthopaedic care. needs and all of the care they especially in the knees, ankles, ative changes in multiple major multi-disciplinary preventive identify joint function deterio- Dr. Mohamed Mubarak Al need can be accessed in a more and elbows. People with severe joints. He says preventative treatment (prophylaxis/prophy- ration, provide pain relief, Ateeq Al Dosari, Senior Con- organised manner,” said Dr Al haemophilia usually experience orthopaedic care can help lactic treatment) can help increase joint range, and sultant and Head of the Ortho- Ateeq. spontaneous frequent bleeds improve their prognosis and reduce, or delay, the need for improve strength and pedic Surgery Department and Dr. Hasan Azzam Abu into their muscles or joints and notes that the new clinic will surgery. Our new clinic pro- flexibility. Director of the Bone and Joint Hejleh, Associate Consultant, this bleeding can damage the help those living with haemo- vides dedicated, multi-specialty “For many patients, physi- Center, the establishment of the Surgery, Bone and Joint Center, organs and tissues and may be philia to access individualised care and involves several spe- otherapy offers the best chance new specialised clinic is signif- says haemophilia is a rare and life-threatening. Chronic mus- treatment in a more stream- cialties, including orthopedics to return to a functional level icant because it means patients typically inherited bleeding dis- culoskeletal complications and lined way. and physical therapy, all in one of activity and has a major role with haemophilia can now order in which the blood joint damage caused by pro- “Most adults with severe location. This new clinic will in rehabilitating patients after receive all their orthopaedic doesn’t clot normally. He says longed bleeding is one of the haemophilia suffer from greatly benefit Qatar’s hemo- orthopaedic interventions. For care in a single location. the severity of the condition major complications of haemo- damage in the knees, ankles, philic population and result in patients with haemophilia, “Haemophilia is a condition depends on the amount of philia,” said Dr Abu Hejleh. and/or elbows. Chronic joint better health outcomes for special functional scores are that requires lifelong medical factor VIII or factor IX in the While haemophilia is rare, damage causes pain and limits those managing this lifelong designed to evaluate their con- care from a multi-specialty blood, with the disease being with type A haemophilia range of motion. When the pain condition,” added Dr. Abu dition to detect functional loss team of healthcare profes- classified as mild, moderate, or affecting around one in 10,000 is severe and interferes with the Hejleh. early so it can be addressed as sionals. The establishment of severe. people and type B haemophilia activities of daily living, ortho- Muhammed Rafeeque, a soon as possible. This offers this clinic is noteworthy “Patients with haemophilia affecting approximately one in paedic surgery is often the best specialized physiotherapist patients the best chance to because we offer patients a may bleed for a longer time 50,000 people, Dr. Abu Hejleh option,” said Dr. Abu Hejleh. trained to care for haemophilia regain their function and unique depth of expertise in than others after an injury. They says the majority of adult “While there have been patients, says physiotherapy is prevent further damage,” said addressing their may also experience bleeding patients with the condition will many successful outcomes for also an important part of the Rafeeque. SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020 HOME 03

Labour Minister meets Burundi’s Foreign Minister

The Minister of Culture and Sports, H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali (second left), and Hamad Mohammed Al Zakiba, Director of Culture and Arts Department, at an open forum at the Book Fair at DECC. Around 320,000 visit DIBF; over 210,000 books sold FROM PAGE 1 The Minister of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs, H E Yousuf Mohamed Al Othman did not affect the sales issue of censorship on books, Fakhroo, met yesterday evening with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Burundi, The speakers in the forum movement, and they praised as there has become a lot of H E Ezechiel Nibigira, and the accompanying delegation, currently visiting the State of Qatar. They appreciated the book fair, espe- the good organisation of the freedom in participating books cially related to seminars, lec- exhibition. compared to the previous reviewed the cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to boost them, especially tures, and workshops, which They also talked about the editions. in labour field. Katara to host General Assembly of Global Public Diplomacy Network The General Assembly In turn, Manager of Katara’s conference attended by heads Information Technology of delegations of participating will be chaired Department Thamer Al-Qadi countries, in addition to a group by Qatar with the highlighted that the General of experts, specialists, aca- Assembly meeting coincides demics and university pro- participation of nine with Katara’s workshop for fessors, while the activities of countries: Turkey, young people on social media day 2 and day 3 include the with participation of specialists, meeting of the diplomatic South Korea, Hungary, companies heads and interna- network within discussion ses- Taiwan, Nigeria, tional experts in the information sions with the heads of delega- technology and modern media tions of the participating coun- Singapore, Mexico, sector, explaining that the tries host a round table during Mozambique and the workshop aims to record this which consultations, Philippines. group views in public diplomacy exchanging ideas and experi- through the modern media in ences, and discussing a series The Secretary-General of the Global Public Diplomatic Network, Eng. Darwish Ahmed Al Shaibani, the countries to which they of topics centered on activating during a press conference outlining the details of the sixth General Assembly of GPDN to he hosted belong. the joint work are discussed. QNA — DOHA by Katara. In addition new website for On the other hand, the 6th The Diplomatic Network will General Assembly of Global The Cultural Village Foundation also be launched, as part of a Public Diplomacy Network (Katara) is all set to host the Diplomatic Network, Eng. It will enable member states that Katara wanted to pursue a pioneering initiative that aims hosted by Katara witnesses the sixth General Assembly of Darwish Ahmed Al Shaibani, to prepare new generations to distinct strategy in the elec- to enable permanent commu- submission of requests for new Global Public Diplomacy stated that after receiving the assume their responsibilities in tronic side, through establishing nication between member countries to join the network, Network which will begin presidency of the International the field of social communi- an electronic portal that links states of the network, as this by submitting their credentials tomorrow and will conclude on Diplomatic Network, Katara cation, which is established to the members of the network network provides a flexible and to the general assembly, where January 22. worked on preparing a set of build strong and prosperous and provides many common dynamic mechanism that pro- it is expected that 8 other coun- The General Assembly will important and distinguished societies that participate in services, in a safer and more vides the process of exchanging tries will join the public inter- be chaired by Qatar with the international cultural projects achieving sustainable advanced way, based on many information and contributes to national diplomatic network. participation of nine countries: that would consolidates the role development. international standards, indi- capacity building and provides It is noteworthy that the Turkey, South Korea, Hungary, of the network in transferring Al Shaibani noted that the cating at the same time that all forms of support to the cul- State of Qatar obtained its Taiwan, Nigeria, Singapore, knowledge sharing experiences discussions of the meeting will social media is an essential part tural activities of member membership in the General Mexico, Mozambique and the and building bridges of effective contribute to presenting an of this development, in addition states. Assembly of Global Public Philippines. dialogue, thereby enhancing the ambitious future vision, opening to the workshop held by Katara It is expected that the activ- Diplomacy Network in 2017 and During a press conference values of tolerance, openness new horizons in joint work and accompanying the launch of the ities of the day 1 of the 6th assumed the presidency from hosted by Katara, Secretary- and civilizational coexistence translating them into reality in Assembly with the participation General Assembly will begin the Turkish Republic on May 4, General of the Global between peoples. the near future, pointing out of specialized experts. through a high-level general 2019.

SJC holds workshop on administrative judiciary for judge assistants OFFICIAL NEWS QNA — DOHA

The Supreme Judiciary Council Qatar strongly (SJC) has held a workshop, condemns entitled 'Administrative Judiciary in Qatari Law and Comparative bombing in Somalia Laws', for judge assistants . The workshop highlighted DOHA: The State of Qatar has that the judicial function is strongly condemned of the bomb- carried out by two independent ing that targeted a security point and judicial bodies, one of which a tax collection centre at the Somali examines disputes between town of Afgooye Somalia, causing individuals and is known as the injuries. In a statement issued yes- ordinary judiciary, while the Participants during the workshop organised by the Supreme Judiciary Council for judge assistants. terday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs other is concerned with looking reiterated the State of Qatar’s firm at administrative disputes and the administrative judge is a and decisions if it comes to other countries, highlighting cancel the final administrative position rejecting violence and ter- is known as the administrative legitimate judge, and as a restricting individual liberties, Law No. 7 of 2007 regarding decisions according to the indi- rorism, whatever the motives and judiciary, pointing to what dis- general rule, he does not have as well as in the field of disci- separation of Qatari adminis- cated law. reasons. The statement expressed tinguishes the administrative the authority to confront the plinary penalties. trative disputes, and explaining The importance of these the State of Qatar’s wish of a speedy judiciary from the ordinary appropriateness of adminis- The workshop gave a his- the terms of reference for the lectures comes to qualify judge recovery for the wounded. QNA judiciary by its independence trative actions. torical brief on the adminis- competent departments to con- assistants in the areas of admin- from the ordinary judiciary and The possibility to examine trative judiciary presented in sider administrative disputes istrative judiciary and to engage administration. the element of appropriateness comparative laws such as and their formation and condi- in work in the administrative It explained that in the administration’s actions French law and the laws of tions for accepting requests to departments of the courts. Qatar Red Crescent Winners of first Shop Qatar 2020 raffle announced celebrates THE PENINSULA — DOHA partner of Shop Qatar 2020, tour’ segment in the popular have two chances to win by chance to win cars and cash Volunteer Day Qatar TV has tailored pro- Jawla program will cover dif- shopping or dining at any of prizes with a combined worth The first of Shop Qatar’s three gramming for the festival, with ferent themes of the festival the festival’s 12 mall partners. of more than QR2m. THE PENINSULA — DOHA raffle draws was held on special programs for children, as well as tips and advice on For every QR200 spent at any Next week’s Shop Qatar Friday at The Pearl-Qatar in a quiz competition for adults, shopping, fashion and participating retailer or res- Raffle Draw will be held at Qatar Red Crescent marked the presence of representa- as well live coverage of events. makeup. taurant, shoppers can enter a 8pm on January 24 at Doha the International Volunteer tives from the Ministry of An exclusive ‘Elegant Shopping Visitors and residents still weekly raffle draw for a Festival City. To enter the Day at Katara, yesterday, Commerce and Industry and raffle draws, there are 4 easy under the theme ‘Thanks to broadcast live by QTV. steps; keep your receipts after the volunteers’. The prizes included two your shop at stores in the par- In a speech at the cer- cars and QR330,000 in cash. ticipating malls; go to the Shop emony, Ali bin Hassan Al Qatar’s own Siwar Choir per- Qatar info kiosk in the mall Hammadi, Secretary-General formed at the event. and show your receipts; for of Qatar Red Crescent, said The holders of voucher every QR200 spent, receive 1 that it is an occasion to numbers 36440, 14464, 11298, voucher and drop your remember the accomplish- 9089, and 7100 won voucher(s) in the Shop Qatar ments of a full year in which QR10,000 each. The holders raffle box. volunteers achieved what is of voucher numbers 112189, Running until January 31, a source of pride. 893, 11349 and 2639 won Shop Qatar 2020 includes Al Hammadi stressed that QR20,000 each. Two holders fashion shows by regional and the Qatari Red Crescent, as of voucher numbers 14660 and local designers as well as the first volunteer civil insti- 14329 won QR50,000 each. makeup masterclasses with tution in the State of Qatar, The holder of voucher number leading beauty experts and gives special importance to 21214 won QR100,000. The influencers. In addition, there volunteers and work with owner of the voucher number is in mall entertainment for the them to refine skills and 3193 won Mini Cooper whole family, music concerts provide them with the nec- Hatchback and the holder of and special Chinese New Year essary expertise, then to use the voucher number 6251 won celebrations in the festival’s them in organised activities BMW 730 Li. colourful schedule. that occupy their free time As the exclusive media Siwar Choir performs during the first raffle ofShop Qatar 2020 held at The Pearl-Qatar on Friday. and serve society. 04 HOME SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020 French Pavilion and FNAC provide star attraction at 30th DIBF THE PENINSULA — DOHA FNAC has had a remarkable FNAC, the leading cultural destination, participation at the Doha in partnership with the French International Book Fair in Embassy in Qatar and L’Institut partnership with the French Français du Qatar, paid tribute to the theme of the “Era of Enlightenment, Embassy in Qatar and the 18th Century in France”, while L’Institut Français du Qatar presenting France as the Guest of Honor at the 30th Doha International since 2015. Book Fair. Qatar National Library (QNL), His- tovery, Centre des Monuments Chairman and Managing Director of Nationaux (Center of National Monu- Fifty One East. ments in France), and the BnF (Bibli- FNAC has had a remarkable par- othèque Nationale de France/National ticipation at the Doha International Library of France) were partners as Book Fair in partnership with the well marking the Qatar-France Year French Embassy in Qatar and L’Institut of Culture 2020, said a statement Français du Qatar since 2015. This issued by the French embassy. further cements FNAC’s commitment The French pavilion was honored to its agreement with the Ministry of by the presence of Her Excellency Culture and Sports to contribute and Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, support meaningful cultural initiatives Officials at the French Pavilion during the 30th Doha International Book Fair. Vice Chairperson and CEO of Qatar in the country. Following the theme of Foundation (QF); H E Ahmed bin this year’s French pavilion, FNAC dis- Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, played a large variety of books asso- The pavilion displayed a collection classical music enthusiasts and different historical periods, from the Speaker of the Shura Council; H E Salah ciated to the 18th century that are of books by the Center of National members of the press. time of the Capetian Royal Palace to bin Ghanem Al Ali, Minister of Culture related to arts, culture and philosophy Monuments, the entity responsible for Throughout the fair, guests were today’s Courthouse. A 3D map with and Sports; H E Dr. Mohammed Abdul as well as a selection of children and administrating more than a hundred able to experience a Histovery virtual interactive captions traces the steps of Wahed Al Hammadi, Minister of Edu- educational books. French historical sites. It also had a visit of the Conciergerie in Paris which the Palais de la Cité from the twelfth cation and Higher Education; H E The pavilion recreated the historic dedicated display by BnF and QNL. is the oldest remaining part of the century to today, allowing visitors to Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti, Minister of Parisian architecture and which also To add an artistic touch, FNAC Palais de la Cité, the royal residence of fully understand the evolution of this Transport and Communications; H E extends within the exhibition to feature hosted ‘An Evening of French Musical the kings of France and the prison of unique monument. Dr. Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi, State different cafés and a library. Work- Delights’, a piano concert held under Marie Antoinette during the French Moreover, the French pavilion Minister for Foreign Affairs; H E Hassan shops discussed different topics related the patronage of H E Salah bin Ghanem Revolution. hosted a number of interesting talks, Lahdan Saqr Al Mohannadi,, President to preserving and protecting heritage, Al Ali, Minister of Culture and Sports, Thanks to augmented reality, 3D meet and greets and book signings with of the Supreme Judiciary Council in the the use of modern technologies to and showcasing world class artists, graphics, and geolocation, this His- renowned French figures who have presence of the French Ambassador to attract young generations and for- Sonja Park, Lyonel Schmit and Hassan toPad offers 360° reconstructions of made a huge impact on the cultural Qatar, H E Franck Gellet; Benoit eigners to explore and discover Moataz El Molla. The event was the rooms as they were in the Middle scene in France. Over the ten days, the Jaubert, FNAC Darty Store Network France’s heritage and historical attended by ambassadors, represent- Ages and under the French Revolution. booth attracted more than 1000 stu- Director, and Bader Al Darwish, monuments. atives of the Ministry, dignitaries, For the first time, visitors can dive into dents from different schools in Doha. Doha Book Fair helps Qatari female novelists interact with readers NOOR ABOOD the literary scene in the country recently happy), which is about the life of a homeless THE PENINSULA with their engaging novels. They man in the US. In this novel, she tries to describe command a loyal fan following among the life of homeless people in America and how The 30th Doha International Book Fair Arab readers in the region. they suffer on the streets. 2020, which ended yesterday, was a great Mariam Ibrahem published her first “A lot of Qatari people who live in the US opportunity for many Qatari female book, a collection of thoughts called ‘Kan said that I have described the reality as it is,” novelists to meet their audience and get Hilman’ (It was a Dream) in 2016 with Mariam told The Peninsula. This novel was well- in touch with them directly. great critical acclaim. With support of received by her readers, who asked her for Mariam Ibrahem (pictured) and her husband, she published her first more, and inspired her to write a science fiction Noora Al Naemi are two of the many novel, ‘Satuseiduna Alaqdar Yawmaan’ novel next. young Qatari novelists who have entered (One day, our destiny will make us ‘Thaman Bila Khatiya’ (Priceless Sin), her Ooredoo, Plug and Play officials during the agreement signing latest novel is about inventing a new device that ceremony. can delete all bad memories and only keep pos- itive one. The book is set in 2025 after the Third World War. The inventor of this device aims to help people who suffered during the war by Ooredoo extends Plug and deleting all the negative memories related to the war. How will this device change human life? Play partnership to drive This is what the novel is about. Mariam mentioned that more Qataris are reading novels than before and this puts more Qatar’s digital innovation pressure on writers as the readers are looking for more books with better quality. THE PENINSULA — DOHA “Writing is my career. I am a full-time nov- elist. Doha Book Fair was a nice experience as Ooredoo, the region’s leading it gave me an opportunity to get in touch with enabler of digital business my fans,” she said. innovation, yesterday For Noora Al Naemi, who published her first announced the partnership Since March 2019, novel ‘Bashayer’ in 2019, writing is an endless contract renewal for 2020 with Ooredoo and Plug and process and she gets inspiration from social phe- Plug and Play, the Silicon Play have evaluated nomena around her. Her novel is based on a real Valley-based world’s largest story about a girl named Bashayer, who was innovation ecosystem, which more than 200 start- bullied through her life. Bashayer is a fake name aims to connect major corpo- ups, and built seven for a real girl who lives among us. rations, start-ups, and Minimum Viable With support of her family and the Ministry investors. Projects. Currently, of Culture and Sports, Al Naemi plans to keep Since March 2019, writing about other social phenomena to give Ooredoo and Plug and Play Ooredoo has two voice to voiceless people. have evaluated more than projects in production: “Since there are stories around, I will keep 200 start-ups, and built the Ooredoo Virtual writing,” she told The Peninsula. “It is an amazing seven Minimum Viable Store, and Digital experience to write and get famous at this earlier Projects. Currently, Ooredoo age as I am only 22 years old,” Noora, who is has two projects in pro- Opportunities for studying at Qatar University, said. duction: the Ooredoo Virtual People with Physical Store, and Digital Opportu- Disabilities for in nities for People with partnership with the Physical Disabilities for in partnership with the acces- accessible travel start- sible travel start-up Wheel up Wheel the World, the World, said the company said the company in a in a press release. Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad press release. bin Nasser Al Thani, Chief Business Officer at Ooredoo Qatar, said: “Our partnership artificial intelligence and solar with Plug and Play is deliv- power reducing up to 75 ering great insights and co- percent of diesel opex spend, creation results – and turning with Onfido on facial recog- our digital transformation nition and ID fraud detection journey into a reality. With for online purchases on the the world’s newest tech- Ooredoo website, and with nology and most innovative Startup Sentiance on geo- companies, we are quickly fencing and machine learning implementing new customer- for targeted messaging centric products and services. campaigns. We are also exchanging MJ Cootsona, Partnerships global best practices to both Director, Plug and Play, said: Qatar and our internal teams “Ooredoo has been a valued to support Qatar’s inno- addition to our diverse vation-led economy of the Internet of Things ecosystem, future.” with engagement that is often In Qatar, Ooredoo is con- double that of our global tinuing to leverage new and average. Ooredoo has intro- emerging technologies from duced 25 start-ups in Qatar, Plug and Play’s start-ups to and has also made major pioneer innovations that can pushes in dealflows, proofs solve business and customer of concept, and commercial- challenges. isation – catalysing Oore- For example, the Ooredoo doo’s innovation and Qatar’s Digital portfolio includes diversified economic working with Caban on growth.” SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020 HOME 05

