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Sunday 27 October 2019 | 28 Safar 1441 www.thepeninsula.qa Volume 24 | Number 8057 | 2 Riyals Choose the best mobile network in Qatar ® ® Verified by Speedtest by Ookla Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data for Q1–Q2 2019. Ookla trademarks used under license and reprinted with permission.

4.51 million Qatar has taken Doha to see highest raft of measures Number of visitors in the past to expected to come boost tourism tourism growth to Doha by 2025

SACHIN KUMAR Council and other government THE PENINSULA Doha is expected 104% 235,000 to see over 4.51 agencies to attract tourists. Cit- 11% izens of several countries are now Growth in Qatar’s Doha is expected see the highest million visitors in already allowed visa-free entry Projected growth Tourists expected to growth in the world in tourist 2025, compared to Qatar. in visitor arrivals arrive at Doha Port in tourism sector during arrivals. The visitor arrivals in to 2.21 million "We may see more countries to Doha by 2025 the 2019-20 season January-August 2019 Doha are projected to grow by to be added on this list of visa- 104 percent by 2025, making it visitors in 2018, free entry, which will further the fastest growing tourist desti- according to travel boost country’s tourism industry,” nation among the major cities solution provider, Zaheer Yousuf, Manager, Retail worldwide. TravelSupermarket. Sales and Industry Affairs, The city is expected to see Darwish Travel told The over 4.51 million visitors in 2025, Doha has surpassed Peninsula. compared to 2.21 million visitors Singapore, Bangkok, “We have also seen addition in 2018, according to travel Kuala Lumpur, Beijing, of new architectural marvel such solution provider, TravelSuper- Jakarata, Phuket and as National Museum of Qatar in market which is part of United Qatar’s tourism landscape. Doha Kingdom based Moneysuper- San Francisco in terms Metro is now running and the market Group. of tourism growth. FIFA World Cup is also Doha has surpassed many approaching. All these develop- other renowned places such as ments will attract tourists from Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala is expected to be 75 percent for across the globe,” Yousuf added. PIC: TWITTER.COM/VISITQATAR Lumpur, Beijing, Jakarata, Phuket Beijing, 71 percent for Seoul, 89 Qatar has taken raft of and San Francisco in terms of percent for Bangkok, 63 percent measures in the past to boost world in terms of visa facilitation “Cruise tourism will also play at Doha Port that will support the growth in visitor arrivals. for Singapore and 61 percent for tourism, including allowing according to The World Tourism crucial role in bringing more country’s strategy to develop Phuket is projected to see 85 San Franciso. nationals of several countries to Organisation’s (UNWTO) visa tourists to Qatar. We are seeing cruise tourism. percent growth in visitor arrivals “We have already seen sig- enter Qatar visa-free and openness rankings. Recently Doha continuous increase in number Around 235,000 tourists in 74 during 2018-2025 period while nificant growth in tourist arrivals free-of-charge. was picked by The New York Times of cruise tourists coming to the cruise ships are expected to arrive Jakarta is expected to witness 78 this growth will further increase As a result, Qatar became the in their ‘52 Places to Go in 2019’ list. country,” said Yousuf. at Doha Port in the 2019-20 season, percent growth in visitor arrivals in future because of measures most open country in the Middle Doha also made into Forbes’ top 15 Last week, a new cruise pas- making it the busiest season so far, in the same period. The growth taken by Qatar National Tourism East and the 8th most open in the places to visit in 2019. senger terminal was inaugurated according to Mwani Qatar. New measures to curb traffic accidents in Sealine area World Congress of SIDI MOHAMED official of the General Direc- cooperate with the relevant noted that the deaths in the THE PENINSULA torate of Traffic told The organisations such as Auto- Sealine area will not stop only Criminology begins Peninsula. mobile Club and Mawater on the by awareness campaigns as strict To address the serious issue of According to the Depart- identification of appropriate rec- laws including doubling of traffic accidents at the Sealine ment’s statistics for 2018, the reation areas. existing fines were necessary to tomorrow in Doha area resulting from reckless Sealine area was at fifth place in Regarding the causes of deter reckless drivers from com- dune bashing, the General Direc- the list of areas witnessing traffic traffic accidents in the Sealine mitting the crime. SIDI MOHAMED The 19th World Congress torate of Traffic has taken a deaths. “As many as eight people area, the official partially blamed Also, they suggested, it is THE PENINSULA of Criminology is being number of measures including lost their lives in traffic accidents parents who allow their young important to ban photo shoots organised within the conducting round-the-clock in the Sealine area in 2018 while children to have rented buggies of dune bashing because such For the first time in the Middle framework of the implemen- traffic patrols and inspection in the industrial area, 14 deaths who are even not qualified for photos and videos encourage East, Doha will host the 19th tation of the outcomes of the drives on shops to make them occurred due to traffic accidents driving, in addition to organising young people to imitate others. World Congress of Criminology Doha Declaration issued at the comply with safety require- the same year.” unregulated drift contests that The Cabinet recently tomorrow which will continue 13th United Nations Congress ments. The official also said the plan do not meet the requirements of reviewed the views of some Min- till October 30. on Crime Prevention and “The measures in this regard to control accidents in the area security and safety. istries and government bodies The three-day event will Criminal Justice and the prep- have taken to reduce traffic acci- also includes intensive Among other reasons is the on the recommendations of the discuss the most relevant issues of aration for the 14th Congress dents in the Sealine area which awareness campaigns within the absence of sign boards to caution Shura Council on traffic acci- crime and delinquency based on on Crime Prevention and also include new conditions and camping areas, universities and drivers of dangerous turns and dents in the State of Qatar, espe- the theme ‘Science, Technology Criminal Justice to be held in requirements for registration of schools to educate young people road spots. cially the recommendation to and Teaching in Criminology’. Japan in 2020, he said. rental shops of motorbikes, dune about the dangers of reckless Commenting on the traffic develop the Sealine area to Under the patronage of Prime Brigadier Al Marri pointed buggies and other vehicles used driving in Sealine. accidents in Sealine area, a reduce the rate of accidents Minister and Interior Minister H out that all participants would for transporting tourists,” an He emphasised the need to number of social media users there. E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin benefit from the topics to be dis- Khalifa Al Thani, who is also cussed relating to technology, Chairman of the Supreme Council crime prevention and criminal of the Police College, the con- justice policies in the era of Qatar Sustainability Summit begins today ference is being organised in globalisation. cooperation with the Ministry of “Particular emphasis will be IRFAN BUKHARI events surfacing across the globe, Interior, represented by the Police on new crimes such as cyber- THE PENINSULA climate change has come under global College; the Faculty of Law, Qatar crime, terrorism, and working on spotlight as a burning issue. The QSS will University; and the United Nations the effective ways to prevent and Under the theme ‘Destination Green’, the look at environmental challenges Office on Drugs and Crime. respond to such crimes,” he said. two-day Qatar Sustainability Summit (QSS) through a regional lens, while also In a press conference held on He also stressed that one of will begin today bringing together business sparking debates on ways forward to Thursday at the Officers Club of the objectives of the Congress is leaders, practitioners, policy makers, pursue sustainable development, it the General Directorate of Civil to discuss ways to address the researchers and scholars. added. Defence, Brigadier Dr new crimes through methods of According to the agenda of QSS, Minister The second day of the Summit also Mohammed Abdullah Al combating, legal legislation and of Municipality and Environment, H E Eng. hosts a number of insightful sessions in Muhanna Al Marri, Director criminal justice, further pointing Abdulla bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, which experts from Qatar and across the General of Police College said: out that the State of Qatar was will deliver opening speech at the Summit globe will share their knowledge and “The World Congress of Crimi- the first to issue the Anti-Ter- followed by speeches by Dr Yousef Alhorr, insight on different crucial subjects nology is being held in the Middle rorism Law, which was issued Founding Chairman of Gulf Organisation for speeches and presentations on some including ‘Tackling energy challenges for East for the first time. Around 125 in 2004. Research and Development (GORD) and important topics such as ‘Qatar’s preparedness sustainable region’, ‘Climate change miti- work papers from 40 countries Engineer Meshal Al Shamari, Director of to deliver zero-carbon growth of aviation gation – global policy dimensions’, from Asia, Africa, Europe, Aus- Qatar Green Building Council (QGBC). sector’, ‘Towards delivery of sustainable sta- ‘Advancement in eco-solutions’, ‘Region’s tralia and the Americas will be There will be insightful talks on different diums’, ‘Education City tram project’ and ‘Kah- sustainable and low-carbon development’ presented as well as 14 partici- important topics including ‘Qatar National ramaa’s efforts towards sustainability’. among others. pants from Qatar, will attend the Research Fund: Challenges and Opportu- The mega event is being launched as the During the opening ceremony of the Congress. nities in Research Ecosystem’, ‘Transitioning nation’s flagship sustainability initiative Summit, a number of regional and international Al Marri also said that a Energy Systems and Sustainability R&D in under the patronage of Prime Minister and organizations will be signing cooperation agree- number of academics, Shell’, ‘Unesco’s Sustainability and Climate Interior Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin ments with GORD to embark on joint ventures researchers, professionals and Included with Action Initiatives’ during the first day of the Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, said a statement towards sustainable development. policymakers will meet to discuss Summit in ‘Leaders Talk’ session. issued last week by the GORD. GORD will also present sustainability the most relevant issues of crime today’s edition is a Qatar’s pioneering efforts in sustainability In line with Qatar National Vision 2030, awards to projects and organisations that and delinquency based on the and climate mitigation are also part of the first QSS is aimed to ramp up efforts towards have demonstrated sustainability best prac- theme ‘Science, Technology and special supplement day's agenda of QSS in which there will be climate change. With extreme weather tices over the years. Teaching in Criminology’. 02 HOME SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019

OFFICIAL NEWS Amir sends cable of congratulations to President of Austria DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Deputy Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani sent yesterday cables of congratulations to the Federal President of the Republic of Austria, Alexan- der Van der Bellen, on the occasion of his country’s National Day. Prime Minis- ter and Interior Minister, H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, also The Speaker of the Shura Council, H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, with the representatives sent a cable of congratu- of other participating nations at the opening session of the first meeting of the Executive Council of lations to the Chancellor the Asian Parliamentary Assembly in Riza, Turkey. LEFT: H E the Speaker addressing the participants. of the Republic of Austria, Dr. Brigitte Bierlein, on the occasion of her country’s Speaker of Shura Council affirms Qatar’s support National Day. QNA Qatar joins Asian for joint work within regional and global systems Parliamentary Assembly RIZE: The State of Qatar QNA/RIZE Parliamentary Assembly (APA) He expressed happiness to sincere thanks and appreciation parliamentary organization has become a member of currently held in the city of Riza, participate in the meeting of the to the President of the Republic because of its importance in the Asian Parliamentary The Speaker of the Shura Turkey: “The State of Qatar is Executive Council of the Asian Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, reflecting the voice of the Assembly, the second largest Council, H E Ahmed bin Abdullah keen to support joint action Parliamentary Assembly, and appreciating in this context the peoples in the region and parliamentary group in the bin Zaid Al Mahmoud, affirmed within the regional and interna- voiced thanks and appreciation role of Turkey in supporting the because of the lofty and ambi- world after the Inter-Parlia- the State of Qatar’s keenness on tional systems which it has to the brotherly Republic of Tur- APA to achieve its objectives in tious goals that the organization mentary Union. The State of supporting joint work within the joined and is committed to key’s president, parliament and establishing security and stability is working to achieve. Qatar’s accession to the Asian international and regional working towards integration people, and to the President of in the region and the Asian “Joining the APA, we hope to Parliamentary Assembly systems, which it has joined, and among the Asian countries by the Asian Parliamentary continent. push forward joint action came during the participa- its commitment to work towards expanding and strengthening Assembly, Mustafa Sentop, the His Excellency voiced Qatar’s towards the Assembly’s goals, tion of the Speaker of the achieving integration among the cooperation among them and Speaker of the Grand National understanding of the recent steps and that our efforts would be Shura Council H E Ahmed bin various member states in those establishing partnerships with Assembly of Turkey for the kind taken by the Republic of Turkey crowned with success in sup- Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mah- systems. other regional organizations, invitation and good reception as to preserve its security and sta- porting just causes in the region, moud and his accompanying His Excellency said in his unions and blocs to serve the well as for the preparation and bility, lauding Turkey’s emphasis especially the fundamental issue delegation, in the first meet- speech yesterday at the opening interests of the countries of the organization of this meeting. on the safety and stability of that has been unresolved for ing of the Executive Council session of the first meeting of the region in line with the objectives H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Syrian territory. He also many decades, namely the Pal- of the Assembly held in Tur- Executive Council of the Asian of Qatar Nation Vision 2030”. Zaid Al Mahmoud expressed his expressed pride in joining this estinian Cause.” he said. key. QNA Payment of cash as assistance to families in Gaza will start today QNA Ambassador Mohammed Al Ambassador Al Emadi said family. He noted that “the dis- criteria and conditions agreed days according to the mechanism GAZA Emadi, has announced that the that payments will be through bursement will be in accordance upon in cooperation with the of alphabetical order of benefi- committee will start distributing branches of post offices in the with the mechanism applied Ministry of Social Development ciaries, in order to avoid the The Chairman of Qatar’s Gaza cash assistance to 75,000 needy governorates of the Gaza Strip during the previous times, for the in Gaza.” The distribution is accumulation of citizens on the Reconstruction Committee , families in the Gaza Strip today. for 75000 families, $100 per families selected according to the scheduled to continue for several post offices. SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 03 MoTC unveils Innovation A-G chairs IAACA meeting in Geneva Theatre for QITCOM 2019 THE PENINSULA entrepreneurs. The Innovation special pitch session, followed DOHA Theatre will host 30 sessions by the Startup Hub awards cer- including eight keynotes, nine emony. More than 30 keynote The Ministry of Transport and panels and six pitch sessions and panel speakers will be dis- Communications (MoTC) has comprising of 100 pitches cussing Safe, Smart Cities, the unveiled the Innovation Theatre overall. Apart from innovation Future of Service Delivery, for the upcoming Qatar IT theater, the entrepreneurship Emerging Technologies and Conference and Exhibition zone includes four more pro- Future Landscapes, Breaking (QITCOM 2019). grams , IdeaCamp, CodeCamp, Barriers: Lessons from Women The Innovation Theatre will Make the Deal and Startup Hub, Entrepreneurs, Megatrends and witness the best startup presen- wherein selected start-ups and the Three Things that Truly tations, keynote speakers, and winners from each of the pro- Matter for Investors. Ibrahim Al discussions about the latest grams will present their final Mannai, Executive Director of smart solutions driving global pitches to a panel of judges at Advisor and Incubation at Qatar digitization. the innovation theater. Development Bank; Sachin Under QITCOM 2019 theme The first day will be a com- Kumar, Founding Team Member ‘Safe, Smart Cities’, the Inno- bination of keynotes, panels and and CTO – TupeloLife and Head The Attorney-General, H E Dr. Ali bin Fetais Al Marri, has chaired the meeting of the Executive Committee vation Theatre will be located at IdeaCamp and CodeCamp pitch of Google Developer Group of the International Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities (IAACA) in Geneva. The Committee the heart of the Entrepre- sessions, and winners announc- (GDG), Doha and Dr. Tejinder neurship Zone within the MoTC ments. The second day will focus Singh, Founder of Q-Tickets and discussed a number of administrative and organisational issues and came up with several resolutions Zone, where audiences will on IdeaCamp, the third day will 360 Nautica, will be among the and recommendations. The committee includes in its membership a number of Attorneys-General listen to and learn from include Make the Deal pitches forty-five key speakers at and Ministers of Justice and heads of anti-corruption bodies and heads of academic institutions from upcoming and established and the last day will witness a QITCOM 2019. around the world in addition to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Hassan Al Thawadi addresses delegates at UN Day

THE PENINSULA Assembly Hall and featured the shares these attributes with of football.” Al Thawadi con- DOHA Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra sport.” cluded by saying: “On this United and renowned artists Dana Al He continued: “In 2022, Nations Day, it’s important for The Secretary-General of the Fardan, Hala Al Emadi, Fahad Al Qatar will host the 2022 FIFA us to recognise and appreciate Supreme Committee for Delivery Kubaisi and Aisha, the Supreme World Cup for the first time in the importance of any oppor- & Legacy (SC), Hassan Al Committee for Delivery and the Middle East. The World Cup tunity that has the power to unite Thawadi, has addressed dele- Legacy reported on its official unifies the diverse strands of this people from different walks of gates gathered in New York City website. planet more than any other. life. In 2022, the World Cup will for the United Nations Day Following the concerts Al More than half of the planet’s bring over a million visitors from concert – and used the platform Thawadi joined fellow speakers population tuned into watch the every continent to Qatar. More to highlight the parallels between UN Secretary-General, António final in 2018. It represents a than half of the world’s popu- the unifying powers of sport and Guterres, and Deputy Prime Min- critical moment for our country lation will dedicate their passion music; and the opportunities they ister and Minister of Foreign and our region.” and emotion to the can present. Affairs H E Sheikh Mohamed bin “The eyes of the world will tournament.” The event, delivered in col- Abdulrahman Al Thani in be on us. Not because of war and “It’s absolutely imperative The Secretary-General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & laboration with the Permanent addressing delegates. conflict. Instead, it’s our chance that we as global citizens, pro- Legacy, Hassan Al Thawadi, speaking at the event in New York. Mission of the State of Qatar to “Music is one of the very few to showcase our passion for ponents of international coop- the United Nations (UN) – with vehicles that genuinely tran- football, our commitment to eration and strength through the support of the SC, Brand Culture, Education, Gender anniversary of the UN Charter, scends borders, languages, and innovation, the hospitality of our diversity and unity, recognise Qatar, Doha Film Institute and Equality, Sports and United Nations Day has been cel- cultures,” he said. “It is inherently people, and to build bridges with and appreciate the need to the Government Communica- Sustainability.’ ebrated each year since 1948. As inclusive, binding people the rest of the world – on a ensure these moments aren’t tions Office – was titled ‘Building Taking place each year on part of the 2019 celebrations, a together, both within and across people-to-people level. For us, remembered as missed Prosperity for All Through October 24 to commemorate the concert took place in the General cultures and borders. Music this is much more than 28 days opportunities.” 04 HOME SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 Argentine FM receives credentials of Qatari envoy Fawzia Al Khater visits Qatar Science and Technology School

THE PENINSULA DOHA

Assistant Undersecretary for Educa- tional Affairs at the Ministry of Education and Higher Education Fawzia Al Khater has visited Qatar Science and Technology Secondary School to interact with students of the second batch. Mohammed Al Emadi, Director of Qatar Science and Technology Sec- ondary School welcomed Assistant Undersecretary for Educational Fawzia Al Khater, Assistant Undersecretary for Educational Affairs at the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Argentina, Jorge Fauri, received a copy Affairs. The event was attended by Ministry of Education and Higher Education, during her visit to the school. of the credentials of Battal bin Meajeb Al Dosari, as Ambassador Extraordinary and Fahad Mousa Al Ali, Deputy Director Plenipotentiary of the State of Qatar to the Argentine Republic. The Minister of Foreign of Administration and Student Affairs; of the training programmes they had satisfaction and pride in the efforts of Affairs of Argentina wished the Ambassador success in his duties and the bilateral relations and Rani Mohammed Al Tom, Deputy received from the instructors sent by the school staff; In an atmosphere full further development and prosperity. Director for Academic Affairs at the the company that designed the cur- of scientific ambition and specialized School welcomed riculum, and also examined the research, in addition to the school Al Khater met with the first batch progress of the projects of students contributes to the development of the students in their classrooms and sci- from engineers based on school spirit of credibility and honesty, and entific laboratories reassure their per- laboratories. instilled in them a love of teamwork, formance and talk to them about the In her address to the first batch order and diligence, and the desire to experiences they have gained over the students, Al Khater said that the Min- take responsibility. past year, the extent of their readiness istry of Education and Higher Edu- “We are delighted that you have to choose disciplines within their ten- cation has built this school specifically started the way here at this school, dencies and abilities. for outstanding Qatari students. It has which is a golden opportunity for each She discussed with teachers and been equipped with laboratories and student to reach a unique academic academic staff in details of the cur- the latest educational means specifi- level and experience a unique expe- riculum, the level of student per- cally to enable students to hone their rience, where we work for you and formance and the ways in which they skills, nurture their creative talents you to build your talents, and take teach the four subjects in an integrated and practice their scientific projects care of your excellence and develop way by integrating science with within individual and collective your creativity and nurture your ideas technology. efforts. to bring you to the highest standards She asked them about the details The students expressed their of education,” said Al Khater. Vodafone to showcase 5G-enabled technology solutions at QITCOM THE PENINSULA big data analytics, smart tech- DOHA nologies for homes and indus- tries, and how they converge to Vodafone Qatar announced enable innovative solutions for yesterday that it will showcase a a sustainable digitised range of the most advanced smart environment. technology solutions at the Visitors to Vodafone Qatar’s nation’s biggest digital event, pavilion will experience live Qatar IT Conference and Exhi- and interactive demonstrations bition 2019 (QITCOM), in which it of 5G-enabled smart technol- will participate as an ‘Official’ ogies in five zones: Smart sponsor. Homes; Connected Retail In keeping with the QITCOM Stores; Smart Industry; Smart theme, ‘Safe, Smart Cities’, City and Gaming. Vodafone Qatar will engage with A dedicated space of 150 sq official entities and the public in m will be occupied by interna- a spacious 1,000 sqm area to dem- tional tech start-ups, who will onstrate technologies powered by showcase various creative ways ultra-fast 5G wireless Internet in which they are harnessing connectivity: virtual reality, the potential of 5G. With this, Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, Vodafone Qatar aims to facil- itate the exchange of ideas and knowledge transfer with local start-ups and businesses. Vodafone Qatar’s inno- vative participation in QITCOM further highlights its role as a key player in achieving the National Vision 2030, and in supporting the nation as it becomes one of the most dig- itally connected in the world. Vodafone Qatar Chief Exec- utive Officer, Sheikh Hamad Abdulla Jassim Al Thani, said: “Qatar is at an exciting stage of its journey to develop smart cities, and we are proud to be an official sponsor of QITCOM as a platform to exchange knowledge and highlight new technologies that will further advance that vision. “ “Vodafone Qatar is primed to demonstrate the power of its 5G network to enable inno- vation for all industries – that bring us closer to smarter, safer cities.” As part of its ongoing social responsibility programme, Vodafone Qatar will also run four action learning educa- tional activities in the Digital Youth Festival Tumuha Tec happening on the side-lines of QITCOM. The activities raise awareness and build skills around Internet safety and new technology among children and parents, and will use virtual reality to teach kids what 5G is. QITCOM will run from October 29 to November 1 at the Qatar National Convention Centre, with Vodafone Qatar’s pavilion located at Hall 5, stand number H5C6 - H5J6. SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 05 CCQ unveils ‘hybrid QBRI signs agreement with QGP learning’ initiative

