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SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020 17 SAFAR - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8400 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS Enjoy Ooredoo’s fast 5G network QA travellers’ number rises by over 20% in 5 years

SACHIN KUMAR reports of the airline. customer centric measures THE PENINSULA The airline has delivered taken by the airline. stellar performance by over- The illegal blockade could The number of passengers trav- coming major challenges such not prevent the airline from elling through Qatar Airways as illegal airspace blockade launching flights to a number of has surged by over 20 percent imposed since 2017 by siege high profile destinations. Despite in the last five years, reflecting countries and COVID-19 out- the challenging backdrop in soaring popularity of the airline. break that has posed an exis- financial year 2017-18, the airline The flag carrier of Qatar tential threat to many airlines. opened 14 new destinations, con- carried 32.4 million passengers Qatar Airways has become necting its passengers to more in 2019-20 compared to 26.65 the first choice for millions of exciting business and leisure hot million passengers in 2015-16, passengers across the globe, spots around the world. showing a growth of around 22 driven by network expansion, The Qatar Airways brand percent, according to annual latest aircraft and several has not only grown in size in the past year, but has grown also in terms of quality of brand Qatar and US review defence relations equity. “Going beyond the prior perception of Qatar Airways as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, H E Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al a purely premium and luxury Attiyah, met yesterday with Secretary of Defence of the United States of America, H E Mark Esper, airline, travellers began to see who is currently visiting the country. They reviewed bilateral relations in the military and defence the airline as one that shares fields between the two countries, and ways to enhance them. A number of issues related to regional passenger values, as well as and international affairs of mutual interest were also reviewed. offering a superior product. Compelling results have shown a substantial positive shift Qatar Airways carried 32.4 million towards consumer willingness MME to attract citizens for specialised jobs passengers in 2019-20 compared to to travel with the airline, and a considerable increase in pos- THE PENINSULA — DOHA Planning Forum of the Ministry any shortage in this type of job. 26.65 million passengers in 2015-16. itive word of mouth associ- of Municipality and Envi- At the six-day forum ation,” said the airline in its The Minister of Municipality ronment (MME) yesterday, H E organised by the Planning and Despite the challenging backdrop in annual report 2019-20. and Environment, H E Abdullah the Minister emphasised on Quality Department at MME, the financial year 2017-18, the airline In order to give passengers bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al making room for new genera- plans and projects of support opened 14 new destinations. more choices, Qatar Airways Subaie has directed depart- tions of officials and employees activities and resources for the has also forged strategic alli- ments of the Ministry to attract in the administrative units of the Shared Services Affairs sector The airline repatriated over 1.8 million ances through codeshare Qatari citizens for specialised Ministry enabling them to take were reviewed and discussed. passengers on 13,000 passenger and agreements with major airlines. and technical jobs to enhance the responsibilities. The Minister stressed the Qatar Airways performance their competitiveness in local He pointed out that it was importance of the role that the charter flights during the first eight during COVID-19 outbreak has job market. needed to focus on professional Shared Services Affairs weeks of the COVID-19 crisis. further increased travellers’ Addressing the concluding development through spe- Department plays as it is the main confidence in the airline. `P2 ceremony of the First Annual cialised training programs to fill engine of the Ministry. `P2 02 HOME SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020

OFFICIAL NEWS MME to attract citizens for specialised jobs Amir congratulates FROM PAGE 1 system in order to strengthen center and customer service, German President The department has also a oversight, control and col- and to ensure that laws are role and great effects on ena- lection of revenues and the practiced in a correct and DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin bling factors and achieving the provision of electronic services proper manner, especially those Hamad Al Thani and Deputy Amir goals of all sectors of the min- and applications to assist related to priority services. H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad istry in the field of human and employees in performing their In the public services affairs Al Thani sent yesterday cables of financial resources, infor- work and to facilitate and sector, the forum concluded congratulations to President of the mation systems technology and accelerate services provided to that it is necessary to encourage Federal Republic of Germany, H E administrative services, and the public. recycling and treatment of Frank-Walter Steinmeier, on the which contribute strongly to Regarding the organisation waste so that the State of Qatar anniversary of the German Unity building the training and devel- of the forum, H E the Minister will be a model at the regional Day. Prime Minister and Minister opment capabilities of the praised the level of the visual level in the field of recycling, of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin human cadres working in the presentations made by the and the increase of green Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani also ministry. ministry’s assistant undersec- spaces. sent a cable of congratulations to The Minister said that MME retaries and directors of With regard to the agricul- Chancellor of the Federal Repub- is considered one of the largest departments, which are con- tural and fisheries sector, the lic of Germany H E Angela Merkel, Minister of Municipality and Environment H E Abdullah bin Abdulaziz ministries in the country in sidered an integrated plan to forum pointed out to the impor- on the anniversary of the German bin Turki Al Subaie participating in the MME’s Planning Forum. terms of tasks, specialisations guide them during the next tance of setting up a mechanism Unity Day. — QNA and human cadres, and work process in the ministry. and coordination between the therefore the ministry have an The first annual planning use of geographic information of misinformation and work to sectors of agriculture, envi- Amir congratulates opportunity to reshape the forum concluded that there are systems for waste management correct it quickly. ronment and municipalities and President of Iraq ministry’s approach in the field great opportunities to develop operations, especially haz- In the municipal affairs integrating them in the work of human resources and for- the building permit service, ardous and environmental sector, the forum recommended and providing an internal mulate and define priorities in simplify its procedures and set matters, and setting up a meth- the need to focus on customer database in cooperation with DOHA: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim general. a clear indication for all cate- odology to work on enhancing satisfaction and facilitate and information systems (IT) and bin Hamad Al Thani and Deputy The Minister stressed the gories of projects, whether large community communication, simplify the procedures of the geographic information systems Amir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin importance of setting up a strict or small, and educate owners. especially on social media plat- services provided, and the need (GIS) for agricultural research Hamad Al Thani sent yesterday financial and supervisory It was also noted that the forms, to reduce the circulation to benefit from the unified call and animal production topics. cables of congratulations to Pres- ident of the Republic of Iraq H E Dr. Barham Salih, on the anniver- sary of his country’s Independence QA travellers’ number rises HMC launches website on elderly care Day. Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin by over 20% in 5 years THE PENINSULA — DOHA growing, valuable, and vibrant million. This number is pro- Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani also sent a cable of congratulations to FROM PAGE 1 resource in our community; the jected to more than double over under six years, its state-of- Hamad Medical Corporation National Health Strategy (2018- the next three decades, Prime Minister of the Republic of Qatar Airways repatriated the-art fleet continues to be (HMC) has launched a new 2022) therefore includes a focus reaching more than 1.5 billion Iraq H E Mustafa Al Kadhimi, on over 1.8 million passengers on one of the youngest and most website with practical healthy on healthy ageing that aims to persons in 2050. The year 2020 the anniversary of his country’s 13,000 passenger and charter modern in the industry. ageing and care information for improve health by creating the marks the 30th Anniversary of Independence Day. — QNA flights during the first eight “We received a new air- older people, in connection right conditions for older the International Day of Older weeks of the crisis. craft on average every 16 days, with the International Day of people to increase their active Persons (UNIDOP), which is Qatar condemns One of the main attractions enabling us to continue our Older Persons, life years, stay well, and live at observed each year on October explosion in for travellers is its modern ambitious route expansion The microsite, which can be home wherever possible,” said 1. “People age differently fleet of aircraft that give addi- strategy and provide our pas- accessed through the homepage Dr. Al Hamad. depending on their genetic Afghanistan tional confidence to pas- sengers with increased con- of HMC’s website (hamad.qa), “This website is an makeup and lifestyle. While we sengers while travelling. With nectivity across the globe,” is the first resource of its kind important contribution to cannot change our genes, we DOHA: The State of Qatar has an average aircraft age of said the airline. in the country and is intended HMC’s comprehensive plan for can all make certain lifestyle expressed its strong condemnation to be a trusted source for up- enhancing care for the elderly. changes that will influence the and denunciation of the explo- to-date information and advice It includes healthcare education state of our health and well- sion that occurred in Nangarhar Four arrested for violating quarantine on health and ageing. and information about geriatric being as we age. Starting from province in eastern Afghanistan, According to Dr. Hanadi Al service expansions that have when we are in our 40s, we can and led to deaths and injuries. In QNA — DOHA Hamad, National Lead for been designed to support our adopt simple measures that will a statement issued yesterday, the Healthy Ageing and Medical elderly citizens. It is one help our physical and mental Ministry of Foreign Affairs reit- The competent authorities arrested yesterday four people who Director of Rumailah Hospital element in our strategic and health, as both are closely erated the State of Qatar’s firm violated the requirements of the home quarantine, they committed and Qatar Rehabilitation innovative approach to man- linked. Staying physically and stance on rejecting violence and to following, which they are legally accountable for. Institute (QRI), the need for aging disease and promoting mentally active and connected terrorism regardless of motives It is in implementation of the precautionary measures in force medical services for elderly health and wellbeing among with family and friends, eating and causes. The statement to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The four people patients has grown alongside older adults,” added Dr. Al healthy, avoiding smoking, and expressed the State of Qatar’s con- being referred to the competent prosecution are Khaled Mushbab the need to promote prevent- Hamad. conducting regular health dolences to the families of victims Mohammed Al Jasser Al Shehri, Badr Jarallah Salem Masoud Abu ative measures to support According to the UN, the screenings are all important and the government and people of Sherida, Mohammed Yasser Ferhad and Mohammed Ahmad healthy ageing. global number of persons aged investments in our future Afghanistan, wishing the wounded Mohammed Al Silani Al Yafei. “Our elderly citizens are a 65 or over in 2019 was 703 health,” added Dr. Al Hamad. a speedy recovery. — QNA

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Lavazza Coffee Espresso Midi Cakes Asstd QAR 17.75 QAR 9.50 Asstd 50gm X 1pc (10 Capsules) 280gm x 1pc SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020 HOME 03 Qatar attends signing of peace deal between Sudan govt, armed movements QNA — JUBA Al Muraikhi says Qatar-sponsored Darfur Peace the path, instead of waiting or wasting time by stopping and The State of Qatar participated Agreement brought together the government of turning back. yesterday in the final signing Sudan and the armed movements in May 2011, The Minister of State for ceremony of the peace Foreign Affairs pointed out that agreement between the transi- after a long and arduous period of negotiation there are several models for that tional government of the with all parties related to the conflict in Darfur. successful strategy, represented Republic of Sudan and the in the donors conference Sudanese armed movements, organised by the State of Qatar which was held in the capital of conscience, adding that this represented in Darfur Peace in April 2013, as the State of South Sudan, Juba. moment relates to the hopes of Agreement, which brought Qatar worked on a package of The delegation of the State many who have been displaced together all stakeholders in May, development programmes, the of Qatar at the ceremony was by war and made refugees and 2011 between the government most important of which is what headed by Minister of State for displaced persons, to return to of Sudan and the armed move- is known as building service Foreign Affairs H E Sultan bin the embrace of the nation that ments, after a long and arduous complexes or what is known as Saad Al Muraikhi. awaits peace, development, period of negotiation with all model villages established in The Minister of State for reconstruction and prosperity. parties related to the conflict in fifteen locations in the five states Foreign Affairs conveyed to the He expressed the State of Darfur. of Darfur, to facilitate the vol- mediating state and the signa- Qatar’s thanks to the Republic He said that the agreement untary return of displaced tories of the peace agreement of South Sudan, and the Pres- addressed the roots of the con- persons. Al Muraikhi pointed out the greetings of Amir H H Sheikh ident, H E Lieutenant General flict and its repercussions, and that he referred to these details Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and Salva Kiir Mayardit, for spon- that the journey to implement because the next stage is the the wishes of the government soring these negotiations, and the Doha Agreement extended stage of building peace and and people of the State of Qatar to negotiation delegations and for years which was the most implementing the protocols that for success. the Mediation Committee for difficult, as it went through chal- have been agreed upon, which He said in Qatar’s speech their patience and wisdom, lenges, difficulties and obstacles needs a similar effort to make that it is a pleasure to address which brought us to this historic of every kind and everywhere, peace, and needs to be done in you at this unique moment in moment. but the State of Qatar has always the same spirit of brotherhood history, when everyone has He stressed that the State of been ready to overcome because the nation, Sudan will Qatar's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad Al devoted themselves to peace, Qatar was not far from the peace obstacles and challenges, and in benefit from that, and good will Muraikhi speaking at the peace deal signing ceremony, in Juba, and rejected war, and responded issue in Sudan, as it sponsored that it followed the strategy of prevail for its people and its South Sudan, yesterday. to the voice of reason and a similar experience looking ahead and continuing neighbours. Al Marri: Independent rights institutions an indicator of progress QNA — GENEVA institutions that can protect and Strong and well-resourced the activities carried out by the Global promote their rights, and ensure their Alliance on the accreditation of The Global Alliance of National Human ability to work in a safe and enabling national human rights national human rights institutions. Rights Institutions (GANHRI) has environment. He said that the Alliance institutions play an important He pointed out that as documented considered the existence of inde- encourage states to establish national role in helping countries fulfil in the Secretary-General’s report, pendent national institutions in human rights institutions where there their international human national institutions participate in a compliance with Paris Principles an are no such institutions, and to rights obligations, and in range of monitoring, consultancy and indicator for measuring the progress strengthen the existing national insti- reporting activities, and play an of countries in the framework of tutions, and the Alliance looks forward achieving sustainable important role in urging states to Sustainable Development Goals (16). to working with them and continuing development goals. promote human rights as part of their In the statement delivered by the to support its members in building and efforts to address the pandemic. Secretary-General and Acting strengthening their capacities. Dr. Ali bin Smaikh Al Marri Al Marri added that in accordance Chairman of the Global Alliance of Al Marri noted the support of the Secretary-General and Acting with what the Secretary-General indi- National Human Rights Institutions Global Alliance of National Human cated in his progress report on the Sus- (GANHRI), Dr. Ali bin Smaikh Al Marri, Rights Institutions and regional net- Chairman of GANHRI tainable Development Goals for the during his participation in the 45th works to establish such institutions, year 2020, 40 percent of member session of the UN Human Rights and the Alliance contributes to the con- states achieved the compliance of their Council devoted to discussing items 2 tinuous development of the capabil- He affirmed that strong and well- in achieving sustainable development national human rights institutions with and 8, GANHR stressed the need for all ities of national human rights institu- resourced national human rights insti- goals. Al Marri thanked the United Paris Principles during 2019, while 78 persons in all countries to benefit from tions to enhance their effectiveness, in tutions play an important role in Nations Secretary-General, H E countries in several regions did not the existence of strong and inde- close coordination and in partnership helping countries fulfil their interna- Antonio Guterres, for his reports on achieve the required compliance of pendent national human rights with the United Nations. tional human rights obligations, and national human rights institutions, and their institutions. DFI to hold first podcast lab RAYNALD C RIVERA possible for people to dive into They will also receive tips THE PENINSULA topics without having to set on tools, funding models, aside time. audience development, distri- Doha Film Institute (DFI) has DFI said the new pro- bution, and gain insights on announced that it will hold its gramme will “provide partici- how they can measure their first Podcast Lab in collabo- pants with the knowledge, success. ration with the Independent resources, and mentor support A total of six to eight partic- Filmmaker Project (IFP), the for developing their project ipating projects will be selected largest and longest-running both creatively, through story for the workshop which is open not-for-profit dedicated to development and sound editing to participants who must be independent film. workshops; and strategically, from Qatar or the MENA region To be conducted online, with discussions on industry interested in entering the DFI-IFP Podcast Lab 2020 is “a landscape, pitching, marketing, podcast Industry. fantastic opportunity for you to and releasing their audio Those who wish to join the learn about this increasingly project in today’s audio workshop whose projects are popular digital content landscape.” in later stages of development platform,” reads a social media The participants will spe- must have a pilot script, show post by DFI. cifically learn the basics of trailer, or sample audio while Podcast has become a trend audio storytelling and the art of those participants in early which continues to grow every creating and producing dis- stages of development should year. This year alone, it was tinctive audio podcasts. have a comparable proof of found that over 155 million At the end of the pro- concept detailing their ideas. people listen to a podcast every gramme, participants are The workshop will run from week. And as the world expected to have an enhanced October 20 to 27, and appli- becomes busier, podcast has understanding of the global cants have until October 10 to become a very popular format podcasting landscape and its submit the requirements via since audio content makes it key players. https://t.co/1MsI9LEY36?amp=1. QNCECS to celebrate World MoPH: 194 more recover, 175 Teacher’s Day tomorrow new virus cases QNA — DOHA The event will THE PENINSULA — DOHA The Qatar National includes speeches Commission for Education, by Secretary-General The Ministry of Public Health Culture and Science (QNCECS) (MoPH) yesterday announced will organise a remote cele- of Qatar National the registration of 175 new bration on the occasion of the Commission for confirmed cases of COVID-19 World Teacher’s Day Education, Culture in the country. Among them tomorrow, in cooperation with 20 were travellers returning Unesco Office in Doha, Qatar and Science, as well from abroad. University, the College of the as Director of Unesco Another 194 people have North Atlantic-Qatar and the Office in Doha. recovered from the virus, Unesco-affiliated schools. bringing the total number of The event will be inaugu- recovered cases in Qatar to rated by a speech by the Sec- schools will deliver speeches 123, 302. The Ministry also retary-General of Qatar expressing their gratitude and announced one new death of National Commission for Edu- appreciation of the efforts by a person aged 83, who was cation, Culture and Science, Dr. their teachers. receiving the necessary Hamda Hassan Al Sulaiti, and On the sidelines of the medical care. a speech by the Director of event, an educational seminar All new cases have been Unesco Office in Doha, Dr. will be organised on the theme introduced to isolation and are Anna Pollini. of the World Teachers’ Day receiving necessary healthcare A number of teachers and 2020. The celebration of the according to their health educational leaders will share World Teacher’s Day comes status. The Ministry further their experiences and the safety with the unprecedented chal- said that measures to tackle measures taken to continue lenges created by COVID-19 COVID-19 in Qatar have suc- education during the COVID-19 pandemic, as several restric- ceeded in flattening the curve pandemic. In addition, stu- tions were imposed on edu- and limiting the spread of the dents from Unesco-affiliated cation systems. virus. 04 HOME SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020