Dr. Erik Drazan - Consultant, Department of Plastic Surgery, Al-Emadi Hospital has stated in an interview that the hospital’s plastic surgery department is equipped with a spectacular medical staff that are at the highest level of experience and efficiency. In addition, Al-Emadi's plastic surgery department utilizes the most advanced and effective surgical and medical technologies to ensure the patients achieve their desired results. He also pointed out that about 50% of patients who have undergone a form of bariatric surgery have opted to resort to plastic surgery to remedy the inconvenient side effects caused by substantial weight loss, such as sagging skin. He also announced that the plastic surgery department at Al-Emadi hospital welcomes patients who wish to undergo hair restoration surgery, while elaborating on the latest techniques utilized by the department that guarantee a less invasive approach and optimum results. 06 HOME SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020 QRCS medical convoy concludes with 116 cardiac catheterizations for Bangladeshi children

THE PENINSULA — DOHA day, a workshop was held at the Bangladesh, as well as leaders National Institute of Cardiovas- of Bangladesh Red Crescent Qatar Red Crescent Society cular Diseases (NICVD) in Society (BDRCS), the Interna- (QRCS) has concluded its “Little Dhaka, to assess the work done tional Federation of the Red Hearts” medical convoy to and thank the medical per- Cross and Red Crescent Soci- Bangladesh, at a total cost of sonnel who contributed to the eties (IFRC), and Qatari organ- $250,000 (around QR1m). procedures. isations operating in the Over 8 days, 116 cardiac H E Ahmed bin Mohamed country. catheterizations were per- Al Dehaimi, Ambassador of At the meeting, a presen- H E Ahmed bin Mohamed Al Dehaimi, Ambassador of Qatar to Bangladesh, with the medical team formed for children with con- Qatar to Bangladesh, hosted the tation was provided on the from Qatar and Bangladesh. genital heart defects. On the last medical team from Qatar and achievements of the last medical convoy and the overall medical interventions in Bang- from the United States, Palestine, surgical interventions like open young kids, who are now able ladesh. The meeting discussed and Jordan. This is the biggest heart surgeries.” to play and live normally like the importance of these medical number of members to take part “According to statistics, this their peers,” he said. convoys for the children of in a medical convoy with QRCS medical convoy has made an “QRCS will continue to Bangladesh and other poor ever.” unprecedented number of 116 deploy medical convoys, under countries. The medical team “This is the fourth medical procedures over eight days, its strategy to improve the thanked H E the Ambassador convoy by QRCS in Bangladesh jumping from 104 procedures. quality of health care services and the staff of the Embassy of under the Little Hearts program. To show how effective these provided for the vulnerable Qatar for providing all facilita- Since its launch in 2004, the pro- interventions are for the local groups in poor communities. tions to make the mission a gramme has treated thousands community, you have to know Despite all the efforts done, the success. of patients who could not afford that NICVD performs an needs are by far beyond that. In his statements, Abdullah the cost of treatment whether average of 200 cardiac cathe- There are hundreds of ill Hassan Al Mehshadi, General locally or abroad. Some coun- terizations per year.” children on the waiting list. Director of Relief and Interna- tries lack the medical resources “Al Mehshadi commended More and more medical tional Development Division at to perform such procedures. the cooperation from HMC and convoys are yet to be secured, QRCS, said: “The medical mission These procedures address heart Sidra Medicine, which allowed with funding from the generous was 100 percent successful, with abnormalities in poor children their physicians to take part in donors of Qatar, to give a lifeline the participation of seven physi- born with holes in the heart, the convoy. “Some physicians to the poor families whose cians from Hamad Medical Cor- defected valves, etc. Catheters are long-serving members of children were afflicted with Over 8 days, 116 cardiac catheterizations were performed for poration (HMC) and Sidra Med- are used to insert the devices, the Little Hearts convoys. They heart disorders since their children with congenital heart defects. icine, in addition to physicians buttons, and stents. They are not have treated the ill hearts of birth,” he concluded. QAC Service Center welcomes Shatharat Educational Training Center students The visit aimed to introduce the students to national institutions and organ- the different sections of the center, allowing isations to hone their skills and capabilities. Each activity is them to get familiar with its daily procedures intended to provide them with starting from receiving the customers and the real life experience which will car, through to completing maintenance and be invaluable to their future. Shatharat Educational delivering the car back to the customers. Training Center is a non-profit organization licensed by the Ministry of Education and THE PENINSULA — DOHA at Nasser Bin Khaled Group said: Higher Education. It aims to “The visit of Shatharat educa- build key skills and general Qatar Automobiles Company, tional training centre students to career knowledge of students the authorised general the Mitsubishi service centre is in various fields of profession. distributor of Mitsubishi Motors part of our ongoing collaboration Qatar Automobiles in Qatar, welcomed a group of with national entities through Company and Mitsubishi service students from the Youth Club at which we provide young people centres provide premium main- Shatharat Educational Training with information and experience. tenance services for all Mit- Center at its Mitsubishi Service It is part of our mandate as an subishi vehicles, by highly- Qatar Automobiles Company officials with students from the Youth Club at Shatharat Educational Center in the industrial area. organisation and central to our skilled professional staff who Training Center. The visit aimed to introduce corporate social responsibility undergo regular training. Cus- the students to the different sec- strategy to support the human tomers can now book their tions of the centre, allowing and social development of our experience, which helps them equipped, and the staff are staff escorted the students on a service appointment at QAC them to get familiar with its community, enhancing the capa- to better understand the admin- extremely professional, pro- tour and provided detailed service centres by phone or by daily procedures starting from bilities of our human resource istrative and technical ways of viding premium customer information about the various email, saving time and effort. receiving the customers and the and preparing them to build working in the service centre. service that exceeds the expec- stages of work at the center. The The main QAC Mitsubishi car, through to completing Qatar’s future.” This was an important oppor- tations of our customers. visit of Shatharat Educational service center is located in the maintenance and delivering the Frank Zauner after sales tunity from which they each Overall, the feedback was very Training Center aligns with their Industrial Area Wakalat, Street car back to the customers. manager for QAC commented: gained practical expertise and positive and we are looking ambition to deliver regular 10, while other centers are Sheikh Faleh Bin Nawaf Al “This visit was successful in upgraded their skills. The Mit- forward for another visit.” activities that endeavour to located in Abu Hamour, Duhail, Thani, operations director – Auto, offering the students a real-life subishi service centre is well Mitsubishi technicians and introduce students to various and Wakra. ACS Doha International School celebrates its first Young Sustainability Awards THE PENINSULA — DOHA students of all ages, from Kin- students proposed fully-fledged dergarten to Grade 12, to submit initiatives. Early Childhood ACS International School Doha action-oriented initiatives. The winner, Ananya Sharma, built has celebrated its first Young judging panel comprised ACS an eco-friendly planet model Sustainability Awards, an initi- Doha teachers and the winners using concepts of recycling and ative to encourage students to were announced at a special pollution. think critically about their envi- ceremony where they were Lower School Grade 5 ronment. congratulated and awarded winners, Tania De Rossi and The award ceremony was their prizes by special guests Valentina Melara, submitted a attended by the representatives from the Ministry of Munici- proposal to make the ACS from the Ministry of Envi- pality and Environment as well Doha’s new school building ronment and Municipality, sus- as Ghanim Al Sulaiti, the young (opening in August 2020) a tainability advocates and local Qatari influencing figure and plastic-free campus by con- media, alongside participating sustainability advocate. ducting research on the percep- students and their parents. While younger students tions of their classmates, gath- The Young Sustainability submitted drawings, ideas and ering data and developing a Awards called for the school’s models, older proposal. Meanwhile, Middle

Winners and participants with officials during the award ceremony.

and High School winner, Abdul truly adopt sustainable patterns Co-founder at Evergreen Rehaman Shaad Rahiman, of living in their own daily lives, Organics Café, Ghanim Al focused on the harmful envi- creating a new kind of citizen Sultaiti, had this message for the ronmental impact of single-use ready for the world. It brings us students: “The solution is for plastic straws. one step closer to contributing you, as the individual, to start The awards ceremony to a future where the environ- making a change whether that shadows Qatar’s own ambitious mental pillar of the Qatar be starting with family or even goals as it moves towards a National Vision is a reality,” said friends. If we can inspire one culture that aims to live by more Robert Cody, Head of School. person, it’s a step towards sustainable means. From paper Among the special guests change.” to practice, the Young Sustain- was Mohammed Omar Al From his part, Dr. Murat ability Awards represents a fun- Bader, Climate and Renewable Dincer, Head of Sciences at damental way ACS Doha is Energy Researcher from the ACS, said: “Encouraging our implementing its recently- Ministry of Municipality and students to become caring con- announced five-year education Environment. He said: “It was tributors is one of our school’s strategy. an honour to have the oppor- objectives and something that The winning entries tunity to attend this event and is reflected through their received an experiential see our country’s youth learning on our International learning opportunity with engage in critical thinking Baccalaureate curriculum. The leading industry organisations about the environment. Seeing critical issue of sustainability in sustainability, strengthening such young students become provides a timely opportunity ACS’s core values of learning conscious about our envi- for our students to explore beyond the classroom and ronment inspires us to con- environmental issues from dif- introducing students to future tinue to research, explore and ferent perspectives, skills that career paths. build upon the ways we can are helpful not only in the “The Young Sustainability reduce Qatar’s carbon classroom but also in their Awards inspire our students to footprint.” future careers”. SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020 HOME 07 HEC Paris in Qatar honours class of 2019 at graduation ceremony

This year’s graduating classes included 31 Executive MBA, 80 Specialized Master in Strategic Business Unit Management, and 16 Financial Regulation program participants.