THE PENINSULA instructions for faculty members National Vision 2030. DOHA to guide them in preparing content Dr. Khalid Al Abdulqader, CCQ for this new learning approach. vice president, commented: “The Building on its comprehensive CCQ has also formed a specialized Ministry of Education and Higher student-centred approach, the committee to oversee and tailor Education has chosen CCQ among Community College of Qatar the initiative to the local context. other higher education institutions (CCQ) recently organised a In recent years, the hybrid in Qatar to apply hybrid learning workshop on hybrid learning, a learning concept has gained to its academic curricula within new educational initiative that the momentum globally. The concept the framework of CCQ’s strategy College is preparing to officially requires students to physically to provide maximum flexibility to launch by Fall 2020, to meet the attend courses only for a number its students, especially profes- diverse needs of students and offer of days each week while pursuing sionals, whose daily attendance them greater flexibility. their studies online from home or presents a barrier to pursuing their The event was organised as their workplace. This concept pro- education.” Dr. Omar El Agnaf, Executive Director of Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, and Dr. Said Ismail, part of the CCQ’s efforts to attract vides greater flexibility for full- Dr. Robert Ford, dean of international expertise and to time professionals or married Liberal Arts Division and head of Qatar Genome Director, after signing the agreement. draw on their experience in the women who care for their the Hybrid Learning Committee, field of hybrid learning. children and falls in line with said: “The concept of hybrid THE PENINSULA This newly-forged Autism Spectrum Disorder. Dr. Mohammed Abdous, CCQ’s mission to provide quality learning requires students to DOHA partnership facilitates “It is expected that identi- assistant vice president for education to all segments of attend College for a number of genome sequencing fying the causative mutations [of Teaching and Learning with Tech- society using the latest days per week and to pursue their The Qatar Biomedical Research of Qataris with Autism ASD] will feed into other related nology, and director of the Center technologies. studies online on other days as well Institute (QBRI) at Hamad Bin areas of research, enabling early for Learning and Teaching, Old The flexibility that hybrid as to participate in open discus- Khalifa University (HBKU) has Spectrum Disorder diagnosis, putative biomarkers Dominion University in Norfolk, learning offers will help students sions, interact with teachers and taken a major step forward in its (ASD) and their and a greater understanding of Virginia, presented the workshop. complete their studies faster, independently conduct studies. mission to transform Qatar’s apparently healthy the mechanisms leading to such The workshop touched on a acquire valuable technological This approach is important healthcare with the signing of a family members. conditions. I am looking forward number of topics, namely, how to skills, and equip them with the because of its greater flexibility, collaboration agreement with to further collaboration with the plan and deliver lectures using the necessary skills to work and think and its ability to attract students the Qatar Genome Programme Qatar Genome Programme, hybrid learning technology, the independently, empowering them who are unable to attend daily (QGP). sequencing will be done over a extending to additional areas best strategies to help students to meet future challenges in line classes due to work obligations or This newly-forged part- period of two years. It is where we can join our efforts.” adapt to this technology, and with the requirements of Qatar other commitments. CCQ is in the nership facilitates genome expected that these samples will Commenting on the signing process of applying hybrid learning sequencing of Qataris with directly inform QBRI’s investi- of the agreement, Dr. Asma Al- technology to its various courses.” Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) gations of the genetic and Thani, Chairperson of the Dr. Abdous also explained that and their apparently healthy genomic background of ASD. National Genome Committee, the “hybrid learning system allows family members. In his address to dignitaries said: “As scientists, we are forever academics to better organize their At a special event held on and participants, Dr. Omar El motivated by the pursuit of lectures, assess new teaching October 17 to mark the signing Agnaf, Executive Director of knowledge, and genomics brings methods, and acquire excellent of the agreement, members from Qatar Biomedical Research us a wealth of data that we can technological skills. Recent studies QBRI and QGP outlined the full Institute, said: “The Qatar use in all different streams of also suggest that hybrid learning extent of both organizations’ Genome Programme is recog- healthcare research. We are improves students’ performance cooperation. The agreement will nized nationally as an enabler of happy that Qatar has a center and helps them better understand see a whole genome sequencing research that aims to implement such as QBRI that dedicates so complex concepts especially since initiative for a large number of precision medicine through the much effort to joining with local it allows them to undertake self- samples that are being collected generation of large scale and international endeavors for assessments and self-reviews.” as part of QBRI’s autism research genomic and other multi omics finding solutions for people with CCQ is currently training lec- program. The samples will be data from the Qatari population. autism, and we are happy to The workshop on hybrid learning in progress at the Community turers and structuring courses to obtained from individuals with As such, we are natural partners support their research towards College of Qatar. incorporate hybrid learning. ASD and their families, and the in the effort to better understand precision medicine.” QC Health Committee reviews private health sector issues

THE PENINSULA range of topics related to the made for improving the business She also noted that the investors to invest in private hos- DOHA private health sector as well as environment in the health sector. private sector investments in the pitals, as well as providing lands challenges facing the sector with In press statement, Ibtihaj Al health sector would help mitigate for investors in new cities. Qatar Chamber’s Health a view to addressing concerned Ahmadani said that the private the burden on governmental The next meeting of the Committee has held a meeting authorities for appropriate sector plays a key role in the health institutions, praising the Committee will focus on dis- last week headed by QC Board solutions. development process, noting that support offered by the state and cussing a range of topics that Member and Chairperson of the Members of the Committee the Qatar National Vision 2030 the facilities provided to the contribute to improving the Committee Ibtihaj Al Ahmadani expressed their thanks to the has attached the private sector sector. business environment, including (pictured) in the presence of the Permanent Licensing Committee a special importance as one of Al Ahmadani praised the the recruitment of competencies committee’s members. at the Ministry of Public Health the pillars of the national strategy newly-issued laws that and facilitation of licensing pro- The meeting discussed a for their cooperation and efforts for economic diversification. encouraged local and foreign cedures, she added. Ooredoo launches QSCCB organises seminar on law on Doosra package protection of persons with disabilities THE PENINSULA DOHA THE PENINSULA international conventions for subject, called for amending law DOHA persons with disabilities, identify for persons with disabilities so Ooredoo yesterday launched a their legal classifications, legal that the legislator shall, when brand new package on Ooredoo Qatar Social and Cultural Center capacity, their relationship with adopting this law, entrust a tv, full of entertainment for the Blind (QSCCB) has persons with disabilities, their special committee comprising favourites from the Asian organised a seminar on “Law on availability, and the forms of pro- legal, medical, psychological and subcontinent. at an à la carte price of just with entertainment from back the Protection of Persons with tection prescribed for them, social experts to form texts The new Doosra package on QR120 per month, but existing home, so we’re delighted to Disabilities” in cooperation with pointing out that caring for relating to eligibility for persons Ooredoo tv features a huge and new customers who sub- offer this great value new the Department of Psychological people with disabilities is one of with disabilities in general and range of 50+ live channels; a host scribe to a Ooredoo One150 package which will allow them Sciences in Qatar University as the most important criteria for persons with intellectual disabil- of Star channels including Star Mbps or above plans will get it to enjoy familiar favourites.” part of QSCCB celebration of the the progress and development of ities in particular, the need to Plus, Star Gold, ABP News, absolutely FREE. Customers can subscribe White Cane Day. nations, and the issue of persons change the name of the law to Asianet, Maa TV and Star Bharat, Manar Khalifa Al Muraikhi, via a number of channels. They During the seminar which with disabilities has become one “persons with disabilities” so as as well as HUM TV, HUM Sitaray, Director PR and Corporate can call 111, respond to a pro- presented by QSCCB Chairman of the most important issues in to be consistent with the provi- Geo TV, Geo News, ARY Digital Communications at Ooredoo, motional SMS, use the Ooredoo Faisal Al-Kohaji, the lecturer contemporary countries and sions contained in it, and to be and News, a wide range of Zee said of the launch: “We know app, subscribe directly via addressed the definition of disa- international organizations. consistent with the provisions of channels and much more. we have many Ooredoo One Ooredoo tv or visit any of the bility and its divisions, which are Al Kohaji, who has an MA the Convention on the Rights of The new package is available customers who love to keep up Ooredoo shops around town. in accordance with the degree in law on the same Persons with Disabilities. ‘Doha Youth Camp for Voluntary and Humanitarian Work’ begins today

THE PENINSULA at Darb Al Saai venue. camp supervisor and assistant to Qatar for humanitarian response and other DOHA The ‘Doha Youth Camp for Vol- Charity’s CEO, said that the camp con- relevant activities. untary and Humanitarian Work’ tributes to promote proximity among Dr. Hamad Al Fayyad, The super- Under the supervision of the Ministry activity is an opportunity for Muslim young people of Islamic countries and visor of Doha Youth Camp for Vol- of Culture and Sports, the ‘Doha Youth youth to exchange experiences in the build bridges of dialogue to exchange untary and Humanitarian 2019, said Camp for Voluntary and Humanitarian field of volunteerism and humanitarian experiences for empowering young that the ‘Doha Youth Camp for Vol- Work’ activity will start today. work with an aim to develop their people of the Islamic world. untary and Humanitarian Work’ The event is being organized in col- capacity in the fields of relief and dis- “The activity provides a profes- activity is part of the ‘Doha – OIC Youth laboration with Islamic Cooperation aster management. sional and advanced framework in Capital 2019’ activities. Youth Forum as part of the ‘Doha – OIC It will witness overnight accom- areas of humanitarian and devel- “This activity will highlight the Youth Capital 2019’ activities and under modation for its participants, reflecting opment work for the participants Qatar’s efforts in the field of humani- the motto ‘The Youth is the Power of a practical reality of the coexistence of through programs - theoretical and tarian and volunteer work. Many Nation’. It aims at developing the the situation of those affected and of practical activities - in addition to the entities will participate in this activity capacities of Muslim youth in the fields refugees as a result of wars and natural acquisition of a number of technical like Permanent Committee for Emer- of relief and disaster management. disasters, as the accommodation of the skills for young people,” he said. gency; Civil Defense; Internal Security The activity will continue until participants in the camp will be similar Al Ghamdi pointed out that the Force (Lekhwiya); Hamad Medical Cor- November 6, 2019, organized by Qatar to that of refugees and those affected training period would include sem- poration; Qatar Charity; the UN Refugee Cultural and Heritage Events Center, by disasters and wars. inars, training courses and workshops Agency and many other partners,” Al and in collaboration with Qatar Charity Mohammed Ali Al Ghamdi, the on international law, codes of conduct Fayyad added. 06 HOME SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 Ooredoo announces success of ANOC World Beach Games

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Ooredoo, which acted as Official Sponsor for the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) World Beach Games 2019, said it considered the event a resounding success from a tele- communications perspective, thanks to major network enhancements and state-of-the- art technology. The ANOC 2019 World Beach Mohamed Althaf, Regional Director of Lulu Group, and US Chargé d’Affaires, William Grant, with other officials during the opening of Games was held from October the Discover America Festival held at Lulu Hypermarket, Al Messila Branch, yesterday. PIC: BAHER AMIN / THE PENINSULA 11-16 at four world-class venues; Katara Beach, Al Gharafa, Aspire Zone and Legtafiya Lagoon. A Lulu launches ‘Discover America’ Festival total of 1,237 competitors from Yousuf Abdulla Al Kubaisi, COO 97 countries across the world at Ooredoo Qatar THE PENINSULA Efforts have been made for showcasing and ‘Indian Motorcycle’, was dis- took part in the Games, which DOHA promoting the best of agricultural produce and played in store as part of the fes- featured 14 disciplines spread Games, who enjoyed high- tival to create a typical ambiance across the four Doha locations. quality VoLTE calls with record A major retailer in the region, food products of America at all Lulu outlets of American heritage. Team Qatar took the silver medal high set-up success rates of Lulu Hypermarket Qatar, has during the ongoing Discover America Week in Lulu Hypermarket has been in the hotly contested 4x4 Beach greater than 99.5 percent, the unveiled ‘Discover America the region and worldwide. hosting the festival since 2015 Volleyball event. shortest call set-up times and less Festival’, a week-long showcase and has been very successful In preparation for the Games, than a 0.2 percent call drop rate. of high-quality food products with the overwhelming as well as in readiness for future Yousuf Abdulla Al Kubaisy, from the United States. leading US brands namely Everyday, Rothbury Farms and response received from the cus- life-changing 5G use cases, Chief Operating Officer at Chargé d’ Affaires of the US Shullsburg, Lifetime, Hoffman many more. Other world class tomers. Lulu Hypermarkets Ooredoo recently modernised its Ooredoo, said of the Games: “We Embassy, William Grant inaugu- and Kraft, 3,000 grocery lines, brands of US origin in Health & treasure long-standing business network at all four Games loca- were delighted to act as Official rated the festival at Lulu Hyper- 750 chilled lines including Beauty and non-food categories relations with the US for over a tions to ensure all attendees Sponsor for the recent ANOC market, Al Messila branch on Chobani, Starbucks Coffee, are seen on the shelves. decade; and by organising the enjoyed the best possible tele- World Beach Games 2019, Thursday. Califia Farms, Silk and Nestle Most importantly, Lulu has festival Lulu aims to further communications experience. support that fits perfectly with The inaugural ceremony was ranges, 200 lines in frozen, emphasized on showcasing the promote US produce and food Ooredoo’s ground-breaking our corporate social responsi- also attended by distinguished bakery and US meat; of course, biggest range of ‘Free From’ products through their stores in 5G network and its state-of-the- bility strategy. As part of the guests from the US Commercial it is a vast array of over 5,000 worry food products such as the region. art fibre, supported by teams of development of our life-changing Service, American Chamber of product lines of US goods. organic, gluten-free, lactose free, The group has invested qualified, experienced experts on 5G network, we have been rolling Commerce, USDA Office of Agri- Compared to last year, dairy free, vegan and many other heavily in the US with a 75,000 the ground, provided event-goers out major network upgrades, and cultural Affairs, American Lulu’s trade with America has healthy options, that have spe- square feet state of the art export with market-leading telecom- this event was also the perfect Women’s Association, American touched new heights this year cially flown-in from the US. Pro- distribution center in New Jersey, munications services during the opportunity for us to demon- School and senior officials with addition of new lines motion was made available which is working closely with the Games. strate the enormous benefits of including Mohamed Althaf, including Just Water. The across all Lulu stores. local supply chains to offer the An Ooredoo Operations these upgrades to our customers. Director from Lulu Group and launch of Just Water from Glens The festival was made best ranges possible for the ever- Centre staffed by 50 telecomms We are rightfully proud of the many other dignitaries from Falls watershed with fully sus- attractive with in-store promo- demanding multi-national cus- experts acted as a central hub, superior experience these various American organisations tainable 100 percent recyclable tions, sampling, live demonstra- tomers in the region. while more than 30 experts network upgrades enabled us to operating in Qatar. packaging was held during the tions by renowned American Besides export distribution manned the Games areas to deliver; full commercial availa- Efforts have been made for inaugural ceremony of the Chef Grant from the STK Stea- center in the US, Lulu Group has ensure seamlessly reliable voice bility of our phenomenal 5G showcasing and promoting the festival. khouse Marriott Marquis, com- set up many years back a com- calling and the fastest network network is quite literally just best of agricultural produce and The promotion will also munication campaigns via prehensive and well-established speeds. around the corner, and we look food products of America at all feature popular US brands like social networks and media and international network of The telecomms operator’s forward to showing Qatar exactly Lulu outlets during the ongoing Bragg, Ragu, Jiff, Gerber, General through booklet, and specific sourcing offices and export dis- teams reported achieving what an incredible difference 5G Discover America Week in the Mills, Kellogg’s, Nestle, Oreo, procurement activities to tribution centers in 24 countries network phone speeds of up to will make to everyday lives. And, region and worldwide. Herrs, Cheetos, My-Mo, McCain, increase the range of US across the world. 1.28 Gbps using its pioneering 5G of course, we offer our sincere All that is truly extraordinary Jell-O, Bertolli, Folgers, products offered in Lulu’s These export distribution network. The modernised congratulations to Team Qatar within American cuisine are right Smucker’s, Quaker, Gatorade, hypermarkets. centers regularly cater to the network was able to handle some for winning an honourable silver present on the shelves, with over Hershey’s, Dole, Heinz, Celeste, The renowned American requirements of all Lulu 800,000 voice calls made by medal in the 4x4 Beach Vol- 100 varieties of US cheese from Ben & Jerry’s, Eggo, Essential Motorcycle with brand name outlets. 40,000 customers across the leyball event.” Qatar Academy holds first practitioner-led professional learning event for teachers

THE PENINSULA representing all divisions of PUE school management more effective,” DOHA gathered for a day to participate in a said Benchaabane. “Today, we celebrate range of 225 sessions facilitated by their professional learning in its most spon- “A chance to remember that everything peers. taneous form. we do aims at children’s academic STEP was designed as an oppor- “We offered ourselves space for progress and wellbeing,” is how Mehdi tunity to celebrate what works best for building and strengthening relationships Benchaabane, Director, Education students. It encourages teachers to be across schools and departments as well Development Institute (EDI), described inspired by effective practices and as time to pause and reflect on how we the purpose of the first practitioner-led engage in collaborative innovation and can better serve the growth of our professional learning event hosted at problem solving. The program also students.” Qatar Academy, Al Wakra. emphasizes the need for teachers to Through STEP, EDI continues to Close to 1,000 Pre-University Edu- reflect on ways to support student and develop its mission to lead professional cation (PUE) educators and employees teachers well-being. learning and development, support cur- from across Qatar Foundation schools “I was proud and inspired to see riculum improvement and build lead- attended the event titled Sharing hundreds of colleagues utilizing the wel- ership capacity to improve student out- Teachers Effective Practices or STEP, coming learning spaces at QAW, sharing comes and supporting the growth and Pre-University Education (PUE) educators and employees from across Qatar organized by EDI, part of QF’s Pre-Uni- their practices and exchanging tips on development of educators in Qatar and Foundation schools attended the event titled Sharing Teachers Effective Practices. versity Education. Practitioners how to make learning, teaching and beyond. Hilton set to open Doubletree by Hilton Doha - Al Sadd later this year

