3rd Best News Website in the Middle East BUSINESS | 19 SPORT | 24 France to back Sporting heroes Ghosn’s renewal as spread Olympic CEO of Renault spirit on NSD Wednesday 14 February 2018 | 28 Jumada 1 I 1439 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 22 | Number 7410 | 2 Riyals
Enjoy the best Wi-Fi coverage with Orbi! Get it now from Ooredoo. National Sport Day celebrated with zeal Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani participated in the National Sport Day by cycling near the towers area and Doha Corniche to encourage people to keep practising different kinds of sports.
Father Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani carried out a walking exercise in the front yard of the Emiri Diwan.
IRFAN BUKHARI THE PENINSULA
DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani participated along with citizens and residents in the activities of Qatar National Sport Day (NSD), which was marked yesterday with tradi- tional fervour. The sports activities to cele- brate the seventh edition of NSD were held across the country in response to the Emiri decree No. 80 of 2011 which stated that Tuesday of the second week of H H the Emir participated in Corniche to encourage people to health and fitness. Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani cycling near the towers February each year will be the National Sport Day by cycling keep practicing different kinds Father Emir H H Sheikh area to mark Qatar’s National Sport Day, yesterday. BELOW LEFT: marked as NSD in the country. on the towers area and Doha of sports activities for good Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Father Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani participates in also participated in the NSD NSD at the front yard of the Emiri Diwan. RIGHT: H H Sheikha Moza activities by carrying out a bint Nasser takes part in activities at the Education City campus. Our ambition on the National Sport Day is walking exercise in the front to continue Qatar’s sport march in all yard of the Emiri Diwan. The Jassim bin Khalifa Al Thani and Chairperson of Qatar Foun- fields of sports. Our plan is to execute Father Emir also saw a show of a number of Their Excellencies dation, H H Sheikha Moza bint more than 2000 kilometers of cycling camels and pure Arabian Sheikhs and Ministers also par- Nasser, also participated in NSD tracks by 2022. horses. H H Sheikh Abdullah bin ticipated in the activities along celebrations at Education City Khalifa Al Thani, H E Sheikh with the Father Emir. campus. H H Sheikha Moza was joined by President of Qatar Olympic Committee, H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, Min- ister of Energy and Industry, H E Dr Mohamed bin Saleh Al Sada, Minister of State, H E Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kawari, President and General Manager of ExxonMobil Qatar Alistair Routledge and a large number of citizens and resi- dents of the country. The activ- ities began with a sports march that extended to two kilo- metres, as well as a bicycle and marathon race for 40 and 50 kilometres, respectively, which took off from the Ceremonial Court at the Education City.
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FM: Qatar spared no effort in combating terror Gulf crisis harms regional
QNA meeting, he extended thanks to He went on to say that it is The Deputy Prime Minister security: Tillerson Kuwait’s Emir and people for regrettable that some international and Foreign Minister noted that the KUWAIT: Qatar participated in hosting the important meeting positions were not based on International Coalition against ISIS AFP Qatar denies the allegations the ministerial meeting of the after liberating Iraq and for the accurate and realistic under- has made every effort in the elim- and accuses the bloc of aiming International Coalition against excellent preparation and standing of the real reasons of the ination of the origins of terrorist KUWAIT CITY: US Secretary to incite regime change. ISIS, which was held yesterday genuine hospitality. terrorism phenomenon, actual organisations. “Today, the coalition of State Rex Tillerson yesterday Tillerson, in Kuwait for a in Kuwait with the participation H E Sheikh Mohamed stressed developments in the course of is achieving its goal in Iraq in coop- called for an end to the more meeting of the US-led coalition of 74 members representing that terrorism in its different forms events and not finding final solu- eration with the Iraqi government, than seven-month dispute fighting IS, said the US was governments and international has become the biggest threat to tions to the actual reasons of ter- which we commend for its efforts between a Saudi-led bloc and working to settle the Gulf dispute. organisations in the coalition. the Arab region and the whole rorism. He pointed that the inter- in this regard,” he said pointing out Qatar, warning it is harming “This type of division is counter- Deputy Prime Minister and world. He added that Qatar has national community must put an that the coalition should continue regional security. Saudi Arabia, productive to the security of the Foreign Minister H E Sheikh always voiced its rejection and end to the war crimes and crimes its efforts to eliminate terrorist Bahrain, the UAE and Egypt region,” he said. Qatar is home to Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al condemnation to this phenomenon against humanity committed organisations and all forms and broke off ties with Qatar in June, the largest US airbase in the Middle Thani headed the delegation of and stressed the importance of against innocent civilians every- patterns of terrorism in Syria. accusing it of supporting East, Al Udeid, which houses some Qatar to the meeting. eliminating all terrorist organisa- where and on the basis of whatever extremists and being too close 10,000 US troops and has been key In his speech during the tions wherever they exist. the justifications. →CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 to Iran. in the war against IS. 02 HOME WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018
expectations. Qatar is a role model for community sports.” Emir encourages people on NSD Advisory Council also cele- brated Qatar Sport Day with the participation of Speaker of the Advisory Council H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud. The activities started with the gathering of the members and employees of the Council in front of its building. The participants then pro- ceeded in a march which embodied the goals and meanings that Sport Day aims for. H E Al Mahmoud expressed his thanks and gratitude to Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani for dedicating a Sport Day in Qatar where everyone participated in various sports activities. He said the great initiative emphasised the great community awareness of the importance of sport and its role in human health and nation-building. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah participated in the armed forces’ Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani participated along with citizens in the activities of NationalSport Day by cycling near the towers area and Doha Corniche, yesterday. event at Meqdam camp on the occasion of celebrating the CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 National Sports Day. Qatar Olympic Committee The Ministry of Transport (QOC) President H E Sheikh and Communications also Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani also marked the National Sport Day participated in Aspire Zone in collaboration with Qatar Foundation’s (AZF) National Airways at Al Sadd Sports Club. Sport Day events at AZF facil- In this year’s celebrations, the ities. At Aspire Zone’s open play- Ministry and QA were joined by grounds and gardens, a large the Civil Aviation Authority numbers of citizens and resi- (CAA), Communications Regu- dents of Qatar took part in Sport latory Authority (CRA), Mow- Day activities. asalat (Karwa), Qatar Ports Man- H E Sheikh Joaan expressed agement Company (Mwani), pride that Qatar is one of the first Qatar Aeronautical College and countries in the world and the Hamad Port. first in the Middle East to ded- Minister of Transport and icate a day to sports for all resi- Communications H E Jassim Saif dents. “In order to enrich this Ahmed Al Sulaiti said: “Qatar event, QOC organised 72 sporting National Sport Day reflects the events for all segments of society vision of the wise leadership for of all ages on one day with the building individuals and society. aim of giving everyone the Its key message is that sports Father Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani carried out a walking opportunity to exercise,” he should be a part of the culture exercise in the front yard of Emiri Diwan as part of National Sport Day added. and life of individuals and The National Sport Day activities. society, and one aspect of activities included various sports, investing in the human element.” such as cycling, swimming, Abdullah Youssef Al Mehanna, in the presence of nearly 3,000 Qatar Airways Group Chief football, basketball, tennis, taek- attended the event along with military and civilian members Executive, Akbar Al Baker, said: wondo, self-defence, beach vol- Oliver Stolpe, senior programme of the force. “We are proud to take part in leyball, water sport competitions officer at the United Nations Minister of Culture and National Sports Day celebrations and indoor activities in clubs and Office on Drugs and Crime and Sports, H E Salah bin Ghanem Al and to promote Qatar’s 2030 sports federations. a number of senior officials and Ali participated in the activities Vision.” Aspire Zone, Cultural officers from the Ministry of in the presence of a large number This year, the National Sports Village-Katara, The Pearl Qatar, Interior. of AZF senior officials, staff and Day was marked amid increased Corniche, MIA Park, Education The Prime Minister and general public at Aspire Zone. activity in the tourism industry City remained the main venues Interior Minister, in his capacity Minister of Culture and in general and sports tourism in hosting the NSD activities. as Lekhwiya force commander, Sports said on the occasion: “The particular, with the latter being This year, the Ministry of also participated with the force’s National Sport Day is a dis- one of four main areas identified Culture and Sports had called for personnel in their NSD cele- tinctive idea as today the partic- by the next phase of Qatar following the standards and con- bration, which was held at ipation in sports and awareness National Tourism Sector Strategy ditions mentioned in the Emiri Lekhwiya arenas and grounds of its importance exceeded all 2017-2023 to achieve the growth decision on the country’s NSD in and development goals of the order to ensure the achievement Qatari tourism sector. of the desired goals of the day. Qatar Tourism Authority All State institutions as well as (QTA) has been able to strengthen private entities fully participated the status of Qatar over the past in Sport Day activities by organ- years as a sports tourism desti- ising dozens of activities across nation that attracts the attention the country. of sports federations, clubs, ath- Prime Minister and Interior letes and fans alike. Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin The Hamad Medical Corpo- Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani par- ration’s National Sport Day ticipated in the celebrations of events focused on raising the NSD, which were organised awareness and to inspire the by the Ministry of Interior, rep- community for making long- resented by the Police Sports lasting lifestyle changes. Federation, at Qatar Sports Club. Activities held at The Pearl- A delegation from the Qatar and Katara highlighted brotherly State of Kuwait led by Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser positive effects of sport and Kuwait Police Sport Federation bin Khalifa Al Thani participating in the NSD celebrations, organised physical activity as part of President, Major General by the Ministry of Interior, at Qatar Sports Club. adopting a healthy lifestyle.
Deputy PM & Defence Minister leads Armed Forces’ celebrations QNA
DOHA: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah partic- ipated yesterday in the Armed Forces’ event at Meqdam Camp on the occasion of celebrating the National Sport Day. Chief of Staff Major General (Pilot) H E Ghanim bin Shaheen Al Ghanim attended the event along with a number of senior army officers. The celebrations featured sports, social, cultural and entertainment activities. The annual event aims to promote awareness of the significance of sport and its role in the life of individuals and societies. It also promotes exercising as a civilised and healthy approach that brings social ties closer among army Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah participating in the National Sport Day celebrations hosted by personnel. Armed Forces, at Meqdam Camp, yesterday. WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018 HOME 03 Sheikha Moza takes part in NSD celebrations
H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation (QF), participated in various National Sport Day activities yesterday morning in Education City, where she was joined by H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC). Attended by the wider QF and local community, the activities were organised by Qatar Foundation around several Education City locations to promote active and healthy living. PICS: AISHA AL MUSALAM
FAZEENA SALEEM A 2km walkathon began near Hamad Bin Khalifa commitment to creating an a gymnastics and trampoline dis- welcome so many people to Edu- THE PENINSULA University’s (HBKU) Student Centre and ended active, sports-loving society, play, a squash tournament, cation City today to share our near the Ceremonial Court in Education City. It while encouraging the public to slalom football, and blindfolded celebrations. Our diverse range DOHA: H H Sheikha Moza bint was followed by a 40km Cycle and a 50km Ultra make long-lasting health and football designed to raise aware- of activities ensures the local Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Marathon, which started from the Ceremonial Court. lifestyle changes. QF’s celebra- ness about loss of vision. population is given access to Foundation (QF), joined hundreds tions, which are designed to cater Additionally, day long some of the country’s best of sports enthusiasts to celebrate Participants of the Ultra Marathon included Qatari for all ages and athletic abilities, events were held at the Al sporting and recreational National Sport Day (NSD) at the athlete Salman Al Khanji. are part of a wider, year-round, Shaqab under the title ‘The facilities.” Education City yesterday. and community-inspired cam- Challenge.’ While, a range of Besides the QF staff many A series of activities were State; and Alistair Routledge, Also a wide range of sport paign, aimed at fostering a ladies-only activities were also from the community also joined held by QF at different venues President of ExxonMobil Qatar, and fitness related activities were socially-engaged society and held at the Education City Stu- the activities. Abir, an Arab expa- across the Education City to as well as thousands of visitors. held at the Oxygen Park, Al promoting the physical and dent Center, and at Al Shaqab. triate said, “There are so many inspire healthy living and enjoy- The 2km walkathon began Shaqab Recreation Centre, Stu- mental well-being of all.” Outdoor games and activities activities, something for eve- ment of sport. near Hamad Bin Khalifa Univer- dent Centre and Green Spine. Activities at QF’s Oxygen also took place on the Green ryone to enjoy. It’s also a good Events began with the annual sity’s (HBKU) Student Centre and Sheikha Moza also took part Park, included football, treasure Spine and at the Ceremonial opportunity for people to come walkathon, led by Sheikha Moza ended near the Ceremonial Court in some activities, toured the hunts, jump rope, beach tennis, Court throughout the day. here to the Education City and and joined by H E Sheikh Joaan in Education City. It was fol- event venues, spoke with some pony riding, and a selection of Mayan Zebeib, Chief Com- explore the facilities.” bin Hamad Al Thani, President lowed by a 40km Cycle and a of the participants and watched fun children’s activities. Visitors munications Officer, QF, said, “As Sponsors of QF’s 2018 of the Qatar Olympic Committee; 50km Ultra Marathon, which them enjoying activities. also enjoyed games and sports a leading agent of change in National Sport Day events H E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al started from the Ceremonial Machaille Al Naimi, President at the QF Recreation Center, such Qatar, QF actively participates included Vodafone - platinum Sada, Minister of Energy and Court. Participants of the Ultra of Community Development, QF, as swimming for children with and supports national initiatives sponsor, Sidra Medicine and Industry; H E Dr Hamad bin Marathon included Qatari ath- said, “Our National Sport Day autism, goal ball – a football such as National Sport Day. Astad- gold sponsors and Center- Abdulaziz Al Kawari, Minister of lete Salman Al Khanji. program highlights QF’s activity for the blind, as well as We’re absolutely delighted to point - silver sponsor. Al Baker highlights Qatar Airways’ expansion plans
THE PENINSULA
