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TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020 16 RABIA II - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8458 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS Recharge using the app and get health insurance as a gift! Nearly QR6bn contracts signed for transformation to eco-friendly vehicles IRFAN BUKHARI THE PENINSULA

To implement electric vehicle Today we took a historic step by signing contracts to strategy prepared by the the transformation to environmentally friendly vehicles Ministry of Transport and Communications (MoTC) for at a cost of QR6 billion. This step is an important shift adoption of clean energy mass towards a cleaner environment and a low-carbon economy, transit and transformation to embodying the goals of 2030, and its first application eco-friendly vehicles, a number will be in 2022, in fulfilment of H H the Amir's promise to of contracts with approximate organize the first carbon neutral World Cup. value of QR6bn were signed yesterday. Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani witnessing Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin including Mowasalat (Karwa), production plant, development the signing of contracts to implement the transformation to environmentally-friendly vehicles. Also Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani Chinese companies (Yutong, of electric bus stations and seen is the Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti. witnessed the signing of con- Higer), Ashghal, Qatar Free depots. tracts to implement the trans- Zones Authority (QFZA), Under the contracts and in cooperation with the concerned pioneer in the area of clean The SC also signed a con- formation to environmentally- Supreme Committee for within the framework of imple- authorities, electric buses will be energy mass transit, becoming tract with Karwa for providing friendly vehicles. Delivery and Legacy (SC) are for menting the electric vehicle provided and the infrastructure one of the very first countries operational services for such The different contracts electric buses’ purchase, estab- strategy prepared by the Ministry for them will be developed, such in the world having an inte- buses and their facilities, in signed among different parties lishment of electric bus of Transport and Communications as stations, warehouses and grated electric bus system, in addition to providing the smart parking lots. addition to boosting the technology and techniques to Talking to The Peninsula on potential value of the legacy of manage the bus fleet. Addi- Ashghal signed 11 the sidelines of contracts the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 tionally, the contract stipulates Qatar Free Zones signing ceremony, Minister of bus system for creating a pos- the provision of all safety and new contracts worth Authority signed a Transport and Communications itive legacy. security requirements, essential multilateral framework QR2bn with different H E Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti “It clearly demonstrates transportation plans and nec- agreement with Yutong Qatari companies for said: “We are signing approxi- Qatar is committed to deploying essary consultation services. and Mowasalat to building bus stations mately QR6bn deals for buses, global clean energy solutions on These contracts are estimated manufacture electric- By 2022, and bus depots, as infrastructure and (for trans- transportation and determined at nearly QR3.7bn. 25% buses in part of the public bus forming) whole transportation to host an exceptional, eco- QFZA signed a multilateral buses in Umm Al Houl sector. Buses are just part of the friendly, carbon-neutral cham- framework agreement with Free Zone. Qatar will be infrastructure program. whole project. We are going to pionship,” he noted. Yutong and Mowasalat to man- electric. realise what we put in the Mowasalat (Karwa) signed ufacture electric-buses strategy. From 2021, we are two contracts to purchase buses (e-buses) in Umm AlHoul Free going to adopt clean energy to put in service during the FIFA Zone, with the first e-buses pro- Mowasalat signed mass transit. For electric cars World Cup Qatar 2022. One duced for the Qatar FIFA World two contracts to too we are working with contract was signed with Cup 2022. purchase buses to partners like Kahramaa to Yutong for 741 electric buses Ashghal signed 11 new con- put in service during establish electric charging sta- and 261 diesel buses and the tracts worth QR2bn with dif- tions on roads.” second with Higer to purchase ferent Qatari companies for the FIFA World Cup In a statement, H E the Min- 1,815 diesel buses which are building bus stations and bus Qatar 2022. ister said that such steps would powered by the new eco- depots, as part of the public bus enhance Qatar’s ranking as a friendly diesel. infrastructure program. `P2

Kahramaa inaugurates QR400m Al Suwaidi Super Substation FUEL PRICE

SIDI MOHAMED about 28 substations have been Building such a substation Department, said that this inau- power supply for Al Bidda inaugurated, with three more came as part of the plan to guration demonstrates Kah- Metro Station, one of the major THE PENINSULA Qatar Petroleum announced yesterday substations under construction. expand electricity trans- ramaa’s ability to meet new stations in its network. This the petrol and diesel prices for the Qatar General Electricity and Some substations are expected mission grids in Qatar. It was challenges by upgrading and serves to increase reliability month of December 2020. Water Corporation (Kahramaa) to be launched next month, constructed according to the expanding the existing main and enhance support for Al launched a QR400m ‘Al bringing the number of substa- highest safety and security substation, adding a 400KV grid Sadd and Bin Mahmoud sta- Suwaidi Super Substation’ tions to over 320. standards, with two million to it, and installing cables with tions, as the areas containing QR1.25 yesterday. The substation will Project Manager, Eng. working hours without a voltage of 400KV and a length these stations are densely pop- Price of super grade petrol be the first major substation Maitha Al Nuaimi estimated the injuries. of 16km to connect Al Suwaidi ulated and are under high for a litre with a voltage of (132/400)KV substation’s overall capacity at Officials, engineers, techni- Substation with the Greater electrical loads. to be implemented in the heart around 1000MVA, which will cians, supervisors, and workers Doha South Substation. This also allows for the pos- QR1.20 of Doha. suffice to provide three vital of Kahramaa have attended the On her part, Eng. Aisha Al sibility of establishing other sta- The inauguration came as residential areas with power inauguration. Muhammadi, Head of the tions, such as Al Amir Team Price of premium grade petrol part of the thirteenth phase of supply (Al Sadd, Bin Mahmoud, Eng. Muhammad Al Kubaisi, Transmission Grids Planning Station, and transferring some for a litre the electricity transmission and Fareej Al Sudan), in Head of Transmission Opera- Section, indicated that the new loads from Al Wajba Super Sub- grids expansion project in addition to the stations con- tions and Maintenance Section, substation plays a vital role in station to Al Suwaidi Substation, QR1.15 `P2 Qatar. This year, nected to the rail project. Electricity Transmission providing an alternative she added. Price of diesel for a litre. Final phase of Qatar Census 10th Katara Traditional Dhow Festival opens today 2020 begins today RAYNALD C RIVERA THE PENINSULA TODAY’S SCHEDULE GROUP STAGE SANAULLAH ATAULLAH bin Muhammad Al Nabit. and Ministry of Interior following The Cultural Village Foundation (Katara) is all set for the opening THE PENINSULA Speaking in a press con- preventive and probationary of the 10th Katara Traditional Dhow Festival today at the Katara Lokomotiv Moscow 8:55pm ference held at the headquarters measures to curb the spread of Esplanade. Starting from today households of PSA yesterday, H E Al Nabit COVID-19. “The results of the Even before its launch, the five-day festival has been generating Red Bull Salzburg and individuals across Qatar will said that final phase of General General Census of Population, huge buzz from Katara visitors curious to see what the festival, which Shakhtar Donetsk 8:55pm be able to respond to the Census of Population, Housing Housing and Establishment 2020 celebrates a decade of success this year, can offer amid the pan- General Census of Population, and Establishment 2020 which will be announced in second demic. Yesterday, a number of curious onlookers were seen at the Real Madrid Housing and Establishment was suspended because of quarter (Q2) of 2021,” said Al Nabit. venue which saw organisers and participants making final prepa- Atalanta 11:00pm FC Midtjylland 2020 by filling census question- COVID-19 has resumed now. He said that the 2020 census rations for today’s much-awaited kick-off. `P5 naire through online platform “The Self-Enumeration for project seeks to provide a com- Atletico Madrid 11:00pm of the Planning and Statistics the Qatar Census 2020 will be prehensive database through the One of the dhows on show at Bayern Munich Katara Esplanade. PIC: RAYNALD Authority (PSA). available until January 7, 2021. extensive use of administrative C RIVERA/THE PENINSULA “The Self-Enumeration for Census enumerators will be records in statistical process. FC Porto 8:55pm Man City the Qatar Census 2020 is dispatched door-to-door from “The main aim of the census Liverpool 11:00pm Ajax available at the link https://www. middle of December 2020 to is creating a high quality central psa.gov.qa/en/statistics1/statistic- collect the census of house- register of population, housing M'gladbach 11:00pm Inter Milan ssite/census/census2020/eforms/ holds who could not fill online and establishments data, with pages/login.aspx for citizen and questionnaires,” said Al Nabit. more comprehensive coverage Marseille 11:00pm residents who wish to participate He said that the field visits of and connected to a system for the Olympiakos FC in the self-enumeration,” said census takers will be conducted continuous simultaneous See also `Sport 12 President of the Planning and by PSA in cooperation with the updating of these data,” said Al Statistics Authority, H E Dr. Saleh Ministry of Public Health Nabit. `P2 02 HOME TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020

Nearly QR6bn contracts OFFICIAL NEWS signed for transformation Amir congratulates to eco-friendly vehicles Governor-General of Barbados FROM PAGE 1 facilitate for passengers to wait inside and prevent effects of bare DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin The new bus stations and bus sunlight and humidity. Hamad Al Thani and Deputy Amir depots program implemented by Dr. Eng. Saad bin Ahmed Al H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al the Buildings Projects Muhannadi, President of Ashghal, Thani sent yesterday cables of con- Department of Ashghal includes confirmed that Ashghal has gratulations to Governor-General building 8 main bus stations in signed 11 new contracts worth of of Barbados H E Sandra Mason on West Bay, Musheireb, Industrial QR2bn for building bus stations the occasion of her country’s Inde- Area, Al Soudan, Al Gharrafa, and warehouses. Ashghal Pres- pendence Day. Prime Minister and Education City, Al Wakra and ident also clarified that these con- Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid Lusail, with average capacity of tracts are entrusted to Qatari bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani 25 buses in each of the stations. companies within the framework Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani and other also sent a cable of congratulations The contracts also include of government’s directives to dignitaries during the signing of contracts to implement the transformation to environmentally- to Prime Minister of Barbados H E building 4 huge bus depots in support national companies and friendly vehicles. Mia Mottley on the occasion of her Lusail, Al Rayyan, Industrial Area the assigned companies have country’s Independence Day. -QNA and Al Wakra, and the area of proven efficiency in imple- strategies for the FIFA World Cup preparation for the FIFA World added to the company’s fleet to each depot ranges from 129,000 menting works entrusted to them 2022 as the SC endeavors to Cup 2022. Mowasalat (Karwa) build a legacy for the public and sqm to 190,000 sqm. Within recently. provide sustainable, economical, provides modern, comfortable school transport.” Speaker of Kenya these contracts, Ashghal will also Secretary-General of the SC, eco-friendly transit solutions and eco-friendly solutions using Al Qahtani told The build 2700 bus stops on all major Hassan Al Thawadi, said the during the championship. the latest technology for a first- Peninsula that by Qatar 2022, parliament meets roads, to serve thousands of pas- gradual and full transformation Fahad Saad Al Qahtani, class mobility infrastructure. We 25% buses in Qatar will be electric sengers in many areas to use to an electric bus system is a sig- Mowasalat (Karwa) CEO, said: are currently purchasing 3000 while by 2030 all public transport Qatar’s envoy public buses. These bus stops nificant development with “Qatar’s transport sector is wit- new buses for the FIFA World buses in the country will be with air-conditioned cabins will regards to transportation nessing a breakthrough in Cup 2022, which will then be electric. QNA — NAIROBI

Speaker of the National HBKU concludes Assembly of the Republic of Virtual Graduate Kenya H E Justin Muturi met Shura Council discusses with Ambassador of the State Studies Open House of Qatar to the Republic of Kenya H E Jabr bin Ali Al QNA — DOHA Dossari. During the meeting, they Hamad Bin Khalifa University draft state budget for 2021 reviewed bilateral cooperation (HBKU) concluded its annual relations and issues of Graduate Studies Open House common interest. which aimed at providing QNA — DOHA by clarity and transparency, is Shura Council praised the draft prospective students with key Speaker of the Shura based on adopting the principle state budget for the fiscal year information regarding the The Shura Council held its Council briefed members of medium-term planning for 2021 and praised the efforts of the Committee to 2020-2021 academic regular weekly session yesterday on the agreement signed the general budget and on esteemed government and the programs, within an inter- under the chairmanship of requiring all ministries and gov- implementation of plans and pro- disburse cash active virtual environment. Speaker of the Council H E last Wednesday to ernment bodies to stick to grammes within the framework More than 500 prospective Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al establish the United financial ceilings and continuing of the National Development assistance to students were able to benefit Mahmoud. Nations Office of Counter- to allocate financial resources Strategy 2018-2022 and Qatar from this years sessions, In a meeting attended by Terrorism Program to complete strategic projects in National Vision 2030. families in Gaza spanning all of HBKU’s 33 Minister of Finance H E Ali bin Office, concerned with accordance with the Qatar After this, the Council’s multidisciplinary graduate Shareef Al Emadi, President of Vision 2030, especially those session continued where the programs across its six the Public Works Authority parliamentary related to hosting World Cup Speaker of the Shura Council QNA — GAZA colleges. (Ashghal) Dr. Saad bin Ahmed Al engagement in 2022 and the health and edu- briefed members on the The six-day online event Mohannadi, and several senior preventing and cation sectors. agreement signed last Chairman of the Qatar was directed at potential stu- officials at the Ministry of Finance combating terrorism. Also, allocating the necessary Wednesday to establish the Committee for the Recon- dents who had identified a and Ashghal, the Council dis- financial resources to develop United Nations Office of Counter- struction of Gaza H E Ambas- program of interest and would cussed the draft General State new citizens’ lands and infra- Terrorism (UNOCT) Program sador Mohammed Al Emadi gain from knowing more Budget for the fiscal year 2021 structure for existing areas, sup- Office, concerned with parlia- affirmed that the Committee, in about course content, study and the draft law approving it. State Budget for 2021, which its porting initiatives to develop the mentary engagement in pre- cooperation with the Qatar Fund options and campus life. In H E the Minister of Finance draft was discussed, is a result of business environment to venting and combating terrorism. for Development (QFFD), will keeping with previous years, explained the government’s view H H the Amir’s directives, enhance the role of the private The UNOCT Program Office will begin the process of disbursing faculty, members from admis- on the draft budget and answered foremost of which is the need to sector and its participation in be headquartered in the State of cash assistance to families in sions and students affairs, and the questions and queries raised adhere to proper planning, long- various economic activities, Qatar, and its activities will cover need in the Gaza Strip, on current students were on hand by the Council members. term vision, and rationalisation working to maintain the coun- the parliaments of the world. Thursday. to field questions and offer At the beginning of the dis- of government spending asso- try’s credit rating, and raising The Speaker of the Shura Ambassador Al Emadi said their perspectives on working cussion of the draft budget, the ciated with higher efficiency of levels of non-oil revenue col- Council said that the estab- that 100,000 families in the Gaza and studying with HBKU. Par- Speaker of the Shura Council, the public sector, to enhance eco- lection. In his name and the lishment of this office in Doha Strip will benefit from the cash ticipants also had the oppor- expressed the Council’s pride in nomic diversity, increase labour names of all Council members, comes as an appreciation from assistance at the rate of $100 per tunity to discuss strategies for the wise leadership of the Amir productivity and efficiency in the the Speaker expressed his thanks the international community for family. He stressed that the dis- developing stronger applica- H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad public sector, and to encourage to the Minister of Finance, the Qatar’s distinguished role in tribution process will take place tions and hear from college Al Thani and his wise policies private sector investment. In this President of the Public Works combating terrorism, based on through the branches of the deans as to why the university which enabled the country to way, it embodies the visions and Authority, and the accompanying the policy of the Amir H H Sheikh Postal Bank in the sector, as part is such a unique place to study. occupy this prestigious position ideas presented by His Highness, team for attending the Council’s Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in of the preventive measures taken As a result of COVID-19, this and achieve these great achieve- their first and foremost aim is to session and responding to the this field, and his keenness on to fight the coronavirus outbreak, years Graduate Studies Open ments in various fields despite develop the country and serve inquiries of its members. unifying the global efforts to in order to preserve the safety of House was moved online with the blockade imposed on it and the citizen, he said. After extensive discussions combat terrorism in all its forms the beneficiaries and ensure their participants attending sessions the coronavirus (COVID-19) The Speaker of the Shura that reflected a deep under- and manifestations and whatever commitment to preventive via the HBKU website, social pandemic. Council stated that the draft standing of the budget’s objec- its motives, and to eliminate its measures, sterilisation and social media and mobile devices. The Speaker added that the budget, which is characterised tives, pillars, and projects, the causes. distancing. HMC set to launch lung transplantation programme THE PENINSULA — DOHA Dr. Al Kuwari said the new to travel overseas for these pro- lung transplant programme was cedures and follow-up care.” In a significant achievement for a milestone for Qatar and will The programme will Qatar, Hamad Medical Corpo- ensure patients in Qatar have provide individualised ration’s (HMC) Organ Trans- access to this specialised level treatment for patients in need plant Programme will soon start of care. of a transplant with a multidis- lung transplants. “Qatar’s organ donation and ciplinary team of transplant The new milestone was transplantation programmes pulmonologists and surgeons, announced at a special cer- have fairness and equity at their along with nurses, social emony at HMC attended by the heart and is something which workers, dietitians, rehabili- Minister for Public Health, H E we can be extremely proud of,” tation staff and other specialists President of Planning and Statistics Authority (PSA), H E Dr. Saleh bin Mohammad Al Nabit (second Dr. Hanan Mohammed Al Dr. Al Kuwari said. to provide comprehensive care right), with Director of MoPH’s Public Health Department, Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani Kuwari and other officials. “Qatar’s national strategy and support. (right); Director of the Public Relations Department at MoI, Brigadier Abdullah Khalifa Al Muftah A lung transplant is a major for organ donation and trans- This includes Professor (second left), and Director of Censuses and Statistical Surveys, Nasser Saleh Al Mahdi, during a press procedure to replace a person’s plantation is not only world- Takahiro Oto, an internally PIC: ABDUL BASIT/THE PENINSULA conference yesterday. diseased lungs with those from leading in terms of the clinical respected expert in lung trans- a donor. It is offered to people and ethical standards it applies, plantation who recently joined with lung failure when all other but it is also one that is appro- HMC as Lung Transplant Team Final phase of Qatar Census 2020 begins today treatment options have failed. priate to the healthcare needs Lead. Currently Qatar’s organ trans- of our growing and diverse Chief Medical Officer of FROM PAGE 1 Statistical Surveys at PSA said respondents to scan to get the plant programme offers kidney, population. HMC, Dr. Abdulla Al Ansari, said that that citizens and expa- link of online on their smart liver transplantation pro- “Being able to offer lung it was a great achievement for Al Nabit said that the 2020 triates can response to the phones and electronic gadgets grammes, and transplant sur- transplants here in Qatar is a the organisation and the teams census project seeks to provide census in three ways – online to fill online,” said Al Mahdi. geries making HMC one of the true milestone for our highly involved to move into the next a comprehensive database platform of self-enumeration, Director of the Public most comprehensive transplant specialised teams and means phase in the development of through the extensive use of proving information directly Health Department at the Min- centers in the region. that our patients no longer have transplant services in Qatar. administrative records in sta- to census takers during their istry of Public Health, Sheikh tistical process. door-to-door visits or through Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al “The main aim of the census paper questionnaire which will Thani said that adequate Kahramaa opens QR400m Al Suwaidi Super Substation is creating a high quality central be distributed to the measures will be taken to curb FROM PAGE 1 register of population, housing households. the spread of COVID-19 during and establishments data, with Al Mahdi who is also field visits of census takers to Eng. Ali Rashid, Head of the more comprehensive coverage heading the General Census of ensure a safe and smooth Operation Team at the Elec- and connected to a system for Population, Housing and operation. tricity Transmission the continuous simultaneous Establishment 2020 said that Brigadier Abdullah Khalifa Department, pointed out that updating of these data,” said Al census takers will give paper Al Muftah, Director of the Public the establishment of Al Suwaidi Nabit. He said that census data questionnaires in a special Relations Department at the Substation is part of Kahramaa’s represent a key base for popu- packet to curb infection of Ministry of Interior said: “We relentless efforts to improve the lation statistics, housing and coronavirus to households to will contribute greatly in cre- infrastructure of the electricity establishments that concern fill it and return at their con- ating awareness among resi- sector in Qatar and to meet the Kahramaa officials giving a brief about Al Suwaidi Super Substation. planners and decision makers. venience even in the next day. dents about the importance of growing demands of electric Nasser Saleh Al Mahdi, “Paper questionnaires have census in different power. enhance the security and sus- provided through the trans- Director of Censuses and special code (QR) enabling languages.” Rashid said it also aims to tainability of the services mission and distribution grids. TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020 HOME 03 QFFD signs MoU to provide education to 50,000 out-of-school children in Sudan