THE PENINSULA Van Wyk has worked General Manager, Doha. services and amenities, including be a luxurious home-away from DOHA under the Hilton British-South African Wyk 139 guest rooms and suites, five home with one international res- Hotels & Resorts has over 15 years Hilton expe- restaurants, five meeting rooms, taurant, top-floor state-of-the- Hilton is scheduled to open rience in various senior roles in a modern fitness centre, an art sporting facitities and Doubletree by Hilton Doha - Al brand since 2003 and four and five-star hotels across outdoor swimming pool and a swimming pool and a coffee Sadd later this year and Aleph is a seasoned hotelier, the United Kingdom. 24-hour business centre. The lounge. Residences Doha – Curio having most recently He began his career at the hotel is minutes away from Doubletree by Hilton Doha - Collection by Hilton in West served as cluster famed Langham Hilton in Mirqab Mall and less than two Al Sadd and Aleph Residences Bay within the first quarter of London and later joined The miles from the metro station. Doha – Curio Collection by 2020. general manager of Waldorf Hilton as Operational Aleph Residences Doha - Hilton in West Bay are part of Experienced hotelier Daniel the Hilton London Support Manager before being Curio Collection by Hilton is set Hilton Honors, the award- van Wyk relocates from London Paddington and Hilton promoted to Director of to open within the first quarter winning guest-loyalty program to spearhead the openings. London Euston. Operations. of 2020 and will boast 240 one, for Hilton’s 17 distinct hotel Hilton commits to creating great His career has seen him two and three-bedroom apart- brands. careers and developing the best manage modern city, and his- ments over 52 impressive Members who book talent in the company while and Hilton London Euston. toric hotels, as well as govern storeys. directly have access to instant growing its exceptional hotel He is performance-driven multi-million pound refur- Each of the apartments will benefits, including a flexible portfolio. and has a demonstrated track bishment projects. Van Wyk is have extraordinary views over payment slider that allows Daniel van Wyk Van Wyk has worked under record in achieving results in also a Shine programme assessor West Bay, Doha’s upscale members to choose nearly any the Hilton Hotels & Resorts brand complex environments. Van Wyk and mentor. business and diplomatic district combination of Points and since 2003 and is a seasoned is customer and owner orien- Doha Residences’ teams are Scheduled to open next in the modern east coast of the money to book a stay, an hotelier, having most recently tated and has exceptional people looking forward to two hotel month, Doubletree by Hilton city and Doha’s contemporary exclusive member discount, served as cluster general manager management skills that ensure openings in the coming months,” Doha - Al Sadd will provide skyline. free standard Wi-Fi and the of the Hilton London Paddington success. “Doubletree and Aleph said Etienne Gailliez, Country guests with a complement of Aleph residences are set to Hilton Honors mobile app. SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 07 Stars of Science unveils top four contestants for Season 11

THE PENINSULA Overcoming challenges in DOHA science and innovation, Nuha Abu Yousef, Abdulrahman In a bid to prove that their products were Saleh Khamis, Husam ready for user testing, the show’s five remaining contestants presented their Sameer, Youssef El Azouzi prototypes in last night’s production and Anfal Al Hamdani prototyping episode on Season 11 of Stars demonstrated their of Science. knowledge in industrial Overcoming challenges in science and innovation, Nuha Abu Yousef, design to the jury. Abdulrahman Saleh Khamis, Husam Sameer, Youssef El Azouzi and Anfal Al Hamdani demonstrated their knowledge tests, successfully maintaining a cool in industrial design to the jury. At this temperature in a full-scale room for an stage of the competition, any engi- hour and a half. The concrete panels did neering concerns should have been this by utilizing their unique hollow-core resolved, and the participants are construction, which allows for improved expected to have begun integrating aes- cooling through more efficient air thetic and ergonomic considerations in circulation. their design. However, it was the medical inno- “The most important goal for any vations that stole the show. Stars of Science jury member Dr. Khalid Al Ali tests Abdulrahman Saleh Khamis’ Interactive Educational Prayer Carpet. product is to prove it works, without The jury had the chance to try question. However, it is equally Nuha’s Active Lazy Eyelid Sticker, asking important that users comprehend and her questions about its weight and size long-standing host. “She set a Unfortunately, Anfal Al Hamdani obtain a Master’s degree. appreciate the design so that they can as they took turns wearing the device. remarkable example for Arab women and her Dry Lime Auto Extractor fell Sadeq Qasem, Stars of Science make room for it in their daily lives,” The sticker, which stimulates the on how to tackle challenges in science short of the jury’s expectations. The Season 2 winner, co-hosted this said Professor Abdelhamid El Zoheiry, muscles responsible for closing the eye and innovation.” extractor, which is designed to extract week’s episode alongside the show’s a Stars of Science jury member. “Our in patients with afflicted facial muscles Youssef El Azouzi and his Flow Mod- the carpel of dry citrus fruits by sepa- longtime host Khalid Al Jumaily. Season 11 innovators have shown that and ensure it blinks in unison with their ulator Stent were not far behind in the rating it from the pulp while preserving Holder of the Excellence and Crea- they can engineer their way around unaffected eye, ended up garnering the voting, as he confidently answered every the nutrients, still produced unusable tivity Award in Entrepreneurship by technical challenges, but from this point highest marks from the jury. concern the jury had about his invention; material. the Amir of Kuwait, Sadeq – an inno- on, they need to prove that they can “Nuha faced the challenges of being while expert mentors hailed Abdul- Anfal had to leave the competition, vator and entreprenur – shared some market their product too.” both a mother and an ambitious young rahman Saleh Khamis for the quality of but she remained adamant that this was widsom with all the contestants, moti- Husam kept his Stars of Science woman in the scientific field despite the his Interactive Educational Prayer not the end of her innovation journey vating them to stay focused on their journey alive as his Efficient Comfort unique pressures they hold!” noted Carpet and his ability to successfully as she plans to travel to Singapore to goals and on the needs of their target Concrete Panel passed its respective Khalid Al Jumaily, Stars of Science innovate a religious tool. continue working on her project and markets. QC to launch health campaigns for flood victims Kahramaa to participate in The campaigns, which provision of assistance to GCC Power 2019 in Oman come after food and control the spread of water- shelter assistance borne diseases, such as spraying THE PENINSULA/DOHA working papers will be presented pesticides, purifying and steri- during the conference sessions. distributed recently lizing drinking water, pur- Qatar General Electricity and High-level delegations from by Qatar Charity, chasing pumps, providing Water Corporation (Kahramaa) Arab countries and specialised will benefit more hygiene items for 4,000 fam- will participate in the 15th companies in the field of power than 178,000 people ilies, and giving insecticide- conference and the 24th exhibition generation, transmission and dis- impregnated bed nets to combat of GCC Power 2019. The confrere, tribution will also participate to affected by the floods the spread of water-borne GCC Cigre’s leading electric power discuss current issues, update the at a total cost of diseases. conference & exhibition in the gulf latest developments in the field of QR3m. It is worth mentioning that region is scheduled to be held from electric power, exchange views, in Qatar Charity, with funding October 27 to 29, 2019 at Oman addition to raising the level of effi- from the Qatar Fund for Devel- Convention & Exhibition Centre, ciency and competition in the field THE PENINSULA opment (QFFD), has recently Muscat, Oman. of energy. It is expected that the DOHA provided relief and shelter Eng. Abdulaziz Al Hammadi, conference will attract over 800 assistance, as part of the Qatari Secretary General of GCC Inter- Gulf, regional and international Qatar Charity (QC) is preparing efforts to alleviate the suffering national Council for large Electric personalities in the field of elec- to implement two health and of those affected by floods and Systems (CIGRE) and Director of tricity. Many local and interna- environmental sanitation rains that swept vast areas of the Rationalization and Energy tional companies will participate campaigns for thousands of flood Sudan. Efficiency Department at Kah- in the exhibition. Al Hammadi GCC victims in Sudan with funding The assistance included ramaa, said that the GCC CIGRE CIGRE aimed at advancing the A flood victim receiving aid from a Qatar Charity official in Sudan. from Qatar Fund for Devel- 13,650 food baskets for 13,650 will be one of the largest events progress and development of the opment (QFFD). families, and sheltering aids in the region that are concerned electric power sector in the GCC The campaigns, which medicines and first aid. It will diagnosed medically and for 4,000 families, which with all aspects related to the gen- countries and raising the efficiency come after food and shelter cover all flood-hit areas in the offered free treatment. included blankets, tarpaulins, eration, transmission and distri- of its employees. assistance distributed recently Kassala state, benefiting 18,000 Each mobile clinic will floor mats and cooking bution of electric power. Through these conferences, by Qatar Charity, will benefit people. consist of a physician, a phy- utensils. A high level delegation led by it comes within the series of con- more than 178,000 people The clinics, which will be sician assistant and a health The relief assistance the President of Qatar General ferences held by GCC CIGRE, affected by the floods at a total carried out in coordination with awareness officer, with quan- aimed to rescue and support Electricity and Water Corporation where its first conference, ‘Gulf cost of QR3m. local authorities at an estimated tities of medicines and 110,000 flood victims in (Kahramaa), Eng Essa bin Hilal Al Electricity 2003’ in Muscat, Oman, The health campaign will be cost of QR1m, aim at contrib- medical supplies available. Sudan’s White Nile, Al Jazirah, Kuwari will present eight papers the past conferences were a great carried out over a period uting to reducing infectious dis- Also, nutritious meals will be and Kassalā states. Of them, during the sessions of the con- success in terms of the quality of exceeding two months, pro- eases and providing primary provided for children and there were 49,500 children, frence Kahramaa is co-chaired papers presented and the number viding health services to those healthcare services for children infants. including 8,000 children by Eng. Essa Bin Hilal Al Kuwari, of attendance and visitors to the affected by the floods through and women in the affected The environmental sani- under five, in addition to Chairman of the Foundation and conference and exhibition and the six mobile clinics equipped with zones, where patients are tation campaign will include the 31,000 women. a high-level delegation where 8 number of exhibitors. Science Talk at QNL highlights local impact of changes to Earth’s ice caps

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Qatar National Library’s latest installment of its Science Book Forum took a closer look at the significance of the Earth’s ice caps to Qatar and its people. The talk highlighted the important role of the ice caps in maintaining the stability of tem- peratures and seasons on the planet. It also discussed the dif- ferent types of icy environments on Earth, such as glaciers, sea ice and ice shelves. The talk also illustrated how ice caps melt and reform, and how such changes have a measurable impact on An expert delivers a lecture during the Science Book Forum on Qatar. significance of the Earth’s ice caps to Qatar and its people at QNL. Amina Abbas, who attended Blue Salon hosts launch of Italian shoe brand DIS the talk, said: “Global warming Blue Salon has recently hosted the launch of Italian Shoe brand ‘DIS’ at a launch ceremony that was is something that we always talk scientists about what makes the concepts by listening to experts attended by a host of fashion enthusiasts as well as the esteemed members of the media. DIS – Design about with friends, and it is dif- world’s temperature change. from around the world.” Italian Shoes, is a winning solution for those who want to stand out and express their personality ficult to understand the actual This was explained very well The Library established the designing and wearing classic customised shoes for men that are a 100 percent made in Italy. DIS meaning of such natural phe- during the lecture,” said Ali Science Book Forum in 2018 to opens unexplored scenarios as you create your own style. No one knows better how to interpret nomena. The lecture today sim- Ghassan, a science teacher, who encourage science reading your style and complete your wardrobe with your own choice of classic footwear for men who are plified the impact of global attended the lecture. “The through public forums that really in tune with what they wear, more than DIS. warming and how our actions Science Book Forum is a very discuss influential books and sci- affect the environment.” useful platform for youth in entific papers on crucial topics “We need to hear from Qatar to learn about scientific of general interest. 08 VIEWS SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 Qatar reiterates its support for UN ESTABLISHED IN 1996 efforts strengthening rule of law QNA CHAIRMAN NEW YORK SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI he State of Qatar reiterated its support for the United Nations EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Program of Assistance in the DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI TTeaching, Study, Dissemination [email protected] and Wider Appreciation of Interna- tional Law, and commended the val- uable results achieved through it. ACTING MANAGING EDITOR The State of Qatar underlined that MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED it will continue to support all efforts [email protected] aiming to strengthen the rule of law and to consolidate and raise the awareness of international law, which DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR is a pillar for maintaining international MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI peace and security and achieving the [email protected] goals of the United Nations. This came in the statement of the Rakad Ajban Al Smaikh, member of Qatar’s delegation taking part in the 74th session State of Qatar delivered by Rakad of the UN General Assembly. Ajban Al Smaikh, member of Qatar’s delegation taking part in the 74th stressing Qatar’s keenness on stressing that the respect for interna- session of the involving the largest number of Qatari tional law is the basic and only UN General jurists in the Program’s sessions, in the standard of conduct for states and the EDITORIAL Assembly, framework of building legal capacity basis of international relations. before the UN and raising awareness of the impor- Knowledge of the fundamental rules Sixth Com- tance of international law. of international law has a profound mittee (Legal) He commended the valuable efforts impact on the consolidation of interna- Qatar’s business friendly initiatives The State of Qatar on Item: The made by the Office of Legal Affairs, the tional relations and the achievement of underlined that United Codification Division and the Program’s peace, he stressed, noting that the UN atar has taken many measures in the past to make it will continue Nations Secretariat in promoting and revitalizing Program has been involved in assistance its economy investor friendly. These measures have to support all Program of legal activities under the Program in for 54 years and continues to play a key Qbeen praised by many global organisations in the Assistance in order to meet the changing needs of the role in promoting and respecting inter- past and now the World Bank has also corroborated efforts aiming to the Teaching, international legal community in the national law, which is a well-established these efforts. strengthen the Study, Dis- 21st century, noting that in light of the means of consolidating international Qatar has significantly improved its ranking in the rule of law and to semination tensions, conflicts and crises in the peace and security and promoting several indexes of the World Bank’s Ease of Doing consolidate and and Wider world today, there is a need more than friendly relations and cooperation Business 2020 report, including registration of ownership, Appreciation ever to deepen knowledge of interna- between States. where Qatar has ranked first in the world. raise the awareness of Interna- tional law, including an in-depth study He also noted the role of the Audi- According to the World Bank’s report, Qatar has of international law, tional Law. of emerging issues of the time, which ovisual Library in contributing to the ranked 77th on this year’s ease of doing business, an which is a pillar Al Smaikh increases the need for the he United achievement of the objectives of the improvement from its ranking of 83rd in last year’s study. said that con- Nations Program of Assistance in the Program by providing tools that could The improvement in country’s ranking is the result for maintaining sistent with Teaching, Study, Dissemination and benefit a wide range of legal profes- of the efforts of the Ministerial Group for the Encour- international peace the policy of Wider Appreciation of International sionals, academics and others around agement and Participation of the Private Sector in the and security and the State of Law, as well as the role of the Audio- the world. He added that the fellow- Economic Development Projects, which was signed earlier achieving the Qatar to visual Library. ships and courses offered through the this year an agreement with the World Bank Group. It support the He added that a rule-based multi- Program contributed to the strength- was aimed at promoting and expanding private sector- goals of the United rule of law at lateral system based on the principles of ening of international law and had a driven growth. Nations. the national international law strengthens the joint significant impact on developing the These reforms and improvements were witnessed in and interna- efforts to build and maintain interna- capacity of those involved in the appli- several sectors during the past year. The measures tional levels, tional peace and security and con- cation of international law in all States, included simplifying and and recognizing the importance of tributes to the prosperity of the commending the efforts of the Codifi- integrating procedures, as strengthening the international law, humankind, noting that multilateral cation Division of the Office of Legal well as providing regulatory, the State has continued to provide treaties have played a leading role in Affairs in the publication of the United legislative and digital frame- financial support to the UN Program to promoting the rule of law and in main- Nations Legislative Series, advisory works in business. enable it to overcome the difficulties taining a rule-based international order. summaries and judgments of the One of the This ranking also reflects of its continuity, and thus contributing He stressed the importance of pro- International Court of Justice and the highlights of the the solid national will of to assisting lawmakers from devel- viding the Program with the necessary Permanent Court of International report was Qatar’s various government agencies oping countries to participate in it, resources to carry out its mandate, Justice. ranking on the to implement the directives of the Amir H H Sheikh Tamin global property bin Hamad Al Thani to work registration on the completion of devel- Democrats have an impeachment momentum problem procedure index, opment projects and to NOAH FELDMAN where the country strengthen the national The downside of the simplicity, Ukraine to investigate: Joe Biden. Once economy. BLOOMBERG however, is that once the story is fixed in television cameras are in the room, has improved its One of the highlights of the public mind, there is going to be rela- Republican members of Congress can be rank from 20th in the report was Qatar’s o understand where the tively little new to say about it. A lack of expected to use their equal questioning 2019, to the first ranking on the global impeachment inquiry has gone “new news” will slow the inquiry’s sense time to hammer home Trump’s alle- property registration pro- so far, and where it’s likely to go of momentum. gation that Joe and Hunter Biden did place globally in cedure index, where the next, you need to keep in mind Sure, scandal aficionados can nerd something corrupt. 2020 classification. T The Democrats (not to mention the country has improved its one key concept. Hint: it’s not quid pro out over the details of which Ukrainian rank from 20th in 2019, to the quo. prosecutor is connected to what network Bidens) are potentially vulnerable to this first place globally in 2020 It’s momentum. To date, House Dem- of Ukrainian oligarchs. And there’s method of momentum-breaking. classification. ocrats have built on the original whistle- always some pleasure to be taken in Although Biden has insisted that neither The Ministry of Justice continues to modernise and blower’s document by eliciting behind- observing just how remarkable are the he nor his son did anything wrong, the develop the performance of the real estate registration closed-doors depositions from those offi- public-service resumes of the so-called reality is that Hunter Biden took a and documentation sector to enhance and improve the cials in the State Department, Defense deep-state witnesses, like Ambassador position on the Board of Directors of services provided to the public, including individuals, Department, and White House who are William Taylor, who have testified Burisma, a Ukrainian energy company companies and investors. willing to defy Donald Trump’s order not against Trump. However, these will not controlled by an oligarch who was under The real estate registration and documentation sector to participate. By leaking the headlines of sustain more than a single news cycle. investigation for money-laundering by at the Ministry of Justice has witnessed a number of their testimony, the Democrats have The one significant twist still Ukrainian prosecutors. Joe Biden, as vice measures aimed at developing and improving the been able to dominate the news cycle for remaining in the current phase of despo- president, sought the removal of the business environment that have contributed in securing weeks. sition-taking will come when former investigation’s chief prosecutor. Although this rank. The polls seem to indicate that the national security advisor John Bolton Joe Biden’s actions were consistent with The Ministry has also announced that new e-services public is listening, at least to some extent: either comes forward or definitively US policy - American and IMF officials will be announced soon, which will save time and efforts since the formal inquiry was launched, bows out. were frustrated with the prosecutor for and bring the ministry closer to the public. the percent of people who support The arch-hawk is not much liked by not taking a stronger stance against cor- Country’s reform policies and its efforts to improve impeachment has risen from 39% to 49%. Democrats, but neither were his fellow ruption, and indeed, it seems that despite its trade regulations have enabled it achieve this stellar Impeachment supporters now narrowly former George W Bush administration being assigned the Burisma case he basi- performance. These measures will ensure that Qatar outnumber impeachment opposers. officials pleased when he went to work cally ignored it - the basic sequence of remain preferred business and financial center for Yet the Democrats are reaching the for Trump. Nevertheless, Bolton is a events creates an appearance of investors and entrepreneurs in the region. end of this phase of quasi-secret investi- patriot by his own lights. There has impropriety. gative depositions. And public hearings already been testimony that he referred Republicans will use the Bidens to try will pose a significant challenge to the to the alternative Ukraine policy being to change the subject, because changing Democrats’ momentum. cooked up by White House acting Chief the subject means weakening the Demo- The first problem the Democrats will of Staff Mick Mulvaney and others as a crats’ momentum. It also is very likely face is that much of the public - and all of “drug deal” that he wanted no part of. It’s that Republicans will seek to get into the QUOTE OF THE DAY the media - already knows the basic out- therefore conceivable that Bolton would weeds of the various conspiracy theories lines of the story that will unfold in the be able to testify directly about the quid that surround the whole affair. The world is also public testimony. That’s because of the pro quo. It’s also conceivable, however, The Democrats don’t have a simple basic fact that the Ukraine scandal is that some of the knowledge he has might response to this, except to insist on their wrestling with the fairly simple: Trump pressured the pres- be subject to executive privilege. And narrative and hope the public won’t be negative impacts of ident of Ukraine to investigate a political Bolton is likely to take seriously the con- distracted. To maintain momentum in globalization and rival, and he conditioned military aid and sequences of any testimony for the office the public hearings stage, they will have a White House visit on a public of the national security advisor and for to try a “greatest hits” strategy, getting new technologies, announcement that such an investigation the presidency. The result could be either the existing witnesses in front of the which have increased would take place. dramatic testimony or a dramatic refusal public for brief and pointed hearings. inequalities within As Nancy Pelosi and other Demo- to testify. Although momentum has been on the societies. cratic leaders noted at the beginning of Once the Bolton issue is resolved, the side of Democrats so far, many things the impeachment inquiry, the simplicity move to public testimony will be una- can still change that. The path forward of the narrative is a major virtue from voidable. That stage will give rise to the will have more twists and turns. Antonio Guterres their standpoint. The public neither second major challenge to the Demo- UN Secretary-General wants nor would tolerate anything with crats’ momentum: the Republican coun- The author is a Bloomberg Opinion col- the complexity of the Robert Mueller terpunch in the form of a concerted umnist. He is a professor of law at Harvard investigation. attack on the very rival Trump asked University. SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 OPINION 09 Turkey’s military capacity turned the tables in Syria

