BUSINESS | Page 1 SPORT | Page 1 30-year total CHI Al Shaqab investment in equestrian gas to reach $10tn extravaganza gets by 2050: GECF underway today

published in QATAR since 1978

THURSDAY Vol. XXXXII No. 11835 February 25, 2021 Rajab 13, 1442 AH

GULF TIMES www. gulf-times.com 2 Riyals

Amir meets Kuwait’s Deputy PM and Defence Minister PM, Kuwait Deputy PM inaugurate Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor O 29km-long Corridor is one of the largest road projects executed by Ashghal

By Shafeeq Alingal the project. At the beginning of the Airport (HIA) to Al Shamal Road while Staff Reporter inaugural event, a short video that intersecting with 15 main roads includ- highlighted the life and contributions ing Ras Bu Abboud Street, Industrial of Sheikh Sabah was screened. Area Road, Salwa Road, Al Waab Street t a grand ceremony, the Sabah Another fi lm shed light on the dis- and Al Rayyan Road and connecting 25 Al Ahmad Corridor, described tinct features of Sabah Al Ahmad Cor- residential neighbourhoods with many His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani met yesterday at the Amiri Diwan Off ice with Deputy Prime Aas a vital artery in the heart ridor, a prestigious project of the Public commercial, educational and health Minister and Defence Minister of the sisterly State of Kuwait Sheikh Hamad Jaber al-Ali al-Sabah and the accompanying of Doha, was inaugurated by HE the Works Authority (Ashghal), as one of facilities. delegation, on the occasion of his visit to the country to attend the inaugural ceremony of Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor. At Prime Minister and Interior Minis- the largest road infrastructure projects The Corridor, which is the alterna- the outset of the meeting, the Kuwaiti minister conveyed the greetings of the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad ter Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Ab- in the country, including bridges, in- tive route for Doha Expressway and al-Jaber al-Sabah to the Amir, and his thanks for naming the “Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor” after the the late Amir Sheikh dulaziz al-Thani and Kuwait’s Deputy tersections and tunnels and serving six 22 February Street, also comprises Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah, wishing His Highness the Amir good health and happiness, and the Qatari people Prime Minister and Defence Minister FIFA 2022 World Cup stadiums. Qatar’s longest bridge, longest and continuous progress and prosperity. For his part, the Amir entrusted Sheikh Hamad al-Sabah to convey his greetings Sheikh Hamad Jaber al-Ali al-Sabah The 29km Corridor cuts 70% of deepest tunnel and largest intersec- to the Kuwaiti Amir, wishing him good health and wellness, and the Kuwaiti people further progress and development. yesterday. travel time from Hamad International tion. To Page 16 During the meeting, they reviewed bilateral relations and the means of developing and enhancing them. (QNA) Page 3 The event in adherence to the Cov- id-19 protocols, took place on Qatar’s fi rst cable-stayed bridge, an integral part of the Corridor, beautifully lit up in the national colours of Qatar and Kuwait and decorated with the nation- al fl ags. The inauguration coincided with celebration of the National Day and Liberation Day Anniversary of Ku- wait and was described as a gift to the brotherly nation. The Corridor was built in apprecia- tion of the late Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah. It was in February 2019 that His High- ness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Ha- mad al-Thani directed to name the Corridor after Sheikh Sabah, embody- ing the deep historic ties of brother- hood and in appreciation of his hu- manitarian eff orts. The ceremony saw the presence of a number of ministers, diplomats, a del- HE the Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz egation from Kuwait, and representa- al-Thani and Kuwait’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Sheikh Hamad tives of the companies implementing Dignitaries on Qatar’s first cable-stayed bridge during the inaugural ceremony of the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor yesterday in Doha. Jaber al-Ali al-Sabah inaugurate the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor yesterday in Doha.

FM receives message from Bahrain FM Qatar to vaccinate 90% Residents, visitors need insurance HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani received a written message from the of eligible population to get basic healthcare services Minister of Foreign Aff airs of Bahrain Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid al-Zayani. The message was received by HE by year-end: Al-Khal Cabinet approves draft law regulating healthcare services the Minister of State for Foreign Aff airs Sultan bin Saad al-Muraikhi, during his meeting yesterday with O MoPH starts home vaccination for elderly QNA Undersecretary of the Ministry of Doha Driving school students to get fee Foreign Aff airs for Regional and By Joseph Varghese GCC Aff airs of Bahrain, Ambassador Staff Reporter exemption for temporary licence Waheed Mubarak Sayyar, who is he Cabinet approved yesterday currently visiting the country. Page 5 a draft law, which stipulated Driving school students who could in driving schools, who did atar aims to vaccinate up to 90% Tamong other things that all not complete their course due not complete the prescribed Circulation of 4th of the eligible population against residents and visitors to Qatar must to Covid restrictions have been examination procedures to obtain QCovid-19 before the end of this obtain health insurance to receive ba- exempted from the renewal fee for their driving licences during the edition banknotes year, disclosed a top offi cial yesterday. sic healthcare services in the country. issuing a temporary driving licence. closing of driving schools due to extended until July 1 “For this, we have to vaccinate more HE the Prime Minister and Minis- The Cabinet approved a draft Covid-19 measures, are exempt than 100,000 people a week,” said Dr ter of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Kha- decision of the Minister of Interior to from fees for renewing their permits Qatar Central Bank announced Abdullatif al-Khal, chair of the Na- Dr Abdullatif al-Khal speaking at the lifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani chaired this eff ect yesterday. expired on March 3, 2020 until yesterday that it has extended tional Health Strategic Group on Cov- Education City Speaker Series yesterday. the Cabinet’s regular meeting at its Under the draft decision, trainees August 1, 2020. the circulation of the 4th edition id-19 and head of Infectious Diseases seat at the Amiri Diwan. banknotes, until July 1, 2021. at Hamad Medical Corporation. Hope: Do Vaccines Mean an End to Following the meeting, HE the Qatar Central Bank (QCB) said that He was addressing a virtual pan- the Pandemic Is in Sight?’ featured Minister of Justice and Acting Minis- standards to provide healthcare Under the Provisions of Law No. after this date, the banknotes will el discussion at the Education City healthcare experts and practitioners ter of State for Cabinet Aff airs Dr Issa services in governmental and private 9 of 1976 Regulating Scholarships, become illegal and indemnified Speaker Series, held in collaboration to discuss vaccine development and Saad al-Jafali al-Nuaimi said the fol- health facilities. a scholarship committee is formed currency, with the holder remaining with the World Innovation Summit for questions surrounding the new vari- lowing in a statement:  Determine the rights and duties of in the Ministry of Education and entitled to recover its value from Health (WISH). ants of Covid-19, among other issues. At the outset of the meeting, the patients that must be taken into account Higher Education and is responsible the Central Bank within a period not The event titled ‘An Injection of To Page 3 Cabinet listened to the explanation when receiving healthcare services. for drawing up scholarship policy and exceeding 10 years from the date of provided by HE the Minister of Pub-  Providing healthcare services to planning, and investigating the coun- the withdrawal decision. ‘Quarantine exemption period may be extended’ lic Health on the latest developments citizens in government health facili- try’s actual needs for them. In the statement, QCB referred to to limit the spread of Covid-19, and ties without charge. Fourth- Approval of: 1- A draft decision No. 99 of 2020 of HE the The period of exemption from available data about the duration of affi rmed the continuation of imple-  All residents and visitors to the agreement on cancelling entry visas for Governor of Qatar Central Bank quarantine for those who have taken protective level of antibodies in the menting the precautionary measures country must obtain health insurance holders of regular passports between issued in the Off icial Gazette on both doses of Covid-19 vaccine will be blood following the second dose. But in order to combat this pandemic. to receive basic healthcare services. the governments of Qatar and Moldova. 27/12/2020 regarding the withdrawal extended as and when more data is there is more available information After that, the Cabinet considered Second- Approval of a draft deci- 2- A draft memorandum of un- of banknotes from circulation, available. that the duration is probably longer. the topics on the agenda as follows: sion of the Minister of Interior to ex- derstanding (MoU) for co-operation starting from 18/12/2020, after the This was announced by Dr Abdullatif It could be a year or even longer,” he First- Approval of a draft law organis- empt trainees in driving schools from in the fi elds of youth and sports be- fifth edition was put into circulation. al-Khal, chair of the National Health pointed out. ing healthcare services within the coun- the renewal fee for issuing a tempo- tween the governments Qatar and the Qatar Central Bank also clarified that Strategic Group on Covid-19 and “We are reviewing the literature and the try, and referring it to the Shura Council. rary driving licence to learn motor Republic of Malta. this decision comes in accordance head of Infectious Diseases at Hamad data as it emerges regularly on a daily The draft law aims to providing an vehicles driving. Fifth- Take necessary measures with the provisions of Articles 54 and Medical Corporation. and weekly basis. And we are ready to integrated, high-quality, effi cient and Third- Approval of a draft deci- to ratify an agreement on economic, 55 of the Qatar Central Bank Law and “The three months exemption from extend it to six months as soon as there sustainable health system, through: sion of the Minister of Education and commercial and technical co-opera- Regulation of Financial Institutions quarantine was made from the is information to do that.”  Establishing the necessary poli- Higher Education to reforming the tion between the governments of Qa- issued by Law No. 13 of 2012. (QNA) cies, plans, procedures, systems and scholarships committee. tar and Uzbekistan.

Gulf Times Thursday, February 25, 2021 3 QATAR

PM meets Tunisian PM meets ILO Project PM meets Kuwait’s Deputy PM education minister Office head

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani met HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin yesterday with Kuwait’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Sheikh Hamad Jaber al-Ali HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani met yesterday with the Head of the al-Sabah and the accompanying delegation. At the outset of the meeting, the Kuwaiti Deputy PM Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani met yesterday with the visiting International Labour Organisation Project Off ice for Qatar Houtan conveyed the greetings and thanks of the Prime Minister of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Khalid al-Hamad Tunisian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Olfa Homayounpour, on the occasion of the end of his tenure in the al-Sabah for the invitation to attend the inaugural ceremony of ‘Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor’. For his part, Benouda Sioud and the accompanying delegation. During the country. The meeting dealt with reviewing bilateral co-operation HE the Prime Minister entrusted Sheikh Hamad Jaber to convey his greetings to the Kuwaiti prime meeting, they reviewed bilateral relations and means to enhance between Qatar and the ILO. HE the Prime Minister wished minister, wishing him success. The meeting dealt with reviewing bilateral relations and the scope for them, particularly in education. Homayounpour success in his future missions. developing them.

Shura Council Speaker meets ambassadors of Italy, Kazakhstan Culture minister meets Tunisian minister

HE the Shura Council Speaker Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid al-Mahmoud met separately yesterday with Italian ambassador to Qatar Alessandro Bruns and Kazakhstan ambassador to Qatar Arman Isagaliyev. During the two meetings, they reviewed the parliamentary relations, and ways to support and develop them.

HE the Minister of Culture and Sports Salah bin Ghanem bin Nasser al-Ali met yesterday with the visiting Tunisian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Olfa Benouda Sioud. During the meeting, they discussed aspects of co-operation HMC starts Covid-19 between the two countries and ways to support and develop them.

Shura Council takes part vaccination campaign in parliamentary seminar

The Shura Council participated yesterday in a parliamentary for housebound patients seminar entitled: Emergency QNA hancing their protection.” Dr Ha- tinuing Care Group, has around built up strong relationships with in the same household will be legislation to Doha nadi al-Hamad, National Lead for 2,500 home bound patients reg- them and their families, in some screened by the clinical team to reduce the Healthy Ageing and Chairperson istered as service users, nearly cases the relationships have been ensure they meet the eligibility Repercussions of for the Department of Geriatrics 75% of which are people aged established over many years. criteria.” the coronavirus amad Medical Corpo- and Long-Term Care, explained 60 and above. About 300 pa- This is essential to building trust, “We operate in accordance crisis on small ration’s (HMC) Home the campaign was the result of tients are children, who are not which in turn is essential to pa- with strict guidelines for the vac- and medium HHealthcare Service (HHS) extensive feedback with patients yet eligible to be vaccinated with tients feeling confi dent that our cines we use for home healthcare enterprises, has started administering the and families. “The feedback we the currently available vaccines; teams will provide them with safe patients. This eff ort has been a organised by Covid-19 vaccine to its regis- have received especially from our therefore around 2,000 home- and eff ective care,” she said. collaboration between diff erent the Council of tered housebound patients to older patients was that they were bound patients overall are being The campaign started in dis- groups to ensure a smooth tran- Representatives protect them against the disease. hesitant to go out of their home considered for the vaccine. trict one which includes Al sition across the whole pathway, in Bahrain in The vaccination outreach cam- to get vaccinated and that they Nadya al-Anzi, Executive Di- Wakra, Wukair, Al Hilal, Matar which includes identifying eli- co-operation paign, which received endorse- would feel more confi dent if they rector of Nursing for HMC’s Pri- Qadeem, and Mamoura. gible families in the community with the General ment from the Ministry of Pub- could be vaccinated along with vate Nursing Services and Home The vaccination strategy is for and getting their agreement, then Secretariat lic Health, targets not only adult other family members,” she said. Healthcare Services, has expand- several teams to remain in a des- collecting the vaccine and ensur- of the GCC, home healthcare patients but also “As a large portion of our home ed her role during the Covid-19 ignated district to vaccinate as ing it is administered and docu- through visual other adults living in the same healthcare patients are older, pandemic to include Community many patients and their house- mented appropriately,” added Dr communication household, provided they fi t the which is exactly the population Nursing Lead for Covid-19 Quar- holds as possible, before moving al-Sulaiti. technology. Discussions during the seminar focused on medical criteria for eligibility. group who are among the most antine, Non-Quarantine and Iso- on to the next district. Each clinical team involved exchanging experiences between the Gulf councils in the Mahmoud al-Raisi, Chief of vulnerable from Covid-19, we lation Facilities, which has given Deputy National Lead of in the vaccination campaign in- legislative, supervisory, financial and diplomatic fields to limit the Continuing Care Group at wanted to establish a solution here a strategic overview of ad- Healthy Ageing and Medical Di- cludes four healthcare profes- the repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic, and beyond, HMC, praised the teams involved that will provide them with add- ministering care in the communi- rector of the Home Healthcare sionals, including two specialist on small and medium enterprises. The Shura Council was in arranging this campaign in ed protection. It was therefore ty. “Our service covers the whole Services, Dr Essa al-Sulaiti, ex- nurses, a patient care assistant, represented in this seminar by HE Nasser bin Sulaiman al- record time following the min- very important to extend the eli- country, which we have divided plained that staff training was a and a physician. Patients reg- Haidar, a member of the Council. istry’s approval: “The Covid-19 gibility criteria for this campaign into four districts, each being priority for this project. “While istered with Home Healthcare vaccination outreach campaign to include both family and other cared for by a highly competent our staff are well trained, we Service can call the newly estab- is an important step in expand- household members who closely and dedicated team of nurses and wanted to ensure that the teams lished Hamad Home Healthcare ing the vaccination capacity in interact with our patients,” added patient care assistants, with sup- going out to patient homes have Call Center on 4439 0111 for help Qatar. And by vaccinating our Dr al-Hamad. port from physician colleagues,” had the additional training in and advice on home healthcare What is Long-Covid? patients along with other adult HMC’s Home Healthcare Serv- said al-Anzi. “These teams know administering the Covid-19 vac- needs as well as the Covid-19 household members, we are en- ice, which is part of HMC’s Con- the patient population and have cines. Patients and other adults vaccination. The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has explained the concept of Long-Covid, its symptoms and how to prevent it. “Long-Covid, also referred to as post-Covid-19 syndrome, is a term used to describe Covid-19 symptoms that continue to aff ect people Qatar to vaccinate 90% of eligible population by year-end for many weeks or months after contracting the virus,” the MoPH said in an infographic on social media yesterday. From Page 1 a member of the Covax facility what the world needs. Another also trained nurses at different as to their close family mem- The common symptoms of Long-Covid are extreme tiredness, where we get a percentage of issue is if we need to do it annu- ministries and entities such as bers,” he said. shortness of breath, joint pain, depression and anxiety, chest pain or He explained that the vacci- our vaccines from,” continued, ally we have to work on a strat- Ministry of Interior, Ministry “One of the major challenges tightness, and insomnia. Explaining who is at risk, the infographic says nation campaign is implement- Dr al-Khal. Covax facility was egy for our future supplies,” ex- of Defence, oil and gas sector, that we faced initially was the most people recover quickly from Covid-19, but anyone can experience ed in adherence to effective formed last year to ensure fair plained the official. Qatar Airways to administer widespread misinformation the ongoing symptoms of Long-Covid. Due to their increased public health measures, such as and equitable access to Cov- According to Dr al-Khal, 27 vaccine. Now they are vacci- about vaccine safety. This was vulnerability and often weakened immune systems, the elderly are screening and isolating people id-19 vaccines for every coun- health centres in the coun- nating their frontline workers circulated widely through the more susceptible to long-term complications due to Covid-19. suspected to have or exposed to try. try provide vaccine to people at their own facilities,” he de- social media and made a sig- The best form of prevention, the MoPH says, is to follow all steps Covid-19. “One of the challenges that seven days a week from 7am scribed. nificant portion of people re- to reduce the risk of contracting Covid-19: wear a mask, maintain “We have taken very effec- we had to face with the rolling to 11pm. “In addition, we re- “Today the Ministry of Pub- luctant to take the vaccine. We physical distance, avoid large gatherings and wash hands regularly. tive steps to combat Covid-19. out of the vaccine campaign is cently opened the vaccination lic Health has started an initia- established a group to spread “It is also important that people who experience signs and So we approached pharma- the global shortage of vaccine centre at Qatar National Con- tive for the elderly. For the eld- evidence-based information symptoms of Covid-19 do not delay seeking help. The sooner ceutical companies that were as in the case of other coun- vention Centre, which can de- erly who cannot make it to the and community figures to get medical teams can begin treating the symptoms, the higher the in advanced stages of clinical tries. Current production of liver 8,000 doses a day. This health centres, vaccine will be the (right) message across,” chance of avoiding complications,” it adds. trials for vaccines. We are also vaccines is a tiny fraction of has boosted our ability. We provided at their homes as well added, Dr al-Khal. Gulf Times 4 Thursday, February 25, 2021 QATAR