THE PENINSULA — DOHA HEC Paris- Qatar honored its graduating classes of 2019 during a ceremony held in Doha recently. The event was graced by the presence of H E Franck Gellet, Ambassador of France to Qatar, and Dr Pablo Martin de Holan, HEC Paris-Qatar graduates with officials and dignitaries during a ceremony held in Doha. Dean of HEC Paris in Qatar, and it was emceed by Wassim 16 Financial Regulation South Asia, and Africa. “As a graduate of HEC Paris Naimi; the award for the Best representative; and Salman Maksoud, Head of Finance and program participants. Welcoming the classes of in Qatar you are now part of a Thesis for the Specialized Master Alsooj - SBUM 2019 FR class rep- Administration, KPMG and HEC While a vast number of 2019, Dr de Holan, Dean of HEC select group of talented indi- 2019 Cohort 1 was received by resentative. Other 2019 class rep- Paris alumnus. SBUM graduates are Qataris, a Paris in Qatar, said: “A few years viduals who dared to learn and Aldana Al Sulaiti; the Best Thesis resentatives are Khalifa Al Dr de Holan was joined by large number of international ago you decided to join this insti- have learned to dare, an inval- for the Specialized Master 2019 Obaidli- EMBA 2019; Fawaz Al Professor Wolfgang Amann, participants were present in tution to become a better pro- uable skill in our turbulent and Cohort 2 was awarded to Najla Mejlad, Hadil Kaawar, Sabreen Academic Director of HEC Paris both programs. fessional and a better person. All changing world.” Al Thani; and the Best Thesis Taha - SBUM 2019 C1; Hend Al in Qatar Specialized Master’s The class of 2019 witnessed of you worked hard and In addition to the gradu- award for the Specialized Master Naimi, Mustafa Aref, - SBUM 2019 Degree, on stage for the distri- a much higher ratio of female overcame many obstacles and ation ceremony, the event 2019 Financial Regulation went C2 and Reem Shaheen -2019 FR. bution of certificates. participants in the SBUM have ultimately succeeded in included an awards ceremony to Reem Shaheen. Since joining Qatar Foun- This year’s graduating program. And the graduates your mission, which is why you honoring participants for their The event was also marked dation in 2010, HEC Paris has classes included 31 Executive from both programs this year deserve our undivided attention work. by the farewell speeches from graduated 720 participants in MBA (EMBA), 80 Specialised belonged to different corners of and our most sincere accolades. The award for the Best Cap- Faris Abdelmuti - EMBA 2019 Qatar - 310 in the EMBA Master in Strategic Business the globe – Europe, Central You did the best you could and stone Project for the EMBA Class class representative; Shoaa program and 410 in the SBUM Unit Management (SBUM), and Asia, MENA, North America, you have been rewarded.” of 2019 went to Jawaher Al Heedan - SBUM 2019 C2 class program. Al Shamal Municipality plants seedlings of desert trees in public parks

THE PENINSULA—DOHA carried out the necessary main- tenance work of irrigation Al Shamal Municipality planted system and monitoring the seedlings of desert trees in gardens in order to maintain the public parks which fall under safety of the visitors, in addition the Municipality last month. to beautification works on the The Department of Services road sides. Affairs represented by the Parks Al Shamal Municipality, People listening to a lecture on history of Indian communities Section carried out a number within the framework of the at Qatar National Library. of various services in the field sustainable strategy of the of gardens and parks, green Ministry of Municipality and spaces in public facilities Environment, is keen on QNL’s lecture explores history throughout Al Shamal adopting and disseminating Municipality. the concepts of sustainability of Indian communities in Gulf The move aims at providing through many programmes, best services to the visitors of projects and initiatives imple- THE PENINSULA — DOHA exhibition at the Library, public parks, said the Ministry mented in cooperation and which opened last October and of Municipality and Envi- partnership with civil society A fascinating insight into the will run until the end of ronment in a statement. The organisations. little-known history of Indian February. technical section of the Al Shamal Municipality communities in the Gulf was Attendee Gerd Nonneman, department has successfully joined the membership of the provided in a lecture at Qatar Professor of International accomplished a number of Unesco Global Network of National Library on January 15, Relations and Gulf Studies at service works. Learning Cities. as part of the Qatar-India 2019 Georgetown University’s A number of wild trees were The State of Qatar aspires Year of Culture. School of Foreign Service in planted in various municipal to win the Unesco Learning Delivered by the Library’s Qatar, said: “I have always parks. During that period, the Cities Award. Director of Historical Research been interested in the connect- department received a number The joining the Network The move aims at providing best services to the visitors of public and Partnerships, Dr James edness of the Gulf with the of requests for tree pruning and enables Qatar’s municipalities parks, said the Ministry of Municipality and Environment in a Onley, the lecture highlighted wider world around it, partic- logging services. to share ideas with other statement. The technical section of the department has successfully the earliest evidence of their ularly with the Indian Ocean Also, agricultural activities cities, learn best practices, accomplished a number of service works. presence in the region approx- space. The lecture was very were carried out from cutting learn how to address climate imately 4,600 years ago and informative and supported by green areas and irrigation in change challenges, ensure explored their continuous thorough research, which various gardens, parks and sustainability and public Al Shamal Municipality is The municipalities of Al existence in the region. showed how strong the con- external sites within the admin- safety, reduce poverty, pro- the second in Qatar to join the Khor, Dhakira and Shahaniya After the talk, participants nection between the present- istrative borders of Al Shamal moting economic growth and Unesco Learning Cities after Al also submitted files to joint the enjoyed a guided tour of the day Gulf region and India was Municipality. employment and managing Wakrah Municipality joined the Network and the results are ‘Qatar, India & the Gulf’ during the pre-oil period.” The Municipality also demographic. Network in 2017. expected soon. MES Indian School students visit 30th DIBF

MES Indian School students during their visit to the 30th Doha International Book Fair at DECC.

THE PENINSULA — DOHA glimpse of the imposing royal Conciergerie’, a former prison annexe buildings which housed in Paris. A total of 25 students studying the Queen of France, Marie The French pavilion of the French language from Classes Antoinette, before she was fair includes a digital exhi- 6 to 8 in MES Indian School executed. bition ‘Enlightenment’ pre- paid a visit to 30th Doha Inter- The students also partici- sented by the National Library national Book Fair held at pated in an illustrated drawing of France. Ancient books in Doha Exhibition and workshop. French culture was French language from the Convention Center on January highlighted through a recon- Qatar National Library were 13 in which France is the guest stitution of the typical atmos- also displayed. The pavilion of honour. phere of a French plaza, with showcases a selection of beau- The students were able to emblematic cafés and book- tiful coffee table books on witness the royal kitchen, the shops. Thanks to a digital French historical sites. Radhika original menu and the cooking device called ‘Histopad’, the Rajendran Coordinator, utensils which were used to students were able to travel Department of French and cook for the royal family. They through time and have a 360- Cherifa Sahraoui accompanied had the opportunity to have a degree view of ‘La the students. 08 VIEWS SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020

Established in 1996

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]

A file picture of demonstrators during an anti-government rally in Algiers on January 3, 2020. EDITORIAL Put the spring back in the Arab Spring Reforms receive praise popular upheavals which spread The arc of history may bend OVER the past years, Qatar has started a series of over the past year from Sudan towards justice but all too often it reforms process on labour law to protect the rights and Algeria to Iraq and Lebanon goes into regressive swings. of migrant workers in line with the country’s rapid and increasingly, Iran. So, for all those who have long development in all fields. Qatar, as one of the coun- But such scepticism should been frustrated with the Arab tries hosting and providing job opportunities to not obscure the sensibleness, Spring after countless failures around two million people, has taken welfare and prudence and magnificence of and defeats and have retired the protection of the rights of these expatriate workers the new uprisings. term altogether, for all those who MARWAN BISHARA one of the key priorities through the reform of labour AL JAZEERA The waves of protests in these never accepted its import from laws and introducing the best practices in this regard. countries are moving down the the 1968 Prague Spring or the The Law No 15 abolished the “kafala” system path of the protest movements in 1848 Spring of Nations, try to see and exit permit, a step considered revolutionary and Another year, another decade, Tunisia and Egypt, embracing the spring not as an equivalent of was hailed by UN and rights advocating organiza- another round of bad news in the peacefulness, authenticity and Czech or European movements, tions. The step was and is not the last in this process, Middle East. reform, and rejecting violence nor as an event with a beginning but it is a continuous process as each stage of devel- Last week’s headlines fea- and civil conflict as means to con- and an end, but rather as hope opment and advancement of the country has its own tured: death in Egyptian prisons, front oppressive and corrupt vanquishing despair, as courage requirements, and changes always come in line with clashes in Sudan, worsening regimes. overcoming fear and as change these factors. As the ultimate purpose is to establish humanitarian crises in Yemen and They seem to have learned promising a better future. a modern system that strengthens labour laws in Many Arabs Syria, illegal Israeli settlement the hard lessons from Syria, You need not abandon pes- the country and ensures the protection of the rights expansion in Palestine, political Libya, Yemen and Iraq, as they simism about the short-term of all expatriate workers. have come to paralysis in Tunisia, failure of reject proxy wars and foreign prospects of liberty to be hopeful As part of the reforms, the Prime Minister and believe that Libyan ceasefire talks, all in military interventions that claim about its long-term viability. Interior Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin addition to the American-Iranian to bring security or democracy And you need not even Khalifa Al Thani, last week issued another important good news showdown in Iraq and the but produce chaos and abandon cynicism to embrace Decision No. (95) of 2019 which granted free is always downing of a Ukrainian civilian devastation. hope. A degree of cynicism is movement to leave temporarily or permanently the airliner with 176 people onboard The new uprisings insist on useful when looking at the country within the time frame or validity of their pregnant with over Tehran - and the list goes on. democratic reforms free of sec- ulterior motives of leaders, employment contract. bad news and The situation has been so dire for tarianism, fundamentalism and national and foreign, especially The move abolishing exit visa requirements for successes so long, it is blurring the already authoritarianism, rejecting the when they justify their use or virtually all migrant workers was hailed by the UN fine line between realism and pointless shift from one form of misuse of power on benevolent labour organization considering it as a “milestone” carry with fatalism in the region. authoritarianism to another. grounds, such as “repression for in reform efforts ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. them the The oppression, the violence, These lessons may not guar- the sake of security” and In the same context the Ministry of Administrative the sectarianism, the inequality, antee success, but they are indis- “bombing to stop a war”. Development, Labour and Social Affairs has launched seeds of the insecurity and war are so per- pensable to achieving any A cynical attitude is helpful to the third patch of electronic services for ‘Amerni’ failure. vasive, so persistent, that any political progress. They are guard against the rush to a pre- application on smart phones in Arabic and English. optimism is sure to give way to already putting Arab regimes on mature celebration and to fortify The application, aims at saving time and efforts of pessimism. the defensive, forcing leaders to against disappointments. users — individuals and companies, include five Indeed, since the start of the resign and pressuring parlia- But while cynicism of the new services. As of now, the app offers a total of 33 Arab Spring nine years ago, the ments to reform, setting new mind may at times be realistic in services including 21 services for individuals and 12 seasons have changed so dramat- precedents for peaceful change. today’s Middle East, cynicism of services for companies, said the Ministry in a post ically they have left little if any of Such slow and frustrating the heart and will is not; it is lazy, ‘Mobile Application Guide’ published on its website. that precious optimism that processes are crucial for reforms it is dispiriting and it is fatalistic. The new application will allow people to file com- defined and drove the popular to be truly democratic. Unlike In fact, there is no room for plaints against violating manpower recruitment uprisings in the early days. totalitarian revolutions, demo- such cynicism when countless offices. As well domestic workers will be able to file Many Arabs have come to cratic revolutions are evolu- brave men and women, young formal complaints as the application is easy to use believe that good news is always tionary by nature and take a long and old, are ready to sacrifice all after completing registration in simple steps. pregnant with bad news and suc- time to change the political for a better future. These integrated steps of improvement of cesses carry with them the seeds culture and transform society. So, as we embark on a new services along the law reform process are signif- of failure. In that way, even those This is the only way to year, a new decade, let us icant moves aiming to establish a modern labour revolutions that succeeded in dis- prepare for the exhaustive remember all those who gave system, and create an advanced labour market envi- mantling dictatorships were left business of democratic gov- their lives for freedom, dignity ronment, where the rights of all expatriate workers with the burdens of the past ernance. It is mundane, it is frus- and justice, and let us vow to do fully protected. haunting their future. trating and it is open-ended. all we can to keep the hope alive. That may explain the scep- Expect as many setbacks as Marwan Bishara is the senior ticism about the new wave of breakthroughs. political analyst at Al Jazeera.

D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR We must rediscover MLK’s values EMAIL: [email protected] COLBERT I. KING King got the congregation good enough.” Scientific Turkey and, yes, the United EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 THE WASHINGTON POST thinking about values, a genius, he said, has outpaced States. King called attention to FAX: +974 4455 7758 subject as relevant today as it “our moral genius.” The shaky moral foundations and It was a 25-year-old Martin was in 1954. King talked greater danger facing the the “relativistic ethic” that MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 Luther King Jr., whose about lost values and the need country in ‘54, King noted, was being applied to right and birthday is celebrated on for rediscovering them. was not “the atomic bomb wrong. He described it as an DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 Monday, who stood in the Something seemed funda- that was created by physical ethic that says “since every- pulpit of Detroit’s Second mentally wrong in society, he science” that could be bodyis doing it, it must be LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 Baptist Church on Feb. 28, preached. And it wasn’t dropped on the heads of right” - an ethic that means 1954. The Montgomery bus because society didn’t know thousands of people, but “that “people can’t stand up for BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 boycott, which would launch enough. Scientific progress atomic bomb which lies in the their ... convictions, because the future leader of the was amazing. King said in hearts and souls of men, the majority of people might SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 American civil rights 18th-century America, it took capable of exploding into the not be doing it.” He said it’s “a movement to national promi- three days for a letter to go vilest of hate and into the sort of numerical interpre- ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 nence, was nearly two years from New York City to Wash- most damaging selfishness.” tation of what’s right.” email: [email protected] away. ington; in 1954, a person could That thought calls to mind King’s teaching got me to King roused the Second go from Detroit to China in the more than three dozen thinking about the 53 Senate PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 Baptist congregation that less time. It’s even more countries in the world with Republicans who know that email: [email protected] Sunday morning with a astonishing today. Breakfast unmanned, missile-armed some things are right and sermon that did not once can be had in Washington, drones capable of being some things are wrong, but ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 mention race. Discrimination, teatime enjoyed in London launched from afar under adjust their attitudes relative FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] segregation, protest demon- and a nightcap swallowed in remote control and striking to the behavior of President strations - these were not on New York City- all in the and killing with precision. Donald Trump. King said he CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 his agenda. The young same day. Think about what lies within was at Second Baptist to say email: [email protected] preacher went deeper, if such The trouble, he said, was hearts and souls of leaders in that some things are right and a thing was possible during an not that we don’t know countries such as North wrong, eternally and SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 era of racial turmoil. enough, but that “we aren’t Korea, China, Iran, Russia, absolutely. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar All foreign interference can provide some aspirin effect in the short term, but Libya needs /Peninsula_Qatar all foreign interference to stop. That's one of /ThePeninsulaNewspaper the objectives of this conference. Ghassan Salame, UN's Special Envoy +974 6698 6188 SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 09 Erdogan: Europe must back Libyan govt in Tripoli Erdogan will join leaders from Russia, Libya’s east-based forces the West and Arab countries, as well move to halt oil exports A move by Libya’s east-based forces to choke off oil exports as the heads of the from its territory threatens to throttle much of the country’s oil opposing Libyan production, the national corporation said yesterday, escalating tensions ahead of an international peace summit to end the civil factions, in the German war. The critical oil industry is dominated by the National Oil capital today in a bid Corporation, which declared that the suspension of exports would prevent the company from fulfilling contracts with inter- to halt nine months national oil companies. It warned the closure of eastern port of fighting around terminals under Haftar’s control would cut crude oil production the Libyan capital of by 800,000 barrels a day and estimated the country would lose $55m in daily revenues. Tripoli. Hafter’s self-styled Libyan Arab Armed Forces and oil field guards have ordered five subsidiaries of the national oil company AP — ANKARA to halt exports from key oil fields and port terminals. In a press conference, the LAAF described efforts to cripple oil production as a “major step for the Libyan people.” “The Turkish President Recep Tayyip Libyan people are the ones who shut down oil ports and fields Erdogan has called on the and are preventing oil exports,” said spokesman Ahmed Al European Union to support the Mosmari, adding that it sent a “message of rejection” to militia internationally recognised groups defending Tripoli against a months-long siege by Hifter’s Libyan government in Tripoli forces. The UN mission in Libya expressed “deep concern” over A general view of the Chancellery with security bars, the host of the Libya summit in Berlin, Germany, ahead of a summit in Berlin. the efforts to disrupt oil production, warning of “devastating yesterday. In an article published on consequences.” Its statement urged Libyans to “exercise the Politico website yesterday, maximum restraint” as international negotiations seek a reso- Erdogan said European leaders lution to the crisis. The National Oil Corporation condemned led by Gen. Khalifa Haftar. like the Islamic State group and attack? Or will they abdicate “ought to talk a little less and the unrest, describing oil as the “lifeblood of the Libyan economy” In the article, Erdogan Al Qaeda, Erdogan said. their responsibilities, as they did focus on taking concrete steps” and the country’s only source of revenue. labelled Haftar a “warlord” and Further instability would in Syria, to watch the crisis in the conflict-torn North “coup plotter.” He said a failure also fuel more migration from unfold from the sidelines?” African nation. to support Sarraj would be a Libya towards Europe across Germany is bringing Erdogan will join leaders fighting around the Libyan fighting. Turkey supports the betrayal of the E.U.’s values and the Mediterranean Sea. together key players in Libya’s from Russia, the West and Arab capital of Tripoli. UN-backed administration in a mistake of “historic propor- “The Libyan civil war serves long-running conflict in a bid countries, as well as the heads A truce sponsored by Tripoli led by Fayez Sarraj and tions.” If the Tripoli government as a litmus test for the EU,” he to curb foreign military med- of the opposing Libyan factions, Turkey and Russia was imposed sent troops to Libya earlier this were to fall, Libya would said. “Will European leaders dling, solidify the cease-fire and in the German capital today in a week ago, although there have month to help them in their become a “fertile ground” for uphold the liberal world order help relaunch a political process a bid to halt nine months of been reports of continued battle with eastern-based forces the re-emergence of extremists in the face of yet another to determine Libya’s future.