Qatar stresses compliance Al Muraikhi said that the ongoing international dialogue on the dangers with agreements on of nuclear proliferation affirms the importance nuclear disarmament that the international community attaches to QNA — DOHA international community weapons, he added. eliminating the threat attaches to eliminating the threat Al Muraikhi stressed that the The State of Qatar stressed the posed by nuclear weapons to State of Qatar reaffirms the posed by nuclear importance of implementing the international peace and security. importance of strict and complete weapons to internat- legal obligations arising from The international efforts have commitment to all the under- international agreements in the continued since the adoption of takings contained in the interna- ional peace and field of nuclear disarmament and the first General Assembly reso- tional instruments concerned Minister of State for Foreign Affairs H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi security. stressed the importance of the lution on disarmament, the doc- with nuclear disarmament and during a meeting to mark and promote the International Day for development of peaceful nuclear ument of the first special session nuclear non-proliferation, and the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons. energy programmes in a respon- of the General Assembly devoted that the humanity’s interest in sible manner. to disarmament, and the 1968 freeing the planet from mass weapons, as affirmed by the Weapons of Mass Destruction in adherence to comprehensive This came in the State of Treaty on the Non-Proliferation destruction weapons is con- General Assembly resolutions, the Middle East in 2021, and safeguards measures to coop- Qatar’s statement, read by Min- of Nuclear Weapons, which made sidered as a guarantee of the including the resolution issued expressed the aspiration of the erate with the International ister of State for Foreign Affairs the issue of nuclear disarmament security and future of the coming by the 1995 Review and State of Qatar for the cooperation Atomic Energy Agency in order H E Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi, an uncompromising interna- generations. Extension Conference of the of all countries in the region in to ensure the highest standards during a high-level meeting of tional legal obligation. The Minister of State for Parties to the Treaty on the Non- achieving this goal in the service of safety and security in a world the United Nations General Despite these efforts, the Foreign Affairs said that the Proliferation of Nuclear of their peoples and in a way that where nuclear proliferation is a Assembly to mark and promote international community still Middle East problem is facing Weapons, which considered enhances international peace and source of great concern to all, he the International Day for the aspires to achieve the desired increasing and varied challenges, freeing the Middle East region of security. said. Total Elimination of Nuclear goals of that treaty and subse- which requires concerted efforts nuclear weapons as one of the The State of Qatar stresses the Al Muraikhi said that the State Weapons. quent international instru- to defuse crises and find solutions essential pillars. importance of implementing the of Qatar renews its commitment Addressing the meeting held ments, given the inability to to the existing tensions. In light Al Muraikhi renewed the legal obligations arising from to continue working with the through videoconference, Al define a specific time frame for of the dangers arising from the State of Qatar’s support for international agreements in the international group for the com- Muraikhi said that the ongoing nuclear disarmament and the proliferation of nuclear weapons holding the second session of the field of nuclear disarmament, and plete elimination of nuclear international dialogue on the implementation of Article VI of in this region which need peace Conference on the Establishment the importance of responsible weapons in order to achieve dangers of nuclear proliferation the treaty as a result of the and stability, there is an urgent of a Middle East Zone Free of development of peaceful nuclear security and stability in the world affirms the importance that the insistence on possessing nuclear need to clear it of nuclear Nuclear Weapons and Other energy programmes and and serve all humanity. Education’s role in countering radicalisation discussed at QF online session FAZEENA SALEEM THE PENINSULA can also be breeding grounds for citizens when it comes to ine- University and Dr. Leslie A Pal, violent extremism and radicali- quality and climate change, but Founding Dean of College of International speakers at a sation. So working with univer- still countering violent Public Policy at HBKU. session hosted by Hamad Bin sities and university leaders to extremism is seen by them as a “Humans really struggle Khalifa University, member of make sure they have policies and global public good. “Trying to with uncertainty, and when Qatar Foundation, have reflected procedures to guard against rad- get this more onto the agenda science fails to provide it, it’s how education’s role in keeping icalisation in their own halls is the and raising the realisation that easy for extremists to attack extremism at bay is perhaps first step we need to take,” he said. preventing violent extremism science and promote their own more crucial than ever in the “Public confidence is critical is not just in the national black and white ideologies that post COVID-19 era. in countering extremism, and in security interest, but helps the offer certainty in an uncertain ‘Educate to Eradicate: most countries universities and world to be a better place, is world,” said William Braniff. Extremism – What’s Next In A academics are seen as objective important,” said Dr. Koser. “It’s a tremendous chal- Post COVID-19 Reality?’ was and committed to science rather The discussion was mod- lenge, and part of the solution held as part of a series of online than having a political agenda. erated by Dr. Susan L Kara- lies in teaching young people to sessions organised by Qatar Universities also have a clear manian, Dean of HBKU’s College be critical consumers of infor- Foundation and its members to role in trying to help us under- of Law. The panel also featured mation, encouraging them to be align with Global Goals Week. stand this field. But it’s still fairly William Braniff, Director of the ambassadors for science, and According to Dr. Khalid unclear what drives people to National Consortium for the teach them that it’s not enough International speakers explore education’s role in countering Koser, Executive Director of the extremism, and universities can Study of Terrorism and to have the right information if radicalization during the Global Goals Week online event. Global Community Engagement add real value in this area,” he Responses to Terrorism, Colette you can’t communicate it and Resilience Fund, university added. Mazzucelli, Senior Vice President properly and influence citizens’ chiefs can be unnerved by the radicalised. broadcasting knowledge and He also highlighted that at Global Listening Centre and behaviour in positive ways,” he risk of their students becoming “Universities have a role in inspiring young people, but they many young people are global Professor at New York added.

Students design assist devices for Texas A&M at Qatar online STEM program 4th Arab Digital THE PENINSULA — DOHA 3D modelling fundamentals and gained skills to learn how to Maryam Shafee, who designed a Content Forum to while learning in the comfort and design and construct different product that enables users to High school students in Qatar safety of home. More than 300 objects. Creative Fusion enabled avoid touching surfaces that may begin tomorrow designed various assist tools that student participants in grades the students to learn how objects, be contaminated. Her work has could be used to protect against 9-12 learned the basics of cre- tools, machinery, and many other a button clicker on the side that THE PENINSULA — DOHA COVID-19 as part of the STEM@ ating, editing, and analysing their parts and products go from the opens a hook for opening doors Home Creative Fusion 3D 3D designs and the importance concept design to a final engi- and hanging bags, a tool for The 4th Arab Digital modelling online STEM program of creating 3D models in engi- neering product.” pushing shopping trolleys, Content Forum will begin organised by Texas A&M neering and understanding how The program ended with a opening rectangular doorknobs, tomorrow in Doha. University at Qatar, a Qatar 3D printing works as they made challenge in which the partici- and a means to hold cups for The event is organised Foundation partner university. their own 3D models. pants were tasked to use 3D CAD drinking water. The second-place by the Ministry of Transport Texas A&M at Qatar’s STEM Program leader Tala Katbeh software to design and model a winner was Fadi Hassen. Third and Communications until (science, technology, engineering (pictured) said, “Everything Qatar’s youth about the engi- tool that can be used to protect place went to Ebil Jacob, fourth October 7 under the aus- and math) experts designed the around us is engineered and starts neering design process used to against COVID-19 and help them place went to Areej Mahmoud, pices of the League of Arab Creative Fusion program to allow with a basic engineering design create 3D models was rewarding. in their daily lives. while Muniba Maqbool Ahmed States in collaboration with high school students to explore concept. That is why teaching The students used their creativity The first place went to finished fifth. Communications Regu- latory Authority (CRA) of Qatar, the Arab Information and Communication Tech- nologies Organization (AICTO), the UN Economic and Social Commission for West Asia (ESCWA) and the ITU. The virtual forum will feature more than 20 speakers and experts from Arab countries as well as regional and international organisations. The forum will tackle six main topics on the reality of Arabic digital content, the importance of Arabic digital content during crises, the future prospects of e-learning in the Arab region, the role of Arabic digital content within a smart nation, the Arabic digital content and entrepreneurship amongst youth and the advancement of the Arabic digital content. The event will also highlight innovations, breakthroughs, best prac- tices and successes in the development of Arabic digital content and increasing the international and regional cooperation. The forum is held within the framework of imple- menting the decision of the 18th Round of the Arab Tel- ecommunications and Information Council of Ministers, which decided to organise the Digital Arabic Content Forum yearly, and the ITU Arab Regional Office plan of action 2015. SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020 HOME 05 FBQ Museum continues QM finalises agreement with Total E&P Europe tour with Madrid stop Qatar to Sponsor ‘Energy Playground’

THE PENINSULA — DOHA

In conjunction with the reopening of the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) on October 1, Qatar Museums has finalised an agreement with Total E&P, one of the top integrated 'Since its inception, the multi energies companies in intent of this travelling Qatar, to sponsor the Energy cross-cultural Playground, which will open at THE PENINSULA — DOHA NMoQ at a later stage. exhibition has been CEO of Qatar Museums, Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al to spread message Ahmad Musa Al Namla and Total Thani Museum (FBQ Museum) of peace, prosperity, Qatar Country Chair, Laurent continues Europe tour with its understanding Wolffsheim, signed the international exhibition “The each other’s agreement during an online CEO of Qatar Museums, Ahmad Musa Al Namla, signing the agreement during an online ceremony. Majlis — Cultures in Dialogue”. ceremony. Under the patronage of the cultures, believing NMoQ’s Energy Playground, Commenting on the suc- the Energy Playground will be an where families can come Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin in co- existence and one of three spread across the cessful collaboration, Al Namla exciting space for families to learn together to cherish and embrace Hamad Al Thani, and Sheikh becoming more museum’s gardens, will provide said: “Following on from the more about the fascinating history the vivid past and bright future Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani and tolerant.' a unique experience for families announcement of Total as the of Qatar’s oil exploration in an of energy in Qatar. We are proud in collaboration with Unesco to learn more about energy and official sponsor of NMoQ’s immersive and fun setting,” said Al to celebrate this rich culture Doha Office, and with support the history of Qatar’s oil Energy Playground late last year, Namla. though the fun, interactive and of Qatar Shell and Al Faisal With this exhibition, we want exploration. it gives us great pleasure to The narrative of energy educational aspect this play- Holding, “The Majlis — Cultures to focus on the similarities that The playground will be finalise the agreement. Qatar’s industries like oil is an ongoing ground will offer. This reflects a in Dialogue” moves to its fifth bind us as human beings designed for families to engage energy sector has played an theme explored across galleries joint vision for youth inclusion stop in the National Archaeo- belonging to different religions in intergenerational kinetic play integral role in the country’s at NMOQ, which highlight topics and education which is aligned logical Museum in Madrid and and cultures. These objectives activities; from the extraction of development, and this growth such as the discovery of oil, nego- with the ambition and values of will run until January 17, 2021. are being perfectly enhanced crude oil and natural gas, through has been supported by a long- tiations and correspondence, the both the State of Qatar and Total.” Since its start in 2018 at the in the artefacts, which we have to their processing and even the standing partnership with Total rapid modernisation the country NMoQ’s immersive play- Grandmaster’s Palace in Val- selected to be displayed at the by-products that in turn, benefit and France, which is celebrated witnessed due to the oil industry, grounds promote intergenera- letta, Malta, the exhibition has National Archaeological today’s societies. this year through the Qatar- as well as the impact it has had tional play activities while also also passed through the Unesco Museum. It will actively serve The playground will be France Year of Culture.” on socio-cultural development. encouraging visitors to explore Headquarters, the Institut du the role of keeping alive the entered from various pathways “We look forward to wel- Managing Director of Total the museum’s vast collection and Monde Arabe in Paris and The history, culture, and traditions — enabling a ‘choose your own coming back families and the wider E&P Golfe and Country Chair, permanent galleries as well as Weltmuseum in Vienna. for the next generations to adventure’ industrialised expe- community to NMoQ to explore the Laurent Wolffsheim, said: “Our Qatar’s natural and cultural “The Majlis — Cultures in learn and draw from, as well rience and will ultimately expose playgrounds we opened earlier this presence of over 80 years in offerings. The ‘Energy Play- Dialogue” is a travelling cross- as helping promote and sustain visitors to the future of renewable year and our extensive permanent Qatar is reinforced through the ground’ opening date in 2022 will cultural exhibition that features cultural dialogue in the dif- and non-renewable energy. collections and exhibitions. In 2022, Energy Playground, a place be announced in due course. a collection of the FBQ Museum ferent countries that we will be — a unique assembly of arte- visiting.” facts reflecting the interaction The Ambassador of Spain Two students selected for global journalism programme of civilisations in the past while to Qatar, H E Belen Alfaro, said: encouraging dialogue in the “The exhibition connects THE PENINSULA — DOHA Qatar over the next 12 months, reports on mental health issues Student Scholarship Program present. The exhibition aims to people and cultures through with the impact of COVID-19 in ways that aim to eliminate was established by The Carter stimulate dialogue between dialogue. It highlights cultural Two students from Northwestern being the dominant focus. Their stereotypes and stigma. Center and WISH in 2018 as an cultures, religions and coun- ties and cultural cooperation University in Qatar have been participation in the programme Mohammed Hadi Karmous, integral part of the main tries on the relevance of cul- between Qatar and Spain. The selected by the World Innovation kicked off with a virtual three- a senior editor at Qatar News fellowship. tural heritage. It will be an spirit of the exhibition Summit for Health (WISH) to day meeting earlier this month, Agency with over 19 years of Nick Bradshaw, Director of opportunity for people to enhances the Arab heritage participate in a global mental during which they presented journalism experience, was Partnerships and Outreach at interact with stories of and legacy of Al Andalus, health journalism programme their plans for the year ahead. chosen for the main fellowship WISH, said: “Communicating exchange, tolerance, inspi- which remains through his- created by former US First Lady The two students from programme following consul- about mental health accurately, ration, innovation and under- toric buildings in cities like Rosalynn Carter and coordinated Northwestern Qatar selected for tation with Hamad Medical Cor- sensitively, and with integrity standing that are concealed in Granada, Cordoba or Seville. by The Carter Center in Atlanta, this year’s Student Scholarship poration. As a fellow, Hadi will is vital. Our longstanding part- the objects highlighted in the In Medieval Spain, the School Georgia, US. Program, Inaara Gangji and have access to the Carter Center’s nership with The Carter Center exhibition. of Translators of Toledo fos- Also taking part in the initi- Maryam Abujbara, are both jour- resources and top experts in was established with the aim of Commenting on tour, tered a cooperative and ative, titled the Rosalynn Carter nalism and strategic communi- mental health and journalism, as improving the quality of mental Sheikh Faisal, said: “Since its mutual understanding through Fellowships for Mental Health cations majors. Over the course well as networking health reporting in Qatar. While inception, the intent of this the exchange of knowledge Journalism programme, is a of the year-long training pro- opportunities. it is extremely important to travelling cross-cultural exhi- and educational backgrounds, senior Qatar-based journalist. gramme, they will work closely WISH, Qatar Foundation’s work with professional jour- bition has been to spread the and this is the substance of The Joining a cohort of interna- with their professors at North- global health initiative, partnered nalists, we believe it is also message of peace, prosperity, Majlis — Cultures in Dialogue. tional journalists, the three western Qatar, and with mentors with The Carter Center to bring important to train students to understanding each other’s cul- The result is an enriched incoming fellows have com- in the US and Qatar, to gain the the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships learn best practices before tures, believing in co- existence culture of wisdom, thought mitted to investigating specific skills and knowledge needed to for Mental Health Journalism commencing their professional and becoming more tolerant. and learning.” topics around mental health in produce accurate and balanced programme to Qatar in 2016. The careers.” QRCS extends support to health care facilities in Afghanistan Doha Municipality closes 144 food THE PENINSULA — DOHA brotherly people of Afghanistan, where the health authorities lack outlets in nine The representation office of Qatar Red resources and supplies. It is an Crescent Society (QRCS) in Afghan- attempt to reduce the spread of the months istan has initiated a project to combat virus among the local communities, COVID-19, by providing personal with a special focus on the unders- THE PENINSULA — DOHA protective supplies for 300 health erved and inaccessible parts of the workers at 50 primary health care country. facilities in remote areas, enabling These provisions consisted of 106 Doha Municipality issued admin- them to serve the vulnerable popu- digital thermometers, 200 personal istrative decisions to close 144 food lation with maximum safety and protective equipment (PPE) kits, 2,451 outlets for violating provisions of security. N95 masks, 300 medical mask health rules during the past nine At a total cost of $40,000, funded packages, 300 medical glove months. by QRCS, these provisions are part of packages, and 300 hand sanitiser/dis- “Municipal inspectors of Health the projects to support COVID-19 infectant packages. Monitoring Section of Doha Munic- control efforts in 22 countries across As a main partner, ARCS was ipality made 22,938 inspection six continents. involved in all stages of the project, visits to food outlets from January In coordination with Afghanistan’s from selection of beneficiaries and to September 2020,” said the Min- Ministry of Health (MoH), it is co- contracting of suppliers to logistic and istry of Municipality and Envi- implemented by QRCS and the Afghan technical support. ronment (MME) in a statement. Red Crescent Society (ARCS), under With support from World Health The inspectors recorded 836 a previously signed bilateral Organization (WHO) and other coun- violations during the inspection. agreement. tries and humanitarian organisations, The administrative decisions were Officials during the delivery of protective supplies to health facilities under a After completing all the technical the national health authorities work issued and implemented to shut project by the Qatar Red Crescent Society to combat COVID-19 in Afghanistan. preparations and logistics of the hard to control the virus. down 114 food outlets. The Health project, the medical and protective For that purpose, an emergency Monitoring Section at the Munici- supplies were purchased and and hand sanitisers. Currently, the provinces. response plan was developed, but the pality received 538 complaints delivered, including masks, gloves, deliverables are distributed to the The project is driven by QRCS’s available resources remain which were responded to protective equipment, disinfectants, health facilities in the target sense of responsibility towards the inadequate. immediately. QEERI corrosion testing facility supports Qatar’s oil and gas sector THE PENINSULA — DOHA of localised corrosion and sulfide stress The facility, under the assessment, root-cause-failure analysis, cracking of carbon and low alloy steels corrosion management planning, and Qatar Environment and Energy Research in hydrogen sulphide containing envi- Institute’s Corrosion Center, advice on material selection. Institute (QEERI) at Hamad Bin Khalifa ronments; evaluation of coating dura- will enable the testing of Material selection and corrosion are University (HBKU) is setting up a state- bility in three different geological loca- different types of material two major challenges faced by the oil of-the-art corrosion testing facility that tions; corrosion under insulation mon- and gas industry in the Middle East. The simulates oil and gas field conditions. itoring; and preventing and monitoring under diverse operating region’s unique environment of high The facility, under the Institute’s Cor- microbiologically influenced corrosion. conditions, including flow temperatures, sandstorms, and high rosion Center, will enable the testing of While some are field studies, others are conditions, operating humidity in parts of the year make it dif- different types of material under diverse conducted in the lab under simulated ficult for engineering alloys to resist operating conditions, including flow con- field conditions. temperatures, and corrosion. ditions, operating temperatures, and “What makes our work unique is that pressures, plant start up, Dr. Marc Vermeersch, QEERI’s pressures, plant start up, and sudden we can design and customise our test and sudden shutdown Executive Director, said: “Corrosion is shutdown. In addition, the Center pro- setups to produce environments that similar to a cancer to our infrastruc- vides test programs for pipeline integrity mimic what exactly is in the field. Some- tures, most of the time not highly management, stress corrosion cracking, times, we do large-scale testing to bring “All of our research projects are infrastructure sustainability in Qatar,” visible in its early stages, while threat- soil corrosion evaluation, marine cor- every aspect into the equation when we market-driven and aim to solve cor- said Dr. Farhat. ening asset integrity and financial sus- rosion, coating evaluation, and corrosion try to find corrosion solutions, and that rosion and materials engineering chal- In addition to its research activities, tainability or profitability of our com- inhibitor evaluation. is where we add value to industry stake- lenges facing Qatar’s industry. Recently, the QEERI Corrosion Center supports panies; early diagnostic is therefore The QEERI Corrosion Center is cur- holders,” said Dr. Hanan Farhat, Senior the Center started a program focusing industry by providing technical consul- needed in order to identify adequate rently engaged in four oil and gas Research Director, Corrosion Center, on the corrosion of reinforced concrete tations and service, including fitness-to- treatment and protect high-value industry-based projects, namely: a study QEERI. structures to expand our service to urban service evaluation, corrosion risk assets in the country and beyond. 06 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020 Schools, mosques closed in Tehran as virus cases rise REUTERS — TEHRAN The closure plan, which will also affect Schools, libraries, mosques and universities, seminaries, libraries, museums, other public institutions in theatres, gyms, cafes and hair salons in the Tehran were closed for a week yesterday as part of measures to Iranian capital, came after Alireza Zali, head stem a rapid rise in COVID-19 of the Tehran Coronavirus Taskforce, called for cases, state media cited author- the shutdown to help control the epidemic. ities in the Iranian capital as saying. The closure plan, which will Iran’s death toll from the fines and other penalties will be also affect universities, semi- coronavirus rose by 179 on Sat- determined at the next meeting naries, libraries, museums, the- urday to 26,746, and identified of the government-run Corona- atres, gyms, cafes and hair salons cases by 3,523 to 468,119, health virus Taskforce. in the Iranian capital, came after ministry spokeswoman Sima Government employees who Alireza Zali, head of the Tehran Sadat Lari told state TV. fail to observe regulations face Coronavirus Taskforce, called Iranian President Hassan measures ranging from warnings for the shutdown to help control Rouhani said anyone concealing to their one-year suspension the epidemic. a COVID-19 infection should face from their posts. And gov- Zali warned in an interview a severe penalty. ernment offices where people on state television that if the “Anyone who feels ill and it’s go for services cannot serve spread of the epidemic continues clear to them that they are ill, people who do not observe at the current rate in Tehran, must not hide their illness,” health protocols, such as there would be a three- to five- Rouhani said in televised wearing masks. fold increase in cases and a rise remarks. Otherwise, he added, Businesses that flout regula- Teachers wear protective face masks as they sit with their students at a kindergarten amid the in the fatality rate to between 1.5 they will be committing “the tions could face closure. outbreak of the coronavirus disease, in Tehran, Iran. percent and 3 percent. highest offense” that will demand Rouhani said penalties The lockdown which also “the highest punishment”. would be most severe in Tehran, applies to all social and cultural Those not wearing a mask in where in recent weeks the daily compared with less than 10 at to Zali. Iran has registered more 3,825 cases announced on ceremonies and conferences will public will be fined, said death toll from the coronavirus the end of the first wave of the than 3,500 new cases in each of Thursday, official statistics run to October 9. Rouhani, adding the amount of has been more than 100 virus earlier this year, according the past six days, with a record showed. Clashes kill 23 in Marib province, Hodeida in Yemen Iran Guards AP — SANA’A President Abed Rabbo Mansour mediated peace talks. of Yemen’s commercial and bloody fighting in 2018, before ‘capture’ Hadi’s government, launched a Tribal leaders said the humanitarian imports, Yemeni the warring sides signed a UN- Yemeni officials and tribal sweeping military intervention Houthis have deployed rein- officials said. brokered agreement in those behind leaders said yesterday fighting months later. forcements to break government They said at least one civilian December that year that included between government forces and The officials said more than defences in Marib, but they have was killed and seven others a cease-fire in the port city and deadly attack Houthi rebels has killed at least 23 people were killed and made no progress. were wounded in the clashes, an exchange of more than 15,000 two dozen people in the past dozens were wounded from Saudi-led forces have hit which were described as the prisoners. But the deal was never three days in Marib province and both sides in the most recent Houthi military convoys in the fiercest violence in months fully implemented. AFP — TEHRAN the key port city of Hodeida. fighting for the oil-rich Marib. region’s desert, according to the between government forces and The war in Yemen has The war in Yemen erupted The Iranian-backed rebels tribal leaders. the rebels. All officials spoke on spawned the world’s worst Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in 2014, when the Iran-allied have sought to take control of In Hodeida, fierce fighting condition of anonymity because humanitarian crisis, leaving mil- Corps said yesterday it had Houthis seized the capital and the region from the interna- erupted on Wednesday in the they were not authorised to brief lions suffering from food and captured those behind a much of the country’s north. A tionally recognized government, town of Durayhimi, just south of the media, as did the tribal medical shortages. It has killed drive-by attack that killed Saudi-led coalition, determined in order to strengthen their the strategic Hodeida port, leaders for fear of reprisals. over 112,000 people, including three of its troops in restive to restore the authority of position in ongoing UN- which handles about 70 percent Hodeida was the scene of fighters and civilians. Sistan-Baluchistan province earlier this week, state media reported. The province, which has a Iraq, US discuss large ethnic Baluch population that unlike most of the rest of Iran is mainly Sunni Muslim, has long been a flashpoint for boosting relations cross-border attacks by sepa- ratists and extremists based in QNA — BAGHDAD political and diplomatic neighbouring Pakistan. measures to stop the attacks on “Following special intelli- Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad the Green Zone and the airport, gence and operational Hussein confirmed yesterday and there will be tangible pos- measures, the Quds head- that his country has taken itive results in the near future, quarters of the Islamic Revo- security measures to stop the the statement added. lutionary Guards Corps’ attacks on the Green Zone and The statement added that ground force was able to arrest the airport. the two sides discussed various the main elements and others The Foreign Ministry said future possibilities regarding the involved” in the attack, the in a statement that Fouad status of diplomatic missions in official IRNA news agency Hussein received a phone call Baghdad. The US Secretary of reported, quoting a statement from US Secretary of State Mike State emphasised that US-Iraqi from the Guards. Pompeo last night. The Two relations are important for both The statement did not sides discussed the bilateral sides, and promised to take into specify the identity or number relations and the initial decision account what was put forward of those detained. of the US administration to in the discussion. The two sides Two of the assailants were withdraw the embassy from also stressed the importance of killed carrying out Tuesday’s Baghdad. continuing to exchange views attack, which also wounded a The Iraqi Foreign Minister and communicate in order to fourth Guards member. expressed concern about the find solutions to this crisis. In recent years, the most Fight against coronavirus decision which despite being a The “Green Zone”, which active rebel group in Sistan-Bal- sovereign decision for the includes important government uchistan has been militant outfit A woman carries her daughter to a Palestinian healthcare worker for a swab sample to be collected American side, it may lead to headquarters, the Iraqi par- Jaish Al Adl (Army of Justice), for the coronavirus disease, on the staircase of their home, in Gaza City. results that are not in the liament, as well as the US which has carried out several interest of the Iraqi people. He embassy and some western high-profile bombings and affirmed that the Iraqi gov- embassies, is subjected to fre- abductions. ernment has taken a number quent rocket and mortar In February last year, 27 of security, organisational, attacks. Guards were killed in a suicide Key players to meet virtually attack on their bus. Jaish Al Adl was formed in UN authorises inspection of 2012 as a successor to extremist to push for Libya ceasefire group Jundallah (Soldiers of vessels for migrants from Libya God), which waged a deadly AP — UNITED NATIONS insurgency for a decade before its people compounded by the hopes participants in tomor- it was severely weakened by the coronavirus pandemic. row’s meeting — co-chaired AP — UNITED NATIONS cross the Mediterranean had capture and execution of its The United Nations and Sautter said tomorrow's by UN Secretary-General passed the “grim milestone” of leader Abdolmalek Rigi in 2010. Germany are co-chairing a meeting “comes at a crucial Antonio Guterres and German The UN Security Council unani- 20,000 deaths since 2014. ministerial meeting tomorrow moment.” He pointed to “some Foreign Minister Heiko Maas mously adopted a resolution on The resolution adopted on of world powers and other encouraging developments in — will renew their commit- Friday authorising member Friday welcomes measures that Iran industrial countries with interests in Libya” including talks on ments to the Berlin road map nations to inspect vessels on the have been taken since the first Libya’s long-running civil war security, “the long-term and its implementation. high seas off the coast of Libya resolution on inspecting and zone explosion in hopes of promoting a cease- agreements on transition, and “We hope that they will suspected of smuggling migrants seizing vessels engaged in migrant fire between its rival govern- progress on the question of oil call on the parties to accelerate or engaging in human trafficking smuggling and human trafficking kills one ments. exports.” efforts to achieve a cease-fire,” from the north African nation for in 2015 and encourages their con- Germany’s deputy UN In the years after the 2011 Sautter said. another year. tinuation. It takes note of the AFP — TEHRAN ambassador Günter Sautter uprising that toppled longtime “We hope that continuing The German-sponsored res- deployment of Operation Irini. said on Friday the virtual autocrat Moammar Qadhafi, blatant violations of the arms olution also authorises the seizure Germany’s deputy U.N. An explosion killed a worker in meeting is “an important Libya has sunk further into embargo will end.” of vessels confirmed used for ambassador Gunter Sautter said an industrial zone in Iran’s follow-up” to a conference of turmoil and is now divided UN experts monitoring migrant smuggling or human traf- preventing migrant smuggling central Isfahan province on the same parties in Berlin on between two rival administra- sanctions against Libya said in ficking from Libya. and human trafficking is very Saturday, state news agency January 19 that approved a tions, based in the country’s a report, last month, that the It “condemns all acts of important and operation Irini will IRNA reported. 55-point road map to peace in east and west, with an array arms embargo was being vio- migrant smuggling and human continue, but he noted that the The blast struck on the Razi Libya and agreed to respect a of fighters and militias - lated by both sides and their trafficking into, through and from resolution is “a call to action” to industrial estate in Shahreza much-violated arms embargo, backed by various foreign foreign backers, and remains the Libyan territory and off the the entire international com- county and was caused by a hold off on military support to powers - allied with each side. “totally ineffective.” coast of Libya, which undermine munity, not just the EU. welder working on an oil tank, the warring parties, and push Tensions escalated further They said 11 companies further the process of stabilization On Friday, the UN human local crisis management chief them to reach a full when east-based forces, under also violated the arms of Libya and endanger the lives rights office delivered a striking Mansour Shishehforoush told cease-fire. commander Khalifa Hifter, embargo, including the of hundreds of thousands of warning about the “cycle of vio- IRNA. “There was no oil inside Stephanie Williams, the launched an offensive in April Wagner Group, a private people.” lence” facing migrants. A UN the tank, but the welding caused top UN official for Libya, 2019 trying to capture the Russian security company that Libya has emerged as a major monitoring team said migrants the gas built up in it to explode.” warned last month that the capital, Tripoli. the panel said in May provided transit point for African and Arab are frequently denied speedy Firefighters later brought conflict-torn North African But Hifter’s campaign col- between 800 and 1,200 mer- migrants fleeing war and poverty rescue and left to drift for days on the blaze under control, IRNA country is at “a decisive lapsed in June when militias cenaries to Hifter. to Europe. the perilous Mediterranean Sea said, adding that Razi is “one of turning point,” with foreign backing the UN-supported Sautter said Germany also Most migrants make the per- route. Many migrants report that the largest chemical production backers of its rival govern- government in Tripoli, with hopes tomorrow’s meeting ilous journey in ill-equipped and the Libyan Coast Guard rammed industrial zones” in Iran. ments pouring in weapons — Turkish support, gained the “will strengthen the United unsafe rubber boats. The Inter- or shot at their boats, causing There has been a spate of in violation of the Berlin upper hand. Nations as key facilitator of the national Office for Migration esti- vessels to capsize or people to fires and explosions at military agreement - and the misery of Sautter said Germany political dialogue in Libya.” mated in March that the death toll jump in the water in desperation, and civilian sites across Iran among migrants who tried to it said. since June. SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020 MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA 07 Sudan govt, rebel groups ink landmark peace deal