peration Peace Spring has Branch, which dispatched 72 aircraft effective solutions. the Turkish-American relations. effectively prevented the to strike more than 100 targets in the Finally, one can clearly observe While there are many issues emergence of a subversive beginning, the Peace Spring’s overture Turkey’s defense eco-system’s bur- popping-up, the Gordian Knot statelet at Turkey’s also witnessed massive firepower, geoning capacity in the deployed revolves around the real meaning O weapon systems. Especially, the doorstep, and put an end to the YPG/ marking more than 200 targets hit by of the PYD/YPG in the eyes of PKK terrorist network’s territorial plot land-based fire-support elements and Turkish Air Force’s smart munitions Washington. More importantly, in Syria. This geopolitical the air force within 12 hours. Appar- and penetrator bombs, as well as the linking the bilateral disagreements CAN KASAPOGLU achievement is above everything for ently, fielding overwhelming fire- army’s indigenous land-based fire- on the PKK offshoots to the Nato ANATOLIA Ankara. At this point, one cannot help power at the outset hybrid warfare support weaponry were crucial in agendas could bring about very but ask the million dollar question: efforts has become the epicenter of delivering heavy fire-power. Of unfavorable outcomes. Does the failure of this fait accompli the Turkish military’s CONOPS (con- course, ‘dronization’ of the Turkish Back in 2016, during his tes- autonomy project remain the under- cepts of operations) against asym- Armed Forces has once more timony to the Senate, Secretary of lying reason of some reactions, mostly metric threats. attracted attention. Bayraktar TB-2 Defense Ashton Carter told that the using the humanitarian guise, against In the forthcoming ground and other unmanned aerial systems PKK was a designated terrorist Turkey’s military campaign? If so, let offensive phase, Peace Spring has con- remain critical for network-centric organization not only in Turkey but us give a sobering call. centrated the bulk of combat forma- warfare capabilities, tactical precision also in the US. Secretary Carter also Operation Peace Spring has cen- tions along Tel Abyad and Ras al-Ayn, strike, and ISTAR (intelligence, sur- added that he was aware of the tered on a multi-stage, ambitious while the air force penetrated deeper veillance, target acquisition, and ‘substantial ties’ between the YPG plan. First, being a cross-border to pound critical lines of communica- reconnaissance) missions. and the PKK, so that the US agenda counter-terrorism effort in essence, it tions and rear areas supporting the Overall, Turkey is learning its mil- with the YPG-related groups would aimed at clearing the YPG/PKK ter- PKK/YPG positions. In the meanwhile, itary lessons. In each expeditionary be transactional and limited to rorist presence along the Syrian the Syrian National Army elements cut Syria campaign, namely the anti-Daesh operations. Perhaps frontier. In doing so, gaining tactical into the M4 highway in the south, Euphrates Shield, the Olive Branch, ironically, Ashton Carter made this depth remained militarily crucial to effectively hampering the PKK/YPG and lastly the Peace Spring, Ankara statement in response to SeNator secure the border areas. Since the militant’s freedom of movement has registered notable improvements Lindsey Graham’s remarks, criti- Operation Peace outset of the operation, the YPG/PKK through this critical supply route. in force generation, planning, and cizing the Obama administration’s Spring showed militants’ indiscriminate shelling and Specifically in Ras al-Ayn, the CONOPS. More importantly, the particular policies as to the PKK- systematic use of unguided munitions PKK/YPG’s tunnel network had Turkish Armed Forces and the offshoots in Syria. However, on Oct. that military power already claimed tens of civilian lives caused some temporary challenges to national defense technological and 7, 2019, SeNator Graham tweeted has proven to be a in Turkey. Ankara faced a similar the operation’s advance. One can industrial base (DTIB) have gained an that he was working on a bipartisan game-changer when challenge before and during Oper- recall that such tunnel complexes invaluable hybrid warfare experience sanctions plan with his democrat used wisely with ation Euphrates Shield back in 2016, were also sources of concern during in the face of dangerous terror groups colleague, SeNator Chris Van at a time when Daesh’s rocket salvos Operation Euphrates Shield and like Daesh and the PKK/YPG. Hollen, to suspend Turkey from crystal clear political stormed the border cities. Turkish Operation Olive Branch. Probably, - Military power is game-changer Nato, should Ankara launch a objectives. By flexing defense planners responded to the from now on, Turkey’s burgeoning Operation Peace Spring showed cross-border effort into north- its military muscles, threat by rapidly pushing deeper into defense industries will focus on devel- that military power has proven to be a eastern Syria. Well, for starters, Ankara secured two Daesh-controlled areas, and even- oping subterranean warfare capabil- game-changer when used wisely with member nations’ legislative bodies tually, capturing al-Bab which hosted ities which is a bitter reality of the crystal clear political objectives. By do not involve any mechanism to separate deals with the principal rocket production and contemporary Middle East. To address flexing its military muscles, Ankara suspend an allied state’s mem- Washington and storage facilities of the terrorist group the subterranean challenge, particu- secured two separate deals with bership to the North Atlantic Moscow. west of the Euphrates. larly, unmanned ground robotics with Washington and Moscow. Alliance. Furthermore, the PYD/ Resembling Operation Olive more autonomy could provide The negotiations with the U.S. YPG problem, along with the enable Turkey’s effective control bilateral divergences between between Tel Abyad and Ras al-Ayn Ankara and Washington with with some 30-kilometers (18.64-miles) respect to Syria, are not Nato deep safe zone. Ankara enjoys a larger related issues. marge de manoeuvre in this area. The deal secured with Russia will bring Turkish-Russian joint patrols 10-kil- ometers (6.2-miles) deep, along with full withdrawal of the PKK from the safe zone (noting that Qamishli was kept out of the deal). D-RING ROAD More importantly, the declaration POST BOX: 3488 of the Sochi meeting between President DOHA - QATAR Erdogan and President Putin high- [email protected] lighted the essential role of the Adana Agreement as a principal element of building a future in Syria. Building more EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE feasible verification mechanisms for the TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 Adana Agreement will take time and FAX: +974 4455 7758 effort. Besides, the risk of close encounters between the Syrian Arab MANAGING EDITOR Army and the Turkish Armed Forces (as TEL: 4462 7505 well as the Syrian National Army) should be averted carefully. DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR - How to lose a Nato ally? TEL: 4455 7769 The PKK/YPG portfolio marked A boy wearing a Turkish flag stands next to a Turkish soldier in the town of Tal Abyad, Syria. one of the most critical moments in LOCAL NEWS SECTION TEL: 4455 7743

BUSINESS NEWS SECTION n Wednesday, Mark Zuck- internet, consumers will choose the cross-jurisdictional efforts to combat TEL: 4462 7535 erberg, Facebook’s chief payment method that imposes the illicit finance. All international trans- executive, testified about lowest transaction cost on themselves actions using U.S. dollars currently SPORT NEWS SECTION his company’s cryptocur- - that’s generally the credit card clear through the New York Federal TEL: 4455 7745 O Reserve, where they can be moni- rency project at a hearing held by the option, which allows deferred House Financial Services Committee. payment as well as the accrual of tored and stopped if deemed ONLINE SECTION ELAINE OU In his testimony, Zuckerberg tried to miles or points. An online business unsavory. Previously, members of the TEL: 4462 7501 BLOOMBERG reassure Congress that Facebook’s that refuses to accept credit cards will Senate Banking Committee have [email protected] Libra cryptocurrency would square always lose out to a competitor that expressed concern over Facebook’s does. ability to handle economic sanctions PUBLIC RELATIONS But what if you don’t have any on foreign regimes. TEL: 4455 7613 competitors? Facebook enjoys quasi- Zuckerberg has promised that [email protected] monopoly status when it comes to Calibra, Facebook’s payment app, will consumer attention, controlling the include robust compliance systems to ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT Facebook could do fulfill regulatory obligations. reach and distribution of content TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 However, the greater risk is that across its network of users. FAX: 4455 7870 As the driver of over one-fourth of Calibra will go above and beyond its [email protected] to banks what it did web traffic, Facebook has a lot of regulatory duty. Facebook already influence over who sees what on the employs a more restrictive speech CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT internet. And with over 2.3 billion code than legally required - the to newspapers TEL: 4455 7857 monthly active users around the platform blocks various forms of hate [email protected] world, it’s not a stretch to imagine that speech, harassment, misinfor- the company could have similar mation and inauthentic behavior. SUBSCRIPTION & the circle between financial inclusion influence over who pays whom, and Publishers must accept Facebook’s DISTRIBUTION and regulatory adherence, consumer how. opaque Terms of Service or risk not TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 privacy and proactive fraud detection. Mark Zuckerberg’s Congressional being seen at all. It’s one thing to deny FAX: 44557819 The one thing he didn’t manage to testimony makes it clear that he takes politically incorrect figures the ability [email protected] address is whether the world really inspiration from China, where to share inflammatory content; it’s wants a crypto offering from the WeChat serves as a one-stop portal to another thing to leave them economi- social media giant. the greater internet. There, users cally isolated. Cryptocurrency has acquired an conduct their banking, shopping, and In a competitive market, those unseemly status where any use is bill payments without ever leaving the who disagree with Facebook’s terms All thoughts and views automatically assumed to have app. The ability to control users’ eco- could simply take their business else- expressed in these columns nefarious ends. It doesn’t help that the nomic interactions comes with the where. The Libra Association cur- are those of the writers, The ability to control most prominent example, Bitcoin, has privilege of deciding the medium of rently includes twenty-one member not of the newspaper. users’ economic been implicated in some horrific exchange. If it follows suit, Facebook companies, after some early members interactions comes criminal conduct. At the same time, a may end up looking like another dropped out. If Facebook mimics with the privilege of lack of mainstream adoption gives familiar monopolist - our own gov- WeChat in establishing itself as a All correspondence deciding the medium cryptocurrency few redeeming advo- ernment, which creates the national go-to payment portal, those former regarding Views and of exchange. If it cates. No surprise, then, that regu- currency we use to pay our taxes. members may have no choice but to Opinion pages should be lators regard Facebook’s proposal It’s no wonder regulators and return to the cartel. sent to editor-in-chief follows suit, Facebook with suspicion. central banks view the Libra project Global regulators are so worried may end up looking It’s not that legitimate businesses as a threat to the international mon- about preserving their own monopoly office or mailed to the like another familiar don’t want crypto; it’s that their cus- etary system. In a recent report, the status that they’ve forgotten that [email protected] monopolist. tomers don’t want to use it for G7 Working Group warns that global monopolies have victims. Just look at payment. When buying stuff on the cryptocurrencies could undermine what Facebook did to publishers. 10 HOME SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 11 50 dead as Iraq protests take new violent turn AFP Three protesters were in Iraq, Jeanine Hennis-Plass- BAGHDAD killed in the capital chaert. Protesters gathered in Baghdad’s emblematic Tahrir Nearly 50 people have died in Baghdad yesterday, (Liberation) Square on Saturday renewed anti-government with medics and morning despite efforts by riot protests across Iraq, officials said officials reporting police to clear them with tear gas. yesterday, with clashes breaking trauma wounds “It’s enough -- theft, looting, out as demonstrators turned their gangs, mafias, deep state, fury against government and sustained by tear gas whatever. Get out! Let us see a paramilitary offices. canisters lobbed at (functioning) state,” said one pro- The death toll from protests demonstrators. tester, referring to perceived cro- this months has climbed to 205, nyism and corruption in the including dozens who were killed country. as they torched government Hashed centres. “We don’t want anything, just buildings or offices belonging to Yesterday, three people were let us live,” he added as puffs of factions of Hashed Al Shaabi force shot dead while setting fire to a smoke from tear gas rose behind over the past two days. local official’s home, a police him. Oil-rich Iraq is OPEC’s The demonstrations first source said. The previous night, second-highest producer -- but erupted on October 1, with pro- 12 protesters died in Diwaniyah one in five people live below the testers railing against government while setting fire to the head- poverty line and youth unem- corruption and unemployment, quarters of the powerful Badr ployment sits at 25 percent, while a second wave broke out organisation.Top Hashed com- according to the World Bank. late Thursday. manders have threatened Iraqi protesters gather on the capital Baghdad’s Al Jumhuriyah Bridge yesterday, during an anti- About 60 percent of Iraq’s This latest round of demon- “revenge” after their offices were government protest. 40-million-strong population is strations has been notably violent, attacked, and denounced those under the age of 25. with 48 people killed in as many they said aimed at sowing numbers after security forces fellow at the Carnegie Middle East such as Asaib Ahl al-Haq, Badr, The staggering rates of job- hours. Three protesters were “discord and chaos” in the strictly enforced a curfew. Center. and Kataeb Hezbollah, Hasan said lessness and allegations of cor- killed in the capital Baghdad yes- country. The Hashed was founded in But the attacks could also hint on Twitter. ruption sparked the widespread terday, with medics and officials In a bid to contain the vio- 2014 to fight the Islamic State at political rivalries between the The United Nations on Sat- protests on October 1 and the gov- reporting trauma wounds sus- lence security forces have group but its factions have since Hashed and populist cleric urday said it was “tragic” to see ernment has struggled to quell tained by tear gas canisters announced curfews across most been ordered to incorporate into Moqtada al-Sadr, who has thrown renewed violence but also public anger by proposing lobbed at demonstrators. of Iraq’s southern provinces — but the state security services. his weight behind the warned against “armed spoilers”. reforms.“They told young people: But the majority of victims brief protests nevertheless took “Public anger is directed at demonstrations. “Armed entities sabotaging ‘go home, we’ll give you pensions have been in the Shiah-majority place in Diwaniyah, Nasiriyah, them in addition to governorate “The Sadrists, especially in the peaceful demonstrations, and come up with a solution’. south, where protesters torched Babylon and Najaf. In the councils, for they were the their traditional strongholds such eroding the government’s credi- They tricked us,” said one of the dozens of provincial government southern port city of Basra, pro- obvious face of ‘the regime’,” as Missan, saw this an opportunity bility and ability to act, cannot be rare woman protesters on Sat- buildings, party offices and testers failed to come out in large wrote Harith Hasan, a senior to act against competing militias,” tolerated,” said the UN top official urday, her young son at her side. Erdogan urges world Violence during Ethiopian protests was ethnically tinged REUTERS Mohammed said police had foe Eritrea. Jawar had spear- the region in two days of to respect Turkey’s ADDIS ABABA ringed his home in Addis Ababa headed protests that propelled protests. and tried to withdraw his gov- Abiy to power last year. The majority of the deaths Much of the fighting seen during ernment security detail, his sup- But the young men also came from fighting between security concerns protests in Ethiopia this week porters quickly took to the lashed out against people from civilians, he said. Police have ANATOLIA of Turkey’s border with Syria was ethnically tinged, eyewit- streets on Wednesday and other ethnic groups, three eye- arrested 150 people in Oromiya ANKARA within 150 hours, and security nesses said yesterday, describing Thursday to protest his witnesses said. region so far in connection with forces from Turkey and Russia attacks by young men from the treatment. Oromiya’s top police official the violence. Turkey’s president yesterday will mount joint patrols there. Oromo ethnic group against Crowds of young men from said: “There was a hidden A 69-year-old man in urged the world to respect its In its more than 30-year people from other ethnic groups. his Oromo ethnic group quickly agenda to divert the whole Dodola, a town about 300 km security concerns and to terror campaign against There were clashes in several turned their anger against Prime protest into an ethnic and reli- (185 miles) south of the capital support its projects to ensure Turkey, the PKK — listed as a cities in Oromiya, Ethiopia’s Minister Abiy Ahmed, also an gious conflict. in the Oromiya region, said he the return of Syrian refugees. terrorist organisation by most populous province, under- Oromo, saying that he had “There were attempts to saw young men carrying sticks Speaking at a meeting of Turkey, the US and the scoring the spectre of ethnic vio- betrayed them by mistreating burn churches and mosques,” and metal rods in a part of town football officials in Istanbul, European Union — has been lence that the United Nations Jawar. Oromiya regional police com- where people from the Amharic Recep Tayyip Erdogan again responsible for the deaths of says has already internally dis- Abiy won the Nobel peace missioner Kefyalew Tefera told ethnic group are known to live, stressed the deadline set this 40,000 people, including placed more than 2 million prize this month for making Reuters. Tefera had said late on attacking and setting fire to week for YPG/PKK terrorists women, children, and infants. people. After activist Jawar peace with Ethiopia’s longtime Friday that 67 had been killed in houses. to pull back from northern The YPG is the Syrian offshoot Syria. of the PKK. If northern Syria is not Russian President Vladimir Six abducted Nigerian schoolgirls freed: Official cleared of terrorists by the end Putin yesterday discussed the One dead of the 150 hours allotted, implementation of the Russia- AFP who were abducted have declined to give details of those Turkey will clear it single- Turkey deal on Syria with the KANO, NIGERIA regained their freedom today,” demands, some parents of the in Guinea handedly, said Erdogan. country’s Security Council Samuel Aruwan, Kaduna state hostages said the abductors had On October 9, Turkey members, the Kremlin said on Six Nigerian schoolgirls and two internal security and home demanded 50 million naira Bissau rally launched Operation Peace Saturday. “Vladimir Putin staff members have been affairs commissioner said in a ($140,000) for the release of Spring to eliminate terrorists chaired a briefing with per- released unhurt three weeks short statement. their daughters. AFP from northern Syria east of the manent members of the after they were kidnapped from Aruwan did not say how the Kidnapping for ransom is BISSAU Euphrates River in order to Security Council. [...] They their dormitories in northern kidnapped students had been common in Nigeria and the secure Turkey’s borders, aid in [members of the Security Kaduna state, regional author- released or if a ransom had been school is located near a highway An opposition supporter died the safe return of Syrian ref- Council] had a comprehensive ities said yesterday. paid. Kaduna state governor linking Kaduna with Nigeria’s yesterday as thousands clashed ugees, and ensure Syria’s ter- exchange of opinions on the Armed assailants seized the Mallam Nasir El-Rufai told capital Abuja that is frequently with police in an unauthorised ritorial integrity. implementation of the Memo- six students, school vice prin- reporters days after the targeted by criminal gangs. rally in Guinée-Bissau, hospital On Tuesday, Ankara and randum agreed on by the pres- cipal and matron in a dawn raid abduction that the kidnappers The area is far to the west of sources and the victim’s family Moscow reached a deal under idents of Russia and Turkey on on their mixed boarding school had made contact demanding the region notorious for attacks said. which YPG/PKK terrorists will the situation in Syria,” the on October 3. “The students and ransom payment. by the Boko Haram jihadist Protesters staged the rally pull back 30 kilometres south Kremlin said in a statement. staff of the Engravers College Although the governor group. to demand a delay to a November 24 presidential election in order to allow an overhaul of the electoral reg- Lebanese demonstrators take to streets for 10th day ister to limit potential voter fraud. AFP were still protesting on Satuday. Demba Balde, 48, was in the BEIRUT Hassan Koteiche, 27, from a offices of the opposition Party Hezbollah stronghold in Beirut, for Social Renovation (PRS), Demonstrators across Lebanon said he agreed with most of Nas- when “a cordon of police armed blocked roads and took to the rallah’s “excellent” speech, but with clubs and grenade streets yesterday for a 10th had some reservations. launchers prevented us from consecutive day, defying what “This does not mean we are going out to join our friends in they said were attempts by against his discourse but there is the street,” the victim’s brother Hezbollah to defuse their a divergence in opinion,” he said. Alimo Balde said. movement and despite tensions “The main thing I disagree with “There were scuffles and with the army. is his belief that if the gov- Demba was arrested by four The demonstrators — who ernment or parliament falls then police officers who beat him have thronged Lebanese towns we would have no alternative,” and sprayed him with (tear) gas. and cities since October 17 — are he added. He fell, bloodied, and was demanding the removal of the “That is not true. We have struggling to breathe. We tried entire political class, accusing alternatives. We have noble and to bring him round but sadly he many across different parties of uncorrupt people,” who can passed away before arrival at systematic corruption. govern. Main roads remained the hospital,” Alimo Balde said. Numbers have declined since closed across the country on Sat- Several other people were October 20, when hundreds of urday morning, as the army tried injured when police fired tear thousands took over Beirut and to reopen key routes. gas to disperse marchers, an other cities in the largest dem- The General Security agency AFP correspondent reported. onstrations in years, but could — one of Lebanon’s top three The impoverished West Lebanese protesters wave national flags during an anti-government demonstration in the centre of grow again over the weekend. security bodies — said it has African state’s Supreme Court the capital Beirut, yesterday. The chief of the powerful started to implement a plan to said two weeks ago it had Shiah movement Hezbollah on open key roads. approved 12 candidates to Friday called on his supporters An army spokesman said as they were trying to close a with the army. Soldiers fired army from removing a dirt berm contest the poll, including to leave the streets, warning that that security forces would nego- main road, according to the rubber bullets in the air after blocking a seaside road. incumbent Jose Mario Vaz, who any cabinet resignation would tiate with protesters, without state-run National News Agency. being hit with fireworks and In central Beirut, they sat intends to stand again as an lead to “chaos and collapse” of resorting to violence. A medical source in the area stones, according to the cross-legged on a key artery that independent candidate. the economy. His statement But troops clashed with res- told AFP that at least four people spokesman. Northeast of Beirut, connects the capital to its Several candidates saw the sowed divisions among Hez- idents of the Beddawi area near were wounded by live fire and dozens of demonstrators formed suburbs and surrounding court reject their bid to stand bollah supporters, some of whom the northern port city of Tripoli seven others in confrontations a human chain to prevent the regions. rejected. 12 ASIA SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 India hopes ‘green’ fireworks, light shows dim Diwali impact AP “Green” firecrackers, to manufacture “green” crackers, NEW DELHI indicated by a green according to PTI. During a recent logo and a special QR trip to Old Delhi, nearly every India hopes to temper the envi- stall selling fireworks promi- ronmental damage from its code, emit 30 percent nently displayed signs that said: biggest annual holiday today fewer emissions than “We are not selling banned fire- with low-emission firecrackers traditional ones and crackers.” But a black market in and light shows, but the plan’s don’t contain arsenic conventional crackers continues uneven rollout has hurt some on the margins. Just this week, businesses and proven difficult or lead. police seized thousands of kilo- to enforce. grams of banned firecrackers in Diwali, the festival of lights, the state of West Bengal and is typically celebrated by setting manufacturing in Sivakasi, the Delhi, according to PTI. off firecrackers late into the industry’s major production hub In Delhi, one of the world’s night with friends and family, in southeastern India, was on most polluted cities, the months compounding already-haz- hold for four months over the from October until February are ardous air quality levels in past year as manufacturers characterized by chronically haz- Residents light fireworks outside their homes to celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, in Raiganj town northern India as farmers ille- figured out how to create com- ardous air quality. The “green” in the eastern state of West Bengal, yesterday. gally burn crop stubble to clear pliant crackers, the Press Trust crackers include ingredients that fields. of India news agency reported. help form water vapor after they In response to a petition filed “Green” firecrackers, indi- are used, which helps particles Jaish threat: Security tightened on behalf of three infants, India’s cated by a green logo and a settle faster in the atmosphere, Supreme Court issued a special QR code, emit 30 percent according to Kumar. landmark ruling in October 2018 fewer emissions than traditional Another measure to in Delhi, other metros alerted that banned conventional fire- ones and don’t contain arsenic encourage a lower-pollution crackers and enforced a two- or lead, according to the gov- Diwali is the Delhi government’s IANS has been beefed up, top sources sentry posted there round the hour limit for setting them off - ernment-funded Council for Sci- four-day “mega laser show” in NEW DELHI in Delhi Police said. A general clock. Only government vehicles an order that many people entific and Industrial Research. a central area of the capital. alert was also sounded in other were allowed entry inside. flouted last year, contributing to The council oversaw eight dif- “I’ve been (exploding fire- Amid terror threat from metros, including Mumbai, Ben- An alert of the Intelligence toxic smog blanketing New Delhi ferent laboratories in developing crackers) since my childhood, so Pakistan-based militant outfit galuru and Ahmedabad. Bureau (IB) said that police sta- the following day. them after last year’s Supreme I reckon that my children should Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), In relation to a specific threat tions and police colonies in Delhi This year, firecracker sellers say Court ruling, said Rakesh Kumar, also be allowed to do the same unprecedented security arrange- input, a senior officer of the Delhi may be targeted via suicide or business has dropped significantly. director of the National Environ- thing,” said Yash Bhan Singh, 35, ments have been made at ‘places Police said that security has been direct attacks by the terrorists. “My business has been hit a lot, it’s mental Engineering Research a software developer from a of higher footfalls’ in the national upgraded at two dozen vital instal- According to IB input last week, down by about 70 percent,” said Institute in Nagpur, India. “We Delhi suburb who was buying capital on the eve of Diwali. lations, including government terrorists may use explosive- Dhanraj Jain, who has been selling thought, let’s be conservative and “green” firecrackers in Old Delhi. The threat is reportedly buildings in Central Delhi. laden vehicles or enter the police firecrackers in Old Delhi for eight achieve a 30 percent reduction “But innovative things like the based on a series of telephonic Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) stations on foot. years. He said the “green” crackers this year, and next year we can try laser show and green crackers, intercepts involving two Jaish and armed para military per- Subsequently, picket duties cost as much as double the price of for more,” he said. we are looking forward to that commanders from across the sonnel have been deployed in key have been enhanced and dog conventional ones. “I agree with some of the as well,” he said. border. In Delhi, security is at the areas, including Khan Market, squads and QRTs have been put “The situation is so bad that sellers that the whole project The culture shift around highest alert in three crowded Bengali Market, Connaught Place, on 24-hour alert. I don’t even feel like speaking to started a bit late this year, but I Diwali and the environment has markets — Sarojini Nagar, Lajpat India Gate, Rajpath, India Inter- Besides Delhi, the intelli- my customers,” he said. “I’m think it will get straightened out happened within the last five Nagar and Karol Bagh national Centre (IIC) and Delhi gence agencies have also asked having a tough time explaining as we go along,” Kumar said. years, said Rumi Aijaz, a lifelong localities. Gymkhana. police commissioners of Ben- to them why the crackers this By early October, nearly 165 Delhi resident and urban policy Besides, armed security in Earlier last week, police sta- galuru, Mumbai and Ahmedabad year are more expensive and less firecracker manufacturers researcher at the Observer more than two dozen malls and tions across the city were asked to enhance vigil in markets in variety.” Firecracker across India had been certified Research Foundation. multiplexes in the national capital to keep their gates locked with a known for Diwali shopping. Shivakumar Khattar to take oath as CM today, Dushyant his deputy given rousing IANS proposal and invited us (to form government formation. Seven short of a majority in the Khattar arrived here from CHANDIGARH the government),” Chief Minister- independent legislators were 90-member Assembly, New Delhi on Saturday morning welcome in designate Khattar told the media. also present there. announced an alliance with the to attend the BJP Legislature BJP leader Manohar Lal Khattar He said he has tendered his His father Ajay Chautala, JJP led by Dushyant Chautala, a Party meeting, which was Karnataka and Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) resignation which has been who is lodged in Tihar Jail for great grandson of former Deputy attended by Union Minister Ravi leader Dushyant Chautala will accepted. “Tomorrow at 2.15pm conviction in a teacher Prime Minister Devi Lal, on Shankar Prasad and BJP General IANS take oath as the Chief Minister oath-taking ceremony will be recruitment scam, was granted Friday evening. Secretary Arun Singh. BENGALURU and the Deputy Chief Minister, held at Raj Bhavan. Dushyant furlough of two weeks yesterday. Earlier, Khattar was unani- Prasad told the media that respectively, of Haryana today. Chautala will take oath as He is to attend the oath-taking mously elected as leader of the since the BJP is the single largest Congress leader DK Shiva- The swearing-in ceremony Deputy CM,” he added. ceremony. BJP Legislature Party at a party, it would meet the Governor kumar, 57, returned to a rousing will be held at Raj Bhavan here at Dushyant was present along At his furlough, Dushyant meeting here. and stake claim to form the gov- welcome at the city airport 2.15pm. “We have stake claim to with Khattar when he met Gov- said: “Can’t my father celebrate His name was proposed by ernment. On the post of Deputy yesterday, nearly two months form government in Haryana. The ernor Satyadeo Narain Arya to Diwali with his family.” BJP, legislator Anil Vij and seconded Chief Minister, Prasad clarified after he flew to Delhi on being Governor has accepted our stake the claim for the which won 40 seats and was six by the rest of the 38 legislators. that there would be only one. summoned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money laundering case, a party official said. Kashmir utilities face Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Janata Dal-Secular leader HD Kumaraswamy and militant threat: DGP Congress leaders from Kana- kapura, his home constituency, IANS sidelines of a function of the were present at the airport. SRINAGAR Border Security Force (BSF). “About 500 supporters, He said steps are being taken including state Congress Militants are trying to damage to foil any further attempt by the leaders, greeted him at the infrastructure facilities like water militants to damage the infra- airport and accompanied him and electricity supplies in the structure in the Valley. “We have in a convoy to the party office. Kashmir Valley, J&K Director taken some steps. I am hopeful There he was accorded a hero’s General of Police (DGP) Dilbagh that this case will be cracked welcome,” party spokesman Singh said yesterday. soon and people involved will be Ravi Gowda said. He was replying to questions brought to book,” he added. Shivakumar was released on the damages caused to a “Investigation in the truckers’ from Tihar Jail after 50 days on transmission tower in Shopian killings is underway and some Thursday on a conditional bail, in South Kashmir by suspected important clues are available with granted by the Delhi High militants earlier this week. us about the case,” Singh said Court. He was in custody in “Damaging a tower is an while reacting to the recent killings connection with a case under attempt to damage the necessary of truckers, adding that the police the Prevention Money Laun- infrastructure linked to water have identified the attackers and dering Act (PMLA) 2002, filed and electricity supplies that measures have been taken to on a complaint by the Income- benefit the people so that they provide security to the truckers Tax Department, which had are inconvenienced,” Dilbagh and people associated with hor- seized Rs8.6 crore cash from his Women walk on a roadside as security personnel stand guard during a lockdown in Srinagar. Singh told reporters on the ticulture from outside the Valley. flat in New Delhi in August 2017. “The central government misused law enforcing Case against Chidambaram serious offence, says CBI agencies, like the ED, the I-T Department and the Central IANS /NEW DELHI disclosure by a witness, Indrani deposited under various names deposing in court.” The CBI had ASCPL (Advantage Strategic), a Bureau of Investigation to Mukherjee’s statement and doc- in bank accounts spread over on Friday filed a review petition company owned by him, harass our senior leader Shiv- The Central Bureau of Investi- umentary evidence — of the nearly a dozen countries. Our in the apex court challenging the received amounts as consultancy akumar,” said state Congress gation’s case against senior money stashed in countries case is based on clear and unam- three-judge high court bench /commission from six other com- chief Dinesh Gundurao. Congress leader P Chidambaram across the world linked to the biguous testimonies and evi- order that granted bail to panies, which were granted FIPB The Karnataka High Court in the INX Media scam is not scam and for FIPB approvals to dences recorded under Sections Chidambaram in INX Media case. approval. on August 29 rejected Shivaku- mere conjecture. the INX Media group. 161 and 164 of the CrPC, where The CBI said the investi- The CBI insists the apex court mar’s plea for interim pro- The probe agency says According to a CBI source: witnesses have come on record gation has revealed other declined to peruse statements of tection against arrest in a instead it is strongly pivoted on “We are probing a camouflaged to state that Chidambaram is instances where it appears that material witnesses that it sub- ‘hawala’ case. three key evidences — crucial trail in which the money has been pressurising them against Karti P. Chidambaram through mitted in a sealed cover. SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 ASIA 13 Pakistan, US, China and Russia meet on Afghan peace