Armed Forces conduct joint exercise The Armed Forces conducted the command and control centres against illegal actions exercise (Command Centers 1), in the presence of HE the Chief of Staff of the Qatari Armed Forces Lieutenant- General (Pilot) Ghanem bin Shaheen al-Ghanem. The exercise aims to maintain control against illegal acts such as penetration, infiltration, maritime terrorism, maritime piracy and all illegal acts that aim to destabilise the security of the country and harm the interests of the State. The exercise also aims to train commanders and staff off icers on the planning and implementation of joint operations, training Work continues at on implementing co-ordination procedures between units, and raising the capabilities of the forces and participating parties when carrying out duties on how to deal with objectives. The exercise was conducted in the Combined Air Operations Center, with the participation of the Armed Forces and the Ministry of Interior represented by the General Directorate of Coasts and Borders Security. good pace at QNCC vaccination centre ore than 500 workers are  More than 500 workers deployed per day to serve about deployed at the vaccina- Mtion centre in Qatar Na- 5,000-8,000 people depending on capacity: off icial tional Convention Centre (QNCC) Vaccine is given only to those who have received invitation per day, where work continues at a good pace as part of the expansion er essential workers. She added that of Qatar’s national programme for the QNCC facility will enable Qatar Covid-19 vaccination, Qatar News to increase its ability to vaccinate Agency (QNA) reports. more essential workers and open Work starts at 7am and contin- more opportunities for the general ues until 10pm, seven days a week, public to receive the vaccine. to serve about 5,000-8,000 peo- At present, all people at high ple, depending on the capacity of risk or over the age of 60 years are the centre, according to Dr Yasmin urged to get the vaccine by fi xing Ali Morad, director of the Office an appointment and calling the an- of Institutional Project Manage- nounced numbers or visiting their ment at Primary Health Care Cor- health centres. poration and director of the na- Dr Morad said to ensure commu- tional Covid-19 vaccine campaign nity safety and a smooth and eff ec- project. Text messages are sent to tive vaccination process, invitations the public to arrive ahead of the are being sent for appointments in appointment. a gradual and phased manner, and The fi rst phase of Covid-19 vac- teachers and school staff will receive cination at the QNCC facility began short text messages inviting them to last Thursday. It focuses on vacci- come to the vaccination site during The vaccination drive at QNCC last week. nating teachers and school staff , in specifi c periods. addition to other essential workers She explained that the vaccine interval between the fi rst and sec- vaccine is less than an hour, as the and community members who meet will be given only to those who have ond doses. medical and training staff as well the eligibility criteria. received an invitation, provided it is Visitors will be asked to carry the as the assisting administrative per- The QNCC vaccination centre shown when they attend the vacci- required cards when they come to sonnel have suffi cient experience to comes under the supervision and nation centre, with the need to bring the scheduled vaccination date and facilitate the matter for the public, management of PHCC, in co-op- a valid Qatari ID and health card. have to apply precautionary and according to Dr Morad. eration with the Ministry of Public Others are required to wait until preventive measures such as wear- On the mechanism for renew- Health, Hamad Medical Corpora- they receive an invitation via SMS, ing a mask, ensuring hand hygiene ing appointments, she explained tion, volunteers from Qatar Red noting that the card renewal service and maintaining social distancing. that in the event of non-attendance Crescent Society and the adminis- has also been provided at the centre Attendance must be in accord- or leaving the place for any reason tration of Qatar National Conven- to reduce time and eff ort in this re- ance with the time and date speci- without receiving the vaccine, the tion Centre. gard. fi ed in order to get vaccinated at the person concerned will be automati- Dr Morad said the work strat- She indicated that the vaccina- QNCC facility. This will be done cally contacted to obtain a new ap- egy is based on vaccinating the most tion process will continue to pro- while adhering to all other relevant pointment in order to ensure that vulnerable populations such as the ceed in the same way, that is, the measures to ensure that the work everyone gets these doses in an ef- elderly, people with severe chronic vaccine will be given in two doses at proceeds smoothly and quickly. fort to secure and immunise society conditions, health workers and oth- the QNCC facility with the required The time it takes to receive the against this pandemic. Home quarantine proposed for returning children under 16

By Shafeeq Alingal istry of Public Health (MoPH), told eff ective. Pfi zer vaccine is safe for Staff Reporter the weekly Instagram Question and asthmatic and highly recommend- Answer programme yesterday. ed,” the offi cial said while answering Children under 16 are not eligible questions. f parents fully vaccinated against for the vaccination against Covid-19. Those who have registered for Covid-19 return from abroad “If the child is above 16 and for some Covid-19 vaccination will be con- Iwith children ineligible for vac- reason did not take the vaccine, they tacted as per the priority basis. The cination, it is under consideration to have to be quarantined along with duration of Covid-19 vaccination make them sign an undertaking to a parent. Also, if one parent is not validity for three months may be keep the children under home quar- vaccinated, they will have to stay changed, according to Dr al-Bayat. antine for seven days. with the child in quarantine,” she ex- “The currently set validity does not “An announcement in this regard plained. mean the vaccine is valid only for will be issued soon,” Dr Soha al-Ba- “Both Pfi zer-BioNTech and Mod- three months. Studies are on in this yat, head of Vaccination at the Min- erna vaccines are equally safe and regard,” she added. Dr Soha al-Bayat. MoPH reports 562 Covid recoveries

QNA Doha

he Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) reported yesterday 459 new confi rmed cases of coronavirus (Covid-19) dur- Ting the last 24 hours, of which 427 were from community and 32 from travellers returning from abroad who are subject to quarantine.The MoPH also recorded 562 recoveries from the vi- rus during the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of cases recovered in Qatar to 151,787. All new cases have been introduced to isolation and are receiving necessary healthcare. Due to the measures put in place by Qatar’s government and the support of the public in following preventive steps, Qatar succeeded in suppressing the spread of the virus since its peak in July. However, over the past month in Qatar we have seen a gradual and consistent increase in the number of new daily infections. Additionally, and of great concern, is the recent increase in both the number of people admitted to hospital with Covid-19 and the number of people admitted to ICU with Covid-19. The data over the next few days and week will tell us more, but these increases appear to be the early signs of a potential second wave in Qatar. For this reason, it is more important than ever that people adhere to preventive measures to cut off second wave before it gains momentum. If numbers of positive cases and hospital ad- missions continue to increase over the coming week or two, addi- tional restrictions may need to be implemented across the country and we will return to some of the early restriction phases. Five arrested for violating home quarantine rules The competent authorities yesterday arrested five people for violating the legal requirements of home quarantine. The arrests came in implementation of the precautionary measures in force in the country, approved by the Ministry of Public Health for public safety and to curb the spread of the coronavirus. The arrested people being referred to the competent prosecution are: Mohamed Abdullah Saad al-Bahih al-Marri, Turki Masoud Turki al- Ghufrani al-Marri, Ali Jaber Hamad al Makhdoubia al-Marri, Salem Rashid Mohamed Rashid al-Ghreineq and Abdulrahman Nayef Abdulrahman al-Imran al-Kuwari. Gulf Times Thursday, February 25, 2021 5 QATAR

FM gets message from Bahraini counterpart Qatar participates in UN Environment Assembly HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Aff airs Sheikh QNA speech during the leadership dia- is imperative to follow this path, learned from the pandemic. He Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Nairobi logues session on the contribu- and strive to take measures that pointed out that Qatar relies on al-Thani received a written tion of the environmental dimen- will enhance our capabilities to the principle of strategic plan- message from Bahraini Minister sion of sustainable development address the environmental chal- ning in order to achieve the re- of Foreign Aff airs Dr Abdullatif bin atar participated in the to building a resilient and inclu- lenges raised by the pandemic, quirements of development and Rashid al-Zayani. The message fi fth session of the Unit- sive post-pandemic world. and to enhance our capabilities progress, whether on the eco- was received by HE the Minister Qed Nations Environment He stressed, however, that its to recover from them in a man- nomic, social or environmental of State for Foreign Aff airs Sultan Assembly (UNEA-5), which was eff ects should not detract the ner that takes into account the levels, enlightened in this by the bin Saad al-Muraikhi, during held through video conference. international community from preservation and sustainability Qatar National Vision 2030, so his meeting in Doha yesterday The delegation of Qatar to the ensuring the environmental di- of all ecosystems, the ambas- the pandemic was not a major with the visiting Bahraini session was headed by ambassa- mension as countries strive for sador explained. He referred to obstacle that would be diffi cult Undersecretary of the Ministry of dor to Kenya and the Permanent sustainable development. the ongoing eff orts regarding to overcome, but rather a chal- Foreign Aff airs for Regional and Representative of Qatar to the Addressing this pandemic the new medium-term strategy lenge and a catalyst for us to GCC Aff airs, Ambassador Waheed United Nations offi ce in Nairobi, and its repercussions will only of the United Nations Environ- work positively towards achiev- Mubarak Sayyar. Jaber bin Ali al-Dosari. be done by collective action and ment Programme, which we ing our strategic goals for devel- The ambassador said in a international co-operation, so it hope will be based on the lessons opment. LuLu Hypermarket joins Ellen MacArthur Foundation to promote Circular Economy

uLu Group International, policymakers, and institutions of the Year 2020’ Award from Abu give the opportunity for custom- the leading business con- to mobilise systems solutions at Dhabi Sustainability Group for ers to make more informed choic- Lglomerate that has diver- scale, globally. A circular econ- his excellence in implementing es. Apart from these, LuLu for- sifi ed business interests in the omy off ers solutions to tackle the Sustainability best practices mulated and executed an action Middle East, North Africa, In- global challenges such as climate in retail. LuLu Group has made plan to reduce the use of plastic dia, Malaysia and Indonesia, change, waste and pollution, and advancements in pursuit of cir- bags by encouraging customers to has joined the Ellen MacArthur biodiversity loss. Underpinned cularity starting with recycling of go for reusable choices – a woven Foundation as a network member by a transition to renewable en- packaging materials, reduction of bag or a more environmentally to facilitate collaboration for ac- ergy, a circular economy designs ally had a smaller presence”. As a responsible retailer, LuLu food waste, and the introduction friendly jute bag. celerating its ongoing eff orts to- out waste, and pollution, maxim- LuLu Group has always been Group has framed its own strat- of recyclable paper bags. With this, LuLu Group joined wards the transition to a circular ises resource effi ciency, and pro- working on the integration and egy on sustainability, which is put A comprehensive policy to- the leading global organisations economy. motes the reuse, sharing, repair, implementation of sustain- into practice in all its retail units wards circularity is key to ensure namely Unilever, P&G, Johnson The Ellen MacArthur Founda- refurbishment and recycling of ability principles across diff erent and supply chains worldwide. that consumers are provided & Johnson, amazon, IKEA, Adi- tion is a UK registered charity that materials. spheres of its activity for a long The strategy mainly involved with a more durable, repairable, tya Birla Fashion & Retail Ltd, develops and promotes the idea of Commending the promis- time, aligned with the sustainable outlining of projects for overall recyclable and reusable choices. Arvind Fashioning Possibilities, a circular economy – a global sys- ing initiative of LuLu Group, Joe development goals of the United improvements in social, envi- Aligned with this, LuLu also has Hewlett Packard, Microsoft and temic shift from the ‘take, make, Murphy, the network lead at the Nations. ronmental and economic values our strategy in reduction of food focused on a cost-eff ective im- McDonald’s that are also network waste’ extractive model to one Ellen MacArthur Foundation As a multinational organisa- (ESG) as well as contributions to waste and to make progress in plementation of proactive meas- members of the Ellen MacArthur that designs out waste and pollu- said: “With a diverse portfolio, tion with majority of its opera- improve people’s quality of life sustainable packaging”. ures to increase the intake and Foundation. LuLu Group is am- tion, keeps products and materi- there is great scope for the LuLu tions in those countries that have and satisfaction. In recognition of its continued promotion of recyclable prod- bitious that collaboration with als in use, and regenerates natural Group to embed circular econ- food security vulnerabilities, Speaking on the initiative, Dr eff orts towards sustainability, ucts, promote healthier food op- the Ellen MacArthur Foundation systems, according to a statement omy practices and, as a member LuLu Group is mindful of its re- Mohamed Althaf, director of LuLu Group was bestowed with tions, reduce the waste which is could help them build retail spe- from LuLu yesterday. of the Foundation’s network, the sponsibilities. In line with this, LuLu Group International said: the ‘Sustainability Award’ in Qa- disposed through landfi ll and en- cifi c concepts in food, fashion, In order to accelerate the tran- group will have the opportunity they have taken various meas- “Sustainability is the core of our tar Region from the Gulf Organi- courage recycling. plastics, buildings and design, sition to a circular economy, a to collaborate with some of the ures in co-operation with the company’s strategy. Joining El- sation for Research and Develop- Besides these, they have also and turn those concepts to prac- model that benefi ts the economy, world’s leading organisations. local regulatory bodies to main- len MacArthur Foundation would ment in 2019. Most recently, LuLu started sourcing of more products tices thereby building a circu- society, and the environment, In the near term, we hope to see tain food security in the region it give us an opportunity to share Group’s chairman and managing and services from sustainable/ lar economy which benefi ts the the Foundation works with, and the LuLu Group spark projects in operates and inhouse policies to our learnings with others. This director Yusuff ali M A has won circular partners who share the economy, society, and environ- inspires, business, academia, markets where we have tradition- reduce the food wastage. will also help us to formulate the ‘Sustainable Business Leader common philosophy, which will ment worldwide. Gulf Times 6 Thursday, February 25, 2021 QATAR Qatar Charity distributes winter aid to Syrian and Palestinian refugees in Jordan

atar Charity (QC) launched The ‘Qatar Relief Convoys’ drive also praised the efforts of the Jordanian the second phase of the comes from Qatar Charity as part of its government and JHCO for facilitating “Qatar Relief Convoys” “Warmth and Peace” campaign that the work of Qatar Charity in Jordan. campaign in the Hashemite aims to meet the needs of 200,000 Assistant Secretary-General of the QKingdom of Jordan, where it distributed beneficiaries in Jordon over the course JHCO Mohammed Nasser Al Kilani said food and winter aid to Syrian and of the three-month campaign to address that they are continuing to implement Palestinian refugees and Jordanian the humanitarian conditions resulting projects for Jordanian families, as well as needy families in several governorates from the coronavirus crisis. for Syrian and Palestinian refugees, with of the kingdom. the support of Qatar Charity, noting the The second phase of the drive was positive impact of this aid on the lives of launched in the presence of the Charge the beneficiaries. d’Affaires of the Embassy of Qatar to Jordon Mr. Hamad Al Mahmoud and The aid delivered by ‘Qatar Assistant Secretary-General of the Relief Convoys’ reflects the bright Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization philanthropic image of the people in (JHCO) Mohammed Nasser Al Kilani. Qatar and their love to do good, give, and support those in need, especially in The first consignment of aid, which is light of the continuing cold winter when delivered in Jordan within the framework refugees are struggling to survive. of the campaign, aims to meet the needs On this occasion, HE Ambassador of more than 1758 refugee and Jordanian of the State of Qatar to Jordan Sheikh It is worth noting that the blankets families, with approximately 9,000 Saud bin Nasser Al-Thani thanked Qatar distributed within the drive were individuals. The aid is distributed via Charity, emphasizing that the State of produced by the refugees, who received coupons for food packages, health Qatar seeks to strengthen humanitarian income-generating projects from to encourage them to earn a living and the adverse weather conditions, Qatar supplies, blankets, and fuel. cooperation with various bodies. He Qatar Charity in Jordon. This comes uplift the standards of living. Charity urges benefactors in Qatar to The drive, which includes 200 convoys, extend support to ‘Qatar Relief Convoys’ targets Syrian refugees in Turkey, Jordan, to maximize the number of beneficiary and Lebanon, in addition to internally refugees, keeping them warm and displaced people within Syrian, until meeting their essential needs. March 10. It aims to deliver aid worth Donations can be made through Qatar QR 20 million to 120,000 refugees and Charity’s collection points, branches, displaced persons. website, and by app, in addition to As the displaced and refugees are dialing 44667711 or requesting a “home living in challenging situations due to collector” across the country.