DOHA: To celebrate the launch of Qatar Airways’ inaugural flight to Canberra, the capital city of Australia, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Akbar Al Baker, held a press conference yesterday in Canberra. Al Baker highlighted the award-winning airline’s robust expansion plans, as well as its commitment to bringing more travellers to Australia, and to connecting Canberrans to its extensive global network via the Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Akbar Al Baker, during a press conference in Canberra, yesterday. award-winning Hamad Inter- national Airport (HIA) in Doha. Airways’ strong support for the new daily service to Canberra, Nice, France; Prague, Czech Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) booth at Katara “We are tremendously nation’s capital. An airline of this the total cargo capacity out of Republic; Chiang Mai, Thailand educated people on healthy living as well as provided health excited to launch our new daily stature will further boost Can- the Australian continent has and Penang, Malaysia, to name checks and consultation. service to Canberra, our fifth berra’s reputation as a leading increased to more than 630 a few. The airline will continue destination in Australia. Having tourist destination, on the back tonnes per week. Qatar Airways its rapid expansion throughout inaugurated flights to Adelaide of record numbers of interna- Cargo offers exporters in Aus- 2018 by adding many more new PHCC marks National Sport and Sydney in 2016, we quickly tional visitors coming in 2017, tralia its innovative QR Fresh destinations to its global route realised the need for further and Lonely Planet nominating solution for the air freight of map, including Cardiff, United Day with several activities expansion of our footprint in the city as a top three destina- Australian meat and other per- Kingdom; and Malaga, Spain and Australia, and what better place tion for 2018.” ishable products throughout the many more. THE PENINSULA checks and consultation. than the capital, Canberra? The launch of a daily service world via its state-of-the-art hub The national carrier of the Across various health cen- “This new daily service will to Canberra increases the airline’s in Doha. Its Quick Ramp Transfer State of Qatar is one of the DOHA: Primary Health Care tres, PHCC staff took part in without doubt offer our Aus- number of flights a week into the (QRT) offers the fastest shipment world’s fastest-growing airlines, Corporation (PHCC) yesterday group exercise activities as well tralian passengers more conven- country to 42. Qatar Airways transfer at Hamad International with a modern fleet of more than held several activities across as sharing educational mate- ience and an extensive choice of already operates a daily service Airport and the use of reefer 200 aircraft flying to business the country to mark Qatar rial with the public to raise destinations on our global net- to Adelaide, Melbourne Perth and vehicles at its hub ensures seam- and leisure destinations across National Sport Day and aimed awareness. work, as they transit through our Sydney. The Canberra service will less temperature control for per- six continents. at spreading awareness about The team delivered a Well- award-winning hub, Hamad also stop in Sydney, where pas- ishable products. Canberra Airport serves Aus- the importance of doing ness and Health Promotion International Airport.” sengers can disembark, creating Qatar Airways will operate tralia’s capital city with new ter- regular physical activity and Program in Um Salal Health The Australian Capital Ter- a second daily flight into the pop- its daily Canberra service with minal that accommodates eight exercise as part of a healthy Centre and Barazan Park as ritory (ACT) Chief Minister Andrew ular destination. a Boeing B777 aircraft, which million passengers per annum lifestyle. well as the programme is run- Barr, who welcomed the arrival The recent ease in visa entry features 42 flatbed seats in Busi- and with relatively modest addi- As part of the PHCC mission ning in 16 different schools of the second international airline requirements for Australian ness Class and 316 seats in tions, could cater for up to 12 to improve the health and well- across the country. to service the capital, said: “It is nationals into Qatar has opened Economy Class. Passengers will million passengers per annum. being of the people in Qatar, the The week-long events wonderful to have Qatar Airways up this route to even more pas- be able to enjoy the airline’s The airport has ten aero- awareness activities called for focused promoting physical make the decision to come to Can- sengers wishing to experience superior entertainment system bridges, 14 aircraft parking bays, a positive change in the daily activity to start living a healthier berra in 2018 – a year in which Qatar, the hub of the award- offering passengers a wide capacity for 46 check-in desks lives by integrating at physical lifestyle. By adopting a lifestyle our city was recognised as the winning airline, before contin- variety of entertainment options. and 3,700 car spaces. The air- activity into their daily lives. that involves regular exercise, third best city in the world to visit uing their onward journeys to Qatar Airways has added port is also a place of interest, a PHCC also set up a booth the impact of chronic and life- by Lonely Planet.” one of the airline’s more than many new exciting destinations place for social interaction, and in Katara and educated style diseases such as diabetes, Canberra Airport Managing 150 business and leisure desti- to its network in 2017/18, a place of calm in what might be people on healthy living as heart disease and obesity can Director, Mr. Stephen Byron, nations across the world. including Auckland, New Zea- an otherwise stressful or emo- well as provided health be reduced. added: “We appreciate Qatar With the airline launching a land; Dublin, Republic of Ireland; tional journey. 04 HOME WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018 QU holds NSD events at campus, Katara
THE PENINSULA The Minister of to boost the learning process. This Development Planning event brings people of all ages to and Statistics, H E Dr interact together. It also highlights DOHA: Minister of Development Saleh bin Mohammed QU’s mission to shape a healthy Planning and Statistics H E Dr Al Nabit and Qatar generation physically and men- Saleh bin Mohammed Al Nabit, University (QU) President tally by encouraging them to adopt Qatar University (QU) President Dr Hassan Al Derham a healthy lifestyle.” Dr Hassan Al Derham, staff, attended the event. QU Student Services and faculty, students and their Activities Director Mr Abdulla Al- families joined yesterday in Yafei said: “The National Sports observing the annual National sideline exhibition featured Day reflects the spirit of cooper- Sport Day. health booths presented by ation and collaboration among Through its Sports and Rec- members from QU College of community members. The event reation Section in the Student Health Sciences and QU Sport is also considered as a good Activities Department, QU con- Science Program in conjunction opportunity for students to ducted a series of sporting and with QU Physiotherapy and Sport unlock their skills and demon- fitness events on its campus and Injuries Section at the Student strate their teamwork, volun- at Katara. Activities Department. Visitors teerism, and leadership.” The activities headlined were provided with information Manager of Sports and Rec- “#sports_unite_us” aimed to on sportive and healthy lifestyles, reation Activities at QU Student promote sports and healthy life- fitness, and nutrition, as well as Activities Department, Asmaa Al styles throughout the com- free testing of vital signs and body Naemi said: “We are pleased to munity. They were organised in composition. A booth for women attract each year a huge number collaboration with the Ministry was presented by QU female of visitors to our booths that we of Municipality and Envi- coaches with the aim to raise present in cooperation with ronment, Ministry of Devel- awareness on the importance of partners from QU community opment Planning and Statistics, physical activity for women. and the wider community. Our Community College of Qatar Also on the programme were sports experts and volunteers Minister of Development Planning and Statistics H E Dr Saleh bin Mohammed Al Nabit attending the (CCQ), Internal Security Force self-defense and equestrian per- were on hand to provide visitors National Sport Day activities organised by Qatar University. (Lekhwiya), and Katara, the formances and cross-fit activities with vital signs tests and fitness official host. At QU Women’s presented by Lekhwiya, as well as advices.” Sports Hall, QU female students various sports activities that suit all number of partnerships and col- CCQ President Dr Ibrahim governmental institutions and Aquatic Center Section Head and staff participated in fitness ages organized by CCQ and super- laborations with government bin Saleh Al Naimi said: “We are organizations from civil society. at QU Student Activities and aerobics activities. vised by student volunteers. institutions. Our participation in pleased to participate in the QU VP for Student Affairs Dr Department Mr Walid Dessouki At Katara, the activities pro- Dr Hassan Al Derham said: the National Sports Day high- events of the National Sports Day Khalid Al Khanji said: “The cele- said: “This event serves to gramme included physical and “Qatar University is keen to lights our commitment to raise for the third consecutive year. bration of the National Sports Day strengthen links between various fitness training for kids and strengthen its presence in the community awareness about the This participation plays an is part of QU’s ongoing efforts to entities of society and to high- adults, as well as sports and local community. To achieve this, importance of sports in the daily important role in driving forward raise community awareness about light the importance of collabo- health awareness activities. A the University has built a large life and health-related issues.” the partnership between the importance of physical activity ration and teamwork.
Ashghal sheds light UDC hosts sporting activities THE PENINSULA development, and as such, on cycling paths proudly supports and DOHA: United Development encourages all initiatives and Company (UDC), one of the activities that embody this THE PENINSULA Al Rufaa Street, Al Sheehaniya leading Qatari shareholding social responsibility Leatooriya Road. companies and master element.” DOHA: The Public Works Also, Ashghal conducted in developer of The Pearl- Qatar, For his part, Dr. Eng. Saad Authority, ‘Ashghal’, took part in cooperation with the United hosted an array of sporting bin Ahmad Al-Muhannadi, the National Sport Day celebra- Development Company (UDC) activities on the island during President of the Public Works tions yesterday in the presence some sport events at the Pearl’s National Sport Day in collabo- Authority ‘Ashghal’ also com- of Eng Saad bin Ahmed Al Qanat Cartier where Ashghal’s ration with the Public Works mented by saying: “We at Muhannadi, Ashghal’s President, directors, managers and Authority (Ashghal) and the Ashghal are always keen on Eng. Abdullah Hamad Al Atiyya, employees took part in the fitness centers located at The taking part in sporting events and Assistant President along games. The activities involved Pearl-Qatar. and forumsr. We also with directors, managers and football, volleyball, fitness along The events were attended encourage our employees to employees of Ashghal. with entertainments for the by Ibrahim Jassim Al Othman, exercise regularly by pro- Ashghal in collaboration children to instill the culture and President and CEO of UDC, Dr viding separate gymnasiums with Qatar Cycling Federation practice of sport as a lifestyle. Ashghal in collaboration with Qatar Cycling Federation (QCF) Eng Saad bin Ahmad Al for men and women on our (QCF) organised a cycling event On the occasion, Eng. Saad organised a cycling event on cycling lanes in Duhail. Muhannadi, President of the premises, which include all on cycling lanes on Arab League bin Ahmad Al Muhannadi, said: Public Works Authority the necessary equipment and Street in Duhail with the partic- “Ashghal’s sport activities of this kilometres of cycling tracks on activities at its flagship devel- ‘Ashghal’, Eng. Abdullah bin trained and specialised ipation of Ashghal’s President, year shed light on the cycling expressways to reach 110 kiolo- opment The Pearl-Qatar. We are Hamad Al Attyiah, Assistant professionals.” Assistant President and staff lanes since it completed the metres in 2018 and built 987 kil- a committed supporter of this President of the Public Works The Pearl-Qatar also staged along with Jamal Abdullateef Al works of hundreds of kilometres ometres of the paths on the local unique national initiative to Authority ‘Ashghal’, along with a series of public events along Kuwari, QCF’s Secretary and a on major or express ways or on roads to amount to 239 kilo- promote sports and health managers and department the Porto Arabia Boardwalk hefty number of bike riders. the local approaches to ensure metres in 2018.” he added. awareness across the com- heads from both organizations. under the guidance and organ- In the same context, Ashghal safety given that the cycle paths For his part, Ibrahim Jassim munity and encourage all resi- The extravaganza included a ization of various fitness centers held other bike ridings on the are located away from the Al Othman, UDC President & dents of the State of Qatar to football match between the located at The Pearl-Qatar. Vis- cycle lanes on many roads, right-of-way.” CEO stated: “UDC was pleased sustain the practice of sports and managements of UDC and itors were encouraged to including Ras Bu Abboud Road, “Ashghal achieved 242 to host the National Sport Day pursue a healthy lifestyle.” Ashghal, in addition to beach partake in the activities of volleyball, table tennis and various workout stations, which other children activities. featured fitness tests and chal- Ibrahim Jassim Al Othman, lenges throughout the day. Ses- UDC President & CEO stated: sions on health and nutrition “UDC was pleased to host the and helpful advice on how to National Sport Day activities at exercise sensibly at health and its flagship development The sports clubs was also provided Pearl-Qatar. We are a com- to those looking to enhance INVITATION TO TENDER mitted supporter of this unique their knowledge of these national initiative to promote subjects. sports and health awareness The open spaces, green across the community and areas, beaches and water fronts encourage all residents of the that naturally abound at The Tender Ref. Tender Tender Description Bid Closing State of Qatar to participate in Pearl-Qatar are very conducive No. Fee Bond Replacement of broken sports and pursue a healthy to sporting activities year- QF/2018/PD- glasses at various Qatar QAR. QAR. 13 March lifestyle. As a leading Qatari round and have helped make SC/25850 Foundation buildings under 500 11,000.00 2018 Group -2 facilities shareholding company, UDC the island a destination of values its commitment to choice for those pursuing a Qatar Rail MD and CEO Eng Abdulla Abdulaziz Al-Subaie The Tender Document can be obtained against payment of non-refundable tender national and human healthy lifestyle. fee as mentioned above along with Company Authorization letter, copy of valid at the event Commercial Registration (CR) and copy QID of the nominated person collecting the Tender Document. A cash receipt voucher can be obtained from the “Finance Directorate, located at Qatar Foundation HQ Building, First Floor, Room No. 1.106 Qatar Rail holds family prior to the collection of the Tender Document. The Tender Document can be obtained from the Limited Tender Committee, located at Qatar Foundation, Building No. 5, P.O. Box 5825, Doha, State of Qatar. sports day for employees Collection dates: From Thursday 15th February 2018 until Wednesday 21st February 2018 (except Friday & Saturday) DOHA: Qatar Railways fitness instructors. Also activ- Collection time: From 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Any offer received after the bid closing date & time will not be considered. company organized a family ities for children and women An offer must be valid for 120 days from bid closing date. sports day for its employees at were held. An offer must be accompanied by a bank guarantee (tender bond) issued by a the Aspire Park on the occasion Eng Abdulla Abdulaziz Al local bank in Qatar and should be valid for 120 days from the bid closing date. The original tender bond must be part of the Technical Offer. of the National Sport Day, in the Subaie, Managing Director and The successful Tenderer shall submit a performance bond equivalent to 10% of presence of senior management CEO of Qatar Rail commented: the Bid Value, valid until Ninety (90) days after the Contract Completion Date as and companies working on the “Qatar Rail is keen to encour- per the specimen provided in the tender document. projects and their families. age its employees to adopt a Tenderers should submit the Technical Bid and Commercial Bid in two separate wax-sealed envelopes, each marked with the relevant title and number. The day comprises vari- healthy lifestyle. Physical activ- Bids must be submitted to: LIMITED TENDER COMMITTEE, located at Qatar ous sports and recreational ity contributes significantly to Foundation, Building No. 5 P.O. Box 5825, Doha, State of Qatar, by the date and activities for different age reducing the pressures of our time stated above. Any tender breaching the conditions stated above will be rejected. groups. During the day mini day to day work life and achiev- tournments were organized ing physical and psychological for football, basketball and balance, which in turn reflects volleyball, as well as aero- positively on productivity and United Development Company (UDC) hosted an array of sporting bics and fitness training contributes to enhancing work activities as part of National Sport Day celebrations at The sessions led by professional performance.” Pearl-Qatar. WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018 HOME 05
LEFT: Minister of Energy and Industry, H E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al Sada (third right) and President of Kahramaa, Issa bin Hilal Al Kuwari (fourth right) with other officials engage in cycling as part of National Sport Day celebrations. RIGHT: The President of Kahramaa playing table tennis. “Qatar is the only country to dedicate a national day for sports to educate citizens and expatriates about the importance of sports and health. This year the sport day is very special not just because of growing number of participants and varieties of activities but due to the enthusiasm of public in taking part in the event,” said Minister of Energy and Industry H E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al Sada. LEFT: The President of Kahramaa during the celebrations. RIGHT; The President and other officials of Kahramaa engage in an activity. Kahramaa lines up several activities at Katara
SANAULLAH ATAULLAH expatriates about the impor- Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin and usually people started Kahramaa organised at its headquarters so the THE PENINSULA tance of sports and health,” said Hamad Al Thani,” said Al Sada. doing exercises for long in employees could do physical Minister of Energy and Industry, “Sport day is one of the advance so they could be fit on various games and exercise regularly,” said Al DOHA: Minister of Energy and H E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al most important events on state this day. matches including Muhannadi. Industry, H E Dr Mohammed Sada. He also said that the level, therefore an official hol- “Kahramaa has been par- volleyball, beach Kahramaa organised var- bin Saleh Al Sada, observed awareness about sports in the iday is declared on this day,” ticipating in Sport Day and football and table ious games and matches National Sport Day by cycling country is growing said President of Kahramaa, other events being held on state including volleyball, beach at a tent set up by Qatar General year-by-year. Issa bin Hilal Al Kuwari. levels and it distributes pam- tennis at its tent football and table tennis at its Electricity and Water Corpora- Speaking with media per- He said that the sport day phlets to create awareness at Katara beach tent at Katara beach yesterday. tion (Kahramaa) at Katara sons, Al Sada said that this year aims at creating sport sprit among people about rational- yesterday. Separate Separate areas were made for beach yesterday. the sport day is very special not among people to help develop isation of electricity and water,” areas were made for women. Play area for children The Minister was accompa- only because of growing their personalities and disci- said Al Kuwari. were also made to encourage nied by a group of senior offi- number of participants and pline them. “Public Relation Depart- women and children. them to participate in sport cials of Kahramaa, including varieties of activities but also “Doing sport activities in ment at Kahramaa prepared activities. Various entertain- President of Kahramaa, Issa bin because of enthusiasm of the group create sprit of team work video footage to educate the ment games for children were Hilal Al Kuwari and Technical public in taking part in the to bring creativity and innova- employees about the impor- were explained that how phys- also available. Affairs Director, Ahmed Nasser event. tion that reflects eventually on tance of physical exercise and ical exercises and sports help The event was attended by Al Naser. They joined the Min- “Qatar is the country of love the performances of sport activities,” said Mohamad improve their health condition big number of Kahramaa ister in cycling. and joy and this day is consid- employees,” said Al Kuwari. Ali Al Muhannadi, Director of and keep them fit and sound. employees with their families. “Qatar is the only country ered a festival of unity for each He said that sport day the Department. “Kahramaa set up a sepa- The participants were very to make a national day for and everyone living in this land encourages people on physical He said that with the help rate sport facility equipped with excited and happy and wished sports to educate citizens and under the leadership of the exercises and sport activities of video footage the employees various types of exercise tools to participate every year.