AFP — JUBA have frequently competed for “Today we have scarce resources with Arab Sudan’s government and rebel reached a peace herders, who have often been groups yesterday inked a agreement. We are backed by Khartoum. landmark peace deal aimed at Multiple civil wars have ending decades of war in which happy. We have raged since independence in hundreds of thousands died. finished the mission,” 1956, including the 1983-2005 Ululations and cheers rang war that led to the secession of out as one by one, representa- Tut Gatluak, head of the south. tives from the transitional gov- the South Sudanese The devastating war in ernment and rebel groups Darfur from 2003 left at least signed the deal, a year after the mediating team, said 300,000 people dead and 2.5 peace talks began, at a cer- shortly before the million displaced in its early emony in the South Sudanese years, according to the UN. capital Juba. signing took place. “This signing means we left “Today we have reached a the war now behind us. This Sudan’s Sovereign Council Chief General Abdel Fattah Al Burhan, South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir, peace agreement. We are as the southern states of Blue agreement means democracy, and Chad President Idriss Deby are seen among other delegates as they attend the signing of peace happy. We have finished the Nile and South Kordofan. justice, it means freedom in mission,” Tut Gatluak, head of Guarantors of the deal from Sudan so we are very happy... agreement between Sudan’s transitional government and Sudanese revolutionary movements to the South Sudanese mediating Chad, Qatar, Egypt, the African by this peace agreement the end decades-old conflict, in Juba, South Sudan, yesterday. team said shortly before the Union, European Union and economy in Sudan will boom signing took place. United Nations also put their again,” Ismail Jalab, a senior protracted conflict... it is well Upon his arrival, Hamdok country’ oil-rich south which Ending Sudan’s internal names to the agreement. member of the SRF said known since independence of said that “peace will open deprived the north of three- conflicts has been a top priority The deal covers a number The peace talks were Sudan there is no stability, broad horizons for devel- quarters of its oil reserves. of the transitional government, of tricky issues, from land own- mediated by South Sudan there is no social economic opment, progress and Economic hardship trig- in power since last year’s ership, reparations and com- whose leaders themselves development because of mar- prosperity. gered the anti-Bashir protests ouster of longtime dictator pensation to wealth and power battled Khartoum as rebels for ginalisation,” said 32-year-old “The peace building process and remain a pressing concern Omar Al Bashir in a popular sharing and the return of ref- decades before achieving inde- Abdal Aziz who fled Darfur six faces various challenges and — food prices have tripled in pro-democracy uprising. ugees and internally displaced pendence in 2011 and who are years ago and has been living pitfalls that we can overcome the past year and the Sudanese Sudanese paramilitary people. still struggling to bring peace as a refugee in South Sudan. through concerted efforts and pound has depreciated commander Mohamed However two other pow- to their own country. Sudan’s leaders, including joint action,” he said. dramatically. Hamdan Daglo — best known erful rebel groups did not sign, The final signing ceremony Prime Minister Abdalla Mini Arko Minawi, leader One of the holdout groups, by his nickname “Hemeti” — reflecting the challenges still was held at the John Garang Hamdok, head of the transi- of the Sudan Liberation the Darfur-based Sudan Lib- signed the deal on behalf of facing the peace process. Mausoleum in Juba, the final tional sovereign council Movement which is a member eration Movement (SLM) Khartoum. Sudan has been torn by resting place of the late leader General Abdel Fattah Al Burhan of the SRF, said Sudan’s faction led by Abdelwahid A representative of the multiple conflicts between the of the independence war. and General Hamdan Dagalo, troubled economy and “fragile Nour, launched an attack on Sudan Revolutionary Front Arab-dominated government Entertainers from South deputy chief of Sudan’s joint political situation” were tests Monday, the army said. (SRF) and others from the that was led by Bashir for three Sudan and Sudan performed military-civilian sovereign facing the agreement. Another, the South groups making up the coalition, decades and rebels drawn from for thousands of guests, many council, attended the The economy has suffered Kordofan-based wing of the also signed. non-Arab ethnic groups in its of them Sudanese refugees. ceremony. from the country’s inclusion on Sudan People’s Liberation The SRF comprises rebel far-flung regions. “This is a very historic day Heads of state from Washington’s terror blacklist, Movement-North (SPLM-N) led groups from the war-ravaged In Sudan’s vast rural areas, to us Sudanese because this Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti and decades-long US sanctions and by Abdelaziz al-Hilu, has western Darfur region, as well settled ethnic minority farmers peace is going to end the Chad were also there. the 2011 secession of the signed a separate ceasefire. WHO calls on Turkey to follow its COVID-19 reporting guides Malaria cases spike AP — ISTANBUL COVID-19 figures published by tracing efforts. It said, “Turkey of clinical signs and symptoms.” the ministry since July 29 has been isolating all COVID-19 But on Thursday, Health Min- The World Health Organisa- reflected only patients with positive cases, regardless of ister Fahrettin Koca told in northern Mali tion’s office in Turkey has reit- symptoms, excluding asympto- their symptoms.” It added that reporters: “We are talking about erated its call for reporting matic positive cases. the WHO has been consulting people with symptoms. We are AFP — KIDAL Treating severe cases is COVID-19 data in line with Critics have questioned the with members, including giving this as the daily number difficult in the remote north, WHO guidances to “harmonise veracity of the case and death Turkey, to improve reporting of patients.” Malaria cases in northern Mali he added, raising the like- data collection and response toll numbers Turkey has and data collection. The latest official numbers have spiked, according to lihood of fatalities. measures.” reported during the pandemic. The WHO defines confirmed from Friday show 321,512 con- medical workers, claiming 23 Malaria claims hundreds of WHO’s statement comes The WHO statement com- cases as “a person with labo- firmed patients and 8,325 lives in the often lawless desert thousands of lives across the days after Turkey’s health min- mended Turkey on its increased ratory confirmation of deaths from COVID-19 since region last week alone. African continent each year. ister revealed that the daily testing capacity and contact COVID-19 infection, irrespective March. Mali’s ministry of health But the World Health said this week that 59 people Organisation warned in April have died of malaria in the that the coronavirus pandemic north since the start of the year, could disrupt campaigns ‘Hotel Rwanda’ hero almost double the number of against the mosquito-borne deaths over the same period disease, leading to a spike in denied bail, ordered last year. cases. Already struggling to curb Rudy Lukamba, a Red to stand trial coronavirus, the poor Sahel Cross doctor in Mali, said that country is also fighting a brutal COVID-19 “has absorbed a lot AFP — KIGALI militant insurgency active in of attention and redirected the north and centre of the some of the funds, which has A court in Kigali on Friday denied a request country. caused delays in prevention for bail by Paul Rusesabagina, the polarising Medical workers in the activities”. hero of the movie Hotel Rwanda, ordering north registered 13,000 malaria “Cleaning up wetlands, that he remain in custody to stand trial for cases between September 21 clearing brushwood, drying up serious charges including terrorism. and 27, marking an 88 percent puddles, distributing mosquito Rusesabagina, whose actions during increase on the previous week. nets and raising public Rwanda’s 1994 genocide inspired the 2004 Twenty-three people also awareness requires resources,” Oscar-nominated film starring Don Cheadle, died over that period, the he said. had been living in exile for years where he health ministry said. Swathes of Mali lie outside became a high-profile government critic. “At the moment, the health government control after a But in August he suddenly appeared in system is really overwhelmed,” jihadist insurgency emerged Paul Rusesabagina (centre), portrayed as a hero in a Hollywood movie about Rwanda’s Kigali under arrest in murky circumstances, said Cheick Ag Oufene, a in 2012 and triggered a deadly 1994 genocide, talks to his lawyers inside the courtroom in Kigali, Rwanda. with his family alleging he was kidnapped health centre administrator in conflict which has since spread abroad and taken to Rwanda. the northern town of Kidal, to the centre of the country. He must answer 13 charges including “Unfortunately we can’t appeal against 1994 and is accused by critics of crushing who called the situation “very Failure to end the long- terrorism, financing and founding militant this ruling. We will continue pushing for his opponents and ruling through fear. alarming”. running conflict contributed groups, murder, arson and conspiracy to release but now we prepare for the sub- Rusesabagina’s family, who say he would Mahamadou Sangare, a to anger towards president involve children in armed groups. stantive phase of the trial,” she told reporters never have returned to Rwanda by his own doctor in the northern town of Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, The 66-year-old had already been after the ruling. free will, claim his lawyers were not of his Aguelhok, said malaria has whom young military officers denied bail in a lower court but he appealed Rusesabagina is credited with sheltering choosing, and have accused his legal team been wreaking havoc since the toppled in a coup on August the decision, citing poor health. hundreds of Rwandans inside a hotel he of acting for the state. arrival of the rainy season. 18. However Judge Adolphe Udahemuka managed during the 1994 genocide, in which “My dad is surrounded by people who said Rusesabagina was receiving fine 800,000 mostly Tutsis but also moderate want him to fall,” his son Tresor Rusesa- medical care in Rwanda, and deemed he Hutus were slaughtered. bagina said Thursday. was a flight risk as he holds Belgian But in the years after Hollywood made It remains unclear how Rusesabagina — Three Rwanda genocide citizenship. him an international celebrity, a more a moderate Hutu who left Rwanda in 1996, “The court therefore finds the reasons complex image emerged of the staunch gov- wary that space for political opposition was provided by the suspect in seeking to be tried ernment critic, whose tirades against the shrinking -- wound up in handcuffs in Kigali suspects arrested while not in custody not convincing. The regime of long-serving Rwandan ruler Paul and paraded before cameras. court dismisses his appeal, and rules that Kagame made him an enemy of the state. In an interview with The New York AFP — BRUSSELS the weekly publication Vif/ the suspect remains in custody pending He admitted in court to helping form the Times, Rusesabagina, speaking with L’Express. One of the men has trial,” Udahemuka said. National Liberation Front (FLN), an armed Rwandan officials in the room, said he Three men suspected of been put under electronic sur- Rusesabagina’s lawyer, Emeline movement he previously said sought to lib- boarded a private jet in Dubai which he involvement in the 1994 veillance while the two others Nyembo, said they would begin preparing erate Rwanda from Kagame. thought was taking him to Burundi, but Rwanda genocide have been are in detention, he said. his legal defence. The president has been in power since landed in Kigali instead. arrested and charged in Whether the men face trial Belgium with serious abuse of will be “decided in the end by human rights, the prosecutor’s the dossier compiled by the office said yesterday. investigating magistrate and Tunisian hospitals struggling to cope up with rising virus cases The office gave no details the prosecutor’s office,” Van about the three but said their Duyse said. AFP — TUNIS “The capacities of the most of the restrictions over the Obligatory mask-wearing in identities had been estab- The 1994 genocide claimed Tunisian health system have not summer. enclosed public spaces was lished with the help of witness 800,000 lives, mostly Tutsis Tunisian authorities have yet been saturated but we are But the number of confirmed imposed in early August but has testimony collected in but also moderate Hutus. warned that hospitals are strug- starting to have some problems” cases has now reached 20,000, been widely ignored by the Rwanda by a Belgian Belgium has held five trials gling to cope with an influx of in greater Tunis and the coastal including nearly 300 deaths. public and many officials until investigation. since 2001 of Rwandans impli- COVID-19 patients and urged city of Sousse, he said, warning On Friday, Health Minister recently, prompting many Tuni- “Two were arrested cated in the killings, with four residents to respect anti-virus of “a lack of human resources” Faouzi Mehdi said field hospitals sians to call for stricter Tuesday in Brussels and the that year — including two nuns measures to avoid another in intensive care units. were to be set up in several cities enforcement of measures. third Wednesday in Hainault —- sentenced to terms of up to lockdown. Louzir said 345 COVID-19 to help manage the rise in cases Prime Minister Hichem (province),” said Eric Van 20 years for handing over “If we don’t manage to patients were hospitalised, and but also called for vigilance in Mechichi has ruled out a Duyse, spokesman for the Tutsis in their shelter to Hutu flatten this curve, which is really 120 of them required oxygen respecting health protocols. nationwide lockdown such as Belgian federal prosecutor’s militants. going up, we risk being over- support, as of October 1. “The rigorous application of was imposed in the spring so as office. Last December, former whelmed,” Dr. Hechmi Louzir, Tunisia, which had virtually the measures taken by author- not to put further pressure on “All three have been senior Rwandan official spokesman of the scientific contained the pandemic at the ities is necessary but we are Tunisia’s beleaguered economy, charged with serious human Fabien Neretse was found committee for the fight against end of June, recording some counting on the sense of respon- but localised lockdowns are on rights abuses,” the spokesman guilty of genocide and sen- COVID-19, said. 1,000 cases and 50 deaths, lifted sibility of citizens,” he said. the table. said, confirming a report in tenced to 25 years prison. 08 VIEWS SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020

