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TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020 14 JUMADA I - 1442 VOLUME 25 NUMBER 8486 www.thepeninsula.qa 2 RIYALS Share unused data and

minutes with the family Terms & Conditions Apply Qatar among top 3 globally Amir receives message from Indian PM in mobile Internet speed SACHIN KUMAR faster than the global average in the field of information and THE PENINSULA speed. According to Ookla communications technology Speedtest Global Index for (ICT) has been impressive. Qatar has ranked among the November 2020, the global The country was ranked top three countries in the world average of mobile download second in the Arab world and in mobile Internet speed. The speed is 45.69mbps while the ninth globally in ICT adoption country is placed third in average upload speed is as per the Global Competi- Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index 12.6mbps. tiveness Report Special Edition for November for mobile The country has fared much 2020 report by the World Eco- Internet speed. better than many developed nomic Forum. In the global Qatar’s average mobile economies. China is ranked ranking of countries, Qatar’s download speed for the last fourth, Australia is fifth, Norway score is 83.9 on the scale of month is 159.66mbps while the is ranked sixth, Singapore is at 0- 100. upload speed is 28.33mbps. The 16th while the United States is Qatar has augmented its ICT fixed broadband download ranked at 22nd place in the infrastructure and improved speed for November is global ranking. the Internet quality. 97.39mbps while the upload The Speedtest Global Index It became the first country Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani received a written message from Prime Minister of the speed is 52.46mbps. compares Internet speed data in the world to launch 5G services. The country has Republic of India, H E Narendra Modi, pertaining to relations between the two friendly countries and invested substantially in 5G ways of supporting and enhancing them. The message was handed by India’s Minister of External Qatar’s performance in Speedtest technology which allows peak Affairs H E Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar when H H the Amir met him at his office in the Amiri Diwan Global Index for November Internet connection speed to yesterday. reach 1 Gbps. The rollout of 5G 159.66mbps 28.33mbps 12.6mbps has also accelerated the devel- Qatar’s average mobile Qatar’s average mobile Global average opment of wider communica- download speed upload speed in November upload speed tions infrastructure in Qatar. Kuwait expresses optimism A 5G network has the 45.69mbps Qatar was ranked 2nd in capacity to allow 10,000 times Global average of mobile the volume of traffic compared over upcoming GCC Summit download speed Arab world in ICT to LTE. The 5G technology is adoption in Global expected to revolutionise the QNA — KUWAIT the State of Kuwait, H H Sheikh over the positive setting in 97.39mbps Competitiveness Report lives of individuals and of busi- Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al which the Summit will be Fixed broadband download nesses. For users, 5G services The Kuwaiti Cabinet held Sabah, from Amir of Qatar, H H held, adding that it reflected speed in November Special Edition 2020. means having access to very yesterday its weekly session, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al the sense of responsibility fast download and upload chaired by Prime Minister of Thani. and belief in the importance Qatar, which has one of the from around the world on a speeds compared to 4G Kuwait H H Sheikh Sabah In the letter, H H the Amir of enhancing GCC solidarity highest Internet penetrations monthly basis. network. 5G is also a great step Khaled Al Hamad Al Sabah. of Qatar expressed his appre- to face the grave challenges in the world, has improved its Data for the Index comes for Internet of Things (IoT), After the meeting, Deputy ciation to H H the Amir of facing the region. ranking in the Speedtest Global from the hundreds of millions applications that need Prime Minister and Minister of Kuwait, Sheikh Nawaf Al They also expressed their Index by one place as it was of tests taken by real people extremely high speeds, and it State for Cabinet Affairs Anas Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, for content regarding the prospects ranked fourth globally in using Speedtest every month, will pave the way for a host of Al Saleh said in remarks carried their sincere efforts to resolve of the latest efforts in yielding October. said Ookla, which is headquar- smart technologies like smart by Kuwait News Agency that the Gulf crisis. positive results that enhances The speed of mobile tered at Seattle, Washington. cars, VR, AR and drones to be the Cabinet was briefed on the The Cabinet, in this joint interests and leads to Internet is almost three times The performance of Qatar part of our everyday lives. message received by Amir of regard, expressed content further prosperity. Foreign Minister PM participates in ‘Qatar Census 2020’ Metrash2 app records receives phone call from US 7 million transactions Secretary of State this year: Official QNA — DOHA SIDI MOHAMED to provide services to clients.” THE PENINSULA He said 2 million citizens Deputy Prime Minister and and residents used the app. Al Minister of Foreign Affairs H Seven million transactions have Malki also noted that some E Sheikh Mohammed bin been completed so far this year users carried out multiple Abdulrahman Al Thani through the Ministry of Interior transactions, especially in fam- received yesterday a phone (MoI)'s e-service app Metrash2. ilies where parents process call from US Secretary of State “The Ministry of Interior’s documents for their children. H E Mike Pompeo. annual completed transactions Companies also carried out The call dealt with have not been affected much several operations for their reviewing bilateral cooper- by the coronavirus pandemic. workers and employees. ation, the latest developments This is due to the availability of “Before we provide any of the GCC crisis, as well as the most of the services on the service on Metrash2, we must Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani filling the latest developments in the Metrash 2 app,” said Brigadier make sure that the service is online form as part of population census 2020, yesterday. region, particularly in Iraq, in Abdul Rahman Ali Al Farahid distinguished. Because the addition to a number of issues Al Malki, Assistant Director- service is available to everyone, of joint interest. QNA — DOHA Statistics Authority, is aimed at field and online, especially in General of Information Systems it must be easy to access and establishing a central registry light of the precautionary at the MoI. Speaking to Qatar use,” Brigadier Al Malki said. Prime Minister and Minister of of population, housing and measures in place in the Radio yesterday, Al Malki said, He said digital transactions GTA signs MoUs Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin establishments data in the State country to combat the spread “During the peak of the pan- come from the MoI’s vision and Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani of Qatar. of COVID-19, calling on all res- demic, we operated distinctly. slogan to provide services with banks to participated yesterday in the During the participation, H idents of Qatar to fill in the data We continued to provide our without the need for physical population census 2020 by E the Prime Minister and Min- before the end of the specified services to everyone through contact and to be paperless. facilitate online filling in the online form. ister of Interior thanked those period of time for the census in Metrash 2. Despite closing all All departments operate The Qatar Census 2020, in charge of the census and order to achieve its desired service centres to prevent digitally in the ministry except tax payment launched by the Planning and those implementing it in the goals. physical contact, we continued for specific transactions. `P2

QNA — DOHA

The General Tax Authority and Qatar Airways and Oman Air agree on codeshare expansion QNB signed yesterday a financial services agreement. THE PENINSULA — DOHA pleased to further expand our code- cooperation with Qatar Airways, which The authority also signed three share cooperation with Oman Air, one will streamline flying for leisure trav- Memorandums of Under- Qatar Airways continues to expand its of the leading airlines in the Gulf region. ellers from around the world to enjoy standings (MoU) with Masraf portfolio of strong, globally strategic Now more than ever, it is important to Oman’s culture, scenic beauty and hos- Al Rayyan, Dukhan Bank, and partnerships by signing an expanded strengthen strategic partnerships across pitality, and facilitate travel for those Al Ahli Bank. codeshare agreement with Oman Air the industry to optimise our operations who visit the Sultanate of Oman for The MoUs were on cre- that will boost connectivity and provide and provide seamless connectivity to abundant, fast-growing business oppor- ating an electronic link more flexible travel options for both hundreds of destinations across the tunities across a diverse range of between the banks and the airline’s customers. globe for our passengers. sectors. authority to encourage the The expanded code-share “Since 2000, both airlines have seen "The expansion of our codeshare payment of taxes and by using agreement is the first step in further the benefits that commercial cooper- agreement is just the first step, and we different e-payment methods. strengthening strategic cooperation ation has brought, providing our pas- look forward to working with Qatar The agreement was signed between the two airlines that first began sengers with unrivalled service and Airways to further strengthen our stra- by assistant head of tax affairs in 2000. Sales of the additional desti- more flexibility to travel when they efits to our customers.” tegic partnership to enhance the at the authority, Ghanem bin nations will commence in 2021. want. I look forward to further strength- Oman Air Chief Executive Officer business and leisure travel experience Khalifa Al Attiyah with repre- Qatar Airways Group Chief Exec- ening our commercial cooperation with Abdulaziz Al Raisi, said: “We are for our customers in Oman and sentatives of the banks. `P2 utive H E Akbar Al Baker, said: “We are Oman Air to provide even more ben- delighted to expand our commercial throughout the world.” `P2 02 HOME TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020

Prime Minister meets Indian minister Qatar Airways and OFFICIAL NEWS Amir sends Oman Air agree on congratulations to codeshare expansion Burkina Faso President Doha: Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Deputy Amir H H FROM PAGE 1 Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani The codeshare expansion will significantly increase the number sent yesterday cables of congratula- of destinations available to Oman Air passengers from three to tions to President of the Republic of 65 on the Qatar Airways’ network across Africa, the Americas, Burkina Faso H E Roch Marc Chris- Asia Pacific, Europe, India, and the Middle East. Qatar Airways tian Kabore, on the occasion of his passengers will also benefit from additional connectivity, with swearing-in for a new presidential the ability to book travel on an additional six destinations across term. -QNA Africa and Asia in Oman Air’s network. Both airlines will also explore a number of joint commercial and operational initiatives to further optimise their partnership. Qatar Airways’ strategic investment in a variety of fuel-effi- 122 people cient, twin-engine aircraft, including the largest fleet of Airbus referred to Public A350 aircraft, has enabled it to continue flying throughout this crisis and perfectly positions it to lead the sustainable recovery Prosecution for not of international travel. The airline recently took delivery of three new state-of-the-art Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, increasing its wearing masks total A350 fleet to 52 with an average age of just 2.6 years. Due to COVID-19’s impact on travel demand, the airline has QNA — DOHA Prime Minister and Minister of Interior H E Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani met grounded its fleet of Airbus A380s as it is not environmentally yesterday with Minister of External Affairs of the Republic of India H E Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar justifiable to operate such a large, four-engine aircraft in the The designated authorities and the accompanying delegation, on the occasion of his visit to the country. During the meeting, current market. Qatar Airways has also recently launched a new yesterday referred 122 people to they reviewed bilateral cooperation relations and ways of developing and strengthening them, in programme that enables passengers to voluntarily offset the carbon the Public Prosecution for not addition to discussing a number of issues of common concern. emissions associated with their journey at the point of booking. wearing masks in places where they are mandatory. The measure is in line with the Former Prime Cabinet decision, decree law No. Shura Council refers draft law on 17 of 1990 on infectious diseases, Minister receives and the precautionary measures COVID-19 vaccine in force in the country to curb commercial companies to Committee the spread of coronavirus. THE PENINSULA — DOHA Several top members of QNA — DOHA laundering and terrorism board of directors should be Metrash2 app healthcare sector and noted The draft law included the financing. elected and the requirements personalities and senior officials The Shura Council held its amendment of some The amendments stipulated that must be met by a member records 7 million continue to receive the COVID-19 regular weekly meeting provisions in order to that the Minister of Commerce of the board of directors. transactions so vaccine, illustrating that the shots yesterday under the chair- enhance the ease of and Industry shall issue deci- The amendments included are safe and effective. manship of Speaker H E Ahmed sions regulating governance for replacing some phrases and far this year Former Prime Minister, H E bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al capital flow, remove private joint-stock introducing definitions, in Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Mahmoud. obstacles, reduce time companies. addition to the procedures for FROM PAGE 1 Khalifa Al Thani also received the The Council discussed a and cost, diversify non-oil As for companies listed in the meetings of the boards of The MoI has been keen to COVID-19 vaccine yesterday as draft law amending some pro- income, develop market the financial market, the directors of companies and educate officers in the Infor- part of the vaccination target visions of the Commercial Com- movement, and enhance authority shall issue decisions their general assemblies. They mation Systems Department group in the first phase, according panies Law issued under Law regulating their own gov- also stipulated the possibility of through courses in this field to to the Ministry of Public Health No. 11 of 2015. international ernance, provided that the holding the general assembly improve their ability on the job, (MoPH). He was given the vaccine The draft law included the competitiveness in the Board of Directors of the of the company through Al Malki added. developed by Pfizer-BioNTech amendment of some provisions field of establishing and company is committed to modern technology means in The Metrash2 app offers that is being distributed of the aforementioned law in operating companies. implementing the aforemen- accordance with the rules more than 220 active services throughout the country. order to enhance the ease of tioned governance decisions, determined by the Ministry of available in 6 languages, After receiving the capital flow, remove obstacles, taking into account that the Commerce and Industry. including Arabic, English, COVID-19 vaccine, in a video reduce time and cost, diversify companies’ incorporation doc- After the discussion, the French, Malayalam, Urdu, and message posted by the Ministry non-oil income, develop market new provisions for the purposes uments do not contain anything Council decided to refer the Spanish. It guarantees safe on its social media accounts, H movement, and enhance inter- of achieving the requirements that contradicts with those aforementioned Draft Law to and encrypted services and E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser national competitiveness in the of anti-money laundering and decisions. the Financial and Economic supports most smart devices, bin Khalifa Al Thani thanked the field of establishing and oper- combating the financing of ter- The amendments in the Affairs Committee to study it which contributes to reaching wise leadership and those in ating companies. rorism stipulated in the Law No. draft law specified how the and submit a report thereon to the largest possible segment charge of health sector for pro- The draft law also added 20 of 2019 on combating money members of the companys the Council. of users. viding the vaccine to citizens and residents for free. The former Prime Minister has thanked the MoPH for the QRCS officials meet RACA Director-General QNL to host Interlending and efforts taken to curb the spread of COVID-19 virus in the THE PENINSULA — DOHA Document Supply Conference country since the beginning of the pandemic. He has also Ali bin Hassan Al Hammadi, THE PENINSULA — DOHA Interlending and Document encouraged the eligible popu- Secretary-General of Qatar Supply Conference, the lation to receive the vaccine. Red Crescent Society (QRCS), Qatar National Library (QNL) Library is reaffirming our A former minister, H E Dr received Ibrahim Abdullah Al has been selected to host the support for this important Mohamed Abdel-Rahim Duhaimi, Director-General of 17th International Federation of field, and we look forward to Kafoud has received COVID-19 the Regulatory Authority for Library Associations and Insti- welcoming delegates from vaccine in the first stage. Dr Charitable Activities (RACA). tutions' (IFLA) Interlending and around the world to participate Kavoud who received the first The meeting was attended Document Supply (ILDS) in these important dose of the COVID-19 vaccine by Eng. Ibrahim Abdullah Al- Conference in October 2021. The discussions.” has emphasised the impor- Malki, CEO, Faisal Mohamed successful bid is the result of Secretary-General of QNTC tance of taking the vaccine to Al-Emadi, Executive Director close cooperation with Qatar and Qatar Airways Group Chief protect all members of society. of Relief and International National Tourism Council, which Executive, H E Akbar Al Baker Qatar started the roll-out Development Division, Muna FROM LEFT: Ibrahim Abdullah Al Duhaimi, Ali bin Hassan Al provided support and stated: “We are pleased to have by vaccinating people of over Fadel Al-Sulaiti, Executive Hammadi and Eng. Ibrahim Abdullah Al Maliki commitment in promoting this won the bid to host the ILDS 70 age and some healthcare Director of Volunteering and event. conference, as it further estab- staff on December 23. In the first Local Development Division, efforts by RACA to facilitate and supervisory, and supportive The ILDS conference will lishes Qatar’s reputation in the phase of vaccination preference Dr. Fawzi Oussedik, Head of consolidate the credibility and role for humanitarian opera- bring international delegates knowledge space. Business will be given to people over 70 International Relations and transparency of Qatar’s local tions. He promised to continue from around the world, to the events are a key part of our years old, adults in chronic care International Humanitarian and international humanitarian to give every possible form of Library to discuss innovative tourism strategy, and is an area and home care facilities, Law (IHL), Mohamed Jassim action. support. He praised QRCS’s practices, strategies, and expe- showing sustained growth, healthcare personnel most at Al-Maslamani, Director of They discussed may topics contributions in Qatar and riences in the field of inter- allowing us to leverage Qatar’s risk of infection and people over Compliance and Trans- related to the nature and opti- beyond. In the end of the lending and document supply. offerings in education, research 16 years of age with severe parency, and Zahra Adnan mized mechanisms of QRCS’s meeting, the participants The ILDS service is an integral and knowledge. Through hosting chronic diseases. The first Lafi, IHL Coordinator. work. thanked each other for their component of the global infor- events such as this, QNTC works phase of vaccination will con- Al Hammadi welcomed the Al Duhaimi stated that mutual cooperation to serve mation network, which consists with stakeholders to attract vis- tinue until January 31. guest and commended the RACA had a regulatory, humanity everywhere. of national, academic, public, itors to our shores and build a private, and scientific libraries, sustainable tourism sector. We provides users with access to look forward to welcoming ILDS Katara to open Ibn Al Rayb print and digital collections in delegates to Qatar next year for a diverse languages and formats holistic visitor experience rooted Cultural Street on December 31 from around the world. in service excellence and our tra- THE PENINSULA — DOHA Minister of State and Pres- dition of hospitality.” ident of Qatar National Library, Director of Resource The Cultural Village Foundation-Katara has announced to H E Dr. Hamad Bin Abdulaziz Sharing at OCLC and IFLA open Ibn Al Rayb Cultural Street on December 31 with the Al Kawari said: “Interlending DDRS Section Chair, Peter participation of about 15 publishing houses and libraries. and document supply is one Collins said:“The IFLA Doc- The event which will continue until the summer, of the cornerstones of any ument Delivery and Resource will be held in cooperation with the Qatar Forum for library’s operations, and con- Sharing Section is excited to Publishers and Distributors, affiliated to the Ministry tinued cooperation between partner with Qatar National of Culture and Sports. Ibn Al Rayb Cultural Street is Acting CEO and Medical Director of Al Wakra Hospital, Dr. Sabah Al Kadhi, institutions is critical to our Library on the 17th Interlending located behind the open theater, where 15 pavilions honouring the lecturers. ability to serve our users. By and Document Supply Con- were built to hold an open-air book fair activity, away hosting the 2021 IFLA ference in Doha. from closed halls, following COVID-19 measures. Ibn Al Rayb Street will become like Al Mutanabi Al Wakra Hospital holds workshop on Street in the center of the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, which research in health informatics GTA signs MoUs with banks to was famous for being the first cultural market in Iraq. THE PENINSULA — DOHA facilitate online tax payment Ibn Al Rayb Cultural Street is expected to attract writers Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), FROM PAGE 1 and intellectuals of various nationalities and become gathered 24 specialized staff members a permanent meeting place for them, especially in such Hamad Medical Corporation’s (HMC) from Al Wakra Hospital and HMC’s Chief Operating Officer and Executive General Manager at QNB a wonderful winter atmosphere. In addition to display Al Wakra Hospital organised a series Corporate Quality and Patient Safety Financial Services, Ali Rashid Al Mohannadi; General Manager the books of Qatari publishing houses, associated events of workshops titled ‘Fundamentals Department. and Head of Wholesale Banking at Masraf Al Rayan, Mohamed will be held later when the COVID-19 pandemic is over, of Research in Health Informatics’ In a special celebration ceremony Isamil Al Emadi; CEO of Dukhan Bank, Khalid Youssef Al Subaei; including cultural lectures and seminars related to the as part of it’s efforts to encourage held at Al Wakra Hospital to mark and Deputy CEO of Al Ahli Bank, Mohamed Al Namla represented world of books, as well as celebrations to sign new pub- knowledge-sharing and improve the completion of the six-week their respective banks at the MoU signing event. lications and shows for children. In opening the Ibn Al competencies in the latest research training program, Acting CEO and Al Attiyah said the plan to link the authority with banks will Rayb Cultural Street, Katara aims to facilitate readers’ methodologies among its staff. Medical Director of Al Wakra Hos- gain momentum in the future, adding that the goal was to facil- access to Qatari publishing houses and keep up with all The workshop, which was pital, Dr. Sabah Al Kadhi honoured itate the process of paying taxes electronically. that is new to them in one place in a way that contributes organised by Al Wakra Hospital’s CSE faculty members who delivered He added the banks were selected based on the readiness of to spreading the culture of reading and knowledge Quality and Patient Safety Department the program for their efforts and their infrastructure to implement the process. He called on other among all segments of society, and at the same time in collaboration with the College of contribution to the success of the banks to complete their infrastructure so that they can offer the to support the efforts of local publishing houses. Science and Engineering (CSE) at training workshops. same service in the future. TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020 HOME 03 Qatar, India to boost ties further THE PENINSULA — DOHA invitation to visit India at an External Affairs Minister early date, the Embassy extended invitation to the India’s External Affairs statement said. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister H E Dr. The External Affairs Minister of Foreign Affairs to Subrahmanyam Jaishankar Minister held detailed visit India for the first Joint yesterday held detailed discussions with Deputy Prime Commission Meeting in 2021. discussions with his Qatari Minister and Minister of The Indian Minister counterpart on bilateral Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh interacted with the business relations and issues of mutual Mohammed bin Abdulrahman leaders from Qatar, including interest. Al Thani on bilateral as well as the Chairmen and board Dr. S. Jaishankar paid a regional and international members of Qatar Chamber visit to Qatar on December issues of mutual interest. and the Qatar Businessmen 27-28, 2020. A statement The Embassy statement Association. The Minister held issued by the Embassy of India further said that both the a virtual interaction with the yesterday said the Minister Ministers discussed ways to Indian community in Qatar. He handed over a personal strengthen the multifaceted appreciated the contribution message to Amir H H Sheikh bilateral relationship in areas of the community in meeting Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani such as energy, trade, the COVID-19 challenge. from Prime Minister H E investment, food processing, The Minister visited the Narendra Modi inviting H H healthcare, education, culture, Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium that Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al the Amir to visit India and defence and security. They has been constructed by Indian Thani met yesterday with Minister of External Affairs of the Republic of India, H E Dr. Subrahmanyam thanking Qatar for taking care agreed to maintain regular company L&T along with Jaishankar, who is currently visiting the country. They reviewed bilateral cooperation, particularly in of the Indian community consultations and coordination Qatari partners Al Balagh the economic and investment field. The meeting also touched on the contribution of Indian labourers during COVID-19 pandemic. H on all issues of mutual interest Group. He also visited the in the country and issues of common concern. H the Amir accepted the at multilateral fora. The Qatar National Museum. Media plays effective role in national development process: Sheikh Dr. Khalid

Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Thani Al Thani, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dar Al Sharq, along with Abdul Latif Abdullah Al Mahmoud, CEO of Dar Al Sharq; Jaber Al Harami, Deputy CEO of Dar Al Sharq; Dr. Khalid Mubarak Al-Shafi, Editor-in-Chief of The Peninsula; Mohamed Hajji, Editor-in-Chief of Lusail; Sadiq Mohammed Al Amari, Editor-in-Chief of Al Sharq; and Abdullah Talib Al Marri, Deputy Editor-in- Chief of Al Arab and other officials during a seminar and honouring ceremony organised recently byLusail newspaper on the occasion of Qatar National Day.