Tunisia condemns Iran sends black boxes of downed plane to Ukraine eight to death REUTERS — DUBAI news agency said. All 176 people accident investigations at Iran’s that Iran should send the black announce that its military had aboard the plane were killed Civil Aviation Organization was boxes to France for analysis. accidentally shot the plane for presidential Iran is sending to Ukraine the when the Ukrainian Interna- quoted as saying by Tasnim. France was one of the few down. black boxes of the Ukrainian tional Airlines flight was shot “If this effort is unsuccessful countries with the ability to The downing occurred as guard attack passenger plane that its military down on January 8 shortly after then the black box will be sent read the flight and cockpit data Iran was on high alert for pos- accidentally shot down this take-off from Tehran en route to France.” The black boxes will recorders from the jet, which sible retaliatory action fol- AFP — TUNIS month, Tasnim news agency to the Ukrainian capital Kiev. not be read in Iran, Rezaifar he said were badly damaged, lowing its strikes on Iraqi bases reported yesterday. “With the use of the said, according to Tasnim. Trudeau told a news conference housing US troops. A Tunisian court yesterday The Iranian authorities are expertise of the countries of Fifty seven of the dead were in Ottawa. Those strikes were in sentenced eight people to also prepared for experts from France, Canada and America we Canadian. Prime Minister Justin Iran has faced a deepening revenge for the US killing of top death in a trial for a 2015 France, Canada and the United will try to read the (flight data Trudeau, who has been pressing crisis abroad and at home over military commander Qassem attack on a presidential guard States to examine the data from recorder) in Kiev,” Hassan for a full investigation into the the plane disaster, with author- Soleimani in a drone attack in bus that killed 12. the boxes, the semi-official Rezaifar, a director in charge of plane downing, said on Friday ities taking several days to Baghdad on January 3. The November 24, 2015 suicide bombing in the capital Tunis claimed by the Islamic State group (IS) killed a dozen Russia strike leaves Three dead in Somalia suicide bombing presidential guards and wounded 20 more. ANATOLIA — MOGADISHU commander of special forces. No group has yet claimed “The court issued the death Separately, Bashir Ahmed, responsibility for the attack, but sentence against eight people five civilians dead In the Somali capital a police official in Afgoye, said the Al Qaeda-linked terror accused of participating in the Mogadishu, at least three that three people, including sol- group Al Shabaab is a persistent attack against the presidential people were killed and 20 diers, were killed in the attack. threat in the Horn of Africa guards’ bus,” Deputy Public in northwest Syria injured, including several Turkish Health Minister country. Prosecutor, Mohsen Dali, said Turkish nationals, when a Fahrettin Koca and the Turkish Last week, at least three yesterday. AFP — BALA, SYRIA region has witnessed an uptick suicide car bomb targeted a Embassy in Mogadishu said that people were killed when a Two others were sen- in violence this week, as the police convoy escorting Turkish some four to six Turkish cit- roadside bomb targeted tenced to 10 years and life An air strike yesterday by Syrian government presses a contractors yesterday, said offi- izens, including building con- security forces guarding imprisonment respectively, he Syrian regime ally Russia killed deadly offensive despite a cials. tractors, were injured in the Turkish nationals working on said. The convicted were all five civilians, including four ceasefire arranged by its The Somali government attack. On Twitter, Fahrettin road construction outside found guilty of “voluntary members of the same family, Russian ally and rebel backer spokesman, Ismail Mukhtar Koca said four Somali and two Mogadishu, in an Al Shabaab- murder and belonging to ter- in an opposition bastion in the Turkey. Home to three million Oronjo, confirmed the attack in Turkish citizens who were seri- claimed attack. rorist groups,” Dali said, country’s northwest, a monitor people, the militant-run bastion the town of Afgoye, in the lower ously injured in the attack are On December 28, at least 85 without providing details said. is made up of a large part of the Shabelle region. “Several in surgery. people, including two Turkish about their identities. The Syrian Observatory for Idlib province, as well as slivers people including soldiers were “The injured are being nationals, were killed and over Only four of those con- Human Rights said three of the neighbouring Aleppo and killed and 20 others wounded, treated at Mogadishu’s Recep 150 others wounded in a truck victed appeared in person at children were among those Latakia provinces. and casualties could rise,” he Tayyip Erdogan Training and suicide attack in Mogadishu, in the trial, with the rest sen- killed after midnight Friday in Fighting there since said. He also said among those Research Hospital,” a Turkish- another attack claimed by Al tenced in absentia. the village of Bala in the mil- Wednesday has killed 28 injured were Somalia’s deputy built and -run hospital, he said. Shabaab. Tunisia has imposed a itant-run Idlib region. civilians including eight moratorium on carrying out “A man, his wife, and their children, according to the capital punishment since 1991. two little girls were among Observatory. It also took the IS claimed two other major those killed,” said the head of lives of 58 pro-regime fighters attacks in Tunisia in 2015. the Britain-based monitoring and 67 fighters most of them An attack at the capital’s group, Rami Abdel Rahman. jihadists, it added. Bardo museum that March A correspondent at a hos- Violence in recent weeks killed 21 foreign tourists and a pital in the area saw the bodies has prompted hundreds of security guard. In June 2015, of two of the children wrapped thousands of civilians to flee 38 foreign tourists were killed up in thick winter blankets. their homes, exposing them to in a shooting rampage at the The strike created a a harsh winter. coastal resort of Sousse. massive crater of rubble near On Thursday, Russia denied In February 2019, a a two-storey home flanked by launching any combat opera- Tunisian court sentenced an empty outdoor swimming tions in the region since the seven to life imprisonment for pool, the correspondent said. start of a ceasefire it said the attacks on Bardo and Another first responder started on January 9. According Sousse. retrieved two slain rabbits. to Turkey, the truce went into The Observatory, which effect on Sunday. relies on sources inside Syria Turkey’s President Recep Turkey deports for its information, says it Tayyip Erdogan has said he determines who carried out air would discuss the latest attacks four Germans strikes according to flight pat- in northwestern Syria today Paramedics at the Madina hospital assist an unidentified man injured in an explosion in Afgoye, as terns as well as aircraft and with Russian counterpart over terror links he arrives for medical attention in Mogadishu, Somalia, yesterday. ammunition involved. The Idlib Vladimir Putin. QNA — ANKARA

Turkey deported four Lebanon protesters lob traffic signs, tree branches at police ‘terrorists’ of Germany nation- ality to their country, the AFP — BEIRUT demand be comprised of inde- cannons and lobbed tear gas A female protester named to maintain balance between Turkish Interior Ministry pendent experts and exclude all over a metal fence to disperse Maya, 23, said she was attending the country’s many political announced. “The terrorists Tensions flared in Lebanon’s traditional political parties. remaining protesters on the wet the protest because politicians parties and religious were deported as part of capital yesterday as angry Yesterday afternoon, dem- tarmac. still seemed to be ignoring confessions. Turkey’s ramped-up efforts to protesters flung stones, traffic onstrators set out from various “A direct and violent con- demands for an overhaul of the But protesters say they want repatriate foreign terrorist signs and tree branches at spots in Beirut in a march frontation is taking place with old political class. to scrap the old system, and fighters,” the ministry said in security forces, who responded towards the city centre under anti-riot police at one of the “I’m here because after demand only impartial techno- a statement carried by with water canons and tear gas. the slogan “We won’t pay the entrances to parliament,” the more than 90 days in the crats staff a new government to Turkey’s Anadolu Agency. The protest movement price”. But before they all con- Internal Security Forces said on streets, they’re still squabbling address their growing economic Turkey continues to deport rocking Lebanon since October verged near the road leading to Twitter. over their shares in gov- woes, including a severe foreign terrorist fighters, it 17 has revived this week, over parliament, dozens of protesters “We ask peaceful protesters ernment... It’s as if they didn’t liquidity crisis. added. delays in forming a new cabinet flung rocks and plant pots filled to keep away from the site of see our movement,” she said. The last government The ministry also noted to address the country’s with earth at the police the rioting for their safety.” An “Popular anger is the stepped down under pressure that the total number of growing economic crisis. guarding the institution, local AFP photographer saw young solution,” the young protester from the street on October 29, ‘foreign terrorist fighters’ No progress appears to have television channels showed. men uproot parking metres. said. Forming a new cabinet is but has remained in a caretaker deported back to their coun- been made towards a final Security forces sprayed He also saw around 10 often convoluted in Lebanon, capacity until a new cabinet tries since Nov. 11 last year has line-up, which protesters young men with two water people faint from the tear gas. where a complex system seeks takes shape. reached 179. 10 HOME SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020 SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020 ASIA 11 Myanmar, China ink deals to boost Belt & Road Initiative

