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SUNDAY Vol. XXXXII No. 11929 May 30, 2021 Shawwal 18, 1442 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

Amir patronises Amir Handball Cup: Sheikh Joaan crowns Al Arabi Club QU graduation ceremony today MoPH lets private His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani will patronise the graduation ceremony of the clinics do antigen, 43rd batch (class of 2020) of Qatar University students, which will be held at Qatar University’s Sports and Events Complex, today morning. antibody tests Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Hamad bin Suhaim al-Thani, the consort of His Highness the Amir, will he Ministry of Public Health sal swab to be taken from the individu- patronise the graduation ceremony (MoPH) has updated its Covid-19 al and the results are usually available of Qatar University’s female students Ttesting protocol and approved an- within 15 minutes. It can be performed tomorrow morning. (QNA) tibody and antigen tests to be performed by only trained nurses, physicians or in the private healthcare sector. other healthcare providers in approved Amir to receive According to information available on healthcare facilities that can assure the president of Equatorial the MoPH website, the latest Covid-19 quality of test performance, the MoPH testing protocol means that approved announcement said. Guinea tomorrow private healthcare centres are now au- This type of testing is useful for the His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim thorised to perform two new tests - rapid routine screening of people who are bin Hamad al-Thani will receive antigen testing and antibody testing – in not vaccinated as may be required in tomorrow morning at the Amiri addition to the polymerase chain reac- non-healthcare settings like the work- Diwan, President of the Republic of tion (PCR) testing that the private sector place, businesses or schools, particu- Equatorial Guinea Teodoro Obiang has been performing through the Cov- larly employees with direct customer Nguema Mbasogo, who arrives id-19 pandemic. exposure such as those in gyms, cash- today on an off icial visit. The Amir Rapid antigen testing off ers a fast iers and restaurant workers. and the President of the Republic and reasonably accurate screening test Antibody testing has also been ap- of Equatorial Guinea will discuss to detect Covid-19 virus antigens in proved to be off ered in the private bilateral relations between the two the individual. The test can be used for healthcare facilities and are designed countries, ways to support and a range of uses including triaging pa- to demonstrate immunity against Qatar Olympic Committee President HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani hands over the Amir Cup handball trophy to enhance them, and a number of tients with respiratory symptoms pre- Covid-19 as a result of a previous in- Al Arabi Club players after they beat Al Rayyan 30-27 in the final yesterday. Al Arabi completed a domestic double this issues of common concern. A number senting to clinics, prior to preforming fection or vaccination. These tests can season with yesterday’s victory, having won the Qatar Cup earlier. Sport Page 1 of agreements in various fields will minor procedures and prior to hospital be done in private healthcare facilities also be signed during the visit. (QNA) admission for minor procedures. by trained nurses, physicians or other Rapid antigen testing requires a na- healthcare providers. To Page 4 Qatar slams attempt to target Saudi city Qatar voiced strong condemnation Classes to resume at training of the attempt to target the Saudi Arabian city of Khamis Mushait. In a statement yesterday, the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs considered the and educational centres today targeting of vital installations and facilities an act of sabotage that violates all international norms and he Private Education Aff airs vided that all employees who start work laws. It reiterated Qatar’s firm position Sector at the Ministry of Edu- Private schools, KGs in these centres have taken both doses in rejection of violence, criminal Tcation and Higher Education allowed to choose of the Covid-19 vaccine, while the rest and sabotage acts, regardless of the (MoEHE) announced that it would of them can start their work remotely. motives and reasons. (QNA) allow the resumption of activities for between blended and For licensed and valid centres for licensed and valid educational and remote learning people with special needs educa- Chelsea beat Man City to training centres, Qatar News Agency tional sessions can be held with no (QNA) reported yesterday. more than fi ve individuals per ses- win Champions League This is based on the recent Cabinet several conditions. It allows licensed sion, provided that all employees Chelsea won the Champions League decision issued regarding the latest and valid private educational and train- who start work in these centres have for the second time as a Kai Havertz People register to receive a dose of the Covishield vaccine, at a vaccination developments and steps taken to limit ing centres to provide their services at taken both doses of the Covid-19 goal secured a tense 1-0 victory over centre in Mumbai yesterday. the spread of Covid-19, depending on a maximum 30% of the capacity, pro- vaccine. To Page 2 Manchester City in yesterday’s final in Porto. The German youngster, Chelsea’s record signing, latched on to Mason Mount’s pass and evaded City keeper Ederson before rolling the ball into an empty net in HIA handles 200mn passengers since opening in 2014 the 42nd minute. Premier League champions City were favourites ahead of the final but suff ered a amad International Airport, which marked During last year, HIA adapted and innovated a 142% increase, with 12,541 aircraft landing at desperately disappointing night “seven successful years” as an “award- to meet the challenges posed by the Covid-19 HIA in April this year. in Porto in what was their first Hwinning” leading global travel hub, han- pandemic. The airport’s agile and effective re- Cargo movement has also witnessed a 70% Champions League final. Page 12 dled more than 200mn passengers and 13mn sponse ensured HIA kept its doors open during increase in April, with the airport overseeing the tonnes of cargo until now, HIA said yesterday. the severity of the pandemic, connecting pas- movement of 222,339 tonnes of cargo. By leveraging its geographical location at the sengers to their homes, all the while maintain- This growth is also observed at HIA due to the QU Graduation crossroads of east and west, and utilising inno- ing its operational excellence and prioritising airport’s welcoming of new airline partners such vative resources to deliver seamless and effi cient the safety and well-being of its staff and pas- as Air Canada, Badr Airlines, and Vistara to its Special airport operations, HIA has constantly proven sengers. network in 2020. With some 33 airlines operat- to be the airport-of-choice for global travellers, Owing to the gradual lifting of travel restric- ing at HIA, Qatar’s airport is currently serving 142 Today’s Gulf Times contains which has been recognised by prestigious indus- tions globally and the reopening of borders destinations. try institutions over the years. around the world, air travel numbers are now An aerial view of Qatar’s gateway to the world, Qatar Airways also continues to rebuild its net- 2 special pages (8&9) on Testament to its growth, Qatar’s airport is un- slowly increasing. world-scale Hamad International Airport. work in the aftermath of the pandemic, now fl ying Qatar University’s 43rd dertaking a multi-phased expansion to strength- The most signifi cant increase at HIA is in pas- to over 130 destinations, with the aim to increase graduation ceremony en its position as a global hub, accommodate the senger traffi c, which observed a 381% increase sengers travelling through Qatar’s airport. to more than 1,200 weekly fl ights to over 140 des- growth of country’s national carrier, Qatar Airways. from April 2020 to April 2021, with 976,292 pas- In the same period, aircraft movement has seen tinations by the end of July. To Page 12 Gulf Times 2 Sunday, May 30, 2021 QATAR Nominations open for state Tunisian PM visits Sheikh Faisal Museum awards in science, arts fi elds

QNA Applications for awards are submitted through bodies or Doha institutions specialised in science, arts and literature to the Committee of Trustees which will nominate the candidates he Ministry of Culture and Sports announced yester- deemed eligible to receive the award with a detailed report Tday that nominations will on the reasons for nomination open for the sixth edition of the Appreciative and Incentive State and applied sciences; poetry, story, nominate the candidates deemed Islamic studies; social, economic Awards in science, arts and litera- novel and theatre; literary, critical, eligible to receive the Award with and political sciences; pure and ture starting Tuesday until August linguistic studies and translation; a detailed report on the reasons for applied sciences; poetry, story, 31. The award is granted to Qatari theatrical and musical arts; and nomination. novel and theatre; literary, critical, scientists and innovators every other arts fi elds. Meanwhile, the Incentive State linguistic studies and translation; two years, in recognition of their Among the conditions for nom- Award is granted to researchers plastic, theatrical and musical overall scientifi c and creative en- ination, the candidate must be a and innovators with outstand- arts; and other arts fi elds. deavours. Qatari national. The books, stud- ing contributions in the fi elds of The secretariat of the award will Prime Minister and Acting Minister of His Highness the Amir Sheikh ies or research must be scientifi c science, arts and literature. The receive nominations for the Ap- Interior of Tunisia Hichem Mechichi and Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, or his or artistic works that have been award is granted by HE the Min- preciative State Award through the his accompanying delegation paid a representative, grants the award previously published, displayed ister of Culture and Sports in en- bodies or institutions specialised visit to Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani which values QR500,000, a gold or executed, and they must have a couragement to innovation and in science, arts and literature dur- Museum yesterday, on the sidelines of medal and a certifi cate of appreci- scientifi c or artistic value that en- creativity. The award is valued at ing the period from June 1, 2021 his current visit to Qatar. The Tunisian ation. The award cannot be shared riches the cultural and intellectual QR300,000 and a gold medal. until 12pm on August 31, 2021, PM and the accompanying delegation or given to the same person more life locally or internationally. In the event of multiple win- while applications for nomination were welcomed at the museum by than once. The committee con- Applications for awards are ners in the same fi eld, the award for the Incentive State Award are HE Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim al-Thani cerned with the award indicated submitted through bodies or in- amount shall be divided equally received either from the offi cial who off ered a full explanation of the that the fi elds available this year stitutions specialised in science, among them, and each of them authorities or the participants in museum, which is one of the most are: Islamic studies; social, eco- arts and literature to the Award’s shall be awarded a gold medal. person within three months from prominent Qatari heritage centres. The nomic and political sciences; pure Committee of Trustees which will The fi elds available this year are: the date of the awards launch. museum hosts collections related to the Bedouin and marine cultures in Qatar and the Gulf states, rare classic cars, a pavilion of rare manuscripts, Qur’ans and coins, and the special section for Classes to resume at training carpets. — QNA Qatar condemns bombing in Somalia and educational centres today Qatar has strongly condemned an explosion that targeted a restaurant in the southwest state of Somalia causing deaths and injuries. In a statement yesterday, the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs reiterated Qatar’s firm position of rejecting violence and terrorism regardless of the motives and reasons. The ministry also From Page 1 shall be taken into considera- plicable starting from Sunday school hours for each class, but expressed Qatar’s condolences to the families of the victims and the government and people of Somalia, tion,” the QNA report adds. as part of the first phase of the these should not be less than wishing the injured a speedy recovery. The circular stipulates that Meanwhile, the Private Edu- gradual lifting of Covid-19 re- four hours a day for schools and it shall be implemented from cation Affairs Sector has given strictions. Students attend- two hours a day for kindergar- today until further notice. “In private schools and kinder- ing classes should not exceed tens. Qatar denounces bus blast in Afghanistan this regard, compliance with gartens the option to choose 30% of the full capacity of the Also, at all times, all schools the health requirements, pro- between blended learning and school building in case a school should continue to strictly im- cedures, precautionary meas- remote learning to complete opts for blended learning, ac- plement the precautionary and Qatar expressed strong condemnation of the bombing which targeted a bus carrying university professors ures and controls determined the remaining period of the cording to the daily. preventive measures against near the Afghan capital, Kabul, resulting in deaths and injuries. In a statement yesterday, the Ministry of by the Ministry of Public Health 2020/2021 school year. The MoEHE has also given Covid-19 in line with the latest Foreign Aff airs reiterated Qatar’s firm position on rejecting violence and terrorism regardless of motives and and the directives issued by the According to local Arabic private schools the freedom to updates issued by the authori- reasons. It expressed Qatar’s condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of higher authorities in Qatar daily Arrayah, this will be ap- determine the number of daily ties concerned in the country. Afghanistan, wishing the injured a speedy recovery. — QNA Gulf Times Sunday, May 30, 2021 3 QATAR QDL digitises 2mn pages of historical, cultural heritage