HMC urges public to make lifestyle changes
FAZEENA SALEEM THE PENINSULA
DOHA: The Hamad Medical Corporation’s National Sport Day events yesterday focused on raising awareness and to inspire the community for making long-lasting lifestyle changes. Activities held at The Pearl- Qatar and Katara Cultural Vil- lage highlighted positive effects of sport and physical activity as part of adopting a healthy The visitors learn to perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), a life-saving technique, as lifestyle. part of HMC’s National Sport Day activity at Katara. PIC: BAHER AMIN / THE PENINSULA Public also had the oppor- tunity to learn how to save a life with Cardiopulmonary Resus- several chronic diseases, Director at HMC’s HITC, told distributed educational mate- citation (CPR), a life-saving including cardiovascular dis- The Peninsula. rials and reminded people of technique useful in many emer- ease, diabetes, hypertension, Dr Saifeldeen, is also the negative impact smoking gencies, including heart attack obesity, and depression was Chairman of ‘Kulluna’ a Health can cause to health. or near drowning, in which highlighted through awareness and Safety initiative and he Nayef Abboud Al Sham- someone’s breathing or heart- programmes and activities. added saying, “As part of Kul- mari, Assistant Executive beat has stopped. “The main aim is to remind luna’s ‘healthy heart’ campaign Director of Media at HMC, said, Experts at the HMC’s people the importance of phys- we are conducting health “The sound mind is in the Hamad International Training ical wellbeing and health. We checks for diabetes, cholesterol, healthy body, this famous Centre (HITC) and volunteers remind them that many chronic obesity and high blood pres- Arabic saying has proven its conducted CPR demonstrations diseases are related to lack of sure. We have the Qatar Meta- precision in the centuries. This for children and adults every exercise. Physical activities can bolic Institute focusing on dia- is represented in the wise half an hour at Katara. Every prevent lifestyle diseases such betes and obesity. The CPR vision of the state holding an session included around 70 as diabetes, heart disease and demonstration sessions are pre- National Sport Day with the participants. Also the strong link obesity or help people with dis- sented in a entertaining way, so participation of everyone in the between the regular physical orders lead a better life,” Dr everyone enjoys learning it.” society and building a healthier activity and the prevention of Khalid Abdulnoor Saifeldeen, The Tobacco Control Center community.” 06 HOME WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018 Sports should be part of culture: Al Sulaiti THE PENINSULA The event featured an morning with warmups, walking, jogging and some exer- DOHA: The Ministry of Transport array of recreational cises for women. The program and Communications (MoTC) and sporting activities featured several recreational yesterday marked the National for employees and and sportive activities for adults Sport Day 2018 in collaboration their family members, and children, which collectively with Qatar Airways at Al Sadd made today a great day for all Sports Club. as well as special participants, who enjoyed their In this year’s celebrations, events for children. favorite games and participated the Ministry and QA were joined actively. by the Civil Aviation Authority Qatar Airways Group Chief (CAA), Communications Regu- Transport and Communications, Executive Akbar Al Baker said: latory Authority (CRA), Mow- H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti, “We are proud to take part in asalat (Karwa), Qatar Ports Man- said: “Qatar National Sport Day National Sports Day celebra- agement Company (Mwani), reflects the vision of the wise tions and to promote Qatar’s Qatar Aeronautical College and leadership for building indi- 2030 Vision. By hosting a fun Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti (centre) with other officials Hamad Port. viduals and society. Its key and active day for our during National Sport Day celebrations organised by the Ministry of Transport and Communications. The event featured an array message is that sports should be employees, we are encouraging of recreational and sporting a part of the culture and life of them and other members of the activities for employees and individuals and society, and one community to incorporate “Conveying pride in Qatar,” part in fulfilling its vision.” organized and rich with activ- their family members, as well aspect of investing in the human healthy lifestyles and habits, and he added, “is one of our cor- The day ended in an ities and events that ignited the as special events for children. element.” helping foster a healthy and porate values, and we show excellent environment. Partici- spirit of participation and On this occasion, Minister of Activities began in the early energetic way of living in Qatar.” pride toward Qatar by taking pants hailed it was well competition.
Milaha staff mark NSD
THE PENINSULA
DOHA: As part of its commitment to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle among its staff, Milaha cele- brated Qatar’s National Sport Day at the Qatar Racing Club through a variety of outdoor games and activities, which included football, cricket, The employees of Qatar Petroleum and their family members engage in various activities organised to mark National Sport Day in Dukhan, yesterday. volleyball, basketball, and tug-of-war, to name a few. Many of Milaha’s employees participated in the QP organises fun-filled activities in Dukhan activities along with their families, who enjoyed other THE PENINSULA sports and other exciting activ- in promoting a healthy lifestyle, Club hosted a cricket match, bas- health and well-being. In Halul interactive kid-friendly ities while reaping many health but also in building stronger ketball games, and a table tennis Island, QP employees and con- games such as sack racing, DOHA: In line with the nation- benefits in the process. The bonds within the ONE QP competition. The Dukhan Fitness tractor staff competed in a 3.5km block building, and mountain wide celebrations of National national holiday also effectively family.” Club, on the other hand, held fun run, while others played climbing, which kept the Sport Day, Qatar Petroleum (QP) served as a reminder for eve- QP’s NSD celebration in aerobics classes and gym various games including tug-of- young children engaged. organised a range of fun-filled ryone of the importance of an Dukhan started with a healthy workouts for ladies, while the war, table tennis, carom and bil- Milaha’s President and activities in Dukhan, which active lifestyle in order to stay fit breakfast at the Dukhan Recre- other participants played liards. Those working in QP’s off- CEO, Abdulrahman Essa Al- attracted the participation of a and healthy. ation Club, which was then fol- petanque and beach volleyball shore production stations also Mannai, said: “Qatar’s large number of employees and In his comments on the lowed by playground activities at the Dukhan Water Sports Club. marked NSD 2018 with friendly National Sport Day is an their families. occasion, Saad Sherida Al Kaabi, for children and tournaments in In addition, QP also competitions in various indoor active day for us at Milaha as The NSD events were an QP President & CEO, said: “As we badminton and darts at the same organized various sports activ- activities, including darts, arm it perfectly complements our opportunity for QP employees celebrate National Sport Day, we venue. A golf tournament was ities in its operational areas off- wrestling, billiards, dumbbell commitment to health and and their families to come are constantly reminded of the also held at the Dukhan Golf shore to stress the importance of lifting as well as in sit-ups and wellness among our together and enjoy a day of importance of this event not just Club, while the Jinnan Recreation regular physical activity for good push-ups. colleagues.” Mowasalat holds marathon race for its employees
THE PENINSULA
DOHA: Mowasalat (Karwa) conducted various sports activities to Employees of Nakilat and its joint ventures pose for a photograph during the celebrations. BELOW: employees on the A volleyball contest being held as part of the celebrations. occasion of Qatar National Sports Day (NSD) in Nakilat organises Karwa City. The sports activities health seminar included marathon race for a distance THE PENINSULA of 5km, where Mowasalat drivers DOHA: Nakilat celebrated Qatar National Sports and employees The employees of Mowasalat (Karwa) pose during the celebrations. Day 2018 by organising a wide range of fun-filled from all depart- employees stay healthy and fit penalty shootout competition activities for its employees and their families. ments competed. with positive energy, and derive and free throw basketball com- Employees of Nakilat and its joint ventures joined The company has man- personal enjoyment and satis- petitions. In addition, fun games the celebrations by taking part in a series of sporting wellness culture within the company, Nakilat had power from 54 nationalities with faction, while competing in and activities were organized for activities. organised a health seminar with Qatar Petroleum’s diverse cultures and inherent various sports, social and cul- families and kids who came in Nakilat’s employees and their families turned Occupational Health Department. talents. The company recog- tural events organised by the big number and enjoyed, besides up in the hundreds, participating in sporting activ- Employees not only received useful advisory on nises such skills and talents to management. The National cheering the participants in ities such as football, basketball and table tennis. healthy meal plans and nutrition insights during the channelise their interest by pro- Sports Day marks a new various games. All activities There was also a special designated area for the interactive session with the dietician, but also viding a platform through beginning to refresh with sports have taken place in Mowasalat children to get active and stay entertained. Com- received tips on how to find a balance in their daily various staff motivation activ- & exercise for healthier lifestyle sports facilities in Karwa City, mitted towards promoting a positive health and activities and include regular exercise. ities giving the flavour of dif- with better physical and mental which the company made to ferent regions and nations. fitness in work environment. make exercising as an integral There is also annual Chairman’s Mowasalat has taken care in part of the daily routine of life, Cup under the kind of patronage planning sports facilities in its and improve the concept of FM: Qatar spared no effort in combating terror of the Chairman and higher complex, including sports fields exercising. It also promotes the management, organized pro- and highly equipped gyms for concept of sports being not just CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 efforts of the United Nations and measures locally, coordinating viding a platform for exhibiting enhancing fitness, believing in a purely muscle development its envoy Staffan de Mistura in and contributing effectively to the sports skills with the objective the role played by sport in and body shape but building for He added: “Today we must accordance with the Geneva Dec- efforts of the international coa- to build team spirit, camara- strengthening general health, self-confidence, developing focus on reaching a just solution laration and to hold all war crim- lition, through bilateral, regional derie, friendship and unity. fitness through sportsmanship mental presence and general that will compensate the Syrian inals accountable.” and multilateral cooperation, pro- Mowasalat football and bas- for better professional physical endurance. people for the crimes committed H E Sheikh Mohamed said viding humanitarian assistance ketball teams also participate in performance. Mowasalat higher man- by the Syrian regime on one side that Qatar has spared no effort in and supporting educational, eco- various competitive tourna- Many teams from Mow- agement presented trophies, and the terrorist organisations on combating terrorism and nomic and other development ments organised within Qatar. asalat employees competed in medals and rewards for the the other. It is, therefore, extremism in all its forms and initiatives to achieve global The company ensures that games like marathon, relay race, winners showing company’s incumbent upon us to support the images, by taking all necessary security and stability. through sports & exercise basketball, football, volleyball, appreciation. WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018 HOME/MIDDLE EAST 07
Foreign Minister meets dignitaries
QNA
KUWAIT: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani held yesterday bilateral meetings with Iraqi Foreign Minister Ibrahim Al Jaafari, Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Coopera- tion Angelino Alfano, Malaysian Foreign Minister Anifah Aman, UK Minister of State for the Middle East Alistair Burt, Greek State Minister for Foreign Affairs George Katroug- LEFT: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman kalos on the sidelines of ministe- Al Thani attending the ministerial meeting of the International Coalition against ISIS rial meeting of the International held in Kuwait yesterday. ABOVE: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister with Iraqi Coalition against ISIS held in Foreign Minister Ibrahim Al Jaafari. Kuwait.
Countries who fought IS must help rebuild Iraq, says Tillerson REUTERS gathered in Kuwait this week to “If communities in conditions that allowed ISIS to engagement, it’s DFI,” a senior Monday. Tillerson also said discuss efforts to rebuild Iraq’s take and control vast territory,” state department official travel- Washington had decided to pro- KUWAIT: The United States economy and infrastructure as Iraq and Syria cannot he said, using an acronym to ling with Tillerson told reporters vide an additional $200m of aid urged members of the coalition it emerges from a devastating return to normal life, refer to the group. on Monday. The term DFI gen- to stabilise liberated areas in fighting Islamic State yesterday conflict with the hardline mili- we risk the return “We must continue to clear erally refers to development Syria. to help rebuild Iraq or risk the tants who seized almost a third of conditions that unexploded remnants of war left finance institutions such as mul- At the same time, Nato Secre- reversal of the gains made of the country. behind by ISIS, enable hospitals tilateral development banks. tary-General Jens Stoltenberg said against the group there. Iraq declared victory over allowed ISIS to take to reopen, restore water and elec- “But it is also — and there are the alliance was ready to answer The US leads the coalition Islamic State in December, and control vast tricity services, and get boys and Arab donors willing to help and a US call for it to expand its small and hopes that after a three-year having taken back all the terri- territory,” Rex Tillerson girls back in school.” The US is not support — focus your efforts on training mission in Iraq to support fight to defeat the militants it can tory captured by the militants in said. expected to make a direct govern- those areas where it actually reconstruction. count in large part on Gulf allies 2014 and 2015. The fighters have ment contribution at the confer- achieves something in terms of US Secretary of Defence, Jim to shoulder the burden of also been largely defeated in ence, however. stabilisation and countering for- Mattis, sent a letter to Nato last rebuilding Iraq. neighbouring Syria. State Rex Tillerson told a coali- “It’s not in the question of a eign influence.” Rebuilding Iraq month calling for a formal Nato Islamic State took control of The US appreciates the “gen- tion meeting in Kuwait. pledging thing where we go out after three years of war will cost train-and-advise mission, Reuters large parts of Iraq and Syria in erous contributions” of coalition “If communities in Iraq and with requests, it’s underscoring more than $88bn, with housing a reported, part of President Donald 2014. members over the past year but Syria cannot return to normal - there is a need for support. It’s particularly urgent priority, Iraqi Trump’s campaign for the alliance Donors and investors have more is needed, Secretary of life, we risk the return of investment, it’s private company officials told the conference on to do more against militants. Vodafone encourages people QIB holds activities for employees, kin to get fit for the future THE PENINSULA
DOHA: Qatar Islamic Bank (QIB), Qatar’s THE PENINSULA Flat White café. leading Islamic Bank, celebrated Qatar’s Vodafone also supported a National Sport Day yesterday by hosting a DOHA: Vodafone encouraged total of more than 6000 wide range of activities for QIB employees thousands of people to get fit employees and their families and their families. for the future by participating from Mowasalat and Ali Bin Ali The event emphasised the importance in the various community activ- Group to have a fun filled day of an active and healthy lifestyle. It saw the ities that today marked Qatar by sponsoring their respective participation of the bank’s executive man- National Sports Day. Sport Day events. agement team, employees and their As Platinum Sponsor of Moreover, Vodafone cel- families. Qatar Foundation’s National ebrated the day by launching This year, QIB teamed with Aspire Active Sports Day event, Vodafone a new offer- all customers and the Jade Center to offer many sport engaged young and old with who recharge with QR60 or activities and practical health tips to the exciting interactive and digital above, from 13-15 February event’s participants. The day-long program activities powered by Voda- 2018, get 2GB Data for free for included exciting class demos with the pro- fone’s state of the art network. 7 days. fessional trainers leading a wide variety of These activities were designed “I’m delighted with our fitness activities and games tailored to test to showcase how technology staff and the public’s enthu- physical abilities and encourage a healthy can also enable an active life- siastic participation in lifestyle. Aspire Active distributed free day QIB’s executive management and staff during the National Sport Day celebrations. style and promote wellbeing. today’s Vodafone activities. passes and granted membership discounts Attendees got the chance to His Highness the Emir Sheikh to all QIB staff. The National Sport Day launched back engagement. It is contributing to fostering a experience augmented reality Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani’s QIB’s Group CEO, Bassel Gamal, com- in 2012, as part of the vision of Qatar’s wise culture of sports in the larger community football and virtual reality car initiative to promote sports mented: “The health and wellbeing of our leadership. This day aims to educate people and we are really happy to know that our racing. and fitness in Qatar is of huge employees is important to us. Our Bank’s on the importance of physical activity and employees and their families realize the sig- Additionally, there were fun public value and something National Sport Day activities reflect our com- build a sustainable healthy culture across nificance of this national initiative and activities for the family such as Vodafone is very supportive mitment to support the government’s the society. choose to always participate. This is a good paddling around a race track of so we are proud to have country wide initiatives to promote a healthy “The National Sport Day event hosted opportunity to gather outside the work and a kids rock climbing chal- engaged several community and active lifestyle for all citizens and resi- annually by QIB is an important part of the atmosphere and to participate actively at lenge. Visitors also enjoyed groups on this important dents in Qatar.” Bank’s on-going efforts towards community this event” added Bassel Gamal. specialty coffees and treats by day,” said Ian Gray, CEO, the locally established and run Vodafone Qatar. Thousands attend Asian Town events
THE PENINSULA