AP In a draft statement released at the end of the Taliban held in Moscow. the Taliban and sign an agreement campaign promise to end ISLAMABAD the meeting in Moscow, China, Russia and The Taliban delegation to that will set the stage for Afghans American involvement in what Pakistan called on Washington to return to the China will be led by Mullah Abdul on both sides of the protracted he has described as endless wars, Representatives of Russia, China, Ghani Baradar, co-founder of the conflict to start face-to-face nego- including Afghanistan, gener- the United States and Pakistan negotiation table with the Taliban and sign an movement, who spent eight years tiations on what a post-war ating fears among some agreed on Friday that negotiation agreement that will set the stage for Afghans in a Pakistani jail after he secretly Afghanistan would look like. observers of a surprise tweet is the only road to peace in on both sides of the protracted conflict to start opened peace talks in 2010 with After nearly a year of direct suddenly ordering troops home. Afghanistan, including an early face-to-face negotiations Karzai, who was president at the talks, US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad Friday’s statement called for resumption of direct US talks time. Baradar was arrested in a had all but signed a peace deal a reduction in violence, which with the Taliban. joint American CIA and Pakistani with the Taliban until President some observers say might con- The day-long talks in face-to-face discussions between on condition of anonymity for anti-terrorism agency operation. Donald Trump in September vince Trump to agree to renewed Moscow came ahead of an intra- Afghan warring sides since July. the same reason, had said Ghani Neither Pakistan nor the United declared the talks dead after a talks. Afghan dialogue to be hosted by Even President Ashraf Ghani, was opposed to participation in States were ready for peace talks series of Taliban attacks killed The 15-point statement China. The Beijing talks, which who has objected to any talks not the talks. with the Taliban in 2010, Karzai several people, including a US called on all sides to prevent ter- are to be held next week, were led by his government, said late It wasn’t clear what changed previously said. soldier. rorist organizations from oper- postponed, according to officials on Friday that he would send Ghani’s mind or whether he had The Taliban are the strongest It’s not clear what it would ating in Afghanistan. Those familiar with the talks. Speaking representatives. requested a postponement, but they have been since being take for Trump to agree to restart include al-Qaida, with links to on condition they not be iden- There has been no official a number of prominent Afghans ousted in 2001 by a US-led coa- talks, but the US president has the Taliban, and also the Islamic tified because of they were not announcement of a post- from Kabul are expected to lition holding sway in nearly 50 insisted he wants American State group’s affiliate in the authorised to talk about the ponement, but previous intra- attend the China meeting, percent of the country. troops out of Afghanistan and an country, and the East Turkmen- subject, they said the post- Afghan talks have been delayed including former president In a draft statement released end to American involvement in istan Islamic Movement of ponement would be brief but no while both sides squabbled over Hamid Karzai, who has been a at the end of Friday’s meeting in what has become their longest mostly ethnic Uighurs. new date was given. participants. strong proponent of direct talks Moscow, China, Russia and military engagement. The representatives, which When the China talks take Earlier on Friday, a gov- with the Taliban. He participated Pakistan called on Washington to Trump has vowed at recent have met previously, agreed to place, they will be the first ernment official, who also spoke in earlier sessions of talks with return to the negotiation table with rallies to make good on his 2016 meet again. Fazlur Rehman refuses Islamabad High Court to accept ‘deal’ with grants Sharif Imran Khan govt interim bail INTERNEWS Khan said the government ISLAMABAD had tried its best to reach an ANATOLIA agreement with the opposition. ISLAMABAD A meeting between the Rehbar “We gave the option of Parade Committee of the opposition Ground in the light of decision A Pakistani court yesterday parties of Pakistan and the of the high court,” he said. granted interim bail to former Imran Khan government’s nego- “We have not been able to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on tiating team has not yielded any reach any conclusion but will medical grounds, his lawyer result as deadlock persisted on continue to hold talks,” JUI-F said. deciding the venue of culmi- leader Akram Durrani said after A two-member bench of the nation of the Azadi March being the meeting. Islamabad High Court headed undertaken by Jamiat Ulema The leaders from the two by Chief Justice Athar Minallah Islam-F under the leadership of sides, to the disappointment of and Justice Mohsin Akhtar Fazlur Rehman. media persons, did not respond Kiyani ordered the release of Inside sources said here yes- to questions and left the resi- the former premier in a cor- terday that the government’s dence of Durrani where two ruption case until Tuesday negotiating team on Friday had rounds of talks were held. “We against a surety bond of Rs4 m rejected the demand of the will invite you again when date ($56,465). Rehbar Committee to allow and venue of next round of talks Afghan Vice-President visits Erdogan According to Sharif’s gathering of their workers at the is decided,” Durrani said. lawyer, the final decision on sensitive D-Chowk in Islamabad. However, Mian Iftikhar, a Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan receiving Vice-President of Afghanistan General Abdul suspending his sentence and The government team stuck to member of the Rehbar Com- Rashid Dostum (left) at Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul, Turkey on Friday. granting him permanent bail the stand that the opposition parties mittee, later said it could not be will be taken by the court on would be allowed to hold a public said at present as to when and Tuesday. meeting at the Parade Ground. where the next round of talks “Court has granted bail to Rehman said that the Azadi would be held. Delayed Afghan vote results Nawaz Sharif till Tuesday on March would go ahead and Rehman has said that Azadi medical grounds,” Barrister refused to accept any deals with March will take place on its schedule Zafrullah Khan, Sharif’s lawyer, the government. as already announced. He said the sow simmering crisis told reporters outside the The two sides, after holding government is using different tactics Islamabad High Court. two rounds of talks which con- which will only create strife. Earlier on Saturday, the cluded late Friday night, without Talking to media persons in ANATOLIA commissioner, said that over 1.9 Vowing to press ahead with court had accepted a request giving any time-frame, decided Larkana, the Maulana said arrest KABUL million biometric votes have been its armed insurgency in the wake by Sharif’s youngest brother to continue the talks process. of the JUI-F workers will have logged into the central data server, of failed peace talks with the US, Shehbaz Sharif to hear the bail The government team, while no effect on the Azadi March, An election crisis is simmering and now the commission is striving ahead of the elections the Taliban application on Saturday, instead insisting on the Parade Ground as adding that talks with the gov- in Afghanistan as preliminary to compile preliminary results. warned potential voters to stay of Tuesday. venue of the Azadi March, referred ernment under present circum- results have not been announced “All legitimate and void votes indoors and “not put themselves During the hearing, Sharif’s to a past decision of the Islamabad stances will not be successful. even a month after the landmark will be separated in the central in danger” by coming out to vote. lawyer informed the court that High Court (IHC) in this regard. The JUI-F chief said the polls and as the insurgency rages server in the coming days before The top election body was the former premier had “suf- The two sides took a break federal government is shutting on. we come up with preliminary supposed to announce prelim- fered a minor heart attack last for nearly two hours after the down petrol pumps, ration shops, As the country’s Independent results,” she said. inary results on October 19, with night and his life is in danger”. first round of talks, during which stopping traffic and one organi- Election Commission carefully The landmark presidential final results slated for on The lawyer also submitted Defence Minister Pervaiz sation of our party has also been reassures political camps, eager polls, only the fourth since the fall November 7. a copy of the Lahore High Court Khattak talked to the prime min- banned, which prove the undem- voters, and foreign donors while of the Taliban in late 2001, con- But a week after October 19, verdict, which had granted bail ister via telephone. ocratic intentions of the regime. continuing to count and sort out cluded on September 28 with some with no immediate signs of the to Nawaz Sharif in another case Sources said that Prime Min- Rehman said when their the September 28 polls, the delay incidents of election-related vio- results, election observers are on Friday. ister Imran Khan maintained several million-man marches, in announcing the results is lence, including at least 13 people increasingly seeking assurances Marriyum Aurangzeb, that the government would including the Peshawar million spreading fear of a repeat of the killed and over 40 wounded. of transparency while the inter- spokeswoman for Sharif’s party establish its writ and the Azadi march, have already been held crisis Afghanistan saw in the pre- More than 8 million people national community says there Pakistan Muslim League- March would not be allowed to peacefully, then why is the gov- vious presidential vote in 2014. were registered as potential is no need for panic or Nawaz (PML-N), welcomed the reach D-Chowk in Islamabad. ernment banning the Azadi March. Raheema Zarifi, an election voters. uncertainty. court verdict. Indian shelling Containers on roads to kill 3 civilians in Kashmir stop Pakistan marchers