Implemented in cooperation between QFFD, and Qatar Charity, Health projects, mobile clinics bring hope to Rohingya refugees in Malaysia

he Rohingya beneficiaries The work on the health projects of health projects, including commenced in October 2019, when mobile clinics, implemented the agreements were signed with the in Malaysia, expressed their Malaysian National Welfare Foundation, Tdelight with the medical services an agency under the women, family, and that have saved hundreds of lives and community development ministry. The alleviated their suffering. budget allocated for the health program is estimated at 14.7 million dollars over This comes within the framework of three years. cooperation between the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) and Qatar Charity The Qatari initiative works on the (QC) to continue implementing the improvement of the refugee situation projects of the $50 million grant made in Malaysia, as the official figures of by His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin United Nations confirm the presence Hamad al-Thani the Amir of Qatar for of more than 178,000 refugees and Rohingya refugees in Malaysia. asylum-seekers registered with the

United Nations High Commissioner for treatment for my children with special With the support of the grant of His Refugees (UNHCR) in Malaysia. needs. Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Sakinah Ismail, diagnosed with al-Thani, the Qatari initiative works Boshor Norzummia, who met with breast cancer, received treatment from on equipping and operating five health an accident in August 2020 which the clinic in Pandan Mewah, Ampang, care centers, mobile medical clinics, caused the sudden loss of vision in one Malaysia. Sakinah says that she is indeed a vaccination program aimed at eye, thanked the mobile clinic team for delighted and thankful to all those who providing doses to 24,000 children, a providing the medical services that helped her receive the treatment that referral program for critical cases and made him feel much better. contributed to providing her another complicated deliveries, a health shelter Mohammad Zubair said the mobile chance to live and take care of her twin program for setting up five shelters, and clinic really helped me by providing daughters. raising health awareness in refugees. Gulf Times Thursday, February 25, 2021 7 QATAR

Ministry launches second phase of education survey The Schools Evaluation ascertain parents’ opinions can answer the survey questions based survey will take no more Department at the Ministry of on a range of topics related to by accessing the links sent than five minutes to complete, the Teachers, admin staff can Education and Higher Education public and private schools and via SMS to mobile numbers statement notes. (MoEHE)’s Evaluation Aff airs preschools, the MoEHE has said in registered on the Ministry’s The topics covered in the survey, Sector has launched the a statement on its website. database. as well as the outcomes, will Comprehensive Educational The survey is intended for After accessing the link, parents “serve as a mirror that reflects apply for transfers online Survey for the 2020-2021 all parents of students from will need to insert a one-time the community’s opinions about academic year. The survey is the preschool to the general password (OTP) to get forwarded the quality of education delivered being conducted annually to secondary stage. Respondents to the survey page. The online- across all schools countrywide”. eachers and administra- submitted applications will be plications, the following condi- tive staff can begin ap- made in June, the ministry has tions must be met: Tplying online to trans- said.  The applicant must be on fer from one school to another The transfer applications sub- the job (teaching/admin staff ). from March 1, the Ministry of mitted by teachers must be made  Newly appointed teachers/ Education and Higher Education for the same job title and the admin staff may not apply for (MoEHE) has said. same educational stage. Any ap- a transfer during the probation “To ensure the psychosocial plications made to the contrary period. stability of teachers and admin- will not be accepted. In addition,  The applicant must have istrative staff in public schools the administrative staff applica- passed the probation period suc- 33 public school and to promote appropriate tions sent to the administrative cessfully and spent three three hardworking climate that boosts committee’s e-mail (sar@edu. years in service (admin staff ). the educational process, the gov.qa) will no longer be accept-  Employees on maternity Ministry of Education and High- ed as soon as the online transfer leave, unpaid leave, compas- er Education is pleased to present system takes eff ect. All previous sionate leave, scholarship, study a general framework for fi lling job applications will be repealed. leave and/or patient escort leave/ vacancies and transfers of teach- The transfers of teachers and treatment abroad pursuant to a teachers receive ers and administrative staff for administrative staff will be im- decision of the Medical Com- the 2020-2021 academic year,” plemented according to the mittee may not apply for trans- the MoEHE said on its website. availability of vacancies in each fer before they return to duty. In In this context, the application respective school and as per the addition, the notice of returning for transfer will be made avail- organisational structure and ap- from such long leaves must be able for teachers and administra- plicable controls. Applicants valid for one semester (teaching/ tive staff on the ministry’s Public may repeal their applications admin staff ). robotics training Services Portal from March 1 to before the school principal ap-  Teachers/admin staff who 31. Paper-based applications as proves and submits it to the de- were previously transferred CNA-Q has been Education and Higher Educa- well as applications submitted partment concerned. (upon their request) may not re- tion for their trust in the College. after this deadline will be disre- For teachers and administra- apply for a transfer before at least off ering these free Robotics turned out to be the garded. Decisions on the duly- tive staff to submit a transfer ap- three years. training sessions perfect pedagogical tool teachers have been looking for to engage since 2011 students and build the leaders of tomorrow.” Virtual Education Forum to take place on April 3 ollege of the North At- Dr Stuart Jauncey, associate lantic – Qatar (CNA-Q), dean for the School of Business he organising committee of their relevance to the five Cin partnership with the Management and Information of the Virtual Education main axes of the forum, which Ministry of Education and High- Technology at CNA-Q, added: TForum 2021 announced focus on sustainable develop- er Education, recently distrib- “It is obvious that robotics and that it has agreed to accept 102 ment and linking educational uted completion certifi cates to 33 AI are playing a major role in our applications to participate in outcomes to the labour market, public school teachers who were world today. the activities and workshops of in addition to early education, given training in robotics. Working on a robot stimulates the forum scheduled for April community partnership and The hands-on 30-hour train- The hands-on 30-hour training course consisted of 10 classes, in students to build their strategic 3. the role of mentoring educa- ing course consisted of 10 class- which teachers applied mathematical and programming concepts to problem-solving and analytical The Assistant Director of tional and professional devel- es, in which teachers applied design and build programmable robots. reasoning. The training we are the Educational Guidance De- opment for teachers. mathematical and programming off ering teachers today will pro- partment at the Ministry of Training expert and member concepts to design and build Q has said in a statement. Since work, communication and in- vide our young citizens with a Education and Higher Educa- of the organising committee programmable robots. The Col- the start of the programme, more novation,” the statement notes. solid foundation to build the fu- tion, Dr Abdullah Ali al-Marri, for posts in English language lege has been off ering these free than 1,000 teachers have been Commenting on the programme, ture of Qatar.” said that the forum, which will Hoda al-Khater, indicated that training sessions since 2011. able to bring applied STEM edu- CNA-Q president Dr Salem al- The training for teachers that be held remotely, will include the forum focuses on diversify- They are provided in English and cation into their classrooms in a Naemi said: “At CNA-Q, we CNA-Q has been providing for participants from within Qatar ing the external participations Arabic during the evening. The fun and interactive way. “Fur- support technological evolution, many years “ensures that the and abroad, and it will include in order to enrich the prac- robotics training and its resultant ther, such education does not and we always work on acquiring education system in Qatar is both various modern training work- the screening team at the fo- tices of Qatari teachers in the delivery in the schools “is vital in only support students’ advance- the most advanced equipment current and capable of support- shops. rum’s organising committee educational field in a way that developing students’ interest in ment with their STEM skills, but that will prepare students for the ing the future needs of our pro- The Head of the Training Alia al-Basti, confirmed that will positively affect students STEM (Science, Technology, En- also develops other 21st century competitive workforce of tomor- gressive and innovative society”, and Capacity Development the acceptance of posts is de- and educational outcomes and gineering, Mathematics)” CNA- transferable skills such as team- row. We thank the Ministry of the statement adds. Department and the leader of termined based on the extent outputs. Gulf Times 8 Thursday, February 25, 2021 QATAR Sheikha Hind underlines Doha Bank reveals key role of marriage in 11th Al Dana Savings fostering social well-being Scheme winners

amilies need to spend rity within their home.” Sheikha oha Bank recently an- time with their children to Hind also told that parents must nounced the names of F“build their understand- “listen to what our children need Dthe winners of its 11th ing of where they come from” as they grow”, saying: “It’s criti- Al Dana draw that took place and start conversations with cal for us to nurture confi dent on January 26. A total of 37 them at a young age, HE Sheikha children, and for them to be con- customers claimed cash prizes Hind bint Hamad al-Thani, Vice fi dent, proud of the environment worth QR1.29mn. Chairperson and CEO of Qatar and the country they live in, the The special prize of QR1mn Foundation, has told an interna- language they speak, their reli- dedicated for celebrating Qa- tional conference on marriage. gion, and the family they come tar National Day was won by The second day of Qatar from. Y I al-Muhsin, while A Abdul Foundation member Doha Inter- “Only then can we nurture Nabi claimed the monthly prize national Family Institute’s (Difi ) confi dent individuals who will of QR100,000. The weekly four conference, Marriage: Forma- continue to grow, and have a love prizes of QR10,000 were won by tion and Constituents of Stabil- for learning.” R A al-Ghithani, J A Skaff , A H E ity, explored the theme of loneli- The session also heard from Hassan and M J Zainal. Further, ness, and what children need to Sumeyye Erdogan Bayraktar, 31 customers won QR5,000 un- feel they belong in a community. vice-president of the Women der daily prizes. The special prize of QR1mn dedicated for celebrating Qatar National At a panel discussion, Sheikha HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al-Thani with other panellists. and Democracy Association in Braik al-Marri, chief retail Day was won by Y I al-Muhsin. Hind emphasised the impor- Turkey, who explained: “Mar- banking offi cer, commented: tance of families raising children Sheikha Hind told the online marriage in combating loneli- riage is the exact opposite of “We are very delighted to an- prize, highest number of prizes over 40kg of gold and cash re- who are “confi dent” and able to audience, “I feel that, today, we ness, she said: “I think there is being alone, and marriage and nounce the names of the winners in millions and largest prize wards exceeding QR148mn. “express their emotions” – while are more and more connected to too much of a burden placed family are the most common an- of 11th Al Dana draw to demon- pool in Qatar with opportuni- Al Dana 2020 scheme’s fi nal also explaining why marriage, in the global world, but less so with on marriage to be a solution to tidote to loneliness. strate our appreciation and sup- ties to win as many as 457 cash draw of QR2.5mn is scheduled itself, is not a cure for loneliness family and friends in our imme- problems. “If we do not go into a “Ties to a spouse or children port for their continuous loyalty. prizes. Over the past 17 years in February. Doha Bank cus- and other social issues. diate community. marriage with confi dence, a true are seen as adding meaning to It is important for everyone to of Al Dana savings scheme, 72 tomers who hold a minimum “We have to spend time with “There is still a lot for us to recognition of what we want, life, and these ties are formed improve the habit of saving. The of Doha Bank’s customers have account balance of QR5,000 in our children in building an un- understand about why peo- and a commitment to what we through mutual obligations, re- saving allows you to enjoy greater achieved their dream of becom- their Al Dana Savings and Cur- derstanding of where they come ple feel lonely and how we can expect to have from that mar- sponsibilities, and caring. And security in your life.” ing a millionaire. More than rent accounts will be eligible for from,” she said. “The conversa- tackle these issues, but I believe riage – and if we do not align having an intimate confi dant Al Dana 2020 Scheme of- 4,360 Qataris and expatriates the draw. For more information, tions we have with our children it’s about meaningful relation- those expectations with our in whom you can trust is what fered the biggest individual have walked away with a total of visit www.dohabank.com.qa. are critical and need to start at a ships – not just the number of partner – the issues will evolve makes marriage critical. very young age. hours in a day that you spend and the challenges will continue. “However, not all marriages “They have to feel they are with people, but the relation- “It’s important that fam- are ideal. The ability to establish able to ask questions, and that ships you build with them by ily relationships are built in an healthy communication with we have the time to answer learning about their lives and, equal way where each individual a spouse and children is not an them. And they have to feel they in turn, sharing yours. The more is respected, and that includes easy thing, and when an individ- QC supplies winter aid belong to a community, which we are connected globally, the our children. We need to respect ual cannot realise their potential they can only do if they under- less meaningful relationships I that we bring our children up to within the family, and commu- stand how they are connected to feel we are building.” have a voice as well, and they nication is weak, that individual it, and who they are.” Speaking about the role of need to feel they have this secu- can start feeling lonely.” to Syrian and Palestinian refugees in Jordan Difi explores support systems to safeguard marriage atar Charity (QC) has launched the second utual respect, under- the family, such as technology, Qphase of the Qatar Re- standing, support, disability, and displacement. lief Convoys campaign in Jor- Mcommitment, trust, A trio of speakers, Mohamed dan, where it has distributed aff ection, and transparency are Mattar, clinical professor of law, food and winter aid to Syrian the ingredients for a happy mar- Qatar University; Hamad al- and Palestinian refugees and riage, said speakers during the Amari, comedian; and Khaled al- needy Jordanian families in second day of the Doha Interna- Mohannadi, psychologist, Daam several governorates. tional Family Institute Interna- Healthcare Behavioural Centre, The second phase of the tional Conference (Difi ). Qatar, explored the Experiences drive was launched in the pres- “To achieve marital happi- and Challenges of Cross-Border ence of the charge d’aff aires at ness, we need two aspects. One Marriages in another discussion the embassy of Qatar in Jordan, is pre-marriage – this is parents’ session moderated by Nada al- Participants in various panel discussions are shown above and below. Hamad al-Mahmoud, and as- approval, over choice of spouse, Saadi, life coach. sistant secretary-general of the and that the couple intending While in another plenary ses- Jordan Hashemite Charity Or- to marry get to know each oth- sion titled, Is Technology the ganisation (JHCO), Mohamed er. The other is post-marriage. Doom of Modern Marriage?, Nasser al-Kilani. Spouses must engage in a lot of Wee Min Lee, chairman, Focus The fi rst consignment of dialogue, have eff ective com- on the Family, Malaysia, advised aid, which is delivered in Jor- munication and tolerance. Ad- the audience to keep devices dan within the framework of ditionally, the couple ought to be away and “make it a point each the campaign, aims to meet aware of their rights and duties day to spend uninterrupted time the needs of more than 1,758 Pictures from the launch of the campaign’s second phase. within the marriage institution,” with your spouse.” refugee and Jordanian families, said family consultant, Sheikh “If we select our mobile de- with approximately 9,000 in- Ahmed al-Buainain, during vices, tablet, TV, computer over dividuals. The aid is distributed the fi rst plenary session titled, our loved ones, it can alienate af- via coupons for food packages, Foundations of a Happy Mar- fection, leaving our spouse feel- moderated by Akiko Ito, chief of timacy from our Islamic reli- health supplies, blankets and riage. ing unappreciated. Stretch over the United Nations Secretariat gion.” fuel, QC has said in a statement. The session’s speakers also months, it can lead to confl ict for the Convention on the Rights Complementing the advice The Qatar Relief Convoys included Dr Sharifa Khalfan al- and dissatisfaction and aff ect of Persons with Disabilities. and insight of the speakers, Difi drive comes from Qatar Char- Yahyai, former minister of social the relationship.” Ask the Expert, now a popular – a member of Qatar Founda- ity as part of its ‘Warmth and development, Oman; Rosa Pich, Moderated by Khalid al-Naa- component of the conference, tion – presented its research Peace’ campaign that aims to family coach and speaker, Spain; ma, family policy director, Difi , featured Dr Mostafa Aboussaad, report on perceptions and ex- meet the needs of 200,000 and Olivier Yao, world president, Raian Ali, professor, College of educational and social expert in periences of long-lasting mar- benefi ciaries in Jordan over International Federation Fam- Science and Engineering, Ha- Kuwait, who answered questions riage among youth in Qatar. It the course of the three-month ily Development, Ivory Coast. mad Bin Khalifa University; and about the challenges of a happy highlighted the importance of campaign to address the hu- The discussion was moderated Aisha Rosalie, vlogger, joined marriage. respect, love, responsibility, manitarian conditions result- by Raymond Mutura, director, Lee in the discussion. He said, “Arab families are and communication as essen- ing from the coronavirus crisis. Centre for Research on Organi- Takashi Izutsu, associate pro- characterised by stability, and tial factors for a successful and On this occasion, Qatar’s sations Work and Family and fessor, University of Tokyo, Glo- are nowhere near fragmented, enduring marriage. ambassador to Jordan Sheikh Chair Programme for Family De- bal Co-ordinator for the Unitar, violent, and neglectful. The Dr Azza O Abdelmoneium, Saud bin Nasser al-Thani velopment, Strathmore Univer- University of Tokyo Forum on Arab family does, however, director of research, Difi, said: thanked Qatar Charity, em- sity Business School, Kenya. Disability and the Sustain- face challenges, including re- “There are challenges in mar- phasising that Qatar seeks to The debate identifi ed the able Development Goals, Japan; luctance to marry and lack of riage such as financial prob- strengthen humanitarian co- challenges married couples from Moussa Charafeddine, presi- preparation to couples entering lems, interference from ex- operation with various bodies. all over the world face and high- dent, Friends of the Disabled As- into marriage. Challenges also tended families, competition, He also praised the eff orts of lighted how partners can over- sociation, Lebanon; and Mostafa include being addicted to social and jealousy. A preliminary the Jordanian government and come such challenges. Attia, disability and inclusion media, which in turn impacts recommendation from the JHCO for facilitating the work Titled, Marriage: Formation researcher and international marital stability. What the Arab study regarding finances is to of Qatar Charity in Jordan. and Constituents of Stability, consultant, led the discussion family is going through is the have shared responsibility be- Al-Kilani said they are con- the second day of the three-day in the fi nal plenary session of same as what families all over tween married couples, reduce tinuing to implement projects conference included three other the day titled, ‘Overcoming the the world are going through, the expenses, and have a longer for Jordanian families, as well sessions covering critical condi- Challenges of Disability and but we derive our notions of period of engagement for the as for Syrian and Palestinian tions that impact marriage and Marriage.’ The discussion was affection, compassion, and in- couples to know each other.” refugees, with the support of QC, noting the positive impact of this aid on the lives of the benefi ciaries. The aid delivered by Qatar Relief Convoys re- QRCS secures warm clothing for poor families in Kosovo fl ects the “bright philanthropic Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) has com- image of the people in Qatar pleted the Warm Winter 2021 project, benefit- and their love to do good, give, ing hundreds of poor families in Kosovo. and support those in need, es- Together with the Red Cross of Kosovo, pecially in light of the continu- winterisation clothing was distributed to poor ing cold winter when refugees families and children, amid an extremely cold are struggling to survive”. weather. The blankets distributed as A total of 684 warm clothing kits such as part of the drive were produced jackets and sweaters – which are much needed by the refugees, who received during these months – were distributed, includ- income-generating projects ing 384 for adults (women and men) and 300 from Qatar Charity in Jordan. for kids. The QR80,300 project reached out to This encourages them to earn a 684 vulnerable families in 12 municipalities of A total of 684 warm clothing kits, such as living and uplift their standards Kosovo. Special priority was given to widowed jackets and sweaters, were distributed. of living. women, orphaned children, and elderly people. The drive, which includes 200 refugees and displaced persons. needs. Donations can be made The recipients were very grateful for the help Agency of Statistics and the World Bank, 5.2% QRCS is implementing its Warm Winter cam- convoys, targets Syrian refugees QC has urged benefactors in through Qatar Charity’s collec- provided, which made their economic situation of the population live in extreme poverty. paign, which seeks to distribute winterisa- in Turkey, Jordan and Lebanon, Qatar to extend support to Qa- tion points, branches, website easier during the winter season. The overall unemployment rate is very high tion and food aid to ensure warmth, and to in addition to internally dis- tar Relief Convoys to maxim- and app, in addition to dialling Kosovo has one of the highest poverty rates at 30.5%. protect the dignity of 45,270 families, totalling placed persons within Syria, ise the number of benefi ciary 44667711 or requesting for a in Eastern Europe. According to the Kosovo Under the theme of Dignity is Priceless, 272,880 beneficiaries, in 15 countries. until March 10. It aims to deliver refugees, keeping them warm ‘home collector’ across the aid worth QR20mn to 120,000 and meeting their essential country. Gulf Times Thursday, February 25, 2021 9 QATAR