DOHA: Thousands of the members of expa- triate communities gathered yesterday at Asian Town to observe National Sport Day. Various sport activities were organised by Ibn Ajayan projects, the managers of Asian Town and Labor City Projects at an open area at Asian Town. The sports day activities began with a fun bicycle race at 8am in front of Asian Town Cricket Stadium, said a release. People take part in activities organised by Vodafone. Following the initial fun race there was sports competitions including basket ball (males), volleyball (males & females), cycling, skating among many others. The winners of each competition awarded with trophies and gifts. Ibn Ajayan Projects, the organisers of the event distributed sports day special T-shirts and other gifts for all participants in the games and fun race. Thousands from Indian and Filipino communities participated in the event. The Tug of War Competition was organized by Indian Sports Center and Ibn Ajayan Projects in association. Winners with their prizes at Asian Town. Sac Qatar won the match of tug of war and the runner up was Malappuram. In volleyball Runner up was Mount Everest, 2nd Runner Runner up was Partizan. Sepak Takraw –female match, the winner was cross fite. up Ibn Ajayan Projects and 3rd Runner up inter-nation tournament winner was Team For the match of volleyball – males M Nepali Warriors. Thailand, 1st runners team Malaysia and G Qatar was declared champion. The 1st Ilocos won the basketball match, 1st 2nd runners team Philippines. 08 VIEWS WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018
ESTABLISHED IN 1996
CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI [email protected]
ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]
EDITORIAL
Qatar’s resolve against terror
People throng National Sport Day activities at Katara Cultural Village yesterday. PIC: BAHER AMIN / THE PENINSULA he State of Qatar has been playing a leading role in war against terrorism and through providing multi- dimensional support to international coalition’s fightagainst terror, the country has demonstrated its Tunflinching resolution and sincerity to the cause. Sports Tourism in Qatar: Promising The whole world recognizes Qatar’s efforts in this regard therefore all baseless allegations of ‘supporting terror’ leveled against Qatar by the blockading countries in June last year to future and remarkable growth distort image of Qatar among world nations totally failed in QNA winning any support from international community. standing to attract fans and athletes The recently-held Qatar-US strategic dialogue was also from all over the world, and taking an expression of complete trust by the United States on Qatar HE National Sports Day returns advantage of Qatar’s status as a center and its wise leadership. Continuing its efforts to eliminate the this year amid increased activity for the organization of major sporting menace of terror, the State of Qatar has participated in the in the tourism industry in events so as to attract leading sports QTA continues its efforts ministerial meeting of the International Coalition against ISIS, Tgeneral and sports tourism in industry experts from all over the to develop the sports which was held yesterday in Kuwait with the participation of particular, with the latter being one of world, whether specialists in sports tourism sector in Qatar 74 members representing governments and international four main areas identified by the next medicine, stadium construction engi- by supporting local organizations in the coalition. Deputy Prime Minister and phase of Qatar National Tourism Sector neers or event planners. Foreign Minister HE Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Strategy 2017- QTA’s strategy to develop sports events and raising its Thani, who headed the delegation of Qatar to the meeting, 2023 to achieve tourism focuses on four categories of international standing to stressed that terrorism in its different forms has become the the growth and games; traditional games such as foot- attract fans and athletes biggest threat to the Arab region and the whole world. development ball and tennis, heritage games such as from all over the world. “The State of Qatar has always voiced its rejection and goals of the camel racing and falconry, mental condemnation to this phenomenon and stressed the importance Qatari tourism games such as chess and scorpion, and In 2018, QTA signed a of eliminating all terrorist organizations wherever they exist,” The interest in sector. group games such as triathlon and three-year agreement the Foreign Minister said. sports tourism is Qatar Tour- cycling. to support the Ooredoo Meanwhile, the Foreign Minister went on saying that it is due to the ability ism Authority Al Qurese that sports tourism is one Doha Marathon. The regrettable that some of sport to unite (QTA) was able of the most effective and fast-moving international positions were not to strengthen areas. Therefore, he added, the indus- 2018 marathon saw the based on accurate and realistic the people and the status of the try is vital for achieving the objectives participation of 2,400 understanding of the real reasons create a language State of Qatar of the next phase of the National Tour- from 83 nationalities, of the terrorism phenomenon, of communication over the past ism Sector Strategy, particularly with with 18 world runners actual developments in the course years as a sports the easing of visa issuing and waiving The whole world of events and not finding final and interest shared tourism desti- the visa requirement for citizens of participating. recognizes Qatar’s solutions to the actual reasons of by individuals nation that more than 80 countries, in addition to efforts in this terrorism. His Excellency also said of different attracts the the easy access to Qatar and any sport- regard therefore all that Qatar has spared no effort in nationalities, which attention of ing event held in Qatar throughout the combating terrorism and sports federa- year. baseless allegations extremism in all its forms and is the core of the tions, clubs, Over the past few years, QTA has Al Qurese added that hosting the of ‘supporting images, by taking all necessary message “Qatar athletes and succeeded in attracting the attention of camps of the international teams, and terror’ leveled measures locally, coordinating and Welcomes the fans alike. sports fans around the world to Qatar the important matches between the against Qatar by the contributing effectively to the World.” The interest and highlighting the world-class facili- giants of the sport, comes back to the efforts of the international in sports tour- ties by holding several local and State of Qatar with enormous economic blockading countries coalition, through bilateral, ism is due to the international partnerships with major benefit, in addition to drawing the atten- in June last year regional and multilateral ability of sport sports institutions. Qatar’s winter tion of millions to the tourism and sports to distort image cooperation, providing to unite the people and create a language weather has encouraged many inter- properties in Qatar. He noted that during humanitarian assistance, and of communication and interest shared by national sports clubs and federations to the 2016 Italian Super Cup, Qatar of Qatar among supporting educational, economic individuals of different nationalities, set up their winter camps in Doha. recorded more than QR 9 million in world nations and other development initiatives which is the core of the message “Qatar Proceeding from the global popu- tourism spending, as every visitor totally failed in to achieve global security and Welcomes the World.” larity of football, and since 2012, QTA spending a night and a half spends QR winning any support stability. In addition, sports tourism highlights and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are col- 1,280. The fight against terror, Qatar’s capacities and facilities, and is laborating in a strategic partnership According to the vision of future from international particularly ISIS, is being hit hard also one of the tourist attractions that aimed at promoting sports tourism and sports, QTA’s sports tourism strategy community. by current Gulf crisis therefore it QTA is working to promote and increase leisure tourism offered by Qatar. QTA provides alternative sports experiences is also responsibility of the its diversity in accordance with its strat- hosted several tours of PSG teams, in the field of mind sports and electronic international community to use egy to diversify tourism’s exporting including PSG handball team tour in games. In August, QTA hosted the fourth their influence on the blockading countries to end unjust siege markets. Sports tourism has witnessed 2014 and 2015, PSG women’s tour in edition of the world championship for of Qatar as these reckless power-politics ambitions of leaders remarkable growth and development at 2015, PSG football team tours in winter mind sports, held in the Middle East for of the blockading countries will serve nothing politically but the level of events, partnerships and 2013 and 2015. It also hosted the winter the first time. These sports events are can and are damaging the fight against ISIS in the region and results. tour of the club last December, which held in closed facilities so that Qatar can other terror outfits at the globe level. In this regard, Rashed Al Qurese, was attended by all the stars of the demonstrate its ability to host sports This is the realization which made US Secretary of State QTA’s chief marketing and promotions team such as Neymar and Cavani. PSG competitions throughout the year. Rex Tillerson urge allies to “stay focused” on fighting the Islamic officer, emphasized that QTA continues stars filmed a video about Qatar and Qatar annually hosts around 80 State group. Speaking at a ministerial meeting in Kuwaitof its efforts to develop the sports tourism what it offers to adventure enthusiasts. sports events and world-class champi- the US-led military coalition against ISIS, Tillersonsaid: “The sector by support and constantly bene- The video was watched by millions of onships in many sports fields. Qatar is end of major combat operations does not mean we have fiting from major sporting events and fans around the world. the first country in the Middle East to be achieved the enduring defeat of ISIS. ISIS remains a serious competitions that attract wide participa- honoured to host the 2019 World Cham- threat to the stability of the region, our homelands and other tion due to their ability to promote the pionships in Athletics, 2022 FIFA World parts of the globe.” tourist and cultural attractions of the Cup and 2023 World Aquatics Champi- State Qatar, and enhance its interna- onships. These tournaments provide a tional standing by attracting fans and unique opportunity for the Qatari tour- athletes from around the world. Qatar annually hosts ism sector to benefit from the global QTA adopts a special strategy for the around 80 sports audience and provide unique country development of sports tourism based on events and world- experiences. QUOTE OF THE DAY four main axes, and promotes competi- QTA continues its efforts to develop tion in four sports fields. class championships the sports tourism sector in Qatar by The causes of Rohingya The four axes include traditional in many sports fields. supporting local events and raising its refugees flight have sporting events that provide a unique Qatar is the first international standing to attract fans and not been addressed, experience from the heritage of the State country in the Middle athletes from all over the world. In 2018, and we have yet to see of Qatar, which encourages visitors to QTA signed a three-year agreement to East to be honoured substantive progress on attend and participate, in addition to support the Ooredoo Doha Marathon. addressing the exclusion supporting long-standing sporting to host the 2019 The 2018 marathon saw the participa- events in Qatar and benefiting from its World Championships tion of 2,400 from 83 nationalities, with and denial of rights that audience to enhance Qatar’s position as 18 world runners participating. has deepened over the a global destination for sporting events, in Athletics, 2022 Over the next year, QTA will support last decades, rooted in which attracts more visitors. FIFA World Cup and more exciting events and market oppor- their lack of citizenship. It also includes supporting sports 2023 World Aquatics tunities to attract visitors from around Filippo Grandi events that are see collective participa- Championships. the world. UN refugee chief tion, strengthening its international WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018 OPINION 09 How Asia won rights to host three Olympics in a row
CONOR SEN recall, the world was just Pyeongchang was chosen to Olympics that nobody wanted. BLOOMBERG beginning to shake off an eco- host. The bid process began in 2013 nomic crisis. While stock Just as the 2018 selection at a time when economies had T might seem puzzling markets were recovering, the process occurred in the after- stabilized, but it still didn’t feel that Asia’s getting three unemployment rate in the U.S. shocks of an economic crisis, like a robust expansion in The evolution of the Olympics in a row. South continued to climb and was the 2020 process began dur- many countries. Governments Olympics site selection Korea has the 2018 approaching 10 percent, and a ing the era of austerity that had yet to emerge from a process over the past I cycle of austerity. By late 2014, Winter Games, Japan has the sovereign debt crisis was still followed. While New York bid 2020 Summer Games, and destabilizing Europe. This was for the 2012 Summer Games only two bids remained to generation provides China has the 2022 Winter not the best environment for and President Barack Obama host the 2022 games -- a glimmer of hope for Games. Shouldn’t the politicians in democratically tried to help Chicago’s bid for Almaty, Kazahkstan, and those seeking better International Olympic governed countries to submit the 2016 Summer Games, the Beijing, China. When your governance beyond Committee spread the wealth bids to host an expensive glo- U.S. chose not to bid for the choices are China or a country It’s not that simple, a bit more? bal spectacle. 2020 games. Rome initially with an economy smaller than the hosting of global because Olympics It’s not that simple, Three cities bid to host the intended to bid for the 2020 Iraq’s or Algeria’s, you pick sports events. For too because Olympics host city 2018 games: Pyeongchang in games but, perhaps because of China. long, being chosen to host city selection selection is a complicated South Korea, Munich in Ger- the ongoing sovereign debt The good news is that the is a complicated interplay between the political many and Annecy in France. crisis, pulled its bid at the last economic and political envi- host the Olympics left interplay between and economic environments This was fewer than the seven minute because of lack of sup- ronments have recovered cities with a legacy the political of the world when the host cities that applied to host the port from the government. enough to get Western coun- of debt and vacant, city selection process is play- 2014 games. Both of the Euro- The final shortlist was Tokyo, tries interested in hosting the decaying venue sites. and economic ing out. This run of Olympics pean bids came from Europe’s Madrid and Istanbul. Perhaps Olympics again. If the site environments of the is happening in Asia largely core rather than the periph- because of ongoing economic selection process before the It’s no wonder cities world when the host because of the 3008 financial eral countries that had so problems in Spain, and politi- financial crisis was fraught have become reluctant city selection process crisis. many problems with their cal instability in Turkey, with corruption and sticking to take on the burden The bidding for the 2018 sovereign debt in 2010 and Tokyo represented the safest unprepared cities with expen- of hosting. Perhaps it is playing out. games began in the summer of 2011, as the bid process was bet. sive boondoggles -- think the 2009. Back then, you may ongoing. Ultimately, Then there’s 2022: the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi took continued crises and the 2016 Summer Games and blatant corruption to in Rio -- then perhaps this change that culture. new era represents a more prudent, thoughtful environ- ment of putting Olympics in countries with stable political decaying venue sites. It’s no won- climates that are wealthy der cities have become reluctant enough to handle the respon- to take on the burden of hosting. sibility. Paris, chosen to host Perhaps it took continued crises the 2024 Summer Games, and and blatant corruption to change Los Angeles, host of the 2028 that culture. If a reformed, chas- Summer Games, are both glo- tened International Olympics bal cities that have hosted the Committee can pull off successive Olympics before. While it’s Olympic Games without repeating still early in the bidding proc- the boondoggles, it’ll go a long way ess for the 2026 Winter toward restoring trust. And if it Games, expect rationality to works for the Olympics, maybe prevail there as well. there’s hope for other public The evolution of the works and social programs too. Olympics site selection proc- ess over the past generation provides a glimmer of hope for those seeking better gov- ernance beyond the hosting of global sports events. For too long, being chosen to host the Olympics left cities with a leg- acy of debt and vacant, D-RING ROAD POST BOX: 3488 DOHA - QATAR N Friday, the Pentagon lower-yield nuclear bombs, on the order which obligates the United States and [email protected] released its 2018 Nuclear of those that destroyed Hiroshima and other nuclear power signatories to move Posture Review. Its debut Nagasaki. The stated rationale is to cor- toward nuclear disarmament. This EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE demands more attention, rect an imaginary Russian misperception comes as growing tensions between Rus- TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 O sia and the United States are beginning to because it announced a renewed round that greater capacity in this area could FAX: +974 4455 7758 in the nuclear arms race, one inevitably give them the possibility of successfully unravel agreements that do exist. bringing us ever closer to the unthinkable waging a limited nuclear war. The In sum, the United States is building a MANAGING EDITOR - a nuclear war of catastrophic buildup will give the president - yes, new generation of nuclear weapons and TEL: 4462 7505 consequences. Donald Trump - nuclear weapons that delivery systems, will deploy more usa- The review clearly seeks to calm are theoretically more usable in a ble nuclear weapons in “forward” areas, DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR fears about President Trump’s finger on regional conflict. remains committed to possible “first use” TEL: 4455 7769 the nuclear trigger. Ignoring the many The review hastens to reassure us of nuclear weapons even against non- accidents and close calls during the Cold that, in the mad logic of mutually assured nuclear attacks in defense of 30 LOCAL NEWS SECTION War, the review asserts that the United destruction, the forward deployment of countries, retains missiles on active alert TEL: 4455 7743 States has “measures and protocols” to more usable low-yield nuclear weapons ready to launch, is skeptical of the possi- ensure that intercontinental ballistic mis- will somehow raise, not lower, the bility of any progress in arms control and BUSINESS NEWS SECTION KATRINA VANDEN siles are “safe, secure and under constant “nuclear threshold.” The reality, though, is hostile to the global movement to TEL: 4462 7535 HEUVEL control.” Furthermore, the Pentagon says as Physicians for Social Responsibility make nuclear weapons illegal. All this as THE WASHINGTON POST that “any U.S. decision to employ nuclear detailed, is that even a “limited” regional tensions with Russia and China rise, rela- SPORT NEWS SECTION weapons would follow a deliberative exchange of nuclear weapons could tions with North Korea remain literally TEL: 4455 7745 leave more than a billion people facing explosive, and the nuclear deal with Iran starvation from reduced food stocks. A stays under constant assault from the ONLINE SECTION weeklong “regional” war could kill more president. TEL: 4462 7501 than died in the course of World War II. Not surprisingly, the Bulletin of the [email protected] The nuclear posture The review reaffirms the United Atomic Scientists recently adjusted its States is ready to use nuclear weapons doomsday clock to two minutes to mid- PUBLIC RELATIONS first in an alarmingly wide range of sce- night, the highest level of alarm since TEL: 4455 7613 review signals a new narios. It remains “the policy of the 1953, when the Soviet Union