AP ANATALOIA possession of more than 3,000 MUZAFFARABAD ISLAMABAD containers in different parts of the country,” Hakimullah Khan, Pakistani officials said Indian Pakistani authorities have placed president of the Containers Asso- troops have fired mortar shells thousands of shipping containers ciation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, across the Line of Control that on the roads to block the entry of told Anadolu Agency over the divides the disputed Kashmir protesters to the capital phone. region, killing three civilians Islamabad, transporters said Khan claimed that container and wounding three others. yesterday. seizures have caused a huge Raja Shahid Mehmood, a Opposition parties in the financial loss to their owners. deputy district commissioner, country have announced an anti- But authorities pushed back said on Friday that Pakistani government march that will start at the claims. “We have not taken troops returned fire when from various parts of the country a single container by force,” Indian shells struck homes on October 27 and converge in Hamza Shafqaat, Islamabad’s Thursday in Neelum Valley in Islamabad next Thursday, Oct 31. deputy commissioner, told Kashmir, which is split between Shipping firms accused Anadolu Agency. Pakistan and India and claimed authorities in the northeastern “We have hired all containers by both. Punjab and northwestern Khyber from the owners and we will pay In a statement, Pakistan’s Pakhtunkhwa provinces of for- for them,” he added. Foreign Ministry said it lodged cibly seizing containers to put The marchers’ leader on a protest with an Indian dip- them on the roads to block pro- Friday warned that if the gov- lomat over the latest civilian testers from reaching the capital. ernment blocked their routes to casualties and “unprovoked Containers are being placed at the entrances and main areas of the city ahead of opposition party’s “Over the last three days, the capital, it could trigger cease-fire violations” by India. anti government protest in Islamabad, Pakistan, yesterday. police have forcibly taken clashes. 14 ASIA SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 Ten dead in Japan floods, heavy rain AP Japan, the Zozo Championship TOKYO While rains and in Inzai city. Saturday’s second floodwaters subsided, round allowed no spectators. Torrential rain that caused parts of Chiba were Prime Minister Shinzo Abe flooding and mudslides in towns still inundated. held an emergency task force east of Tokyo left at least 10 meeting Saturday morning and people dead and added fresh About 4,700 homes called for “the utmost effort in damage in areas still recovering were out of running rescue and relief operations.” He from recent typhoons, officials water and some also urged quicks repairs of elec- said yesterday. train services tricity, water and other essential Rescue workers found the services to help restore the lives body of a person who had gone were delayed or of the disaster-hit residents. missing in Chiba prefecture after suspended. The Prime Minister’s Office getting caught up in floodwaters said the average rainfall for the Voicing support for animal rights while driving. Another person entire month had fallen in just Animal rights activists in solidarity with vegan advocates worldwide participate in a rally in Manila, was unaccounted for in Fuku- woman. In Nagara and Chonan half a day Friday. yesterday. The activists called on people to join vegan groups and for stronger animal rights shima, farther north, which is towns, four people drowned The downpour came from a still reeling from damage by when their vehicles were low-pressure system above awareness, claiming animals are being abused, exploited and tortured in the food, pharmaceutical, Typhoon Hagibis earlier this submerged. Japan’s main island of Honshu entertainment, and fashion industries. month. “There was enormous noise that moved northward later The death toll from the and impact, ‘boom’ like an earth- Friday. Power was restored Sat- flooding included nine people in quake, so I went outside. Then urday at most of the 6,000 Chiba $1.84m diamond stolen from Japan jewellery fair Chiba and one in Fukushima. look what happened. I was ter- households that had lost elec- While rains and floodwaters rified,” said a Midori resident tricity. About 390 people AP time, the diamond was gone and arrested. Investigators are subsided, parts of Chiba were who lives near a crushed home. remained at shelters Saturday TOKYO the jewellery case was unlocked, checking security camera still inundated. About 4,700 “Rain was even more intense afternoon. Two weeks ago, according to police. footage that showed a man homes were out of running than the typhoons.” In Fuku- Typhoon Hagibis caused wide- Japanese police are investigating Police said yesterday they reaching toward a showcase water and some train services shima, a woman was found dead spread flooding and left more a 200m yen ($1.84m) diamond suspect the alleged theft took during the suspected time of were delayed or suspended. in a park in Soma city after a than 80 people dead or pre- allegedly stolen from an inter- place sometime in the final hour theft. In Midori district in Chiba, report that a car was washed sumed dead across Japan. An national jewellery trade show of the crowded exhibit at The three-day exhibit ended mudslides crushed three houses, away. A passenger was still earlier typhoon in September near Tokyo. Yokohama, near Tokyo. The on Friday as planned. About 410 killing three people who were missing. had devastated Chiba, where The 50-carat diamond was sparkly stone, exhibited by a jewellery shops from around the buried underneath them. Rain also washed out Fri- more than 50,000 homes were last seen sitting inside a glass company in Saitama, north of world and more than 10,000 vis- Another mudslide hit a house in day’s second round of the PGA damaged or destroyed, and 100 showcase at 5pm on Thursday. Tokyo, was the only item itors gathered, according to the nearby Ichihara city, killing a Tour’s first tournament held in others flooded. An hour later, just after closing missing. Nobody has been organisers. N Korea wants discussions on removing South facilities HK court bans publishing AP tours at the site. Lee Sang-min, face-to-face meetings. While but said Seoul’s search for solu- Mountain were a major symbol SEOUL spokesman of Seoul’s Unification protecting South Korean tions may require discussions of cooperation between the police details Ministry, said North Korea sent property rights is the top priority with Washington. At the Blue Koreas and a valuable cash North Korea formally proposed letters on Friday addressed to of the Seoul government, it will House, South Korean President source for the North’s broken AFP discussions over the possible South Korea’s government and also seek “creative solutions” to Moon Jae-in told reporters it economy before the South sus- HONG KONG demolition of South Korean- the Hyundai business group the problem based on political would be difficult to conduct pended them in 2008 after a made hotels and other tourist demanding that the South considerations and inter-Korean tours in the same way under North Korean guard fatally shot A Hong Kong court has banned facilities at the North’s Diamond Koreans come to Diamond discussions, Lee said. current UN sanctions. a South Korean tourist. people from publishing a wide Mountain resort that leader Kim Mountain at an agreed-upon Lee didn’t elaborate on what Lee said the North didn’t With its hotels, restaurants, range of personal details about Jong Un called “shabby” and date to clear out their facilities. South Korea intends to do or issue a deadline for the South to spas and golf course left in eerie police officers and their “unpleasant-looking,” officials The letters, sent through an whether it will consider razing remove the facilities. It’s unclear silence, the resort now draws families, including photos, in a in Seoul said. inter-Korean liaison office in the any of its properties. He also what the South could do if the only a fraction of the 500,000 bid to halt “doxxing” by pro- Pyongyang has been frus- North’s border town of Kaesong, wasn’t clear on whether South North starts destroying them. tourists projected to come democracy protesters. trated over the South’s refusal to said the Koreas should work out Korea could explore ways to “There’s a need for a meeting annually and lost millions of The temporary injunction, defy US-led international sanc- the details through document restart the tours amid interna- between government author- dollars for the South Korean uploaded on government web- tions and resume South Korean exchanges, rather than tional sanctions on North Korea, ities,” Lee said. Tours to Diamond investors. sites overnight, was criticised by some yesterday for its broad wording and for further shielding the identity of officers Solomon govt says, as they clash with protesters. The semi-autonomous Chinese company’s Chinese city has been battered by nearly five months of seething pro-democracy rallies lease of island unlawful in which police and protesters have fought increasingly violent REUTERS allies since World War Two. battles. The police force says SYDNEY U.S. Defense Secretary Mark many of its officers have had Esper applauded the Solomons’ personal details leaked online The Solomon Islands government decision to invalidate the -- known as “doxxing” -- and said a deal signed by one of its agreement, which he described family members harassed as a provinces to lease the entire as a “Chinese effort to lease the result. island of Tulagi to a Chinese island of Tulagi for 75 years.” company is unlawful and should “This is an important decision to Australia to settle be terminated, a move applauded reinforce sovereignty, trans- more immigrants by United States on Friday. parency, and the rule of law,” Details of the long-term lease Esper said in a statement. outside major cities between Solomons’ Central “Many nations in the Pacific Province and China Sam Enter- have discovered far too late that REUTERS prise Group were made public Chinese use of economic and MELBOURNE Relatives of Anna Bui Thi Nhung, a Vietnamese suspected victim in a truck container in UK, waiting shortly after the Pacific nation military levers to expand their for news about her at her home in Nghe An province, Vietnam, yesterday. switched diplomatic ties to influence often is detrimental to The Australian government said Beijing from Taiwan in Sep- them and their people.” The Sam yesterday it is increasing the tember. The shift was strongly Group agreement, dated Sept. 22, number of visas for skilled Vietnamese villagers await criticized by the United States. purportedly offers wide-ranging workers willing to migrate to Solomons’ Attorney-General powers to the Chinese conglom- the country’s regions in a bid to John Muria said the province and erate to develop infrastructure ease pressure on major cities, news on their loved ones’ fate the Chinese company were not on Tulagi and surrounding where populations are growing legally able to strike such an islands. twice as fast as elsewhere. AP $10,000 with the hope of Vietnamese community, said the agreement without government Headquartered in Beijing, The government will DO THANH, VIETNAM entering the UK to work as a nail group sent photos of nearly 20 involvement. “The agreement Sam Group is a technology, increase the intake under its technician, the relative said. people reported missing to was not vetted by the Attorney investment and energy conglom- regional migration programme Residents of this rural, mostly Nhung and many others British police. General’s chambers before erate founded in 1985 as a state- to 25,000 from 23,000, Catholic village in central from Yen Thanh district, where British police initially said signing,” Muria said in a owned enterprise. It declined to according to a statement issued Vietnam said yesterday that they the village is located, some 200 they believed the 39 victims statement. The agreement was make available executives who by the Prime Minister Scott fear their family members could kilometres (120 miles) south of found in the container truck “unlawful, unenforceable and could speak to Reuters on Friday. Morrison’s office. be among the dozens of people Hanoi, travel abroad looking to Wednesday in southeastern must be terminated with imme- In a statement on its website, That does not mean, found dead in the back of a truck make the type of money they England were Chinese, but later diate effect”, Muria said. Sam Group said its representa- however, that Australia will be in England. cannot earn back home. One of acknowledged that it was a Though tiny in land mass, tives had met Solomons Prime taking more immigrants. The mother and a sister of their main goals is to send back “developing picture.” China said Pacific islands such as Tulagi Minister Manasseh Sogavare in Morrison’s conservative Bui Thi Nhung cried as they set enough to allow their families to it could not yet confirm the have re-emerged as a strategic early October during a state visit government cut the annual up an altar with incense and a build large homes that they victims’ nationalities or iden- priority for the world’s biggest to China by a delegation from the immigration intake to 160,000 photo of the missing 19-year-old would otherwise be unable to tities. There was speculation cir- nations, who are keen to lock-in Pacific island nation. people as of July 1, versus where family and friends can afford. culating online in Vietnam that alliances with countries that Tulagi hosted American 190,000 before. The 25,000 pray at their home in Do Thanh “Many families in Yen Thanh the victims may have been control vast swaths of resource- bases in World War Two and was visas for those willing to live in village. have gotten rich from money traveling on false Chinese rich ocean between the Americas the site of the Solomons’ capital smaller cities and regions are The family heard from a sent back by their children passports. and Asia. before it was moved to the island part of the annual migration friend living in the UK that working abroad,” said Le Dình Police on Friday arrested China, in particular, has in of Guadalcanal. cap. Nearly a third of Australia’s “Nhung is one of the victims,” Tuan, one of Nhung’s neighbors, three people on suspicion of recent years expanded its A signatory to the agreement, resident population were born said one of Nhung’s relatives, who was at the house. manslaughter and conspiracy to financial and political influence Central Province Premier Stanley overseas, according to the who was visiting the missing A representative for traffic people. The 25-year-old in the Pacific, which had long Manetiva, told Reuters that he Organisation for Economic Co- teen’s despaired mother. VietHome, a U.K.-based organ- driver of the truck remains in been a diplomatic stronghold for would abide by the government’s operation and Development, or Nhung paid an agent over ization that assists the local custody on suspicion of murder. the United Sates and its regional advice. OECD. SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 EUROPE 15 Driver charged 350,000 protesters flood Barcelona with murder of 39 for separatist ‘freedom’ rally in UK truck tragedy AFP BARCELONA

AFP Maurice Robinson, 25, Around 350,000 people rallied LONDON from Northern Ireland, in downtown Barcelona faces “39 counts yesterday, turning the streets British police investigating the into a sea of independence flags deaths of 39 people in a refrig- of manslaughter, in the latest mass protest against erated truck said yesterday they conspiracy to traffic Spain’s jailing of nine separatist had charged a driver arrested at people, conspiracy leaders. the scene with manslaughter to assist unlawful The turnout figure was given and people trafficking. by the local police as vast crowds Maurice Robinson, 25, from immigration and packed into a wide avenue Northern Ireland, faces “39 money laundering”, running between the waterfront counts of manslaughter, con- police said. and the city’s towering Sagrada spiracy to traffic people, con- Familia basilica, which was once spiracy to assist unlawful immi- again closed to visitors. gration and money laundering”, British police want help Catalonia has been gripped police said. from the Vietnamese com- by unrest since the October 14 Robinson was arrested munity in Britain and abroad to Supreme Court verdict which shortly after the bodies were identify the 39 people found unleashed a wave of huge dem- discovered in the truck at Pur- dead in the back of a refrig- onstrations that quickly turned fleet on the River Thames erated truck on Wednesday, a violent, with angry protesters estuary, after arriving on a ferry senior officer said yesterday. hurling rocks and Molotov cock- from the Belgian port of Zee- Detective Chief Inspector tails at riot police, who hit back People waving Catalan pro-independence “Estelada” flags during a pro-independence demonstration brugge early on Wednesday. Martin Pasmore said his officers with tear gas, foam rounds and called by Catalan National Assembly (ANC) and Omnium Cultural organisations, against the conviction He will appear in court had found “very, very few ID rubber bullets. tomorrow, Essex police said. papers” among the bodies and The crisis began two years of Catalan separatist leaders for the 2017 attempted secession, in Barcelona, yesterday. Three other people have hoped to identify the dead ago when the region staged a been arrested in Britain in con- through fingerprints, dental banned referendum on October 1, we won’t forgive, we won’t a bit of upheaval like we’ve seen percent in favour but 48.3 nection with the investigation, records and DNA, as well as 1 that was marred by police vio- forget”. in Chile and Ecuador,” he said of percent against. The violent pro- on suspicion of conspiracy to photos from friends and lence, then issued a short-lived As a police helicopter flew a wave of mass protests in Latin tests over the verdict have only traffic people and manslaughter. relatives. declaration of independence, overhead, they broke into loud America. deepened that division. They remain in custody. Police initially said they trigging Spain’s worst political boos and whistling, an AFP cor- “There are different ways of The violence eased off last They include a 38-year-old thought the victims might be crisis in decades. respondent said. protesting but we have one week although the protests con- man and a 38-year-old woman Chinese, but have since said they Yesterday’s rally was called “I feel really angry,” said a objective: independence.” A tinued, with thousands of flag- from Warrington in northwest do not want to speculate on the by the ANC and Omnium Cul- 26-year-old computer tech- second demonstration called by waving students marching England, reportedly a couple. victims’ nationality before they tural, the region’s two biggest nician from Tarragona called the radical CDR will being at 7:30 peacefully through the city on She is said to be the legal owner have been formally identified. grassroots pro-independence Marc, who did not give his pm (1730 GMT), raising fears Friday evening. of the truck. A 48-year-old man “We don’t know exactly the groups that have organised some surname and described the there could be fresh clashes with More than 600 people have from Northern Ireland is also nationality of our individuals. of the largest separatist protests heavy prison sentences handed police. been injured so far in the pro- being held. But at the moment I am going to in recent years. to nine separatist leaders as - Counter demonstration on tests, among them 367 civilians, Yesterday, Irish police focus and engage as much as I Marching down the spacious “totally over the top, inhuman, Sunday - Catalans remain four of whom lost an eye, Catalan announced another arrest at possibly can within the Viet- boulevard, demonstrators held and shameful”. sharply divided over the question health officials say, with gov- Dublin port, of a man in his early namese community,” Pasmore up banners reading “We won’t “The violence doesn’t sit well of separating from Spain, with a ernment figures showing 289 20s from Northern Ireland. said. give in” and chanting “October with me but it’s normal to have September poll showing 44 police were also hurt. Spain’s far-right Vox rallies thousands in central Madrid

AFP red-and-yellow, as the crowds failed independence bid. wants all regional pro-inde- Practically unknown last mired in a drawn-out political MADRID waved thousands of Spanish “Faced with the betrayals of pendence parties banned, with year, Vox in April became the crisis and will once again return flags, cheering and chanting, the Socialists, there is only Vox, its message appealing to those first far-right political force to to the ballot box on November Thousands of people joined a among them many youngsters and faced with criminal sepa- who want to see Spain’s terri- enter the parliament since Spain 10 for its fourth election in as rally called by Spain’s Vox in and families with children. ratism, there is only Vox!” he torial integrity protected. returned to democracy following many years. Madrid yesterday, with leader Addressing the crowds, roared, after also denouncing the Scores of activists also the death of dictator Francisco The ruling Socialists are Santiago Abascal telling the Abascal took aim at the ruling conservative opposition People’s helped unfurl a vast Spanish flag, Franco in 1975. expected to win the vote but crowds only his far-right faction Socialists, largely focusing on the Party (PP) as “useless” and the reportedly measuring 50 metres Known for its anti-immi- once again fall short of a could handle the Catalan crisis. crisis in Catalonia, which has centre-right Ciudadanos as by 20 metres, which they grant stance, the party won 24 majority, with recent polls sug- Shouting “Viva Espana”, they been gripped by violent protests “opportunists”. marched into the packed square of the parliament’s 350 seats in gesting Vox would increase its turned the city’s Columbus after the Supreme Court jailed Vox has taken a very tough at a rally whose slogan was: “in the election. seat share to become the third Square into a sea of nine separatist leaders over a line on Catalan separatism and defence of the unity of Spain”. But the country has been party in parliament. Migrants found safe in Greece hails S&P upgrade as two trucks in Belgium proof of growth

AFP Belgium, en route to the port of AFP BRUSSELS Zeebrugge. The men, who said ATHENS they were Iraqi nationals, were Twenty migrants were found in also found in good health, Greece yesterday welcomed its good health in two separate according to the prosecutor of foreign debt rating upgrade by trucks in Belgium yesterday, West Flanders quoted by the Standard and Poor’s as proof of according to local prosecutors. Belga news agency. further growth after a nearly Eleven African men, women Thirty-nine people were decade-long debt crisis. and children — mainly from found dead this week in a refrig- Emerging from its third Eritrea – were found in a truck erated truck near London whose straight bailout last year, Greece in the city of Saint-Trond, 65 kil- container had arrived from Zee- has a public debt of more than ometres east of Brussels, the brugge. Five people have been 180 percent of gross domestic Limbourg prosecutors said. arrested in connection with the product and remains under The truck, en route to the case. Police on Tuesday also strict supervision by its cred- United Kingdom, stopped for a arrested three men of Iraqi itors. S&P citing an improved mechanical problem at a garage origin suspected of trafficking budget outlook and solid when the migrants were found. 16 people in a van in the north growth prospects raised its International pet fair Meanwhile, police also western port city of Ghent, grade for Greece’s foreign debt People look at poultry during international pet fair Zooexpo 2019 in Riga, Latvia, yesterday. found nine men hidden in a according to the Antwerp public a notch to BB- on Friday. truck in Bruges, in northeastern prosecutor’s office. “Greece’s sovereign debt rating upgrade by Standard & Poor’s proves that our economy is growing ever stronger,” UK ministers deny plan to weaken workers’ rights after Brexit Prime Minister Kyriakos Mit- sotakis said in a tweet. REUTERS may try to loosen regulations, Brussels, the political declaration standards would diverge signif- which will see vital rights and “Our reform agenda aims LONDON including workers’ rights, after which sets out the framework for icantly from those in the EU. protections torn up,” he said. to attract investment, create it leaves the bloc and says it is trade talks says “the future rela- “This story is not correct. UK Junior business minister jobs, accelerate growth and Britain’s government denied a likely to impose trade barriers tionship must ensure open and will maintain (the) highest Kwasi Kwarteng said it was not further restore trust in our newspaper report yesterday that unless rules remain similar, to fair competition, encompassing standards of workers’ rights and in the government’s interest to economy. And we are fully it will seek to weaken workers’ avoid what it views as unfair robust commitments to ensure environmental standards when seek to loosen employment rules. committed to it”, he added. rights after Britain leaves the competition. a level playing field”. we leave the EU,” business min- “I think this is completely Athens expects its economy European Union, with one In the shorter term, Britain’s According to the FT, Brexit ister Andrea Leadsom said on mad, actually,” he said when to grow by 2.8 percent in 2020 minister describing the idea as government also needs support ministry officials wrote that the Twitter in reply to the FT report. asked about the FT report by the while respecting fiscal pledges “completely mad”. from at least some rebel UK’s and EU’s “interpretation of However Labour Party BBC. “Nineteen Labour MPs have to the country’s creditors, The Financial Times pub- members of the opposition these commitments will be very leader Jeremy Corbyn said the come with us and voted for a according to a draft budget lished extracts of leaked docu- Labour Party to pass Brexit leg- different”, and that the text rep- FT report showed members of second reading (of Brexit legis- released early this month. ments from the government’s islation, which has said their resented a “much more open parliament would be unwise to lation). It would not make any “We project economic Brexit ministry which state that votes will hinge on the preser- starting point for future rela- trust government promises on sense at all to dilute workers’ growth in Greece will average a so-called “level playing field” vation of workers’ existing pro- tionship negotiations”. workers’ rights. “These docu- rights.” According to Johnson’s 2.5 percent in 2019-2022, commitment to the EU “leaves tections. In the Brexit transition Government ministers ments confirm our worst fears. deal, only Northern Ireland will fueled mainly by a recovery in room for interpretation”. deal Prime Minister Boris rejected the FT’s suggestion that Boris Johnson’s Brexit is a blue- be obliged to continue to follow domestic demand,” S&P Global The EU is concerned Britain Johnson has negotiated with this meant British labour print for a deregulated economy, rules similar to those in the EU. Ratings said in its statement. 16 EUROPE SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 Russian agent back home after US deportation