he Qatar Digital Library (QDL), the world’s largest digital ar- Tchive on the history of the Mid- dle East uploaded its two-millionth page this month, a major milestone in Qatar National Library’s (QNL) efforts to preserve and share the region’s his- tory and heritage. Launched in October 2014 as part of a partnership between QNL, Qatar Foundation and the British Library. The donation was presented by Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad bin Nasser al-Thani at the Ooredoo Towers on Thursday. The QDL hosts the world’s largest collection of historical reports, let- ters, manuscripts, maps, photographs and sound recordings on the Gulf, Arabian Peninsula, and neighbouring Ooredoo donates to India Covid battle regions –– all free to access for users worldwide. This material is accompanied by oredoo has handed over a do- Financial aid strong, well-established relation- contextualised explanatory notes in nation to the Indian embassy ship with India and we, at Ooredoo, both English and Arabic, making it Oin Doha to help international handed over to are dismayed to see the devastating an invaluable resource for researchers eff orts to aid the country in its fi ght Indian embassy eff ects as the country experiences a and anyone interested in the history against the devastating second wave second wave of coronavirus. We ap- and heritage of the region. of Covid-19. in Doha plaud the relief eff orts under way, The QDL also offers expert articles Men from the Arabia (1886-1889). With India recording exception- nities in need, the company said in and are proud to do whatever we can on the historical material it contains, ally high numbers of cases and deaths a statement. The donation was pre- to support our fellow global citizens giving readers a deeper look into the Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chair- standing. Collaborating with Qatar as the pandemic continues, Ooredoo sented by Sheikh Nasser bin Hamad in India. “We hope the many inter- region’s past and people. person of Qatar Foundation, without National Library and Qatar Founda- prioritised off ering support to the bin Nasser al-Thani, chief commer- national aid programmes under way From 2014 to present, QDl has whom this historical, scientific and tion has enabled the British Library to country with the fi nancial donation cial offi cer at Ooredoo, to a represent- bring some much-needed relief as 1.9mn unique users from around cultural milestone would not have make our collections relating to Gulf as part of its ongoing corporate social ative of the Indian embassy in Doha at soon as possible, so that the country the globe with more than 15mn page been achieved. Her cultural vision and history and Arabic science accessi- responsibility, which includes a fi rm the Ooredoo Towers on May 27. can recover from the impact of the views. From 2017-2020, over 300,000 persistent efforts helped us transform ble to hundreds of thousands of users commitment to supporting commu- Sheikh Nasser said: “Qatar has a pandemic.” items have been downloaded with an this dream into reality.” across the world, fostering new areas average of 6,000 items downloaded Dr James Onley, director, Histori- of research and creativity, and trans- every month. Top countries access- cal Research and Partnerships at the forming access to these important ing the QDL are US, Qatar, UK, Oman, library, added: “The QDL is chang- collections.” Saudi Arabia and India ing the way scholars and students QDL covers the modern history and HE Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz al- research the history of the Gulf re- heritage of the wider Gulf region mak- Kawari, Minister of State and presi- gion and science in the Arab world. ing it an ideal space for readers as they dent of Qatar National Library, said: It has become their first port of call, explore a myriad of subjects, such as “This historical achievement reflects enabling them to find in seconds what trading practices, the two World Wars, our belief that knowledge transcends used to take them weeks, months or the petroleum industry, Britain’s im- borders and positions our library at even years. perial administration of the region, the forefront of the world’s libraries in “It is making the past more acces- treaties, marine navigation, military terms of quality and quantity of docu- sible than ever, leading to a sharp in- operations, civil aviation, economic ments available to all. crease in the number of exciting new forums, Arab nationalism and medi- “With the QDL showing the world historical studies on the Gulf – the cine. how a library of the future could be least-studied region in the Middle It houses a rare collection of Ara- designed, we are proud to have col- East.” bic manuscripts on a variety of top- laborated with the British Library and Roly Keating, chief executive of the ics including astrology, mathematics, Qatar Foundation to lead the field in British Library, said: “One of the Brit- agriculture, philosophy, music theory, the archival digitisation of Middle ish Library’s core purposes is to work military science, astronomy, geogra- Eastern history. with partners around the world to ad- phy, law, chemistry, mechanics and “We are grateful to Her Highness vance knowledge and mutual under- zoology.

HE Akbar al-Baker with off icials in Riyadh. QNTC attends tourism recovery summit in Riyadh Qatari delegation headed by Summit sheds light on obstacles hindering Qatar National Tourism Coun- Acil secretary-general and Qatar sector’s recovery and sustainability, with Airways Group chief executive HE Ak- attendance of UNWTO bar al-Baker took part in the Tourism Recovery Summit held on May 26 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The summit shed light on the ob- stacles hindering the sector’s recovery and sustainability, reinforcing co-or- dination among the public and private sectors to help the sector emerge from the eff ects of the pandemic, QNTC said in a statement. The summit was attended by Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary-general of the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), a number of tourism min- isters representing diff erent countries, as well as key fi gures from the public and private sectors. HE Akbar al-Baker during his meetings in Riyadh. With 60mn jobs lost in 2020 due to Covid-19, tourism has been hardest hit fi rst digital tourism academy, the fi rst HE al-Baker held by the pandemic and attendant border global Sports Tourism Start-Up Com- closures. Sector recovery and sustain- petition. several high-level ability were, therefore, the main topics Several new initiatives were an- meetings, discussing under discussion at the summit, the nounced at the summit, including an statement noted. International Fund for Inclusive Tour- the way forward for HE al-Baker held several high-level ism. Created with the World Bank, it is the tourism sector meetings, discussing the way forward the fi rst fund dedicated to supporting for the sector. He met with Ahmed bin the growth of global tourism. lights the importance of co-ordination Aqil al-Khateeb, Tourism Minister of The UNWTO will also open its fi rst in sector recovery eff orts and facilitat- Saudi Arabia, and Princess Haifa bint regional offi ce in the Middle East, ing the safe resumption of interna- Mohamed al-Saud, Deputy Minister which will co-ordinate policies and tional travel and tourism. A fi rst mover of Tourism for Strategy and Invest- initiatives across 13 Middle Eastern in Covid-related track and trace tech- ment. The parties discussed bilat- countries. nology, Qatar Airways was one of the eral relations between their countries, As part of its remit, it will focus on fi rst airlines globally to trial a digital with a focus on tourism. boosting tourism off erings and sus- health passport. Al-Baker also met with Pololikash- tainable development, gathering key Developed in collaboration with the vili to discuss QNTC’s continued col- sector statistics, sharing information, International Air Transport Associa- laboration with the UNWTO. Previ- and stimulating investment in tourism tion, it functions as a bespoke applica- ous eff orts resulted in the launch of assets, while also defi ning tourism- tion that allows travellers to compile several initiatives designed to develop related health policies. their Covid-19 health information the tourism sector both at a local and QNTC’s participation in the Tour- that allows for more fl exibility and global level, these include the world’s ism Sector Recovery Summit high- convenience while travelling. Gulf Times 4 Sunday, May 30, 2021 QATAR

Qatar participates in GCC health ministers’ meeting

HE the Minister of Public Health Dr Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari participated in New Covid-19 the meeting of the GCC health ministers, which was held yesterday via video conferencing. The meeting discussed coronavirus (Covid-19) and the latest developments regarding the cases drop anti-virus vaccines, and the vaccines approved in GCC countries. The participants also discussed the standardisation of procedures for citizens’ entry through the ports in GCC countries, and below 200 the activation of the study of examining the genetic sequences of (Covid-19) in Qatar samples. – QNA MoPH reports 156 new Covid-19 cases, 337 recoveries

QNA Doha

ew Covid-19 cases in Qa- tar dropped below 200 Health experts call on smokers to Nas the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) yesterday re- ported 156 new confi rmed cases, 98 of which were from the com- munity and 58 travellers return- quit this ‘World No Tobacco Day’ ing from abroad. The MoPH also recorded 337 re- coveries from the virus during the ith one in four adults past 24 hours, bringing the total in Qatar using tobacco number of recoveries in Qatar to Wor tobacco products, 212,716, Qatar News Agency report- health experts are calling on the ed. Two new deaths were recorded, community to ‘Commit to Quit’ aged 53 and 56, one of them has this World No Tobacco Day, ob- chronic disease, and both received served globally on May 31 each the necessary medical care. year. This year, the World Health Vaccination data Organisation (WHO) is calling on  2,491,638 Covid-19 vaccine smokers to commit to quitting for doses have been administered their health and well-being. since the start of the programme. According to the WHO, smok-  15,801 Covid-19 vaccine ers are at higher risk of develop- doses have been administered in ing severe disease and death from Dr Ahmad al-Mulla Dr Wadha al-Baker Dr Kholood al-Mutawa the past 24 hours. Covid-19. Smoking exacerbates  62.8% of the eligible popu- conditions that reduce the body’s She underlined that Qatar con- want to quit smoking and tobac- creases risk of illness and death. lation has now received at least ability to use oxygen, putting pa- tinues to work to strengthen the co,” Dr al-Mulla said. “But indi- Smoking is also responsible for one dose of the vaccine. tients at higher risk of pneumo- eff orts to combat tobacco con- viduals need to address lifestyle many other non-fatal or recover- v 91.5% of over 60s (the most nia. “Smoking is a major problem sumption of all kinds, through choices that have a direct impact able diseases and health prob- vulnerable population group) facing the healthcare system in co-operation between the Minis- on their physical and mental well- lems, including osteoporosis, skin have been vaccinated with at Hundreds face prosecution for Covid violations Qatar, and it is not only harmful try of Public Health (MoPH), Ha- being and the reasons they smoke wrinkles, better known as rhytids, least one dose, while 85.5% have to smokers themselves, but also mad Medical Corporation (HMC), as well. peptic ulcer disease, impotence, received both doses. The designated authorities referred 861 people to the prosecution to non-smokers who are exposed Primary Health Care Corpora- The behavioural and emotional pregnancy complications,” Dr al- In recent weeks the combined for non-compliance with the preventive and precautionary to secondhand smoke,” said Dr tion (PHCC) and the authorities ties to tobacco use – like having a Baker said. impact of Covid-19 restrictions measures in place in the country to limit the spread of coronavirus Kholood al-Mutawa, head of Non concerned, Qatar News Agency cigarette with your coff ee, crav- “Even smoking a small amount and increasing vaccination rates, (Covid-19). Among them, 734 people were referred to the Communicable Diseases at the added. ing tobacco, feelings of sadness of tobacco, such as one cigarette a and the overwhelming support prosecution for not wearing masks in places where they are Ministry of Public Health and The MoPH is also responsible or stress – make it hard to kick the day, increases the risk of disease, of the community, has resulted mandatory, 118 for not adhering to the safe distance, nine for not focal point for tobacco cessation for implementing Tobacco Law habit. a fact that 60% of smokers do not in a consistent reduction in the installing the Ehteraz app on their mobile phones. under the WHO FCTC. No 10 of 2016 and empowering “This is why ongoing behav- realise. Quitting smoking pro- number of new daily infections On Friday the authorities referred 656 people to the prosecution: “Tobacco use is also a major the community to quit smoking ioural counselling as well as sup- motes healthy and behavioural in the country. However, it is still 418 for not wearing masks in places where they are mandatory, risk factor for non-communica- through awareness campaigns on port – which are available at HMC lifestyle and helps improve the important to be cautious as the 66 for not adhering to the safe distance rule, 159 for violating ble diseases like cardiovascular the dangers of smoking. Dr Ah- – is as important as treatment.” ability to exercise and regain nor- second wave is not yet over and the decision to prevent gathering in parks and the Corniche, and disease, cancer, respiratory dis- mad al-Mulla, head of the HMC’s Dr Wadha al-Baker, director mal sleep patterns.” there are still two highly conta- five for not installing the Ehteraz app on their mobile phones. ease and diabetes. Moreover, peo- Tobacco Control Centre – a WHO of the Wellness Programmes at For more information on quit- gious and highly virulent strains Health off icials also referred two violators for not adhering to ple living with these conditions Collaborating Centre – said there PHCC, stated that tobacco use is a ting smoking and support serv- of the virus that are actively cir- home quarantine. All these violators were referred to the Public are more vulnerable to severe were important treatment and major health risk factors linked to ices available, one can call PHCC culating in the community. Prosecution. Till now the ministry has referred thousands of Covid-19. support services available for preventable death. “Most fatali- Hayyak on 107 to book an ap- It is vital that people do not people to the Public Prosecution for violating the Covid-19 “Quitting smoking and the people wanting to “commit to ties linked to tobacco smoking are pointment at one of the 11 health claim victory against this virus precautionary measures in the country. The measure is in line with cessation of tobacco use is the quit”. actually caused by cardiovascu- centres off ering smoking cessa- too early with the new, highly- Cabinet decision based on Law No 17 of 1990 regarding infectious most eff ective way to reduce the “The nicotine found in tobacco lar diseases – such as hardening tion services. To access HMC’s transmissible variants in the diseases, the competent authorities referred several people to the risk of tobacco-related diseases is highly addictive and creates of the arteries, lung cancer and Tobacco Control Center services, community, there is still the po- prosecution for violating Covid-19 preventive and precautionary and reduce the burden these place dependence. There are a number Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary one can call 50800959 (for fur- tential for the virus to gain mo- measures in force. — QNA not just on the community but of state-of-the-art treatments Disease. Similarly, exposure to ther information) or 40254981 mentum and for numbers to rise. also our healthcare system.” available in Qatar for those who secondhand tobacco smoke in- (for an appointment). 11 PHCC clinics provide treatment for smokers

he Primary Health Care Cor- the World Health Organisation and ency. PHCC urged everyone who hand smoke increases a person’s poration (PHCC) has said it is its partners, to mark the World No wants to quit smoking to call 107 to risk of disease and death. Smok- Tproviding smoking cessation Tobacco Day tomorrow (May 31). book appointment for smoking ces- ing is also associated with many clinics in 11 of its affi liated health PHCC said that the service in the sation clinic. It added that cigarette other non-fatal diseases and prob- centres, namely Al Gharafa, Me- clinic is based on two parts: Behav- smoking is a major cause of diseases lems, including osteoporosis, skin saimeer, Omar Bin Al Khattab, Al ioural – by helping the smoker to and deaths. Most smoking-related wrinkling, peptic ulcer disease, Daayen, Abu Bakr Al Siddiq, Raw- stay away from the habit, especially mortality is due to atherosclerotic impotence, and pregnancy com- dat Al Khail, Al Ruwais, Leabaib, in the beginning of treatment, and cardiovascular disease (CVD), lung plications. PHCC said that quit- Al Wakra, Qatar University and Al to adopt a healthy lifestyle with cancer, and chronic obstructive ting smoking has signifi cant and Waab. This came within the frame- exercise. Medication – to help the pulmonary disease. immediate health benefi ts for men work of the participation of PHCC, smoker to kick nicotine depend- In addition, exposure to second- and women of all ages.