THE PENINSULA — DOHA Mohamed Hassan Al Malki, and his team’s support to bring The Chairman of the Board of Assistant Undersecretary for together this large number of Directors of Dar Al Sharq, Sheikh Industry Affairs at the Ministry colleagues working in the gov- Dr. Khalid bin Thani Al Thani has of Commerce and Industry ernment of the State of Qatar.” stressed the importance of the (MoCI) among others. Al Romaihi added, “We thank media and its contribution to the Chairman of the Board of Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Thani Al national development process Directors of Qatar Press Center, Thani and all of you for this beau- through which the State of Qatar Saad bin Mohammad Al tiful initiative that brought us is passing. Romaihi called on the Qatari together during my participation He also said, during a press and other media institu- in the Lusail seminar.” seminar and honouring cer- tions to follow the example of Saad bin Mohammad Al emony organised by Lusail news- Lusail newspaper through its Romaihi called on Qatari news- paper recently on the occasion participation in the National papers and other media institu- of the Qatar National Day, that Achievements Seminar tions to follow the example of this seminar is an important and Editor-in-Chief of Lusail; Sadiq distinguished participation some sectors and future plans organised by the newspaper in Lusail, saying: “I hope that Qatari successful step which aimed to Mohammad Al Amari, Editor-in- during the seminar. The and projects. cooperation with the Qatar newspapers and other media review the State’s achievements Chief of Al Sharq; and Abdullah seminar highlighted the Among the officials who Press Center to review the institutions, including the Qatar in various sectors. The event was Talib Al Marri, Deputy Editor-in- achievements made in Qatar spoke in the event were Nasser achievements of the State of Press Center, will adopt these attended by Minister of Culture Chief of Al Arab newspaper also during the past years. Al Khater, CEO of the FIFA Qatar in various fields on the ideas that support development and Sports, H E Salah bin attended the event. The The seminar, which was World Cup Qatar 2022; Fawzia occasion of Qatar National Day. projects in this beloved country.” Ghanem Al Ali, in addition to Chairman of the Board of sponsored by the Qatar Press Abdulaziz Al Khater, Assistant Al Romaihi, while receiving He added: “I also extend my many other officials from dif- Directors called for continuing Center, aimed to review the Undersecretary for Educational the honour by Lusail newspaper sincere thanks to organising ferent government entities. this approach through seminars nation’s achievements in all Affairs at the Ministry of Edu- on the occasion of his partici- team of this seminar that they Abdul Latif Abdullah Al and providing innovative media fields. It dealt with a number cation and Higher Education; pation in the seminar, said: “I have made Qatar Press Center Mahmoud, CEO of Dar Al Sharq; services that keep pace with the of main topics, such as the Ghanem Mubarak Al Kuwari, am pleased and honored by my the official sponsor of this Jaber Al Harami, Deputy CEO of aspirations of the media scene in achievements of the various Assistant Undersecretary for brother and my colleague, seminar. It was a good initiative, Dar Al Sharq; Dr. Khalid Mubarak Qatar. sectors during the past period, Social Affairs at the Ministry of Muhammad Hajji, the Editor- especially as it is the first project Al-Shafi, Editor-in-Chief of The He also honoured a number facing the challenges of the Administrative Development, in-Chief of Lusail newspaper, we have undertaken since the Peninsula; Mohamed Hajji, of participants, praising their coronavirus pandemic in Labor and Social Affairs; and who was able with his efforts launch of this center.”

MoPH reports 149 more recoveries Local, foreign goods on show at Doha Winter Trade Fair from COVID-19 AYENI OLUSEGUN THE PENINSULA Carpets from Iran, sweets from Palestine, winter THE PENINSULA — DOHA The Doha Winter Trade Fair has seen a vast turnout of shoppers, jackets handmade from The Ministry of Public Health according to Fair Supervisor Morocco, perfumes from (MoPH) yesterday announced Abdulrahman Salim. The fair, Kuwait, and jewellery the registration of 160 new organised by Seqlia and Qatar pieces from Lebanon and confirmed COVID-19. Among Marketers at the Doha Events Turkey—the fair holds a them 49 were travellers and Exhibition Centre (DECC), returning from abroad. aims to showcase Made in Qatar treat for everyone. Also, Also 149 people have items and products from around products made in Qatar are recovered from the virus, the Middle East and North available to help the local bringing the total number of Africa region; it will run until market grow. recovered cases in Qatar to tomorrow. 141,015. All new cases have Carpets from Iran, sweets been introduced to isolation from Palestine, winter jackets and are receiving necessary handmade from Morocco, per- parts of the world come here to healthcare according to their fumes from Kuwait, and promote their products, so we health status. The total jewelry pieces from Lebanon thought why don’t we do our number of positive COVID-19 and Turkey—the fair holds a here also. So far, the turnout has cases recorded in Qatar is treat for everyone. Also, been encouraging,” he added. 143,222 and there are 1,963 products made in Qatar are With the success of the fair active cases under treatment. available to help the local so far, Abdulrahman said However the Ministry has market grow. another exhibition would be A view of Doha Winter Trade Fair 2020 at Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). PIC: ABDUL BASIT/ THE PENINSULA stressed it is important for eve- “This exhibition is a trade held in January with more vari- ryone to play their role in con- fair for luxurious items from eties of items to be made trolling the virus by following clothes for men and women, available for shoppers. their products. A lot of them are location for business. We mostly family and friends, especially precautionary measures especially winter collection. “The next part of this exhi- online sellers, so here, they can operate on social media and then with the coronavirus including adherence to Many people import goods to bition will be from January 22, interact with shoppers.” deliver the goods to our cus- (COVID-19) restrictions. physical distancing, sell here, and it’s easy for which will be a trade fair with A stall manager at the fair tomers. The patronage has been “It’s a nice fair. There are avoid close contact with shoppers because you find eve- more options for goods. There selling handmade winter good since the first day, and we some lovely items here, and I others, crowded places, and rything under one roof,” Abdul- will be varieties to cater to the jackets and winter clothing had a lot of sales during the particularly like the carpets confined closed spaces where rahman told The Peninsula. consumers’ needs. We have items said he had received weekend,” the manager said. from Iran. The texture and pat- other people congregate, “We are promoting Qatari provided local businesses and orders for some items that are Meanwhile, citizens and terns are nice, and they are wearing a face mask and products under the Made in some home-based businesses now out of stock. residents are taking the fair as affordable,” said Ahmed, a long- washing hands regularly. Qatar theme. People from other a platform for them to showcase “We don’t have a particular an opportunity to unwind with term Doha resident. 04 HOME TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020 Lebanese artist Ooredoo’s Chief Strategy depicts four seasons Officer scoops top accolade THE PENINSULA - DOHA Some 25 percent of in 25 paintings Ooredoo’s Chief Strategy WeQual award winners Officer, Munera Al Dosari, has have, since their award been honoured with an award at the recent WeQual Awards win, been promoted to RAYNALD C RIVERA 2020. the global executive THE PENINSULA Munera Al Dosari won in the Strategy Development Cat- committees of FTSE We follow this artist and “Baalbek Souq” (left) and “Rooster Crow” by Issa Halloum. and Fortune 500 Issa Halloum had developed a we love his works so we egory of the WeQual Awards, deep grasp of nature from a designed to promote diversity companies. young age through solitary invited him to exhibit concept coupled with his dis- The artist makes extraor- and gender equality within the communion with the envi- them for the first time in tinct technique in painting using dinary paintings of otherwise group executive committees of ronment, evident in his 25 Al Markhiya and in Qatar. oil, the gallery chose to present mundane subjects like a rose Europe, Middle East, and Africa Finalists were then invited paintings on show at “Seasons We put up four major this solo exhibition as Al by the window or empty chairs (EMEA) ’s largest companies. for a 30-minute interview with Melodies” exhibition which Markhiya Gallery’s second with his mastery in colour lay- The WeQual organisation a panel of judges drawn from marks the Lebanese painter’s exhibitions during the art major offering for this exhi- ering and composition leaving several different high-profile first solo show in Qatar. season which runs from bition season, said Ktit. a strong emotional impact on companies across various In particular, the exhibition October till April, and this “There are 25 pieces in dif- the viewer. Green fields, yellow industries, including JP Morgan, unveiled yesterday at Al exhibition is one of them. ferent sizes on display, meadows and immaculately Rolls Royce, Centrica, and Markhiya Gallery at Doha Fire including three big paintings white snowy valley are depicted Zurich. Station is an interpretation of comprising two parts each, as with such textures and colours Being listed as a finalist in the four seasons, their colours Anas Ktit well as medium and small which almost go beyond the the WeQual awards enables and textures, as well as the Art Coordinator of pieces, all of which related to canvas. candidates to access a range of activities people are preoc- Al Markhiya Gallery the four seasons - winter, Born in Kuwait, Halloum WeQual support services and cupied with as seasons change. spring, summer and fall - and takes inspiration mainly from networks designed to support “We follow this artist and people’s activities,” he added. the rural Lebanese region of a move to the group executive we love his works so we invited October till April, and this exhi- The three huge paintings Ktit Bekaa which is abundant in level. him to exhibit them for the first bition is one of them,” Art Coor- was referring to are panoramic nature reflected in many of his Some 25 percent of WeQual time in Al Markhiya and in dinator of Al Markhiya Gallery works “The Beginning of paintings. award winners have, since their Qatar. We put up four major Anas Ktit explained to The Autumn”, “Harvest of Wheat” and “Art has provided a safe award win, been promoted to exhibitions during the art Peninsula yesterday. “Baalbek Souq” which are among haven for me since l was a little Munera Al Dosari the global executive com- season which runs from With the artist’s interesting the main highlights of the show. child. When l was young, I mittees of FTSE and Fortune didn’t enjoy games and toys like founded by Briton Katie Litch- 500 companies. other children, instead I field aims to identify and rec- Director PR at Ooredoo escaped from reality by medi- ognise female executives Sabah Rabiah Al-Kuwari, said: tating in nature and visualizing ranked a level below group “We’re delighted that our col- in my mind, the energy I found C-suite to support them to take league Munera has been rec- there,” said Halloum. up positions in C-suites. ognised for her outstanding Feeling nature’s soft and Twenty-four finalists were contribution to strategy devel- harsh textures, seeing vivid selected from an extensive list opment at Ooredoo. Munera is colours, and experiencing the of potential candidates. The an incredibly valuable member changing light of day brought finalists were assessed against of our senior management ecstasy to the artist’s young seven criteria; leadership, cog- team and a role model to many mind inspiring him to use nitive ability, integrity, drive aspirational young Qatari colours to convey these expe- and resilience, equality, women, thanks to her talent, riences like a visual memory. knowledge of the business, and dedication, and commitment “Seasons Melodies” is open personal development. All can- to her career. We look forward to the public with COVID-19 didates were assessed blind, to seeing Munera progress yet safety precautions from 9am to with no details of name or further, and we’re sure she will 7pm Saturday to Thursday until company shared in their be an asset to Ooredoo in the “The Beginning of Autumn” by Issa Halloum. PICS: RAYNALD C RIVERA/THE PENINSULA February 4. application. years to come.” IFC holds condolence meeting Mena professionals to target remote jobs in 2021 for former community leader THE PENINSULA – DOHA professional goals at work is through an appraisal, which THE PENINSULA – DOHA during his professional career A new survey by Bayt.com spot- Most respondents are allows employees to discuss spanning over a half-century. lights the career goals Mena optimistic about their their performance, identify A virtual condolence meeting As an educationist, he professionals will focus on in ability to stick to their strengths and weaknesses, dis- was held recently by the Indian played a vital role in con- 2021. The 2021 New Year’s resolutions. More than cover their ambitions, and work Friends Circle (IFC) on the structing new buildings of Ideal Resolutions Poll reveals that on how to get there. A majority demise of Syed Yacoob Shamia, Indian School, Doha, and Jamia most Mena professionals (80%) two in five of those who of respondents (63%) have ex-president of Ideal Indian Darul Huda, Hyderabad. feel positive about 2021, and made New Year’s year-end appraisals at their School Qatar. Over 500 people Sensing the need for another 74% of the survey respondents resolutions for 2020 company, while only 21% don’t. attended the event. Indian school in Doha, he have made resolutions for the (41%) said they Assessments offer an oppor- The late personality held played an instrumental role in new year. achieved all of them, tunity to build professionals’ various positions in his lifetime, establishing the Ideal Indian Most respondents are opti- careers and perhaps lead to a including the GM of Rabban School in 1985. Later he mistic about their ability to stick and 33% achieved some pay increase. Group of Companies, Secretary became its president for two to their resolutions. More than of their resolutions for Ola Haddad, Director of Human Furthermore, most Mena of IFC (formerly known as consecutive terms. two in five of those who made the year. Resources at Bayt.com professionals are focused on Halqe Rufaqa-e-Hind), President of Ideal Indian New Year’s resolutions for 2020 providing more feedback and improving aspects that directly Member, Halqae Adab Islami, School, Dr. Hassan Kunhi M P, (41%) said they achieved all of support (11%), and being more impact the quality of their lives. and members of various other said the late Shamia was a them, and 33% achieved some While looking for new jobs flexible with timing (7%). Among professionals who are social, educational and welfare thorough gentleman and of their resolutions for the year. in 2021, prospective candidates “Career-related New Year’s making personal resolutions, organisations in Qatar and always ready to help others. Dr. Furthermore, 78% of survey will focus on key attributes, resolutions are popular among popular ones are saving money India. Kunhi said the new school respondents complete their including career growth oppor- MENA professionals who aim (64%), exercising and following The meeting started with building at Abu Hamour stands New Year’s resolutions with tunities (38%), flexible work to improve their career pros- a healthy diet (17%), spending the recitation from the Holy testimony to Shamia’s careful planning and hard work, arrangements (25%), compet- pects in the coming year,” said more time with friends and Quran by Engineer Abdur- contribution. while 16% do it by going with itive salaries (14%), work-life Ola Haddad, Director of Human family (10%), and taking more rahman Shamsi, followed by its President of Shantiniketan the flow and trying different balance (14%), and a reputable Resources at Bayt.com. vacations (3%). Urdu translation. Indian School, Qatar K C Abdul options. Only 7% of profes- company brand (8%). A “Our research shows that Data for the 2021 New Dr. A Saleem delivered a Latheef, hailed Shamia for his sionals don’t normally complete whopping 81% will spend more getting a new job is amongst Year’s Resolutions Poll was keynote address on the life and good deeds adding that he their New Year’s resolutions. time looking for remote jobs in professionals’ top New Year’s collected online from 28 achievements of Late Syed learned a lot from the late Although 70% of 2021, using online job sites resolutions, and many profes- October to 20 December Yacoob Shamia. philanthropist. respondents are satisfied with (77%), company websites (10%), sionals will begin 2021 with 2020. Results are based on a He hailed the late Shamia Maulana Mohammed Rah- their career growth during the social media (7%), and virtual great aspirations. To attract and sample of 4062 respondents as a social worker, philan- matullah, Syed Shakir past year, finding a new job job fairs (2%). Survey retain talent, employers will from the following countries: thropist, and educationist, who Mohiuddin, and Sajid Ahmed, emerges as the top career- respondents also highlighted need to meet workers’ career UAE, KSA, Kuwait, Oman, left a huge impact in a very former presidents of IFC; related resolution for 75% of expectations they have of Mena expectations and provide the Qatar, Bahrain, Lebanon, short time. Maulana Mahboob Nizami, Dr. respondents, followed by employers – which include perks, work-life balance, and Jordan, Iraq, Palestine, Syria, He said Shamia partici- Noman Razvi, and Waheed improving skills and produc- more training and learning career advancement opportu- Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, pated in several high-value Dad Khan also talked about tivity (15%) and getting a pro- resources (56%), offering more nities they demand.” Tunisia, Libya, Sudan, and construction projects in Qatar Shamia. motion or salary raise (8%). rewards and benefits (19%), One way to achieve others. Qatar Foundation’s EVMC offers a unique volunteer opportunity for university students