AP I don’t want to go that she and a former Russian MOSCOW back there in the near lawmaker worked to leverage future, because if you contacts in the National Rifle The Russian woman convicted are a Russian in the Association to pursue back in the United States of being a channels to American Russian agent returned to United States, you conservatives. Moscow yesterday and declared have to worry: Maria Russia’s foreign ministry that she has no desire to go back Butina spokeswoman, who also met to America. Butina at the airport, said the Maria Butina was deported 30-year-old is a victim of on Friday by the United States “I am very, very, very happy entrenched anti-Russian atti- after serving a prison sentence, to be back home. I am very tudes in the United States. arriving the next day at the grateful to everyone who sup- “This is what, unfortunately, Russian capital’s Sheremetyevo ported me — all the Russian cit- the previous US administration airport. Carrying a bouquet of izens who helped and wrote me started — trying to destroy the flowers, she rested her head on letters and donated money for bilateral relationship,” spokes- the shoulder of her father, my defense,” she said. woman Maria Zakharova said Valery, who had come from their Later she told the Kremlin- yesterday. Siberian hometown of Barnaul funded satellite TV station RT Since the election of Pres- to meet her. that she was not concerned that ident Donald Trump in 2016, Butina, a gun rights activist, she had been banned from the Russian officials have consist- Maria Butina (centre), who served nine months in a US jail for acting as a Russian government agent sought to infiltrate conservative US. ently blamed the two nations’ talks to the press as she arrives at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport, yesterday. US political groups and promote “I don’t want to go back there troubled relations on alleged Russia’s agenda around the time in the near future, because if you “Russophobia” carried over from people-to-people contacts,” Butina violated US law credit for time already served. that Donald Trump rose to are a Russian in the United the administration of Trump’s Zakharova said. because she did not report her Her lawyers said on Friday power. She had been in custody States, you have to worry,” she predecessor, President Barack Butina’s case was highly crit- efforts to the Justice Department, that she was not a spy and that since her arrest in July 2018. said. Obama. icised in Russia and the foreign which requires the registration the case had nothing to do with In brief comments to jour- The former American Uni- “She really did no harm to ministry underlined that position of lobbyists and others in the US espionage or election nalists at the airport after versity graduate student pleaded anybody. She’s just a girl, she’s by using her face as the avatar who do the bidding of foreign interference. arriving on an Aeroflot flight guilty last December to con- just a young woman. She tried to on its Facebook page. That was governments. They cast the crime as more from Miami, Butina thanked her spiring to act as an unregistered invest her youth, if you wish, her changed to the Russian double- She was sentenced to 18 technical than substantive. supporters. agent for Russia. She admitted gift, her talent, into eagle symbol after her return. months in prison but received Two indicted in Serbia President praises Russia for boosting its military Switzerland for AP systems could do, saying he was to Russia after the six-day drills, despite warnings from the EU Western military alliance. Kosovo IS recruitment BELGRADE “thankful to our Russian friends while Vucic said the Pantsyr that it could jeopardize its mem- declared independence from AP for drastically boosting our system was purchased by his bership bid. Serbia in 2008, a move Belgrade BERLIN Serbia’s president praised Russia defense capabilities.” government. “We are talking about fan- and Moscow don’t recognise. for sending sophisticated anti- The Russian Defence Min- Serbia remains Russia only tastic systems,” Vucic said after Russia has been helping Swiss prosecutors have indicted aircraft missiles to joint air istry said that the long-range ally in the Balkans, despite a pro- attending a computer-simulated Serbia beef up its military with two men accused of recruiting defense drills, the first such S-400 and the short-range claimed goal of joining the EU. anti-aircraft drill. “If we had fighter jets, attack helicopters people for the IS militant group. deployment by Moscow to a Pantsyr-S systems were taking Belgrade has pledged to stay out S-400, no one would dare and battle tanks, raising con- The attorney-general’s country seeking to join the part in the Slavic Shield-2019 of Nato and refused to join overfly Serbia.” cerns in the war-scarred Balkan office said that the two face European Union. exercise that envisages joint Western sanctions against Russia Serbia was bombed by Nato region. During the bloody charges of supporting and par- Visiting a military airport action by the Russian and over Ukraine. in 1999 to stop a bloody breakup of the former Yugo- ticipating in IS. Both lived in near Belgrade, Aleksandar Vucic Serbian militaries to fend off air Serbia was also due to sign a crackdown against Kosovo Alba- slavia in the 1990s, Serbia was northeastern Switzerland, and declared himself impressed by attacks. free trade agreement with a nians, an experience that left at war with neighbours Croatia, their names weren’t provided. what Russia’s surface-to-air The S-400 is to be returned Russian-led economic bloc Serbs with a deep mistrust of the Bosnia and Kosovo. The main suspect, a Swiss- Italian dual citizen, allegedly traveled to IS-controlled ter- ritory in Syria and on his return German authorities recruited several people for the group. Prosecutors said the other say 2016 shooting suspect tried to travel to Syria via North Macedonia, where police stopped him. He had far-right motives allegedly recruited one person for IS. Both men are accused of AP The shooting took place on spreading propaganda for the BERLIN the fifth anniversary of the group. killing of 77 people by Nor- German authorities said that wegian right-wing extremist they have concluded that a 2016 Anders Behring Breivik. Inves- Ukraine arrests shooting in which a German- tigators have said previously the Iranian teenager killed nine Munich shooter, identified as suspect over $6m people and then himself was David Ali Somboly, researched hack on US firms prompted in part by the assail- that slaughter online. On Friday, ant’s right-wing extremist views. they said that lengthy checks on AFP Bavaria’s state criminal various online platforms have KIEV police office said it has now turned up further evidence of decided to classify the shooting far-right views. Ukrainian police said that they in Munich as a “politically moti- They also said that revenge had arrested a foreign man vated crime.” It said that “the for bullying by schoolmates, People taking part in a peaceful protest march against the city council and the mayor’s administration probed by the FBI for almost a radical right-wing and racist some of immigrant origin, and policies along the river Tiber near the Castle Sant’Angelo in Rome, yesterday. decade for hacking US financial views of the perpetrator should mental illness, a lack of social institutions and stealing some not be ignored.” contacts and excessive playing $6m. The announcement coin- of combat video games factored The 32-year-old is sus- Protesters in Rome call for mayor to resign cided with a new surge in into the motives for the shooting. pected of illegally interfering in AFP “The whole world pities us,” bins overflow near tourist sites, concern about far-right violence Police stressed that their computer systems, money ROME it said. homes and schools. in Germany, fueled by a botched investigations have turned up laundering and fraud, police The march came a day after Raggi became the capital’s attack on a synagogue in Halle no evidence that anyone else said in a statement. Hundreds of people marched trade unions in Rome staged a first female mayor in 2016 by this month in which a German was aware of the shooter’s plans The FBI launched an inves- along the Tiber River yesterday general strike, with workers tapping into anger over cor- using home-made weapons or incited him to carry them out, tigation into the activities of the to demand Rome mayor Virginia including bus drivers and garbage ruption scandals — in particular killed a passer-by and a man at or that he was part of any man, whose nationality was not Raggi resign over the state of the collectors taking a stand against the infiltration of crime families a nearby kebab shop. network. disclosed, in 2010. Italian capital. the mayor and her ruling Five in the city’s waste management On July 22, 2016, the Last year, a man was sen- This year, US authorities “Raggi is turning the city into Star Movement administration. system. 18-year-old assailant targeted tenced to seven years in prison turned to Kiev with a request somewhere to run away from, The Eternal City’s streets are In April this year she a Munich restaurant known as for selling a pistol and ammu- for help in finding and detaining instead of a city where people riddled with potholes, buses reg- defended herself against accu- a hangout for youths of immi- nition to the attacker. In a sep- the hacker, Ukrainian police can live with dignity, work and ularly catch fire and officials sations she had failed to turn the grant backgrounds. arate trial, a man who ran the said, adding that the arrest took build their future,” the Tutti per have warned the perennial situation around, saying Rome The dead included victims web forum where illegal goods place in one of Kiev’s top hotels. Rome (Everyone for Rome) garbage crisis constitutes a was “under attack” from mob- of Hungarian, Turkish, Greek, including the weapon were Authorities were consid- organisation said ahead of the health risk, with rat control sters determined not to release and Kosovo Albanian traded was sentenced to six ering extraditing him to the US. rally. services working overtime as their grip on a lucrative sector. backgrounds. years Portugal Prime Minister targets 25% minimum wage rise in his new term

REUTERS Costa’s centre-left Socialists, and Left Bloc - in the last four new minority government, importance it has,” he said. the new government’s pro- LISBON who presided over four years of years and the wage plan is likely adding that the planned increase While warning that the global gramme, which is likely to be strong economic growth and to be well received by them. Por- should surpass a rise of almost economic environment presented presented next week. It does not Portugal Prime Minister Antonio budget deficit cuts, won an tugal still has one of the lowest 20% in the previous legislature. challenges to growth, Costa said require a compulsory vote, but Costa promised yesterday to October 6 election, expanding minimum wages in western “The national minimum the government’s commitment if parliament decides to vote on raise the monthly minimum their parliamentary represen- Europe. salary will evolve every year to promoting further economic it and it is rejected, the gov- wage by 25% to $830 by 2023 as tation as the biggest party but still “The government now out- after discussions with the col- expansion, achieving balanced ernment could collapse. he started his second term in the just shy of a majority. lines its goal of reaching the lective bargaining partners, public accounts and greater social Analysts, however, do not office, while reiterating the goal Costa has relied on support minimum salary of 750 euros in depending on the employment justice “does not depend on eco- expect any major obstacles for to cut public debt to below 100% from the two far-left parties in 2023,” Costa said at the dynamics and economic growth, nomic cycles”. the Socialist government to be of GDP. parliament — the Communists swearing-in ceremony of his but never ignoring the social Parliament is yet to debate allowed to rule. SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 AMERICAS 17 Presidential hopefuls take part in criminal justice forum

REUTERS The forum is aimed at for nonviolent drug offenders. attorney and state attorney “Donald Trump is a lawless involving crack cocaine and COLUMBIA reforming the criminal Former vice-president Joe general in California, canceled President,” she said. “Not only powder cocaine, which have dis- justice system after Biden, SSenators Elizabeth her appearance after Trump does he circumvent the laws of proportionately affected black Nine Democrats vying to be their Trump last year signed Warren and Bernie Sanders, and received the Bipartisan Justice our country and the principles people. party’s presidential candidate in six other Democratic contenders Award when he made his speech. of our Constitution, but there is Bolstered by the eight years 2020 will take part in a criminal bipartisan legislation will present their own plans. She also expressed frus- nothing in his career that is about he served as No. 2 to Barack justice forum in South Carolina that instituted a Trump hopes his support for tration that only 10 students from justice, for justice, or in cele- Obama, the first black US pres- this weekend, down from 10 number of changes, a sweeping criminal justice the school were given tickets to bration of justice.” ident, Biden has deep connec- after US Senator Kamala Harris including easing harsh reform law will help him pick up the event, with more than half of She said she would instead tions with black politicians and dropped out to protest an award votes among African Americans the 300 seats reserved for guests host students and the local com- clergy. The state may end up given to President Donald Trump minimum sentences next year after only winning 8% of his administration, a figure munity at a separate event in being crucial for him as a last line at the event on Friday. for non-violent drug of the black vote in 2016. that was reported by McClatchy Columbia. of defense if he continues to lose The forum at the historically offenders. “I hope you will judge my DC. Many policymakers say the US ground to rivals in Iowa and New black Benedict College in administration based on the tre- In a statement issued by her criminal justice system is harshly Hampshire. Columbia is an important mendous amount we have campaign, Harris accused Trump punitive, locks up too many people Biden leads his closest rival showcase for Democrats ahead Bipartisan Justice Center, the achieved,” Trump said in his of “decades of celebrating mass and is stacked against the poor and in South Carolina, Warren, by of South Carolina’s February 29 forum is aimed at reforming the keynote speech on Friday. incarceration, pushing the death disadvantaged, as well as against nearly 20 percentage points, primary, the party’s fourth state criminal justice system after Trump easily won South penalty for innocent Black Amer- African-Americans and Latinos. according to a RealClearPolitics nominating contest. Six in 10 Trump last year signed bipartisan Carolina, where Republicans icans, rolling back police Some Democrats are proposing average of recent polls. His rivals Democratic voters in the state legislation that instituted a outnumber Democrats 2-to-1, in accountability measures and legalising marijuana, ending the have been actively campaigning are black. number of changes, including 2016. racist behavior that puts people’s death penalty and eliminating sen- in the state and working to chip Sponsored by the 20/20 easing harsh minimum sentences Harris, a former district lives at risk.” tencing disparities for offenses away at his apparent lead. Judge validates Trump impeachment inquiry REUTERS House wide latitude in handling put himself above the law.” WASHINGTON impeachment. Democrats began The Justice Department had the inquiry without putting such argued that the redacted infor- A US judge validated the legality a resolution to a vote. mation could not be disclosed of the Democratic-led The judge gave the Justice because it contained material impeachment inquiry against Department until next from grand jury proceedings that President Donald Trump and Wednesday to provide the was required to be kept secret, but ordered his administration to blacked out material from the the judge strongly disagreed. hand over an unredacted copy Mueller report that was sub- “DOJ is wrong,” Howell said, of former special counsel Robert poenaed by the House Judiciary adding that the committee’s Mueller’s report detailing Committee. need for disclosure of the mate- Russian meddling in the 2016 “The reality is that DOJ and rials “is greater than the need for election. the White House have been continued secrecy.” US District Judge Beryl openly stonewalling the House’s “Impeachment based on Howell, handing a major victory efforts to get information by sub- anything less than all relevant to the Democratic-led House of poena and by agreement, and evidence would compromise the Representatives, undercut an the White House has flatly stated public’s faith in the process,” argument that Trump’s fellow that the Administration will not added Howell, a former federal Republicans have made in cooperate with congressional prosecutor appointed to the attacking the impeachment requests for information,” the bench by Trump’s Democratic inquiry. The judge said the judge wrote, using an acronym predecessor Barack Obama. House need not approve a res- for the Justice Department. Howell also ruled that the olution formally initiating the House Speaker Nancy Pelosi House has undertaken a legal effort. called the ruling “another blow and legitimate impeachment The US Constitution gives the to President Trump’s attempt to inquiry. Philip Reeker, US SActing Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, arrives to testify in impeachment inquiry against US President Donald Trump, in Washington, DC, yesterday. Horse toll at Santa Anita reaches 35 REUTERS US House impeachment investigation LOS ANGELES resumes with State Department witness Mare G Q Covergirl was euthanised after she injured her two front legs while running on the training track at Santa Anita Park, bringing REUTERS Lawmakers and staff are has underscored what current the death toll at the venue to 35 since December 26. WASHINGTON holding the first weekend dep- and former US officials describe G Q Covergirl had earned $200,730 in her 16 starts, which osition of the investigation, after as a campaign by Trump against included 6 first-place finishes, and was trained by D’Amato until The Democratic-led impeachment Reeker’s testimony was post- career diplomats. Several have June when she was claimed by two-time Kentucky Derby winner investigation of President Donald poned due to memorial events already met with congressional Doug O’Neill. Trump resumes with testimony this week for Representative investigators. Her death comes one week before the famed Southern Cali- from a senior State Department Elijah Cummings, who had been Investigators are expected to fornia racetrack is set to hold the Breeders’ Cup world official, a day after a judge buoyed Oversight committee chairman ask Reeker about issues championships. the probe by dismissing a central and played a leading role in the including Trump’s abrupt dis- Santa Anita Park has been under scrutiny over its alarmingly Gabbard drops Republican objection. impeachment inquiry. missal of Marie Yovanovitch in high fatality rate. Racing at the track was cancelled for more than congressional Philip Reeker, the acting Reeker, 54, is a career dip- May as ambassador to Ukraine. three weeks in March following a series of fatalities. assistant secretary of state for lomat whose current portfolio According to emails given to Santa Anita hired a consultant to lead a study of the track surface bid to focus on European and Eurasian affairs, includes Ukraine, the country congressional committees this and the California Horse Racing Board also investigated, but the is due to meet with the House of central to the investigation of month, Reeker was among dip- cause of the spike in fatalities remains unknown. presidential race Representatives Foreign Affairs, Trump. Reeker has held his lomats who sought to intervene Federal legislation has been introduced aimed at curbing the Intelligence and Oversight Com- position on an acting basis since when Trump supporters accused use of race-day medications in the sport. AP mittees behind closed doors at March 18. Yovanovitch of being disloyal to Some $22 m in prize money will be up for grabs at the two-day HONOLULU the US Capitol. The impeachment inquiry the president. Breeders’ Cup meeting on November 1 and 2. US Representative Tulsi Gabbard (pictured) of Hawaii doubled down on her long-shot Millions face power cuts presidential campaign, announcing she wouldn’t also as California fires spread run for reelection in her congressional district where a AFP expected to pick up today and state senator is mounting a LOS ANGELES last into Monday. spirited push to take her seat. The state’s largest utility, The 38-year-old Democrat Californian officials warned Pacific Gas & Electric Co, said it said the threats of war, inter- yesterday that “historic and expected to cut off power to national tensions and the extreme” wind conditions were 850,000 customers — a precau- threats of a new cold war con- set to fan raging wildfires in the tionary shutdown that local vinced her she should focus on north of the state as millions of media say would affect about the presidential race. residents face power cuts. two million people. “I believe I can best serve Governor Gavin Newsom “The weather event could be the people of Hawaii and our declared a state of emergency as the most powerful in California country as your President and the so-called Kincade Fire in decades,” PG&E said, with dry Commander-in-Chief,” she said spread to 9,591 hectares after northeast winds forecast to gust in in a video recording released breaking out on Wednesday in up to 112kph. online. the Sonoma wine region. “PG&E will need to turn off Her congressional district The blaze, which is burning power for safety several hours spans Honolulu’s suburbs and in remote steep terrain, has before the potentially damaging seven other islands. Its dis- destroyed about 50 structures winds arrive,” it added. parate communities include and forced the evacuation of the “Winds of this magnitude sprawling cattle ranches on the small community of Geyserville pose a higher risk of damage and People evacuate a house as a fire rages in a distance in Santa Clarita, California, yesterday. Big Island, posh oceanfront and of nearby vineyard sparks on the electric system and resorts on Maui and Native operations. rapid wildfire spread.” bad earthquake, the ground is The same type of lines was it had put “profits over the people Hawaiian hunters and fish- “This is definitely an event About 1,300 firefighters opening up... and you’re seeing responsible for California’s dead- of California for too long.” ermen on Molokai. that we’re calling historic and battled the Kincade Fire, which it and don’t know what to do.” liest wildfire ever — last year’s He said it was “infuriating Kai Kahele, a Democratic extreme,” David King, meteor- is only five percent contained, PG&E has come under fierce Camp Fire, which killed 86 beyond words” that a state such state senator, combat veteran ologist for the US National according to the California scrutiny after it reported that people. as California had to endure and lieutenant colonel in the Weather Service, told Los Department of Forestry and even though power had already PG&E, which filed for bank- blackouts. Hawaii Air National Guard, has Angeles Times yesterday. Protection. been shut down to nearly 28,000 ruptcy protection earlier this “It’s about dog-eat-dog cap- been running for the seat, “What’s making this event “I can’t explain it,” 70-year- customers in Sonoma County year, has been blamed for italism meeting climate change,” accusing her of neglecting the really substantial... is the amount old Tina Tavares, who was evac- this week, some high-voltage several other fires in the state in he said, referring to PG&E. district while she campaigns for of time that these winds are uated from her Geyserville transmission lines were still recent years. “It’s a story about greed, and president. going to remain.” home, told the San Francisco operating when the fire broke Governor Newsom hit out at they need to be held Kahele said he respects and Hot, intense winds are Chronicle. “It’s like you’re in a out. the company on Friday, saying accountable.” appreciates Gabbard’s decision. 18 AMERICAS SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 Bolivia President vows run-off election if fraud found in official tally

REUTERS I invite the foreign before military brass in the coca- LA PAZ minister of Argentina, growing region of Cochabamba. the foreign minister “I’ll accompany (the audit). Bolivian President Evo Morales of Brazil, the foreign If there’s fraud the next day we’ll yesterday vowed to hold a convene a second-round” run-off election if an audit of a minister of Colombia election, Morales added in com- vote count that handed him an plus the United States ments broadcast on state TV. outright win finds evidence of to come — let’s do an Protesters blocked roads in fraud, as he sought to calm a audit vote by vote: Evo parts of the highland capital of sixth day of protests and inter- La Paz yesterday for a second national criticism over his Morales day. An indefinite strike against disputed re-election to a fourth his government continued in the consecutive term. So far, only Venezuela, Cuba city of Santa Cruz, an agricultural Morales railed against the and Mexico have sent him their and industrial center where opposition in a regional congratulations, while the opposition to him has long been stronghold of support for his European Union and some of the strong. leftist government. He said his region’s largest countries — the Morales is already Latin Demonstrators block a road during a protest against the re-election of President Evo Morales in Santa rivals were “envious” of his United States, Brazil, Argentina America’s longest-serving pres- Cruz de la Sierra, in Bolivia, yesterday. achievements after 14 years in and Colombia — have pushed ident. He ran for a fourth term this office and accused them, without him to hold a run-off vote with year in defiance of term limits and the board abruptly halted pub- riskier run-off race with the not specified if they will accept providing evidence, of trying to chief rival Carlos Mesa to restore a national referendum that lication of a quick vote count that opposition more united behind its condition for its conclusions stir up unrest to try to unseat him credibility to Sunday’s election, rejected lifting them, after a court showed Morales headed to a Mesa. to be legally binding. illegally. the tightest since 2002. ruling gave him a green light. second-round vote with Mesa. The final vote count by the Brazil, landlocked Bolivia’s But he appeared worried “I invite the foreign minister The country’s embattled When the quick count TSE showed Morales had 47.08% biggest trade partner, has gone about his reputation abroad as of Argentina, the foreign minister electoral board, the Supreme resumed, it confirmed Morales’ of votes to Mesa’s 36.51%. The the farthest in turning up international election observers of Brazil, the foreign minister of Electoral Tribunal (TSE), has prediction on Sunday that he TSE and Morales have said they pressure on Morales, warning it and foreign governments cast Colombia plus the United States denied charges of electoral fraud would secure the 10-point over welcome an audit by the regional would not recognize the results doubt on the legitimacy of his to come — let’s do an audit vote lodged by the opposition. The Mesa in a crowded race of nine group the Organization of until the OAS finishes an audit of win. by vote,” Morales said in a speech accusations were fueled when candidates, enough to avoid a American States (OAS), but have the vote count.