All parks now open: MME With Phase 1 of the gradual lifting of Covid-19 restrictions coming MoPH lets private clinics into eff ect on Friday, the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) has said all parks are now open at 30% of their capacity. The MME explained, through an infographic on social media, that sitting do antigen, antibody tests and gathering in small groups with a maximum of five people or family members living in the same house, running, walking and cycling are allowed. Toilets, play areas, exercise machines and From Page 1 rapid antigen testing and antibody courts remain closed. The opening hours of the parks are from 5pm testing. until midnight here are two types of the Private health centres have to pur- and from 5pm-1am on holidays. Al Khor Park will be open from 8am- antibody test; the rapid test chase kits to be used for the above 10pm. T where a drop of blood (cap- tests directly from the distributors. illary blood collected from a finger The MoPH, through HMC-DLMP, prick sample) is placed on a small will provide the list of approved kits testing kit and where the result is validated at HMC. obtained typically in 15 minutes, PCR testing is done for the and a more elaborate test that re- screening of asymptomatic peo- quires a blood sample to be col- ple or patients presenting with lected and sent to Hamad Medical Covid-19 like symptoms or other Corporation’s main laboratory for respiratory symptoms. It can de- serology. tect the Covid-19 virus in the early The introduction of these two new acute infectious stage of infection testing procedures to private health- and during the prolonged shedding care facilities further strengthens stage that is often found in recov- the healthcare sector’s Covid-19 ering patients. test strategy and increases access to Currently, PCR tests are required Covid-19 tests for people in Qatar, prior to travel, before major hos- the MoPH statement added. pital procedures and for confirma- The MoPH, with support from tion of infection following a positive HMC-DLMP (Department of Labo- rapid antigen test. PCR testing is ratory Medicine and Pathology) will considered the golden standard test provide training for private health- in diagnosing acute infection with care facilities to perform both the Covid-19. PICTURE: Jayan Orma Gulf Times Sunday, May 30, 2021 5 QATAR OMEGA is Offi cial Ashghal receives Timekeeper at Wanda Diamond League in Doha European accolade he Public Works Au- orld athletics is well thority (Ashghal) has and truly back on Tbeen honoured with the Wtrack, with the sec- “Recognised for Excellence - 3 ond leg of the Wanda Diamond Stars’’ award by the European League taking place in Doha on Foundation for Quality Man- May 28. agement (EFQM) for being an As always, OMEGA took up “Outstanding Organisation”. its role as Offi cial Timekeeper in An offi cial press statement service of the top track and fi eld by the authority yesterday athletes as they compete on the said Ashghal is the “fi rst gov- international stage. ernmental entity of the sort to “The luxury Swiss watch achieve this recognition un- brand is following the league der the new, improved ‘EFQM around the globe, providing pre- 2020’ model in the region”. cision at 14 separate events in The award, the press state- 11 diff erent countries,” a press ment noted, proves Ashghal’s statement noted. ability to carry out project The highly competitive se- works and development under ries consists of 13 events and a challenging circumstances. It grand fi nal, with winning mar- is a prestigious award that has gins measured in microseconds. been given to a number of lead- Dr Saad bin Ahmed al- “Fortunately, the Diamond ing institutions internationally. Muhannadi League’s rising stars can rely on The award also confi rms Ash- OMEGA’s signature Swiss pre- ghal’s journey of improvement sustained development and cision. The brand will also serve while focusing on customers’ improvement in all aspects of as Offi cial Timekeeper at the and partners’ satisfaction, im- the authority’s business. It also eagerly awaited Tokyo 2020 Ol- proved quality of output, en- refl ects Ashghal’s commitment ympic Games, marking its 29th hanced operational effi ciency to providing the best to its cus- time in the distinguished role,” and eff ectiveness, cost-saving tomers and the public of Qatar the statement added. and overall performance im- and its mandate to raise its op- provement. erational effi ciency,” Dr al-Mu- “The luxury Swiss Ashghal earned the ‘Recog- hannadi noted. Pictures nised for Excellence - 3 Stars’ Jamal Sharida al-Kaabi, above and watch brand is OMEGA has been the Off icial Timekeeper of the Diamond League award after a week-long as- manager of the Planning and on left, show following the ever since the event started in 2010. sessment by a team of spe- Quality Department at the au- the award cially-trained and licensed thority, said this recognition received by league around the lenging year for global sport, dling activities at many of the assessors from EFQM. The strengthens Ashghal’s reputa- Ashghal. globe, providing these young athletes have world’s highest-profi le sporting assessment represents the tion for high operational stand- stayed positive, motivated and events, including the Olympic outcome of eff orts to adopt ards which has been built over precision at 14 ready to compete at the high- Games, OMEGA has developed continuous improvement as a the years. separate events est level. I have great respect and launched much of the key culture and business norm of “In the last four years, Ash- for their commitment to excel- technology in sports timing, in- Ashghal, serving and adding ghal developed and improved in 11 diff erent lence and we’re proud to record cluding state-of-the-art motion value to the projects and serv- over 300 operational processes their performances as they tour sensor technology to enhance ices provided. and 22 corporate policies in ad- countries” across the world giving their spectator experience. Ashghal president Dr Saad dition to elevating its measur- Commenting on the 2021 absolute best.” For more detailed information bin Ahmed al-Muhannadi said ing, monitoring and evaluation league, OMEGA president and OMEGA has been the Offi cial about OMEGA’s many involve- the achievement is in line with approaches, which helped in CEO Raynald Aeschlimann ex- Timekeeper of the Diamond ments in sports, including the the authority’s motto, ‘Qatar the provision of factual evi- pressed his admiration for the League ever since the event Wanda Diamond League, visit deserves the best’. “It’s a step dence for superior performance determination of the athletes. started in 2010. In addition to www.omegawatches.com/plan- in Ashghal’s journey towards that rises up to challenges,” “Even though 2020 was a chal- its timekeeping and data han- et-omega/sport. excellence and evidence of our al-Kaabi said. Gulf Times 6 Sunday, May 30, 2021 QATAR

QRCS delivers food aid to vulnerable labourers in Qatar

he Qatar Red Crescent Health, the QRCS said in a state- Adha,” she said. “Such annual Society (QRCS)’s Volun- ment. religious occasions bring with Tteering and Local Devel- Donated by the Ministry of them the spiritualities of mercy, opment Division recently organ- Municipality and Environment benevolence and compassion ised several activities under the (MME), 27 tonnes of dates were among the rich and the poor. “Stand Together” programme, distributed to more than 20,000 “Amid the negative impact which is aimed at providing care farm workers in Mesaieed, Al of Covid-19 on the lower so- for expatriate workers in Qatar to Wakra, Al Wukair, Al Khor and cial strata, it is our duty to work promote harmony and solidar- Ras Laff an, in addition to con- harder these days to reach out to ity among diff erent segments of struction workers of the Public the underserved communities.” society. Works Authority (Ashghal) in She commended the produc- With funding from the Organ- Doha. tive collaboration with INSA- isation of Islamic Co-operation Muna Fadel al-Sulaiti, the NIA, the MME and Ashghal as (OIC)’s Humanitarian Funds (IN- executive director of the Volun- “a model to follow in humanitar- With funding from the OIC Humanitarian Funds (INSANIA), the QRCS SANIA), the QRCS distributed teering and Local Development ian partnership to serve those in distributed food parcels to many labourers to help meet their basic food parcels to many labourers to Division at the QRCS, said: “Ex- need, which would have positive food needs. help meet their basic food needs. patriate workers are always a top implications for their everyday All coronavirus (Covid-19) priority for our local operations.” life and make them feel safe and the welfare of expatriate workers The ultimate goal is to im- preventative measures were ob- “We focus on them even more taken care of, here in Qatar”. through diverse forms of assist- prove their living conditions and ‘Stand Together’ is a social development initiative to ensure the served, in line with the instruc- during the holy month of Ra- “Stand Together” is a social ance, such as health education, achieve social integration, the welfare of expatriate workers through diverse forms of assistance. tions of the Ministry of Public madan, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al- development initiative to ensure food aid and hygiene kits. statement adds. IOM, QC rebuild homes in Mosul he International Organi- sis, we came back to see nothing sation for Migration (IOM) but debris,” said Sleman, another Tin Iraq has helped 18 fami- benefi ciary of the project. “I was lies rebuild their homes in West working and living in a rented Mosul with generous support house. Without this project, I from Qatar Charity (QC). would have never thought of re- The recently-concluded “Re- habilitating my house again.” constructing Destroyed Housing The projects implemented by in Mosul” project contributed to the QC in co-operation with the supporting durable solutions to IOM in Iraq include supporting displacement in Iraq and pro- health and protection services in vided support to the most vul- Nineveh, and enhancing the ca- nerable families, the QC said in a pacity to prevent and control the statement. coronavirus pandemic. “Through this project, and It also completed a project in with Qatar Charity’s support, response to the water crisis in Al IOM Iraq intervened in 24 sites to The projects implemented by the QC in co-operation with the IOM in Qurnah. remove post-confl ict debris and Iraq include supporting health and protection services. Qatar Charity is also imple- supported 18 families to build menting a multi-sector as- housing units,” said IOM Iraq “We are delighted with re- of Emergency and Relief at the authorities for facilitating the tional organisations to imple- benefi ciary from Mosul. “We sistance project for people af- chief of mission Gerard Waite. building the destroyed homes in QC. “Qatar Charity is proud of necessary support for the im- ment various projects for the rented a house, but we kept hop- fected by the Syrian crisis, and “The project included cash-for- Mosul, in co-operation with the its partnership with the IOM in plementation of the project that benefi t of IDPs (internally-dis- ing that one day we would go strengthening the health system work opportunities and skills- IOM, which would contribute supporting and completing this drew a smile on the faces of ben- placed persons) and refugees. back home. to improve access to health care training, which allowed more to providing a dignifi ed life and important project.” efi ciary families. “We were displaced to Salami- “This project gave us hope and services for Rohingya refugees in community members to ben- creating a better environment for He thanked the IOM for con- Al-Rumaihi also noted that the yah Camp until 2017. When we now my family is back living in Bangladesh. efi t and participate in the recon- the benefi ciaries,” said Ahmed cluding the project profession- QC is keen to work with United came back, our house was de- our house,” he added. It implemented a cyclone re- struction eff orts.” Saad al-Rumaihi, the director ally and thoroughly, and the local Nations agencies and interna- stroyed,” said Faris, a project “After the end of the Mosul cri- sponse project in Malawi. Jaguar enhances E-PACE with new R-Dynamic Black Edition