THE PENINSULA – DOHA According to Dr. Jamieson, “I was able to learn more One of the most foal sitters do not need to have about them from the EVMC Students at Qatar Foundation any previous experience in vet- medical professionals and I had have a unique opportunity to important things that erinary medicine, and volun- no concerns regarding safety learn more about veterinary these foals need is a teering students regardless of due to the enforcement of medicine through an educa- person who cares for their major or area of studies extensive precautionary tional volunteer program them, who is interested, are welcome. measures. I would highly rec- designed to equip them with the and motivated, and who “There is no experience ommend this project to all QF skills and knowledge they need necessary. Loving horses is the students since it was a truly to help take care of critically ill can pay attention to and only prerequisite and the only rewarding and valuable expe- neonatal equine patients. be by their side. requirement. You don’t need rience for me.” The volunteer program, to be a vet or highly qualified, Speaking about the impact offered by the Equine Veter- Dr. Camilla A. Jamieson but just a person who cares for that this program will have for inary Medical Center (EVMC), Senior Clinical Veterinarian horses. We will be there to the future, Dr. Jamieson said: “It a Qatar Foundation (QF) Internal Medicine, EVMC guide and train them,” said Dr. is an amazing opportunity, member, the Foal Sitting Jamieson.Describing her expe- especially for anybody who Project aims to engage uni- A student with horse during the rience as a volunteer and foal wants to do something in the versity students providing Dr. Camilla A Jamieson volunteer program. sitter, Zainab Qazi, a student at equine or veterinary field, a critical and intensive care for Camilla A. Jamieson said,“one Georgetown University in student who wants to be a vet newborn foals, who are either of the most important things interaction, and support. And with a number of universities Qatar, QF partner university, or a veterinary nurse, or even sick with infectious disease, or that these foals need is a person just the warmth of having and may have many people said: “It has been a wonderful someone interested in horse who have had birth trauma, who cares for them, who is somebody who can give them who are interested in horses, or and truly unique experience for training or breeding work. and need a lot of support interested, and motivated, and a few hours of dedicated undi- who are looking to pursue an me. I never thought I would get “I would hope that we can during the first 24 to 48 hours who can pay attention to and vided attention is vital for their equine or veterinary related the opportunity to closely guide some people and give through the first two weeks of be by their side. healing process and makes career, and we thought we can interact and engage with a them the inspiration, or help their lives. “These foals are baby them much happier. harness this resource through baby horse, but the foal sitting them realize that they really Senior Clinical Veterinarian, animals and just like baby “We have an amazing offering a volunteer project made that possible for want to pursue a career in an Internal Medicine, EVMC, Dr. people. They need stimulation, opportunity as we are affiliated opportunity”. me. equine or veterinary field.” TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020 MIDDLE EAST 05 Lebanon secures vaccines for 20% of its citizens AP — BEIRUT failed to materialise because of political jockeying among the Lebanon’s health minister said country’s multiple power Lebanon is reeling from yesterday his country has centres and sectarian groups. a historic economic crisis reserved nearly 2 million doses Assem Araji, the lawmaker that has left the highly of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine who heads the parliamentary indebted government to fight the coronavirus, an health committee, said the deal short on cash and amount that covers up to 20% being negotiated is for $18 a of Lebanese. dose, a price that takes into con- foreign currency. Hamad Hassan said in a sideration Lebanon’s economic news conference his gov- troubles. The $27m deal would ernment has been negotiating secure 1.5 million vaccines vaccines for up to 20% of the with the company to acquire the while the country negotiates to population of poor countries hit vaccines and that they are receive closer to 2 million. hard by the pandemic. Lebanon expected to be in Lebanon by Araji said the government has deposited $4.3m to secure Lebanon President Michel Aoun meets with caretaker Health Minister Hamad Hassan at the Presidential February. The deal was is to pay a $4m deposit at the COVAX vaccines, Araji said. Palace in Baabda, yesterday. expected to be signed later signing, expected yesterday. It Both vaccines would be yesterday. hopes to cover the rest with a offered for free in Lebanon. Lebanon is reeling from a World Bank loan that has been Commercially, hospitals and surge in coronavirus cases in rarily knocked a number of hos- Lebanon has 12 refrigerators historic economic crisis that has diverted to cover expenses pharmacies can provide their recent weeks that has driven the pitals out of service. in which the Pfizer-BioNTech left the highly indebted gov- related to the pandemic. own vaccines, Araji said. number of reported infections The government resigned in vaccine can be stored between ernment short on cash and Lebanon has also signed up Lebanon has a population to over 170,000 and more than the wake of the August 4 minus 80 degree Celsius and foreign currency. Foreign for another 1.5 million vaccines of nearly 6 million, including 1,300 deaths. Lebanon’s health explosion, and is acting in a minus 60 degrees Celsius donors and supporters have with COVAX, the World Health over 1 million Syrian refugees. sector is also under strain amid caretaker capacity, requiring (minus 112° Fahrenheit and refrained from bankrolling the Organization-led partnership Araji said UN agencies would the economic crunch and fol- approval from the president minus 76° Fahrenheit), and government deficit demanding with humanitarian organisa- cover the refugee population. lowing this summer’s massive before signing the commercial WHO has promised six more, major reforms, which have tions that aims to provide The country has seen a explosion in Beirut that tempo- deal with Pfizer. Araji said. Virus cases in Iran says not seeking to increase tensions with US Oman reach AFP — TEHRAN in Washington. Khatibzadeh told an online The United States, for its its final days at the White The statement came a week news conference. part, has accused Iran of House,” said Khatibzadeh. 128,563 Iran warned Israel yesterday after the US Navy announced a “Everyone knows the pol- involvement in a rocket attack He said Iran was not seeking not to cross its “red lines” in the nuclear submarine was being icies (of Tehran) regarding last week near its Baghdad to increase tension and called AGENCIES — MUSCAT Gulf in the final days of Donald deployed to the Gulf, in a new security and national security... embassy, as Tehran prepares to for “rational people in Wash- Trump’s presidency and show of force directed at Iran. Everyone knows very well how mark the first anniversary of the ington” to take the same line The Omani Ministry of Health following a reported Israeli Media in Israel have since high the risk is raised if the red killing of top Iranian com- until President-elect Joe Biden announced yesterday that the submarine deployment. reported that an Israeli sub- lines of Iran are crossed.” mander Qasem Soleimani in a replaces Trump in the White total of number of coronavirus Foreign ministry spokesman marine has crossed the Suez Tehran accuses its regional US drone strike in January. House. Decades-old tensions (COVID-19) cases in the Saeed Khatibzadeh stressed Canal also headed for the Gulf, foe Israel of responsibility for “We have sent messages to between Washington and Sultanate has reached 128,563. Tehran would defend itself a report that has not been offi- several anti-Iranian operations, the US government and our Tehran have soared since 2018, The total number of against any American military cially confirmed or denied. including the assassination last friends in the region (warning) when Trump unilaterally deaths due to COVID-19 “adventure” in the runup to the “Everyone knows what the month of nuclear scientist the current US regime not to withdrew the United States reached 1,495, at a rate of 1.17 January 20 handover of power Persian Gulf signifies for Iran,” Mohsen Fakhrizadeh. embark on a new adventure in from the Iran nuclear deal. percent, while the recoveries stood at 121,182, bringing the recoveries rate to 94.2 Iran gas firm percent, the Ministry said in Russia reinforces troops in northern Syria a statement issued by Oman cuts supplies News Agency. REUTERS — MOSCOW/ANKARA backbone of the Syrian Demo- One Patient has been iso- to Iraq over cratic Forces (SDF) alliance lated in hospital due to infec- Russia said late on Sunday it which in recent years defeated tions in the past 24 hours, $6bn debt had sent more military police Islamic State in northeast Syria bringing the total to 86, while to an area in northern Syria with the help of US air power. patients in the intensive care REUTERS — DUBAI where fighters backed by Ankara says the YPG is close units reached 37, the Ministry Turkey have clashed with to militants fighting an insur- added. Iran’s state gas company said Kurdish forces near a strategic gency in southeast Turkey. Meanwhile, data from the yesterday it had slashed highway patrolled by Russian The Russian defence min- National Centre for Statistics supplies to neighbouring Iraq and Turkish troops. istry said it had sent more mil- and Information showed that over arrears of more than The deployment comes itary police to the area on Oman’s expatriate worker $6bn, after the Iraqi electricity ahead of talks in Russia today Sunday. “Earlier, during nego- population fell by more than ministry said the cuts placed (Tuesday) between Foreign tiations with the Turkish side, 270,000, or nearly 16%, from Baghdad and other cities at Minister Sergei Lavrov and his agreements were reached on the end of 2019 to November risk of serious power Turkish counterpart Mevlut the deployment of joint 2020, shortages. Cavusoglu. They are expected Russian-Syrian observation Oman had 1.44 million A joint Russian-Turkish patrol advances in the countryside of the “The Iraqi Ministry of Elec- to focus in part on Syria, where posts. Additional units of the non-Omani workers as of Syrian town of Al Jawadiyah, in Hasakeh province, on December 24. tricity owes more than $5bn Turkey backs rebels opposed Russian military police have November, according to the in gas bills to the National to President Bashar Al Assad, arrived in the Ain Issa area data, down from 1.71 million Iranian Gas Company (NIGC), while Russia supports Assad’s Syrian insurgent allies seized demand for the withdrawal of today (Sunday) to step up efforts expatriate workers at the end of which $3bn remains forces. territory in the region in an the YPG, which it calls a ter- to stabilise the situation,” it said. of last year. blocked and inaccessible in... Battles between Turkey- offensive last year against the rorist organisation. Moscow, whose warplanes Many foreign workers TBI (Trade Bank of Iraq), and backed fighters and Kurdish Kurdish YPG militia, which “The YPG must definitely also patrol the area, called on have left Gulf countries this more than $2bn is overdue forces erupted this month near holds swathes of northern and leave Ain Issa and there is a both sides to stop shelling each year as their economies were debt,” NIGC said in a the town of Ain Issa, which sits eastern Syria. readiness to take every kind of other and de-escalate. simultaneously hit by the statement. Iran has been on the M4 highway that links A senior Turkish defence step to this end,” the source It said it had not detected coronavirus pandemic and the unable to access billions of major Syrian cities. source said Ankara would use said, requesting anonymity. shelling from Turkish-backed drop in oil demand and prices dollars in assets in several Turkish forces and their today’s meeting to push its The YPG forms the military fighters in the last 24 hours. that came with it. countries due to US sanctions. “In addition, the Iraqi side owes more than $1 billion to Saudi Arabia suspends passenger flights the National Iranian Gas Company for contractual by a week; foreigners allowed to depart offenses under the agreement,” said the NIGC AFP — RIYADH strain of the novel coronavirus statement, published by the appeared in Britain. Iranian oil ministry’s news Saudi Arabia has extended its Oman and Kuwait said they plan agency SHANA. suspension of commercial passenger to lift the ban on December 29 and The feared electricity flights by at least one week and January 1, respectively. shortages could place further possibly two amid concerns over a “Saudi Arabia decided to extend pressure on the government of new variant of the coronavirus. the aforementioned measures for Prime Minister Mustafa Al Saudi Arabi will however allow another week to continue assessing Kadhimi. flights in “exceptional cases”, an the situation and to ensure safety of Iran’s Energy Minister Reza interior ministry official said citizens and expatriates,” said the SPA Ardakanian is scheduled to visit according to the official Saudi Press report. Baghdad today to discuss the Agency (SPA) on Sunday. Earlier this month, the kingdom unpaid bills with his Iraqi coun- Foreigners will be allowed to kicked off a COVID-19 vaccination terpart, an Iraqi official said on depart the kingdom and cargo campaign, using the Pfizer-BioNTech Sunday. movement will be permitted, it added. jab. Saudi Arabia has so far recorded Washington has repeatedly Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman more than 362,000 cases, including extended a sanctions suspended passenger flights and more than 6,000 deaths — the highest exemption to allow Baghdad banned entry and exit via their land among the Gulf Arab states — but has to import Iranian energy. and sea borders last week after a new also reported a high recovery rate. Iran to get vaccine from philanthropists in 3 weeks

AGENCIES — TEHRAN 1 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine to Iran's participation. from China. The chief of Iran's central bank, Iran’s Red Crescent Society said it Iran’s Health Ministry says it Abdolnasser Hemmati, told state TV will take delivery of a batch of coro- needs over 40 million doses of last week that Iran had received navirus vaccine developed by Pfizer vaccine to fight the pandemic, which approval to transfer a $244m Inc. and BioNTech SE within three has killed more than 54,000 people payment through an unnamed bank weeks. with 1.2 million infections in the in a "third country” to obtain nearly Some 150,000 shots of the country. 17 million doses of vaccines from vaccine will be sent to Iran “in col- Iran has signed up for COVAX, an COVAX. laboration with a group of philan- international programme designed Under COVAX rules, Iran could thropists in the United States,” the to distribute coronavirus vaccines to at a maximum order enough doses organization’s director, Karim participating countries regardless of to vaccinate half of its 82 million Hemmati, was quoted as saying by their wealth. It's run in part by Gavi, people. the semi-official Tasnim news The Vaccine Alliance. which says the President Hassan Rouhani said agency. It did not provide further US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Saturday that Iran would refuse to details. Control has already issued a license make the COVAX payment through In an earlier statement, Hemmati for Iran to take part. US financial institutions for fear of said his organisation was in talks for The US Treasury has not reacted confiscation. 06 HOME TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020

Mall of Qatar JEANS JEANS MERCH & PARTNERS CO Asian Town Happy Baby Center Tawar Mall Souq Al Nagada CHARLES & KEITH CHARLES & KEITH Bombay silk centre Rawabi Hypermarket Carter’s KENZ Mini Mart MERCH & PARTNERS CO FANTINO SHOES DUNE COOL CLUB Villeroy and Boch RETAIL MART Homes R us HUSH PUPPIES Saudia Department Saving Square Trading CROCS Rivano design FANTINO SHOES Al Dafna GANT LAKELAND DUNE Stores CASA MODA Mohamed Elshenawy Umm Salal HAZARD TRADING Nike RITUALS HERSCHEL Al Saad ANOTAH Vans SKECHERS Group Happy Baby Center Madina Central LA VIE EN ROSE Tash Ladies Textiles Kiddy Zone Saudia Department Sun & Sand TOMMY HILFIGER LC WAIKIKI Al-Taadhod Group Madinat Khalifa Kiddy Zone Stores LG Timberland Lagoona Mall LEVIS Rawabi Hypermarket Porto Arabia TAMIMA RETAIL MART ALDO NATURALIZER Al Amana Decor DUNE Faleh Souq Kiddy Zone Levante Contracting Al Asmakh Mall The Souq ALDO ACCESSORIES RITUALS NAUTICA and Trading ALSAEED TRADING Dana centre ATHLETES CO TOMMY HILFIGER HUSH PUPPIES Home Centre New Industrial Area CENTRE FASHION WORLD BEVERLY HILLS NEW YORKER LG Landmark Al Majlis SHOPPING Al Nasr Street Barwa Street LG NINE WEST Al-Taadhod Group1 POLO CLUB GANT CENTER Solez SKECHERS EL CRYSTAL TAMIMA BIRKENSTOCK Al-Taadhod Group2 THE CHILDRENS PLACE ALDO Barwa Village Wakra CALL IT SPRING Ezdan Mall Alwakra TAMIMA Msheireb TOMMY HILFIGER CHARLES & KEITH CALVIN KLEIN Bin Omran Panda Hyper Market LG Homes R us TOMMY HILFIGER DUNE JEANS LC WAIKIKI Bombay Silk Centre KIDS Al Shaheen EST HUSH PUPPIES Ezdan Mall Gharafa CHARLES & KEITH R&B Home Centre TOMMY JEANS Al-Taadhod Group NINE WEST REEBOK AEROPOSTALE CROCS R&B Al Mora Al Refaa SMYK RITUALS ALDO DUNE RITUALS Al Emadi Electronics EST TAMIMA Rawabi Hypermarket SKECHERS ALDO ACCESSORIES LA VIE EN ROSE LG Kiddy Zone SMYK Al Rayan LC WAIKIKI Carter’s Old Airport ATHLETES CO LEVIS Umm Ghuwailina Passion Al Shaheen EST Kiddy Zone ALSAEED TRADING ATHLETES CO KIDS CENTRE NATURALIZER ABDUL HAMID ABDUL RAHIM G2000 Mosaic Gallery Al Kharaitiyat BEVERLY HILLS Al-Taadhod Group NEW YORKER AL EMADI TRADING Co GANT Al-Taadhod Group GRAND POLO CLUB Villeroy and Boch LG R&B NEW TAIF HYPERMARKET Nabco Furniture Center HYPERMARKET CALL IT SPRING Nike RITUALS Al Gharafa Ocean Import and Export City Centre TAMIMA The north face CHARLES & KEITH SKECHERS FANTINO SHOES HAPPY BABY Vans Al Jameel Showroom Villeroy and Boch LA VIE EN ROSE TOMMY HILFIGER ULTIMA SHOES Al MAJSLIS SHOPPING CENTER NU Athlete LG Home Centre NATURALIZER LG ABDUL HAMID ABDUL RAHIM NEW INDIAN Al Shaheen EST Timberland Louis FERAUD NEW YORKER TAMIMA AL EMADI TRADING Co Colombia SUPERMARKET Rawabi Hypermarket ALDO SKECHERS Villeroy and Boch TAMIMA Louis FERAUD Old Ghanim Rawabi Food Center THE CHILDRENS PLACE Under Armour Nabco Furniture Center Balmain BEVERLY HILLS ALSAEED TRADING Saudia Hypermarket The Mall R&B pierre cardin POLO CLUB TOMMY HILFIGER CENTRE Al Emadi Electronics EST ALDO Al Duhail TAMIMA CALVIN KLEIN Al Najma Al Mansoura Dar Al Salam Mall BIRKENSTOCK ABDUL HAMID ABDUL RAHIM Al Maamoura JEANS LG ALSAEED TRADING Hyatt Plaza AL EMADI TRADING Co CHARLES & KEITH MERCH & PARTNERS CO Palms Mall Selection Interiors CENTRE Homes R us DUNE Sun & Sand Doha Festival City Furniture Al Khor LG ALDO NINE WEST CROCS Under Armour Mesaieed ATHLETES CO Salwa Road ALSAEED TRADING R&B SKECHERS Home Centre CHARLES & KEITH CENTRE Kiddy Zone LG AEROPOSTALE BRADMA-PULSES NUTS SKECHERS LC WAIKIKI Al-Taadhod Group Gulf Mall Souq Waqif ALDO AND CHOCOLATES TOMMY HILFIGER NATURALIZER Saudia Hypermarket TAMIMA ALDO ACCESSORIES LG Home Centre BEVERLY HILLS AL MAJLIS SHOPING CENTER ANTA LG Sun & Sand ATHLETES CO Souq Al Ali POLO CLUB Midas Furniture ATHLETES CO Kiddy Zone Nike CCC SKECHERS Al Saif A/C TAMIMA ATHLETES CO KIDS Muaither Kiddy Zone TAMIMA CROCS Al Markhiya BEVERLY HILLS PAN EMIRATES Kiddy Zone FURNITURE New Happy Baby Al Wakra LC WAIKIKI POLO CLUB D TAMIMA Saudia Hypermarket LEVIS Villaggio Mall BIRKENSTOCK Qatar Desgin ABDUL HAMID ABDUL RAHIM Anotah Co Saudi Mini Mart ALDO CALL IT SPRING ALSAEED TRADING AL EMADI TRADING Co REEBOK FANTINO SHOES CALVIN KLEIN CALVIN KLEIN CENTRE Saudia Hypermarket UD Al-Taadhod Group R&B ULTIMA SHOES TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020 AFRICA 07 Darfur clashes kill 15 amid calls for peacekeepers to stay AP — CAIRO the Fallata tribe against the decades of internal conflicts. come,” he was quoted as saying Sudan’s western region. Arab Masalit. The unrest poses The violence was linked to by SUNA. He was referring to The protesters, mostly dis- Tribal clashes in Sudan’s a challenge to authorities in the The clashes over the a dispute over a water source, recent negotiations to settle the placed women and children, troubled Darfur region have capital, Khartoum, who are weekend in the town of Omar Al Malek, a local leader, dispute. want the peacekeepers to stay. killed at least 15 people in recent trying to end the country’s long- Gereida in South Darfur was quoted as saying by the The clashes came after the Adam Regal, a spokesman days, forcing authorities to running rebellions as part of a province pitted the state-run SUNA news agency UN Security Council voted for a local organization that deploy more troops, the state- fragile transition to democracy Fallata tribe against the late Sunday. unanimously last week not to helps run refugee camps in run news agency reported. following last year’s overthrow It said the Fallata retaliated extend the mandate of the joint Darfur, said the UNAMID exit The violence came as thou- of President Omar Al Bashir. Arab Masalit. after two of its tribesmen were mission, known as UNAMID, would create a “security sands of displaced people pro- Al Bashir waged a scorched- slain, killing at least 13 members when it runs out on December vacuum” in a region with tested against a decision by the earth campaign against rebels of the Masalit and wounding at 31. The UNAMID force, estab- several active militias. UN Security Council to end the in Darfur in the early 2000s. The latest violence comes least 34 others. lished in 2007, was the first joint In an interview with AP mandate of a UN-African Union Some 300,000 people were amid tensions between military Mahdi Musa, the governor UN-AU peacekeeping oper- earlier this month, Jeremiah peacekeeping force in Darfur killed and 2.7 million were for- and civilian authorities, who are of South Darfur, said authorities ation. Its withdrawal is expected Mamabolo, the joint UN-African and replace it with a smaller cibly displaced. sharing power in a transitional have deployed troops to help to be completed by June 30. Union envoy for Darfur, said the political mission. The International Criminal government. Civilian leaders detain those implicated in the The decision by the Security transitional government in The clashes over the Court later charged Al Bashir are demanding greater control fighting. “The era of reconcili- Council led to renewed protests Khartoum needs to embark on weekend in the town of Gereida and others with genocide and and oversight over the military’s ation conferences is over, and on Saturday and Sunday by the “huge task” of gaining the in South Darfur province pitted crimes against humanity. economic assets, built up over the era of enforcing the law has thousands of people across the trust of the local people. Uganda oppn says South Africa logs 1 million virus cases ban on rallies Sudan paramilitary favours President AFP — JOHANNESBURG opens probe of South Africa has become the BLOOMBERG first African nation to record one million coronavirus cases, intelligence chief A ban on political campaign according to new data rallies in some parts of Uganda published by the country's AFP — KHARTOUM “The RSF extended condo- ahead of the January 14 elec- health ministry on Sunday. lences over the death of Bahaa tions is meant to stymie Pres- Currently suffering a second A powerful Sudanese paramil- Eddine Nouri who died fol- ident Yoweri Museveni’s rivals, wave of infections, of which the itary group has referred its lowing his arrest by the RSF’s according to the opposition. majority are a new variant of intelligence chief and other intelligence services,” SUNA The Electoral Commis- the coronavirus, South Africa is personnel for questioning over added. The reason for Nouri’s sion’s suspension of campaign the hardest hit country on the the arrest and killing of a man arrest has still not been meetings in at least 12 of African continent, with earlier this month, state media disclosed. Uganda’s 146 districts is 1,004,413 infections and 26,735 said yesterday. Sudan is undergoing a expected to hamper Musev- deaths, the data showed. Political activist Bahaa rocky political transition fol- eni’s main challenger, pop star As of 1900 GMT on Sunday, Eddine Nouri, 45, was snatched lowing the military’s April 2019 Bobi Wine, who’s yet to hold a total 2,658,646 cases were on December 16 from a cafe in ouster of autocrat Omar Al rallies in those areas, his recorded in Africa and 62,649 the southern Khartoum district Bashir amid unprecedented spokesman, Joel Ssenyonyi, fatalities, according to an AFP of Kalakla by men in plain protests against his said yesterday by phone from tally. clothes who were driving a three-decade-rule. the capital, Kampala. Last week, South Africa vehicle without license plates, On Sunday, the Sudanese The agency says the ban is recorded a daily average of according to local media. Professionals Association (SPA) to stem the spread of 11,700 new infections, up 39 Days later, his family found — an umbrella group which COVID-19. percent over the previous week. his body bearing signs of spearheaded the anti-Bashir Museveni, who’s ruled the For three consecutive days, torture at a hospital morgue in protests — called in a statement A medical staff cleans part of the special COVID-19 ward at Arwyp East African nation for 34 from Wednesday until Friday, Omdurman, the capital’s twin for renewed demonstrations, Medical Centre in Kempton Park, South Africa, on December 25. years, has already toured most the daily number of new cases city, triggering a public outcry. if the government and RSF of the affected areas, topped 14,000, but dropped “The Rapid Support Forces failed to take action against Ssenyonyi said. sharply again on Saturday and hardest hit African country, hit by the coronavirus as other head of intelligence services Nouri’s killers within 15 days. Bobi Wine, 38 poses an Sunday. with 432,079 cases and 7,240 regions, such as Europe with and officers involved in the Protests in Sudan continued inter-generational challenge Authorities are considering deaths, followed by Egypt with more than 25 million infec- arrest of Bahaa Eddine Nouri for months after Bashir’s and security forces have reimposing restrictions to rein 131,315 cases and 7,352 fatal- tions, the United States with were referred to investigation,” downfall, eventually forcing the repeatedly disrupted his rallies in the spread of the virus, and ities, Tunisia with 130,230 19.5 million, Latin America and the SUNA news agency military into power-sharing violently. Scores of people president Cyril Ramaphosa infections and 4,426 deaths and the Caribbean with 15 million, reported, quoting RSF with civilians in a fractious were killed in riots after he could give a television address Ethiopia with 122,413 and 1,901 Asia with 13.7 million and the spokesman Jamal Jumaa, but three-year transition was briefly detained last later this week. respectively. Middle East with close to four without providing any names arrangement that began in month. Morocco is the second Africa has not been as hard million. for the arrested personnel. August last year. Burkina Faso President vows push for security at inauguration AFP — OUAGADOUGOU Swathes of the country are out flawed before acknowledging of the government’s control. Kabore’s victory. The new president of Burkina “These last five years, our They included opposition Faso, Roch Marc Christian country has been targeted by leader Eddie Komboigo, head Kabore, vowed to make armed terrorist groups, whose of ousted president Blaise Com- security his priority yesterday actions have disrupted our paore’s party. after he took the helm of the search for development, our Compaore was chased out troubled Sahel country for a social unity and our communal of office in 2014 by a public second term. life,” Kabore said. revolt. He took refuge in Ivory “I intend to win the wager He vowed to launch a Coast but remains subject to an of providing security and sta- “broad consultation” in the arrest warrant issued under an bility for our country and coming months over “setting investigation into the assassi- ensure displaced people return down ways towards national nation of charismatic leader to their homes,” the 63-year- conciliation”. Thomas Sankara in 1987. old said after taking the oath of It would take into account Compaore’s 27-year reign office at a sports stadium in the “political, economic and blood is regarded fondly by many capital Ouagadougou before 10 crimes that, from (inde- Burkinabe, who recall it as a African heads of state and 1,200 pendence from France in) 1960 time of stability and see Kabore guests. to this very day have continued as being too slow to respond to Kabore acknowledged the to poison relationships.” the militant threat. scale of damage wrought by Kabore, first elected in 2015, Komboigo picked up a militancy, who extended their won a landslide 57.74 percent sizeable 15 percent of the pres- campaign from neighbouring of the vote on November 22, idential vote and his party Mali in 2015. obviating the need for a runoff. placed second in legislative At least 1,200 people have His inauguration was elections that were also held on been killed and a million of attended by several opposition November 22. Kabore’s MPP Burkina’s population of 20.5 candidates who initially party won 56 out of 127 seats in million have fled their homes. claimed that the vote was the National Assembly. Ethiopia detains journalist covering Tigray conflict BLOOMBERG