Established in 1996

CHAIRMAN DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI [email protected]

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED [email protected]

DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI [email protected] EDITORIAL

Qatar laid basis for peace in Sudan The cultural and artistic scene in Qatar:

QATAR has been playing a pivotal role in medi- Rooted creativity and outstanding presence ating regional and international issues. Qatar’s crucial role in promoting peace always won praise from dif- QNA — DOHA business, education, music with the accelerating compre- said in a statement to Qatar ferent countries and organisations across the world and much more. I look hensive renaissance in the News Agency (QNA) that the and its efforts and record in this regard gave it an Fine artists enjoy special forward to working on State of Qatar, which is pre- most important characteristic identity of a peacemaking country in the world. attention and care in the State building on the existing strong paring to host the World Cup of this award is that it is an Through its tremendous efforts and determi- of Qatar, as there are many relationship between our Qatar 2022. The Qatari fine integrated Arab project to nation, Qatar brought together local and interna- institutions concerned with nations, and explore new art goes side by side with the serve the Arabic novel. tional conflicting parties on the table for dialogue the arts, ranging from opportunities together,” she states preparations, by He added that Katara to make peace. Having acceptance from all con- academic institutions, cultural added. building artistic models for Prize took upon itself the link flicting parties, Qatar did not hesitate to engage in and social institutions, and The Qatar-USA 2021 Year the sports facilities and between the novel, drama the most complex regional issues during the past others, aiming to prepare a of Culture is based on the holding introductory art exhi- and fine art, as it was a new two decades and dealt with extremely perplexed new generation of Qatari fine long-standing diplomatic bitions of the tournament platform that increases the issues such as the war in Afghanistan, the war in artists to have their place on relations established between locally and abroad. richness of the Arab narrative, Darfur in Sudan, civil war in Libya, border conflict the local and international the two countries in 1972. Artist Mohammed Ali and also provided the largest between Eritrea and Djibouti and other war zones scene in the field of fine arts. Since then, the Qatari-US Abdullah said that the State of specialized archive for Arab where Qatar’s efforts established peace. The most important state relations have continuously Qatar has a tremendous novels and Arab novelists, The recent agreement between the US and the institutions which are con- developed on several levels: development in fine art and established a library spe- Taliban, the ongoing intra-Afghan dialogue in Doha, cerned with sponsoring fine political, military, economic, thanks to the state institu- cializing in the Arabic novel, and the Doha Document for Peace in Darfur (DDPD) artists in the State of Qatar are health, cultural and educa- tions’ sponsorship, which which highlight its impact on which was a culmination of over 20 months of nego- Qatar Museums, the Ministry tional. The Qatari-US rela- have not only paid attention the Arab cultural scene in tiations, dialogue and consultations with the major of Culture and Sports, the Cul- tions, which are based on to the renaissance of fine art general. parties to the Darfur conflict, are examples of Qatar’s tural Village Foundation trust, serve the interests of the in the country, but also con- The sixth edition of the successful diplomacy for establishing peace. Katara and Qatar Fine Arts two countries, as well as the tributed to the advancement prestigious Katara Prize for Qatar’s efforts for establishing peace and sta- Society, in addition to a public interest in achieving of fine art through the estab- Arabic Novel has achieved bility in these countries never ended with mediation number of academic and global and regional peace. lishment of the Arab Museum record participation with a and signing of peace agreements rather Qatar made private institutions, whose Qatar Museums are con- of Modern Art that represents total of 2,220 entries in follow up at the regional and international levels and efforts are all combined to sidered one of the most a milestone in the devel- various categories. The sixth implemented economic projects that encouraged consolidate the presence of important institutions incu- opment of fine art in the State edition of Katara Prize for the people of those areas to adopt the peace process. the Qatari Fine art on the bating fine art creativity. of Qatar and the Arab world. Arabic Novel chose Iraqi nov- The State of Qatar provided continuous support global art scene. Since its inception, the insti- Meanwhile, Artist Salman elist Ghaib Tuma Farman to and followed up consistently the establishment of a Qatar Museums tution seeks to be a cultural Al Malik, the Director of the the “Person of the Year”, in comprehensive peace in Sudan, particularly in Darfur announced that the United instigator for a new gener- Visual Arts Center of the the context of an annual tra- and Eastern Sudan, and through the Doha Document States of America will be the dition that the Prize Com- for Peace in Darfur, Qatar established basis for the official partner nation of the mittee has used to celebrate peace process in other parts of Sudan. State of Qatar for the 2021 The most important state institutions which an Arab literary figure who The high-level Qatari participation yesterday in Year of Culture. A cooperative left a clear imprint on the the final signing ceremony of the peace agreement agreement was signed are concerned with sponsoring fine artists in march of Arab literature. between the transitional government of the Republic between the State of Qatar the State of Qatar are Qatar Museums, the A total of $635,000 will be of Sudan and the Sudanese armed movements, in and the United States of distributed to this years Juba, capital of South Sudan, comes in this context. America during the 2020 Ministry of Culture and Sports, the Cultural winners to be awarded on Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, H E Sultan Qatar-United States Strategic Village Foundation Katara and Qatar Fine October 13 in line with the bin Saad Al Muraikhi, who headed the Qatari dele- Dialogue in Washington, D.C. Arts Society, in addition to a number of aca- International Day of Arabic gation, described the signing as a unique historical The Qatar-USA 2021 Year Novel. moment, where everyone has devoted themselves of Culture is intended to demic and private institutions, whose efforts The Ministry of Culture to peace, and rejected war, and responded to the enhance cultural and artistic are all combined to consolidate the presence and Sports established the voice of reason and conscience. exchange and exemplifies the Center of Music Affairs in The moment according to him “relates to the renewed commitment of the of the Qatari Fine art on the global art scene. 2007 to be a platform for this hopes of many who have been displaced by war and two nations to foster mutual art, starting with words and made them refugees and displaced persons, to return understanding and promote melodies and even singing to the embrace of the nation that awaits peace, devel- intercultural dialogue. The performance. opment, reconstruction and prosperity”. specially curated 2021 Year of ation of creators, and for Ministry of Culture and In the context of achieving Culture will feature a wide- making the State of Qatar the Sports - a center dedicated the Center’s goal of pre- ranging program of exhibi- origin and source of artistic, to enriching the art scene serving the privacy of Qatari tions, festivals, bilateral cultural and heritage with young talents and music, The Center dedicated exchanges, and events to be experiences. training young talents in an annual celebration held in both nations. In order to realize these various artistic fields - said organized under the title “The D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR The Chairperson of the goals, Qatar Museums iden- that fine art in the State of Night of the Qatari Song”, to tified three strategic prior- Qatar is one of the most show the aesthetics of the EMAIL: [email protected] Board of Trustees of Qatar Museums, H E Sheikha Al ities: First, Taking Museums important and active cul- Qatari song. Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani Beyond Four Walls - taking tural fields, noting that Qataris have sang since EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 said: “We inaugurated the the cultural experience activities related to fine art, ancient times songs befitting FAX: +974 4455 7758 Year of Culture program in beyond the four walls of a such as exhibitions, work- their heritage, the reality of celebrating Qatar’s successful museum into the world at shops and lectures are their present and their MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 bid to host the World Cup in large so that more people organized almost everyday future prospects. On board 2022. We started our program can take part. Second: Nur- in the State, whether at the of ships, the Qataris sang DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 in 2012 celebrating Qatar- turing Emerging Talent - level of academic institu- songs that reminded them of Japan’s 40 years of bilateral creating the conditions for tions or governmental and trust in God and motivated LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 relations. We continued to creativity and cultivating private cultural institutions. them to exert effort and celebrate cities hosting the new talent, inspiring the He noted an increase in search for their livelihood. BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 World Cup, with Brazil in next generation of cultural the number of Qatari fine On the backs of camels as 2014 and Russia in 2018. The producers. Third: Creating a artists of both genders and a they crossed the long SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 year long program celebrates Platform for the Voice of rise of the artistic level and deserts, singing was the two nations and the diversity Qatar - taking the distinctive the visual taste, as a result of companion of their journeys. ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 of its people and cultures. place within global debates the large number of art exhi- The Qatari environment is email: [email protected] Today it brings me great on culture and creativity, bitions, adding that fine artists a source of renewed inspi- pleasure to announce that having Qatar’s own cultural in the State of Qatar do not ration for Qatari musicians PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 2021 will be the Year of message, and highlighting its have limits for their ambition, and singers. Musical expres- email: [email protected] Culture between Qatar-USA.” stars. and they always seek to sions varied according to the “Qatar will host the next Meanwhile, the Cultural advance, excel and partic- colors of the nature in which ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 World Cup in 2022 and the Village Foundation Katara ipate strongly in international the Qataris lived. The Qatari FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] USA will bring the next emerged to be a world-class exhibitions. musical heritage and singing version to its grounds in 2026. cultural and artistic landmark, On the Arab cultural reflected the richness of CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 Culture goes beyond the arts, Al Mulla added, stressing that impact made by the Prize, emotion and the depth of email: [email protected] it’s a measure of lifestyle that all these efforts from the General Supervisor of the meanings that stemmed from extends to all areas of life. We various institutions accelerate Katara Prize for Arabic Novel the artists connection to his SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 celebrate culture, sports, the art fine mobility in line Khaled Abdulrahim Al Sayed history and society. FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar Parties have withdrawn from nuclear-related agreements and others are set to expire. Nuclear /Peninsula_Qatar disarmament must remain a priority to all of us. We cannot afford to waste any more time. /ThePeninsulaNewspaper Volkan Bozkir, President of the 75th session of the UN General +974 6698 6188 Assembly SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020 OPINION 09 As Afghans count cost of deadly floods, officials warn of worse to come

He ordered Charikar’s will lead to reduced spring community had neglected administration to clear the rainfall and higher evapotran- Afghanistan’s “environmental flood pathways, resettle spiration, together with more emergency”, with the spot- people now living there, and frequent extreme events such light on its recently rejuve- produce a new development The 2017 NEPA as droughts, floods, landslides nated but fragile peace master plan for the city. and avalanches. process. Thousands of hectares of report said But preparing people for Government and Taliban SHADI KHAN SAIF farmland were also damaged Afghanistan’s that, and encouraging them to negotiators have been REUTERS and livestock perished in the take precautions, will not be meeting in Doha since Sept. floods that caught local com- forests were easy, said Mohammad Iqbal, 12, hoping to agree on a munities off-guard. severely damaged director of public awareness ceasefire and a power- Grocer Aziz Ullah took in his Rohullah Amin, deputy as a result of at the NEPA. sharing deal. But they have brother’s three children after head of the National Environ- “Even after these floods, it been bogged down in the he was killed by devastating mental Protection Agency decades of is hard to convince the locals, principles and procedures for flash floods in late August (NEPA), set up in 2010, deforestation, especially the poor farmers - the talks. which also destroyed Ullah’s warned of far worse impacts who are suffering the most - Shah said the country’s shop in the northern Afghan from rising temperatures and over-harvesting, that climate change is real ongoing conflict also had city of Charikar. erratic weather in the coming mismanagement and they need to adapt to this inflicted harm on its eco- “These poor orphans have years if climate change “is not new reality,” he told the systems, which in turn could lost their parents and have taken seriously locally and and drought - and Thomson Reuters add more deaths to the toll nowhere to go,” said the internationally”. covered just 1.5- Foundation. from violence. father-of-five, 59. “How am I “The developed world The government has “The forest cover is fast going to look after their needs to take responsibility as 2% of the country. launched programmes to depleting, with trees in the needs? Only God knows.” In we have barely contributed to In mountainous raise awareness about climate jungles - particularly in the the once-bustling provincial climate change, but are losing areas especially, impacts and encourage better areas held by the (Taliban) capital of Parwan, where so many lives due to it,” he protection of the country’s insurgents - being cut ruth- nearly 160 people died, resi- told the Thomson Reuters deforestation can fragile environment, with the lessly at an alarming rate,” dents are trying to repair their Foundation. lead to soil erosion, help of local community and Shah said, noting militants are shattered properties, while With very little industry of religious leaders. likely working hand in hand The north and east still grieving for relatives. its own, Afghanistan accounts hiking the risks of Under a new national with illegal loggers to make The north and east of the for far less than 1% of global deadly landslides climate action plan developed money. of the country are country are struggling to greenhouse gas emissions. by the NEPA, now pending The 2017 NEPA report said struggling to recover recover from the effects of the In a report submitted to and floods. cabinet approval, it also aims Afghanistan’s forests were from the effects of heavy downpours that the United Nations in 2017, to move gradually towards severely damaged as a result claimed more than 200 lives, the NEPA said that since 1950, clean energy, cut back on of decades of deforestation, the heavy downpours mostly women and children, Afghanistan’s mean annual low-grade coal for heating in over-harvesting, misman- that claimed more across 13 provinces, as offi- temperature had increased risk of - and least prepared its harsh winter, and launch a agement and drought - and cials warn climate change significantly by 1.8 degrees for - climate-linked threats reforestation drive. covered just 1.5-2% of the than 200 lives, could bring more such Celsius, while spring rainfall - ranging from food insecurity But the impacts of climate country. In mountainous mostly women and disasters. important for crops - had to disease outbreaks, change are already exacer- areas especially, deforestation In August, torrential rains decreased by up to a third. according to an index com- bating the consequences of can lead to soil erosion, hiking children, across 13 swept off the majestic Hindu Amin called for greater piled by the Notre Dame long years of war. the risks of deadly landslides provinces, as officials Kush mountains and through support from wealthy, high- Global Adaptation Initiative. Spells of drought followed and floods. warn climate change the valleys of Parwan, washing emitting countries for his U.N. agencies says by untimely torrential rains - Amin of the NEPA said he away hundreds of homes. war-ravaged nation that, droughts are likely to become coupled with political inse- hoped the renewed push for could bring more When Afghan President despite its tiny role in heating the norm in Afghanistan by curity - displaced more than peace would take a holistic such disasters. Ashraf Ghani visited the area up the planet, is on the 2030, leading to land degra- 500,000 Afghans last year view of the multiple risks in early September, he noted receiving end of the wild dation and desertification, alone, according to the United facing the country - including that 80% of natural flood- weather being intensified by affecting more than a third of Nations Office for the Coordi- its environment. water channels had been global warming. its 38 million people. nation of Humanitarian “Our sincere hope and turned into residential areas, Afghanistan ranks among Projections by the NEPA Affairs. aspiration is that all sides increasing the loss of life. the countries most at suggest rising temperatures Amin, who leads the embrace peace and realise the NEPA’s climate change direc- common threat of climate torate, warned the recent change,” he said. floods should be taken as a “grim reminder and alarm Environmentalist calls” for what the future may Sayed Montazer Shah, have in store. Glaciers are melting a former adviser rapidly, compounding the at the agriculture threat of flash floods, which can severely damage crop ministry, said the yields, he added. government and The NEPA estimates that well over half of households the international across Afghanistan depend on community farming and livestock- had neglected keeping for their main source of income. Afghanistan’s The August floods hit the “environmental northern, eastern and central highlands, where rain-fed emergency”, with farming and pastoralism are the spotlight on its common, hampering house- holds’ ability to produce recently rejuvenated enough food and income to but fragile peace meet their basic needs, NEPA officials said. process. Environmentalist Sayed Montazer Shah, a former adviser at the agriculture ministry, said the government A file photo of an Afghan man walking at the site after floods in Charikar, capital of Parwan province, Afghanistan on August 27,2020. and the international ‘Hi, this is the army’: In Spain, troops tackle track-and-trace