aguar has enhanced the E-PACE range with the introduction of the Jsophisticated R-Dynamic Black Edition and updated connectivity fea- tures. “The new R-Dynamic Black Edi- tion elevates the compact SUV’s dy- namic design and visual appeal with a bespoke choice of exterior elements,” said a press statement issued in Doha by Alfardan Premier Motors Co, the offi cial retailer of Jaguar Land Rover vehicles in Qatar. The R-Dynamic Black Edition ex- pands the E-PACE range, which fea- tures Jaguar’s advanced Premium Transverse Architecture, a choice of effi cient Ingenium powertrains – in- cluding Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) and The R-Dynamic Black Edition. Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technologies – state-of-the-art con- lows the driver to carry out 90% of nectivity and luxurious interiors. common tasks within two taps from New technologies, including wire- the home screen thanks to its simpli- less Apple CarPlay, will provide added fi ed menu structure. convenience and connectivity. Advanced All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Wireless Android Auto will also be- makes use of second-generation come available at the same time, mak- “Standard Driveline” technology that ing E-PACE ownership more connect- automatically distributes torque be- ed than ever. tween the front and rear wheels to en- The distinctive new R-Dynamic sure optimum traction. Black Edition is based on the E-PACE This AWD system utilises Driveline A view of the interior. R-Dynamic S. Disconnect technology that intel- It off ers customers specially-se- ligently disengages AWD to optimise Transverse Architecture ensures that lected design elements that give the effi ciency – for example when cruising the E-PACE is available with the latest E-PACE an even more dynamic and at constant speeds. electrifi ed powertrain technologies, as sophisticated presence. The latest E-PACE comes with even well as delivering improved ride com- The design includes Gloss Black greater technology and connectivity fort with the performance and han- door mirror caps and Gloss Black de- options, with wireless Apple CarPlay dling agility Jaguar customers expect. tailing to the front bumper and lower becoming available soon as standard. New engine mounts contribute to grille surround, main grille surround Wireless Android Auto will also enhanced throttle response, while the and grille tips. become available as standard at the suspension layout ensures a comforta- The side window surround and side same time, with both available via a ble ride while retaining Jaguar’s trade- vent – complete with the Jaguar leaper SOTA update for all Pivi and Pivi Pro mark dynamics. – feature a Gloss Black fi nish, along equipped E-PACE models – seamless- This is all complemented by the with the Jaguar script and rear badg- ly replicating the customer’s smart- luxurious interior, which is more tran- ing. phone display on the central touch- quil than ever thanks to the E-PACE’s Distinctive 19” Satin Grey alloy screen and giving drivers multiple advanced body architecture, which wheels with contrasting red brake methods of controlling infotainment reduces vibrations and noise transfer calipers, privacy glass and a panoramic and phone functions. into the cabin. roof complete the exterior. Jaguar’s advanced Pivi Pro infotain- Jaguar E-PACE is available with an The R-Dynamic Black Edition is ment system has a range of embed- effi cient three-cylinder P300e PHEV available with all E-PACE exterior col- ded apps, fast start-up from its own powertrain, plus the most advanced ours, including new Ostuni White. dedicated power source and dual-SIM four-cylinder petrol Ingenium en- The distinctive fi nish has greater technology so you can stream media gines, utilising MHEV technology to depth and substance, and perfectly and download updates simultane- deliver enhanced performance, refi ne- complements the E-PACE’s contem- ously. ment and effi ciency. porary exterior design. Pivi Pro technology is comple- The current engine line-up in- Inside, the R-Dynamic Black Edi- mented by the 12.3” HD Interactive cludes: Petrol – 160PS MHEV 1.5-litre tion delivers heightened luxury, en- Driver Display that features enhanced three-cylinder turbo, eight-speed au- hanced connectivity and greater re- graphics, a fully confi gurable layout tomatic, FWD; 200PS MHEV 2.0-litre fi nement. with digital dials, media information, four-cylinder turbo, nine-speed auto- The focal point of the new interior phone functions or full-screen map- matic, AWD; 249PS MHEV 2.0-litre design is the curved 11.4” HD touch- ping for the navigation system. four-cylinder turbo, nine-speed au- screen integrated into the central in- The Cabin Air Purifi cation system tomatic, AWD; 300PS MHEV 2.0-litre strument panel. improves interior air quality through four-cylinder turbo, nine-speed auto- The large touchscreen operates the Nanoe technology, which removes al- matic, AWD; and 309PS PHEV 1.5-li- intuitive Pivi Pro infotainment system, lergens and unpleasant odours. tre three-cylinder turbo, eight-speed which provides greater clarity and al- Jaguar Land Rover’s Premium automatic, AWD. Gulf Times Sunday, May 30, 2021 7 QATAR

165 HEC Paris in Qatar graduates celebrated in QF’s virtual convocation

EC Paris honoured the The graduates themselves fore embarking on any risk or graduating classes of hailed their experiences with seeking investment support,” he H2020 and 2021 for its HEC Paris in Qatar. added. International Executive MBA “My studies at HEC Paris in Rustum Khawaja, a 2020 (EMBA) and the Specialised Mas- Qatar shone a light on the com- EMBA graduate and business ter’s in Strategic Business Unit mitment that is needed in work- analyst at the Qatar Financial Management (SBUM) degree ing in the competitive private Centre Regulatory Authority, programmes, during a virtual sector, which is being prioritised welcomed his return to the class- convocation ceremony organised by our government as part of the room after 10 years since com- by Qatar Foundation (QF) on May wide-scale economic diversifi - pleting his Bachelor’s degree. 27, under the theme We are one. cation process,” said Marzooq T “It was a pleasure to learn with, In total, 165 HEC Paris in Qatar al-Shamlan, EMBA 2020 Class, and from, a class full of ambi- graduates were honoured – 94 Group chief executive at Mar- tious, intelligent and hardwork- graduating from the Internation- zooq S Al-Shamlan Holding. ing peers,” he said. “It reminds al Executive MBA programme “I have learnt that fi nancing is one that even while juggling work and 71 from the Specialised Mas- Of the 165 HEC Paris in Qatar graduates who were honoured at the virtual convocation, the majority are Qataris. Of these, 115 are women. not a silver bullet for the success and family life, if time is managed ter’s in Strategic Business Unit of a private project, no matter correctly, you can make space for Management. number of students to graduate during a rare moment of disrup- de Holan. “Their journey has ience, courage, and determina- how passionate an entrepreneur further education.” Qataris made up the majority from HEC Paris in Qatar since it tion, an event that happens once been an exceptional one. tion – the traits that characterise is, but that start-ups must back “My HEC Paris experience ex- of the graduating contingent, of joined the QF in 2010, according in a century, leaving a mark on “They overcame the chal- HEC Paris alumni in their never their instincts with solid research ceeded my expectations and my which 115 are women. to a press statement. the world forever,” said HEC Par- lenges and demonstrated a spirit ending quest for lifelong learn- and market studies to fully evalu- classmates went from peers to This takes to 797 the total “Our graduates have studied is in Qatar dean Dr Pablo Martin hallmarked by dedication, resil- ing,” he said. ate the likelihood of success be- friends,” Khawaja added. Patients at the heart of AMNM’s growth plans

By Joey Aguilar Masraf Al Rayan’s Visa Infinite Privilege metal card is aimed at the Staff Reporter bank’s ‘Ultra High Net Worth Private Banking’ clients.

lfardan Medical with Northwestern Medicine A(AMNM) continues to Masraf Al Rayan expand the range of services it provides to clients, driving its vi- sion to become the most trusted unveils Visa Infi nite healthcare provider in Qatar and beyond. Through these eff orts, it is re- Privilege metal card affi rming its partnership with Northwestern Medicine, a top-5 Dr Nabhan Abou Rjaili: We are healthcare institution in the US. working tirelessly to bring asraf Al Rayan, in benefi ts and services to the “We are working tirelessly to benefits to our patients. partnership with bank’s Ultra High Net Worth bring benefi ts to our patients,” MVisa, has launched a Private banking customers.” AMNM’s new chief operating of- for our patients,” the offi cial said. “feature-packed, high-end” “The ‘By-invitation-only’ fi cer, Dr Nabhan Abou Rjaili, told “Our plan is to have all the above metal credit card exclusively Visa Ultra High Net Worth Gulf Times. “The current number services up and running by end of for its “Ultra High Net Worth metal card is amongst the most of specialties we have open is just June. Private Banking” customers. exclusive payment solutions the beginning, and we are always “All of AMNM’s incoming The uniquely-designed in the market, and we are de- looking to improve our off erings providers are incredibly experi- Phase 2 of AMNM’s expansion “By-invitation-only” Visa Ul- lighted to partner with Visa to wherever we can.” enced and well-renowned, with plans is proceeding well within tra High Net Worth metal card bring the world’s elite off erings “We have big plans under way many of them US- and Europe- schedule. is personalised and packaged to our customers,” al-Jamali for AMNM’s future growth,” he an-trained, including those from with an extensive range of life- added. added. Lebanon and the region.” “Patient-centricity dictates the style privileges. Dr Sudheer Nair, Visa’s Abou Rjaili is a US-educated Abou Rjaili noted that there is complete patient journey from ar- Adel Mustafawi, group chief country manager for Qatar, healthcare executive with sig- also a growing demand for psy- rival to AMNM until departure. executive of Masraf Al Rayan, said: “We are excited to intro- nifi cant operational, consulting, chiatrists and psychologists due “On each fl oor, we have pa- said: “We are committed to duce the Visa Ultra High Net academic and project manage- to many world factors, which tient service representatives who providing outstanding services Worth metal card to Masraf Al ment experience in complex aff ected people from diff erent receive the patient, collect all the to our Ultra High Net Worth Rayan’s Ultra High Net Worth healthcare settings, including walks of life. required information in a one- Private Banking customers to Private Banking customers in private and public hospitals, as “Mental health is an important stop format, and patients are meet their lifestyle and travel Qatar and the region.” well as startups. specialty and area of focus for then escorted to their consulta- needs.” “The design and benefi ts of “Currently, we have Ortho- AMNM and the region at large,” tion or procedure room. “The new world we live in the card are truly an embodi- paedics and Sports Medicine, he said. “From there on, the doctors makes it even more relevant ment of how Visa brings un- Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, He is confi dent that AMNM come to the patient rather than that such services are easily ac- matched experiences to a select Fertility Medicine and Gynecol- can provide a unique service in the patient going to diff erent cessible to our clients,” he said. group of customers whose lives ogy, Gastroenterology, Oph- Qatar, and will even be intro- rooms to be checked by the med- All of AMNM’s equipment, medications, and consumables are US “The new metal product is also are defi ned by distinction,” he thalmology, Dental, full Lab and ducing familial counselling to ical team. FDA-approved. our way of thanking our ultra- said. Radiology services, clinical dieti- its Psychiatry and Psychology “We do whatever it takes to high net worth customers for “At Visa, we continuously cian, physiotherapy and physiol- department, based on best prac- make sure the patient experience cording to the offi cial. navirus (Covid-19) tests, ensur- their continued patronage with strive with our partners like ogy, all supported by the latest tices adopted from the American is superior, and he/she is at the “One of our values is to be an ing the safety of every patient Masraf Al Rayan.” Masraf Al Rayan to bring such state-of-the-art equipment partner, Northwestern Medicine. centre of our healthcare delivery agile and innovative organisation who comes to the centre. The “By-invitation only” rewarding products to market, and procedure off erings, as well “Even students have reacted model coupled with high-quality with a methodology focusing on “When patients and staff Visa Ultra High Net Worth so that our cardholders can as a Northwestern Medicine- to the inevitable stressors of the services.” four main aspects: strong gov- enter the facility, their safety metal card is now available ex- benefi t from secure and seam- designed Executive Health pro- (coronavirus) pandemic, so it is AMNM hosts a high percentage ernance (Alfardan and North- is ensured because we imple- clusively to Masraf Al Rayan’s less payment experiences and gramme,” he said. “The Execu- not just traditional psychiatry of US- and European-licensed/ western joined forces to develop mented the best and very strin- Ultra High Net Worth Private peace of mind from worldwide tive Health programme has been and traditional psychological trained medical and nursing staff an exceptional medical centre in gent measures and protocols Banking customers; it also of- acceptance at 70mn merchant a great success and can become a therapy,” Abou Rjaili stressed. to further strengthen their repu- Qatar), high-calibre multidis- based on evidence and best fers cardholders faster and locations while travelling highlight for medical tourism in “We are, in fact, hiring top-notch tation as a trusted, US-backed ciplinary team seamless proc- practices,” he said, adding that more convenient shopping ex- abroad.” the region.” professionals who have such healthcare provider in Qatar and esses based on best international AMNM’s Covid-19 tests are periences. Masraf Al Rayan’s Visa Ultra Abou Rjaili, who is highly ex- exposure and who can help our the region. standards (Joint Commission available even on Fridays. Hamad al-Jamali, general High Net Worth metal card- perienced in healthcare organi- community.” “We work technically with International [JCI] and Ministry In addition to serving their manager of Retail and Private holders can take advantage of sational leadership, strategic high expertise, ethically and be- of Public Health [MoPH] stand- own patients, members from Banking, said: “We are pleased the exclusive custom-tailored growth, operational excellence  Patient-centric healthcare haviourally with the patients, we ards), and advanced systems and the AMNM clinical team have to continue working with our points programme, a generous and fi nancial improvement, said service want our providers to be knowl- technology,” he explained. been bravely battling the pan- partners in the payments in- rewards programme that gives that Phase 2 of AMNM’s expan- Citing AMNM’s mission to de- edge leaders in their respective “AMNM uses an EMR (elec- demic alongside other medical dustry to off er innovative and cardholders valuable points to sion plans is proceeding well liver the most advanced, patient- fi eld to make a diff erence,” Abou tronic medical records system) professionals in collaboration creative services, exclusively use for free airline travel, hotel within schedule. centric care with service excel- Rjaili added. “But we also want that substantially decreases errors with Hamad Medical Corpora- for Masraf Al Rayan’s clients.” accommodation, and exclusive The current focus is to imple- lence, Abou Rjaili highlighted them to be able to communicate and further improves capturing tion. “With the Ultra High Net seasonal travel packages. ment Cardiology, Psychiatry and AMNM’s focus on patient-cen- their knowledge and passion the right data for all patients.” Speaking on this, Abou Rjaili Worth metal credit card, our For every QR1 spent with Psychology, Paediatrics, a high- tricity. with empathy.” Abou Rjaili also emphasised said: “We are incredibly proud of clients can enjoy access to card Masraf Al Rayan’s Visa Ultra tech expansion of its Ophthal- He said: “When Northwestern that their equipment, medica- our staff . It takes a special kind of global concierge service avail- High Net Worth metal card, mology department, ENT (Ear, Medicine says patient-centric, it  Sound methodology tions and consumables are all US person to take on this responsi- able 24/7 providing services clients earn 4.5 Al Rayan re- Nose and Throat), as well as ad- is not just a marketing tool, but it AMNM’s multidisciplinary Food and Drug Administration bility. to our customers domestically ward points for domestic or in- ditional dentistry specialities to is rigorously being implemented. team works very hard to ensure (FDA)-approved. “AMNM will always support and internationally,” he said. ternational transactions. complement the current service. “The moment the patient a conducive environment that the MoPH and will always look to “We are very proud to be able to Customers can also redeem “Additionally, we will open our walks in, we want them to feel as provides each member with an  Covid-19 and AMNM be a collaborator in the realm of launch this card and to be pro- their points for Qmiles, No- retail pharmacy on the ground though every decision has been opportunity to speak and share Abou Rjaili noted that AMNM public health, especially in times viding a wide range of premium joom points, or cash back. fl oor to add further conveniences made with them in mind. ideas, and to be innovative, ac- took the best measures for coro- of uncertainty.” WCM-Q contributes to annual ACCME meeting