THE PENINSULA — DOHA Foundation through its Educate a Child programme,” he added. Qatar Fund For Development El-Tom expressed his grat- (QFFD) signed a memorandum This support comes as itude and appreciation to the State of understanding (MoU) with the part of Qatar’s of Qatar for its permanent support Federal Ministry of Education in commitment towards the to the Republic of Sudan in all the Republic of Sudan to support fields, especially education, and a project by Education Above All brothers and sisters in His Excellency spoke about the (EAA) Foundation with its partner Sudan, and builds on a efforts Sudan is undertaking to Unicef, which will provide 50,000 number of current advance education. out-of-school children (OOSC) development and relief Fahad bin Hamad Al Sulaiti with access to quality formal and projects between the two said: “EAA has provided quality informal education. education in several countries, The project will focus on countries, which cover including the Republic of Sudan, improvement of learning envi- several areas in various through its partnerships with ronments, capacity-building to states international institutions such as ensure the provision of quality Unicef and UNHCR, to implement education for children deprived Khalifa bin Jassim five projects, in which it sought to of education, in addition to enrol more than 600,000 out of increasing community partici- Al Kuwari school children. And with the pation and awareness of the Director-General of QFFD partnership between Unicef and importance of access to primary the Education Above All Foun- education. dation, the project will target the The MoU was signed remotely enrolment of an additional by Director-General of QFFD, Sudan, and builds on a number 50,000 children without primary Khalifa bin Jassim Al Kuwari; of current development and relief education, including children in Ambassador of the Republic of projects between the two coun- rural areas, Bedouin commu- Sudan to Qatar, H E Abdul Rahim tries, which cover several areas nities, children affected by con- Speaker of Shura Council, H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud; Minister of Finance H E Ali Al Siddig Mohammed, and a rep- bin Shareef Al Emadi, and President of Public Works Authority (Ashghal), Dr. Eng. Saad bin Ahmed resentative of the Minister of Edu- Al Muhannadi, planting trees in the park near Shura Council building. cation of the Republic of Sudan, H E Mohammed El-Amin Ahmed El-Tom. Shura Council Speaker, Finance Minister plant trees The virtual signing ceremony was attended by the Minister of THE PENINSULA — DOHA members of Shura Council. Places in the country. Planting Education of the Republic of On this occasion, H E trees today is a symbol of life, Sudan, H E Mohammed El-Amin The Supervisory Committee of Abdullah bin Fahd Ghorab, a growth and continuous devel- Ahmed El-Tom; CEO of Education Beautification of Roads and member of Shura Council, said opment in Qatar, thanks to God Above All Foundation, Fahad bin Public Places in Qatar planted that he is impressed with the and thanks to the blessed efforts Hamad Al Sulaiti; and members trees in the park near to Shura initiative of Supervisory Com- of His Highness Amir, the gov- of the Embassy of Qatar in Council building, in continu- mittee of Beautification of ernment, ministers, and their Khartoum. ation of ‘Qatar Beautification Roads and Public Places, which deliveries to this beloved The project will ensure the and our Kids Planting Trees’ contributes to spreading country. We are happy to plant education of 50,000 out-of- campaign launched by the awareness about the impor- trees today, and we hope that school children who are not Director-General of Qatar Fund For Development, Khalifa bin Committee in last year. tance of planting trees and our children and next gener- receiving formal education. Jassim Al Kuwari, and Ambassador of the Republic of Sudan to The campaign aiming at increasing green areas in Qatar. ation will harvest the fruits of The project aims to enhance Qatar, H E Abdul Rahim Al Siddig Mohammed, signing an MoU to planting one million trees in He also praised the committee what we planted,”she said, the educational environment, provide out-of-school children with access to education. cooperation with Ministry of efforts to involve many institu- Chairman of Supervisory capacity-building to ensure a Municipality and Environment tions and entities of the state in Committee of Beautification of qualitative education for children in various states,” Al Kuwari said. flict and children with (MME). the initiative, besides involving Roads and Public Places in Qatar, deprived of education, in addition “The MoU aims to provide disabilities”. Speaker of Shura Council, children. Eng Mohammad Arqoub Al to increasing community partic- quality education opportunities According to the latest sta- H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin H E Dr. Aisha Yousef Al Khaldi, said the campaign aims ipation and awareness of the for OOSC, reaching the largest tistics by Unicef, Sudan has one Zaid Al Mahmoud; Minister of Mannai, a member of Shura at spreading awareness about the importance of enrolment in possible number of children, and of the highest numbers of OOSC Finance H E Ali bin Shareef Al Council expressed delight in the importance of planting trees, primary education. developing schools and facilities in the Middle East and North Emadi, and President of Public initiative. emphasising the social respon- “This support comes as part to support these efforts. This Africa region. It is estimated that Works Authority (Ashghal), Dr. “Today we planted trees sibility of everyone in the pro- of the State of Qatar’s com- project will be implemented in more than three million children, Eng. Saad bin Ahmed Al within the initiative of Super- tection and preservation of envi- mitment towards the brothers cooperation with our strategic aged between 5-13 years old, do Muhannadi, attended the event visory Committee of Beautifi- ronment. He said that the cam- and sisters in the Republic of partner, Education Above All not go to school. along with distinguished cation of Roads and Public paign will last up to end of 2021. 04 HOME TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020

185 new virus cases, 228 recoveries: MoPH Shura Council participates in workshop on

THE PENINSULA — DOHA introduced to isolation and are The Ministry asked people parliaments’ role in protecting elderly rights receiving necessary healthcare to be careful and protect the The Ministry of Public Health according to their health status. most vulnerable, while (MoPH) yesterday announced The Ministry further said COVID-19 restrictions are being the registration of 185 new that measures to tackle lifted. confirmed COVID-19 cases. COVID-19 in Qatar have suc- “Unless we follow all pre- Among them 33 were travellers ceeded in flattening the curve cautionary measures, we may returning from abroad, and limiting the spread of the experience a second wave of according to the Ministry virus. the virus and see numbers Also 228 people have Qatar’s proactive and increasing. There are already recovered from the virus, extensive testing of suspected signs of this happening in other bringing the total number of cases has enabled the Ministry countries around the world. recovered cases in Qatar to to identify a high number of Now more than ever, we must 136,090. positive cases in the be careful and protect the most All new cases have been community. vulnerable,” it added.

Shura Council members, H E Abdullah bin Khalid Al Mana and H E Saqr bin Fahad Al Muraikhi take part in a parliamentary workshop, organised virtually by ESCWA.

QNA — DOHA (ESCWA) in cooperation with allocating financial resources the Arab League and the Arab and ensuring legislative laws The Shura Council partici- States Regional Office of the that meet their needs, espe- pated yesterday in a parlia- United Nations Population cially during the period of the mentary workshop on “The Fund (UNFPA). coronavirus (COVID-19) role of Arab parliaments in Discussions during the pandemic. protecting the rights of the workshop focused on the The Shura Council was elderly”, which was organised crucial role of parliaments in represented in this workshop virtually by the United Nations expressing the priorities and by its members, H E Abdullah Economic and Social issues of the elderly and bin Khalid Al Mana and H E Commission for Western Asia advancing their rights by Saqr bin Fahad Al Muraikhi.

Participants during a workshop on public spaces in the Arab countries. MME takes part in workshop on public spaces

QNA — DOHA symposium, the Urban spread of coronavirus, the Planning Department pre- growing importance of open The Ministry of Municipality sented a working paper and spaces, public spaces, green and Environment (MME), repre- a detailed technical presen- and recreational spaces, and sented by the Urban Planning tation entitled the inevita- the reflection of these lessons Department, participated in the bility of formulating a on the strategy of public and activities of a virtual regional national strategy for public green spaces in Qatari cities. workshop on public spaces in spaces in the post-oil and Qatar’s strategy for public, the Arab countries. post-coronavirus era. green and recreational spaces The event was organised They dealt with the urban and its ability to balance the by the United Nations Human and planning philosophy of needs of society and preserve Settlements Program (Habitat) the Urban Planning the state’s natural and envi- and its Public Space Program, Department in the State of ronmental components, and in partnership with the Arab Qatar that emanates from an analysis of the pillars of Towns Organisation, with the Qatar National Vision 2030, the solutions-based approach participation of a number of especially the importance of maximising the role of nature representatives of urban, preparing for the post-oil era. and green public spaces in municipal and planning The presentation also health, resilience and sustain- administrations in Arab cities. dealt with the lessons that ability were also During the three-day cities have learned from the highlighted. MoCI announces recall of Yamaha YBR125ESD bike model of 2018

THE PENINSULA — DOHA

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), in cooperation with Albadi Trading & Contracting, dealer of Yamaha in Qatar, has announced the recall of Yamaha YBR125ESD bike model of 2018 because the rear brake lining adhesive may peel off while braking at high temperature. The recall campaign comes within the framework of the Ministry’s continuous efforts to protect consumers and ensure that dealers follow up on bikes’ defects and repairs. The Ministry said that it will coordinate with the dealer to follow up on the maintenance and repair works and will communicate with customers to ensure that they carried out the nec- essary repairs. The Ministry urged all customers to report any vio- lations to its Consumer Pro- tection and Anti-Commercial Fraud Department, which processes complaints, inquires and suggestions through its communication channels: Call center: 1600, Email: [email protected] TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020 HOME 05 CHLS continues to grow, address health challenges FAZEENA SALEEM integrate scientific expertise by percent are Qatari students. The THE PENINSULA combining a seasoned col- College has 49 alumni. lective of research partners Speaking about the career The College of Health and Life within the university with perspectives for CHLS grad- Sciences (CHLS) at Hamad Bin esteemed external clinical and uates, Dr. Stuenkel said, “Grad- Khalifa University (HBKU) health science partners. uates of the college have career continues to grow in faculty, “The college has a wide prospects within the rapidly course offerings, research diversity of research initiatives growing biomedical and health President of the State Audit Bureau and Chairman of the Executive project opportunities to and projects which its students sector in Qatar, as well as Council of Arab Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions, H E produce professionals to may become involved in. The globally.” address national and global college’s primary faculty span “The recent emphasis to Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed bin Saoud Al Thani, during the health challenges, said the the areas of precision med- advance and improve meeting. Founding Dean of the College. icine as well as molecular and healthcare through the appli- The College provides an cellular understanding of cation of precision medicine President of State Audit Bureau engaging and highly positive physiological function and creates a strong need for such scientific training environment dysfunction,” said Dr. a highly trained and commu- chairs ARABOSAI meeting for students to excel and, upon Stuenkel. nicative workforce. In addition, Dr. Edward Stuenkel graduation, launch a successful “In addition, the college is combining precision medicine, QNA — DOHA pandemic and to ensure the career, said Founding Dean of in partnership and has joint and physical activity, and nutrition continuation of the organisa- CHIL Dr. Edward Stuenkel. merges specific advantages of adjunct faculty with a number for preventative health care President of the State Audit tion’s work and its efforts to “CHLS maintains consid- an interactive online format of biomedical scientists at other creates exciting new opportu- Bureau and Chairman of the enhance the capabilities of erable enthusiasm for recruiting with more experiential and lab- institutions and clinical centers nities for those receiving multi- Executive Council of Arab member supervisory agencies a group of excellent student oratory-based face-to-face including Sidra Medicine, Weill disciplinary training in exercise Organization of Supreme Audit through the recommendations candidates for the 2021-2022 training. The educational focus Cornell Medical Center, Hamad science. Institutions (ARABOSAI) H E and proposals that were academic year,” he told The of the college remains to engage Medical Corporation and others. Addressing health chal- Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed adopted in the extraordinary Peninsula. student learning, develop skills This provides not only terrific lenges such as the COVID-19 bin Saoud Al Thani yesterday council meeting held at the CHLS provides essential in critical thinking and crea- research opportunities for our pandemic has re-focused presided over the 61st virtual beginning of the crisis. He educational and research tivity, and to facilitate scientific students but also an extensive public attention on the critical meeting of the organisation’s stressed his confidence that training to future leaders in the discovery,” said Dr. Stuenkel. professional community of importance of trained bio- executive council, with the the organisation will emerge fields of biomedical sciences, The College embodies a which they are an integral part,” medical scientists to a pro- participation of Their Excel- stronger, more effective and genomics, precision medicine, multidisciplinary learning he said. gressive society. This stimu- lencies heads of the Supreme able to achieve its goals, and and exercise science. Due to approach to research and dis- CHLS was founded in 2018, lates growth in clinical, indus- Audit Institutions members of keep pace with the successive COVID-19 programs at CHLS covery and aims to become a has 134 students following five trial and academic research the organization’s executive developments in the field of are delivered in an innovative dedicated hub of knowledge programmes at present. They enterprises that will provide council. oversight work. blended method. sharing in the area of health and represent more than 60 nation- sensational employment Opening the meeting, Pres- The two-day meeting of the “This delivery life sciences. Its programs alities and among them 12 opportunities,” he added. ident of the State Audit Bureau executive council of ARABOSAI and Chairman of the Executive will discuss many important Council of the Organisation topics, including the report of Sheikh Bandar bin Mohammed the head of the executive 10th Katara Traditional Dhow Festival opens today bin Saoud Al Thani said that council on the council’s activ- today’s meeting, which is being ities and the organisation’s FROM PAGE 1 see starting today at 3.30pm. competitions and marine shows ancient craft. In addition, visitors held in light of the continuing activities since the 59th Over a dozen traditional Festival organizers have are among the major features can enjoy story-telling and tra- exceptional circumstances meeting, in addition to the dhows of different types, sizes stressed that the event will of this year’s festival, besides a ditional stage shows throughout imposed by the coronavirus reports of the general secre- and designs could be seen dis- implement health and safety variety of cultural activities and the festival as well as Al Shoush, (COVID-19) pandemic and the tariat and sub-committees of played at the Esplanade. Katara precautionary measures against events that reflect ancestral Al Haddaq and Al Tafris compe- resulting economic and social the organization, the presen- Beach was abuzz with partici- COVID-19 as per the Ministry heritage and shed light on the titions. Among the performers challenges, made us more con- tation of the reports of the pants setting up the different of Public Health protocols to ancient maritime history aimed at the show is an Omani folk vinced and aware of the impor- bodies on their participation in stalls which will display various protect its visitors. at restoring culture and pre- band who will entertain visitors tance of strengthening joint the work of the committees and marine products and demon- Apart from participants from serving folk heritage. with artistic performances efforts to upgrade regulatory working groups of the Interna- strate the process of making Qatar, the festival, which high- The activities include exhibi- throughout the festival days. bodies to overcome the neg- tional Organisation of Supreme dhows and other marine related lights authentic maritime tradi- tions displaying maritime her- The festival is open today ative impacts of this Audit Institutions (INTOSAI), products using traditional tools tions inspired by Qatar’s itage collections from various from 3.30pm till 10pm. pandemic. the approval of the organiza- and equipment. ancestral past, also witnesses the participating countries, special Tomorrow, on Thursday and He affirmed that the tion’s accounting system, the Dozens more dhows of participation of Kuwait, Oman, pavilions of traditional handi- Saturday, the event will be open ARABOSAI was the first to set closing account for the year various kinds are moored on Iraq, and Zanzibar (Tanzania). crafts, and workshops show- from 10am to 10pm and on up plans to deal with the 2019, and the estimated budget the beach for festival visitors to A number of exciting casing ship-building process and Friday from 1pm to 11pm. repercussions of this for the year 2020. Understanding cybersecurity threats in a remote-work environment Cyberthreats are constantly evolving in order to number of cyberattacks directed at its staff, and email scams targeting the Home-working take advantage of online behaviour and trends. public at large. Scammers increasingly policies must also be The COVID-19 outbreak is no exception. targeted the general public in order to channel donations to a fictitious fund made clear with easy- AHMAD AL BIKAWI talks about the risks and and not the authentic COVID-19 Sol- to-follow steps that challenges ahead, at both a corporate and idary Response Fund. Whatever the industry — be it empower employees individual level, to help address some of the healthcare, manufacturing, retail, or to make their home- most common security risks facing remote- otherwise — the challenge has been compounded by sectors who have had working environment working environments in the region today. to accelerate a work-from-home secure. For IT leaders, process with only limited if any pre- considering advanced vious cybersecurity training. As COVID-19 continues to disrupt our 50% of employees were working Security teams and home office protection offered lives, many people around the Gulf outside of their main office head- users can, however, minimize the risks by 5G leased lines have been forced to quickly adapt to quarters for at least 2.5 days per week, that come with remote-working setups. working remotely. These precautions according to a 2019 study by the Inter- Based on security experts’ recommen- for businesses, Wi- have been a great contribution to com- national Workplace Group. However, dations, private and public sectors Fi 6 connectivity, bating the pandemic, yet they have also COVID-19 has challenged more — Ahmad AL Bikawi should work with their security teams left some people and their organiza- perhaps all — organizations to poten- to identify likely attack vectors as a and cloud-based tions exposed to a variety of tially embrace a full remote-work health crisis. result of more employees working security services is a cyberthreats. style for the immediate future. Aside According to one recent report from home, and prioritize the pro- Before the pandemic, only around from the pressure this office exodus from ISACA, more than 90% of busi- tection of their most sensitive, great start. There are puts on IT teams, network architec- nesses surveyed say that threat across business-critical applications. challenges involved tures, and even equipment suppliers, will increase cyberattacks on indi- Home-working policies must also in accomplishing The healthcare there are real cybersecurity challenges viduals during the times of COVID-19. be made clear with easy-to-follow community has to consider. However, just half are highly confident steps that empower employees to remote-working Cyberthreats are constantly in their security team’s ability to detect make their home-working envi- at speed, but the been one example evolving in order to take advantage and respond to these cyberthreats ronment secure. For IT leaders, con- security of one’s of an industry of online behaviour and trends. The during the pandemic. sidering advanced protection offered COVID-19 outbreak is no exception. The healthcare community has by 5G leased lines for businesses, Wi-Fi networks, devices, under increased Unfortunately, cybercriminals are been one example of an industry under 6 connectivity, and cloud-based attacking the computer networks and increased threat. Earlier this year, for security services is a great start. and data shouldn’t threat. Earlier this systems of individuals, businesses, and example, the World Health Organi- We should ultimately recognize have to be among year, for example, even global organizations at a time zation noted that since the start of the that our threat environment is not when cyber defenses might be COVID-19 pandemic, they have seen static, which means it is important to them. the World Health lowered due to the shift of focus to the a dramatic five-fold increase in the keep a close eye on evolving threats Organization noted that since the start Whatever the industry — be it healthcare, manufacturing, retail, to avoid unnecessary additional costs of the COVID-19 or otherwise — the challenge has been compounded by sectors and disruptions in a time when we can least afford them. Taking these pandemic, they have who have had to accelerate a work-from-home process with only relatively straightforward steps at seen a dramatic both a corporate and individual level limited if any previous cybersecurity training. Security teams will help address some of the most five-fold increase and home office users can, however, minimize the risks that common security risks facing our in the number of remote-working environments in the come with remote-working setups. Based on security experts’ region today. There are challenges cyberattacks directed recommendations, private and public sectors should work involved in accomplishing remote- working at speed, but the security of at its staff, and email with their security teams to identify likely attack vectors as a one’s networks, devices, and data scams targeting the result of more employees working from home, and prioritize the shouldn’t have to be among them. The writer is Chief Security public at large. protection of their most sensitive, business-critical applications. Officer – North Gulf, Huawei Middle East 06 HOME TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020