Ethiopian authorities arrested a Reuters cameraman on Christmas eve and will detain him for at least two weeks, his employer said. Kumerra Gemechu was arraigned in court but is yet to be charged, Reuters Editor-in- Chief Stephen J Adler said in a Reuters cameraman Kumerra Gemechu statement. “Kumerra’s work demon- conflict between federal troops federal police officers on strates his professionalism and and forces aligned to the dis- December 16, the news agency impartiality, and we are aware sident Tigray People’s Liber- said. of no basis for his detention,” ation Front in the north of the Prime Minister Abiy Adler said. country. Ahmed’s government said it “Journalists must be His arrest follows gov- routed the TPLF, which domi- allowed to report the news in ernment pressure on other nated the government for nearly the public interest without fear journalists working for inter- three decades, from Tigray after of harassment or harm, national news outlets, including it attacked a federal army base. wherever they are.” Reuters photographer Tiksa There have been heavy casu- Kumerra was covering a Negeri, who was beaten by alties during the conflict. 08 VIEWS TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020 Europe plots catch-up in global 5G Established in 1996 CHAIRMAN race to drive COVID-19 recovery DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI

SUPANTHA MUKHERJEE & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ISLA BINNIE — REUTERS DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI [email protected] 2021 could be a do-or-die year for Europe’s efforts to catch up with China and the ACTING MANAGING EDITOR United States in rolling out MOHAMMED SALIM MOHAMED super-fast fifth-generation [email protected] (5G) telecoms networks. The mission to introduce the technology, which ulti- DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR mately promises internet MOHAMMED OSMAN ALI speeds up to 20 times faster [email protected] than today, could be crucial to how competitively the con- tinent emerges from the eco- nomic ruins of the COVID-19 EDITORIAL pandemic. Mindful of this, the European Union is funnelling a fifth of its €750bn ($914bn) Reaping fruits of labour recovery fund to improve countries’ digital capabilities. MAHASEEL Festival marked the opening of its biggest European mobile operators A man wearing a mask walks past a 5G advertisement amid the coronavirus disease pandemic, in London. edition yet this month. The festival, in its fifth edition have long been reluctant to and organised in cooperation with the Ministry of Munic- start investing in 5G networks, around 1 percent of mobile “As with 4G, first movers quandary facing clients who ipality and Environment, is a vital part of initiatives by which could support smart fac- subscriptions across the con- advantage is huge and coun- have had to navigate the US- Katara to support government efforts to achieving food tories and self-driving cars, tinent in 2020, to 55 percent in tries rolling out 5G early will China dispute. security and self-sufficiency which contribute to the because of a lack of political western countries and 27 see most of the innovation,” “You can’t make seven to realisation of Qatar National Vision 2030. clarity about whether they percent in central and eastern an Ericsson spokeswoman 10-year investment decisions The 2020 edition is the largest in terms of partici- must accede to US demands to states over the next five years, said. unless you know that those pation with the rise in the number of participants from exclude leading equipment underpinning a longed-for “Unless Europe moves investments are protected for 22 stalls last year to 34 this year. Mahaseel has proved supplier Huawei and other economic recovery. quickly, it risks lost growth that period,” said Kenneth Fre- the significant role it plays in local agricultural and food Chinese vendors. Yet it is the mobile oper- and weakening industrial driksen, Huawei’s executive production sector as it had become an ideal marketing But encouraged by the EU ators who must pay com- competitiveness in manufac- vice president, Central East platform that attracts owners of Qatari farms and financial commitment to the panies like Ericsson, Nokia turing and logistics that could Europe and Nordic Region. national food manufacturing companies to sell their technology in this area, at a and Huawei billions of dollars cost billions of euros in new The delay in auctioning of products directly to the consumers at competitive prices. time when the US adminis- for the 5G equipment. wealth.” Geopolitics remains 5G spectrum - airwaves nec- General Manager of Katara, Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim tration is changing, and The EU agreed its rescue a major risk, however. essary for operators to start Al Sulaiti, said that Mahaseel Festival has become an fearful of falling further package in July, and com- Pressure from the United offering commercial 5G - has important economic tributary that contributes to sup- behind globally, the industry panies started drawing up States on its allies to shun been one of the main porting the national economy, encourages investment is preparing to plough ahead digital plans. “We spent the Huawei’s equipment from its obstacles to a rollout. Oper- in the agricultural and livestock sector, and stimulates in 2021. whole summer since the networks is unlikely to dis- ators were disappointed this the opening of important productive projects that serve “Europe is, unfortunately, announcement working to set appear. The United States year when planned auctions the food security system. The festival has occupied a behind,” Pekka Lundmark, out tangible projects,” said accuses Huawei of facilitating fell by the wayside as govern- distinguished position in the calendar of Katara events chief executive of Finnish Jose Maria Alvarez-Pallete, Chinese spying, allegations ments focused on battling the as one of the annual festivals which plays a vital role in network equipment maker CEO of Spanish operator denied by the company and pandemic. the promotion of local products providing a platform Nokia, said. But the rollout “is Telefonica. Beijing. Swedish operator Telia’s for local farms to reach wider customer base. accelerating already and in A European Commission US President-elect Joe technology chief Stefan Javer- In June this year, the Ministry of Municipality and 2021 I think it will gather spokeswoman said the first Biden, however, may be more bring told Reuters the delay in Environment, in cooperation with Mahaseel, launched more speed in most payments could be made in open than his predecessor to spectrum allocation had been the guarantee programme to support local farmers by countries”. the summer of 2021. engaging in talks, reducing “the major stumbling block” signing contracts in advance to purchase their vege- Swedish equipment maker Among various digital operators’ worries that in the Nordic nations and table products for the 2020/2021 season with the aim Ericsson forecasts Europe’s 5G projects, Telefonica calculates sudden policy changes could further afield. of setting guaranteed prices for the purchase of local coverage should grow from the funds could help cover all mean ripping out billions of In encouraging news, farm products and for farmers to prepare their pro- The mission to of Spain with fast fibre-optic dollars worth of existing 4G Germany, Europe’s biggest duction plan according to the needs of the market. Internet and extend stan- equipment. economy, says it will present It must be mentioned that last year’s edition coin- introduce the dalone 5G - capable of giving Telecom operators had draft rules for auctions in cided with the inauguration of the Farmers’ Forum office, technology, which the highest performance - to been planning to use their January, and Spain plans to a first-of-its-kind in Qatar which plays an important role around 85 percent of the existing 4G infrastructure as put spectrum on the block in the agricultural sector by bringing owners of farms ultimately promises country by 2025. the cheapest and fastest way before the end of February. together to exchange experiences, providing workshops internet speeds up to While an individual con- to start the upgrade to 5G, Several countries are also and seminars that contribute to the development of sumer can use 5G for making which will be able to transmit making progress with legis- local agricultural production, and encouraging 20 times faster than calls and browsing the internet, data as much as 20 times lation to enact the European investment in agricultural projects. today, could be crucial the technology’s main benefit faster than current networks. Union’s so-called 5G toolbox, a According to the World Food Security Index, Qatar to how competitively lies in creating new businesses, But nearly half of this series of recommendations maintained the first rank in the Arab world, and jumped automating factories and existing hardware was made aimed at cutting costs and red to the 13th position globally after it was ranked 22 in the continent emerges running critical infrastructures Huawei, forcing operators to tape, giving access to 5G radio 2018. This remarkable jump was achieved in just one from the economic like power grids. Global 5G look elsewhere for suppliers. spectrum and smoothing year, after the adoption of the National Food Security mobile subscriptions are Nokia and Ericsson have cross-border coordination for Strategy in 2018. In addition, the Ministry of Municipality ruins of the COVID-19 expected to reach 220 million profited handsomely from this radio spectrum for 5G services. and Environment supported farmers in installing many pandemic. by the end of this year, with shift, winning deals from former “We are already behind in greenhouses some of which had begun production. China accounting for almost Huawei customers, some of deployment of public 5G net- These initiatives support the efforts made in 80 percent of the total, whom are discussing contracts works, that is a fact,” Telia’s achieving food security and self-sufficiency and thereby Ericsson said in a report last with Samsung, a new entrant to Javerbring added. “Now we strengthen the national economy. month. North America is the European market. must do whatever we can to expected to have 4 percent. Huawei acknowledged the catch up.”

D-RING ROAD, POST BOX: 3488, DOHA - QATAR CAR vote faces credibility question EMAIL: [email protected] CAMILLE LAFFONT Ballot security: In a sub-prefectures, where voting support for the coalition of AFP country where armed groups was unable to start. The UN armed groups in order to EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OFFICE: TEL: 4455 7741 / 767 hold sway over two-thirds of says there were also numerous channel its dissatisfaction.” FAX: +974 4455 7758 Central African Republic has the territory, votes have to be polling stations which did Militia pressure: A coa- staged presidential and legis- transported to Bangui to be open but then swiftly closed or lition of militia groups opposed MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4462 7505 lative elections, defying many counted. Provisional results remained empty because of to Touadera have so far been who predicted a disaster in a are expected from January 4, voter intimidation. blocked from advancing on DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR: TEL: 4455 7769 country hamstrung by strife but no final results are “These are part-elections, Bangui by UN forces and rein- and weak governance. expected before January 18. A they are not credible and do forcements flown in from LOCAL NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7743 Sunday’s vote is a key runoff will be held on Feb- not meet international Rwanda and Russia. step for Africa’s most troubled ruary 14 if there is no outright standards,” said Thierry Vir- But by controlling swathes BUSINESS NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4462 7535 state -- a byword for grinding winner in the first round. coulon, a researcher with the of the country, they retain a poverty and militia brutality, Those three long weeks French Institute of Interna- “nuisance power that will not SPORT NEWS SECTION: TEL: 4455 7745 still wracked by a civil war provide plenty of opportunity tional Relations (IFRI). go away with rigged, non- that erupted in 2013. for votes to disappear -- a Nathalia Dukhan, a CAR credible elections that have ONLINE SECTION: TEL: 4462 7501 In the week before the scenario that notably hap- specialist with a US NGO been legitimised by the inter- email: [email protected] election, the government pened in Touadera’s own sur- called The Sentry, said elec- national community,” said accused a coalition of armed prise election in 2015-16. toral fraud in the 2015-16 vote Dukhan. “We are going to PUBLIC RELATIONS: TEL: 4455 7613 groups of working with an ex- Voter turnout: Polling was “was tolerated and thus legiti- enter a post-electoral phase email: [email protected] president to topple President high in the capital Bangui, mised” -- it was deemed the with a military escalation in Faustin Archange Touadera, where it went ahead without price for consolidating peace both camps,” she predicted. ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7837 / 780 and three UN peacekeepers incident, but it was badly after the civil war. “Armed groups will con- FAX: 4455 7870, email: [email protected] were killed. affected by violence in the “But today, it’s the entire tinue to seize the wealth, espe- While Touadera, 63, is provinces. The Strategic political opposition which is cially minerals that they do not CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT: TEL: 4455 7857 strongly favoured to win a Committee for Secure Elec- condemning massive rigging,” yet control, in order to force email: [email protected] second term, experts point to tions (CSSE), a governmental she said. “In a post-electoral the government to negotiate several factors that will shape body, said it had documented situation, (the opposition) with them, winning enough SUBSCRIPTION & DISTRIBUTION: TEL: 4455 7809 / 839 his legitimacy: at least 12 large districts, called may well provide more direct time for them to stage a coup.” FAX: 44557819, email: [email protected]

www.thepeninsula.qa Quote of the day /PeninsulaQatar

/ThePeninsulaQatar There will be setbacks and new challenges in the year ahead - for example new variants of /Peninsula_Qatar COVID-19 and helping people who are tired of /ThePeninsulaNewspaper the pandemic continue to combat it. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General +974 6698 6188 TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020 OPINION 09 2020 should teach these democracies humility

an unforgiving virus. emerging,” then-President sector. Likewise, Britain’s The socioeconomic chal- Barack Obama claimed in fate as a country that no lenges before these countries 2010, “India has emerged.” longer makes enough goods suddenly seem immense, This vision, hardened into an desired by the world need greater even than those faced With stricken unassailable consensus by not have been so bleak. after the calamity of two politicians, businessmen and The US would not be a The pandemic found world wars. The conven- nations, as with journalists, ignored the coun- society divided into insulated winners and angry losers had three of the world’s PANKAJ MISHRA tional formulas for national individuals, a try’s unresolved contradic- BLOOMBERG uplift - intensified mass pro- new and better tions of social and economic it not believed its own most prominent duction of goods and services inequality, as well as its inept rhetoric about the unim- democracies The year 2020 was, by any - are no longer enough in the life becomes bureaucracies, dodgy peachable virtues of its measure, rich in awakenings age of deindustrialization possible only after bankers, defaulting busi- liberal capitalist system after shockingly under- and reckonings. None were and climate change. Mean- nessmen, venal politicians the collapse of the Soviet prepared, governed as earth-shaking as those while, the promise of the obsolete and unsafe and timorous journalists. Union. Stagnation and forced upon the United knowledge economy seems ideas about self In Britain, the dream of decline had already set in by by leaders as States, Britain and India. largely deceptive. imperial power and self-suf- the 1990s, and the trillions of incompetent as The pandemic found But a deeper and more are discarded. ficiency grew more intense dollars spent on military three of the world’s most intractable, if also intangible, Admittedly, even as the country became capabilities and democracy- they were deluded prominent democracies problem lies in the realm of more parasitic on inbound promotion abroad could have and encumbered shockingly under-prepared, perception. For the pandemic countries cannot flows of financial capital. The been used to stem inequality with states that had governed by leaders as revealed the great and crip- overnight abandon final and shattering delusion at home, or at least to bring incompetent as they were pling chasm that exists the self-flattering was Brexit, a perfect act of public health care in line with steadily rendered deluded and encumbered between reality and the national self-harm. other rich countries. themselves incapable with states that had steadily images cherished by these narratives that they In the US, decades of Illusions of grandeur are rendered themselves inca- countries. A future that rep- have long generated political dysfunction, endless again flourishing as a trau- of performing their pable of performing their resents an appreciable wars, economic crises and matic year ends and a new most basic duty: most basic duty: Protecting improvement over the for external intolerable inequality culmi- one begins. The British gov- human lives. present will remain elusive consumption. nated in four disastrous years ernment and its journalistic Protecting human In each case, stridently unless the diminished of President Donald Trump. mouthpieces promise a lives. advanced claims - whether to democracies develop less In all three cases, the windfall of “sovereignty” as be a new superpower (India), grandiose and more prag- democratic virtues and political class and, to a dam- Britain leaves the EU on Jan. to become one again (Britain) matic self-images. seems destined to outpace aging extent, the mainstream 1, with or without a deal. or to provide moral lead- In the conventional, China and take its place media and intelligentsia tried India has started to hope ership to the world (US) - widely celebrated idea of among the great Western to keep up appearances long again that it can replace were broken on the wheel of India, the country brims with powers. “India is not simply after they had frayed. China as a destination for Thus, Obama could write manufacturers. The incoming in Wired magazine, a month Biden administration is before Trump’s election in broadcasting its intention, as 2016, that for Americans thousands of Americans there had never been a succumb to covid-19 every greater time to be alive. In day, to have the US lead the Britain, an alliance of right- world again. wing politicians and jour- Such desires cannot but nalists won a massive elec- seem a case of what Sigmund toral endorsement for their Freud called regression: The fiction that liberation from national ego is reverting to an the European Union would earlier developmental stage unleash their country’s instead of handling reality in world-beating prowess. a mature way, still insisting Prime Minister Narendra that a gap, cruelly exposed by Modi successfully kept up his the pandemic, between self- rhetoric of regaining Hindu perception and reality can be pride and glory long after his narrowed. policy of demonetization had With stricken nations, as severely compromised with individuals, a new and India’s economy. better life becomes possible All nations are imagined only after obsolete and communities. But they lose unsafe ideas about self are sight of their essential tasks discarded. Admittedly, coun- and fatally restrict their tries cannot overnight scope of action if they abandon the self-flattering imagine themselves too narratives that they have extravagantly. long generated for external India today would be consumption. Nevertheless, more resilient had it resisted the great democracies would irrational exuberance and do well in the new year to diagnosed and repaired early adhere to a principle that such structural weaknesses underpins one of the world’s as a poorly educated and most gainful businesses: Do US President-elect Joe Biden receiving a COVID-19 vaccination from Tabe Mase, Nurse Practitioner and Head of Employee Health underfed labour force and not get high on your own Services, at the Christiana Care campus in Newark, Delaware, recently. underinvestment in the rural supply. How South Korea’s early COVID-19 success left it scrambling to contain a new wave