exploded its [email protected] United States to retain some ambiguity first hydrogen bomb. In their statement, regarding the precise circumstances” the scientists warned: “Major nuclear ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT arms race that might lead to a nuclear response. actors are on the cusp of a new arms TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 The United States reserves the right to race, one that will be very expensive and FAX: 4455 7870 process.” Despite these assurances, the unleash nuclear weapons first in will increase the likelihood of accidents [email protected] review’s plans for the nuclear arsenal “extreme circumstances” to defend the and misperceptions. Across the globe, and nuclear strategy should rouse alarms “vital interests” not only of the United nuclear weapons are poised to become CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT and spark congressional hearings and States but also of its “allies and partners” more rather than less usable because of TEL: 4455 7857 public debate. - a total of some 30 countries. “Extreme nations’ investments in their nuclear [email protected] The United States has an active circumstances,” the review states explic- arsenals.” stockpile of more than 4,000 nuclear itly, include “significant non-nuclear Despite numerous close calls and SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION weapons, arrayed in the triad of land- attacks,” including conventional attacks false alarms, the world has avoided a TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 based launch sites, nuclear submarines on “allied or partner civilian population nuclear war since the start of the Cold FAX: 44557819 and strategic bombers, including nuclear or infrastructure.” The United States also War. The Nuclear Posture Review sug- [email protected] Despite numerous armed ICBMs, air- and sea-launched maintains a “portion of its nuclear gests that nuclear weapons make cruise missiles, and gravity bombs. More forces” on daily alert, with the option of violence less likely. close calls and than enough to destroy the world several launching those forces “promptly.” In reality, the world will either find a All thoughts and views false alarms, the times over, the arsenal’s “credibility” is As for arms treaties, the review states way to get rid of nuclear weapons com- world has avoided not in issue. Yet, the review reaffirms the that the United States will continue to pletely or they will eventually be used, expressed in these columns are those of the a nuclear war since Obama administration’s commitment to comply with the Comprehensive Nuclear either intentionally or by mistake. This a new generation of missiles, nuclear Test Ban Treaty while refusing to sign it. reality deserves greater attention in the writers, not of the the start of the Cold submarines, strategic bombers and The review explicitly reserves the right to media and Congress. We need to revive newspaper. War. The Nuclear nuclear bombs. It warns of a “rapid dete- resume “nuclear explosive testing” if momentum for reducing nuclear weap- Posture Review rioration of the threat environment,” “necessary to ensure the safety and ons, not for “modernizing” them. As All correspondence suggests that making it imperative not to “delay mod- effectiveness of the U.S. nuclear arsenal.” Beatrice Fihn, who accepted the Nobel ernization of our nuclear forces if we are The review admits that arms-control Prize on behalf of the International Cam- regarding Views and nuclear weapons to preserve a credible nuclear deterrent.” agreements can help “sustain strategic paign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons in Opinion pages should be make violence less The Trump administration goes stability,” but concludes “further 2017, stated in response to the review, send to editor-in-chief likely. beyond President Barack Obama’s progress is difficult to envision.” The doc- “There are only two possible endings to buildup by enhancing America’s “non- ument ignores the U.N. Treaty on the this story: either the end of nuclear office or mailed to the strategic nuclear forces,” that is, Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, weapons or the end of us all.” [email protected] 10 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018 ANC ‘recalls’ scandal-tainted Zuma AFP “The NEC (National Zuma is expected to respond Zuma was pushing for an exit deal the country, with national events He was scheduled to stand Executive Committee) to the recall today, and could be that included covering his poten- cancelled last week including the down next year after serving the JOHANNESBURG: South Afri- ousted in a parliamentary vote tially ruinous legal fees from pro- annual State of the Nation maximum two terms after ca’s ruling ANC party yesterday decided... to of no-confidence if he clings to longed court battles against mul- Address to parliament. coming to power in 2009. “recalled” scandal-tainted Pres- recall its deployee office. tiple criminal charges. “We know you want this In 2008, Zuma’s supporters ident Jacob Zuma from office but Jacob Zuma,” ANC The power struggle over One case relates to 783 pay- matter to be finalised,” Ram- pushed out then-president Thabo set no deadline for him to step Secretary-General Zuma’s departure has put him at ments he allegedly received aphosa, 65, told a party rally in Mbeki via a similar “recall” over down, pitching the country into loggerheads with Cyril Ram- linked to an arms deal before he Cape Town on Sunday. allegations of abuse of power. further uncertainty. Ace Magashule told aphosa, his expected successor, came to power. “We know you want closure... In local polls in 2016, the ANC Secretary-General Ace reporters, adding that who is the new head of the He is also reportedly seeking Because our people want this ANC recorded its worst electoral Magashule told reporters that the move “was taken African National Congress. legal protection for his family matter to be finalised, the NEC will result since coming to power in Zuma had “agreed in principle only after exhaustive The ANC’s leadership com- and other associates involved in be doing precisely that.” South 1994 with Nelson Mandela at the to resign” and had proposed mittee met for 13 hours at a hotel controversial deals. African opposition parties have helm as white-minority rule fell. leaving in three to six months — discussion on the outside Pretoria, and decided in Ben Payton of the London- called for early elections as the Ramaphosa, the deputy pres- a delay that the party rejected. impact such a recall the early hours of yesterday to based Maplecroft risk consultancy ANC’s slow-motion transfer of ident, must revive the economy Magashule said there was no would have on the “recall” Zuma from his post. said the recall was “a political power to Ramaphosa grinds on. and crack down on what he has date for Zuma to stand down, A committee member con- death sentence” for the president. An opposition request for a admitted is rampant government and added that there would be country”. firmed that the president had “If Ramaphosa had agreed to help no-confidence vote against corruption if he is to boost the “continuing interaction” between asked for three more months in protect Zuma from prosecution in Zuma, 75, this week was still party’s tarnished reputation ANC officials and Zuma. impact such a recall would have office, and described the request any way, his leadership would being considered by the parlia- before a tricky election next year. “The NEC (National Execu- on the country”. as “hogwash”. have been tainted — perhaps mentary speaker. He is a former trade unionist tive Committee) decided... to The ANC party can “recall” “We just felt he meant three fatally,” he added. Zuma’s presidency has been and Mandela ally who led talks recall its deployee Jacob Zuma,” the head of state, but the process months of looting,” the member The impasse has plunged marred by corruption scandals, to end apartheid in the early Magashule told reporters, saying is a party-level instruction and said, speaking on condition of South Africa — the continent’s slow economic growth and 1990s and then became a multi- the move “was taken only after Zuma is under no constitutional anonymity. most developed economy — into record unemployment that have millionaire businessman before exhaustive discussion on the obligation to obey. Local media reported that confusion over who is running fuelled public anger. returning to politics. Damascus warns Israel of ‘more surprises’ in Syria REUTERS Syria’s anti-aircraft batteries, Israeli military spokesman according to an initial assess- declined to comment on that DAMASCUS/JERUSALEM: ment shared by an Israeli offi- report, saying the investigation Israel will face “more surprises” cial who requested anonymity. was ongoing. should it again attack Syrian Israel has said it will press Saturday’s incident stirred territory, Damascus said ahead with missions in Syria, up further questions in Israel yesterday, after Syria’s air where it has launched scores of about the effectiveness of a defences shot down an sorties against suspected arms coordination mechanism set up advanced Israeli warplane transfers to Iranian-sponsored with Russia, which has also been during the fiercest flare-up Lebanese Hezbollah guerrillas. reinforcing and arming Assad’s between the old foes in 36 years. “There are no limitations, army. The F-16 jet was hit over and nor do we accept any limi- Russian President Vladimir northern Israel on Saturday as tations,” Defence Minister Putin responded to the flare-up it returned from a raid on a Avigdor Lieberman told by urging Israeli Prime Minister Syrian position blamed for reporters during a tour of Isra- Benjamin Netanyahu to avoid launching an Iranian-made el’s border with Syria and escalation in Syria. Moscow said drone across the border. Iran is Lebanon. on Monday it did not have infor- Citizens wave to soldiers as military vehicles are being transported to support the units at border within supporting President Bashar Al “We will continue to defend mation to support Israel’s alle- the ‘Operation Olive Branch’ launched in Syria’s Afrin, in Hatay, Turkey, yesterday. Assad in Syria’s near seven-year our vital security and other gation about an Iranian military civil war. interests. And I would like to presence in the site bombed for “Have full confidence the paraphrase the well-known launching the drone. Syrian govt rejects UN-led panel to alter statute aggressor will be greatly sur- saying: ‘This is not the time to Zeev Elkin, a Russian- prised, because it thought this war bark, this is the time to bite.’” speaking Israeli cabinet minister REUTERS are not bound by it and it is of no formation of a constitutional — this war of attrition Syria has Tehran’s involvement in Syria, who serves as Netanyahu’s concern to us,” he added. committee so long as it would be been exposed to for years - had including the deployment of interpreter in the talks with DAMASCUS: Syria’s government Participants at the Sochi con- under U N auspices. made it incapable of confronting Iran-backed forces near the Putin, defended the coordina- yesterday rejected efforts led by gress, a centrepiece of diplomatic Syria’s government said at the attacks,” Assistant Foreign Min- Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, tion mechanism yesterday as the United Nations to form a efforts by Damascus’ ally Russia time that it welcomed the results ister Ayman Sussan said. has alarmed Israel. It has also granting Israel “freedom of committee to rewrite Syria’s to end the war, agreed on January of the Sochi meeting, but it made “God willing, they will see has accused Iran of building action in the skies above Leb- constitution, the main result of a 30 to set up the constitutional no mention then of the constitu- more surprises whenever they precision-guided missile facto- anon and Syria”. peace congress among Syrian committee in Geneva, and to hold tional committee or call for dem- try to attack Syria,” Sussan said ries for Hezbollah in Lebanon. “I don’t think the Russians groups in Russia last month. democratic elections in Syria. ocratic elections. during a Damascus news Syria and Hezbollah cele- ever pledged that they would “As a state, we are not bound U N Syria envoy Staffan de Mis- “De Mistura is a facilitator and conference. brated the F-16 shoot-down as take military action against the by, nor have any relation with, tura said at Sochi that he would not a mediator or a stand-in for other The downed F-16 was the a blow to Israeli military supe- Iranians and the Syrians for us,” any committee that is not Syrian decide the criteria for committee parties,” Soussan said yesterday. first warplane Israel has lost to riority. Israel’s Army Radio said Elkin told Israel Radio. formed, led and constituted,” said members and select about 50 Nine rounds of U N-sponsored enemy fire since its 1982 Leb- yesterday that investigators “We are going one-on-one Ayman Soussan, an assistant to people from government, opposi- peace talks, most of them in Geneva, anon war. Its two-man crew believed pilot error — rather against the Syrians. We don’t the Syrian Foreign Minister, at a tion and independent groups. have failed to bring Syria’s warring survived, with injuries, after than Syrian capabilities — were need assistance from the Rus- press conference in Damascus. The main opposition negoti- sides together after seven years of a bailing out of the stricken jet. mainly at fault for the F-16’s sians. We know how to deal with “We are not bound by anything ating group, which boycotted the conflict that has killed hundreds of Israel retaliated by failure to evade what was prob- Syrian anti-aircraft fire, as eve- that is formed by foreign sides, Sochi meeting, said afterwards thousands of people and driven mil- destroying around half of ably an aged SA-5 missile. ryone ultimately saw.” whatever their name or state, we that it would cooperate with the lions from their homes.
Protests shut Adviser to S Sudan rebels businesses in Ethiopia could face death penalty
AFP REUTERS government, espionage and supply of weaponry, his lawyer ADDIS ABABA: Businesses JUBA: A South African on trial Gardit Abel Gar, said. were closed and stone- in South Sudan could face the He has also been charged wielding men blocked roads death penalty if found guilty with insurgency, sabotage, ter- near Ethiopia’s capital of charges including rorism and illegal entry into yesterday in the latest anti- conspiracy to overthrow the South Sudan, he said. The exact government protest by the government and supplying charges against Endley had pre- Oromo people, the country’s weapons, his lawyer said viously been unclear. South largest ethnicity. yesterday, a day after his Africa’s Foreign Ministry did not It is the second day of a co-defendant was sentenced respond to a request for three-day strike called by the to death. comment. Oromo people and follows a South African national The court adjourned yes- nationwide state of emer- William John Endley served terday’s hearing to February 15 gency last year after protests as an advisor to rebel leader after witnesses called by the turned deadly. “Without any Riek Machar, whose forces defence did not appear. mistakes or any wrongdoing, have been fighting those loyal “We were unable to get the our people are being chained. to President Salva Kiir in a witnesses. Some them are out- In our own country, we are civil war since 2013. side the country,” Abel said. The considered as second class On Monday South Sudan’s court was not giving the citizens,” said Dina Abdela. High Court handed the death defence enough time to He and other young men sentence to James Gatdet Dak, summon its witnesses, he said. had blocked one of the major a former spokesman for South Sudan, which won roads heading northwest Machar, as well as a combined independence from Sudan in from the capital Addis Ababa. 21 years for incitement and 2011, descended into civil war On the city’s outskirts, Kenya Attorney-General quits conspiracy against Kiir’s in 2013, months after Kiir fired businesses were shut and government. his then deputy Machar. Tens most cars stayed off the road. The charges against Endley, of thousands of people have Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta (right) meets Attorney-General Githu Muigai after Muigai handed No deaths were reported a retired army colonel, that been killed and a third of the in his resignation letter at State House in Nairobi, Kenya, yesterday. but a protester in Burayu said carry the death penalty are con- population have fled their that one man was injured. spiracy to overthrow the homes. WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018 ASIA 11 Fresh terror attack averted in Jammu
IANS A CRPF trooper was killed during the gunfight on Monday JAMMU: A fresh terror attack while a constable of the Special was averted by alert guards at Operations Group (SOG) of the the entrance of an army camp in Two motorcycle-borne Jammu and Kashmir Police was Jammu yesterday. militants approached injured. In a related develop- Two motorcycle borne mil- ment, with the recovery of itants approached the entry point the entry point of the another soldier’s body during of the army camp in Domana army camp in Domana searches inside the Sunjuwan area around 4.30am. They fired area around 4.30am. army camp, the death toll in the towards the sentry post. As the They fired towards terror attack in Jammu has risen guards retaliated the terrorists to seven, army said. were forced to flee, informed the sentry post. As the The body of the sixth soldier sources in the police said. guards retaliated the was recovered on Monday Celebrating Indo-China cultural ties “A search operation is now evening during the searches, the terrorists were forced Chinese Dancers perform during an event celebrating the Spring Festival to welcome the Lunar underway to trace the militants,” army said yesterday. to flee. New Year of the Dog in Kolkata. The Consulate General of China organised the programme named they said. With this, the death toll in the Meanwhile, two holed up terror attack on the army camp ‘Happy Spring Festival in India’, to celebrate the Indo-China cultural bonding. LeT militants, involved in a failed going on. that started on Saturday has terror bid on a CRPF camp in Sri- The militants had taken risen to seven, including six sol- nagar, were killed yesterday in shelter inside the Karan Nagar diers and a civilian. a nearly 30-hour-long gunfight, area building a day ago after an Ten others, including six police said. alert sentry at the observation women and children were “While one was gunned post of the 23rd battalion of the injured. A group of heavily Radio brings people closer: Indian PM down as he came out of the Central Reserve Police Force armed Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) under construction building to (CRPF) spotted them and fired, terrorists entered the Sunjuwan IANS “On World Radio Day, I growing together. Modi also get into another adjacent averting a possible terror attack army camp on February 10 after convey my greetings to all those shared his experience with radio, building, the other was trapped on the camp. hurling grenades and using auto- NEW DELHI: Prime Minister associated with the world of radio, saying that it brings people closer and killed inside the building that Carrying backpacks and matic gunfire. Narendra Modi, who connects which includes those working in and he has been continuously they took refuge in on Monday,” AK-47 rifles the militants were Three terrorists, all of them with people across the country via the industry and the listeners,” he experiencing this through ‘Mann a police officer said. forced to withdraw and later Pakistan nationals who managed his monthly ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio said in a statement. Ki Baat’. The Prime Minister also The exact identity of the mil- trapped inside the building from to enter the Junior Commis- programme, yesterday extended He hoped this medium of shared the links of all episodes of itants was still being established, where they had been engaged in sioned Officer’s residential quar- his greetings on World Radio Day communication will always ‘Mann Ki Baat’ in which he speaks the police said, adding that a the gun battle with the security ters, were killed in the anti-terror to all those associated with the remain a focal point of learning, about ideas shared by people search operation in the area was forces. operation by the security forces. world of radio and listeners. discovering, entertaining and speaks on variety of themes.