“I’m a contact tracer for them to immediately isolate balancing act. close relative who hangs up the region of Madrid, I got themselves from everyone In general, there are only because that person is in hos- your number from someone around them. “two or three contacts, pital, or has died, it gets com- who has tested positive. The idea is to ease the although sometimes it’s plicated,” he says. Firstly, where are you right pressure on the Madrid seven” and in some cases Earlier this year, there now?” says one, using a region’s healthcare system, many more as was the case was the well-publicised case phrase that will be repeated which is already struggling with one teacher, and another of a funeral which turned into MARIE GIFFARD throughout the day. under the weight of new who worked for a fast-food a viral time bomb, when all AFP “You need to observe 10 Covid cases, explains com- company. 20 people there got infected, days of quarantine.” mander Tomas Garcia, who is “No, no, no -- he can’t go he recalls, saying it required “Hi, this is the army: you’re Tasked by the gov- also a nurse, adding it is “to to school because his sister several people to track down going to have to quarantine.” ernment with helping the give the doctors more time”. has tested positive,” insists all their contacts. This is the message a worst-hit regions, more than On a rainy morning in one in a low voice, the tone “There are also moments Many have Spaniard might now hear 2,000 troops from different October, nine navy personnel muted for most of the when you call someone and blamed the lack over the phone from the branches of the military are are sitting at their desks conversations. they just want to get every- country’s military personnel engaged with the painstaking behind a plexiglass panel, “You must disinfect the thing off their chest, isolated of contact tracing freshly recruited to track and work of tracking down the speaking softly into the phone bathroom really well if you older people who live alone,” as a key reason trace those exposed to the chain of contamination in a while taking notes on a share it with your husband,” says Medel. After one such virus in the European Union’s bid to slow the spread of computer. says another. call, the tracer hung up for the surge worst-hit country. Covid-19. Drafted in just two weeks Sometimes the situation remarking: “She reminded me in numbers in At the headquarters of Many have blamed the ago, they have been ringing requires an extra level of tact of my grandmother.” Spain where Spain’s armed forces in lack of contact tracing as a round all the contacts pro- and sensitivity, with one For those on the team, the central Madrid is a room with key reason for the surge in vided by individuals who gently saying: “It’s not your main thing is “to listen” and to some 760,000 a sign on the door reading numbers in Spain where some have tested positive, with the fault. You mustn’t see it like “be gentle” with people, he people have been “Epidemiological surveillance 760,000 people have been list of numbers provided by that, don’t give it another says. department”. infected and nearly 32,000 the regional health author- thought.” “Each one has their own infected and Inside, a team of around a have died. ities. The aim is to see who For Corporal Rafael style, their own personal nearly 32,000 dozen people, headsets on, It is an arduous task they have been in touch with Medel, telling someone they touch,” says Sergeant Ana are working 12 hours a day, which involves phoning up to build a so-called “map of might have Covid-19 requires Castillo, who runs the have died. seven days a week, each every single person who infections”. a degree of sensitivity. operation. making between 70 and 80 might be infected, and could But guaranteeing the ano- “It can be a shock,” he As to how much longer daily calls to identify those be passing on the virus. nymity of the person who has says. Even worse are those they will be doing the job, who’ve been in touch with Sometimes it may mean tested positive while reaching who ignore the calls or refuse no-one knows. someone who’s tested pos- meeting to carry out a test but out to all the people they have to cooperate. “As long as it takes,” the itive for Covid. the main thing is to convince been in touch with is a fine “If it’s someone who is a defence ministry said. 10 ASIA SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020 COVID-19 death toll in India tops 100,000 AP — NEW DELHI India’s first COVID-19 be far higher. The association last month accused the gov- India passed a grim milestone death was reported ernment of “indifference” after in its fight against the corona- on March 12. Over it said there was no complete virus yesterday, with health data on the number of front- authorities saying the country the next five months, line health care workers who has recorded more than the disease killed had contracted the coronavirus 100,000 virus-related deaths 50,000 people. It took and died. since the pandemic began. Among the lives taken was The announcement from just 45 more days 58-year-old Abdul Quddoos of the Health Ministry means that for that number to Hapur, Uttar Pradesh, who died nearly 10 percent of the more May 28. He was a general phy- than 1 million people to die glo- double, underscoring sician, a husband and a father bally in the pandemic have of three. the severity of the India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi (left) greets Defence Minister Rajnath Singh (right) and Chief done so in India, behind only Yesterday, his son, 32-year- Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Jai Ram Thakur, on his arrival to inaugurate a Himalayan tunnel near the United States and Brazil. pandemic. old Mohd Danish, stood next to India has seen more than 6.4 his grave in New Delhi’s largest Manali, yesterday. million total confirmed infec- Muslim cemetery and spread tions, recording more than lation of 1.4 billion. flower petals on it. 79,000 new cases in the past “India’s fatalities numbers “I feel patients are not being Modi opens India’s high-altitude 24 hours. don’t reflect the true extent of taken care of in the hospitals,” Prime Minister Narendra the damage the virus has done,” Danish said. Modi and his government are said Dr. T. Jacob John, a retired Metres away, Mohammad road tunnel to tense China border facing criticism for failing to virologist. Shameem, a grave digger who stop the march of the virus, India’s poor track record to now also oversees the burials, AFP — NEW DELHI and have been locked in a tense “We have put our entire which in September hit India register mortality data even helped lower another body in stand-off for months. energy in developing our harder than any other nation in before the pandemic has a grave with ropes. As grieving India’s Prime Minister Narendra The $400m, nine-kilometre border infrastructure. The the world. Almost 41 percent of further amplified questions relatives looked on, a visibly Modi yesterday opened a Hima- tunnel will cut the journey by country hasn’t seen roads, India’s total infections and 34 over the actual death toll. On tired Shameem described the layan tunnel that will drastically about 50km and four hours, bridges and tunnels built at this percent of COVID-19 deaths Wednesday, US President extent of the virus toll. reduce the time needed to rush enabling travellers to bypass a scale,” the prime minister said were reported in September Donald Trump, during the first “There is very little space is troops to the country’s remote tricky route across a landslide- after inaugurating the tunnel alone, with an average of nearly presidential debate, suggested left now at the burial ground,” Chinese border as tensions prone Himalayan pass. Saturday. 1,100 Indians dying every day India was underreporting said Shameem. “We are going grow between the Asian neigh- The tunnel, at an altitude of “Besides locals, this (infra- from the virus. deaths, though he provided no to increase the space for the bours. more than 3,000 metres, has structure) will also hugely As in many countries, Modi evidence. fourth time.” The tunnel traverses India’s been hailed as a feat of engi- benefit the men and women in and his government have India’s first COVID-19 death The virus has exacted an northern Himachal Pradesh neering. A decade in the our army,” Modi added. struggled with how to balance was reported on March 12. Over especially vicious toll on state and lies on one of two making, freezing temperatures New Delhi hopes such virus restrictions with the need the next five months, the southern Maharashtra, one of main routes for troops headed and the challenging terrain projects will promote tourism to boost a contracting economy disease killed 50,000 people. India’s largest and richest to border areas in Ladakh. meant construction work could and spur economic activity. in which millions are newly It took just 45 more days for states. It has recorded nearly 1.3 Twenty Indian and an only be carried out for about six Sanjay Kundu, the police jobless. that number to double, under- million cases including more unspecified number of Chinese months each year. chief of Himachal Pradesh Even as the nation reaches scoring the severity of a pan- than 37,000 deaths. In neigh- troops were killed in June The project is part of New recently proposed better roads 100,000 confirmed deaths, demic that has swamped bouring Karnataka, the fatal- during a deadly clash in Delhi’s push to catch up with and mobile connectivity as well experts say that number is intensive care units and ities stand at nearly 9,000. Ladakh, which shares a dis- Chinese infrastructure devel- as even arms training for the likely still an undercount. They morgues and also contributed The two states comprise puted boundary with China’s opment on the other side of the state’s border villages. say many COVID-19 deaths to the deaths of medical almost 45 percent of total restive Xinjiang and Tibet border. India’s Border Roads may have been attributed to professionals. COVID-19 deaths in the regions. In the last six years, Modi’s Organisation, which imple- other causes, especially in the The Indian Medical Associ- country. Other states like Delhi, The two nuclear-armed government has expedited ments most of these strategic early days of the pandemic ation on Friday said at least 500 West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and countries have since rushed several frontier projects projects, says it has built more when testing was abysmally doctors have died of the coro- Andhra Pradesh have had more tens of thousands of additional including roads, bridges and in the last four years than in the low for a country with a popu- navirus, adding the toll could than 5,000 deaths each. troops and weapons to the area, high-altitude airstrips. previous decade. Malaysia not to re-impose virus North Korea’s Kim wishes Trump recovery from COVID-19 AP — SEOUL across the world have sent mes- But they stopped such rhetoric sanctions on North Korea. ahead of the US presidential curbs for now sages of goodwill to the couple. and instead developed a per- Before their nuclear talks election in November. North Korean leader Kim Jong Kim and Trump once sonal relationship after Kim entered a stalemate, Trump said Despite the deadlocked despite spike Un yesterday sent a message of exchanged threats of abruptly reached out to Trump that he and Kim “fell in love.” talks, Kim hasn’t lifted his self- sympathy to President Donald destruction and crude insults in 2018 for talks on the fate of According to journalist Bob imposed moratorium on nuclear REUTERS — KUALA LUMPUR Trump and his wife Melania, after North Korea in 2017 his advancing nuclear arsenal. Woodward’s recently published and long-range missile tests in wishing they would recover carried out a series of high- They met three times in book “Rage,” Kim, in a letter to an apparent effort to keep Malaysia will not re-impose from the COVID-19 illness, state profile weapons tests aimed at 2018-2019, starting with a Trump, called the US president chances for diplomacy alive. widespread coronavirus media reported. acquiring ability to launch summit in Singapore that made “your excellency” and said he North Korea’s economy is restrictions on travel despite “He sincerely hoped that nuclear strikes on the US Trump the first sitting US pres- believed the “deep and special believed to have worsened due a recent spike in infections, they would recover as soon as mainland. ident to meet a North Korea friendship between us will work to the sanctions and the pan- which a government minister possible. He hoped they will Trump had said he would leader since the end of the as a magical force.” demic that forced it to close its said was partly caused by surely overcome it,” the Korean rain “fire and fury” on North 1950-53 Korean War. Some observers said border with China, its biggest migrants from neighbouring Central News Agency reported. Korea and derided Kim as “little But their meetings made Trump’s coronavirus diagnosis trading partner, in January. countries. “He sent warm greetings to rocket man” on a suicide little headway since their second would quell speculation that the North Korea has said there Malaysia imposed a them.” Trump said on Friday he mission, while Kim responded summit in Vietnam in early 2019 two leaders could have planned hasn’t been a single virus out- nationwide lockdown in and his wife had tested positive he would “tame the mentally ended without any deal fol- an “October surprise” in break on its soil, a claim widely March but has been gradually for the coronavirus, and leaders deranged US dotard with fire.” lowing disputes over US-led arranging their fourth meeting disputed by foreign experts. lifting the curbs, though authorities have warned that they could be reinstated if daily increases in infections Police increase patrolling in reached triple-digits. The Southeast Asian Australia’s virus hotspot country has seen a steady climb in cases in the past week REUTERS — MELBOURNE and yesterday reported 317 new infections, the highest Police in Australia’s coronavirus hotspot state of Victoria stepped daily rise since it began up patrolling yesterday as hundreds of people in the city of tracking the pandemic. Melbourne breached stringent lockdown restrictions and flocked But security minister to beaches on the warmest weekend in months. Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the Under the restrictions, nearly five million people in Melbourne, government did not see the Victoria’s capital, may exercise or socialise outdoors for a need to reimpose the maximum of two hours a day, but must stay close to home. People lockdown as the majority of must wear masks in public places. cases were being reported in But television and social media footage showed crowds, many detention centres and isolated people without masks, at some of Melbourne’s beaches as tem- districts. peratures soared ahead of summer in the southern “There’s only one or two hemisphere. cases in each state so it’s not “A number of fines were issued to people who breached direc- something that’s worrying at tions.... and Victoria Police will be conducting increased patrols this point,” Ismail told of popular public spaces this weekend,” police said in a statement. reporters. Fines for not wearing masks reach A$200 ($143) and for The government has come breaching public health orders are more than A$1,600. under criticism for the increase in cases, many of which have New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern casts her vote on the first day of advance voting during been in or linked to the second- the general election in Auckland, New Zealand, yesterday. Nepal Premier’s advisers largest state of Sabah, on Borneo island, which held an test positive for COVID-19 election last week. Advance voting begins in New Zealand Several politicians have REUTERS — KATHMANDU been accused of violating social REUTERS — WELLINGTON all votes in 2017 and could governing in a coalition with distancing protocols on the reach as much as 60 percent the Greens and the nationalist Three advisers to Nepal’s Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli said campaign trail, while author- Early voting began in New this time round. New Zealand First party, faces yesterday they had tested positive for COVID-19, which has ities were criticised for not Zealand on Friday with Prime In a Facebook message, the conservative National Party claimed the lives of 528 people in the country. imposing control measures such Minister and Labour Party Ardern said she voted early yes- in what has been a pandemic- Oli’s press, political and foreign affairs advisers told Reuters as a mandatory 14-day quar- leader Jacinda Ardern seen terday. “Voting opens today! We dominated campaign. they had been infected and were isolating themselves. antine for travellers from Sabah. securing a second term in office got in nice and early, you should Ardern’s rise to become An assistant working for Oli also tested positive, they added. Ismail said the Sabah out- on the back of her success in too! No lines, lots of space, quick New Zealand’s most popular Oli has previously tested negative, but had yet to take a test break stemmed from the illegal handling the coronavirus and easy,” Ardern said. prime minister, buoyed by her after his associates tested positive, press adviser Surya Thapa entry of migrants. The gov- pandemic and other crises. A photo posted on her response to the COVID-19 pan- said. ernment would increase Voters can head to the polls Facebook page shows Ardern demic that has left the country “The prime minister has been exercising extreme caution while resources and personnel to with about 450 advance polling and her partner, Clarke Gayford, largely unscathed, has boosted meeting with people,” Thapa said. guard the state’s borders, he said. stations opened across the walking into a polling place. her prospects in the election. Oli’s personal physician had earlier tested positive and is iso- “The cases in neighbouring country in the lead-up to New Zealanders are also The 40-year-old also won lating herself, Thapa said, adding that more than two dozen countries have gone up and election day on October 17. voting on two other issues - legal- support at home and global security personnel at Oli’s official residence have also tested pos- the entry of illegal migrants The election commission ising recreational cannabis and admiration for her response to itive. Nepal’s COVID-19 cases rose by 2,120 to 84,570 yesterday, from there have impacted on said advance voting has euthanasia — topics that have split last year’s attack by a white the country’s health ministry said. our efforts to control the become steadily more popular. opinions in the country. supremacist on two mosques Neighbouring India’s coronavirus death toll passed 100,000 spread of COVID-19,” he said. It accounted for 47 percent of Ardern’s Labour Party, and a fatal volcanic eruption. yesterday, making it the third country to reach that milestone. SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020 ASIA 11 Enemies of army are enemies of Pakistan: Imran INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD The Prime Minister said that those who were said that the government will power who are truly of a difference between the defend its institutions. responsible”. Pakistan of a few years ago and In a reference to former prime enemies of the armed forces were enemies of PM Imran Khan’s comments “They will have to answer,” the one before us now. “I do not minister Nawaz Sharif, PM Pakistan, calling on the whole nation to stay came a day after PML-N Nawaz had said. understand why this has hap- Imran Khan said that those who supremo Nawaz lashed out at As he began his address, he pened.We were so prosperous were enemies of the Pakistan united in the face of conspiracy. the establishment and the gov- spoke of how it had been a long until 2018. Our tenure lasted Army were enemies of the ernment, saying that he will no time since such an address had 2013-2018 and with your country. longer remain silent. He was taken place. “I am addressing prayers and God’s mercy and The prime minister was Imran Khan’s resignation and catch their corruption,” he said. addressing a PML-N central you all after a long time. And in your support from 2013-2017, I addressing a PTI meeting where announced protests all over the The prime minister criti- working committee meeting via these two-and-a-half years we was prime minister,” he had he spoke about the upcoming country starting October 11 in cised Nawaz Sharif’s diatribe a video link from London. have all endured much.” “But it said. protest movement to be Quetta. against the army, saying that his “Nawaz Sharif is not made is with God’s grace we are “Me and my team who are launched by the country’s oppo- During the party meeting, statements appease India. of the kind of stuff that can seeing each other now,” Nawaz sitting here and also those not sition parties. PM Imran said that there were “Nawaz Sharif is towing India’s stand remaining quiet on dual had said. here, such as Shahbaz Sharif Pakistan’s largest opposition no tensions in the current civil- narrative,” added PM Imran. standards of accountability,” he “When I look at the state the who is in jail, paying for crimes parties including the PPP, the military relations between the He said that those who were said, adding that “no one should country is in, it saddens me not committed together, we PML-N and the JUI-F have government and the armed enemies of the armed forces try to silence him”. deeply,” the former prime min- were changing the fate of formed a multi-party alliance forces. were enemies of Pakistan, He said that although the ister had said. “We were on such Pakistan.” “These are not empty known as the Pakistan Demo- “The opposition has a calling on the whole nation to prime minister “is to blame” for a great path to progress and look words, you yourself have wit- cratic Movement (PDM). problem with the army because stay united in the face of an the country’s current state, “it at where we are now.” nessed the fruits of our efforts,” The PDM has called for PM they [armed forces] always Indian conspiracy. PM Imran is those who brought him into Nawaz said he sees a world Nawaz had said. Truck bomb in Afghan Canadian warship sails near Taiwan province kills at least 15 Strait amid rising tensions REUTERS — KABUL Ministry of Interior spokesman Tariq Arian blamed Attackers set off a truck bomb the insurgent Taliban for the REUTERS — TAIPEI in Afghanistan’s eastern attack, saying in the last two Nangarhar province yesterday, weeks they had carried 650 A Canadian warship has sailed killing at least 15 people and attacks which had killed 69 through the sensitive Taiwan wounding dozens, according to civilians and wounded 141 people. Strait, the island’s defence provincial officials, as violence The Taliban did not imme- ministry said yesterday, a continues in the war-torn diately respond to calls voyage that comes at a time of nation despite peace talks requesting comment. Afghan heightened military tension taking place in Qatar. government negotiators are between China and Taiwan Attaullah Khugyani, a holding talks with Taliban in and which could anger Beijing. spokesman for the provincial Doha in attempts to end China, which claims dem- government, said the number decades of conflict, but calls by ocratic Taiwan as its own ter- of casualties, most of whom the government and interna- ritory, has stepped up its mil- were civilians, could rise and tional community for a itary activity around the island that dozens of people were also ceasefire or reduction in vio- in the past few weeks, injured by the blast in Ghani lence have so far been rejected including sending fighter jets Khel district. by the Taliban. to cross the unofficial mid-way Obaidullah Shinwari, the The Ministry of Interior also line buffer in the strait. Nangarhar provincial council’s said in a Tweet that Afghan Taiwan’s defence ministry member, said 52 people were forces had killed a key member said the Canadian corvette had injured in the blast. No group of the Taliban and arrested five sailed into the Taiwan Strait immediately claimed respon- others on Friday night in Members of Afghan security forces arrive at the site of a truck bomb blast in Ghani Khel district of from the South China Sea and sibility for the attack. northern Balkh province. Nangarhar province, Afghanistan, yesterday. was heading in a northerly direction after leaving the waterway. Taiwan’s armed forces UK refuses to help Pakistan govt execute Sharif’s arrest warrants monitored the ship while it was in the strait, it said, adding INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD commission said that its staff refused, informing Pakistan His staff and family said that it will write another that the situation was normal. members have made visits to officials that the UK govt will members can also sign and letter to the UK government for The ministry did not The Pakistan High Commission the property’s reception but not interfere in the country’s acknowledge the corre- the deportation of the former elaborate. has been unable to get the non- were unable to meet any internal political matters. spondence on his behalf, but premier, who was allowed to fly Canada’s navy has sailed bailable arrest warrants for member of the family. The sources said that the UK that can be done only in a vol- to London for medical treatment through the Taiwan Strait Nawaz Sharif executed at the The latest visit was made on has informed the Pakistani offi- unteer capacity and they cannot in November 2019 but was later before, including in September Avenfield House nearly a month Thursday afternoon by two offi- cials that getting the arrest war- be forced to sign and declared an absconder by some of last year. after the warrants were cials who stayed on Dunraven rants executed was not its job acknowledge. courts in Pakistan. The US Navy has also been received here — and the British Street for about ten minutes and and it didn’t have the mandate The Islamabad High Court At the IHC while hearing conducting regular passages government has informed Paki- left without even approaching to enforce warrants. (IHC) was informed last week Sharif’s appeal against his con- through the strait. stani officials they will not get the reception. The options for Pakistan High that the former prime minister viction in the Al Azizia case, had China tends to denounce involved in the matter. The former prime minister Commission are limited. It can has “refused” to receive non- asked about the execution of such sailings. In August, its Sources within the Pakistan was speaking to his party’s do nothing beyond using the bailable arrest warrants at his Nawaz Sharif’s arrest warrants. military labelled the guided- High Commission have said that Central Working Committee services of Royal Mail and courier residence in the United Kingdom. Additional Attorney General missile destroyer USS Mustin’s five attempts were made so far to meeting just about five minutes services for the “signed and The PML-N supremo was Tariq Khokhar told the court sailing through the strait an get the arrest warrants signed and away, from Hasan Nawaz’s office. acknowledged” service or get it’s declared a proclaimed offender that Rao Abdul Hanan, a repre- “extremely dangerous” move. delivered at the Avenfield flats, but Pakistani diplomats also own staff to get the papers signed. earlier this month and has pre- sentative of the Pakistan High China-Canada relations there has been no success as asked the British government The recipient of the post, in viously also refused to receive Commission, reached the Aven- have soured since Canada neither Nawaz Sharif nor any through the Foreign and Com- this case, is Nawaz Sharif and the arrest warrants issued in his field Apartments to deliver the arrested the chief financial member of the Sharif family has monwealth Office (FCO) to help it’s entirely up to him to either name and delivered at the Park arrest warrants to the former officer of Chinese telecom signed the official papers. execute the arrest warrants but voluntarily accept or sign the Lane address. premier, however, the arrest giant Huawei Technologies, Sources in the high the British government plainly correspondence or not. The federal government has warrants were not received. Meng Wanzhou, in late 2018. Registered US-built facility on naval voters in Pakistan surpass base in Cambodia razed