SANGMI CHA, HYONHEE SHIN Reuters, frontline fighters in governor of Gyeonggi response task force, said it is government prioritising the AND JOSH SMITH — REUTERS South Korea’s war against the Province, the most populous time to consider dropping economy over stopping infec- virus outlined what they say area in the country. mass tracing in favour of tions, Lee and the leaders of On the fourth floor of the were critical mistakes by the When asked whether the more targeted epidemio- Seoul and Incheon cities this Incheon city hall, South government. Failings included government had been over- logical surveys that seek to week imposed strict gathering Korean epidemiological not investing in enough man- confident, Yoon Tae-ho, better understand specific limits for the Christmas and investigator Jang Hanaram’s power and training for the director-general for public patterns of the virus’ spread New Year holidays. office is stuffed with six desks, tracing programme, not health policy, acknowledged while freeing up trained Ma Sang-hyuk, vice pres- two folding cots, and a table mobilising private hospitals there were some areas where medical personnel to provide ident of the Korean Vaccine strewn with instant noodles, fast enough to free up more authorities should have patient care. Society, told Reuters the sense energy drinks and digestive beds, indecisive social dis- responded faster, including “It might be better to of complacency shaped the aids. tancing policies, and adopting mobilising various medical redeploy those who were country’s vaccine policy as Jang is one of six staffers a slow approach to securing resources. tasked with testing and well, with the government who work 24-hour shifts in and rolling out vaccines. “We extremely regret that tracing,” he said. seeing low daily cases during the cramped space, frantically To wield its digital tools, we have fallen behind a bit Because of the workload, the summer as evidence they tracing and contacting South Korea relies on an army where we should be one step Jang said they have already did not need to hurry. potential coronavirus cases in of public health workers and ahead of the virus,” he said at begun to scale back their “The government over- South Korea’s third largest conscript doctors like Jang, a a briefing on Tuesday. Still, he tracing, for example no longer looked the pandemic as the city as the country battles its recent medical school said authorities were working recording movements where daily cases began to stabilize largest wave of infections yet. graduate who is working as a to fix any problems and were the patient was only in a spot and thought they could ride it Jang said he knew this contact tracer in place of his confident the country could for a few minutes while out without the vaccine,” he South Korea won wave was different in early mandatory military service. “tackle this third wave if the wearing a mask. said. December when the bright Jang says the overworked government, medical teams Gyeonggi governor Lee, a Stung by criticism his gov- international red messages that report con- and underpaid conscripts or and people unite.” Unlike pre- member of President Moon ernment’s plan to begin pro- plaudits earlier firmed cases began to mul- other public health doctors vious waves of infections, Jae-in’s ruling Democratic viding vaccines in February or this year when it tiply in the chatroom on his rotate too quickly in and out which were focused mostly Party, agrees the country can March - months after some computer screen. of their positions, while many on individual events or organ- no longer rely on tracing each other countries - was too quickly tamped “I thought, ‘Wow, this is of the new recruits have little isations such as churches or case, and has called for more relaxed, Moon on Tuesday down outbreaks really getting out of control,’” to no training. nightclubs, the current surge flexible measures, such as promised a public vaccination he told Reuters. “The sense of fatigue is of cases is being driven by mass testing of specific areas programme would “not begin by fielding an South Korea won interna- very high now,” he said. smaller clusters at places like and using less accurate but too late” and his office aggressive, high- tional plaudits earlier this Compared to the disasters restaurants and offices, which faster antigen testing kits for emphasized the country year when it quickly tamped unfolding in the United States, are harder to trace. And pre-screening. would eventually buy enough tech contact down outbreaks by fielding an Europe and other virus hot nearly a third of recent cases The over-confidence doses to cover more than 85% tracing system aggressive, high-tech contact spots, South Korea’s 52,550 come from entirely unknown drove an incremental of the population. tracing system that mined total cases and daily high of origins. approach to social distancing Lim said the government that mined cellphone location data, credit 1,097 are still low. Since the pandemic began, measures, Lee added, arguing should have prepared for cellphone location card records, CCTV footage, But this new wave is more South Korea has more than more drastic but temporary worst case scenarios but data, credit card and other information to persistent and widespread doubled the number of inves- measures would have led to failed to scale up efforts it had track down and isolate than any of the previous tigators, from around 130 to less fatigue among the public. made in earlier waves, such records, CCTV potential patients. surges, and has led to an 305, according to the Korea South Korea has never as quickly securing enough footage, and other But after a summer of unprecedented spike in Disease Control and Pre- imposed full lockdowns, and beds in private hospitals. touting South Korea’s deaths, with some patients vention Agency. as recently as November was “We came to believe that information to approach as a model for the dying before hospital beds To supplement their ranks handing out vouchers to everything was going to be track down and world, officials acknowledge become available. The further, the government has encourage domestic travel OK if we wear masks well and the success of those earlier number of active cases is now recently mobilised members and tourism. The prime min- stick to what we had been isolate potential efforts helped fuel over-con- more than double that of the of the military and police, but ister has said imposing the doing,” he said. “But that patients. fidence that left them previous high in March. it will take time to train more highest level of social dis- belief held authorities back straining to contain a third “Despite the warnings, long-term, experienced staff, tancing would be a last resort from looking at why they wave and scrambling to over-confidence and Yoon said. because of the economic were slow to act, and whether defend a cautious vaccine excessive optimism had blos- Lim Seung-kwan, chief of damage. there were lessons to learn, timeline. somed in many people’s Gyeonggi Province’s Frustrated by what they from both successes and In eight interviews with minds,” said Lee Jae-myung, COVID-19 emergency see as the national failures.” 10 ASIA TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020 Bangladesh sends second group of Rohingya to island

AFP — COX’S BAZAR them?” Serajul Islam said he was going with five family Bangladesh yesterday started More than 1,600 of the members and was not being moving a second group of Muslim minority from forced. Rohingya refugees to a contro- Myanmar were taken to “The way the international versial flood-prone island in the community is handling our Bay of Bengal despite oppo- Bhashan Char earlier issue, I don’t see any future in sition from rights activists. this month, and Foreign the camps,” he spoke from the More than 1,600 of the Minister AK Abdul bus taking him to Chittagong. Muslim minority from Myanmar Momen said just under “It is better I go and live the were taken to Bhashan Char 1,000 were in the latest rest of my life there in better earlier this month, and Foreign housing. At least I won’t have Minister AK Abdul Momen said batch heading for what to think about floods during the just under 1,000 were in the he called a “beautiful rainy season and unbearable latest batch heading for what resort”. heat in the summer.” he called a “beautiful resort”. More than 700,000 Buses took the Rohingya Rohingya packed the camps in from camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh in 2017 after a where nearly one million ref- “Bhashan Char is a beau- deadly Myanmar military ugees are packed, to Chit- tiful resort. It is an excellent clampdown that the United tagong port where they will be resort. And once anybody goes Nations has said could be taken to the barren island. there, they will love it,” the genocide. “They are going voluntarily. minister added. After the first transfer on They are very eager to go Two Rohingya men in the December 4, several Rohingya Bhashan Char because they latest group said they were said that they were beaten and have heard from their relatives, going to the island willingly. intimidated to agree to move. A convoy of buses with Rohingya refugees being relocated to an island in the Bay of Bengal, in Ukhia, those who have gone to Nur Kamal, a Rohingya The Bangladesh gov- Bangladesh, yesterday. Bhashan Char, that (it) is an from the giant Kutupalang ernment eventually wants to excellent place,” Momen said. refugee camp, said he was put 100,000 Rohingya on the The UN said it has not been Rohingya families to relocate International’s South Asia cam- He claimed the island was going to be with relatives 13,000-acre island, despite involved in the process. to Bhashan Char as well as use paigner Saad Hammadi. “100 times better” than the already at Bhashan Char: criticism from rights groups “Allegations from within of intimidation tactics are Foreign minister Momen camps, and that the refugees had “What is the point of staying because Bhashan Char is so the community about cash making the relocation process said critics of the policy were “appealed” to be taken there. here (in the camps) without isolated. incentives being offered to questionable,” said Amnesty “making up stories”. Telecom towers targeted amid farmer protests in India Sri Lanka welcomes first REUTERS — NEW DELHI official said the power supply matter is private. Jio did not Representatives of two of livelihood and benefit large was disrupted to several immediately respond to a the 31 farmers’ unions pro- companies. tourists despite Authorities in India’s northern telecom towers in the state, request for a comment. testing against the laws But Modi and his ministers state of Punjab are investigating mainly ones owned by Jio, the At least 1,600 towers were rejected the allegations when say the laws will increase new virus strain whether protesting farmers telecommunications arm of affected in total due to the contacted. They asked to farmers’ income as it links were disrupting power supply Reliance Industries. power supply disruption and remain unidentified pending a potential bulk buyers such as to hundreds of telecom towers, A source close to Jio said about 30 towers have been formal statement from all of WalMart Inc, Reliance Indus- AFP — COLOMBO a state official said yesterday, more than 1,400 of its 9,000 damaged, Tilak Raj Dua, the unions. tries Ltd and Adani Enterprises amid protests over new farm plus towers were affected as director general of the Tower Tens of thousands of Ltd directly with farmers, Sri Lanka welcomed its first laws. power supplies and fibre to the and Infrastructure Providers farmers are camping out on bypassing wholesale markets foreign tourists in nine months “We have told the police to towers were cut but could not Association (TAIPA), said. highways near the capital New and commission agents. yesterday even as a new deadlier track all those involved in sab- confirm whether farmers were Dua said the association Delhi in protest at three new Punjab’s state government strain of the coronavirus gripped otaging the infrastructure,” a behind the damage. was trying to determine which laws implemented by Prime is opposed to the new farm the island. senior official in the Punjab Some bundles of Jio’s fibre companies were affected and Minister Narendra Modi’s gov- laws and a seventh round of A charter flight carrying 185 state government told Reuters kept for laying were also burnt had written to the police in ernment that they fear will dis- talks between farmer unions passengers from Ukraine landed on condition of anonymity. at one location, the source said, Punjab asking for protection of mantle regulated agricultural and federal government offi- at a little-used airport south of A senior Punjab state police declining to be named as the the towers. markets, threaten their cials is scheduled today. the capital, which has been stricken by a surge in COVID-19 cases and deaths. Indonesia bans foreign visitors for 2 weeks In less than three months, Entertainment curbs the official number of corona- REUTERS — JAKARTA to all foreign visitors, except for capacity. virus fatalities has risen from 13 high-level government officials Senior health ministry official to 191, while the number of infec- International visitors will be or foreigners with residency Abdul Kadir yesterday said hos- imposed in Bangkok tions has gone from 3,300 to barred from entering Indonesia permits, she said. pitals were in danger of more than 41,000. for a two-week period to try to The world’s fourth most pop- becoming overwhelmed by a REUTERS — BANGKOK brought earlier outbreaks Still, authorities hope the keep out a new potentially more ulous country has struggled to possible year-end holiday infec- under control. Ukrainian arrivals will be the first contagious variant of the coro- contain the spread of the novel tions spike, with occupancy in Thailand announced its first Its success has been of thousands of foreigners to visit navirus, its foreign minister coronavirus since recording its the capital Jakarta already coronavirus death in nearly attributed to tight restrictions — easing pressure on the Retno Marsudi said yesterday. first case in March, now with reaching 84%. two months and tightened on inbound travel and swift tourism-reliant economy that The new regulation, effective nearly 720,000 confirmed infec- In West Java, Indonesia’s restrictions on entertainment testing and contact-tracing. was shut down in March. January 1, comes days after Indo- tions and 21,500 deaths, among most populated province, hos- businesses in its capital Bangkok’s tighter The visitors, who had to nesia banned travellers from the the highest in Asia. pital occupancy is currently at yesterday, in a bid to contain measures follow similar reg- produce coronavirus-free cer- Britain and tightened rules for It announced 5,854 new 83%, and in East Java, 77%, he an outbreak that has reached ulations in some of the 43 tificates before departure, were those arriving from Europe and infections and 215 deaths yes- said. more than half of the coun- provinces with cases since a tested again on arrival at Australia to limit the spread of terday, with the positivity rate “This means that these try’s provinces. big outbreak was discovered Rajapaksa International airport. the new variant. above 20% in recent days. regions are in the red zone. The Authorities confirmed 144 11 days ago among migrant They will be confined to their Indonesia earlier this year In recent weeks Indonesia’s bed capacity is now in red zone. new infections yesterday as workers at a seafood market hotels for the duration of their banned all foreign tourists from healthcare system has come Any uptick will overwhelm hos- new clusters emerged in Samut Sakhon, a province holiday. “This is a pilot project to entry but some exemptions have under strain with hospitals on pitals,” he said, adding that 500 stemming from its biggest near the capital. test our systems,” government been made for business trav- Java island forced to add more beds would be added in the outbreak yet, prompting a ban A cluster has been found spokesman Ramesh Pathirana ellers. The new regulation applies beds as emergency wards near greater Jakarta area. in Bangkok on betting busi- in the eastern province of said, adding that there would be nesses and midnight closures Rayong linked to a gambling a review after one month. for its clubs and music venues den, with 92 infections in Sri Lanka’s international until January 4. three days and one death, a borders remain closed, with the Public Health Minister 45-year-old man. exception of repatriation flights Anutin Charnvirakul said he Pongsakorn Kwanmuang, and charters approved by local was undergoing two weeks of spokesman for the Bangkok health authorities. quarantine after exposure to authorities, said a field hos- But Sri Lanka is also an infected provincial gov- pital would also be set up in scheduled to host a two-Test ernor, while house speaker the capital and the restrictions cricket tour by England next Chuan Leekpai asked 29 par- reviewed next week. month. The moves come despite liamentary staffers to seek The outbreak could authorities announcing a tests after meeting a person hamper efforts to revive a deadlier coronavirus strain. who contracted the virus. crucial tourist industry dev- Minister for COVID Disease Thailand, the first country astated by the pandemic, as Control, Sudharshini Fernan- outside China to report a authorities ease some restric- dopulle, said the strain was more coronavirus infection, has tions on foreigners and offer infectious than one which spread recorded just 6,285 cases and incentives to boost domestic in Sri Lanka between January 61 COVID-19 deaths, having travel. and October. Sydney scales back year-end fireworks celebrations REUTERS — MELBOURNE gatherings to 50 people. days, forget it,” NSW Health “We don’t want to create Minister Brad Hazzard said. Passengers wearing protective face masks walk at the Soekarno-Hatta Airport amid COVID-19 Sydney, one of the world’s first any super-spreading events on Australia’s health minister, pandemic, in Tangerang, on the outskirts of Jakarta, Indonesia. major cities to welcome each New Year’s Eve, which then Greg Hunt, backed the Sydney New Year with a public ruins it for everybody across the restrictions. countdown featuring a fire- state moving forward,” Bere- “What we have been doing Serum Institute expects approval for AstraZeneca vaccine works display over its well- jiklian said at a news con- is working,” he said. known Opera House, has ference, adding that watching Because of swift border clo- REUTERS — KOLKATA million doses of the vaccine and infrastructure that will be banned large gatherings that the fireworks from home was sures, lockdowns, widespread will be able to ramp up capacity required to inoculate millions. night amid an outbreak of the the ‘safest’ way to do so. testing, social distancing and a The Serum Institute of India, the to around 100 million a month “The exercise is basically a coronavirus. “On New Year’s Eve we high rate of public compliance local maker of the Oxford/Astra- by March when a new facility mock drill for our healthcare A mid-December resur- don’t want any crowds on the with anti-virus measures, Aus- Zeneca coronavirus vaccine, said comes online, Poonawalla said. workers on how to run the gence of COVID-19 in the city’s foreshore around Sydney what- tralia has recorded just over yesterday it expected the British India wants to deliver 600 whole vaccination process and northern beach suburbs has soever,” she said. 28,300 infections and 908 and Indian governments to million coronavirus shots in the system,” Jaiprakash Shivahare, grown to 125 cases after five Only residents with permits deaths related to the approve shots for emergency use next six to eight months starting the commissioner for health in new infections were recorded for hospitality venues coronavirus. within a few days. in January. The country’s drug the western state of Gujarat, yesterday. downtown will be allowed Officials say this has given “You will be hearing some regulator is also considering said. About a quarter of million there on New Year’s Eve. regulators time to evaluate vac- good news from the UK very similar approvals for the Pfizer / India has the second-highest of people there must stay in Households across Sydney are cines without the pressure of soon,” Serum’s Chief Executive BioNTech vaccine and another number of confirmed corona- strict lockdown until Jan. 9 That only allowed to host 10 people mounting cases of COVID-19, Adar Poonawalla told reporters, developed by India’s Bharat virus cases in the world after the has led to further restrictions of until further notice. as has been the case in much of adding that approval from the Biotech. United States, and it has the already toned-down plans NSW Police have issued 15 Europe and the United States. Indian regulator would likely Some Indian states yesterday recorded 147,901 deaths so far. for the New Year’s Eve. notices in Sydney for breaking “Our approach is to under- follow shortly. began a trial run of COVID-19 Yesterday, the federal health New South Wales (NSW) public health orders since promise and over-deliver,” “By January, we should have vaccine delivery systems, with ministry reported a daily Premier Gladys Berejiklian Christmas Eve. Hunt said, reiterating that the the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine health authorities checking eve- increase of a little over 20,000 banned most people from “I would say to those people government is sticking to a licensed.” The company has rything from their technology infections, taking the country’s coming to Sydney’s downtown half contemplating doing any- March timetable to start already made 40 million to 50 platforms to the storage total so far to 10.2 million cases. that night and limited outdoor thing stupid in the next few vaccinations. TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020 ASIA 11 China trial of ‘Hong Kong 12’ begins