taff from Weill Cornell over three days. director Dr Phyllis Navti – al- Al-Sheikhly said: “Continu- tion and Continuing Professional Medicine – Qatar (WCM- Al-Sheikhly also took part in Sheikhly presented a workshop at ing professional development has Development, said: “The sudden SQ)’s Division of Continuing a panel discussion at the event the ACCME event, titled A team- been of critical importance during emergence of the Covid-19 pan- Professional Development (CPD) titled Advancing the Research based approach to online modality the crisis, helping healthcare pro- demic and the quickly chang- provided valuable input to the Agenda, in which she spoke during a pandemic. fessionals access the latest infor- ing nature of the crisis presented fi fth annual meeting of the Ac- alongside other education leaders The workshop discussed the mation about Covid-19 and the a great challenge to continuing creditation Council for Continu- on ways to facilitate participation CPD team’s response to the coro- evolving best practices for eff ec- professional development profes- ing Medical Education (ACCME), of accredited continuing profes- navirus (Covid-19) pandemic, tive containment, prevention and sionals everywhere.” recognised as the leading accredi- sional development profession- which involved rapidly migrating management of the disease.” “The fact that our experiences tation body in the US. als in scholarship and research events to online platforms and “We are very happy to have of rapidly pivoting to online de- The Chicago-based ACCME that improves educational pro- developing new content to meet been able to facilitate these proc- livery and successfully developing invited Deema al-Sheikhly, direc- grammes and promotes inclusive- the evolving needs of healthcare esses and to have had the chance new, high-quality content about tor of medical education and CPD ness across health professions and professionals in the pandemic. to share our experiences with Covid-19 and other medical areas at the WCM-Q, to participate as a organisational settings. Al-Sheikhly and Mattar then other CPD professionals through for healthcare professionals have member of the Steering Commit- Along with fellow WCM-Q delivered a second workshop, ti- the ACCME annual meeting,” she been of use to the participants of tee of the “ACCME 2021 Annual CPD members – continuing pro- tled Rapid transformation during added, the ACCME 2021 Annual Meet- Meeting: Embracing Change” fessional development manager a crisis: The value of a business Dr Thurayya Arayssi, the senior ing is very pleasing indeed,” she A screenshot from the online event. event, which took place online Laudy Mattar and assistant CPD continuity plan. associate dean of Medical Educa- added. Gulf Times 8 Sunday, May 30, 2021 QATAR QU 43RD GRADUATION CEREMONY Congratulatory messages for Qatar University’s Class of 2020 QU’s 43rd graduation ceremony is today and tomorrow

number of top officials at Qatar Uni- versity have offered their congratula- A tions for the Class of 2020. The 43rd graduation ceremony of the na- tional university is scheduled for today and to- morrow. The Class of 2020 has a total of 3,188 graduates — 2,455 of whom are females and 733 males.

Dr Omar al-Ansari

Dr Omar al-Ansari, vice president for Academic Affairs: “My dear graduates, the stage that you have reached today in your ac- ademic journey reflects the quality of educa- tion provided to you by Qatar University. We are proud of you, what you have achieved and to be a part of your success. We wish you the best in achieving your future goals and ambi- tions.” A view of Qatar University campus.

tous occasion in the history of our nation and who have been fi ghting the Covid-19 battle so University and your individual lives, and as ably and so well. I say to our graduates: you are we graduate a new class, we bring forward a ready, and I know that you will make us and the new impetus and a new hope to develop and whole country very proud.” advance. “The graduation of the Class of 2020 is the payoff of years of hard work and labour by Qatar University, which has seen a number of significant rankings, locally and internation- ally. The colleges and programmes earned a number of accreditations and laboratories and the administration obtained certifi- cates from the International Organisation for Standardisation. These successes prove as a testimony to the excellence of our graduates, who will enrich the Qatar labour market.” Prof Ibrahim AlKaabi Dr Khalid al-Khater Prof Mandeep Singh Duggal

Prof Ibrahim AlKaabi, dean, College Dr Khalid al-Khater, vice president for Prof Mandeep Singh Duggal, dean, Col- of Arts and Sciences: “Our dear gradu- Administration & Finance: “My sons and lege of Dental Medicine: “A warm congrat- ates, it is my pleasure to congratulate you on daughters, the graduates, it is my pleasure to ulations to our dear students for successfully this occasion. I am immensely proud of your offer you and your respective family’s sincere graduating your second year. You are recog- Dr Khalid Kamal Naji achievements and certain that the knowledge congratulations on one of the most beautiful nised as being a special group of students who gained will render you ready and capable to occasions in your life. faced a great challenge and through your hard Dr Khalid Kamal Naji, dean, College of serve the Qatar labour market. I would also “You have completed an important mile- work, dedication and perseverance you have Engineering: “We are pleased to celebrate like to thank your parents for supporting you stone in your life, and the future will only ask done extremely well with your achievements alongside our graduates on this important oc- throughout your journey.” more from you as you begin your careers and this year. We are very proud of you and wish casion and as they prepare to move forward serve this beloved country. My best wishes to you continuous success for the coming years.” with their professional lives. As Qatar Univer- you and I wish you all the success and hap- sity has adopted international academic stand- piness.” ards, it has helped our students develop their skills and abilities to meet the labour market.”

Prof Mariam Ali al-Maadeed

Prof Mariam Ali al-Maadeed, vice pres- ident for Research and Graduate Studies: “Graduates of the Class of 2020, I congratu- late you on this achievement and your suc- cesses despite the unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic. Qatar University is proud of you and shares your joy.”

Dr Ahmed al-Emadi Dr Mohamed Abdul Aziz al-Khulaifi Dr Ahmed al-Emadi, dean, College of Education: “Congratulations to our gradu- Dr Eiman Mustafawi Dr Mohamed Abdulaziz al-Khulaifi , ates. I urge them to take advantage of the Col- dean, College of Law: “It is my pleasure to Prof Adam Mohamed Ali Fadlalla lege of Education’s academic offerings and Dr Eiman Mustafawi, vice president for congratulate the new batch of graduates at Qatar its language classes. As part of the College of Student Affairs: “Dear graduates, I would University who have exerted tremendous eff ort Prof Adam Mohamed Ali Fadlalla, dean, Education’s new plan, it has become more fo- like to congratulate you. We are proud of all of to reach this point. Following years of hard work, College of Business and Economics: “Our cused on community needs. Therefore, I urge you and wish you success in the next phase of they have exemplifi ed qualities such as patience dear graduates, I extend my sincerest congratu- the hundreds of students who have graduated your life, where you will undoubtedly excel in and perseverance and will now transition from lations to you on the tremendous achievement. this year to make use of all the opportunities your careers. Qatar is proud of you and antici- receiving knowledge to being of service in the la- Qatar University has given you the tools required available to them and strive in developing the pates more from you and your service. bour market. Our College of Law graduates will to face the next chapter of our lives. It is essential community for future generations. The col- “I also urge you, as alumni, to maintain spread legal culture throughout the country.” that you always remain connected with your Uni- lege, in order to fill gaps, shows great support contact and to be a active participants in versity, and that you remain an active member of and encouragement towards academic and the University’s programmes, activities and the University’s continuous development.” English disciplines.” events by joining over 40,000 graduates in Dr Mohamed Diab the Qatar University Alumni Association. Students can take advantage of services pro- Dr Mohamed Diab, dean, College of vided by the Career Development Center, Pharmacy: “In alliance with the College of which assist and support through training Pharmacy and the Qatar University vision, we and offers job opportunities.” trust that we have graduated students able to provide optimal pharmaceutical care and ad- vance healthcare outcomes in Qatar, the Mid- dle East and the world. The Class of 2020 has a total of 3,188 graduates — 2,455 of Dr Hanan Abdul Rahim whom are females Dr Egon Toft Dr Ibrahim al-Ansari Dr Hanan Abdul Rahim, dean, College of and 733 males Health Sciences: “I would like to take this op- Dr Egon Toft, vice president for Medical Dr Ibrahim al-Ansari, dean, College of portunity to congratulate the Class of 2020 on and Health Sciences and dean of the College Shariah and Islamic Studies: “Dear gradu- “Class of 2020, with the College of Pharma- reaching this momentous milestone. The last of Medicine: “This ceremony is a delightful ates, this is a very special time in your life as cy ranked as one of the top pharmacy schools year and a half have been challenging, and they occasion for each of you, and we could not have it represents the fruits of your labour. As you in the field of Pharmacy and Pharmacology as have tested our strength and resolve, but it is in hoped for a more brilliant, hardworking group of embark on a very important chapter in your Dr Khalid Mohamed al-Khanji per QS World University Rankings 2021, you times of challenge that we show our true char- graduates. “I want to express my sincere grati- life, I hope that the knowledge and experi- are now one of the best alumni, graduating acter and our abilities. tude to the Qatar University faculty for their ence that you have gained during your aca- Dr Khalid Mohamed al-Khanji, chief from one of the best pharmacy schools in the “Graduates of the College of Health Sciences, amazing eff ort in helping all of you complete demic journey will enrich your professional strategy and development officer: “We world. The College of Pharmacy is very proud and the graduates of all QU Health colleges, will your studies in this pandemic. Congratulations and personal lives.” are here today to celebrate a very momen- of your achievements.” now join the ranks of the healthcare providers to the Class of 2020!” Gulf Times Sunday, May 30, 2021 9 QU 43RD GRADUATION CEREMONY QATAR Graduates praise and express gratitude to Qatar University number of Qatar University graduates from various colleges, programmes and Adegrees expressed their joy over their graduation and over achieving one of the most important goals of a student. The graduates are thankful for all the sup- port from the university, be it from faculty, ad- ministration or fellow students. The graduates also revealed their plans for the future and the projects they wish to fulfi l.

Jumana Adel Abdullah al-Fadhl

Jumana Adel Abdullah al-Fadhl – Col- lege of Education: “It was not an easy road. My son and I were in a diff erent country from my parents in the midst of a pandemic and in my fi nal year. I had to manage my duty as an expat mom and as a student. It is hard to dif- ferentiate between my happiness at graduation and sadness at having to leave my second home, Qatar. I will work hard to ensure that my di- Asmaa Yousef Saleh al-Hor ploma signifi es the beginning of a path towards knowledge that never ends, God willing.” Asmaa Yousef Saleh al-Hor – College of Business and Economics: “My biggest achievement is being placed on the Vice- President and Chief Academic Officer’s List a number of times and staying on the dean’s list for five consecutive semesters. My aca- demic journey has not been an easy one; I am The Qatar University. here because of the support of my family, who allowed me to finish this journey as a distin- Programme as well as representing a Qatari del- ambitions, which I hope to achieve including guished student with honours. I aim to re- egation in an arts and media forum in Kuwait. I entering the professional world and pursu- ceive my master’s and doctorate as well.” hope to pursue post-graduate studies.” ing post-graduate studies. I would also like to delve into other disciplines. Thank you with all my heart to all who supported me at one of the most important stages of my life, where I Hamad Hazaa al-Kubaisi refined and developed abilities.”