Mall of Qatar Villaggio Mall ALDO ACCESSORIES AL MAJLIS SHOPING CENTER LG POLO CLUB Rawabi Food Center LG ANTA Midas Furniture Kiddy Zone CALVIN KLEIN Max Al Khor Mall Carter’s ALDO ATHLETES CO Al Saif A/C Muaither JEANS Saudia Hypermarket Homes R us CALVIN KLEIN Splash ATHLETES CO KIDS Al Emadi Electronics EST JEANS PAN EMIRATES New Happy Baby CHARLES & KEITH GANT BEVERLY HILLS Lifestyle CHARLES & KEITH FURNITURE DUNE Dar Al Salam Mall Babyshop POLO CLUB Saudi Mini Mart Ezdan Mall Gharafa DUNE Qatar Desgin NINE WEST Splash BIRKENSTOCK Saudia Hypermarket 1 MERCH & PARTNERS CO HUSH PUPPIES ALSAEED TRADING R&B AEROPOSTALE Shoe Mart CALL IT SPRING Saudia Hypermarket 2 Babyshop LAKELAND CENTRE ALDO Lifestyle CALVIN KLEIN SKECHERS Splash RITUALS MERCH & PARTNERS CO Saudia Hypermarket 3 ALDO ACCESSORIES Max JEANS TOMMY HILFIGER SKECHERS Asia Town Shoe Mart ATHLETES CO Nike CHARLES & KEITH Bombay silk centre LG TOMMY HILFIGER Lifestyle ATHLETES CO KIDS Vans COOL CLUB Villeroy and Boch KENZ Mini Mart Lagoona Mall Sun & Sand Lifestyle BEVERLY HILLS Sun & Sand CROCS Rivano design Saudia Department Nike Max POLO CLUB Timberland DUNE DUNE Mohamed Elshenawy Stores Kiddy Zone Sun & Sand CALL IT SPRING ALDO RITUALS HERSCHEL Group Al Saad Al Wakra CHARLES & KEITH ALDO ACCESSORIES TOMMY HILFIGER LA VIE EN ROSE Saudia Department CROCS Tash Ladies Textiles LA VIE EN ROSE ATHLETES CO LC WAIKIKI Stores ABDUL HAMID ABDUL RAHIM SKECHERS Al Nasr Street LG NATURALIZER BEVERLY HILLS LEVIS Al Amana Decor AL EMADI TRADING Co Kiddy Zone Solez Babyshop NEW YORKER POLO CLUB NATURALIZER Levante Contracting Al-Taadhod Group Gulf Mall Splash SKECHERS BIRKENSTOCK Ezdan Mall Alwakra NAUTICA and Trading Happy Baby Center Babyshop THE CHILDRENS PLACE CALL IT SPRING Homes R us HUSH PUPPIES Shoe Mart Rawabi Hypermarket LG Splash TOMMY HILFIGER CALVIN KLEIN LC WAIKIKI NEW YORKER Lifestyle Al-Taadhod Group1 RETAIL MART Shoe Mart JEANS R&B NINE WEST Max Al Najma Al-Taadhod Group2 FANTINO SHOES Lifestyle CHARLES & KEITH REEBOK SKECHERS TAMIMA Home Centre Umm Salal LG CROCS THE CHILDRENS PLACE Max SMYK TAMIMA TOMMY HILFIGER Bin Omran Happy Baby Center Palms Mall DUNE TAMIMA Landmark Home Centre LA VIE EN ROSE Kiddy Zone TOMMY HILFIGER Al Shaheen EST Al-Taadhod Group ATHLETES CO LG LC WAIKIKI Umm Ghuwailina KIDS Al-Taadhod Group GANT Rawabi Hypermarket CCC Mesaieed TOMMY JEANS LEVIS ALDO Faleh Souq CROCS ABDUL HAMID ABDUL RAHIM Al Mora LG NATURALIZER R&B CHARLES & KEITH AL EMADI TRADING Co Rawabi Hypermarket ALSAEED TRADING LC WAIKIKI NEW YORKER RITUALS Souq Waqif NEW TAIF HYPERMARKET DUNE CENTRE LEVIS R&B LG Old Airport TAMIMA HUSH PUPPIES Barwa Street REEBOK RITUALS Al Gharafa Carter’s Al Shaheen EST Souq Al Ali Passion NINE WEST R&B SKECHERS HAPPY BABY Mosaic Gallery EL CRYSTAL G2000 RITUALS Tawar Mall TAMIMA TOMMY HILFIGER Al MAJSLIS SHOPPING CENTER Al-Taadhod Group Msheireb LG GANT SKECHERS Al Markhiya ABDUL HAMID ABDUL RAHIM Nabco Furniture Center Panda Hyper Market MERCH & PARTNERS CO Villeroy and Boch SMYK TAMIMA AL EMADI TRADING Co Saving Square Trading TAMIMA Nike Ocean Import and Export Bombay Silk Centre Villeroy and Boch TAMIMA Kiddy Zone Anotah Co The north face Al Jameel Showroom Home Centre CASA MODA Under Armour Nabco Furniture Center Al Kharaitiyat FANTINO SHOES Vans LG Babyshop ANOTAH The Mall R&B ULTIMA SHOES NU Athlete GRAND Kiddy Zone ALDO NEW INDIAN Al Refaa Al Duhail Timberland HYPERMARKET BIRKENSTOCK SUPERMARKET Madinat Khalifa Souq Al Nagada ABDUL HAMID ABDUL RAHIM Colombia City Centre Al Emadi Electronics EST Old Ghanim RETAIL MART FANTINO SHOES Hyatt Plaza AL EMADI TRADING Co Louis FERAUD Al Rayan ALSAEED TRADING Villeroy and Boch The Souq Homes R us Doha Festival City Balmain ALSAEED TRADING Al Dafna pierre cardin CENTRE Babyshop Dana centre ALDO CENTRE HAZARD TRADING Under Armour Al Mansoura Splash FASHION WORLD ATHLETES CO TAMIMA Al-Taadhod Group Babyshop LG Madina Central CHARLES & KEITH Al Maamoura ALSAEED TRADING Shoe Mart LG Splash TAMIMA Kiddy Zone LC WAIKIKI CENTRE Lifestyle TAMIMA Shoe Mart Selection Interiors NATURALIZER Al Khor Max Barwa Village Wakra Porto Arabia Lifestyle Furniture FANTINO SHOES BEVERLY HILLS Babyshop Kiddy Zone Max ALSAEED TRADING Home Centre ULTIMA SHOES POLO CLUB Salwa Road Splash Home Centre CENTRE Louis FERAUD Al Shaheen EST New Industrial Area SKECHERS Shoe Mart AEROPOSTALE ALDO Rawabi Hypermarket TAMIMA BRADMA-PULSES NUTS Al-Taadhod Group Lifestyle Al Majlis SHOPPING ALDO Kiddy Zone AND CHOCOLATES Saudia Hypermarket BEVERLY HILLS Lifestyle Max CENTER TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020 HOME 07 QF webinar highlights work-family balance challenges

THE PENINSULA - DOHA parents in the region may suffer The Qatar Foundation from, due to a lack of policies Local and regional social experts member’s webinar, which coordinate work and have revealed the greatest work- ‘Work-Family Balance in family with regard to vacations, family balance challenges in Oman and Qatar: childcare arrangements, parental Qatari and Omani society, and Challenges and care, and work requirements. explored how laws and legis- They also highlighted the mental lation can be updated so this Experiences’, sheds light health issues that may occur in balance can be struck in both on the similarities and the absence of a balance.” countries, in a virtual discussion differences between the A DIFI researcher, Aisha Al organized recently by Doha countries based on two Sultan outlined reviewed some International Family Institute. comparative studies of the findings of the studies in The Qatar Foundation mem- both a Qatari and Omani ber’s webinar, ‘Work-Family conducted by the policy context, saying: “In general, the Balance in Oman and Qatar: and advocacy institute. results were very similar with Dr. Sharifa Al Emadi Najat Al Abdullah Aisha Al Sultan Challenges and Experiences’, regard to the challenges that shed light on the similarities and Qataris and Omanis face in webinar: “Policies that enable efforts, the recognition of family approach. She highlighted Qatari differences between the coun- International Family Institute achieving a balance between coordination between work and responsibilities, and the flexibility legislation that ensures the rights tries based on two comparative (DIFI), Dr. Sharifa Al Emadi, work and family, due to their family are certainly required. towards them, will not only of working women, such as studies conducted by the policy spoke about the context of the similar social backgrounds, the “We also need to have benefit working parents, but will granting paid maternity leave for and advocacy institute. studies and the importance of high rate of women’s education thoughtful and flexible legis- also reflect on the business side a period of two months, and three The studies aimed to monitor discussing ways to find a work- in light of the economic turna- lation which can be regularly in terms of employees produc- months in the case of twins; the the challenges faced by working family balance, saying: “In the round following the discovery adjusted to accommodate and tivity, helping to ensure a bal- option of adding annual leave to parents – especially with regard past two decades, Gulf societies of oil in the Gulf region, and the keep pace with the changes that anced outcome for society as a maternity leave; the right to have to working mothers – and their have witnessed an unprece- remarkable participation of happen at a state level. whole.” a two-hour period for breast- significant impact on family dented increase in female edu- women in the workforce over “Additionally, all parties – Director of Family Affairs at feeding for a period of two years; cohesion. They also looked at the cation, which in turn reflects on the past few years. from working parents to business the Ministry of Administrative and allowing working women policies in place to help achieve the expansion of the contri- Emphasizing the importance institutions and state legislators Development, Labor and Social fully-paid leave for a period of this balance within the labor bution Qatari women make to of understanding and addressing – must be aware that life roles Affairs in Qatar, Najat Al Abdullah five years to take care of a child laws of the two countries in a the labor market. the sensitivities of this issue, are based on contractual foun- emphasized that the devel- with disabilities or who suffers way that serves the interests of “As DIFI aims to stimulate Governor of South A’Sharqiya, dations and participatory and opment of policies and mecha- from a medical conditions that both families and businesses. and support advocacy efforts, the Oman, Dr. Yahya bin Badr bin consensual work. And they must nisms to enhance the strength of require their mother to Executive Director of Doha studies focused on what working Malik al-Ma’awali, told the understand how the coordination the family unit is an ongoing accompany them. Queen Marie of Romania QRCS provides medical equipment to protect 24,000 students in Gaza and her precious sapphire THE PENINSULA - DOHA

THE PENINSULA - DOHA In cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education in Gaza, Qatar Red Crescent Romania marks its National Society (QRCS) has distributed 77 digital ther- Day today (December 1). On this mometers to 44 public schools in Gaza, to curb day, in 1918, in the aftermath of the spread of COVID-19 and ensuring a safe the Great War (the first World school environment for students and teachers. War), in circumstances marked Director of Projects Department at the Min- by a dismantled Europe, with istry of Education and Higher Education, Eng. falling Empires, the Romanian Mohamed Nassar said the contribution of QRCS language-speaking provinces met the needs of the ministry to ensure a safe took the determined decision educational process, by securing all the mate- to come together under a single, rials to protect the safety of staff and students at united country. public schools. According to him, 24,000 boys But united Romania also and girls are being checked with the new ther- needed international mometers. He valued QRCS’s constant efforts to Students benefit from medical equipment in Gaza. endorsement. An arduous help the Palestinian people. process of territorial negotia- Director of QRCS’s representation mission in coronavirus control supplies at a cost of $95,000. tions followed, at the Paris Gaza, Dr. Akram Nassar highlighted their support It involved procuring 800 swab kits, sanitisers, Peace Conference of 1919-1920, to Gaza’s schools, as an emergency response to gloves, and medical consumables for the Min- to the success of which con- the Coronavirus pandemic, keeping the students istry of Health,” said Dr. Nassar. tributed one iconic female safe as they attend their schools. “Also, 13,000 liters of disinfectants (sodium figure in the Romanian history: “We have ongoing health projects to alleviate hypochlorite), shoes, and leather gloves were Queen Marie of Romania. the impact of difficult circumstances imposed by delivered to the Municipality of Gaza, in order to Her mentioning in this article the virus. There is a project to provide emergency protect its workers,” he added. is of particular relevance for Qatar. Visitors of the Museum of Islamic Art will be privileged to admire, in the temporary exhi- bition: “A Falcon’s Eye – Tribute to Sheikh Saoud Al Thani”, a piece of Queen Marie’s legacy, now homed by Qatar, which was very dear to the Romanian Queen: her A portrait of Queen Marie by de Laszlo. immense 478-carat blue sapphire. This is the largest known cut sap- in 1893, at the age of 17. The minister of Romania of the phire in the world, originated couple became the monarchs of time, the Queen went herself to from Sri Lanka. Cartier, the (what was then) Romania in 1914 the Paris Peace Conference, on French jewel maker, faceted the , shortly before World War I. The an unofficial visit, to advocate stone in 1913 and enclosed it country initially remained the Romanian cause. within a fixture of three platinum neutral, but eventually joined Her outstanding personality, and diamond claws, then the war in 1916, on the side of diplomatic skills, her charm and attaching the sapphire pendant France and the UK. During the persuasion proved crucial. to a waist-long diamond necklace. war, the royal family had to seek Queen Marie had a 2-hour Queen Marie’s husband, refuge in the north of Romania, meeting with the French Prime king Ferdinand of Romania, in Moldova. Queen Marie gave Minister, George Clemenceu, purchased the sapphire from an outstanding personal who, later, stated “a Queen like Cartier, in 1921, since the Queen example, by tirelessly visiting Marie of Romania should be had lost most of her jewellery the camp hospitals, taking care received with full military in the war. On 7 September of medical supplies, nursing honours ordered by Marshal 1921, she wrote in her diary: wounded soldiers and raising Foch himself”. After the Paris “We went first to the Cartier’s money. People adored her. Peace Conference, Romania to buy the superb sapphire Overwhelmed by hardships doubled in size and became the necklace, which Nando (king and losses, Romania capitulated 5th largest country in Europe. Ferdinand) bought to pair with Queen Marie loved jewellery. my tiara. It is a unique piece of The Blue She had a keen passion for dia- jewellery, it is superb, and the Sapphire monds and pearls. Her collection woman in me fills with joy, jewel. contained some 400 pieces. But because jewels have always had the sapphire pendant has always a special significance in my had a special place in her col- family – a Russian inher- lection. The Queen made specific itance!”. The king bought the provisions on who will inherit the necklace for the amount of sapphire necklace, in her suc- 1,375,000 francs, payable in 4 cessive wills. Her will of 28 June instalments, until 1924. 1933 reads “I leave the big Queen Marie loved it so diamond, gifted to me by King much, so that she proudly wore Ferdinand, to my beloved it at the Royal Coronation for grandson Michael”. Great Romania, in the town of Queen Marie died in 1938. Alba Iulia, Romania, of 15th of After her death, the sapphire was October 1922. inherited by her grandson, King And she continued to wear Michael, who was the last king the sapphire at important events, of Romania. King Michael was including at her visit in the USA, forced by the communist regime in 1926. She is depicted wearing to abdicate and to leave Romania the necklace in her Art Deco por- to Germany in March 1918. This in 1947. He eventually sold the trait by British painter Philip decision displeased her allies, sapphire in 1948 to the New York Alexius de Laszlo, which is dis- France and the UK. Even though jeweller Harry Winston. Then not played in the Hall of Honour of Romania joined the war again much was known, until it was Queen Marie’s Pelișor Castle, in shortly before its end, in purchased, in 2003, at an auction Sinaia, Romania. November 1918, the two coun- of Christie’s, Geneva. Queen Marie was the tries had little appetite for rat- But, symbolically, the sap- granddaughter of both Queen ifying Romania’s self-pro- phire stays with the Queen Victoria of United Kingdom and claimed unity, of 1st December Marie beyond her death, resting of Tsar Alexander II of Russia. 1918. Peace talks, initiated in on the brave chest of her An ambitious and beautiful Paris, in 1919, were difficult and massive bronze statue, inaugu- princess, she married the crown hopes for Romania looked grim. rated in 2018 in Ashford, Kent, prince of Romania, Ferdinand, In agreement with the prime UK, her native region. 08 VIEWS TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020

Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI 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]