5 dead in Cochin India hints at closure of PPF accounts ‘Insensitive’ China playing Shipyard IANS subsumed in the new amended and also to introduce certain flex- politics with PNG: Taiwan tanker blast Act without compromising on any ibilities for investors,” it said. NEW DELHI: The government of the functional provision of the Besides, benefits of premature REUTERS opened a trade office there in IANS yesterday proposed to allow existing Act.” The changes pro- closure of Small Savings Schemes 1990. China’s Foreign Ministry, premature closure of Public Prov- posed are aimed at adding flexi- would be introduced to deal with TAIPEI: Taiwan has accused in a statement late on Sunday, KOCHI: Five persons died and ident Fund (PPF) accounts and bility in the operations of under medical emergencies and higher China of insensitivity by noted the name of Taiwan’s PNG several others were injured in permit opening of small savings the Small Savings Schemes, it education needs among others, it announcing that Papua New office had been changed to the a blast inside the water ballast accounts in the name of minors, added. All existing protections said. Guinea had downgraded its rela- Taipei Economic and Cultural of the Oil and Natural Gas according to a Finance Ministry have been retained while consol- “Another benefit, investment tions with the self-ruled island Office in Papua New Guinea, and Corporation (ONGC) tanker statement here. idating the PPF Act under the pro- in Small Savings Schemes can be while Taiwan was still dealing said it appreciated the move. ship Sagar Bhushan at the These changes are part of the posed Government Savings Pro- made by Guardian on behalf of with the aftermath of a deadly That China had chosen to Cochin Shipyard here in Kerala proposed merger of the separate motion Act, the Ministry said. minor(s) under the provisions earthquake. announce Papua New Guinea’s yesterday. The Cochin Shipyard acts on small savings, PPF and “No existing benefits to depos- made in proposed bill,” the state- In a statement late on decision was hurtful while management announced a government savings banks. itors are proposed to be taken ment added. The bill also proposes Monday, Taiwan’s Foreign Min- Taiwan dealing was with the probe by an internal “The government has pro- away through this process,” it said. permitting depositor to close a istry said China had forced Papua aftermath of an earthquake on committee. posed merger of Government Besides ensuring existing ben- PPF account before five years in New Guinea to change the name the eastern part of the island in The blast occurred at Savings Certificates Act, 1959, and efits, certain new benefits to the exigencies. At present, such of Taipei’s representative office which at least 17 people died, Tai- around 9.45am. Nine workers Public Provident Fund Act, 1968 depositors have been proposed accounts cannot be closed pre- in the country and remove dip- wan’s Foreign Ministry said. were engaged in welding inside with the Government Savings under the bill. “The main objec- maturely before completion of lomatic license plates from dip- “This has hurt the feelings of the water ballast when the blast Banks Act, 1873,” the statement tive in proposing a common Act five financial years. “To make pro- lomats’ cars. Papua New Guinea our people, and even caused a occurred, killing five of them, said. “With a single act, relevant is to make implementation easier visions for premature closure had “bent to pressure from main- backlash. We feel this is deeply while four were injured. Of the provisions of the Government for the depositors as they need not easier in respect of all schemes, land China”, the ministry said. regrettable.” A Papua New Guinea four, the condition of one Savings Certificates (NSC) Act, go through different rules and Acts provisions could now be made Taiwan and Papua New government spokesman did not worker is serious with 45 per- 1959, and the Public Provident for understanding the provision through specific scheme notifica- Guinea do not have formal dip- immediately respond to a cent burns and he is on venti- Fund Act, 1968, would stand of various small savings schemes, tion,” the statement said. lomatic relations, but Taiwan request for comment. lator support. The condition of the other three is not that serious, officials said. Chairman and Managing Director of Cochin Shipyard Myanmar government signs ceasefire with two rebel groups Madhu S Nair announced an immediate ex gratia of 10 lakh REUTERS war has been Suu Kyi’s stated top neighbouring Bangladesh from the military’s commander-in- The latest two signatories have rupees for the families of the priority, but the Buddhist-majority violence in the northwest, is key chief, Senior General Min Aung not engaged in active fighting with deceased. An official statement SINGAPORE: Two ethnic armed country has seen the worst fighting to unlocking the resource-rich Hlaing, in the capital Naypyitaw the military in recent years, but said that all treatment expenses groups in Myanmar signed a with rebels in years since she took country’s potential and guaran- last month. Speaking at a signing analysts said it marks a positive of the injured will be met by the ceasefire with the government office almost two years ago. teeing development for its more ceremony in Naypyitaw, Suu Kyi move for negotiations with other company as per its existing yesterday, as leader Aung San Suu The peace process, which than 50 million people. New said the next step was to cement armed groups. policies. Kyi seeks to revive a stuttering has been eclipsed in media cov- Mon State Party and the Lahu the ceasefire with groups that have At least 10 rebel groups have “All necessary assistance is peace process to end decades of erage by the plight of hundreds Democratic Union signed the already signed, and bring the not joined the NCA, an accord being provided by the company conflict. of thousands of Muslim National Ceasefire Agreement remaining armed groups into the negotiated by the previous quasi- to those affected, and the entire Ending near-perpetual civil Rohingya refugees fleeing to (NCA) after meeting Suu Kyi and agreement through dialogue. civilian administration. senior leadership is monitoring the process. Senior civil and police officials are on the ground and appropriate actions China’s former internet mogul is being taken,” it said. The tanker ship has dry- expelled from Communist Party docked at the Cochin Shipyard for a month for repairs and AFP management style. He chose to maintenance. All the dead are ‘selectively carry out’ the party’s from Kerala. About 10 workers BEIJING: China’s former Internet strategy, the document who were engaged in works internet mogul, who oversaw a alleged, adding a further inves- away from the water ballast tightening of online censorship tigation would be undertaken. suffered small injuries when during his tenure, has been Lu was once named among splinters from the blast hit expelled from the Communist the world’s 100 most influential them. Party for taking bribes, the top people by Time magazine and Those working on the graft watchdog said yesterday. had rubbed shoulders with the tanker during the blast included More than 20 allegations likes of Facebook founder Mark mostly daily wagers and con- against Lu Wei, ranging from Zuckerberg. tract workers since yesterday serious crimes to criticisms of his But in June 2016 he stepped is a holiday for regular shipyard character, were listed on the down from his position super- workers. website of the Central Commis- vising controls on online expres- Shipyard CMD Nair told the sion for Discipline Inspection, sion as head of the Cyberspace media about the internal probe which announced the Administration of China. committee. “Since we come decision. And in November 2017 offi- under the Factories and ‘Enchanted Chandelier’ aerial show In an unusually florid state- cials announced he was being Broilers Department, their offi- ment, the anti-graft agency investigated for suspected dis- French performance company ‘Transe Express’ takes part in the ‘Enchanted Chandelier’ aerial show in cials will come, besides those accused Lu of ‘using power for ciplinary violations. Hyderabad, yesterday, as a part of Bonjour India, for celebrating India-French friendship. The concert from the Director General of personal gain’ and ‘deceiving the Lu had fiercely defended the Shipping to find out what hap- features bell-ringing musicians and aerialists on a huge musical chandelier lifted metres into the air. central government’ and country’s censorship apparatus pened” he said. slammed his ‘tyrannical’ after he was appointed in 2013. 12 ASIA WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018 HK bars pro-independence activist from polls REUTERS in 2016. But the government’s including one already filed by triggered by the earlier open society”. Chan said he returning officer chose not to another pro-independence disqualifications. would consider an appeal. HONG KONG: Hong Kong’s believe him and invalidated his advocate, Edward Leung. This prompted a strongly- “Electoral freedom is con- High Court yesterday ruled in nomination. A government returning worded criticism from the Euro- stantly tightening, and there is favour of barring a pro-inde- Judge Thomas Au Judge Thomas Au yesterday officer recently barred 21-year- pean Union, saying it “risks no way you can call this an elec- pendence activist from standing yesterday ruled he ruled he did not accept that old activist Agnes Chow from diminishing Hong Kong’s inter- tion,” he said. “It should be in an election, saying it is ‘funda- Chan would truly uphold the running in a March by-election national reputation as a free and called a selection.” mental’ for lawmakers to accept did not accept that Basic Law, at times referencing the city as an inalienable part of Chan would truly a controversial yet binding legal China. uphold the Basic Law, interpretation issued by Beijing’s The former British colony, at times referencing parliament which stated this which returned to China in 1997, should be a precondition for does not enjoy full democracy, a controversial standing for election. but an election that fills half of yet binding legal “In any reasonable objective the 70-seat legislature once interpretation view, advocating the independ- every four years is considered issued by Beijing’s ence of Hong Kong with the the most open under a ‘one abolition of the Basic Law objec- country, two systems’ arrange- parliament which tively must at the least prima ment under which the city is stated this should be facie be the very antithesis of an ruled. a precondition for intention to ‘uphold’ the Basic However alarm bells were standing for election. Law,” Au wrote. raised over the rights and “The upholding of the Basic freedoms enshrined in that Law and the acceptance of the arrangement when six legisla- Movement’ protests. Yesterday’s fact that (Hong Kong) is an inal- tors elected in 2016 and at least case concerned pro-independ- ienable part of the People’s nine other candidates from the ence advocate Andy Chan, who Republic of China is funda- opposition were disqualified, as had signed a declaration saying mental to the person being Beijing tightens its grip in the he would uphold the city’s mini- allowed to assume office.” The aftermath of the 2014 pro- constitution, the Basic Law, 104-page judgment sets a prec- democracy ‘Umbrella when he applied to run for office edent for similar appeals, Pro-independence activist Andy Chan speaks to journalists in Hong Kong, yesterday.
PML-N upsets PTI Malaysia to downgrade with victory at UN urges Australia to take Lodhran by-polls responsibility for refugees ties with N Korea further INTERNEWS REUTERS country last year. REUTERS was moved to on the island was asylum seekers have sought The Malaysian foreign min- MULTAN: In a surprising adequate and that the Papua international protection for their KUALA LUMPUR: One year istry declined to comment. turn of events, the Pakistan GENEVA: The United Nations New Guinea government was welfare and long-term settle- after North Korean leader Kim Meanwhile, trade and busi- Muslim League-Nawaz called on Australia yesterday to responsible for running it. ment outside of Papua New Jong Un’s half-brother was ness ties have all but dried up. (PML-N) won the NA-154 take responsibility for around But Rico Salcedo, UNHCR Guinea,” he added. assassinated at Kuala Lumpur’s A Malaysian businessman, by-election in Lodhran with 800 refugees and asylum regional protection officer, told There was no immediate airport, Malaysia is further who until recently imported coal a sizeable margin, even seekers stranded in a detention journalists yesterday that the response from Canberra to the downgrading once-close ties from North Korea, said he though party Chief Nawaz centre on Papua New Guinea Canberra government had a UNHCR comments yesterday. with Pyongyang, sources stopped buying from Pyongyang Sharif had been unable to where it said many lack medical duty under international law to Salcedo said that while serv- familiar with the government’s - even before UN sanctions that participate in the election and mental health care. take responsibility for the 800 ices were still predominantly plans said. banned all trade of North Korean campaign as he was busy The refugees - many from who had been seeking sanctuary implemented by Australian- Kim Jong Nam was assassi- coal - because the purchases holding public gatherings Afghanistan and Pakistan, along in Australia. contracted providers, the Can- nated on February 13, 2017 when were drawing a lot of attention across the country. with Rohingya Muslims from “What stood out the most berra government was no longer two women smeared his face after the Kim Jong Nam killing. According to the unoffi- Myanmar - were removed from from this mission was a perva- coordinating the operation with VX nerve agent - which the Ties quickly deteriorated cial count from 330 polling a holding camp in the remote sive and worsening sense of there, leaving refugees and UN lists as a weapon of mass after North Korea’s ambassador stations out of a total 338, at Papua New Guinea island of despair among refugees and asylum seekers confused as to destruction. The women claim to Malaysia questioned the cred- the time this report was Manus in November when Aus- asylum seekers,” he said by how they can obtain services. At they were tricked into believing ibility of the police investigation filed, PML-N candidate Syed tralia decided to close it. video link from Canberra after least 500 of the 800 remaining they were part of a reality show, into the assassination, insisting Iqbal Shah had obtained Australia’s government - returning from a trip to Manus on Papua New Guinea await but US and South Korea say the Kim Jong Nam was an ordinary 116,590 votes, while Paki- whose policy of holding asylum- Island. solutions or resettlement in third murder was orchestrated by citizen who had died of a heart stan Tehreek-i-Insaf’s Ali seekers in offshore camps has “Australia remains ulti- countries, the UN High Commis- Pyongyang. attack. Khan Tareen had secured bipartisan political support - has mately responsible as the state sioner for Refugees (UNHCR) The brazen killing came as Malaysia recalled its ambas- 91,230 votes. said the centre that the group from whom refugees and says. North Korea was starting to sador to North Korea, banned its The National Assembly accelerate its missile tests and citizens from travelling to the seat (NA-154) seat fell vacant countries around the world North and cancelled visa-free after the then secretary gen- came under mounting pressure entry for North Koreans. eral of PTI Jahangir Tareen to enforce ever-tightening UN North Korea retaliated with was disqualified for being sanctions against Pyongyang. a travel ban on all Malaysians in ‘dishonest’ by the Supreme The repercussions from the Pyongyang, trapping three dip- Court in its verdict in killing are still being felt. lomats and six family members. December last year. Malaysia is considering They were able to fly out only Celebrating the unex- reducing the staff size of the after Malaysia agreed to hand pected victory in the late North Korean mission in Kuala over Kim Jong Nam’s corpse and hours of yesterday, Maryam Lumpur to four by not renewing send three North Koreans Nawaz tweeted: “This is requests to replace diplomats wanted for questioning back to simply majestic and sets the when their terms end, according North Korea. Pressure from the stage for 2018 elections. to a diplomatic source and an United States has been mounting MNS message has resonated advisor to the government. Both on Malaysia and other Southeast with the masses. declined to be named due to the Asian countries to cut trade and Opponents misjudged sensitivity of the matter. diplomatic ties with Pyongyang, the situation. Alhamdolillah Malaysia is also turning as President Donald Trump million times. We bow our down invitations to participate seeks support for tougher action heads before The Almighty in North Korean events. A dip- against nuclear-armed North in gratitude. lomatic source with direct Korea. “This is how The Divine knowledge of the situation said Malaysia said last year it was responds to treachery and Malaysia declined an invitation considering permanently closing plotting.” to send an envoy to attend last its embassy in Pyongyang and Commenting on the week’s military parade in moving North Korea services to defeat in NA-154 by-poll, Asma Jahangir’s funeral Pyongyang. its Beijing mission. It has not PTI chief Imran Khan said “It’s just too dangerous,” the been staffed since last April after Pakistani mourners carry the coffin of lawyer and human rights activist, Asma Jahangir, for funeral every setback was an oppor- source said, referring to the its diplomats were allowed to in Lahore yesterday. Thousands attended the funeral in Gaddafi Cricket Stadium amid tight security. tunity to learn from Malaysian diplomats North leave under the swap mistakes. Korea stopped from leaving the agreement.