QIB awards over 200 Misk QNL president meets Uzbekistan’s deputy FM account holders with cash prizes in fourth edition

atar Islamic Bank (QIB) has awarded more than Q200 winners with cash prizes to date in the fourth edi- tion of its innovative Misk Sav- HE the Minister of State and ings Account Programme. President of Qatar National The Misk account is part of Library (QNL) Dr Hamad bin the bank’s ongoing eff orts to Abdulaziz al-Kawari, met promote positive fi nancial hab- yesterday with the visiting its and to encourage individuals Deputy Minister of Foreign to save money. Aff airs of Uzbekistan, Furkat The latest edition started in Sidikov. During the meeting, they November 2020 and will run for reviewed means of co-operation 52 weeks until end of October between QNL and the cultural 2021, where QIB has increased institutions in Uzbekistan. The both the total number of win- Uzbek minister visited QNL and ners to 805 and total prizes to balance in their Misk account. mobile App, rated 4.7+ on Play learnt about its activities, and QR10mn, due to the increasing All Qatari citizens and resi- Store and App Store, has under- its most important knowledge popularity of Misk accounts. dents are eligible to open an in- gone an immense transformation treasures. Weekly winners, who are re- novative Misk savings account over the years to keep up with the warded QR10,000 each, has been for themselves or their children. hyper-connectivity and online increased to 15 winners each week, Customers must maintain a requirements of the customer. and every month, two lucky win- minimum monthly balance of Regular updates to the App ners will receive QR50,000 each. QR10,000 to be eligible for the make it easier than ever for cus- The grand prize draw for QR1mn weekly and monthly draws. tomers to conveniently enjoy a will take place in November 2021. To qualify for the grand prize contact-free banking experience Qatar, Uzbekistan ‘enjoy strong ties, bright future’ Misk has witnessed three previ- draw, the customer must open by banking remotely using QIB’s ous successful editions, awarding the account three months prior mobile App or Internet banking a total of 890 loyal QIB custom- to the draw and maintain a mini- with over 100 features, available QNA independence, explaining that bilateral relations. World Cup early this year, ex- ers, where three winners receiving mum of QR10,000 for each of 24/7, that serve the customers’ Doha the two countries are co-ordi- He said during his meet- pressing his confi dence that QR1mn each. those months. Every additional daily banking needs. nating and conducting a good ings with Qatar Chamber (QC), Qatar will also organise a suc- Existing and new QIB cus- QR10,000 added to the savings QIB mobile App is available on political dialogue. that he saw a great opportunity cessful World Cup next year in tomers interested in opening account earns the customer one Apple, Google Play stores, and he Deputy Minister of For- He indicated that during his to develop trade relations be- light of the great preparations it a Misk account can do so from more chance in the draw. Huawei AppGallery. Custom- eign Aff airs of Uzbekistan, current visit to Doha, he had tween Qatar and Uzbekistan, has made. anywhere, at any time, simply Customers interested in open- ers can easily self-register us- TFurkat Sidikov, praised held bilateral talks with Qatari as the export of foodstuff s from He also stated that he will by using the award-winning QIB ing a Misk account can download ing their active ATM/debit card the strong relations between his offi cials, expressing his pleas- Uzbekistan to Qatar was dis- visit the Museum of Islamic mobile App. The Misk account the QIB mobile App and through number and PIN. country and Qatar, saying that ure for the good organisation cussed, as well as the invest- Art apart from Qatar National is an innovative savings account the use of digital identifi cation The QIB mobile App offers the culture and the religion of and good preparation for these ment opportunities available in Library to explore opportuni- that encourages savings by re- technology, scan the required customers the ability to have a Islam are among the matters that meetings. He added, in a related Uzbekistan for Qatari business- ties for co-operation in the cul- warding positive fi nancial habits documents, including Qatari ID full control on their accounts, link Doha and Tashkent. context, that he would like at men in the fi elds of renewable tural fi eld between Qatar and and off ering cash prizes. They and passport in the case of expa- cards, and transactions, and to In an exclusive statement this stage to develop co-opera- energy and tourism. Uzbekistan, adding that he will can subsequently start by using triates, take a selfi e and fi ll in a few fulfil all their banking require- to Qatar News Agency (QNA), tive relations with Qatar in the The Deputy Minister of For- discuss with the Uzbek ambas- the App to manage all their day- remaining personal data. ments remotely through over Sidikov noted that Uzbekistan fi elds of trade and investment, eign Aff airs of Uzbekistan con- sador in Doha about the possi- to-day banking needs, remotely, To facilitate a seamless expe- 100 features and innovative has established very strong as trade relations currently do gratulated Qatar on its success bility of holding an exhibition having access to more than 100 rience, QIB has also introduced services. In addition, QIB cus- relations with Qatar after its not refl ect the strength of the in organising the FIFA Club on Uzbekistan in Qatar. features and services. a ‘live chat’ feature that allows tomers can apply for personal Upon opening the account, customers to directly get in touch financing, a credit card, or open customers will receive a free with a QIB customer service rep- additional accounts in minutes debit card, e-statement service, resentative if they have any que- via the QIB mobile App. For and can request a free credit card ries or need further support at any more details, visit www.qib. Qatar Civil Aviation for the fi rst year backed by the time during the process. The QIB com.qa/en-miskaccount Authority president meets Uruguay official