REUTERS — NAYPYITAW Xi and Myanmar the coming months,” he said. leader Aung San At a welcoming ceremony China and Myanmar inked on Friday, Xi hailed a “new era” dozens of deals yesterday to Suu Kyi signed 33 of relations between the speed up infrastructure projects agreements shoring countries. in the Southeast Asian nation, as “We are drawing a future Beijing seeks to cement its hold up key projects roadmap that will bring to life over a neighbour increasingly that are part of the bilateral relations based on isolated by the West. brotherly and sisterly closeness But no major new projects flagship Belt and Road in order to overcome hardships were agreed during the two-day Initiative, China’s together and provide assistance visit by President Xi Jinping, the vision of new trade to each other,” Xi said. He was first of any Chinese leader in 19 scheduled to leave later years. Analysts said Myanmar routes described as yesterday. was generally cautious of invest- a ‘21st century silk Suu Kyi called China “a great ments by Beijing and was also country playing an important role being careful ahead of elections road’. in the international affairs and later this year. the world economy” but urged Still, Xi and Myanmar leader for economic projects that avoid Aung San Suu Kyi signed 33 has been stalled since 2011, environmental degradation and agreements shoring up key reflecting the contentiousness of benefit locals. projects that are part of the Chinese investment in Myanmar, Xi also met leaders from flagship Belt and Road Initiative, where many are uncomfortable political parties in ethnic areas China’s vision of new trade routes with the sway Beijing has over its riven with civil conflict where described as a “21st century silk smaller neighbour. Chinese infrastructure projects road”. “While a large number of dif- are underway. They agreed to hasten imple- ferent agreements have been Sai Kyaw Nyunt, joint-sec- mentation of the China Myanmar signed, there is no Big Bang here,” retary of the Shan Nationalities Economic Corridor, a giant infra- said Richard Horsey, a Yangon- League for Democracy, one of the structure scheme worth billions based analyst with the Interna- ethnic politicians invited to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping (left) and Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi shaking hands of dollars, with agreements on tional Crisis Group. Xi, said it was only a before a bilateral meeting at the Presidential Palace in Naypyidaw, Myanmar, yesterday. railways linking southwestern “The overall impression is handshake. China to the Indian Ocean, a deep that Myanmar is being cautious “Our country is very small Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine is viewed as the biggest obstacle Myanmar from the sludge”. sea-port in conflict-riven about Chinese investment, espe- and powerless,” he said, “So they state. More than 730,000 to a prosecution of its leaders at “But after some turbulence, Rakhine state, a special economic cially ahead of elections planned treat us that way.” Rohingya were forced to flee an international war crimes Myanmar realised there were zone on the border, and a new later in the year, he said. The two countries have his- western Myanmar after a military tribunal. double standards in the approach city project in the commercial “China will be hoping that torically had a fraught rela- crackdown that the United An article in Chinese state Western countries had taken on capital of Yangon. this is an incremental step tionship, but have moved closer Nations has said was executed media ahead of the state visit said human rights issues and began They did not address a con- towards realising its mega-infra- since 2017, when Myanmar was with “genocidal intent”. Myanmar had been “derailed” by to turn to China for diplomatic troversial $3.6 billion Beijing- structure goals, and that further internationally condemned for China has defended the its engagement with the West and and economic help,” the article backed mega dam, where work progress can be locked in over its treatment of minority country on the global stage and only China was willing to “pull in the Global Times said. To defuse palm row, Davos diplomacy likely between India, Malaysia Passengers from China to be REUTERS — KUALA LUMPUR biggest producer and exporter No agenda has been set for retaliation for now, after 6 percent of the total foreign of palm oil and India’s restric- the proposed meeting between Mahathir’s media adviser called workforce in the country. Ethnic screened for Trade ministers from India and tions on the refined variety of Goyal and his Malaysian coun- for tighter regulations on Indian Malaysian-Indians are the Malaysia are likely to meet on the commodity imposed last terpart Darell Leiking on Friday, expatriates and products. third-largest community in the pneumonia the sidelines of the World week have been seen as a retal- the spokesman for Malaysia’s Malaysia instead wants to rely Southeast Asian country. Economic Forum’s annual iation for Mahathir’s criticism Ministry of International Trade on diplomacy. Another reason for frosty meeting in Davos next week of New Delhi’s actions. and Industry said, adding that A separate Indian gov- ties between the countries is the IANS — MUMBAI amid a palm oil spat between India’s trade minister the request for a meeting had ernment source said it was continued presence of contro- the two countries, a Malaysian Piyush Goyal denied on come from India. important for New Delhi also to versial Indian Islamic preacher All incoming passengers from government spokesman said. Thursday that the government An Indian government talk things out with Malaysia. Zakir Naik in Malaysia, said one China to Chhatrapati Shivaji India has repeatedly was trying to hit out at Malaysia source said a meeting was “We too have a lot to lose in of the sources. Maharaj International Airport objected to Malaysian Prime in particular. indeed likely with Leiking. A Malaysia, there are 2 million Naik, who faces charges of here shall be subjected to a Minister Mahathir Mohamad The row between the coun- spokeswoman for India’s trade Indian-origin people there,” the money laundering and hate ‘thermal screening’ to detect speaking out against its recent tries, nevertheless, pushed ministry did not respond to a source said. speech in India, has lived in novel coronavirus, an official policies which critics say dis- benchmark Malaysian palm request for comment. There were a total of 117,733 Malaysia for more than three said here yesterday. criminate against Muslims. futures to its biggest weekly Malaysia did not want to Indian nationals registered as years and has permanent resi- The precaution is being Malaysia, a Muslim- decline in more than 11 years escalate the palm spat with foreign labour in Malaysia as at dency in the country. He denies taken in view of the recent majority nation, is the second on Friday. India by talking of any June 2019, accounting for nearly the Indian accusations. outbreak of pneumonia caused by novel coronavirus in Wuhan city in Hubei province of China, an official spokes- Australia’s farmers count costs person said. The virus is likely to spread globally. as bushfires wipe out livestock Medical teams at CSMIA have activated a health AFP — KANGAROO ISLAND find out where they can move counter and thermal scanners forward from here,” he said. at the pre-immigration area In the wake of ferocious bush- “There’s no end date for inbound passengers fires that tore through Kangaroo assigned to this mission, and it’s arriving by Air China and Island, local farmer Rick Morris very important that there’s no RwandAir, which operate has endured the gruelling task sense of anyone... thinking about flights between Mumbai and of burying 400 sheep killed when this is going to end.” China. The measure is in com- when most of his sprawling Kangaroo Island’s agri- pliance with the latest direc- property went up in flames. culture industry is worth $100 tives issued by the WHO to “It puts it in perspective to million, and farming is the detect if any traveller is say that we’re one of the lucky island’s biggest employer. afflicted by the symptoms of ones,” he said. Local agronomist Daniel novel coronavirus. Australia is reeling from Pledge said farmers would need The concerned passenger/s bushfires that since September to buy extra feed for their live- will be immediately isolated have claimed 28 lives, including stock, pasture seed to restore to a hospital earmarked for two on Kangaroo Island, and burned paddocks and animals CSMIA. The airport will submit razed 10 million hectares of land would be likely to conceive at a daily report to the gov- — an area larger than South lower rates due to stress — ernment on the scanning of Korea or Portugal. causing lasting impacts from the passenger/s. Tourists arrive after a rescue operation from Mount Annapurna base camp, at the airport of Pokhara, Vast swathes of the burned fires. some 200km west of Kathmandu, Nepal, yesterday. land were used for grazing cattle “It’s a snowball effect that we and sheep, and officials believe can’t measure and we’re very Sri Lanka lifts the livestock toll exceeds concerned for our local 100,000 across Australia — economy, to be honest,” he said. Four South Koreans among seven ban on drones including at least 43,000 on “And these effects could flow Kangaroo Island alone, where on for up to five years, for certain imposed after farmers like Morris endured individuals. And that is a long missing in Himalayan avalanche three blazes in just 10 days. time.” Easter attacks “We faced the full wrath of The country’s farmers had Mother Nature,” he said at his already been battered by a pro- AFP — KATHMANDU trekking routes after the Nepal) and you don’t (normally) 930-hectare farm. longed drought that has crippled weather eased to let helicopters see a lot of snow. But due to AP — COLOMBO “The fire (swept) from the water supplies in rural areas Four South Koreans and three fly in. The four were part of an abnormal weather conditions... south side to the north side of the across the vast and arid conti- Nepalis are missing and about 11-member team from South even here, when we went to Sri Lankan authorities have island and took no prisoners nent’s southeast. 200 people have been rescued Korea. Others from the team Langtang, there was a heavy lifted a ban on drones that was between... I’m amazed there National Farmers’ Feder- after an avalanche hit trekkers are safe. snow and rain,” Kim said. imposed after the Easter were not more people killed.” ation president Fiona Simpson on the Annapurna region in the Ang Dorjee Sherpa of the “I heard the news this Sunday attacks that left 263 Faced with the scale of the dis- said they were increasingly Himalayas, officials said Korean Alpine Federation said morning and as a trekker and people dead in the Indian aster, Australia’s army has under pressure across the Saturday. it had been snowing in the area a fellow (South Korean) citizen Ocean island nation. deployed 3,000 soldiers to assist country. South Korea was to send an since the last two days, making who like and love Nepal, I feel The lifting of the ban in bushfire-affected areas. “Whether it’s the drought or emergency team to Nepal to their trek risky. heart-stricken.” Education offi- comes amid a growing Here, the defence force flew the recent bushfires, dry condi- help in a desperate search “The weather and snow got cials in South Korea said the demand for flying drones from in firefighters from the mainland tions are pushing many of our operation. The incident worse and, feeling it was four South Koreans were part media institutions, foreigners, and dropped bales of hay from farming communities to the occurred at an altitude of about becoming dangerous and dif- of a team of volunteer teachers wedding videographers and helicopters to farmers isolated brink,” she said. 3,230 metres close to ficult, they decided to turn. As working with children in Nepal. photographers, and com- by fires in the island’s western “It’s a situation that grows Annapurna base camp fol- they were heading back they South Korea’s foreign min- mercial advertising reaches. graver each day, and shows no lowing heavy snowfall on were hit by an avalanche,” istry said an emergency team companies. Brigadier Damian Cantwell, signs of abating.” Friday. Sherpa said. would be sent to Nepal and that However, drone opera- the joint bushfire task force com- In response, the government Six of the missing are from Annapurna is an avalanche- the families of those missing tions will continue to be mander for South Australia state, has promised immediate one trekking expedition while prone and technically difficult had been informed. The volun- restricted in dangerous and said he foresaw a “long road support payments of one Nepali porter is from a dif- mountain with a higher death teers were from Chungcheong restricted flying zones. All civil ahead” for Kangaroo Island. Aus$75,000 to aid in farmers’ ferent group. rate than Everest, the world’s province. drone operators will be “I’ve seen a level of recovery, which will be drawn “A search operation is highest peak. Kim Sung-hwa, Thousands of trekkers visit required to obtain approval destruction which is still sur- from a Aus$2.0 billion bushfire underway for the seven out of a South Korean trekker in Kath- the Annapurna region every from the Defense Ministry to prising me now,” he said. relief package. contact,” Mira Acharya of mandu after a trek in the year for its stunning views of fly drones, the ministry said on “There’s a lot of farmers that Morris, who is also the Nepal’s tourism department Langtang region in eastern the Himalayas. its website yesterday. are in distress, a lot of com- chairman of Kangaroo Island’s said. Nepal said he had to cut his trip In 2014, a snowstorm killed The ministry said the ban munity members are struggling, agriculture industry body, said About 200 people have short after abnormally heavy about 40 people on the popular was lifted on the instructions some families have lost every- the financial support would be been rescued from the ava- snow. circuit, in one of the biggest of President Gotabaya thing, and they’re struggling to welcomed on the island. lanche-hit zone as well as other “Winter is a dry season (in trekking tragedies to hit Nepal. Rajapaksa. 12 ASIA SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020 Afghan Taliban hopeful of signing withdrawal deal with US

The Taliban and INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD down military operations in condition for resuming formal paused again following an attack for intra-Afghan talks. the US had been days leading up to the signing negotiations on an agreement near the Bagram military base in Many observers agree that The Afghan Taliban are hoping of the peace agreement with the that would see US troops begin Afghanistan, which is run by the the war can no longer be won negotiating the deal to sign a withdrawal agreement United States,” Shaheen said in to leave the country in return US. Any agreement with the militarily, and that the only for a year and were with Washington by the end of a report published yesterday. for security guarantees, after a Taliban is expected to have two route to a lasting peace in January and are prepared to He added that the Taliban near two-decade fight. main pillars — an American Afghanistan is for an agreement on the brink of an “scale down” military opera- were “optimistic” a deal with The Taliban and the US had withdrawal from Afghanistan, between the Taliban and the announcement in tions ahead of signing the deal, Washington could be signed been negotiating the deal for a and a commitment by the insur- US-backed government in said the group’s chief before the end of the month and year and were on the brink of gents not to offer sanctuary to Kabul. September 2019 spokesman Suhail Shaheen. that the reduction in fighting an announcement in September militants — and would ulti- The Taliban have until now when President Shaheen told local Pakistani across the country would also 2019 when President Donald mately have to be given final refused to negotiate with the Donald Trump media that the US held discus- include the targeting of Afghan Trump abruptly declared the approval by Trump. Afghan government, which they sions in Doha this week, after forces. “It’s now a matter of process “dead”, citing Taliban The Taliban’s relationship consider an illegitimate regime, abruptly declared the insurgent sources said they had days,” said the spokesman. violence. with Al-Qaeda was the main raising fears that fighting will process 'dead', citing offered to initiate a brief Washington has for weeks Talks were later restarted reason cited for the US invasion continue regardless of any deal ceasefire. been calling on the militants to between the two sides in more than 18 years ago. A deal ironed out with the Taliban violence. “We have agreed to scale reduce violence, posing it as a December in Qatar, but were would hopefully pave the way Americans. Pakistan Supreme Court Two missing objects to Musharraf’s as Cyclone appeal against conviction Tino hits Fiji

AFP — SUVA, FIJI Procedure 1898. The appeal also sought the right of Tropical Cyclone Tino audience before the Supreme strengthened to a Category Court in his physical absence Three storm yesterday as it as well as the suspension of the closed in on Tonga after judgement in the interest of battering Fiji where two people justice and fair play. were missing and more than In a nutshell, the petition 3,000 fled to emergency had pleaded that the case of shelters. the appellant was that he was The Fiji Meteorological being tried for a constitutional Service said the wind gusts from crime in an entirely unconsti- Tino had increased to 180 kilo- tutional manner. metres per hour and would The petition contended likely have its biggest impact in that Musharraf wished to draw the northern areas of Tonga the attention that his absence when it hits overnight. was not deliberate as he had The Pacific kingdom is still multiple life-threatening ail- recovering from the devastation ments which had rendered of Cyclone Gina two years ago INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD him incapable of appearing which caused widespread dev- before the Supreme Court. Celebrating coronation of Thai King astation, destroying houses and The Supreme Court of Pakistan “The appellant did not crops. Soldiers march during the annual military parade to celebrate the coronation of King Rama X at the office has refused to entertain escape from custody and his “The sea is very high and I’m Royal Thai Army Cavalry Centre in Saraburi province, Thailand, yesterday. an appeal moved on behalf of is not a case of ‘jail break’,” the sure beaches are being washed former president retired Gen petition said, adding that the away in the more exposed Pervez Musharraf (pictured) special court, while fully rec- places and the outer islands,” against his conviction in the ognising and acknowledging Tupoutu’a Tonutonu spoke high treason case. his ailments in 2013 and 2014, from northern Vava’u. An informed source said exempted him from personal China reports new virus cases, raising “It’s been bucketing down that the SC registrar office had appearance so much so that for about three days, the soil is returned the appeal on the all eight prosecution witnesses waterlogged and I’m hearing ground that unless the peti- were examined in his absence. concern globally before key holiday trees are down in the village.” tioner surrendered himself, his “On no occasion did the In Fiji, the National Disaster plea could not be entertained. appellant or his legal team REUTERS — BEIJING how easily it can spread. said yesterday the four new indi- Management Office said 3,115 Order 23, Rule 8 of the delay the matter,” the petition Thailand and Japan have con- viduals diagnosed with the new sought emergency shelter at the Supreme Court Rules 1980 contended, adding that till as China reported four more cases firmed new cases of the virus virus are in stable condition, height of the storm, but most empowers the apex court not long as the appellant was of pneumonia believed to be earlier this week, stoking adding it has confirmed 45 cases had since returned home with to accept any petition unless present in the country, his caused by a new coronavirus worries globally as many of the in the city as of Thursday. A day damage not as severe as first the convict surrenders to the legal team expeditiously fol- strain, causing rising concern 1.4 billion Chinese people will earlier, the commission con- feared. authorities. lowed up the case and globally that a disease health travel abroad during the Lunar firmed the death of a second “We know for sure most of The counsel for Musharraf examined all prosecution officials do not yet fully under- New Year holidays that begin patient. them went to the ECs (evacu- is expected to file an appeal witnesses. stand could spread during a key next week. Nearly 50 people are now ation centres) to take shelter soon against the SC registrar’s But after Musharraf left the holiday period. Authorities around the known to have been infected because of the big rains we were decision. country, he or his legal team The new virus, which was world including in the United globally, but all of them either receiving and also because of In his appeal filed on could not proceed with the discovered in the central States, Thailand and South live in Wuhan or have travelled the warnings,” Uraia Rainima, Thursday, Gen Musharraf had case and while abroad, he fell Chinese city of Wuhan, belongs Korea have stepped up moni- to the city. a senior government official in requested the Supreme Court seriously ill and was totally in the same large family of coro- toring of travellers from Wuhan A report published by the the northern region, said. to overturn the special court’s unfit to travel and return to naviruses that includes Severe as part of their efforts to prevent London Imperial College’s MRC “We have received infor- December 17, 2019, verdict Pakistan and stand trial, the Acute Respiratory Syndrome the disease from spreading. Centre for Global Infectious mation that most of them are convicting him in the high petition argued. (SARS), which killed nearly 800 The World Health Organi- Disease Analysis said there are moving back to their houses.” treason case. “Thus the observation in people globally during a zation (WHO) has also warned likely “substantially more cases” The island of Taveuni, with a He had argued that the the December 17 judgement 2002/03 outbreak that also that a wider outbreak is pos- of the new coronavirus than cur- population of around 19,000 verdict should be set aside about delay is aimed at shifting started in China. sible, though it has advised rently announced by Wuhan people, was without power, since the trial was conducted the blame from the special Though experts say the new against any travel restrictions authorities: its base scenario Rainima said. and completed in sheer vio- court to the legal team only to virus does not appear to be as for China. estimate is that there would be Police, meanwhile, con- lation of the Constitution as weakly justify trial in lethal as SARS, there is little The Wuhan Municipal 1,723 cases showing onset of tinued the search for a father well as the Code of Criminal absentia,” it said. known about its origins and Health Commission (WMHC) related symptoms by January 12. and his daughter who were swept away when they tried to cross a swollen river on Thursday evening, and said Philippine volcano simmers; officials brace for long crisis there were no other casualties. AP — AGONCILLO, PHILIPPINES diarrhea, skin lesions, flu and coughs in evacuation centers. Philippine officials said yesterday About 300,000 masks, including North Korean they’re bracing for a long crisis those from regions unaffected by whether the Taal Volcano erupts the volcanic eruption, have been foreign minister more disastrously or simmers sent to calamity-hit areas. precariously for weeks or The government’s main dis- replaced: Report months, as massive numbers of aster-response agency will hold displaced villagers languish in a meeting next week to discuss REUTERS — SEOUL emergency shelters. concerns, including hygiene in Health Secretary Francisco evacuation camps, Duque said. North Korean Foreign Minister Duque III said more than 900 vil- He has sought the help of the Ri Yong Ho has been replaced, lagers who fell ill have been military to build latrines and Seoul-based NK News reported treated, mostly for exposure to repair toilets in emergency yesterday. volcanic ash, in evacuation sites shelters, mostly school buildings. Ri’s replacement has not since the volcano began erupting In the hard-hit town of Ago- been identified but Pyongyang in Batangas province near ncillo, Mayor Daniel Reyes said is set to reveal his successor Manila, the capital, last weekend. all 42,000 residents abandoned about next Thursday, the report About 125,000 people fled their homes, including 8,000 said, citing unnamed sources. from ash-blanketed villages and who are now encamped in evac- South Korea’s unification min- crammed into hundreds of emer- uation centers and need food, istry, which is in charge of North gency centers in Batangas alone water and aid. Korea affairs, has said that any and many others took shelter in “They rushed out of their change in Ri’s status should be relatives’ homes, disaster- homes without bringing any- assessed cautiously. response officials said, appealing thing, so they will really be Born in 1956, Ri is the son of Evacuees displaced by the Taal Volcano eruption rest in their room at a government complex used for masks, bottled water, portable dependent on our help,” Reyes Ri Myong Je, former deputy as an evacuation centre in Tagaytay, Philippines, yesterday. toilets, food and sleeping mats. said. Agoncillo still has about two director of the Organisation and “It’s really massive because weeks worth of food, water and Guidance Department (OGD), a you’re talking of more or less aid packs and will need help shadowy body within the ruling 100,000 evacuees in evacuation Sunday, Taal has been spewing Philippine Institute of Volcan- one of the world’s smallest but from the provincial and national Workers’ Party that oversees the centers, so the infrastructure and smaller emissions and shud- ology and Seismology. the second-most restive of about governments when supplies get appointment of management services needed are really huge,” dering with fewer earthquakes “We have this perception two dozen active Philippine vol- depleted, he said. positions within the state, Duque said. in recent days. now that it’s waning versus canoes. It has remained at alert While tending to the thou- according to the South Korean “This is not going to be for the But despite a perceived underground sub-surface level 4, the second-highest sands of displaced residents, unification ministry. short term, but for the medium waning of its restiveness, con- activity, which indicates oth- warning, indicating a hazardous Reyes said he and other officials His father was also an editor if not long term.” tinuing volcanic quakes, the erwise,” Solidum said at a news explosive eruption is possible were preparing contingency at the Korean Central News After belching a massive drying of Taal’s crater lake and conference, adding that experts within hours or days. plans in case Taal erupts Agency (KCNA), the state media plume of ash and steam more other signs indicate magma is “have not seen a definite trend Duque said hundreds of vil- violently. body that publishes than 15 kilometers into the sky moving beneath, said Renato that it’s weakening.” lagers have been treated for res- “There is a great possibility Pyongyang’s propaganda when it rumbled back to life last Solidum, who heads the The 311-metre-high Taal is piratory infections, hypertension, that it will erupt,” Reyes said statements. SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020 EUROPE 13 Tear gas, arrests at new anti-govt protest in Paris