EDITORIAL A COVID-19 prevention sign is displayed as students work in a fifth grade classroom at Logan Jr. High School in Princeton, Illinois. Clean energy transport The test that matters for QATAR yesterday signed several deals to boost sus- tainable development and provide smart and innovative transport solutions in the run up to FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Biden’s education policy Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani wit- nessed the signing of contracts worth QR6bn to pur- BLOOMBERG Biden’s next test will be won’t be easy for Biden. Unions chase World Cup buses, establish an electric bus ensuring that schools can stay largely hated the measures, and assembly plant in addition to signing 11 contracts for By the looks of it, President-elect open. During the campaign, his progressives are increasingly bus infrastructure that support the private sector. Joe Biden’s administration will be team has released a five-point hostile to the very concept of Minister of Transport and Communications, H E among the most teacher-friendly “road map” for doing so that objective student evaluations. Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti said the signing of contracts in history - and not just because aims to set national safety Biden himself has expressed comes within the framework of implementing the Electric incoming first lady Jill Biden, standards while granting plenty skepticism about so-called high- Vehicle Strategy the Ministry developed with the bodies who plans to continue teaching, of leeway to state and local stakes testing. So far, though, he concerned and which is a key part of Qatar's public will arguably be the most authorities. That’s a sound has resisted the demands from transportation plan 2030. Unquestionably, important voice in the presi- strategy, but he should be sure to some in his party to waive "Such steps would enhance Qatar's ranking as a educators dent’s ear. Beyond that, Biden discourage arbitrary decision- federal testing requirements pioneer in the area of clean energy mass transit, has called for a teacher-oriented making by school districts and during the pandemic. He should becoming one of the very first countries in the world deserve greater Department of Education and is press for following science- stand firm: Without meaningful having an integrated electric bus system, in addition to support. But reportedly considering the based metrics. metrics, progress in education boosting the potential value of the legacy of the FIFA former head of the biggest Longer-term, as the virus isn’t possible. World Cup 2022 bus system for creating a positive Biden should teachers’ union, and the current hopefully recedes, Biden will A final goal for Biden should legacy," the Minister stated. remember that head of the second-biggest, for have a chance to make his mark be the expansion of high-quality The contracts were signed by Qatar Free Zones what’s good for his Cabinet. on education policy more charter schools. Obama used his Authority, the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Unquestionably, educators broadly. More funding for public Race to the Top initiative to Legacy, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), Karwa teachers’ unions deserve greater support. But schools is at the top of his encourage such schools to Transportation Company, Chinese companies Yutong isn’t necessarily Biden should remember that agenda. But as decades of expe- flourish alongside more tradi- and Higer, and a number of private sector companies what’s good for teachers’ unions rience has shown, money alone tional ones. Teachers unions’ working in the field of contracting and construction. what’s best isn’t necessarily what’s best for won’t fix the problems facing have since waged war against Ashghal signed 11 new contracts worth QR2bn for for students. students. That goes all the more America’s failing education the idea, and Biden has said he’s building bus stations and warehouses. The contracts so as the COVID-19 outbreak system. Here Biden should follow “not a charter school fan.” But are entrusted to Qatari firms within the framework of That goes all imposes unprecedented chal- the example of his former boss, given the success that many have government's directives to support national companies. the more so lenges on the nation’s school dis- President Barack Obama. demonstrated, it makes little QFZA signed a multilateral framework agreement to tricts this year. Beyond increased funds, the sense to oppose them categori- manufacture electric-buses in Umm Al Houl Free Zone. as the COVID- Biden’s first challenge will be Obama administration also made cally. On this score, Biden would A number of these e-buses will be earmarked for export 19 outbreak enacting another coronavirus accountability a central goal of do well to listen to parents from across the Middle East, Europe, South America and imposes relief package that includes aid its education policy. It Black communities - especially Africa. Mowasalat (Karwa), meanwhile, is purchasing for state and local governments, encouraged the use of test scores those in New York and California 3,000 new buses for the FIFA World Cup 2022. More unprecedented which may be forced to cut edu- to evaluate teachers, prioritized - who can point to the invaluable than 25 percent of these new buses will be electric, challenges on cation funding thanks to sharp improving graduation rates, and role that charters have played in which makes the deal one of the largest of its kind in declines in tax revenue. Com- embraced objective measures to their children’s development. the world and proves to be a leap towards public the nation’s bined with the added costs of address the achievement gap In tackling these challenges, transport sustainability. school districts keeping schools open during a between minority and white stu- Biden will no doubt come under Mowasalat CEO, Fahad Saad Al Qahtani said the pandemic - such as improving dents. The administration estab- pressure from unions, his deal is a part of MoTC strategy to provide a world-class, this year. ventilation systems and sani- lished a Race to the Top fund of political opponents and the integrated multimodal system that provides safe, reliable tizing classrooms - that could be more than $4 billion to provide increasingly strident ideologues and eco-friendly services. Overall, this will improve Qatar's a devastating blow. The pres- competitive grants to states that within in his own party. He international position in the field of environmental sus- ident-elect should aim to reach a met or surpassed its benchmarks should remember the one con- tainability in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. common-sense deal on a new for reform. stituency that really matters: The transport sector in Qatar is witnessing a major bill as quickly as possible. Following up on these efforts America’s children. shift and the State is committed to deploying global clean energy solutions on transportation and deter- mined to host an exceptional, eco-friendly, carbon- neutral championship. Johnson battles to win over Conservatives amid COVID-19 revolt

TIM ROSS & ALEX MORALES coronavirus under control. England’s current lockdown risks outweighing the benefits BLOOMBERG “The prime minister and expires by law on Dec. 2. to health. Many have com- other ministers will be “We’ve always supported plained about the incon- D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR Boris Johnson is battling to working very hard to reassure sensible public health restric- sistency of the new tiered EMAIL: [email protected] convince Conservative Party them about the steps that we tions and of course we will system, lumping areas of low colleagues to back plans to are taking,” Environment Sec- put that first again infection under tough restric- keep most of England under retary George Eustice told Sky tomorrow,” Shadow Edu- tions along with places with EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 strict pandemic controls News on Monday. “There’s cation Secretary Kate Green high prevalence. FAX: +974 4455 7758 when the national lockdown great frustration with the told Sky News. She said she After Cabinet minister ends this week. emergency measures we’ve hopes Johnson “will be able to Michael Gove wrote in the MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 Ministers on Monday will had to take to deal with this give us all the reassurances Times newspaper all hospitals publish analysis of the health, pandemic.” that we need today to make in England would face being DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 economic and social impacts If 100 Tories rebel, it the right decision for the overwhelmed if MPs block the of the pandemic and the would deliver a damaging public and keep everyone new restrictions, former min- LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 measures taken to suppress political blow to the premier safe.” ister Mark Harper told Gove the disease, before a and could even cause his The prime minister to prove it. BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 scheduled vote on Tuesday plans to fail. But while the intends to put most of “If he genuinely thinks over England’s return to a main opposition Labour Party England in the top two tiers of that hospitals would be over- SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 three-tier system of corona- have yet to say how its MPs curbs from Dec. 2 to suppress whelmed, then show us the virus restrictions to replace will be asked to vote, indica- the virus further before loos- modeling and the evidence ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 the lockdown on Dec. 2. tions from members of the ening the rules in time for that he sees,” Harper said in email: [email protected] With reports that as many shadow cabinet are that families to meet at Christmas. an interview with Times as 100 Conservatives may they’ll rescue the prime min- The rules will be reviewed Radio. “I simply don’t know PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 rebel in the vote because they ister from defeat by sup- every two weeks, with the whether it’s true.” email: [email protected] say the new rules are too porting his measures. first coming on Dec. 16. In his letter, Johnson tough, Johnson at the On Sunday, Shadow But his strategy of locking appealed to members of Par- ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 weekend wrote to his critics Transport Secretary Jim down England twice and now liament to back the regula- FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] promising concessions in an McMahon told Times Radio it keeping the hospitality tions, promising the rules attempt to persuade them to would be “illogical” to vote industry under tight restric- would expire on Feb. 3 under a CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 support him. He warned that against the new tiered system tions has put him at odds with “sunset” clause and saying email: [email protected] a third national lockdown because then the country many in his own party, who MPs would get another vote on may be required if the would be left without any fear the economic damage of whether to extend the restric- SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 country fails to bring the pandemic restrictions given lost jobs and failed businesses tions to the end of March. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

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+974 6698 6188 Angela Merkel, German Chancellor TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 09 Kuwait, Russia condemn Iran: Israel, exiled group killed assassination of scientist scientist in complex operation REUTERS — KUWAIT/MOSCOW

AFP — TEHRAN Kuwait’s foreign ministry yesterday condemned the assassination of Iran’s top nuclear scientist, according to the state news agency Iran said Israel and an exiled Kuna. “The ministry expressed... its rejection of anything that would opposition group used new and increase tension and undermine stability in the region,” the “complex” methods to assas- statement said, adding condolences to Iran. sinate its leading nuclear Russia and UAE also condemned the killing of Iran’s top nuclear scientist, as it buried him scientist last week. yesterday in a funeral befitting “We express our serious concern over the provocative nature a top “martyr”. of this terrorist act, which is clearly aimed at destabilising the sit- As it laid Mohsen Fakhri- uation and building up conflict potential in the region,” the foreign zadeh — seen by Israel as the ministry said in a statement. “father” of Iran’s nuclear “We call on all parties to refrain from taking steps that could weapons programme — to rest, lead to an escalation of tensions.” the Islamic republic also vowed The United Arab Emirates described the attack as a “crime” to redouble his work. that could increase tensions across the region. Fakhrizadeh was assassi- The denunciation was significant both because of the histori- nated on Friday after his car and cally strained relations between Gulf Arab states and Iran, and the bodyguards were targeted in a fact that Tehran has blamed the attack on Israel, which recently bomb and gun attack on a major signed a normalisation deal with the UAE. road outside the capital, height- The UAE has taken a more conciliatory approach towards Iran ening tensions once more since a string of explosions targeting oil tankers in the Persian Gulf between Tehran and its foes. last year threatened to touch off military confrontations in the oil- Iran’s top security official, rich region. Rear-Admiral Ali Shamkhani of The UAE “condemns the heinous assassination of Mohsen the Supreme National Security Fakhrizadeh, which could further fuel conflict in the region,” the Council, said the “operation was Members of Iranian forces carrying the coffin of slain top nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh during Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said in very complex, using electronic his funeral ceremony in capital Tehran, yesterday. a statement, urging all parties to exercise maximum restraint. “The equipment and no one was state of instability our region is currently going through, and the present at the scene”. praised Fakhrizadeh and on the field of “nuclear security challenges it faces, drive us all to work towards averting The People’s Mujahedeen of alluded to the martyrdom of defence”. acts that could lead to escalation and eventually threaten the sta- Iran (MEK) were “certainly” Iran’s top security Imam Hossein, the revered 7th In his speech, he said the bility of the entire region.” involved, along with “the Zionist official, Rear-Admiral century holy figure. “If our government had decided to Bahrain's ministry of foreign affairs also condemned the killing regime and the Mossad”, he enemies had not committed this double the organisation’s of Iranian nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh in Tehran and said, referring to the Israeli gov- Ali Shamkhani of the heinous crime and spilled our budget to continue Fakhriza- called for all parties to show restraint. ernment and its spy agency. Supreme National dear martyr’s blood, he might deh’s path “vigorously”. Staunch US ally Jordan condemned the killing of top Iranian Shamkhani’s comments Security Council, said have remained unknown,” A large display showed a nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh and called for collective came in video interviews the “operation was Hatami said in a speech. picture of Fakhrizadeh next to efforts to avoid an escalation in tensions in the Middle East region, broadcast by state television “But today, he who was only Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah state media reported. Lebanon called for self-restraint following and the Fars news agency. very complex, using an idol for... his students and Ali Khamenei, as well as former the assassination of a prominent Iranian nuclear scientist, to avoid Without citing sources, Fars electronic equipment colleagues, is introduced to the top general Qasem Soleimani, a slide towards the “worst scenario”. itself reported the attack had and no one was present whole world,” he added, saying who was killed in a January Lebanon, which is home to the heavily armed, Iranian-backed been carried out with the help at the scene”. he would be an inspiration for drone strike by the US in Hezbollah group, condemned the killing of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh of “a remote-controlled auto- “all who embark on the path to Baghdad. last Friday in an ambush near Tehran. matic machinegun” mounted fight.” The assassination has led to Fakhrizadeh was killed near Tehran on Friday using a remote on a pickup truck. “The enemies should know demands for a strong response controlled device, an Iranian security official said yesterday, con- Iran’s President Hassan attended by several high- that this is their first defeat.” from Iran’s leadership and calls tradicting earlier reports of an ambush. Iran said the attack bore Rouhani had on Saturday ranking officials, including Hatami had said after the by some conservative law- the hallmarks of previous assaults by Israel, which had accused accused Israel of acting as a Defence Minister Amir Hatami scientist’s death that Fakhri- makers to avoid entering Fakhrizadeh of masterminding a secret nuclear bomb project. Israel “mercenary” for the United and Revolutionary Guards com- zadeh was one of his deputies potential negotiations with the hasn’t commented on the allegation. Iranian officials have vowed States by carrying out the mander Hossein Salami. and headed the ministry’s United States, even as the revenge, but at the same time signaled that they don’t want the assassination. As the funeral got Defence Research and Inno- hawkish presidency of Donald assassination to derail potential negotiations with the incoming Fakhrizadeh’s funeral was underway, a religious singer vation Organization, focusing Trump draws to a close. administration of President-elect Joe Biden. Turkey extends curfew Oman resumes issuing some to weeknights and tourist visas lockdown on weekends REUTERS — DUBAI AP — ISTANBUL The new curfews begin today. Grocery stores and food Oman will resume granting Turkey’s president yesterday delivery services are exempt tourist visas to people visiting announced the country’s most from the lockdowns within on trips arranged by hotels and widespread lockdown so far certain hours. travel companies, after they amid a surge in COVID-19 In the spring, Turkey insti- were suspended due to the infections, extending curfews tuted temporary weekend and coronavirus pandemic, state to weeknights and putting a full holiday lockdowns to fight the media said yesterday. lockdown in place over the spread of COVID-19, but The Gulf state resumed weekends. current infections and deaths international flights on October Speaking after a Cabinet have surged beyond the spring 1, but only citizens and people meeting, President Recep numbers. Weekend night holding valid existing resi- Tayyip Erdogan said a curfew curfews for the past two weeks dency and work visas could would be implemented on have done little to curb people’s enter. weekdays between 9pm and 5 movements, with Turkish The country’s coronavirus am. He also announced total media showing packed public council also decided yesterday weekend lockdowns from 9pm spaces. to restart a number of com- on Friday to 5am on Monday. The Turkish Medical Asso- mercial and industrial activ- Election campaign heats up in Kuwait After strong pressure from ciation has called for more ities, without giving further the medical community and the transparency since March, said details. A Kuwaiti man looks at a billboard featuring the candidates running for parliamentary elections, in public, Turkey last week 20 health care workers died in Kuwait City, yesterday. Kuwait’s National Assembly elections are scheduled for December 5. resumed reporting all positive one week from COVID-19 com- Kuwait reports tests for the virus, after plications. ICU bed occupation releasing only the number of was around 71%, according to 209 new virus symptomatic cases for four the health ministry. cases, two deaths Israel-Lebanon sea border talks postponed months. That caused daily cases Erdogan also announced to shoot up to around 30,000 that people above 65 or REUTERS — BEIRUT base to try to resolve a dispute better prepare the next round and put Turkey among the younger than 20, who are QNA — KUWAIT about their maritime border of talks,” he told Israel’s Army hardest-hit nations in Europe allowed out for only three Maritime border talks between that has held up hydrocarbon Radio. A Lebanese security during the pandemic. hours a day, would not be Kuwait announced yesterday Lebanon and Israel scheduled exploration in the potentially source said the reason for the Health Ministry statistics allowed to use public transport, 209 new cases of coronavirus for tomorrow have been post- gas-rich area. delay was Israel’s rejection of yesterday showed 31,219 con- mall-goers would have to use (COVID-19) in the past 24 poned, and US mediators will Israeli Energy Minister Lebanese proposals. firmed new infections and 188 a contact tracing code, and hours, bringing the total of now contact the two old foes Yuval Steinitz said it had been Steinitz said last week there new deaths. Daily fatalities in weddings and funerals would confirmed cases in the country separately, Israeli and Lebanese agreed with the Americans that had been no breakthrough after Turkey have hit record be limited to 30 people. He also to 142,635. officials said yesterday. talks would be postponed for a four rounds of talks and that numbers for eight consecutive urged people to quit smoking, During the same period, The negotiations were few weeks. Lebanon had “so far presented days, bringing the country’s open their windows, abide by two deaths have been launched in October with del- “In the interim, they will do positions which add up to a acknowledged virus death toll mask-wearing guidelines and recorded, bringing the total egations convening at a UN some shuttling in order to provocation”. to 13,746. social distancing. number of deaths in Kuwait to 880 cases so far. The patients in intensive care units have Al Qaeda-linked group attacks reached 84, bringing the total of confirmed cases that are still 3 French military bases in Mali receiving the necessary treatment to 4,684 cases. REUTERS — BAMAKO The Omani Ministry of Health announced that the total of reported cases of Coro- Al Qaeda-linked fighters rocketed French military bases in Kidal, navirus (COVID-19) in the Sul- Menaka and Gao in northern Mali within the space of a few hours tanate reached 123,699. The yesterday morning, a rare sign of coordinated raids on interna- total number of deaths due to tional forces. COVID-19 reached 1,423, while The camps were hit by “indirect fire”, although no deaths or the recoveries stood at 115,216, injuries were reported, said Thomas Romiguier, a spokesman for bringing the recoveries up by French forces, who have more than 5,100 personnel spread across 93.1 percent, the Ministry said the region. in a statement. The only damage was to a United Nations base in Kidal, which Patients who have been is next to the French base, Romiguier said. The head of the UN isolated in Omani hospitals mission condemned the attacks. due to infections in the past 24 In statement on Al Thabat, an affiliated media outfit, Al Qaeda Palestine protesters clash with Israeli soldiers hours reached 20, bringing the said: “The rocket attacks of the mujahideen, in support of Islam total to 210, while patients in and Muslims, targeted the bases of the French infidel army.” Israeli soldiers detain a Palestinian demonstrator during a protest against a Jewish settlement outpost, the intensive care units A witness in Gao said sevewral rockets had been fired towards in Salfit in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, yesterday. reached 108, the Ministry the French base at around 5:30 a.m. (0530 GMT). added. 10 AFRICA TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020