Hamad Hazaa al-Kubaisi – College of Business and Economics: “I was able to graduate as a distinguished student. One of the most memorable moments from my un- dergraduate career is my graduation project entitled ‘Factors Affecting Confidence of Consumers through Social Media in Qatar,’ which was published in a well-known scien- Mohamed Imragaa Milad tific journal. Every graduate feels proud to be Ahmed Teyseer Jaber Abu-Humaid a part of the Qatar University legacy because Abdulsalam Yahya al-Sumaini Mohamed Imragaa Milad – College of the University has given us so much. I pray Arts and Sciences: “My biggest achieve- Ahmed Teyseer Jaber Abu-Humaid – that we can be the best ambassadors to this Abdulsalam Yahya al-Sumaini – College ment is winning second place in the In- College of Engineering: “It is important esteemed educational edifice.” of Engineering: “I would like to thank all the ternational Universities Debating Cham- to participate in extracurricular activities to Qatar University faculty and staff for their hard pionship. My family was my number one develop other skills. My participation in the work and eff orts, particularly the head of the Loai Adnan Abdrabou supporters in finishing this academic jour- University’s Debate Club helped me gain many College, our dean, Dr Khalid Kamal Naji who ney and I thank my professors for helping skills that I can use after graduating. In the was a force of good for us, especially when I was Loai Adnan Abdrabou – College of En- me refine my skills.” Qatar Universities Debate league 2018, I was president of the Student Council in the Col- gineering: “Qatar University, which is like a able to get second place and second place in lege of Engineering. I would also like to thank second home to me, off ered the opportunity the National Championship in 2016. Studying Dr Abdelaziz al-Ali, engineer Waled Mukahal, to get to know new people, who eventually be- at the College of Engineering with a major in Dr Sumaya al-Maadeed, Afrah al-Marri and came like a family. My greatest achievement Electrical Engineering has helped me a great my direct supervisor Saad Atef and all my col- was gaining the title of distinguished student deal as our faculty works diligently to educate leagues at the Human Resources department, with honours. Of course, without my fam- and enlighten students.” who I worked with for over a year.” ily, particularly my mother, I would not have gotten to this point. When Covid-19 hit, my mother helped me overcome the obstacles that The graduates are came with it.” Sultan Abdullah Saeed Mahyoub thankful for all the Sultan Abdullah Saeed Mahyoub – College of Arts and Sciences: “I am proud support from the of my achievements and this includes earn- ing my diploma, winning an award for my Mohamed Yahya Taher university, be it from thesis in the College of Arts and Sciences, being named the poet of the University and faculty, administration publishing two researches. I found in Qatar Mohamed Yahya Taher – College of Sha- University endless support for all that I as- riah and Islamic Studies: “In addition to my pired to achieve and encouragement from work as an engineer, I was and remain an Imam or fellow students the administration and department.” Abdullah Hamad Afeer al-Marri and preacher in the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Aff airs. I chose to enter Anwaar Nagib Soliman – College of Abdullah Hamad Afeer al-Marri – Col- the College of Shariah and Islamic Studies as a Law: “My undergraduate experience was very lege of Arts and Sciences: “Qatar University master’s student.” rich and helped me advance my perspective exerted a great amount of eff ort and provided Hassan Yousef al-Muhsin and thought-processes. I have had an array of the ideal learning environment for every stu- diff erent life experiences that have shaped and dent, and has the best faculty that can help stu- Hassan Yousef al-Muhsin – College of changed me. One experience that stands out is dents overcome every challenge.” Arts and Sciences: “My biggest accomplish- a reading challenge in which we were honoured ment as an undergraduate student is entering by the QU President. the dean’s list with a GPA of 3.5 and receiving “I have to thank in particular Dr Nayef a medal of excellence. My graduation project, Nahar, Dr Amr Osman, Dr Houssam al-Jayel, creating a mobile application that helps the en- Dr Abdulsalam Hamid, Dr Adel Fathi, Dr vironment by updating used furniture, earned Mazhar al-Zoubi, Dr Yousri Marzouki, Ab- me top marks despite the pandemic. When I dessalem Lachaal, Dr Rawan al-Louzi, Dr made the decision to change my major and leave Mohamed Ammar Ghazal, Dr Ahmed Samir Ammar Mohamed Khourchid my studies in the UK, it was a challenging time. Hassanein, Dr Khalid A-al-Shamari and Dr I happened to read an article on public relations Khaled Qutb.” Ammar Mohamed Khourchid – College in the media department of Qatar University. I of Engineering: “There are many achieve- felt drawn to this fi eld and felt I had found my ments I am proud of from my time at Qatar major and upon entering, it became clear it was Mohamed Ali Hussein al-Rewi University, including staying on the dean’s the best decision.” list throughout my studies. I also won a tennis Mohamed Ali Hussein al-Rewi – Col- championship and represented the University Assem Jaser al-Abdelqader lege of Arts and Sciences: “Qatar University in a tennis championship in Rome, Italy. taught me how to be independent, develop my- “I hope that I can leave a mark in the fi eld Assem Jaser al-Abdelqader – College of self, form an opinion, respect others’ opinions of sustainable energy and be a force of change Arts and Sciences: “Achieving my master’s is and helped me build a love for volunteering. I particularly in the Arab World. I chose my ma- a very important goal for me that can help me to aspire to get my master’s degree soon.” jor, Mechanical Engineering, because I was in- take up leadership positions. The relationship terested in dynamics and movement of objects. between Qatar University and students is deep My family has been the greatest support.” and loyal. Qatar University holds a renowned position.”

Bayan Sayed Ahmed Hussein

Bayan Sayed Ahmed Hussein – College Mohamed Hamdy Mohamed of Engineering: “My university experience, in general, was full of happy moments. In my Mohamed Hamdy Mohamed – College of final year, the pandemic hit suddenly and we Education: “I extend my sincere and heartfelt were forced to finish our studies remotely. thanks to all those who aff orded me the oppor- Like any other student in 2020, it was diffi- tunity to complete my studies. I am also thank- cult to adjust to the new circumstances and ful for my respected professors who helped me work on my graduation project. It’s incred- gain professional skills and for using modern Mohamed Fadhl al-Yafei ibly satisfying to see your hard work pay off. strategies and teaching methods that helped me My family have been a huge support to me in Aisha Ali al-Zeyara in dealing with special needs students. Twenty Mohamed Fadhl al-Yafei – College of general but also in my academic journey in Abdelrahman Abdullah Ali Khashan years after graduating I returned to school, as I Law: “I aim to earn a PhD in Law. Qatar Uni- particular. I am now going to work as an as- Aisha Ali al-Zeyara – College Arts and wanted to work with special needs students and versity means a lot to me. I must thank all the sistant researcher alongside a Professor from Sciences: “My biggest achievement is graduat- Abdelrahman Abdullah Ali Khashan – wanted to benefi t from new teaching methods. I staff and faculty and my family for supporting Qatar University.” ing from the Student Leadership Development College of Arts and Sciences: “I have many now aspire to complete my postgraduate studies.” my academic journey.” Gulf Times 10 Sunday, May 30, 2021 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), 44466636 (Home delivery) 44350474 facebook.com/gulftimes twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar GULF TIMES Lifting restrictions doesn’t mean laxity in following precautions

The four-phased lifting of restrictions imposed by Qatar to contain the spread of coronavirus (Covid-19) has come into eff ect on Friday, in view of the positive indicators seen on the number of infections in the society. Qatar has done well by maintaining one of the lowest Covid-19 death rates in the world, besides registering a fall in the number of hospital admissions and a decrease in the number of daily cases in the last few weeks. At the peak of the coronavirus, Qatar had seen more than 2,000 new confi rmed cases a day, but for the past few weeks the number has fallen with only 202 cases being registered on Friday. The right incentives for Although Qatar was worried about a rise in infections after the Eid holidays, these were considerably low due to the high level of awareness among the people and the progress of the national vaccination programme, stated Dr Abdullatif al-Khal, chair of the National Strategic Group on Covid-19 and head of the Infectious global vaccine access Diseases Division at HMC. However, Dr al-Khal was quick to add that the gradual lifting of restrictions in the coming period does not mean laxity in strictly Thoughtful, immediate Both positions fail to capture the longer-term threat of new imported The threat of a waiver can following the preventive and precautionary measures as the virus is action on vaccines is bigger picture. First, IP protection variants against which current thus encourage and compel still there and spreading in many countries around the world. will continue, including for Covid-19 vaccines may be ineffective. Such pharmaceutical companies to enter such arrangements. Wealthy countries Data show nearly 60% of eligible people in Qatar have got at least needed as a matter of moral vaccines in wealthy countries where pathogens would pose a clear risk pharmaceutical firms reap enormous to citizens’ lives and health, and to can bolster these incentives by one dose of the vaccine and more than 1mn people have received and practical urgency profits. Second, with political will, countries’ economic well-being. pooling resources, including through both doses. the threat of a waiver can help shift In parallel, there is a growing the Covid-19 Vaccine Global Access The experience in Qatar and other countries around the world By Michele Goodwin and patent-holding companies’ incentives strategic rivalry between the US and (Covax) facility. After all, they and catalyse mass production of China for control of the commanding have an enormous advantage over has shown vaccination and precautionary measures complement Gregory Shaff er Irvine California Covid-19 vaccines for low- and heights of biotech production. poorer economies that are grappling each other. middle-income countries. The The Pharmaceutical Research and with endemic poverty and unequal Wherever there has argument that Biden’s policy is Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), negotiating power. been an early, massive he Covid-19 pandemic contin- destined to, or should, fail is thus a trade group, plays off this fear to To reach a deal, a critical mass At the core of ues to reveal shocking underly- unhelpful to US diplomacy and global demand control of its trade secrets. of rich countries – as well as other and effi cient roll out of ing infrastructural inequalities co-operation during the pandemic. And trade secrets, not patent rights vaccine producers, including China these preventive vaccines, the number Taround the world. While the The effort to achieve global to Covid-19 vaccines, are clearly and Russia – should agree not to of cases has fallen United States rapidly rolls out vaccines vaccination confronts massive the major obstacle to ensuring benefit from any waiver, including from any compensation arrangement. measures is signifi cantly. even to children, countries like India incentive problems. Private wider access to Covid-19 vaccines suff er devastating numbers of fatali- pharmaceutical companies (especially mRNA vaccines). Pharmaceutical companies then could the need for For this reason, people ties each day. India recently reported responsible to shareholders seek to Technically, these trade secrets continue to profit as before. And all should continue to follow more than 340,000 daily coronavirus maximise profits. The longer the are not an IP right, but are instead countries – in both the Global North continued social the measures to continue cases – nearly half the global total – and pandemic lasts, the more likely it is protected by “unfair competition” and South – would benefit, including the country seemingly has no end to its that new coronavirus variants will law. The question is how to compel from the reduction of the risks posed curbing the spread of the distancing and crisis in sight. require adjusting and distributing pharmaceutical companies to by new virus variants. disease. The new strains In response to intensifying political new vaccines, and thus the more these provide their trade secrets to other Nonetheless, the waiver take all of the of the virus are more pressure to reduce low-income firms will profit. manufacturers to produce the negotiations at the World Trade infectious and spread more countries’ suffering, US President Joe Meanwhile, rich-country vaccines, subject to a non-disclosure Organisation risk becoming symbolic, precautions Biden’s administration now supports governments face confl icting short- and agreement and compensation on a thus distracting from needed action. quickly, and the measures a waiver of intellectual-property (IP) long-term incentives. In the short term, cost or cost-plus basis. The threat of the IP waiver must seriously — even are there for the protection rights for Covid-19 vaccines so long as domestic politics encourage vaccine Simply put, the incentives of be real to persuade companies to of the people, in particular the pandemic lasts. This development nationalism, leading governments to patent-holding companies must contract voluntarily for mass global vaccine production. In parallel, a if one is healthy those who have not got the has elicited two competing responses. contract for an exclusive vaccine supply. shift. Compared to an IP waiver, Some commentators regard the The US government, for example, has it is in these firms’ interest to sign sufficient number of developing vaccine so far. new US stance as a paradigm shift imposed a de facto ban on vaccine contracts with manufacturers subject countries could issue, or threaten to “As more and more people get the vaccine, more privileges will be in the US position that will affect exports through its agreements with to non-disclosure agreements, issue, compulsory licences – with given to them,” Dr al-Khal noted. IP protection. But others predict private companies. thereby enabling mass production of the support of the US, the European that Biden’s new stance will have no But because viruses know no vaccines for low- and middle-income Union, and other countries from The pandemic has presented a unique set of challenges for all of impact on vaccine access. borders, these governments face the countries. the Global North – to enhance their us. We are still learning more and more about coronavirus every negotiating leverage. single day, but our public health experts continue to warn that you This is not a revolutionary change, don’t actually have to be exhibiting symptoms to spread the new because the protection of IP rights has always been subject to public- coronavirus. health requirements. But, because A person infected with the virus can be contagious as early as the central difficulty lies with trade three days before he or she begins showing symptoms. In addition, secrets and not with patents, the WTO some people never develop symptoms, but are still able to spread Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights the virus. (TRIPS) is not the main problem. Even The Covid-19 pandemic has placed a new level of personal without it, pharmaceutical companies accountability on each one of us. To slow the spread of coronavirus still would have no incentive to release their trade secrets. Paradoxically, and protect the health and vitality of our people, we must remain TRIPS could now offer a potential committed to the extra precautions our public health offi cials are benefit by enabling countries to wield recommending. the waiver threat to encourage firms At the core of these preventive measures is the need for continued to enter the necessary contracts. The Biden administration should act in social distancing and take all of the precautions seriously — even if this vein. one is healthy. Over 3.4mn people have now died So let us not let our guard down on mitigating the impact of from Covid-19, and millions more Covid-19! lives could be lost as novel variants of the virus threaten to prolong the pandemic. Thoughtful, immediate action on vaccines is needed as a To Advertise matter of moral and practical urgency. For the Biden administration, that [email protected] means taking steps now to shift the pharmaceutical industry’s incentives. Display — Project Syndicate 44466621 44418811  Michele Goodwin is a professor Classified at the University of California, 44466609 44418811 Irvine and Director of the Center for Biotechnology and Global Health Subscription Policy.  Gregory Shaffer is a professor at the [email protected] University of California, Irvine and author of Emerging Powers and the World Trading System: The Past and © 2021 Gulf Times. All rights reserved FOCUS: A medical worker holds a vial of the Covaxin vaccine at a primary health centre in the Indian city of Hyderabad. (AFP) Future of International Economic Law. Gulf Times Sunday, May 30, 2021 11 WORLD 10 killed in Colombia anti-govt protest clashes