Pakistan’s Army chief joins Four dead as storm hits southern Philippines conference in Afghan capital AFP police chief James Alendogao said. AP production. Afghanistan is the MANILA: Four people were “These areas are currently world’s largest producers of killed in the southern Philippines inaccessible and we do not know KABUL: Afghanistan hosted opium, the raw material used to early yesterday as a tropical the extent of the damage,” he military chiefs from several make heroin. storm unleashed heavy rain and added. neighbouring countries The conference on Monday triggered deadly landslides, The state weather service yesterday, including Pakistan’s and yesterday in Kabul included police said. said the storm was expected to army chief, for a conference US and Nato representatives. Tropical Storm Sanba move swiftly northwest over the focusing on how to deal with Capt Tom Gresback, slammed the east coast of the next 24 hours, bringing mod- escalating terrorism in the spokesman for Nato-led forces, main southern island of Mind- erate to heavy rain across the region. said the event “afforded leaders anao yesterday with gusts of 75 central Philippines. The military leaders, the opportunity to meet in km an hour. The archipelago nation is including Pakistan’s Chief of person and identify opportuni- The heavy rain triggered struck by 20 storms or typhoons Army Staff General Qamar Javed ties to protect and promote landslides that hit mountain vil- each year on average, some of Bajwa, were also expected to common interests, specifically lages outside the mining town them deadly. Sanba is already A resident walks past a house damaged by flooding following look at the region’s burgeoning pertaining to securing a lasting of Carrascal -- 760 kilometres the second major system to hit heavy rains brought by tropical Storm Sanba in the town of narcotics trade as Afghanistan peace for Afghanistan and sta- south of the capital Manila -- this year, and the first to cause Jaboanga in Agusan del Norte province on the southern island hits record levels of poppy bility for the region.” killing four people, municipal casualties. of Mindanao, yesterday. WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018 EUROPE 13 Saakashvili arrested, deported to Poland
REUTERS In a statement, them.” Saakashvili denounced Saakashvili, who served as KIEV: Ukrainian opposition President Petro president of his native Georgia leader Mikheil Saakashvili was for most of the period from 2004 deported to Poland, the Poroshenko, saying: to 2013, was invited to Ukraine Ukrainian border service said, This is not a president by Poroshenko, who took power after he was detained in a Kiev and not a man. This after protests toppled a pro-Rus- restaurant by law enforcement is a lowlife crook sian leader in 2014. agents in camouflage. He held a regional governor- Poland’s border service con- who wants to wreck ship from 2015 to 2016 before firmed that he had arrived and Ukraine. All this shows falling out with Poroshenko and that Warsaw had agreed to let how weak they are. joining the opposition. him enter. We will of necessity Poroshenko stripped Saa- The deportation appears to kashvili of his Ukrainian citizen- defeat them. bring an abrupt end to a months- ship last year, but Saakashvili re- A still image, taken from CCTV footage, shows Ukrainian opposition figure and Georgian former long cat-and-mouse game entered Ukraine anyway from president Mikheil Saakashvili (centre top) being detained by men wearing a military uniform at a between Saakashvili and the returned to the country from Poland in September, promising restaurant in Kiev, Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities, which saw where he arrived,” border to confront the president, whom street unrest during previous service spokesman Oleh Slo- he accuses of corruption, which attempts to arrest him. bodyan said in a post on Poroshenko denies. approaching a man lying on the Kiev at 1630 GMT to protest politically motivated. He says he Some critics, including in the Facebook. Slobodyan said law enforce- floor of a restaurant. against his treatment. has given up his Georgian opposition, said his movement In a statement, Saakashvili ment officials were obliged to “Such actions should not But there was no immediate citizenship. distracted from the broader denounced President Petro use force while detaining Saa- have been carried out against sign of public outcry, unlike in Saakashvili also faces crim- opposition’s campaign to hold Poroshenko. kashvili in Kiev as his supporters Saakashvili, but unfortunately December when police tried to inal charges in Ukraine. The the Kiev leadership to account. “This is not a president and had attacked them. they were,” his spokeswoman arrest Saakashvili but he escaped authorities accuse him of “This person was on not a man. This is a lowlife crook A video posted on Saakash- said by telephone. custody during street protests. assisting a criminal organisation, Ukrainian territory illegally and who wants to wreck Ukraine. All vili’s official Facebook page She said Saakashvili’s sup- Saakashvili is wanted in which he calls a fabricated alle- therefore, in compliance with all this shows how weak they are. showed several armed men in porters would gather outside the Georgia on embezzlement gation to undermine his cam- legal procedures, he was We will of necessity defeat green military uniforms presidential administration in charges that he says are paign to unseat Poroshenko. Dad & daughter France to introduce compulsory ‘national service’ in French van AFP its know-how and demands”. involved in training up 600,000 But in a sign not all young contacts -- or feigned mental He billed it as a way to build and 800,000 youngsters a year. people may be forced to don uni- health problems -- to duck out heist arrested PARIS: Two decades after it social cohesion and patriotism Last week, Defence Minister form he said that the service of it. AFP scrapped its compulsory military in a country battling deep divi- Florence Parly appeared to cast “could also be a civic engage- In January, Macron --the first service France will introduce a sions, by bringing young people doubt on the scope of the plan, ment”, being about “how you French president to not have LYON: French police have mandatory “national service” for from different backgrounds saying it would “probably not be give your time usefully to the been called up to serve, having arrested a cash van driver and all young people, the govern- together in a barracks. obligatory”. nation”. come of age after it ended -- his daughter, who claimed ment said yesterday, confirming But the proposal raised But government spokesman France’s last conscripts were insisted he was not trying to res- she was held for ransom a campaign pledge by President hackles in the army, which is Benjamin Griveaux yesterday demobilised in 2001, ending urrect the tradition which was while a gang robbed millions Emmanuel Macron. already stretched thin by anti- insisted that Macron would not nearly a century of military ended by former president from her father’s vehicle in Macron took the country by terrorism operations in the beat a retreat on the proposal. service which saw millions of Jacques Chirac. Switzerland, police sources surprise a year ago when he Middle East and West Africa as “It will be universal...and it men put through their paces. He said his aim was to give said yesterday. announced that, if elected, he well as patrols against jihadists will be obligatory,” he said, adding While some French men young men and women alike The father, daughter and would make all young people at home. that a taskforce would come up look back fondly on their stint in “causes to defend and battles to a colleague of the father were spend a month getting “a direct Opposition parties and with suggestions on how to imple- the army, many middle-class fight in the social, environmental taken into custody in Lyon on experience of military life with experts also warned of the costs ment it by the end of April. youths called in well-placed and cultural domains.” Monday, four days after they reported being the victims of a heist resembling the plot of a Hollywood movie. The 22-year-old daughter Measles cases in Europe told police she was kidnapped from her apartment in the tripled last year: Officials southeastern French city of Lyon by two men posing as AP European officials said the plumbers. spike was due to epidemics in She said the men bundled LONDON: The European Romania, Italy, Greece and her into a car, tied her up and Centre for Disease Prevention Germany. forced her to telephone her and Control says the number of The highly contagious dis- father who works for SOS measles cases across the conti- ease - which is vaccine pre- Surveillance to demand a nent tripled last year and is ventable - is still sickening chil- ransom. continuing to cause new dren and young adults in The father, who was en outbreaks due to low immuni- Britain, France and Sweden. route with a colleague to the sation rates. Since 2016, the European Swiss city of Lausanne with a In an update published this center has recorded 50 deaths cash delivery, then agreed to month, the agency said more due to measles; serious com- meet the kidnappers in a car than 14,400 cases were plications are most common in park near the border with reported by 30 countries last children under 5. To prevent France and hand over the van’s year - compared with about measles, vaccination rates of at contents, the story went.French 4,600 cases the year before. least 95 percent are needed. police last week estimated the loot at $21m to $32m. Investigators now appear to suspect it was an inside job. Asylum seeker pleads Swiss authorities had Pancake race appealed for witnesses to FROM LEFT: Conservative Party politician, Paul Scully; Labour Party politician, Bambos Charalambous; guilty to Stockholm attack come forward over the rob- Labour Party politician, Rupa Huq; Conservative Party politician, Matt Warman; Conservative Party bery and said they were AFP rejected in 2016, had sworn looking for three men with politician, Mims Davies and British peer, Lord St John of Bletso toss pancakes at the annual Parliamentary allegiance to the IS militant accented French, “maybe Pancake Race taking place in front of the Houses of Parliament, in central London, yesterday. STOCKHOLM: An Uzbek group on the eve of his assault from the south of France or asylum seeker pleaded guilty in one of Europe’s safest cities, North Africa”. to terrorism charges yesterday though the group never for an April 2017 Stockholm claimed responsibility. truck attack that killed five On April 7, Akilov stole a people, after identifying truck and barrelled down a multiple targets in a city he bustling pedestrian shopping Dutch minister under probe over false claim described as full of “infidels”. street, swerving wildly to hit Rakhmat Akilov appeared as many people as possible. REUTERS Dutch Foreign All major parties have called disseminating disinformation,” handcuffed in Stockholm’s Three Swedes were killed and Minister Halbe for him to appear in parliament the embassy said in a statement. special high-security court- ten others were injured. AMSTERDAM: Dutch Foreign Zijlstra’s admission later yesterday to face questions “Dutch officials are constantly room, accompanied by his Akilov ended his rampage Minister Halbe Zijlstra will be from lawmakers, who have the making such unfounded state- lawyer Johan Eriksson. by crashing the truck into the questioned in parliament for led opposition power to dismiss him. ments. ..Isn’t this an example of Akilov, whose Swedish facade of a store and deto- having lied about witnessing parties to demand his Newspaper de Volkskrant fake news directed against our asylum application had been nating an explosive device. Russian President Vladimir Putin resignation. reported that Zijlstra had also country?” outline a strategy for a “greater misrepresented Putin’s com- The dispute comes at bad Russia” in 2006. ments, citing an email from time for the Dutch, who are pre- Zijlstra admitted on Monday Zijlstra’s allegations as “fake former Shell chief executive paring indictments against sus- that he lied in 2016 when he said news”. Zijlstra is due to travel to Jeroen van der Veer, who was at pects in the downing in July 2014 he had attended a meeting a Moscow for a previously sched- the meeting and the publication of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 decade earlier at which Putin uled meeting with his Russian said was the source of the claim. with 196 Dutch citizens on spoke of plans for regional counterpart Sergei Lavrov today. The Russian Embassy said in board. expansion. He said he never Zijlstra’s admission led oppo- a statement that Zijlstra’s alle- Dutch authorities have said attended the meeting but had sition parties to demand his res- gations “do not hold up against the passenger airline was heard about the president’s ignation, but the governing par- any criticism and are only brought down by a Russian- remarks second hand. ties and Prime Minister Mark intended to spread false percep- made Buk missile, fired from ter- A sketch shows an inside view of a courtroom at Stockholm district The Russian Embassy in the Rutte, also a member of the Lib- tions of Russia’s intentions.” ritory held by pro-Russia sepa- court during the opening of the trial of Rakhmat Akilov, yesterday. Netherlands yesterday rejected eral VVD party, have stood by him. “Russia is being blamed for ratists in Ukraine. 14 AMERICAS WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018 Security clearances for top officials ‘broken’
AP Calling for a “revolutionary change” in how the US government vets its own people, Dan Coats WASHINGTON: The US govern- ment’s system of security clear- said what’s needed is a process that takes ances for top officials is “broken” advantage of new technologies and information and must be completely over- on social media to provide “early awareness of hauled, the Trump administra- individuals.” tion’s intelligence chief told The Associated Press, as questions swirl about how a top White thousands of such security certify that someone should be House aide kept his access to reviews. “We have a broken working within our community highly sensitive information and system and I think everybody’s and in the government?’” Coats the president despite accusations come to agree with that now,” said. “But how can we do it in a of domestic violence. Coats said. way that doesn’t leave us with Dan Coats’ assessment in a Calling for a “revolutionary hundreds of thousands waiting telephone interview came just change” in how the US govern- to be looked at and certified, with Senate Intelligence Committee members Senator Ron Wyden (left) and Senator Dianne Feinstein before he briefed lawmakers on ment vets its own people, Coats key slots open in various agen- listen to responses by officials from the intelligence community during a hearing in the Hart Senate Capitol Hill about global threats said what’s needed is a process cies?” “We we have moved this facing the United States. Coats that takes advantage of new tech- to a very top priority because it is Office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, yesterday. The intelligence chiefs were called to was immediately confronted yes- nologies and information on really undermining our ability to testify to the committee about ‘worldwide threats.’ terday by a top Democratic sen- social media to provide “early get the right people into the right ator about continued questions awareness of individuals.” He said place at the right time,” the —prompting calls for better and an interim clearance have only and private contractors is a labo- about Rob Porter, who resigned such an approach would be faster director of national intelligence faster vetting of people with accelerated the demands for a rious process that requires an his job as staff secretary last week and more effective than an inves- added. access to the nation’s secrets. It better process. President Donald extensive background check and after stories emerged detailing tigation “having to go to 19 dif- Talk of reforming security currently takes about four months Trump’s White House has an effort to judge a person’s trust- two ex-wives’ accounts of abuse. ferent places to talk to people, clearances is hardly new. Some to acquire a clearance to gain stressed that background checks worthiness. Ninety-five percent Porter had been serving with neighbours and school classmates 700,000 reviews have stacked access to “secret” information on are handled by the FBI and other of all background investigations an interim security clearance and so forth.” “We have to basi- up across the government, a need-to-know basis, and nine intelligence agencies through the are conducted by the National while his background check was cally start with a clean sheet and leading agencies like the Defence to 10 months for “top-secret” same process that administra- Background Investigations pending, a common occurrence say, ‘What can we do better to Department to inadvertently issue clearance. tions have relied on for Bureau, which does some of the for officials in a government make sure that we get the correct interim passes to criminals — The questions about Porter’s decades. work itself and contracts the rest facing a backlog of hundreds of background info necessary to even rapists and killers behaviour and ability to secure Checking federal employees to private firms.
Mexico detains Trump prods Congress on immigration hundreds of AP chance, there will never be what the product, if any, will be. immigration — a must for many proposals, including limiting the US-bound another opportunity! March 5th.” “This is going to be done or Republicans. relatives that legal immigrants WASHINGTON: US President Trump was referring to a dead- not done this week,” No. 2 Senate “This proposal has my sup- can bring to the US, to be migrants Donald Trump warned yesterday line he announced last year to GOP leader John Cornyn of Texas port, and during this week of fair non-starters. that it’s now or never when it end a programme protecting told reporters. debate, I believe it deserves the Leading up to the debate, the AFP comes to extending protections young immigrants from depor- Senate Majority Leader Mitch support of every senator who’s Senate’s two top leaders put on for young immigrants who have tation. But a recent court ruling McConnell, threw his weight ready to move beyond making a show of comradery, but also MEXICO CITY: Mexican stayed in the country illegally. has rendered that deadline all behind a wide-ranging bill that points and actually making a laid down markers underscoring authorities detained more Trump, in an early-morning but meaningless. mirrors Trump’s approach. It law,” McConnell said in begin- how hard it will be to reach a than 500 undocumented tweet, said Congress must act The comments came the day would pave a path to citizenship ning Senate debate yesterday. deal that can move through Con- migrants over the weekend, now to provide legal protections after the Senate voted 97-1 — for up to 1.8 million young McConnell and other GOP gress. “We really do get along, mostly Central Americans to young “Dreamer” immigrants Ted Cruz, provided the sole “no” “Dreamer” immigrants in the US supporters describe the measure despite what you read in the trying to reach the United even as legislation faces an vote — to plunge into an open- illegally, a lure for Democrats as the Senate’s best shot of press,” Senate Minority Leader States, many of them risking uncertain prospect in Congress. ended immigration debate that’s that many Republicans oppose. passing a bill that the president Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said their lives, officials said. “Wouldn’t it be great if we could been promised by McConnell. Trump also wants $25bn for will sign. McConnell’s endorse- Monday at a previously sched- Many of the migrants, finally, after so many years, solve Both parties’ leaders hope debate Trump’s border wall with Mexico ment is key for generating uled appearance alongside who were detained in six the DACA puzzle,” he wrote, can be concluded this week, but and other security measures, as Republican support, but many McConnell at the University of different operations, were adding: “This will be our last it’s unclear if that will happen or well as curbs on legal Democrats consider some of the Louisville. being trafficked by smug- glers in unventilated trucks with no food or water. More than 200 others No remains were found crammed into Former Guatemalan president detained in graft case six “safe houses” used by found in criminal gangs in the state AP of Tamaulipas, which bor- Toronto yard ders the United States. They GUATEMALA CITY: Prosecu- had paid their traffickers up tied to killer tors in Guatemala said yesterday to $4,000. More than 100 of they have detained former Pres- the migrants in that group TORONTO: Toronto police ident Alvaro Colom and almost were minors. say they have found no his entire former cabinet in a The detentions come human remains in the back- corruption case involving a bus as immigration across the yard of a house where they concession. southern US border is at the earlier discovered planters Colom, who governed from centre of a political firestorm containing the remains of six 2008 to 2012, is the latest in a in Washington. men believed to be victims of series of former presidents to The US Congress a serial killer. face legal problems. Colom was launched debate Monday Police spokesman Mea- recently named by the Organi- on a proposal from Presi- ghan Gray said yesterday that zation of American States as an dent Donald Trump to grant investigators had finished envoy to Honduras, in a bid to citizenship to 1.8 million their excavation of backyard help sort out disputed elections immigrants brought to the at a home suspect Bruce there. United States as children — McArthur had used to store Special prosecutor Juan a concession to opposition items for his landscaping Francisco Sandoval, who said Democrats — in exchange business. She says they will Colom was arrested Tuesday, is for tough cutbacks on immi- now focus on looking through looking into the questionable gration and $25bn for tighter more planters found at that purchases of public buses for Former Guatemalan President Alvaro Colom arrives in court escorted by policemen after being border security, including property and others. Guatemala City. detained as part of a local corruption investigation, in Guatemala City, yesterday. his planned wall. Bill & Melinda Gates turn attention towards poverty in America AP with at the national level, including meetings with Trump, where they and minorities,” Melinda Gates said. endowment worth over $40bn, which employment, race, housing, mental discussed innovation in education, “That’s just not what I believe. It’s not includes a large portion of billionaire KIRKLAND: Bill and Melinda Gates, health, incarceration and substance energy and health — including the world that I see.” Trump has said investor Warren Buffett’s fortune. as the world’s top philanthropists, are abuse. “We are not seeing the mobility vaccines, which Trump has voiced he’s a counterpuncher who goes after The Gates Foundation has given rethinking their work in America as out of poverty in the same way in skepticism about. “I got, both times, people when they go after him, only money to various programmes in more they confront what they consider their the United States as it used to exist,” to talk about the miracle of vaccines 10 times harder. than 100 countries, as well as in all 50 unsatisfactory track record on Melinda Gates said. and how those are good things,” Bill Taking a more reflective review of states and Washington, D.C. schools, the country’s growing The Bill and Melinda Gates Gates said. their work than in years past, the couple Their approach to giving has inequity and a president they disagree Foundation is studying these topics Melinda Gates, who left her job at in their annual letter published yesterday shifted the philanthropy world as with more than any other. with no plans yet for any particular Microsoft to raise their three children also answered 10 questions critics often a whole. They’ve been criticised for In an interview, the couple said initiatives, though it has done related before turning to the foundation full- ask them. They acknowledge it’s unfair prescribing how the money is spent they’re concerned about President work at home in Washington state on a time, has lately embraced her role as a that they have so much wealth and and then expecting tangible proof their Donald Trump’s “America first” much smaller scale. Last year, it funded public figure more boldly. She called out influence but reject the notion that investments work. worldview. They’ve made known their a grant for the Center on Budget and Trump’s behaviour, saying the President they’re imposing their values on other About 75 percent of the differences with the president and his Policy Priorities to look into state and has a responsibility to be a good role cultures. “Behind the scenes, these are foundation’s resources are dedicated party on issues including foreign aid, federal policies that can reduce poverty. model when he speaks and tweets, and the tough, tough questions that people to global health and development. Bill taxes and protections for immigrant Once the world’s richest man, that his verbal attacks don’t belong in are asking us, and yeah, we have to Gates said they’re proudest of their youth in the country illegally. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has the public discourse. wrestle with them ourselves,” Melinda efforts to help eradicate polio and curb And they said they’re now digging marked a decade since transitioning “You just have to go look in Twitter Gates said in the February 1 interview. the number of child deaths, calling into the layers of US poverty that away from the tech giant to focus on to see the disparaging comments over Since 2000, the Seattle-based those global health improvements they haven’t been deeply involved philanthropy. He said he’s had two and over and over again about women private foundation has amassed an a miracle. WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018 HOME 15 Mannai Group celebrates NSD; 13 employees honoured DOHA: Mannai Group celebrated Qatar National Sport Day by holding various sport activities for the employees yesterday at the Palms Garden, The Ritz- Carlton Hotel, Doha. Mannai Corporation Group CEO and Director, Alekh Grewal opened the day’s programme with a welcome note, “Mannai is team, and it is one of the value pillars of “The Mannai Way” that we practice in our organisation. With our ongoing sports pro- gramme, we are not only sup- porting the Qatar’s National Vision 2030 by promoting sports Mannai Corporation 25-year service awardees for 2018. and fitness in our lifestyle but also by engaging ourselves to giving away long service the mega celebration on the liards, carom, and volleyball. exercise teamwork altogether. awards. National Sport Day. Winners and runner-ups We are pleased to gather today Mannai Group organised A series of weekly games were awarded during the and enjoy the activities set for On the same occasion, who have completed 25 years number of off-site tournaments were conducted for cricket, bas- National Sport Day everyone to take part”. Mannai honoured 13 employees of service with the Group by for the employees leading up to ketball, bowling, badminton, bil- celebration.