115.74 million REUTERS — WASHINGTON “We have concerns

INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD Cambodia has demolished a that razing the US-built facility on the coun- facility may be tied to The Election Commission of try’s largest naval base, Cambodia government Pakistan has released the final according to images published voter lists showing 115,748,753 by an American think tank on plans for hosting of registered voters in Friday, amid increasing People’s Republic of Pakistan. concern in Washington about According to ECP, there China’s access to military bases China (PRC) military are 64,078,616 men, in the nation. assets and personnel 51,667,599 women and 2,538 The Center for Strategic and other voters in the country. International Studies (CSIS) at Ream Naval Base,” The total registered voters published images which it said the Pentagon said. in Punjab are 66,236,144, showed that the Cambodian including 36,371,326 male, government last month demol- 29,862,932 female, and 1,886 ished a building that the United The Cambodian embassy in Police buses are parked surrounding the Gwanghwamun Square to prevent unexpected anti- other voters. States had built at Ream Naval Washington did not immedi- government protests amid the coronavirus disease in central Seoul, South Korea, yesterday. In Sindh, total numbers of Base. ately respond to a request for voters are 24,351,681, which Last year the Pentagon had comment. include 13,443,983 male, asked Cambodia to explain why The Cambodian gov- 10,907,267 female, and 431 Bus walls to prevent protest in Seoul it turned down an offer to ernment has denied reports other voters. repair the base, saying the that China had reached a secret In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, REUTERS — SEOUL slowed in recent weeks but the the square an “excessive decision had raised speculation deal with Cambodia to let it there are 19,533,964 voters in government has banned more response” aimed at silencing of possible plans for hosting place forces at the base, saying total, including 11,076,630 South Korean police mobilised than 100 demonstrations voices critical of the China’s military. that hosting foreign forces male, 8,457,201 female and 133 hundreds of buses to head off planned for yesterday’s government. The Pentagon on Friday said would be against Cambodia’s others. any political rallies in the National Foundation Day, A group of citizens who it was concerned about reports constitution. Total number of voters in capital, Seoul, yesterday with warning of strict punishment took part in the August protest that the US-funded Cambodian The base is southeast of the Balochistan is 4,801,131, which authorities determined to for any illegal protest. issued a statement accusing the Navy tactical headquarters port city of Sihanoukville, include 2,753,946 men, prevent another cluster of novel Police parked busses along government of violating peo- facility had been demolished and centre of a Chinese-led casino 2,047,104 women, and 81 others. coronavirus cases emerging main avenues and around a ple’s freedom of speech and had asked the Cambodian gov- boom and a Chinese-run In Islamabad Capital Ter- from a protest. central Seoul square to seal them rights to assembly. ernment for an explanation. Special Economic Zone. ritory, there are 825,833 voters, South Korea has been held off. They also set up some 90 The government did not “We have concerns that Cambodia is one of China’s including 432,731 men, 393,095 up as a coronavirus mitigation checkpoints to prevent vehicles respond to the criticism but had razing the facility may be tied closest allies in Southeast Asia women, and seven others. success story but it saw a flare- bringing protesters while the said before it would take stern to Cambodia government plans and has received billions of The final electoral rolls will up of more than 1,800 infec- subway did not stop at several action to control the pandemic. for hosting People’s Republic dollars of Chinese aid as well be displayed in the offices of the tions linked to a church and a stations at protest venues. Police said the measure was of China (PRC) military assets as political backing for author- District Election Commissioner big anti-government rally in The move drew some scep- necessary to prevent potential and personnel at Ream Naval itarian Prime Minister Hun Sen or Registration Officers for August. ticism, with opposition law- sources of the spread of the Base,” the Pentagon said in a in the face of Western public inspection from Monday. The spread of the virus has makers calling the lockdown of virus. statement. criticism. 12 EUROPE SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020 Severe floods in Italy, France leave 2 dead and 24 missing

AP — PARIS with their 11-year-old and Hundreds of rescue 6-year-old grandchildren, and operations were under Flooding from record rains in a pair of brothers returning the mountainous region that from France. way. French President spans France and Italy killed The spokesman for Italy’s Emmanuel Macron two people in Italy and left at firefighters said a search was least 24 people in the two coun- ongoing for a missing shepherd thanked rescuers on tries missing yesterday. who was pulled into flood Twitter. “Together we A storm that moved over- waters on Col de Tende. His will get through this,” night across southeastern brother managed to grab onto France and then northern Italy a tree and was saved, while he said. caused major flooding on both authorities were searching on sides of the border, destroying the French side for the since 1958 in northern Italy’s bridges, blocking roads and iso- shepherd. Piedmont region, where as lating communities. Firefighter spokesman Luca much as 630 millimetres of rain In Italy, a firefighter was Cari said he suspects the other fell in a 24 hour period, killed during a rescue operation people reported missing in Italy according to the Italian civil in the mountainous northern have lost phone contact, but at protection agency. region of Val d’Aosta. Another the moment they are not Hundreds of rescue opera- A general view shows a partially submerged truck in the River Vesubie at Roquebilliere, France, yesterday, body was found in Vercelli thought to be in imminent tions were under way. Eleven after the waters of the swollen river surged through the town in the Alpes-Maritimes department. province, near where a man had danger. The situation at the campers were saved in Vercelli been swept away by flood tunnel on the high mountain province, where floodwaters hit waters late Friday. pass is complicated by the fact 20-year highs. And Alpine border, in southeastern France, Castex, who flew over the area providing supplies and accom- A total of 16 people were that French emergency rescue squads have evacuated almost a year’s average rainfall in an helicopter, confirmed that modation for the people reported missing in Italy, all but responders cannot access their by foot seven people who were fell in less than 12 hours in the at least eight people were affected, and restoring commu- one travellers in cars on the Col side due to flood damage, Cari in houses cut off by flooding at mountainous area surrounding missing, including two fire- nications,” the prime minister de Tende high mountain pass said. Italian firefighters were Terme di Valdieri; some had to the city of Nice. Nice mayor fighters whose vehicle was said. French President between France and Italy, searching the French side for be carried on stretchers due to Christian Estrosi said over 100 carried away by water when the Emmanuel Macron yesterday according to civil protection people who may have been the muddy conditions and accu- homes were destroyed or road collapsed during a rescue expressed gratitude toward res- authorities. They include two blocked. Unrelenting rainfall mulation of detritus. severely damaged in the area. operation. “As I speak, priority cuers on Twitter. “Together we people from Germany driving overnight hit levels not seen On the other side of the French Prime Minister Jean goes to searching for victims, will get through this,” he said. UK, EU leaders agree to keep talking in bid for Brexit deal Package with AFP — LONDON June, is seen as crucial to finding “They endorsed the December 31. Both sides have “good deal to be done” but that nails found on a breakthrough in the stalled assessment of both chief nego- pinpointed a European summit it was down to the EU to show British Prime Minister Boris negotiations, with time running tiators that progress had been on October 15 as the latest an more flexibility. German train Johnson and EU chief Ursula short to ratify a deal by an end made in recent weeks but that agreement could be reached for He added Britain was pre- von der Leyen yesterday asked of the year deadline. significant gaps remained,” a it to be ratified in time for it take paring for a possible no-deal AGENCIES — BERLIN their negotiators to “work Britain is due to end nearly Downing Street spokesman effect by then. Brexit and “could make it work intensively” to overcome differ- five decades of economic and said, adding fisheries, so-called Britain’s head negotiator very well”. An object containing nails and ences to secure a post-Brexit political integration on level playing field provisions David Frost promptly said on Meanwhile an EU source gunpowder was found on free trade deal. December 31, and fears are and governance issues were Twitter: “That work begins as said the bloc was waiting for the board on out-of-service train The two leaders spoke via growing of travel and trade proving most problematic. soon as we can next week.” British “to really start negoti- in the German city of Cologne video-link after the last of nine chaos if an agreement is not “They instructed their chief However, neither London nor ating on the big issues”. and made safe, police said scheduled rounds of talks struck. negotiators to work intensively Brussels appear ready to make German Chancellor Angela yesterday. between London and Brussels Johnson’s office said in a in order to try to bridge those a big shift in their entrenched Merkel, who meets the bloc’s Experts later determined ended on Friday with both sides statement that both leaders had gaps.” Britain formally left the positions. Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier that it couldn’t have exploded saying significant obstacles to “agreed to speak on a regular European Union in January but Johnson — a key figure in tomorrow, said on Friday she and wasn’t dangerous. an agreement remained. basis on this issue” as their has remained bound by most of the lengthy and divisive process believed a deal was still pos- A cleaner found the object The intervention by the pair, teams try to find compromises the bloc’s rules during a tran- to take Britain out of the bloc — sible, though warned the next in a train parked on sidings who last held Brexit talks in for the thorniest issues. sition phase that ends on said yesterday there was a days were crucial. outside Cologne’s Deutz station on Friday night, police said. Specialists secured it Madrid starts early yesterday. Salvini migrant case delayed to November 20 Experts who examined the partial virus object found that it contained AFP — CATANIA, ITALY the mafia and serious crime. nails and a small amount of lockdown amid “The Italian justice system gunpowder, according to a An Italian judge reviewing is a system which works,” he police statement. political scuffle charges against far-right leader said yesterday. It wasn’t capable of Matteo Salvini that he illegally Salvini arrived in Catania igniting in the situation where AFP — MADRID detained migrants at sea on Thursday for three days of it was found, police added. delayed the hearing until rallies, dinners and debates on Specialists believe that, Madrid awoke yesterday to its November 20 so he could hear issues from immigration to even if it had been ignited, the first day under a partial from senior members of the security in the city’s port area. nails would have moved only lockdown, with police government, including Prime The League printed t-shirts a few centimetres and a risk controlling travel in and out of Minister Giuseppe Conte. and advertised cheap flights for to nearby people or objects the Spanish capital as the city Salvini made no comment the “Italians choose freedom” was “extremely unlikely,” the and its suburbs have become as he went into the closed door festival, which will feature statement said. Europe's biggest hot spot in the hearing at the Catania court fellow far-right head Giorgia The background to the find second wave of the corona- house which was held to Meloni, of the Brothers of Italy was unclear. Officers combed virus. determine whether he should party, and bigwigs from ex- through all 27 trains in the Spain's national gov- face trial on charges that he premier Silvio Berlusconi’s same sidings to make sure ernment ordered two weeks abused his powers as then- Forza Italia. there were no other suspicious Police stand guard near people protesting against far-right leader of new restrictions that started interior minister to block 116 Fellow rightwing travellers objects. Bild newspaper had Matteo Salvini, in Catania, Italy, yesterday. at 10pm on Friday (2000 GMT) migrants from disembarking in Italy backed Salvini, with reported earlier that the device despite reluctance from from the Italian Gregoretti Giovanni Toti, regional pres- was a home-made bomb regional officials. coastguard boat last year, under running for prime minister at before making such a decision. ident of Liguria and a Forza capable of causing serious The measures prohibit all his so-called “closed ports” the next election in 2023. Salvini, who had some Italia member, slamming what injuries. nonessential trips in and out policy. He faces a maximum Salvini’s defence counsel as sharp words on the hearing he termed “the most absurd Federal police sniffer dogs of the capital and nine of its sentence of 15 years. well as the prosecutor called for earlier in the week, appeared trial in the history of the Italian confirmed the location and suburbs — affecting around 4.8 If the opposition leader and the case to be dismissed. satisfied with the outcome. Republic.” A 500-strong police special forces x-rayed the box, million people. Restaurants head of the anti-immigrant But Judge Nunzio Sarpietro “It is not a political process. force was tasked with pre- it reported. must close at 11pm and shops League party is convicted for decided instead to hear from I found the judge to be a free venting clashes between Salvini The newspaper cited at 10pm, and both must limit more than two years, he could current Interior Minister person,” he said, after having fans and leftwing protesters. investigators as saying it was occupancy to 50% of their well also be barred from Luciana Lamorgese and Foreign previously berated the local Salvini had vowed to “plead still unclear whether it was a capacity. holding public office for six Minister Luigi Di Maio, along authorities for pursuing him guilty of having defended Italy failed terrorist attack or an Spain’s Socialist prime years, preventing him from with Prime Minister Conte, while not doing anything about and Italians”. attempted blackmail threat. minister, Pedro Sánchez, said the steps were "critical” to stopping virus outbreaks and preventing a repeat of the hor- ‘Best Germany yet’ marks 30th anniversary of reunification rific scenes of March and April, when hospitals were overrun AP — BERLIN long-lasting trend of more ago — “brutally forced, with with dying patients. people leaving the east than iron and blood, after wars with The new health standards Germany marked the 30th moving there has finally halted our neighbours, based on are designed to kick in once a anniversary of its reunification in recent years. Pensions in the Prussian dominance, on mili- municipality has 500 infec- yesterday, drawing a generally east are nearing the level of tarism and nationalism.” He tions per 100,000 inhabitants positive picture of the progress those in the west, though wages said yesterday’s anniversary is over 14 days and 30% of the made in knitting together east are lower. And Germany’s a reminder of the value of “an intensive care units are and west. The country’s pres- biggest companies are still international order which is so occupied by COVID-19 ident declared that today’s is headquartered in the west, strongly contested today, unfor- patients. Even though the “the best Germany there has while political polarisation has tunately in western societies measures are light compared ever been” and proposed a new been most noticeable over too.” “We are living today in the with the home confinement memorial to the “peaceful revo- recent years in the east, where best Germany there has ever mandated across Spain during lutionaries” who helped end the far-right Alternative for been,” the President said. “Let’s the first wave of the virus, they communist rule. Germany party is particularly thank all those who worked for have sparked a political battle Germany was reunited on strong. it.” He advocated creating a between Sánchez’s left-wing October 3, 1990, after four The coronavirus pandemic memorial to the “peaceful rev- coalition government and the decades of Cold War division. meant that celebrations were olutionaries” of East Germany People walk past a heart sculpture with national colours during Madrid administration run by East Germany joined the relatively low-key — as Chan- whose efforts brought the com- celebrations of 30 years since Germany’s reunification in Potsdam a right-wing rival. western federal republic less cellor Angela Merkel put it this munist dictatorship to an end. The Madrid government than a year after the east’s com- week, “quieter than the yesterday. That would add to existing led by Isabel Díaz Ayuso of the munist rulers — under pressure occasion would actually memorials at remnants of the conservative Popular Party from growing protests — deserve.” President Frank- Steinmeier said. He summed up parts of the western Ruhr Berlin Wall and former facilities said it would enforce the opened the Berlin Wall and the Walter Steinmeier led the main mixed feelings about the industrial region, Steinmeier run by the Stasi, East Germany’s Spanish government's orders rest of the highly fortified ceremony at a hall in Potsdam, progress of the past three said, and there are “more and secret police, and to an already- but it also has challenged them border between the two states just outside Berlin, with 230 decades by saying that “we are more eastern success stories.” planned unity memorial in in the National Court Ayuso on November 9, 1989. guests — about one-fifth of the not nearly as far along as we Steinmeier contrasted reunifi- Berlin. and her regional ministers While much progress has audience originally planned. should be, but at the same time cation in 1990, preceded by Germany could use “a place have said the restrictions will, been made since then, eco- Germany is “rightly proud” we are much further along than peaceful protests and sealed by that reminds us that East hurt economy and violate their nomic and other differences on the anniversary of reunifi- we think.” Eastern cities such international agreement, with Germans took their fate in their jurisdiction as regional between the west and the less- cation, “and no pandemic can as Leipzig and Rostock are now the emergence of the unified own hands and liberated them- authorities. prosperous east still persist. A get in the way of that,” economically stronger than German state nearly 150 years selves,” Steinmeier said. SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020 EUROPE 13 Germany expects EU to impose sanctions against Russia