AFP — PARIS Demonstrators yellow vest movement since November 2018, and which have French police fired tear gas under shouted slogans been boosted by opposition to the a rain of projectiles and arrested denouncing the pension reforms. dozens of people yesterday as police, President Annie Moukam, a 58-year- thousands of “yellow vest” anti- old teacher, said too many people government protesters returned Emmanuel Macron in France were suffering. to the streets of Paris. and his pension “We’re suffocating with this Demonstrators shouted government who wants to put us slogans denouncing the police, reforms that have on our knees,” Moukam said. President Emmanuel Macron and triggered the longest “It’s out of the question that his pension reforms that have he (Macron) touches our pen- triggered the longest French French transport sions. We have worked all our transport strike in decades. strike in decades. lives to be able to leave with a The night before Macron and dignified retirement,” she said. his wife Brigitte had to be rushed The night before “It’s exactly that that he is chal- briefly from a Paris theatre after Macron and his wife lenging.” Macron’s reforms aim protesters tried to burst in and Brigitte had to be to forge a single pensions system disrupt the performance. from the country’s 42 separate Musicians of the Paris Opera’s orchestra react after playing an improvised open-air concert outside With sirens wailing, riot rushed briefly from regimes. the Opera Garnier to protest the government’s proposed pension reform in Paris, yesterday. police drove across the French a Paris theatre after The various systems cur- capital in dozens of vans Sat- rently in place offer early urday to the route where thou- protesters tried to retirement and other benefits to second wind as their movement although it was forced to close Macron’s staff said the pres- sands of protesters marched. burst in and disrupt some public-sector workers as starts to flag, with the proportion some galleries last month. ident and his wife were able to The police said 32 people had well as lawyers, physical thera- of striking workers at national There was no sign of an end return to the play, “The Fly,” been arrested by the early the performance. pists and even Paris Opera railway operator SNCF falling to to the strike at the Paris Opera, when police were able to prevent afternoon. employees. less than five percent on Friday. which has lost 14 million euros protesters entering the renowned At times under a hail of pro- day of a strike that has hit train Critics say the reforms will The Louvre in Paris, the with the cancellation of 67 theatre Bouffes du Nord. jectiles, riot police fired tear gas and metro traffic and caused effectively force millions of world’s most visited museum, performances. But authorities kept in and stun grenades. misery for millions of commuters people to work longer for a reopened yesterday after being The Paris Opera orchestra custody overnight Friday Taha Young people wearing masks in Paris especially. smaller pension. shut down by workers opposed yesterday gave renditions of Bouhafs, the journalist who shouted “revolution” as tear gas Trains are becoming more The transport unions have to the pension overhaul. Carmen and other works to tipped off protesters about the drifted by the Bastille, the square frequent however, and Paris’s joined forces with the yellow On Friday, hundreds of dis- Parisians and tourists on the steps presence of the Macrons at the where the French revolution metro drivers voted to suspend vests, who accuse Macron of appointed visitors had massed of the Palais Garnier to show theatre, a judicial source said. erupted in 1789. their action from Monday, their ruling on behalf of an urban elite outside the Louvre, some hurling support for the strike. Bouhafs, who was watching “The street is ours,” some union UNSA announced while ignoring people in the insults at strikers who had Under a stream of confetti, the same play, was detained on protesters chanted. yesterday. provinces and the countryside, blocked the entrance. they finished with “La Mar- charges of “participating in a “Macron, we’re going to come The protests were also the many of whom struggle to make It was the first time since the seillaise,” the national anthem. group formed to commit violence for you, in your home.” Yester- latest of the weekly demonstra- ends meet. strike began on December 5 that Supporters chanted “Vive la or cause damage,” the source day’s clashes came on the 45th tions held every yesterday by the The unions are looking for a the museum had shut completely, greve!” (Long live the strike.) said. Labour Party’s Long-Bailey Russia’s Putin launches leadership bid with says he opposes unlimited call for ‘new professionalism’ presidential term REUTERS — LONDON under Corbyn there was a surge of complaints about anti- AP — MOSCOW Britain’s Labour Party needs to Semitism within the party. do more to promote aspiration “To win, the Labour Party Russian President Vladimir and look more like a does need a new profession- Putin said yesterday that he government-in-waiting, the alism. We need to look like a opposes the idea of an party’s business spokeswoman, government in waiting,” Long- unlimited term in office for the Rebecca Long-Bailey, said Bailey said. country’s leader like the when she formally launched Long-Bailey is close to system that existed in the her leadership campaign on trade unions and has been Soviet Union. Friday. characterised as wanting to Putin’s comment at a Labour leader Jeremy keep more of Corbyn’s policies meeting with World War II Corbyn is stepping down, after than Starmer, a 57-year-old veterans in St Petersburg came the party’s worst election per- former head of England’s pros- days after he called for consti- formance since 1935 gave ecution service who wanted tutional changes that could Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s Corbyn to take a tougher line help him remain in power Conservatives a large majority against Brexit. once his presidential term in parliament. Long-Bailey is However, on Friday Long- ends in 2024. currently second in the race to Bailey said existing Labour pol- When a veteran at yester- succeed Corbyn, behind the icies needed to be supple- day’s meeting proposed not party’s Brexit spokesman Keir mented with a greater focus on Protest over environment policies having term limits for Russia’s Starmer, according to a aspiration. president, Putin responded An environmental activist is being evacuated by the police during a protest organised by the YouGov poll of party members “We talked quite a lot about that “it would be very dis- environmental movement Extinction Rebellion at the Brussels Motor Show, in Belgium, yesterday. for The Times newspaper. individual polices in relation turbing to return to the situ- Speaking to party members to helping the most vulnerable ation of the mid-1980s, with in Manchester, northern - which we should do, because the leaders of the state, one by England, not far from where we’re the Labour Party, we’re one, staying in power until the she grew up as the daughter of the party that does that. But we end of their days.” a trade union official, the didn’t match that with a Hungary’s Premier defends halting There has been uncer- 40-year-old lawyer said message of aspiration.” tainty about Russia’s future Labour had failed to convince In a further nod to the right political course since Putin the public they were com- wing of the Labour Party, prisoner compensation payouts suggested in his Wednesday petent to run the country. Long-Bailey also briefly men- state-of-the-nation address “The truth is many didn’t tioned the optimism created by AFP — BUDAPEST Human Rights in 2015. The case that he expected legal battles at amending the constitution to trust us, whether it was Brexit, the 1997 victory of Prime Min- forced Budapest to set rules for a European level over the move. allow lawmakers to name whether it was tackling anti- ister Tony Blair, who is now a Hungarian Prime Minister claiming compensation and The government plans to prime ministers and Cabinet Semitism - they didn’t believe hate figure for many on the left Viktor Orban on Friday introduce minimum standards suspend all payments and ask members. The president cur- in us enough,” she said. due to his support for the 2003 defended his government’s for living space and sanitary con- parliament to tighten the rently holds the authority to “There is no point prom- Iraq war. decision to suspend compen- ditions. Orban said the state had regulations. make those appointments. ising the world, if people don’t Long-Bailey also said par- sation payments to prisoners so far paid out more than $33 “As soon as someone enters Observers speculated that trust you with the basics,” she liament in Westminster felt over poor conditions in over- million to roughly 12,000 jail, someone - a non-govern- after increasing the powers of said. almost as remote as the EU in crowded jails. claimants — no independent mental organisation, a lawyer - parliament and the Cabinet Labour’s policy of renego- Brussels to many voters, and Orban accused lawyers of assessment of the figures was approaches him or her and and curtailing presidential tiating Johnson’s Brexit deal pledged to close the unelected “doing business” by exploiting available. informs them how to make authority, Putin might repeat then holding a second refer- upper house of parliament and “lax and absurd” laws brought in “The law is being taken business out of that,” spokesman a strategy he used before to endum dissatisfied both Brexit replace it with an elected by his government after it lost a advantage of, this is why we Bence Tuzson told the Hir TV stay in charge — shifting into supporters and opponents, and senate outside London. case at the European Court of won’t pay,” Orban said, adding station. the prime minister’s seat. Farmer fury and environmental anger in protest-hit Germany

AFP — BERLIN protect insects, the protesters one side and climate activists claim they are carrying the costs arguing that recent reforms do From grumpy bee-keepers for new environmental pro- not go far enough, lawmakers dumping honey on politicians’ tection measures. are caught in the middle. doorsteps to furious farmers “Don’t forget that farmers The gulf between farmers holding up traffic, increasing feed you” and “No farm, no and environmental activists has tensions between farmers and food, no future”, read placards deepened in recent years as environmentalists have over- held aloft by farmers, who fear climate protection shot to the shadowed the opening of the the new laws will slash their top of the political agenda fol- biggest show on Germany’s revenues. lowing weeks of student-led agriculture calendar. Yesterday, it was the turn Friday for Futures school strike Thousands of tractors of the other side. protests. descended on cities across Organisers said around Yesterday’s protest, in Germany on Friday at the 27,000 turned out in Berlin, which the green groups-led opening of Berlin’s annual gathering around the famous protests demand full-scale “Green Week” trade fair, as the Brandenburg Gate to protest reform to support small farms farmer’s collective “Land schafft what they say are the damaging and environmentally friendly Verbindung” (LSV) railed effects of agriculture and to call agriculture, has been a yearly against tightening regulations. for a change to the current way fixture since 2011. Aggrieved at Germany’s of farming in Germany. “The agriculture industry is latest agricultural reform that The rally was organised by fuelling the climate crisis and includes introducing an animal “We are fed up!”, an environ- societal conflict — we have to Protesters demonstrate against the government’s agricultural policies at the start of the International welfare label on food products mentalist group. stop it!” the organisers state on Green Week in Berlin, yesterday. and restrictions on pesticides to With protesting farmers on their website. 14 EUROPE SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020 Gibraltar eyes joining Schengen to ease Brexit border fears

AFP — GIBRALTAR Fabian Picardo southernmost tip of Iberia he said in an apparent reference border will still have recourse a pressure point and successive should not be accessible to EU to Lichtenstein, which is one of to the Commission or the Spanish governments had tra- Gibraltar is considering dismissed concerns citizens? I don’t think it does. the four non-EU member states. European court if there are dis- ditionally done the same. becoming part of the Schengen that Spain would A strategic port on at the “There is the ability to move proportionate delays,” Picardo “Putting pressure at the zone as a way of ensuring mouth of the Mediterranean, fluidly between the territories insisted. “Management of that frontier does not tend to per- fluidity of movement on its have the upper hand Gibraltar provides a lifeline for of the EU and these micro- frontier, which is in the hands suade the people of Gibraltar border with Spain after Britain if it wanted to exert some 14,000 workers who cross states,” Picardo said. of Spain, must be in keeping that we’ve ever been wrong leaves the European Union, its in and out every day, the vast “All of these things will be with European rules because about wanting to remain Chief Minister Fabian Picardo political pressure by majority from the impoverished considered in the context of the this is... access to the European entirely British.” has said. stepping up checks Spanish city of La Linea which negotiations going forward.” Schengen zone.” In recent years, notably His remarks came just two flanks the enclave. Picardo also dismissed con- Although Spain ceded since Britain’s shock vote to weeks before Britain and and choking the That number also includes cerns that Spain would have Gibraltar to Britain in 1713, leave the EU in 2016, there had Gibraltar formerly leave the border after Brexit. around 2,500 British nationals the upper hand if it wanted to Madrid has long wanted it back been “a shift in the traditional bloc and enter into an 11-month who live in Spain where exert political pressure by in a thorny dispute that has for position” of Spain regarding period of intense negotiations becoming part of the Schengen property is cheaper. stepping up checks and decades involved pressure on Gibraltar, Picardo said, to thrash out the details of their zone,” Picardo said, referring to “We need to look very care- choking the border after Brexit, the frontier. expressing optimism about the future relationship. a passport-free zone where fully at how we calibrate that when neither Britain nor Tensions peaked in 1969 prospect of dealing with the And for Gibraltar, a tiny people can move freely across going forward,” he said, Gibraltar could rely on EU when the regime of dictator new leftwing coalition gov- British enclave at the south- the internal borders of the 26 stressing the crucial importance intervention. Francisco Franco shut down the ernment in Madrid. ernmost tip of Spain, arrange- member states, four of whom of having a “fluid frontier” In 2013, a dispute over an border which did not fully One of a number of “very ments along its lone border post are not part of the EU. Gibraltar and the rest of the artificial reef in waters claimed reopen until 1985. positive” developments was a — which counts more than Britain is one of six EU bloc. by both sides sparked a war of “If you think where we were remark by Socialist Prime Min- 28,000 crossings every day — nations that are not part of If you look at other micro- words that triggered months of in our relationship with Spain ister Pedro Sanchez who will be central to talks when the Schengen, but if Gibraltar were states in Europe, they take the gridlock at the border after 100 years ago, we were in a expressed a desire “to look so-called transition period to join, it would be “a positive benefit of common travel areas Spain intensified checks, which better place perhaps than we beyond the eternal issue of sov- begins on February 1. step”, Picardo said. with Schengen, even if they’re only ended when Brussels are today,” Picardo remarked, ereignty to understand how we “We talked about this issue “Does it make sense for the not entirely part of the stepped in. saying that Franco had could improve the economics before Brexit... about Gibraltar EU that 6.2 sq km at the Schengen information system,” “Any EU citizen crossing the repeatedly used the border as of the region”. UK announces plan to mark Czech Republic Brexit moment on January 31 detects bird flu AP — LONDON as new Europe