AFP — SHENZHEN nothing to prevent its people from seeking freedom else- The trial in China of a group of Families of the accused where.” The US has used Hong Hong Kong pro-democracy — the youngest of whom Kong’s evaporating freedoms activists who tried to escape the is just 16 — have called as a stick to beat China with in city by speedboat for sanctuary for the hearing in the recent months. in Taiwan opened yesterday, as China’s Ministry of Foreign the United States urged the Shenzhen court to be Affairs went into a familiar immediate release of dissidents broadcast live, after attack mode over the US it says “fled tyranny”. they were unable to comments. Ten of the so-called “Hong attend due to the short Washington must “imme- Kong 12” were in court in the notice for the trial and diately stop interfering in southern city of Shenzhen to China’s internal affairs through face charges linked to an illegal COVID-19 requirements. the Hong Kong issue and imme- border crossing. diately stop interfering in Chinese authorities took China’s judicial sovereignty,” Family members of a group of Hong Kong democracy activists, who tried to flee the city by speedboat them into custody after their Hong Kong, where a draconian spokesman Zhao Lijian told to Taiwan last August, hold a press conference in Hong Kong, yesterday, the first day of their trial boat was intercepted on August national security law imposed reporters. 23. by China has largely stamped Families of the accused — across the border in the Chinese city of Shenzhen. The hearing began as out the city’s protest movement. the youngest of whom is just 16 scheduled yesterday afternoon “I would like to urge the — have called for the hearing and fair trial by the courts in restore peace and stability but Eight of the group are and a convoy of vehicles were Yantian court to hand down the in the Shenzhen court to be Shenzhen,” they said, noting critics have condemned it as a accused of an illegal border seen departing around four verdict as soon as possible... broadcast live, after they were that those detained include fatal attack on Hong Kong’s crossing, while two are sus- hours later. The Yantian District With a verdict I can set off for unable to attend due to the British, Portuguese and Viet- freedoms. pected of organising for others People’s Court said sentencing Shenzhen. I just want to meet short notice for the trial and namese nationals. China has a history of to cross the border. will be at a later date. my son,” activist Wong Wai- COVID-19 requirements. The security law that now putting dissidents on trial Two minors face non-public Court officials stayed tight- Yin’s mother said Monday They were only notified of blankets Hong Kong gives around the Christmas and New hearings. lipped about the case, and the evening. the trial date on Friday, while authorities sweeping powers of Year period to avoid Western Since Beijing imposed the trial — like many in China’s Activist Lester Shum added their lawyers have been barred prosecution for acts deemed scrutiny. security law in June, Taiwan has opaque legal system -- was not that “none of the families we from meeting with the terrorism, secession, subversion Amnesty International said emerged as a sanctuary for open to foreign reporters or know got to hear the trial”, detainees. Authorities instead or collusion with foreign there was little chance the Hong Kong activists -- quietly diplomats. despite the court’s statement have appointed state-approved entities. group would receive a fair trial. turning a blind eye to dissidents At least two of the group saying relatives were present. legal representation. The city had enjoyed unique “They have so far been turning up without proper visas could face around seven years “Their so-called ‘crime’ was In a joint letter over the freedoms since its handover deprived of their basic rights, or paperwork. in jail for organising the to flee tyranny,” a US embassy weekend, the families said they from former colonial power including the right to defend The self-ruling island attempted escape from a city spokesperson said, ahead of the “strongly condemn” the author- Britain in 1997, with a deal themselves through legal rep- opened a new office in July to where democracy activists last detainees’ scheduled court ities’ decision to hold the trial promising a “one country, two resentation of their own deal with Hong Kongers year led massive protests appearance. in “de facto secret”. systems” arrangement for 50 choosing,” Amnesty Hong wanting to move to the island, against Beijing’s rule. Urging their immediate “We urge governments to years. Kong’s Programme Manager including those seeking to stay Some of the group were release, the spokesperson said: send embassy personnel to the Beijing says the new Lam Cho Ming said in a in Taiwan for “political already facing prosecution in “Communist China will stop at hearing to guarantee a proper security law was needed to statement. reasons”. Japan shuts doors to foreign travellers; lawmaker dies of virus Philippine soldiers, officials get REUTERS — TOKYO Japan yesterday started overseas are not effective against urday, according to public broad- vaccine jabs ahead of approval banning non-resident foreign this variant, and anti-infection caster NHK. A 53-year-old former Japanese nationals from entering following steps for it are unchanged from A Japanese business traveller REUTERS — MANILA regulators have yet to approve minister has died of COVID-19, the detection of a new, highly those for the conventional virus,” at Tokyo’s Haneda airport, where any COVID-19 vaccine, making his party said yesterday, infectious coronavirus variant Suga said. people were sparse, said the gov- Some Philippine soldiers and any importation, distribution becoming the first incumbent linked to a rapid rise in infections “The virus recognises no ernment should do more. cabinet ministers have already and sale of one illegal. lawmaker to succumb to the in Britain. year-end or New Year holidays. “Even though Japan is doing received COVID-19 vaccine Domingo warned the public disease in a nation scrambling to Prime Minister Yoshihide I ask each minister to raise the things to counter the variant, injections, officials said that unapproved vaccines shut its doors to foreign trav- Suga urged calm ahead of the level of their sense of urgency there are still reports of cases in yesterday, despite an absence exposed them to “all sorts of ellers. New Year holidays, when hos- and thoroughly carry out counter Japan,” 56-year-old Seiji Oohira of regulatory approval that the dangers” and told CNN Philip- Yuichiro Hata, who was pitals tend to become under- measures,” he told a meeting of said on arriving from India, country’s health ministry said pines that side effects were transport minister in 2012 and is staffed, and instructed ministers the government’s taskforce on where he works for a con- was vital to ensure safety. possible “especially if you don’t the son of former Prime Minister to remain alert. coronavirus responses. struction-related company. Interior minister, Eduardo know how these things have Tsutomu Hatawho, died on “They say that no evidence is Japan is facing a third wave “So I think it’s better to Ano, said some cabinet been handled”. Sunday, the Constitutional Dem- showing the vaccines that are of infections, with daily cases tighten the restrictions even a members have already received So far only Pfizer has ocratic Party of Japan said. already being administered hitting a record 3,881 on Sat- little bit further.” COVID-19 vaccines and army applied for emergency use chief, Lieutenant General approval of its COVID-19 Cirilito Sobejana, said some vaccine in the Philippines, South Korea to step troops had been vaccinated but while Sinovac, Gamaleya, the number was not large. Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen up vaccination drive Neither said what brand of and Clover’s late-stage trial vaccine was administered. applications have yet to be REUTERS — SEOUL The health ministry in a approved. statement said all vaccines Health Undersecretary South Korean officials are vowing to speed must first be evaluated by Maria Rosario Vergeire said the up efforts to launch a public coronavirus experts, and “only vaccines ministry had no information vaccination programme as the country which have been approved and about the soldiers’ vaccination yesterday announced it had detected its first found to be safe should be and military spokesman cases of the virus variant linked to the rapid administered”. Colonel Edgard Arevalo said rise in infections in Britain. Food and Drug Adminis- there had been no inoculation The new variant, thought to be more tration head Rolando Enrique sanctioned by the armed forces transmissible than others currently circu- Domingo said Philippine leadership. lating, was found in three people who had entered South Korea from London on December 22, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said yesterday. Over 530 virus deaths reported South Korea will extend a ban on direct flights from Britain for another week until Workers wearing protective gear disinfect an arrival gate as other workers check passengers across Pakistan in seven days January 7, and will require any passengers from overseas upon their arrival at the Incheon International Airport, in Incheon, South arriving from that country or South Africa Korea, yesterday. INTERNEWS — ISLAMABAD The month of December to undergo testing before departure, offi- saw an alarming increase in the cials announced yesterday. to three military treatment facilities across shortened to around 20 days, the ministry The novel coronavirus has deaths due to COVID-19, while Overall the KDCA reported 808 new US military bases in South Korea, US Forces said. Medical workers and elderly residents claimed over 530 lives across a noticeable drop in new infec- cases as of midnight Sunday, the lowest since Korea said on Twitter. They added that South will begin receiving the vaccinations in Feb- Pakistan in past seven days that tions has been observed across a record 1,241 infections were logged on Korea is one of four overseas locations in ruary, and plans to vaccinate the broader is 29 percent more as compared the country in the last week. Friday. the Department of Defence’s initial phased public are accelerating, Moon said to the prior duration. The weekly analysis Authorities cautioned that the drop may distribution plan. Negative views of the yesterday. As per data issued by the showed that the 20,493 cases be due to less testing done over the weekend vaccine plans was one of the leading reasons “There are concerns that our country National Command and Oper- were reported in the week that and the Christmas holiday, and said on that drove President Moon Jae-in’s disap- hasn’t secured enough vaccines or that the ations Centre (NCOC), at least started December 6. Sunday they would be extending social dis- proval rating to an all-time high of nearly vaccinations will be delayed. This is not true,” 537 deaths have been reported The number of infections tancing measures until early January. 60%, pollster Realmeter said yesterday. Moon told a meeting with his top aides, across Pakistan in the last week fell to 18,181 in the next seven South Korea’s government has faced Regulators will shorten the period according to a statement. alone. days while the past week saw mounting domestic criticism over its vaccine required to approve vaccines and treatments “We are making efforts to advance the Meanwhile, in past 27 days, 14,341 coronavirus cases across procurement and rollout plans, which call from an average of 180 days to as little as timeline for adopting vaccines.” South Korea’s as many as 1,838 people died the country. So far, a total of for the first vaccinations to begin in the first 40 days, the Ministry of Food and Drug plans call for it to buy enough doses to even- from the virus across the 72,827 infections have been quarter of next year, months after places such Safety announced on Sunday. tually vaccinate 46 million people, or more country — up 64.25 per cent reported in the past 27 days — as the United States and the European Union. An additional approval process for the than 85% of its population. from the same period in up 24.73 percent for the same Meanwhile, the first shipment of distribution and sale of vaccines, which South Korea has reported a total of 57,680 November when 1,119 people period in November when Moderna COVID-19 vaccines was distributed usually takes several months, will be coronavirus cases, with 819 deaths. died of COVID-19. 58,386 cases were recorded. Kazakhstan signs agreement China jails citizen journalist over virus reports from Wuhan with Pfizer/BioNTech AFP — SHANGHAI outbreak. Her live reports and “We had no way of under- essays were shared on social standing what exactly Zhang REUTERS — NUR-SULTAN vaccines on the territory of A Chinese citizen journalist was media platforms in February, Zhan was accused of doing,” he Kazakhstan by issuing special jailed for four years yesterday for grabbing the attention of author- added, describing it as “a speedy, Authorities in Kazakhstan said permits,” Deputy Health Min- her reporting from Wuhan as the ities, who have punished eight rushed hearing.” yesterday they had signed a ister Marat Shoranov said. COVID-19 outbreak began, her virus whistleblowers so far as In return the defendant preliminary agreement with “Everything will depend on lawyer said, almost a year after they curb criticism of the govern- “didn’t respond [to questions]... Pfizer to potentially buy the the production capacity and the details of an “unknown viral ment’s response to the She refused to answer when the vaccine it developed with its company’s ability to supply the pneumonia” surfaced in the outbreak. judge asked her to confirm her partner BioNTech against drug to our country.” Kaza- central China city. The court said Zhang Zhan identity.” COVID-19. khstan has started producing Zhang Zhan (pictured), a had spread “false remarks” Concerns are mounting over “Today we signed a non- Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine former lawyer who arrived at online, according to one of her the health of 37-year-old Zhang, disclosure agreement with against COVID-19, Russia’s court in a wheelchair, was sen- “picking quarrels and provoking lawyers Zhang Keke, but the who began a hunger strike in Pfizer, and we are ready to deal RDIF sovereign wealth fund tenced at a brief hearing in a trouble” during her reporting in prosecution did not fully divulge June and has been force-fed via with the supplies of these said last week. Shanghai court for allegedly the chaotic initial stages of the its evidence in court. a nasal tube. 12 EUROPE TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020

Macron to review Brexit trade deal gets EU green light virus situation tomorrow amid AFP — BRUSSELS (1400 GMT) today. But there is no provisional approval will last British parliamentarians are expectation that any EU members until the end of February, but to meet tomorrow to debate the surge in cases The European Union gave the The 27 EU member states will now slow the adoption of the EU parliamentary leaders asked accord. Although the 2016 green light yesterday to its post- gave the green light for the trade deal, the fruit of a tortuous for a few more weeks to arrange Brexit referendum that set the REUTERS — PARIS Brexit trade deal with the UK, post-Brexit trade deal to go 10-month negotiation. a vote in March or April. divorce in motion proved to be clearing the way for it to come into effect on January 1, a Germany holds the rotating But if London refuses this extremely divisive, the vote is President Emmanuel Macron into effect in the New Year. spokesman said. Under EU EU presidency and Chancellor delay, they have agreed to hold expected to go smoothly. and some senior cabinet The British parliament will Angela Merkel’s spokeswoman a special plenary session on or The MPs have not had long ministers will review the have to ratify the deal later this procedure, the decision by Ulrike Demmer said the coa- around February 23. France to study the 1,200-page text, but COVID-19 situation tomorrow, week, but Brussels will apply it ambassadors from the 27 lition government has no backs the draft Brexit trade deal Prime Minister Boris Johnson the Elysee said yesterday, provisionally, cushioning the member states to endorse objection to the text. agreed last week between the has a comfortable majority of amid another surge in cases economic shock of the divorce. the plan will take effect at “Germany can accept the European Union and Britain but Conservative MPs in the that has spurred fears of a Customs and regulatory 3pm (1400 GMT) today. negotiated accord,” she said. will be vigilant from day one over Commons and has hailed the third lockdown in France. controls on cross-Channel com- The European Parliament its proper implementation, Pres- accord as a victory. The minority The European Union merce will still come into effect will want to study the deal even ident Emmanuel Macron’s office Scottish National Party will rolled out a massive on January 1 after Britain leaves after its provisional application said yesterday. Brussels’ chief oppose the deal—as it opposed COVID-19 vaccination drive the EU single market. Ambassadors have unani- and was expected to convene a negotiator Michel Barnier met the Brexit—but the main Labour on Sunday to try to rein in a But there will be no imme- mously approved the provi- session in the first half of next president of the European Par- opposition will back it to avoid pandemic that has crippled diate return to a regime of sional application of the EU-UK year to ratify it. But yesterday, liament David Sassoli and the further disruption. The deal economies worldwide and tariffs and quotas that could Trade and Cooperation MEPs were discussing the pos- MEPs coordinating EU-UK ties offers the British duty-free and claimed more than 1.7 million have disrupted trade after Brit- Agreement.” sibility of pushing that date back yesterday. He described the quota-free access to its market lives. ain’s decision to quit the club. Under EU procedure, the further to give themselves more exchanges as “fruitful” and of 450 million consumers, and France reported 8,822 new Sebastian Fischer, decision by ambassadors from time to study the text and to thanked the MEPs “for their trust gives European fishermen access COVID-19 infections on spokesman for the German the 27 member states to endorse watch how relations develop. and support throughout this to UK waters for at least another Sunday, sharply up from Sat- presidency of the EU, said: “EU the plan will take effect at 3pm The member states’ extraordinary negotiation.” five-and-a-half years. urday’s 3,093. UK hospitals scramble for space as virus cases soar

AP & REUTERS — LONDON Britain, although it is not nonessential shops to close, bar thought to be more deadly or indoor socializing and allow British hospitals are canceling to cause more serious illness. restaurants and pubs only to non-urgent procedures and That prompted tight social operate for takeout. scrambling to find space for mixing restrictions measures Even so, hospital admis- COVID-19 patients as corona- for London and southeast sions for COVID-19 in southeast virus cases continue to surge England, while plans to ease England are approaching or despite tough new restrictions curbs over Christmas across the exceeding the levels seen at the imposed to curb a fast-spreading nation were dramatically scaled first peak of the outbreak. Gov- new variant of the virus. back or scrapped altogether. ernment figures show 21,286 Dr. Nick Scriven, immediate Johnson last week said the people were hospitalised with past president of the Society for spread of a new variant of the the coronavirus across the UK Acute Medicine, said yesterday coronavirus meant there would on December 22, the last day that the rising number of hos- be difficult times ahead, and for which data is available. That pitalised patients was ministers have said it may be is only slightly below the high “extremely worrying.” necessary to do more. The rise of 21,683 COVID-19 patients “With the numbers in positive cases was also par- who were recorded in UK hos- An elderly woman waiting to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine at a nursing home in Burgbernheim, approaching the peaks from tially driven by Northern pitals on April 12. Germany, yesterday. April, systems will again be Ireland reporting 1,634 new Dr. Katherine Henderson, stretched to the limit,” he said. cases, having not reported any president of the Royal College Britain reported 41,385 new cases on Sunday or Friday due of Emergency Medicine, COVID-19 cases yesterday, a to the Christmas holiday period. described her experience German vaccination campaign daily record, as a rapidly Britain has increased testing working in a hospital on spreading variant of the coro- capacity substantially since the Christmas Day as “wall-to-wall navirus increases infection rates first wave of COVID-19 in the COVID.” overshadowed by mishaps and the holiday weekend spring, from around 100,000 “The chances are that we will impacted the reporting of some daily tests at the end of May to cope, but we cope at a cost,” REUTERS & BLOOMBERG new cases. There were 357 new 500,000 tests on Dec. 23, the last Henderson told the BBC. “The — BERLIN Care home workers given deaths within 28 days of a pos- date data on the number of tests cost is not doing what we had itive test, the government's coro- conducted was published. hoped, which is being able to Germany’s COVID-19 vacci- five times vaccine dose navirus statistics portal said. British authorities are keep non-COVID activities nation campaign has been "This very high level of blaming a new variant of the going.” Britain has already overshadowed by an overdose AFP — BERLIN infection is of growing concern coronavirus for soaring recorded more than 70,000 mishap in the north and at a time when our hospitals are infection rates in London and deaths among people with the problems with the transpor- Eight care home workers in Germany were accidentally injected at their most vulnerable," said southeast England. They say the coronavirus, one of the highest tation of the vaccine in the with five doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, local authorities said Yvonne Doyle, Medical Director new version is more easily tolls in Europe. Cabinet Minister south which lead to 1,000 shots yesterday — but are suffering no serious ill effects so far. at Public Health England. transmitted than the original, Michael Gove said more parts being sent back. The seven women and one man, aged between 38 and 54, Prime Minister Boris but stress there is no evidence of England might have to be put Some districts in Bavaria are employees of a retirement home in the town of Stralsund Johnson and his scientific it makes people sicker. into the toughest tier of restric- said yesterday they would not in northeastern Germany. advisers have said a variant of In response, authorities tions if case numbers do not fall. use the shots received over the They are therefore in a priority group and among the first the coronavirus, which could have put a swath of England Scotland, Wales and Northern weekend on concerns the vac- to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, which be up to 70% more transmis- that’s home to 24 million people Ireland also have implemented cines developed by Pfizer and Germany began rolling out at the weekend. sible, was spreading rapidly in under restrictions that require strong lockdown measures. BioNTech may have become But as they were being inoculated on Sunday, they were too warm during their delivery each injected with five doses at once, according to Stefan Kerth, in household cool boxes, a the administrator of the district where the facility is located. spokesman for the Lichtenfels They were immediately informed of the error, Kerth said. district said. Four were admitted to hospital for observation with mild “There were doubts as to flu-like symptoms, while the others were sent home. whether the cold chain was “I deeply regret this incident,” Kerth said, adding that the maintained at all times,” Lich- mistake was an isolated case and down to human error. tenfels District Administrator Christian Meissner told Reuters TV. The vaccine, which uses centres. The vaccines arrived in everything we have achieved new so-called mRNA tech- Lichtenfels and six other with quick easing, otherwise it nology, must be stored at ultra- northern Bavarian districts on will start all over again.” low temperatures of about Saturday in cool boxes of the type “If the lockdown does not minus 70 Celsius (minus 94 used for picnics or camping trips. have a sufficient effect, the Fahrenheit) before being The temperature loggers in some measures must be tightened,” shipped to distribution centres cases showed interim tempera- he said, adding that a “third in specially designed cool boxes tures of up to 15C. wave” must be avoided “at all filled with dry ice. “BioNTech commented and costs.” Once out of ultra-low tem- said that the vaccine was German cases and deaths perature storage, the vaccine probably okay, but probably have been on the rise since must be kept at 2C to 8C to okay is not enough,” Meissner October, prompting Chancellor remain effective for up to five said, adding that the shots Angela Merkel’s government to days. The cool boxes designed would not be used to prevent impose a harder shutdown -- by Pfizer are fitted with GPS damage to the public’s trust in with schools and non-essential trackers so the companies can the vaccination campaign. stores shuttered -- until at least deal with potential storage Meanwhile, German officials Jan. 10. Germany joined issues en route. ruled out a rapid lifting of the European Union partners in While BioNTech takes nation’s coronavirus restrictions starting vaccinations on responsibility for the transport as the country’s death toll from Sunday, but officials have said to the deep freezer hubs, local the disease ticked above 30,000. it will take months for the Fog engulfs London authorities are tasked with pro- Interior Minister Horst Seehofer program to have a tangible viding safe and cooled transport told Bild am Sonntag newspaper impact on the spread of the Fog covers the financial district of London, Britain, yesterday. to the individual vaccination that Germany “must not risk disease. UK concerned by trial of HK fugitives Small delay in Pfizer vaccine deliveries to 8 EU nations REUTERS — LONDON AFP — MADRID shipments to the eight nations deliveries,” Andrew Widger, temperature” of the shipments British foreign minister Dominic Raab said yesterday he was deeply due to a “problem in the loading Pfizer’s director for media rela- which was “apparently fixed”. concerned over a trial of Hong Kong fugitives in mainland China, Pfizer has postponed the and shipment process” at its tions said. “The logistical matter The vaccine must be stored and he urged Beijing to ensure that its justice system was fair and delivery of new batches of its plant in Belgium, the health has been resolved and those at ultra-low temperatures of transparent. Ten people from Hong Kong appeared in a mainland coronavirus vaccine to eight ministry said in a statement. deliveries are now being dis- about minus 70 degrees Celsius Chinese court facing charges that include illegal border crossing European nations including It did not specify which patched. There are no manufac- (-112 Fahrenheit) before being after a boat they were travelling in was intercepted en route to Spain, the Spanish health European nations aside from turing issues to report.” shipped to distribution centres the democratic island of Taiwan. Two more will face a separate ministry said yesterday, a day Spain were affected, but said Asked about the delay in specially designed cool boxes hearing as they are minors. after the EU began its immuni- Spain’s next delivery would be during an interview with radio filled with dry ice. Once out of “We are deeply concerned that members of the Shenzhen 12 sation campaign. on Tuesday, a day later than station Cadena Ser, Spain’s ultra-low temperature storage, were tried in secret today, having been given just three days’ The Spanish branch of expected. “Due to a minor logis- Health Minister Salvador Illa the vaccine must be kept at two notice of their trial,” Raab said, adding that British diplomats had Pfizer informed Madrid on tical issue, we have rescheduled said it was due to a problem Celsius to eight Celsius to remain been denied entry to the court. Sunday night of the delay in a limited number of our “linked to the control of the effective for up to five days. TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020 EUROPE 13 Vaccination drive gathers pace amid virus spread fears

AGENCIES — BRUSSELS Global infections media had spread false infor- mation on European and Belgium yesterday joined a have raced past 80 American COVID-19 vaccines growing list of countries to million with nearly 1.8 in countries where it wants to launch COVID-19 vaccination sell its own shot against the campaigns, while a new coro- million deaths. Fears coronavirus. navirus variant believed to be have been raised by a “Western vaccine devel- more infectious spread further new strain of COVID- opers are openly mocked on and other nations ramped up multi-lingual Russian state- restrictions. 19 first detected in controlled media, which has in Just as vaccination drives Britain and believed some cases led to absurd claims gather pace, global infections that vaccines will turn people have raced past 80 million with by experts to be into monkeys,” Josep Borrell nearly 1.8 million deaths. potentially more said in a blog post. Fears have been raised by a “Such narratives are appar- new strain of COVID-19 first transmissible. ently directed at countries detected in Britain and believed where Russia wants to sell its by experts to be potentially own vaccine, Sputnik V,” Borrell more transmissible. added, noting that these moves After it spread to several EU member to join the bloc’s threatened public health amid European countries as well as coordinated immunisation the COVID-19 pandemic. He Japan and Canada, South Korea drive. gave no specific examples. became the latest nation yes- With old-age home resi- Moscow has repeatedly terday to detect the virus dents first in line, followed by denied these accusations, and variant, in three individuals carers, medical staff and social alleges that Sputnik V is being from a London-based family workers, “I think it’s a relief... targeted by a foreign-backed who arrived in the country last Covid was a true trial for resi- disinformation campaign. Jos Hermans, 96, receives a dose of the Pfizer/BioNtech COVID-19 vaccine at Woonzorgcentrum Sint- week. Five cases were also dents and staff,” Brussels region The Russian Direct Pieters, amid the coronavirus disease pandemic, in Puurs-Sint-Amands, Belgium, yesterday. identified in Spain’s southern health minister Alain Maron Investment Fund (RDIF) which Andalusia region. said. is responsible for marketing the Most European countries But pharmaceutical vaccine abroad, did not imme- in September due to the then instruct human cells to make impede efforts to beat the virus began their vaccination cam- company Pfizer warned of diately respond to a request for unexplained illness of a vol- antigens, were resumed in and reach widespread paigns over the weekend, delays to some shipments of the comment on Borrell’s unteer, Kremlin spokesman Britain within days after getting immunisation. boosting hopes of an end to the vaccine to eight nations from statement. The health ministry Dmitry Peskov told reporters the green light from safety A young German pilot found pandemic, especially in some its factory in the country’s north. did not immediately respond to that Sputnik V was more watchdogs. a unique way to raise of the hardest-hit parts of the A “minor logistical issue” a request for comment. reliable because it was based In the United States, the awareness, tracing a giant continent. meant some vaccine deliveries Roskomnadzor, the Russian on an adenovirus found in world’s worst-hit country, syringe in the sky to mark the “Today is a big moment were “rescheduled”, Pfizer media and communications humans, whereas the British known coronavirus infections start of his country’s rollout of when you think back to all that spokesman Andrew Widger watchdog, also did not respond candidate was a “monkey surged past 19 million on vaccines. “I wanted to give we have been through,” said said, but insisted the problems immediately. vaccine”. Sunday after adding a million people food for thought for the Isabella Palazzini, an Italian had been “resolved”. When drugmaker Astra- Trials of the vaccine, which cases in less than a week. day the vaccine became nurse in Cremona who lost Meanwhile, the European Zeneca, which worked with uses a bioengineered version of Polls have shown many available,” 20-year-old Samy three colleagues to COVID-19. Union’s top diplomat said yes- Oxford University on its a harmless common cold virus Europeans are unwilling to take Kramer, a student and amateur Belgium became the latest terday that Russian public vaccine, paused a clinical trial found in chimpanzees to the vaccine, which could pilot, said on Sunday. Russia to trial new COVID-19 antibody drug in 2021 17 feared dead as Russian