REUTERS — BERLIN will be no longer any way Navalny emerged from a coma in early around sanctions,” Maas told September after suddenly falling ill during Germany expects the European news portal t-online in an Union to impose new sanctions interview. a flight in Siberia on August 20 and later against Russia over the “Sanctions must always be being airlifted to Berlin for treatment. German poisoning of opposition leader targeted and proportionate. But Alexei Navalny with an inter- such a grave violation of the doctors say he was poisoned with Novichok, a nationally banned nerve agent, International Chemical Weapons Russian nerve agent. Foreign Minister Heiko Maas Convention cannot be left unan- said yesterday. swered. On this, we’re united in Navalny emerged from a Europe,” Maas added. Navalny and that they had Asked if European sanctions coma in early September after Germany currently holds the informed the Russian Embassy against Russia should include suddenly falling ill during a flight rotating presidency of the about this step on September Nord Stream 2, Maas said there in Siberia on August 20 and later 27-member bloc. EU leaders will 23. But it was up to Navalny were more than 100 European being airlifted to Berlin for discuss their reaction and pos- himself whether he wanted to companies involved in the treatment. German doctors say sible sanctions against Russia at be visited by Russian officials project, half of them in he was poisoned with Novichok, their next summit on October Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. or not, the spokeswoman Germany. a Russian nerve agent. 15-16. added. “So many European Germany, France and other “If the result of the German, Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in It also called on those who The Navalny case has workers would suffer from a Western countries have Swedish and French laboratories The Hague for additional tests inspire a “campaign of worsened relations between construction freeze,” Maas said. demanded an explanation from is confirmed, there will be a clear in their labs. demonizing Russia” to stop. Moscow and a number of Nord Stream 2 is led by Rus- the Kremlin for Navalny’s illness. response from the EU. I’m sure Russia’s Foreign Ministry A German Foreign Ministry Western countries. Germany sia’s state gas giant Gazprom, Russia says it has seen no firm about that,” Maas said. said on Saturday the German spokeswoman pointed to earlier has faced calls to halt the with half of the funding pro- evidence he was poisoned and Germany has sent samples Foreign Ministry had sent its remarks from a ministry nearly-completed Nord Stream vided by Germany’s Uniper and denies involvement in any attack taken from the Russian oppo- embassy in Berlin a refusal in spokeswoman, saying Berlin 2 pipeline, which is meant to BASF’s Wintershall unit, Anglo- on him. sition politician to the Organi- response to an embassy request had forwarded the Russian bring more Russian gas directly Dutch company Shell, Austria’s “I am convinced that there sation for the Prevention of to have access to Navalny. request for consular access to to Germany. OMV and France’s Engie. Russia confirms COVID-19 vaccine roll-out expected in less than three months in UK pollution REUTERS — LONDON of 2021, the newspaper said. The European Medicines The news of the European people globally. off Far East A full COVID-19 immuni- Agency (EMA) said on Thursday review also raises chances of The Times report added A mass roll-out of a COVID-19 zation programme, which it has started reviewing data the British vaccine, which is that plans under consideration REUTERS — MOSCOW vaccine in Britain could be would exclude children, could on AstraZeneca and Oxford seen as leading the race for a by government include finished in as little as three be quicker than experts pre- University’s potential successful vaccine against allowing a much wider group Russia told residents yesterday months, the Times reported, dicted, the Times said, adding COVID-19 vaccine, in real time, COVID-19, becoming the first of healthcare staff to admin- to stay away from a pristine citing government scientists. that health officials estimate the first of such moves aimed to be approved in Europe for ister the vaccine, setting up of beach in the Far East due to Scientists working on the that every adult could receive at speeding up any approval the disease caused by the drive-through vaccination unexplained water pollution Oxford vaccine hope regulators a dose of the vaccine within six process in the region for a novel coronavirus which has centres and recruiting help of that Greenpeace said was approve it before the beginning months. vaccine. killed more than a million armed forces. evidence of an “ecological disaster” and had caused some surfers to break into a fever and vomit. Migrants get to grips with The cause of the pollution off the coast of Kamchatka region was not immediately new camp in Greece clear. Authorities said prelim- inary tests had found elevated AFP — LESBOS ISLAND the nearest supermarket. levels of oil products and the But their presence has chemical phenol and Green- Even if their old camp was caused tension with locals, peace told them to urgently known as “hell” or “the jungle”, worried about the find the source. asylum seekers on the Greek coronavirus. “The only thing it is possible island of Lesbos say that their More than 30 people at to say now is there are contam- new site may even be worse. Moria camp had tested positive inative substances in the water. Nearly a month after a fire for the virus, authorities Final tests are not ready yet,” gutted the notoriously over- announced, hours before the Kamchatka’s regional governor crowded Moria camp, leaving fire broke out. Vladimir Solodov said. nearly 13,000 homeless, some And at Kara Tepe, tests orig- Greenpeace suggested the residents are far from happy inally detected more than 240 pollution could have happened about conditions at the new, infections. weeks ago. smaller facility nearby. Nearly 90 people are cur- It said the pollution was “The new camp is worse rently in isolation, kept apart by noticed over the course of than Moria,” says Murtaza, a a wire fence, red tape and police several weeks by people on 17-year-old Afghan. guards. Khalaktyrsky beach, a section “It only has tents,” he tells. The camp houses around A voter wearing a face mask casts his ballot at a polling station during the country’s regional and of Pacific coastline covered “We don’t have medicine, 8,500 residents, but authorities Senate elections in Prague, Czech Republic. with black volcanic sand that we don’t have electricity to only allow up to 1,000 people a is dozens of kilometers long cook, and no one knows what day to leave until sunset, car- and popular with tourists. will happen when it starts to rying numbered cards that must “The water... has changed Czech PM’s party wins big in regional ballot rain.” With no running water, be returned on entry. colour and become unsafe for the residents of Kara Tepe camp At the gates, hundreds people’s health. For several AP — PRAGUE stable support for ANO, which Quarantined voters had the have to fetch it from tanks, queue at a metal detector, weeks people who were in won nine regions in 2016. option of casting ballots from reliant on trucks coming to waiting to return to their tents. contact with the water have The senior party in the Czech “It’s an excellent result,” vehicles at temporary polling replenish the supply. Camp management say they experienced negative conse- Republic’s coalition government Babis said. stations across the country. They bathe and wash their have installed hundreds of quences,” it said in a statement. dominated the country’s ANO also has the most can- Those who were unable to clothes at nearby beaches. portable toilets. After getting into the water, regional elections and is ahead didates advancing to the runoffs use a car or venture out could “We have no showers, and But people working there people have complained of in the first round of voting for for 27 seats in the 81-seat ask a special electoral com- not enough toilets. I want to go describe the new camp as sore throats, worsening eye- Parliament’s upper house, Senate. The top two finishers in mittee to send a ballot box to back home,” Ibrahim, an asylum “chaotic”. sight, dry eyes, nausea, physical according to results released each district will face each other their homes. Before the coro- seeker from Burundi, says. The toilets are always filthy; weakness, vomiting and fever, yesterday. in a head-to-head vote next navirus pandemic, quarantined Like many from Moria, he many residents prefer to use the it said. The Czech Statistics Office weekend. voters were not allowed to cast lost all his belongings in the Sep- sea for that purpose. Many also Dead octopuses and other said that with ballots from With ballots from 99 ballots, although their numbers tember 8 fire, which has been argue that with coronavirus an sea life could be seen washed almost 100 percent of polling percent of stations counted, were relatively low. blamed on arson. ever-present risk, the squat up on the beach in videos stations counted, the ANO (YES) ANO had nine candidates The Czech Republic is Six young Afghans were toilets of Moria were safer than posted on Instagram and movement led by Prime Min- advancing to the runoffs. seeing an increase of new con- arrested in connection with the entering a small cabin. reposted by Greenpeace. ister Andrej Babis won 10 of the The elections were the first firmed virus cases. The number blaze. They deny “Not everything can be built Reuters could not immediately 13 regions contested during held in the Czech Republic of cases reported Friday was responsibility. in 20 days. We have 400 confirm that the videos showed voting on Friday and during the coronavirus pan- 3,793. The country has a total To replace their cooking chemical toilets and there is a current environmental damage yesterday. demic. Face masks were of 79,475 confirmed cases, supplies, residents of the make- provision for showers,” a camp from the scene. The result was a sign of a required at voting places. including 709 deaths. shift coastal camp have to go to source said. Doctors in Greece march to debunk misinformation about face masks

AP — THESSALONIKI Opponents of them from wearing masks, mandatory face mask Titopoulos said. Doctors marched with their Others are asking to be families and a few friends in use have spread the excused from going to work. Greece’s second-largest city claim that wearing New coronavirus cases, but not Saturday not to protest, but to face coverings makes deaths, have surged in Greece debunk misinformation about since early August, with nearly face masks circulating during people short of 80 percent of the country’s the coronavirus pandemic. breath and actually is more than 19,300 confirmed A few dozen people fast- cases reported since then. With walked and ran 2km through bad for their health. the summer tourism season central Thessaloniki while now over, authorities say wearing face masks and then people not wearing masks and measured their oxygen and hygiene, are the only measure failing to keep social dis- carbon dioxide levels, finding of protection against the coro- tancing are to blame for the them all normal. navirus,” Dr. Iraklis Titopoulos, surge. Opponents of mandatory a pulmonologist, said after the Greek Prime Minister Kyr- face mask use have spread the demonstration in Greece. iakos Mitsotakis said yesterday claim that wearing face cov- “I would never have that while local lockdowns will Visiting popular Moscow landmark erings makes people short of believed that such a large part be used to keep the corona- breath and actually is bad for of the population would deny virus from spreading, a second People, some wearing face masks to protect against the coronavirus disease, visit the Northern their health. Doctors special- the obvious,” he said. nationwide lockdown is River Terminal, a popular Moscow landmark built in the Stalinist Empire style in 1937 as part of the ising in respiratory medicine A lot of individuals with “almost inconceivable.” Moskva-Volga Canal and reopened after a major renovation in the beginning of September, on the wanted to prove them wrong. chronic lung obstructions are At the same time, he said outskirts of Moscow, on Friday. “Face masks, alongside pressing their doctors to write he expected “a very difficult social distancing and personal affidavits that would exempt three to four months” ahead. 14 AMERICAS SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020

Bogota will see Mexico deploys second, smaller coronavirus military to block outbreak: Mayor migrant caravan REUTERS — BOGOTA Bogota, the Colombian capital, will see a second outbreak of AFP — TUXTLA GUTIERREZ Thousands of coronavirus cases, possibly mostly Honduran between November and Mexico late on Friday ordered December, which will hope- the military to deploy along its migrants were fully be less severe than the southern border to block a travelling through first wave, Bogota’s Mayor, migrant caravan that President Guatemala, heading Claudia Lopez, said. Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador “Most probably towards suggested was linked to the US for the United the end of the year, in election. States via Mexico. November or December, we Thousands of mostly Hon- Some returned to could have a second wave duran migrants were travelling much smaller than the first,” through Guatemala, heading for their country after Lopez said in a meeting with the United States via Mexico, the Guatemalan foreign press on Friday. just weeks before a tense US The Andean country began Policemen walk past a group of Honduran migrants, part of a US-bound migrant caravan, outside a presidential vote in which government ordered more than five months of migrant shelter in the municipality of San Marcos, Guatemala, yesterday. Mexico on Friday ordered immigration is a key issue. them to be detained lockdown in March. It entered the military to deploy along its southern border to block a migrant caravan that President Andres “It seems very strange to us. and deported. a much-looser “selective” It’s very strange that this Manuel Lopez Obrador suggested was linked to the US election. quarantine phase — allowing caravan leaves on the eve of the dining at restaurants and election in the United States,” spread of infection. Garduno said the migrants tariffs if it does not do more to embroiled in the campaign for international flights — at the Lopez Obrador told reporters. Some returned to their must “respect the immigration stop a surge of undocumented the White House. start of September. On Monday “It has to do with the country after the Guatemalan law.” Lopez Obrador, however, migrants. “However, they don’t stop the government extended the election in the United States. I government ordered them to be said that Mexico wanted to Lopez Obrador has trying to inject the issue into the selective quarantine until the don’t have all the elements but detained and deported. avoid a confrontation with the deployed some 26,000 troops debate,” he said. Trump’s end of October. I think there are indications that Mexico will deploy hun- caravan. to the country’s borders in administration on Thursday A second wave is expected it was put together for this dreds of military and immi- In recent years, thousands response. The left-wing populist announced the US will admit a to be less severe due to purpose,” he added. gration personnel to its border of Central American migrants has sought to maintain good record low of 15,000 refugees measures such as mandatory The migrants, mostly young to prevent the caravan entering travelling in large groups have relations with Trump despite in the coming year. use of masks, social distancing men, surged across the border the country, a senior gov- crossed into Mexico, with the the US leader’s anti-Mexico His Democratic rival in the and frequent hand washing, from Honduras into Guatemala ernment official said. aim of reaching the US border. rhetoric, and chose the United November 3 election, Joe Biden, in addition to tracking coro- on Thursday despite restrictions “They’re not going to US President Donald Trump, States for his first foreign visit has pledged to raise the refugee navirus cases and quarantines linked to the coronavirus pan- cross,” Francisco Garduno, the who is seeking a second term after taking office. cap to 125,000, saying that wel- for those infected, Lopez said. demic. Many were not wearing head of the Mexican migration in the November 3 election, has He said Mexico had “made coming the persecuted is in line In addition, a new wave of masks to protect against the authority, told reporters. threatened Mexico with steep every effort” not to become with US values. cases would be smaller due to higher levels of immunity and greater capacity of the city’s healthcare system. It is not Canada to ease border restrictions for students possible to predict if a quar- antine of the city or specific areas — as was used to control AFP — OTTAWA “We recognise that travel fined and ordered out of the one year, as well as their have to self-isolate for 14 days. the first outbreak — will be restrictions should not keep country. children, grandparents and sib- Public Safety Minister Bill needed, Lopez said, adding she Canada’s border restrictions loved ones apart,” Immi- In another case, an lings. It will also allow in foreign Blair, meanwhile, hinted that hopes that will not be the case. will be eased to allow in foreign gration Minister Marco Men- American sailed to the Canadian nationals for compassionate the closure of the Canada-US Epidemiological models students as well as non-citizens dicino told reporters. Pacific coast to pick up his reasons such as a life-threat- border to all non-essential trav- predict up to a third wave of who are in an exclusive rela- “In these challenging Canadian partner. The couple ening illness, critical injury or ellers could last for months, infections by the end of the tionship with a Canadian, the times, we know those chal- were intercepted by the coast death. given a spike in new cases on first quarter of 2021, which immigration minister lenges are best met with the guard, and each was returned Foreign students accepted both sides. would also be less intense, she announced late on Friday. strength and support of those to their respective country. to Canadian universities that The restriction, under an added. Colombia has reported A ban on non-essential we love by our side,” he said. Several couples have also have an approved COVID-19 agreement between Ottawa and over 841,500 cases of virus international entries was Canadian media have met at the border for dates, each readiness plan in place will Washington, was first imposed and 26,397 deaths. In Bogota, extended this week until the reported on a number of border staying on their respective side. also be let in starting on in March and is set to expire on intensive care unit occupancy end of October, as the country breaches by Americans, The border changes October 20. October 21. But Blair said it — which exceeded 90% in July grapples with a surge in new including one man who broke announced on Friday go into Travellers will need to apply would likely remain in place — stands at 62.7%. The capital coronavirus cases. But Ottawa pandemic rules to meet up with effect on October 8 and allow and be issued an authorization until the COVID-19 conditions accounts for almost a third of signalled it would seek to facil- his Canadian partner in Alberta in foreign partners in an before they can arrive in in both countries “change very the country’s cases and 6,825 itate more reunifications. and go sightseeing. He was exclusive relationship of at least Canada, and upon arrival will substantively”. deaths. Judge rejects Bid to ease virus limits at plan to end private schools rebuffed US census AP — SANTA FE grade public schools are still cut off from in-person learning. count early A federal judge has turned But he said private school down an initial request to ease students would have a better REUTERS — WASHINGTON pandemic-related occupancy argument concerning equal limits for in-person instruction protection rights and likely A federal judge has ordered at private schools in New prevail in court if public 7-12 the Trump administration to Mexico, in a setback for a grade schools proceed with continue counting for the 2020 lawsuit supported by the US returning to classrooms at 50% US census until the end of Justice Department. occupancy. October rather than end it as In a Friday order, US District “The court has difficulty it had planned on Monday. Court Judge William Johnson understanding how (state’s) In a ruling, US District cast doubt on the complaint from regulatory plan could survive Judge Lucy Koh of California the father of a seventh grade a scenario whereby private called Census Bureau mes- prep school student in Albu- schools remain limited to in- sages sent out late last month querque who has only engaged person instruction at 25% A Cal Fire firefighter battling the Glass Fire in Calistoga, California, US, on Friday. announcing that Commerce in online learning during the capacity while public and Secretary Wilbur Ross had pandemic due to provisions of a charter schools are allowed to announced October 5 as the statewide public health order. move to in-person instruction target date to end the count an California wildfires threaten towns Plaintiffs say the health order at 50% capacity,” he wrote. The “egregious violation” of an unfairly limits in-person learning US Justice Department filed a earlier order she made. REUTERS — CALISTOGA San Francisco, and has already for high winds over the next at private schools to 25% of statement of interest in support Koh ordered that the destroyed 248 homes. Thick two days. Rain storms are maximum room capacity, while of plaintiff Douglas Peterson bureau send a new text California fire crews deploying smoke poured over deserted forecast for the region at the end public schools can apply to and his daughter, a student at message to all Census Bureau water-dropping helicopters Napa Valley communities that of next week and firefighters reopen under separate guide- Albuquerque Academy. employees on Friday stating made a defensive stand against would typically be bustling with hope they could keep the blaze lines at 50%. To date, only a Private schools in New that data collection operations flames raging in the foothills of visitors for the grape harvest. from entering populated areas portion of elementary schools Mexico enroll about 22,000 stu- would continue until the end the Napa Valley region as fore- Roughly 52,000 residents again until the showers came. have been cleared to restart in- dents — or nearly 7% of school- of the month. casts called for a return of dan- were under evacuation orders Some 320km to the north, person instruction. aged children. The lawsuit also She also ordered Census gerous high winds and hot at least through the weekend, crews made progress against the Johnson rejected a prelim- denounced as unfair the situ- Bureau Director Steven Dill- weather this weekend. with the fire at only 5% con- Zogg Fire in the foothills of the inary injunction request and ation in which childcare facil- ingham to file a declaration by More than 2,500 firefighters tainment, according to the Cal- Cascade mountain range. Four noted that some private schools ities can open at 100% capacity, Monday “that unequivocally were battling the Glass Fire, ifornia Department of Forestry people have been killed in the have managed to reboot in- but Judge Johnson said childcare confirms... compliance with which broke out last Sunday near and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire. Zogg fire, which has also has person instruction by expanding for toddlers doesn’t work online the Injunction Order”. the resort community of The National Weather destroyed nearly 150 buildings into areas such as gymnasiums and has to take place in a The administration of Calistoga, some 120km north of Service issued red flag warnings near the town of Redding. and cafeterias, while all 7-12 physical setting. President Donald Trump, who is bidding for re-election on November 3, said in August it planned to shorten the census Cold but safe: Argentines in Antarctica rarely don masks timeline by a month. It was sued by municipalities and AP — BUENOS AIRES But Argentines who live in II Base that he heads. work, staying in touch with Argentina plans to have just 400 civil rights groups, which the country’s 13 bases in Ant- Barrios said he felt fortunate their families back home and military and scientific personnel argued the “rushed” schedule As COVID-19 cases surge in arctica — six are permanent and to lead a normal life there and following the news as best they at its Antarctica bases instead would lead to inaccurate their homeland, there are at the rest operate only in the that, ahead of the next change can. Relatives of two members of the usual 2,000. All will be census results and “a massive least some Argentines who feel summer — continue to share a of the 22-member staff at the of the Belgrano II base had tested for the new coronavirus undercount of the country’s secure: The scientists and mil- metal straw to sip the tradi- base, “each one is thinking COVID-19 but recovered. before and after a quarantine communities of colour”. itary personnel at South tional mate tea and sit together about how to live when we The Belgrano II base is period at the Campo de Mayo The census count’s American country’s bases in to eat. They rarely wear masks. leave the base and what the located south of Argentina’s Mar- military base in Buenos Aires. accuracy is critical, as the Antarctica, the only continent “The times when the crew process of returning to daily life ambio and Esperanza bases, near “The (Antarctic) continent survey determines how the without reported cases. is all together are breakfast, on the continent will be like.” the South Pole. All the bases have is clean, healthy, and we have US House of Representatives More than 765,000 people lunch and dinner and they He said the use of masks is not an evacuation protocol in the a responsibility, and we are and state legislatures draw in Argentina are confirmed to watch a movie in their free time, common on the base, except for event of positive coronavirus adopting appropriate voting districts during the have been infected with the they have some mates. We certain work tasks. “If we have cases, using ships, helicopters and measures to continue with this next round of redistricting new coronavirus and more than spend a lot of time together and to make them, we have a a plane. They also have doctors situation,” Argentina’s Ant- and guides the federal gov- 20,000 people have died of we share a lot,” army Capt. sewing machine,’’ Barrios said. and ventilators available. arctic joint commander, Col. ernment in allocating $1.5 COVID-19 there since the pan- Nicolás Barrios told The Asso- The Argentines at the bases For the austral summer Edgard Calandín, said from his trillion a year in aid. demic started. ciated Press from the Belgrano conduct scientific and other season beginning in November, office in Buenos Aires. SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020 AMERICAS 15 Concerning signs despite word Trump is 'doing great’

AP / BLOOMBERG — BETHESDA A person familiar with Trump’s condition said the President was administered supplemental US President Donald Trump’s doctor yesterday painted a rosy oxygen on Friday at the White House. As well, picture of the President’s health Trump's chief of staff, Mark Meadows, said the as he remains hospitalized for President went through a "very concerning” coronavirus treatment. But that assessment was immediately period on Friday and the next 48 hours will be contradicted by a person critical in terms of his care. familiar with Trump’s condition, who said the President was administered supplemental been fever-free for 24 hours as His blood-oxygen saturation oxygen on Friday at the White he updated the nation on the level is about 96% and Trump House. President’s condition from is not currently on supple- As well, Trump's chief of Walter Reed yesterday mental oxygen, Conley said. staff, Mark Meadows, said the afternoon. Trump was admitted Trump said on Twitter yes- President went through a "very on Friday after testing positive terday that he was feeling well concerning” period on Friday for the coronavirus and has with the help of the doctors and and the next 48 hours will be been undergoing treatment. nurses at Walter Reed National critical in terms of his care. While Conley said the Pres- Military Medical Center. The briefing by Navy Com- ident is not currently on oxygen, "Doctors, Nurses and ALL at mander Dr. Sean Conley and he refused to say whether the the GREAT Walter Reed Medical other doctors at Walter Reed President had ever been on Center, and others from likewise Medical Center raised more oxygen, despite repeated ques- incredible institutions who have US President Donald Trump disembarks from the Marine One helicopter followed by White House questions than it answered, as tioning. "Thursday no oxygen. joined them, are AMAZING!!!," Chief of Staff Mark Meadows as he arrives at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The White the President's physician left None at this moment. And yes- Trump said. "Tremendous House announced that Trump “will be working from the presidential offices at Walter Reed for the murky the issue of whether the terday with the team, while we progress has been made over the next few days” after testing positive for COVID-19, in Bethesda, Maryland, US, on Friday. President needed supplemental were all here, he was not on last 6 months in fighting this oxygen and declined to discuss oxygen,” he said. PLAGUE. With their help, I am exactly when he fell ill. He said that Trump’s feeling well!" Sciences Inc’s Remdesivir, The White House said Trump introducing Trump’s Supreme Conley, in his briefing, also symptoms, including a cough and Asked about Trump’s risk which is authorised for use in was expected to stay at the hos- Court nominee. That day, revealed that Trump began nasal congestion "are now factors for COVID-19, Conley hospitalised COVID-19 patients. pital for "a few days” out of an Trump gathered more than 150 exhibiting "clinical indications” resolving and improving”. "He’s said: “He’s 74, he’s male and he’s The administration has con- abundance of caution and that people in the Rose Garden. of COVID-19 on Thursday in exceptionally good spirits,” said slightly overweight. Other than sistently been less than trans- he would continue to work from People mingled, hugged and afternoon, earlier than known. another doctor, Sean Dooley. that, he’s very healthy.” parent about the President’s the hospital’s presidential suite, shook hands — overwhelmingly According to the person “At this time, the team and Doctors have administered health as the virus spread inside which is equipped to allow him without masks. familiar with Trump’s condition, I are extremely happy with the a pair of advanced treatments the White House. Aides had to keep up his official duties. First Lady Melania Trump, Trump was administered progress the President has to the President: An experi- declined to share basic health As the White House works who also tested positive for the oxygen at the White House on made,” Conley said. Trump is mental “antibody cocktail” information about the President, to piece together the flurry of virus, remains at the White Friday before he was trans- “doing great,” he said. made by Regeneron Pharma- including a full accounting of his new infections, attention is House, where she’s resting with ported to the military hospital. Conley said Trump has not ceuticals Inc that doesn’t yet symptoms, what tests he’s focused in particular on last Sat- mild symptoms of the disease, Conley had said Trump has experienced trouble breathing. have FDA approval and Gilead undertaken and the results. urday’s White House event her office said yesterday. Survivors of Biden says masks not about being a ‘tough guy’ COVID-19 in the