The British government has announced plans for gala events on outbreak feared the night of January 31 when the country officially leaves the European Union after a prolonged political stalemate. AFP — PRAGUE Prime Minister Boris Johnson plans to make a speech that night to mark the occasion after holding a special Cabinet session A highly contagious bird flu in the north of England to emphasise his government’s plan to has been confirmed at a Czech spread opportunity northward. farm, officials said yesterday The government plans to mark Brexit by projecting a clock after a French farm union onto the Prime Minister’s official residence at 10 Downing Street warned of the risk of a new that will count down until 11pm when the break takes place. outbreak in Europe. The entire government neighbourhood of Whitehall is to be Czech official Petr Vorlicek illuminated for the occasion as part of a light show, with Union said “the highly pathogenic flags flown on all the poles in Parliament Square. The government H5N8 subtype lethal for birds” will also circulate a commemorative coin that will enter circu- was found at a small farm lation that day. 150km southeast of Prague. Johnson’s government is no longer actively pushing a plan to Vorlicek, spokesman for have the familiar chimes of the Big Ben clock tower sound at 11pm the State Veterinary Adminis- despite a private fundraising push in support of activating the tration (SVS), said the infection chimes, which are under repair. at the farm in Stepanov nad Britain voted in a 2016 referendum to become the first nation Svratkou was most likely to leave the 28-nation EU bloc, but the process has moved more imported by wild water birds. slowly than expected. National Tulip Day The SVS, which says the A transition period will last until the end of 2020 as negoti- H5N8 has never been reported Visitors picking up tulips during the National Tulip Day, on the Dam Square, in Amsterdam yesterday. ators try to forge a trade arrangement between Britain and the to have spread to humans, said The picking garden was set up for the ninth edition by Dutch tulip growers and volunteers. remaining EU nations. the farm bred three ducks and 12 hens, of which six infected with the virus died within two days. Ukraine President rejects PM’s resignation over leaked recording The remaining animals at the farm were culled yesterday AFP — KIEV It marked the first major officials from the National in the president, I have written Zelenskiy said in the video, morning, veterinarians said. political test for Zelenskiy, a Bank. a resignation letter,” wrote which depicted a round-table “We will create... a ten-kil- Ukraine President Volodymyr comedian with no previous According to local media Goncharuk. meeting with Goncharuk in an ometre protected area around Zelenskiy said that he wanted political experience, who swept reports, the participants dis- In the video released by ornate, gilded room. the farm,” SVS head Zbynek to give his prime minister a to power in a landslide victory cussed how to explain recent the presidency, Zelenskiy did Goncharuk thanked the Semerad added. “second chance” and refused to at last year’s presidential economic developments to not mention the leaked com- president for his confidence, The French farm union, accept his resignation after a election. Zelenskiy. ments but did refer to “a admitting a “shortcoming in the Coordination rurale, said on recording emerged of the His “Servant of the People” “Zelenskiy has a very prim- scandal” and “a very work” of the government. Friday that H5N8 has been premier questioning the head party later won a large majority itive understanding of economic unpleasant situation”. Before Zelenskiy rejected detected in recent weeks in of state’s grasp of economics. in parliament. processes, or rather a simple He urged the prime minister the resignation offer, several farms in Poland, Slovakia, Prime Minister Oleksiy Gon- He has been embroiled in understanding,” Goncharuk to “improve the cooperation analysts were sceptical he Hungary and Romania as well charuk had offered to quit after the US impeachment process said on the recording, adding with parliament and to optimise would ever accept. as among wild birds in Poland. the leaked recording revealed and faced tough talks with that he himself was an eco- the salaries of government “It looks like theatre... in It warned authorities to him saying the president had a Russian President Vladimir nomic “ignoramus”. officials”. which Zelenskiy plays the role urgently stop shipments from “primitive understanding” of Putin, but had thus far managed After initially denying The payment of large of a good tsar” by refusing the the infected countries and alert the economy. to avoid any significant reports he would step down, bonuses to officials has caused offer, said analyst Anatoliy customs agents to the risk. “I have decided to give you domestic political problems. Goncharuk announced on his a scandal in recent weeks in the Oktysiuk of Democracy House It recalled how French and your government a second The audio recording was official Facebook page on former Soviet republic, one of in Kiev. poultry farms and the pro- chance,” Zelenskiy said during leaked on social media on Friday that he had offered to the poorest countries in Europe. He said the crisis likely ducers of foie gras were seri- a meeting with Goncharuk in a Wednesday and came from an resign. “Such wages cannot occur reflected an internal struggle for ously affected by the 2017 epi- video released by the informal December meeting “To remove any doubts in Ukraine with the current influence over the new demic when millions of birds presidency. between ministers and senior about our respect for and trust state of the economy,” president. were culled in Europe. Irregular immigration to EU Michelin strips star from French chef Bocuse at lowest level since 2013 AFP — COLLONGES-AU-MONT-D’OR Almost exactly two years after the AFP — BRUSSELS Leggeri noted that returns were at a death of renowned French chef Paul record level, with 15,850 being sent back, Bocuse, the Michelin Guide has The level of arrivals of irregular immi- many on commercial flights, which he retracted the coveted three-star grants to the EU has dropped to its lowest hailed as “an extremely effective” ranking his restaurant held for an level since 2013, the bloc’s border method. unprecedented 55 years, prompting security agency Frontex said. Germany, Italy, France and Belgium anger and dismay from many of his At the same time, the number of topped the EU countries availing them- peers. migrants sent back to their country of selves of Frontex’s returns operations, The Auberge du Pont de Col- origin has risen, the agency’s chief, with the main countries taking back their longes, near food-obsessed Lyon in Farbice Leggeri, told a media conference nationals being Albania, Tunisia and southeast France, was the oldest in Brussels. Georgia. three-starred restaurant in the world, But a breakdown of the figures for Leggeri said that Frontex’s mission having held the accolade without 2019 showed that, while overall arrivals would be significantly beefed up from interruption since 1965. at the EU’s external borders had declined next year when the agency’s first full The Michelin Guide said that the 92 percent from the massive spike time uniformed staff of border and coast establishment “remained excellent recorded in 2015, that was due to a big guard officers would start being but no longer at the level of three cut in migrants trying to cross from the deployed. stars” and will have only two in the Mediterranean from North Africa to Italy That corps, recruited from 7,500 2020 edition of the famous red book or Spain. applicants over the past three months — known as the “Bible” of French A view shows Paul Bocuse’s restaurant “L’auberge du Pont de Collonges” in There were still sustained numbers and soon to be trained up, will sup- cuisine. Collonges-au-Mont-d’Or near Lyon, France. trying to enter the EU along its eastern plement national border forces when The Bocuse d’Or organisation, rim, through Greece, Bulgaria and EU member states in the Schengen zone which holds the annual interna- “Monsieur Paul”, as Bocuse was Michelin boss Gwendal Poullennec Cyprus, where border crossings were 46 feel they need help. tional cooking competition he known, died aged 91 on January 20, visited Bocuse’s restaurant on Thursday percent higher than in 2018, and a The Frontex force, to eventually be created, greeted the announcement 2018, after a long battle with Parkin- to deliver the news, guide spokes- similar jump was noted for Croatia and built up to 10,000 over the next seven with “sadness” and expressed its son’s disease. woman Elisabeth Boucher-Anselin said. Hungary. years, can also be called on to assist “unwavering support” for the Dubbed the “pope” of French Even before Bocuse’s death, some Afghans and Syrians were the biggest countries outside the EU’s borders when restaurant. cuisine, he was one of the country’s critics had commented that the res- groups entering the bloc, Leggeri said, requested. Bocuse’s family and his kitchen most celebrated of all time, helping taurant was no longer quite up to explaining that conflict and political Leggeri stressed however that team said they were “upset” by the shake up the food world in the 1970s scratch. instability were driving the influx. Frontex will need sufficient funding from decision, and celebrity chef Marc with the lighter fare of the Nouvelle But Michelin’s decision, a year Increasingly adverse conditions for the EU’s longterm 2021-2027 budget Veyrat, who recently sued the Cuisine revolution, and helping to after stripping Veyrat of his third star Afghans in Iran and Pakistan were also currently the subject of heated negoti- Michelin Guide over a lost third star, introduce the notion of a celebrity just a year after awarding it, imme- spurring their movement. ations between members states. described the move as “pathetic”. chef. diately stirred controversy. SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020 AMERICAS 15 Constitution under ‘serious attack’ in Virginia: Trump

REUTERS — WASHINGTON Supporters say more their guns will be taken away restrictive laws would —we’re afraid our children will President Donald Trump said be taken away,” said Shannon that the US Constitution was help decrease the Watts, founder of the Moms being attacked in the state of number of people Demand Action group that Virginia, where lawmakers advocates tougher laws. “While have been moving to enact killed by guns each the rally has grown in size and tougher gun laws and arms year. Gun-rights grown more extreme, what we enthusiasts are planning a rally will see tomorrow is a vocal next week. activists assert minority.” “Your 2nd Amendment is the constitution Watts said that she and under very serious attack in the many members of her group Great Commonwealth of Vir- guarantees their and their families had been ginia,” Trump wrote in a post right to possess any increasingly threatened online on Twitter, referring to the firearm. with death and rape, and Vir- amendment in the Bill of Rights ginia members of her organi- that gives Americans the right sation have had their home to keep and bear firearms. 2019, putting the state at the addresses and other personal The Virginia Senate late on center of the contentious information shared online, Thursday passed bills to require American debate around the which they have reported to background checks on all right to bear arms. Both Virginia police. Safety rules and regulations are on display at Clark Brothers’ gun store and shooting range in Warrenton, firearms sales, limit handgun houses are expected to pass the Watts said some members of Virginia, some 77km from Washington, DC, yesterday. purchases to one a month, and new laws. her group — which is part of Eve- restore local governments’ right Supporters say more rytown, a 4-million-member the pro-gun Virginia Citizens On Thursday, the FBI package of eight bills on the to ban weapons from public restrictive laws would help organisation funded by former Defense League (VCDL), organ- arrested three members of a issue and the lower house, the buildings and other venues. decrease the number of people New York mayor and presidential isers of the rally, has rejected small neo-Nazi group who House of Delegates, is expected Gun-control activists have killed by guns each year. Gun- candidate Michael Bloomberg — calls for violence while openly authorities said hoped to ignite to consider them in a single reported a growing number of rights activists assert the con- would be on the ground at the welcoming militias from across a race war through violent acts package, with lawmakers online death threats as the law- stitution guarantees their right rally. But she said the bulk of their the United States to provide at Monday’s rally, reminiscent waiting to let the dust settle makers press on and ahead of to possess any firearm. efforts would go to working security for his group. of a 2017 white supremacist after Monday’s rally before a rally by arms enthusiasts Militias, neo-Nazis and phone banks and keeping A spokesman for the Capitol rally in nearby Charlottesville. going forward. The state legis- tomorrow in the state capitol of other groups have vowed to pressure on Virginia legislators Police said the group has Virginia Governor Ralph lature will be in session through Richmond that authorities are swarm the capitol. Supporters to pass the promised gun laws. worked closely with law Northam on Wednesday declared the first week of March. trying to keep from becoming of the new laws said on Friday “We’ll not be intimidated,” enforcement officers on their a state of emergency banning any A lawsuit filed by gun rights violent. that despite a spike in online Watts said on a conference call rally plans. Van Cleave and weapons around the grounds of groups that requested the ban Democrats promising threats, they will not back with journalists. “We’ll not back other members of the group did the capitol from Friday evening be knocked down was rejected stronger gun laws took control down, however. down.” not respond to multiple requests until Tuesday evening. by the state’s Supreme Court of the legislature in Virginia in “These extremists are afraid Philip Van Cleave, leader of for comment. Northam is pushing a Friday evening. Trump gives account of Soleimani’s last minutes before death: CNN Police find 10