HE the President of Qatar Civil Aviation Authority, Abdullah bin Nasser Turki al-Subaey, met yesterday with the visiting Focus on hearing General Director of the National Civil Aviation and Aviation Infrastructure Directorate of Uruguay Brigadier General Gaetano Battagliese Palladino. During the meeting, they reviewed ways to enhance co-operation between the two loss prevention countries in air transport. at HMC event ABA Holding’s iSpot opens new Apple  More than 28,000 childbirth, including maternal patients screened for rubella, syphilis or certain other infections during pregnancy.” authorised service centre at Villaggio hearing loss yearly According to him, in Qatar while 7,209 and 303 more than 28,000 patients are screened for hearing loss yearly li Bin Ali (ABA) Holding has opened the second iSpot Service patients have been while a total of 7,209 and 303 Centre in Qatar at Villaggio mall. fitted with hearing patients have been fi tted with A The Apple authorised service provider opened its doors hearing aids and cochlear im- to the public on February 19. Strategically located right opposite aids and cochlear plants, respectively. Carrefour hypermarket, the new iSpot Service Centre off ers Mac’s implants, respectively Acquired causes which may signature service and warranty repairs on all product categories by lead to hearing loss at any age, a trained team of Apple-certifi ed technicians, as well as the entire auses of hearing loss and according to him include in- suite of Apple products, ABA Holding has said in a statement. deafness, prevention, fectious diseases such as men- “With a welcoming environment, friendly staff and comfort- Cscreening and diagno- ingitis, measles and mumps; able waiting area for customers, the iSpot Service Centre provides sis, and management are the chronic ear infections; collec- services such as full health checkup for all Apple products, iPhone highlights of a series of events Dr Khalid Abdul Hadi tion of fl uid in the ear; and use battery replacement, iPhone display replacement, AirPods sound marking World Hearing Day, of certain medicines, such as quality test, MacBook repairs, iMac repairs, software update, refor- organised this week by Hamad eases across the life course. those used in the treatment of matting and installing a new system,” the statement noted. Medical Corporation’s (HMC) The World Health Organisa- neonatal infections, malaria, To celebrate the launch of the new store, iSpot has announced a Audiology and Balance Depart- tion (WHO) says hearing loss drug-resistant tuberculosis, full week of free complete health checkup for all Apple products, ment under the theme ‘Hearing may result from genetic causes, and cancers. from tomorrow until March 4. The new iSpot Service Centre. care for All! Screen. Rehabilitate. complications at birth, certain “In addition, other acquired Mohamed Imran, general manager of Prime Distribution and Communicate’. infectious diseases, chronic ear causes can be injury to the head Trading Company – a subsidiary of ABA Holding – said: “We are nicians are Apple-certifi ed and look forward to serving all Apple Activities marking the day in- infections, the use of particu- or ear; excessive noise, including excited to open our new Service Centre and serve the people of product users.” The iSpot store timings are from 9am until 10pm cluded a virtual World Hearing lar drugs, exposure to excessive occupational noise such as that Qatar better. At iSpot, all the repairs are done 100% as per Apple from Sunday to Wednesday, and from 9am until 11pm on Thursday, Day seminar attended by around noise, and ageing. from machinery and explosions; standards and we aim for 100% customer satisfaction. Our all tech- Friday and Saturday. 300 participants and awareness According to the WHO’s sta- recreational exposure to loud campaigns organised across Ha- tistics, around 466mn people sounds such as that from use of mad General Hospital, Al Wakra worldwide have disabling hear- personal audio devices at high Hospital, Al Khor Hospital, Wom- ing loss and 34mn of these are volumes and for prolonged pe- en’s Wellness and Research Center children. It is estimated that by riods of time and regular attend- and Ambulatory Care Center. 2050 over 900mn people will ance at concerts, nightclubs, Madaeen Al Doha Group in deal with MTD The World Hearing Day, have disabling hearing loss. bars and sporting events; ageing, which falls on every March 3, “The causes of hearing loss in particular due to degeneration raises awareness of hearing loss and deafness can be congenital of sensory cells; and wax or for- Madaeen Al Doha Group, a leading of MTD Group said, “We are very and the importance of early or acquired,” noted audio-ves- eign bodies blocking the ear ca- business group engaged in the happy that Konstantin Peunov, diagnosis to prevent compli- tibular medicine consultant and nal,” he said. sectors of contracting, services, operations director Middle East, cations as well as support for head of Audiology and Balance He said hearing loss and relat- sports, media, food and beverage, and Janco Berkens, operations people living with hearing loss. Department, Dr Khalid Abdul ed ear diseases can be addressed entertainment and technology, manager Qatar, have taken on the This year’s event coincides Hadi. He explained, “Hearing when it is identifi ed in a timely has signed an agreement with the responsibility to grow the MTD with the launch of the World loss can be caused by heredi- manner and appropriate care is Netherlands-based MTD group, to business in Qatar. Our objective is Report on Hearing, presenting tary and non-hereditary genetic sought. “People at risk of hear- set up a joint venture company, Kassem Ajineh Polanco Hans Verhoeven local sourcing for the majority of a global call for action to ad- factors or by certain compli- ing loss should check their hear- MTD Middle East Central Trading our products and services and to dress hearing loss and ear dis- cations during pregnancy and ing regularly.” & Contracting LLC. region and also very optimistic has worked regularly in Qatar, in- also hire new local talent for our MTD is a global company which about the support that a unique cluding the recent FIFA Club World off ice. We want to provide the right provides onsite safe drinking company like MTD can bring to Cup 2020. Now, it was time for us training which will enable them water and wastewater treat- Qatar and the region. Our country to take the next step, to set up our to install and service temporary ment solutions for customers will continue to host international own MTD Company with an off ice water infrastructure and water Ministry recalls Jeep Wrangler, GMC Sierra models at events, expo and industry sporting events in the coming and depot to support our growing treatment units eff iciently.” The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI), in 2020 over the possibility of the tonneau cover not markets. The agreement was years and MTD will continue to international customer portfolio. Kassem Ajineh Polanco, general co-operation with United Cars Almana, has recalled being installed properly, which could lead to its signed by Madaeen Al Doha support us to deliver unforgettable We are expecting a sustainable manager of the Madaeen Al Doha Jeep Wrangler models of 2019-2020 over the pos- detachment, thus increasing the risk of an accident. Group chairman, Sheikh Faisal experiences. In addition, sectors growth for our joint venture MTD Group said: “We are proud that sibility that the electronic steering lock (ESL) wires The recall campaign comes within the frame- bin Jassim al-Thani and MTD like the oil and gas and public MEC T&C LLC, not only in view of MTD has chosen our group for may come into contact with the steering column work of the MoCI’s continuous eff orts to protect Group managing director, Hans services can really benefit from the upcoming events like the FIFA the joint venture. We will off er all during rotation, which may lead to wires’ being consumers and ensure that dealers follow up on Verhoeven, in Doha, recently. this unique water solution.” Arab Cup and FIFA World Cup but our support to the local MTD team damaged or corroding over time. vehicle defects and repairs. The MoCI said that it Sheikh Faisal bin Jassim al-Thani, Verhoeven recalled: “For MTD, this also with businesses in other sec- with our extensive network and The MoCI, in co-operation with Mannai Trading will co-ordinate with the dealers to follow up on the said: “We are very honoured to is our first company in the Middle tors like public services, temporary contacts in Qatar and bring added Company, also recalled GMC Sierra models of 2019- maintenance and repair works. be the first joint venture partner East after our first project for the housing and off shore.” Richard value to a successful joint venture of MTD in the Middle East Asian Games in Doha, 2006. MTD van Klinken, operations director in the coming years.” Gulf Times 10 Thursday, February 25, 2021 QATAR Qatar takes part in meet on global aid to Palestinians HE Ali Khalfan al-Mansouri QNA thus exacerbating the dire con- tar stands to support its broth- Doha ditions caused by the pandemic. ers in Palestine and said Qatar She said such actions, without a will spare no eff ort in working doubt, are a fl agrant violation of to alleviate the hardships faced atar yesterday partici- the charters and principles of in- by the Palestinian people, as ICC decision pated through video con- ternational law, and constitute a the aid provided focused on ur- Qference in the ministerial serious crime against humanity. gent needs, in addition to long- meeting of the Ad Hoc Liaison She said Qatar underscores term development projects that Committee to co-ordinate inter- that the Palestinian people, like amounted to more than $1.5bn on jurisdiction national assistance to the Pales- all peoples, have the basic right during the past eight years. tinian people. to life and health, and that the She affi rmed Qatar’s commit- Qatar was represented in the repressive actions taken by Israel ment to close co-operation with meeting by HE the Assistant For- hinder the eff orts of negotiations international agencies, as Doha over Palestinian eign Minister and Spokesperson and dialogue. contributed to the support of the for the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs She stressed that the world UNRWA with more than $106mn Lolwah bint Rashid AlKhater. must not remain silent in the from 2014-2020. HE AlKhater said in her speech face of the injustice committed She pointed out that as part territories lauded at the meeting that the interna- HE Lolwah bint Rashid AlKhater against the Palestinian people of the state’s efforts that focus tional community stands today and the continued deteriora- on helping lift the burden of as a silent witness to the plight whelming impact of the outbreak provide medical assistance to tion of the social, economic and the pandemic off Palestinian QNA against the Palestinian people of the Palestinian people while Covid-19 pandemic among the the Palestinian territories, and health conditions in Palestine, brothers, Qatar has provided Doha including killing of civilians and the Israeli occupation and the Palestinian people. The pan- pointed out the continuation of which are likely to reach cata- $150mn in urgent aid to the Pal- children, and imposing the un- siege of the Gaza Strip and Israeli demic has aff ected nearly half the the repressive measures of the strophic levels, leading to a hu- estinian health sector, includ- just siege and repeated aggres- settlement activity in occupied Palestinian population who need Israeli authorities and the pre- manitarian disaster that the glo- ing $1mn to combat the out- atar welcomed the deci- sion on the Gaza Strip. Jerusalem and the West Bank humanitarian aid, she said. vention of shipments of vital bal community will not bear and break of the Covid-19 pandemic sion of the International He added that the interna- continue without any signs of She praised the eff orts of in- vaccines from reaching the oc- will not be prepared to endure. and to provide medical supplies QCriminal Court (ICC) on tional community has repeatedly retreat, even in light of the over- ternational partners in trying to cupied Palestinian territories, HE AlKhater affi rmed that Qa- and equipment. the inclusion of the occupied emphasised that the Israeli set- Palestinian territories with its tlements, the forced displace- jurisdiction. This paves the way ment of Palestinians, the de- Jordan-Qatar bilateral relations hailed for an investigation into interna- struction of their homes and tional crimes committed against the confi scation of their lands Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minis- national event in the region. Palestinians, and is a message to constitute a fl agrant violation of Expert refl ects on Islamic, UN ter and Minister of Foreign Af- He stressed his country was the perpetrators of these crimes the relevant international laws fairs and Expatriate Aff airs, Dr ready to provide all support. that their actions will not be and conventions, especially the Ayman Safadi, said relations Jordanian-Gulf relations are well subject to statute of limitations, Fourth Geneva Convention, between Qatar and his coun- established in various fields, he and provides hope to the victims and are considered a war crime approach to confl ict resolution try are excellent and there are said reiterating Jordan’s wel- in achieving justice and fairness, under the 1998 Rome Statute. broad areas for co-operation come of the Gulf reconciliation, Qatar said. He stressed that the absence of and continuous co-ordination which contributes to taking joint Qatar’s reaction came in a accountability and independ- recent guest lecture related to global peace and se- on regional issues. Arab positions towards challeng- statement delivered yesterday ent and impartial investigations hosted by the College of curity today, and the role of the In a press statement, Safadi es facing the Arab region. by HE Permanent Representative encouraged the Israeli military AIslamic Studies (CIS) at dialogue process concerning confirmed that his recent visit Safadi highlighted Jordan’s of Qatar in Geneva Ambassador and political leaders to continue Hamad Bin Khalifa University deep-rooted confl ict dynamics. to Qatar was fruitful, stressing support for international eff orts Ali Khalfan al-Mansouri, at the committing more systematic (HBKU) provided an opportunity Dr Mustafa Osman Elamin, the the need to build on the direc- towards global disarmament, Human Rights Council during and gross violations, and to con- to compare confl ict resolution in host of the lecture and faculty tives and visions of His High- namely nuclear weapons and the interactive dialogue on the tinue committing serious crimes Islam with the approach taken by member at CIS, brings with him ness the Amir Sheikh Tamim weapons of destruction. report of the UN High Commis- against the Palestinian people. the United Nations (UN) and its extensive experience as former bin Hamad al-Thani and King In a pre-recorded speech to sioner for Human Rights on en- Al-Mansouri called on the in- bodies. foreign minister and minister of Abdullah II bin Al Hussein of the Conference on Disar- suring accountability and justice ternational community to take As an expert on confl ict reso- investment of Sudan. Dr Elamin Jordan, to develop relations mament held in Geneva in all violations of international all necessary measures to end lution and dialogue for peace, said, “Non-violent resolution of between the two countries. yesterday, Safadi said Jordan law in the Occupied Palestin- the Israeli occupation of the oc- Dr Mohamed Abu-Nimer, pro- internal confl icts remains a key The visit constituted an op- supports eff orts aimed at ian Territory, including East Al cupied Arab lands, protect the fessor at the School of Interna- challenge for the international portunity to review all aspects achieving tangible results for Quds, under the second item on Palestinian people, ensure the tional Service, and director of community. As such, the event of co-operation, he said. the conference’s common the council’s agenda. restoration of all their legitimate the Peacebuilding and Develop- models in Muslim communities. has been a welcome opportunity Safadi pointed out that Qatar is goal of disarmament of nu- Al-Mansouri said that they rights, and ensure the establish- ment Institute at the American He has conducted inter-religious for our students in the Islam and on the verge of organising the clear weapons and weapons have reviewed the report of ment of an independent and via- University, Washington, DC, ad- confl ict resolution training in Global Aff airs programme to be FIFA World Cup 2022, a major of mass destruction, Jordan the High Commissioner, and ble state of Palestine on the basis dressed graduate students during confl ict areas around the world part of a critical intellectual de- and unprecedented inter- News Agency (Petra) reported. strongly condemn Israel’s con- of the 1967 borders, with Al Quds a class on ‘Islam, Confl ict Trans- and is the co-founder and co- bate that puts Islam in a global tinuing violations and crimes as its capital. formation and Peacebuilding’. editor of the Journal of Peace- context, and that has helped us The core course is part of the building and Development. all to understand its role in the two-year MA in Islam and Global His lecture framed a discus- frontlines of confl ict resolu- Aff airs (IGA) programme at CIS. sion on how religion has to be tion. Our appreciation goes to Dr Dr Abu-Nimer shared a broad considered as part of the dy- Abu-Nimer for expanding on his perspective during his talk. Much namic shaping confl ict and experiences and off ering his per- of his work has focused on the Is- peace, even in non-religious spective to enhance the learning Qatar University approves raeli-Palestinian confl ict and the confl icts. During the exchange, of our future leaders and peace- application of confl ict resolution students were exposed to trends makers.” pharmacy curriculum recast

atar University Board of demic development.” Regents has approved QU-CPH associate dean, Qrestructuring of the Academic Aff airs Dr Maguy El pharmacy curriculum to align Hajj commented, “It is a huge with the latest developments in accomplishment in pharmacy pharmacy education globally education and practice in Qatar, and in North America, Europe and the region. The new curric- and New Zealand. ulum aligns very well with QU Qatar University College of vision, mission and strategic Pharmacy (QU-CPH) has set goals. It will defi nitely promote out to introduce curricular re- a greater approach for patient form and upgrade the level of centred care in Qatar and will curricular integration into the enrich the students experience Bachelor of Science in Phar- and achievement of the phar- macy (BSc Pharm) programme. macy programme outcomes.” In addition, the Board of “No doubt that the Regents approved the re- restructuring of CPH BSc launch and restructuring of the Modular Curriculum as qualifying courses within the well as the relaunch and part-time Doctor of Pharmacy restructuring of the part (PharmD) programme. time PharmD Programme The part-time PharmD pro- will open new gates, gramme targets practising phar- chances and doors of macists with a Bachelor of Sci- learning to our respected ence in Pharmacy degree who students” are interested in pursuing an advanced degree in clinical phar- The BSc Pharm programme macy. The newly-restructured currently consists of 173 credit qualifying courses were reduced hours and five years of study. from 11 courses (23 credits) to With the new approved mod- eight courses (20 credits) and ular curriculum, students will will integrate a blended learning complete 165 credit hours in approach with online and face- fi ve years of study, with a pro- to-face sessions that will provide gramme that provides graduat- fl exibility to complete the courses ing students a better approach over one-to-two-year period to patient-centred care, en- prior to entering the PharmD pro- riches the student experience, gramme. The part-time PharmD optimises integration between programme will commence in courses and updates the overall QU students working in lab. August 2022 and begin accepting assessment plan. applications in Fall 2021. The number of experiential having them a separate courses Modular Curriculum as well as “The restructuring is aligned hours completed by the stu- to avoid repetition and redun- the relaunch and restructuring with Qatar University’s strate- dents remains the same. dancies within the programme. of the part time PharmD Pro- gic goals and the mission of the A series of eight (four cred- International experts were gramme will open new gates, College of Pharmacy to advance its) modular systems-based invited to share their experi- chances and doors of learn- the pharmacy profession while courses will be part of the new ence in integrated and modular ing to our respected students. improving the quality of health curriculum. These modules design and then the proposed This is a huge achievement provided to the Qatari society. cover different diseases and changes in the curriculum were and milestone for the College With the restructuring of the medications management in- shared with three international of Pharmacy. This reflects our qualifying courses, pharmacists cluding cardiology, oncology, consultants for review and commitment to our mission to will benefi t as the learning will respiratory, infectious diseas- feedback. The current curricu- always prepare our students to be tailored to their individual SOP for people arriving in India from Qatar es, endocrinology, and others. lum will be phased out gradu- provide optimal pharmaceuti- needs and foster independent, These courses will inte- ally and the new curriculum cal care and advance healthcare self-study to allow fl exibility to he Indian embassy in Doha has issued a fl owchart explaining the Standard Operating Procedure grate at high level the diff erent will start from September 2021. outcomes. Moreover, we are pursue an advanced degree while (SOP) for arrivals to India from Qatar. This comes after India made Covid-19 molecular tests man- disciplines including patho- QU-CPH dean Dr Moham- always proud to align with QU continuing to practice as a phar- Tdatory for people arriving from or transiting through fl ights originating in the Middle East, UK or physiology, pharmacology and ed Diab said, “No doubt that strategy of excellence, valuable macist,” Doctor of Pharmacy di- Europe. The entire process is explained in the fl owchart, posted by the embassy on social media yesterday. pharmacotherapy rather than the restructuring of CPH BSc initiatives and interest in aca- rector, Dr Bridget Javed added. Gulf Times Thursday, February 25, 2021 11 QATAR

Jelaiah Intersection Another view of Jelaiah Intersection. A view of the Environment Intersection. Ashghal completes upgrade of Environment and Jelaiah Intersections on Al Khafj i Street

he Public Works Author- especially after the recent open- ity (Ashghal) yesterday ings on the Sabah Al Ahmad Tannounced the comple- Corridor and particularly on tion of upgrading works on the Umm Lekhba Interchange. Environment Intersection on “The recently opened inter- Environment Street and Jelaiah sections will provide accesses to Intersection on Jassim bin Ha- service facilities in the area, and mad Street and opened them to they directly link to the highly- traffi c. frequented Al Khafj i Street as The upgrades are part of the well as Jassim bin Hamad Street Road Improvement Works for and Environment Street which asphalt and interlock where the Hamad Street serving the petrol Roads, Junctions and Rounda- connect to several important ar- local Qatari component used on station, in addition to a new lane bouts in Greater Doha, Phase 9. eas such as the Diplomatic Area the project has reached 100%,” to accommodate traffi c on Jas- Ali Sami Jamal, project en- in Jelaiah Area in addition to Engineer Ali Sami Jamal the Ashghal offi cial noted. sim bin Hamad Street heading gineer in Doha Section in the residential areas such as North Further to upgrading the two right towards Al Khafj i Street. Roads Projects Department at and South Al Duhail, and Umm manufacturers were relied on for intersections, the project’s scope Landscaping and beautifi cation Ashghal, said the developments Lekhba,” he said. the project’s work. “Materials of works included a total 1.8km works were also implemented help regulate the traffi c move- In line with Ashghal’s Ta’heel and elements supplied from local of road works, the construction alongside the intersections as Another view of the Environment Intersection. ment and increase traffi c safety, initiative, local materials and manufacturers included gabbro, of a new access on Jassim bin well as Al Khafj i Street. Qatar attends conference to review Qatar takes part in 113th session of Global Compact for Safe Migration Permanent Council of Francophonie QNA sure fair provision of the vaccine against Covid-19. QNA Doha The meeting also discussed internal administra- Doha tive and fi nancial issues. The CPF adopted regula- tions for the relationship between the International atar participated in the 113th extraordi- Organisation of La Francophonie and international atar yesterday partici- nary Session of the Permanent Council of organisations and non-governmental organisations. pated in the regional Qthe Francophonie (CPF), which was held in The representatives of the member states also Qconference to review Paris via videoconference and chaired by the Sec- agreed to appoint Geoff roi Montpetit as the new the Global Compact for Safe retary-General of the International Organisation of administrator of the organisation, and adopted the Migration, which was held via La Francophonie, Louise Mushikiwabo. decision to carry forward the surplus funds for the video conference. Qatar was represented at the session by its am- year 2020 to fi scal year 2021. Qatar’s delegation to the bassador to France and Qatar’s representative to Sheikh Ali’s participation in the 113th extraordinary conference was headed by HE the International Organisation of La Francophonie, session of the Permanent Council of the Francopho- the Director of International Sheikh Ali bin Jassim al-Thani. nie affi rms Qatar’s keenness to participate in the vari- Organisations Department at The meeting was an opportunity to discuss ways ous meetings held by the organisation at all levels, in the Ministry of Foreign Aff airs, to enhance co-operation and co-ordination in the compliance with the values of the Francophonie, as Youssef Sultan Larem, with the Francophone space, especially through initiatives Qatar looks forward to participating in the next Fran- participation of representatives that the organisation is promoting in order to en- cophone summit in Tunisia next November. from the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Adminis- trative Development, Labour and Social Aff airs. the Global Compact for Safe, the international level. a review of the national experi- At the conference, the Di- Orderly and Regular Migra- He pointed out that Qatar ence and promising practices in rector of the International Or- tion into effect on the ground, initiated the formation of a na- this fi eld. ganisations Department at the in the context of its keeping tional taskforce with the aim of He reiterated Qatar’s com- Ministry of Foreign Aff airs gave pace with international and keeping pace with international mitment to continue its eff orts a presentation on the national regional interest in the issue eff orts in achieving the com- to achieve the goals stipulated report of Qatar on the progress of migration, and in light of mitments and goals stipulated in the Global Compact for Safe, made in implementing the Glo- the national constants based in the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migra- bal Compact for Safe, Orderly on respect for human rights Orderly and Regular Migration tion, and to implement them and Regular Migration. and support for the rule of law (which has a total of 23 goals). A eff ectively on the ground, in He affirmed Qatar’s keen- and openness regionally and report was prepared on the fol- line with international human ness to put the commitments internationally to achieve sus- low-up of the implementation rights law and the sustainable and guidelines contained in tainable development goals at of those goals in Qatar as well as development goals.