AFP duty investigator had shot at a Economists say more than tax increase on the middle class- Bogota crowd, killing a civilian, before 42% of the country’s 50 million es led people onto the streets being lynched by protesters. people live in poverty, with the again. Video footage showed a man pandemic plunging many of the Though the proposal was t least 10 people in the lying in a pool of blood and an- most vulnerable into penury. quickly withdrawn, it had trig- city of Cali were killed in other nearby wielding a gun; A third of Colombians aged gered a broad anti-government Aa day of anti-government that man was then attacked by a 14-28 are jobless and not in mobilisation by people who felt protests, authorities said yester- group of people. school, according to Hernando they were left to fend for them- day, as Colombia enters its sec- “In the south of the city we Gomez Buendia, author of the selves in the health crisis, and ond month of demonstrations had a real scene of confronta- book Between Independence who were further angered by the that have met violent repression. tion and almost an urban war and the Pandemic, and that has heavy-handed response of the President Ivan Duque an- where many people not only lost led to growing resentment and security forces. nounced on Friday he was de- their lives, but we also had a sig- defi ance. Mostly peaceful protests by ploying military troops to Cali nifi cant number of injuries,” said Analysts link the govern- day have often turned into riots while the nation marked a full Rojas. ment’s militarised history to its at night and running battles with month of Colombia-wide rallies After chairing a security response to the protests. the armed forces. that have morphed into a broad meeting in the city, Duque an- For more than 50 years, Co- Protesters have kept barri- anti-establishment mobilisa- nounced on Friday “the maxi- lombia’s war against leftist Farc cades burning countrywide and tion. mum deployment of military as- guerrillas eclipsed all other blocked dozens of key roads, “Ten people” are dead, “this sistance to the national police” government priorities, with the causing shortages of many prod- is the toll we have this morning” would begin immediately. state emerging from the confl ict ucts. in events linked to Friday’s dem- The offi cial nationwide toll up militarily strong but weak on so- Meanwhile, Colombia con- onstrations, Cali’s security sec- to Friday in the month of vio- A demonstrator gestures as motorcycles that are impounded for violating traff ic regulations are seen on cial redress. tinues to battle record levels of retary Carlos Rojas told Caracol lence was 49 dead, with many fire at the municipal yards, in Popayan, Colombia. (Reuters) In 2019, the year after Duque coronavirus infections. radio. Police said eight of the 10 more wounded or missing. took power, students took to There have been more than were shot dead. Human Rights Watch, which serious.” Jose Miguel Vivanco, cifi c order prohibiting agents of increasingly politicised youth the streets demanding free and 3.3 million confi rmed cases, and He spoke after reports of vio- has been reporting a higher toll, the rights group’s executive di- the state from using fi rearms.” battered by the pandemic, an- more accessible public educa- over 87,200 deaths, according lent street clashes. In one case, says it has counted 63 deaths to rector for the Americas, urged Government mediation at- gry over the country’s deep ine- tion, better jobs and a supportive to the Johns Hopkins University a representative from the Cali date. It called the situation in Duque to take “urgent measures tempts have been largely futile, qualities, and feeling their voices government. tally. That has left many Colom- prosecutor’s offi ce said an off - Cali, a city of 2.2 million, “very to de-escalate, including a spe- unable to contain the fury of have not been heard. On April 28, fury at a proposed bian hospitals near collapse.

US readies sanctions on Belarus Vietnam detects The White House announced on Friday it will impose sanctions on Belarus after it diverted a European flight and arrested a dissident on board. hybrid of Indian, Press Secretary Jen Psaki, in a statement outlining the punitive measures, called the May 23 Ryanair flight diversion and arrest of Belarus opposition UK Covid variants journalist and activist Roman Protasevich “a direct aff ront to international norms.” Reuters describing it as a hybrid of the that emerged fi rst in India, Brit- In addition to measures already Hanoi two known variants. ain, South Africa and Brazil. announced in recent weeks, “That the new one is an In- Offi cials at the WHO did not Washington said that it was dian variant with mutations that immediately respond to a re- working with the European uthorities in Vietnam originally belong to the UK vari- quest for comment regarding the Union on a list of targeted have detected a new ant is very dangerous,” he told a variant identifi ed in Vietnam. sanctions against key members Acoronavirus variant that government meeting, a record- Long said laboratory cul- of the regime of Belarus’s is a combination of the Indian ing of which was obtained by tures of the new variant showed strongman President Alexander This handout photograph released by the Sri Lanka Air Force yesterday shows smoke billowing and UK Covid-19 variants and Reuters. the virus replicated itself very Lukashenko. from the Singapore-registered container ship MV X-Press Pearl, which has been burning for the spreads quickly by air, the health The Southeast Asian country quickly, possibly explaining why Economic sanctions against tenth consecutive day in the sea off Sri Lanka’s Colombo Harbour, in Colombo. (AFP) minister said yesterday. had previously detected seven so many new cases had appeared nine Belarusian state-owned After successfully containing virus variants: B.1.222, B.1.619, in diff erent parts of the country enterprises, reimposed in April the virus for most of last year, D614G, B.1.1.7 — known as the in a short period of time. following a crackdown on pro- Vietnam is grappling with a rise UK variant, B.1.351, A.23.1 and The Health Ministry told the democracy protests, will come in infections since late April B.1.617.2 — the “Indian variant”. meeting the government was into eff ect on June 3. that accounts for more than Long said Vietnam would working to secure 10 million Lanka facing marine disaster half of the total 6,856 registered soon publish genome data of the vaccine doses under the Covax China cargo craft cases. So far, there have been 47 newly identifi ed variant, which cost-sharing scheme, as well deaths. he said was more transmissi- as a further 20 million doses of for space station from burning ship: offi cial “Vietnam has uncovered a ble than the previously known Pfi zer’s vaccine and 40 million supplies takes off new Covid-19 variant combin- types. of Russia’s Sputnik V. AFP which caught fi re on May 20. ing characteristics of the two The World Health Organisa- The country of about 98 mil- Negombo The impact on mangroves, lagoons and ma- existing variants fi rst found in tion (WHO) has identifi ed four lion people has so far received China yesterday launched a cargo rine wildlife in the region was being assessed. India and the UK,” Health Min- variants of Sars-CoV-2 of global 2.9 million doses and aims to se- spacecraft carrying supplies for The jobs of thousands of fi shermen are at ister Nguyen Thanh Long said, concern. These include variants cure 150 million this year. its new space station, after delays ri Lanka is facing its worst beach pollu- risk, according to authorities, and the MEPA due to technical reasons, state tion crisis as tonnes of plastic waste from said a possible oil leak would only add to the media said. A 14-tonne Long March Sa burning container ship wash ashore, a devastation. 7 rocket carrying the Tianzhou-2 senior environment offi cial said yesterday. Much of the ship’s cargo, including 25 tonnes US, India united in tackling Covid: Blinken — loaded with essentials such Fishermen have been banned from a 50-mile of nitric acid, sodium hydroxide, lubricants and as food, equipment and fuel — stretch of coast near the Singapore-registered other chemicals, appeared to have been de- Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said the Blinken said. He said the two countries were also blasted off from the Wenchang MV X-Press Pearl as an international fi refi ght- stroyed in the fi re, offi cials said. United States and India are united in trying to united in addressing climate change, and were launch site on the tropical ing operation went into a 10th day. The X-Press Pearl caught fi re as it waited to tackle the Covid-19 pandemic together and partnered together directly through the Quad — a southern island of Hainan, the “There is smoke and intermittent fl ames seen enter Colombo harbour and remains anchored Washington is determined to help India with its four country group that also includes Japan and Xinhua news agency reported. The from the ship,” navy spokesman Captain Indika just outside the port. coronavirus crisis. Australia — and through UN institutions “in dealing cargo craft successfully separated de Silva told AFP. “However, the vessel is stable Authorities believe the fi re was caused by a Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam with many of the challenges we face in the region from the rocket, went into orbit and it is still in anchorage.” nitric acid leak that the crew had been aware of Jaishankar, who has spent the past week in the and around the world.” and deployed its solar panels, Authorities are more worried about millions since May 11. The 25-member crew were evacu- United States seeking help amid a devastating India, the world’s second most-populous country, the agency said, citing the China of polyethylene pellets washing up on beaches ated after an explosion on the vessel. second wave of infections at home, told reporters this month has recorded its highest Covid-19 death Manned Space Agency (CMSA). and threatening fi sh-breeding shallow waters. Four Indian ships have joined Sri Lanka’s navy while standing with Blinken at a State Department toll since the pandemic began last year. Only about The space station — named The aff ected seafront is known for its crabs in the battle to contain the fi re. Two vessels were meeting that India is grateful to Washington for 3% of India’s 1.3 billion people have been fully Tiangong, meaning “heavenly and jumbo prawns as well as its tourist beaches. equipped to deal with an oil slick, offi cials said. strong support and solidarity. vaccinated, the lowest rate among the 10 countries palace” — will need around 10 “This is probably the worst beach pollution in Salvage operations are being led by the Dutch “In the earlier days of Covid, India was there for the with the most cases. Prime Minister Narendra missions in total to complete our history,” said Dharshani Lahandapura, head company SMIT, which has sent specialist fi re- United States — something we will never forget,” Modi’s government has faced mounting criticism assembly in orbit.It is expected to of Sri Lanka’s Marine Environment and Protec- fi ghting tugs. Blinken said. “And now we want to make sure for its failure to secure Covid-19 vaccines for its become fully operational in 2022. tion Authority (MEPA). SMIT was also involved in dousing a burning that we’re there for India as well.” Blinken said the people, even though India is one of the world’s Once completed, it is expected to Thousands of military and security person- oil tanker off Sri Lanka’s east coast last Septem- partnership between the two countries is “vital,” biggest producers of vaccines. Indian off icials have remain in low Earth orbit for up to nel in hazmat suits are cleaning the beaches of ber after an engine room explosion that killed a “strong” and “increasingly productive.” said Jaishankar has been seeking supplies while in 15 years. plastic waste and other debris from the ship, crew member. “We’re united in confronting Covid-19 together,” the United States.