Somalia expels Tigrayan leader says war unfinished Kenya envoy in latest row between REUTERS — ADDIS ABABA “Our constitution was neighbours Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy attacked but it didn’t MOGADISHU Ahmed lauded his troops take us three years, it REUTERS — yesterday for their 'victory' over a rebellious northern took us three weeks,” Somalia ordered the expulsion movement, but the leader of Ethiopia Prime Minister of Kenya’s ambassador after Tigrayan forces said they were Abiy Ahmed told accusing neighbouring Kenya still resisting amid fears of a parliament, comparing of interfering in the electoral protracted guerrilla conflict. process in Jubbaland, one of The nearly month-long war his offensive with the Somalia’s five semi-auton- has killed hundreds and American Civil War of omous states, the latest dispute probably thousands of people, the 1860s. “Our army between the two countries. sent refugees into Sudan, is disciplined and Somalia also recalled its enmeshed Eritrea, and stirred ambassador from Nairobi. rivalries among Ethiopia’s victorious,” he said. “As a result of the Kenyan myriad ethnic groups. government’s political inter- Federal forces captured Tig- ferences in the internal affairs ray’s capital Mekelle at the of Somalia, the regional Pres- weekend and declared victory attack on a federal army base ident of Jubbaland has reneged over the Tigray People’s Liber- on November 4. Drones were on the election agreement that ation Front (TPLF), a guerrilla used to watch the TPLF, but was reached on the 17th Sep- movement-turned-political federal forces declined to use tember 2020 in Mogadishu,” party that had dominated rockets in Tigray, Abiy said. the Somali Foreign Ministry national government for nearly “Even though we have said in a statement on three decades until 2018. better capacity, we won’t use it. Facebook. Ethiopian migrants who recently arrived to Yemeni shores, walk on a road leading to Yemen's southern “Our constitution was We are not the junta,” he said. The statement did not port city of Aden, yesterday. attacked but it didn’t take us “We conduct ourselves elaborate on the interference three years, it took us three responsibly.” or the agreement the Jub- weeks,” Abiy told parliament, Though the highland city neighbouring Eritrea around Eritrea of sending troops to fight spoken of hundreds of fatalities baland president had reneged comparing his offensive with of 500,000 people eventually Wukro, about 50km north of with Abiy’s forces. Eritrea’s in air strikes and fighting. Dip- on. This is not the first time the American Civil War of the fell with little resistance, the Mekelle. “I’m close to Mekelle foreign minister has denied his lomats believe the toll is in the there has been tension 1860s. “Our army is disciplined TPLF later said it had shot in Tigray fighting the invaders,” country has any role. thousands. between Mogadishu and and victorious.” down a plane and retaken one he said in a text message. When he took office in 2018, Abiy’s spokeswoman Billene Nairobi. Though the TPLF said town. Claims from all sides are Abiy pledged to unite Ethiopia’s Seyoum dismissed the TPLF’s Last year, Kenya recalled Mekelle suffered heavy bom- TPLF leader Debretsion difficult to verify since phone 115 million people, but ethnic comments that fighting was still its ambassador after bardment, Abiy said his troops Gebremichael, a 57-year-old and internet links to Tigray have bloodshed had killed hundreds going on, saying: “Tracking and Mogadishu decided to auction had not destroyed the city nor former radio operator, denied largely been down and access and uprooted hundreds of thou- responding to the many delu- oil and gas exploration blocks killed a single civilian in the reports that he had fled to South is restricted. sands from their homes even sions of a disintegrating at the centre of a maritime ter- region since starting an Sudan and said his forces had The TPLF has shelled before the latest flare-up. criminal clique that has become ritorial dispute. The two coun- offensive in response to an captured some soldiers from Asmara airport and accused In Tigray, both sides have irrelevant is not our focus.” tries restored ties a few months later. Kenya’s government spokesman, Cyrus Oguna, did Violence, floods in South Sudan’s Libya rivals begin new not immediately comment on the latest dispute. round of talks in Morocco Kenya contributes troops Warrap state displace thousands to Somalia as part of an African AFP — TANGIERS, MOROCCO Union-led peacekeeping force which, along with the Somali REUTERS — WARRAP STATE, no good place to sleep,” Athian “We fish in this water to Rivals from war-torn Libya started a new round of talks in Morocco federal government and local SOUTH SUDAN told Reuters, standing near sub- survive because I don’t have yesterday as part of stepped-up efforts to bring an end to a decade states, is fighting an al Qaeda- merged houses in his village of work that can generate income. of conflict. linked al Shabaab James Athian and his nine Mangar Ajak. See, my legs are swelling from The two days of talks in the northern port city of Tangier bring insurgency. children have been living in a Before the flooding, oil- (being in) the water,” he said. together 13 representatives each from Libya’s House of Repre- Early yesterday, the mili- makeshift camp in South producing South Sudan had Attacks by bandits and sentatives (HoR) and Supreme State Council, according to tants attacked an army base in Sudan’s Warrap state for two already gone through five years ethnic militias are still common, participants. central Somalia, Major Nur months since floods destroyed of civil war, which ended in compounding the effects of the Libya has been mired in violence since the 2011 fall of longtime Mohamud, told Reuters, their house. 2018 with a fragile peace deal. floods. dictator Muammar Gaddafi in a Nato-backed uprising, with an adding that five soldiers had Athian and his family are The worst rains in living “People are being killed array of armed groups and two administrations vying for power. been killed. among the 377,300 people dis- memory have meant that randomly and insecurity is so The UN-recognised Government of National Accord domi- placed by floods and violence roughly half of South Sudan’s bad that people were not able nates Tripoli and the west, while an eastern administration is Algeria to allow in Warrap since July, the United 78 counties have large swathes to cultivate (their crops) in backed by part of the HoR, elected in 2014 — along with military Nations Office for the Co-ordi- of land under water, the U.N. May,” Moses Athian Paul, coor- chief Khalifa Haftar. some domestic nation of Humanitarian Affairs says. dinator of the Relief and Reha- The HoR is deeply divided, with sessions taking place in par- said. Nationwide, more than Aleu Akol, 59, who has bilitation Commission of War- allel in the east and west. Following a year-long but ultimately flights to resume one million people have been been at Mangar Ajak for one- rap’s Tonj County, said. abortive attempt by Haftar to seize Tripoli, the two sides signed temporarily forced from their and-a-half months, said people “If people don’t get food a formal truce deal in October, pumping new life into UN-led REUTERS — ALGIERS homes. received aid from humanitarian from the government of the efforts for a political solution to the conflict. “I have nine children and organisations, but he had to find World Food Programme by Mohammed Raied, an HoR member based in the western city Algeria will allow some every time they get sick of other means to supplement February, many will die of of Misrata, said the Tangiers talks aimed to “deal with pending domestic flights to resume from malaria. (There is) no food and that. hunger.” questions such as sovereign appointments” to key posts. December 6, the government said yesterday, as authorities seek to ease the financial impact of coronavirus curbs on state carrier Nigeria returns 3,000 displaced after militant violence Air Algerie. Air Algerie will resume all flights to southern towns and AFP — KANO would be the deadliest assault the National Emergency Man- abandoned farms but we hope Kallon had initially said on half of its flights to and from this year blamed on militants. agement Agency (NEMA) said. the government will give us ade- Sunday 110 farmers were killed northern airports, the prime Authorities in northeast The returnees who fled their The returnees comprised quate protection from the in Koshobe but said later the minister’s office said in a Nigeria’s Borno state yesterday homes in Marte in Lake Chad 500 households numbering insurgents.” figure was “unconfirmed”. statement. began returning around 3,000 region in 2014 were packed into around 3,000 people were “We are eager to go back to The decade-long jihadist The airline suspended people to their homes six years dozens of trucks and buses from selected from four camps across our homes but what happened conflict has forced around two international and domestic after they were displaced by Bakassi camp for internally dis- the city, said Abdulkadir Ibrahim, in Koshobe...is frightening,” said million out of their homes, most flights in March. violence, officials said. The placed (IDPs) in the regional NEMA spokesman in a statement. another returnee, referring to of them from northern Borno, The government has said operation came after a weekend capital Maiduguri. “I’m very happy to return to my the weekend attack on local pushing them into squalid Air Algerie is expected to attack on farmworkers killed “All arrangements have been roots which I left six years ago,” farmers blamed on Boko Haram camps in Maiduguri where they record a loss of around $272 as many as 110 people in concluded today...for the return one returnee Bukar Kyarimi said. militants . UN humanitarian rely on food handouts from million this year from the Nigeria’s northwest in what of first batch of IDPs from Marte,” “We need to go back and tend our coordinator in Nigeria Edward international charities. coronavirus. Ten years on, Tunisia is Arab Spring’s only success

AFP — PARIS died in the crackdown. Sisi is when he is captured and killed. elected president in 2014 and again The oil-rich country has Ten years ago, the Arab Spring in 2018, but is accused by rights since descended into turmoil offered hope of a wave of groups of running an ultra- with two rival authorities and democratic change across the repressive regime. His rule is bol- a multitude of militias vying for Middle East and North Africa. stered by controversial constitu- control. Libya’s UN-recognised But only Tunisia has made tional changes. government has been based in the transition, with the other In Yemen Ali Abdullah Tripoli since 2015, while mil- popular uprisings ending in Saleh’s three decades in power itary strongman Khalifa Haftar repression, war or chaos. ended in February 2012 after a supports a parallel adminis- Even so, recent popular year of protests. But the country tration based in the east. The movements that toppled leaders has been in turmoil since 2014 standoff culminated in a failed in Lebanon, Iraq, Algeria and when Houthi rebels launched 2019-2020 offensive by Haftar Sudan have drawn inspiration an offensive and seize vast to seize the capital. Peace talks from the uprisings. swathes of the country, have been going on since. In Tunisia, a young street including the capital Sana'a. The Peaceful protests on March vendor sets himself on fire on following year, Saudi Arabia led 15, 2011 escalated into a devas- December 17, 2010 that triggerd an Arab coalition to halt the tating multi-sided conflict in nationwide protests against Houthi advance. Tens of thou- Syria that has left the country poverty and unemployment. sands of people have died in the in ruins. So far, more than Less than a month later, dic- ongoing conflict, including 380,000 people have been tator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali A view of journalists working in the newsroom of Tunisian public national television channel Wataniya. many civilians. The country is killed, with millions displaced. flees after 23 years in power. Social media and smartphones briefly gave youthful Arab Spring protesters a technological edge that now in “imminent danger of the Rebel groups battling the Protests against entrenched allowed them to topple ageing dictatorships as their revolutionary spirit went viral. worst famine the world has regime of President Bashar Al regimes spread across the seen in decades,” the United Assad were pushed aside in region. While Tunisia’s transition The following year, Tunisia was down on February 11, 2011, political dissent, Mursi was Nations warned recently. 2013 and 2014 by militias such to democracy is hailed interna- hit by three major attacks ending nearly three decades of ousted in 2013 by the military, led In February 2011, protests as the Al Nusra Front and the tionally, it also brings political claimed by the Islamic State (IS). iron-fisted rule in Egypt. by ex-army chief Abdel Fattah Al broke out against the regime of Islamic State (IS) group. With instability. But a new constitution While the security situation Islamist Mohamed Mursi Sisi after mass protests. At least Muammar Gaddafi in Libya and military backing from Russia, that limits presidential power in improves, attacks continue. became the first civilian, freely 817 people die when security turned into an armed revolt. Iran and Lebanon’s Hezbollah, 2014 is a landmark, with Beji Caid After an 18-day popular elected head of the Arab world’s forces moved in on two pro- The rebels won Nato the Assad regime regained ter- Essebsi becoming its first demo- revolt which costs almost 850 most populous state. Mursi protest camps. Amnesty backing and on October 20, ritory. Today, it controls 70 cratically elected head of state. lives, Hosni Mubarak stepped But after a year marked by International said a further 600 Gaddafi’s 42-year rule ended percent of the country. TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020 ASIA 11 Modi tries to placate farmers protesting new laws

AP — NEW DELHI “The new agricultural laws have been brought water of river Ganga.” shift their protests to a gov- tinue their protests. in for benefit of the farmers. Reforms are Rahul Gandhi, the leader of ernment-designated venue in “The government has Indian Prime Minister Narendra the main opposition Congress New Delhi and stop blocking the become a slave of the corporates. Modi tried to placate thousands being done in the interest of farmers, which party, accused Modi of crony cap- highways. The farmers rejected They want to turn us into their of farmers protesting new agri- will give them more options,” Indian Prime italism and said the laws would the offer and said they would slaves as well,” said farmer culture laws yesterday and said benefit corporations. continue camping out on Sukhwinder Singh Sabhra. they were being misled by oppo- Minister Narendra Modi said during a rally in “Our farmers are standing up highways until the laws are Farmers have long been seen sition parties and that his his political constituency of Varanasi in Uttar against the black laws and have withdrawn. as the heart and soul of India, government would resolve all reached Delhi leaving their farms Modi’s ministers are scram- where agriculture supports more their concerns. Pradesh state. and families behind. Do you want bling to find ways to assuage the than half of the country’s 1.3 “The new agricultural laws to stand with them or with Modi’s anger of the farmers, who make billion people. But farmers have have been brought in for benefit capitalist friends?” Gandhi said up an influential voting bloc also seen their economic clout of the farmers. Reforms are being The farmers say the new laws During the rally, Modi dis- in a tweet. across India and particularly in diminish over the last three done in the interest of farmers, could cause the government to missed the farmers’ fears as mis- The protests have gone on for states such as Punjab and decades. Once accounting for a which will give them more stop buying grain at guaranteed placed and blamed opposition at least two months in Punjab and Haryana. third of India’s gross domestic options,” Modi said during a rally prices and result in their exploi- parties for spreading rumors. Haryana states but gained On Monday, Shah met Agri- product, they now produce only in his political constituency of tation by corporations that would “The farmers are being nationwide limelight on culture Minister Narendra Singh 15 percent of gross domestic Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh state. buy their crops cheaply. misled on these historic agri- Thursday when thousands of Tomar for the second time in less product, which is valued at $2.9 Modi’s remarks came amid The government says the leg- culture reform laws by the same farmers clashed with police, who than 24 hours after farmers’ organ- trillion a year. the biggest farmer protests in islation brings about much people who for decades have used tear gas, water cannons and izations rejected the government’s Farmers often complain of years. The thousands of farmers needed reform that will allow misled them,” Modi said, baton charges to push them back conditional invitation for talks. being ignored and hold frequent who are protesting the recently farmers the freedom to market referring to opposition parties as they tried to enter New Dehli. Farmers, who are prepared protests to demand better crop passed farm laws have blocked their produce and boost pro- who have called the laws anti- Home Minister Amit Shah for a long haul and have brought prices, more loan waivers and highways and hunkered down duction through private farmer and pro-corporation. pressed for talks on Saturday but food and bedding in their tractors irrigation systems to guarantee on the outskirts of India’s capital. investment. “Our intentions are as holy as the said the farmers would have to and trucks, said they would con- water during dry spells. First foreign 8 dead, 59 injured in students arrive Sri Lanka prison riot in Australia since

AP — COLOMBO and 59 injured, he said. Two virus closure prison officers were critically Eight inmates were killed and injured. AFP — SYDNEY 59 others were injured when He said hundreds of addi- guards opened fire to control a tional police were deployed to International students have riot at a prison on the outskirts help the guards and strengthen arrived in Australia for the first of Sri Lanka’s capital, officials security around the prison. time since the country shut its said yesterday. Two guards An inmate was killed in borders to curb coronavirus in were critically injured, they similar unrest at another prison March, with a charter flight said. last week. Another died in touching down in Darwin Pandemic-related unrest March. yesterday. has been growing in Sri Lanka’s More than a thousand Australian universities overcrowded prisons. Inmates inmates in five prisons have have been leaking cash due to have staged protests in recent tested positive for the corona- the country’s indefinite border weeks at several prisons as the virus and at least two have died. closure, which has locked out number of coronavirus cases About 50 prison guards have foreign students who keep the surges in the facilities. also tested positive. billion-dollar sector afloat. Police spokesman Ajith Senaka Perera, a lawyer A plane chartered by Charles Rohana said inmates created with the Committee for Pro- Darwin University (CDU) car- “unrest” on Sunday at Mahara tecting Rights of Prisoners, said rying 63 international students prison, about 15km north of the inmates at Mahara prison arrived in the northern city of Colombo, and officials had been frustrated because Darwin as part of a pilot pro- attempted to control the their pleas for coronavirus gramme aimed at kickstarting situation. testing and separation of the higher education industry. But “the unrest situation infected prisoners had been Family members of the prisoners argue with a police officer following unrest at Mahara Prison, on The students — from turned into a prison riot,” he ignored by officials for more the outskirts of Colombo, Sri Lanka, yesterday. mainland China, Hong Kong, said, adding that prisoners tried than a month. Japan, Vietnam and Indonesia to take control of the prison and Yesterday, about 500 rela- for seven months after being than 26,000 inmates crowded fish market — emerged in — travelled to Singapore to hundreds attempted to escape. tives of inmates gathered in arrested on drug charges. “I into facilities with a capacity of Colombo and its suburbs. catch the flight and will now The inmates “reportedly front of the prison and urged the want to know whether he is 10,000. Confirmed cases from the spend 14 days in a government destroyed most of the property authorities to provide infor- safe. I asked the officers, please Sri Lanka has experienced two clusters have reached quarantine facility. including offices inside the mation about the prisoners and tell me the condition of my son,” an upsurge in the coronavirus 19,449. Sri Lanka has reported The mix of new and con- prison,” Rohana said. ensure their safety. she said. since last month when two a total number of 22,988 coro- tinuing students are enrolled The guards opened fire, and Sujeewa Silva said her son Sri Lankan prisons are clusters - one centered at a navirus cases, including 109 across a range of undergraduate the clash left eight inmates dead has been detained at the facility highly congested with more garment factory and other at a fatalities. and postgraduate courses including law, nursing and engi- neering. In a statement, CDU said it was “an important first New Zealand lays charges over volcano deaths step in the recovery of the inter- national education sector in AFP — WELLINGTON was unexpected but that does GNS Science, responsible for He said it was the most adrenaline-fuelled activities Australia”. not mean it was unforeseeable,” monitoring volcanic activity, extensive and complex inves- such as bungee-jumping, jet- Education is listed as Aus- New Zealand’s workplace safety Parkes said. and the National Emergency tigation his organisation had boating and black water rafting. tralia’s fourth-largest export — watchdog handed down “The victims, both workers Management Authority, which ever carried out. Day trips to White Island behind iron ore, coal and criminal charges yesterday over and visitors alike, all had a rea- handles disaster planning. A separate inquiry by the were promoted to visitors, natural gas — with more than last year’s White Island volcanic sonable expectation that they “There is no easy process coroner’s office has been including cruise ship pas- 500,000 international students eruption that claimed 22 lives could go to the island knowing here but it is the job of WorkSafe running in parallel with the sengers, as a thrilling oppor- enrolled last year, bringing and left dozens more with that the organisations involved to ensure that if there are ques- WorkSafe probe and could tunity to stand on an active about A$37bn into the economy. horrific burns. had done all they were required tions to be answered that they potentially result in more volcano. Lobby group Universities WorkSafe had investigated to do to look after their health lead the charge on that,” she charges being But critics said New Zea- Australia said in June that the why 47 people, mainly Aus- and safety,” he added. said. recommended. land’s light-touch regulatory sector could lose $11bn as a tralian tourists, were on the Parkes refused to detail who “It’s an independent But it will not release any regime meant there was little result of the border closure. island in December 2019 when was facing charges in case the decision for them... we really findings until the WorkSafe communication about the Universities — which as a column of burning ash and court granted them name sup- need to leave it at that.” The cases have been dealt with. genuine risks involved. public institutions were steam blasted from a volcanic pression, although the identities prosecution by WorkSafe does “The Chief Coroner’s inquiry Tourists have not been omitted from a government vent. of some were revealed through not carry the threat of jail time into the Whakaari/White Island allowed on the island since the coronavirus wage subsidy Chief executive Phil Parkes other sources. for those who took tourists eruption deaths remains on disaster and Parkes said the scheme — have been shedding announced charges against 10 Two tour company oper- sightseeing on the island, with hold until other agencies’ pros- entire adventure tourism sector thousands of jobs. organisations and three indi- ators told local media that they hefty fines being the maximum ecutions have gone through the was now under scrutiny. Similar proposals by univer- viduals who took tourists to the had been charged, while Prime penalty. judicial process,” a spokesman “WorkSafe has been sities in Canberra and Adelaide country’s most active volcano Minister Jacinda Ardern Parkes said the organisa- for the coroner said. reflecting on its practices and were previously scrapped, as just weeks after the eruption announced that two gov- tions involved could be fined up The disaster put the spot- is making changes to the way the government came under threat alert level had been ernment agencies were also to NZ$1.5m ($1.1m), with indi- light on the regulation of New that we implement the pressure to reserve places in raised. being prosecuted. viduals facing maximum fines Zealand’s adventure tourism adventure activities regime,” he quarantine facilities for Aus- “This deeply tragic event She said the agencies are of NZ$300,000. industry, which offers said. tralians stranded overseas. Thousands flee as Philippines extends partial Indonesian volcano bursts to life virus curbs in Manila REUTERS — MANILA said was a third wave of infec- AFP — JAKARTA tions in Europe and the United Philippine President Rodrigo States. Thousands have fled the scene Duterte yesterday said that He blamed the resurgence of a rumbling Indonesian partial coronavirus restrictions in those countries on the stub- volcano that burst to life for will remain in the capital region bornness of some people. the first time in several years, until the end of the year, with In the Philippines, cases belching a massive column of the government urging Fili- continued to rise after restric- smoke and ash, the disaster pinos to limit Christmas gath- tions were relaxed, which he agency said yesterday. erings to prevent a post-holiday said was necessary because The evacuation of more surge in COVID-19 cases. people needed to earn a living. than 4,400 residents came as People must still wear The Philippines, which has Mount Ili Lewotolok erupted masks and face shields and the second-highest number of Sunday, spouting a thick tower observe social distancing in COVID-19 infections and of debris four kilometres into Metro Manila as well as in deaths in Southeast Asia behind the sky, triggering a flight Duterte’s home town, Davao, Indonesia, has recorded warning and the closure of a and six other areas for the 431,630 confirmed cases and local airport. whole of December, while less 8,392 fatalities. The crater’s last major stringent restrictions will be Health Secretary Fran- eruption was in 2017. enforced for the rest of the cisco Duque asked Filipinos There were no reports of Nepal observes World Aids Day country. to limit Christmas gatherings injuries or damage from the In a late-night televised to immediate family members eruption in a remote part of A volunteer lights candles forming the shape of a red ribbon during an awareness event on the eve address, Duterte reminded Fil- as he warned against compla- the Southeast Asian of the World Aids Day, in Kathmandu, Nepal, yesterday. ipinos of the danger of ignoring cency and ignoring health archipelago. safety protocols, citing what he standards. 12 ASIA TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020 Oppn holds rally in Multan despite ban