Katara to hold Arab Conference More rains forecast for today for Publishing in Braille Method

Katara – The Culture Village Foundation will organise the first Arab Conference for Publishing in Braille Method on December 2-3, this year. This is part of an initiative launched by Katara general manager Prof Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti to print 100 Braille books during 2021 in children and young adults literature. He said the considerable success of this initiative has inspired Katara to organise the first Arab conference in the field as part of the social responsibility of Katara towards Qatar and the Arab world. Prof al-Sulaiti explained that the outcome of this initiative would further help in easing the integration of those with visual impairment into the More rain is expected in the country today with the Qatar Met department warning of thunderstorms and strong winds during the daytime. Thundery rain and strong winds, along with high seas, society. are also expected in off shore areas today. The wind speed may go up to 30 knots off shore and 28 knots inshore today, with the sea level rising to 10ft. The detailed weather forecast states moderate It would also help the off icial temperature is likely during the daytime along with partly cloudy conditions. There is a chance of scattered rain, which may be thundery at times, and it will be relatively cold by night. It will be cloudy in entities in supporting persons off shore areas too and there is a possibility of scattered rain at times, which may become thundery, followed by partly cloudy conditions later. The temperature in Doha is expected to range from 19-24C with special needs to enhance today. On Tuesday, the Met department had said the country is expected to see rain until Thursday night, with strong winds and a significant drop in temperature also forecast in the coming days. Doha their intellectual capabilities and other parts of the country received rain yesterday, which turned thundery in some places at times. Strong winds and hail were also reported at some places, according to information on the Met continue with their educational department’s Twitter page. PICTURES: Thajudheen and Shaji Kayamkulam progress. Gulf Times 12 Thursday, February 25, 2021 HOL STIC

Wellbeing The real deal about nut milk

Can reframing pain this alternative is crucial to ve- gans and maintain their diet sus- tainably. make it go away? Nut milks don’t have the same amount of protein as traditional milk, but they have less calo- By Margee Kerr and Linda ish Psychological Society blog, ries and sometimes even higher Rodriguez Christopher Eccleston, director amounts of calcium, Vitamin D The Guardian of the Centre for Pain Research and Vitamin E. The special thing at the University of Bath, wrote: about nut milks though is that ‘The 21st-century world we live you usually get some fi bre while e’ve all got a story in can be characterised as an ‘an- there is no fi bre in regular milk. Al- about pain. Maybe it’s algesic culture’, one in which we though there are so many benefi ts Wthat time you broke work to avoid pain and distress. By Reem Abdulrahman Jassim of drinking nut milks compared to your arm skating, or the time you When the avoidance of pain fails al-Muftah regular dairy milk there are several fi nished the game on a twisted our fi rst thoughts are that any drawbacks as well. In terms of sus- ankle, or the 10 hours of labour pain should be short-lived, di- tainability and being eco-friendly without an epidural. Maybe agnostically relevant, treatable o you now opt for nut milk it takes around 3 gallons of water your story of pain is a story of and a cause for empathy, sympa- rather than regular milk? to produce only one almond milk, violence, the injury and trauma thy or social assistance.” When DNut milks are getting meaning it takes around 300 galls of an assault. Maybe it’s a story we experience pain that doesn’t more and more popular by the of water to make 100 almonds or of terror. Or it’s heartbreak, the meet that criteria, that pain hurts day and it seems like every-day a around 1 litre of almond milk. Now seemingly endless depths of grief more; the fl aw in our relationship new milk type pops up! So, what imagine the amount of almond and despair after a loss. Whatev- with pain is based on our expec- do you think? Are you a supporter milk bottles we see on all those er it is, (almost) all of us have ex- tation that we shouldn’t have to of reducing your dairy intake and aisles and how much water goes perienced what we call pain and suff er it. improving your diet with more of into producing all of that! An- we’re not in a hurry to experience In the 1980s, Harvard psy- other benefi cial nutrients? The other reason to possibly defer from it again. chiatrist Arthur Barsky warned only problem with nut milks is drinking nut milks is that they But have you ever tried to de- that America was becoming a that you need to educate yourself sometimes contain ingredients fi ne that pain? When you’re tell- nation more sensitive to pain and in regards to the nutritional in- such as guar gum, sweeteners and ing the story, how do you explain off ered some convincing data to formation as a certain type might preservatives that are unnecessary. the pain? Do you try to quantify back up his claim. He noted that not be the best for you. You can Also, price tags run high for this the injury – how many broken where community surveys from easily look up each type’s nutri- great alternative (even if you make bones, the size of the bruise, the 1920s found respondents tional information and make an it at home) compared to the lower the amount of blood? Or do you had 0.82 episodes of serious ill- educated decision when choos- prices of traditional milk. describe the cause – the type of ness a year, by the 1980s this had ing the best nut milk(s) for you All in all, according to some cancerous cells, the crowning increased to 2.12 episodes. Even and gauging what your intake studies, the top three nut milks baby, the sharp knife? But what after accounting for increases in should be. Let’s get into the de- in terms of nutrition are almond, if there was no obvious cause? awareness and life expectancy, tails of why you would choose cashew and macadamia. My per- And how do you communicate the diff erences were signifi cant. to go the nut milk route as well sonal top three are macadamia, the intensity? Is it a searing or Americans were objectively as reasons why you should think walnut and coconut. In conclu- scalding burn, a throbbing or dull healthier, yet they said they felt about it if you haven’t already. sion, I suggest looking and com- pressure, a pounding or stabbing worse. His argument – and he Lactose intolerance is a big paring the nutritional facts of all headache? Is it worse than a bee was not the fi rst or last to make problem for many people and nut the nut milks that are available sting, but not as bad as a dog it – was that our tolerance for milks are the solution as they can to you and to only then decide to bite? discomfort decreased as our ex- substitute these options in their continue which you use or decide When we say “pain”, we tend pectation to be comfortable in- foods for milk such as lattes, to start because you may be re- not to be specifi c, other than creased. creamy chicken soup or lasagna, ally shocked when you look at the to say where it hurts (and even In our defence, this wasn’t an baking and sauces. Others suff er facts, especially at what oat milk “where” can be hard to pinpoint). entirely unreasonable expecta- from casein intolerance which is fi nding it out. Those who have sugar component. Now accord- ready have one, therefore, it is re- has to off er. Happy reading! We say a root canal is painful, as tion – after all, during the 20th also a growing problem as more an intolerance to casein have an ing to food intolerances there is ally important to check yourself is a cut fi nger, as is chemotherapy, century, we developed treat- and more people are getting issue with the protein found in a high possibility that you have for these types of intolerances by  The author is a wellness advo- as is arthritis, as is muscle ache, as ments and vaccines for many tested for food intolerances and cow products while lactose is the other food intolerances if you al- getting a food print test. Having cate and infl uencer @keys2balance. is eating hot peppers, as is a bro- acute and infectious illnesses, ken heart, yet these experiences came up with new pharmaco- are wildly diff erent from one an- logical ways to address pain, our other. Their single link is that we life expectancy doubled, and the use this one astonishingly fl ex- safety of our homes and work- What is a dependent personality? ible but utterly insuffi cient word places increased. But as hard as to describe them all. The more pain is to defi ne, it’s equally dif- we question this, the more we are fi cult to reduce completely – not friends and those close to him. confronted by the fact that pain even the strongest opioids can 7. Having symptoms of nervous is complex, hard to describe and reliably do it. This mismatch discomfort when you have to be even harder to understand. between expectation and reality alone for a while. Pain is a big concept. It is con- has darkened our perception of structed not only from anatomi- the pain we’re in and has made it Symptoms of personality de- cal structures and neurochemi- feel worse. pendence: cal phenomena, but also where More than 30 years later, the 1. Accepts insults. we are, who we’re with, the trends Barsky observed appear to 2. Constant desire for emotional reason we’re there, our previ- have grown. In 2017, the US Na- support. ous experiences with pain, what tional Bureau of Economic Re- 3. Constant anxiety about being we expect to feel and what we search, published an article ana- alone. want. How we react in this mo- lysing survey data from 2011. It 4. Fear of criticism. ment and how we think about it showed that Americans reported By Hala Bader al-Humaidhi in retrospect determine whether aches and pains more often than How to deal with the dependent it will become part of the rush any other nation. According to personality: or the trauma. It is shaped by the survey, 34.1% of Americans The dependent personality is 1. Try to encourage them to go to a our genetic material, the physi- reported feeling physical pain one of the characters affected by specialist psychiatrist and not give cal environment in which we are “often” or “very often”. Austral- nervous disturbance, one cannot in to the psychological disorder born and raised, and our personal ia, at 31.7%, was closely followed stay alone for a long time, and if they are going through. morals and values, which in turn by the UK, at 29.4%. this happens, symptoms of nerv- 2. Maintain emotional support are forged in and framed by the At the same time, the US ous discomfort begin to appear, throughout the course of treat- culture, religion and politics of spends more money on health- which may reach the point of ment and make sure to tell them that our time. care than any other nation, about panic. Then the one depends on treatment does not mean abandon- And right now, we are suff er- $11,172 per person in 2018. But those around him/her more than ing them. ing from the symptoms of a so- again, Americans say they feel necessary to obtain a feeling of 3. It is very important that you com- cially dysfunctional relationship worse. Speaking to The Atlantic safety, comfort and emotional municate with a psychiatrist so that with pain. Pain is complex phe- about the data, Barsky suggested support. you can deal with them and set limits nomenon, yet the way we treat Americans assume all aches and that enable you to coexist peacefully it is not. We have more ways to pains can and should be treata- What are the causes of depend- without bearing much psychological pharmacologically manage pain, ble, and that it would therefore be ent personality disorder? pressure. but opioids and over-the-coun- intolerable to suff er them. “Cur- As is the case in many behaviour- ter analgesics often cause more able pain is unbearable pain,” he al disorders, genetic factors are is enough to increase the risk of others, so the most prominent drive to do some things. Now that you know the traits of the problems than they solve. The told the magazine. ‘It’s when you among the greatest risk factors developing this disease. features of dependent personality 3. The constant need for reassur- dependent personality, are you or increasing availability of ever think you shouldn’t have to suf- for developing this disorder, as are the following: ance and being told that every- anyone around you with this person- more powerful drugs means that fer it, that there should be some well as the educational back- Dependent personality traits: 1. Submission to others to the point thing is fine. ality? If yes, it’s time to deal with it! more and more, we expect to be solution out there, that it be- ground and how parents deal Dependent personality is focused that his behaviour sometimes 4. Inability to retire and unwilling- pain-free. And when we aren’t, comes even more intolerable.” individual in ones childhood. Per- on the inability to remain alone for makes you feel stupid. ness to be alone.  The author is a consultant in Pub- this has serious consequences As we adjust our lives around manent neglect by parents and a long time and the urgent desire 2. Constant reliance on family and 5. Constant fear of rejection. lic Relations and Personality Types. for our health and happiness. avoidance and suppression, we not giving any emotional support to obtain emotional support from friends to make decisions or the 6. Constant fear of abandoning Instagram: @Tipsbyhalahill The irony is that the more we try internalise the message that we to suppress pain, the more we cannot handle pain. And when feel it. we limit our chances to get hurt, It’s not just the drugs that we fail to learn that we can get promise to deliver this pain-free back up again. This has serious, existence. Powerful forces – from demonstrable consequences for When it rains, it pours big pharmaceutical companies to our ability to deal with both the Instagram to the relentless nar- physical and emotional pain that rative of consumerism – tell us life will inevitably throw at us, lose some or all of your contents that we can feel good, that we and fuels a paradigm in which in a flood, you will be asked for an deserve to feel good and that we we don’t believe we have control inventory of everything you lost. should feel good all the time. over pain without the aid of drugs, Take it from me, it’s not easy to re- In an article for the Brit- surgery or medical intervention. member all the items in your home. I recommend walking through your home with your phone and video-recording every room. Open the closets, drawers, and cabinets, and you will be amazed at how much you have. Then make sure By Shefa Ali you store this documentation in a secure remote location. As for pa- perwork, try to keep copies off site It was an extremely hectic day and the originals in a fireproof safe. with a lot of work to finish, I had a Whether your home is damaged by terrible headache, it was around a burst pipe (and I hope it never is!) 6:45pm by the time I wrapped or a slow drip under your kitchen things up. I really had no energy to sink, the sooner you take action, cook, so suggested to my husband the less severe the damage. that we grab something for dinner I wanted to see was if everything curred because the pipe in the of our furniture was damaged, Our lives and safety are priceless on the way home. All I wanted to do was ok. water heater that was supposed to the water reached the kitchen, and irreplaceable. Lost material was get some food in my stomach, As the elevator door opened and be fixed that morning had burst. living room, dining room and my wealth can be replaced over time get rid of my headache and go to water trickled in, I thought surely I hope you never have to experi- bedroom, a lot of stuff got soaked through diff erent—albeit challeng- sleep. this water is not from our home. We ence your home being flooded, but through. While I love my stuff , I ing—means. However, a lost life can As we finished our dinner, I received ran to our apartment door to find maybe you can relate my story to quickly remembered that there is never be regained. Thank God for the call from our maintenance eight of the members of mainte- another situation in your life, and very little I really need to live. our safety. department of our tower, telling nance team sweeping and bailing benefit from my reflection. It’s a good idea to document your me that water was leaking from our out buckets and bins of endless I know this and I live my life by this, belongings and safe guard your  The author is a consultant and house. The 10 minute drive home water. but the flood was a powerful re- important paperwork. Take pictures coach. Instagram handle: @miss_ seemed to last an eternity, and all We were told that the flood oc- minder that stuff is just stuff . Some or videos of everything. If you shefa, Website: missshefa.com Gulf Times Thursday, February 25, 2021 13 WORLD

VIOLENCE RULING DECISION POLICY MILITANCY Israeli forces attack Man told to pay ex-wife India renames largest Philippines defends move 10 dead as rebels Palestinian boats, farmers $7,700 for housework cricket stadium after Modi to monitor NGOs’ funding hit Nigerian city

Israeli navy yesterday morning attacked A Chinese court has ordered a man to pay India yesterday renamed the world’s largest cricket The Philippines’ top diplomat defended a new Suspected insurgents pounded the northeastern Palestinian fishing boats sailing near Gaza, WAFA his former wife 50,000 yuan ($7,700) as stadium after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a order requiring all international aid for non- Nigerian city of Maiduguri with rocket-propelled News Agency reported. The Israeli navy opened compensation for housework she did during move that drew immediate praise and criticism. governmental organisations to be cleared with grenades, killing at least 10 people and injuring fire and aimed water hoses at Palestinian fishing their five-year marriage, state media reported. The name change to the Narendra Modi Stadium the foreign ministry, saying the aim was to stamp dozens, off icials, security forces and residents said. boats sailing within six nautical miles off shore Under a landmark civil code that seeks to better was unveiled at the 132,000-seat venue formerly out funding for terrorism. “It doesn’t aff ect legit It was the worst attack for a year on Maiduguri, Gaza city, causing damages to the boats, WAFA protect the rights of individuals, spouses can seek known as Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad, NGOs,” Foreign Aff airs Secretary Teodoro Locsin the government’s stronghold in the northeast reported. The fishermen had to leave the water compensation from their partners in a divorce in the western state of Gujarat. “World’s largest said. “It is how a responsible government monitors and the heart of its conflict with Boko Haram and abruptly end their fishing mission, which is if they have shouldered more responsibilities — stadium dedicated to the world’s largest where money comes from and goes to in the face militants in a shattering, decade-long war. It came their sole source of livelihood. Meanwhile, Israeli including housework. The woman, who did not personality!,” Priti Gandhi, a BJP spokeswoman, of insurgent and terrorist-secessionist threats.” But less than a month after President Muhammadu forces manning Gaza’s frontier opened fire at work outside the home during the marriage, said in a tweet. Others said the decision reflected a NGOs said the requirement, which was conveyed Buhari replaced his long-standing military chiefs Palestinian farmers and shepherds who were sought compensation for housework she had cult of personality surrounding Modi. “The people to diplomatic missions on February 5, might lead to amid worsening militant violence, with the armed tending their groves and flocks to the east of done after her husband filed for divorce at a court of Gujarat will not bear this insult to Sardar Patel,” a reduction in funding and threaten their survival. forces fighting to reclaim other northeastern towns Khan Younes city, in the southern coastal enclave, in Beijing last year. The judge ruled in her favour, said Hardik Patel, president of the opposition Susan Ople, who heads an NGO fighting human overrun by insurgents. It was not immediately clear forcing them to leave. No casualties were reported. telling the man to pay 50,000 yuan for her labour. Congress party in the state. traff icking, said the policy needs to be clarified. who was responsible for the latest attack. India to off er No end in sight Covid jabs for over-60s from March