BPS holds several events to mark sport day IIS organises wide range of DOHA: The Qatar National Sports activities began with sports and fitness activities Sport Day was celebrated at Birla fun games for all “Bombing the Public School (BPS) with heart City” and “Musical Chair” for DOHA: Ideal Indian School (IIS) celebrated National Sport Day in thumping enthusiasm yesterday. ladies and “Bursting the Balloon” a grand manner by organising a wide range of sports and fitness The day began with a for men as well as women were activities. remarkable assembly conducted conducted. A mass exercise for students of class 8th was held to kick off by the P E Department. Tug of war, kangaroo race, the sporting activities. A demonstration by the taekwondo stu- The Vice-Chairman, Gope arm wrestling and treasure hunt dents was the highlight of the day. A football match was also organ- Shahani, presided as the Chief were the other attractions. ised on the occasion. Guest and Chindu Rappai, Sub- The all the staff formed Speaking on the occasion, Syed Shoukath Ali said that the school Committee Member, was the themselves into two teams and is proud to keep up with the Qatar’s spirit for developing a healthy, special guest. took part in friendly games like dynamic and productive community through Sports. Vice-Principal George football and volleyball for men IIS also hosted several outdoor sports and recreational activ- Edison led the gathering in a dis- and basketball for women. ities students of Girls’ Section. tinctive Athlete’s prayer. rendition of the Qatar National integral part of life so that the The programme recorded Lukose K Chacko, Chairman, Anthem. child in all lives forever. complete attendance and was a school management sent his A logo for the day, “Sports All the teaching and non- huge success in encouraging lively greetings for the Qatar National for Life”, was unveiled by the teaching staff were led the guests and healthy spirit among all. Sports Day. Chief Guest and Chindhu in a, ‘Healthy Walk’ circumnav- Thomas Bennet, Head of The Flag of Qatar State was Anthony Rappai, management igating the school, which was Physical Education department, hoisted by the Chief Guest, member. followed by an energising dance and his entire team coordinated accompanied by the school The School Principal, A P performance by the ladies sup- the events. authorities. Sharma, addressed the assembly port staff dressed in cheer- Winners received prizes This was followed by a inspiring all to take sports as an leading costumes. from the school management.
CROSSWORD NOVO Pearl Qatar ROYAL PLAZA VILLAGGIO & CITY CENTER 2:30, 8:45 & 11:30pm The 15.17 To Paris (2D/Drama) 10:00am, 12:00noon, 2:00, 4:00, 6:00, 8:00, Pad Man (2D/Hindi) 10:00pm & 12:00midnight Throne of Elves (2D/Animation) 2:30 & 5:00pm Den of Thieves (2D/Action) 10:30am, 1:00, 2:00, 3:30, 6:00, 7:00, 8:30, Daivame Kaithozham K Kumarakanam (2D/Malayalam) 11:00pm & 12:00midnight Winchester(2D/Horror) 10:00, 11:45am, 2:15pm Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2D/Action) 4:30pm 12:00noon, 2:00, 4:00, 4:45, 6:00, 8:00, 9:45, 10:00pm &12:00midnight Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle (2D/Action) 5:00pm All The Money In The World (2D/Drama) 10:00am, 3:30 & 9:00pm Den of Thieves (2D/Action) 7:30pm Maze Runner: The Death Curve (2D/Action) 12:45, 6:15 & 11:45pm The 15.17 To Paris (2D/Drama) 9:45pm Pad Man (2D/Hindi) 11:00am, 2:00, 5:00, 8:00 & 11:00pm Braven (Action) 7:00 & 11:30pm Winchester (Horror) 7:00 Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle(2D/Action)10:00am, 2:15,6:30&10:45pm & 11:45pm Kalakalappu 2 (2D/Tamil) 9:00pm Space Chicken (2D) 12:15, 4:30 & 8:45pm Phantom Thread (2D) 11:00am, 3:45 & 8:30pm The Post (2D/Biography) 1:30, 6:15 & 11:00pm ASIAN TOWN Braven (2D/Action) 10:00am, 12:00noon, 2:00, 4:00, 6:00, 8:00, 10:00pm & 12:00midnight Pad Man (Hindi) 6:30 & 9:15pm Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2D IMAX/Action) 10:15am, 1:00, 3:45, 6:30, Kalakalappu 2 (Tamil) 6:15 & 915pm 9:15pm & 12:00midnight Carbon (Malayalam) 6:00 & 11:30pm Queen (Malayalam) 8:45pm MALL Daivame (Malayalam) 7:00 &10:00pm
Tholiprema (Telugu) 2:30pm Throne of Elves (2D/Animation) 2:30 & 5:15pm AL KHOR Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2D/Action) 8:45pm Pad Man (Hindi) 11:30am, 2:30, 5:30, 8:30 & 11:00pm Pad Man (2D/Hindi) 3:00, 9:00 & 11:30pm Kalakalappu (Tamil) 11:15am, 2:15, 5:15, 8:15 & 11:15pm Daivame Kaithozham K Kumarakanam (2D/Malayalam) Winchester (Horror) 11:00am, 3:15, 7:30 & 11:45pm 4:30pm Braven (Action) 7:15pm Braven (Action) 1:15, 5:30 & 9:45pm Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle (2D/Action) 5:30pm Winchester (Horror) 7:00 & 11:30pm The 15.17 To Paris (2D/Drama) 7:30pm ROXY Den of Thieves (2D/Action) 9:15pm Throne of Elves (Animation) 10:30am, 12:30, 2:30, 4:30 & 6:30pm Kalakalappu 2 (2D/Tamil) 11:30pm Aadhi (Thriller) 10:30am, 1:30, 4:30, 7:30 & 10:30pm The 15:17 Paris (Action) 1:20, 3:20, 7:20 & 9:20pm LANDMARK Pad Man (Hindi) 10:30am, 1:20, 4:20, 7:20, 8:30,10:20 & 11:20pm Pad Man (2D/Hindi) 2:30, 6:00 & 11:00pm Braven (2D/Comedy) 10:30am, 5:20 & 11:20pm
Throne of Elves (2D/Animation) 2:30 & 4:15pm Note: Programme is subject to change without prior notice. Daivame Kaithozham K Kumarakanam (2D/Malayalam) 3:00pm Winchester (Horror) 7:30 & 9:15pm KALAKALAPPU Tholiprema (Telugu) 5:00pm Maze Runner: The Death Cure (2D/Action) 8:30pm Jumanji: Welcome To The Jungle (2D/Action) 6:00pm The 15.17 To Paris (2D/Drama) 8:00pm Braven (Action) 9:45pm Kalakalappu 2 (2D/Tamil) 11:00pm Den of Thieves (Action)11:30pm
Kalakalappu is a 2012 Indian super duper hit Tamil comedy film co-written co-produced and directed by Sundar C. and produced by his wife Kushboo Sundar. It features Vimal, Shiva, Anjali, Oviya and Santhanam. 16 HOME WEDNESDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2018
PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR 04.53am NSD: Thousands turn out at Aspire Park SHOROOK 06.10 am AMNA PERVAIZ RAO ZUHR 11.48 am MAGHRIB 05.29pm THE PENINSULA ASR 03.02 pm ISHA 06.59pm WEATHER TODAY DOHA: Thousands of sports enthusiasts and families from across Qatar yesterday turned out at the Aspire Park to take part in the country’s National Sport Day cele- brations. The event marked the culmi- nation of months of planning with a programme carefully designed to take full advantage of Aspire’s world-class venues and facilities and provide visi- tors with a unique and unforgettable experience. A number of prominent officials and dignitaries attended the sporting events to show their support for the develop- ment of sports and healthy lifestyle in the country. Dignitaries including H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, President of Qatar Olympic Committee; H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali, Minister of Culture and Sports; and Hassan Al Tha- wadi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Minister of Culture and Sports H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali with other officials at Khalifa stadium on the National Sport Committee for Delivery and Legacy, Day. PIC: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA joined senior figures from Aspire Zone Foundation including Eng. Hilal Al activities with the public today. Their Commenting on his participation in Zone. Kuwari, President of Aspire Zone Foun- achievements are an inspiration to our NSD activities, Al Thawadi said: “This The programme for 2018 included o o dation (AZF), and Mohammad Khalifa nation and they are excellent role models fantastic initiative was launched in 2011, a number of brand new sporting events Al Suwaidi, CEO of Aspire Zone for our young people,” he added. since it’s in inception more sports activ- and activities in addition to the return 18 C 28 C Foundation. Talking to The Peninsula, Minister ities and people participate in sports. This of long-established favourites. Minimum Maximum Commenting on National Sport Day, of Culture and Sports H E Salah bin year I was pleasantly surprised by Kendo Amongst the many highlights included Partly cloudy with slight dust to blowing Sheikh Joaan said: “We are proud that Ghanem Al Ali said: “I am extremely and they have launched the doge ball the official launch of the Qatar Dodge- dust at places at times, relatively cold by Qatar is one of the only countries in the happy today to participate in Qatar’s initiative. Sports day is an opportunity ball Federation, marking the start of a night. world and the first in the Middle East to National Sport Day. Qatar has set an for people to get introduced to new partnership with Aspire Zone Foun- dedicate a public holiday to NSD. This example for all other countries. We have sports and more importantly also it rein- dation that is designed to grow the year, the Qatar Olympic Committee has achieved the goal of spreading aware- forces and establishes the importance popularity of the sport in the country.
HIGH TIDE 04:45 – 15:45 LOW TIDE 11:45 – 21:45 organised 72 sporting activities around ness about healthy lifestyle and prac- of sports within the community.” Qatari nationals participated in a COURTESY: Qatar Meteorology Department Qatar for all ages and abilities as part of ticing sports. There is a huge jump in cre- Khalid Ali Al Mawlawi, Chief Admin- range of activities alongside expatri- our vision and commitment to ensuring ating awareness among people to adopt istrative Officer of Aspetar, said: “The ates. Activities organised by AZF dem- everyone has the opportunity to partic- healthy lifestyle and participating in initiative has positively contributed onstrate how sport can bring people ipate in sport. Once again, NSD has pro- community sports. We are planning a towards achieving the Qatar National together across all backgrounds, vided a unique platform to inspire and lot of new events in coming days, we will Vision 2030, which seeks to invest in the nationalities and ages and build bridges unite our nation through sport and share have countless events this year. We hope country’s wellbeing by promoting a of understanding between cultures. the Olympic spirit in one place.” the number of people increase with time healthy and active lifestyle. Our work at AZF also teamed up with the Doha “This year we’ve been committed to in participating in sports activities.” Aspire Zone Foundation helps feed into Kendo Club to bring back Japanese putting excitement and enjoyment at the Meanwhile, Al Suwaidi said: “Our that vision. We do believe that we have Kendo demonstrations for the second heart of all the sporting activities on offer. National Sport Day celebrations have the biggest platform in Qatar, where we year running. Kendo (Way of the We are determined to see an increase been improving every year for the last can attract the widest range of people Sword) is one of the world’s oldest in physical activity in our country, not seven years. The difference this year and encourage them to practice their martial arts and originated in Japan. simply on the basis of the number of especially for us in AZF is that we have chosen sport and promote a healthy A variety of children and family- people taking part, but because of the this iconic building behind you — Kha- lifestyle. friendly activities also took place wider value it will have for our collec- lifa International Stadium, which The officials were also joined by throughout the day. Various indoor tive health, wellbeing and happiness, as launched just a few months ago. And this employees from many of the country’s activities took place at Aspire Dome, individuals and as a society. It has also makes a difference. The range of activ- biggest and most important private and the world’s largest indoor multi-pur- been wonderful to see so many Team ities and the opportunities we’re making public sector entities who have come pose arena, including ‘Challenge the Qatar athletes participating in our available to the public is also growing.” together to celebrate their day at Aspire Champion’ activity – comprising sprinting, hammer throwing, vertical jumps and simulated bike races at the Indoor Athletics Track. Football Performance and Science Activities experts set up football skills demonstrations at the Indoor Football Pitch. A series of entertaining multi- skill activities were organised for boys and girls as well as Teamwork Chal- lenges’ that foster teamwork and cooperation. Around Aspire Park, health and wellness experts offered advice and rec- ommendations on leading a healthy lifestyle at education stations staffed by LEFT: Minister of Culture and Sports H E Salah bin Ghanem Al Ali playing hand ball in Aspire Park, yesterday. Children experts from the Namat physical activity take part at the National Sport Day yesterday. PIC: ABDUL BASIT / THE PENINSULA and health education programme. ‘A Ball for All’ initiative launched for the visually-impaired
AMNA PERVAIZ RAO who cannot see,” Federation (IBSA) Blind Football should have access to the power THE PENINSULA he added. Referees Coordinator Elias of sports, and to our world-class Organised as Mastoras. facilities. This is in line with our part of Save the Speaking at the event, mission to promote an active and DOHA: First ever ‘A Ball for All’ Dream’s overall Mohammed Hanzab, Founder of healthy lifestyle among commu- — a project to promote access to mission to use Save the Dream and ICSS nity members of all ages and football for blind and visually sport as tool for Chairman, said: “We believe that physical capabilities, and to ele- impaired people launched on social inclusion sport is a unique and powerful vate sports performance in Monday to mark National Sport and youth instrument to promote social Qatar. As such, we’re proud to Day. empowerment, inclusion and empower youth. It collaborate with Al Noor Insti- The launch event took place the event marked has a high positive impact on tute for the Visually Impaired at Aspire Zone. Being run in col- the start of a children and youth especially and other local institutions and laboration with the Qatar Finan- capacity-building those with special needs as it host the ‘Football for All’ event cial Centre (QFC), Sasol, under project, which will shows exclusivity and encour- on our pitches. We look forward its Definitely Able initiative, provide advanced ages them to realise their to extending this partnership in Qatar Social & Cultural Centre training for potential.” the future.” for the Blind (QSCCB) and Aspire coaches in Qatar Yousuf Mohamed Al Jaida, Ambassador of the French Zone, the event featured the to encourage QFC Authority Chief Executive Republic to Qatar, Eric Cheval- French Ambassador to Qatar, young people to Officer, said: “At the QFC, we lier, expressed his pleasure in Eric Chevallier, Qatar Sport Club practice blind believe in inclusion and equal taking part in the ‘A Ball for All’ and former Inter Milan player football. opportunity for all members of initiative launched by “Save the Luis Jimenez and legendary People take part at the National Sport Day yesterday. A tool-kit will society. It is my honour to be part Dream” today as part of Qatar international coach Bora be distributed to of this one of a kind occasion that Sports Day celebrations, reiter- Milutinović. all blind and visu- marks Qatar’s first full-fledged ating his commitment to partic- Involving more than 150 Talking to The Peninsula, have designed a special type of ally impaired children in the blind football game. As we cele- ipate in the activities held to children from Al Noor Institute Massimiliano Montanari, Exec- ball for children which will help country and their respective brate Qatar National Sport Day mark this national occasion. for Blind, Al-Yarmouk Prepara- utive Director at Save the Dream them make football a part of families and innovative balls 2018, we continue to pursue He said Qatar Sports Day is tory School, Khalifa Secondary said: “I am overjoyed to see the their hobbies.” (with a bell inside) —smaller and opportunities that contribute to a pioneering initiative, which School, Al Koan International outcome of this project. This is a “This initiative is for all lighter than those currently used the human development pillar, embodies the keenness of the School, Olive Indian School and part of the project to train the including people with this disa- in blind football — will be intro- which is a vital component of wise leadership to promote the Al Maha School, the event show- coaches to be well-trained to bility and people without this duced to facilitate the practice of Qatar’s National Vision 2030. concept of sport for all. He called cased the power blind football give classes to visually impaired disability as well. People who this sport. Nasser Abdullah Al Hajri, on participants to show deter- has to empower young people children to learn how to play want to experience ‘Blind Foot- The project was designed, on Director of PR and Communica- mination and optimism to prac- and encourage inclusivity and football. The families in Qatar ball’ blindfold themselves and behalf of Save the Dream, by the tions at AZF added: “At Aspire tice their favourite game and integration within society. were highly cooperative, we play on the same level of those International Blind Sports Zone, we believe that everyone achieve their dreams.