REUTERS - GRAND RAPIDS “This is not a matter of pol- the President’s failed response to lawyer Douglas Emhoff.) “Let it US to press for itics,” Biden said. “It’s a bracing the disease, which has killed be a reminder to all of us that Democratic presidential reminder to all of us that we more than 207,000 people in the we must remain vigilant and effective strategy nominee Joe Biden (pictured) have to take this virus seriously. United States, and undermine take care of ourselves - and said on Friday that President It’s not going away automati- Trump’s argument that the end take care of each other.” REUTERS — LOS ANGELES Donald Trump’s coronavirus cally.” Biden urged all Amer- of the pandemic is in sight. As Biden’s motorcade trav- diagnosis shows the importance icans to follow scientific guide- Opinion polls show voters trust elled through Grand Rapids, Coronavirus survivors are of taking the pandemic seriously, lines, including wearing masks, Biden more than Trump to dozens of supporters stood gathering online today to telling Americans that wearing washing hands frequently and handle the pandemic. along the road waiving honour the more than 207,000 masks is more important than staying 6 feet apart. Health offi- “It’s hard to say ‘it’s under placards. One woman held a US lives lost in the pandemic being a “tough guy”. cials, including the head of the control’ when you fall victim to small American flag and a card- and call for a national strategy Biden’s remarks as he cam- Centers for Disease Control and it,” said Democratic strategist board sign that read, “Masks to halt its relentless march. paigned in the battleground Prevention, Robert Redfield, Chris Kofinis. “If we are talking work.” The Biden campaign is The National COVID-19 state of Michigan hours after more than four weeks before have said masks are a crucial about the pandemic for the next temporarily taking down ads Remembrance event is testing negative twice for the the November 3 election. At a tool for slowing the spread of four weeks, Donald Trump criticizing Trump for his han- organized by COVID Survivors virus, served as an implicit crit- union hall in Grand Rapids, the virus. loses.” During a virtual grass- dling of the coronavirus after for Change and endorsed by icism of the Republican Pres- Biden said he and his wife, Jill “Be patriotic,” Biden said. roots fundraiser on Friday, his diagnosis. more than a dozen groups, ident. Trump has played down Biden, were praying that Trump “It’s not about being a tough Biden’s running mate, Senator Biden leads Trump in including many that support the deadliness of the virus for and the First Lady, Melania guy. It’s about doing your part.” Kamala Harris, and former Pres- national opinion polls, although Americans reeling from the months, frequently eschews Trump, had a swift and full During Tuesday’s chaotic pres- ident Barack Obama both wished surveys in the battleground swift and lonely deaths of masks and has held campaign recovery. He delivered the idential debate, Trump mocked the Trumps a speedy recovery. states that will decide the loved ones or battling lingering rallies of thousands with little entire speech while wearing a Biden for wearing a mask at his “Doug and I are sharing our contest show a closer race. A health issues from their social distancing. blue medical mask, a departure events, even when he is far deepest prayers for the health Reuters/Ipsos poll last month infections. Trump’s illness put even from prior events where he typ- away from other people. and recovery of the President showed Biden leading Trump Billed as the first national greater attention on the novel ically took off his mask before Trump’s diagnosis is likely to and the First Lady,” Harris said. by 5 percentage points among memorial service, it will be coronavirus pandemic a little speaking. reinforce Biden’s message about (Her husband is entertainment likely voters in Michigan. livestreamed from Wash- ington, DC just days after Pres- ident Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump Senate Republicans push announced that they are among the more than 7 million to confirm SC pick Barrett reported cases in the United States. REUTERS — WASHINGTON pushing forward before “I don’t want our loved knowing the full extent of ones to be relegated to sta- Senate Republicans said on potential Senate exposure from tistics,” said Sabila Khan, Friday that they will carry on Trump’s infection. whose father died alone in a with the confirmation process Republican Senator Mike New Jersey hospital in April. for US Supreme Court nominee Lee, another member of the “The idea that I couldn’t show Amy Coney Barrett despite Judiciary Committee, up for him is the one thing that President Donald Trump’s pos- announced he has tested pos- is going to haunt me forever,” itive COVID-19 test, with Judi- itive for COVID-19 after visiting said Khan, who started a ciary Committee hearings still the White House and would COVID-19 bereavement group set to begin on October 12. isolate himself for 10 days. Lee on Facebook and now is mobi- “I think we can move met with Barrett on Tuesday as lizing other survivors so “our forward,” Senate Majority she made the rounds with indi- loved ones didn’t die in vain”. Leader Mitch McConnell told vidual senators this week. María Del Rosario Palacios, radio talk show host Hugh “It is premature for a COVID-19 survivor in Hewitt, even as senior Demo- Chairman Graham to commit Gainesville, Georgia, says the crats urged caution. to a hearing schedule when we event’s planned call for a The Republican President do not know the full extent of national moment of silence is has asked that the Senate potential exposure stemming overdue. “I don’t think we’ve confirm Barrett, a federal from the President’s infection paused enough to measure the appeals court judge, by the Nov. and before the White House magnitude of the problem,” Demonstrators maintaining the decorations around the Breonna Taylor memorial in Jefferson Square 3 election, which would forge a puts in place a contact tracing said Del Rosario Palacios, who Park in Louisville, Kentucky, in this September 30 picture. 6-3 conservative majority on the plan,” Feinstein said in a joint cares for her mother — a for- top US judicial body. “Our biggest statement with Senate Demo- merly fit 57-year-old poultry enemy, obviously, is... the coro- cratic leader Chuck Schumer. plant worker who suffered a navirus, keeping everybody “The unfortunate news about Recordings reveal confusion stroke during her COVID-19 healthy and well and in place to the infection of our colleague battle. She wants lawmakers do our job,” McConnell added. Senator Mike Lee makes even to speed up essential workers’ Barrett herself tested pos- more clear that health and safety behind Breonna Taylor’s death access to short-term disability itive for the virus earlier this must guide the schedule,” Fein- benefits. year and has since recovered, stein and Schumer added. AP — LOUISVILLE confusion during the raid that to a single gunshot from her The challenge for organ- according to a person familiar Lee wrote on Twitter that resulted in the 26-year-old boyfriend when they rammed izers is to connect with viewers with the matter. “Full steam he spoke to McConnell and The police officer who fatally Black woman’s death were down her door. Evidence without making them feel ahead,” an aide to Judiciary Graham and “assured them I shot Breonna Taylor described revealed in 15 hours of audio showed one of Cosgrove’s helpless or overwhelmed by Committee Chairman Lindsey will be back to work in time to seeing only “shadowy mass” recordings released on Friday. bullets killed Taylor. the scale of the pandemic, Graham told Reuters when join my Judiciary Committee and said he didn’t recall firing They contained testimony Her boyfriend, Kenneth which is killing more than asked if the schedule for colleagues in advancing the the 16 bullets later matched to and recorded interviews pre- Walker, said he thought 5,000 Americans each week. hearings due to begin on Supreme Court nomination of his gun. As she lay bleeding, sented last month to the Ken- intruders had burst into Tay- “We’re not built, as October 12 could change. Judge Amy Coney Barrett in the Taylor’s boyfriend called his tucky grand jury that decided lor’s home, not police. humans, to understand what Graham spoke to Trump on committee and then to the full mother before dialing 911. not to charge any Louisville The dramatic accounts of it means to have (that many) Friday morning and said the Senate.” And neighbours roused by police officers for killing Taylor. the moments before Taylor’s people die every single day — first thing the President asked University of Notre Dame the gunfire at Taylor’s apartment “If you told me I didn’t fire death are key to a case that has but what we can understand about was the Senate’s plan for President John Jenkins, who after midnight on March 13 only a gun, I would be like, OK,” fueled nationwide protests is one story,” said Chris Barrett’s confirmation, the aide attended the White House Rose added to conflicting testimony detective Myles Cosgrove told against police brutality and sys- Kocher, who drew on his added. McConnell also said he Garden announcement of Bar- about whether police serving a investigators soon after the temic racism. Police said they experience as director of the spoke to Trump about Barrett. rett’s nomination last Saturday, narcotics warrant announced shooting. In fact, investigators knocked and announced them- survivor network at Eve- Senator Dianne Feinstein, also tested positive after themselves before using a bat- determined Cosgrove shot 16 selves for a minute or more rytown for Gun Safety when the top Judiciary Committee regular contact with an infected tering ram to break down her door. of the 32 bullets police fired into before using a battering ram to he launched COVID Survivors Democrat, urged against colleague, the university said. Details of the chaos and Taylor’s apartment, responding get inside. for Change. SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER 2020 16

COVID-19: Qatar Care attains 19,748 hours of voluntary work PRAYER TIMINGS THE PENINSULA — DOHA medical necessities. He stressed that the company’s best PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING medical teams have been directed to carry out voluntary Through its participation in fighting the coronavirus work in the fight against COVID-19. (COVID-19) pandemic, Qatar Care company has achieved Al Eida considers that the company’s voluntary work FAJR 04.10 am 19,748 hours of voluntary work from March until agrees with Qatar’s policy, which is regarded as a pioneer SUNRISE 05.27 am September this year, as part of its work under the Ministry in this field worldwide, and Qatar National Vision 2030 of Public Health (MoPH). under the wise leadership of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin DHUHR 11.23 am The achievement indicates the close cooperation Hamad Al Thani. He also explained that the company’s ASR 02.46 pm between the private and public sectors in Qatar’s health voluntary work is considered the least possible thing to MAGHRIB 05.20pm sector and the constant coordination of efforts to fight repay Qatar for its efforts in maintaining the well-being ISHA 06.50 pm such a global pandemic. of its people, back its organizations, and give the due Qatar Care Executive Director, Saleh Salem Al Eida support to individuals and organisations alike. said that since it first engaged in the fight against Accordingly, he stated that the company is ready to Qatar Care Executive Director, Saleh Salem Al Eida COVID-19, Qatar Care has conducted around 50,000 assist the MoPH, which has already made great strides in swab tests for the virus, including 3,000 swabs in a single fighting the pandemic. It will also support private health the company would remain supportive of the key role day, a rate of 56 swabs completed per 26 minutes. These organisations to blend private and public sectors’ col- undertaken by the MoPH as it provides all the possible have covered health quarantines, hotels, the operation lective efforts to achieve the best healthcare, adding that support and assistance to the private sector in the country centers for the team of the to help keep the excellent and sophisticated high-quality quarantine testing, and the health care level in Qatar. mobile testing areas at the Qatar Care has carried out various tasks in its efforts WEATHER vehicles, houses, housing to fight COVID-19 such as taking samples and swabs for TODAY complexes, labourers’ accom- COVID-19 tests, transport of these samples, regulation modations, employees’ and management of the assembly operations, commu- housing, the Industrial Area, nication and dealing with the public, participation at the playgrounds, mosques, com- preparation, equipment, and management of the mercial complexes, public facilities. places, and health facilities. Others include nursing services, receiving applica- He further pointed out tions and requests, preparation and management of o o that the company has carried appointments, assistance, support and guidance of 30 C 37 C out around 1,968 trips by patients, and taking care of patients and accompanying Minimum Maximum private vehicles across all the them, in addition to the training and education efforts. Hazy at some places at first country’s areas for the same Qatar Care is considered the first and only private becomes hot daytime with local purpose, besides donating Staff of Qatar Care during a voluntary work to fight COVID-19 pandemic. sector company that quickly volunteered at these works, clouds, relatively humid by night. clothes for doctors and some and the voluntary team of the company has been taking part in all these tasks since March. Established in 2007, W ALRUWAIS : 29o → 34o Qatar Care Company is the first private health care W ALKHOR : 29o → 36o company in Qatar and the first health institution in Qatar W DUKHAN : 24o → 35o to win the Diamond Level of Accreditation granted by W WAKRAH : 30o → 38o Accreditation Canada International, and it the second W MESAIEED : 30o → 38o worldwide to win such in the field of home health care. Since its establishment, the company has been W ABUSAMRA : 23o → 37o working in the health care field, providing related services to more than 30,000 families for 13 years. The HIGH TIDE company is in several nursing areas at clinics, hos- 05:56 – 17:15 pitals, worksites, schools, universities, and during travel. It also provides physiotherapy services, including post- LOW TIDE 00:42 – 12:50 operative rehabilitation, physiotherapy of the elderly people, physiotherapy for movement difficulties and the handicapped, and physiotherapy for sports injuries. The other work fields cover care services for older people, newborns, children, and people with special Release of Bond needs and assist them. Besides, the company offers medical facilities management services in equipping film ‘No Time to clinics, employment, and staff training, assistance at creating the organisational structure of health Die’ delayed facilities.

AP — WASHINGTON The release of the James Bond Study: Antarctic Peninsula at warmest in decades film “No Time To Die” has been delayed again, this time to AFP — SANTIAGO (35.6 and 37.4 degrees Fahr- climatologist Raul Cordero said Cordero added. registered between August and 2021, because of the effects of enheit) on the peninsula, which in a statement released by the He called that fact September, which reached -16.8 COVID-19 on the theatrical The year 2020 is the hottest in is the northernmost part of Chilean Antarctic Institute “alarming,” since it could degrees Celsius, the lowest business. the Antarctic Peninsula in the mainland Antarctica, according (INACH). indicate that the rapid rate of since 1970. MGM, Universal and Bond past three decades, a study by to researchers at the Chilean Air “In the far northern tip of ocean warming observed in the The Antarctic Peninsula is producers, Michael G Wilson the University of Santiago de Force’s Frei Base on King the Antarctic Peninsula, the area at the end of the 20th the northernmost part of Ant- and Barbara Broccoli, said on Chile out found. George Island. average maximum temper- century is resuming. arctica, where there are scien- Twitter yesterday that the 25th Between January and Those temperatures are ature so far this year has been The high Southern Hemi- tific and military bases from installment in the franchise August, temperatures reached “more than 2 degrees Celsius above 0 degrees. This had not sphere winter temperatures are several countries, including will now open globally on April between 2 and 3 degrees Celsius over typical values,” happened for 31 years,” in contrast, however, with those Argentina, Chile and Britain. 2, 2021. “No Time To Die” was orig- inally supposed to open in April 2020 but was pushed Singaporean ‘ant-repreneur’ back to November 12 in the UK and November 20 in the US. It was one of the first Hollywood sells tiny six-legged pets films to abandon its release before cinemas in the US shut AFP — SINGAPORE insects, tiny feeding dishes and meal- down in mid-March because worms used as feed. of the coronavirus pandemic. Ants scurry around in transparent boxes It was forced to close for a period due The film from director Cary stacked outside a Singaporean store that to a coronavirus lockdown earlier this Joji Fukunaga stars Daniel Craig is tapping into an unlikely but growing year but has reopened since restrictions as 007, Rami Malek, Lashana local trend of keeping the six-legged crea- were eased, and business is picking up. Lynch and Ana de Armas. tures as pets. It stocks 30 to 40 species, sourced In a related move, Uni- John Ye says he became fascinated from ant-keeper friends or collected by versal moved its “F9,” the ninth with the “altruistic, compassionate” Ye and his team around Singapore. installment of the “Fast & creepy-crawlies after receiving some as Catching the creatures is no easy task. Furious” franchise starring Vin a gift from his brother-in-law. It is usually only possible during so-called Diesel to May 28. Its previous The 41-year-old eventually ditched “nuptial flights” — when new queens and April 2 release date would have a job in electronics distribution to open winged male ants take to the air in the put it in direct competition “Just Ants” in January and cater to fellow hope of finding a mate. Ants inside a formicarium are seen at the “Just Ants” pet shop in Singapore. with Bond. enthusiasts. The queen ants are then placed in test The number of ant aficionados in Sin- ant-keeping is rare, that the creatures are Other major studios have “I wish to have a place where people tubes or small tanks, where they give birth gapore is small but growing, according pets and not pests. made similar decisions over can gather and share insights, and share to a colony of worker ants if they have to Ye — a Facebook group where keepers Most Singaporeans believe “you the past few weeks. Cinemas their ant-keeping journey,” Ye said. mated. Ye’s personal collection includes exchange advice and information has should actually not keep ants because remain closed in New York and The shop sells ant farms along with tens of thousands of marauder ants, a nearly 4,000 members. ants... are poisonous, they are dirty, dis- Los Angeles, two of North specialist equipment, including mini species of the creature commonly found But Ye knows he has his work cut out gusting, they carry diseases”, he America’s biggest markets. handheld vacuums for catching the across Asia, housed in a large box. to convince people in Singapore, where conceded. Nasa plans 3D printing construction system on Moon and Mars IANS — WASHINGTON construction system. ICON said also to solve very real, vexing “To be successful in our Marshall Space Flight Center in 3D printer that could build infra- it will also dedicate a division of problems we face on Earth.” future missions, we have to Huntsville, Alabama, under the structure on the Moon or Mars,” Nasa is working with Texas- the company to focus on space. As part of the Artemis pro- invest in new, cutting-edge Moon to Mars Planetary Auton- said Corky Clinton, associate based construction technologies “Building humanity’s first gramme, Nasa has a concept for technologies today,” said Niki omous Construction Technol- director of Marshall’s Science company ICON on early home on another world will be the core surface elements Werkheiser, Nasa’s Game ogies (MMPACT) project to test and Technology Office. research and development of a the most ambitious construction needed to establish a sustained Changing Development pro- lunar soil simulant with various “The team will use what we 3D printing construction system project in human history and presence on the Moon, which gramme executive. processing and printing learn from the tests with the that could support future explo- will push science, engineering, emphasises mobility to allow The programme is part of technologies. lunar simulant to design, ration of the Moon and Mars. technology, and architecture to astronauts to explore more and the agency’s Space Technology Nasa is partnering with develop, and demonstrate pro- The company announced literal new heights,” Jason conduct more science. Mission Directorate. industry, government, and aca- totype elements for a full-scale that it has been awarded a US Ballard, Co-founder and CEO The US space agency is con- “Near-term research and demic institutions under the additive construction system.” government Small Business of ICON, said in a statement. sidering putting in place a lunar development will help ensure MMPACT project. Based on the progress, Nasa Innovation Research (SBIR) con- “Nasa’s investment in terrain vehicle, habitable we can expand building capa- “We want to increase the could award ICON additional tract including funding from space-age technologies like this mobility platform or lunar RV, bilities on other worlds when technology readiness level and funding and explore the oppor- Nasa to begin research and can not only help to advance and surface habitat on the Moon the time comes.” test systems to prove it would be tunity of an in-situ test on the development of a space-based humanity’s future in space, but by the end of the decade. ICON will work with Nasa’s feasible to develop a large-scale lunar surface.