AGENCIES — MULTAN The Pakistan has announced some restric- tions this month — including Despite a government ban and government blamed a ban on political rallies— arrests of hundreds of activists, the pandemic for amid concerns large gath- Pakistani opposition supporters banning the protest, erings may result in a surge of rallied in a central city cases. The measures are aimed yesterday, calling on Prime though security forces at avoiding fresh curbs on Minister Imran Khan to resign have over recent businesses and movement that over alleged bad governance could hurt an economy that and incompetence. months repeatedly had just picked up after an The rally in the city of disrupted opposition earlier lockdown. Multan was held a day after “Imran Khan’s government police, on orders from the gov- events and arrested its is a bigger threat to Pakistan ernment, carried out the arrests leaders. and its economy than the virus,” and banned the gathering, top opposition leader Fazl ur defending the move as nec- Rehman said at a news con- essary to combat the corona- ference on Sunday. Rehman, virus pandemic in Pakistan. clashes that led to the arrests. who heads the Pakistan Dem- Police earlier in the day Among those arrested was ocratic Movement opposition acknowledged arresting over Ali Musa Gillani, the son of alliance, called on supporters Opposition supporters of Pakistan Democratic Movement gather during an anti-government rally in 370 people, while opposition former Prime Minister Yousaf to “break barriers” to reach the Multan, Pakistan, yesterday. groups put the number at more Raza Gilani. venue of the rally. than 1,800. Authorities in The government blamed the Ahead of the rally, gov- in the day, she told reporters Assefa Bhutto Zardari, the Party who was unable to attend Multan also switched off the pandemic for banning the ernment spokeswoman Firdous she was not afraid of arrest and daughter of former Prime Min- after testing positive for the area’s mobile phone network. protest, though security forces Ashiq Awan accused the oppo- that the rally would take place ister Benazir Bhutto, who was coronavirus. Assefa said that the On Sunday night, security have over recent months sition of “doing politics at the at all costs. assassinated at an election rally countdown for Khan’s ouster forces placed shipping con- repeatedly disrupted opposition cost of people’s lives,” Maryam “There is no doubt that this in the garrison city of has started. tainers on major roads to block events and arrested its leaders. Nawaz, the daughter of former government will no more be in Rawalpindi in 2007. Rehman vowed to hold a off the path to a public park Since February when the out- Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, power in the coming days, God Assefa received an emo- massive in Lahore on December where the opposition planned break started, Pakistan has who lives in exile in London willing, and I have no doubt tional welcome and applause 13, after which he and his sup- to hold the protest. But oppo- reported more than 398,000 despite being sought on cor- about it,” she said. as she represented her brother porters would march toward the sition leaders defied that to cases and 8,025 deaths. ruption charges by a Pakistani Also in attendance and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the capital, Islamabad, to “kick out” march to the park, setting off The federal government court, attended the rally. Earlier marking her political debut was chairman of Pakistan People’s Khan’s government. Hong Kong reimposes virus curbs amid fourth wave Afghans fleeing violence

AFP — HONG KONG those seen during earlier out- already been ordered to close. venues hosting parties or large breaks. “This new wave of But the new restrictions gatherings, she added. face cold welcome Hong Kong reimposed social COVID-19 has hit Hong Kong now include most other enter- One of the super-spreader distancing measures at some of very quickly,” chief executive tainment venues, such as events that helped cause the REUTERS — KABUL camps for new arrivals, who their strictest levels in the city Carrie Lam told reporters, adding karaoke rooms, amusement current wave was linked to tend to seek out areas where since the start of the corona- the new restrictions would take parks and mahjong parlours. ballroom dancing nights Azrat knew it was time to flee relatives or people from the virus pandemic yesterday, as effect from tomorrow. Gyms and beauty parlours can popular with many well-heeled her village in Afghanistan when same province have already authorities battle a fourth wave The city’s 170,000 civil remain open but with stricter limits residents. “They went out in a mortar landed outside the settled. Afghanistan’s Direc- of infections. servants will work from home on people per venue or class. groups, they did not wear family house, peppering the air torate of Refugees and Repa- The financial hub has main- unless their job is considered Lam said fatigue had set in masks, they continued to enjoy with shrapnel and injuring her triations identified 54 such set- tained bans on large group gath- essential and Lam asked private among Hong Kongers, a com- themselves in parties,” Lam said eight-year-old son. tlements across the city. erings for much of the year and businesses to follow suit where munity that took the corona- of the recent breaches. The 40-year-old mother of “These families are living in has shuttered various industries possible. virus seriously from the get go. “They danced in close eight had grown used to clashes tents, damaged buildings or when cases have spiked. The Restrictions on public gath- Authorities plan to increase contact... So we need to raise the between the Taliban and the mud-made houses covered measures have helped keep infec- erings will be tightened with a the current HK$2,000 ($260) fine.” Authorities fought the government, but an upsurge in with tarpaulin,” said tions to just over 6,000 in the city maximum of two people spot fines and will launch a spread of Hong Kong’s initial out- violence in Helmand province’s Mohammad Hussain, regional of 7.5 million with 109 deaths. allowed to meet, down from hotline for residents to report break at the start of the year by Nad-e-Ali district finally manager at Welthungerhilfe, a But daily cases have risen four, while restaurants will only social distancing breaches. shutting schools and restricting prompted her to leave for the German aid group providing above 100 in recent days, be able to serve a maximum of Police will also play a more travel across the city’s border relative safety of Kabul. assistance to the new arrivals. prompting authorities to usher two people per table. Schools, proactive role in stopping with mainland China, where the “It came too close,” said “The major challenges con- in stricter measures similar to bars and nightclubs have breaches and going after private virus was first detected Azrat, who goes by only one tinue to be the lack of food and name. “After my son was heating items.” injured, I didn’t want to stay.” Thousands of civilians have Former president The family is among thousands been caught up in the fighting of rural Afghans who have in Azrat’s native province, of South Korea sought refuge in the capital as Helmand. violence increases in many The United Nations estimates given suspended parts of the country, according that more than 5,000 families jail term to the United Nations, which were displaced in October alone says migration to Kabul rose by in Helmand. At least 20 percent REUTERS — SEOUL 30 percent this year. of its districts are now under In the past six months Taliban control, according to the A South Korean court yesterday alone, 25,000 people have US watchdog SIGAR. found former president Chun arrived in Kabul, according to The fighting in the province, Doo-hwan guilty of defaming data from the International where US and British troops for a former democracy activist Organisation for Migration. years fought to clear Taliban who was involved in protests Many lack shelter and warmth from a string of poppy-growing against his government in the as the harsh winter gets under districts, comes as Afghan gov- 1980s and handed him an eight- way. ernment negotiators and the month suspended jail sentence. Kabul, a high-altitude city Taliban try to push forward The sentence was sus- surrounded by mountains, is power-sharing talks in Qatar. pended for two years, meaning already home to between six to “We were in the crossfire,” the 89-year-old former pres- seven million people - far more said Azrat outside the small ident is unlikely to spend any than the one million it was mud-built shack with low time in prison, the court ruling intended for — and 80 percent ceilings and a dirt floor where South Korea’s former president Chun Doo-hwan (centre) arrives for his trial on defamation charges showed. of these live in areas with no she and her children stay, at a court in Gwangju, yesterday. Jung Ju-gyo, an attorney for formal infrastructure, water or warming her fingers under her Chun, did not respond to phone electricity. breath as the winter’s first calls seeking comment and it is defamation against Catholic In its ruling yesterday, the President Kim Young-sam “Physically speaking, there snowflakes descended. unclear whether he plans to priest and activist Cho Chul- court said it found the reports ordered his arrest and Chun was is very little room for people to “My husband who works as appeal. hyun, also known as Cho Bi-oh of government helicopters detained on December 3, 1995. come to Kabul. There are no a farmer stayed back to work, The trial was held in the in his 2017 memoirs, when firing on civilians to be reliable. He was found guilty of houses, nothing is prepared,” but he told us to leave and find southwestern city of Gwangju, Chun called Cho a “despicable Chun, a general who seized mutiny, treason and corruption the city’s mayor Dawood safety.” With US troops due to where hundreds, possibly thou- liar” for testifying that gov- power in a 1979 coup, was pres- in August 1996. He was origi- Sultanzoi told the Thomson leave by next May, many sands, were believed to have ernment helicopters had fired ident until mass demonstrations nally sentenced to death but Reuters Foundation. Afghans fear the situation will been killed when local citizens on civilians, the ruling said. led him to step down in 1988. was released, having spent just “Camps for displaced become worse. rose up against Chun’s author- Cho died in 2016, but South In 1995, he was accused of over two years at the Anyang people could have been suffi- But the camp on the out- itarian government on May 18, Korea’s strict defamation laws mutiny, treason and bribery, but Correctional Institution, near cient in summer, but our skirts of Kabul that Azrat now 1980 and were crushed by meant Chun faced up to two he refused to appear at the pros- Seoul, in 1997 in an effort by winters are harsh. For these calls home does not provide the police, paratroopers and tanks. years in prison and up to 5m ecutors’ office and instead trav- Kim to promote “national families, even survival is dif- safety she hoped for when she Chun committed the won ($4,500) in fines. elled to his hometown. Then harmony”. ficult.” Kabul has no formal fled. Taliban mastermind of Afghan Thai protest leaders charged with royal defamation army base attack killed AFP — BANGKOK waves through Thai society. constitution and the resignation to leave the police station after Human rights activist Anon of Prime Minister Prayut Chan- being questioned and charged AFP — KABUL Thai police charged five key Numpa — one of the most prom- O-Cha, a former army chief who by the police — a rarity as most leaders of the country’s pro- inent faces rallying for royal came to power in a coup in 2014. lese majeste suspects tend to be Afghan forces have killed the Taliban mastermind of a suicide car democracy protest movement reform — and four others arrived Scores of protesters have held until trial. bomb attack that left at least 30 security personnel dead, officials yesterday under the kingdom’s at a Bangkok police station for been hit with sedition charges, The law has long drawn said yesterday. Hamza Waziristani was killed in an air strike over- tough royal defamation laws, questioning yesterday. “The while authorities have stepped criticism from human rights night in the eastern province of Ghazni where the bomber struck the first such use of the contro- police charged us under section up enforcement tactics in recent activists, who say it is a tool an Afghan military base on Sunday. versial legislation in two years. 112,” Anon told reporters after weeks — deploying water deployed to suppress political “The mastermind behind yesterday’s terrorist attack on the Section 112 of the Thai penal leaving the station. cannon and tear gas against dissent. (Ghazni) base was killed along with seven other terrorists,” the code is one of the world’s “We have all denied it.” unarmed demonstrators. The use of it was stepped up defence ministry said in a statement. toughest lese majeste laws, They have been charged over Leader Panupong “Mike” after the 2014 coup, with legal Ministry spokesman Fawad Aman said that Waziristani was shielding the ultra-powerful their role in a September rally, Jadnok remained defiant yes- rights group Thai Lawyers for a Taliban militant from the Pakistani border region of Waziristan. King Maha Vajiralongkorn from and if found guilty face up to 15 terday, saying that the 112 Human Rights registering a The attack was one of the deadliest in months targeting gov- criticism. years in prison per charge. charge will not deter them from jump from just six convictions ernment forces in Afghanistan, where violence has surged since But in recent months They have led dozens of their goals. to 169 under the junta. the start of peace talks between President Ashraf Ghani’s admin- leaders of the pro-democracy protests since July, the largest “I stand on our ideology... The group has not recorded istration and the Taliban in Qatar. movement have called for drawing tens of thousands sup- we will not be bound by the dic- a charge since 2018. No group has claimed the attack. reforms to the monarchy — porting their demands. tatorship and we do not accept Prayut had previously said The Taliban often do not comment on deadly attacks they are including for the law’s abolition They are also calling for a section 112 as a law,” he said. the use of 112 slowed due to “the accused of carrying out. — a move that has sent shock- rewrite of the military-scripted The leaders were allowed mercy” of the king. TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020 EUROPE 13 Paris police officers charged for beating Black man AFP — PARIS The attack on Michel Earlier, Pierre Person, a member of the parliamentary Four French police officers Zecler — which was commission said that “a rewrite were charged yesterday over caught on camera — of the article or the creation of the beating and racial abuse of yet another committee won’t put a black music producer, as ramped up pressure an end to the mistrust felt by a President Emmanuel Macron on the government to part of the population.” scrambled to contain the scrap or revise a bill “I am therefore in favour of political fallout from the case deleting Article 24,” he told the that has sparked outrage in that would restrict the Le Parisien newspaper. France. filming of police after Human rights activists say The attack on Michel Zecler the images of the beating — first — which was caught on camera demonstrations left published by the Loopsider news — has become a new rallying many injured. site — might never have been cause for critics of the police, made public if Article 24 had who accuse the force of institu- already been in force. tionalised racism and brutality. freedom of information”. The bill would criminalise It has also ramped up The announcement came publishing images of the police pressure on the government to after Macron held a crisis with the intent of harming their scrap or revise a bill that would meeting with cabinet ministers “physical or psychological restrict the filming of police after and parliamentary leaders. integrity.” It was passed by the mass demonstrations at the The meeting aimed to come lower house National Assembly ‘La Republique en Marche’ (LREM) parliamentary group president Christophe Castaner (centre), flanked weekend that left dozens up with “suggestions to restore this month, though it still by ‘Mouvement Democrate et Democrates apparentes’ parliamentary group president Patrick Mignola injured. confidence” between the police requires approval from the (left) and ‘Agir Ensemble’ parliamentary group president Olivier Becht during a press conference on Lawmakers from President and the population, government Senate. the ‘global security’ draft law and the Article 24, at the National Assembly in Paris, yesterday. Emmanuel Macron’s party said sources said. A Paris investigating mag- yesterday that they would Castaner acknowledged the istrate charged all four officers Remy Heitz called for three of also claimed he smelled Macron said Friday that the propose a “complete rewrite” of “deepening incomprehension” involved with assault by a the officers to also be charged strongly of cannabis but only a images of Zecler’s beating part of the draft law. over the draft law, which aims person holding public authority. with racial abuse. tiny amount of the substance “shame us”. Christophe Castaner, the to restrict the right of the press Three were also charged with He said that the officers had was later found in a bag, the The president “is caught in parliamentary chief of Macron’s — and of social media users — fabricating their statement on acknowledged that their use of prosecutor said. a trap,” said the headline in the ruling LREM party, denied that to publish images of on-duty the incident. force was unjustified, but that Critics says the new security left-leaning Liberation daily. it marked a climbdown by the police. Two of the accused will they claimed they had acted in legislation is further evidence The protests in Paris saw a president. Interior Minister Gerald Dar- remain behind bars but the other “fear” and “panic,” and denied of a slide to the right by Macron, brasserie set alight, cars torched He said the rewrite aimed to manin was to face questions two were freed on conditional any racist abuse. who came to power in 2017 as and stones thrown at security balance the need to protect the from a parliamentary com- release, a judicial source said. Zecler had been stopped for a centrist promising a liberal forces, who responded with tear police with “the basic right to mission over the law. On Sunday, Paris prosecutor not wearing a mask. The police overhaul of France. gas and anti-riot tactics. Spain dismantles EU aims to 'renew and reinvigorate' ties with US makeshift migrant

REUTERS — BRUSSELS administration and congress ... pandemic, boosting economic executive Commission United States would agree on camp in Gran is an opportunity for the EU to recovery, combating climate underline optimism in Europe all issues. European Union members renew and reinvigorate its stra- change, promoting peace and that a Biden presidency will “There will be a change of Canaria Island debated yesterday how best to tegic partnership with the US security and upholding shared mark a new chapter reinforcing tone from Biden, but the tough AP — ARGUINEGUIN “renew and reinvigorate” trans- based on mutual interests,” said values including a belief in mul- EU priorities on combating US stance on China, the atlantic relations after the the document prepared for tilateral rules. climate change, nuclear prolif- insistence that Europeans spend Spanish authorities have departure of US President envoys. “The EU should agree EU leaders are expected to eration and human rights. more on defence - they will dismantled a makeshift camp Donald Trump, according to an a set of concrete priorities on debate transatlantic relations Many European leaders remain,” the diplomat said. for migrant processing that for internal document seen by which to engage the new US when they convene for a watched with shock as Trump European Council President over three months was known Reuters. leadership,” it added. summit on December 10 and 11. pulled the US out of the Paris Charles Michel has invited as the “dock of shame” for Ambassadors from the 27 Despite divisions between The European Commission climate change agreement and Biden to an in-person gathering holding thousands of Africans EU countries considered five EU members — with France and the EU’s foreign service, the the deal between world powers in the first half of 2021, with a in squalor after they arrived in broad policy areas on which seeking more autonomy from EEAS, have prepared another and Iran limiting Tehran’s virtual summit perhaps soon the Canary Islands. they see greater opportunities Washington and eastern Europe document that would rebuild nuclear activities, imposed after he takes office. The Spanish government’s for cooperation when Joe Biden keen to keep the United States ties on common fronts including tariffs on EU goods and spurned European Commission delegation in the Atlantic Ocean takes over as president after close — there was broad digital regulation and consider multilateral bodies that Wash- President Ursula von der Leyen archipelago confirmed yes- four years of strained ties since agreement on the focus areas how to handle a more interna- ington has backed for decades. has said the EU is looking terday that all the 830 people Trump introduced his “America on Monday, an EU official said. tionally assertive China. However, one EU diplomat forward to the United States held Friday at the Arguineguín First” policy. They were: health including The strategies by EU gov- cautioned against any rejoining the Paris agreement, dock, on the southwestern coast “The arrival of a new fighting the COVID-19 ernments and the EU’s assumption that the EU and the which Biden has said he will do. of Gran Canaria Island, had been moved out by Sunday night to other facilities. The last to leave were 27 No COVID-19 vaccine, no migrants who have tested pos- itive for coronavirus and were placed in isolation. normal life: UK minister Assisted by Red Cross vol- unteers, most of the 14,000 REUTERS — LONDON “But also I think you’d migrants arriving since late probably find that restaurants August have spent time at the People who refuse a vaccine for and clubs and cinemas and Arguineguín dock. In November, COVID-19 could find normal other venues, sports venues, nearly 2,600 people slept, ate life curtailed as restaurants, will probably also use that and were tested in the make- clubs, cinemas and sports system as they’ve done with the shift facility under police watch venues could block entry to app,” Zahawi told the BBC. after arriving on maritime those who don’t have proof “The sort of pressure will rescue boats. they are inoculated, Britain’s come both ways: from service The facility had been criti- new vaccine minister said providers - who will say ‘look, cised by human rights organi- yesterday. demonstrate to us that you sations and Spain’s ombudsman Several major COVID-19 have been vaccinated’ — but for its poor conditions. Many vaccines have been announced also we will make the tech- migrants were left to sleep with in recent weeks, raising hopes nology as easy and accessible just a blanket and no showers. that the world could soon as possible.” Potential asylum seekers had no return to some semblance of Health authorities in many proper access to legal advice normality after the coronavirus countries have become and some people were held for killed 1.46 million people and increasingly concerned in much longer than the three days wiped out a chunk of the global recent years by the growth of that the law allows. economy. anti-vaccine groups, which are All migrants have been relo- A cabin of the mountain railway Zugspitzbahn cable car travels to Germany’s highest mountain The British minister especially active on social cated to makeshift military Zugspitze (2,962 metres) near Garmisch-Partenkirchen, southern Germany, yesterday, amid the responsible for the vaccine media. facilities with better infra- coronavirus pandemic. rollout, Nadhim Zahawi, said Asked if it would become structure and hotels across Gran getting vaccinated should be virtually impossible to do any- Canaria and other islands, Don’t undermine curbs with early ski season: Germany voluntary but that Google, thing without the vaccine, Anselmo Pestana, the Spanish Facebook and Twitter should Zahawi said: “I think people government delegate in the REUTERS — BERLIN “It doesn’t make sense to to help fight the pandemic, but do more to fact-check opposing have to make a decision but I archipelago, said. undermine national contact reaching an agreement with views of vaccines. think you’ll probably find many The Spanish Atlantic Ocean EU member states should not restrictions ... by starting the ski neighbouring Austria is proving Asked by the BBC if there service providers will want to archipelago off the west coast undermine contact restrictions season too early,” Steffen difficult. would be an immunity engage in this in the way they of Africa is better known for its meant to slow the spread of the Seibert said at a regular news In the first wave of the coro- passport, Zahawi said a per- did with the app.” beaches, volcanic landscapes pandemic by letting the ski conference. navirus at the start of the year, son’s COVID-19 vaccine status Zahawi declined to give any and other natural wonders that season start early, a spokesman Merkel last week said many Germans were infected might be included in a phone specific date on a vaccine in non-coronavirus times of German Chancellor Angela Germany wants Alpine coun- at the Austrian ski resort of app that would inform local rollout as none have yet been attracted millions of visitors Merkel said yesterday. tries to keep ski resorts closed Ischgl. doctors of a person’s status. approved for public use. from European countries. Sturgeon hints at legal move if Scotland independence vote blocked