South Dakota Chile’s Pinera to shake up Cabinet amid protests inmate on death REUTERS he would announce them. testers’ demands. with strict curfews enforced by SANTIAGO A document however, sug- He has promised to boost the thousands of heavily armed sol- row loses two gested Pinera was considering minimum wage and pensions, diers on the streets. appeals in one day Chilean President Sebastian replacing the heads of at least ditch fare hikes on public trans- The move sparked outrage Pinera (pictured) said yesterday nine ministries, including the portation and fix the country’s among many in Chile, who said that he would shake up his ministries of interior, defence, ailing health care system. his words and actions harkened AP cabinet to quell a week of mass economy, transportation and Chile’s unrest is the latest in back to the grim era of military SIOUX FALLS protests against inequality that environment. a flare-up of protests in South rule under dictator Augusto have rocked the South American Protests in Chile began over America and around the world Pinochet. A convicted killer in South nation. a hike in subway fares more than — from Beirut to Barcelona — Speaking with reporters yes- Dakota who is scheduled to be His announcement follows a a week ago but boiled into riots each with local triggers but terday morning, Pinera said he executed early next month for peaceful rally late Friday that that have killed at least 17 people, sharing in common anger at would lift the state of emergency the fatal stabbing of a young saw 1 million Chileans flood the resulted in more than 7,000 social disparities and ruling Sunday evening at midnight “if doughnut shop worker lost two streets to call for reforms to the arrests and caused more than elites. circumstances allow.” appeals. country’s social and economic $1.4bn of losses to Chilean The riots prompted Pinera to Chile’s military said the city The 8th US Circuit Court of model. from the La Moneda Presidential businesses. declare “war” on vandals and put “had tended to normalcy...thanks Appeals dismissed a request by “I have put all my ministers Palace. The centre-right Pinera, a the military in charge of security to the contribution of all of its cit- Charles Russell Rhines, 63, to on notice in order to restructure The president did not billionaire businessman, called across much of the country. izens,” adding it would not meet with mental health my cabinet to confront these new announce the specifics of the for a new “social pact,” earlier Santiago has been on enforce a curfew on Saturday experts to prepare a clemency demands,” Pinera told reporters reshuffle, nor did he say when this week in response to pro- lockdown every night this week, evening. application. The three-judge panel said the question of whether Rhines deserves clemency should be decided by Oil spill clean-up on the South Dakota governor. “It still appears that Rhines still has an opportunity to seek Brazilian beaches and obtain relief by means of the state’s statutory and/or con- stitutional framework,” Circuit make volunteers sick Judge Jane Kelly wrote of the REUTERS Silva, who ended up on a drip court’s decision. RECIFE in the local infirmary, said local Earlier on Friday, the South authorities provided no Dakota Supreme Court rejected Volunteers flocking to the equipment and after two days Rhines’ request to delay his Brazilian shore to clean up the several charity groups appeared execution, which is scheduled mysterious oil polluting more and handed out masks and boots. to take place the week of than 100 northeastern beaches The thick sludge has been November 3 to 9. are getting ill from collecting the washing up for nearly two Rhines had argued that the toxic sludge without the proper months, and authorities and state’s execution policies are equipment, health authorities experts have been baffled by its invalid because they don’t said. origin. It is believed to be Vene- follow the rule-making require- After oil slicks washed up zuelan crude but there is no evi- ments of South Dakota’s beaches along more than 2,000 dence of how it entered the open Administrative Procedures Act, km of tropical coastline, hun- ocean. which governs how new pol- dreds of people have turned out A patchwork coalition of vol- icies are implemented. The high to clean the beaches, many using unteers, public employees and court agreed with the state’s their bare hands and feet for lack armed forces have taken to the Municipal workers removing spilled crude oil at Pedra do Sal beach in Salvador, Bahia state, in Brazil. premise that the execution of gloves, boots or even masks beaches to save turtles and other policy is exempt from those to block the fumes. wildlife, collecting the gummy to dilute it in the cleanup efforts. were not trained and equipped it followed standard protocols requirements. “I had nausea and diarrhea oil into bags with varying levels Local media reported that hun- because exposure to the oil was since the start of the environ- Rhines’ attorneys, who the next day, and a splitting of training and support. dreds more had reported very hazardous and could cause mental disaster. Because the didn’t immediately reply to headache,” said Vera Lucia Silva, The Pernambuco state health symptoms but not sought injury or even death. heavy crude does not float on requests for comment, are also a local government clerk who department said on Thursday treatment. “The government’s response the ocean surface like most oil challenging the use of pento- said she and a friend collected that 19 people had been treated Gerald Graham, a Canadian has been really pathetic. They slicks, officials said that tradi- barbital in his execution. 80kg oil with their hands into in hospital for intoxication either oil-spill response expert, said the were not there. Why did they tional methods of keeping it off A circuit court is scheduled plastic bags on the Itapuama from direct contact with the oil authorities should be keeping take so long to act,” he said. the shore have been to hear that challenge on beach south of Recife. or from the solvents being used people off the beaches if they Brazil’s government has said ineffective. Tuesday. Native Hawaiian heiress faces court trial over control of her millions

AP impaired, and he stepped in to descendant of the family that Wright had appointed three place of sincere respect and rev- The allegations that she can’t HONOLULU assume the role of trustee. ruled the islands before the over- prominent Native Hawaiian erence, honouring Ms Kawanan- take care of herself or her affairs, Kawananakoa said she’s fine, throw of the Hawaiian kingdom leaders to serve as board akoa’s lifelong commitment to is “speculation of the worst kind,” A 93-year-old heiress doesn’t fired Wright and married her in 1893. They have been closely members for the $100m foun- the Native Hawaiian people,” said her attorney, Bruce Voss. need a guardian to take care of partner of 20 years, Veronica watching the legal wrangling dation Kawananakoa created in said David Kauila Kopper, an “Just because Ms Kawa- her, but a hearing will be held to Gail Worth. over her trust because they are 2001. The foundation is partici- attorney for the foundation. nanakoa has a great deal of determine whether she needs a Kawananakoa inherited her concerned about the fate of a pating in the court battle because She attempted to change her assets and just because there’s a conservator to oversee her wealth as the great-grand- foundation she set up to benefit it is a beneficiary of her trust. trust last year to ensure her wife lot of people who think they $215m trust, a judge ruled in an daughter of James Campbell, an Hawaiian causes. Board members of her foun- receives $40m and all her per- could do a better job of spending ongoing battle over her wealth. Irish businessman who made his Last year, Judge R Mark dation and ex-employees say her sonal property, according to her money than she does, does Abigail Kawananakoa’s fortune as a sugar plantation Browning ruled Kawananakoa wife is manipulating her. court records. not mean that Ms Kawananakoa fortune has been tied up in a owner and one of Hawaii’s lacks the mental capacity to Lawyers for the couple dispute The couple’s lawyers said has lost the basic right to decide court case since her 2017 stroke. largest landowners. manage her trust, appointed First that. that Kawananakoa is well-cared what she wants to do with her Her longtime lawyer, Jim Wright, Native Hawaiians consider Hawaiian Bank to serve as Petitions for a guardian and for and should be able to do what money and property,” Voss argued the stroke left her her a princess because she’s a trustee and removed Wright. a conservator come “from a she wants with her money. added.

SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019 HOME 19 8th QU-ExxonMobil Teachers Academy to be held by end of this month

THE PENINSULA DOHA

Education partners ExxonMobil Qatar and Qatar University (QU) will host the 8th Qatar University ExxonMobil Teachers Academy in Doha later this month. The academy, which was first established in 2012 with QU’s National Center for Educator Development and the support of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, provides science and math teachers from Qatar’s gov- ernment schools with an opportunity to learn new and effective teaching strategies and enhance existing skills. The academy’s purpose is to ensure that teachers have deep knowledge of their disci- pline by providing them with access to high- quality learning and professional development The academy provides science and math teachers from Qatar’s government schools with opportunities. It also helps them inspire students an opportunity to learn new and effective teaching strategies and enhance existing skills. with STEM education so that they have a chance to be the innovators, educators and researchers of their generation. Its overall mission is to of Training and Educational Development Center academy has helped hundreds of teachers support national efforts to improve workforce at the Ministry of Education and Higher directly contribute to the human development development by building critical skills in the Education.” objectives of the Qatar National Vision 2030. We interest of national economic growth. These skills “We believe that education needs to aim to are maximizing positive synergies by working matter fundamentally for Qatar’s economic and do more than prepare young people for the world with education partners like the ministry across sustainable future. of work; it needs to equip students with the skills programs that include its Science and Technology More than 50 teachers will take part in this they need to become active and responsible cit- Secondary School so that we can accelerate year’s academy. Around 40 of these teachers are izens who can contribute to a sustainable future. progress in achieving Qatar’s goals for the future grade 3-6 math and science teachers from Qatar’s The academy is helping us with this mission and of its education system.” government schools; 8 are Teach For Qatar (TFQ) we’re extremely pleased with its outcomes.” “To prepare for the future, young people fellows, and the remaining are representatives “We’re looking forward to co-hosting should be able to think creatively, develop new from the Ministry of Education and Higher another edition of the Qatar University Exxon- products and services, new processes and Education. Mobil Teachers Academy with our partner Exx- methods, and new ways of thinking. It is our All participating teachers have been care- onMobil Qatar,” said Ahmed Al Emadi, Dean of responsibility as educators and as a community fully selected by the Ministry of Education and Qatar University’s College of Education. “Great to provide them with an enabling environment Higher Education, Qatar University (QU) and teachers are informed about new developments that supports their learning and development. This TFQ. They are determined and passionate indi- in their field and try to keep abreast of them to is what the Qatar University ExxonMobil Teachers viduals who are engaged in their profession and advance their skills and knowledge base. The Academy is all about, and I have seen first hand committed to students and their learning. academy provides teachers with a platform to what a successful and effective program it is for More than 380 teachers from Qatar’s school do all this, as well as the opportunity to access teachers and students alike,” said Dr. Abdullah system would have taken part in the program the latest teaching strategies. In turn, they provide Abu Tineh, Director, National Center for Educa- by the end of this year’s academy. These teachers their students with enriching STEM opportunities, tional Development at Qatar University. are expected to impact over 18,000 students and the promise of successful futures in STEM ExxonMobil Qatar and QU are longstanding through their classrooms. that can benefit their communities,” he added. partners who have worked closely for over two “The Ministry of Education and Higher Edu- “In 2012, we made a commitment to establish decades. The partnership has produced several cation is working hard to give Qatar’s students the Qatar University ExxonMobil Teachers successful educational programs and initiatives, the chance to develop strengths, interests and Academy with Qatar University,” said Alistair particularly in science, technology, engineering goals during their school experience through pro- Routledge, President and General Manager for and math (STEM), and continues to support high grams like the Qatar University ExxonMobil ExxonMobil Qatar. “With the support of the Min- quality teaching and learning opportunities in Teachers Academy,” said Hissa Al Aali, Director istry of Education and Higher Education, the Qatar’s education system.

CROSSWORD MALL ROYAL PLAZA

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

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

MARY A family looking to start a charter-boat business buys a ship that holds terrifying secrets once out on isolated waters. 20 MORNING BREAK SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER 2019

PRAYER TIMINGS FAJR 04. 21 AM Halima Aden changing the game SHOROOK 05. 38 AM

ZUHR 11. 18 AM MAGHRIB 04. 59 PM RAYNALD C RIVERA whatever I can do to inspire them I’m THE PENINSULA ASR 02.32 PM ISHA 06. 29 PM ready to do that,” she added. On her message to young women “Don’t change yourself, change the who aspire to be in the industry, she WEATHER TODAY game” — the slogan of international said: “My slogan is ‘Don’t change model and Unicef Ambassador Halima yourself, change the game.’ I honestly Aden and also her advice to young think as long as you’re pursuing your women aspiring to make it in the passion and something that you’re industry. doing for yourself, it’s never going to Born in a Kenyan refugee camp, lead you astray so just go out, give it a Aden, who moved to the US at age six, try. Sometimes you fail, but even when made history as the first contestant in you fail it’s not really failure because Miss Minnesota USA to don hijab and you learn so much more through that the first hijab-wearing model to be experience, so I would just say there’s signed to a major modeling agency, no losing when it comes to trying walk international runways and be on something new, getting outside your the cover of British Vogue, Allure and comfort zone and putting yourself out Vogue Arabia — a game-changer in the there.” modeling industry. Aden has visited Qatar for the first In an exclusive interview with The time to participate in the 16th Heya Peninsula, she expressed pride for Arabian Fashion Exhibition as a special being considered a trailblazer in the guest and share her journey to success industry. and the rise of modest fashion in the “I’m so proud because it’s not international scene in ‘Celebrity Talk: uncommon now to see hijab-wearing Breaking boundaries, a history of firsts’ models. It’s not uncommon anymore on Friday. for girls to aspire to be in the fashion She stressed that she was excited industry, be a model, pursue editorials. to support the designers participating I’m even more excited for other big in Heya which she lauded for bringing firsts and I’m constantly challenging together designers from all over the o o myself to do better every day,” she said. world. 30 C 38 C The 22-year-old Somali-American “I think it gives people the oppor- Minimum Maximum model is not only excited of what the tunity to not just shop one collection future holds for her but other young but to have a taste of all these different Misty at places at first becomes relatively women in her community whom she countries because a lot of these hot daytime with local clouds and chance has inspired. designers incorporate their culture into of thundery rain at places by afternoon. “I’m also excited for the young the clothes so I just love the fact that

women in my community to do great there’s no other event like Heya and

HIGH TIDE 03:44 – 15:23 LOW TIDE 10:27 – 23:05 things and never be afraid to take risks that it’s really nice that it’s in Qatar as Courtesy: Qatar Meteorology Department and put themselves out there because well,” she said. if I didn’t compete for Miss Minnesota On how she sees the future of modest USA in 2016, I would have not have fashion, she said: “I want to see more of International model and Unicef Ambassador Halima Aden. gone to modeling and I would have not a bridge between modest fashion and PIC: SALIM MATRAMKOT/THE PENINSULA become a Unicef ambassador if I didn’t high fashion or mainstream fashion have this platform,” she said. because I think they are so similar but at years. I don’t think it’s exclusive to any beautiful. That’s why I came here to “I just want to encourage all the the same time so different but events like one group whether you are a hijab- support it.” girls in my community and all the girls Heya is creating that bridge. wearing person or you’re not Muslim On her first impression of Qatar: “I that follow me to just don’t be afraid “ Modest fashion has stood the test and that’s what’s so beautiful about think it’s beautiful with the tall to be the first and dream big. There’s of time. It’s the oldest trend and it’s Heya, anybody can shop this collection buildings and really clean. It’s really so much that we can still be doing so going to be around for another 100 and still look amazing, confident, and stunning. I love the architecture.” Ooredoo launches ‘WallPost ERP’ for SMEs to run in real-time

THE PENINSULA “By adding WallPost ERP to our port- In talent management, the WallPost their decision-making and efficiency. DOHA folio of business solutions, we are ERP service Human Resources (HR) Our WallPost ERP service has all of the equipping our business customers, module can streamline and automate features to efficiency manage an organ- Ooredoo announced yesterday that the especially small- and medium-sized the human capital management proc- isation and employees.” Al Kubaisi industry-leading WallPost enterprise enterprises, with one central tool to esses, the Timesheet module can track added. resource planning (ERP) solution is now enable real-time decision-making. and manage employees’ efforts, the The launch of WallPost ERP, available for all business customers in Qatar’s organisations can advance their Performance Analysis module provides powered by Ooredoo builds on the Qatar, supporting new levels of digital digital transformation and cloud at-a-glance views, and the Task Man- 2018 partnership between Ooredoo, transformation. journeys, and boost performance and agement module can organise work- Moore Stephens, and Smart Man- WallPost ERP, powered by competitiveness.” loads. Organisations can automate their agement IT Solutions to develop Ooredoo, provides real-time per- The WallPost ERP service modules operations with WallPost ERP, starting WallPost ERP. formance visibility and decision- include the My Portal for real-time from QR24 per user per month. Business customers can leverage making across any organisation, dashboards, Finance for accounting “Using the WallPost ERP service, the Ooredoo Advantage, making project, or employee. The service is and finance, CRM for completing the businesses can work smart and work Ooredoo “Best for Business”, thanks to scalable, flexible, and can be tailored customer lifecycle, Project Per- fast by centralising the automation of its breadth and depth of talent, best to the needs of individual customers. formance for client engagement, and day-to-day operations across lines of fixed and mobile networks, broadest Ooredoo Qatar Chief Operations Operations for integrating sales, human business, produce easy-to-analyse portfolio of ICT services and solutions, Officer, Yousuf Abdulla Al Kubaisi, said, resources, and finance. reports, and help managers to enhance and trusted partner for 60 years.

Fishy business: Over 200 contestants take part in 8th Stinking ponyfish edition of Aspire Torch Staircase Run blanket Thai tourist beach THE PENINSULA In the women’s adult cat- Al-Sheemy, Manager of Media DOHA egory, British Stephanie Innes- and Communication at Aspire AFP Smith snatched first place in 12 Zone Foundation, honored both BANGKOK With over 200 contestants taking minutes 41 seconds, Hanna Clark boys and girls categories. part, Aspire Zone Foundation from Denmark was runner-up, In the corporate category, the Hundreds of dead fish (AZF) successfully concluded the while Tunisian Amira Azizi came Civil Defense team won the race washed ashore on a eighth edition of the Aspire Torch third. with a time of 10 minutes and 41 luxury tourist resort on Staircase Run (ATSR 2019) on Cheryl Aquionaval from the seconds, the Civil Aviation team Thailand’s south coast, Friday. Philippines came in first place came second, while RasGas came officials said yesterday, The event involved partici- with a time of 14 minutes 42 third. blanketing a long stretch pants of all ages and backgrounds seconds in the Masters — The winning teams in the cor- of pristine white sands in in the race categories for children, Women’s category, Swiss porate category were crowned a rotting stench. adults, masters and companies. Manuela Pauley came in second, by Abdullah Aman Al Khater, Some 300 metres British Andrew Jones and Maria Cecilia from the Phil- Director of Facilities and Events (950 feet) of beach on managed to maintain first place ippines also came in third. The at Aspire Logistics, and Ahmed Naka Yai island was lit- in the Masters — Men’s category winners were honoured by Mahmoud Al Abdullah, Civil Avi- tered with dead ponyfish, for the second consecutive year Khairiya Al Absi, Manager of ation Team Officer. Phuket provincial fish- by reaching the 51st floor of the Partnership and Sponsorship at Abdullah Aman Al Khater, eries chief Siripong Pan- Torch in 7 minutes and 22 Aspire Logistics. Chairman of the Organising Com- asonthi told AFP, adding seconds. Mohammed Al Obaidli For the children’s category, mittee of the race said: “I congrat- authorities were working from Qatar came in second, and Aisha Al Maadeed from Qatar ulate all the winners and we are to determine the cause of Croatian Ivo Kovacic came in defended her last year’s title by happy with the success of the the deaths but had ruled third. Abdullah Aman Al Khater, retaining first place in the cat- eighth edition of the race, which out pollution in the water. Director of Venues and Events at egory of girls in 4 minutes 43 witnessed a great demand for “We have checked Aspire Logistics awarded the seconds, while American Hanan registration. Members of the same the water quality... It winners of the Masters – Men’s Eriksson runner-up in the same family participated in different cannot cause the fish to category. category, and Jenna Khatib from race categories, and non-partic- die en masse,” Siripong In the men’s adult category, the United States also came in the ipants enjoyed the activities of the said. Tunisian Nasreddine Mansour third place. fun zone.” He said he believed came in first place, finishing in 8 While Nidal Yahya from India The participation of Aspire the catch of ponyfish — minutes 26 seconds, while Cor- took the first place in the same Academy students this year Participants of 8th edition of Aspire Torch Staircase Run pose for which, when caught alive nelia Jan Wouters from the Neth- category for boys after finishing added a special flavour to the photos. are sold to make animal erlands finished runner-up. in 3 minutes and 7 seconds, the race, where 11 students took part feed but are worthless French Matthieu Corpet came in British Liam Wilson managed to in the race until the 51st floor. Abdalla Nabil Adam came second Public Relations at Aspire Zone when dead _ had been third. The winners were hon- finish second and Hassan Ship- Abdulsalam Arif Alawi won and third in the race. Foundation, crowned the dumped by local fishing oured by Sherif Sabri, Managing chandler from the United States the first place. His colleagues Nasser Abdullah Al Hajri, winners of the Academy trawlers. Director of the Torch-Doha Hotel. came in third place. Amal Muwafaq Faqeer Algadi and Director of Communication and students.