Saudi lifts ban for travellers Retro milk fl oat brings Londoners zero-plastic groceries arriving from 11 countries Saudi Arabia is lifting a ban on travellers arriving from 11 countries that it imposed to curb the spread of coronavirus, the Saudi state AFP But she admitted the steering think there’s a lot that needs to news agency said yesterday, but will still require quarantine London can get “a bit bumpy”. be done at consumer level.” procedures. Travellers from the United Arab Emirates, Germany, the At one stop, three customers The UK is the world’s sec- United States, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, the United Kingdom, Sweden, bought dried mango, pasta, rai- ond biggest producer of plas- Switzerland, France and Japan, will be allowed entry from today, SPA lla Shone’s small elec- sins and shampoo. tic waste per person behind reported, quoting an Interior Ministry source. tric truck used to deliver The mobile shop was cre- the United States, according to Emilk but now she drives it ated to bring “packaging-free” Greenpeace. 6 killed in eastern DR Congo attack around London, selling grocer- shopping to people’s doors, tap- A study published in Janu- ies and household goods that ping into a growing demand for ary by Greenpeace and the Six people were killed, including a woman who was burned alive, are free of plastic packaging. deliveries during the stay-at- Environmental Investigation during an attack blamed on the regional militia group ADF in eastern The 32-year-old bought her home restrictions. Agency found that the 10 largest Democratic Republic of Congo, sources said yesterday. The Allied “top-up truck” last year after “I felt that there was a need to supermarket chains in the UK Democratic Forces were believed to have carried out the overnight the fi rst coronavirus lockdown make it easier, to make it more reduced their use of plastic by attack on a road near the border with Uganda, where the group was got her thinking about innova- accessible, more visible,” she just 1.6 percent in 2019, despite founded. “ADF fighters attacked Kinyatsi, a village near the Virunga tive ways to reduce waste. said. promises of change. national park,” said Donat Kibuana, local administrator for the Beni She has found plenty of de- Nevertheless, she wasn’t im- Shone is nevertheless opti- territory in North Kivu province. “We have counted six people killed, mand for her service, with cus- mediately sure her idea was vi- mistic about people’s motivation including a woman who was burned alive in her home,” he told AFP. tomers scooping up dry gro- able. Founder of Topup Truck, Ella Shone (left), serves a customer from to cut down on wasteful packag- “Youths are angry with the security forces,” the off icial added ceries such as lentils or fi lling “When I started this, I her electric milk float (AFP) ing. bottles from large dispensers of thought I’d gone a bit mad on “During the pandemic, there vinegar or washing detergent. furlough leave”, she admitted. The truck deliveries launched in reuse and Shone says her truck has been a bit of a step back to- Indonesia releases Iranian tanker On a rainy day in May, the During lockdown, Shone August last year and customers prompts a “nostalgic” reaction. wards single-use (plastic) just 32-year-old plied a route to was on government-subsidised can book a stop online. But she is responding to very because people are fearful of An Iranian-flagged tanker seized by Indonesia in January over the eight stops in the up-and- leave from her job in sales at a The electric vehicles — current concerns over plastic reusing something that might suspected illegal transfer of oil has been released, an Indonesian coming district of Hackney in company producing sustain- known commonly as milk fl oats packaging, which disintegrates entail passing on Covid-19,” she off icial and Iranian state media said yesterday. Wisnu Pramandita, a northeast London. able condiments. She decided — were once commonly used by over time, creating ubiquitous said. spokesman for the Indonesian coastguard, said the Iranian-flagged “It’s very straightforward: it’s to buy the truck with the money milkmen and women to deliver microplastic pollution. “But against that tide, I think tanker, the MT Horse, was released after a court decision earlier in a bit like a go-cart ride,” she said she saved during lockdown, pint bottles of fresh milk on Activism targeting govern- there has been a bit of an awak- the week. The court ruled the vessel could leave Indonesia, while the of driving the truck, which has a wanting to off er a “commu- household doorsteps. ments and corporations can ening in terms of our responsi- captain would be subject to a two-year probation without any fine, top speed of 30 miles per hour. nity shopping experience”. Customers returned them for help, she said, but added: “I bility towards the environment.” the spokesman said. Gulf Times 12 Sunday, May 30, 2021 QATAR/SPORT Chelsea beat Man City to win Champions League for 2nd time

AFP been down to the riches of Ro- Porto man Abramovich, their Russian owner who was in attendance at the game in Portugal. helsea won the Champi- Chelsea have been trans- ons League for the sec- formed since the appointment Cond time as a Kai Havertz as coach in January of Tuchel, goal secured a tense 1-0 victory but City were still the favour- over Manchester City yesterday ites off the back of their third in the fi nal in Porto, shattering Premier League title triumph in Pep Guardiola’s dream of lifting four seasons. the trophy for the third time, a Feeding off the energy of the decade on from his last triumph. crowd in a stadium that the Por- Havertz rounded Ederson to tuguese authorities had allowed score three minutes before half- to be fi lled to a third of its capac- time at the Estadio do Dragao, ity – all fans required negative and the Chelsea players ran to coronavirus (Covid-19) tests to the far end of the pitch to cel- gain entry – both teams played ebrate with the German. with a level of intensity rarely Coach Thomas Tuchel, full of seen in the last year of football energy on the touchline just like in empty grounds. his opposite number, punched City pressed high but strug- the air in celebration and later gled to trouble Edouard Mendy jumped with joy on the pitch in the Chelsea goal, while at the after Chelsea held on for vic- other end Timo Werner should tory in the second half as City have done better than shoot lost distraught skipper Kevin De Chelsea’s German midfielder Kai Havertz celebrates after scoring straight at Ederson in the 14th Bruyne to injury. his team’s goal against Manchester City. minute. The London club may have Chelsea then suff ered an in- fi nished fourth in the Premier their title celebrations with vic- Champions League title in 2012 jury blow as Thiago Silva was The clean-up operation to restore Richard Sierra’s 7 sculpture. League, a huge 19 points be- tory in Manchester. when they beat Bayern Munich forced off hurt, Andreas Chris- hind champions City, but this, Now, in a fi nal watched by in the fi nal. tensen taking the Brazilian’s remarkably, was their third a limited crowd of just over They now move level with place in central defence. win over Guardiola’s side in six 14,000 fans who created a rau- Juventus, Benfi ca and Porto as Yet it was they who opened weeks. cous atmosphere, they have well as another English side, the scoring in the 42nd minute, MIA and Seashore Group restore They shattered City’s hopes denied City the fi rst Champions Nottingham Forest, in terms of Mason Mount’s ball splitting of a domestic treble when they League crown they and Guar- European Cup triumphs. the City defence with John triumphed in the FA Cup semi- diola so crave. Their transformation into Stones out of position, allowing Richard Serra’s iconic 7 sculpture fi nals in April and then delayed Chelsea won their fi rst one of Europe’s super clubs has Havertz – their marquee £71mn ($100mn) signing last summer – to go around the lunging Ed- Richard Serra’s 7 art installation at the Museum of Islamic seven steel sheets each 24m in erson and convert into an empty Art park undergoes clean-up operation height, took approximately three net. years to complete. City now needed to break he Museum of Islamic Art clean this striking sculpture.” The sculpture was offi cially down a Chelsea defence that has (MIA), in co-operation Seashore Group chief execu- unveiled in 2011. been exceptional since Tuchel Twith the Seashore Group, tive Salem Saadi al-Mohannadi Serra’s installation is the result came in. recently carried out a clean-up said: “By cleaning the 7 sculpture of a collaboration between Qatar However, they lost De Bruyne operation to restore internation- at the Museum of Islamic Art Museums and local and interna- just before the hour mark, the al artist Richard Sierra’s 7 sculp- Park, we are pleased to contrib- tional artists to add vibrancy to brilliant Belgian taken out in a ture, located at the MIA Park ute to the preservation of public public spaces in Qatar and enrich collision with Antonio Ruediger along the Corniche. artworks in Qatar – a project that the lives of residents and visitors. that appeared to leave him con- Commenting on the restora- falls within the framework of our The Seashore Group supports cussed. tion works, Ahmad Musa al- company’s corporate social re- the eff orts of Qatar Museums to He came off in tears, and Namla, chief executive of Qatar sponsibility programme.” create a sustainable cultural in- Guardiola instead turned to Ser- Museums, said: “Public art is “The MIA has many partner- frastructure. gio Aguero for the latter stages, one of Qatar Museums (QM)’s ships that aim to further enrich The company sponsored the but there was to be no glorious main pillars, in which we aim to Qatar’s thriving cultural land- museum’s educational activities send-off as a City player for the expand the traditional mission of scape and enhance the role of the between 2019 and 2020. Argentine, even if a Riyad Mah- museums by taking art beyond private sector in transforming Seashore Group, in partner- rez shot sailed just over in the four walls and breathing life into Qatar into a centre for arts and ship with Qatar Museums and Al sixth minute of injury time. shared urban spaces.” culture in the region,” he added. Shamal Municipality, is current- There was also no third Eu- “Richard Serra’s installation Qatar Museums commis- ly participating in a campaign to ropean Cup for Guardiola, who celebrates the signifi cance of the sioned Serra to create the 7 clean beaches in heritage villages remains one adrift of the record number seven in Islamic culture, sculpture following a personal across Qatar. for the coaches with most wins and is considered to be his fi rst recommendation from I M Pei, For more information on the in the competition, held jointly artwork in the Middle East,” he who designed the iconic Museum 7 sculpture and public artworks by Bob Paisley, Carlo Ancelotti said. “We are pleased to co-op- of Islamic Art building. in Qatar, one can visit www. Chelsea players celebrate with the trophy after winning the Champions League in Porto yesterday. and Zinedine Zidane. erate with the Seashore Group to The installation, consisting of qm.org.qa.

HIA has handled 200mn passengers and 13mn tonnes of cargo since opening in 2014

From Page 1 plan, teamwork, and relentless eff orts allowed us to success- The nation’s carrier has also fully navigate the unprecedented been expanding its codeshare challenges posed by the pandem- partnership, most recently part- ic on the aviation industry.” nering with JetBlue, Iberia, and “As a result of our adaptive LATAM to foster global connec- resilience and commitment to tivity and boost air travel. service excellence, we remained Commenting on HIA’s an- operational throughout the niversary, Qatar Airways Group toughest months of the global Chief Executive HE Akbar al- crisis to ensure people are united Baker said: “Since commencing with their loved ones, and es- The HIA has a host of safety its operations seven years ago, sential supplies and cargo are features, including a Hamad International Airport delivered,” al-Meer added. “In disinfecting robot (left), Smart has been a vital part of the Qatar addition, our pre-existing busi- Screening Helmet scanners Airways Group’s growth and suc- ness continuity plan ensured that (right), and touchless capabilities cess.” the completion of our expansion at bag-drop terminals (below). “The HIA has continuously project remains unaff ected.” set the standard both in our re- The airport is currently in health crisis, refl ecting the air- gion and globally for provid- Phase A of its expansion project, port’s understanding of changing ing a seamless and unique travel which will be completed in 2022 passenger needs. experience, winning multiple prior to the FIFA World Cup Qa- The airport swiftly imple- awards including Best Airport in tar 2022. mented health and safety proc- the Middle East for the past six The fi rst phase is set to in- esses in line with World Health years,” he said. “Despite all this crease the terminal’s handling Organisation (WHO) guidelines, success in such a short time, we capacity to more than 58mn pas- and innovative technologies to have not rested on our laurels, sengers annually. boost its safe operations. and look forward to unveiling Phase B will commence after Smart solutions such as Smart more exceptional attractions FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and Screening Helmets enable con- once our expansion is complet- will increase the HIA’s capacity tactless temperature measure- ed.” to more than 60mn passengers ment, in addition to the HIA’s Hamad International Air- per year. autonomous disinfectant robots port chief operating offi cer Badr The HIA’s expansion aims to that have optimised airport op- Mohamed al-Meer stated: “The elevate its passenger experience erations with their eff ectiveness team at the HIA has been working through effi cient operations such in eliminating the majority of in- extremely hard over the past sev- as shortening passengers’ con- fectious microorganisms. en years to deliver a world-class nection times, and by off ering The HIA’s secure passenger airport experience for all, which new retail and dining experiences experience is also safeguarded has allowed us to rise in global through the HIA’s partnership with its UVC (ultraviolet C wave- without taking out electronic de- telligence to ensure the wearing Qatar’s airport has maintained fi rst airport in the Middle East airport ranks each year.” with Qatar Duty Free. length) disinfection tunnels to vices from their bags. of masks for all its staff . and excelled in its airport opera- and Asia to be awarded a 5-Star “In the HIA’s short, yet high- The HIA’s passenger experi- decontaminate inbound luggage As part of its homegrown The HIA has deployed touch- tions in the last year, and these Covid-19 Airport Safety Rating ly successful lifespan, we have ence not only remained undis- from arriving passengers, and C2 technologies, the HIA’s internal less capabilities at key touch- achievements have been recog- by Skytrax, acknowledgement of served millions of passengers, as rupted during the coronavirus technology which allows trans- teams developed an automated points, such as self-check-in, nised by leading global institu- the airport’s eff orts in its rapid evident in our record,” he said. (Covid-19) pandemic, but was ferring passengers to proceed facial detection system using self-bag-drop, and terminal el- tions. adoption of new health and safe- “Our solid business continuity further elevated during the through security checkpoints computer vision and artifi cial in- evators. In 2020, the HIA became the ty measures.