REUTERS — LONDON up the United Kingdom. I’m not ruling anything in,” she She noted that the question Brexit is also a major issue Elections to Scotland’s told Sky News. of “does the Scottish Parliament as a clear majority of Scots Scotland’s First Minister Nicola devolved parliament will take British Prime Minister Boris have the power to have a ref- voted to remain in European Sturgeon (pictured) yesterday place in May, and Sturgeon’s Johnson has said the 2014 vote erendum, regardless of what Union in a 2016 referendum, declined to rule out a new vote Scottish National Party (SNP) is in which Scots voted 55-45 Westminster says” had never even as the United Kingdom as for Scottish independence next expected to perform strongly, percent against independence been determined in the courts. whole voted 52-48 to leave. year and hinted she might go to which it argues would be a was a decisive once in a gener- “What’s not, in my view, “I think as we rebuild from court for permission to hold one mandate for another inde- ation event and his government legitimate or acceptable is for COVID it’s really important that if London tried to block it. pendence referendum. says there should not be another him to say that it’s not for the we have all of the tools and the Scots rejected independence Sturgeon said she wanted referendum in the near future. Scottish people to decide.” powers to do that properly and in 2014 but Brexit and the another vote “in the early part London must give per- Polls show Johnson is that the country we’re British government’s handling of the next term of the Scottish mission for any plebiscite, and unpopular in Scotland and his rebuilding is the one that a of the COVID-19 crisis have bol- parliament rather than the later in remarks to BBC radio comment that devolution of majority of Scots want to see, stered support for secession, part”, declining to rule out a Sturgeon declined to preclude powers to Edinburgh was a not one in the image of Boris with most polls showing a possible vote in autumn 2021. taking legal action should “disaster” was seen as playing Johnson and his band of Brex- majority now favour breaking “I’m not ruling anything out, Johnson block another vote. into nationalists’ hands. iteers,” Sturgeon said. 14 EUROPE / AMERICAS TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020

Poland, Hungary Russia warns Moldova PMs meet over on troop withdrawal EU budget veto AGENCIES — WARSAW REUTERS — MOSCOW/CHISINAU The President-elect has called for removal of The prime ministers of Poland The Kremlin yesterday rebuffed Russian troops from Moldova’s breakaway and Hungary were scheduled calls by Moldova’s incoming region of Transdniestria. to meet later yesterday to president, Maia Sandu, for discuss their threat to veto the Russian troops to withdraw European Union’s next budget from the breakaway region of tone after her victory but yes- The Russian-speakers of and massive pandemic aid Transdniestria, saying it would terday called for Russian troops Transdniestria nominally package that links the be seriously destabilising. in Transdniestria to be removed seceded from Moldova in 1990, disbursement of funds to EU Sandu, a former World Bank in favour of civilian monitors one year before the dissolution members’ rule of law economist who favours closer under the Organization for of the Soviet Union, fearing the standards. ties with the European Union, Security and Co-operation in country might shortly merge Poland and Hungary have defeated the pro-Russian Europe (OSCE). with Romania, whose language been in conflict with the EU for incumbent Igor Dodon in the In response, Kremlin and culture it broadly shares. years over their democracy second round of Moldova’s spokesman Dmitry Peskov said The separatist region fought records and fear they may be Moldova President-elect Maia Sandu speaks during a news conference presidential election on Russia expected the authorities a brief war with Moldova in targeted by the new mech- in Chisinau, Moldova, yesterday. November 15. in Chisinau to remain 1992 and declared itself an anism that allows funds to be Russian President Vladimir constructive. independent state, though it denied to those among the Putin was quick to congratulate “Russia performs a very remains unrecognised by any press conference she wanted Chisinau signed a political EU’s 27 members who do not Sandu, but Dodon’s defeat important function... And of country, including Russia. dialogue, adding: “We are an and trade deal with the EU in meet the bloc’s standards. marked a setback for the course, a change in some status Some pro-Kremlin hawks independent country that does 2014, angering Moscow, though Polish Prime Minister Kremlin in Moldova, a small ex- quo, which is based on the spirit still fear that Romania may one not want foreign troops to stay Brussels has also become Mateusz Morawiecki was Soviet republic sandwiched and letter of international law, day try to absorb Moldova, and on its territory.” The continued increasingly critical of hosting Hungary’s Viktor between Ukraine and EU could lead to serious destabili- that Sandu’s win will inevitably Russian troop presence hobbles Moldova’s track record on Orban yesterday for talks on member state Romania. sation,” Peskov told reporters see Russian influence weaken. Moldova’s chances of joining reforms and tackling their protest strategy for the Sandu struck a conciliatory in Moscow. Sandu told a the European Union. corruption. December 10-11 EU summit that should approve the bloc’s urgently needed aid package and its 2021-2027 budget, Bolsonaro suffers wave of defeats in Brazil mayoral races totalling ¤1.8 trillion. It will be the leaders’ second meeting on AP — SAO PAULO Everaldo Iguchi and will be the impoverished state of Piaui. the subject in less than a week. city’s mayor for a third time. Gustavo Nunes was elected in The domestic situation is President Jair Bolsonaro The poor showing by Bol- Ipatinga, a prosperous city with getting more precarious too, suffered big losses in Brazil’s sonaro’s candidates began an iron-ore based economy and with majorities in both just-completed municipal elec- shaping up in the first round of 263,000 residents. Hungary and Poland backing tions, with only five mayoral municipal elections two weeks The three who won their EU membership, which has candidates he supported ago. Sao Paulo, a metropolis of runoffs on Sunday received the helped transform their econ- winning their races and none more than 12 million people that president’s endorsement only omies through funding that far of them in the most important is Brazil’s biggest city, gave just after the first vote. Tiao exceeds what they pay in. cities. 10% of its vote to Bolsonaro’s Bocalom won in Rio Branco, a The president’s worst rebuff candidate, Celso Russomanno, state capital of 400,000 people came in his hometown of Rio who finished fourth. Sunday’s near the border with Bolivia. Vaccine won’t de Janeiro, where Mayor runoff was between two critics Roberto Naves was elected in Marcelo Crivella was battered of the president, and resulted Anapolis, a city of 360,000 in make pandemic in a runoff election on Sunday, in centre-right Mayor Bruno central Brazil. Nelson Ruas dos losing to his centre-right pred- Covas easily winning reelection Santos won in Sao Goncalo, a go away: Sweden ecessor, Eduardo Paes, by 64% over socialist Guilherme Boulos city of 337,000 outside Rio. to 36%. Crivella, an evangelical by 60% to 40%. Some of the winners Sunday BLOOMBERG pastor, repeatedly used the Other candidates supported who weren’t backed by Bol- president in his campaign to try by Bolsonaro also failed to sonaro sent messages that their Sweden’s government expects to turn his fortunes. make it into Sunday’s runoffs allies took to be aimed at the the pandemic to continue Another big defeat for Bol- in losing by wide margins in president. through 2021 even if vaccines sonaro came in Fortaleza, Bra- populated state capitals like “It is possible to be in pol- become available, according Bruno Covas (right), mayor of Sao Paulo, holds hands with Sao zil’s fifth most populous city, Belo Horizonte, Recife and itics without hatred,” Sao to Dagens Nyheter. Paulo state governor Joao Doria as they celebrate Covas’ re-election where little known centre-left Manaus. His candidate also lost Paulo’s incumbent mayor said “The pandemic will not go candidate Sarto Nogueira in Santos, one of the most during the municipal elections in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Sunday. after his victory. “There are only away just because we get a topped Wagner Gomes, the important cities of Sao Paulo a few days left for denialists and vaccine,” Elisabeth Back- president’s favourite, 51.5% to state. Of the 78 candidates who fewer than the 106,000 he got to talk to in congress. He is a obscurantism.” teman, the government’s crisis 48.5%. Gomes had led opinion even ran by adding Bolsonaro’s four years ago. weaker president because of Sao Paulo Governor Joao coordinator, said in an polls before the campaign name to their own on the ballot, “Bolsonaro is clearly the these defeats.” The five Bol- Doria, the main sponsor of interview with the began and often displayed Bol- only one won and that was one biggest loser of the mayoral sonaro mayoral candidates who Covas’s candidacy, is a potential newspaper. sonaro’s support, but he sought of the president’s sons, races,” said Carlos Melo, a won did so in mid-size cities. bidder for the presidency in Sweden’s Covid-planning to distance himself in the cam- according to Brazil’s top elec- political science professor at In the first round two weeks 2022. Eduardo Paes, the winner stretches into the spring of paign’s waning days. toral court. Insper University. “He failed to ago, two candidates endorsed in Rio, said his triumph was “a 2022, according to internal A Bolsonaro candidate also Carlos Bolsonaro, a key start a party, he failed to make by the president won outright. victory of politics over radi- planning documents seen by lost in Belem, one of the cap- member of his father’s social his candidates stronger. It was Francisco de Assis de Moraes calism.” After voting in Rio, Bol- DN. itals of the Amazon, though it media team, kept his seat on the almost as if he ignored these Souza, better known as Mao sonaro did not reply about the The documents show that was a close vote. Leftist Rio council with more than elections, but they gave a lot of Santa won in Parnaiba, a city of poor showing of his the government is open to the Edmilson Rodrigues edged 71,000 votes — though that was leverage to parties he will have 150,000 people in the candidates. possibility of adding more restrictions, including quar- antine-like measures, to stop Russian hospital regional cluster infections. US embassy in Hungary slams article likening Soros to Hitler Sweden is also looking into a starts COVID-19 pandemic bill, which may be AP — BUDAPEST “with the horrific murder of European Union’s next budget, favours liberal causes. passed by the summer of 2021 vaccination millions of people during the which Hungary and Poland are The statements prompted at the latest. The United States Embassy in Holocaust.” On Saturday, holding up over provisions that strong reactions from several Such legislation would REUTERS — MOSCOW Budapest yesterday condemned Szilard Demeter, a ministerial could block payments to coun- Hungarian Jewish groups and allow the government to force an article published by a commissioner for culture and tries that do not uphold demo- Hungarian opposition restaurants and shops to close, Russia has delivered the first Hungarian official that drew the head of the Petofi Literary cratic standards. politicians. DN said. known batch of Sputnik V parallels between American- Museum in Budapest, wrote an He referred to the two More than 12,000 people The report seen by DN lists vaccines for civilian use to a Hungarian billionaire George opinion piece in pro-gov- countries, both of which are including numerous Hungarian the heightened risk of bank- hospital just south of Moscow, Soros and Adolph Hitler and the ernment news site Origo under EU investigation for public figures like Budapest ruptcies, rising unemployment which said yesterday it began Nazis. referring to Europe as “George undermining judicial inde- Mayor Gergely Karacsony have and increased segregation fol- vaccinating the local popu- The embassy posted on its Soros’ gas chamber,” and calling pendence and media freedom, so far signed a petition lowing a resurgence of the lation last week. Twitter account that it “strongly Soros “the liberal Führer as “the new Jews.” demanding Demeter’s virus. What’s more, Sweden’s Russia, which is rushing to condemns” statements made in (whose) liber-aryan army Soros, who was born in resignation. defense capability might be keep up with Western drug- an article equating a debate deifies him more than did Hit- Hungary, is a frequent target of Demeter retracted the affected by a severe outbreak, makers in the race for a coro- over the European Union’s bid ler’s own.” right-wing prime minister article on Sunday following the which could lead to “vulnera- navirus shot, has said interim to bolster democratic standards In the piece, Demeter also Viktor Orban, who opposes backlash and said he would bilities that are exploited by trial results show its Sputnik V within its member countries noted the conflict over the Soros’ philanthropy which delete his Facebook account. foreign powers,” DN said. vaccine to be 92% effective at protecting people from COVID-19. Domodedovo’s Central Portugal climate activists City Hospital said on its website that residents wanting get Strasbourg court boost for inoculation had to register on a government website in AP — LISBON nonprofit organisation that advance and bring along a challenges human rights vio- negative COVID-19 test result The European Court of Human lations, and a team of five and ID documents on the day. Rights is requiring a prompt London lawyers. The countries Coronavirus cases have response from 33 countries to named in the complaint include surged in Russia since Sep- an ambitious climate change the 27 member nations of the tember, but authorities have case brought by six young European Union plus the resisted imposing a tough Portuguese, a move that United Kingdom, Switzerland, lockdown and have said that activists said gave heart to their Norway, Russia, Turkey and targeted measures are enough cause. Ukraine. to cope with the crisis. The court yesterday The court’s decision to Authorities confirmed ordered the European countries demand a swift response from 26,338 new coronavirus cases to respond to the complaint and the defendant countries is yesterday, including 6,511 in granted it priority status “highly significant,” said Global Moscow and 3,691 in St because of the “importance and Legal Action Network director Petersburg, taking the national urgency of the issues raised.” Gearóid Ó Cuinn, because “only total to 2,295,654 since the The two young Portuguese a tiny minority of cases” merit pandemic began. They also adults and four children filed such treatment. reported 368 deaths in the last their claim last September at The court will attempt to 24 hours, pushing the official the Strasbourg, France-based broker an amicable agreement death toll to 39,895. Mean- Venezuela parliamentary elections court. They want the court to in the case before it proceeds while, Russia plans to begin hold the countries accountable to litigation. Supporters of Nicolas Ernesto Maduro Guerra, son of President Nicolas Maduro and candidate for the mass trials of its second coro- for their allegedly inadequate If the activists win their upcoming parliamentary election, attend a campaign rally in La Guaira, Vargas State, Venezuela, on navirus vaccine, EpiVac- efforts to cut greenhouse gas case, the countries would be Corona, on people aged over Sunday, amid the coronavirus pandemic. Venezuela passed from months of lockdown to crowded emissions. legally bound to cut emissions 18, the RIA news agency cited campaign rallies ahead of the December 6 parliamentary election. COVID-19 precautions including The group is supported by in line with the requirements the consumer health watchdog social distancing and the use of face masks are largely being ignored amid the election campaigns. the Global Legal Action of the 2015 Paris climate Rospotrebnadzor as saying. Network, a international accord. TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020 AMERICAS 15