AFP The vaccination programme, New Delhi one of the world’s largest, has so far seen 12.2mn shots admin- istered, according to the health ndia plans to expand its vast ministry. But at the current pace but faltering coronavirus it will take several years to in- Ivaccination programme from oculate 300mn people. March 1 by off ering jabs to the The vaccines being used are over 60s, the government said the AstraZeneca jab, made do- yesterday. mestically by Indian giant the The country began vaccinat- Serum Institute, and the home- ing its 1.3bn population last grown Covaxin developed by month and plans to inoculate Bharat Biotech, which is yet to 300mn people by July, but so complete trials. The makers of far the rollout has been limited Russia’s Sputnik V have also to healthcare workers and other applied for emergency use ap- frontline staff . proval. However, from Monday people The head of Serum, which over 60 and those over 45 with other poor countries are rely- multiple medical conditions can ing on for supplies of the Astra- be vaccinated for free at 10,000 Zeneca vaccine, said on Sunday A man rests in his tent as farmers continue their protest along a blocked highway against the central government’s recent agricultural reforms, at the Gazipur Delhi-Uttar government hospitals and near- it had been “directed to priori- Pradesh state border, in Ghaziabad yesterday. ly 20,000 private clinics for a tise the huge needs of India”. charge. The government also warned that breaches of coronavirus CBSE relief for protocols could worsen an in- grade X students fection surge in many states. Nearly a month after the India’s Central Board of Secondary health minister declared that Education (CBSE) has reduced the Covid-19 had been contained, syllabus for social sciences exam states such as Maharashtra in thereby providing relief to students the west and Kerala in the south India plans new social media of grade X. The CBSE will conduct have reported a spike in cases the social sciences paper for grade amid growing reluctance to X on May 27. A total of five units wear masks and maintain social from the social sciences theory distancing. topics have been removed for India’s infections are the the students. The revised syllabus controls after Twitter face-off second highest in the world at would be displayed on CBSE’s of- 11.03mn, swelled by a further ficial website. Union Education Min- 13,742 in the past 24 hours, Reuters cians last week after blocking Further, if a post depicts an must be resident Indian citizens. activities, beliefs, practices, or ister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank health ministry data showed. New Delhi news feeds in Australia in a dis- individual in any sexual act or The ministry of electronics views of any racial or religious said, “In view of the extraordinary Deaths rose by a two-week pute with the government over conduct, then companies must and information technology did group,” the draft rules said. situation arising across the country high of 104 to 156,567. “Any lax- revenue-sharing. disable or remove such content not immediately respond to a re- Referring to fi lms and other due to Covid-19, CBSE has been ity in implementing stringent hafi ng from a dispute In India, Twitter ignored orders within a day of receiving a com- quest for comment. entertainment, including web- advised to reschedule and reduce measures to curb the spread, with Twitter, India plans to remove content over farm- plaint, the rules added. It was unclear when the rules based serials, the draft rules its syllabus.” CBSE has reduced especially in view of new strains Cto oblige social media ers’ protests, fueling the zeal of Facebook did not immediately would be announced of if they called for a “classifi cation rat- the syllabus by 30% in various of virus..., could compound the companies to erase contentious Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s respond to a request for com- may undergo further changes. ing” to describe content and ad- subjects after the minister directed situation,” the ministry said. content fast and assist inves- government since 2018 to tighten ment. Industry sources say new vise discretion. that the syllabus be cut. The health ministry said tigations, according to a draft regulation for content it deems Twitter, which did not take regulations could hit Big Tech Streaming platforms such as that while cases in the states of regulation. disinformation or unlawful. down all accounts the govern- fi rms’ investment plans in India Netfl ix and Amazon Prime have Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Kerala, New Delhi’s planned ‘Inter- The latest draft rules – which ment alleged were spreading lies and increase compliance head- faced complaints in India for ob- “Those who want to get vac- Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh mediary Guidelines and Digital would be legally enforceable – about the protests over agricul- aches. scenity. cinations from private hospitals and Punjab, as well as the federal Media Ethics Code’ – a copy of say companies should remove tural reforms, declined to com- The rules would also apply Police in the northern state will have to pay. The amount to territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which was seen by Reuters – content as early as possible, but ment. across other digital and online of Uttar Pradesh questioned be paid will be decided and de- were rising, the proportion of come as various nations around not later than 36 hours, after a The draft proposal also re- media, the draft proposal said. an Amazon executive for nearly clared by the health ministry high-accuracy RT-PCR tests in the world try to assert tighter government or legal order. quires companies to appoint a “A publisher shall take into four hours on Tuesday over within the next three to four those places was falling because control over powerful Big Tech They must also assist in in- chief compliance offi cer, an- consideration India’s multi-ra- allegations that a political days,” Union Minister Prakash many states prefer antigen tests, fi rms. vestigations or other cyber se- other executive for co-ordinat- cial and multi-religious context drama, Tandav, hurt religious Javadekar said after a cabinet which are cheaper and quicker Facebook faced a global back- curity-related incidents within ing on law enforcement and a and exercise due caution and sentiments and caused public meeting. but less accurate. lash from publishers and politi- 72 hours of a request. “grievance redressal offi cer”. All discretion when featuring the anger.

Myanmar junta holds talks Nepal party hails ruling Australia fi rm regrets with Thailand, Indonesia clearing hearing site Reuters than scheduled on February 1 in Melbourne the absence of the representa- AFP tests. Indonesian Foreign Minister ing with the junta government tives, Fortescue chief rxecutive Bangkok Retno Marsudi said she expressed — offi cially named the State Elizabeth Gaines said in a state- concerns about the safety and Administration Council — dem- ustralia’s Fortescue Metals ment. welfare of Myanmar citizens and onstrators carried signs reading: Group has apologised to an “I have spoken to Wintawari he Myanmar junta’s for- reiterated a need for an “inclusive “Stop negotiating with them” AAboriginal group for clear- Guruma Aboriginal Corpora- eign minister visited Thai- democratic transition process”. and “Indonesia, don’t support ing land on a heritage site while tion (WGAC) chairman Glen Tland yesterday as regional “We ask all parties to exercise dictator”. failing to meet a government con- Camille regarding this incident powers tried to broker an end restraint and not use violence to “The military’s State Admin- dition for representatives of the to personally express my regret to three weeks of deadly unrest avoid casualties and bloodshed,” istration Council is not our le- community to be present when and sincere apology on behalf of triggered by a military coup. she told reporters in Jakarta. gitimate government,” said par- the damage took place. Fortescue,” she said. The talks came as an anti-coup Marsudi has been on a “shut- ticipant Seinn Lae Maung, who It is the week’s second such “We have carried out a full protester died in detention, a lo- tle diplomacy” mission over the had a Myanmar fl ag painted on incident, despite pressure on investigation into the matter cal rescue organisation said. Four past two weeks discussing the her face. Australian iron ore miners to which has shown that this un- others have been killed in the Myanmar crisis during visits to “Please respect our votes and show they have improved prac- fortunately occurred as a result crackdown. Brunei and Singapore as well as do hear our voices.” tices to manage important sites of an administrative error...We Foreign Minister Wunna phone calls with other southeast Marsudi later hit back at the after Rio Tinto destroyed two have paused all clearing works at Maung Lwin held talks with his Asian counterparts. criticism, warning: “To do noth- rock shelters for a mine expan- this site as we work with WGAC counterparts from Thailand and She had hoped to travel to ing is not an option.” sion last May. on the matter.” Indonesia in what was the fi rst Naypyidaw after her visit to Since the February 1 coup, My- Fortescue had state govern- Gaines did not provide detail known face-to-face meetings Bangkok to directly convey mes- anmar has seen a torrent of anger ment permission to clear the on the nature of the administra- between a senior junta member sages from Indonesia and other and defi ance from hundreds of land in the Weelamurra Creek tive error. and foreign government offi cials. countries but confi rmed the visit thousands of protesters nation- area registered as sacred to the In a statement, the commu- The military has weathered a had to be postponed. wide demanding the release of Wintawari Guruma people, on nity corporation said, “WGAC storm of international condem- Earlier yesterday, the Indo- Suu Kyi. condition that community elders members are disappointed by nation for ousting civilian leader nesian embassy in Myanmar’s The military has justifi ed its Supporters of a faction of the ruling Nepal Communist were present to perform salvage FMG’s actions, particularly after Aung San Suu Kyi from power in commercial hub Yangon saw actions by alleging widespread Party take part in a rally celebrating the reinstatement and cultural rites, four docu- investing so much time negoti- a February 1 putsch, while dissent hundreds of protesters gather for electoral fraud in November’s of the parliament by Nepal’s top court in Kathmandu, ments showed. ating an outcome with them that within its borders has been vocif- the second consecutive day. elections, which Suu Kyi’s party yesterday. But an administrative error included elders being present erous with daily nationwide pro- Angered that Jakarta was talk- had won in a landslide. led to land clearing works earlier during the destruction. Gulf Times 14 Thursday, February 25, 2021 COMMENT

CHAIRMAN Abdullah bin Khalifa al-Attiyah EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Faisal Abdulhameed al-Mudahka Deputy Managing Editor K T Chacko P.O.Box 2888, Doha, Qatar [email protected] 44350478 (News), 44466404 (Sport), 44466636 (Home delivery) 44350474 facebook.com/gulftimes twitter.com/gulftimes_Qatar GULF TIMES Texas blackout: How can electricity grids weather climate shocks?

In February 2011, an extreme cold snap in Texas led to a major blackout. About 200 energy-generating units faltered, from power plants to wind farms, impacting more than 3 million customers. Such was the disruption that the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the North American Electric Reliability Corporation published a 357-page report with recommendations on how to avert future crises. Wind forward a decade and the southern US state is again struggling with the fallout from an even wilder winter storm, which killed at least two dozen people and led to power outages for more than 4 million Texans at its peak last week. Despite the warnings, the incident revealed that Texas power producers had failed to adequately winter-proof their facilities Don’t defund the BBC as the 2011 report had advised. Climate scientists say global warming is increasing the By Mariana Mazzucato The UK would be at a loss with a sustainable internet environment, but also because it does not spur nearly severity of extreme weather events, from major hurricanes London weakened or destroyed BBC, as shown through collaborative initiatives such as much new investment in other hitting the Gulf Coast to wildfires in California. in a new report by my co-authors as the Digital Futures Commission services, technologies, and materials. Some evidence has also linked the warming Arctic to more and me. Its value extends beyond the aimed to unlock digital innovation in Again, even though the BBC does not frequent and unusually cold weather in the United States, n last year’s Reith Lectures – the traditional public broadcaster mandate the interests of children and young focus on fi nancial value, it creates and BBC’s annual radio series – former of providing universal access to people, and the Databox project, which spurs it very eff ectively. although the issue is still being debated. Bank of England Governor Mark objective news, credible programmes, sets high industry standards in data Understanding the BBC’s economy- In 2020, natural disasters cost the United States $95 billion, Carney observes that, since and the arts, which confi nes the Public management and privacy. wide contributions – and the concept up from $51 billion in 2019, including “historic” wildfires and a I the 2008 fi nancial crisis, norms and Broadcasting Service in the US. The Crucially, the BBC’s investments have of public value more broadly – record 30 storms in the North Atlantic, according to reinsurance institutions have increasingly been BBC has been groundbreaking also on often been driven more by social values requires a new framework. The task is firm Munich Re. defi ned by their monetary value. What commercial formats, thereby creating than fi nancial value. The BBC Micro, to develop metrics that enhance the The FERC has said it would examine threats posed by climate is often missing from this discussion of new business opportunities – crowding a micro-computer system that found BBC’s own accountability – making change and extreme weather to the country’s electric reliability price being confused with value, is how in (not out) business – while also its way into every British classroom, sure it pushes the frontier of markets after the latest Texas blackouts, with its chairman noting the to capture the real worth of the public achieving important social goals, like has helped to reduce the digital divide. and increases the necessary diversity effects of climate change were “already apparent”. institutions that enrich us. bringing diversity to the screen. The Micro emerged from a technology- of both programming and the array of Stronger financial It is fi tting that Carney makes this How the BBC has achieved this education program, the BBC Computer suppliers affiliated with it. We need incentives and regulations point on a BBC programme. After all, requires reviving our understanding Literacy Project, in the 1980s. To to rethink traditional performance facilitate that project, the BBC had to indicators, which focus on static costs Experts say would be needed from the BBC was the fi rst public broadcaster of the state as a collective creator of to incorporate the notion of “public value, not just as a market fi xer. Acting work with Acorn Computers, which and benefits, rather than the dynamic government to mandate the increase in value” into its governance framework. simultaneously as an investor, inventor, used the BBC’s investment to scale up effects of market-shaping investment energy providers to make The British Broadcasting Company has innovator, and consumer platform, considerably. The BBC’s social mission decisions. This needs to happen extreme weather the necessary changes, he become, alongside the National Health the broadcaster has played an integral in turn created industry value. urgently, before a valued institution is said. Service and The Open University, one role in the development of the UK’s Even the BBC’s most basic role – destroyed. as the planet Ultimately the question of the United Kingdom’s most beloved, infrastructure for digital and media creating and distributing content And the lessons go beyond the is what people, as taxpayers globally renowned institutions, innovation over the last century. – off ers far-reaching social benefi ts. BBC. Only by rethinking public value heats up is or energy consumers, are reaching an audience of around 460 From early radio broadcasts to today’s During the pandemic, with people generation can we move on from willing to pay to avoid million each week. online streaming platforms, the BBC’s confi ned to their homes, the BBC has debates about whether to fund public amplifying the future crises. Yet a vocal minority (often led by investments have repeatedly catalysed off ered three hours of educational institutions to discussions about how Alongside “hardening” Rupert Murdoch-owned publications) new markets across creative industries. and entertaining content every day. to structure and use these institutions need for better measures to make utilities wants to see the broadcaster destroyed. The BBC is the single largest investor Further, the public trust placed in to strengthen our social fabric and build They decry the BBC’s commitment in original British content. Its creative the BBC, and its reach, counters a more creative economy. The BBC is a and power distribution preparation to inclusion and diversity as political force takes on programming risks. The trends in misinformation, whether on great place to start this discussion. The networks more durable, correctness and they accuse it sales of its original content worldwide climate change or Covid-19 vaccines. lessons we can learn address the key parallel investments are needed in other things to protect the public of “crowding out” private media help it to earn signifi cant income Maintaining the BBC’s reach, which is questions: How and why do we value during emergencies, such as opening more warm shelters in winter. companies, owing to the scale and whilst simultaneously showcasing a function of its funding, ensures its our public institutions, and how can we The debate over how to fund such efforts has been raging in scope of its services. In their view it British talent and attracting top foreign position in a crowded media market as strengthen them, rather than constantly California, where wildfires burned through a record 4 million is up to the private sector to create talent. All of these activities shape a legitimate, widely trusted source. And questioning their very existence? – acres (1.6 million hectares) across the state in 2020, causing value; the state should focus only on markets everywhere. Such income is the “wokeness” that critics condemn Project Syndicate several blackouts and killing at least 31 people. fi lling the missing gaps and fi xing what then further devoted to developing, – which includes, for example, giving The state’s overhead power lines are particularly fire-prone economists call “market failures.” producing, and delivering content. female sports presenters a platform Mariana Mazzucato, Professor and have caused several deadly wildfires, leading to suggestions For these critics, the solution is simple: Beyond programming, the BBC has – contributes to a cultural climate of in the Economics of Innovation and that the cables should be buried underground instead. defund the BBC. This would mean developed innovative technologies, like greater inclusiveness and tolerance. Public Value at University College While the BBC’s “dynamic public London and Founding Director of the But California utility Pacific Gas and Electric Company decriminalising non-payment of the the iPlayer and BBC Sounds, thereby mandatory annual licence fee that funds establishing technology standards value” is diffi cult to measure, we do UCL Institute for Innovation and Public (PG&E) says this would be prohibitively expensive, costing $3 it. A BBC reliant on a subscription model, for the media industry (such as DAB know that for every dollar from the Purpose, is Chair of the World Health million per mile converted. though, has a far more tenuous future, for radio and DVB-T2 for video), public budget invested in cultural Organisation’s Council on the Economics PG&E filed for bankruptcy in 2019, citing potential liabilities which may be what the BBC’s opponents and creating economies of scale for production, the economy grows by an of Health for All and the author, topping $30 billion from wildfires linked to its equipment. want, given that Murdoch now is seeking electronics manufacturers. BBC average of $5. In the auto industry, the most recently, of Mission Economy: Despite the challenges, some changes have been made that can to build a UK version of his far-right Fox research and innovation contribute to multiplier eff ect is only half as large, not A Moonshot Guide to Changing help prevent situations like the Texas power outages. News in the United States. the development of a safer and more only because it is less labour-intensive, Capitalism. Smart electricity meters in homes, for example, send live data to utilities about energy usage, providing valuable information to prepare for and react to system issues. The Florida Power & Light Company has used its “smart grid” to achieve significant reliability improvements in the face of major storms, which includes smart meters and drones to survey damage to the electric system remotely. Instead of the traditional model of one big power plant supplying electricity, technology has enabled smaller community-based power generation, which is connected to the grid but can operate independently if there is an outage on the main system. In Puerto Rico, where Hurricane Maria devastated the island in 2017 and led to a complete blackout, plans are being rolled out to create eight regional micro-grids, each producing their own renewable energy. Whichever measures are employed, experts say the increase in extreme weather as the planet heats up is amplifying the need for better preparation. – Thomson Reuters Foundation

To Advertise [email protected] Display 44466621 44418811 Classified 44466609 44418811 Subscription [email protected]