REUTERS — MOSCOW need to develop this drug Regeneron’s cocktail contains administer a placebo to par- trawler sinks in Barents Sea using several technologies at an antibody made by the ticipants now that the shot AFP — MOSCOW Russia will begin trials of an the same time, which is some- company and a second isolated was increasingly available to However, a source antibody treatment for thing that is being done right from humans who recovered the public. familiar with the details of COVID-19 patients next year, now.” from COVID-19. Russia began inoculating Seventeen fishermen were the search efforts said that the head of the Moscow institute Russia has been asking Gamaleya’s Gintsburg said small numbers of people in missing and feared dead there was little hope of that developed the country’s COVID-19 patients to donate on Sunday that the new Russian high-risk groups soon after it yesterday after a Russian finding survivors. first vaccine against the new blood plasma, which is rich in drug would be made up of granted regulatory approval to trawler capsized during a “A person cannot last for disease, Sputnik V, said antibodies, for research. “monoclonal antibodies”, the vaccine in August. storm and sank in the more than 15 minutes in these yesterday. Earlier this year, US Pres- genetically engineered versions It launched its large-scale, freezing waters of the Barents conditions,” the source said. Alexander Gintsburg, ident Donald Trump was of the antibodies that are found final-stage trial in Moscow the Sea. The privately-owned boat director of the Gamaleya treated with an experimental in the blood plasma of those following month. Officials said that two sank near the Novaya Zemlya Institute, was cited by the antibody cocktail for COVID-19 who have been sick with The rollout ramped up this people had been rescued by archipelago in the Barents RIA news agency as saying produced by drugmaker COVID-19, the TASS news month and more than 200,000 a passing vessel, but hopes Sea at around 6.20am (0330 that he hoped trials for the Regeneron Pharmaceuticals agency reported. Russians have now received the were quickly fading that GMT), said Ruslan Nazarov, new antibody-based drug Inc. Russia last week stopped shot. more survivors could be head of the emergencies min- would begin in the autumn Antibodies are proteins taking in new volunteers for Since the start of the pan- found during a snowstorm istry’s Murmansk branch. of 2021. made by the body’s immune its main human trial of demic, Russia has recorded over the Arctic waters. Ten minutes later a “I hope clinical trials will system that latch on to and neu- Sputnik V, with developers more than 3 million infections Russian President passing vessel rescued two begin in autumn,” he said. “We tralise an invading virus. saying it was unethical to and 55,000 deaths. Vladimir Putin yesterday fishermen, Nazarov told expressed “deep condo- reporters. lences” to the families of the Officials believe the Protests erupt victims and offered “words Russian-flagged vessel, of support” for the which had been operating in Montenegro survivors. since 1979, capsized after ice “It is with sorrow that I buildup caused it to tilt over. over row on learnt of the tragedy,” Putin The disaster struck when said in a statement released the crew was hauling out a religious law by the Kremlin. net with the catch, said the Speaking at a government spokesman for the maritime AP — PODGORICA meeting earlier in the day, and river transport agency Prime Minister Mikhail Rosmorrechflot, Alexei Several thousand people rallied Mishustin tasked officials with Kravchenko. yesterday in Montenegro, providing relatives of the “The vessel lost its balance accusing the new government victims with necessary help. and instantly capsized,” he said. of being pro-Serb because of its “A tragedy struck today in Three vessels and an Il-38 plans to amend a religious the Barents Sea,” Mishustin maritime patrol plane were property law that is strongly said. “People died,” he added, dispatched to the scene, offi- opposed by the Serbian without providing further cials said. Orthodox Church. details. Kravchenko said that not Carrying Montenegrin flags Officials said that a a single body had so far been and chanting “Treason!” the pro- search-and-rescue operation found even though the two testers gathered outside the par- was underway but that poor survivors had seen a crew liament building in Podgorica, weather conditions had com- member die in front of them. the capital, where lawmakers are plicated the task. Maritime accidents are to discuss the proposed changes. “There is a heavy snow- fairly common in Russia. The demonstration is the storm, waves are up to four In April 2015, a Russian first major protest in the small Protesters shout slogans during a rally ahead of a vote for the amendments of Law on Religious meters high and tempera- trawler sank in the Okhotsk Balkan country against the new Freedoms, in front of parliament in Podgorica, Montenegro, yesterday. tures are at around 20-25 Sea off Kamchatka. Of the 132 government that came to power degrees Celsius below zero,” people on board the Dalniy after winning a slim majority law that the Serbian Orthodox strengthen the opposition remain divided over its relations Alexei Barinov, spokesman Vostok, just 63 were rescued. over a long-ruling pro-Western Church said was designed to ahead of the election. with Belgrade. Some 30 percent for the emergencies ministry In December 2011, a party at a parliamentary strip the church of its property. Years after gaining inde- of Montenegrins declare them- in the northwestern region of drilling rig capsized and sank election in August. The government has denied this pendence from a union with selves as Serbs and the Serbian Murmansk, said. off Sakhalin Island during a That vote was marked by but the church still led months Serbia following a 2006 refer- Orthodox Church enjoys the “We are hoping for a New storm. More than 50 people the dispute over the religious of protests that helped endum, residents in Montenegro biggest following. Year’s miracle,” he added. were killed or went missing. Moderate 5.0 magnitude quake Gibraltar’s border with Spain still in doubt after Brexit hits Croatia, damages buildings AP — BARCELONA remains January 1, when a tran- Thursday that if an agreement Britain in 1713, but Spain has sitionary period regulating the isn’t reached, she fears that the never dropped its claim to sov- AP — ZAGREB While celebrations began in short frontier between Gibraltar long lines of stranded truck ereignty over it. For three cen- London and Brussels over the and Spain expires. If no deal is drivers seen at the English turies, the strategic outcrop of A moderate earthquake hit central Croatia near the capital of end to a four-year saga known reached, there are serious con- Channel crossing this past week high terrain has given British Zagreb early yesterday, triggering panic and damaging some as Brexit, there is one rocky cerns that a hard border would could be repeated. navies command of the narrow buildings in towns south of the city. There were no immediate speck of British soil still left in cause disruption for the “We do not have much time, seaway from the Mediterranean reports of injuries. Croatia’s seismologists said the magnitude of limbo. workers, tourists and major and the scenes of chaos from the Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. the quake that struck around 6.30am. (0530 GMT) was 5.0, with Gibraltar, a British colony business connections across the UK must remind us that we need “Neither side is going to the epicentre near the towns of Petrinja and Sisak 50km south of jutting off the southern tip of two sides. to keep working to reach a deal renounce its pretensions of sov- the capital. Several smaller tremors were felt after the initial one. Spain’s mainland, wasn’t Spain succeeded in con- on Gibraltar,” González Laya ereignty, but we must set that The mayor of Petrinja, Darinko Dumbovic, told state HRT tel- included in the Brexit trade deal vincing the EU to separate the told Spanish state broadcaster aside to reach a deal that makes evision that “we have bricks and tiles in the streets and fallen announced on Christmas Eve issue of Gibraltar from the RTVE. “Spaniards want one, the lives easier for those living on chimneys.” The quake was also felt in neighboring Bosnia. In between the European Union greater Brexit negotiations, people of Gibraltar want one, both sides of the border,” Croatia’s capital, it awoke residents and sent them fleeing into and the United Kingdom to meaning that Madrid is han- now the UK needs to desire one González Laya said. the streets. Security cameras showed parked cars shaking for reorganise the commercial and dling all talks directly with its as well. Political will is needed.” More than 15,000 people several seconds, triggering their alarms. trade relations between the counterparts in Gibraltar and Throughout the Brexit talks, live in Spain and work in Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic promised state help now 27-member bloc and the London. Spain has insisted it wants a say Gibraltar, making up about 50 in repairing the damage while he toured the quake-hit regions first nation to exit the group. Spanish Foreign Minister on the future of Gibraltar. percent of Gibraltar’s labour yesterday. The deadline for Gibraltar Arancha González Laya said on The Rock was ceded to force. 14 AMERICAS TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020 Russia ships only first dose of vaccine to Argentina

REUTERS — MOSCOW But some Russian “But many producers are manufacturers are just putting up more bioreactors Russia’s first big international to make the second dose. That’s shipment of its coronavirus finding the second all. If your reactor is producing vaccine — 300,000 doses sent dose, which is less per litre, then you need to Argentina last week — more capacity,” the source said. consisted only of the first dose administered 21 Generium, one of the of the two-shot vaccine, which days after the first, private Russian pharmaceutical is easier to make than the firms tasked with producing second dose, sources said. to be less stable, Sputnik V, said it is currently Unlike most other two sources said, producing both components of COVID-19 vaccines, which are the vaccine in equal amounts. given as two shots of the same revealing a new Russia’s sovereign wealth product, the Russian Sputnik V challenge for the fund, the Russian Direct vaccine relies on two doses country’s ambitious Investment Fund (RDIF), which delivered using different markets Sputnik V abroad and inactive viruses, known as national inoculation which organised the delivery to Health workers queue to receive the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine jab, at the Military College vectors. programme. Argentina, declined to comment in Mexico City, yesterday. Dozens of nurses and doctors felt they had regained “peace of mind” and The Gamaleya Institute that on challenges with production strength to continue fighting the pandemic, after being vaccinated against the disease. developed the vaccine says it is of the second dose, or whether more than 91 percent effective country apart from Belarus to the booster shots would soon be after the two-dose course. approve Sputnik V, a win for sent to Argentina. Mexico hints at allowing private But some Russian manufac- Moscow’s drive to secure inter- The Russian health min- turers are finding the second national blessing for its vaccine. istry, which supervises the dose, which is administered 21 Argentinian officials have said Gamaleya Institute, also did not firms to buy, distribute vaccines days after the first, to be less they expect to start administering respond. Officials in Argentina stable, two sources said, the vaccine in the days ahead. could not immediately be AP — MEXICO CITY world markets, because there that vaccines will be free and revealing a new challenge for However, a source close to reached for comment. still isn’t enough production.” available to everyone in Mexico, the country’s ambitious national the manufacturing process, and Several vaccine makers glo- Mexican President Andrés Manuel “We would be opposed if the but so far the country has only inoculation programme. another in the government, said bally are considering the option López Obrador said yesterday he ones we have under contract received around 50,000 doses The decision to send doses the shipment was made up only of using just the first is not opposed to private were to be given to a private of the Pfizer vaccine. To vac- of the vaccine to Argentina of surplus doses of the first component. companies buying coronavirus company, that we would not cinate 1.4 million health-care caused an outcry at home, component, which had been President Vladimir Putin vaccines to distribute to patients permit and we would file a workers - the first in line to get where the lifesaving drug is still produced in greater quantities has referred to a single-com- who want to pay for the shots. complaint,” he said. the shots - Mexico would need mostly unavailable to the than the second. ponent option as a “light- But he noted there isn’t Mexico’s medical safety 2.8 million doses. general public outside the The source close to the man- vaccine”, which he said would much existing supply and commission must grant The government is placing capital Moscow. ufacturing process said vaccine provide less protection than the warned companies not to try to approval for any vaccine. hopes on three vaccines now Russia has not said exactly makers were now working to two components, but “will still buy vaccines already promised López Obrador has been in or entering Phase 3 trials in how many people have match the production of the two reach 85 percent”. to the Mexican government. criticized by some in Mexico for Mexico; it announced Novavax received it. The Gamaleya components. Gamaleya Institute director “We are not opposed to centralizing vaccine purchases Inc\ will be conducting part of Institute said last week 650,000 “It’s true that technological Alexander Gintsburg has said commercializing the vaccine, and distribution, and for putting its testing in Mexico. China’s doses had been released for problems remain... More of the that protective immunity after to companies importing it and the effort - like many programs CanSino and Johnson & John- Russia’s domestic vaccination first component is produced per the first shot of Sputnik V lasts selling it to those who can pay,” in his administration - in the son’s Janssen Pharmaceutical programme so far. litre in bioreactors than of the around 3-4 months, the TASS López Obrador said. “The catch hands of the military. business have also been con- Argentina is the first foreign second dose,” he said. news agency reported. is the supply of vaccines in the The president has promised ducting trials in Mexico. Man dead, officer Aid groups aim to bring health care to migrants on way to US wounded in AP — MATAMOROS Global Response Management, heart conditions or problematic hospitalized with the virus, trying to figure out how to shooting outside a nonprofit that is attempting pregnancies have nowhere to even as medical facilities in the protect them. Aurora Leticia Cruz has tried to to go beyond mere crisis go. Others have been prescribed area struggled to keep up with Davis, the paramedic from state prison keep up with her blood pressure response and build a system to ineffective medications because infected patients this summer. Maine, plans to set up a clinic medication since fleeing make it easier to track the a changing array of doctors are But the group’s goal is not next year in Tapachula, on Mex- AP — DAVISBORO Guatemala more than a year health of migrants along their forced to treat them without just to care for migrants once ico’s southern border. He ago, but the limbo she finds journey from Central America any medical history. they reach the border. It wants recently flew in a helicopter A Georgia corrections officer herself in — stuck in a sprawling to the US border. Cruz’s medical Medics with the group have to offer health care along the over the isolated terrain was shot and a man was killed camp at the Texas border after record was created in June by innovated to bring care to the routes migrants take. migrants traverse in Guatemala after officers got into a traversing Mexico — has made the group, which has been col- austere environment, building “Humanitarian aid has to be to view the challenge medical shooting with men suspected that hard. lecting patient information. on what they learned from the thought of in a different light,” teams would face in treating of trying to smuggle When Cruz felt woozy on a “I envision this as a relay organization’s work with dis- said executive director Helen people in transit. contraband onto the grounds recent day as her blood race in which we are passing placed people in countries such Perry, an Army Reserve nurse. “There is nothing out there of a state prison, authorities pressure skyrocketed, it could the medical baton to other pro- as Bangladesh and Iraq. It’s uncertain how long the for them to get help,” Davis said. say. have ended in tragedy, leaving viders as people work their way They have used telemed- camp will even exist since US “We want to be able to fill that The Georgia Bureau of her 17-year-old granddaughter north,” said Blake Davis, a par- icine to consult specialists in the President-elect Joe Biden has void.” The group is working to Investigation said in news and two great-grandchildren amedic from Maine who vol- United States and connected a pledged to undo the Trump connect migrants to health care release that the shooting hap- under 3 alone in the camp in unteers for the organisation. portable device to an iPhone to administration policy known as and other resources by asking pened Sunday on the perimeter Matamoros. But instead, a nurse The efforts are part of a perform a sonogram. They have Remain in Mexico, which has them what they need via of Washington State Prison practitioner from Oregon and growing trend in humanitarian also worked with local leaders forced tens of thousands of WhatsApp. near Davisboro, about 120 a Cuban doctor, who like Cruz aid that has accelerated amid in the camp to control the asylum seekers to wait across The idea is to make contact miles southeast of Atlanta. is awaiting US asylum pro- the coronavirus pandemic, spread of the coronavirus by the border while their cases are as early as possible with The state agency said K-9 ceedings, were able to pull up which has highlighted the dif- encouraging mask wearing, considered by US courts. migrants, treat their health officers with the Georgia her medical record and pre- ficulties in getting basic health increasing the number of hand- Regardless, there will con- problems before they worsen, Department of Corrections scribe the correct dosage. care to migrants. With public washing stations and setting up tinue to be people fleeing vio- and create a system where their were responding to a suspected The health care workers hospitals overwhelmed by virus an isolation area. Only one lence and poverty in Central records can be accessed by contraband drop. The officers who helped Cruz are with cases, migrants with person from the camp has been America, and aid agencies are doctors along the way. got into a shooting with 26-year-old Marquavious Rashod Parks of Athens, the GBI said in a news release. Parks Mexico City seeks durable was found dead in a nearby pond. solution to water worries One officer was shot and treated at a hospital in Augusta REUTERS — MEXICO CITY patterns,” he said. “We have to for non-life-threatening prepare ourselves in lots of injuries. Hit by unusually low rainfall ways to be able to cope with Law enforcement officers this year, Mexico City is these variations in climate con- took another man, 51-year-old working urgently to overcome ditions.” Researchers have esti- John Frank Snow of Monroe, water shortages, with climate mated natural water availa- into custody. change expected to add to bility for the city could fall by existing problems of an over- 10-17 percent by 2050 as tem- Quake strikes off exploited aquifer and old, leaky peratures rise. pipes, officials said. In response to this year’s south Chile; no The Mexican capital, sit- low rainfall, authorities cut uated in a high-altitude valley, Cutzamala’s flow to the city by reports of damage relies mostly on water pumped 10%, affecting 300,000 people from its underground aquifer in the mountainous southwest AP — SANTIAGO and reservoirs dozens of kil- who normally have regular ometers away to meet water access. A strong earthquake struck off demand in its wider metro- Millions of others already the coast of southern Chile on politan area, home to more suffer from intermittent supply. Sunday, causing shaking felt than 20 million people. The move is the latest in a in several cities but without Reservoirs in the Cutzamala series of partial stoppages in any reports of damage, Chilean Curbing virus spread system provide one-quarter of recent years - often for main- authorities said. the greater city’s requirements, tenance - which experts expect Two people drop off a box of personal protective equipment at Tendercare Living Centre, a long term The US Geological Survey but by November after sparse will continue until the city seniors care facility which is the site of a coronavirus disease outbreak, in Scarborough in Ontario said the quake had a prelim- rain, they were almost 18 per- reduces leaks, saves on water inary magnitude of 6.8 and its province of Canada, yesterday. centage points below normal use, and finds a new source epicenter was six miles levels. either outside or by reusing beneath the surface and about As levels dropped, author- more wastewater. 87.5 miles west of the town of Brazil V-P taking antimalarial drug for coronavirus ities reduced flow from the res- “Our water system in Corral. ervoirs in the second half of Mexico City is in bad health,” Chile’s navy said the quake 2020, disrupting tap water sup- said Manuel Perlo Cohen, an did not have the character- REUTERS — BRASILIA continuing to self-isolate at his July. Bolsonaro has come under plies and leaving some resi- academic at the National istics required to generate a official residence in Brasilia fire for his handling of the pan- dents reliant on trucks and cis- Autonomous University of tsunami. Brazilian Vice-President after testing positive for the demic in Brazil, which has con- terns to meet their needs. Mexico (UNAM). “If the The tremor was felt with Hamilton Mourao is taking the virus on Sunday. firmed nearly 7.5 million cases While it is hard to prove any problems remain, the system various intensities in the antimalarial drug hydroxychlo- President Jair Bolsonaro has and lost more than 190,000 single dry spell is caused by is going to be increasingly regions of La Araucania, Los roquine as part of an unproven repeatedly downplayed the lives to COVID-19 - behind only climate change, Rafael unsustainable.” For decades, Rios, Los Lagos and Biobio. treatment after contracting the severity of COVID-19, while the United States. Carmona Paredes, director of Mexico City’s metropolitan Chile’s National Emer- novel coronavirus, his office advocating for hydroxychloro- Asked about rising criticism the Water System of Mexico region has exemplified the gency Office said that there said yesterday. quine as a treatment despite a that Brazil’s vaccine rollout, City (SACMEX), said broadly it challenges faced by megacities were no reports of injuries or In a statement, Mourao’s lack of scientific evidence. He Bolsonaro said: “Nobody pres- was already having an effect. as fast population growth and damage and that basic services office said the vice president’s took the antimalarial himself sures me for anything, I don’t “Climate change has defi- creaky infrastructure are com- were functioning normally. health is “good” and he is when he caught the virus in give a damn about it." nitely changed rainfall pounded by climate change. TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020 AMERICAS 15 Congress to vote on relief, $740bn defence bill REUTERS — WASHINGTON/PALM The House vote on stimulus cheques chamber, welcomed Trump’s Americans are living spending to fund government BEACH move, without saying whether through a bitter holiday season agencies and avert a gov- will require a two-thirds majority, or the payments should be with a pandemic that has killed ernment shutdown that would Democrats in the US Congress more than 280 votes, meaning it would increased. nearly 330,000 people in the have begun today had Trump aimed to push through “Thanks to President United States and a daily death not signed the legislation. pandemic relief payments of need Republican support to pass as the Trump’s leadership, COVID toll now well over 3,000, the Carroll Swayze, 65, an $2,000, in an effort to increase Democrats only have 233 seats in the relief is again on its way to mil- highest since the pandemic independent artist based in aid for Americans that has put lions of Georgia families and began. Florida, said the extension of the lawmakers in a rare chamber. businesses who need it most,” Unemployment benefits unemployment benefits was alignment with President they said in a joint statement being paid out to about 14 only a temporary reprieve for Donald Trump. that echoed Trump in criticizing million people through pan- people who have lost all of The Republican president It was unclear why Trump, policy for the Defense the Democrats for prioritizing demic programs lapsed on their income due to the pan- last week threatened to block a who leaves office on January Department. If successful, that “wasteful, irresponsible Saturday but will be restarted demic. She said she had never $2.3 trillion pandemic aid and 20 after losing November’s would be the first veto override spending over the welfare of the now that Trump has signed the claimed unemployment until spending package if Congress election to Democratic chal- of Trump’s presidency. American people.” bill. this year, when art shows did not boost stimulus pay- lenger Joe Biden, retreated The House vote on stimulus Trump played golf in The delay, however, forced around the country where she ments from $600 to $2,000 and from his threat to block the bill checks will require a two-thirds Florida on Monday and has people to lose a week of some sells her paintings were cut other spending. and signed it. majority, or more than 280 remained out of public view federal jobless aid that had been cancelled. Trump backed down from Global markets were votes, meaning it would need even as a government crisis extended under the measure, The COVID-19 relief Trump his demands on Sunday as a buoyed after Trump approved Republican support to pass as loomed. Washington Governor Jay Inslee signed on Sunday extends only possible government shutdown the package. Wall Street’s main the Democrats only have 233 After signing the bill behind said, even as he and other gov- until mid-March the $113 a brought on by the fight with indexes hit record highs on seats in the chamber. closed doors at his beachside ernors in both parties welcomed week Swayze gets from Pan- lawmakers loomed. Monday as Trump’s signing of Many of Trump’s fellow club in Florida, Trump sought the bill’s signing. demic Unemployment But Democratic lawmakers the aid bill bolstered bets on an Republicans, who control the to put the best face on his climb- The relief package extends Assistance, and gives her an who have a majority in the economic recovery and drove Senate, oppose the higher relief down, saying he was signing it a moratorium on evictions that additional $300 a week, also House of Representatives and gains in financial and energy payments, and Trump may not with “a strong message that was due to expire on December until mid-March. have long wanted $2,000 relief stocks. have the influence to budge makes clear to Congress that 31, refreshes support for small- “It’s a desperate situation checks and hope to use the Voting in Congress is them. wasteful items need to be business payrolls, provides for everybody. It’s not going to point of agreement with Trump expected to start late in the Georgia Republicans Kelly removed.” funding to help schools re-open be enough,” she said, adding to advance the proposal — or at afternoon, and to run into the Loeffler and David Perdue, “Much more money is and aid for the transport that many artists were leaving least put Republicans on record evening. Lawmakers will also who face crucial Senate runoffs coming,” he said in a statement, industry and vaccine their homes or facing eviction. against it — in a vote seek to override Trump’s recent next month that could though he provided nothing to distribution. “No one was prepared for this,” yesterday. veto of a $740bn bill setting determine who controls the back this promise. It includes $1.4 trillion in she said. Nashville: After naming blast suspect, focus turns to motive