Arizona certifies Biden picks diverse team of top economic advisers Biden’s victory WILMINGTON, US REUTERS — President-elect chooses over Trump President-elect Joe Biden named several women to his all-female senior press team BLOOMBERG top economic policy team yesterday, including former AFP — WASHINGTON addition to Psaki, six other Arizona certified Democrat Joe Federal Reserve Chair Janet appointments were Biden’s victory in the state Yellen as Treasury Secretary US President-elect Joe Biden announced. yesterday, dealing the latest nominee, setting the stage for on Sunday announced an all- They include Kate Beding- blow to President Donald diversity and a focus on female senior White House field, who was Biden’s deputy Trump’s campaign to overturn recovery from the pandemic. communications team, in campaign manager, as White his defeat and leaving The advisers, several of what his office called a first in House communications Wisconsin as the last contested whom would need to be the country’s history. director. Bedingfield had also battleground state to formalise approved by the US Senate, Among those named was served as Biden’s communi- its election result. come from liberal research Jen Psaki, who will serve in the cations director when he was Biden won the state vote, organisations and worked in highly visible role of White vice-president. according to the official previous Democratic House press secretary. Other appointees include canvass in Phoenix by Sec- administrations. Psaki, 41, has held a Ashley Etienne as communi- retary of State Katie Hobbs. A file photo of former Federal Reserve chief Janet Yellen, who has Their aim will be to set pol- number of senior positions, cations director for Harris and The process was overseen by been named by President-elect Joe Biden as his administration’s icies that can help people and including White House com- Symone Sanders as Harris’s Governor Doug Ducey, businesses recover from the munications director for the senior adviser and chief Treasury Secretary. Attorney General Mark damage done by the corona- Barack Obama-Biden spokeswoman. Pili Tobar was Brnovich and state Supreme virus pandemic, which has administration. named deputy White House Biden said he would nom- Biden selected Cecelia Court Chief Justice Robert killed more than 266,000 “I am proud to announce communications director and inate Wally Adeyemo as Rouse, an economist who is Brutinel. people in the United States and today the first senior White Karine Jean Pierre will be Yellen’s deputy at Treasury. dean of the Princeton School The certification marks the cost millions of jobs. House communications team principal deputy press sec- Adeyemo had been a of Public and International official declaration that Biden “This team looks like comprised entirely of retary. Elizabeth Alexander deputy national security Affairs, to chair the Council of won the state and triggers the America and brings seriousness women,” Biden said in a was named communications adviser under President Barack Economic Advisers. She was a appointment of electors who of purpose, the highest degree statement. “These qualified, director for incoming First Obama, then was the president member of the council under will cast Arizona’s 11 Electoral of competency, and unwa- experienced communicators Lady Jill Biden. of the Obama Foundation, Obama from 2009 to 2011. College votes for Biden when vering belief in the promise of bring diverse perspectives to The appointments do not which is overseeing the Heather Boushey, an econ- they meet on December 14, America,” Biden said in a their work and a shared com- require Senate confirmation planning for the Democratic omist focused on economic unless a court intervenes. statement. “They will be ready mitment to building this unlike most cabinet-level former president’s library. inequality and the president, It’s yet another loss in on day one to get to work for country back better.” In positions. Neera Tanden, chief exec- chief executive and co-founder efforts by Trump and his allies all Americans.” utive of the progressive Center of the Washington Center for to overturn his election defeat Biden was expected to for- for American Progress, would Equitable Growth, will serve on by challenging the results in mally introduce the new eco- On Twitter, Yellen under- every day towards rebuilding head the Office of Management the council. court and seeking to halt the nomic team members on scored the challenges facing that dream for all.” Kristalina and Budget. Tanden helped the Biden and Vice President- certification in some states, Tuesday, the transition team the United States: “To recover, Georgieva, managing director Obama administration create elect Kamala Harris were also despite what legal experts said. we must restore the American of the International Monetary the Affordable Care Act, the set to receive their first clas- have said is a lack of evidence. Yellen, 74, was head of the dream — a society where each Fund, welcomed Yellen’s nom- healthcare overhaul popularly sified presidential daily intel- Those tactics have met with US central bank from 2014 to person can rise to their ination. “It will be great to have known as Obamacare. She ligence briefing yesterday, numerous court defeats. 2018 and had served as the potential and dream even a strong, tried and tested, would be the first woman of which the Trump adminis- Trump’s personal attorney chair of President Bill Clinton’s bigger for their children. As exceptionally talented woman colour to lead the OMB if she tration had previously refused Rudy Giuliani was among Council of Economic Advisers. Treasury Secretary, I will work at Treasury!” is confirmed. to provide. those participating in a “fact- finding” meeting yesterday at a Phoenix hotel with Repub- lican legislators and sup- Trump administration wages porters to discuss “election irregularities and fraud.” Giuliani was part of a similar last major Supreme Court fight meeting last week in Pennsyl- vania that featured Trump AFP — WASHINGTON country’s estimated 10 million undocu- calling in to complain without mented immigrants from the count evidence that the election was US President Donald Trump’s adminis- determining the number of House seats. fraudulent. tration waged its last major policy fight The Republican who has spent his Wisconsin is the last con- before the Supreme Court yesterday as presidency seeking to limit immigration tested battleground state left it seeks to exclude undocumented immi- has said he does not want to allow con- to certify its results. That grants from the population count used gressional representation to foreigners process was set to begin later to determine states’ representation in in the country illegally. yesterday afternoon after a Congress. Until now, the census has included recount requested and funded If the outgoing president’s plan goes all residents of a state apart from for- by Trump’s campaign in two forward, states with large numbers of eigners on a temporary visa. largely Democratic counties undocumented immigrants could see Several Democrat-led states, confirmed Biden’s win. Penn- their influence reduced in the US House including New York, which has a large sylvania, Michigan and Nevada of Representatives. number of immigrants, have challenged certified Biden’s victories last It would amount to a last-minute the change and have been victorious in week, and Georgia made his Supporters of US President Donald Trump take photos of the bus dedicated for victory or defeat for Trump, who is due lower courts. win there official on November ‘March for Trump’ bus tour, a two-week multi-state rally in support of the President, to leave the White House and hand over The Trump administration as a result 20. to President-elect Joe Biden on January asked the Supreme Court to intervene in Doral, Florida, on Sunday. Biden’s victory in Arizona 20 even though he is still refusing to urgently since the president is due to doesn’t qualify for an auto- concede his electoral loss. transmit the results of the 2020 census citizenship of census participants, which themselves to questions of procedure in matic recount because the The US census is carried out every and the number of seats for each state risked further reducing foreigners’ will- the case and avoid the issue entirely. winning margin is greater than 10 years as spelled out in the Consti- to Congress in January. ingness to respond and undercounting According to a study from the Pew the lesser of 200 votes or 1/10 tution, and it determines certain federal Yesterday’s arguments before the the population in certain states. Research Center, three states — Cali- of 1% of the difference between aid and the number of seats each state court was to be by telephone due to the Since then, another Trump appointee fornia, Florida and Texas — could lose a the two candidates. There’s no holds in the House of Representatives, COVID-19 pandemic, and a decision was has been named to the Supreme Court, seat each over the next decade if the provision for a losing can- the lower house of Congress. expected soon. with conservative justices now holding change goes forward. Three others — didate to request a recount, In July, with the census underway, In 2019, a narrow majority on the a six-to-three majority. Minnesota, Alabama and Ohio — could according to the secretary of Trump issued a directive to exclude the court blocked an attempt to ask for the The justices could however limit gain one seat, Pew said. state’s office. Congress races to Hundreds rally in Cuba to support govt avoid government Hopes for vaccines AFP — HAVANA attempt that the Trumpists and Thursday evening by the police, shutdown the anti-Cuban mafia (in Miami) who said the raid was necessary this month get a boost Cuban President Miguel Diaz- could lead.” He called it part of due to COVID-19 protocols REUTERS — WASHINGTON Canel said on Sunday that a an “unconventional war since one person there had just recent protest in Havana by an strategy to try to overthrow the arrived from Mexico via the despite surge warning The US Congress yesterday artists’ collective over freedom revolution.” United States without properly began a two-week sprint to of expression was “the last A group of 14 people, quarantining. AFP — WASHINGTON said Moderna CEO Stephane rescue the federal government attempt” by US President members or associates of the The Cuban Foreign Ministry Bancel. from a possible shutdown Donald Trump’s administration San Isidro Movement of artists, on Saturday summoned the US Hopes for a first wave of vacci- Co-developed with the US amid the coronavirus “to overthrow the revolution.” recently barricaded themselves charge d’affaires in Cuba, nations before the end of 2020 National Institutes of Health, pandemic, the first major test “You know they tried to for 10 days in a house in Timothy Zuniga-Brown, received a boost with US firm Moderna’s vaccine is being since the election of whether trick us. They set up a media Havana. denouncing “flagrant and pro- Moderna saying it was filing studied in a clinical trial with Republicans and Democrats circus,” Diaz-Canel told hun- They were demanding the vocative interference” with the yesterday for emergency more than 30,000 participants intend to cooperate. dreds of young people who took release of another member, San Isidro Movement. authorisation of its COVID-19 across the United States. Government funding for part in a “defence of the revo- rapper Denis Solis, sentenced On Friday, about 200 artists vaccine in the United States and It was generally well tol- nearly all federal agencies lution” event in a park in the to eight months in prison for gathered for hours in front of Europe. erated, with the most common expires on December 11. Con- capital. contempt. the Ministry of Culture to press After top US scientists side effects including injection gressional negotiators have The protest was “the last They were expelled on for more freedom of expression. warned Americans to brace for site pain, fatigue, muscle pain, made progress on how to a “surge upon a surge”, joint pain and headache. divvy up around $1.4 trillion Moderna reported full results The firm said it expects to to be spent by September 30, had confirmed a high vaccine have approximately 20 million 2021, the end of the current efficacy estimated at 94.1 doses of the vaccine, called fiscal year, according to a percent. mRNA-1273, available in the US House of Representatives It was set to join American by the end of the year. Democratic aide. pharmaceuticals maker Pfizer In 2021, it hopes to manu- But more granular details and Germany’s BioNTech, facture 500 million to one are still unresolved and votes which applied for similar billion doses globally. by the full House and Senate approvals last week, and have The news came after on a massive funding bill may predicted their vaccine could leading US scientist Anthony come close to bumping up be greenlit in the US shortly Fauci voiced his fears as mil- against that December 11 after December 10. lions of travellers returned deadline. If the US Food and Drug home after the Thanksgiving Still unclear is whether Administration agrees Mod- holiday. The United States is the Republican President Donald erna’s product is safe and worst-affected country, with Trump will cooperate with the effective, the first of the drug’s 266,887 COVID-19 deaths, and effort underway in Congress. two doses could be injected into President Donald Trump’s If the post-election session the arms of millions of Amer- administration has issued con- of Congress fails to produce icans by the middle of flicting messages on mask- any sort of budget deal, the December. wearing, travel and the danger new Congress convening in “We believe that our posed by the virus. January would have to clean vaccine will provide a new and “We may see a surge upon up the mess just weeks before powerful tool that may change a surge” in two or three weeks, the inauguration of Demo- the course of this pandemic and Fauci told CNN. “We don’t want Supporters of Cuba President Miguel Diaz Canel take part in a concert rally to condemn the media cratic President-elect Joe help prevent severe disease, to frighten people, but that’s the campaign in support of the San Isidro movement in Havana, on Sunday. Biden. hospitalisations and death,” reality.” TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER 2020 16

Qatar Museums unveils CP Club in Msheireb THE PENINSULA — DOHA

Qatar Museums has announced the PRAYER launch of CP Club — a new twist on the TIMINGS members-only arts club based in the PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING heart of Doha’s creative oasis and burgeoning design district, Msheireb. Msheireb is home to Qatar’s new hub FAJR 04.40 am for innovation and entrepreneurship M7, SUNRISE 06.02 am the Fashion Trust Arabia Prize, and the recently announced Tasweer photog- DHUHR 11.22 am raphy festival. ASR 02.23 pm Founded by H E Sheikha Al Mayassa MAGHRIB 04.45 pm bint Hamad Al Thani, Chairperson of ISHA 06.15 pm Qatar Museums, in collaboration with Msheireb Properties and Whitney Rob- inson’s DW Northstar, and with the gra- cious sponsorship of the Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC), CP Club pro- vides intimate, inspiring and engaging atmospheres in which to relax, network and entertain. The CP Club complex comprises a clubhouse with a café and members lounge plus 14 unique houses that have The CP Club complex comprises a clubhouse with a café and members lounge plus 14 unique houses that have been expertly WEATHER been expertly curated by leading inter- TODAY curated by leading international names in fashion and interior design. national names in fashion and interior design, including Diane von Furstenberg, Armani/Casa, Minotti, Daniel Arsham, “I think the sort of originality and India Mahdavi, Marie-Anne Oudejans & CP Club will be a space for Qatar’s most creative people to meet informally and comfort that comes about through Filipa de Abreu, Donna Karan/Urban exchange ideas in a relaxed, sociable atmosphere. Established in the ideal selecting your own furniture, design and Zen, Luxury Living, The Future Perfect neighbourhood in Doha, amidst the most varied and inspiring settings, CP Club art objects can make something feel and o o and Rossana Orlandi, and by notable stands ready to welcome a membership as stimulating and inventive as the have a particular character,” stated 20 C 27 C Qatari artists and designers Aisha Al experimental artist and designer Daniel Minimum Maximum Sowaidi and Wadha. facilities themselves. Arsham, while speaking about the town- Partly cloudy to cloudy at times with Members enjoy exclusive use of the house he curated. a chance of scattered rain maybe Majlis clubhouse and café, a dramatic H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani “I’m so much invested in the combi- thundery at some places. reimagining of the traditional gathering Chairperson, Qatar Museums nation of art and architecture, what I space, as well as pop-up boutiques and hope to do with this place in Doha is to W ALRUWAIS : 22o → 26o cafés, bespoke programming, fashion create a universe that people can step W ALKHOR : 20o → 27o shows, jewellery exhibitions, conversa- Doha, amidst the most varied and Foundation, the theatres, the restaurants into and experience and have this kind W DUKHAN : 19o → 26o tions with designers, artists and archi- inspiring settings, CP Club stands ready ... all of it is magical! To design a DVF of complete worldview.” W WAKRAH : 18o → 27o tects, and an innovative scent garden to welcome a membership as stimulating pied à terre in Doha is an honour and a Tours for prospective members will W MESAIEED : 18o → 27o designed by master perfumer Julian and inventive as the facilities privilege ... I love Doha!” begin on December 7. For more infor- Bedel. CP Club members also enjoy pri- themselves.” Artist and designer Aisha Al Sowaidi, mation, pricing and to schedule a tour, W ABUSAMRA : 18o → 26o ority access to rent any of the 14 designer Speaking about Doha, where she has who grew up in Doha, said, “Msheireb please email at [email protected] townhouses. now designed one of the Msheireb town- holds a lot of memories for me. It is an and [email protected] HIGH TIDE H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad houses, Diane von Furstenberg stated, area rich with history and culture. I CP Club members and guests are 05:35 – 15:51 bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of “What a gem … its history from being a thrive on reflecting memories on design required to present a “green” health Qatar Museums, said: “CP Club will be a secret paradise of pearl fishermen to and creating objects that conceptually status on the Ehteraz virus-tracing app LOW TIDE 12:45 – 23:21 space for Qatar’s most creative people become a modern centre of education tell a story. Once introduced to the town- and to bring and wear face coverings for to meet informally and exchange ideas and art. The more you drive around the house project, I was taken back in time the duration of their visit. CP Club in a relaxed, sociable atmosphere. Estab- more inspiring it gets ... the Rem to Doha, to the streets, to the houses, and encourages safe social distancing lished in the ideal neighbourhood in Koolhaas library, Sheikha Moza to all those emotions attached to them.” throughout the complex. WHO warns fight against malaria Exhibition provides look into art production process Meteor sighting lights up Japan flat-lining RAYNALD C RIVERA THE PENINSULA AFP — GENEVA social media Seasoned Qatari artist Wadha AFP — TOKYO Progress in eliminating Al Sulaiti showcases utter malaria has stalled in recent versatility and fluency in A fireball spotted falling from years, the World Health different art forms in an effort the night sky over parts of Organization said yesterday, to preserve significant elements western and central Japan has with more than 400,000 of her heritage in her series lit up social media, with users people once again estimated aptly dubbed “Inspirations sharing images of the to have died from the disease From My Heritage.” unusually bright shooting star. last year. Al Sulaiti displays a col- Local media said the In its World Malaria Report lection of paintings, textiles, fireball was believed to be a 2020, the WHO said progress jewellery, photographs, and tra- bolide, an extremely bright against the mosquito-borne ditional women’s dresses which meteor that explodes in the disease was plateauing, par- bear Arabic calligraphy and tra- atmosphere. Untitled oil painting by Salem Mathkour on show at “Process 2” exhibition which was launched at Al ticularly in African countries ditional motifs at “Process 2”- “We believe the last burst Markhiya Gallery, Katara Art Centre, yesterday. BELOW: Some of the works of Qatari artist Wadha Al bearing the brunt of cases and a group exhibition launched of light was as bright as the full PICS: RAYNALD C RIVERA/ THE PENINSULA deaths. yesterday by Al Markhiya Sulaiti on display at the exibition. moon,” Takeshi Inoue, director In 2019, the global tally of Gallery at Katara Art Centre. of the Akashi Municipal Plan- malaria cases was estimated The series traces the devel- pandemic in his two untitled oil etarium, told Kyodo news at 229 million — a figure that opment of Al Sulaiti’s artistic paintings on display, one of agency. has been at the same level for practice in a project she started which depicts a woman in red The fireball was visible for the past four years. back in 2005 in which she in a crowd while another por- just a few seconds in the early Meanwhile the once rap- studied the use of Arabic callig- trays the same woman alone hours of Sunday, but was idly-falling death toll has raphy and varied traditional wearing a protective face mask. caught on cameras owned by effectively come to a standstill designs as indispensable Also on display are Al national broadcaster NHK — in the last two years. element of Qatari costumes in Hamad’s intriguing mixed which generally capture After steadily tumbling the past. She attempts to pre- media pieces depicting a series earthquake activity rather down from 736,000 in 2000, serve all these elements through of haunting monochrome ren- than extraterrestrial light the disease claimed an esti- her art applied in a contem- derings of people placed behind shows. mated 411,000 lives in 2018 porary way. a yellow curtain embellished “The sky went bright for a and 409,000 in 2019. Three more talented Doha- with numeric figures. The moment and I felt strange “A better targeting of inter- based artists are featured at the pieces are titled “A Yellow because it couldn’t be ventions, new tools and show including Jameela Al Dream.” lightning,” said one Twitter increased funding are needed Ansari, Salem Mathkour, and The show is open for public user who saw the fireball. to change the global trajectory Haitham Al Hamad. viewing until January 8 from “I felt the power of the uni- of the disease and reach inter- Similar to Al Sulaiti, fellow 9am to 7pm. It follows the verse!” “Was that a fireball? I nationally-agreed targets,” the Qatari artist Al Ansari uses success of “Process 1” which thought it was the end of the WHO said. Arabic calligraphy fusing it with featured works by five inspiring and Nawar Al Mutlaq. The inau- contemporary art. It is known world...” said another, tweeting The UN health agency said vibrant colours in her series of artists, including Tunisian street gural show also featured talks for a number of pioneering a video of the meteor captured a funding shortfall posed a abstract acrylic paintings on artist Vajo, Qatari cartoonist in which the artists further elu- exhibitions such as its flagship while driving. “significant threat”, with only show at the exhibition. and animation artist Abdulaziz cidated on their creative event ‘40 Minus’ — an annual A similarly bright shooting $3bn of a $5.6bn target raised Mathkour, on the other Yousef, award-winning Syrian process. exhibition that seeks to promote star was spotted over Tokyo in 2019. hand, challenges the beholder artist and designer Bachir Doha’s oldest privately emerging artists under the age in July and later identified as “Funding shortages have to choose whether to join the Mohamad, and multidisci- owned art gallery, Al Markhiya of 40 as well as “50x50” exhi- a meteor, fragments of which led to critical gaps in access to group of people or take the plinary Qatari artists and Gallery promotes exhibits and bition which offers 50cm by were found in neighbouring proven malaria control tools,” journey alone amid the designers Maryam Al Semaitt sells Qatari and Arab 50cm artworks to collectors. Chiba prefecture. it said. Rather than a uniform approach, countries have recently begun to adopt tai- lored responses based on local Dictionary companies choose 'pandemic' as word of the year data and intelligence, in order to try to keep up the pressure AP — NEW YORK along the same lines, noting that coinages.” Its Oxford English Dic- Not so at Merriam-Webster and coronavirus a global health on malaria. a world of once-specialised terms tionary and others found them- Dictionary.com, both of which emergency. More than 90 percent of In the land of lexicography, out entered the mainstream during selves madly updating well also noted enormous shifts Month over month, lookups the disease burden is in Africa. of the whole of the English the COVID-19 crisis. beyond routine schedules to keep toward many other related words for pandemic were more than The continent accounted for language, 2020’s word of the The year, Oxford Languages up. Such publication updates are but announced just one 1,000% higher than usual. For an estimated 384,000 malaria year is a vocabulary of one. said in the report last week, usually planned far in advance. nonetheless. about half the year, the word was deaths last year. For the first time, two dic- “brought a new immediacy and Because the coronavirus pan- John Kelly, senior research in the top 10% of all lookup on “It is time for leaders tionary companies yesterday — urgency to the role of the lexi- demic brought on gargantuan editor at Dictionary.com, said Dictionary.com. across Africa — and the world Merriam-Webster and Dic- cographer. In almost real-time, language changes, according to searches on the site for pandemic At Merriam-Webster.com, — to rise once again to the tionary.com — declared the same lexicographers were able to Oxford Languages, “2020 is a spiked more than 13,500% on searches for pandemic on March challenge of malaria,” said word as their tops: Pandemic. A monitor and analyse seismic year which cannot be neatly March 11, the day the World 11 were 115,806% higher than WHO Director-General Tedros third couldn’t settle on just one shifts in language data and pre- accommodated in one single Health Organization declared an spikes experienced on the same Adhanom Ghebreyesus. so issued a 16-page report instead cipitous frequency rises in new `word of the year.’” outbreak of the novel date last year.