POINT TO PONDER: Only by rethinking public value generation can we move on from debates about whether to fund public institutions to discussions about how to © 2021 Gulf Times. All rights reserved structure and use these institutions to strengthen our social fabric and build a more creative economy. (Reuters) Gulf Times Thursday, February 25, 2021 15 WORLD

Pakistan faces unexpected dilemma: too much electricity

By Zofeen T Ebrahim, Excess fossil fuel energy capacity der 400MW of power, a 100MW solar ing costs “the government has to pay Whether it will seek similar rate re- bility”, noted Zakaria, the environmen- Thomson Reuters Foundation also is boosting electricity costs — and project and four hydropower plants ex- to the power producers under binding negotiations on Chinese-funded plants tal analyst — and high prices are likely to Karachi raising questions about whether the pected to produce 3,400MW by 2027. contracts, regardless of actual need,” still in the pipeline, or longer debt re- suppress demand and incentivise power country will now manage to achieve CPEC aims to boost road, rail and Gauhar said. payment periods, remains unclear. theft, a serious problem in the country. its climate change goals, with scien- air transport links and trade between “Our fi xed-capacity charges have When electricity projects now in He predicted high-end residential fter suff ering decades of elec- tists saying coal needs to rapidly dis- China, Pakistan and other countries in gone through the roof,” he added. the pipeline are completed in the next and commercial customers would end tricity shortages that left fami- appear from the world’s energy mix to the region, as well as boosting energy Those costs currently stand at 850 few years, Pakistan will have about up footing the bill for the excess genera- Alies and businesses in the dark, prevent the worst impacts of climate production. billion rupees ($5.3 billion) a year, but 38,000MW of capacity, Gauhar said. tion capacity, as industries and agricul- Pakistan fi nds itself with a new prob- change. Vaqar Zakaria, the head of Hagler will rise to almost 1,450 billion rupees But its current summertime peak ture receive power subsidies. lem: more electrical generating capac- Last year, Prime Minister Imran Bailly Pakistan, an environmental con- ($9 billion) a year by 2023 as new largely demand is 25,000MW, with electricity That could mean “paying customers ity than it needs. Khan promised that Pakistan by 2030 sultancy fi rm based in Islamabad, said coal-fi red power plants still being built use falling to 12,000MW in the winter, will use less electricity, further worsen- Large-scale construction of new would produce 60% of its electrical Pakistan’s coal-heavy power expan- come online, he said. he said. ing the situation”, particularly as more power plants — largely coal-fi red ones power from renewable sources. sion was in line with its own former That is driving up rates consumers Saadia Qayyum, an energy specialist see an economic advantage in buying funded by China — has dramatically Currently the country gets 64% of national aims. pay for power — 30% in the last two with the World Bank, said energy over- their own solar panels. boosted the country’s energy capacity. its electricity from fossil fuels, with “I think blaming the Chinese may years, Gauhar said — a problem likely to production was a better problem to Despite the country’s energy surplus, “It’s true. We are producing much another 27% from hydropower, 5% not entirely be fair as setting up continue unless Pakistan can fi nd more have than undersupply as it allowed for the World Bank is investing $450 mil- more than we need,” Tabish Gauhar, a from nuclear power and just 4% from projects on local and imported coal buyers for its new generating capacity, growth — but the country needed new lion over the next four years in renew- special assistant to the prime minister renewables such as solar and wind, was our country policy and priority,” such as by boosting manufacturing or ways to use the electricity. able power in Pakistan, to try to cut the on power, told the Thomson Reuters Gauhar said. he said. pushing use of electric vehicles. But incentivising electric transport, nation’s reliance on fossil fuel imports Foundation by telephone. The country has already scrapped Offi cials at the Chinese embassy in The government plans to decommis- for instance, will be less than a green and lower energy costs, Qayyum said. But even as supply surges, electric plans for two Chinese-funded coal Islamabad did not respond to calls and sion some older fossil fuel plants to cut solution if a big share of the country’s Gauhar said Pakistan would need power is still not reaching up to 50 mil- plants — but another seven commis- e-mail asking for comment. overcapacity, he said — but it also push- new electricity is produced by coal some level of fossil-fuel-powered en- lion people in Pakistan who need it, sioned as part of the sweeping China- As new largely coal-fi red plants ing ahead to add new wind, solar and plants, energy analysts said. ergy in coming years to help balance according to a 2018 World Bank report, Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) come online, Pakistan is expected by hydropower capacity to the grid to meet Gauhar said the government is off er- “intermittent” sources like solar and though expansion of transmission project have gone ahead, and are ex- 2023 to have 50% more power capacity its climate goals. ing discounted electricity tariff s to in- wind which do not generate electricity lines is planned. pected to add up to 6,600 megawatts than currently needed. The government is holding talks to dustrial customers, to try to lure those 24 hours a day. Power outages also remain common, of capacity to the grid. Because the government must re- renegotiate tariff rates with the coun- now dependent on their own gas-fi red But he said the long-term plan, still with a transmission problem just last China has also funded new renew- pay loans taken to build the plants try’s independent power producers, plants back to the national grid. being discussed, was to have coal plants month leaving many of the country’s able energy but at a smaller scale, with and has signed contracts to buy their including fossil fuel, hydro, wind and But demand for grid power “is a contribute no more than 15% of the major cities in the dark. six wind farms set to generate just un- power, the overcapacity is produc- solar companies, he said. function of price, availability and relia- country’s electricity capacity.

Army personnel Pakistan off ers Lanka $50mn defence credit punished over line, sports development aid, culture centre the escape of UK confi dent Taliban figure, says spokesman of vaccine A number of military personnel have been penalised for negligence over the escape of a high-profile former Taliban figure from custody, an armed supply from services spokesman said yesterday. Liaqat Ali, the former public face of the militant Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and better known the makers by his pseudonym Ehsanullah Ehsan, escaped last year three years after he handed himself in Reuters to the military. London “All those responsible for it were tried and penalised,” Major-General Babar Iftikhar, ritain said yesterday it was confi dent in manufacturers’ timely spokesman for Pakistan’s Armed supply of Covid-19 vaccines to keep fuelling one of the world’s Forces, told reporters in the city Bfastest rollouts despite a slowdown this week. of Rawalpindi where the army is Prime Minister Boris Johnson has accelerated the UK’s vaccine headquartered. rollout, aiming to give all adults a fi rst dose by the end of July. But on He said those penalised were Monday it recorded the lowest number of fi rst doses given since daily military personnel but did not fi gures were fi rst reported. give details including the number “We have real confi dence in our supply and our visibility of supply,” or identity of whose who were vaccine deployment minister Nadhim Zahawi told lawmakers, saying prosecuted. The military’s media the government talked to manufacturers near-daily. wing denied that any of those “We’re very confi dent that we can meet those targets, because penalised had any involvement we’ve got enough line of sight of our deliveries.” or collusion with Ehsan during Johnson has outlined a plan to ease England’s lockdown, assuming the escape, saying it was a case a successful vaccine rollout. of negligence. Health Minister Matt Hancock had said this week would be qui- Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan (right) and his Sri Lankan to security, terrorism, organised crime and drug and narcotic Ehsan was TTP’s spokesman eter for vaccinations due to uneven supply schedules, but he expected counterpart Mahinda Rajapaksa gesture at the end of the Trade traff icking as well as intelligence-sharing,” a Joint Communique for nearly a decade, issuing supplies to increase next month. and Investments conference, during Khan’s two-day visit, in issued by the Foreign Ministries of the two countries said. statements and holding press Britain is rolling out shots developed by Pfi zer/BioNTech and Ox- Colombo, Sri Lanka yesterday. Pakistan will also provide Rs52 million for promotion of conferences in the group’s ford/AstraZeneca, though Johnson has said he is concerned about the Pakistan yesterday off ered $50 million new credit line to Sri sports in Sri Lanka. At an interactive session with the sports stronghold near the Afghan possibility of “vaccine-busting” coronavirus variants. Lanka for co-operation in the field of defence and security. community, the PM, who led Pakistan to World Cup victory in border. He proclaimed TTP’s Pfi zer and AstraZeneca have said that both vaccines off er some pro- The announcement was made by Prime Minister Khan at the 1992, announced the commissioning of the ‘Imran Khan High responsibility for deadly tection again all current variants, and AstraZeneca has said it hopes conclusion of his visit to the island nation. “The two sides Performance Sports Centre’ in Colombo as well. Pakistan will also bombings and attacks, including the next generation of vaccine will be ready this year if needed. stressed the need for stronger partnership for supporting and establish Asian Civilisation and Culture Centre at University of the 2012 shooting of education “We need to be prepared if there is a need for an autumn vaccination co-ordinating with each other in dealing with matters related Peradeniya at the famous tourist resort of Kandy. (Reuters) activist Malala Yousafzai. campaign, and if that does need to be with a new version of the vac- On Twitter earlier this month, cine,” Oxford vaccine developer Sarah Gilbert told lawmakers. Yousafzai responded to a “Anything can happen, viruses are infi nitely able to mutate, but threatening tweet directed at currently I think the signs are good that we won’t see a sudden escape Biden administration to distribute over 25mn masks her by an account allegedly from the vaccine with a virus that is very well able to circulate.” belonging to Ehsan, asking the Britain has the fi fth highest number of Covid-19 deaths globally, at The Biden administration will deliver more have access to masks. The government pandemic raged on, requiring masks and military and government how he over 120,000, and has reported more than 4 million cases. It has given than 25 million masks to community health will deliver the masks to more than 1,300 physical distancing in all federal buildings had been able to escape. nearly 18 million people a fi rst dose of Covid-19 vaccine, around a third centres, food pantries and soup kitchens community health centres and 60,000 food and the development of a testing programme A government statement last of its adult population. this spring as part of its battle against the pantries and soup kitchens between March for federal employees for Covid-19. year confirming the escape said More than 18 million people in Britain have now had their fi rst dose of coronavirus pandemic, the White House said and May, the White House said. The masks Shortly afterward, the Centers for Disease had said Ehsan evaded custody a coronavirus vaccine, according to offi cial government data yesterday. yesterday. US health authorities recommend are expected to reach between 12 million Control and Prevention (CDC) issued during a counter-terror operation A total of 18,242,873 people have had the fi rst shot, the data showed, mask wearing as a critical measure to help and 15 million Americans, it said. Democratic a sweeping order requiring the use of in which he was accompanying while the number of new Covid-19 cases was up from Tuesday to 9,938 slow the spread of disease and the White President Joe Biden issued a mask mandate face masks on nearly all forms of public soldiers to find Taliban leaders, while there were 442 deaths within 28 days of a positive test, down from House said low-income Americans still don’t when he took off ice in January as the transportation. as he had agreed to do after his the previous day. surrender.

EU mulls vaccination passports By the River Seine to resurrect tourism after Covid

Reuters appear more reluctant, as offi - and with the Organisation for Brussels cials there say it could create de Economic Cooperation and De- facto vaccination obligation and velopment and the World Health would be discriminatory to those Organisation. uropean Union leaders will who cannot or will not take a jab. But travel with certifi cates agree today to work on France, where anti-vaccine also raised legal questions, of- Ecertifi cates of vaccination sentiment is particularly strong fi cials said, because those last in for EU citizens who have had an and where the government has line for vaccinations could argue anti-Covid shot, with southern pledged not to make them com- their freedom of movement was EU countries that depend heavi- pulsory, considers the idea of unjustly restricted by the often ly on tourism desperate to rescue vaccine passports as “prema- months-long queues. this summer’s holiday season. ture”, a French offi cial said yes- EU offi cials also point out Lockdowns to slow the pan- terday. there is no guidance yet from the demic caused the deepest ever Work is needed on the details, WHO and EU agencies whether economic recession in the including whether it should be people who have received two 27-nation bloc last year, hit- in digital form, be accepted glo- shots of the Covid-19 vaccine ting the south of the EU, where bally and at what stage of the can still carry the coronavi- economies are often much more two-step inoculation process it rus and infect others, even if no dependent on visitors, dispro- should be issued. longer vulnerable themselves. portionately hard. “We call for work to continue It was also not clear if people With the rollout of vaccines on a common approach to vac- could be infectious having al- against Covid-19 now gathering cination certifi cates,” a draft ready fought off the coronavirus pace, some governments, like statement of the leaders video- themselves, for how long they those of Greece and Spain, are conference seen by Reuters said, remained immune and if they pushing for a quick adoption of without setting a time-frame for too should get certifi cates. an EU-wide certifi cate for those a result. “There are still many things already inoculated so that people Offi cials said the EU was we don’t know,” a senior offi cial can travel again. working with the Internation- from one of the EU countries People enjoying sunny and warm weather on the banks of the River Seine in Paris amid the coronavirus disease outbreak in France However, other countries, al Air Transport Association, said. “We need more time to yesterday. (Reuters) such as France and Germany, which is keen to revive air travel, come to a common line.” Gulf Times 16 Thursday, February 25, 2021 QATAR Ashghal opens Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor ahead of schedule

By Shafeeq Alingal bution point to Doha Express- Staff Reporter way on one side and to Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor on the other side. he Public Works Author- The Corridor links the south ity (Ashghal) has opened and north of Doha without the Tthe Sabah Al Ahmad need to pass through Doha Ex- Corridor six months ahead of pressway and 22 February Street. the scheduled date, despite the Works as part of the corridor in- challenges of the Covid-19 pan- clude upgrading E-Ring, F-Ring, demic. While addressing the in- Mesaimeer, Al Bustan, Bu Erayy- augural ceremony yesterday, en- en and Lebday roads and sections gineer Yousef al-Emadi, director of Al Markhiya Street. In addi- of Projects Aff airs at Ashghal, tion, Ashghal will enhance 12km also announced the project will of local and peripheral roads in- be completely delivered by the tersecting with the corridor. end of this year with the com- The project needed pletion of service roads, beauti- 6,300,000cu m of excavation, fi cation and landscaping. backfi lling and paving works as The 29km Sabah Al Ahmad well as the use of approximately Corridor extends from Hamad 1,442,000 tonnes of asphalt and International Airport (HIA) to 1,520,000cu m of reinforced con- Umm Lekhba Interchange on crete. The infrastructure lines Doha Expressway. With 41km of installed include 220km of com- total road works, the project sig- munication lines, about 470km nifi cantly contributes to reliev- of power lines, 205km of drainage ing traffi c congestion on Doha lines extension and about 77km Expressway, in particular, 22 of treated sewer lines. It is worth February Street. noting that 60% of the materi- The Corridor serves about als used in these works are locally 25 residential neighbourhoods, made. including Al Gharrafa, Al Lu- The 1,200m long cable-stayed qta, Al Rayyan, Al Waab and Bu bridge, which has no columns up Hamour, as well as many com- to a distance of 150m, is supported mercial, educational, health fa- by about 120 cables and 754 pre- cilities and other vital utilities. cast concrete pieces of more than Described as a vital artery in the 200 tonnes in weight. There are heart of Doha, the project off ers 20 columns and 16 pillars to reach a vital alternative route that will the highest point of the bridge, serve thousands of daily com- which is 30m. The bridge is a great muters from the north to the leap in the traffi c culture of Doha south. due to its strategic location above The Sabah Al Ahmad Cor- Haloul interchange and Faleh bin ridor includes the construction Nasser interchange on Salwa Road, of pedestrian crossings, includ- tion and tree plantation works largest intersection are part of tion in approximately 18 minutes The Corridor will also form Part of Doha Express Highway where it will catch traffi c coming ing seven bridges and two pe- along an approximate area of the prestigious project. compared to the current 50 min- the main link between the north (Al Wakra Bypass) as well as to to and from HIA and reduce traffi c destrian underpasses, besides 355,642sqm. Qatar’s fi rst cable- Commuters from HIA via utes via Doha Expressway and 22 and the south of Doha and cre- Mesaieed Road further south pressure on parallel roads such as 50.5km bicycle and pedestrian stayed bridge, longest bridge, the new corridor will be able to February Street, reducing traffi c ate a vital connection between through Al Watiyyat Interchange Wholesale Market Street and Doha paths, in addition to beautifi ca- longest and deepest tunnel and reach Umm Lekhba Intersec- time by 70%. Doha Expressway and Southern in Al Thumama where its distri- Expressway.

PM, Kuwait Deputy PM open Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor From Page 1

HE the Minister of Transport and Communications Jassim Seif Ahmed al-Sulaiti said the Corridor is an important addition to the land transport network serving many other transport sectors including HIA and the Doha Metro network. Ashghal president Dr Saad bin Ahmed al-Mohannadi highlighted that the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor is open to traff ic a few months ahead of schedule, with the works unaff ected even by the Covid-19 pandemic. Yousef al-Emadi, director of Projects Aff airs at Ashghal said the government spared no eff ort to speed up the completion of works. He noted that around 60% of locally manufactured materials were used in the project. The Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC) secretary general Hassan al-Thawadi said Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor will serve six FIFA 2022 World Cup stadiums, including Al Thumama, Al Janoub, Khalifa International and Education City.