AP — NASHVILLE Rausch added. a holiday morning well before Furthermore, officials have downtown streets were bustling With federal officials having not provided insight into why with activity and was accom- identified the man believed to Warner selected the particular panied by a recorded be behind Nashville’s Christmas location for the bombing, which announcement warning anyone Day bombing, authorities now damaged an AT&T building and nearby that a bomb would soon turn to the monumental task of continued to wreak havoc on detonate. Then, for reasons that piecing together the motive cellphone service and police may never be known, the audio behind the explosion that and hospital communications switched to a recording of severely damaged dozens of in several Southern states as the Petula Clark’s 1964 hit downtown buildings and company worked to restore “Downtown” shortly before the injured three people. service. blast. While officials on Sunday Forensic analysts were Warner, who public records named Anthony Quinn Warner, reviewing evidence collected show had experience with elec- 63, as the man behind the mys- from the blast site to try to tronics and alarms and who had terious explosion in which he identify the components of the also worked as a computer con- was killed, the motive has explosives as well as infor- sultant for a Nashville realtor, remained elusive. mation from the US Bomb Data had been regarded as a person “We hope to get an answer. Center for intelligence and of interest in the bombing since Sometimes, it’s just not pos- investigative leads, according at least Saturday, when federal A Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) ambulance pulls into the ambulance drop off site for the sible,” David Rausch, the to a law enforcement official and local investigators converged emergency room at LAC + USC Medical Center during a surge of coronavirus disease cases in Los director of the Tennessee who said investigators were on the home linked to him. Angeles, California, US, on Sunday. Bureau of Investigation said examining Warner’s digital Federal agents could be yesterday in an interview on footprint and financial history, seen looking around the TODAY. “The best way to find as well as a recent deed transfer property, searching the home US surpasses 19 million virus cases motive is to talk to the indi- of a suburban Nashville home and the backyard. A Google vidual. We will not be able to they searched. Maps image captured in May AFP — WASHINGTON The US also has a total of Americans have received the do that in this case.” The official, who was not 2019 had shown a recreational 333,069 virus-related deaths. first dose of their COVID-19 In just a few days, hundreds authorized to discuss an vehicle similar to the one that The United States surpassed 19 Both the caseload and death toll vaccines, a milestone in the of tips and leads have been sub- ongoing investigation and exploded parked in the million coronavirus cases are by far the highest in the biggest immunisation drive mitted to law enforcement spoke on condition of ano- backyard, but it was not at the Sunday, figures from Johns world. in US history, but officials agencies. Yet thus far, officials nymity, said federal agents property on Saturday, Hopkins University showed, Coronavirus cases have admitted the pace of rollout have not provided information were examining a number of according to an Associated adding one million new cases been surging at an alarming was slipping behind on what possibly drove Warner potential leads and pursuing Press reporter at the scene. in less than a week. rate in the US in recent months. schedule. to set off the explosion. several theories, including the On Sunday morning, police The US recorded 165,151 The world’s largest economy Additionally, the vaccines According to officials, he had possibility that the AT&T formally named Warner as new cases in 24 hours at has added at least one million will not help the current surge not been on the radar before building was targeted. being under investigation. 8.30pm (0130 GMT Monday), new cases per week since early in cases. Christmas. Korneski said on Sunday Officials said their identifi- the Baltimore-based institution November, according to a tally Top US government sci- “It does appear that the that officials were looking at cation of Warner relied on several said, bringing the overall total of Johns Hopkins data. entist Anthony Fauci warned intent was more destruction any and all motives and were key pieces of evidence, including to 19,107,675 cases. And on Saturday, Johns earlier Sunday that the worst than death but again that’s all interviewing acquaintances of DNA found at the explosion site. The grim new milestone Hopkins calculated that one in of the pandemic may be yet to still speculation at this point as Warner’s to try to determine Investigators had previously comes just six days after the US 1,000 Americans have died of come, driving the country to a we continue in our investi- what may have motivated him. revealed that human remains had crossed the 18 million case COVID-19. “critical point” as holiday travel gation with all our partners,” The bombing took place on been found in the vicinity. threshold. More than a million spreads the coronavirus.

Victim of botched Chicago police Trump will be gone, but trauma raid to meet mayor of 2020 likely to haunt Biden AP — CHICAGO AFP — WASHINGTON United States to forget the hoped-for recovery in 2021. nationalist and populist pas- With Trump running for a A Black woman who wasn’t Covid and a traumatic presi- sions that his administration second term, perhaps it was allowed to put on clothes dential election left the US worked so hard to stoke. always inevitable that 2020 before being handcuffed reeling in 2020, but even with His extraordinary decision was going to be a wild year. during a mistaken 2019 police Donald Trump gone and Joe to deny that he lost the election, The rules-breaking Repub- raid on her home has agreed Biden promising to heal the more than a month after it hap- lican began his year with to meet with Chicago’s mayor, nation there’ll be no quick pened, is just part one in what acquittal along party lines in a her attorney said. return to normal in 2021. he hopes will be yet another Senate impeachment trial. The woman, Anjanette For many in the world’s Trump-centred drama, possibly Emboldened, he then Young, will meet with Mayor richest country, 2020 was the culminating with a new presi- stormed out onto the reelection Lori Lightfoot on Wednesday year that seemed never-ending dential run in 2024. trail, holding rally after rally in at Progressive Baptist Church — an infinite series of horror And Biden will have front of large crowds. where she is a member, movie sequels shaking the another, tougher foe breathing The Trump campaign attorney Keenan J Saulter said economy, politics and society down his neck: COVID-19. machine was so well-funded in a letter sent Saturday to itself. Even though vaccines are and so single-minded that its Lightfoot and several Chicago Biden, an old-school Wash- now coming online, the virus is then manager, Brad Parscale, aldermen, WBBM-TV ington politician who believes at its most deadly, killing thou- likened it to the Death Star in reported. in traditional US diplomacy and sands of Americans a day. It’s “Star Wars,” a weapon ready to Young, a social worker, what he refers to as “decency,” forecast to get even worse annihilate everything in its will meet with Lightfoot at got elected on a promise to stop before winter is over. Trump path. 11.30am and at noon have a the chaos. has tried to take credit for the The Democrats, meanwhile, larger meeting with the “It is time to turn the page,” ultra-fast development of the began the year eyeing a long, aldermen and Police Superin- he said earlier this month. vaccines — one of the few good perilous primary season fea- tendent David Brown, Saulter The shift in mood at the news stories of 2020. turing a staggering two dozen said. White House after Inauguration But it will largely fall to candidates. Clearly, Trump The February 2019 Day on January 20 will be Biden next year to oversee the fancied his chances. wrongful raid on Young’s remarkable. unprecedented logistical task Yes, he was historically home has drawn wide crit- Good Riddance Day Out goes the most of getting doses administered unpopular, but what made him icism because police officers attention-seeking president across 50 states. reviled by the left, like his anti- didn’t allow her to dress before A man breaks a 2020 pinata at an event to shred a documents imaginable, and in comes a And while Trump can blame immigrant rhetoric, won ado- handcuffing her. In police containing something that people are looking forward to saying mild-mannered leader who the catastrophic disruption to ration on the right. video footage, she repeatedly goodbye to in the year 2020 at an event in Times Square called says he seeks “to lower the tem- the economy on the corona- He even joked to his crowds tells officers executing a search Good Riddance Day amid the coronavirus disease pandemic in perature.” But Trump clearly virus, it will be Biden who finds that he’d not only win four warrant that they have the the Manhattan borough of New York City, New York, US, yesterday. has no intention of giving up the himself being remembered for more years but an unconstitu- wrong home. limelight — or allowing the what happens during the tional extra eight, 12 or more. TUESDAY 29 DECEMBER 2020 16

Climate change cause of weather disasters this year

AFP — PARIS

The ten costliest weather From Australia’s out-of- PRAYER disasters worldwide this year control wildfires in TIMINGS saw insured damages worth January to a record PRAYERPRAYRRAAAY TIMINGSMING $150bn, topping the figure for 2019 and reflecting a long-term number of Atlantic impact of global warming, hurricanes through FAJR 04.56 am according to a report yesterday. November, the true cost SUNRISE 06.18 am The same disasters claimed of the year’s climate- at least 3,500 lives and dis- enhanced calamities was DHUHR 11.36 am placed more than 13.5 million ASR 02.34 pm people. in fact far higher because MAGHRIB 04.55 pm From Australia’s out-of- most losses were ISHA 06.25 pm control wildfires in January to uninsured. a record number of Atlantic hurricanes through November, the true cost of the year’s climate-enhanced calamities level rise, have left no doubt was in fact far higher because that Earth’s warming surface most losses were uninsured. temperature is amplifying their Not surprisingly, the burden impact. fell disproportionately on poor Massive tropical storms — nations, according to the annual variously known as hurricanes, WEATHER tally from global NGO Christian typhoons and cyclones — are Aid, entitled “Count the cost of now more likely, for example, TODAY A file photo of a firefighter dousing flames as they push towards homes during the Creek fire in the 2020: a year of climate to be stronger, last longer, carry Cascadel Woods area of unincorporated Madera County, California, US. breakdown”. more water and wander beyond Only four percent of eco- their historical range. nomic losses from climate- 2020’s record-breaking 30 Bangladesh, more than a nations to collectively cap how much more likely such an impacted extreme events in named Atlantic hurricanes — quarter of the country was global warming at “well below” event is due to global warming. low-income countries were with at least 400 fatalities and under water,” said Shahjahan 2C, and even 1.5C if feasible. The unprecedented wild- o o insured, compared with 60 $41bn in damages — suggest the Mondal, director of the Institute A landmark report in 2018 fires that destroyed 20 percent 17 C 25 C percent in high-income econ- world could see more such of Flood and Water Man- from the UN’s IPCC climate of Australia’s forests and killed Minimum Maximum omies, the report said, citing a storms as well. agement at the Bangladesh Uni- science advisory panel showed tens of millions of wild animals Misty at places at first becomes study last month in The Lancet. The World Meteorological versity of Engineering and that 1.5C is a safer threshold, but in late 2019 and early 2020, for moderate temperature daytime “Whether floods in Asia, Organization (WMO) had to use Technology. the likelihood of staying below example, were made at least 30 with some clouds, relatively cold by night. locusts in Africa, or storms in Greek symbols after running out Wildfires that scorched it have grown vanishingly small, percent more likely, according Europe and the Americas, of letters in the Latin alphabet. record areas in California, Aus- according to many experts. to research led by Friederike W ALRUWAIS : 19o → 22o climate change has continued Intense summer flooding in tralia and even Russia’s Siberian “Ultimately, the impacts of Otto at the University of W ALKHOR : 14o → 21o to rage in 2020,” said Christian China and India, where the hinterland, much of it within the climate change will be felt via Oxford’s Environmental Change W DUKHAN : 18o → 21o Aid’s climate policy lead, Kat monsoon season brought Arctic Circle, are also consistent the extremes, and not average Institute. W WAKRAH : 13o → 25o Kramer. abnormal amounts of rainfall with a warmer world, and a changes,” noted Sarah Perkins- In Europe, meanwhile, the W MESAIEED : 13o → 25o Extreme weather disasters, for the second year running, are predicted to get worse as tem- Kilpatrick, a senior lecturer at chance of deadly heatwaves of course, have plagued also consistent with projections peratures climb. the University of New South occurring has risen nearly 100 W ABUSAMRA : 16o → 21o humanity long before manmade on how climate will impact The planet’s average surface Wales’ Climate Change fold compared to a century ago, global warming began to mess precipitation. temperature has gone up at Research Centre. according to recent research. HIGH TIDE with the planet’s climate Five of the most costly least 1.1 degrees Celsius on If the growing frequency “Heatwaves and floods 04:49 – 14:46 system. extreme weather events in average compared to the late and intensity of natural weather which used to be ‘once in a But more than a century of 2020 were related to Asia’s 19th-century, with much of that disasters is consistent with century’ events are becoming LOW TIDE 12:16 – 22:14 temperature and precipitation unusually rainy monsoon. warming occurring in the last modelling projections, the new more regular occurrences,” data, along with decades of sat- “The 2020 flood was one of half-century. The 2015 Paris field of attribution science is noted WMO Secretary-General ellite data on hurricanes and sea the worst in the history of Agreement enjoins the world’s now able to put a number on Petteri Taalas. Experts bust myths about hair transplantation Tony Rice, master bluegrass IANSLIFE — NEW DELHI good blood flow in scalp region procedure is temporary — There in regular headache or migraines guitarist, dies at 69 and if the person is not suffering is nothing temporary about the which is again untrue. There has That a hair transplant procedure from any uncontrolled pre- procedure, the characteristics of never been a case as such where AP — NEW YORK is as painful as any other surgical existing health condition. the transplanted hair might people who have had the pro- process is a myth, points out Dr. Donor can be anyone — change with age like greying of cedure complained anything as Tony Rice (pictured), the master Pradeep Sethi, Hair Transplant Wrong. Only your own hair can hair but otherwise, it remains as such. bluegrass picker who drew fans Surgeon at All India Institute of be transplanted on you. is life long without any losses. Will lack density — No, the worldwide for the chance to hear Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Hair doesn’t grow any A person can differentiate hair is nice and dense. It will be the quick, fluid sounds he Delhi and Managing Director longer than the grafted length between natural hair and those thick and healthy, but we cannot conjured from his Martin D-28 Eugenix Hair Sciences. — Once the hair is grafted, it transplanted — If done by a match nature in its density. guitar, has died at age 69. Many people think that the becomes as natural as your highly experienced professional, Hair cannot be implanted Rice died on Friday at his procedure might result in regular existing hair. You can do an onlooker cannot make out if on scarred tissue — Hair can home in Reidsville, North headache or migraines which is whatever you want at your will. the hair has been transplanted or only be transplanted on regions Carolina, according to Interna- also untrue, clears Dr. Arika It can be shaved, dyed, treated, if its natural. It is recommended with ideal blood supply. As long tional Bluegrass Music Associ- Bansal, hair transplant surgeon, etc. and will come back to its one researches properly before as the scar is completely remod- ation spokesperson Casey AIIMS New Delhi. IANSlife spoke originality with growth. opting for the procedure as it ulated and has an optimal blood Campbell. to the experts who bust all the The procedure may cause depends entirely on the person supply, it can be grafted upon as Ricky Skaggs, one of the would say that they cut their myths around hair transplant and cancer — There is no relation who performs it. they will grow naturally. many musicians who revered teeth on Tony Rice’s music. He point to the facts. to cancer at all. The transplant The process is very painful The procedure is done with Rice and performed and loved hearing the next gener- The procedure needs to be doesn’t cause any health — There is a misconception for cut and stitch technique — The recorded with him, called him ation players play his licks. I retouched or done again and conditions the hair transplant procedure to old cut and stitch technique has “the single most influential think that’s where he got most again — It will always remain There are lifelong scars be painful like every other sur- now been replaced by an entirely acoustic guitar player in the last of his joy as a player.” intact once done, only if done after the procedure — There gical process, which is absolutely modernised procedure with 50 years.” Tall and lean, and with an by a highly experienced profes- are rarely any chest extraction untrue. The procedure is initiated absolute precision. Now indi- “Sometime during Christmas understated live presence that sional. One may lose hair in a cases that leave scars on with inducing local anaesthesia vidual grafts are extracted by morning while making his contrasted with the dynamism different region where the pro- patients. Scars are generally not which is a pinprick with a very modern aided equipment. coffee, our dear friend and guitar of his guitar, Rice had health cedure has not been done and seen on the scalp if extracted in fine needle following which the The transplanted hair will hero Tony Rice passed from this problems over the past might require transplantation a proper manner. Whereas, any procedure of transplant is abso- develop into scalp hair charac- life and made his swift journey quarter-century. for the same. break in skin leaves a scar lutely painless and doesn’t cause teristics — The body hair grafted to his heavenly home,” Skaggs A muscle disorder around his People cannot get hair which are generally lifelong, if even slightest of discomfort. onto scalp during the transplan- wrote on Facebook this vocal cords left him unable to transplantation after a certain done by an expert, there will Causes headaches and tation procedure will retain its weekend. sing onstage, and tennis elbow age — Advancing age is never hardly be any visible scarring. migraine — Many people think own nature while the rest of the “Many if not all of the Blue- limited his playing. His last live a problem as long as there is The hair transplantation that the procedure might result features remaining as it is. grass guitar players of today guitar performance was in 2013. ‘Demon Slayer’ becomes College scam: Lori Loughlin released from prison Japan’s top-grossing movie AP — NEW YORK of Southern Cali- fornia as crew REUTERS — TOKYO The film got an unex- “Full House” actor Lori Loughlin recruits even pected boost from the novel was released from prison though neither girl “Demon Slayer”, the animated coronavirus, film industry yesterday after spending two was a rower. Their tale of a boy fighting human- watchers said. months behind bars for paying guilty plea was a eating demons that murdered People stuck at home half a million dollars in bribes stunning reversal his family, has shattered a because of social distancing to get her two daughters into for the couple, nearly two-decade record to got hooked on the manga college. whose lawyers had become Japan’s top-grossing comic and television series Loughlin was released from insisted for a year movie, its distributor said on then rushed to watch the film the federal lockup in Dublin, were innocent and Monday. when cinemas reopened. California, where she had been accused investi- The film, based on a The film, with its message serving her sentence for her gators of fabricating popular manga and television of resilience, has also spawned role in the college admissions evidence against anime series, powered past a bonanza of merchandise — bribery scheme, the federal them. “Spirited Away”, the mega-hit from toys to canned coffee — Bureau of Prisons said. Her The only public Academy Award-winning generating at least 270 billion husband, fashion designer comments either movie by Studio Ghibli’s yen ($2.61b) in business as of Mossimo Giannulli, is serving Loughlin or Gian- Hayao Miyazaki that opened December 3, said Toshihiro his five-month sentence at a A file photo of actress Lori Loughlin, and her husband, fashion designer Mossimo nulli made about in 2001, in just a little over Nagahama, senior economist prison in Lompoc near Santa Giannulli, leaving the courthouse after a hearing in Boston, Massachusetts, US. the case since their two months. at the Dai-Ichi Life Research Barbara, California. arrest last year “Demon Slayer”, with a Institute. Loughlin and Giannulli early release on coronavirus- scheme, which revealed the came at their sentencing full official title of “Kimetsu Sony Corp, whose music were both initially supposed to related grounds, prosecutors lengths to which some wealthy hearings in August. Loughlin no Yaiba the Movie — Mugen unit is co-distributor, also got report to prison on November said. Giannulli is scheduled to parents will go to get their told the judge her actions Train”, had taken in 32.47 a boost from the film, which 19, but prosecutors and defense be released on April 17, the children into elite universities. “helped exacerbate existing ine- billion yen compared with has opened in several Asian attorneys agreed Loughlin Bureau of Prisons says. The famous couple qualities in society” and pledged 31.68 billion yen for “Spirited countries and will head to the could start her sentence on Loughlin and Giannulli admitted in May to paying to do everything in her power Away”, according to data United States and Canada October 30. Loughlin also were among the highest-profile $500,000 to get their two to use her experience as a “cat- released yesterday. early in the New Year. agreed that she would not seek defendants charged in the daughters into the University alyst to do good.”