REUTERS — PALM BEACH imani was killed. The January 3 killing of approximately one minute to back up their statements that charred bodies The president spoke in a Soleimani at Baghdad airport live, sir. Thirty seconds. Ten, Soleimani presented an US President Donald Trump ballroom at his Mar-a-Lago prompted Iran to retaliate with 9, 8 ...’ “ “imminent” threat to Americans in Mexico state gave a minute-to-minute club in Palm Beach, Florida, at missile strikes against US forces “Then all of a sudden, in the region. account of the US drone strikes a Republican event that raised in Iraq days later and almost boom,” he said. “’They’re gone, CNN said that in the audio, REUTERS — MEXICO CITY that killed Iranian military $10m for Trump’s 2020 re- triggered a broad war between sir. Cutting off.’” Trump did not repeat that Sole- commander Qassem Soleimani election campaign and for the the two countries. “I said, where is this guy?” imani was an imminent threat. Mexican prosecutors are in remarks to a Republican Republican National “They’re together sir,” Trump continued. “That was the Trump said Soleimani was investigating the discovery of fund-raising dinner yesterday, Committee. Trump said that military offi- last I heard from him.” “saying bad things about our a burned-out vehicle according to audio obtained by Reporters were not allowed cials told him. It was the most detailed country” before the strike, containing the charred bodies CNN. in for the event. CNN said it “Sir, they have two minutes account that Trump has given which led to his decision to of 10 people in the south- With his typical dramatic obtained an audio recording of and 11 seconds. No emotion. of the drone strike, which has authorise his killing. western state of Guerrero, flourish, Trump recounted the Trump’s remarks. The White ‘Two minutes and 11 seconds drawn criticism from some US “How much of this do we authorities said yesterday. scene as he monitored the House did not immediately to live, sir. They’re in the car, lawmakers because neither the have to listen to?” Trump asked Police made the grisly dis- strikes from the White House respond to a request for they’re in an armoured president nor his advisers have in the audio. “How much are we covery on a country road in Situation Room when Sole- comment. vehicle. Sir, they have provided public information to going to listen to?” the municipality of Chilapa de Alvarez after locals saw the vehicle on fire and alerted authorities, state security Plane slides off taxiway in icy spokesman Roberto Alvarez said in a statement published on Facebook. weather as storm hits US It is not clear what caused AP — KANSAS CITY Tennessee, were canceled, the fire. likely disrupting travel plans for According to media A plane slid off an icy taxiway fans of the Tennessee Titans reports, the victims were men at Kansas City International flying into Kansas City for Sun- and youth from a musical Airport yesterday as a day’s AFC championship game group who were attacked by sprawling winter storm hits with the Chiefs, KCTV reported. suspected gunmen from a local large sections of the Midwest Lambert lnternational drug cartel. and beyond, leading to the Airport in St. Louis reported The attorney-general’s closure of schools, universities more than 130 flights canceled office of Guerrero did not and government offices. as of noon Friday and American immediately reply to a request The Delta Air Lines flight Airlines suspended all flights to for comment. was taxiing to be de-iced before Missouri’s Columbia Regional One of Mexico’s poorest flying to Detroit when the Airport until noon yesterday. states, Guerrero has long been nosegear slipped off the The slippery conditions one of the most violent regions taxiway, said Delta spokes- come after the National of the country, which was on woman Martha Witt. There Weather Service issued winter track to register a record were no reports of injuries weather advisories, saying the number of homicides last year. aboard the Airbus A319, which storm will create hazardous Chilapa de Alvarez is a noto- was carrying 123 passengers travel conditions from the riously violent area of and a crew of six. Witt said the Plains into the Northeast Guerrero. airline was trying to put pas- through the weekend. Snow is President Andres Manuel sengers from Delta flight 1114 forecast over much of the Great Lopez Obrador took office on other planes. Lakes, with a blizzard warning more than a year ago prom- The airport was closed and for parts of the Upper Midwest. ising to attack violent crime at numerous flights were can- The winter weather its roots by fighting poverty celed in the morning but flights advisory extended south into and inequality with social pro- Migrants, part of a caravan travelling to the US, clash with Mexican national guards at the border resumed about noon. Most western Oklahoma and grammes, rather than with the between Guatemala and Mexico, in Ciudad Hidalgo, yesterday. Friday flights from Nashville, northern Arkansas. army. Brief scuffles at Guatemala-Mexico Ex-Congressman jailed over insider trading case border as migrants try to cross AP — NEW YORK shares in a pharmaceutical company before devastating REUTERS — TECUN UMAN Honduras has been accom- A few migrants made it through A former congressman who news was made public. panied by US border agents. the gate, local media said, but was one of President Donald The trading, prosecutors Scuffles briefly broke out on the Guatemalan authorities say Mexican officials appeared to Trump’s first supporters was said, enabled Cameron Collins Guatemala-Mexico border around 4,000 people have be controlling the situation sentenced to two years and two and friends to dodge $800,000 yesterday morning as a group arrived in the country in the last more successfully than when a months in federal prison after in losses. of several hundred mostly few days, the biggest surge large caravan sought to force admitting he helped his son and Collins’ attorneys urged the Honduran migrants pressed since Guatemala, Honduras and its way through at the same others dodge $800,000 in stock judge for leniency, citing his forward to cross, only to be El Salvador signed accords with crossing in October 2018. market losses when he learned contrition, advanced age, char- pushed back by Mexican the United States that increase Mexican President Andres that a drug trial by a small phar- itable works and a low chance security forces. pressure on them to deal with Manuel Lopez Obrador said he maceutical company had failed. that he would commit any more Scores of people who migrants. is monitoring the approach of Christopher Collins (pic- crimes. entered Guatemala from Hon- After waiting on a bridge at the migrants and has held out tured), 69, was sentenced by “This is a sad and tragic day duras in recent days have been the Guatemalan border town the prospect of jobs in southern US District Judge Vernon S Bro- Congress,” he said. “My life has for Chris and his family,” defence arriving at the Mexican border, of Tecun Uman, some migrants Mexico for those who want to derick in Manhattan after the been shattered.” attorney Jonathan Barr said. “He with the bulk of them still began pushing and shoving stay. Republican pleaded guilty in The sentence came even stands before you humbled, pen- advancing in a larger caravan, before being driven back by Interior Minister Olga October to conspiracy to after Collins’ lawyers argued he itent and remorseful.” testing the resolve of Mexico to Mexican security officials, who Sanchez said earlier this week commit securities fraud and was sorry and should face no Collins had represented heed US demands to contain shut the border crossing and that the migrants would not be lying to law enforcement prison time in the insider western New York since his migrant flows. sought to calm the group. granted safe conduct passes. officials. trading case. election to the state’s 27th Con- President Donald Trump A witness estimated there About 400 of the migrants Collins broke down and Prosecutors, however, gressional District in 2012. He has threatened to hurt Mexico were 300-400 people on the who entered Guatemala since apologised to his family and his argued he should go to prison resigned when he decided to and Central American countries Guatemalan side of the border. Wednesday have been returned former constituents and for nearly five years. They said plead guilty to a single con- economically if they allow large Along with local television to their countries of origin, colleagues. Collins and his son, Cameron, spiracy count, leaving the dis- groups to reach the US border, reporters, he said order was according to a statement issued “I stand here today as a dis- were worth a total of $35m trict’s constituents without rep- and the latest exodus from quickly restored at the scene. by Guatemalan government. graced former member of when they conspired to sell resentation in Congress. 16 AMERICAS SUNDAY 19 JANUARY 2020 US appeals court OAS ends Honduras anti-corruption mission orders dismissal AFP — TEGUCIGALPA Luis Zelaya, president of Liberal Party, said capacities to combat corruption the electoral campaign that of youth climate on Twitter that “today is a terrible day for our and impunity.” brought him to power two An anti-corruption commission Luis Zelaya, president of years earlier took $94,000 of change lawsuit set up in Honduras four years country, won by the corrupt and criminals who Honduras’s opposition Liberal about $330m embezzled from ago will cease operations on have kidnapped it”. Party, said yesterday on Twitter the country’s social security REUTERS — WASHINGTON Sunday, the Organization of that “today is a terrible day for agency. American States (OAS) said our country, won by the corrupt He maintained that he did A US federal appeals court yesterday after failing to reach seen deadly unrest under Her- Mexican kingpin Joaquin “El and criminals who have kid- not know the origin of the threw out a lawsuit by children a deal on extending operations nandez, whose 2017 re-election Chapo” Guzman. napped it.” money at the time. and young adults who claimed in the graft-riddled country. was widely seen as President Hernandez, an In a statement, the gov- The OAS aimed at repli- they had a constitutional right Negotiations between the fraudulent. ally of US President Donald ernment “regretted” that con- cating the success of a similar to be protected from climate OAS and the government of There were public calls for Trump, dismissed the accu- sensus on a new mandate could United Nations-backed body in change, in a major setback to President Juan Orlando Hern- his resignation last October sation as “absurd.” not be reached. Guatemala that brought down efforts to spur the US andez concluded on Friday but when a New York court con- Ending the Mission to It said it took into account that country’s government. government to address the “unfortunately, it was not pos- victed his brother, former Support the Fight Against Cor- complaints from various sectors Honduras’s business sector issue. sible to reach the agreements Honduran congressman Tony ruption and Impunity in Hon- about “excesses” by the anti- as well as US lawmakers had In a 2-1 decision, the 9th required for the renewal of the Hernandez, of drug duras (MACCIH) “is a negative corruption mission. lobbied the government in US Circuit Court of Appeals mandate,” an OAS statement trafficking. step,” the OAS statement said. The MACCIH was set up in Tegucigalpa to maintain the said the plaintiffs, who were said. Although he wasn’t on trial Together with the attorney 2016, with the endorsement of MACCIH mission. between the ages of 8 and 19 A Central American country himself, prosecutors said Juan general’s office, MACCIH led to Hernandez, following mass Honduras ranks 132 out of when the lawsuit began in of more than nine million, Hon- Orlando Hernandez took mil- the prosecution of 133 people, demonstrations demanding 180 countries on Transparency 2015, lacked legal standing to duras is plagued by gangs, lions of dollars in bribes from 14 cases “and, above all, in such a body. International’s Corruption Per- sue the United States. poverty and corruption. It has drug lords including jailed strengthening national Hernandez admitted that ceptions Index 2018. Circuit Judge Andrew Hurwitz said the majority reached its conclusion “reluc- tantly,” given “compelling” evi- Town in Colombia on dence the government had long promoted fossil fuels despite knowing they could cause cat- edge after 5 shot dead astrophic climate change, and that failing to change policies AP — JAMUNDI criminal band suspecting that could hasten an “environ- the victims were either from a mental apocalypse.” A remote town was on edge rival gang competing for drug A Department of Justice yesterday after at least five territory or a team of state spokesman said the gov- people were found shot to investigators working in the ernment was pleased with the death, highlighting Colombia’s region. outcome. struggle to bring peace to rural An estimated 230 soldiers The 21 children and young areas where drug crops are were dispatched to the area in adults had accused federal abundant and illegal armed response. officials and oil industry exec- groups are active. “We are here guaranteeing utives of violating their due The killings happened over- the security of inhabitants,” process right to a “climate night in an isolated part of the Vásquez said. system capable of sustaining Jamundi municipality in south- Local officials urged the human life,” by knowing for western Colombia and also left national government to build decades that carbon pollution two vehicles incinerated, offi- better roads, provide basic poisons the environment but cials said. It was the third mas- services like security, health doing nothing about it. sacre in Jamundi in the past care and education and help The government argued year. substitute coca crops as a means that neither US law or history Authorities said two of the of rooting out illegal armed supported the young people’s bodies were found under a groups. There are an estimated Locals riding a motorcycle passing by the site of a confrontation between two groups of alleged drug claim of a fundamental right to bullet-riddled vehicle while 1,000 hectares of illicit crops in traffickers, in La Meseta, rural area of Jamundi, department of Valle del Cauca, Colombia, yesterday. a “livable climate.” It also called three were located farther up a the area. the lawsuit an unconstitutional dirt road. All five had to be “We need to confront this different part of Jamundi in an Renegade fighters from the made in implementing the attempt to control the entire carried by horse to a nearby with a greater institutional attack attributed to dissident disbanded Revolutionary peace deal but noted that con- country’s climate and energy school and then flown by heli- presence,” Jamundi Mayor rebels. Armed Forces of Colombia tinuing violence in conflict- policy through a single court. copter to a morgue, due to both Andrés Felipe Ramírez said Colombia’s biggest rebel operate in the area and some affected regions remains a Hurwitz said the case left dangerous conditions in the after the killings. movement signed a peace officials voiced suspicion that threat. “little basis for denying that area and a lack of reliable roads. Last January, four members agreement in the year 2016 to they were involved in the He pointed to “profoundly climate change is occurring at Manuel Antonio Vásquez, of a Jamundi farm family that end over five decades of con- attack. worrying” developments in an increasingly rapid pace,” but commander of the Cali metro- cultivated crops like bananas flict, but remnant armed On Monday, Carlos Ruiz, recent weeks, including terri- that addressing it required politan police, said investigators and yucca were found shot to groups are still wreaking who heads the UN Verification torial disputes between illegal “complex policy decisions believe the bloodshed stemmed death, authorities told local havoc in parts of the country Mission in Colombia, told the armed groups that risk entrusted, for better or worse, from a conflict among illegal media at the time. In October, with bountiful drug crops and UN Security Council that “sig- spreading into more wide- to the wisdom and discretion” armed groups, with one four people were killed in a little state presence. nificant strides” have been spread violence. of White House and Congress.

Colombian army used US funds to Meteor streaks unsettles many in Puerto Rico amid quakes AP — SAN JUAN fireball as he passed over a toll He said he got reports from all reports could not be immedi- Paola Noriega, a chef, said spy on us: Senators bridge in northern Puerto Rico, corners of the island. ately verified. she saw the fireball while A meteor streaked low across briefly worrying it was a mal- “That makes it into quite a Meanwhile, officials at standing outside in San Juan. AFP — WASHINGTON the sky in Puerto Rico functioning plane. rare event,” he said in a phone Puerto Rico’s main international “With all this trauma that yesterday, setting social media “It was a loud noise,” he interview. airport said they captured the we have as a result of the earth- Colombia’s army used abuzz as the spectacle amazed said. “I see this ball of fire, very Irizarry said that the meteor event on camera but flight oper- quakes ... one could think it’s American foreign aid money some people and unsettled fast and very big, and I said, was visible for up to 10 seconds ations were not interrupted. something catastrophic,” she for an illegal domestic spying others on an island still being ‘Wow, that can’t be a plane and that he suspects it was at The event scared many in said. programme that targeted hit daily by small earthquakes. because it’s going too fast.’” least a couple of feet in length the US territory that is experi- Her father, appraiser Juan lawmakers and other public The bright burning ball was The meteor was visible given reports that it left a smoke encing strong daily aftershocks Noriega, watched the spectacle figures, two opposition caught by security cameras and across Puerto Rico in broad trail. following a 6.4 magnitude with her. “All of a sudden, I see senators who say they were people randomly taking pic- daylight, said Eddie Irizarry, a Some people on social quake January 7 that killed one a giant ball going across the victims of the espionage have tures and video of other things. Puerto Rico astronomy pro- media reported seeing the person and caused an estimated sky,” he said. “It was orange in told US congress. Rafael Rivera, a pharmacist, fessor and vice president of the meteor hit just off the coast of $200m in damage along the colour, and coming in like a jet The complaint comes after said he saw and heard the Caribbean Astronomy Society. the capital of San Juan. Those island’s south coast. throwing off fumes.” evidence that military agents had illegally eavesdropped on congressmen, journalists and judges was published this Tribes back manifesto to save week in local news magazine Semana. Amazon habitat from Bolsonaro “They had resources from the United States in terms of REUTERS — XINGU INDIGENOUS agribusiness and the renting technology and money,” PARK of our lands, nor logging, Colombian senator Ivan illegal fishing, hydroelectric Cepeda told reporters yes- Leaders of native tribes in dams or other projects that will terday, after meeting with Brazil issued a rallying call to impact us directly and irre- members of the House Foreign protect the Amazon rainforest versibly,” the four-page doc- Relations Committee in and its indigenous people from ument said. Washington. what they called the “genocide, The meeting in the village “Why is taxpayer money ethnocide and ecocide” of Piaraçu on the Xingu river being used for criminal work planned by the country’s far- was called by Raoni Metuktire, in Colombia?” he added. right President Jair Bolsonaro. the 90-year-old Kayapó chief Both he and fellow law- A manifesto signed yes- who became an environmental maker Roy Barreras are terday at the end of a four-day campaigner in the 1980s with members of the Colombian meeting in the Xingu reser- British rock singer Sting at his Senate’s peace commission vation said Bolsonaro was side. and advocates of the country’s threatening the survival of The tribes said the Brazilian peace process with former indigenous people with plans state under Bolsonaro had rebels from the FARC militant to allow commercial mining failed to fulfill its constitutional group, which signed a and ranching on their protected duty to protect indigenous ceasefire agreement with the The SpaceX Crew Dragon sits atop a Falcon 9 booster rocket on Pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center lands. lands and the surrounding government in 2016 after a before a scheduled in-flight abort test at Cape Canaveral, in Florida, yesterday. “The government is environment by stopping illegal deadly insurgency that attacking us and wants to grab activity and punishing invaders. spanned decades. our lands,” the document said, They also held the gov- Colombian President Ivan Rough seas delay escape test for Falcon rocket calling for a year of demonstra- ernment responsible for the Duque was elected in 2018 on AP — CAPE CANAVERAL months. But the wind and (ISS). Nasa officials said that tions and the support of foreign poisoning of the “air, soil and a platform of opposing the waves were too high in the could happen as soon as March. organisations and environ- rivers” by the uncontrolled use ceasefire accord, which he Rough seas prompted SpaceX recovery area out in the Boeing, meanwhile, is still mental activists. of chemicals in agriculture considers too lenient on ex- yesterday to delay the emer- Atlantic. investigating why its Starliner Bolsonaro has vowed to adjacent to their reservations. fighters guilty of serious gency escape test of its new Once launched, the capsule crew capsule ended up in the encourage economic devel- “We were convened by crimes. crew capsule by a day. will catapult off the rocket and, wrong orbit last month fol- opment in the Amazon to lift Chief Raoni with the goal of Barreras said that the espi- Liftoff is now set for today if all goes well, parachute into the lowing liftoff. It was the Star- the tribes from poverty and coming together and onage programme was part of at Nasa’s Kennedy Space ocean with a pair of mannequins. liner’s first test flight, with no improve the lives of 30 million denouncing that a political a strategy of “intimidation”. Center. The rocket — being recycled after one on board, and the mishap Brazilians who live there. project by the Brazilian gov- Cepeda and Barreras met The Falcon rocket was sup- three previous flights — will end prevented the capsule from Environmentalists fear his ernment of genocide, ethnocide with members of the Inter- posed to blast off yesterday on up being destroyed. flying to the ISS. plans will speed up destruction and ecocide is underway,” the American Commission on a 10-minute flight to demon- The test is the last major Nasa is looking for SpaceX of the rainforest, which is a manifesto said. Human Rights (IACHR) to seek strate the capsule’s emergency hurdle for SpaceX before and Boeing to start flying astro- bulwark against global climate Bolsonaro’s office did not protection measures in the escape system before astro- launching two Nasa astronauts nauts to the space station this change. immediately respond to a wake of the spying claims. nauts climb aboard in a few to International Space Station year. “We do not accept mining, request for comment.